THE MEN'S CAPTURE.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LI, Issue 15766, 14 November 1914, Page 8

THE MEN'S CAPTURE.

TRAPPED BY SIGNAL.

SYDNEY'S '■; PROMPT ANSWER.

NO NEWS OF STOLEN

SCHOONER,

Melbourne, November' 12,

The Eastern Extension Company reports' .that communication' with the Cocos Island has been fully restored.

-The.'manager, in an interview, said "tho staff at the Island were aware that they were under the protection of the British Admiralty, although "the warships were seldom seen. ;As soon as the Emden was seen "approaching tho station the .distress signal, " 5.0.5." was sent out, and also a rush cable to .tho naval officer at Melbourne, iipoj*' which they, must have acted very promptly.

- A remarkable feature was that tho Emden, which must have heard the distress signals, did not shell the wireless mast. As soon as the landing: party stepped ashore they commenced to put the cable out of action; but, as the result of long experience, the staff were able to baffle the raiders to some extent, and special precautions had been taken in this case. -j ; When the Sydney hove in sight tho landing party took to the boats to > rejoin the Emden, but the captain apparently decided that it was too risky to wait to pick up the. boats, which then put back, and the Bailors watched the fight from the land; They remained ashore till . night time, when they seized the 40ton schooner, Ayesha, and sailed away. Although tho Germans made sure of taking a substantial food supply, this is not likely to embarrass the cable staff. No further news of the Ayesha has been received.

FOREIGN PRESS COMMENT DEPRESSION IN GERMANY. London, November 12. The British newspapers continue to give prominence to the Sydney's exploit, and publish the remarks Mr. Masßcy made at Pukekolie. Many newspapers in Jtaly refer with admiration to the destruction of tho Emden, and the chivalrous treatment of the captives. The Gionalc d'ltalia says the victory shows tho enormous resources of the British Empire, and emphasises the part Australia is playing in the war.

The Paris Temps says: "We hasten to salute the first victory of the young Australian Navy, which compensates to some extent for Admiral Cradock's defeat."

Constant references are made in the newspapers and public speeches in India to the importance of the Australian Fleet's., services in securing the safety of trade routes. There is profound relief that the Emden has been destroyed.

The German press admits that the loss of the Emden is painful, since British trade in Indian waters is again secure. The loss of the. cruiser caused deep depression following the proud days after the Chilian engagement.

Germany regards Commander von Muller as the greatest hero of the war, and tho newspapers proudly recall that tho British always praised Captain Midler's bravery and chivalry. CELEBRATING THE EXPLOIT FESTIVAL IN SYDNEY. o'r v - Sydney, Novembor 12. The Million Club has started a movement to celebrate the Sydney's victory by a week's festival of Australian' drama, interspersed .with patriotic speeches and other items which will arouse, enthusiasm. The proceeds . are to be devoted to relieving the Sydney's injured, and making presentations to her, officers and crow. "CAPTAIN OF THE SYDNEY. Tho Sydney is commanded Ky Captain John C. T. Glossop, who is well-known in Australasia. _Ho first came out with 11. M.5. Royalist as navigating lieutenant. Ho was afterwards commander of H.M.S. Prometheus, and was then told oil' for the Commonwealth Navy. He became post captain, and was eventually appointed captain of the Sydney. MEMENTOES FOR CAPITAL.

• : EMDEN'S GUNS. (Received November 13, 10.30 p.m.) .*;';: [ .:'.' Sydney, November 13. Senator Pearce, Commonwealth Minister for Defence, is endeavouring to obtain the Emden's guns and anchor for tho Federal capital.