THE MARIPOSA FIRE.

Te Aroha News, Volume VI, Issue 364, 1 May 1889, Page 4

THE MARIPOSA FIRE.

Auckland, April 27. Wk learn that prior to the departure of the mail steamer from port a careful examination was made of the hull, when it was found that the whole extent of the damage done would be covered by the expenditure of a few pounds. The deck was scorched between the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th beams abaft the foie hatchway of the lower hold. In addition to this four holes were cut in the deck between these beams to admit of the water being poured upon the fire below. The two tie-plates were also warped with the heat. The small amount of damage is due to the coolness of Captain Hayward, and the promptitude with which he grasped the situation and turned on the steam as? well as the water immediately the locality of the lire was discovered. As steam penetrates wheio water cannot reach, this shows the necessity for ateam pipes being fitted in all vessels so as to lend additional security in case of fire. The action of Captain rfayward in carrying out these arrangements for subduing the fire undoubtedly saved the vessel fiom very serious consequences. As it is, the damage is very slight. The amount of damage to the cargo has not yet been ascertained. With regard to the flax it is known that 46 bales were more or lees damaged. Some were very much burned, whilst the others were saturated with steam and salt water so that vhey also will be reduced in value. In addition to this 90 hides are more or less damaged.