DEPARTMENT OF TERMINATION |
| DIRECTOR Tlaloc Goedel |
ABOUT
It is much to be lamented that, in discussing the Claims of the Navy, some comparison must unavoidably be made between that service and the Army* To do this, without the appearance of jealousy, is extremely difficult* There Was a tim* when such feeling unhappily existed, to a considerable and illiberal extent. It is pleasing to find that, the more general diffusion of knowledge has accomplished a sincere and admiring cordiality; 'and the noble achievements of our brethren in arms, under the immortal WelLington, while it has proved them what every thinking man previously believed them to be, has firmly cemented a fellow-feeling and friendship with their naval brother-la^ bourers. ; ,/r . ... ' , ■.
...
Insignificant as my humble praise may be, it is not the less sincere and ardent. I feel that the Soldier is justly entitled to every thing that has been done for him; that he has honestly earned all that a gratefuL country can bestow. Whenever, therefore, in the following pages, the Army is alluded to; whenever a comparison is drawn between its appointments and those of the Navy; I entreat it to be borne in mind that such comparison is free from jealousy; free from every intention save that of benefiting the service of which I am a member.
" By their fruits shall ye know them."
* .
That man who, in carrying his mind to Lisbon, and, passing hastily over the Continent to Waterloo, shall not discover, in our Army, a host of meritorious men, whose devoted gallantry and exertion entitles them to all that has been granted, must be parsimonious, selfish, and unjust.
On the very threshold of the argument, thus stands Comparison^ and it stands there unavoidably. In awarding to the Land-service the meed of praise, I am bound to claim it for my Naval Brethren. But for a corresponding gallantry, on their part, through a series of years, the Army would not have had its opportunity; and, when the Navy had accomplished its work, useless would have been all its devotion, futile its every effort, without the Army to complete it.