Whilst then we may leave out of consideration those types of vessels which have clearly proved failures, there is not a single one that has been in any way successful that is not deserving of the closest attention and study. Whilst amongst English types we find the greatest diversity of application combined with the very highest architectural skill and development, it must not be forgotten that France, Italy, and Austria have architects second to none in the world, men whose national jealousies and ambitions lead them to totally independent lines of thought and action and whose works are worthy of the highest praise.
PART V.
PERSONNEL.
ORGANIZATION—FLEET DIVISION—BUDGETS.
Argentine Republic.
The navy of this country is as yet not fully or independently developed, its administration and budget being incorporated with that of the army. All vessels of a larger size than gun-boats have been purchased from foreign governments, and until lately there have been no facilities for the repair of ships; at present, however, a dock-yard is in course of construction at Zarate, which when completed will furnish docking and repairing facilities for first-rate vessels. This yard is, however, hardly to be considered a building yard. Engines, boilers, and ordnance will be purchased from foreign markets for some time to come, as the mechanical industries are not yet sufficiently developed to permit the establishment in the country of the necessary machine-shops. A naval school has been established and measures have been taken to introduce apprentice instruction.
The personnel of the Argentine fleet is divided into three corps or divisions:
NAVAL DIVISION.