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Show REVEALS STRENGTH BF BfllTlSlI FORCES War Secretary Kitchener Speaks on War Situation in House of Lords. LONDON", Sept. 17, 7:15 p. m. Speaking Speak-ing In the house of lords today. Field -Marshal Karl Kitchener revealed the strength of the British expeditionary force In France and described wliat he believed must be done to assure a successful suc-cessful issue of the conflict. A steady flow of reinforcements was required, he Siiid. There were already in France, he said, more than six divisions of British troops and two divisions of cavalry, which were being maintained at their full strenstli. Further regular divisions and additional cavalry were being organized from units drawn from overseas garrisons, which were now being occupied bv territorials and volunteers. A division of territorials already had left for EgypL, a brigade had gone to Malta and a garrison force to Gibraltar. Referring to the two new armies, the secretary said that new divisions di-visions were now being collected at the training tiuarters. The third army was being formed on tile new camping ground and the fourth armv was being created. Meantime Indian divisions were on their way. In his dispatches from the front, Sir John French, commander of the British expeditionary force, had omitted, the secretary sec-retary continued, one aspect of the situation situa-tion "the consummate skill and calm courage of the commander himself." The government appreciated, however, the full value of Sir John's services. Earl Kitchener also paid a tribute to the other generals and the bravery and endurance of the officers and men. The latest advices ad-vices from General French did not materially ma-terially change the situation as it was already known from published statements The troops were reported to be in good heart and ready to move forward "when the moment arrived." On the subject of recruiting, Earl Kitchener said : "A country which prides itself on outdoor out-door sports, as does England, should have no difficulty in finding men capable of making officers. The territorials are making great strides in efficiency and before long, will be able to take their part in the campaign. Meanwhile, reserve units are being sent to augment the expeditionary expe-ditionary force and their places are being filled by territorials. "While England has good ground for quiet confidence, it should be borne in mind that the struggle is bound to be a long one, and It behoves us to develop armed forces to carry on and bring the mighty conflict to a successful conclusion It will be necessary. In order to keep the army at Its full strength, to maintain a steady flow of reinforcements." |