THE STEAMER NORFOLK.

Globe, Volume XXII, Issue 1969, 16 June 1880, Page 3

THE STEAMER NORFOLK.

The final visit made by the health officer yesterday convinced him that_ the cases were a very mild fcrm o£ chicken pox, and he accordingly at once recommended the release of the ship and passengers from quarantine. An urgent telegram was sent to the Government by the immigration officer, and a reply giving consent being received, the steamer was brought in from the stream last night, and berthed at the wharf. It is due to Captain O’Callagban to say that he aided in every possible way the officials in . ascertaining the true condition of affairs in relation to the reported sickness. At considerable trouble ho sought out late on Saturday night the immigration officer, and reported to him that a supposed case of smallpox had heen found on board by the surgeon of the ship, thus showing his thorough desire for the welfare of the port to which he had come. The officials are also deserving of praise for the prompt action they took, Mr March engaging early on Sunday morning a special train to hasten to port with all speed immediately he received the captain’s report, and since then not a moment has been lost by the officials in investigating and ascertaining the true state of the case. It is a subject for congratulation that what was regarded as a most unfortunate occurrence has turned out so satisfactory. The steamer is announced to sail for Wellington and Sydney to-morrow, Erom Sydney she will proceed to China ports, there to load for home.