BIG SEA FIGHT.

Manawatu Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 7958, 15 April 1904, Page 2

BIG SEA FIGHT.

Russian Ships Attacked

Escapes To Shelter.

Forts Again Bombarded.

Admiral Togo Demonstrates

Heavy Attack On Pont Arthur.

Feeble Response,

Received April 14,11.25 p.m.

London, Yesterday. Russian silence regarding" the sea fight is commented upon.

Advices received at Tientsin report that the Russian squadron was cut off from its base.

The Espeigle, which has arrived at Wahaiwei, reports having sighted, at a quarter to 6 on the 13th, five Japanese warships engaging the cruiser Bayan, of 7800 tons. The latter was proceeding to Port Arthur from the north-east.

The Askold and another warship left Port Arthur to assist the Bayan, which which was damaged and quantities of steam were escaping. The Eussians got to shelter. The Japanese at eight o'clock bombarded the forts, which did not reply and tho Japanese then retired to the east. A Times' ethergram report from off Port Arthur states the Japanese torpedo craft in the small hours of the morning attacked Port Arthur. Six cruisers covered the attack, and Admiral Mikasi brought five othes battleships aud six cruisers, including the Ka3Uga and the Nisslain, within six miles of the port.

The bombardment began at a quarter to ten, and half an hour afterwards the shore batteries replied desultorily.

Admiral Togo, who seemed to be making a demonstration, withdrew at noon. Forty vessels, including torpedo craft, took part in the demonstration.