After four days' fighting on the Carso the Italians had
captured two lines of Austrian defences, and the Austrians were evidently becoming greatly concerned for the safety of Trieste. The third and last Austrian line on the present defensive position contains the massive and formidably protected Hermada Ridge, where the bulk of the Austrian artillery is posted for the defence of Trieste. The Italians are on the slopes of the Hermada, and it will be a very hard place to take; but positions as strong, if not stronger, in natural advantages have already fallen. The slackening of the battle means that the Italian guns are being brought up, and when they are placed we shall see. The Austrians say that they have taken thirteen thousand prisoners. That may or may not be true. What is certain is that the Italians have taken nearly twenty-four thousand since May 14th, and about forty guns.
