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I trust that I shall not be considered presumptuous if, in view of the Russian alliance and the increase that both these powers are making in their Naval Forces in the East, I express confidently my decided opinion to Your Lordship that the Naval strength of Great Britain in the China Sea is insufficient.
It is reported, and of course the truth of that Report can be verified at the Admiralty, that the following increases to the French and Russian Fleets are to be made immediately.
French
ss "Cosmés". A new Cruiser, 1800 tons; 20 knots. Reported to have left the Mediterranean for Siam.
Russian
"Admiral Nakhimoff". A First Class Armoured Cruiser, - a new Flag Ship. Equal if superior in strength to the "Imperieuse".
"Rynds". Cruiser of 2950 tons.
"Kreiser". Sloop of 1300 tons.
"Styx". An armoured Gun Boat; 1800 tons, with only 12 feet draught. Already on her way out.
These vessels are expected in Hongkong in January next.
The Russian Admiral Tytsov is in the Flag Ship "Styx".