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men is far better than it was ever before, and a good sailor is sure to feel the appreciation and regard of his officers, and to find his path made as easy as the discipline of the ship will permit.

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JOHNSTO

THE NAVAL WAR COLLEGE (With portrait of Admiral Dewey)

THE NAVAL WAR

COLLEGE

BY JOHN D. LONG

EX-SECRETARY OF THE NAVY

O long as war remains as a method

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of arbitrament it will engage the most scientific studies of enlightened peoples. In the hands of the most civilized nations, whose best estate is peace, war is most a science, and its destructive power greatest and swiftest.

If this seems like a contradiction, or a meeting of extremes, it is because, in the highest stage of civilization, whatever is done is done at its best. The ancient Greeks supplemented practical experience by theoretical instruction, training young men in the art of war. Other peoples

followed their example, and from that day to this the intelligent, equipped, and trained soldier has been equal to many times his number lacking those qualities. Peace has been the time for the study of war, and war has put in practice the principles learned in peace.

The great masters of battle have all recognized the value of preparation, not only in the matter of material, but of personnel as well. Preparation for war is the touchstone of success. Almost

until the moment hostilities begin, it leaves the diplomatic hand of the government free to act without the embarrassment consequent upon the effort to make ready, which in itself adds a complication to the situation. Further than this, it enables prompt and decisive action, either the striking of a blow at the beginning of war, which always produces a tremendous moral effect, or the repelling of an attack made by an equally alert and vigorous enemy.

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