24 JUNE 1916, Page 3

Last week the King visited the two chief naval bases

and examined the ships which had fought in the battle of Jutland. His Majesty in addressing the officers and men of the Grand Fleet said :—

4 Unfavourable weather conditions and approaching darkness pre- vented that complete result which you all expected, but you did all that was possible in the circumstances ; you drove the enemy into his harbours and inflicted on him very severe losses, and you added another page to the glorious traditions of the British Navy. You could not do more, and for your splendid work I thank you."

In his farewell message to the Grand Fleet the King said :— " Assure all ranks and ratings that the name of the British Navy never stood higher in the eyes of their fellow-countrymen, whose pride and confidence in their achievements are unabated. Good luck and God-speed. May your future efforts be blessed with complete success."

It has probably occurred to every one to compare these words with the turgid and grandiose nonsense in the address of the German Emperor to the High Sea Fleet. We cannot be too thankful, with that comparison in mind, that the King has the art of com- bining perfect sincerity, and strong feeling with simplicity and naturalness.