CONTENTS ix

CHAPTER X

WITH BISMARCK

PAGE

I. The launching of the Filrst Bismarck. My first visit to Friedrichsruh. A fatal beginning. Bismarck on the balance of power at sea.—2. Drive through the Sachsen-wald.—3. The last visit to Friedrichsruh . . . .131

CHAPTER XI

THE NAVY BILLS

i. Instruction of the people in naval affairs.—2. The first Navy Bill before the Reichstag.—3. The necessity for a second Navy Bill.—4. Unintentionally speedy progress. The fundamental ideas of naval construction.—5. The second Navy Bill before the Reichstag . . 142

CHAPTER XII

BUILDING THE FLEET

i. Technical difficulties. The nature of our shipbuilding. Safeguards against sinking. The superiority of our shipbuilding over foreign navies.—2. Economy and money shortage. My deficient programme. Submarines and airships.—3. Friction with the other naval authorities.—4. Attitude to Parliament About personnel. Are we on the right lines?—5. My last plans .... 166

CHAPTER XIII

UNDER THE KAISER

i. Suggestions. A constructive amateur.—2. Cabinet mischief. Marginal notes. Lack of character . . . 201

CHAPTER XIV

ADMIRALTY AND FOREIGN POLICY

I. Imperial constitution and business procedure. My political principles.—2. Relations with Russia and with Japan.—3. The Balance of Power at sea. The small states.—4. Relations with America.—5. Our mistaken actions............213