THE WESTERN THEATRE.

Press, Volume LIV, Issue 16146, 26 February 1918, Page 7

THE WESTERN THEATRE.

the coming conflict. ALLIES CALM AND CONFIDENT. (By Cable.—Press Association.—Copyright.) (United Service.) LONDON, February 24. A special correspondent statos: — The ground on th 0 Western front ha 3 hardened, and the worst period of winter mud is over. A calm cheenness prevails, and everything is in readiness for the new campaigns. Nobody at the front believes that the Central Powers are capablo of breaking the franco-British lines. General J. C. Smuts, aftor on inspection of the lines, reported that they gave th© Boche no chance in an ofion■BlVThe arrival of Turkish troops in Belgium is interpreted to mean thatdivisions which have been used against the Russians are being brought westward. The Austrian troops are appar- . ently intended for reserves. Their ' number ia unknown, but there is reason to believe, that Austria-Hungary has beon niggardly in tho supply of troops. ENEMY TANKS PREPARING FOR ACTION. (Australian and N.Z. Cabta Association.) (Received February 26th, 12.40 a.m.) LONDON, February 25. Mr Philip Gibbs writes: — "The enemy is preparing to bring his tanks into action. He has Ijeen training troops to attack behind them. We may soon see tanks fighting tanks. With our long start and experience the advantage is immensely in our lavonr."