SPORTING.

Globe, Volume XXII, Issue 1863, 12 February 1880, Page 2

SPORTING.

WAIRARAPA RACE 3. [By Tblegbaph.] WELLINGTON, February 12. There is glorious weather. One thousand people on the course. The bookmakers are doing but little business. One totalisator is on the course: and is in fair swing. There is a good deal o£ mystery about Lara, but it is believed that he is intended to go for the Stakes and Handicap. PRODUCE STAKES. Pahana ... ... ... ... 1 Flycatcher 2 Volunteer ... 3 Seven started. WATRABAPA STAKES. Lara 1 Romeo 2 Tamatea 3 King Quail also started. DESTRUCTION OF JOHN WESLEY'S CHAPEL. The Wesleyan Chapel in the City road, London, the foundation stone of which was laid by John Wesley on April 21st, 1777, has been almost entirely destroyed by fire. The building was regarded by Methodists throughout the world as the cathedral of their denomination. In its burial ground the remains of Wesley and many of his most eminent followers are interred. A few years ago the freehold of the chapel was purchased for £9228, of which sum £7700 was raised by a general effort throughout Methodism, In addition, about £3OOO was spent by the trustees in alterations and improvements. The building consisted of a principal chapel and galleries, capable of accommodating 2000 people, a smaller structure known as “ John Wesley’s Morning Chapel,” and various classrooms and vestries. The fire originated in the flue of the heating apparatus, and was first observed about six o’clock in the morning. Owing to the severe frost great difficulty was experienced by the firemen in removing the water-plugs, and in the meantime the flames spread rapidly. The Morning Chapel was completely destroyed, while the larger structure adjoining suffered much damage. The side gallery was burned out, and the whole interior of the chapel charred, gutted, and otherwise damaged. Some of the mural tablets have been much injured, though fortunately the pulpit and the memorial of John. Wesley have escaped the ravages of the flames.