7 OCTOBER 1871, Page 2

The Autumn Manoeuvres ashore have had, it seems, their counter-

parts afloat, and with similar results. The mighty ironolads, not less than the battalions, squadrons, awl batteries, meet and manceuvre to show that they require more drill in company. Young ladies and gentlemen cannot learn to dance alone, nor can a pugilist acquire deftness and skill ' facing a dummy. In like. manner, if the captains of ironclads are to become proficients in tactics under steam, they must practise in combination with others. The movements of the ships under Admiral Yelverton are held to. have proved the needfulness of greater experience in practical work. As the matter is vital, cost ought not to stand in the way.