282
will depend
more on
the progress
of the scheme of defence
and the
efficiency of this small Garrison
than on
secrecy,
spared no
effort has been
made in that
part
respects, the troops being perpetually
at work and in remarkably good health and condition. I am not
aware, neither is the Commanding Royal Engineer, who ought to
know, that it is usual to put
guards into half-finished forts and before proper accommodation
is available, but this has been
done at his request,
the best arrangements being
made that were
possible under the
circumstances. It is needless to
dwell more on
the subject
except to
press what, I respectfully
submit, is an unusual course on
the part of the Admiral in addressing himself to the Home
Authorities on
the subject of the
fortifications without sending
previous intimation to the General,
or at all events a
copy of his
Despatch