The Daily News. MONDAY, APRIL 8, 1918. AUSTRIAN DESIGNS ON ITALY.

Taranaki Daily News, 8 April 1918, Page 4

The Daily News. MONDAY, APRIL 8, 1918. AUSTRIAN DESIGNS ON ITALY.

Almost immediately following the publication of the,peace feelers thrown out by Count Czernin to France, wherein it was inferred that the Central Powers might discuss peace terms if Alsace and Lorraine were left in German hands, there appears in to-day's cablegrams not only a divergent view by other Austrian statesmen, but an evidently concerted demand by the Austrian press for the annexation of Italian territory. It is claimed that Italy's account must be squared, and that now is the favorable moment for launching a strong offensive, owing to the Anglo-French forces being pre-oecupied on the West front. It is stated that as soon as the snow melts the offensive will commence, and evidently there is no lack* of confidence in its success. According to Colonel Repington there are sixty Austrian divisions on the Italian front, and it is extremely probable that these forces will again attempt to defeat the Italians. Last year Germany was able to supply the requisite stiffening power for the Austrian army, and it became necessary for An-glo-French troops to be sent to Italy. The position now is very ('afferent to what it was then. The Italians have reorganised and regained their morale, so that they should be able to cope with any purely Austrian effort, and it is very doubtful whether Germany can spare any men to help her ally. Apparently the Austrian attack is to take place in the .mountains. The enemy tried this last year, but failed signally, and the Piave line was not only securely held by the Italians, but they were able to make effective counter-attacks. It can hardly be expected that the Anglo-French will have men to spare for the Italian front, but in case of dire necessity there is no doubt that all possible help would be given, for Italy's cause is their cause. It is evident that the Austrians consider then- opportunity to "square accounts" with Italy has arrived, but if they are depending on their own unaided efforts to crush Italy, then the task before the Italians should be well within their powers. The main reason for this confidence is the splendid recovery made by the Italians a&er the calamity of last year, and the heroic stand they made against the combined Austro-German' offensive, when the fate of the country was hang.

ing in the balance. Moreover, she had received much needed help in several directions from the Anglo-French, and should at least be able to successfully defend her territory against tiie invaders. Austria is, of course, playing Germany's game, and it is her object to add as much as possible to the troubles of the Entente Powers. It is impossible to anticipate the outcome of events on the Italian front, but we must hope for the best, knowing Italy's intense patriotism and dogged determination.