Although the Imperial Navy is not yet strong enough to compete successfully with those of other great naval powers on the open sea, still one great object has been gained, i.e., the protection of trade and the merchant service. Germany is also now enabled to enter into commercial and political relations with distant countries, and to make the German flag respected in all parts of the world in a way which would not otherwise have been possible. The Navy will also be able in the future to defend the German coast-line and make the foreign invasion of her coasts an impossibility. It is difficult to forecast the probable development of the German Navy, for the colonies which the country has recently founded and is still founding will increase its task and may lead to the formation of a much larger fleet.
The recognition which the German Navy has lately won on all sides, especially on the part of England, allows of the hope that it will soon be considered as fit to go hand in hand with the German Army. One thing is certain, and that is, that its successes, whether in the hoisting of the national flag in distant parts of the world, or in the more peaceful task of cementing friendly relations with other Powers, are followed with the greatest interest and appreciation by the whole of the German Empire.
FOOTNOTES
[1] This article has been entirely re-written by the Translator.
[2] The Colonial forces really form a class between the two, but may be taken here with the Active Army.
[3] The Militia Ballot Act.
[4] I.e., West India Regiment, Malta Artillery, etc.
[5] More than 40 per cent. of would-be recruits are annually rejected by the doctors.
[6] Blue in the 16th and white in the 17th Lancers.