THE FIRE KING.

Grey River Argus, Volume XV, Issue 1976, 5 December 1874, Page 4

THE FIRE KING.

The first performance of the Fire King in Melbourne {'says the "Age") waa given in the Friendly Societies' Gardens yesterday afternoon, in order to allow the public an opportunity of judging of the merits of an apparatus invented by himself, which will enable any one who wears it to withstand fire, and thus, with ease, save life and property. A very limited attendance was present, owing, no doubt, to the unsettled state of the weather. An iron framework, with the bars some distance apart, was erected in the centre of the ground, in the shape of an arch, and some shavings were placed inside it, and the frame waa built up outside with firewood. Shortly after 5 o'clock the materials were set on. fire, and the Fire King made his appearance on the ground, clad in a dress similar to that worn by a diver. He then entered the arch, and performed "Several evolutions, frying some chops in a pan, and standing still in the fire while it was raging fiercely for about tw^tuinutes and a half. The apparatus is composed of a leather foundation ; sponge is then laid over that, and the whole is then dipped in a chemical solution. The appliance can be got ready for action at a very few minutes' notice, and will stand any fire for four hours. The Fire King has tried the experiment in France, and met with great success. After staying for a short time in Victoria, he purposes visiting tha adjacent colonies with a view of exhibiting his invention, and prevailinguponthe Governmenttopurchase it. A single suit will cost L4O. The invention promises to become a great benefit to firemen and oth era. Superintendent Hood, of the Fire Fire Brigade, 'was present during the test, and expressed himself highly pleased with the result.