THE CHILIAN BATTLE.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume I, Issue 245, 19 November 1914, Page 8

THE CHILIAN BATTLE.

GLASGOW'S CAPTAIN REPORTS. DETAILS OF ONE-SIDED FIGHT.

• LONDON, November 18. The Press Bureau says that the captain f ■ jof the Glasgow reports that the discipline ? in the battle off Chili was the same as at K battle practice.

The Schamhorst and the Gueisenau and ft small cruiser found the range of the Good Hope, the Monmouth, and the Oteanto,, which were silhouetted against the sunset and hampered by a heavy head eea. The third salvo caused « fire, on the Monmouth and the next an explosion on the Good Hope. The flames were 200 ft Ugh.

The Glasgow was unable to succour the ships and escaped at full speed,. , The Glasgow's official report adds that jurhen the Schamhorst and the Gneisenau were'first seen the Good Hope sent a wireless message to the Canopus, '' Am .going to attack." The enemy was then 15,000 yards distant. We had the advantage in

tt light, but were outranged. After sunset •'* the failing light made it difficult to seethe enemy. At 7 o'clock the enemy opened fire at 12,000 yards, and the Good Hope, Monmouth, and Glasgow replied. The Good Hope and the Monmouth were both afire. The explosion on the Good Hope occurred at 7.30, resulting in the total destruction of the ship. Both sides continued firing. The Monmouth was badly down by the bow, and turned seawards. The Glasgow signalled the Monmouth, '' The enemy is following us," but received no reply. As she was unable to render assistance she went away at full speed to avoid destruction. At .9.30 those on board observed 75 flashes, doubtless the final attack on the Monmouth.

The conduct of officers and men was admirable through a most trying ordeal. They received a great volume of fire without having a chance of adequately returning it.