We do not object, if Her Majesty so pleases, to
the foundation of an "Order of Merit and Old Age," but we do object very strongly to calling its members Field-Marshals. Four officers were advanced to that rank on Tuesday, Sir A. G. Woodford, Sir W. M. Gomm, Sir H. D. Ross, and Sir J. F. Burgoyne. Not one of the four ever commanded in chief in a great battle, not one-ever stamped his name on English history, not one will ever again do a day's work in command. Lord Clyde died without this supreme dignity, and Lord Strathnairn, to all appearance, will die without it, yet it is given to a batch of officers without a claim save that of meritorious service through au unprecedented number of years. Marshals of France are not chosen so,—one reason why when an army has to be reorganized the Emperor can set a Marshal to do it. Had the Crown given peerages, or ribbons, or any honourable distinction whatever to these gentlemen no one would have cavilled, but the supreme military title should be reserved for men actually commanding armies.
