A member of the Committee (strength 3. 372 8. Another member of the Committee) was most anxious that his contention should be chronicled that either an increase to the mobile force, or fortifications to frustrate a landing party, was necessary to meet the contemplated attack on the Southern shore.
I could not allow this to appear in the letter that is based on the present strength, for I consider that we are doing the best with the personnel and matériel at present available. I pointed out that the garrison of the colony could not be expected to meet the landing of a force of the contemplated strength.
I referred to the necessity of scouting vessels being stationed at intervals of about 15″ and 8 miles from the coast to signal the approach of enemy's ships. I pointed out that this suggestion had been considered and condemned by the Naval Military Committee, but he was very insistent on the matter.
I promised to mention it in my letter.
Page 17