Escape of Lord Salisbury.

Manawatu Herald, 9 April 1898, Page 3

Escape of Lord Salisbury.

HIS CARRIAGE CUT IN TWO.

We learn by the cables that Lord Salisbury had met with an accident but from our English files we get the following faotß which shows what a very narrow escape he had :— An alarming accident occurred to Lord Salisbury on Tuesday night, (15th February) and bis lordship's escape froni severe injury can only be regarded as miraculous. He was return - ing home between 5 and 6 o'clock on Tuesday, evening, driving in a Victoria with his 6on, Lord William Cecil, rector of Hatfield, a pair of horses drawing the vehicle. Just as the lodge at the entrance to the park was reached the high wind, which was WoWing in gusts, caught one of the massive iron gates and swung it violently against the comparatively fragile victoria. The gate caught the vehicle between the front and bind wheels, literally cutting it in two parts. The front portion, with the coachman and 2 horses, continued its journey to the house, leaving his lordship and his son entangled in the wreckage of the rear portion of the victoria. They very quickly, however, got clear of the debris, and though both were much shaken, it i* gratifying to know that neither sustained any serious injury. The Premier immediately inquired whether his son was hurt, and finding that he had likewise escaped injury, they both walked up the drive to the house together. His lordship preserven his presence of mind throughout, and took the whole affair very coolly. Besides Walking to the bouse he dined with the family as usual.