The comparison uses ships in commission in 1794 and 1814 rather than treating the Navy's paper establishment as a single undifferentiated total. The figures exclude ships in ordinary, whose return to service still required officers, crews, supplies, and money. Third rates rise from 71 to 103 and fifth rates from 78 to 134, while large numbers of sloops and unrated craft support the fleet. First and second rates mark stations expected to close with enemy battle fleets, where their high decks could reinforce the line. Smaller vessels conduct interception and blockade work that a capital ship cannot perform efficiently. Third rates supply much of the main battle line and also serve as flagships for lesser groups. The rating system describes a graduated force built around distinct operational tasks.
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The rated fleet mix in 1794 and 1814
Commissioned totals from 1794 and 1814 reveal a graduated fleet in which prestige three-deckers, numerous 74s, frigates, and small craft performed different jobs.