THE AFRICAN CAMPAIGN.

Taihape Daily Times, Issue 219, 12 January 1917, Page 5

THE AFRICAN CAMPAIGN.

A CLOSE SHAVE. Received 9.15. JOHANNESBURG, Jan 11. Twenty-five members of Colonel Northey's column dispersed 250 Germans, after lighting the whole day. Eventually the Askaris panicked and retired, with 85 casualties, when the defenders had two cartridges left. Two of Colonel Northey's men were killed. IN EAST AFRICA. HEAVY FIGHTING REPORTED. BOTH SIDES LOSE HEAVILY. LONDON, Jan. 10. The East African fighting on New Year's Day spread over a front of 20 miles. General Shcppard's Indian troops attacked on the west flank, and drove the enemy out of two elaborate lines of entrenchments. The enemy, consisting mostly of Askaris, encountered a cleverly-disposed Indian force during the retreat, and bloody hand-to-hand fighting followed. The Askaris thrice charged with the bayonet, showing excellent discipline and sound military qualities, but the Indians countercharged and drove the enemy into high rank grass. The losses on both sides were severe.