The expanding fire cuts off firemen George Bennett, Joseph O'Hare, and John Rocca of the rescue squad from the hall and traps them at the window of 600. Clouds of smoke stream out of the windows, forcing the firemen out on the sixth-story window ledge. After a terrifying delay, the large serial ladder moves to the window, and the three men shakily climb on and descend. They were among six firemen treated for smoke inhalation at Cambridge City Hospital.

5:45 A.M.--A second fire company arrives, bringing the number of fire fighters to 107, and the equipment to 17 pieces. Fire breaks through sixth-floor windows on the west side of the House. Rumors spread that Robert Sinclair has not been evacuated.

The flames on the west side of the building become more intense and burn in adjacent suites 601 and 603. Firemen place two hoses through fifth-floor bedroom windows on the south wall, and a third through an east-side window. Firemen place manual extension ladders along the west wall and against the library.

6:00 A.M.--Firemen discover Robert Sinclair, unharmed but shaken, in his room, and he escapes. His fifth-floor bedroom is smoky and covered with three inches of water.

Firemen ascend the ladder toward the sixth-floor window on the courtyard side, carrying a three-inch hose. They break through the unbroken corner of the window with the nozzle and bring the fire under control.

6:15 A.M.--Clean-up work begins on the east side of the building, as the suites overlooking the courtyard still smoulder Quincy men, some out of necessity, and others for convenience, drink their orange juice in the dining hall in their pajamas