AN UNUSUAL JOURNEY.

Dominion, Volume 4, Issue 1046, 8 February 1911, Page 4

AN UNUSUAL JOURNEY.

' A 'I I KACTION ENGINE'S TASK.

(By Tclegranh.-Prcss Association.) Christchurch February .7.

A large drum for the Christchurch Gas Company's.new station meter, which wast landed at Evttelton, from the steamer Turakina about a fortnight ago, and which was found.to.be.too bulky to take through the tunnel, left port 'to-day for Christchurch, via Governor's Bay, Teddiugton, and Gebbie's A alley. A twelveton 8-horse-power traction engine, drawing a heavy spring lorry, arrived in Lyt(olton, having come .over the road through Tai Tapu and Gebbie's Valley, the bridges on route, being, thoroughly tested and strengtheneu where necessary. The large. crate containing the drum, weighing four tons, was lifted off the railway truck and placed on tho lorry, and was then securely lashed by means of wires and ropes. Shortly after 11 a.m. the traction engine started with its unusual load and safely negotiated tho railway crossing and Post Office corner. To many it appeared as if the lorry .with its narrow wheel base was/too high for the lingo drum with its great top weight to safely traverse the 42-mile journey over the lulls to Christchurch. The traction 'engine started off. along Norwich Quay about 12.20 p.m., the big case swaying from side to side as the wheels of the lorry negotiated tho 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 4:750 against accident while it is in transit to Christchurch. *