MAIN ALLIED THRUST THROUGH THE CHAMPAGNE.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LII, Issue 16035, 29 September 1915, Page 7

MAIN ALLIED THRUST THROUGH THE CHAMPAGNE.

GERMANS UNABLE TO GUESS STORM CENTRE.

IMPARTIAL BOMBARDMENT ALONG WHOLE LINE.

(Received September 29, 12.30 *.m.)

Paris, September 23.

It is recognised that General Joffre has ceased nibbling. It is clear that Neuve Chappelle, Beau Sejour, and Les Eparges are eclipsed by this offensive, which is considered opportune, as the Germans are deeply committed to their invasion of Russia, where they are fighting on a 700-mile front at the opening of the bad season. The Germans were expecting an attack, and had been holding up boards in Flanders on the 20th inst. with the words, "We were ready for you on the 20th." The allies' attack did not come on the 20th. The gunners distributed their favours so impartially that it was impossible to say where the thrust would come. It is not correct to suggest that the German morale is destroyed. Their guns are numerous and are too well concealed to be destroyed, though they suffered much through the bombardment. The Germans were unable to guess the real storm centre, and must have been sending reserves first to one centre and then to another.

Now it seems certain that the main thrust will be in the Champagne district, where there is open, undulating country without watercourses. If a, wedge of the Von Mackensen type is driven in it may compel the Germans to retire upon the Sombre and the Meuse.