German merchant ships seek refugee in Brazilian harbors according to the Dutch newspaper De Maasbode dated 12 February 1940

An item dated Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 10th reported that 9 German merchant ships which shortly after the war broke out seek refuge in Brazilian harbors departed secretly in the night Recife fully loaded assumed to run the British blockade. Most of the ships were loaded with meat, bacon, rubber and other victuals. Rumors claimed that the ships were later to form a convoy.