Somewhat embarrassingly, Russian Foreign Minister Sazonov hesitated over declaring war on Turkey even though the attack upon his homeland had been flagrant and unprovoked and the Ambassador had been withdrawn on 31 October. Such unexpected circumspection was the result of Sazonov's desire for Turkey to remain intact until at least 1917, when Russia would be strong enough herself to force the issue of the Straits, his quarrel was with Germany and Austria-Hungary. This unanticipated Russian intransigence resulted in Britain involuntarily leading the way to strike back at the Turks. While the politicians debated, far away, off the Dardanelles, the last futile act of the drama was being played out. It is a good thing to give a prompt blow.
Forts offers very little prospect of obtaining any effect commensurate with the risk to the ships.
The Forts are difficult to locate from the sea at anything like the range at which they will have to be engaged. Approaching soon after daylight, Carden was instructed to retire before return fire from the forts became effective. The immediate results were better than expected, particularly those obtained by the British battle cruisers, and included the destruction of Fort Seddel Bahr when its magazine exploded after being hit. This would be because of its use for range finding and also perhaps of a wish not to offend religious sensibilities. The main target was certainly the fort, which we made a mess of, culminating in a huge explosion.