FIRE ON THE SS. MOKAU.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XXIV, Issue 100, 29 April 1902, Page 2

FIRE ON THE SS. MOKAU.

Another iaishap has to b3 added to the many which have attended the vassals carrying coal ftfrthe Taranaki Collieries Company. The Mokau has only u-cently arrived from Sydney, having b> eo built specially for the company. On Sunday night she lay at the wharf near the Head*, and at four o'clock on Monday morning Captain Jonas had a jg'>od look round the vessel, everything [heiof? apparently safe »nd in good I order. At 4.30 he was hastily aroused and found a fire was raging in the alleyway and cabins. Without stopping to dress the captain at once got I the men to work, and as it was impossible to get at the hose owing to the density t>f the fire, recourse was had to buckets. Far two hours the fire was fought with the greatest pluck and determination, the men being as steady in discipline as on a mau-of-war. The captain, from the badge, poured down sn almost continuous stream of water on the flames, and although his position wis one of great danger, as it was feared that the structure nitght give way a 5 any moment, he stuck to hi post, and eventually the efforts of himself and crew weie crowned with wail merited success. The damage is confined principally to the cabins and galley, and will necessitate sending the vessel either to Auckland or Wellington, for repairs. Although this will of eeurse interfere with the trade from the mine, we understand from the manager, Mr S'ubbs, that the s.s. Manakau acci the scow Surprise will be pu/on temporarily, and every effort made to cope with the large trade that is now existing in connection with this cnal. It is surmised' that the fire originated from the galley, and as a strong wind was blowing the flames were carried at times as high as the top nf the insst. Thinks to the pluck and pareeverance of those on board the hull and machinery were not harmed. The vessel is insured for £4OOO, partly in the Alliance. Already the agents are arranging for repairs. An official inquiry will be held by the Commissioner of Customs.