THE NAVAL DISASTER

Evening Post, Volume LXXXVIII, Issue 122, 19 November 1914, Page 7

THE NAVAL DISASTER

\REPORT FROM THE CRUISER GLASGOW. THE END OF THE GOOD HOPE AND MONMOUTH. LONDON, 18th November. The Press Bureau states that the captain of H.M.S.' Glasgow (which was in the disastrous engagement off the Chilian coast) reports that the discipline on board during the fight was the same as at battle practice. The Scharnhorst, Gneisenali, and a small cruiser found the range of the Good Hope, Monmouth/and Otranto, which were silhouetted against the sunset, and hampered by a heavy head sea. The third salvo caused a fire on the Monmouth, and the next an immense explosion on the Good Hope, the flames from which were two hundred feet high. The Glasgow was unable to succour the survivors, and escaped at full speed. When the Scharnhorst and Gneisenait were first seen the Good Hope wirelessed the Canopus: "Am going to attack the enemy"— then 15,000 yards distant. "We had the advantage of the light, but were outranged. After sunset the failing light made it difficult to see the enemy. At seven o'clock they opened fire at 12,000 yards. The Good Hope, Montnouth and Glasgow replied. The Good Hope and Monmouth were both afire. The explosion on the Good Hope occurred at 7.30 p.m., resulting in ncr total destruction.' 1 Both sides continued firing. The Monmouth was badly down at the bow and turned seawards. The Glasgow signalled the Monmouth : "The enemy is following us," but received no reply, and as she was unable to render assistance slw steamed full-speed to avoid destruction. "At 9.30 p.m. we observed 75 flashes, doubtless the final attack on the Monmouth. The conduct of the officers and men was admirable through a most try* ing time. It was hard to receive a great volume of fire without the chance of adequately returning it."