CRAB-CLAW ATTACK FAILS.

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume XLV, Issue 14593, 1 May 1918, Page 3

CRAB-CLAW ATTACK FAILS.

GERMANS' GREAT SACRIFICE OF MEN. TERRIBLE PUNISHMENT INFLICTED ON THE ENEMY. (Reuter's Telegram.) LONDON, April 29. Renter's British headquarters' correspondent reports under date April 29:— An enemy infantry attack developed over a wide front, extending from north of Voormezeele nearly to Meteren. Tin strategic object was apparently a crabclaw movement converging upon the hill chain towards Mont des Cats. This front was held by the French m the centre, with our divisions on the flanks. The enemy's failure to progress at t/ocre undoubtedly influenced the enemy to resort to the crushing tactics. but the news so far is eminently •- tory. Up to the afternoon the day was m our favor. An infantry attack begun at. 6 o'clock -with an attempt to advance towards Seberpenberg, This was completely held up firstly. During the morning the . battle extended above Voormeseele, though Ypres was not attacked. The bombardment extended thereto. Enemy reconnaissances m force Against the Belgians were repulsed, everywhere, along the battlefront terrible punishment being inflicted on the enemy, who had thrown m his divisions with lavish disregard of sacrifices, once again paying the full price for no result. The Germans, realising that they were mnking no progress, modified the "cynbclaw" idea, and fighting developed into a direct attempt against Scherpenberg and Mont Rouge, the Germans making intense use of ' their great artillery strength. But the French garrisons on | the hills have splendid cover and their 4 'seventy-fives" and our field, guns are furiously replying. The air is full of aeroplanes, mostly observing during the abundantly clear days. The story when told will he all to the giory of French and British arms. The battle is not yet over, but for tho attack which has now been progrrss- : ng seven or eight hours without makin;» >i?".dway, it is not premature to say * l-.v-.s failed. The German army will be Tveak°r by many thousands by sunset to. day. for they have been fighting all flnv m the open*, while the French and the British have scarcely anywhere Jpft their prepared defences.-