IN FULL RETREAT.

Taranaki Daily News, 7 September 1922, Page 5

IN FULL RETREAT.

GREEKS FALLING BACK. THE TURKS PRESS ON. BURNING OF VILLAGES. By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—Copyright. Paris, Sept. 5. One hundred and fifty thousand Greeks are in full retreat, abandoning their arms and provisions. The main force numbering 120.000’is falling back on Smyrna, which is already crowded with thousands of refugees. As the morale of the Greeks has completely broken, they are refusing to make another stand. Anxiety prevails regarding the -fate of the horde of undisciplined troops. It is considered impossible they can escape seawards before the arrival of the Turks, and the only hope is an armistice. Athens, Sept. 5. Tt is reported the Government is considering the proclamation of marrial law, and considers its resignation would constitute desertion. A communique announces that large enemy forces attacked the Greek positions in Kovalitza and Brousa. The Greeks routed four enemy battalions. Six' Greek warships, three British, three Italian and two French have arrived at Smyrna. London, Sept. 5. It is understood that communications are passing between the Allied Governments and the High Commissioner at Constantinople with a view to ascertaining the best means of avoiding massacres and protecting Christian subjects. Thousands of Christian refugees are approaching Smyrna. The Turkish advance continues. The Greeks are reported to be withdrawing towards Smyrna. They are not fighting, but are burning villages on the way. Fren&h • newspapers doubt whether France will join Britain in obtaining an armistice. A message from Rome says that Fethy Bey states Turkey will make peace if the Greeks evacuate Asia Minor and restore Thrace to Turkey.

AMERICAN ACTION. DESTROYERS SENT TO SMYRNA. Received Sept. 6, 9.45 p.m. Washington, Sept. 6. Mr. Theodore Roosevelt, Assistant-Secre-tary to the Navy, upon the request from the State Department, has ordered Admiral Bristol (American High Commissioner at Constantinople) to despatch three American destroyers to Smyrna to protect. American lives and property. The movement has no political significance.