The War. THE ATTACK ON SANTIAGO.

Waikato Argus, Volume V, Issue 310, 5 July 1898, Page 3

The War.

THE ATTACK ON SANTIAGO.

FIERCE FIGHTING. THE AMERICANS CAPTURE SEVERAL OUTPOSTS. Washington, July 1. General Shafter is using balloons to survey the vicinity of Santiago. Washington, July 3. Three divisions, comprising 10,000 American troops and several thousand Cubans, attacked the Spanish position early on Friday. There was heavy fighting all day, resulting in the capture of the outer defences. Admiral Cerveras' fleet fired on the American troops. Lawton's brigade has occupied Cavey, a suburb of Santiago. The Spanish fought stubbornly, but were handicapped by the weakness of their artillery. Admiral Sampson bombarded Morro, Estrella, the Vesuvius, throwing dynamite shells with great effect. General Shafter reports that the casualties on his side were 400, chiefly wounded. Torrents of rain fell duriner the fight. The American troops had many difficulties to contend with. General Shafter is hurrying a number of Dudley dynamite field guns to the front. Washington, July 3. The Spaniards desperately maintained the defence of Caney for eight hours. The American cavalry under MajorGeneral Wheeler made several brilliant charges. Brigadier-General Kent's brigade attacked Aquadoros, the American fleet; also pouring in a heavy fire upon the Spanish line. The fighting, which was of a furious character, lasted until sundown. Shells from Admiral Cerveras' squadron did heavy execution, one annihilating an entire company. The casualties on Friday exceed 1000. General Shafter has telegraphed for 50 surgeons and an additional hospital ship. i Washington, July 3. The fighting round Santiago was resumed at daybreak on Saturday, the whole of the reserves being ordered to the front. The fight lasted all day, but apparently proved indecisive. But sides lost heavily. A telegram despatched to President McKinley from the front at four o'clock on Saturday afternoon indicated that a fierce battle was proceeding. The marksmanship of the Spanish riflemen is described as poor, while the gunnery of Admiral Sampson's fleet is remarkably good. All the Spanish batteries in Aquadores Valley have been silenced. Washington, July 3.

The American troops found the fortifications of Santiago very strong. ■While forcing the breastworks they encsuntered barbed wire fencing eight feet nigh. In carrying the works they displayed splendid bravery. During a lull in the battle the infantry sang " The Star Spangled Banner," the wounded joining in. Colonel Linears complains that the Spanish reinforcements from Holquin and Martianello, under General Pondo have not arrived. ADMIRAL CAiIARA'S FLEET. Caiko, July 1. The Egyptian authorities have prohibited Admiral Camara from coaling from his own hulks and colliers in the Suez canal, and has requested the fleet to leave forthwith, since the 24 hours' limit has been exceeded. Admiral Camara, in reply to this, declared that ho required extra time to effect repairs. The American Consul has purchased the whole of the coal supplies at Port Said. ' Washington, July 3. It is reported here that Commodore Watson has been instructed to follow Admiral Camara's fleet, aud that a fresh squadron is proceeding to the Spanish coast. Washington, July 3. Camara's fleet, which a few days ago was reported to be steaming through the Suez Canal, is re-entering the Mediterranean Sea, in order to coal from Spanish colliers. Three torpedo boat destroyers attached to the Bquadron return immediately to Cadiz. THE PHILIPPINE EEBELS. London, July 2. A force of Philippine rebels captured the Governor of the province of Bulacan. The ship Bohul, while landing a detachment of 50 Spanish troops, was also captured. WARSHIPS AT MANILA] London, July 2. Four British warships are at presext at Manila, arid the commander at Hongkong has received orders to reinforce them if necessary.