7 JANUARY 1938, Page 5

The Fight for Teruel The battle for Teruel continues ;

and in itself this refutes the Nationalist claims to have taken the city, together with General Rojo, the Republican commander-in-chief. Rival reports of the battle conflict completely ; yet it appears certain that the Government troops still hold the town and have driven the Nationalist garrison out of its strongholds in the Civil Governor's office and. the convent of Santa Clara. On the other hand, the Nationalists have taken the high point known as the Tooth of Teruel, dominating the town at three miles' distance, and are attacking also from Concud, equally near; but attempts to force an entry have been repelled, though at one point coming near to success. The battle has now lasted a week, amid blizzards, ice and snow. The Republicans are reported to be fighting in very inadequate clothing and canvas shoes, and it is difficult to imagine what suffering must be endured by both sides in this savage struggle, in such conditions, at 3,000 feet above sea level. It would not be surprising if, after General Franco's failure to retake the city at the first assault, the pre- sent position should be accepted from sheer exhaustion. But General Franco can hardly admit defeat, for this counter- offensive, undertaken for prestige, will cost him even more if it fails and after such an expenditure of life, material and energy leave him in no position to deliver another offensive elsewhere.