T HERE has been little news from the Far East. It
seems certain that Kuropatkin intends to defend Mukden, and that Marshal Oyama has decided with his fresh reinforcements to endeavour once more to envelop the Russian army ; but as to the methods adopted all is indistinct. The accounts which look most trustworthy indicate that Kuropatkin thinks it possible to hold his position, but has arranged everything for a retreat to Tie-ling in case of defeat. At all events, Tie-ling, in itself a strong position, is being strengthened with every kind of impromptu fortification, including lines of hidden mines in its front. On the other hand, the road from Mukden to Tie-ling is being threatened on either side by heavy corps d'armge, the most formidable being commanded by Kuroki, who is alleged to be mortified by his failure to arrest the retreat from Liao-yang. A tremendous battle is expected, and, of course, there are rumours that it has already begun ; but it is more probable that there will be a delay of some days, caused by the necessity of bringing munitions from the coast, and by the one weakness in the Japanese generals,— their anxiety that preparations should be absolutely complete. That anxiety shows the excellence of their organisation, but it makes them a little slow.
