A work describing Sir Charles Middleton's creation of vital links between the naval shore establishment, policy makers in Whitehall and commanders at sea.

The Naval Review - "It is a well written study in the Cass Series on Naval Policy and History with the bonus that the American author does provide insights and comments that might have eluded one dyed in Royal Navy blue. Barhman deserves his Battleship; Talbott his readership".Military History- mixed report"- see file "This book is clearly written and well researched"The Northern Mariner, Jan 2000"The book is based on solid documentary research, the prose is clear and the illustrations are pertinent. ... This book is most welcome and recommended, as it fills some huge gaps in Royal Navy history."The Marnier"s Mirror"a provocative and valuable contribution to the history of the civil departments of the navy""an interesting, insightful biography of a largely forgotten man who, though a veteran sea dog with a distinguished record as a ship"s captain, was a particularly capable administrator"NYMAS