Rapid Preparation

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Dec 29, 1863

Rapid Preparation.

THE following facts taken from the President's last message, show the rapid strides this nation has made during the last few years, in preparing for war.

"The naval forces of the United States consist, at this time, of 588 vessels, completed and in the course of completion, and of these 75 are iron-clad armored steamers. The events of the war give an improved interest and importance to the Navy, which will probably extend beyond the war itself. The armored vessels in our navy completed and in service, or which are under contract and approaching completion, are believed to exceed in number those of any other Power, but while these may be relied upon for harbor defense and sea coast service, others of greater strength and capacity will be necessary for cruising purposes and to maintain our rightful position on the ocean."

Speaking of naval preparation on our western rivers, he says :

"A naval force has been created on those interior waters and under many disadvantages within little more than two years, exceeding in number the whole naval force of the country at the commencement of the present administration."