A NOVEL BURDEN.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 15063, 9 February 1911, Page 2

A NOVEL BURDEN.

UNWIELDY LOAD,

(Per United Press Association.) GHRISTCHURCH, February 7. The large drum for the Christehfirch Gas Company's new station meter, which was landed at Lyttelton from the steamer Turakina about a fortnight ago, and was found to be too bulky to take through the tunnel, left the port to-day for Christchurch, via Governor's 'Bay, Teddington, and Gebbie's Valley. A 12-ton eight horse-power traction engine, drawing a heavy spring lorry, arrived in Lyttelton, having come over the road through Tai Tapu and Gebbie's Valley, the bridges en route being thoroughly tested and strengthened where necessary. The large crate containing the drum, weighing four tons, was lifted off the railway truck and placed on the lorry, and was then securjly lashed by means of wires and ropes. Shortly after 11 a.m. the traction engine started with its unusual load, and safely negotiated the railway crossing and post office corner. To many it appeared as if the lorry with its narrow wheel ba6e was too high for the huge drum with its great top weight to safely traverse the 42-mile journey- over the hills to Christehurch. The traction engine started off along Norwich quay at about 12.20 p.m., the big case swaying from side to side as the wheels of the lorry negotiated the uneven places of the roadway. All going well, the drum is expected to reach Christchurch to-morrow morning. It is stated that the drum has been specially insured for £750 against accident while it is in transit to Christchurch. February' 8. The load was brought by traction engine over the hills, and safely arrived, on the flat to-day. It will be delivered at the company's works to-morrow morning.