Anxious To Fight

Playa del Este, July 12.- Genera) Shaíter's position has been greatly strengthened by the arrival of reinforcements of Illinois volunteers. Colonel Turner's First Illinois regiment from Chicago and Colonel Jack Foster's Sixth Illinois now occupy positions between General Wheeler's and General Lawton's divisions, and before Santiago is taken the Illinois boys will see some severe fighting. The positions occupied by the First and Sixth is close to the front, and already desultory firing has taken place between the American sentries with Turner and Foster and the Spaniards in the trenches. Colonel Turner's boys are anxious for active service, and are ready and willing to charge into the trenches. This order may be given, and the Chicago boys will have an opportunity to demónstrate their courage under a heavy fire, for the Spanish position in front of the First and Sixth Illinois is fortifled with artillery and rapid-fire guns. Santiago is now completely surrounded by the American and Cuban forces, the last gap being filled by the Illinois and Ohio troops. The Spaniards now have no avenue of escape left and must surrender. General Shafter is decided not to take that city by assault, as it would cost too many uves. He will forcé the gpaniards to surrender by bombardment and starving them out.