Nevertheless, no very valuable results can be expected from a war against England's trade.

On the contrary, England, with the numerous cruisers and auxiliary cruisers at her disposal, would be able to cripple our oversea commerce.

We must be ready for a sudden attack, even in peace-time.

It is not England's custom to let ideal considerations fetter her action if her interests are at stake.
Under these circumstances, nothing would be left for us but to retire with our war-fleet under the guns of the coast fortifications, and by the use of mines to protect our own shores and make them dangerous to English vessels.

Mines are only an effective hindrance to attack if they can be defended.