* * * * *
1909.
Dec. 25th.
... Wilson and I have talked a lot about our War plan for the Navy. You know he told the Defence Committee that only he and I knew of the War Plan, which is quite true and it was the same when his fleet was joined with mine when South African War was in progress. He would sooner die than disclose it. (God bless Sir Arthur Wilson!)
* * * * *
1910.
Jan. 23rd.
Of course no question as to strategic merits of a Canal, and it ought originally to have been the scheme instead of Rosyth, but now is it possible to make the volte-face? I fear not! I got Rosyth delayed 4 years as NOT being the right thing or the right place and hoping for our Kiel Canal; but though I succeeded in the delay, alas! I did not in the substitution. However, I will see Hankey as you suggest. Yes, I’m quite happy, and my cry is NOT “à Berlin!”... I’ve got some war charts that would make your mouth water!
[Sir John Fisher left the Admiralty on his birthday, Jan. 25th, 1910, and was raised to the Peerage.]
* * * * *
1910. Kilverstone Hall,
February 2nd. Thetford.
... I’ve just got here from Cheshire, where for days running I’ve had Paradise. 3 lovely girls in the house, a splendid ball room and music always on hand! 3 young Guardsmen there, but I held my own!