WAR IN CHINA

Hawera Star, Volume XLVI, 16 September 1926, Page 9

WAR IN CHINA

EXPEDITION TO WANHSIEN.

MAY END PEACEFULLY.

WUCHANG’S PLIGHT,

BY CABLE-PRESS ASSOCIATION-COPYRIGHT. Received 2.30 p.m. to-day. PEKING, Sent. 15. The second, expedition to Wanhsien, consisting of the gunboats Cricket and Bee- and a detachment of seventy bluejackets, left Hankow yesterday for Ichang to join the gunboats Cockchafer, Widgeon, Scarab, and Mantis. Yangsen "is reported to be 'desirous of a peaceful .settlement, therefore there is a probability of negotiations opening at Ichang fbr the release of the commandeered vessels, which arc believed to have been abandoned. ’ ' . TTie Wuchang -situation is growing precarious, due to the stubborn resistance of a small force of nnti-Reds pie- - venting the complete capture .of the city. A bombardment has repeatedly been threatened, but lias- been withheld on account of civilians. Negotiations for a peaceful surrender failed, but supplies are- shortening. A relief expedition is being organised to rescue the- foreigners, including missionaries. Attacks on foreign river boats lessened as a. result of the W aiihsien affaii. Several attacks on United States and Japanese- warships have been ignored. The- southerners are apparently satisfied to consolidate their present position, not wishing to advance until the Hankow aiid Wuchang positions are assured .