During
the engagements which now ensued the German aircraft kept the commanders
advised as to conditions behind the enemy's lines, now and then
dropping bombs, apparently doing considerable damage.
On October 2, 1914, General von Beseler scattered from "Taube"
aeroplanes a number of printed papers over the entire district.
These circulars contained a proclamation to the Belgian soldiers,
advising them to stop fighting for England and Russia and to return
home to their wives and children, as Germany was ready to help
and befriend them.
The Belgian Government, which had established itself in Antwerp
after the occupation of Brussels, decided to leave the city as soon
as possible. Two small steamers were ordered to be held in readiness.
The foreign legations also decided to go with the Government.
Throughout this day a steady fire was kept up on the nearest outer
forts, but the Belgian soldiers contested every inch of ground
against the German advance. This fighting continued throughout the
entire day following, during which two of the minor outer forts
were silenced.
Rapid progress by the Germans was very difficult owing to the peculiar
conformation of the course of the river Scheldt at the point of
attack. This made especially difficult the laying of concrete
foundations for the heavy guns.
The first detachment of British troops, numbering about 8,000 marines,
reached Antwerp on October 3, 1914.
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