It signifies nothing to say that the structure of naval discipline is widely different from the civil administration of the land; for the very same principles, and, more or less, the very same motives to right or wrong action, must always be in play in both cases. A judicious chaplain, therefore, who shall have become acquainted by personal experience with the habits, tastes, feelings, and pursuits of the seamen, may undoubtedly contribute an important share to the efficiency of the whole of our naval system. So far from interfering with, or in any way checking the strict course of nautical affairs, I conceive that the chaplain’s influence, rightly exercised, acting in cordial understanding with the captain, and sanctioned by his authority, might advance the best interests of the service by greatly diminishing offences, and thus lessening the melancholy necessity of punishments. Whenever this benevolent purpose can be effected, in a greater or less degree, both those who obey and those who command are sure to be better pleased with one another, and, it is reasonable to suppose, far more desirous of co-operating heartily in the accomplishment of the common purpose for which they are brought together. END OF THE FIRST VOLUME. LONDON: J. MOYES, TOOK’S COURT, CHANCERY LANE. FOOTNOTES: [2] I quote from a paper on the State of Education in the British Navy, printed in the United Service Journal, Part XI. for October 1830. The performance and the promise of the very rising officer, who wrote this article, help to furnish the fairest practical answer to those who object to the early advancement of young men of rank in the Navy. Transcriber’s Notes pg 219 Changed: when on board passage vesssels to: when on board passage vessels pg 225 Changed: half of sound snoose to: half of sound snooze pg 308 Changed: as the captian can ameliorate the habits to: as the captain can ameliorate the habits