THE WAIRARAPA FIRE.

Poverty Bay Independent, Volume I, Issue 74, 14 November 1885, Page 2

THE WAIRARAPA FIRE.

THE ENQUIR V. (own correspondent.) Dunedin. Friday. An enquiry into the circumstances attending the fire on board the Wairarapa was commenced yesterday. Captain Chatfield stated that he was in his cabin when the chief officer gave the alarm of fire. They were then about 2a miles from Gisborne. Gave the order “full speed ahead.” The steering gear would not act, and had a hand steering apparatus. Ten minutes before reaching Gisborne the engineers sent up word that they could not stop any longer. Witness gave orders that if the engineers had to leave the engines were to be left at full speed. The engines were stopped on reaching Gisborne. The vessel had six boats, three being life boats, capable of carrying 33 people; the long boat would carry the same number, and the others 18 and 24 respectively. The boats were got ready in five minutes. The second steward appeared to have discovered the fire first.

John Dunlop, second steward, said he was awakened by a glare of light, and the fire had evidently a good hold when he discovered it. His cabin was just forward the after short alley-way on the saloon deck. Attempted to go down the alley-way, but was stopped by the heat. The boot locker seemed one nass of flames. He then called the stewardess. William Grigley stated that he was engaged as boots. Went on duty at 11.15. Lit the lamps in the room, and also a hand lamp which he used in gathering up the boots. Visited an invalid lady at 3 o’clock, and after fixing a lamp in the alley-way went to the smoking-room, and shortly after he heard an alarm of fire. His opinion was that the fire was caused by a lamp exploding, but he knew no reason why it should, as it was in good order. The boot-room was very hot, being next to the engine-room. He turned down the lamps slightly. Mr Rabbits, chief steward, gave evidence to the effect that Grigley was a steady man. The enquiry was then adjourned till Thursday next, to get evidence as to the damage caused.