This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1819 edition. Excerpt: ... "This table is certainly a flattering statement of the mercantile marine of the united kingdoms and colonies. It is a poor compliment to the spirit and policy of the country, that, possessing in the employment of her merchants 180,000 seamen, recourse should still be had to Impressment for Manning her Royal Navy! The number of men that I deem adequate to Manning the Royal Navy, is as follows. In the present state of Europe, even if all the maritime powers were to unite against us, this supply would be sufficient; but this number is not to be the only resource of the country. My plan is, to put it in the power of government, to increase the Naval quota, as may be found necessary for the public service. Present peace establishment, including marines 0,000 Seamen to be raised--, -60,000 Landmen and marines---30,000 Inland navigation... 3,000 113,000 The fifteen thousand of the peace establishment, are expected to be prime seamen, and experienced in the duty of a King's ship; that in the event of a war breaking out, they might serve to supply new commissioned ships with petty officers, such as gunners, boatswain's and carpenter's mates, &c. so necessary for the compleat formation of a ship's company. The marines also of the peace establishment, as being experienced soldiers, are expected to become serjeants, corporals, &c. in order to bring new recruits into order and discipline.. It is also intended by the plan under consideration, that all future peace establishments shall be raised by it, as soon as an armament, or a war shall cease.-- The seamen and marines of the peace establishment without landmen, shall be raised for three years, for five years, and for seven years. At the end of each period, when the men are discharged, there...