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intervals of fighting, fired distress signals
bomba and coloured lights, which were seen and
answered by the British Steamers Shun Lee, Shiu On,
and Hoisang, which were on their way down the river,
bound for Hongkong, and by the Chinese S.S."Wo Kwai"
bound for Kongmoon. These four ships rendered all assistance in their power, and succeeded in rescuing some 165 persons by means of their boata,
The flames spread rapidly and the ship was shortly ablaze from stem to stern, the passengers, including pirates and crew, jumping overboard. Many,
however, appear to have been unable to escape and were
burnt.
The anchor was let go to oring the ship's
head to wind, but the officers soon found the bows
untenable, and had to jump also, the Master being the last to leave the ship. They were picked up, with
the exception of the Mate, Mr. F.C.Evans, who was
unable to secure a lifebelt, the fire having reached his cabin when he went to get one.
The ship was completely gutted, but was
subsequently towed back to Hongkong, when the charred
remains of 17 bodies were found on board, besides
evidences of many more almost totally consumed by the
flames.
We find that no blame attaches to any of
the certificated officers, who took all possible steps
to secure the safety of the ship, and conducted the
defence of the bridge most gallantly. The means
adopted for the protection of the bridge appear to have
been
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