A History of Sea Power. By W. 0. Stevens and
A. Westoott. (Hodder and Stoughton for the G. H. Doran Co. 20s. net.)— This interesting and well-written sketch of naval history from the earliest times down to the end of the late war is the work of two professors in the American Naval Academy at Annapolis, and shows that the late Admiral Mahan hes worthy disciples in his own country. It is illustrated with useful charts and illustrations, and gives references to authorities. We are especially pleased with the concluding chapter, in which the authors point out that " to a sea empire like the British, sea control is essential as a measure of defence," and that as the United States only require to import rubber, possessing all other essentials of life, " the sea power that would attempt to strangle the United States by a blockade on two coasts would find it unprofitable even if it were practicable." They go on to say that " the naval policy of a nation should spring from its national policy," and that until American foreign policy is formulated, " our naval programme is based upon nothing definite."
" At present there are two great naval powers, Great Britain and the United States. A race in naval armaments between them would be criminal folly, and could lead to only one disas- trous end. The immediate way towards guaranteeing freedom of the seas is a closer entente between the two English-speaking peoples, whose common ground extends beyond their speech to institutions and ideals of justice and liberty. The fine spirit of co-operation produced by the world war should be perpetuated in peace for the purpose of maintaining peace."
We are sure that these admirable sentiments are heartily reciprocated by all sensible people in this country, and especially by the British Navy. Mr. Stevens and Mr. Westcott are abso- lutely right in thinking that the British and American Navies, working together, would be a " most potent influence toward peace."
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