RUSSIA AND AFGHANISTAN.

Temuka Leader, Issue 1315, 14 March 1885, Page 1

RUSSIA AND AFGHANISTAN.

L'NPok, March H.

Parleying is still proceeding In tween England and Russia on the Afghan question, but so far as is known no progress has been made towards an amicable settlement. -

The Times to-day states that a collision is imminent, a fresh Russian advance having taken place in the din ctiVn of Herat, and that Sir Peter Lumsien, the Britich Commissioner, has consequently been directed by the Government to organise defensive measures to lw | uisu-d bv the Afghans against the Russian advance. The rimes further states that Bri'isb troops from India have been order d to occupy K'<bal Pass, on the Hindoo Koosli, between Herat and the frontier. The Afghans now hold the Kobat Pass, and steps are being taken to fortify Herat. A semi-.isnio has occurred on the Slock Exchange, owing to the preaent pnliticel uneasiness, Melbourne, March 12.

Mr Sargnnd, D’b nce Minister, baa approved of the prof osal to invite Royal Navy officers to offer for service in connection with local defences.

Considerable anxiety is expressed her# regarding the present unprotected stats of Albany, West Australia, Extra naval precautions are being taken here, and the forces will prtbably be materially augmented without delay. Attention, however, is being given to the use of torpedoes fur defence purposes.

At a meeting of the Clumber of Commerce Extent ire Committee on Thursday, a resolution was carried urging the Government to take immedi «te action for the deb-nce of Auckland. The resoluiion came up for ratification at a meeting of the Chamber yeater-lay. *