Red Lodge picket. [volume] (Red Lodge, Mont.) 1889-1907, 1897-02-20
TURKS WILL HAVE TO WITHDRAW
Greece Is Determined to Maintain
the Independence of Crete.

Athens, Feb. 1s-It is generally believed
here that the Cretan feature of the east
ern question is now a thing Of the past
and the landing of the Greek troops at
Crete, as exclusively announced by the
Associated Press yesterday afternoon. is
not likely to turn out a casus belli be-
tween Turkey and Greece The absolu e
decision that Greece persists in the occu-
patton of Crete and protection Of the
Christians of that island, in spite of the
attitude Of the powers, is founded on
the declaration Of Cretans that they are
prepared to shed the last drop Of their
blood in order to attain their national
aspirations, in which they will not be
satisfied with anything short of complete
union with Greece These circumstances
were communicated by Greece to the
powers and the policy of the Greek gov
eminent has been carried out in every
point The order of Minister of War M.
Smolenitz, has been gazetted, appoint
Ing Colonel Vassos, aide-de-camp OF
King George, commander of the Greek
army corps landed yesterday at Pla-
tonica, short distance from Canea Af-
ter explaining that the action of Greece
is due to the fact that she is unable any
1OuSSl W ulS1GSdIu lI6 ldnGnLdDlG SIT
uation of Christians in Crete to whom We
are united by sacred ties Of religion
the order proceeds: "The government
consequently has decided to occupy the
island in the name of King George and
raise his flag over the fortresses, of
which you will take possession. All your
actions shall be accomplished in conform
ity with Greek laws, in the name Of King
George and on the responsibility of his
government. So soon as you have landed
you will publish a proclamation announce
ing the occupation of the island by Greek
troops"
This has been DONE Colonel Vassos
calling upon the Turks to surrender. The
reservists, who have been called to the
colors, are rapidly registering in different
military centers. 1t is hoped however,
that the most serious difficulty to be an
ticipated is q possible severance of the
diplomatic relations between Greece and
Turkey. The annexation Of Crete by
Greece is fait accompli, and it is not
thought likely the powers will do any
thing further. Meanwhile diplomatic ne
gotiations on the subject continue be-
tween the ambassadors at Constantnople, |
who in turn are in constant communca-
ton with the porte. Reinforcements of
men, arms and ammunition are on the |
way from Greece to Crete. 1t is intimated |
that in due course Of time the marines |
from foreign Warships will be recalled |
and Greece will be allowed to assume the
administration Of Crete, possibly under
some restrictions.
The announcement that Prince Nicholas |
will start for Larissa, Thessaly with a |
regiment tomorrow created the greatest |
enthusiasm in military circles. King
George and the royal family, with the
government, are in the highest possible
favor with the people and Prince George
is certain Of receiving a grand welcome
when he returns to Piraeus with the tor
pedo f1otilla.
According to a dispatch received here
from Crete this afternoon Greek troops
have attacked and occupied Fort Aghia,
capturing 400 Turkish Subjects including
100 soldiers.
Diplomatic Relations Ruptured.
Constantinople, Feb ia council Of
ministers have been sitting at Yildiz kiosk
and Turkey practically exists, although it
has not been officially declared, it is be-
lieved the council will decide to recall the
Turkish minister at Athens, Assam Bey,
and give the Greek minister here Prince
MarocordatO his passports