Cap Trafalgar returned to her remote supply base at Trindade after an unsuccessful commerce-raiding cruise. Information received at Bermuda identified the island as a possible German coaling point, prompting Cradock to send Carmania to investigate. On 14 September, dust from Cap Trafalgar's coaling drew the British ship toward her. Refuelling brought the raider back to a known support location and made her presence visible to the approaching enemy.
Notable Point · 6:46-7:16
A coaling stop exposes Cap Trafalgar
British information identified a possible coaling base, and dust from refuelling helped Carmania find Cap Trafalgar.