Chapter 40 - Page 2

the true level, in some things,
we _must_ cut downward; for how can you make every sailor a
commodore? or how raise the valleys, without filling them up with
the superfluous tops of the hills?

Some discreet, but democratic, legislation in this matter is much
to be desired. And by bringing down naval officers, in these
things at least, without affecting their legitimate dignity and
authority, we shall correspondingly elevate the common sailor,
without relaxing the subordination, in which he should by all
means be retained.