Sin,—In Admiral Sir N. Bowden-Smith's view (Spectator, July 16th), outlying
parts of the Empire cannot be expected to make sacrifices to maintain British naval supremacy, which, whether they are regarded as separate entities or as component parts of a whole, is as essential to their well-being and freedom as to that of the United Kingdom. He foresees that the growth of the naval burden will be too much for the United Kingdom to sustain, and, therefore, that it cannot maintain that relative superiority at sea hitherto enjoyed. In such circumstances, what earthly hopes could be found " in some system of national service which will, in times of emergency, provide a suitable • Reserve for the Navy," when we cannot afford the ships in which to employ the men? In your footnote I find some con- solation; but in my gallant friend's proposal I see nothing but a tantalising delusion.—I am, Sir, &c.,
House of Commons. JOHN C. IL COLOME.
THE PROLONGATION OF LIFE AND ACETIC ACID.
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