U 1-2.--These are the earliest German submarines, and displace about 150 to 200 tons. The speed above water does not exceed 9 knots, and two torpedo-tubes are carried. There is a crew of 11. U 3-8.--These boats belong to the second German type. The displacement is about 250 tons, and the surface and submerged speeds are 12 and 8 knots respectively. Three torpedo-tubes are fitted. Complement, 14 officers and men. U 9-20.--These boats are believed to be of about 400 tons, with a surface speed of 15 knots, and to be armed with three or four torpedo-tubes. The crew consists of 17 officers and men. U 21-26.--These submarines displace about 800 tons, and are said to be able to travel at 18 knots on the surface. They are armed with four torpedo-tubes and two small quick-firing guns. The complement is about 22 officers and men. U 27-36.--These boats are the very latest type. The displacement is about 900 tons, the surface speed 18 knots, and they can travel at 12 knots when submerged. The armament consists of four torpedo-tubes and two quick-firing guns on high-angle mountings. About 30 officers and men are carried. MINE-LAYERS. PELIKAN.--This is the oldest German mine-layer in commission. She was launched in 1890, displaces 2,300 tons, and can steam at 15½ knots. The armament consists of four 21-pounder quick-firing guns, and, of course, a large number of mines charged with high explosives. She is used as a sea-going training ship for mine work. The complement is 195 officers and men. NAUTILUS.--This ship was specially built for mine-laying work, and was launched in 1906. Her displacement is 1,935 tons, the designed speed 20 knots. She carries eight 21-pounder guns, and has magazines for a large number of naval mines, with special gear for dropping them. Her crew numbers 198 officers and men. ALBATROSS.--This ship, which was specially built for mine-laying work, was launched in 1907. The displacement is 2,185 tons, the designed speed 20 knots. She is armed with eight 21-pounder quick-firers, and has magazines for a large number of naval mines, with special gear for dropping them. The crew numbers 198 officers and men. CHAPTER IV ADMIRAL SIR JOHN JELLICOE Immediately the Home Fleets had been mobilised the Admiralty issued the following announcement: With the approval of his Majesty the King, Admiral Sir John R. Jellicoe, K.C.B., K.C.V.O., has assumed supreme command of the Home Fleets, with the acting rank of Admiral, and Rear-Admiral Charles E. Madden, C.V.O., has been appointed to be his Chief of the Staff. His Majesty immediately sent an inspiring message to Admiral Sir John Jellicoe, as representing the whole Navy, and it was communicated to the officers and men of the squadrons in all parts of the world.