FIRE AT “TE KORAHA.”

Lyttelton Times, Volume CV, Issue 12539, 28 June 1901, Page 5

FIRE AT “TE KORAHA.”

ALARM DURING THE ROYAL VISIT,

A ROOM CONSIDERABLY DAMAGED.

Though considerable secrecy, for no apparent reason, has been maintained in •tho matter, it is now certain that an alarm of fire was given at “Te Ivoraha,” ihe residence of Mr A. E. G. Rhodes, Mayor of Christchurch, during the time, the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall aqd York were staying- in the house. Elaborate fire escape systems had been provided, and two firemen were in attendance night and day, though it was not anticipated that their services would be required, but the contrary turned out to be the case. Late on Sunday night a bright glare in one of the downstairs rooms attracted attention, and the alarm having been given, the two firemen were immediately on the spot. 'By this time the firs, which bud started near a fireplace, bad spread up the mantelpiece and up the walls to the roof, the light drapery near the fireplace being burnt up like tissue paper. The fire rapidly attained considerable dimensions, and it seemed as though the whole house, which is of wood, was in imminent danger. Tho Royal guests were awakened and the whole house was alarmed, the occupants descending to the ground, some of them in night attire. The Duke and Duchess displayed great coolness. The firemen turned the hose on, and after considerable difficulty managed to subdue the flames, though it was thought at first that the Brigades would have to be called, and a servant was on the way to the telephone to ring up the Brigade when the firemen succeeded in mastering the flames. A few minutes more, and a plentiful supply of water sufficed' to completely extinguish the fire, but a close watch Was kept in the room all night. The occupants of the house, including their Royal Highnesses, then retired to rest, assured that the danSer had passed. The room was very much amaged by fire and water, and the walls, part of the ceiling and the mantelpiece present a burnt and blackened appearance. The carpets were ruined by the fire and water, and several pieces of furniture were damaged. The room was nob again used during the Royal visit. The origin of the fire is -shrouded in mystery', and, so far, nothing has transpired to point to any conclusion.