Evening Republican, Volume 21, Number 277, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 8 December 1917 — WAR SUMMARY [ARTICLE]

WAR SUMMARY

. . Indications that Germany will seek a decision on the western front at once before the United States can place an effectual fighting force in the field are upheld by the .troop movements reported by allied observers who state that the eastern front is being stripped of men to reinforce the western lines. In the Cambrai sector alone it is said the Germans have massed at least twen-ty-five divisions, approximately 375,000 men. In the meantime intense artillery fire and vicious minor infantry operations continue all along the front. Believing a general German offensive may be launched .at any moment the British and French are making all possible preparations to effectually meet the Teutonic onslaught. That fighting on the western front will continue throughout the greater part of the Winter is the consensus of opinion. Berlin today asserts that all British troops have been chased from Marcoing and that German troops have stormed La Justice farm. In the vicinity of Vial wood two fierce German blows were repulsed by the British, a London estimate placing the German losses at 2,000. Northwest of Reims Paris reports vigorous artillery firing. On the right bank of the Meuse two German attacks on French positions near Bexonvaux and Beaumont were repulsed. Near Colonne French patrols took prisoners.

On the Italian front the battle on the Asiago plateau continues unabated. Reports from Berlin and Vienna claim the capture of 15,000 Italians in the last two days’ fighting. Rome admits a retirement in the Meletta salient, but asserts that the vital defense lines are still intact. Austro-German troops took Sisemol and captured 4,000 of the defenders, according to Berlin. Rome, however, claims the repulse of six Teuton attacks and states that the arrival of reinforcements definitely cheeked the enemy's advance. Vienna claims the capture by Teutons of Monte Gifla, positions on Monte Badenecche and Monte Tondarcear, Monte Bello and positions in the rear near Foza.

WANTED —To buy 2nd hand wood heating stove.. Dr. F. H. Hemphill.