(3) Defence to join Carnarvon in forming a new combat squadron on the great trade route from Rio.
(4) Albion to join the flag of C.-in-C. Cape for the protection of the Luderitz Bay expedition.
These arrangements have my full approval.
Will you direct the Chief of the Staff to have a statement prepared showing the dates by which these dispositions will be completed, and the earliest date at which Scharnhorst and Gneisenau could arrive in the respective spheres.
I presume Admiral Cradock is fully aware of the possibility of Scharnhorst and Gneisenau arriving on or after the 17th instant in his neighbourhood; and that if not strong enough to attack, he will do his utmost to shadow them, pending the arrival of reinforcements.
The following telegram was sent to Admiral Cradock at the same time:—
Admiralty to Rear-Admiral Cradock, October 14.
Concur in your concentration of Canopus, Good Hope, Glasgow, Monmouth, Otranto, for combined operation.
We have ordered Stoddart in Carnarvon to Montevideo as Senior Naval Officer north of that place.
Have ordered Defence to join Carnarvon.