 Gunpowder and casks of oil were stored in the lower floors of the building, causing the flames to spread rapidly.Although the shop was near the headquarters of the London Fire Brigade and the emergency services were quickly on scene, by the time the fire engine arrived intense flames were coming from the lower windows, making it impossible for the fire brigade to position ladders.Meanwhile, Ayres, wearing only a nightdress, had tried to reach her sister but was unable to get to her through the smoke.