GERMANY'S BLOW AGAINST ITALY.

Hawera & Normanby Star, Volume LXXIV, Issue LXXIV, 29 October 1917, Page 4

GERMANY'S BLOW AGAINST ITALY.

After a period of comparative quietness following upon General Oadorna's successful operations on the Bainsizza Plateau, the enemy has launched one of his heaviest attacks against the Italian army. Large forces have been withdrawn from the Russian front, and, the messages state, Italy is now engaged in a terrific struggle with the whole Austrian army and strong German forces, under the direction of General yon Mackensen. The deplorable failure of the Russian armies to become reconditioned and fit for effective work at the front has enabled Germany to transport great numbers of men from the East front to aid the badly shattered Austrians, whose morale has frequently caused Germany concern during recent months. The Italians in their last offensive inflicted very serious losses upon the enemy, and though the advance ceased svddenly the Austrians were seriously disturbed because of its success. Appeals have no doubt been made to Germany for assistance, and, though it has been somewhat slow in arriving, it is very substantial. Whether the Italians can successfully meet the heavy blows is what concerns the Allies most, and the report that British and French reinforcements, with large stores of munitions, are being sent, indicates that the enemy has prepared an unusually strong move. The most recent reports [of the Italians' condition showed that there were about three million men under arms, splendidly equipped and keen for victory. If reports are true, there need be little fear of the enemy securing a definite victory. His effort is no doubt being made to raise Austria's war spirit, and the thrust will be continued with great vigor under General yon Mackensen, regardless of losses. Wjbight of numbers on the twenty-mile front may succeed in pushing the defenders back somewhat, but we may be sure that whatever ground is recovered will be bought by bood at the heaviest price. The Germans have several times battered their regiments to pieces on the West front without achieving any definite success; probably their attempt on the Italian front will result similarly. The throwing in of great forces of men must, if continued sufficiently long, gain ground, but the losses which the enemy suffers by such methods are, from the Allies' point of view, satisfactory. General Petain said of Verdun that the enemy could have the fortress, but he would have to pay a heavy price. General Cadorna is probably willing to yield a minimum of territory at a. maximum price in bipod in the rough and uninviting Julian Alps.