Victoria and Camperdown led opposing columns initially steaming at eight knots. Markham was using Camperdown because his normal flagship Trafalgar was being refitted, which also left him without his usual flag captain. Tryon had unusually discussed the maneuver with officers the previous night: the columns were to turn inward through 180 degrees, reverse course, later turn to port, and anchor. Officers rejected a 1,200-yard separation as too close. The distances that follow range from at least 1,600 yards to larger published estimates, while eight cables is also cited. These figures do not resolve neatly; each leaves the battleships needing substantial turning room. Tryon's transmitted signal nevertheless specified six cables. Two officers queried the number, and Tryon brusquely confirmed it.
Chapter · 54:59-1:00:16
The six-cables turning order
The planned inward turn required substantial sea room, yet Tryon confirmed a six-cables signal after officers had discussed larger separations.