LIFE IN MADRID

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXX, 6 October 1936, Page 5

LIFE IN MADRID

INHABITANTS INDIFFERENT TO PERIL NO REFERENCE TO GOVERNMENT DEFEATS ADVANCE OF THE REBELS (United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright) LONDON, 4th October. The “Daily Telegraph’s” Madrid correspondent reports that with the insurgents thrusting toward Madrid the indifference of the public appears remarkable. The streets to-day looked like they do on an ordinary Sunday. Cinemas were open, a philharmonic orchestra played a Beethoven symphony, and greyhounds raced at the opening of the new Palais de Dance, which was advertised throughout the city. The truth is that the inhabitants do not realise the seriousness of the situation, as the newspapers do not refer to Government defeats. Moreover, the plan to raise 100,000 men by calling up the 1932-33 conscripts is certain to fail, as many sympathise with the insurgents. “The Times” Hendaye correspondent says the insurgents assert that Government troops killed 600 rebel

supporters before evacuating Toledo and also took 28,000,000 pesetas belonging to banks and citizens. Ninety Government militiamen defending the Toledo seminary surrended after the building was set on fire and all were immediately executed. Many other Government troops hiding in basements and cellars were forced out and shot.