GREAT CARAVAN ROBBERY.

Greymouth Evening Star, Volume XXXI, 31 December 1901, Page 4

GREAT CARAVAN ROBBERY.

Full and authentic particulars are now to hand regarding the recent fighting and capture of a large caravan near Damerghou, in Tripoli. About three years ago a brother of Moussa, the Sultan of Damerghou, killed Sadek, chief of the Tahemia tribe, dwelling in the region of Air. In retaliation, about twelve months rgo, the Tehemia trible waylaid and killed the murderer of Sadek.

In bis turn another brother of Moussa, in order to avenge the death of his kinsman, ambushed and attacked the caravan at the walls of (two days’ march from Damerghou). The caravan consisted of about 13,000 came's, of which about 700, laden with ivory and ostrich feathers, and Sudan skins, valued at about £35,000, were destined for Tripoli. About 12,000 camels were laden with guinea corn for Air, valued at a round sum of £IO,OOO. Taking the value of the camels at, say, £120,000, the total amount of the loss incurred is not less than £165,000. The loss of life is put down at 210 killed on both sides, among which were 12 Tripolitans, some of them the best known and most experienced caravan leaders of the country. There is not the slightest chance or probability of anything being recovered, but it is expected thst further reprisals will now follow.

The London correspondent of the Liver" pool Daily Post hears that an instruction just issued by the War Office requires that officers of cavalry, infantry, and artillery shall in future “receive a course of instruction in judging the quality of provisions and f,.rage.”

An aerated water manufacturer told the Melbourne Factories Act Commission that whilp engaged as the driver of a waggon he found time to learn German, Greek, Hebrew, and iatin. He admitted, however, on .the suggestion of the chairman, that he was “tin exceptional man,”