And
so the lie went round the world much faster than the truth. Yet it was
only believed by those who wanted to believe it. Even some Italian
mountaineers who had never seen a ship said, "That's a lie," when
Italian traitors told them the Grand Fleet had been sunk.
After waiting a month to examine the whole case thoroughly the Board of
Admiralty, which has always been most sparing in its praise, wrote
Jellicoe an official letter, saying that "the Grand Fleet has known
both how to study the new problems and how to turn the knowledge to
account. The expectations of the country were high. They have been
well fulfilled. My Lords (the Members of the Board) desire to convey
to you their full approval of your proceedings in this action."
What Jellicoe himself thought of those who fought so well under his
inspiring leadership cannot be said better than in his own words. "The
conduct of officers and men throughout the day and night actions was
entirely beyond praise. No words of mine could do them justice. On
all sides it is reported to me that the glorious traditions of the past
were worthily upheld.
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