THE SPIRIT OF DEFEAT

Waikato Times, Volume 89, Issue 13888, 14 October 1918, Page 5

THE SPIRIT OF DEFEAT

FILLS THE GERMAN ARMY. « i LEARNS THE TERROR OP RETREAT. SACRIFICES OP THE VICTORS. (Australian and N.Z. Cable Assn.) Received October 14, 8.45 a.m. LONDON, October 12. Mr Philip Gibbs states that airmen report that the roads south-eastward of Le Cateau are surging with traffic and transport struggling to get clear of the British advance, and the streams of deported French civilians. Frequently the crossroads are blocked, and confusion and disorder reign. Some of our aviators are doing their best to increase the confusion and fears of the retreating army. The. Germans for the first time, in this war know the terrors of retreat with rji enemy hard on their heels; that terror; will be with them to the end. Tanks have gone after them, to the amazement of the villagers. The enemy hoped to make the roads impassable, but we were too quick, and the enemy was unable to mine the crossroads according to plan. It must not be forgotten that we are paying the price of victory. Our patrols still face mach-ine-guns and field-guns, incurring some deadly risks and frightful fatigues. We must not forget the. splendid sacrifice of the officers and men trudging through shells and bullets towards victory. Yet the Germans have the spirit of defeat and think only of peace. The Kaiser's offer has thrown them off their mental balance and Hie demoralisation is growing.