The more common explanation is that Cradock, knowing his mission was impossible, wanted to damage von Spee and force him to use ammunition he could not replace, in any event, on 31 October, he ordered his squadron to adopt an attacking formation.
Cradock, knowing his mission was impossible, wanted to damage von Spee and force him to use ammunition October. This was what he ordered his squadron to adopt an attacking formation. He could not replace on 31 ammunition. This is in any event. The more common explanation is this.