In America, much interest is being manifested in the German and Austrian Notes sent to President Wilson. The official text of the Austrian Note has not yet been received. It is felt in official circles that if the Austrian Note means complete capitulation Germany will be forced to recognise the hopelessness of her situation, and will be compelled to surrender unconditionally or continue the war under a tremendously increased handicap.
According to well-informed circles, if Austria surrenders it will mean that the Allies will be able to enter Austro-Hungarian territory and use their railways, thus attacking Germany at her vulnerable point.
It is believed that the Czecho Slovaks will be ready to assist the Allies against Germany, who would be forced to withdraw what troops she has on the west front in order to protect her southern frontier on the Danube.
Military defaulters
Four alleged military defaulters, almost in rags and tatters, were brought to the police station tonight, having been arrested at Elfin Bay, Lake Wakatipu, on Monday.
For months these men led the police a dance, having the run of thousands of miles of wild bush country between Lake Wakatipu and the West Coast. They have been living largely on birds and fish, and for six months they have had no news of the outside world.
The party originally numbered six, but the life proved too arduous for two of them, and they returned to civilisation, being arrested. The other four stuck it out; but by degrees they found the struggle too wearying, and, being completely out of provisions, they were driven nearer the haunts of men, and were discovered at 4am on Monday.
They were not armed, and submitted without resistance. All the men belong to Christchurch, though one, at the time of his escape, was a civil servant at Wanganui. One escaped from Trentham camp. The men will be handed over to the military authorities tomorrow.
Lille pageant
London: Mr Percival Phillips writes: Lille was made glad today by a pageant which the populace had eagerly awaited since the liberation of the town. The British troops made a formal triumphant entry, the bands playing ''The Marseillaise'', and British tunes.
The troops marched through crowded streets, and were acclaimed with cheers and tears. This is the first time in this war that we saw infantry dressed and polished for a fete, carrying flowers and little tricolours. General Birdwood led the historic procession, with a glittering staff, to La Defense Column, where the Mayor and many dignitaries awaited. General Birdwood dismounted, advanced with the red and black Headquarters flag, and asked the Mayor to accept the flag in Lille's name.
He expressed admiration for the courage and devotion of its people. Another flag, inscribed ''From the People of Lille to her Liberators'', was handed to General Birdwood. Troops then marched past, and people feasted their eyes on the seemingly endless procession.
- ODT, 31.10.1918.
COPIES OF PICTURE AVAILABLE FROM ODT FRONT OFFICE, LOWER STUART ST, OR WWW.OTAGOIMAGES.CO.NZ
