THE WAR IN CRETE.

Waikato Argus, Volume II, Issue 98, 23 February 1897, Page 2

THE WAR IN CRETE.

London, February 19. Mlt Gladstone says that Turkey is tin outlaw, and that the idea of assisting her by British forces is detestable. Sir W. V. Harcourt and Lord Kiniberley have expressed the opinion that tho nation should resent the idea of a British force preventing the liberation of Crete. February 20. Prior to taking action against Greece Lord Salisbury desires to Ascertain the views of the Powers as to the future government of Crete. His Lordship favours autonomy similar to that of the island of Samos. A large Radical meeting in London declared in favour of the annexation of Crete by Greece. Athens, February 10. Colonel Vassos is making arrangements for holding municipal elections throughout tho island, and intends to instal Cretan mayors. All the Greek consulates in Crele have lowered their flags. British and Italian torpedo boats prevented the Greek warship Hydra from conveying food supplies to Col. Yassos' forces. The Turks declare that 2300 Moslems have been massacred in the Sitia districts, and 104 et Selino. Great Britain and Italy are opposed to the German Envporor's proposal to blockade the Pinous. In the course of an interview King George declared that if the Greek flotilla at Crete should be conquered Greece wo«ld occupy Epirus, a province of Albania, on the northwestern frontier, and raise a revolt in Macedonia. He sud the Powers gave nothing but good advice, and the Greek dynasty would be threatened unless they headed a military movement on a northern frontier. February 20. Owing to the state of the finauces and the lack of necessaries, the mobilisation of the Turkish forces is regarded as unlikely to be proceeded with. Colonel Vassos has promised the Moslems protection and equality of treatment. The Powers, especially Russia, Germany, and Austria, are greatly incensed at the obstinacy of Greece, but popular feeling in France and Italy strongly favours Greece. The Powers decline to take notice of Colonel Yassos proclamation of annexation. Karuthesdory Pasha has declined the position of Imperial representative in Crete. Colonel Vassos compelled the Turkish outposts at Platiua to retreat on Canea. He also captured Fort Vourotilies, killing 100 and losing 11. The British fleet prevented Greek steamers lan ling powder and food where the coast was protected oy the Powers. Paris, February 20. Application is being made daily at the Greek Legation at Paris by men willing to serve in the Greek army. Washington, February 21. The Senate has passed a resolution of sympathy with Greece. Rome, February 20. The Marquis di Rudini favours the stand taken by Lord Salisbury. Berlin, February 20. Emperor William is furious at Great Britain's refusal to blockade the Pi rm us. Tho German press says that Lord Salisbury, by tho stand he has taken up, imperils the peace of Europe.