SYDNEY, Thursday

The antiquated piece of ordnance which surmounts Fort Denison, a short
distance from Circular Quay, was charged and fired off before daybreak last
Saturday morning. Who perpetrated such a risky act remains a mystery, for
no one appears to have been seen near the place. The matter was reported by
the caretaker to the superintendent of navigation, who mentioned the matter
to the police. Access to the cannon must have been obtained by means of the
lightning conductor, and it is concluded that some sailor amused himself in
this way. A bit of painted calico, in rough imitation of the Boer flag, was
hoisted on the tower of the fort.