THE WESTERN FRONT

Hokitika Guardian, 9 April 1918, Page 3

THE WESTERN FRONT

[PER PBESB ASSOCIATION-COPYRIGHT.] , GERMAN tanks. AN INTERESTING DESCRIPTION

Received, th.s day at 8.45 a.m. LONDON April 8. i The “Morning , Post’s” correspond, ent on the French front gives interesting details of the German tanks used in the present offensive. The Gortuans modified the construction, and the use of tanka after the experience ot the 'British;' They are of greatly increased Speed, and have tanks capable of five miles an hour over broken ground. The Tanks advance in formations of five moving zig zag. Special tank schools formed in Germany, m a vast maneouvre ground. The tanks are torpedo shafted. Each weighs ten tons, is eight yards long, three wide and 21 high, and is ablo to turn easily. They are completely proteoted with ar-

mbur and the loopholes are imperme able to gas. They are fitted with rapid firing guns, furnished with periscope. They also fire gas shells. Iho tank also has four machine suns atul Hammer werfer, in case of obstinate resistapce, the flame projecting sixty yards, and produced by a mixture 01 tar and carbolineum. which is'sent out by otygen under pressure. The motor has" eight cylinder and 2po horse power The personnel consists of two drivers and two reserves, under the order of junior engineer officer. The enclosure for the entire crew is fire proof.

A COMING PUSH. fßpmvod , This Dnv nt: n-mA PARIS, April 8. A semi-official statement issued states there is reason to regard the German attack on Hill 344 yesterday, as indicating a forthcoming offensive in this sector. A great mass of Gorman reserves are still moving towards Amiens, which is still the goal of the German High Command, though the enemy has momentarily heen forced to interrupt the forward movement, owing to exhaustion'and the heavy losses suffered hy his troops.

* A RETIREMENT /Received This Dav at. 10.16.■»...,» # ■ PARIS April J*. The “Petris Parisen” says the Germans douhtliis glorify the German oecupation of lower Conchy forest, from which the French withdrawal was almost inevitable. The withdrawal was accomplished voluntarily, practical!', without cost, distinctly improving the situation.

REPRIEVE OF BELGIANS. (Received This Dav at 1 *' ' MADRID April King Alphonso’s intervention resulted in the reprieve of eighteen ou : of twenty-six Belgians, including seVeral priests, who w T ere condemned to death. King Alphonso is continuing Ins efforts on behalf of others.