Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878). Eastern Question. The British government, on hearing that the Russian army corps commanded by Generals Skobelev and Gurko were nearing Constantinople and Gallipoli respectively, ordered Vice Admiral Hornby, commander of the British Mediterranean squadron, anchored in the Bay of Besika, move through the Dardanelles Strait with his ships. Entry of the British squadron into the Dardanelles Strait, February 13, 1878. First section of the Royal Navy squadron in the waters of the strait. From left to right: Swiftsure, Hotspur, Agincourt, Ruby, Rupert, Temeraire and Sultan. Engraving by E. Alba. La Ilustracion Espanola y Americana, 1878.
