STERN BATTLE RAGING.

Taranaki Daily News, 15 July 1916, Page 5

STERN BATTLE RAGING.

ALLIES' GAINS EXTENDED. GERMAN SITI'ATIOX SERIOUS. TERRIBLE SACRIFICE OF MEN, BRITISH CASUALTIES. Received July 14, 10.50 p.ui. London, July 1-1. Though the British ami French communiques studiously refrain from giving details, it is unollicially known that a stern battle is proceeding. The Allies' gains in the nortli of the Somme have been steadily extended during the last three days. On account of the German reverse, the German situation at T'ozieres ia serious, as the British successes thereabouts have enabled the French to sxtend tlicir lines at Hardecourt in tlie direction of Maurapas. The Crown Prince, in t'he last two days, has launched fifty thousand men in the direction of the Souville fort. Ground was gained at a terrible sacrifice. The hundreds of machine guns lining the slopes wrought frightful havoc during eight days. 'Die British casualty li-st?, covering- the first day's offensive, include 1800 officers, whereof 14(1 were killed. To-dav's list includes 101 Xcw Zcalanders in the rank and file. Paris. July 14. To-niglit the communique states that no important event ia happening on the Somme.

AX AUCKLAND OFFICER WOUNDED. Received July 14, 10.30 p.m. London, July 14. Lieutenant Straehey, of the Somerset Light Infantry, who win wounded in France, is ft son of Mr. Claude Str&cliey, of Auckland.