3-082-538 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The War in Eastern Asia: Admiral Ito bombarding Wei-Hai-Wei on February 7, 1895. 'Projectile striking water; Matsushima; Shell bursting close over Japanese ship. In connection with the sketches given of the attack on Wei-hai-Wei, a correspondent on board a British man-of- war sends us the following: "The western fleet, under Admiral Ito, stood out clear and distinct, the sea breeze driving the smoke on the land, and it was evident the Chinese gunners had found their range pretty accurately, for some of the ships were close shaved. Gradually the firing slowed down and the fleets drew off, but the Chinese ships still continued to shell forts already in Japanese possession. After this fierce attack the Chinese torpedo-boat flotilla attempted to escape. Seven were captured and brought into Japanese rendezvous inside Three Peaked Point. Two were chased by fast cruisers as far as Chefoo, where they ran up on beach, their crews deserting. Several casualties occurred in Japanese fleet: besides the flag-ship having her funnel battered, the Naniwa had a shell burst on her quarter-deck, doing much damage; another ship a shot passed through, killing several men, who were cremated on the beach".' Sketch by Mr. J. E. Edwards, H.M.S. "Edgar." From "Illustrated London News", 1895.