Fire.

Manawatu Herald, 13 May 1899, Page 3

Fire.

Mr Wanklyn's Hotel had a very narrow escape from being destroyed by fire last evening. The accident is an illustration how houses get destroyed without a good reason being discovered. At nine o'clock Mrs Wanklyn having gone into the bar noticed a smell of fire and looking round saw smoke curling up in a thin mist from the counter. A further search showed that the wainscoating by the wall against a chimney which had a fire burning in the adjoinning room, was alight. It was not long before Mr Watiklyn had the boards torn down and then was revealed a most scandalous piece of builders' work. The chimney used in the east end of the building originally was built for the bar, but had been bricked up with only a single brick in thickness and an opening made in what was originally the back. Against this four inch brickwork, which had been exce^^g||

coat had been placed. When the boards were taken clown the bricks were very hot and some of the boards were charred and smouldering. If the fire had occurred two hours later the house would have been Jestroyed, for though Mr Wanklyn makes a point of putting all fires out before going to bed, it would have been impossible to have noticed what was going on behind the bricks. The hotel is insured by the owners, Messrs Staples and Co. but in what office we are unable to say. A bonus should certainly be allowed to Mr Wanklyn for his exertions.