The Naval Review.

Manawatu Herald, 1 July 1897, Page 2

The Naval Review.

The great naval review at Spithead took place on Saturday, and was one of the grandest maritime spectacles the world has ever witnessed.

The British fleet was composed of 165 warships manned by 50,000 men, and consisted of the Channel and Reserve squadron, under command of Admiral Sir Nowell Salmon. The warships were ranged in six lines, four of which each extended five miles.

Almost every country sent a representative warship, swelling the total number taking part to 200.

Many huge steamers were present crammed with sightseers from all parts of the United Kingdom.

A fleet of 800 yachts from Ryde added to the attractions of the scene.

At night the whole of tbe warships were brilliantly illuminated-, the spectacle being a wonderful one. At a given signal every vessel of the fleet outlined itself in electric lamps, the whole of the waters of the Solent appearing ablaze.

The American press, commenting on the display, is unanimous in the opinion that the spectacle of the strength of the British Navy is without parallel.

They are impressed with the fact that an invincible navy was assembled, while the navy elsewhere was maintained at its usual efficiency.

Admiral Miller declares that the review is proof that England commands the sea.

The Paris Temps, in an article, alludes to the naval omnipotence of England, and duly realises the patriotic grandeur of the spectacle.