1905-04-20 — Page 2

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ing station.

THE HONGKONG TELEGRAPH THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 1905.

vonsky in entering the China Sea wili avoke a water, he found the plank to which he clung feeling of deep Admiration among English until day-light, when he saw several Chinese James or Pulo Condor, off Saigon, as his coal-They all refused to save the man, and event mea; and that he will probably use Gape St.fithing beats, whom he begged to rescue him ually the Freach liner came by and picked him up, bringing along also the morsel of plank 10 which he had been clinging for nearly 12

Japanese at Cape BT, JAMES.

THE RUSSIAN FLAGSHIP,

Osaka, 13th April, Admiral Razhdies'vensky has transferred his flag to the cruiser Aurora (6,630 tons),

"LINCOLNSHIRE'S" PRUDENCE. Early yesterday morning, the new steamer Lincolnshire, of 1,062 tons, arrived from the South and anchored out of the Fairway beyond Stonsentter's She was boarded by repre. sentative of the Telegraph with a view to glean ing information respecting the movements of the Baltic Fleat, but the journey across the harbour proved futile so far as gaining any additional news was concerned. The officere reported that at 4 a.m. on the gth inst. in Lati tude 245 North, Longitude 105.4 East they sighted twenty-two mast-head lights, and as it was deemed prudent to keep out of the way the ship's course was altered to the westward in order to allow the Russians to pass to the east. wards. At 6 to a.m, the vessel was brought

back to her course, the Balticers having passed to the castwards and at daylight their presence could be seen only by smoke on the horizon. At 4.25 the following morning the Lincoln shire again sighted the fleet and for the second time changed her course, She was then in Latitude 5.30 North, Longitude 106.20 East, The ship was bringing up a cargo of rice for

Japan.

THE FLEET off singaPORE.

Describing the passing of the Squadron off Singapore, the Straits Times, of the toth inst, says that, looking up over the blue waters of the Straits, one could see the black spirals of uncountable funnels whe signalled themselves afar off as burners of unbusinesslike soft coal, Nevertheless though strategically wrong, these black pillars of soft coat smoke lost an air of pomp in these warriors of the ocean, who ad vanced under their own scowling canopies like veritable masters of the seven seas. To en- hance the dramatic effect of the advance, the front line was composed of the four giant Hamburg-America liners recently purchased by the Russian Govemment. These monsters whilom "Greyhounds of the Atlantic" towered high above the sea-ideal marks for naval ar-

hours.

stands that the Captain of the British steamer Needler informed the officers of the Radnorskir that he saw four Japanese cruisers off Capo St. famen. They appeared to be watching a Norwegian steamer which had flour and coal board.

nothing whatever about the fleet beyond the arriving at Hongkong from the south report suffered considerably, and they must badly sumption of 5,00 tons for that vessel alone in fact that a few Russian ships had been seen,

marine growths scraped off, and probably a filled her bunkers from her colliera three- entering the part 47 ships were seen and on while even the stories prevalent in the begin- crowd of mechanical defects, big and small, times on roate supposing she was at top speed, while some of the passenger asserted that on that they have seen nothing of the Fleet, need to be pui in dock, so as to have all the the 20 days or, in other words, the must have leaving it for, Hongkong, on Saturday, only, ning of the week about flashlights appearing have accumulated.. On the other hand, the which is of course, unlikely. Nevertheless, seven were noticed. A marchant, who on the horizon have fallen off. Indeed, it crews will have shaken down, and their training despite the necessity of keeping in touch with travelled up from Saigon, was interview: would seem that the good old gift of spin-In gunnery and torpedo work may, in the mean her slower companions it must be remembered ed, and in the course of his remarks said ning yarns, which was once the peculiar time, have been continued and their nerves that the vessel would be foul and her coal that they were nearly as bad off for sews ability of those who go down to the sea in rendered less "jumpy,"

consumption proportionately increased there At any rate, the Russian admiral, with bit by. The proportion of coal consumption to The Strait Timer, of toth inst, under of the movement of the fleet as peopleships, has fallen into desuetude.

were in Hongkong-l He did not place

|ships trailing after him, has left Madagascar, ¦ speed is not to be calculated on that 'of simple much reliance in the report of the recent from Singapore this moming, but saw not Singapore, about 4,500 miles distant. Interasi ibs, a day at top speed it cannot be calculated The P. & O. steamer Chuan arrived and a body of Japanese mon-af-war are at proportion, le, because a vessel uses 18,000 fhing off the Anamba Islands, and said that he had beard nothing concerning the the slightest sign of the Russians. The in the forces on the two sides therefore becomes that she uses half that amount at half spitd, reposted fiting north of the Natuna Islands mallboat kept close to the coast during the accentuated. Admiral Roldeuvensky's com for the proportion is very much lesson the Questioned regarding the provisioning of the greater part of the journey, and passengers and is a big one, and away in the Mediter diminishing rate of inverse geometrical pro Russian ships, he stated that hundreds of tons were in high hopes that they would be grant-ean are further reinforcements-the first gression, and there is also this question of of general provisions were lying in lighters in

foulness to be considered. But it may The U.S. destroyers Chauncey and Barry, the Saigon river ready to be sent aboard of the ed a fleeting glance at the squadron, but

probably be fairly considered that when those and the transport Alava have been sent to

ships bad reached the eastern side of the patrol the waters in the vicinity of Paragus, ships some of which had been seen off the mouth they were disappointed.

Indian Ocean they bad at least about ex- where the cruiser Raleigh has been for some of the river. He did not catch a glimpse of

hausted the contents of 'their buakers. This time, and three more destroyers are being made any Russian ship on the way up from Saigon,

brings us to the certainly that Rejestvensky ready to join them in southera waters to guard although he had a good view of the hospital

cannot afford to delay before either seeking against any infraction of the neutrality of Phi-ship Or when she called in at the port a few

days ago to take in a supply of provisions,

the enemy and engaging him or finding some lippine waters or territory.

temporary refuge." As to the Japanese plans, of course there is not the slightest Indication, but there is every confidence that Admiral Togo has the situation well in hand.

· KOJDESTVENSKI'S PLANS,

it is now believed that Roldestvenski plans to A San Francisco wire, of 11th inst, says that effect a junction of the divisions of the Russian feel. The squadron which appeared to be heading for the south of Borneo with the pre- sumable intention of making the Macassar traits is now reported to have changed is route and to be directing a course north of Borneo. The use was intended as a division. Cape l'adarang, about 150 miles north of Shi- gon on the Indo-China coast, is regarded as the probable point of junction for the Russian squadrons. Two Japanese cruisers which have been patrolling the waters near Saigon for the furpose of guarding the intemed cruiser Diana and reporting and capturing vessels with con- traband, are reported to be heading south to wards the probable line of approach of the Russian fleet. Japan has disclosed her base by announcing that the port of Kelung, on the northern end of Formosa, is closed to foreign ships. Naval critics predict an engagement in a week in the northern part of the China ses.

STEAMER "PHUYEN"

UNDER OBSERVATION.

18th inst.

ON THE "OREL" •

INTERVIEWED AT SAIGON.

SIGHTED BY THE "TANGIAN."

Later.

section of another squadron.

Displace.

SECOND PACific squadron,

Date of Ship completion.

#ATTLESHIPS (7) ... (tons),

Borodino....tendy-

The latest news of the Russians brought Kaias Suaroff...... in by incoming steamers is up to date of the Alexander III... 17th inst, on the morning of which day the Orel 1.3. Tanglin, from Singapore, sighted a num- Oalabia...n badanm ber of vessels which were unmistakeably Sissai Veliky............ Russiana, in Kumrahi Bay. Thes.s, Tanglin Navaring........................... 1895 did not go close enough to see how many there were.

A rumour has been current to-day among the harbour boat men, and a certain section of the Chinese community interested in shipping, to the effect that the Baltic Fleet steamed past Hongkong during the dark hours of last night.

In Le Courrier Saigonnals of the 13th inst. a long article appears regarding a visit made to the Russian hospital ship Orel on the occasion of her visit to Saigon. The writer remarks tha a great many sensational rumours have gained currency in Saigon, but they were without foundation. It was reported that the Russian fleet filled with wounded had entered the river, but a visit to the Orel dissipated The Orel had called at Saigon that idea. in order to coal; there were a number of sick, but the general condition of the staff and nurses was excellent. The Orfl was constructed mainly from French contribuissued this morning with the following tions and therefore the interest of the French notification colony was correspondingly greater in the vesiol.

00

board

EXPORT OF COAL PROHIMTED. A Government Gasette extraordinary was

mont

13,516

> 1904

1901, 1897

ARMOURED CRUISERS (a). Admiral Nakhimoff ... *B8B 1885 Dmitri Donskoi..........

PROTECTED CRUISERS (6).

12,674 10,400 10,206

8,500

5,800

6,630. 6,675

1904

3,100

1297

.1903

Aurora

Oleg

catchug. Svietlana Almaz Izumrud..

3,828 3,285 3,100 The repairing ship Kamchatka, the hospital ship Orel, about twenty transports, five ships of the Volunteer Fleet, armed with quickfiring guns, seven destroyers, and eight torpedo boats are with this squadron.......

It is hereby notified that the terms of the Some of our compatriols, remarks the inter. Proclamation made by His Excellency the

THIRD PACIFIC SQUADRON,

BATTLESHIPS (4).. viewer, have seen the Orel at Toulon, and they Governor on the 17th November, 1904.. will understand that the vessel, as a hospital under the Military Stores. (Prohibition of Nicolai I... ......1892 ship, is thoroughly up to date in every respect. Exportation) Ordinance, 1861, will hence-Admiral Apraxine.........1898 On board, a French lady who is acting as a forward be strictly enforced with regard to Admiral Oushakoff..... nurse was met, and the result is that the French coal, except with regard to such bunker coal "Admiral Sencavins ...... 895

writer waxce enthusiastic over the charms of his fair country woman. She was irritated, it appears, because she got undue prominence from the French press and in accordance with her desire she is referred to as Mlle. J..

as shall be supplied to any vessel with the consent of the Harbour Master.

HONGKONG GOODS FOR THE BALTIC FLEET.

NEWS FROM SINGAPOKE

9,671 4,200 4,126

*These last three ships can hardly be regard ed as battleship, as they are very small and carry little coal,

a

INTERESTING SPECULATIONS.

The Japan Mall indulges in the following interesting speculations as to Admiral Rojest vensky intentions, with special reference to the question of neutrality-It is to be observed, that unlesi he means to fight he will be prac tically forced to find a port of refuge without delay. For with such a large squadron as he leads, he cannot possibly hope to conceal his movements. So long as the Japanese fleet was compelled he concentrate its attention pon Port Arthur, the Russian cruisers in Vladivostok were able to slip out secretly and prey upon commerce without encountering an

now free. cloud of vessels can watch the enemy. But the whole of the Japanese fleat is movements of Rojestvensky's numerous squa- dron and nothing seems less probable than that he should succeed in reacliing Vladivos- tok without a fight. Besides, what would he gain by entering Vladivostok? Ha would be sealed up there even more effectual. ly than his predecessors were in Port Arthur, and unless he emerged and fought he might. as well be lying in some Baltic port. As to, the theory that he intends to find a Among the latest steamers arriving in

second Madagascar where be may await the tillerists, but most ureful withal as storeships the harbour from Saigon with a word or two

ARMOURED CRUISER (1).

coming of the third squadron, and where he to a big squadron. These gargantuan liners

The Orel is commanded by Commandant It has just transpired that on the roth Vladimir Monomach.1885 ,6,061 the largest hulls that ever ploughed the waters about the Balticers was the French ship

may refit, thereafter coming out to do battle, it Several transporis and small ships are also haze of heat that lay upon the waters and came eighteen of the Russian vessels now moving cipal medical officer is Dr. Zachmaloff, assist and ammunition destined for the use of the squadron and the first portion of the Third is understood that the French Government han of these Eastern seas-came up out of the white Phuyen, which had a good view of at least Moultanowski, a Caucasian, in whom was inst. a steamer chartered by a local firm left

need scarcely he said that any Power granting found all the beauties of the race. The prin Hongkong with a cargo of coal, provisions attached to this force.

to him the hospitality of its ports for such a It will be seen that when the Second Pacific purpose will become, de facto, a belligeren... It towering down the Straits in the rigid majesty mysteriously about in these Eastern water, ed by Dr. Zagosiansky Kissel, and there is also of weight and power; bat as it happens, quite and from what she observed she is able to on board a French medical man, Dr. Paris. Baltic Fleet. The captain received orders Pacific Squadron have joined forces, the Rus never admitted the presence of Rojestvensky's harmless save to merchant ships-their arma: locate what would appear to be the pick of There are twenty nurses attached to the vessel, to sail on a certain route until he had lost slan warships will be by no means despicable squadron in France's teritorial waters. The ment being too light to seriously affect any the fleet. When seen to-day by a represent The Orel contains 300 beds in 25 rooms.. sight of land and then he was to follow the in numbers, as there will be about seventy yes theory was that his ships lay at anchor beyond save the lightest warships. Behind them, on the far side near the Dutch shares the cream of ative of the Hongkong Telegraph, Captain There were no wounded on the vessel when sealed orders which were given to him. The sels of all sorts and descriptions, each with a the three-mile limit in some of the commodious the second line were the two new second-class Ducroiset, of the Phuyen, said he left Saigon the French journalist visited her, but there was vessel had 1,600 tons of coal on board and crew requiring food, each with bungry engines bays formed by reefs abounding in those seas.

a number of sick sailon, most of whom cruisers Zemchug, Inamrud with two large but on, the 14th inst., with a cargo of rice were in the convalescent mage. The French was also heavily laden with provisions and needing cost oil, and water, each with a de. Nothing of that kind is possible at Saigon, unimpressive transports. These two business and general merchandize for Hong nurse expressed surprise at the frequency with

same ammunition. It is suggested that the mand for stores of all kinds, and each, it may Unless a ship enter the river there is no safe like-looking vessels, with their squat funnels kong, consigned

be safely assumed, with a tendency to give anchorage, and thus the neutrality problem to Messrs. Bradley which appendicitis occurs, but the experience tactics of the Boers, who imported cannon trouble in its mechanical department. It is would immediately came to the front, it is and their fighting masts and Marconi instalia.

was that afer operation speedy recoveries under the guise of pianos, was followed in unique fleet to be at large on the seas. When incredible that France should openly violate tions, could have pulped the four giants the and Co. When about 175 miles from

were the rule. front line in half an hour Behind them came Cape St. James, on the moming of the 15th

The sick sailors looked, as shipping the ammunition. The vessel has the British Navy mobilised in 1885, after the her obligations in this matter, (having admitted more and still more transports, colliers Cruis inst, and passing the lower entrance to the the writer says, as if they did not find the re-not since been heard of, but it is likely to Pendjeh incident, it was styled a menagerie of them by construction in the case of Madagascar) ers, and destroyers-the late occasionally Kamrahn Bay, stie sighted what was unmis xime of the red, at all trying

be back in Hongkong in a day or two.

unruly and curiously assorted ships, and, this and it is equally difficult to believe that the A Russian prince, who is travelling incognito, leaving their places in the lines and running | takably a Russian torpedo boat. The little

is a description which exactly fits the Russian

Russian Government has authorised ́ils Ad- hither and thither among the ships with mes-warship at once put out from the Bay, and was

was met on board, but the name is withheld...

armada. It contains vessels of all kinds, prac miral to forcibly violate Holland's neutrality. The Orel, it was stated, will proceed on the sager. They were three and four funnelled immediately followed by another. Both of them

When the Iphigenia was passing the Rustically all speeds, and of heterogeneous ng We are unable therefore tonttribute any intent boats, low and snake-like-typical of the most approached the Phuyen together until they on the way. Asked regarding the fee ing of

route to China catching up the Baltic Fleet sian Fleet, she hoisted the Admiral's flag and ing and mechanical equipment, which must ion to Rofestvensky except the intention of venomous engines of destruction afloat. One

war fleet engaged in battleship alone the Sesso Veliki sepresent got within about a quarter of a mile when the Fleer, Mile 1. said that the sailors of tite Kave the customary salute. This appeared to complicate the supply of stores. Never has fighting. It would be

Fleet were most enthusiastic. The name of the sians, and the Oleg, a cruiser, was detached warlike operations before, it contains leur

cause some consternation amongst the Rus the world seen such a

A DARING STROKE ed the first line of Admiral Rojdestvensky's one went off, to port and circled round the

if he seized a port actually within Japan's armament. Her younger and more powerful bows of the Pinyes and seemed to slow

Russian language means and steamed near the British man-of-war, and magnificent battleships of great power in the sisters were looked for in vain. The only down to await the action of the other toringly happy nugury.

"resurrection," which is taken in be an exceed kept her guns trained on her. The curious Suvaroff, Alexander. Il., Borodino, and Orel, dominions-3 part in Formosa or the Pescad

ores a daring but`a suicidal stroke, which other really big warships in the squadron (com.nedo boat which had gone to starboard, and the crews is to achieve victory, and many of † Part of the story is that the muzzle tampians and the Oslabia is also a good ship, but all the manded by Kear Admiral Enclift) were the

were all in their guns, so that if any attempt other armoured vessels are third or fourth rate; sed only be considered to be condemned. cruisers Oleg, Admir Nuchinoff and Dmitri passing close under the stem of the cultater,

thoc on board are valussers with the Fico had been made to fire them, according to and the three little so-called, "Admiral" There remains but one hypothesis, far-fetched Donske-the latter inoking like the exhumed to read her name, came up alongside on her The one aim of all on the Orel was to be pro artillery experts, there would have been, a few bauleships, the Apraxine, Oushakoff, and and scarcely tenable for a moment, namely, that relic of another generation, with her lofty starboard side. Thus the trio moved on. sent at a decisive victory for the Isar, and they damaged guns on board the Russian. It was, Senivan, ought never to to have been per-Russia has put this menace Into the field by

mitted to Venture 'outside the Baltic-so in- square-rigged masts and her cld-fashioned The Phuyen did not stop, nor was she

way of facilitating peace negotiations. We wooden-stocked anchors

signalled to do so, neither were any questions cal stories, of battles and so forth, it was

The journalist adds that after the hypothe closely inspect the British warship, and make significant are they in all that contributes to observe that some publicists are disposol to One beautiful clipper-howed yacht cruiser asked of her by the torpedo boats.

fighting power. After satisfactory to find that there was no truth in

The last named may be adapt that idea. But the essence of such a practically disregarded, as owing to the small plar would be the possession of a base where was the Aar, which was built before the proceeding in this manner for half an these reports, that everything on the Orel was war began, and was intended as the official hour the torpedo boats withdrew, but normal. Saigon, however, like Hongkong is

amount of coal which they carry, from 300

the squadron could lie safely, pending the dis....... yacht of the Viceroy Axeleff. It looked

The Blue Funnel steamer Antenor which to goo tons each, and their small sea speed cussion of terms. From that, point of view its trim and grin-armed as cruiser yet spick not before exchanging salutations between full of rumours, everybody apparently taking a arrived here this morning from Cebu, says the of about to or I knots an hour, they not only presence in Vladivostok might be of use. But and span as a pleasure boat. Will Admiral their commanders and Captain Ducroisel. turn at the invention of news. The writer Singapore Free Press of 13th inst., reports add nothing to the force of the blow Admiral Rojestvensky, for the reasons stuted above, can-

The question is They then made off at full speed to the

regrets that he is unable to give sensational that on March 24, while on the way from Rojdestvensky might strike but are a drag on

not hope to reach Vladivostok without fight- open. Line after line, the ships passed by inpoint at the entrance of the Bay whence story, but trusts that the exact and precise story Yokohama to Manila she sighted the japanese his progress, and the Nicolas 1, Vladimiring, and to fight and be defeated would certain

he has to tell may be quite as acceptable. serene majesty, the aspect of one great collier they had emerged. The Phuyen proceeded

cruisers Chitose and Kasagi with the convert Monomach, and Admiral Nakhhimoff are so ly not facilitate the negotiations for Rusia, The Orel look goo tons of coal on board, but ed cruisers Hongkong Maru and America | desperately slow that they must prove an with four masts with the derricks out, being steadily on her course and as she passed the required no additions to the medical stores Maru cruising in the Balintang Channel be. encumbrance. quite warlike in its environinent, though Bay she saw two other torpedo boats, apparent which are stated to be in excellent condition. normally the half lowered derricks would have ly watching the northern entrance, while in-

How do the rival forces compare? In units, Auggested nothing but trade.

the contrast is as follows: As the main body of the squadron crept side, about the centre of the Bay itself, was

⚫ RUSSIA, JAPAN. down from the Straits, the advance lines faded very large battleship, and further in, and more

A representative of this journal had a chatching Singapore yesterday she sighted five Battleships a şəra 8

Armorted cruisers...... away to the castward and by the time that the to the north was what appeared to be a big this morning with a Japanese gentleman whose large warships et 431 p.m. coming through hospital ship, Orel, white with a great red band four-funnelled cruiser.

remarks should certainly carry considerable the Rhio Straits. The ships appeared to be Protected cruisers ...... 6 At the northern en weight. In the course of conversation he said making for Singapore, but suddenly altered around her, hove in sight, the others were

Unprotected cruisers... • hardly visible in the distance towards China. with the mainland, another very sheltered

trance is a small island and this again forms, hat one most important question at the pre- their course and stond to the North-east of the Coast defence ships...... As they had taken nearly an hour to go by inner bay. In there the Phuyen could see

aent juncture is: How long are the Russians | Horsburg Lighthouse. Those on the Antenor Torpedo craft 15 93 this was not to be wondered at. Last of all

going to remain in this vicinity? Their pre- could not distinguish the colours of the war- The five Japanese battleships are older than came the splendid new cruiser Oltg, and she a number of battleships, cruisers, colliers,

sence here at this time is a menace to the ships, which were grey-painted with two the four new ones of Russia, but the important "alone of all the 44 vessels stopped steaming etc., and in passing was able to count

world's maritime trade, and it must be stopped. funnels each, but they say that the cruiser factor in the situation is the batch of eight mo- for a moment. It was to speak the Tanjong eighteen, though it was believed others

If the feet is to proceed towards Vladivostock phigenia, which arrived here yesterday even-dern armoured cruisers possessed by Admiral, Pagar launch which was flying the Russian might have been inside the inner and more

then it is to the advantage of the Japanese to ing, passed quite close to the range vessels Togo, with thick belts, heavy guns, and high Consular flag, and in which were

hold their band until the Russ ans approach and must have ascertained what they were. M.sheltered bay. All the vessels, said Captain Japanese waters so that the inevitable naval

speed. Even of greater moment is the differ Roudanovsky (Russian Consul) and his party. Ducroiset, looked very clean, and not at all battle may be fought as near home as possible,

ence in the crews-the Japanese with their They had been waiting outside near the light.

Last evening a destroyer came to the castern fighting edge raised to a paint of extraordinary house since early forenoon, and when the fleet as if they were weather-beaten, and the for many obvious reasons, not the least being extrance of the harbour had a look round and keenness by victory, and the Russians with approached they ran aut and signalled. it. torpedo boats were very fast, and did not that if a decisive engagement took place in these went away. It is supposed that the came to little training, no sea aptitude, and no know- waters it would undoubtedly have the effect of Presently a signal was flung back informing appear to be foul or in any way obstructed them that a destroyer would call on them, and by barnacles or other sea-growths. The paralyzing the international trade for which took for the indoo which is now detained ledge of what are the excursions and alarms of

here by the authorities with her 4,000 tons of in a few months one of those low grey boats captain added that there was a general ap if fought in Japanese waters the effect on the sea the Captain or agents that the coal be deliver seems no reason why he should do so.

these waters are the world's highway, whereas coal. The Government require a bond from

Admiral Togo can run no risks, and there was alongside, and M. Pudanovsity had pearance on board the vessels of a prepared. | bome trade would not be nearly so disastrous. ed to the order of the "ritish Consul at Saigon, can bide bis time. Like a colossus, this little objection, however, to that idea is that Russian

Alexeieff ever sail in her?

handedover his despatches to the commander, The latter vessel was the Beduvi-the only of

ness to leave the bay at a moment's notice.

5.8. "ISLEWORTH AND THE HOSPITAL HIP.

a

|

Admiral in the

The constant thought of

were confident that such would be their luck.

A JAPANESE ON THE SITUATION.

of course, within the right of the cruiser to

sure that she was not a possible enemy.

A JAPANESE SQUADRON,

tween the island of Luzon and the Lituchew Islands.

The Antenor also reports that when approa

Rhio.

A RECONNOITRING DESTROYER.

COMING NAVAL CONFLICT.

THE RUSSIAN ARMADA AND ADMIRAL TOGO.

war.

18

10

2

A SYMPOSIUM OF JAPANESE AND FOREIGN OPINION.

¿

He

The Japan Herald writes as follows con.. cerning the suggestion of the military corres pondent of The Timer that Admiral. Rojest- veneky may seize and fortify a Dutch island: -The suggestion of The Times military cor respondent seems totally uncalled for. How- ever foolishly Russia may have acted in the Past and however much she may have irans- gressed the rules of international law, she has not been guilty of seizing territory belonging to a European nation and there is no reason to think she will do, so now. The seizure and fortification of a Dutch island, moreover, would hardly appear to be of much advantage to Rus. sia, unless she is anxious to secure another- trap for her fleet like that at Port Arthur. It is true from such a base she could interfere to a certain extent with Japaness shipping, but how long such interference would last is measured by the length of time it would take the Japa nese to besiege such a base. Further, uolers arrange- ments for seizing such a-Ease the fortification Rojestvenski has already made of a more or less unknown island would be rather a hazardous undertaking. The great

all on a great naval battle. The Russians have hitherto throughout this war pot en

In his opinion the Japanese will not wait long. A visit to the ship this morning ascertained officer is astride the Eastern Seas, watching bas the seven destroyers in the squadron of which

and if the Russians do not soon make ad stinct that she had obtained permission to leave at 4 and waiting and warily laying his plans. In the

NO DESIRE FOR INTERNATIONAL the name was obtainable. She flew back to

move to their reported destination, Vladivostock, o'clock this alternoon.

past year he has made omelettes practically

COMPLICATIONS the flagship, and meanwhile the lunch sailed

Japan must destroy the menace and attack

The local steamer Enghin from Holbow re- without breaking eggs, as he was told to do; such as this action would involve; she has no up the serried lines where M. Rudanovsky The sa. worth, which arrived to-day them wherever they meet, and fight to a finish. through the herbacho hailed and spoke from Saigon, reports that she left that port While the Russians might be superior nuts having passed three Dutch warships off the only eggs which have been brokes have

idea of making an enemy of Germany and of belonged to Russia. He must continue the Great Britain which she would certainly do by megaphone with many officers of on the 14th inst., for Hongkong, with rice, ha the advantage in seamanship, speed, and merically, he was confident that the Japanese

same policy of cautious strategy, so far as bis the Russian Volunteer ships, cruisers and others and was accompanied out of that port by the better classes of vessels. lle paid a tribute to

first fighting line is concerned, while to his seizing Dutch territory. The Russian ficel has whom they had known in Singapore in more Russian hospital ship Orel, which remain the Russians, and said there could be so doubt

small and less indispensable craft (because two more probable courses open to it; one to peaceful times. Presently they arrived at theed with her until noon on the 14th they were very brave, but at the same time,

endeavour to reach Vindivostok by avoiding more easily replaced) freedom to take hazards the Japanese fleet, and the other to chance Dmitri Donskoi, of which Mme Rudanovs-

and do and dare whatever promises success. ky's brother, M. de Giers-a grandson of the inst, when they parted, the Orel going while the Japanese were fighting from pure

His light cruisers have been flung out as far famous Minister of that name--was a lieutenant to Kamarahn Bay. Passing that sheltered patriotism and innate love of country, which The following, though published three weeks south as Singapore, and no doubt in the past They sailed alongside with her for a little space, spot which has so suddenly become known drew the whole army and navy together as one age (March 17) in the Daily Telegraph, con six months lying bases in this vicinity have gaged in a great battle, their chief en while brother and sister spoke, and then ames to always everyone, the isleworth sighted Simply because they were told to do so, but raval situation in the China Sea

map, what were the Russians fighting for? tains much criticism that applies to the existing been formed, and coat and stores accumulated deavour being to save their warships from sage came inviting them to visit the Oleg, about 14 warships besides 15 cruisers, and with no personal, individual interon in the

There are many spots which would serve this ble enemy. Whether Admiral Rojestvensky

what they apparently considered an invinci whose commander, Captain Dobotworsky, i could see the masts of others further in result to their country.

We are on the eve, writes our Naval Corres: purpose. By this time all the details of the an old friend of the Rudanovskys and Mr. side the Bay. As she steamed passed the had their informers, and were kept posted as stage of the struggle for the command of Far have been completed, and the world awaits the

That the Japanese pondent, of further developments in the second measures to be taken to frustrate the Russians seen. Certainly a moderate amount of success is of a different frame of mind remains to ba Stcherbatchoff. She stopped her engines while the Captain spoke to them from the taffrail, entrance, about one o'clock in the after to the Russians' movements, there could be np. Eastern waters, Both the Russian and Japan issue with confidence.

on the part of the Russian flest might put a' and when they had in pull off, the whole ship's noon, a threefunselled cruiser steamer cut doubt, since they were able so successfully to eae forces are again active. It is not certain

different complexion on the war, so far, at any company cheered the little craft and the first and signalled to

keep well out of sight for so long. But, he con- what Admiral "Rojdestvensky's plans are— know her name, na-

rate, as to make the defeat adess crushing one. friends and nationals they had seen in the Fartionality, cargo and destination.

cluded, the next two or three days should bring whether, as tumoured, he has been recalled or

The low of one or two battleships to the East.

The about decisive developments, either as to the has left Malagasy waters to meet Admiral We give below some expressions of opinion Japanese, even at the expense of several Rus Isleworth was not told to stop and did Russians proceeding straight towards Vladivo Botrovosky with the frat section of the third as to Admiral Rojestvensky's intentions, to sian vessels, would undoubtedly place Russia whatever, accurred during the passage of the and her answers, apparently being consider this vicinity.

whatever, our three diffident of any mark, not do so, but simply replied to the signals, stack, or as to the Japaneis attacking them in Pacific Squadron at Jibalil, or, again, has be- gether with some interesting observations by in a better position to negotiate the terms of fleet through Singapore. The only craft that

gun the last stage of his voyage to the desired the Japan Mail, Japan Hirald, and Japan peace. If all the stories of the attitude of haven-Vladivostock. He has got his remark-Garitie

Russian officers and men als true, however, it approached then seems to have been the Coned satisfactory, the cruiser ran up fags Bul's launch and that of the Strait Times re. indicating that she could proceed on her

able fleet 10,000 miles on its journey, without, presentative. Yesterday, another incident oc way. The warship then retired into the bay the Japanese war-sh'ps (says the P.M. Casette) of the age and slow speed of some of the ver- Rojestvensky's coal supply-His stock of

One great difference between the Russian and so far as is known, serious mishap. In view notable calculations with regard to Admina be a half-hearted one so far as the Russians The Japan Gasetle makes the following seems probable that any encounter will only curred, however, which had peculiar interest in again, the worth continuing her voyage is that the fo. mer are always hugging the sole, the large number of auxiliarise in his train, coals must be getting low, the run from Mada ning fight, the endeavour to reach Vladivo are concerned. There will probably be a run- to Hongkong, where she arrived with her coast, or taking shelter in some port, whereas the difficulty of coaling and the character of gascar to Singapore representing more than stok overruling the hope of damaging the The French steamer Amiral Niel arrived, dent."

general cargo and rice without further indian acte are out and about, ever turning up the crews-hundreds of them now at sea for the 3,000 miles. It was estimated by the Russian Japanese fleet.

anexpectedly when and where they are least first lime, fresh from their agricultural pursults press that the coal consumption of the fleet bringing with her a Russian sellor named

expected. By means of scouts and wireless Admiral Roldestvensky has amply justified his would be 3,100 tons daily (though it is difficult Markoff, who had been picked up off Malacca, clinging to a piece of plank about three feet

telegraphy, the Japanese Admiral can keep selection for the supreme command. Whether to understand the basis of this allowance) at JUDGE Skinner Turner of Zanzibar has been It was expected that the Messageries Marl himself well informed, and the Russians' recep or not he be a great leader in war, he is certain ordinary cruising speed, and over jo toss appointed to the important position of Judge of lang by 19 inches wide and 4 inches thick, times mail packet Dumbea, which left Singa- tion would be carefully prepared beforehand by ly no mean organiser and commander in peace, when lying in port. If the fleet has come the British Court at Bangkok. There seems Markoff had fallen overboard from the Adpore for Saigon and Hongkong a week ago, these ships which appear and disappear mys and naval officers, who will appreciate the sea straight from Madagascar without stopping at to be a kind of psychological connection be mirai Nachtmo at 11 o'clock on Friday would have some interesting news, regarding teriously in the vast solitudes which are the of trouble he mast have experienced, will not any point for coaling, it must have cruised tween Zanzibar and Siam (prites a correspon night and was picked up at 17 on Saturday the movements of the Baltic Fleet and the waterways of the Pacide. forescon. He was then practically naked, condition of affairs at the French port. When

fail to agree that he has done better so since the rgth for so days, which would give a dent), for Mr. Ralph Paget, C. M. G., the Char having ripped himself in the water.?

far than was thought possible. He has, consumption of 61,000 tons. The largest coal | ge d'Affaires at the Siamese capital, was also the steamer was boarded to-day and inquiries,

indeed, made a world's record-no officer capacity of one of the battleships such as the employed at Zanzibar under Sir Gerald Portal ever commanded such a fleet and took it Alexander III, in 1,000 tons and, taking her in 1892, and the Sultan of Zanzibar and the seagoing efficiency of his vertale must have power of 16,000, we arrive at a maximum con Harrow, so far. Of course in the past six months the coal capacity at 1 tbs, with lndicated horse young Slamess princes were: schoolfellows at

the circumstances,

BAILOR FALLS OVERBOARD.

AT SAIGON.

"SHIPS THAT PASS IN THE NIGHT."

NO SION OF ITS WHEREABOUTS,

10th inst.

For hours, he explains, he tried to swim into made of the officere and parsangers there was the zone of the squadron's searchlights, but scarcely any additional Information to be failed. Then having stripped himself in the gleaned. The former declared that they knowing the position of the Baltic Fleet. Vessels There is sill a lack of precise news concern

7