The rôle of ships is as follows:—
Firstly, to prevent any disembarkation of German troops between Nieuport and La Panne and to South-West.
Secondly to fire against enemy, which are advancing on Nieuport.
8.20 p.m.
Admiralty to Commodore Tyrwhitt, H.M.S. ‘Maidstone,’ Harwich.
The first German attempt to send destroyers down the Broad Fourteens being so successfully defeated may cause a larger number to be sent next time: be ready to meet them. We are sending scouts and destroyers to support the Belgian left at Nieuport.
Two battleships are leaving Portland to-night for Dover, four more destroyers are being sent to escort them. Therefore, if you can spare four destroyers, send them temporarily for Dover patrol to arrive at daylight.
October 19.
Rear-Admiral Hood to Admiralty.
Engagement continues at Nieuport. I believe that naval bombardment has done harm to enemy.