WAR IN CHINA

Hawera Star, Volume XLVIII, 22 September 1924, Page 5

WAR IN CHINA

BOOM OF THE GUNS. HEARD AT SHANGHAI. HEAVY FIGHTING REPORTED. air cable—wtesa association—copybight PEKIN, Sept. 20. According to reports from Shanghai the boom of guns was clearly heard this morning. This does not mean that the Kiangsui troops are nearer the city, but that they are bringing up more guns. There has been heavy fighting all night. Lu’s Shantung forces are still holding out. As Ln cannot obtain reinforcements he will soon have to shorten his line. Tientsin reports that Changtsolin’s artillery yesterday shelled Shanghaikuan, and a Chinese banker was killed. Foreign residents have telegraphed to the Consul protesting. Mukden reports that an engagement between Changtsolin’s second army and the enemy forces near Johol resulted in; the flight of the whole Chili mixed brigade. The entire line from Chingchow tp Chaotang, as well as Suichung, is occupied by Changtsolin’s troops.

At a meeting called by Changtsolin at Mukden, at which consuls and other foreigners: were present, he declared that his protection was adequate for all foreigners and their property as long as he held the position in Manchuria. He asked all foreigners to leave Chin-Wang-Too station, the enemy headquarters, as he intended to bomb it. He also asked foreign gunboats at Shanghaidkuou and Chin-Wang-Too to stand clear, as he intended to bomb enemy gunboats there. He added that he was fighting for his life and the security of Manchuria, and therefore he would not stop short at halfmeasures. ‘

An aeroplane dropped a bomb between two foreign ships anchored near the Chinwang breakwater, but no damage was done.

Shanghai reports state that the French Consul-General has issued rifles, ammunition and hand. grenades to 60 Russian cadets stationed on the French concession, who have seen active service in Siberia. - According to Mukden reports, in response to an appeal by Changtsolin for volunteers, 500 Russians enlisted, and more are expeetd to join. -■