Q: It is not against the Rules of the Coal Mines Regulation act to have those lamps down the mines unlocked? A: No, not along the shaft- except where gas is expected. It is all open lamps used along there. Q: Can these lamps be unlocked with a nail and a piece of wood? A: Yes. I think so; two nails if you press them lightly. By Mr. Hall: About that open lamp. Mr. Matthews, to whom do you suppose that would belong? A: I couldn't tell Q: The driver couldn't have an open lamp? A: Oh, yes, the open lamp belonged to the driver Q: I suppose you know the driver? A: No. I didn't know him. Q: I suppose you know that he died between two and three-o-clock that morning after leaving the mine? A: He died next day. I think Q: Are you aware that his face and hands were burnt? A: No. Saw them come up, but didn't know one from the other Q: if his hands and face were burnt; which I think can be proven, how do you account for his being out of the area in which the law says a person must not be with a naked light? A: That is easily explained Q: Of course I am a [?] how, and I would like to know. I am simply seeking for information and these things may be easily explained? A: Well, I'll tell you and I think you will be satisfied. The flame travels some distance, for half a mile in some mines. Now, that [mule?] was standing evidently at the bottom of no. 6 or no. 5, and the level is say five and a half feet high. No. 5 & no. 6 are about three and a half feet high, leading off from the level. The [mule?] was standing there just as I say, I examined him next day, and I found that he is burnt a certain height, which is the

BC Archives GR-0431 Box 6 File 3 / BRITISH COLUMBIA. ATTORNEY GENERAL. Inquisitions/inquests conducted by coroners in British Columbia.