New-York tribune. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1866-1924, 1914-09-18
To Keep at Full Strength
Eight Divisions Now
in France.
ENGLAND MAY REST
ASSURED OF VICTORY
Troops on Battle Line, Fit and
Well, Are Awaiting Only
the Right Moment.

London, Sept. 17.-Speaking in the
House of Lords to-day, Field Marshal
Earl Kitchener revealed the strength
of the British expeditionary force IN
France and described what he believed
must be done to assure successful
issue of the conflict. A steady flow OF
reinforcements was required, he said
There were already in France, the
Secretary of War said, rather more
than six divisions of British troops and
two divisions of cavalry, which were
being maintained at their full strength.
Further regular divisions and add
tional cavalry were being organized
from units drawn from overseas gar
riscns, which were now being occupied
by territorials and volunteers. A divi-
sion of territorials already had left
tor Egypt, brigade had gone to Malta
and a garrison force to Gibraltar.
Preparing Two More Armies.
Referring to the two new armies, the
Secretary said that new divisions were
now being collected at the training
quarters. The third army was being
formed on the new camping ground and
the fourth army 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 continued, one aspect of the
situation-"the consummste skill and
calm courage of the commander him
self" The government appreciated,
however, the full value of Sir Johns
services.
Earl Kitchener also paid a tribute
to the other generals and the bravery
ard endurance of the officers and men
of the expeditionary force. The latest
advices from General French did not
materially 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 arrives
lerrltOrlalS 10 right.
On the subject of recruiting Earl
Kitchener said: "a country which
prides itself on outdoor sport as does
England should have no difficulty in
finding men capable of making officers
The territoTials 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 eXpedl-
tlonary force and their places are be-
ing filled by territorials.
while England has good ground for
quiet confidence, il should be borne in
mind that the struggle is bound to be
q long one, and it behooves US to de-
vciop armed forces to carry on and
bring the mighty conflict to a success
full conclusion. It will be necessary in
order to keep the army at its full
strength to maintain steady How oil
reinfOrcements."
In the House Of Commons this after
noon Francis Dyke Acland, Parliamen-
tary Under Secretary for Foreign Al
fairs, stated that the British govern
ment had no objection to an inquiry
being made with regard to the alleged
use of "dum dunn" bullets and to re-
ported atrocities.
The government would participate in
such an inquiry, but as TO the sugges-
tor that it should ask the United
States to set up committee OF inquiry
he considered in view of the reply re-
ported to have been given by President
Wilson to Germany there was no use
making proposals to the United States
on the subject.