Chapter I: Preface

It is hoped that this volume will prove of permanent value as presenting a conspectus of the great navies engaged in war when hostilities opened, and in particular of the events of singular significance in the naval contest between Great Britain and Germany which occurred in the years immediately preceding the war.

Grateful acknowledgment is made to Mr. H. C. Bywater for valuable assistance in preparing this volume.

A. H.

CONTENTS

CHAPTER PAGE

INTRODUCTION--THE OPENING PHASE 9

I. THE RELATIVE STANDING OF THE BRITISH AND GERMAN FLEETS 49

II. THE BRITISH NAVY 54

III. THE GERMAN NAVY 101

IV. ADMIRAL JELLICOE 131

V. OFFICERS AND MEN OF THE BRITISH NAVY 137

VI. THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE GERMAN FLEET 141

VII. OFFICERS AND MEN OF THE FOREIGN NAVIES 147

VIII. GERMAN NAVAL BASES 151

IX. THE KIEL CANAL 161

X. THE GREAT FLEETS ENGAGED: TABULAR STATEMENT 168