WITH THE FLEET.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 2732, 30 July 1915, Page 5

WITH THE FLEET.

A YEAR'S WATCHING AND - WAITING.

LONDON, July 29. - The Archbishop of York, who recently visited the Fleet, describes the silent vigil of tho ships in the~ northern seas, and the longing of the men to meet the German ships. The indelible impression left on the* heart and mind is that

the Grand Fleet is a world apart, with its own life and task. A wonderful incommunicable spirit shares its life. A short time enables one to realise the sacrfice officers and men are making for their country. For a, year the Fleet has endured the. strain of immediate readiness for battle, roaming ceaselessly in 'the northern and western seas. Sailors' leave is almost impossible. Many have not had 48 hours, though they have often been within sight of their homes. A few to the envy of their comrades, had their day at the. Doggerbank, at Heligoland, or ab the Dardanelles. It is impossible to describe the strain of waiting. Yet, despite this, all are cheerful a.nd splendidly fit in body and spirit. 1 The. organisation of the great Fleet mobilised for war, is something that cannot be realised unless it is seen. The Archbishop says that amongst the superior officer in command'he did not' hear the slightest.'criticism or breath of jealousy.< This justified the boast of a Vice-Admiral :-r-"We are all a great band of brothers." Added to the influence of this great tradition is the. personality, of Sir John JeKcoe, who is assuredly the right man in the . right place. Officers and men gave him the most absolute trust and loyalty,' and he holds first control of every part of the great fighting engine.