THE LATE FIRE.

Auckland Star, Volume VI, Issue 1623, 28 April 1875, Page 2

THE LATE FIRE.

An enquiry was instituted this afternoon, in the Insurance Buildings, before Dr. Philson, city coroner, into the cause of the late fire in O'Connell-street, Mr Partington foreman. The jury having been sworn, went to view the scene of the fire. ... Mr James Russell appeared on behalf of the South British Insurance Company.

Sergeant Major Pardy conducted the enquiry on. the part of the police. Robert Cranwell deposed that he was a cabinet-maker of Shortland-street, on the evening of the 21st he left; his premises at 5.35 by the clock, and everything- then appeared safe; he carefully locked up the place in company with his partner,, Mr Smith. He was first informed of the fire at eleven o'clock by his apprentice, Denis McCarthy, who called him up. He went at once and looked over the place but saw nothing different. The place was the same as when he left it. The fire was in the workshop, close to the window that looked into Mr Hampton's back yard. A man named Walter Bayne had beon working at his bench nearest to the spot where the fire broke out. His stock was valued immediately after the fire and •was estimated at £1,240 ; he was insured in the South British for £650, and in the National for £350. He had little doubt but the premises were set on fire. The case waa proceeding when our re», orter left. . .