THE RUSSIAN FLEET

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of worth, as appears in the course of this narrative;but, if a precise calculation, and only men ofexperience and skill in the languages [be] included,their number is diminutively small; and these arestill the less formidable through party divisions andprejudices, as consisting of nations different in theirtaste, views, interests and manner of living.

There are also some men of capacity amongstthe Russians, but as to the generality of these, inquality of lieutenants, foreigners ever desire to leave’em ashore ; seeing in good weather their pride isinsupportable, taking great state upon them, andarrogating much attendance; but in bad weather, orany extremity, are sick abed, when they should beserviceable.

If the Russian fleet is attacked in their ownroads, lying at anchor in an advantageous posture,the water smooth and their bodies well secured fromsmall shot, and their commanders are men of resolu-tion, exposing their persons and seeming insensibleof danger, then the common Russ, forming theirjudgment from the officers’ intrepid aspect, appre-hend the peril to be less than it really is, and willstand their ground, traverse the guns, and make ahandsome defence, ever a Russian’s masterpiece ;and still so much the braver as being sure of thegalleys, in great numbers, to assist them, and annoythe enemy, as opportunity presents.

Few if any ships in the world are able towrong the Russian, especially those built at St.Petersburg, if well manned, in the qualification ofexcellent sailing; and they are incomparably pro-vided with masts, sails, anchors, cables, and cordage,all the proper product of Russia; and the prime ofeverything is picked out for the use of the royalnavy. Every commander has power to condemnand demand new; and the quality and quantity