FLEE AT THAMES.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XL, Issue 12326, 20 July 1903, Page 5

FLEE AT THAMES.

[BY TELEGRAPH.own correspondent.] Thames, Sunday. Whilst on-duty in Pollen-street at two o'clock this morning, Constable Harvey discovered an outbreak of firs in the large grocery establishment of Mr. Win. Scott. At that time considerable smoke was issuing from the building, but he could only observe an occasional flicker of tire, although there were crackling sounds to be heard within. The constable immediately gave the alarm, and in a short time the life!.brigade was on the scene. Upon effecting an entrance to the building it was some time before the seat of the fire could be ascertained, owing to the intense heat and dense smoke , which prevailed, out at last the outbreak was located at the second counter in from the main entrance on the left-hand side. This counter, it was found, was almost entirely destroyed, but owing to all the doors being closed, and the nonprevalence of any draughts the flames had not spread. Judging from the appearance of things, however, the fire must have been smouldering for a considerable length of time, for the intense heat, mid smoke Which had been thrown out had caused the ceiling overhead to be charred, and also caused the breaking of a considerable quantity of glassware, besides doing great injury. to the stores. Owing to the uncertainty as to the location of the fire at first, 0, great deal of injury was also done by the jets of water brought to bear in the building bv the fire brigade, so that the damage done to the stock is very considerable. Nothing is known as to cause of the outbreak. The shop was closed shortly after ten o'clock last evening by Mr. Hoilo way (storeman for Mr. Scott), as the latter gentleman was unwell, and did not attend at the shop during the evening. Everything then appeared to be perfectly safe." The exact extent of the loss will not be ascertained until the stock has been overhauled. The stock was insured for a total of £1250. there being a. policy for £750 in the United office, and one for £500 in the Victoria office. With respect to the building, very little damage has bean clone. It is owned by the Hon. Jas. Mcfiowan, and is insured in the North British office for £600. There is 'no doubt but that a serious outbreak was avoided by the timely discovery of Constable Harvey. : ■'.