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The Naval Review: the Flotilla of Gun-Boats off the Motherbank - drawn by R. Leitch, 1856. Ships of the Royal Navy taking part in a display off the coast of Hampshire. 'When the firing was commenced against Southsea Castle, there were many thousand persons assembled under its walls, who, although expecting it, appeared considerably astonished as the loud report of the heavy guns suddenly crashed upon their ears. The gun-boats lay right across the entrance of Portsmouth Harbour, from shore to shore, nearly four miles, and the firing from such an extended line of heavy guns had a very imposing effect, though it was considered rather deficient, from the fortresses not returning their fire. After firing a few rounds each against their supposed foes, the gun-boats as well as the spectators were completely enveloped in smoke, which did not clear away until the firing ceased'. From "Illustrated London News", 1856. The Naval Review: the Flotilla of Gun-Boats off the Motherbank - drawn by R. Leitch, 1856. Creator: Unknown. (KEYSTONE/HERITAGE IMAGES/THE PRINT COLLECTOR)