THE EAST.

New Zealand Mail, Issue 898, 17 May 1889, Page 26

THE EAST.

Massowah, May 11. A sharp encounter took place between the troops of the Negus and the Dervishes at Serra. The latter, who were driven off, left 80 killed on the field. Massowah, May 11. It is reported here that Ras Aloula, the Abyssinian commander, has been killed by the Dervishes. Calcutta, May 11. The British expedition against the Karens has been successful over 150 of the enemy being killed. Hcng Kong, May 11. Information has reached here that the s.s. Maridinns has been in collision off the Philippine islands, and 60 persons were drowned. Cairo, May 9. News is to hand of a great battle between Menelek, who recently proclaimed himself Negus of Abyssinia upon the death of Johannes, aud the Dervishes. The battle lasted three days. On the first day the Negua captured many prisoners. Early on the second day the Dervishes made a surprise attack on the Menelek’s forces, and the latter was wounded. Suffering from the effects of a raging fever, brought on by his wound, Menelek ordered the captives to be beheaded, and 2000 corpses were heaped before him. On the morning of the third day, Menelek, attired in sumptuous robes, mounted his horse, and declaring himself the Elect of God and that he was invincible, rode out at the head of his troops and invited battle. In this encounter with the Dervishes he ws.a w etui clod, and succumbed to his wounds, his anny being completely routed by the Dervishes and 30,000 killed. It- is reported that the Dervishes were commanded by an Englishman. Cairo, May 10. Cor rcction.—The details cabled yes

terday of the fight between the troops of the Negus of Abyssinia and the Dervishes, during which King John was killed, refer to a battle which took place early in April, and are not in any way connected with King Melenek, who recently proclaimed himself Negus. Bombay, May 11. The steamer Bothwell Castle is loading wheat here for Sydney and Hobart. Cairo, May 12. Tho rumoured capture of Khartoum by El Senoussi’s lieutenant toward the end of last month is ascertained to be false.