MARNE CROSSED AT THREE PLACES.

Auckland Star, Volume XLIX, Issue 168, 16 July 1918, Page 5

MARNE CROSSED AT THREE PLACES.

AMERICANS FORCE ENEMY BACK BEYOND ORIGINAL LINE. DRIVE REGARDED AS GERMCAUTT'S LAST EFFORT, (Received 1.30 p.m.) LONDON, July 15. The United Press Association's correspondent on the American front Bays that the German drive extends from the west of Chateau Thierry to the east of Rheims. Bitter fighting is in progress, especially at Chateau Thierry. The Germans crossed the Marne at three places, Mezy, six miles east of Chateau Thierry, La Brettonmere Farm, a -mile to the north-east, and Jaulgonne, on the north, bank of the river, 7 miles north-east of Chateau Thierry. The Germans threw pontoons across the Marne amid fierce fire. The Americans quickly recovered the ground at Chateau Thierry and then forced the enemy back half a mile beyond the original line. Military officers in America regard the drive as Germany's last desperate attempt. They believe that Germany will push the offensive regardless of losses, but are confident that she will not reach her objectives.— (A. and N.Z.)