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Thames Star, Volume XVI, Issue 5081, 30 April 1885, Page 2

Our telegraphic columns contain the information that a Russian advance has again been made in Afghan territory, and that the Muscovites have advanced up the valley of the River Murghnb, and occupied Maruchak, a point twenty miles south of Panj-Deh. This position is one of encroachment on Afghan land even if the boundary line set down by Bussia were duly observed by that very shifty power. Bussia's definition of boundary lines is north of Maruchak, and why her army should attempt to encroach any farther than that seems somewhat inexplicable, more especially in the face of assurances made by the Emperor and the Russian Press that peace is desirable. This encroachment must further complicate matters, and place another obstacle, in the way of a peaceful solution of the present difficulty. The telegrams received, report that a fight has taken place between the Afghan forces and the Eussian advancing party, with the result that the Russians were defeated with a loss of 1000 men. This of course requires confirmation, but as the first part of the information sent has been confirmed, there may be also a certain amount of truth in that portion of the report referring to the defeat. It is somewhat significant that the Czar should offer that General Komaroff and Sir Peter Lumsden Bhould be examined by a mixed commission. Is this used as another means of causing delay, so that the Eussian troops may continue to advance ? Let us hope that Great Britian will not remain quiescent while these continued advances are being made. We have a better opinion of the present administration than will allow us to believe that the British authorities are not preparing for all contingencies, and giving to Russia's reputation for political honor as much consideration as it deserves. / ■ ' ■:.',: .■'