With French Army, Apr. 8.
Increased liveliness has been noticeable on the Western Front in the past two or three weeks, but whether it is a prelude io sterner action rcmains to be seen. Notable intensification of artillery action occurred at the western end of the active front and probably three or four times as many shells are being used than a month ago.
Observation posts, roads and even villages in no man's land—for a long time more or less immune from destruction—are now receiving welcome attention, Working parties are constantly interrupted. in their labours and have shown more caution than formerly, One feature common to all sectors is the increased determination of patrols, both in their attempts to capture prisoners and obtain information. Enaounters are more severe and objectives more daring.—Reuter.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.