The manner in which the Italians landed their troops in
spite of the rough seas and resistance from the shore, and landed them at places where they were fully expected and not in the least under surprise conditions, should be noted by those persona here who imagine that because this country is an island it would be impossible or exceedingly difficult for an invader to set foot on our shores. In truth, as a military operation the landing of troops on our island is exceedingly easy. The fire of a modern fleet is so deadly that it can with ease sweep the ground on which the troops are to disembark absolutely clear of the enemy. The only certain way to prevent a landing on an island is to control the sea. Nothing else is really effective. Indeed, it is not too much to say that unless an island possesses sea power, it is much more, not less, vulnerable by invasion than a land-surrounded State. When once the enemy's fleet and transports have anchored off a nation's coasts the chances of repelling them are small indeed. It, of course, remains true that the enemy may be conquered when they have landed, but land they undoubtedly wilL British Antimilitarists and Little Navyites, please note.
