ADVANCE OF TROOPS.

FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT. BELFAST, Thursday.

After a few days’ lull, the British military offensive against the Republicans occupying Northern territory in the Pettigo-belleek salient of Co. Fermanagh was resumed this morning. The objective on this occasion was the border town of Belleek, on the western shore of Lough Erne, Pettigo, on the northern shore, having previously been freed from the grip of Sinn Fein forces. The county town of

Enniskillen, twenty miles away, was the base of operations, and in this glorious corner of Fermanagh there was military activity reminiscent of the old days behind the lines in France. Steel-helmeted khaki-clad men, motor lorries, despatch riders, howitzers, armoured cars, and transport wagons were to be seen on every hand in this loyal area, and the troops had a cordial reception everywhere. A composite column of artillery, infantry, and armoured cars assembled, and bivouacked for the night on high ground overlooking the lough at the Ballastry Hills. The camp had been pitched at a spot convenient to the base of the motor and steam launch flotilla, of which the flagship is the Pandora. Every one of these vessels displayed the Union Jack. The column presented a business-like aspect as it set forth this morning from Belleek along the lough shore. Detachments of the Manchesters, who a week ago were in Guernsey, South Staffs lately arrived in Ulster from Cork, and Lincolns, who have been garrisoned at Enniskillen since arriving from Tipperary some months ago, made up the infantry.

The visibility for to-day’s operations was good, and the troops on the high ground could plainly see the tower of Magherameena Castle, recently evacuated by the police, and part of Belleek, five or six miles ahead. There was no sign of opposition as the troops moved towards Belleek, but once within a few miles of that town special precautions were taken.