FIELD MARSHAL

The highest military title in this and some other countries. It is conferred only on officers distinguished for brilliant military services or exalted station. The term is derived from the marichal de camp in the old French service, and was long in use among the Germans in its present distinguished acceptation before it was adopted in this country. There are at present only five field marshals in the British army; the Duke of Wellington, the King of Hanover, the Duke of Cambridge, the King of Belgium, and Prince Albert. FIELD OF VIEW, in a telescope or microscope, is the space within which objects are visible when the instrument is adjusted to focus. [s. 463]