24 MAY 1924, Page 15

THE 'RENOWN'S' PASSAGE THROUGH THE SUEZ CANAL.

[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.]

Sin,—In an editorial note to a letter from Commander Bellairs, printed in your issue of April 19th, you mention the passage of the ` Renown' through the Suez Canal, and say it was an operation of considerable difficulty, and she was in charge of one of the most experienced navigators in the Service. One feels, and doubtless the experienced navigator referred to would not be backward in owning to it, that the safe and extremely quick passage which the ` Renown ' made through the Canal, both outward and homeward, was wholly due to the skill and experience of the pilots. They, while theoretic- ally only being on board a ship to give advice, in practice take full command.—I am, Sir, &c.,

A SUEZ CANAL PILOT.