Rensselaer Semi-Weekly Republican, Volume 36, Number 136, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 9 December 1904 — ADVANCE OF THE JAPS AGAINST PORT ARTHUR. [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

ADVANCE OF THE JAPS AGAINST PORT ARTHUR.

The progress made by the Japanese in the investment of Port Arthur is indicated in the map. The fortress was first cut off on the land side by the capture of Nanshan on May 27, and the advance southward and westward made since that time is shown by dated lines. The fighting for the outer works and positions began May 28, hut actual siege operations did not begin until Aug. 7, the Japs on the preceding day having brought up the necessary artillery. At that time the Russian force comprised 35,000 men and the Japanese 00,000. At present Gen. Stoessel is believed to have fewer than 8,000, while the force of the besiegers is problematical. Latest reports are that Nogi’s soldiers have almost captured Rihlung and Keekwan forts, north and east of the town, and hold other positions that permit the effective shelling of the works still held by the Russians. Tokio reports are to the effect that orders for the final assault have been given, and St. Petersburg apparently is apprehensive that the famous siege of the “Gibraltar of the Far East” is fast nearing a conclusion.