IN THE WEST.

Hokitika Guardian, 28 February 1917, Page 1

IN THE WEST.

Substantial Advance,

WELLINGTON, Feb. 27. The High Commissioner reports from London on 26th Feb. at 11.10 p.m.:— A. British official message says progress was maintained during the day mi both banks of the Anere. Our advances arc now extending over a front of eleven miles east of Cuendc' court, to the south of Gommecourt, by a dentil of two miles. In addition to the village of Scrre we now occupy a strong point at Butte ue Walcncourt; also the villages of Waiencourt, Eaucourt, Pys and Miraumom. German Finance VANCOLvEB, Feb. 27. Passengers from a'Cuban liner comfirm that the Gormans are financing Cuban revolution. Beatfv’s Successor LONDON, Feb. 26. Admiral Takonham has succecciea Admiral Beatty in command of the battle cruiser fleet. American Interest WASHINGTON, Feb. 26. There is tremendous interest here and

in New York in President Wilson’s address, which is interpreted that the President has served notice to Congress that he intends to take power whether granted not. Despite the studied repression of the President’s tone the statement is’ regarded a a final step short of war, and the general opinion is that Congress will grant the powers asked. Semi-Official.—There is ''tliiei belief that liners will probably be armed next week. WASHINGTON, Feb. 2b. It is proposed to raise a special war bond issue of £20,006,000. Lost in Lacoma.

NEW YOBK, Feb. 26. The “New York Times’ Queenstown correspondent says that two American women, Mrs and Miss Hoy of Chicago, perished in the Laconia. * LONDON, Feb. 27. Tho Cunard'Shipping Company states that There were 295 persons aboard the Laconia, and practically all were saved, including 220 of a crew and twenty passengers, of whom half were first class.

Charge of Sedition. Priest Fined AUCKLAND, Feb 27. At the Police Court to-day a young Catholic priest Father. John ArtmuDoclio was charged with seditious utterances to wit “Germans are better, civilsed nation than the British and you are fools to go to the war.” He pleaded guilty. Chief detective McMahon stated that on Monday evening a soldier was n» conversation with a friend in a hotel commercial* room 'when the defendant came in and was drawn into conversation on Irish Politics, conscription, and the recent Australian referendum. The defendant had said that lie was an Australian and ignorant that it was an offence in Australia'. He had no disloyal, intent. Father Hilbrook in reply to. the bench said that he knew defendant regreicea using the words and was desirous of returning to Australia. The Magistrate said that it was not a case for imprisonment as the words were not used in a public place; and the circumstances did not show a serious intention of wrong doing. Fined £5 and costs.