We were informed of the outbreak of the fire soon after dawn, by which-time it had already assumed large. dimensions, and threw a lurid light.over the whole town. There was 4-slight wind blowing and drawing the fire in our direction, but the distance between us and the fire was too great to make us immediately apprehensive of danger. We also hoped it would be checked before extending very far. Even at that early hour, those living in the vicinity of the conflagration, probably taught by past experience, were clearing their shops and houses of all that was movable and valaable, Those connected with us brought their goods and chattels to our compound for safety.
Efforts of the Local Authorities.
The local authorities did their best to deal with the situation, but their efforts, whilst well meant, were totally inadequate. Their method was to strip the buildings of tiles and rafters, and leave the framework standing open. which really helped, rather thin hindered, the onward rush of the flames. Five hundred soldiers were called out to maintain order and prevent looting, but many people complain of loss in spite of this, Indeed, these guard-inns of the peace are blamed as the chief offenders; and when considered in this connexion. it is a significant-fact that thirty soldiers were reported missing the following day.
The Commissioner very kindly arranged for a squad of men to stand on guard at our compound gate, where they remained on duty, until forced by the fire to retire. The following night anxious time through the possibility of the fire breaking out afresh. All over the area of the conflagration were smouldering ruins of houses, and heaps of debris, which continued to burn sullenly throughout the day and far into the night. There was a strong wind blowing also, which caused the flames to rise fitfully, and sent sparks flying around with dangerous abandon. One place especially was a danger spot, and caused the whole neighbourhood
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.