October 23, 2 a.m.
Admiralty to Sir John Jellicoe.
From First Lord.
Private and Personal. Every effort will be made to secure you rest and safety in Scapa and adjacent anchorages. Net defence hastened utmost, will be strengthened by successive lines earliest. If you desire, Cabinet will I think agree declare area 30 miles east Kinnaird Head to 30 miles north Shetlands and down to 30 miles South of Hebrides prohibited to all ships not specially licensed by Admiralty or you.
All vessels whatever Flag should be dealt with in this area as you desire.
I wish to make absolute sanctuary for you there. I also propose proclaiming all Scotland north of Caledonian Canal including all Islands and Inverness prohibited area; you can do what you think necessary for safety of Fleet.
Use your powers under Defence of Realm Act and ask for anything you want in men, money or material. You must have a safe resting place: tell me how I can help you.
Sir John Jellicoe replied with suggestions for closing certain areas, and for the placing of obstructions and contact mines.
October 24, 1914.
Secretary.