ACTION OF AUGUST 28
Secretary.
First Sea Lord.
Third Sea Lord.
Director of Naval Ordnance.
1. Let me have an estimate of how long it will take to refit for service in every particular the vessels damaged in the recent action. Careful attention should be paid to the wishes and suggestions of the officers who fought them, in order that everything possible can be done to increase their fighting efficiency.
2. The failure of the 4–inch guns in the Arethusa is most serious, and must be thoroughly investigated. I am informed that it arose both from the breaking of the ejector catches, of which there were no spares, and secondly from the coating of the cartridge cases, which gradually fouled the gun. At one critical moment only one 4–inch gun could fire, and but for her 6–inch guns the Arethusa would have been destroyed. I wish to receive a statement showing that an effective remedy has been provided.
3. Every effort should be made while the ships are refitting to give the officers and men a few days’ leave. The nervous strain of a modern action is considerable, and a change of scene is required to restore poise and resiliency.
W. S. C.
August 30, 1914.
Secretary.
First Sea Lord.
Chief of Staff.
(1) Selections might be made from all the reports of this action, beginning with some of the submarine reconnaissance reports which the Prime Minister has repeatedly urged me to publish. All interesting matter which can be made public without detriment to the future should be collected, circulated to the Fleet, and published in the newspapers.
(2) The criticism in the Commander-in-Chief’s report and various references to discrepancies in the arrangements which occur in Commodore S’s and other statements must all be kept absolutely secret. Mistakes are always made in war, but there is no need to weaken confidence by dwelling on them after success has been obtained. The Senior Officers concerned in the manœuvre should, however, all have the opportunity of studying the full reports in order that every effort may be made to improve arrangements in the future. Beyond this profoundly secret circle no whisper must go.
(3) I am awaiting your recommendations for honours, promotions, and rewards to be accorded to the officers and men who distinguished themselves in this fortunate and skilful enterprise.
W. S. C.
September 6, 1914.