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New Zealand Graphic, Volume XLI, Issue 9, 26 August 1908, Page 47

Ships remote from the land are seldom damaged by lightning, despite the fact that some of the most awe-inspiring displays of atmospheric electricity are frequently witnessed by those on hoard of them. Standing rigging, and even parts of the running gear, is now made of steel wire, and this substitute for the old-fashioned hemp serves the purpose of a lightning conductor when the ship is not fitted with such an aid to safety. The electric current is conveyed down the wire rigging, and reaches the sea through the vessel's metal hull. Damage only occurs if the current be interrupted on its way to earth. In a comparative! large proportion of instances the fore royal truck is struck by lightning, tha of the main less frequently, and th mizen mast least of the three. Verserious casualties under this head occurred to warships and merchant vessel in the days of wooden hulls and heir.po . rigging. Many’ vessels are now fitte. with lightning conductors of approve types, lest the wire rigging should faii to carry off the electric currents