Mobilisation

BRITAIN PREPARES

MOBILISATION OF THE ARMY.

HOW THE COUNTRY TOOK THE NEWS.

Second only in importance to Sir Edward Grey’s declaration of Great Britain’s attitude in view of the European developments was the announcement, made yesterday, that the British Army was to be mobilised, and that the Navy was already on a war footing.  The mobilisation proclamation will be signed to-day, and the necessary orders for the Reserves to return to the colours and the Territorials to be embodied will then be issued.

The necessary preparations for war are being made with all speed.  Every Post Office in the United Kingdom will be kept open night and day.  All vessels carrying wireless installation must dismantle it on arriving in British waters.  A Royal Proclamation announces the right of the Admiralty to take over any vessel flying the British flag for transport use or other purposes.

Earl Kitchener was on his way back to Egypt by the overland route, and had actually embarked on the cross-Channel steamer at Calais when he was recalled by telegram, and returned to the shore.

The mobilisation of the British Navy was completed in all respects at 4 a.m. yesterday morning.  This is due to the measures taken, and to the voluntary response of the reserve men in advance of the Royal proclamation, which has now been issued.  The entire Navy is now on a war-footing. 

(Glasgow Herald, 4th August)