ERUPTION OF MOUNT ETNA
FLOW OF LAVA REDUCED. MOUNTAIN OP CONTRASTS. INHABITANTS’ COMPOSURE. ' Australian and N.Z. Cable Assn. ROME, June 21. The latest reports indicate that the eruption of Etna is abating, as the flow of lava at several points has been reduced t.o a crawl, although the craters are smoking and emitting cinders and dust. The residents naturally are sceptical, remembering how last night’s' expectations were not fulfilled. The power-house at the Alcantara, River, which supplies the whole of Sicily, was saved by the stream diverting. The Premier, Signor Mussolini, arrived to-day', and set to work organising relief with characteristic energy. He summoned local officials to -a conference, and ascertained the immediate needs, and within a few hours had a scheme actually in operation to meet the needs of the homeless.
The Daily Telegraph’s special correspondent at Rome states that when for the first time since Saturday Etna was clear of clouds, two-thirds of the mountain was a picture of peace and tranquility, and appeared in striking contrast to the licit below, where numerous fissures had opened, whence dense white steam and ominous black smoke issuing. Meanwhile hundreds of thousands of people were mutely gazing at the black lava streams, which crept slowly into every little depression. Only a few actual inhabitants remained, most having gone away sadly. The spectators comprised people from distant villages and tourists, all gaping fixedly at the desolate scene. All fear has subsided at Linguaglossa. It is remarkable how rapidly the inhabitants recover their silent composure, and ho longer seem to heed danger.
A communique states that the Government, while thanking foreign countries for offers of assistance in succouring the victims of the Etna eruption, must decline the same on the ground that the Italian people are fully capable of taking all measures to alleviate suffering. The only acceptable foreign offers of help will bo from Italians abroad.. >
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Waikato Times, Volume 97, Issue 15272, 23 June 1923, Page 5
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314ERUPTION OF MOUNT ETNA Waikato Times, Volume 97, Issue 15272, 23 June 1923, Page 5
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