ABSTRACT
It is axiomatic that a successful navy relies on a strong and formal structure to achieve its aims. In addition to the day-to-day orders issued by its leaders, from admirals to petty officers, it also needs a series of formal standing orders. In earlier ages these might rely on custom and tradition, but in the days of naval expansion, from the time of Henry VIII onwards, written standing orders became ever more important in the running of the fleet.
