------Addis Ababa 1040 hrs Tuesday March 30, 1915
Emperor Iyasu V and Ras Mikael received two unusual petitioners. With his usual tact Iyasu got straight to the point, What do you Falashas want?
His father cringed. He knew that his visitors regarded that term as deprecating. Trying to soothe their feelings he spoke up, What business does the great House of Israel have with the Lion Throne?
The two visitors were Jewish priests (kesoch). Zalelew, the older of the two, addressed his monarch, Emperor Iyasu. Aaron and myself come here before you to bid you honor. We have heard you overcome a French Army to capture the port of Djibouti, giving this great nation access to the sea.
What you say is true, admitted Iyasu, the capture of Djibouti is a great accomplishment. It is almost as great as Adowa. Ras Mikael groaned inwardly at the grotesque comparison. He had been at Adowa and the enemy force had been much more powerful than what he encountered in French Somaliland.
Aaron spoke, In addition to offering congratulations, we have come here to offer the services of our people to your cause. We are a loyal people and ask merely that we be allowed to worship God in our way according to our sacred traditions.
As long as you respect the authority of your rightful sovereign, your people and their traditions shall be respected. We know how much you have suffered over the centuries. It is not our desire to add to that suffering. But we do require loyalty. Will your men fight for us? asked Ras Mikael.
Aaron and Zalelew exchanged glances. As you have said, our people have suffered greatly. Mostly it has be the Christians but there are some recent bitter memories of certain Moslems following one they called the Mahdi.
Moslems who read and understand the Koran would know that the People of the Book are entitled to respect.
Father, do we really need their help? Iyasu asked without looking at his guests.
Ras Mikael glanced briefly at his son and ruler, Your Majesty, a wise emperor lets all his loyal subjects serve them even when that service is not completely necessary. And Gondar is a province we must worry about.
While his son pondered that tidbit of wisdom, Ras Milael turned back to the Jewish priests, Let us be less abstract. How many men suitable for fighting can you provide?
Aaron whispered something in Zalalews ear, who whispered something back then turned again to Ras Mikael
He can assemble 2,000 soldiers in the vicinity of Gondar in two weeks. There another 1,000 in more distant areas that can be called upon eventually
And how many rifles will they have? asked Ras Mikael.
The priests again briefly conferred in excited whispers. Roughly 800, answered Zalelew.
And of these 800 how many load from the front?
The priests conferred again then Zalelew answered with a shrug, Some.
Iyasu snorted derisively. Ras Mikael merely shook his head, then he said, If you can in fact assemble 2,000 able bodied men in Gondar, I shall provide half of them with rifles. None of which load from the front.
Father! gasped Iyasu, rifles do not grow on trees!
We captured over 200 from the enemy in French Somaliland and the Ottomans are providing us with some more, Your Majesty. We can spare some for loyal subjects guarding a critical region.
Iyasu shrugged, "As always I will trust your judgment."
------east of Radom 1355 hrs
The lead battalions Russian 80th Rifle Division approached Radom after a hard march from Ivanogorod Fortress. Melting snow had made the roads increasingly muddy so the artillery and supply wagons were lagging well behind the infantry. Their commander had been told that German cavalry held Radom. Their first contact was indeed it with cavalrythe 5th squadrons of the 5th Chevauleger Regiment which were the cavalry component of the 4th Bavarian Infantry Division.
The sky was partially cloudy and the winds moderate with occasional gusts. The Germans therefore were again able to deploy an airship over the battlefield. The 4th Bavarian Infantry Division had not had sufficient time to dig trenches but its men were allowed some rest after their hard march and a line of strong points were prepared. More importantly their artillery was now readied and it was augmented by a battalion of the ex-naval 15cm guns plus a battery of 21cm Morsers.
The Russian infantry began their attack. The 80th Rifle Division was a second line division. Most of its soldiers lacked adequate trainingnearly a third of them didnt even have a rifle. There were insufficient junior officers and NCOs. They were attacking a battle hardened Bavarian line division. . In less than hour they suffered well over a thousand casualties without achieving anything.
------10 Downing Street 1430 hrs
The War Committee had summoned both Lord Curzon, the Viceroy of Ireland and Earl Frederick E. Smith of Birkenhead, the Attorney General to meet with them. The main topic of conversation was James Connolly.
George, I must start by congratulating you on your deft handling of the threat posed by that swine, Connolly. Contrary to some irresponsible rhetoric in Parliament and some newspapers, you did not overreact to the situation, but acted appropriately, said Bonar Law.
Hear, hear! said Carson with great enthusiasm and Smith quickly echoed the sentiment. Curzon was pleased but he noticed a more ambivalent expression on the face ofLloyd-George, who remained silent.
Thank you, Prime Minister, said Curzon, and while I heartily agree that this rhetoric to which you refer, is downright fatuous and grotesquely ill-informed, we would be foolish to ignore its impact.
Just what are you suggesting, Viceroy? asked Bonar Law in a less laudatory voice.
Before Curzon could answer Lloyd-George unexpectedly interrupted, I would hazard a guess that George here is referring to banning the Transport Union.
Yes, Chancellor, as usual your intuition is spot on. A case can be made for banning the Transport Union because the Connollys Citizen Army was it paramilitary adjunct. The problem is that do so would confirm all the nasty speculation being circulated about the arrest of Connolly being merely an excuse to destroy trade unions. Disagreeable though it be, the most prudent course at this time is to allow the Transport Union to continue and merely ban the Citizen Army which has already been done.
Bonar Law was unhappy with this response, I am not sure about this, George. Even if there is no armed uprising, this damn union is likely to call a general strike if Connolly is convicted maybe even earlier.
Carson then spoke, I find myself in agreement with George on this Andrew. If the union does call a strike in support of Connolly then we could then shut them down as a subversive organization. To ban them now only serves to support the Socialist misperception.
We could ban the Transport Union and make it clear to other union leaders that they are not in any danger, suggested Smith.
But will they believe that? interjected Lloyd-George, and for that matter will Socialists outside Britain? I think not. This situation with Connolly may well have been crucial in the Italian vote of no confidence yesterday. In Spain as well as Sweden for that matter the Socialists have opposed the elements in their countries yearning to enter the war on the side of Germany.
My own instinct is to ban the union as well, but its your decision to make, George. Yours and not Birrells said Bonar Law.
Carson then commented, Just so you know, George. The three of us have discussed Birrell at some length. Weve come to the conclusion that it would be best if he continues on as Chief Secretary for another month, but after that we should find a suitable replacement, someone acceptable to both our party and Davids. In the meantime we do not want to provoke his resignation, but he is not to be granted a veto power over our policies by threatening to resign.
Not a complete veto, added David Lloyd-George, but you should seek to compromise with him whenever possible.
I would like to move on to the topic on Connolly's fate, announced Bonar Law, Sir Frederick, his trial is due to start a week from tomorrow. Have you found a way to see him hang without using his confession?
The attorney-general shook his head, Even if we have all of our informants testify which will render them useless in the future, I remain pessimistic
And using the confession will make it nearly impossible to prosecute Mallin and the Countess, surmised Carson.
If we use the confession we should be able to see Connolly sentenced to death. As far as Mallin goes I would recommend deportation.
And the Countess?
Smith sighed deeply, You are not going to like what I am going to say, Prime Minister. I sure and hell dont. But we may have to let her go.
Bonar Laws jaw dropped, You are bloody damn right--I sure and hell do not like it!
I fail to see why we cant at least deport her, said Carson.
Smith answered, There is an additional complication in her case. Are you aware that Morley is her barrister?
I had heard something to that effect, Frederick, but Christ it must be ages since that fellow last practiced law.
But it wasnt all that long ago that he was Chief Secretary of Ireland. He knows a lot of about things work there and he is making noises about what he can do if we start a deportation hearing against the Countess.
She might be more of a threat if she was deported, prime minister mused Lloyd-George, I ask you to recall Lord Kitcheners briefing on Poland yesterday. While he thinks this Austro-German attempt to encircle an entire Russian Army will fail, he does believe it likely that the Russians will be forced to retreat behind the Vistula River. The Polish Socialist agitator, Pilsudksi will soon have much more of Poland to manipulate. The Countess Markieviscz could well prove to be an effective propaganda tool for him.
Holy Lord! Hadnt thought of that angle, David! exclaimed Bonar law, And even if she doesnt get involved with Pilsudski she could be used for enemy propaganda in Italy, Spain, Sweden or maybe even the United States.
Women do make such dastardly wonderful victims, now dont they? quipped Smith.
Curzon had been strangely quiet in this exchange. The thought of releasing the Countess Markieviscz did not please him either. But he was now reminded of something else, Sir Frederick what about Capt. Jack White?
Smith frowned and sighed, The evidence is weak there as well, Viceroy. The best we can hope for in his case is deportation.
In his case Id suspect hed head for the United States to link up with that silver tongued demagogue, Jim Larkin, who has surprised us all by making no attempt to return to Ireland, said Carson, Captain Gaunt has assigned one of his best agents to following Larkin so well know if he does.
Maybe Mr. Larkin realizes that and thats why hes not even trying to return, said the Prime Minister, which is fine with me. Even though he does us harm in America, he could cause us much more serious trouble if he returned to Dublin.
However Birrell remains strongly opposed to deportations, remarked Curzon, though he makes a grudging allowance that it might be necessary for dealing with Mallin and maybe even Captain Whitebut definitely not the Countess Constance Markieviscz.
Yes, we are well aware of Birrells views on deportation. This gives me a thought though, said Carson with a sudden sparkle in eyes, What if you were to tell him that we are planning to deport the Countess, then coyly suggest a deal with him. The nature of this deal being that if we let the Countess remain in Ireland, Birrell does not make a fuss when we deport Tom Clarke.
Smith chuckled, A brilliant suggestion, Edward! Once Birrell gives his consent it will be much easier for us to deport Clarke than the Countess.
Yes, I would love to see us rid of Tom Clarke. There are some others such as Pease I would also like very much to see deported. For the time being lets see if we can iron out this compromise with Birrell, ordered the Prime Minister
.
------OKW 1600 hrs
In addition to Feldmarschal Moltke and Admiral Tirpitz, General Franois at Moltkes insistence also attended the meeting with General Falkenhayn.
Moltke began the discussion, I must apologize about letting General Conrad use the 2 reserve divisions I promised you for the Balkan offensive. It was becoming obvious that if something was not done to change the initiative in the East Tsar Ferdinand would never sign the treaty of alliance with us. Without that treaty there would be no Balkan offensive. General Conrad was told in no uncertain terms that those units were to be returned to us after two weeks of the start of the offensive. That gives them to recuperate and moved to the Balkans.
So that makes it all right for you to deceive me, Helmuth? thought Falkenhayn with ire It certainly does not! But he had come here to treat with these deceitful devils. That is water under the bridge, Feldmarschal, he responded dryly.
What exactly do you wish to discuss, General? asked Tirpitz.
Falkenhayn decided to be direct, I have several topics on my list, Admiral. but the most important is that I finally want to lay to rest the tension that exists between this office and the General Staff. There has been what I regard as some misunderstandings which in turn have led to a lack of communication. To this end I want to engage both of you in a frank discussion of strategy. I anticipate disagreements but they should not prove intractable. All of us here are dedicated professionals trying to see that our country emerges victorious.
Tirpitz and Moltke exchanged glances. They both seemed relieved. So you want us behind you when you confront Feldmarschal von Hindenburg about the Chancellors intervention, guessed Tirpitz. Moltke gaped at Tirpitzs bluntness and Franois made a bemused grin.
Falkenhayn ground his teeth. His first impulse was to make a denial. After some deliberation he said simply, In part.
Greater or lesser part? You dont have to answer that. We will support you in your struggle but only so far and only we can come to some basic understanding about strategy.
Please, clarify what you mean by a limited degree?
It was Moltke who answered, We will not support a demand for Feldmarschal Hindenburgs resignation. That would be counterproductive. He is still too popular due to Tannenberg.
I will not let this episode go without consequence!
Nor should you. But we believe this situation requires more subtlety.
What are you trying to say, Helmuth?
General Franois now spoke, The real problem is Iago not Othello. You need to get General Ludendorff away from Feldmarschal von Hindenburg.
What are you suggesting? Assign General Ludendorff command of a division? Make him chief of staff of an army?
No, that would make the vindictiveness too obvious. But if there was a truly challenging assignment where you could make an argument that only General Ludendorff would do then our primary motive would be obscured.
And just what is this extremely important assignment?
Why the Balkan invasion, of course! We already have drawn up preliminary plans for it. Since it involves coordination with alliesall three of themit lies well within what is allowed under our charter. We have even given it a codename, Operation Tourniquet. It will require an Army Group to command all the different forces. Conrad will make only token objection to it being a German commander because he knows very well that the Bulgarians will not allow their armies to be subordinate to an Austrian commander.
And so you propose to make General Ludendorff chief of staff for this army group?
Exactly! Choosing the commander is obviously your prerogative. I would strongly suggest though that it be someone he cannot bully and manipulate.
Is there any other plans you have concocted that I should be made aware of?
Tirpitz turned to Moltke and said, It is time we told him about Operation Unicorn.
What? Operation Unicorn? Something else where you can claim you are coordinating with allies? inquired Falkenhayn.
Tirpitz turned to him No. For your information this operation is something the All Highest has already approved. It falls squarely in the clause about joint Army-Navy operations.
-------east of Radom 1735 hrs
The Russian 80th Division made another attackthis time supported by 3 batteries of Putilov 3 field guns. The brief bombardment proved inadequate and the subsequent infantry attack was again repulsed with heavy losses.
------edge of Heligoland Bight 0625 hrs Wednesday March 31, 1915
The British submarine D.2 was on the surface when its lookouts spotted first two then three ships approaching rapidly out of a fog bank The bridge was rapidly cleared and orders given for an emergency dive. The crew heard a shell exploding disturbing close. Less than a minute later they were submerged and feeling themselves safe breathed a collective sigh of relief. The skipper observed the approaching torpedo boats through his periscope for a minute. Down periscope, he ordered, helm, take us down 20 feet. He would wait a few minutes before raising the periscope again.
No one paid much attention to the sound of something falling into the water. Seconds later there was a loud explosion nearby that made the submarine tremble violently. One of the lights went out. Water began to leak inside the vessel.
What the hell was that? yelled one frightened crewman. Were flooding! shrieked another, we must surface immediately!
We are going to sink! cried another. Nearly half the crew had soiled themselves.
Stop it! yelled the captain, that water is coming from a leaking pipe. Alston, find the valve and shut it off. We are not surfacing.
Though the damage turned out to be rather light, it was not negligible and the captain was leery about continuing his patrol. When the submarine surfaced he discovered that the wireless which in the past had never worked well, now did not function at all. A homing pigeon released with a message that they had been damaged while submerged by a new German weapon.
------HQ Southwestern Front 0840 hrs
The 80th Rifle Division was unable to retake Radom yesterday, sir announced General Alexeev, the chief of staff to his commander, General Ivanov, furthermore we still have no word from General Evert and Fourth Army Staff.. Even though the Germans have yet to announce it, I now feel certain that they were all captured by the Germans at Radom."
Ivanov shook his head , I thought there were only German cavalry at Radom. Surely one of our infantry divisions can dislodge cavalry? Do we know if Fourth Army is trying to withdraw across the Vistula?
We have been able to bypass Fourth Army and make direct contact with III, XVII, XXV and Grenadier Corps by wireless. There are in retreat but all report heavy enemy attacks on what has now become their rear. In addition Grenadier and XXV Corps have strong enemy pressure on their flanks and they both have been badly hurt by the enemy attacks of the last week. The reports coming from XXV Corps are extremely pessimistic.
What would you have me do, Mikhail? Commit the other division at Ivanogorod to Radom? I am not going to do that for reasons we have discussed too many times. It occurs to me now that Third Army should send cavalry to erect pontoon bridges over the Vistula to replace those destroyed by the Austrian cavalry. Send word that 80th Division must persist in its attacks. Our retreating divisions should be able to claw their way through the weak enemy forces in their path. Otherwise all we can do is blame that insipid moron, General Ruszki!
------OKW 0915 hrs
Capt. Plunketts German had been getting steadily better in the last month. How did it go with Gen. von Falkenhayn yesterday? he asked Gen. von Franois with some anxiousness. Oberst Hoffman who had been brought into the planning for Operation Unicorn a few days earlier, was also attending the meeting.
Franois had been working on his English, but for the benefit of Hoffman, he answered in German, but spoke slowly, As we expected. his initial reaction was very negative. After a half hour of heated arguing he changed his opinion markedly. Unicorn gives a strong justification for a simultaneous attack on the Western Frontthat is part of our current plan. He likes that aspect of it very much.
So he is not going to try to stop it as we feared? asked Plunkett.
He would not commit himself. He merely said he would give the matter serious consideration.
Did Admiral Tirpitz have to promise him Ludendorffs head on a silver platter to get his cooperation? asked Hoffman, who did not speak slowly for Plunketts benefit. Hoffman had found the Irishman to be a presumptuous dilettante and tried to pretend as if he did not exist whenever possible.
Not exactlybut close.
Just his testicles then? All five of them?
Franois laughed. Plunkett had not comprehended all of the joke and stared in bewilderment. I take it then that the Feldmarschal is happy? Are we still on schedule?
Feldmarschal von Moltke said it went better than expected. We are still on schedule, said the general. What he was not going to share with either Plunkett or Hoffman was that afterwards Moltke speculated that Falkenhayns concurrent offensive would involve something he strongly disapproved of.
------CANZAC HQ Herzegovina 1215 hrs
General Birdwood brought General Bridges, Alderson and Godley to discuss the current situation over lunch. Each of the divisional commanders briefly outlined their progress over the last week. When they were done, the general summarized, Pardon my French, gentlemen, but it sounds like we havent done shit the last few days.
From many generals Birdwoods remark would have been regarded as intensely critical. Coming from him it was more matter of fact even a bit humorous. So Alderson replied in an even tone, Thats about it, sir. Have the Frenchies been able to do any better?
Not really. They have many of the same problemsdifficult terrain, poor roads, improved enemy defenses and the need to conserve shells. Though they dont seem to be having any trouble with their rifles, like your men have been having.
Have the Montenegrins and Serbs having much luck with getting the local population to back them, sir? asked General Godley.
Hmm. Some but not a whole lot as far as Ive been able to determine. Apparently the Kaiserthe ancient Austrian one not that fat loudmouth in Berlinmade some proclamation about making the Slavs equal to the Austrians and Hungarians. I wont pretend that I know much about Austro-Hungarian politics but this proclamation is making it harder for our friends to seduce the locals.
I certainly cant make heads or tails of it, either, sir, commented General Bridges.
Well, I have a mixture of good news and bad news to report. I will start with the good news. I received word from London late last night that our next convoy is expected to arrive her Saturday. In addition to supplies it will be transporting some Canadian and Australian replacement levies. Dont know the exact number as of now. No new units will be joining us this time around.
Nevertheless this is wonderful news, sir. The need to conserve shells has seriously hampered all of my recent attacks, replied Bridges
I agree completely with William, sir. Dare I ask what the bad news is? asked Godley.
Biirdwood frowned, The bad news comes in two pieces. The first is that there is a joint offensive by the Austrians and Germans underway in Poland. Our latest information is that it is having some success. Our intelligence chappies think it likely that in the next week or so the Austrians may be able to free up one or even two divisions to ship off to our neck of the woods.
That is hardly comforting sir remarked Alderson, and whats the other bit of bad news?
Birdwood leaned forward and spoke in an almost conspiratorial voice, You are not to share what I am about to tell you with anyone, understand? We do not want this bit of information getting to the Montenegrins At least not right away.
Understood, sir the divisional commanders answered together.
Our intelligence boys have information that the Bulgaria had decided to cast it lot with the Central Powers.
------south of Radom 1645 hrs
Trying to retreat to Radom the already savaged 1st Grenadiers Division found itself unable to defend its left flank which was soon overrun by the 3rd Bavarian Infantry Division. The 2nd Grenadiers Division on its right managed to limp its way to Radom with the KuK 14th Division in enthusiastic pursuit. The weather had turned warmer with a brief early afternoon shower. This kept the Germans from deploying an airship, but melting snow mad the roads muddy slowing the movement of the artillery. The German cavalry and Jaeger were well entrenched and could call on most of the motorized heavy artillery regiment. The Grenadiers attacked without artillery support. They were very brave but it was one of those instances all too common in this war where bravery was not enough.
------Rome 1920 hrs
King Victorio Emmanuele III was having dinner with his new Prime Minister, Giovanni Giolitti. After making some small talk the king took another sip of wine and broached some more substantial topics, There are been recent indications of a political crisis in the Dual Monarchy.
The Prime Minister would only let the monarch partially distract him from the food. So I heard, Your Majesty, he replied laconically.
Kaiser Franz Josef rashly issued a proclamation stating he intends to give his Slavic subjects equal footing with the Austrians and Hungarians.
So Ive heard, Your Majesty.
Of course the Hungarians were outraged and there was a heated confrontation between Count Tisza and the Kaiser. It is said the Count may have committed lese majesty. The Kaiser removed him shortly thereafter.
I remember Count Tiszas temper very well, Your Majesty. I cant say that I was surprised by this turn of events.
But my understanding has always been Kaiser Franz Josef actually liked Count Tisza despite his ferocity, in fact he admired him because of it-- finding the Count to be reliable and dependable.
I have heard that, too, Your Majesty, but things can and do change, esp. in times of war.
The king did not particularly like Giolittis attitude which while outwardly respectful seemed to be more interested in his food than his sovereign. Still he decided now to press his point, Precisely Giovanni! That is exactly my point. Things can change and so you should be alert to opportunities and open to possibilities.
It is because I am alert to opportunities, Your Majesty, that I am here having dinner with you now.
Yes, that is so. When it comes to Italian politics you are very alert. All I am saying is that you should be just as sensitive to what is happening beyond our borders.
I will take those words to heart, Your Majesty.
That opportunity may require that this nation to go to war.
It might, Your Majesty. Then again, it might not.
If it does I would be prepared to stand beside you.
I appreciate that deeply, Your Majesty. Of course, we both know war is a great burden to impose on a country.
Yes, but of course. Still if it is necessary to secure our vital countrys interests, then we should be willing to take that stepas you have done in the past, said the king making reference to the Italo-Turkish War.
Our nation has many interests, Your Majesty. Some of those are vital but others are not.
------San Francisco, CA 2210 hrs (GMT)
Sandeep Singh Puri was giving a speech to a modest sized crowd. His topic was James Connolly. As time goes on the similarities between the Irish situation and our own grows more and more evident. Two months ago our efforts at revolution were disrupted due to informants. Now in Ireland informants betray the Irish Revolution. The British Empire thinks itself so very clever but its days of dominion are numberedboth in Ireland and in India.
When the speech was over a group of six men approached Sandeep. Three of them were senior leaders in the Ghadar Party, which sought the armed overthrow of British rule in India. Two of them were local Fenians who had become were very supportive of the Ghadar Party since the European War had started. The sixth man, Kuno spoke with a pronounced German accent. One of the Fenians named Larry De Lacey spoke up, That was a mighty fine speech there Sandeep. If only most Irish Americans had the sympathy for the cause of Irish liberty that you do!
I wish that as well, Larry.
Why don't all of us go over to Limerick Junction for a drink?"
I accept your king invitation, my friend, he replied. Looking in the faces of the others he realized that more than casual socializing was involved. The Limerick Junction was a saloon that was popular meeting place for Fenians and even the Ghadars in the Bay Area.
I have received news this morning that the Clan na Gael has been granted a very large loan recently, declared Larry, it appears we had some prominent people as co-signers. He gestured with his head in the direction of Kuno as he said that.
Larry here knows John Devoy very well, declared the oldest of the Ghadar leaders, and Kuno has suggested that he bring some of us to New York to discuss some mutual interests with him.
Another Ghadar named Ram Chandra spoke, Initially my plan was for just the three of us here accompanied Larry and some of his Fenian colleagues to go and meet Mr. Devoy in private. But Kuno here has suggested that we should make ourselves conspicuous and go in a much larger groupperhaps as many as 50to make people on the East Coast familiar with our cause, spending a day or two in Chicago on our way east to drum up support among the large number of Irish there. Ireland was been garnering a great deal of attention of latefirst with that brave Fenian Calahan playing a key role in the recent sea battle and now with this daring Mr. Connolly trying to start the Irish Revolution.
I take it that you then that you wish me to come along with you on this journey to New York City? asked Sandeep.
Aye, me laddy, that they be doin', said Larry De Lacey, because without a doubt you are their finest speaker on the topics of Connolly and the common bond between the cause of Irish and Indian peoples.
Part of Sandeep longed to go to India to fight the British, but after the failure of the attempted rebellion in February it was clear to him that subsequent efforts required careful planning and preparation to have any chance of success. I would be honored to accompany you. I have long desired to see New York, he answered.
------south of Radom 2315 hrs
The temperature continued to slowly rise after sunset, with fog soon forming. Companies belonging to the Russian XVII Corps stumbled their way through it. The officers had been told that the enemy may have them surrounded them. They were forbidden to pass this on to the enlisted meneven the NCOs. The soldiers could sense something was wrong and several rumors were circulating-- some of which guessed the truth esp. after rations were halved.
Some of these companies were driven back by the entrenched positions of either the Bavarian Cavalry Division or the KuK 2nd Cavalry Division to the southeast. In one instance as the company fell back it stumbled into another Russian company moving forward resulting in a tragic firefight between the two units.
.
Some of the companies had a bit of luck though, wandering into a gap between the positions of the German cavalry and those of the Austrian cavalry. The weather was a boon to the Russian infantry but the warming weather was steadily melting the snow. The roads were poor in this part of Polanddeliberately so due to prewar Russian policy. The poor roads and mud slowed the artillery and supply wagons. Russian artillery batteries were fond of abandoning infantry when there was any threat of being overrunesp. in second line divisions where the infantry were regarded as cattle. This time it was the infantry who abandoned the artillery.
Emperor Iyasu V and Ras Mikael received two unusual petitioners. With his usual tact Iyasu got straight to the point, What do you Falashas want?
His father cringed. He knew that his visitors regarded that term as deprecating. Trying to soothe their feelings he spoke up, What business does the great House of Israel have with the Lion Throne?
The two visitors were Jewish priests (kesoch). Zalelew, the older of the two, addressed his monarch, Emperor Iyasu. Aaron and myself come here before you to bid you honor. We have heard you overcome a French Army to capture the port of Djibouti, giving this great nation access to the sea.
What you say is true, admitted Iyasu, the capture of Djibouti is a great accomplishment. It is almost as great as Adowa. Ras Mikael groaned inwardly at the grotesque comparison. He had been at Adowa and the enemy force had been much more powerful than what he encountered in French Somaliland.
Aaron spoke, In addition to offering congratulations, we have come here to offer the services of our people to your cause. We are a loyal people and ask merely that we be allowed to worship God in our way according to our sacred traditions.
As long as you respect the authority of your rightful sovereign, your people and their traditions shall be respected. We know how much you have suffered over the centuries. It is not our desire to add to that suffering. But we do require loyalty. Will your men fight for us? asked Ras Mikael.
Aaron and Zalelew exchanged glances. As you have said, our people have suffered greatly. Mostly it has be the Christians but there are some recent bitter memories of certain Moslems following one they called the Mahdi.
Moslems who read and understand the Koran would know that the People of the Book are entitled to respect.
Father, do we really need their help? Iyasu asked without looking at his guests.
Ras Mikael glanced briefly at his son and ruler, Your Majesty, a wise emperor lets all his loyal subjects serve them even when that service is not completely necessary. And Gondar is a province we must worry about.
While his son pondered that tidbit of wisdom, Ras Milael turned back to the Jewish priests, Let us be less abstract. How many men suitable for fighting can you provide?
Aaron whispered something in Zalalews ear, who whispered something back then turned again to Ras Mikael
He can assemble 2,000 soldiers in the vicinity of Gondar in two weeks. There another 1,000 in more distant areas that can be called upon eventually
And how many rifles will they have? asked Ras Mikael.
The priests again briefly conferred in excited whispers. Roughly 800, answered Zalelew.
And of these 800 how many load from the front?
The priests conferred again then Zalelew answered with a shrug, Some.
Iyasu snorted derisively. Ras Mikael merely shook his head, then he said, If you can in fact assemble 2,000 able bodied men in Gondar, I shall provide half of them with rifles. None of which load from the front.
Father! gasped Iyasu, rifles do not grow on trees!
We captured over 200 from the enemy in French Somaliland and the Ottomans are providing us with some more, Your Majesty. We can spare some for loyal subjects guarding a critical region.
Iyasu shrugged, "As always I will trust your judgment."
------east of Radom 1355 hrs
The lead battalions Russian 80th Rifle Division approached Radom after a hard march from Ivanogorod Fortress. Melting snow had made the roads increasingly muddy so the artillery and supply wagons were lagging well behind the infantry. Their commander had been told that German cavalry held Radom. Their first contact was indeed it with cavalrythe 5th squadrons of the 5th Chevauleger Regiment which were the cavalry component of the 4th Bavarian Infantry Division.
The sky was partially cloudy and the winds moderate with occasional gusts. The Germans therefore were again able to deploy an airship over the battlefield. The 4th Bavarian Infantry Division had not had sufficient time to dig trenches but its men were allowed some rest after their hard march and a line of strong points were prepared. More importantly their artillery was now readied and it was augmented by a battalion of the ex-naval 15cm guns plus a battery of 21cm Morsers.
The Russian infantry began their attack. The 80th Rifle Division was a second line division. Most of its soldiers lacked adequate trainingnearly a third of them didnt even have a rifle. There were insufficient junior officers and NCOs. They were attacking a battle hardened Bavarian line division. . In less than hour they suffered well over a thousand casualties without achieving anything.
------10 Downing Street 1430 hrs
The War Committee had summoned both Lord Curzon, the Viceroy of Ireland and Earl Frederick E. Smith of Birkenhead, the Attorney General to meet with them. The main topic of conversation was James Connolly.
George, I must start by congratulating you on your deft handling of the threat posed by that swine, Connolly. Contrary to some irresponsible rhetoric in Parliament and some newspapers, you did not overreact to the situation, but acted appropriately, said Bonar Law.
Hear, hear! said Carson with great enthusiasm and Smith quickly echoed the sentiment. Curzon was pleased but he noticed a more ambivalent expression on the face ofLloyd-George, who remained silent.
Thank you, Prime Minister, said Curzon, and while I heartily agree that this rhetoric to which you refer, is downright fatuous and grotesquely ill-informed, we would be foolish to ignore its impact.
Just what are you suggesting, Viceroy? asked Bonar Law in a less laudatory voice.
Before Curzon could answer Lloyd-George unexpectedly interrupted, I would hazard a guess that George here is referring to banning the Transport Union.
Yes, Chancellor, as usual your intuition is spot on. A case can be made for banning the Transport Union because the Connollys Citizen Army was it paramilitary adjunct. The problem is that do so would confirm all the nasty speculation being circulated about the arrest of Connolly being merely an excuse to destroy trade unions. Disagreeable though it be, the most prudent course at this time is to allow the Transport Union to continue and merely ban the Citizen Army which has already been done.
Bonar Law was unhappy with this response, I am not sure about this, George. Even if there is no armed uprising, this damn union is likely to call a general strike if Connolly is convicted maybe even earlier.
Carson then spoke, I find myself in agreement with George on this Andrew. If the union does call a strike in support of Connolly then we could then shut them down as a subversive organization. To ban them now only serves to support the Socialist misperception.
We could ban the Transport Union and make it clear to other union leaders that they are not in any danger, suggested Smith.
But will they believe that? interjected Lloyd-George, and for that matter will Socialists outside Britain? I think not. This situation with Connolly may well have been crucial in the Italian vote of no confidence yesterday. In Spain as well as Sweden for that matter the Socialists have opposed the elements in their countries yearning to enter the war on the side of Germany.
My own instinct is to ban the union as well, but its your decision to make, George. Yours and not Birrells said Bonar Law.
Carson then commented, Just so you know, George. The three of us have discussed Birrell at some length. Weve come to the conclusion that it would be best if he continues on as Chief Secretary for another month, but after that we should find a suitable replacement, someone acceptable to both our party and Davids. In the meantime we do not want to provoke his resignation, but he is not to be granted a veto power over our policies by threatening to resign.
Not a complete veto, added David Lloyd-George, but you should seek to compromise with him whenever possible.
I would like to move on to the topic on Connolly's fate, announced Bonar Law, Sir Frederick, his trial is due to start a week from tomorrow. Have you found a way to see him hang without using his confession?
The attorney-general shook his head, Even if we have all of our informants testify which will render them useless in the future, I remain pessimistic
And using the confession will make it nearly impossible to prosecute Mallin and the Countess, surmised Carson.
If we use the confession we should be able to see Connolly sentenced to death. As far as Mallin goes I would recommend deportation.
And the Countess?
Smith sighed deeply, You are not going to like what I am going to say, Prime Minister. I sure and hell dont. But we may have to let her go.
Bonar Laws jaw dropped, You are bloody damn right--I sure and hell do not like it!
I fail to see why we cant at least deport her, said Carson.
Smith answered, There is an additional complication in her case. Are you aware that Morley is her barrister?
I had heard something to that effect, Frederick, but Christ it must be ages since that fellow last practiced law.
But it wasnt all that long ago that he was Chief Secretary of Ireland. He knows a lot of about things work there and he is making noises about what he can do if we start a deportation hearing against the Countess.
She might be more of a threat if she was deported, prime minister mused Lloyd-George, I ask you to recall Lord Kitcheners briefing on Poland yesterday. While he thinks this Austro-German attempt to encircle an entire Russian Army will fail, he does believe it likely that the Russians will be forced to retreat behind the Vistula River. The Polish Socialist agitator, Pilsudksi will soon have much more of Poland to manipulate. The Countess Markieviscz could well prove to be an effective propaganda tool for him.
Holy Lord! Hadnt thought of that angle, David! exclaimed Bonar law, And even if she doesnt get involved with Pilsudski she could be used for enemy propaganda in Italy, Spain, Sweden or maybe even the United States.
Women do make such dastardly wonderful victims, now dont they? quipped Smith.
Curzon had been strangely quiet in this exchange. The thought of releasing the Countess Markieviscz did not please him either. But he was now reminded of something else, Sir Frederick what about Capt. Jack White?
Smith frowned and sighed, The evidence is weak there as well, Viceroy. The best we can hope for in his case is deportation.
In his case Id suspect hed head for the United States to link up with that silver tongued demagogue, Jim Larkin, who has surprised us all by making no attempt to return to Ireland, said Carson, Captain Gaunt has assigned one of his best agents to following Larkin so well know if he does.
Maybe Mr. Larkin realizes that and thats why hes not even trying to return, said the Prime Minister, which is fine with me. Even though he does us harm in America, he could cause us much more serious trouble if he returned to Dublin.
However Birrell remains strongly opposed to deportations, remarked Curzon, though he makes a grudging allowance that it might be necessary for dealing with Mallin and maybe even Captain Whitebut definitely not the Countess Constance Markieviscz.
Yes, we are well aware of Birrells views on deportation. This gives me a thought though, said Carson with a sudden sparkle in eyes, What if you were to tell him that we are planning to deport the Countess, then coyly suggest a deal with him. The nature of this deal being that if we let the Countess remain in Ireland, Birrell does not make a fuss when we deport Tom Clarke.
Smith chuckled, A brilliant suggestion, Edward! Once Birrell gives his consent it will be much easier for us to deport Clarke than the Countess.
Yes, I would love to see us rid of Tom Clarke. There are some others such as Pease I would also like very much to see deported. For the time being lets see if we can iron out this compromise with Birrell, ordered the Prime Minister
.
------OKW 1600 hrs
In addition to Feldmarschal Moltke and Admiral Tirpitz, General Franois at Moltkes insistence also attended the meeting with General Falkenhayn.
Moltke began the discussion, I must apologize about letting General Conrad use the 2 reserve divisions I promised you for the Balkan offensive. It was becoming obvious that if something was not done to change the initiative in the East Tsar Ferdinand would never sign the treaty of alliance with us. Without that treaty there would be no Balkan offensive. General Conrad was told in no uncertain terms that those units were to be returned to us after two weeks of the start of the offensive. That gives them to recuperate and moved to the Balkans.
So that makes it all right for you to deceive me, Helmuth? thought Falkenhayn with ire It certainly does not! But he had come here to treat with these deceitful devils. That is water under the bridge, Feldmarschal, he responded dryly.
What exactly do you wish to discuss, General? asked Tirpitz.
Falkenhayn decided to be direct, I have several topics on my list, Admiral. but the most important is that I finally want to lay to rest the tension that exists between this office and the General Staff. There has been what I regard as some misunderstandings which in turn have led to a lack of communication. To this end I want to engage both of you in a frank discussion of strategy. I anticipate disagreements but they should not prove intractable. All of us here are dedicated professionals trying to see that our country emerges victorious.
Tirpitz and Moltke exchanged glances. They both seemed relieved. So you want us behind you when you confront Feldmarschal von Hindenburg about the Chancellors intervention, guessed Tirpitz. Moltke gaped at Tirpitzs bluntness and Franois made a bemused grin.
Falkenhayn ground his teeth. His first impulse was to make a denial. After some deliberation he said simply, In part.
Greater or lesser part? You dont have to answer that. We will support you in your struggle but only so far and only we can come to some basic understanding about strategy.
Please, clarify what you mean by a limited degree?
It was Moltke who answered, We will not support a demand for Feldmarschal Hindenburgs resignation. That would be counterproductive. He is still too popular due to Tannenberg.
I will not let this episode go without consequence!
Nor should you. But we believe this situation requires more subtlety.
What are you trying to say, Helmuth?
General Franois now spoke, The real problem is Iago not Othello. You need to get General Ludendorff away from Feldmarschal von Hindenburg.
What are you suggesting? Assign General Ludendorff command of a division? Make him chief of staff of an army?
No, that would make the vindictiveness too obvious. But if there was a truly challenging assignment where you could make an argument that only General Ludendorff would do then our primary motive would be obscured.
And just what is this extremely important assignment?
Why the Balkan invasion, of course! We already have drawn up preliminary plans for it. Since it involves coordination with alliesall three of themit lies well within what is allowed under our charter. We have even given it a codename, Operation Tourniquet. It will require an Army Group to command all the different forces. Conrad will make only token objection to it being a German commander because he knows very well that the Bulgarians will not allow their armies to be subordinate to an Austrian commander.
And so you propose to make General Ludendorff chief of staff for this army group?
Exactly! Choosing the commander is obviously your prerogative. I would strongly suggest though that it be someone he cannot bully and manipulate.
Is there any other plans you have concocted that I should be made aware of?
Tirpitz turned to Moltke and said, It is time we told him about Operation Unicorn.
What? Operation Unicorn? Something else where you can claim you are coordinating with allies? inquired Falkenhayn.
Tirpitz turned to him No. For your information this operation is something the All Highest has already approved. It falls squarely in the clause about joint Army-Navy operations.
-------east of Radom 1735 hrs
The Russian 80th Division made another attackthis time supported by 3 batteries of Putilov 3 field guns. The brief bombardment proved inadequate and the subsequent infantry attack was again repulsed with heavy losses.
------edge of Heligoland Bight 0625 hrs Wednesday March 31, 1915
The British submarine D.2 was on the surface when its lookouts spotted first two then three ships approaching rapidly out of a fog bank The bridge was rapidly cleared and orders given for an emergency dive. The crew heard a shell exploding disturbing close. Less than a minute later they were submerged and feeling themselves safe breathed a collective sigh of relief. The skipper observed the approaching torpedo boats through his periscope for a minute. Down periscope, he ordered, helm, take us down 20 feet. He would wait a few minutes before raising the periscope again.
No one paid much attention to the sound of something falling into the water. Seconds later there was a loud explosion nearby that made the submarine tremble violently. One of the lights went out. Water began to leak inside the vessel.
What the hell was that? yelled one frightened crewman. Were flooding! shrieked another, we must surface immediately!
We are going to sink! cried another. Nearly half the crew had soiled themselves.
Stop it! yelled the captain, that water is coming from a leaking pipe. Alston, find the valve and shut it off. We are not surfacing.
Though the damage turned out to be rather light, it was not negligible and the captain was leery about continuing his patrol. When the submarine surfaced he discovered that the wireless which in the past had never worked well, now did not function at all. A homing pigeon released with a message that they had been damaged while submerged by a new German weapon.
------HQ Southwestern Front 0840 hrs
The 80th Rifle Division was unable to retake Radom yesterday, sir announced General Alexeev, the chief of staff to his commander, General Ivanov, furthermore we still have no word from General Evert and Fourth Army Staff.. Even though the Germans have yet to announce it, I now feel certain that they were all captured by the Germans at Radom."
Ivanov shook his head , I thought there were only German cavalry at Radom. Surely one of our infantry divisions can dislodge cavalry? Do we know if Fourth Army is trying to withdraw across the Vistula?
We have been able to bypass Fourth Army and make direct contact with III, XVII, XXV and Grenadier Corps by wireless. There are in retreat but all report heavy enemy attacks on what has now become their rear. In addition Grenadier and XXV Corps have strong enemy pressure on their flanks and they both have been badly hurt by the enemy attacks of the last week. The reports coming from XXV Corps are extremely pessimistic.
What would you have me do, Mikhail? Commit the other division at Ivanogorod to Radom? I am not going to do that for reasons we have discussed too many times. It occurs to me now that Third Army should send cavalry to erect pontoon bridges over the Vistula to replace those destroyed by the Austrian cavalry. Send word that 80th Division must persist in its attacks. Our retreating divisions should be able to claw their way through the weak enemy forces in their path. Otherwise all we can do is blame that insipid moron, General Ruszki!
------OKW 0915 hrs
Capt. Plunketts German had been getting steadily better in the last month. How did it go with Gen. von Falkenhayn yesterday? he asked Gen. von Franois with some anxiousness. Oberst Hoffman who had been brought into the planning for Operation Unicorn a few days earlier, was also attending the meeting.
Franois had been working on his English, but for the benefit of Hoffman, he answered in German, but spoke slowly, As we expected. his initial reaction was very negative. After a half hour of heated arguing he changed his opinion markedly. Unicorn gives a strong justification for a simultaneous attack on the Western Frontthat is part of our current plan. He likes that aspect of it very much.
So he is not going to try to stop it as we feared? asked Plunkett.
He would not commit himself. He merely said he would give the matter serious consideration.
Did Admiral Tirpitz have to promise him Ludendorffs head on a silver platter to get his cooperation? asked Hoffman, who did not speak slowly for Plunketts benefit. Hoffman had found the Irishman to be a presumptuous dilettante and tried to pretend as if he did not exist whenever possible.
Not exactlybut close.
Just his testicles then? All five of them?
Franois laughed. Plunkett had not comprehended all of the joke and stared in bewilderment. I take it then that the Feldmarschal is happy? Are we still on schedule?
Feldmarschal von Moltke said it went better than expected. We are still on schedule, said the general. What he was not going to share with either Plunkett or Hoffman was that afterwards Moltke speculated that Falkenhayns concurrent offensive would involve something he strongly disapproved of.
------CANZAC HQ Herzegovina 1215 hrs
General Birdwood brought General Bridges, Alderson and Godley to discuss the current situation over lunch. Each of the divisional commanders briefly outlined their progress over the last week. When they were done, the general summarized, Pardon my French, gentlemen, but it sounds like we havent done shit the last few days.
From many generals Birdwoods remark would have been regarded as intensely critical. Coming from him it was more matter of fact even a bit humorous. So Alderson replied in an even tone, Thats about it, sir. Have the Frenchies been able to do any better?
Not really. They have many of the same problemsdifficult terrain, poor roads, improved enemy defenses and the need to conserve shells. Though they dont seem to be having any trouble with their rifles, like your men have been having.
Have the Montenegrins and Serbs having much luck with getting the local population to back them, sir? asked General Godley.
Hmm. Some but not a whole lot as far as Ive been able to determine. Apparently the Kaiserthe ancient Austrian one not that fat loudmouth in Berlinmade some proclamation about making the Slavs equal to the Austrians and Hungarians. I wont pretend that I know much about Austro-Hungarian politics but this proclamation is making it harder for our friends to seduce the locals.
I certainly cant make heads or tails of it, either, sir, commented General Bridges.
Well, I have a mixture of good news and bad news to report. I will start with the good news. I received word from London late last night that our next convoy is expected to arrive her Saturday. In addition to supplies it will be transporting some Canadian and Australian replacement levies. Dont know the exact number as of now. No new units will be joining us this time around.
Nevertheless this is wonderful news, sir. The need to conserve shells has seriously hampered all of my recent attacks, replied Bridges
I agree completely with William, sir. Dare I ask what the bad news is? asked Godley.
Biirdwood frowned, The bad news comes in two pieces. The first is that there is a joint offensive by the Austrians and Germans underway in Poland. Our latest information is that it is having some success. Our intelligence chappies think it likely that in the next week or so the Austrians may be able to free up one or even two divisions to ship off to our neck of the woods.
That is hardly comforting sir remarked Alderson, and whats the other bit of bad news?
Birdwood leaned forward and spoke in an almost conspiratorial voice, You are not to share what I am about to tell you with anyone, understand? We do not want this bit of information getting to the Montenegrins At least not right away.
Understood, sir the divisional commanders answered together.
Our intelligence boys have information that the Bulgaria had decided to cast it lot with the Central Powers.
------south of Radom 1645 hrs
Trying to retreat to Radom the already savaged 1st Grenadiers Division found itself unable to defend its left flank which was soon overrun by the 3rd Bavarian Infantry Division. The 2nd Grenadiers Division on its right managed to limp its way to Radom with the KuK 14th Division in enthusiastic pursuit. The weather had turned warmer with a brief early afternoon shower. This kept the Germans from deploying an airship, but melting snow mad the roads muddy slowing the movement of the artillery. The German cavalry and Jaeger were well entrenched and could call on most of the motorized heavy artillery regiment. The Grenadiers attacked without artillery support. They were very brave but it was one of those instances all too common in this war where bravery was not enough.
------Rome 1920 hrs
King Victorio Emmanuele III was having dinner with his new Prime Minister, Giovanni Giolitti. After making some small talk the king took another sip of wine and broached some more substantial topics, There are been recent indications of a political crisis in the Dual Monarchy.
The Prime Minister would only let the monarch partially distract him from the food. So I heard, Your Majesty, he replied laconically.
Kaiser Franz Josef rashly issued a proclamation stating he intends to give his Slavic subjects equal footing with the Austrians and Hungarians.
So Ive heard, Your Majesty.
Of course the Hungarians were outraged and there was a heated confrontation between Count Tisza and the Kaiser. It is said the Count may have committed lese majesty. The Kaiser removed him shortly thereafter.
I remember Count Tiszas temper very well, Your Majesty. I cant say that I was surprised by this turn of events.
But my understanding has always been Kaiser Franz Josef actually liked Count Tisza despite his ferocity, in fact he admired him because of it-- finding the Count to be reliable and dependable.
I have heard that, too, Your Majesty, but things can and do change, esp. in times of war.
The king did not particularly like Giolittis attitude which while outwardly respectful seemed to be more interested in his food than his sovereign. Still he decided now to press his point, Precisely Giovanni! That is exactly my point. Things can change and so you should be alert to opportunities and open to possibilities.
It is because I am alert to opportunities, Your Majesty, that I am here having dinner with you now.
Yes, that is so. When it comes to Italian politics you are very alert. All I am saying is that you should be just as sensitive to what is happening beyond our borders.
I will take those words to heart, Your Majesty.
That opportunity may require that this nation to go to war.
It might, Your Majesty. Then again, it might not.
If it does I would be prepared to stand beside you.
I appreciate that deeply, Your Majesty. Of course, we both know war is a great burden to impose on a country.
Yes, but of course. Still if it is necessary to secure our vital countrys interests, then we should be willing to take that stepas you have done in the past, said the king making reference to the Italo-Turkish War.
Our nation has many interests, Your Majesty. Some of those are vital but others are not.
------San Francisco, CA 2210 hrs (GMT)
Sandeep Singh Puri was giving a speech to a modest sized crowd. His topic was James Connolly. As time goes on the similarities between the Irish situation and our own grows more and more evident. Two months ago our efforts at revolution were disrupted due to informants. Now in Ireland informants betray the Irish Revolution. The British Empire thinks itself so very clever but its days of dominion are numberedboth in Ireland and in India.
When the speech was over a group of six men approached Sandeep. Three of them were senior leaders in the Ghadar Party, which sought the armed overthrow of British rule in India. Two of them were local Fenians who had become were very supportive of the Ghadar Party since the European War had started. The sixth man, Kuno spoke with a pronounced German accent. One of the Fenians named Larry De Lacey spoke up, That was a mighty fine speech there Sandeep. If only most Irish Americans had the sympathy for the cause of Irish liberty that you do!
I wish that as well, Larry.
Why don't all of us go over to Limerick Junction for a drink?"
I accept your king invitation, my friend, he replied. Looking in the faces of the others he realized that more than casual socializing was involved. The Limerick Junction was a saloon that was popular meeting place for Fenians and even the Ghadars in the Bay Area.
I have received news this morning that the Clan na Gael has been granted a very large loan recently, declared Larry, it appears we had some prominent people as co-signers. He gestured with his head in the direction of Kuno as he said that.
Larry here knows John Devoy very well, declared the oldest of the Ghadar leaders, and Kuno has suggested that he bring some of us to New York to discuss some mutual interests with him.
Another Ghadar named Ram Chandra spoke, Initially my plan was for just the three of us here accompanied Larry and some of his Fenian colleagues to go and meet Mr. Devoy in private. But Kuno here has suggested that we should make ourselves conspicuous and go in a much larger groupperhaps as many as 50to make people on the East Coast familiar with our cause, spending a day or two in Chicago on our way east to drum up support among the large number of Irish there. Ireland was been garnering a great deal of attention of latefirst with that brave Fenian Calahan playing a key role in the recent sea battle and now with this daring Mr. Connolly trying to start the Irish Revolution.
I take it that you then that you wish me to come along with you on this journey to New York City? asked Sandeep.
Aye, me laddy, that they be doin', said Larry De Lacey, because without a doubt you are their finest speaker on the topics of Connolly and the common bond between the cause of Irish and Indian peoples.
Part of Sandeep longed to go to India to fight the British, but after the failure of the attempted rebellion in February it was clear to him that subsequent efforts required careful planning and preparation to have any chance of success. I would be honored to accompany you. I have long desired to see New York, he answered.
------south of Radom 2315 hrs
The temperature continued to slowly rise after sunset, with fog soon forming. Companies belonging to the Russian XVII Corps stumbled their way through it. The officers had been told that the enemy may have them surrounded them. They were forbidden to pass this on to the enlisted meneven the NCOs. The soldiers could sense something was wrong and several rumors were circulating-- some of which guessed the truth esp. after rations were halved.
Some of these companies were driven back by the entrenched positions of either the Bavarian Cavalry Division or the KuK 2nd Cavalry Division to the southeast. In one instance as the company fell back it stumbled into another Russian company moving forward resulting in a tragic firefight between the two units.
.
Some of the companies had a bit of luck though, wandering into a gap between the positions of the German cavalry and those of the Austrian cavalry. The weather was a boon to the Russian infantry but the warming weather was steadily melting the snow. The roads were poor in this part of Polanddeliberately so due to prewar Russian policy. The poor roads and mud slowed the artillery and supply wagons. Russian artillery batteries were fond of abandoning infantry when there was any threat of being overrunesp. in second line divisions where the infantry were regarded as cattle. This time it was the infantry who abandoned the artillery.
