IN THE SMASH FOR VERDUN.

Taihape Daily Times, Volume 8, Issue 60, 10 March 1916, Page 5

IN THE SMASH FOR VERDUN.

TEUTON ATTEMPT TO REPAIR FAILURES, STOPPED BY FRENCH CURTAIN FIRE. GERMAN FLEET OUT. FIFTY SHIPS IN NORTH SEA. GERMANS DECLARE WAR AGAINST PORTUGAL. MEXICANS INVADE AMERICA. * There is more than one sensational item of hews in to-day s hies.,, At is reported that the German fleet was .seen in the Noith ja lasifj Monday, there being no less than fifty warships and lite ai flock of midges. It is surprising that nothing further has ;en heard, in all probability they are keeping roads in theii i eai )en so that they may get back as quick as possible. On the other md the British Bluejackets may be keeping well out of sight so ; to lure the timid Teutons far enough out so that a refreshing rht may be enjoyed. may rest assured that something will ht mrd about their little escapade if a chance is left available. Germany has declared war against Portugal as a result of the izure of interned German ships. There is some doubt about the ;tion the Portugese will take, hut it is not likely that Germany in do more than declare war just at present. Mexicans, under Villa, invaded the United States, hut this in only he regarded as a raid as Villa himself is practically an itlaw in his own country. ■ The smash for Verdun has not made any. headway from the erman point of view. In fact the French have captiired lost round in some places and they are just looking on awaiting a Geian fdreed retreat from Forges through floods, ready to inflict teir punishment in the withdrawal.