_Crescent_ (Flag), _Edgar_, _Endymion_, _Gibraltar_, _Grafton_, _Hawke_, _Royal Arthur_, _Theseus_. All submarines, except those of the B and C classes which were detached for the protection of our coast and ports from Rosyth southwards, were worked, in accordance with Admiralty policy, from Harwich, and were not, therefore, under my command. The C class submarines were unfit for oversea work, and our operations in enemy waters were therefore confined to boats of the D and E classes, of which we possessed a total of 8 D’s and 9 E’s, as against the German total of 28 boats of the U class. CHAPTER II GENERAL NAVAL STRATEGY IN HOME WATERS It is hardly surprising if the work and purpose of the Navy had somewhat faded from public interest during the century that had elapsed since the Napoleonic Wars, the last occasion on which the inhabitants of this country had felt that their safety depended on maritime power. Indeed, it had fallen to the lot of a distinguished officer in a foreign navy, Captain Mahan, to awaken interest in this matter, and to point out the all-important influence which Sea Power had exerted, and would exert, on history. Associations such as the Navy League had been formed, having as their object the enlightenment of our countrymen, and although a great work was done in this direction, the mere necessity for such work is an indication of the extent to which the nation had forgotten the lessons of the past. I therefore offer no apology for making some reference to the use and purpose of the British Navy. The main objects for which our Navy exists may be shortly summed up under four heads: 1. To ensure for British ships the unimpeded use of the sea, this being vital to the existence of an island nation, particularly one which is not self-supporting in regard to food. 2. In the event of war, to bring steady economic pressure to bear on our adversary by denying to him the use of the sea, thus compelling him to accept peace. 3. Similarly in the event of war to cover the passage and assist any army sent overseas, and to protect its communications and supplies. 4. To prevent invasion of this country and its overseas Dominions by enemy forces. The above objects are achieved in the quickest and surest manner by destroying the enemy’s armed naval forces, and this is therefore the first objective of our Fleet. The Fleet exists to achieve victory.