The Latest.

Manawatu Herald, 3 September 1904, Page 2

The Latest.

A GREAT DISASTER IMPENDING. German military critics take a very unfavourable view of the Russian situation and complain that General Kuropatbin’s tactics do not exhibit an energetic initiative by which he would be able to prevent the Japanese from concentrating around a position which was strategically weak. It is declared that unless the Russians are victorious all along the line a great disaster is impending. The customs commissioner at Chifu detained the Japanese steamer Independent, laden with foodstuffs for Niuchwang. A Japanese cruiser hurriedly arrived, and it is believed ’ proved the independent had ten million yen aboard to pay General Kuroki’s army. • THE RUSSIANS RETREATING. A Tokio message says the Russian right and centre, which'' are defending Liaoyang to the south, were retreating and the Japanese were pursuing them. Advices from Mukden say that 10,000 Japanese are reported to be advancing north-east of Mukden. It is estimated that General Kuropatkin has 150,000 fighters, and the battle may last for several days; ■ THE ASSAULT ON PORT ARTHUR. Chifu advices with regard to Port Arthur state that two Japanese assaults at Palunchwang were repulsed and the Russians re-occupied Itshan. The Japanese, on the 28th, after three hours fierce fighting, occupied, despite a cross fire, No. 6 fort, near their right flank. The other forts concentrated a fire thereon, expelling the Japanese. The inner forts of Port Arthur are protected with massive steel plates and numerous Maxims.