PROGRESS OF OFFENSIVE.

Taranaki Daily News, 18 July 1918, Page 4

PROGRESS OF OFFENSIVE.

Now that the details of Germany's latest offensive have come to hand, it will be seen that it is no mere diversion. The outstanding features of the movement are that there was no surprise: that the enemy has not only been held, but driven back across the Marne; and that the British forces took no part in the struggle. Each one of these features is matter for much satisfaction, as proving the great value of America's aid. Apparently the Americans can justly claim the honors of the battle thus far, by reason not only of their splendid defence, but also on account of their spirited and successful counter-attack, in which they gave the enemy a taste of their quality as soldiers, driving the Germans across the river at such speed that numbers were drowned. Of the violence of the offensive there is not the slightest doubt, and it is stated that it is improbable that the Germans will attempt at present any serious offensive at Amiens or in Flanders. Should this conjecture be correct, we may possibly have news before long of that offensive which General Foch has planned for carrying out at a favorable opportunity. How stubborn was the Allied resistance may be gleaned from the fact that even the Germans admit its severity. The situation, so far, is considered as good, there being no further enemy gains on the Marne. Both the French and the Americans acquitted themselves with the greatest distinction. The attack was ex-| pected at the point at which it was made, and the preparations to cope with it were evidently satisfactory. It is, of course, too early to judge the effect on the enemy, but it may fairly be assumed that he will have a much more difficult task than ever to make headway against the Allied opposition. There is no question that the Germans are desperately anxious to straighten out the Rheims salient, and to capture the high ground in the vicinity. General Foch knows this, and is acting accordingly, while it may be taken for granted that he has .ample reserves at hand, if required.