MYSTERIOUS FIRE.

Marlborough Express, Volume XXXIII, Issue 286, 9 December 1898, Page 2

MYSTERIOUS FIRE.

SINGULAR OIROUMBTANOE3.

[UNITED PBBSa ASSOCIATION.]

Dunedin, December 8. A fire broke out yesterday afternoon m an eight-roomed two-storey wooden dwelling m Cumberland street north, owned by the trustees m the estate of John Toomej, ana occupied by A. W. McDonald, woolscourer, which resulted m the building being completely destroyed. The fire spread to the manse of the Presbyterian Ohuroh adjoining, and the top story was gutted as well as one room below. McDonald's house was insured m the Standard office for £600, and the manse m the National office for £500. Both offices are re-insured. McDonald's furniture wan insured m the South British for £300, which he says will not cover the loss. Singular circumstances are reported m connection with the fire. At 6 a.m. MoDonald, perceiving a smell of fire, went into the drawingroom downstairs, and found a fancy chair and curtain on fire. He put this out, and reported the matter to the South British Company, who sent a man to look at the place. Between 11 and 12 Mrs McDonald found the fire had again started m the room, this time a curtain and mantelpiece being damaged. The fire was put out by the son, who was apparently so impressed that he i went to the fire brigade station and ! asked Captain Mitchell to visit the place and make euro the fire was put out, This was not done, and about 4 o'clock the fire which destroyed the building broke out, Mrs McDonald and her daughter believing it broke out m a cupboard used as a wardrobe. The furniture of the Key. J. X Mclntyre is understood not to be insured. He had a policy for a small amount on it m a house previously occupied, but it is believed it was not renewed when he moved into the manse. 111-luck has pursued him, for it isjonly a few months since his chnrch was completely demolished by fire. ___ —^ — ____.