The Russian Cruisers.

Thames Star, Volume XVI, Issue 5068, 13 April 1885, Page 2

The Russian Cruisers.

Melboubue, Saturday.

The Victorian Government having made inquiries as to the alleged presence of

Russian war 'vessels at, the Capo, Sir Hercules Robinson, Governor of Cape Colouy, telegraphs in reply that six men* of-war, belonging to Russia, left Capetown at the end of February, their ostensible destination being Europe and India. Sunday. It is intended by the local military authorities to make considerable additions to the strength of the artillery for Port Phillip Heads. (Beceived April 13, 12.10 p.m.) Sydney, This day. * It is currently reported that His Excellency, Lord Loftus and Admiral Tryon are in receipt of instructions from the Imperial Government with regard to the necessary steps for promoting the efficiency of the naval and land defences of the colony. Arrived, yesterday afternoon : s.s. Te Anau, from Auckland.

[Age Specials.]

London, April 2. ! It is expected that in the event of. war between Russia and England, Turkey will remain neutral. It is now found that Eussia demands that the Afghan frontier territory under consideration will be extended southwards. April 5. A special Cabinet meeting wjts held today (Sunday) to consider the reply received from the .Russian Government re the Afghan question. It is suspected that Russia's pacific reply, and acceptance of a commission to settle the frontier difficulty, is only a device to gain time, and that an attack will be made on Herat as soon as her military preparations are more advanced. It is thought that the Commission is certain to disagree and fears are entertained that war is imminent. Naval and military preparations in England and India are being hurried.