COLONIAL DEFENCES.

Waikato Argus, Volume V, Issue 359, 27 October 1898, Page 2

COLONIAL DEFENCES.

(by telegraph—press association). Wellington, Last Night. The stocks of ammunition in the colony are to be immediately augmented. Large supplies, principally for the big guns, are being brought from Home, and it is understood that large orders for rifle cartridges for the use, of the volunteers are to be placed with the Auckland Ammunition Company. The batteries at Wellington contain in all about IS guns, including three Sin. and a number of 6in. The authorities think that, with the help of the mines at the entrance, and the torpedo boat patrolling the mouth of the harbour after dark, there should be no difficulty in giving an account of any single cruiser here. Auckland, Last Night.

Re war scare, an eight-inch breachloading rifle gun is to be mounted shortly on Mount Victoria Signal Station, and connected by telephone with the other forts.

The total strength of the drilled volunteers is 1000, and with all branches of artillery, ambulance, etc., MOO men are available in two days. Lieutenant Colonel Banks is making enquiries from the officers of companies re arrangements for mobilisation. The total number of guns in forts is : Six at Fort Cautley, two at Port Takapiuia, and one at Point Resolution. The steel beams of the old Wolverine warship are being used for roofing the underground magazine at FJagstaff Hill, Mount Victoria.