record my conviction that it is Essential to a proper defence, for the Batteries (Except perhaps Kettets Island) to be kept fully manned by resident Sun Detachments as soon as way is declared. Some. I know, consider it to be sufficient to concen- trate the fun Ortachments in their Barracks, and todespated them to their several stations as soon as
the approach of an Enemy is signal. led; and they argue that by adopt. ing the usual measures such as putting out the coast lights, having look out sunboats, obstructing ace Entrance to the harbour, ete, sufficient notice can always be given bluable the Sunners to be at their posts in time to receive an Enemy, and in this way a
fewer number of mea
will be required, as only those Batteries head be first manned which are on the side ofther Enemy's approach. I strongly urge that this will not answer in practice, however Economical it appears in theory. Even should it be certain that ther funboats will not be required cloe- where to protect our interests in the Coast Ports, are Enemy would not approach in open daylight with colours flying. The probability is that his ships would be disguised and that he would get as reas
to the Island as possible during
212
the right, and at break of day with steam at full speed would obtain an entrance
shortly after his appearaner was signalled, and the opportunity of opposing him whilst taking up his position, when he would be unable to reply, and when all the advantages would be on the side of the Batteries would be lost. In my opinion. after war is declared, the fun Ortachments should stand to their guns at day- break each Morning, and Each Battery should be fully manned at this hour, the man bring kept resident, in order that they may become thoroughly requainted with their sus and the arrangements of thair Battery.
In considering the strrught of the farrison, it is also in- cumbent to decide whether ther intention is to render this Island impregrable against any possible attack, or whether it is simply intended to prevent a raid by a hostile forer, and the levying of
a contribution
from the inhabitants, and I am inclined to confine myself to the latter contingency, becauer to
render
し
thr