THE FIRE.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 16, 3 December 1861, Page 2

THE FIRE.

The fire still smouldered away to a late hour yesterday evening. Numbers of men were at w-ork yesterday clearing away the burnt ruins, and fresh buildings will at once be erected. We have much pleasure in calling attention to the names of those who principally distinguished themselves at the fire. We should mention that it is quite possible some of those who worked hardest might have escaped onr observation, as the fire covered a large space. We have already referred to the exertions of Mr. Commissioner Branigan. and the splendid force under his command. There is no second opinion on the matter; their conduct throughout defies any terms of praise we can write. Mr. Bui len (yesterday the name was misspelt Pullen) was of immense service. He is evidently thoroughly versed in fire brigade business W re understand he was for many years connected with brigades in America : we trust his services will be secured for the brigade which will be formed in Dunedin. A young man named Millet was the first to break into Uargilfs store ; he aided in saving the books and some of the propert}'. Afterwards for several hours he directed the hose. William Lowry rendered great assistance in saving property from the burning buildings Mr. Jones, of the " Provincial," Mr. Mills. Agent for Cobb & Co., Mr. Nathan, Mr. Jones of Wilson & Jones, were amongst some of the gentlemen whose active exertions we noticed. Lieutenant Ri Idle was the officer we alluded to yesterday as lending pc sonal assistance in passing the buckets up and down, and all the officer.-; and soldiers were distinguished for the re.-idine's with which thay proferd their aid. An inquest will he hdd on the fire to day, when we hope the cansj aid locality- of its orign will be elucidated.