OPENING STAGES OF GREAT DECISIVE BATTLE

Dominion, Volume 11, Issue 50, 22 November 1917, Page 5

OPENING STAGES OF GREAT DECISIVE BATTLE

HAffi SIRIES AGAIN

ITALIANS STANDING FAST AND COUNTERING

EX-GRAND DUKE JOINS THE COSSACKS

BRITISH NEAR JERUSALEM

The Italian front on the Piav o and along tho northern wing in the Asiago region is now the centre of absorbing interest. Preliminary engagements, regarded as the prelude to a great decisive battle, aro chronicled to-day. Tho Austro-Germans have heavily reinforced their lino, massing such reserve forces as will facilitate the employment of the "shock tactics" that at Verdun led to indescribable slaughter in the enemy's ranks. Heavy massed attacks have been hurled back by the Italians, who are fighting with magnificent bravery. One correspondent hints at a further retirement, but tho general impression derived from the dispatches is hopeful. In Russia tho situation is simply chaotic. Lenin has asked Germany for a separate peace, but that Power, preferring to deal with a properlyconstituted authority, has declined to treat with him. An unconfirmed report states that the ex-Grand Duke Nicholas has offered his services to General Ivaledin, who has appointed him to tho command of tho Cossacks, tho basis of tho settlement being a return, to tho monarchy. In Palestine the British and colonial cavalry are rapidly advancing on Jerusalem. A later message announces tlia b Sir Douglas Haig has launched a now blow at the enemy's lino botween St. Quentin and tho River Scarpo.