DISASTROUS FIRE IN FRANCE.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLIII, Issue 13095, 7 February 1906, Page 5

DISASTROUS FIRE IN FRANCE.

GREAT LOSS OF LIFE.

By Telegraph —rresa Association Copyright. Paris, February 5. A fire in some almshouses at Serines, in France, has caused a deplorable loss of life. Twelve bodies have been recovered, and several inmates are missing.

The startling announcement was made a few days ago, in a telegram received from Perth, West Australia, that a case of hydrophobia had occurred at Albany. A circumstantial account was given of the discovery. It was stated that, after a man had been bitten by a kangaroo dog, he developed every symptom of suffering from rabies. He went on all fours, barked like a dog, attempted to bite people, and altogether acted in a most extraordinary manner. Mr. Jones, Chief Inspector of Stock in New South Wales, at once telegraphed to the Chief Inspector of Stock at Perth, with the object of ascertaining whether or not there was any truth in the report. The reply received was:—"Nothing known here about a person developing symptoms of rabies. The report is evidently unfounded." Upon placing this telegram before the Minister for Agriculture, he considered the matter necessitated further inquiries. Accordingly lie telegraphed to the Under-Secretary of the Agricultural Department in Perth, and received the following reassuring telegram :—" The Government medical officer advises that there is not the slightest foundation in the report circulated regarding rabies."' <