3-082-925 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Sketches in Formosa: "Black Flag" soldiers laying down mines at the entrance to Takow Harbour, 1895. Sketch by Lieutenant A. W. Wylde, H.M.S. "Leander." 'a correspondent writes as follows: Mines are laid across the fairway for ships attempting to enter the harbour. They are intended to be fired from the North Gate Fort by electricity. Placed as they are so close to the shore, they are only of use against torpedo-boats and small craft. It seems that nothing will teach the Chinese the fallacy of the idea that a fort is only to be attacked from the front; they still persist in occupying their whole time piling obstacles in their front and leaving the rear quite open. One thing they never forget, that is to leave a good road for retreat'. From "Illustrated London News", 1895.