FIRE ON THE BUTESHIRE.

Otago Witness, Issue 2330, 27 October 1898, Page 13

FIRE ON THE BUTESHIRE.

SYDNEY, October 19. At midnight a fire was discovered on board the steamer Buteshire, lying at the wharf. She had just completed discharging Tier ""cargo. The fire originated among the insulating material in the refrigerating chamber, and spread to number two and three hatches, which were practically gutted. The fire was still burning at an early hour this morning and spreading aft. An immense body of water was poured into the hold, and had the effect of causing a considerable list to port. The fire on the Buteshire is well in hand, \ but still smouldering. Numbers one, two, ; and three holds were gutted. Considerable damage was done to the plates and decking, j Tho vessel is full of water. Her iron bulkheads prevented the fiie from spreading abaft amidships. Though within control the fire continues to burn fiercely fn the forepeaks of the Buteshire, and it will be to-morrow before it is completely subdued. There are now 20ft of water inside the vessel. It is believed the machinery is uninjured. Many firemen had narrow escapes. They suffered severely from ammonia and charcoal fumes. October 20. The fire on the Buteshire is gradually subsiding, but the smoke and heat prevent the seat of the fire being reached. The water is now being pumped out of the vessel, which now lies on an even keel. The firemen expect to get below this afternoon to ascertain the extent of the damage.-