THE LIFE-BOAT. JOUENAB

OF THE Batfonal %ffe*Boat Jnstftution,

(ISSUED QUABTEBLY.)

VOL. XVII.—No. 193.] IST AUGUST, 1899. PRICE 3d.

THE PK1NCE OF WALES AS PEESIDENT OP THE INSTITUTION STRONGLY ADVOCATES THE CAUSE. IT was only in March last that H.K.H. The PBINOE of WALES, in proposing The PBINOE of WALES very graciously the toast of " The Queen," said:—My accepted the post of President of the Lords and Gentlemen,—In rising to pro- ROYAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION, pose the first toast to-night I feel sure you will agree with me that it requires no in succession to the late lamented DUKE preface, as I know the feelings of all of NORTHUMBERLAND, and at once we loyal Englishmen, and the way in which find him taking active measures in the they will drink the first toast to-night. discharge of his self-imposed duties. (Cheers.) In a short time—I may say Ever ready to help on any cause for the in a very few days—the Queen will reach benefit of his country and people, and the age of 80. (Cheers.) It is a source more particularly to advance the interests of the greatest pleasure and gratification, not only to myself and to my family, but of any undertaking or movement with to all loyal Englishmen, that she should which he is officially connected, the Prince have attained that age in the best of was to be found, notwithstanding his health. (Cheers.) I give you, not only numerous important engagements, pre- to-night the health of her Majesty the siding at a very influentially and largely Queen, but also that of the Patron of attended dinner at the Hotel Metropole the Royal National Life-boat Institution. on the 1st May last, on behalf of the (Cheers.) His Royal Highness invited London Life-Boat Saturday Fund, of the company to drink the toast with all the honours, himself leading the cheers, which the DUKE of YORK is the President. which were enthusiastically given. We append The Times Report of the The EAEL of ALBEMABLE proposed, speeches, and feel sure that they will be The Health of the Prince and Princess perused by our readers with the deepest of Wales and the Other Members of the interest. All workers for the Institution, Royal Family." whether in connection with the Branches The PBINOE of WALES, in responding, or with the Life-Boat Saturday Auxiliary, said:—My Lords and Gentlemen, I should, will, we are confident, be greatly en- indeed, be fastidious if I did not appre- couraged and helped by the earnest words ciate the more than kind and flattering and support of the Institution's "Royal words in which my friend Lord Albemarle has proposed this toast to you, and the Coxswain," and the gallant coxswains kind manner in which you have received and crews themselves will feel that in it. I appear to-night to yon for the first His Royal Highness they have a real time as President of this old and excellent friend and admirer. Institution. I have always taken the

VOL. XVII.—No. 193.—LIFE-BOAT JOURNAL. 2 i 494 THE LIFE-BOAT. [!ST AUGUST, 1899. deepest interest in its welfare, and at the You all know the constant changes that death of the lamented Duke of North- take place. But, though we have con- umberland, who for so many years had fidence in those who are at the head of been your president, I felt some diffidence affairs, both of the Navy and the Army, in accepting the post after so distinguished and feel sure that the newest improve- a man. But, in accepting it, I felt it ments are made, you must always have was one which in every sense of the the feeling that in having a strong Navy word was congenial to me. Living as I and a strong Army the motto is " Defence, do on the East Coast of England, I know not defiance." (Cheers.) The Navy, full well how many are exposed to great fortunately, has had but little to do as dangers in their voluntary efforts to far as active service is concerned; the save the lives of their fellow-men, whilst Army has had more. We have had risking their own. (Cheers.) I am glad recently a campaign in India in which to think that so many members of my our troops, in conjunction with the brave family and those who have preceded me Indian troops, have, I think, covered have been connected with this Institution. themselves with glory and with honour. My granduncle King George IV. was the (Cheers.) We have also had the recent first patron. His brothers, the Dukes of campaign in the Sudan. Though nomi- York, Clarence, Sussex, and Cambridge, nally it was the Egyptian army, we all were vice-patrons. I believe the first know that tnose troops were officered by festival dinner that was held was presided brave Englishmen, and that we had a over by the late Duke of York so long large force of English troops to assist, ago as 1825. I succeeded my lamented under the admirable guidance of the father as Vice-Patron in 1863 (cheers), Sirdar, Lord Kitchener, who led them to and on three different occasions I pre- victory. (Cheers.) The results have sided at annual meetings. This occasion been great, I may say, for the sake of is a crowning point as far as I am Christianity, for the sake of civilisation, personally concerned, and a great pleasure and perhaps for the future of our great it has given me to preside this year for Empire. (Cheers.) These two toasts I the first time at a dinner at which great have great pleasure in coupling, the first philanthropical and great efforts of with the name of my old friend Admiral humanity are displayed in furthering, Sir Leopold McClintock, and the second— perhaps, one of the most important the Army—with the name of another old institutions in this country. (Cheers.) and valued friend, General Sir George I thank yon again for your kind reception Higginson. (Cheers.) of this toast, and the way in which yon Sir L. MCCLINTOCK and Sir G. HIGG- have received the name of the Princess INSON having replied, of Wales and the other members of my The PBINCB of WALES again rose to family. (Cheers.) propose the toast of the evening—" The The PEINCE of WALES again rose and London Life-boat Saturday Fund." He said,—The next toast I have to propose said:—My Lords and Gentlemen,—It is to you is one that is always well received, now my privilege to propose the principal and one which I think ought never to be toast of the night. In doing so I propose omitted at all great gatherings of English- to allude to the history of the Institution, men—it is that of the sister services, known possibly to most of you, but per- "The Navy and the Army." (Cheers.) haps not to all, and I hope that what I This country owes much to both. I am now have to state may not weary you; sure the desire of every Englishman is to but I conceive it is incumbent upon me see both in a strong state of efficiency, in taking the chair for the first time as and the taxpayer does not mind putting your President to enter perhaps into more his hand into his pocket when he knows detail than others have done. As you that he has a good fleet and that the are well aware, the EOYAL NATIONAL honour of the Empire is safe. (Loud LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION was established cheers.) I do not think it will be in 1824, seventy-five years ago, and the necessary for me, even if I had the power first President was Lord Liverpool, then to do so, to give you a long dissertation Prime Minister. For many years the on the state of Her Majesty's Navy or her Institution did not thrive. The total Army. Yon all know what is going on. receipts in 1825 amounted to barely _ H.R.H. THE PRINCE OF WALES, K.G.,

PRESIDENT

OF THE ROYAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION.

From Photograph by Messrs. Russell tc Sons, London H.R.H. The PBINCE of WALES lias always taken a keen interest in the Institution and in its work. He succeeded his Royal Father the Prince Consort as Vice- Patron in February, 1863, and has presided over the Annual Meetings of the Institution on three occasions, namely, in 1867, 1884, and 1893. He became President in March, 1899, and presided at a dinner on behalf of the Institution in connection with the London Life-boat Saturday Fund in May, 1899.

2 I 2 496 THE LIFE-BOAT. [!ST AUGUST, 1899.

3,4:001., and for the next fifteen years the 1897. The most important recommenda- annual receipts never reached that sum. tions of the Commission have already From 1841 to 1850 no appeal was made been carried ont, but in their last report to the public, and the total receipts in they felt bound to state that they did not 1849 were only 354Z. In 1850 a special feel justified in recommending the con- effort was made to improve matters, and nection of more light-vessels and the the Queen headed a subscription list with shore than those they had proposed until 100Z. (Cheers.) The Prince Consort the ethereal system then under trial had likewise gave his assistance and support, been fully tested. I understand that those and this, combined with the untiring tesfs have been satisfactory, and you have energy of the late Duke of Northumber- all doubtless seen in the Press the accounts land, has tended to make the Institution of the remarkable and successful experi- every year more prosperous and useful. ments which have recently been carried (Cheers.) out in connection with wireless telegraphy, under the superintendence of Signor UCFE-BOAT STATISTICS, Marconi,, the inventor (cheers), which [There are now no less than 295 Life- would seem to solve the great difficulties boats belonging to the Institution on the which have been encountered in the coast, and every year hundreds of lives efforts made to complete so important a are saved from shipwreck, thanks to the system round our coast. (Renewed operations of the Institution. Last year cheers.) I should mention likewise the alone the Committee of Management use and importance of the telephonic and granted rewards for the saving of 756 telegraphic connections which have been lives, and from 1824, the year in which established by the Institution, and the the Institution was started, up to the end utility of which each year has been of 1898 rewards had been given for the increasingly demonstrated, they being saving of upwards of 41,000 lives, this more and more employed for calling out number having been increased by the Life-boats when required, for preventing saving of between 200 and 300 more lives unnecessary launches, and for warning during the present year. (Cheers.) The Life-boat crews to be on the alert to number saved during the past 46 years render assistance. (Cheers.) was nearly 30,000 by Life-boats and over 10,000 by shore boats. (Cheers.) Of the THB LIFE-BOAT SATURDAY FUND. 295 Life-boats 254 are self-righting, 36 I must say a few words now respecting non-self-righting, and five are steam the Life-boat Saturday Fund, which was Life-boats. initiated in 1891. Its object has always been to stimulate interest among all ELECTRICAL COMMUNICATION. classes in the life-saving work of the One of the most important indirect Institution and to obtain increased measures adopted by the Institution, with financial support. From the very begin- a view to diminish the loss of life from ning it met with the warmest approval, shipwreck on the coast, has been to pro- and in the course of a few years it was cure from the Government a system of adopted by nearly all the important towns electrical communication between rock in the kingdom. (Cheers.) Ladies also lighthouses, light-vessels, &c., and the have rendered most generous assistance shore; also between the coastguard and have given the greatest encouragement stations and signal stations and the post- to the movement. The money raised by offices nearest the Life-boat stations where this fund is applied, as far as possible, there are no coastguard stations. This towards grants to (a) widows and young useful work was commenced in 1893, and children of life-boat men who have lost steady progress has been made in it every their lives in the service, not less than year, and it will, it is hoped, before long 100Z. being allowed for each widow and be completed. (Cheers.) The Eoyal 25Z. for each dependent child; (6) grants Commission which was appointed at the to men injured in the service; (c) pensions suggestion of the Institution in 1893 sat and retiring allowances to coxswains, &c., for four years, during which time they of long and meritorious service who have issued five reports, the fifth and final been retired on account of old age, ill report being issued in the autumn of health, accident, or abolition of post; IST AUGUST, 1899.] THE LIFE-BOAT. 497

(d) payments to coxswains and crews for rewards to all who risk their own lives in services rendered, for special rewards, &c. saving, or endeavouring to save, by means The Institution, which is the oldest Life- of shore-boats or other means, the lives boat service in the world, has since its of those who are in danger of drowning foundation always endeavoured, so far as from shipwreck on any part of the shores its funds permitted, to help the widows of the United Kingdom. Many thousands and orphans of those gallant men forming of pounds have been spent by the Institu- its crews, who have perished in their tion in this way, and every year the effort s to save the lives of others, and expenditure under this heading is con- likewise to assist financially those who siderably increased. But the Institution may have met with accidents in the not only does its best to save life in the service. (Cheers.) The great work of directions I have mentioned; it likewise saving life cannot be carried on without distributes broadcast excellent directions the heroic services of those who man the for restoring the apparently drowned, Life-boats all round our coasts, but at and these have constantly proved of the the same time it must be borne in mind utmost service. I am anxious to draw that all the intrepidity in the world your special attention to the fact that the would be useless and of no avail were it cases of gallantry rewarded by the Insti- not for the means of saving life entrusted tution have been by no means confined to to the crews by the Institution. (Cheers.) men. On some parts of our coasts, I The Committee of Management are always am informed, the fisherwomen and girls on the alert to examine and, if desirable, help to launch the Life-boats and encourage to adopt any proposal or invention which in every way their husbands and brothers may either make the Life-boats safer and to man them. (Loud cheers.) There more efficient for their important work are several gallant British women, of or lender them better suited for the crews whom we may well be proud, now alive who man them and for the shipwrecked who have been decorated with the silver people who have to be rescued by them. medal of the Institution, and you The Life-boat crews, therefore, in order probably all know that the celebrated that they may be in a position to perform Grace Darling was rewarded with the those deeds of heroism which have gained silver medal for her heroic services. for them the admiration of the civilized (Renewed cheers.) Each year, as the world, are entirely dependent on the service is enlarged and the committee are means which are placed at their disposal enabled from experience and by the help by the Institution for their work. of science to make it more efficient, the cost of conducting it increases, and the THE NEED OP PUNDS. Institution, which, as I have before For this purpose and for ensuring the stated, is supported entirely by voluntary proper and efficient working of the contributionc, requires in consequence a machinery of this great national Institu- very large and permanent income to tion, the Committee of Management have maintain and carry on its great work. to look for the voluntary financial support London, being the largest shipping port of the British public. Hitherto they in this great maritime country, with an have not appealed in vain, but continued annual inward and outward tonnage of and increased help is indispensable, and over 25 millions in 1897, ought to be will, I am sure, be forthcoming. Let me specially interested in maintaining the mention that from time to time the com- Life-boats in their work of saving life mittee are compelled to lay out a very round our dangerous coasts. (Cheers.) large sum at a single station to improve its efficiency; only last year nearly THE HEROISM OF LIFE-BOAT GBEWS. 4,0002. was expended at Margate in the Before I sit down I must remind you necessary construction of two slipways that the boats belonging to the Institu- for the two new large Life-boats placed tion are manned entirely by volunteers, there. Quite apart from the work and that, as a rule, the crews are formed performed by the Institution through the by the local fishermen. At some stations, instrumentality of its Life-boats and crews however, they are supplemented from is the encouragement and incentive to time to time by coastguard men when gallantry which it gives by offering available. No words can adequately 498 THE LIFE-BOAT. [1ST AUGUST, 1899. express the extraordinary gallantry shown Saturday Fund," a branch of the Parent by the Life-boat crews in carrying out Institution. In doing so I wish to the extremely hazardous work which they connect with it the name of the chairman have to undertake in saving life from of the Committee, Sir Edward Birkbeck, vessels in distress or when stranded. who has for so many years taken such deep (Cheers.) On a dark winter's night interest in everything that concerns the when suddenly summoned by a signal to well-being and prosperity of this Institu- launch and man the Life-boat, the work in tion. (Cheers.) I may mention also the most cases is one of the greatest possible names of the vice-chairman, Colonel danger, especially in some parts of the Fitzroy Clayton, and the Secretary. I coast where a launching slipway cannot mast not leave out the Chief Inspectors, be arranged, and the boats have to be who do their duty to the best of their launched off the well-known Life-boat ability, and who, although they may not carriage. It is a great matter for con- encounter the dangers which the marine gratulation that the loss of life to Life- crews undergo, are at any rate responsible, | boat crews is but a small one; but when and feel "their responsibility if anything lives are lost the Institution invariably goes wrong. I ask you now, gentlemen, to provides for the widows and orphans in drink the toast of the evening, " Success the most liberal way, and supports any to the London Life-boat Saturday Fund." local fund raised in the event of a (Loud cheers.) disaster. (Cheers.) In proposing this SIB EDWABD BIRKBECK acknowledged the toast which I know you will receive most toast, and subscriptions were afterwards cordially, you will forgive me if I have announced amounting to upwards of perhaps addressed you at too great a 2.420Z. There were also a number of length, bat I am anxious now to give promises of subscriptions, of which the yon "Success to the London Life-boat amount was not stated.

THE PEINCE OP WALES AND THE LIFE-BOAT SEEVICE.

CURIOUS COINCIDENCE. In the course of the eloquent speech four hours after the PBINCE had delivered and earnest appeal which H.B.H. The his speech, information was received by PEINCE OF WALES made as President of the the crew of the Grace Darling Life-boat, BOYAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION, which is stationed at Holy Island (North- at the London Life-boat Saturday Dinner umberland), that the schooner Annie on 1st May last, he said, " I am anxious Stewart had struck on the Snipe rocks to draw your special attention to the and was sinking rapidly. The wind was fact that the cases of gallantry, rewarded north-east, the sea moderately rongh, and by the Institution have been by no means the weather thick with rain. All hands confined to men. (Cheers.) On some at once turned out to launch the Life-boat, parts of our coasts the fisherwomen and which was on her way to the sinking girls help to launch the Life-boats, and vessel in fifteen minutes, four of the most encourage in every way their husbands useful launchers on this occasion being and brothers to man them. (Loud women. In an hour the Life-boat reached cheers.) .... You probably all know the distressed vessel and successfully took that the celebrated Grace Burling was off the endangered crew, numbering five rewarded with the silver medal for her men. The Life-boat had not got twenty heroic services." yards away from the vessel before she At two hours after midnight, and only sank and became a total wreck. IST AUGUST, 1899.] THE LIFE-BOAT. 499

THE STEAND1NG OF THE STEAMSHIPS "MOHEGAN," "LABEADOB," "STELLA" AND "PARIS."

WITHIN the last twelve months four in their several occupations. The strand- remarkable cases of the stranding of ings of these four vessels did not take large steamships have taken place on our place in Life-boat weather pure and shores, each of such vessels carrying a simple, though disaster may be looked for numerous crew besides a considerable in any weather, and of course when it is number of passengers. Two of these foggy, as it was when the Stella was lost, steamers in the space of a very short there is always risk to shipping. time foundered in deep water, one re- Of the four disasters mentioned only mained above water long enough to give one—viz., that of the Mohegan—actually the crew and passengers ample time to came within the scope of practical Life- leave her in the boats, but the fourth, boat work. The MoJiegan it will be remem- having run on the main, fortunately held bered was bound for America, and for some fast, and her crew and passengers were reason, with which we have nothing to do, therefore at no time in danger. after passing the Eddystone about 4.15 on The four casualties in question were the afternoon of the 14th October last year, those befalling the Mohegan, Labrador, shaped a course which took her to the Stella and Paris, and it is only in their Manacles rocks on which she struck about relation to Life-boat work that this article 7 P.M., and afterwards foundered within is interested. a quarter of a hour. Her crew consisted Modern improvements in ships and in of 97, she had 53 passengers and 7 cattle- the means for navigating them have to a men, making a total of 157 human beings very great extent reduced the chances of on board. Close to the Manacles, or well-found and powerful vessels, such as within three-quarters of a mile of the these in question, being lost on well-known Maen Voces, where the Mohegan was lost, and well-lighted coasts. But with the is the Porthoustock Life-boat station. enormous traffic for ever crossing and Falmouth is 6 miles off to the N.N.E., re-crossing the seas which surround our where there is also a Life-boat, and tugs island such cases must of course be are available, and 6^ miles to S.W. round looked for, although they cannot be con- " Blackhead " is Cadgwith, where another sidered as among the ordinary circum- powerful Life-boat is stationed. All three stances which call for the establishment of these boats are in electrical communi- of Life-boat stations; consequently when cation with each other, and should a such an appalling disaster as that of the vessel run on to the Manacles and Mohegan takes place in the vicinity of a remain fixed there, it is considered that Life-boat station, the resources of the these boats would be able to cope with means adopted by the ROYAL NATIONAL nearly any disaster. Had the unfortunate LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION to protect the coast Mohegan remained on the rock on which are taxed to an extraordinary degree. she first struck, although there was a It is perhaps unnecessary to point out nasty sea running, there is not the that Life-boats are principally provided to slightest reason to suppose that the whole do work in weather too bad and in seas of the 157 paople on board would not too high for ordinary boats to encounter, have been rescued. In reviewing how- and when the elements are in such a ever what actually happened one is forced condition, the life-boat man, who are ta a conolinioa of wjnder that so many generally speaking fishermen or boitman, as 51 were saved. are on the loDk out, not being enployei Let us consider what took place on 500 TEE LIFE-BOAT. [!ST AUGUST, 1899.

board. Mr. John H. Juddery, quarter- This combination of circumstances is suf- master, in his evidence before the Board ficient to show why there was such loss of of Trade investigation, stated that about life. On the other hand, all the survivors 6.30 P.M. he came on deck, but went below who were examined at the Inquiry weie again and remained there until the vessel agreed as to the splendid manner in which struck. Upon coming on deck again he the captain, officers, crew, stewards and found the men were carrying out the orders stewardesses behaved on this terrible given by the captain, who was on the occasion. This fact, and the coolness of flying bridge, to get the boats out; all the I the passengers, mainly contributed to the officers (none were saved) were engaged | large number of the rescued. with the life-boats, and almost immediately The coxswain of the Poithoustock Life- the lights went out. The vessel had a list boat happened to be standing at his of about 45 degrees to port and was all stable door, from which there is a good down by the head. He saw some of the view seaward, at a little before 7 P.M., stewards serving out life-belts to the when he saw a masthead light N.E. The passengers. The port life-boat got away; vessel appeared to be coming stem on the captain was on the bridge cheering on to him and about half a mile off; then the men and telling them, to keep cool. she suddenly altered her course, and the The list was gradually increasing, and he coxswain, realising that the vessel must heard the captain calling, and on crawling go on the Manacles, summoned his towards him he found his orders were to Life-boat crew at once and by 7.25 get the women and children into the the Life-boat was in the water. Even jigger rigging (the vessel had four pole before the Life-boat was afloat the vessel masts), and then the vessel took the final must have foundered and in all pro- plunge—about 15 minutes after striking. bability the great loss of life had He swam to the mizen rigging, the doctor already taken place. The lights of the and eleven others were there; the steamer vessel had all gone out. The coxswain went down bodily. ... Shortly before the therefore who had seen her at 7 o'clock vessel went down Ihe chief officer shook had only a general idea of her where- hands with him and said " Good-bye, we abouts, for there are many rocks she have done all we can, look out for your- might have struck on, in fact the place self." was very aptly described as " a regular Such, in brief, was what happened on wasp's nest of rocks." To make matters board, and it can be seen plainly why woise the night was inky dark. As the so many lives were lost, and also why in action taken by this Life-boat was de- the circumstances so many were saved. scribed at length in the Life-boat Journal In the first place, all was over in a quarter for February this year, pages 280-282, it of an hour after striking. It is known is unnecessary to recapitulate in detail that the vessel struck a submerged rock, the manner in which she was instrumental which lipped her side open, carried her in rescuing forty-four out of the fifty-one way on, and ultimately foundered—close persons saved. The greater number were to another lock—in deep water. The list saved on the Life-boat's fiist trip, three of 45 degrees which she took prevented from one of the ship's life-boats, which the lowering of the starboard boats and was found capsized, and twenty-four from rendered getting about the ship extremely another of the ship's life-boats, which was difficult; added to this, the lights went in a disabled condition and might at any out altogether, and the darkness was moment have drifted on to one of the intense, which must have hampered them Manacles rocks, in which case her chances on board, but its effect as legards the would have been small, for the sea was Life-boat fiom Poithoustock, engaged in now breaking over these locks, and trying to find the vessel, was disastrous. although the steel ship's life-boats proved IST AUGUST/1899.] THE LIFE-BOAT. 501

to ba of great strength the proba- management, but before leaving the subject bilities are the boats would have been of this wreck, it is perhaps desirable to capsized. It was not until after falling notice some mention mido by the Court in with the first ship's life-boat that the concerning the steel boats which were coxswain realised the extent of tha carried by the ship. The Court remarks : disaster; he then signalled for more help, "Some questions arose as to the steel and the Falmouth, Cadgwith and Lizard boats which were fitted ; the Court desires Life-boats were telephoned for. Even if to express its opinion as to the strength they had been sent for at first, there is little and quality of them. The two wooden chance of their presence having been of boats that were on board were broken much avail; the distance they had to come into matchwood, and notwithstanding that was so great that it is nearly certain that the steel boats were battered about on the those who lost their lives had perished rocks, there was a hole in one only of before these boats could possibly have them. This proves their efficiency and been on the scene. superiority over the wooden boats." After landing the people picked up Those who saw these boats can certainly from the ship's life-boats, and one or two testify to the marvellous amount of others who were taken out of the water, battering they received, which certainly the Porthoustock Life-boat again went off no wooden ship's boats would have stood, in search of the wreck and ultimately and for ship's boats it would without found her, but it was not until long after doubt appear that there are some great midnight that the sixteen persons who advantages to be obtained by building had been successful in gaining the rigging them of steel. In our Life-boat service and funnel were rescued. It is important it has not been found disadvantageous to to note that no one had been washed out use wood, as it is easily repaired. The of the rigging before the arrival of the German Lifeboat service however build Life-boat. nearly all their boats of steel. Those that The loss of the Mohegan is certainly an are stationed in the Baltic have a great illustration of the great difficulties in deal of ice to contend with, and steel the way of rendering assistance from the boats have proved very efficient for this shore to a vessel out of reach of the service. rocket apparatus, and which founders a The next case of stranding which called quarter of an hour after striking. forth considerable public interest was The size of the Life-boats at the various that of the s.s. Labrador. In this case, stations is governed by the circumstances fortunately, there was no loss of life, but in which they are launched and the the ship was totally lost. The wreck of manual power available in the neighbour- this vessel has no practical relation to hood ; and even if there had been a boat Life-boat work, as it took place at a part ' twice the size of the Porthoustock Life- of the coast where there are no Life-boats, boat, it is by no means clear that any and the accident to the Labrador does not more lives could have been saved. In provide any reason for placing a Life-boat fact, next to the cool behaviour of all in the neighbourhood. Indeed, if there had. those on board the doomed ship, the main been Life-boats at all the nearest points to reason which accounted for so many being the position of the casualty, not one of saved was the fact that the coxswain of them, even if she had been a steamer, could the Life-boat was actually looking at the possibly have got to the vessel until long ship a few minutes before she struck, and after those on board had left in the ship's took instant action to get his boat afloat. own boats and were in safety. The The Court which inquired into the loss Labrador was bound from Halifax, N.S., of the Mohegan made no recommenda- to Glasgow, and for three days had been tions affecting the Life-boats or their unable to ascertain her position by obser-

2 i 3 502 THE LIFE-BOAT. [1ST AUGCBT, 1899 vation. She had unfortunately got con- The loss of the Stella, close to the siderably out of her course, and at 6.50 A.M. Casquets, and all the harrowing incidents on the 1st March last ran on the Mackenzie connected with it, is BO fresh, in. the Bock, which is about 2 miles S.W. of memory of the public, that it is only Skerryvore Lighthouse. The early morning necessary to refer very briefly to it in had been foggy, but by 6 A.M. the weather these notes. Here again we have a per- had somewhat cleared, and it was possible fectly equipped and powerful vessel lost to see some miles. on rocks in the immediate neighbourhood Quoting from the report of the Board of a lighthouse and on a regular beaten of Trade investigation, the following is track, a fact which provides much food what occurred after striking. "Finding for reflection and shows that no matter the vessel fast the master ordered all the what care, precaution and expense are boats to be got ready, and in an hour bestowed on the fitting and manning of and a half all the boats were launched vessels, the frailty of the human element, and the passengers and crew got on board. the " personal error," so to speak, asserts Had the circumstances been more urgent itself at intervals, but providentially there seems little doubt that this time rarely considering the enormous amount might have been shortened; but as it was of traffic in motion. This vessel had a the passengers and crew were safely put in crew of forty-two all told, and about one the boats, which had ample accommoda- hundred and forty-seven passengers. Un- tion for them, and which were well and like the Mohegan, the disaster happened sufficiently equipped and provided both in daylight but in foggy weather, and as in with gear and provisions. One boat the case of the Mohegan, the chief reason succeeded in reaching the lighthouse why so many as eighty-eight of the (Skerry vore),though not without difficulty, passengers and twenty-four of the crew and the other boats were picked up by were saved was because of the excellent the s.g. Viking, which shortly afterwards order prevailing on board the vessel which came upon the scene and conveyed the it must be observed foundered only eight occupants to Tobermory." minutes after striking. The vessel was It would have been very much better if fitted with two life-boats, two cutters, the one boat had not gone to the light- a dinghy, two Berthon collapsible boats, house, for by doing so a most unnecessary seven hundred and fifty-four life-belts, risk was run; there is nearly always a thirty-six life-buoys and some deck raft swell from the Atlantic in this neighbour- seats. The starboard life-boat, cutter hood, which makes it extremely hazardous and dinghy were lowered and got away to land at Skerryvore, whereas the boat safely, so likewise was the port cutter; would have been perfectly safe, as the but the port life-boat, which was lowered others were, if she had kept the sea, and to the rail, had not time to clear the ship, her occupants, who were eventually taken as at that moment she slipped off the* off the lighthouse by the Northern Light- rocks and foundered in deep water. This vessel Hesperus, would have been on the boat was capsized, but righted again, and mainland some days before they were! of the fourteen persons who got on the At the time of the disaster there were on bottom when she capsized, all bnt two board the Labrador ninety-four crew and managed to get into her again when she sixty-four passengers, total one hundred righted. The steamer disappeared so and fifty-eight, or one more than on board rapidly that there was not sufficient time the ill-fated Mohegan. to open out and lower the Berthon boats, The nearest land to Mackenzie Rocks is which were capable of containing se^entj- the Island of Tiree, thirteen miles off, four persons. This wreck also has no lona is twenty-seven miles distant, and practical bearing on Life-boat work. Tobermory about forty-five miles. The nearest station—that of St. Peter's IST AUGUST, 1899.] THE LIFE-BOAT. 503

Port, Guernsey—is seventeen miles from but it was at once realised that their the Casquets, and thetides in the neigh- services as Life-boats were not required, bourhood run as much as five knots although use was made of them for an hour. In these circumstances it is ferrying many of the passengers from the difficult to conceive what use the St. Paris to the tugs which conveyed them Peter's Port boat could have been even if to Falmouth. Shortly after the ship it had been possible to have telegraphed stranded a rocket line was fired over her for her, and it is still more difficult to by the coastguard, so even if the sea had know how to provide Life-boat stations been too rough for boats to work com- which could be of any use in such terrible fortably alongside, she was near enough and most exceptional circumstances. for the rocket apparatus to have taken For such disasters as the wrecks of the the people off, if necessary; but as there Mohegan, Labrador, and Stella, the means were nearly 800 on board this would available OH board must be looked to as have been a slow proceeding. the main method for escape, and it is The only reason for mentioning this more to perfecting these than to relying wreck is because when a ship of this size on outside help that those interested in with such a host of living beings on board shipping should turn their attention. The goes ashore it must create a great amount Labrador had time successfully to make of public interest, and although everything the best use of her life-saving appliances, so far as her passengers and crew were but in the case of those other two vessels, concerned went well, so near an escape the time was too short for the existing from the fate of the Mohegan and Stella methods to be entirely successful. It is conjures up the " what-might-have-been," a difficult problem where and how to and again one is compelled to reflect that make improvements. Periodical drill, unless the vessel holds on until the Life- keeping the boats swung out when prac- boats in the neighbourhood can be ticable, and having numerous rafts which launched and reach her, reliance mnst be will float away when a ship founders, are placed on the internal means provided the three things which suggest themselves for saving life. to all minds, and are the methods it ia A steam Life-boat at Falmouth (the believed which are finding most favour and only available place for one in the practice ; but there is plenty of scope for neighbourhood) could not get to the improvement beyond this. Manacles in less than an hour after being The last and most recent of the stranded summoned, which would be no faster than vessels calling for special notice is that the present Life-boat with a tug. A of the Paris. Strangely enough she ran larger Life-boat is being built for Port- ashore within a few hundred yards of the houstock and there is a large Life-boat at Mohegan, but under very different circum- Cadgwith; but of what avail is a foot or stances ; insomuch as the Paris stranded two more in length and a foot more beam on the Lowland point near the Manacles, when you have 800 persons to deal with ? and remaining fixed, the sea being per- Look well to the means for summoning fectly smooth, there was no risk to life. the Life-boat crew so as to avoid any The discipline maintained on board seems unnecessary delay in launching; see that to have been excellent. The vessel was the telephonic or telegraphic communi- bound from Cherbourg to New York and cation is made the most intelligent use of took the ground in the small hours of possibletosummon,if necessary, the nearest Sunday morning, the 21st May; so little Life-boats; and above all make sure that cause for alarm for the safety of those on the Life-boat station is in exactly the best board was there, that, finding his ship position, and the most suitable type of fixed, the captain lowered his gig (so the boat provided. These cardinal points newspaper reports say, there being no must never be lost sight of and are official report to refer to), and proceeded among the most important measures taken round the ship to ascertain her precise by the KOYAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT position. The Porthoustock and Pal- INSTITUTION for efficiently working the mouth Life-boats were soon in attendance, Life-boat system. 504 THE LIFE-BOAT. [Isi AUGUST, 1899.

UNITED STATES LIFE-SAVING SERVICE. THANES to the courtesy of Mr. SUMMEE I. Service, while happily, the loss of life KIMBALI,, the General Superintendent of was considerably less in proportion to the the United States Government Life-Saving number of disasters than in any previous Service, we are enabled to place before onr year. In addition to the number of readers a general outline of the operations persons rescued from vessels, 56 were of that excellent Service for the year assisted from such situations as must in ended the 30th June, 1898. The United many cases have resulted in loss of life States Service has always looked upon the but for the prompt and intelligent action ROYAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION of the crews of the life-saving stations. as a sort of foster mother, and the Life- In 577 instances vessels were worked boat Service of the Old Country is proud off when stranded, repaired when damaged, of her quasi child. and piloted out of dangerous places. At the close of the year ended the Besides the foregoing, assistance of minor 30th June, 1898, there were 264 stations importance was rendered to 324 vessels embraced in the life-saving establish- and small craft. There were. also 226 ment, an increase of five as compared instances where vessels running into with the previous year. Of this number, danger of stranding were warned off by 192 were situated on the Atlantic and the signals of the patrols. Gulf coasts, 56 on the coasts of the Great The surf-boat was used 812 times, Lakes, 15 on the Pacific coast, and 1 at the making 1,099 trips. The self-righting Falls of the Ohio, Louisville, Kentucky, the and self-bailing Life-boat was used 114 whole Service being divided into 12 times, making 129 trips. The gasoline districts. The periods during which the launch (at the City Point Station) was stationswere manned during the year, such used 83 times, making 86 trips. Smaller periods being termed the " active season," boats were used 460 times, making 567 varied considerably, ranging from 2 and trips. The river life-skiffs at the Louis- 4 or 4\ months to 5^, 8,10 and 12 months. ville station were used 27 times, making The great majority of the stations are, 29 trips. The breeches buoy was used however, manned for 10 months only, 10 times, making 107 trips. The life* 14 only as far as we can ascertain being car was used once, making 3 trips. The open all the year round. Keepers are on wreck gun was employed 15 times, firing duty, however, at all stations throughout 37 shots. The heavy stick was used 35 the year. times. 451 persons were landed by the The reports of the several district surf-boat; by the Life-boats, 91; by the officers show 402 disasters to documented gasoline launch, 129; by the river life- vessels within the field of life-saving skiffs, 39; by other station boats, 148; operations during the year. The number by the breeches buoy, 106; and by the life- of persons on board these vessels was car, 9; and 69 persons were rescued by 3,113, of whom only 12 were lost. The other means: total 1,042, bringing up the estimated value of the vessels was total number of persons succoured by the 5,861,320 dollars, and that of their Service since the introduction of the cargoes 1,307,070 dollars, making the present system in November, 1871, to total value of the property imperilled 14,255. 7,168,390 dollars. Of this amount The total cost of maintaining the 6,410,530 dollars was saved, 757,860 United States Life-Saving Service during dollars lost. The number of vessels totally the year ended the 30th Jane, 1898, would lost was 59, this number being 5 in seem to have been 1,535,407 dollars excess of the total for the preceding year. (335.494Z.): of this fmm 37,730 dollars There were also 365 casualties to undocu- (7,7522.) went in the salariesof the officials mented craft, sailing boats, rowing-boats, at the head office. Daring the year etc., carrying 874 persons, 10 of whom under consideration the whole of the perished. The total number of disasters Life-Saving Service of the United States was 767, an increase of 68 as compared was for the first time included in a with the previous year and the largest classified service under the Civil Service number reported in the history of the Regulations. By permission of-the Penny Illustrated Paper. RlCHARQSON. THE LIFE-BOAT TO THE RESCUE 506 THE LIFE-BOAT. [IsT AUGUST, 1899.

SEEVICES OF THE LIFE-BOATS OF THE EOYAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION. SEAHAM, DURHAM.—Towards midnight beach. The boat returned to her moor- on the 31st Deo., 1898, signals of distress at ings at 5.25, and five minutes afterwards sea were observed off this place, and when was called out to a coal hulk which was the New Year broke, the Life-boat SJcynner reported to be in a sinking condition, and was on her way to render help to the on board which were two of the crew of vessel which had displayed them. The the ketch Gauntlelt, which had drifted weather at the time was thick but calm, from her anchorage on to the rocks at . following a strong S.E. wind which had Salt Island. The two men had managed prevailed throughout the day, and the to jump on to the hulk as their vessel sea was rough. The vessel which was passed it. Having landed them, the reached at 1 A.M. was the s.s. Niord of Life-boat was moored alongside the Banders, bound from that port for New- L. & N.W. Railway Co.'s quay, owing to castle, and had stranded about a mile the violence of the gale, at about 6.15. and a half N. of Seaham harbour, the At 7.30 the third call was received, seas washing over her. On nearing her signals of distress being shown by the the Life-boat's anchor was let go, the boat s.s.Ballinbreich Castle and the barquentine veered alongside and succeeded in saving Millie Bain. From the former five men the crew of eleven men. An endeavour were rescued, and from the latter seven was then made to recover the anchor, but men. Both vessels were in the Outer it was found that the cable had fouled Roads and were dragging their anchors. the rocks, and it had to be cut so as to These men were safely landed about ensure the safety of the Life-boat, which 9 o'clock, and the Life-boat was then was in danger of being thrown broadside moored in the inner harbour in conse- on. The vessel became a total wreck. quence of the continued severity of the The following gratifying letter appeared storm, and on the following day returned in the Newcastle Daily Chronicle of the to her usual moorings. 7th January :— NEW BRIGHTON.—The steam Life-boat THE WBECK OF THE "NIOKD." Queen left her moorings at 6.50 P.M. on the 2nd January, while a whole gale was To the Editor of the "Daily Chronicle." blowing from N.W., with squalls and a " SIR,—On behalf of my crew, who have now very heavy sea, in response to signals of left, and myself, I beg to offer my best thanks distress which had been shown in the to the captain and members of the Seaham. Life-boat crew, the captain and members of the direction of Crosby. The s.s. Voltaic, of Seaham Life Brigade, for their timely assist- Belfast, bound for Liverpool, was found ance ; Mr. Kelly, agent for the Shipwrecked on the beach stranded near the No. 8 Mariners' Society; Mr. Smith, harbour-master, gas-buoy; at the request of the master and the few people at whose hands I received the best of treatment the night our vessel came the Life-boat stood by until the vessel floated at 12.45. ashore. ,lYours &c., "F. EASMCSSEN," BBMBEIDGB, ISLE OF WIGHT.—A vessel Seaham Harbour, " Master s.s. Niord." having been observed stranded on Bern- 5th January, 1899. bridge Ledge, the Life-boat Queen Victoria HoLTHBAD.—On the 2nd January a was launched at 8.50 P.M. on the 2nd wind blowing with hurricane force from January and proceeded through a rough W.N.W. prevailed, accompanied by a sea, the wind blowing a strong gale from very heavy sea, and the steam Life-boat W.N.W., to the scene of the casualty. Duke of Northumberland was called out The vessel was found to be the schooner three times to assist vessels which were Rosalie, of Calais, bound from Boulogne in danger. At 4.30 P.M. the Life-boat for Eochefort with cement. She was full left her moorings, proceeded to the of water and had every appearance of schooner Ann Jane and rescued her crew becoming a total wreck. Her crew of five of three men. She was dragging her men and a boy were taken into the Life- anchor and afterwards parted her cable boat and were brought safely to land at and became a total wreck on Penrhos 11.30. IST AUGUST, 1899.] THE LIFE-BOAT. 507

NEW QUAY, CORNWALL.—On the morn- FlSHGUAHD, PEMBROKESHIRE. While a ing of the 3rd January the coastguards whole gale was blowing accompanied by reported that a three-masted steamer was a heavy sea on the night of the 2nd at anchor, S.W. of Trevose Lighthouse, January, signals of distress were shown flying the Italian ensign half-mast high. by the schooner Leander of Carnarvon, The Life-boat Willie Eogers was therefore laden with meal from Paisley for Glou- launched at 8.45 and proceeded with all cester. Her anchors had fouled in possible speed to the vessel, which was in consequence of a sudden change of wind a most dangerous position. A moderate and she was drifting into a dangerous gale was blowing from W.S.W., there was position. The Life-boat Appin was a very heavy ground swell, and the weather launched at 7.40, proceeded under oars was thick. Two of the Life-boatmen to the vessel and rescued the crew of boarded the vessel, which proved to be the three men, who were safely landed at the Voorwaarts, of Amsterdam, bound from new pier, Goodwick, at about 8.30. Cardiff for Genoa. She had apparently been disabled by stress of weather, but WHITELINK BAY, ABERDEENSHIRE.— very little information could be obtained, After a fine morning on the 5th January, as none of those on board could speak a sudden and terrific squall was ex- English. It appeared that the casualty perienced, accompanied by a heavy shower had occurred in a very heavy gale from of snow and sleet. Soon afterwards the N.W. at 3 o'clock on the previous after- noon, and that the master and ten of the coxswain of the Life-boat Three Brothers observed a fishing-boat in distress off crew had left her, in two boats, and had Rattray Head, and he at once summoned not since been heard of. The ship had the Life-boat's crew. Two other distressed seventeen feet of water in her hold, and boats were afterwards seen. At 12 noon it did not seem possible that she could the Life-boat was launched, and in about remain afloat for any length of time. It twenty minutes overtook the nearest boat, was therefore arranged that the steam-tug the Good Hope, of Fraserbnrgh, and ten Dragon which had arrived should stand minutes later another boat, the Good by her until the morning, the Life-boat Design, also of Fraserburgh, was also taking off the remainder of the crew, nine reached. Each of the boats had a crew men, and safely landing them at 7.30 P.M. of three men. Both boats were taken in On the following morning the vessel tow, part of their crews being taken into being still afloat, the Life-boat again went the Life-boat, which being qnable to out to her, taking back the nine men, and return to her station owing to the severity an attempt was made to take the ship to and direction of the gale made for Peter- Swansea. On boarding her it was found that the water during the night had head. She was towed by a steam-tug belonging to that port the last two and a increased by one foot. The men belonging half miles and subsequently back to her to the vessel, assisted by some of the Life-boatmen, jettisoned about twenty-five station. The crew of the third fishing- boat failed to observe the Life-boat tons of the cargo so as to lighten her, bearing down on them and ran their boat and the tug Dragon and s.s. Olivia succeeding in towing her to within fifteen ashore at Eattray Head. miles of Lundy. At 5 P.M. one of the tow ropes parted, and in getting another GOURDOK, JOHNSHAVEN, MoNTROSE AND on board a hole was knocked in the bow ARBROATH. — A strong gale suddenly of the Voorwaarts ; she became unmanage- sprung up on the east coast of Scotland able, and in a short time was seen to be on the morning of the 6th January and settling down. The men on board there- the fishing fleets were compelled to return upon signalled to be taken off, and the as quickly as possible to the harbours. ship was abandoned, the Life-boat being As some of the boats would incur con- towed by the Olivia to Ilfracombe, where siderable risk in entering their ports, the she arrived at 10.45 P.M. One of the Life-boats Theophilus Sidney Echalaz, ship's boats drove ashore at Mawgan Meanwett of Glenbervie, Robert Hender- Forth, being literally smashed to pieces' son, and William Souter were launched on the rocks, but no trace of any of her and remained in attendance until the crew could be seen. fishermen were in safety. 508 THE LIFE-BOAT. [1st AUGUST, 1899.

CASTLETOWN, ISLE OF MAN.—At noon trying to speak him had come into on the 12th January intelligence was collision with the schooner, carrying away received that a vessel had hoisted signals the latter's bowsprit and jib-boom and of distress in Derbyhaven Bay. The damaging the b3ws. He asked that the Life-boat Thomas Black was taken on anchors might be slipped and that the her carriage to Darbyhaven, where she Life-boat might remain by until Bamsgate was launched and was fortunately suc- was reached. It was evidently impossible cessful in saving the crew of three men for the vessel, in her damaged condition, from the ketch John Parry, of and from to proceed under sail, and the captain, Beaumaris, bound for Ayr with a cargo acting on the advice of the Life-boatmen, of slates. A whole gale was blowing secured the services of a steam-tug. Her from W.S.W. and the sea was very heavy. anchors were slipped, after buoying them, In fact, the weather was the worst ever and the vessel was towed, with the Life- experienced by the Life-boatmen, and in boat astern, in the direction of Bamsgate, recognition of their admirable services on it being intended to take the harbour at this occasion an extra reward was granted the tide, but the gale increased and it was to them by the Institution. considered imprudent to attempt to enter at night; therefore the tug continued to BBOADSTAIBS.—The Life-boat Frances tow her throughout the night, in the Forbes Barton was launched at 3 P.M. on teeth of the gale, the seas breaking over the 12th January in a very rough sea, the the Life-boat the whole of the time, until wind blowing a whole gale from W.S.W. 9.30 in the morning, when the harbour veering to N.N.W., with rain squalls, a was safely entered and the schooner made signal of distress being shown by the secura. She had a crew of five persons. three-masted schooner Julia, of Lancaster, The Life-boatmen, who had been exposed laden with slates from Antwerp for for eighteen hours to the fury of the Exmouth. On reaching the vessel, which heaviest gale they had ever experienced, was five miles S.E.of the North Foreland, then proceeded on the return journey to the master stated that a steam-tug in her station, arriving there at 10.45 A.M.

ADDITIONAL STATIONS AND NEW LIFE-BOATS.

WICKLOW, IBELAND. -— The Life-boat 40 feet long, and has a beam of 10£ feet, placed here some years since having and in addition to masts and sails is fitted become unfit for further service has been to pull 12 oars double banked. The boat replaced by the Institution—a fine new was sailed to her station in April last and sailing boat of the self-righting type encountered very rough weather on her having, with the full concurrence of the voyage from the Thames to Wicklow. It Local Committee, coxswains and crew, baen was most gratifying to learn that her specially built for the station. She is excellent behaviour under those trying IST AUGUST, 1899.] THE LIFE-BOAT. 509 circumstances gave entire satisfaction to KHOSCOLTN, AKGLESET.—A new self- the navigating crew. Like the boat she righting Life-boat, 37 feet long and 9| feet superseded, the new Life-boat is named wide, pulling 10 oars double banked, has Bobert Theophilus Garden, after the late been provided for this station in the Mr. GABDBN, of Biver Lyons, King's place of one sent there twenty-one years County, Ireland, who in 1866 defrayed since, which was presented to the Institu- the cost of the complete renovation of tion and permanently endowed by the the Wicklow Life-boat Establishment, in Countess DE MOBELLA, in memory of her memory of his affectionate grandchildren, late husband, RAMON CABEEBA, Field- Mary Dorcas and Blanche Jane Champagne, marshal in the Spanish army, Count DE and subsequently bequeathed a legacy to MOBELLA, Marquis DEL TIE. In accord- the Institution for the permanent en- ance with the agreement between the dowment of the Life-boat. This is the benevolent donor and the Institution, the third boat named after him which has new Life-boat bears the same name as her been stationed at Wicklow. predecessor, i.e. Samon Cabrera.

THE AITH HOPE LONGHOPE) LIFE-BOAT CEEW. I To the Coxswain and Crew of the Aith Hope Life-boat Samyntas Stannak, I respectfully dedicate these simple verses for their noble work on the iight of the 31st October. It 98, in connection with the disabled steamer Manchester City, during a north-west gale in the Pentland Firth. They are no fancy regiment And bravely are they striving, Of a spick and span brigade, For down upon the lee They wear no brilliant uniform There are urgent signals flying- To march with on parade; There is trouble on t :o sea." No pipe or drum to cheer them on Ween siccar work to do; Swirling streams the Pentland 'Tis the music of the tempest song Against the nor'-weat gale; Leads on the Life-boat crew. The pine-sticks bend and quiver To the bellowing close-reefed sail; For the Life-boat men are sea-dogs Down in the briny hollows Of many a stubborn fight; Where the rollers loom like cloads,l They have faced the stormy Pentland And the norland winds are singing In its majesty and might, Though the Life-boat's dripping shrouds. When the roaring race of Torness Showed fight to the nor'-west, Stand-by there, lads, for boarding, And every green-backed roller We must keep her on the track Had a white-flaked foaming crest. By Stroma's swirling swelkie Past Skerrie, rock and stack; A sickly moon is waning While the sutf sings on your beaches,. Across the murky lift, Mighty ocean's glorious hymns, Watching bleak October's Eemember, aye remember, lads. Dying gasp and shrift. That you are men of Brims! A helpless barque is drifting Down in a stormy lee, Let us cheer the Aith Hope Life-boat And over all is roaring And all her noble band; The anthem of the sea. They have shed a brilliant lustre Upon their native land. By Hoy's grim rugged headlands, In days when they and I are gone Through breakers, drift, and foam, 'Twill be a household tale Battling with the tempest, How the men of Brims crossed Torness race The Life-boat struggles on; In that October gale., B. ROBERTSON, Master of the Orkney Mail Steamer, St. Ola. Daisybank, StromnesB. 510 THE LIFE-BOAT. [IsT AUGUST, 1899.

AN AMERICAN'S GIFT TO ENGLISH LIFE-BOAT MEN. Mr. P. B. PEMBEBTON, of New York, who yon at Porthoustock, when I sincerely was saved from the wreck of the Mohegan, hope I may find each member of the life- recently Beat a present of 501. to the crew saving crew in good health and sur- of the Porthonstock Life-boat, St. Keverne, rounded by those comforts which should Cornwall. la thanking him, the crew come to those whose lives are placed so forwarded their photographs and a picture constantly in jeopardy in the interest of of the Life-boat, and in reply they have their unfortunate brethren. Mrs. Pem- just received the following letter:— berton desires to join with me in again extending to each of you our sincere good "MY GOOD FRIENDS,— wishes. « j am> yonr friend " I have received with very much pleasure photographs of the Life-boat " P. E. PEMBEETON." and of the members of its crew, which photographs, appropriately framed, now adorn the walls of my library. I appreci- SILVER AND GOLD ALSO, AND EVEN NOTES. ate more than I can say to yon the kindly feeling evidenced for my family and for Saturday.—Life-boat Saturday — splendid me in your thus remembering us, and I institution—come now, you other chaps, fork out your subscriptions; Pee unfortunately left shall carefully preserve the pictures as my parse at home (not that there's anything in mementoes of the melancholy occasion it). Bat come, chuck 'em a copper—silver or when so many lives were lost, and when gold will do. those of my family and myself were saved When the roaring gale and the seething sea only by your bravery and heroism. Tour Nigh cause the sailor's hopes end, manly acts will afford a lesson which I The seaman's foremost thought will be To fling them a helping rope's eud— shall delight to teach my sons, whose The landsmen, too, would ease their plight, lives you saved, and will be an inspiration In him it's surely proper to your children to like deeds of heroism. (Who has no skill in knot or bight) If it shall ever be my good fortune to To fling them the helpful copper. visit England, I shall surely go amongst From Fun.

SUMMAET OF THE MEETINGS OF THE COMMITTEE. their colleague, HENBY GEOBGE PERCY, Seventh THURSDAY, 12th January, 1899. DUES OF NOBTHUMBEBLAND, and desire to place Sir EDWARD BIBKBECK, Bart., V.P., on their Minutes an acknowledgment of the in the Chair. gratitude which the Life-boat cause owes to their late President, who for the long period of Read and confirmed the Minutes of the thirty-three years had cordially and continually previous meeting. co-operated with them in carrying out the great Reported the much lamented death on the philanthropic objects of the ROYAL NATIONAL 2nd instant of His Grace ALGEBNON GBOBOE LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION. PERCY, Sixth DUKE OF NOBTHUMBERLAND, K.G., " By order of the Committee. who had been President of the Institution for " EDWABD BIKKBECK, Chairman. the long period of thirty-three years, and who " FiTzRor CLAYTON, Deputy-Chairman. had always taken a deep interest in its "Sealed with the Corporate Seal of the progress and development. ROYAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION this Decided that a vote of sincere sympathy and 12th day of January, 1899. condolence with his son, HENBY GEOBQE PEBCY, " CHABLES DIBDIN, Secretary." Seventh DUKE OF NOBTHUMBEBLAND, be placed on the minutes, and a copy, engrossed on The following is a copy of the DUKE or vellum, and bearing the corporate seal of the NOBTHUMBEKLAND'S acknowledgment of this Institution, forwarded to His Grace. The vote of condolence :— following is a copy of the vote:— "Aln wick Castle, "That this Committee in recording the " 18th January, 1899. lamented decease of their President, His Grace " Dear Sir EDWARD BIBKBECK, ALGEBNON GEOBGE PEBCY, DUKE OF NOBTH- "Allow me to convey through you my UMBEBLAND, K.G., respectfully tender their best thanks to the Committee of Management sincere sympathy and condolence to his Son, of the ROYAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION IST AUGUST, 1899.] THE LIFE-BOAT. 511 for their extremely kind vote of condolence on Stations at which the seven Life-boats the sad loss we have sustained. presented and endowed by the fund are placed. " The late DUKE or NORTHUMBERLAND'S The total sun thus contributed to the Insti- interest in the work" of the Institution was ever tution by gentleman in Her Majesty's Civil keen, and although for some time past age and Service has been 23,3331. 5s. 6d. infirmity prevented his taking the active part Decided that the best thanks of the Com- he had formerly assumed in the management mittee be conveyed to the subscribers to the of its affairs, his sense of the importance of the fund for their continued very liberal assistance. objects which our Committee have in view, and Also the receipt of the following other his pride in being President of so noble a special contributions since the last meeting :— Society remained unimpaired. "Pray allow me to add my own cordial £. »._d. acknowledgments for the sympathy extended Stewards of the Covent Garden Life- to me by my colleagues. boat Fund, towards the cost of the " I am, dear Sir Edward, new Covent Garden Life-boat for Caister 566 17 6 " Yours truly, Trustees of the residuary estate of (Signed) " NORTHUMBERLAND." the late Miss Gannou, towards the maintenance of the Life-boats >' Sir EDWABD BIRKBECK, Bart." at Thorpe and Aldeburgh, per the Read the minutes of the Building, Finance Rev. C. DU G. MAKEPEACE, M.A. 200 - - and Correspondence and Wreck and Reward W. H. LTALL, Esq., (Member of the Sab-Committees and ordered that their recom- Committee of Management of the mendations be carried into effect. Institution) 100 - - Read the report of the Chief Inspector of Independent Order of Oddfellows Life-boats on his recent visits to Cowes, (Manchester Unity) Annual Sub- Bridlington Quay and Flamborough. scription, 501. Ditto, Donation, Also the report of the Deputy Chief Inspector 1H. Hs 61 U ~ of Life-boats on his visits to the Dungarvan Licensed Victuallers Life-boat Fund and Queenstown Life-boat Stations. per A. L. ANNETT,Esq.(additional) 50 - - Also the reports of the District Inspectors of Mrs. A. HIOKMAN MORGAN (addi- Life-boats on their visits to the following tional) 50 - - Stations:— Loyal Order of Ancient Shepherds Northern District.—Eyemouth, Berwick-on- (Ashton Unity) (additional) . . 20 - - Tweed, Balcary, Kirkcudbright, Whithorn, Sheriff of London Charity Football Port Patrick, Port Logan, Anstruther and Fund, per H. L. JACKSON, Esq. . • 10 - - North Berwick. —To be severally thanked. Eastern District.—Scarborough, Robin Hood's Bay, Staithes, Eunswick, Upgang, Whitby Also the receipt of the following legacies:— (two boats), Hornsea, Withernsea, Donna Nook, Mablethorpe, Sutton, Skegnesa, Brancaster, £ e. d. Hunstanton, Palling (two boats), Hasborough, The late Miss M. A. LEICESTER, of Blakeney, Wells, Cromer and Sheringham. Bishop's Road, Paddington . . 3,311 3 2 Southern District.—Southsea, Littlehampton, The late Miss BESSIE GALOTDO, of Shoreham, Worthing, Eastbourne, Ryde, Ather- Bath 100 - - field, Brigbtstone Grange, Brooke, Totland Bay and Bembridge. Voted the thanks of the Institution to WYND- Western District. — Penarth, Burnham, HAM CREMBR, Esq., J.P., H. P. TODD, Esq., and Watchet, Weston-super-Mare, Ilfracombe, Lyn- Mr. SAMUEL BROOK, in recognition of their long mouth, Clovelly, Appledore (two boats), Morthoe and valuable services as Honorary Secretaries and Padstow. respectively of the Sheringham, Thorpe and Irish District.—Cloughey, Bally water, Green- Looe Branches of the Institution, which offices castle, Portrush, Culdaff, Carrickfergus, they had just resigned. Tyrella, Duugarvan, Queenstown (two boats), Paid 8,777Z. for sundry charges on various Ballycotton, Youghal, Courtmacsherry, Fenit, Life-boat establishments. Tramore, Dunmore East, Kilmore, Wexford, Voted 621Z. 2s. 8d. to pay the expenses of tho llwslare Harbour, Courtown, Cahore, Arklow, following Life-boat services:— Wicklow, Barrow, Piel, Ramsey and Hoylake. Reported the receipt of a contribution of Life-boat. (Vessel. Lives 15,3021. 8s. id. from the Central Conmittee of saved. the Life-boat Saturday Fund, as the nett Aranmore Luggers St. Paul, St. proceeds of " Life-boat Saturday 1898." Mitnan and St. Malaiss 20 Decided that the best thanks of the Com- „ . Lugger St. Malaise. Ren- mittee be tendered to the Central Committee of dered assistance. the Life-boat Saturday Fund for their con- Ajbroath . . Fishing-boats. Remained tinued valuable co-operation. in attendance. Also the receipt from the Civil Service Life- Bembridge . Schooner Roialieof Calais boat Fund, per CHARLES DIBDIN, Esq., Honorary Gampbeltown, Schooner Finlaggon, of Secretary, of a further sum of 2.048J. Us. lid. Campbeltown . to recoup the Institution all the expenses „ -. Schooner Rlio-la, of incurred in 1898 in maintaining the seven Portrush .... 512 THE LIFE BOAT. [Isi AUGUST, 1899.

Life-boat. TITCBSPAY, 9th February, 1899. Campbeltown. Boat of Ketch Oimara, Sir EDWABD BIRKBECK, Bart., V.P., in of Campbeltown . . 1 the Chair. „ . Schooner James Shearer, of Campbeltown. Ben- Eead and confirmed the Minutes of the dered assistance. irevioua meeting. Cairickfergns Brigantine Huntress, of The Chairman read a letter from Sir Belfast 4 FRANCIS KKOLLYS, intimating that H.E.H. the „ . Brigantine C. X. Bey- PEINCE OF WALES, K.G., had consented to be nolds, of Belfast . . 5 he President of the Institution in succession Clcvelly . -. Three-masted schooner lo the late DTJKE OF NOBTHDMBEKLAND, E.G. Beaper, of Truro. This announcement was received with the Rendered assistance. greatest satisfaction and unanimously approved. Cullercoats . Coble W. E. Gladstone, of The Chairman fuither stated that His Eoyal Cullercoats. Stood by Higl'.neEB bad announced his itttevition of boat. presiding at a dinner to be held in London, Duugeness, \ Schooner MeerenU. As- probably in May, on behalf of the London Life- No. 1 . ./ gisted to save vessel. Boat Saturday Fund, of which H.E.H. Ihe Filey . . . Fishing-boats. Remaimd DCEE OF VOEK is President. j in attendance. Read the Minutes of the Building, Finance Fishguard, \ Schooners Leandtr and and Correspondence, and Wreck and Keward No. 2 . . / Thomas, of Carnarvon. 9 Sub-Committees, and ordered that their recom- Holyhead Schooner Ann Jane . . 3 mendations be carried into effect. (Steam Life-boat.) Also read the Minutes of the last meeting Ketch Gauntlett ... 2 of the Central Committee of the Life-boat „ S.S. Balliribreich Castle . 5 Saturday Fund, and ordered that their recom- „ Barqnentine Millie Bain 7 mendations be carried into effect. New Brighton S.S. Voltaic, of Belfust. Eead the Reports of the District Inspectors (Steam Life-boat.) Stood by vessel. of Life-boats on their recent visits to the New Quay, \ S.S. Voorwaarts, of Am- following Life-boat Stations:— Cornwall / sterdam .... Northern District.—Workington, Maryport, Porthleven . SbipAnlonin,of Dunkirk. Whitehaven, Ayr, Girvan, Ballantrae, Troon, Eendertd assistance. Irvine, AidiOEsan and'Kildonan. Ramsey . . Schooner Twin Sisters, Eastern District. — Pakefield, Sunderland ofDrummore . . (two boats), Eoker, Whitbum, Seaham, Hartle- „ . . Schooner Btturn, of pool (three boats), Seaton Carew, West Greenock .... Hartlepool, Saltburn and Eedcar. „ . . Schooner Annie Warren, Southern District.— Falmontb, Porthleven, of Aberdovey . Cadgwith, Church Cove, Polpear, Porthoustock, Eobin Hocd's "I S.S. Nad Odd, of Eger- Mullion, Plymouth and Fowey. Bay. . ./ sund. Landed 11. Western District.—Swansea, Port Eynon, Scarborough . Yawl Fire Brothers, of Ferryside, Buvry Port, Fisbguard (two boats), Scarborough St. David's, Porthcawl and Penarth. Seabam . . S.S. Niord, of Randers . 11 Irish District.- Poit St. Mary, Port Erin, Swansea . . £ team-tug Faxon, of Cusfletown, Douglas, Peel, Hilbre Island, Falmouth .... Hoylake, Formby, New Brighton (two boats), Whitelink Bay Fishing-boats Good Hope Soutbport(two boats) and Fleetwood. and Good Design, of Eeported the receipt of the following special Fraserburgh. Saved contributions since the last meeting:— boats and .... £. ». d. The Dungeness No. 1 Life-boat also rendered "F. H.," for general fund, 750Z. assistance to the ship Glenard, of Port Glasgow Ditto, for rewards to the crews Voted also 8682. 18*. 3d. to pay for launches and losses to their families by watching, or assemblies of the crews of the accident, in such proportions as following Life-boats, •with the view of assisting the Committee may think best, vessels in distress:—Arbroath, Ayr, Barmouth 2501 1000 - - Blakeney, Broadstairs, Bude, Bull Bay, Burry- From Life-boat Fund of the Young port, Clovelly, Droghtda No. 1, Dunbar Men's Friendly Society, per J.W. Dnngeness No. 1, Fishguard No. 2, Girvan, POWELL, Esq., Church House, Harwich (sleam Life-boat), Holybead (steam Dean's Yaid, S.W 50 13 1 and sailing Life-boats), Hoylake, Irvine, Little- W. iKGHAJiWHiTAKEB, Esq. (annual hampton, Mullion, Newbiggin, Padstow, Poini subscription) 25 - - of Ayr, Port Eynon, Port Patrick, Ehyl Contributions frnm' St. Michael's, Rosslare Harbour, St. Agnes and St. Mary's Paddington, per the Bev. G. F. (Scilly Isles), St. Ives, Selsey, Stornoway PBESCOTT, M.A 11 14 - Stromness, Troon, Tynemouth No. 2, Walton- Collected on board the S..Y. on-the-Naze, Whithorn and Worthing. Argonaut, per CONNOP F. S. Voted 151. 18s. grant, and medical expenses PEKOWNB, Esq 8 1 10 incurred, to one of the crew of the Aldtburgl Collected in Rochester Cathedral, Life-boat who was injured while on service anc per the Very Rev. the Dean . 3 12 10 thereby incapacitated for work for some weeks —To be severally thanked. IST AUGUST, 1899.] THE LIFE-BOAT. 513

Voted the thanks of the Committee to Major Also extra rewards to the crews of the KINUSLEY O. FOSTER, J.P., GEORGE S. Clacton, Margate, Port Eynon and Porthcawl MANCELLE, Esq., and Mr. JAMBS McIsrosH in Life-boats for especially good services. recognition of their past valuable services as Also 51. to five men for putting off in a boat Honorary Secretaries respectively of theKeigate and rescuing the crew of seven men from the and Redhill, Southend and Nairn branches of fishing-boat, Mary Anderson, of Broughty the Institution, which offices they had just Ferry, which had stranded off Arbroath, For- resigned. farshire, in a strong S.W. gale and a rough sea Paid 3,328Z. for sundry charges on various on the night of the 4th January. Life-boat establishments. Also 31. 15s. to five men for putting off in a Voted 2901. 12s. to pay the expenses of the boat and saving two of the crew of a fishing- undermentioned Life-boat services :— boat of Port Sallon, which had been capsized Lives off Innishowen Head, co. Donegal, in a strong Life-boat. Vessel. ared. gale and a heavy sea on the 23rd November Aberaoch . Schooner Eirion Lass, last. of Portmadoc . Also letters of thanks to Ship's Corporal Broadstairs Schooner Julia, of JAMES AXON, of H.M.S. Northampton, and Mr. Lancaster. Assisted to GEORGE NiGHrnraALE, for putting off in a boat save vessel and and rescuing three men whose boat had been Castletown Ketch John I'arry, of capsized off Walmer in a moderate N. Beaumaris .... breeze, a smooth sea and thick weather, on Clacton Schooner Robert Ander- the 5th January. son, of Bur^head . Also H. Ws. to nine men for putting off in a » • Ship Hawkzdale, of yawl to the assistance of the schooner Lottie, Liverpool .... 18 of Padstow, in B. Ballyholme Bay in a whole Dungeness S.S. Elaine, of Liverpool. gale from W.N.W. and a very heavy sea on the No. 1 . Stood by vessel. 12th January. Those on board the vessel, Gtourdon . Fishing-boats. Stood by however, did not require any assistance. boats. 10». was alsj granted to the owner of the Hayle . . Schooner Miss Beck, of boat used on the occasion. Carnarvon .... Also 16s. to four men for rescuing the crew Johnshaven Fishing-boats. Stood by of three men from a fishing-boat which was boats. swamped while attempting to land at Sizewell, Kingstown Barque Lwh Fergus, of Suffolk, in a heavy surf, on the 18th January. No. 2 . Liverpool .... 17 Lynmouth Ship Forrest Hatt, of Liverpool. Assisted to THURSDAY, 9th March, 1899. save vessel and 15 Sir EDWABD BIRKBBCK, Bart., V.P., in Margate No. 1 Ship Hawlts&ale, of the Chair. Liverpool .... Head and confirmed the Miuutes of the MontroseNo. 1 Fishing-boats. Stood by previous meeting. boats. Bead the Minutes of the Building, Finance Newbiggin . Two cobles. Piloted and Correspondence, and Wreck and Reward boats. Sub-Committees and ordered that their recom- Ramsey . . Schooner Twin Sisters, of mendations be carried into effect. Drummore. Landed 3. Read the report of the Chief Inspector of Southend Barge Wliitwell. Saved Life-boats on his recent visit to Coweg. (Essex). vessel and .... Also the reports of the Deputy Chief Southsea . Ketch Queen of the Fleet, Inspector of Life-boats on his visits to Methil, of Portsmouth. As- Buckhaven, Oban, Tobermorey, Tiree, Coll, sisted to save vessel and lona and Bunessan. The Margate No. 2 and Walton-on-the-Naze Also the reports of the District Inspectors of Life-boats rendered assistance to the S.S. Amiral Life-boats on their visit to the following Aube, of Havre. Stations:— Voted also 5231. 9». 6d. to pay for launches, Northern District.—Campbeltown, Southend, watching, or assemblies of the crews of the Anstruther, Crail, St. Andrew's, Arbroath and following Life-boats with the view of helping Girvan. those on board vessels in distress:—Angle, Eastern District.—Dnngenes* (two boats), Dover, Dunbar, Dungarvan, Formby, Harwich New Romney, Folkestone, Margate (two boats), (steam life-boat), Hayle, Hoylake, Kingstown, Broadstairs, Ramsgate, Hythe, Dover, Kings- Margate No. 1, New Brighton (steam life-boat), downe, Walmer and Deal. New Eomney, Palling No. 2, Penarth, Peter- Southern District.—Brighton, Winchelsea, head, Plymouth, Port Eynon, Porthcawl, Rye, Hastings and Ryde. Porthdinllaen, Pwllheli, Ehoscolyn, St. Ives Western District—New Quay (Cardigan- and Weymouth. shire), Cardigan, Tenby, Littlehaven and Voted the Silver Medal of the Institution, Angle. with a copy of the vote inscribed on vellum Irish District—Blackpool, St. Anne's (two and framed, to Mr. JAKES THOMAS, coxswain of boats), Lytham, Tramore, Howth, Poolbeg and the Fishguard Life-boats, in recognition of his Kingatown (two boats). general gallant services in saving life from Reported the receipt of the following special shipwreck. contributions since the last meeting:— 514 THE LIFE-BOAT. [Isi 1899.

£. e. d. Voted also 368Z. 9». Id. to pay for launches, Colonel B. P. DAVIS, J.P., per watching or assemblies of crews of the following Walton-on-Naze Branch . . . 105 - - Life-boats with the view of assisting those on ELEANOB E. WADE 50 - - board vessels in distress:—Aldebxugb, Angle, CHABIES DENNY, Esq 2o - - Broadstairs, Brooke, Dnnbar, Hythe, Johns- Worshipful Company of Leather- haven, Newbiggin, Penzance, Plymouth, Selsey, sellers 21 - - Sennen Cove, Southsoa, Thorpeness, Totland —To oe severally thanked. Bay, Weeton-super-Mare, Weymouth, White- link Bay, Gitat Yarmouth, and Youghal. Also the receipt of the following legacies :— Produced the report of the Board of Trade £. s. d. inquiry into the circumstances attending the The late Miss ELIZABETH HANKEY, casualty to the crew of the brigantine Freya, of of Chester, per Liverpool Branch 338 8 9 Tonsberp, on the 20th October last. When some The late JOHN SAY CLABKE, Esq., M.D., miles off Montrose the crew abandoned the vessel, of Byde 300 - - which had lost her sails, and was leaking badly, The late HUGH LLOYD JONES, Esq., in a strong S.B. gale and a very heavy sea, and of Brougbton, Chester .... 270 - - attempted to reach the shore in their boat, The late W. J. ADAMS, Esq., of Lee 90 - - which was capsized by the breakers, involving The late Miss E. A. HODGSON, of the loss of her whole crew with the exception of Tideuham, Gloucester ... 10 - - one man wljo had a lifebuoy and was washed The late HENBY HENDEBOUBCK, Esq., ashore. of Canonbury Park, N. ... 55- It having been alleged by some personsjthat the crews of the Montrose Life-boats, which Voted the thanks of the Institution to were launched, had not done all that might E. L. LLOYD, Esq., and M. 0. PRESTON, Esq., have been expected of them, the Committee of in acknowledgment of their past valuable the Institution requested the Board of Trade to services as Honorary Secretaries, respectively, hold a formal investigation into the circum- of the Newton Abbot and Lyme Eegis Branches stances attending the casualty, and the action of the Institution, which offices they had just of the Life-boats on the occasion. The inquiry, resigned. which occupied six days, waa held at Montrose, The Committee also specially recognised the and the finding of the Court entirely exonerated valuable services, extending over many years, the Life-boats' crews from blame. of the following Honorary Secretaries of Branches — Captain HERBEBT, B.N., J.P., The Committee decided to express, through Salcombe and Hope Cove; H. APPLETON, Esq., the local branch, their satisfaction at the result Lizard; the Eev. A. E. HOCKLEY, Lynmouth ; of the enquiry, and their appreciation of the W. J. VATJOHAN, Esq., Fishguard; WILLIAM efforts of the Life-boat men who had keenly felt McDouGALL. Esq., Eyemouth; JOHN McMcLLAN, the accusation, amounting to cowardice, which Esq., Cloughey; BENJAMIN HEAPE, Esq., J.P., tiad been made against them. Bochdale; and CHABLES E. LIEBBEIOH, Esq., Beported the resignation, on account of old Bradford. age, of three members of tbe Clacton-on-Sea Eeported the transmission of a new steam Life-boat crew, M. NICHOLLS, B. OSBOBNE, Life-boat to the Padstow (Cornwall) Station, and G. GRKISON, Sen., who had respectively and of a new Life-boat to the Eboscolyn been in the Life-boat on service, on 10), 99 and (Anglesey) Station. €8 occasions. Paid 4,1411. for sundry charges on various Voted tbe second service clasp to NICHOILS Life-boat Establishments. and OSBORNE, who had received silver medals Voted 2681. Us. dd, to defray the expenses of for long service in January, 1894, and the silver the following Life-boat services :— medal to GBIGSON, accompanied by a framed copy of the vote inscribed on vellum. Me-boat. Vessel. JjJ^ Voted an aueroidbatometer bearing a suitable Berwick-on- 1 Ketch William Knox, of inscription, accompanied by the thanks of the Tweed / Kirkcaldy. Landed 8. Institution inscribed on vellum and framed, to Boulmer . . SS.Cattersby, of Middles- Mr. THOMAS AMBROSE, master of the barge brough 12 Briton, and the thanks of the Institution, Caister No. 2 S.S. Russian Prince, of framed and on vellum, to Mr. EDOAB Drais, Newcastle. Bendered mate, for gallantly putting off in their boat and assistance. rescuing the master of the barge Either, of Cresswell . . Steam-trawler Lapwing. Erith, who was clinging to the mast, his vessel Stood by vessel. having sunk in Sea Beach, Eiver Thames, in a Qourdon . . Fishery-cruiser Brenda, gale from E.S.E., and a rough sea, on the night of Leith. Stood by of the 14th October. vessel and rescued . 2 Also ll. 5s. to four working-men for assisting Groomsport . Schooner Caledonia . . 5 three of the crew of the barque Loch Fergus, Newhaven. . Barque Peruvian, of of Liverpool, who were attempting to reach Fano 10 the shore in the vessel's boat, which, however, Penmon . . Schooner Devon, of Ply- was capsized in making for the beach in mouth. Bend, assist. Killiney Bay, Co. Dublin, on the 6th February. Southend-on- ) SchoonerBj7/oto,of Inver- Also thanks to the master of tbe tug Flying Sea > ness. Landed 4 from Sprite for services rendered to the Kingt-town | Mouse light-vessel. i Life-boat, which rescued the other members of Worthing . . SchoonerPrinceLlewellyn 5 ' tbe barque's crew. IST AUGUST, 1839.] THE LIFE-BOAT. 515

Also II. 10«. to three men for bringing ashdre Wednesday, 29th March, 1899. part of the crew of the B.S. Boilin Glen, at the A special meeting of the General Committee same time piloting one of the ship's boats into was held this day, Sir EDWABD BIRKBECK, Bart., safety, the vessel having stranded off Lendal- V.P., in the Chair. foot, Ayrshire, in a whole gale from S., and a Reported the lamented death on the 18th yery heavy sea, on the 10th February. March of Mr. HUGH LINDSAY ANTBOBUS (senior Also II. 5s. to the crew of a R.N.R. boat partner in the firm of Messrs. Coutts & Co., for rescuing an old fisherman whoso boat had Bankers to the Institution), who had been the stranded off Carnarvon in a strong S.W. by S. Treasurer of the Institution for 21 years. gale, and a very choppy sea, on the 11 th February. Decided that a letter of condolence be sent Also 1Z. 2«. Gd. to three men for putting off to Mrs. ANTBOBUS on the occasion of her sad in a boat and saving a fisherman in distress off bereavement. Workington, in a rough sea, on the 21st Also that a special meeting of the Governors February. The man's boat, which was full of of the Institution be convened for Thursday, water, was towed ashore by the salvors. the 13th April, for the purpose of electing a Also 1Z., with a letter commending the skill Treasurer in succession to the late Mr. with which he managed his boat, to Mr. ANTBOBUS. DAS LOVERING, of Ilfracombe, who rescued five men from the gig Lily, which had been capsized about 2} miles N. of Ilfracombe pier in half a gale of-wind from the S., and a heavy sea, on the 22nd February. Also 10«. to two men for rescuing two other men from a boat off Lackbeg, Co. Donegal, in THE STOEM-WAKRIOE. squally weather, and a rough sea, on the 15th January. The boat becoming submerged, Harkt Harkl 'tis the boom of a distant gun, two of her occupants swam to the shore; And the stoutest heart doth quail, another was drowned, and the two men who For there's death maybe in the raging sea were rescued were clinging to the boat, which To him who would dare the gale. had risen to the surface again when relieved of But the wind may shriek till it crack each the other men's weight. cheek, And the sea prove a watery grave, There are brave lads to-night who will SATURDAY, 18th March, 1899. challenge its might The Annual General Meeting of the In the thought of a life to save. Governors and friends of the Royal National Kef rain: Life-boat Institution took place this day at Bend to the oar with a sturdy will, St. Martin's Town Hall, Charing Cross Road, Heedless of wind, or foam. The Bight Hon. the EARL OF DERBY, K.G., God speed the boat! keep her safely afloat, G.C.B., in the Chair. Bring the storm-warrior home. The Chairman having made some suitable observations on the great and national 'Tis a battle grim for a human limb— character of the operations of the Institution, To wage, 'mid the tempest's gloom; the annual report (which will be found in the In the landsman's breast is a fear confessed— May number of The Life-loat Journal) was They go, but to meet their doom! presented to the meeting. And the surf runs high on the dread lee shore, The meeting was also addressed by the Where the wreck shows o'er the main; Hon. W. F. D. SMITH, M.P., Lord STANLEY, But the sight is a charm, giving strength to M.P., Sir LEWIS MclvER, Bart, M.P., Admiral each arm, the Bight Hon. Sir JOHN DALRYMPLE-HAY, And they pull to the old refrain. Bart., K.C.B., AUGUSTUS HELDER, Esq., M.P., Sir EDWARD BIRKBBCK, Bart., V.P., Chairman Refrain: Bend to the oar, etc. of the Institution, and Colonel FiizRoY CLAYTON, V.P., Deputy Chairman of the Gallant storm-warrior, facing the danger, Institution. Risking thy life for the one in despair; The officers for the current year were Wrestling with Death for the storm-tossed chosen, and various resolutions were moved, and helpless, seconded, and carried unanimously, pledging What shall reward for thy courage so rare ? the meeting to renewed exertions on behalf of Tho' the brave deeds of the past be forgotten— the benevolent and national objects of the Lost in the future thine errands of love; Institution, and expressing the fullest con- They are inscribed to thy credit for ever fidence in the management. By the Great Judge in the Log-Book above. The officers' names and the resolutions will ABTHUB PHILIP COXFOBD. be found in the May number of The Life-boat Journal. (All rights reserved).

NOTICE. The next number of the LIFE-BOAT JOURNAL will be published on the 1st November, 1899. EOTAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION, SCI'FOBTBD SOLELY BT VOLUHTABY OOHTBIBOnOHS.

JJaiton — £tr gtost •iBtioal Hra ROYAL Hiamrass THX Pxnroi o» WALBS, K.U. HER KOYAL HIGHNESS THX ParaoKss or WALKS. H.E.H. THI DDXB or SAXX-COBOBO ABB QOTHA, Dun or EnmraeH, K.8. H CAPTAUT His BOIAL HIOHSBS THI Dim or Tout, K.N., K.G. t — His ROYAL HIQHKKSS THB PBDHJK OF WALKS, K.G. Chairman—Si a EDWAKD BIRKBEOK, BART., V;P. ^ Btputg-tStjatrman— Colonel FrraRor CLATTOS, V.P. Secrriarj— CHABLES DIBDCJ, ESQ., F.R.G.S.

mtyrapMc Addreu : Tdephont! ' LIFE-BOAT No. 2964 '.INSTITUTION •("GERRARD LONDON." EXCHANGE.")

APPEAL. TH« CoMMrrraE of MANAOBMBarr have to state that during the past year (1898) the BOYAI NATIONAL LOT-BOAT Insrmrnoif expended £67,719 on its 29S Life-boat Establishments. OlHEBAIi SUMMABT O» THB WOBK OF THE INSTITUTION DuBINO 1898. N amber of Lives rescued by Life-boats, in addition to 22 £ «. d. Vessels saved by them and 137 persons landed from vessels in distress and lightships . 682 Number of Lives saved by Shore-boats, fto. 74 Amount of Rewards granted during the Tear .... 10,141 7 - Honorary Bewards:—Silver Medals and Clasps . . 12 Binocular Glasses 6 Aneroid Barometers 5 Votes of Thanks on Vellum. . . 28 Certificates of Service .... Total 88 766 £10,141 7 -

The number of Lives saved either by the Life-boats of the Society, or by special exertions for which it has granted rewards since its formation, is 41,528. The rewards and recognitions granted by the Institution in the same period comprised 98 Gold Medals and Clasps, 1,178 Silver Medals and Clasps, 288 Binocular Glasses, 15 Telescopes, 20 Aneroid Barometers 1,621 Votes of Thanks, inscribed on vellum and framed, 108 Certificates of Service framed, and £194,313 in money. The Committee earnestly appeal to the British Public for Funds to enable them to maintain their 295 Life-boats now on the Coast and their Crews in the most perfect state of efficiency. This can only be effected by a large and permanent annual ineome. The Annual Subscriptions, Donations and Dividends are quite inadequate for the purpose. The Committee are confident that in their endeavour to provide the brave Life-boat men, who nobly hazard their lives in order that they may save others, with the best possible means for carrying on their great work, they will meet with the entire approval of the people of this the greatest maritime country in the world, and that their appeal will not be made in vain, so that the scope and efficiency of our great Life-saving Service, of which the Nation has always been so proud, may not have to be curtailed. Annual Subscriptions and Donations are earnestly solicited, and will be thankfully received by the Secretary, CHARLES DIBDOT, Esq., at the Institution, 14 JOHN STBEKT, ADKLPHL, London; by the Bankers of the Institution, Messrs. COUTTS and Co., 59 Strand; and by all the other Bankers in the United Kingdom.—Id August, 1899.