THE LIFE-BOAT.

JOURNAL

OF TUB IRo^al Batfonal ttfe^Boat Jnstitutfon,

(ISSUED QtrABTEBLY.)

VOL. XYI.—No. 185.] 2ND AUGUST, 1897. PEIOB 3d.

ROYAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION.

THE PAELIAMENTABY INQUIRY. THE MANAGEMENT VINDICATED AND JUSTIFIED. IN view of the constant serious and un- who it would have been imagined would founded charges against the administration have been the first to support it, it was of the Institution which have for the last finally agreed to, and the Select Com- few years been made in certain quarters mittee having been appointed held its and diligently circulated, mainly through first sitting on the 6th April last. The the medium of the Press, such charges Select Committee subsequently sat to take tending to impair and injure the great evidence twenty-four times, and on each national life-saving work which the occasion for many hours. It examined Institution has so actively carried on witnesses from all parts of the country, siiice 1824, resulting in the saving of and went most fully, carefully and ex- the lives of upwards of 40,000 ship- haustively, into every detail connected wrecked persons, the Committee of with the management of the Institution Management decided last spring to urge and the working of its life - saving the Government to agree to the early service. The Chairman of the Select appointment of a Select Committee of the Committee (Mr. C. J. CABLING, Q.C.), House of Commons to make a searching presented his Committee's Report to the inquiry into the Institution's administra- House of Commons op the 15th July, tion and the adequacy of its organization and all friends and supporters of the for saving life on our coasts. The Institution will read it with intense Government having been communicated relief and satisfaction. The verdict is with, a motion for the appointment of a clear and unmistakable, entirely vindicat- Select Committee was brought before the ing the Institution, which emerges from House by Sir ROBERT U. PENKOSE PITZ- the serious ordeal of a Parliamentary GEBALD, Bart., on behalf of the Institution, Inquiry with—as the Times has said— on the 8th March, and notwithstanding " unsullied reputation." The Report how- the motion was on several occasions ever speaks for itself and we therefore blocked by members of the Opposition, append it.

VOL. XVI.—No. 185.—LIFE-BOAT JOURNAL. 3 H BEPOBT

FKOM THE SELECT COMMITTEE OF THE HOUSE OF COMMONS

ON THE

KOYAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION.

The first four pages of the Report give an historical sketch of the Institution, and describe its object, composition and management, after which it continues as follows:— further notice, nor have they thought it COMPLAINTS AGAINST THE INSTITUTION. necessary to consider and correct mere During the last five or six years com- exaggeration or intemperance of language plaints and charges of a very damaging in the making of charges in themselves character have been made from certain sufficiently grave. quarters against the Institution in regard Charges of gross and wilful misrepre- to its general and financial management. sentation with respect to its finances Your Committee have examined on oath having been made against the Institution, a large number of witnesses in support your Committee have felt it their duty of these allegations, and on behalf of the to investigate this matter most carefully. Institution. They have also sent a series They find that prior to 1891 the managers of questions dealing with the subject- of the Institution published in their matter of the charges to the honorary report an income and expenditure account secretaries and coxswains of the ROYAL and a list of all legacies and subscriptions NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION, to received during the year, but did not Lloyd's Agents, to the coastguard officers, publish a balance-sheet, nor any statement and to receivers of wrecks at all stations of the amount of invested capital held by round the coast of Great Britain and the Institution. The income derived Ireland. Tour Committee have received from the investments was, however, fully 846 replies to these questions from shown in the income and expenditure persons to whom the facts must have account. been known and who could have no From 1891 onwards a balance-sheet ground for concealing .or misrepresenting with full details of the investments had them. It is a source of pleasure to your been included in the annual report, in Committee that these answers contain so addition to the information previously wide a testimony to the general efficiency given. Until the close of 1895 all of management and usefulness of the legacies were carried direct to the EOYAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION. balance-sheet and treated as capital; Some of the charges made were personal, but in the accounts for the year 1896 absolutely unfounded, and have been the managers adopted the form of withdrawn by their author. Your Com- account suggested by the Charity Organi- mittee do not think them worthy of any sation Society for the hospitals receiving 2ND AUGUST, 1897.] THE LIFE-BOAT. 871 grants from the Hospital Saturday and It was further directly stated that the Sunday Fund, and included the legacies EOYAL NATIONAL LITE-BOAT INSTITUTION in their income and expenditure account so discharged this part of their duties carrying forward any balance from that that their conduct in this particular account from the balance-sheet for invest- amounts to "a policy of concealment." ment. Ever since 1891 the Institution have Tour Committee do not feel themselves published balance sheets; and every year, called on to express an opinion as to before and since that date, they have •which is the best form of account to published accounts of income and ex- adopt—accountants of equal eminence penditure, assets and liabilities, disclosing having given evidence in favour of each the exact financial condition of the Insti- form. Your Committee are, however, tution. These accounts, already alluded satisfied that both the forms of account to, are of such a character that, in the adopted since 1891 give full information opinion of your Committee, no one of as to the financial position of the Insti- ordinary intelligence could fail to ascer- tution, its income, expenditure, and in- tain from them the precise position of vested funds, and that there is no ground the Institution as regards its income, for the charges of misrepresentation or expenditure, and sources of supply — concealment brought against its managers. provided always, the accounts were Though your Committee are of opinion examined with a land fide intention of that the accounts published previous to understanding them. 1896 are perfectly intelligible to persons Your Committee consider, therefore," familiar with financial statements, they that to charge the Institution with adopt- consider that the managers acted wisely ing " a policy of concealment" is wholly in adopting in 1896 the form recom- unjustified by the facts. mended by the Charity Organisation With regard to legacies left to the Society, as being more easily compre- Institution, it was contended before hended by .the general public, who your Committee that certain of these support the Institution by their contri- had been " mis-appropriated." butions. This contention was completely dis- In particular—taking the more im- proved. In the opinion of your Com- portant allegations which it was attempted mittee, the Institution has invariably before them to substantiate as against done its best to carry out the intentions the Institution—it is stated in a magazine of testators who have entrusted it with article that "the published accounts of legacies. In many cases, however,- tes- the BOYAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTI- tators have hampered their bequests -with TUTION systematically conceal instead of conditions which have made it impossible disclosing the fact of the Institution immediately to give effect to their wishes. having an income of £38,000 from legacies, Many people are not content to leave a in addition to the £60,000 provided by certain sum for the general work of life- public subscriptions and investments." saving done by the Institution, but insist Your Committee find that this statement on providing a Life-boat to be placed at is absolutely unfounded. The published some point selected by the testator in accounts and Beport of the BOYAL NATIONAL advance, and, perhaps, already sufficiently LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION give details, show- supplied. ing in each year every penny received The Institution would be greatly helped from whatever source. Full particulars in its work, and seafaring men more fully of any legacies received are furnished in provided for when in danger, were money the accounts published yearly, and the left to the managers of the Institution to investments of the Institution are also use in their discretion for the objects pre- clearly set out. scribed in their charter. Thus, while __ 872 THE LIFE-BOAT. [2s0 AUGUST, 1897.

any recommendation to couple the bene- ducted entirely without loss of life by factor's name with the work to be done, those engaged in it. Your Committee or to provide for a particular place, would would have .been greatly surprised if it certainly receive all consideration, the bad; seeing that the work must often be general objects of the Institution would done in conditions of the greatest danger not be hindered by conditions precedent to all concerned. difficult of immediate fulfilment. In the opinion of your Committee the It seems desirable, however, to your boats generally are well adapted for the Committee, that in the future, the Insti- work they have to perform. Your Com- tution should, in its report, show how mittee do not feel that they can recommend and when each legacy to which a specific one type of boat for adoption rather than condition is attached has been employed; another. Nor do they hold it can be so as to give confidence to the public that decided as a matter of certainty that, their wishes are complied with. in varying circumstances, either a self- Charges of extravagance in the admini- righting or a non-self-righting boat is stration of their affairs have been made absolutely the best. Both types are most against the Institution. Your Committee carefully designed, built, and furnished. have had full details placed before them Persons fully competent to judge declare, of the salaries, and other expenses some for one, some for the other, pattern. incurred-by the Institution. Bearing in The practice of the Institution is to mind the large amount of detailed work consult the men on the spot—who will 'at the central office, the long distances have to man the boat—and to allow them travelled by the inspectors who visit in great measure to decide for themselves every station four times each year, and in which kind of boat they will do this the importance of securing trustworthy difficult, and inevitably dangerous, work. men for these posts, your Committee are Confidence of the crew in their boat is of opinion that the staff is not excessive of itself an element of security, and your in numbers nor too highly paid. Committee do not advise any change in It has also been stated that the this system. remuneration of the men who man the In regard to steam Life-boats—of which Life-boats, and the provision made for men the Institution already have two, and are who are injured, and the dependents of building another—it appears to your men who lose their lives when on service, Committee that in certain situations they is inadequate. After obtaining evidence have undeniable advantages. But at from all parts of the coast, your Com- many points on our coasts they could not mittee are satisfied that the remuneration be stationed; and at many adapted for is adequate in ordinary cases, and satis- them there are already steam-tugs to be factory to the men employed; and that obtained for the taking out of Life-boats to when exceptional services have been vessels in distress. The facts proved rendered, the Institution is always will- before your Committee show that the ing to recognise them in a substantial managers of the Institution are fully manner. alive to the value and importance of With regard to the boats provided by steam Life-boats, and to the conditions of the Institution, it was contended that their effective employment; and that they they were unfitted for their work; and are preparing to place such boats where it was even alleged that, therefore, the necessary. Your Committee think, there- officials of the Institution " ought to be fore, that this matter may safely be left prosecuted for manslaughter." to the consideration and judgment of the This contention your Committee find Institution. to be wholly unfounded and preposterous. Charges of want of discipline among It is true the service has not been con- the crews, of delay or failure in launch- 2ND AUGUST, 1897.] THE LIFE-BOAT. 873 ing Life-boats, and of refusal on the part benevolence. There would be no saving of crews to go out to the assistance of of expense by the transference of the vessels in distress, have been freely made. service to Government; and, so long as From the answers to their inquiries the crews which man the boats are received from all parts of the coast, your volunteer crews, your Committee believe Committee are satisfied that, so far as the that they would work more successfully great majority of Life-boat crews are con- under the discreet administration of a cerned, these charges are entirely ground- well-selected local committtee than under less, and that the Life-boat crews are a the more rigid discipline of a Government body of men of whom the country may be Department. Your Committee consider proud. In the few instances of want of that there are many advantages in com- discipline among the crews, or refusal to mitting the control of this service as now, go out, reported to your Committee, they to a voluntary association of honourable find that the Institution had inquired men—who have in many cases devoted into the matter at the time, and had years of their lives, without pay or re- taken steps to correct it; while the cases muneration of any sort, to the cause of of delay or failure in launching Life-boats life-saving—relying for funds on the were very few,, and were in every case beneficence of the people of these king- traced to error in judgment, to •which doms, and, for crews to man the boats, on any agency is liable. the unfailing courage and devotion of the Suggestions have been made that the maritime population. Life-boats should no longer be manned, The following statement has been as at present, by the fishermen and beach- publicly made: " The men are underpaid men of the station, but either by a by the Institution. They are permitted, permanent crew maintained expressly for however, to make as much profit as they the purpose, or by the coastguard. The can at the expense of persons saved." expense of maintaining a permanent crew, Your Committee report that, in the as compared with the present system, opinion of competent witnesses, the men would be so great as to be in our opinion are not underpaid; that the charges prohibitory. The objections to employing against the Institution of permitting the the coastguard are overwhelming. The men to make a profit at the expense of coastguard is not sufficient in numbers. persons saved is a reckless mis-statement, The coastguard stations, moreover—being and the inference, that the men can, or do, selected with a view to prohibit smuggling make a profit at the expense of persons —are often not to be found where a Life- saved, is without any foundation or justifi- boat is most needed. The coastguardsmen cation whatever. It is, moreover, a wholly are not necessarily good boatmen, and unwarranted aspersion on a coast popula- some of them have had no training as tion, of whose devotion and heroism there such; and in any case they are likely to is a long and almost unbroken record. be inferior in the local knowledge which In respect to the salvage of property gives to the beachmen and fishermen such by Life-boat crews, as already explained skill in overcoming the difficulties of under the heading "Property Salvage," local currents, shoals, and rocks. More- a considerable amount of correspondence over, the coastguard, being men of the has passed between the committee of first naval reserve, are withdrawn at least Lloyd's and the LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION. once a year for naval service. In the-first instance, the committee of Your Committee see no ground for Lloyd's contended " that the crews of recommending that the Life-boat Service Life-boats should not be permitted to do should be taken over by the State, so salvage service," but they afterwards long as it is maintained as efficiently and modified their position, and stated that, successfully as at present by public in their opinion, "it would be for the 874 THE LIFE-BOAT. [2ND AUGUST, 1897.

benefit of all concerned, the boatmen, the having in view the same object were Institution, and the shipping community, formed in many parts of the United if the Life-boat crew continue to do Kingdom. These committees have col- salvage work, provided they accept lected, by means of demonstrations in the Lloyd's form of agreement." streets of various towns, and by sub- Most serious charges have been publicly scriptions and donations, and in other made as to the way in which the privilege ways, large sums of money, which have accorded to the Life-boat crews of using the been remitted to the BOYAL NATIONAL boats for property salvage has been abused; LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION. and these charges have received the Street demonstrations are, necessarily, authority of Lloyd's. Your Committee a costly means of collecting money; have inquired into several specific in- subject as they are to fluctuating results, stances of exorbitant claims alleged to owing to good or bad weather; therefore I have been made by the crews. These great care should be taken to prevent cases did not stand the test of cross- their expense from becoming excessive. examination ; and, in the result, the case, But your Committee are persuaded of the as sought to be made for Lloyd's, was great good to be done by familiarising the withdrawn. Your Committee are em- people of inland towns, as well as others phatically of opinion that the attacks on the coast, with the work done by this made upon the Institution in respect of Institution, and for it by the maritime property salvage, have been as unfounded, population. as they certainly have been mischievous. Your Committee find that the organisa- Your Committee consider the existing tion of the Saturday Life-boat Fund is practice of permitting the crews to make representative of the subscribers to the their own bargains with the masters or fund, and gives the subscribers sufficient owners of the vessels to be salved, to be influence on the Committee of Manage- open to objection, and your Committee ment of the Institution. recommend that the Institution should Your Committee are of opinion that the only allow their crews to use the Institu- charges of mismanagement brought against tion boats on condition of the crews the Institution with regard to the Satur- agreeing to such terms, as to remune- day Life-boat Fund are entirely without ration, and arbitration in case of dispute, foundation. as the Institution may prescribe. These Your Committee cannot conclude their terms your Committee think the Institu- report without recording their opinion tion should settle in consultation with the that the thanks of the whole community Committee of Lloyd's and the Board of are due to the committee of the KOYAL Trade. NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION for the energy and good management (often in LIFE-BOAT SATUBDAY FUNDS. very difficult circumstances) with which Much evidence was given before your ;hey have for so many years successfully Committee as to comments by Mr. Charles carried out the national work of life-saving, Wright Macara, of Manchester, upon the and this without reward or payment of any ROYAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION sort. And your Committee regret that it in regard to their management of the s not in their power to suggest some Life-boat Saturday Fund. This Fund urther protection for charitable institu- had its origin in a demonstration organised ions against the attacks of irresponsible and collection made under the direction >ersons, which attacks may, as in the of a committee in 1891. These were very >resent case, turn out to be unfounded successful; and consequently committees ,nd untrue. Ordered by the House of Commons to be Printed, 15th July, 1897. 2ND AUGUST, 1897.] THE LIFE-BOAT. 875

THE LIFE-BOAT SATUEDAY FUND. OUB Life-boat Saturday friends have not of the various special " commemoration " been idle since we issued our last notice projects which have been so generally of the Fund. Fresh committees have promoted and somewhat lavishly sup- been formed and active measures taken ported. in all directions to secure success and Notwithstanding all obstacles, however, development in the near future, although Life-boat Saturday was well supported in the fixtures hitherto made this season many districts of London on the 15th have not, for very good reasons, been as May last, and very successful demonstra- numerous as they were last year. We tions have been held and collections cannot but approve and commend the made in various localities, and there is tact and wise discretion which have every reason to believe that when the actuated the Life-boat Saturday com- present year has closed and matters mittees, both in London and elsewhere, have assumed once more their normal in not unduly pressing their appeals and state, the Metropolis and the other insisting on Life-boat Saturday collec- large centres of population throughout tions being made during the spring and the country will distinguish themselves summer of this eventful year. In view by contributing generously to the Life- of the special " Jubilee " collections and boat cause—a cause which is entitled to funds, all with good ends in view, which the sympathy and help of every man, have been promoted in every county and woman and child inhabiting our "tight in almost every district and parish in the little island." United Kingdom, whereby the resources A word of encouragement and grati- of the entire charitable public have been tude is due to the Life-boat Saturday heavily drawn upon, we think it would workers. Nothing succeeds like success, have been indiscreet and have done per- and there is every reason to hope that manent injury to the Life-boat Saturday the unqualified success of their self-deny- movement if any serious efforts had been ing efforts in the past will be equalled if made to push its claims to the detriment not surpassed in the -future.

ADDITIONAL STATIONS AND NEW LIFE-BOATS. POET ST. MART, ISLE OF MAN.—A new keel and two water - ballast tanks, Life-boat establishment has been formed and is provided with a transporting here by the, Institution, some shipwrecks carriage. which had taken place in the locality, having shown the desirability of having WINTEBTON (NOBJFOLK).—The Institu- a Life-boat on the spot, in the event of tion has replaced the smaller of the further casualties taking place here, in two Life-boats at Winterton, stationed lieu of having to send to Port Erin for there many years since, by a new boat the Life-boat on that station. A portion of the improved Norfolk and Suffolk of the very handsome bequest made to type, which is 34 feet long by 10 feet the Institution by the late Mr. JAMES wide, is provided with three water- STEVENS of Birmingham, was utilised in ballast tanks and rows 12 oars, double the formation of this station. The boat, banked; it was built by Messrs. Beeching which is named the James Stevens No. 1, Brothers, of Great Yarmouth. Like the is on the self-righting principle, is boat it replaced, it is named the Edward 35 feet long, 8£ feet wide; rows 10 Birkbeck, after the Chairman of the oars, double banked, has one sliding Institution. 876 THE LIFE-BOAT. [2ND AUGUST, 1897.

EHYL (NOBTH WALES).—A new Tubular in memory of her son, after whom the Life-boat has been sent to Rhyl to take boat is named the James Chiskolm. On. the place of a boat of that design placed the 12th June the inauguration of the there many years since. The new boat, new Life-boat Station took place, and which is 34 feet long and 8f feet wide, is was most successfully carried out under constructed of mahogany; she was built the superintendence of the zealous Hon. by the Thames Ironworks Company, is Sec. of the Mevagissey Branch, Capt. J. fitted to row 12 oars double-banked, and BALL FABBAN, in the' presence of a large is also provided with mast and sails. The number of spectators, including several hull consists of two tubes, 2 feet 9 inches relatives and friends of the late Mrs. in diameter amidships, tapering at the CHISHOLM. The naming ceremony was bow and stern, where they are united performed by Miss DOBOTHY CHISHOLM by oak chocks. The tubes are con- TAYLOR, and afterwards the boat was nected together throughout their length launched down the slip and rowed round by iron stays, and are divided into water- the harbour. She was twice capsized by tight compartments. There is also a means of. a crane to show her powers of sliding keel or centre-board of teak, self-righting and self-discharge of water. stiffened with iron. The tubular system The Life-boat men were subsequently of Life-boat construction was invented by entertained at tea, when an address was the late Mr. HBNBT BICHABDSON, of Bala, delivered by Capt. N. WILLIAMS, Chair- in 1830, and in 1851 his son, the late man of the Local Committee, in which he Mr. H. T. EICHABDSON, built a boat on said that the Life-boat service was a this principle, with which he sailed round noble work, and in it they had some of the coasts of England with the view of the bravest men in England. (Applause.) demonstrating, as he believed, the supe- He hoped it would be a long time before riority of that system. For many years they had occasion to use their boat, but past boats of this type have been stationed when that time came he was sure the at Ehyl and New Brighton, the one at the crew would acquit themselves like men. first-named place bearing the name (Applause.) Mr. PETKE HUNEM, a Caroline Eichardson, and the other being member of the Local Committee, in known as the Henry Richardson. Mr. H. proposing a vote of thanks to Mr. and T. EIOHAEDSON bequeathed a very hand- Mrs. TATLOB, the son-in-law and daughter some legacy to the Institution in order of the donor, characterised the EOTAL that tabular Life-boats, bearing the names NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION as the of his mother and father, might be main- noblest charitable Society in the kingdom, tained on the coast in perpetuity. The and said they had every reason to be new Life-boat is provided with a trans- proud of their Life-boat Station at porting carriage, fitted with Tipping's Mevagissey. He concluded with the plates on the wheels to facilitate her following acrostic on the name of the passage across the sandy beach at Ehyl, boat:— and horse launching poles. " J oin hearts, ye men of Meva bold, MEVAGISSEY, COBNWALL.—This Life- And let your thanks to-day be told; May every man his tribute bring, boat Station has recently been completely E ngage to make this building ring— renovated by the Institution. A new S uch hearty cheers as all may sing. boathouse and slipway have been con- structed on a convenient site at a cost, C heer that a lady of our land including removal of rocks, of about Has given a boat which can command, I n spite of wind and weather too, 2.000Z. The Life-boat, which had sus- S uch sturdy stuff to form her crew. tained considerable damage while moored Hurrah for Chisholm, worthy name I in the harbour, has been replaced by a O h, let it grace the roll of fame! new 10-oared boat, 37 feet long, 9j feet L et but a cry of danger come speeding o'er the wave, wide, and fitted with two drop-keels. May Meva's sons still prove to be heroic, The cost of the boat and its equipment strong, and brave." has been defrayed from a legacy be- queathed to the Institution by the late Dr. WALKER seconded the resolution, Mrs. CHISHOLM, of Oldham, for building, which was carried with acclamation. In furnishing, and maintaining a Life-boat returning thanks, Mr. TATLOB said that 2ND AUGUST, 1897.] THE LITE-BOAT. 877

residents in inland towns could not or drop keels and possesses the usual always see what had taken place that characteristics of the boats of the Institu- afternoon, but they could read, as they tion in regard, to self-righting, self-ejecting did, of the noble deeds performed on water, &o. She is named the Mayhew their coasts by men, such as were before Medwin, and has been provided from a him, who earned their daily bread from legacy bequeathed to the Institution by the sea. Then the hearts of Englishmen the late Dr. A. G. MEDWIN, of London. were stirred, and they felt that they must do something to help those who might, BROADSTAIBS and WALMEB, KENT; perchance, be cast upon the shores of BEIXHAM, SOUTH DEVON; FBASEBBURGH this island, and save them, if possible, and PETBBHEAD, SCOTLAND.—The Insti- from a watery grave. (Applause.) They tution has also replaced the Life-boats on in inland places had their part to do, these stations by new boats of the self- those on the coast had theirs. They on righting type, to meet the wishes of the the coast formed the crews, and if those crews. inland could only find the apparatus The cost of the Broadstairs new necessary he was sure they could look boat has been defrayed from a legacy forward to heroic deeds done by the bequeathed to the Institution by the late BOYAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION. Miss IVT WBBSTEB, of Exeter, to enable it (Applause.) If they were to continue to place and maintain a Life-boat on the as a maritime nation, such deeds as they Kentish Coast, to be named the Francis read of would be rendered necessary. Forbes Barton. Vessels must go and come. England The Walmer new Life-boat, like its must be fed; machinery must be sent predecessor, is named the Civil Service away; the ends of the world became No. 4, the first cost and permanent nearer to them every day, but no one endowment of the Life-boat having been could command the sea to rise or go provided by the Civil Service Life-boat down. (Hear, hear.) Storms would Fund. arise, but when the day came for the boat The Brixham boat is known as the to be launched, the crew, he was sure, Betsey Newbon, being one of those whose would be quite ready to do their share in cost was bequeathed to the Institution by the work of saving the perishing. He the late Mr. B. H. NEWBON, of Islington. . trusted they would find the boat ready The expense of the Fraserburgh new to take her share. (Applause.) boat has been defrayed from a legacy bequeathed to the Institution by the late PEEL (ISLE OF MAN).—The new Life- Mrs. LEB, of Gunnersbury, near London, boat stationed some years since at Feel to enable it to place a Life-Boat on the has been replaced by a new one provided coast to be named the Anna Maria Lee. by the KOTAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT The Peterhead new Life-boat, like its INSTITUTION. The new boat is 37 feet predecessor, is named the George Pickard, long, 9J feet wide, and rows 10 oars, the first cost of the Life-boat having been double-banked. She is fitted- with two provided by the late Mr. ANDBEW PICKABD water-ballast tanks; also with two sliding of Leeds.

THE WRECK REGISTER AND CHART FOR THE 7EAR ENDED THE 30xH JUNE, 1896. THE " Abstracts of the Shipping Casual- to a minimum the loss of life and the ties which have occurred on or near the shipping casualties which annually occur coasts of the United Kingdom during on or near our rockbound shores, the the year ended 30th June, 1896," have result of gales, fogs, collisions, accidents, recently been issued by the Board of etc. The tables containing the valuable Trade, and are of the deepest interest, not information given by the Board of Trade enly to all personally connected with the are particularly clear and intelligible, " sea and its sorrows," but also to those even to those quite unaccustomed to dip occupied in promoting means to reduce into the voluminous pages of Government

3 H 3 878 THE LIFE-BOAT. [2ND AUGUST, 1897.

Blue Books, and the officials who have 1,547, a decrease of 141 as compared with compiled them are to be congratulated on the preceding year. We again observe, as the success of their efforts to place the we have noticed on a previous occasion, statistics before the public in a form easy that, contrary to what would have been to be understood by all. The friends and expected, collisions occur more frequently supporters of the Life-boat cause will, we by day than by night, and are generally think, be particularly interested in the between steamers and sailing vessels. latest figures which are placed before Collision cases not being taken into them, inasmuch as they show that, not- account, the casualties involving total withstanding the recovery of trade and loss fell from 356 to 250, the serious the consequent increase in the tonnage casualties from 723 to 722, and the coming to and going from our coasts, not minor casualties from 2,150 to 2,101. only have shipping casualties considerably Of the 4,620 casualties, 4,113 befel decreased, but, which is of much greater British and Colonial vessels and 507 importance, the resulting loss of life has Foreign vessels. The British and been reduced by more than one-third. Colonial total was 306 less than that In the year 1895-6 the total number of the year before, but the Foreign total of shipping casualties " on or near " our showed an increase of 9 cases. shores was 4,620, a decrease of 297 as The localities of the casualties, exclud- compared with the preceding year; the ing collisions, were as follows:—East total number of lives lost as the result of coast of England, 804, or 95 less than the casualties falling from 740 — the the previous year; north coast, 543, or number of lives lost during the year 12 less than the year 1894-5; west coast 1894-5—to 458, a large decrease of 282. of England and Scotland and east coast Owing to the circumstances connected of Ireland, 1,175, or 16 less than the pre- with the casualties involving the loss of ceding year; north coast of Scotland, 116, life, such as the distance of the vessels a falling off of 22; east coast of Scotland, from land, collisions, fogs, fonnderings, 181, a reduction of 1 only; other parts, etc., it is probable that but few of those 254, or a decrease of 20; total, 3,073, or who perished could possibly have been 156 less than the year before. saved by the various means adopted for The loss of life in the several districts the saving of life from shipwreck. arising from the casualties, including The 4,620 casualties in question in- collisions, was as follows:—East coast of cluded every description of casualty or England, 103, or 12 more than in the accident befalling all classes of vessels, year 1894-5; south coast of England, namely, collisions, founderings, strand- 45, the same as in the preceding year; ings, missing vessels, etc. For conve- west coast of England and Scotland and nience all may be classified under the east coast of Ireland, 165, a decrease of following heads: (1) Total loss; (2) 72 as compared with the previous year; serious casualties; (3) minor casualties. north coast of Scotland, 23, or 6 more Under all these heads a decrease is re- than in 1894-5; east coast of Scotland, ported. The cases of total loss and serious 12, or 10 less than the year before; other casualty fell from 1,474 to 1,345, a decrease parts, 110; total, 458. of 129, and the total of minor casualties According to our custom each year, we fell from 3,443 to 3,275, a decrease of 168. furnish a chart of the United Kingdom It is important to note that of the 4,620 on which will be found a black dot casualties only 410 resulted in loss of life. entered against every spot on which any As is always the case, the collision important shipping casualty occurred cases represent a very large proportion during the year ended the 30th June, of the total number of casualties. In the 1896. The precise position of each of the year under consideration they numbered 297 Life-boats of the KOYAL NATIONAL 2ND AUGUST, 1897.] THE LIFE-BOAT. 879

LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION is also shown 1884-5,3,764; 1885-6, 3,596; 1886-7, on the chart, so that it may be seen at a 4,224; 1887-8, 4,004; 1888-9, 4,272; glance whether, speaking generally, the 1889-90, 4,344; 1890-1, 4,198; 1891-2, Life-boats have been judiciously located. 4,710; 1892-3, 3,499; 1893-4, 4,951; Between 1861 and the 30th June, 1896, 1894-5, 4,917; 1895-6, 4,620. Total, 5,652 British, Colonial and Foreign 129,683. vessels were wrecked on or near our Notwithstanding the much to be shores, involving the loss of life in each deplored loss of life which has taken instance, the total number of lives thus place either on or near our coasts during lost being 24,808. Of the 458 lives the past generation, amounting in the sacrificed in the year 1895-6, 387 were aggregate to 28,647 lives, it is a matter from British and Colonial vessels, and for deep thankfulness that in the same 71 from Foreign vessels. On comparing period the Life-boats of the KOTAL these figures with those of the preceding NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION, and the year it will be seen that in the year other means employed and recognised by 1895-6 there was a large decrease of 274 it, have been instrumental in saving in the number of lives lost from British 30,004 persons from a watery grave, the and Colonial vessels, and a decrease of 8 number of lives rescued thus exceeding in the lives lost from Foreign vessels. those lost by 1,357. In 1896 the Com- Of the 458 persons who perished in the mittee of the Institution granted rewards year 1895-6, 74 were lost in foundered for the saving of 461 lives, in addition vessels, 116 in collisions (the total under to which the Life-boats landed many more this head the year before being only 51), persons who were in positions of peril. 127 in stranded vessels, or 133 less than In addition to the good work done by in the preceding year, 44 in missing the Life-boats in the year 1895-6, admir- vessels, a decrease of no less than 227 as able service was as usual rendered to compared with the previous year, and distressed crews by the 309 rocket 97 in explosions, washed overboard, etc. apparatus and other stations of the Board Of the 458 persons who lost their lives of Trade worked by the Coast Guard and only 43 were passengers, the remaining Rocket Brigades. By this means 154 415 being officers and members of the lives were saved. crews of the vessels. The statistics to which we have directed The number of vessels meeting with attention, while they demonstrate the casualties on or near the coasts of Great dangerous nature of the coast-line of the Britain and Ireland necessarily varies British Isles, indicate to all at the same from year to year. The fluctuations will time the duty of doing everything that perhaps be most readily understood by can be done to avert, or at all events to the perusal of the following table which minimise, the dangers incurred by those gives the figures for the last 43 years:— who visit and leave our shores. Few 1854 (last six months), 458; 1855, appreciate as they should the greatness of 1,141; 1856,1,153; 1857, 1,143; 1858, the debt owed by us to our seafaring 1,170; 1859, 1,416; 1860, 1,379; 1861, population, through whom we obtain most 1,494; 1862, 1,827; 1863,2,001; 1864, of the daily necessaries of life. The LIFE- 1,741; 1865,2,012; 1866, 2,289; 1867, BOAT INSTITUTION does not receive from 2,513; 1868,2,131; 1869,2,594; 1870, the public at large the financial support it 1,865; 1871, 1,927; 1872, 2,381; 1873 merits. Surely no better proof of thank- (first six months), 1,206 ; 1873-4, 2,191; fulness to those who "go down to the 1874-5, 4,259; 1875-6, 4)554 ; 1876-7, sea in ships" and risk their lives to 5,017; 1877-8, 4,436; 1878-9, 3,716; supply our needs and luxuries could be 1879-80, 3,138 ; 1880-1, 4,297; 1881-2, shown than by contributing liberally to 4,367; 1882-3, 4,363; 1883-4, 4,405; the maintenance of our Life-boat Service. To accompany the life Boat Journal.

THE YEAR 1895-96.

SH01VIN& AiSO THE PRESENT LIFE BOAT STATIONS OF THE ROYAL NATIONAL LIFE BOAT INSTITUTION.

1JR 1 § H §

During the year ert-Aed, the 30*fcJi£nel8$$ tke JVum£er. of Vessel lost or damaged on the coasts .and. in die seas of th& TTnitecL JCt ?2y cases of ini-ncT- damage WCLG 46ZO ccrul tk& IM as far as can* be ascertained* W.CLS 3~58,

JGharootP^^ \ 4—- To accompany the life Boat Journal.

THE YEAR 1895-96.

SH01VIN& AiSO THE PRESENT LIFE BOAT STATIONS OF THE ROYAL NATIONAL LIFE BOAT INSTITUTION.

1JR 1 § H §

During the year ert-Aed, the 30*fcJi£nel8$$ tke JVum£er. of Vessel lost or damaged on the coasts .and. in die seas of th& TTnitecL JCt ?2y cases of ini-ncT- damage WCLG 46ZO ccrul tk& IM as far as can* be ascertained* W.CLS 3~58,

JGharootP^^ \ 4—- 880 THE LIFE-BOAT. [2ND AUGUST, 1897.

SERVICES OF THE LIFE-BOATS OF THE ROYAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION.

PENMON.—On the 6th January, 1897, taken in tow by a coasting steamer for the schooner Volunteer, of Dublin, laden Holyhead. with cement and matches, from London for Whitehaven, was observed aground CLACTON.—Two telegrams having been on the rocks off Penmon, having dragged received, one from the coxswain of the her anchors. A strong gale was blowing Southend Life-boat and the other from from the S.E., accompanied by a rough Maplin Lighthouse, reporting a vessel on sea and thick weather. At 11 A.M. the the sands and showing signals of distress, Life-boat Christopher Brown was launched, on the 16th January, the Life-boat Albert proceeded under sail to the vessel and Edward was launched at 11 A.M., and rescued her crew, consisting of four men. found the vessel was the brigantine About an hour after the men had been Patho, of and for London, coal laden from taken off, the schooner sunk. Hull. The crews of two fishing smacks were assisting her, and at the request of BULL BAY.—Signals of distress were the master the Life-boat remained by shown by a vessel lying between the East until high water, when, no further help Mouse and Amlwch port, on the evening being required, she returned to her of the 12th January. They were re- station, arriving at 7.30 on the following peated in quick succession, and the Life- morning. The wind was blowing half a boat Curling was promptly launched, four gale from N.E., accompanied by a heavy minutes only elapsing from the time the sea, snow and thick weather. order was given to the time the boat was The Albert Edward is one of two Life- afloat, and proceeded to the vessel, which boats presented to the Institution by the was ascertained to be the ship Bralloch, of United Grand Lodge of Freemasons of Glasgow, with a cargo of grain from England in commemoration of the safe San Francisco for Liverpool. She had return from India of the most Worshipful stranded about two hundred yards EJ3.E. Grand Master, H.E.H. the Prince of of the East Mouse in the thick weather Wales. which then prevailed. At the request DONNA NOOK, LINCOLNSHIRE. — The of the master the Life-boat remained Life-boat Rtehqrd was launched at 4.30 by the vessel until she floated and was A.M., on the 19th January, a telephone 2ND AUGUST, 1897.] THE LIFE-BOAT. 881

message having been received from Salt- launched, signal - rockets having been fleet reporting a vessel in distress. On fired from the direction of St. TudwelFs reaching the spot it was ascertained that Island. The wind was blowing a mode- a steamer had been ashore, bat had got rate gale from E.N.E., with snow squalls off again, and, the coxswain of the Life- and very cold weather, and there was a boat having indicated to the captain rough sea. After a long search the his position, he got under weigh, and the three-masted schooner Bispham, of Fleet- Life-boat started for her station. On her wood, bound from Charlestown for Bun- way back, the four-masted ship Altair, of corn with china clay, was found stranded Bremen, laden with wheat, from San on a sandbank, bumping heavily and Francisco for Hull, was seen ashore, and leaking. Her crew of five men were the boat was at once steered in her direc- rescued by the Life-boat and safely landed tion. On reaching her, the captain at 10.30 A.M. requested the Life-boat men to remain by until high water. They did so, and after WINTEBTON (NOBFOLK).—During thick throwing part of the cargo overboard, the and bitterly cold weather on the morning ship was got off with the aid of four steam- of the 23rd January, the wind blowing a tugs, and was towed to the Humber. strong gale from E.N.E., with a very Intelligence having been received that heavy sea and snow squalls, flares were a vessel was showing flares on the north shown by a vessel which ran aground side of the Haile Sand in hazy weather about a mile N. of the village of Winter- on the 23rd February, the Life-boat was ton. The Life-boat Edward Birlcbeck was launched at 2.45 A.M., and found thetaken along the beach until opposite the smack Mayfield, of Grimsby, stranded on vessel, and at about 7 o'clock she was the sand. At the request of the master launched, but was driven back three the Life-boat remained by the vessel times by the heavy seas. At last how- until she drove over the sand with the ever, with the help of the whip of the flowing tide. rocket apparatus, which had been made fast to the vessel, the boat succeeded GBEAT YARMOUTH. — The Life-boat in reaching her and, with considerable John Surch was launched at 10 A.M. on difliculty, rescued two of her crew. Two the 22nd January, and put on board the others unhappily were washed out of the s.s. Ardle, of Dundee, some men by whose rigging and lost before the Life-boat aid the vessel, which had been stranded could reach them. The wrecked vessel on the beach about two months, was got was the ketch Isabella,, of and for Harwich, afloat, and taken to an anchorage in from Hartlepool, laden with coal. Ten Yarmouth Roads, the Life-boat remaining minutes after leaving her both her masts by until this was safely accomplished. fell. A strong gale was blowing from N.N.E. at the time, there was a very heavy sea, HABWICH. — The schooner Sancho and the weather was exceedingly cold, Panza, of Faversham, coal-laden from with snow. Sander land for Bamsgate, broke adrift ABBBOATH.—While a strong gale was from her anchors in a whole gale from blowing from E.N.E., with a very heavy N.E. and a very heavy sea, and stranded sea and snow, on the 22nd January, on the Fye Sands on the morning of the twelve of the fishing yawls were return- 23rd January. She hoisted a signal of ing, but it was feared they would be distress, and at 9.30 the Life-boat Spring- unable to enter the harbour. The Life- well proceeded to her assistance and boat William Souter was launched at rescued her crew, consisting of six men. about 10.15 A.M., and stood by in readi- The Life-boat also picked up a smack's ness to render any help that might be boat, with five men on board, who had needed. She remained in attendance attempted to rescue the schooner's crew; until 3.30 P.M., by which time all the the wind and sea however were too much boats had succeeded in reaching the for the little boat, and her occupants harbour. were in great danger. The Life-boat returned to her station at 1 P.M., her ABBESOOH.—At 1.30 A.M. on the 23rd crew having had a very trying time, the January the Life - boat Oldham was weather being intensely cold with blind- 882 THE LIFE-BOAT. [2iro AUGUST, 1897. ing snow' squalls. The schooner became returning to port from the fishing - a total wreck. grounds, was seen to be in difficulties at the back of the bar, on which a heavy POOLS.—On the 23rd January intelli- sea was breaking, on the 25th January. gence was received that the steam-launch A strong gale was blowing from N.E. at Zulu, of Poole, anchored in Studland Bay, the time, and the weather was very cold, was signalling for assistance, and that if with snow. The Life-boat Co-operator the wind freshened she would probably No. 1, proceeded to the boat's assistance; be driven ashore. At 1.15 P.M. the the crew of three men were taken into reserve Life-boat, temporarily placed at the Life-boat, and the coble was towed Poole in the absence of the station's boat, into the harbour. was launched and brought ashore the On the 3rd June an alarm was given two men who were on board the vessel. that there was a vessel ashore on Whitley PORT LOGAN.—A message by telephone Sands. At 4.20 A.M. the Life-boat was was received from the coastguard at launched, proceeded to the vessel through Drummore on the 25th January, re- a rough sea, the wind blowing a moderate porting that a vessel was flying a signal breeze from N.E., and rescued her crew of of distress. The wind was blowing a six men. The vessel, which was the moderate to a strong gale, the sea was schooner Luna, bound from Denmark for heavy, and the weather very cold, with the Tyne, went ashore in foggy weather, snow showers. At 12.30 P.M. the Life- and was in danger of becoming a total boat Frederick Allen was launched in wreck. Scratby Bay, three-and-a-half miles from Drummore, and reached the vessel, which MONTBOSK.—At about half-past six proved to be the brigantine Prospect, of o'clock on the 27th January all the Belfast, coal laden, from Maryport for fishing-boats put out to sea in a moderate Portaferry. As she was dragging her N.N.E. breeze. At about eight o'clock anchors, her crew of four men were taken the wind became very strong and squally, into the Life-boat and landed at 6 P.M. at with snow showers and a very heavy eea, Drummore, where the boat was left for compelling most of the boats to return the night, it being impossible then to to the harbour without shooting their return her to her station, the roads being lines. These boats got in safely, but the blocked with snow. On the following remaining twenty-seven boats which had day the crew and helpers went back for shot their lines were on that account her, and with great difficulty succeeded longer in arriving off the entrance of in getting her home. the harbour, and by that time not only On the 13th March the Life-boat was was a very heavy sea breaking on the again called out, a mounted messenger bar, but there was also a gully caused by arriving at SAO P.M. and reporting a the ebb tide which rendered it very schooner in danger of running aground unsafe for any of the boats to attempt to on the rocks. The Life-boat proceeded enter. The lighthouse keeper at Senrdy- to her assistance and found she was the ness telephoned to the coxswain of the Jessie Say, of Belfast, in ballast from Life-boat informing him of this and re- Portaferry, bound for Maryport. She was questing him to have the Life-boat anchored in a very dangerous position, launched. The No. 1 Life-boat Eobert and would inevitably have been carried Henderson put off at 9.45, went over the on to the rocks if the wind increased, as bar and advised the crews of a number there was a strong tide and ground swell, of the boats not to attempt to enter until and that would probably have resulted in low water, after which she remained the loss of the vessel and her crew of three inside the bar until 2 o'clock, when all men. Accordingly three of the Life-boat the boats managed to get safely into the men went on board, pointed out the danger, harbour. and assisted to get up her anchors, after On the 4th March the morning was which she was towed for two miles into a comparatively fine, and all the boats channel out of danger. started for the fishing-grounds at about 6 o'clock. At about 10, however, a gale CULLEBOOATS, NOBTHOMBEBLAND.—The from S.E. suddenly rose accompanied by coble Mary Ellen, of Cullercoats, when a heavy sea, compelling them to abandon 2ND AUGUST, 1897.] THE LIFE-BOAT. 883 their lines and ran for the harbour. An Offering was launched at 12.35 P.M., and hour later the sea increased and blinding on reaching the sands found that the showers of snow and sleet came on. A s.s. Imbros, of and for Hull, from Kus- message was received from the lighthouse teudji, Black Sea, with a cargo of barley, keeper that it was advisable to have the was lying close to the East Helwick buoy. Life-boat Robert Henderson launched. Her engines were disabled and she was An attempt was made to row her down leaking. The Life-boat returned ashore, the river, but the flood tide and the force and a telegram was despatched to Swansea of the wind prevented her from making for two steam-tugs. She then returned any headway. With the assistance of to the vessel and remained by her until men on shore, aided by many women she drove over the bank into deep water from the village, the boat was tracked and anchored. Shortly afterwards the some distance when the steam trawler disabled vessel was taken in tow by a Rosa arrived and towed her to the bar, coasting steamer, and was beached at the where she remained afloat until the whole Mumbles in a sinking condition, having of the fleet, consisting of about fifty boats then eight feet of water in her. The with about 250 men on board, had got Life-boat accompanied her as far as into the harbour, which they fortunately Oxwich Point and then returned to her did without any casualty. station, which was reached at 5 P.M. On the 26th March about forty-five of the boats were again overtaken by a gale GOBLKSTON.—Signal-guns having been and a very heavy sea, and the lighthouse fired by the light-vessels, the Life-boat keeper signalled for the Life-boat. Ten Mark Lane put off at 6.35 A.M. on the 7th of the boats returned without shooting February, in a rough sea and a strong their lines; the others, which had shot N. by E. breeze, and found the brigantine their lines, would evidently incur con- Argo, of Marstal, bound from Fowey for siderable danger in crossing the bar, and Granton, laden with china clay, aground accordingly the Life-boat Robert Henderson on the Middle Gross Sand, where she put off and attended each of the boats as became a total wreck. Her crew, con- they came in over the bar. sisting of six men, were rescued by the On the 12th May the ketch Acacia, of Life-boat and safely landed at 8.45 A.M. London, bound from Grimsby for Faro On the 3rd March flares were seen on for the fisheries, was seen in the bay, the North Sand and signals were fired by evidently making for the harbour, in a the light-vessel. The Life-boat Mark moderate N.N.E. breeze and a rough sea, Lane was launched at 2.35 A.M. in a very and a telephone message was received heavy sea, the wind blowing a terrific from the lightkeeper at Scurdyness stating gale from S.S.W., and found the dandy that she would in all probability run on Rainbow, of Lowestoft, aground on the the Annat Bank. Soon afterwards it was outer edge of the sand, where she had seen that she had stranded there, and at struck while returning home from the 11 A.M. the Life-boat Robert Henderson fishing-grounds. Considerable difficulty proceeded to her assistance, and found and danger were incurred by the Life- her rolling heavily and the seas continu- boat men in approaching the vessel, owing ally breaking over her. In crossing the to the shallowness of the water and the bank the Life-boat shipped two heavy heavy seas which were breaking over the seas, one of which dashed her against the sand, but eventually the rescue of her vessel's side, and an oar was broken. crew of five men was accomplished, the Some difficulty was experienced in taking fishing-boat becoming a total wreck. off the crew, consisting of seven men, but Four of the Life-boat's oars were broken, this was at last safely accomplished, and her rudder was damaged, and other the Life-boat arrived at her station with injuries were received by her in rendering the rescued men at about 12 noon. this service. On the 29th March the Life-boat Mark POBT EYNON, SOUTH WALES.—On the Lane was again called out, a small lugger, 2nd February, during a thick fog, it was the Emily, of Gorleston, with two men reported that a steamer's whistle had on board, being observed with her mast been heard in the direction of Helwick and sail over the side. It was evident Sands. The Life-boat A Daughter's that she was not under control, her 884 THE LITE-BOAT. [2ND AUGUST, 1897. rudder, it was subsequently ascertained, at the time and the wind was blowing having been carried away. Shortly after- only a moderate breeze from the S.W., wards the two men on board stood up but a very strong tide was running and and waved their hats, and then put up a there was a danger of the vessel slipping piece of canvas on an oar as a signal of off the rocks, and possibly in that event distress. The Life-boat took the boat she would have foundered. She fired and her crew safely into the harbour. rockets in rapid succession, and in re- There can be little doubt that in the sponse the Holyhead Nos. 1 and 2 Life- absence of this help the boat would have boats, Thomas Fielden and Joseph been swamped and her crew would have Whitworfh, the Cemaes Life-boat, George lost their lives, as a strong gale of wind Evans, and the Cemlyn Life-boat, B. J. was blowing from N.N.W. and there was Nicholson, put off to the rescue. Thirty- a heavy sea. eight of the crew were taken off the vessel by the Holyhead No. 1 Life-boat NEWBIGGIN-BY-THE-SEA, NOBTHTJMBEB- and were placed on board a steam-tug; LAND.—The steam-trawler John Smart, of the Holyhead No. 2 Life-boat landed Shields, on her return journey from twenty-one men on the Skerries, returned fishing, stranded in Cambois Bay in thick to the vessel and landed ten more; the weather early on the morning of the 8th Cemaes Life-boat took one of the officers February. In response to her signals of on board, and at the desire of the captain distress the Life-boat Robert and Susan remained by, eventually taking off four was launched at 3.30, and on arriving at officers, three of whom were placed on the vessel found that heavy seas were board a tug, the other being landed at breaking over her. She had a crew of Cemaes, and the Cemlyn Life-boat at the eight men, who were taken into the Life- request of the captain remained in boat and landed at Newbiggin at 6.45 attendance until the crew had been taken A.M. The Life-boat was damaged in off. effecting the rescue, being thrown by a broken sea apparently on the submerged HOLYHEAD.—On the 22nd March, a portion of the vessel's deck. steamer was reported to be on the rocks On the 4th March between twenty and in the vicinity of the South Stack, and thirty fishing cobles belonging to New- the Life-boat Thomas Fielden proceeded at biggin, carrying crews of about eighty 3 A.M. to her assistance, in tow of a ste&m- men and boys, were placed in jeopardy tug. A very thick fog prevailed at the by the sudden springing up of a gale of time, the sea was moderate and the wind wind from S. by E. with a rough sea. a strong breeze from S.W. The steamer The Life-boat Robert and Susan put off at was found to be in a very perilous posi- 11.30 A.M. and stood by the boats, all of tion, and likely to break in two; in fact which succeeded in safely reaching the she ultimately did so. She was abandoned shore. but no trace could be found of either the On the 13th April the coble Try Again, crew or boats, and the Life-boat therefore returning from fishing in a strong breeze returned to Holyhead, and remained from S.E. and a rough sea, was in very alongside the slipway, the fog continuing great danger, and the Life-boat put off to very thick. At about 6.15 A.M. a tele- assist her. She was the last boat of the graphic mesiage was received, stating that fleet to return, and after the Life-boat the vessel's boats, containing her crew, reached her she was struck by a breaker were off the Stack, and were in need of and was very nearly swamped; she, how- assistance. The Life-boat immediately ever, succeeded in getting safely in, the went off again, in tow of the tug, and Life-boat remaining by her until she was found the boats cruising about, their out of danger. occupants, who were much fatigued, not knowing which way to proceed. The HOLYHBAD, CEMAKS and CEMLYN.— twenty-seven persons on board the boats During a dense fog on the 9th February w«re taken into the Life-boat and landed a large four-masted steamer, the Angloman, at Holyhead, the boats, which were half of and for Liverpool, with a general cargo full of water, being taken in tow. The and cattle, stranded on the West Flatters wrecked vessel was the s.e. Editor, of and rocks. Fortunately the sea was smooth for Liverpool from Maceio, Brazil, with 2ND AUGUST, 1897.] THE LIFE-BOAT. 885

a cargo of cotton seeds, cotton and captain had engaged the crew of a pilot sugar. cutter to jettison part of the cargo in hopes of getting the vessel off, and he KINGSDOWNE, KENT.—A thick fog was requested that the Life-boat might remain experienced here on the 9th February, by. A steam-tug afterwards arrived, and and when it cleared a little a barquen- an effort was made to get the vessel off tine was discerned riding at anchor in a the sands, but without success; she dangerous position close to the S.W. part ultimately began to settle down by the of the Goodwin Sands. The Life-boat stern, and the crew of eight men then Charles Hargrave was launched at 11 A.M. got into the Life-boat, and were landed in a heavy sea, and a strong W.S.W. at Walton pier at 5.30 on the following wind, and found the vessel to be the morning. Hoganas, of Hoganas, bound from St. Ubes for Helmstad, with a cargo of salt. ATHEBFIELD, ISLE or WIGHT.—On the She had been on the Brake Sand, but 19th February, in a temporary break of floated off and steered into fresh danger. an intensely thick fog, the coxswain of At the request of the master, the Life- the Life-boat saw a large ship strike on boat men got the vessel clear of the Good- Atherfleld ledge. He at once called the wins, and proceeded with her to Barns- crew together and at about 7 P.M. the gate. Life-boat Catherine Swift was launched. The captain of the vessel, the full-rigged WALTON-ON-THE-NAZE.—A message was ship Alcester, of Liverpool, laden with received from the Gunfleet Lighthouse, jute from Calcutta for Hamburg, stated on the 18th February, stating that a that he did not need any assistance then, vessel was ashore. A moderate S.W. and arranged to signal if he should breeze was then blowing; the sea was require help. The Life-boat, therefore, smooth, and the weather thick and cold. returned ashore. On the following At 1.58 P.M. the Life-boat Honourable morning the fog had cleared, but there Artillery Company was launched, pro- was an exceptionally heavy ground swell. ceeded under oars as near as possible to The ship signalled for the Life-boat, which the vessel, and when there was a sufficient at 1.30 P.M. was launched, proceeded to depth of water, went alongside and her and in two trips brought ashore remained by her until high tide, when twenty men and their clothes, and other she floated. She was the s.s. Paris, of and belongings, amongst which were two from Hull, bound for London, with a ! monkeys, a dog and a cat. The captain general cargo. : and mate declined to leave the vessel. On the 24th February, it having been Daring the night the wind increased to reported that a vessel was ashore, the half a gale with a very heavy sea which Life-boat put off at 8.30 A.M., and pro- at high water swept over the vessel com- ceeded under sails and oars to the Long pelling them to take refuge in the rigging. Sand, on the N.E. part of which the The Life-boat, as soon as practicable, pro- brig Green Olive, of Littlehampton, coal- ceeded to their rescue and safely landed laden from Sunderland for Shoreham, was them. The vessel afterwards parted found to have run aground in a fog. The amidships and ultimately fell to pieces.

SUMMARY OF THE MEETINGS OP THE COMMITTEE. THURSDAY, 14th January, 1897. New Brighton, Formby and Bhos (Colwyn Bay). Sir EDWABD BIEKBECK, Bart., V.P., in Also the report of the Deputy Chief-Inspector the Chair. of Life-boats on his visits to the Mablethorpe, Bead and confirmed the Minutes of the Button and Bridlington Quay Life-boat stations. previous meeting. Also the reports of the District Inspectors of Also read those of the Building, Finance Life-boats on their visits to the following Life- and Correspondence, and Wreck and Beward boat stations: Sub-Committees, and ordered that their recom- Northern District—Ardrossan, Irvine, Bal- mendations be carried into effect. lantrae, Ayr, Girvan, Port Logan, Port Patrick, Read the report of the Chief Inspector of Whithorn, Balcary, Kirkcudbright, Working- Life-boats on his recent visits to Liverpool, ton, Maryport, Whitehaven, Lossiemouth, 886 THE LIFE-BOAT. [2ND AUGUST, 1897.

Bnckie, Banff, Newburgh, Port Erroll, Stone- £. t. d. haven, Gonrdon, Johushaven and Montrose The late Miss M. A. WHITE, of (two boats). Guilford Street, W.C., for a Eastern District—Yarmouth, Palling (two Life-boat to be placed upon the boats), Hasborough, Margate, Broadstairs, Cornish Coast and named the Bamsgate, Kingsdowne, North Deal, Walmer, John Francis White . . . . 800 - - Dover, Folkestone, Dungeness (two boats) and The late B. J. WALSH, Esq., of New New Bomney. Brighton 495 16 8 Southern District—Brighton. The late ISRAEL NOAKE, Esq., of Western District — Penzance, Sennen, Melcombe Begis 461 8 10- Watchet, Appledore (three boats), Clovelly, The late FRANCIS DAVY, Esq., of Ilfracombe, Morthoe, Burnham and Lynmoutn. Topsham 22 10 - Irish District—Bamsey, Port Erin, Peel, The late Miss S. B. EVTNS, of Douglas, Castletown, Dungarvan, Kilmore, Newton Abbot 8 19 7 Bosslare Harbour, Courtown and Port St. Mary. Voted the thanks of the Committee to JOHN Beported the receipt of a contribution of SINCLAIR, Esq., in recognition of his past kind 15,412Z. 8s. 80!. from the Central Committee of services whilst acting as Honorary Secretary of the Life-boat Saturday Fund, making, with the the Dunbar Branch. sum of 793Z. 9*. Sd. already paid, a total of Also to .Mr. WILLIAM MCMILLAN, Harbour 16.205Z. 18s. 5d. for the year" 1896, which they Master at Troon, for his long and valuable requested might be allocated in the following services to the Troon Branch. manner:— The Committee expressed great regret at the A. The payment of coxswains and crews of death of Mr. JAMES WEBBER, who had for up- Life-boats for services, special rewards and wards of thirty years rendered good service to the recognitions and for exercising Life-boats. Institution as Honorary Secretary of the Covent B. Grants to men injured in the service. Garden Life-boat Fund, and it was decided to 0. Grants to the relatives of men lost on send a letter of condolence to his family. service. Beported the transmission to their Stations of The Committee gratefully acknowledged the the Blackpool and Port St. Mary new Life- receipt of this large contribution from the boats. Life-boat Saturday fund, and expressed great Decided that the Appledore No. 1 Life-boat satisfaction that the collection for 1896 was station be closed. considerably larger than that for 1895. Paid 7,535/. for sundry charges on various Also the receipt from the Civil Service Life-boat establishments. Life-boat Fund, per CHARLES DIBDIN, Esq., Voted 3631. 18s. Sd. to pay the expenses of Honorary Secretary, of a further contribution the following Life-boat services:— of 2.076Z. 7s. Id. to recoup the Institution the Life-foot. Vessel. amount laid out on the new boat-house and Abersoch . Ketch Progreis, of Aber- slipway (1,450Z.) recently erected at Douglas y stwyth. Landed 3 men. (Isle of Man), and all other expenses, under all Johnshaven . Steam trawler Pansy, of heads, incurred by the Institution in 1896 in North Shields ... maintaining the seven Stations at which the Lynmouth . Ketch Elizabeth, of New- seven Life-boats presented and endowed by port. Assisted to save the Fund are placed. The total sum thus vessel and .... contributed to the Institution by gentlemen „ . Ketch Little Jane, of in Her Majesty's Civil Service had been Plymouth. Gendered 20.632Z. G<. 2d. assistance. Decided that the best thanks of the Com- Mablethorpe. Brigantine Neptune, of mittee be expressed to the contributors, and Helsingborg. Bemained particularly to Mr. DIBDIN, for their continued by vessel. liberal support. Margate . . Schooner Eva, of Bun- Also the receipt of the following other special corn contributions since the last meeting:— Penmon . . Schooner Volunteer, of £. «. d. Dublin "T. G. Y." 100 - - Penzance . A man who fell off the Baron FERDINAND JAMES DE ROTH- quay SCHILD, M.P 50 - - Plymouth . Brigantine Elizabeth Jane, BERTRAM F. BARTON, Esq. (addi- of Fowey. Kendered tional) 21 - - assistance. Loyal Order of Ancient Shepherds Boker . . S.S. Hawk, of Hull, (Ashton Unity) 20 - - Rendered assistance. The Hon. Lady BEAUCHAMP, in aid St. Mary's Barque Sophie, of of the Beauchamp Life-boat at (Scilly) Frederickstadt. Caister 20 • - Bemained by vessel. Teachers and Scholars of Linden Staithes . . Fishing cobles. Stood by Grove Sunday School, Peckham, boats. per Mr. E. A. HUTCHINSON . . 266 Winchelsea . S.S. Menzaleh, of London. —To be severally thanked. Bendered assistance. Worthing . Schooner Flora Emily, of Also the receipt of the following legacies : — Burghead .... 2ND AUGUST, 1897.] THE LIFE-BOAT. 887

Also 8HI. Os. 6Anglesey, with the Voted the thanks of the Committee to Mr. view of helping the schooner Gammershaw, of JOHN WILSON, in recognition of his long and Barrow, which was thought to be in distress in valuable co-operation as Honorary Secretary of a fresh gale from S.W., a moderate sea, and the Buckie Branch of the Institution, which thick weather on the 24th December. office he had just resigned. Also 12. 5s. to five men for going out in a The Committee specially recognised the long harbour boat from St. Peter's Port, Guernsey, and good services rendered by Mr. THOMAS and offering assistance to the Ketch Lawrence HEBKIB, senior, and Mr. BOBEBT DAVIDSON, as Desirfe, of Lannion, which was anchored in a coxswains of the Dunbar and Sheringham Life- perilous position in a strong S.W. wind, and a boats, which offices they had just vacated. somewhat rough sea on the 10th December. Paid 2,7402. for sundry charges on various Also 41. to a man who was injured while Life-boat establishments. helping to launch the Caister No. 2 Life-boat Voted 3542. 4«. 6

Lives Life-boat. Vessel. saved. THURSDAY, lltii March, 1897. Poole . . . Steam-launch Zulu, of Sir EDWABD BIEKBECK, Bart., V.P., in Poole. Landed two the Chair. men. Port Eynon . s.s. Imlrrot, of Hull. Re- Read and confirmed the minutes of the mained by vessel. previous meeting. Port Logan . Brigantine Prospect, of Also read those of the Building, Finance Belfast ... .4 and Correspondence and Wreck and Reward Winterton No. 1 Ketch Isabella, of Har- Sub-Committees, and ordered that their recom- wich 2 mendations be carried into effect. Read the report of the Chief Inspector of The Great Yarmouth Life-boat remained by Life-boats on his recent visits to the Ardrossan, the stranded s.s. Ardle, of Dundee. Kildonan, Southend (Cantyre), Oampbeltown, The Committee expressed their thanks to Hornsea and Sunderland (South Outlet) CHARLES E. F. CUNNINGHAME GEAHAM, Esq., stations. late R.N., Deputy Chief-Inspector of Life-boats, Also the reports of the District Inspectors in appreciation of the zeal shown by him on the of Life-boats on their visits to the following occasion of the wreck of the schooner Sancho stations:— Panza, when he went out in the Harwich Northern District—Workington, Tynemouth Life-boat and assisted in effecting the rescue (two boats), Cullercoats, Blyth (two boats), of the shipwrecked men. Additional payment Kildonan, Ardrossan, Southend (Cantyre) and was awarded to the crew of the boat in recog- Campbeltown. nition of their good services on that occasion. Eastern District—Walton-on-the-Naze, Sher- Voted 699Z. 12s. 6d. to pay the expenses of ingham, Kingsgate, Hythe, Winterton (two the following Life-boats in assembling the boats) and Hornsea. crews or putting off with the view of succouring Southern District — Winchelsea, Rye, the crews of vessels in distress:—Aldeburgh, Hastings, Eastbourne, Brooke, Totland Bay, Bannston, Brancaster, Brixham, Caister Nos. Atherfield and Bembridge. 1 and 2, Donna Nook, Exmouth, Formby, Western District—Littlehaven, St. Davids, Gorleston No. 1, Grimsby, Hasborough, Horn- Fishguard (two boats), Burry Port, Ferryside, sea, Lowestoft No. 1, Montrose No. 1, Mullion, Porthcawl, Penarth, Abersoch, Porthdinllaen, New Brighton (Steam Life-boat), Newburgh, Llanaelhaiarn and Pwllheli. Newhaven, Palling No. 1, Peterhead, Polpear, Irish District—Skerries, Arklow, Greenore, Port Patrick, Kunswick, Saltburn, Scarborough, Giles Quay, Blackrock, Drogheda (two boats), Sheringham, Thorpeness, Totland Bay, Wells, Poolbeg, Wicklow, Balbriggan, Howth and Whitbum and Winterton No. 1. Kingstown. Also 20Z. 5«. to the crew of the private Life- Reported the receipt of the following special boat Henry Ramey Upcher, of Sheringham, for contributions since the last meeting:— rescuing the crew of eight men from the brig Ispolen, of Kragero, which was run ashore, being £ ». d. leaky, at Sheringnam, in a N.E. gale and a Hearts of Oak Benefit Society, very heavy sea on the 23rd January. further on behalf of the Hearts of Also 11. to a man who put off in a boat from Oak Life-boat Endowment Fund 1275 - - Tenby and rescued two of the crew of the fishing- Worshipful Company of Leather- boat Rajah, of Brixham, which stranded outside sellers 21 - - Tenby Harbour in a moderate gale from S.E. Collected from the passengers on and a very heavy sea on the 6th January. the Oroya, per Captain E. E. LAVINGTON 55- —To \>e severally (hanked. MONDAY, 1st March, 1897. Also the receipt of the following legacies:— Sir EDWARD BIKKBECK, Bart., V.P., in the Chair. £. «. d. The late DAVID BBANDON, Esq., of A special meeting of the General Committee Berkeley Square ..... 500 - - was held this day to consider an article pub- The late Mrs. SAKAH MEADOWS, of lished in the February number of the West- Hereford (on account) .... 250 - - minster Review, entitled " Nationalising the Life-boat Service," written by Mr. E. H. Reported that H.R.H. the Princess HENBY BAYLEY, formerly M.P. for North Camberwell. OF BATTENBERG had accepted the office of This article seriously indicted the management Patron of the Isle of Wight Branch of the of the Institution. Institution. Also a review of this article which appeared Deep regret was expressed at the death of in the February number of the Review of Re- Mr. A. P. HEYWOOD-LONSDALE, a Vice-President views, giving great prominence to the serious of the Institution, and for many years a member charges made against the Institution by Mr. of its Committee of management. BAYLEY. Voted the thanks of the Institution to Resolved, that ~a Select Committee of the Commander W. M. PENGELLEY, H.M.'s late I.N., House of Commons be at once demanded to and Major W. E. CABVER, in acknowledgment inquire fully into the administration of the Life- of their past valuable services as Honorary boat service as conducted by the Institution. Secretaries respectively of the Penarth and 2ND AUGUST, 1897.] THE LIFE-BO AT. 889

Bideford and Appledore Branches of the the crews of vessels in distress:—Angle, Bern- Institution, which offices they had just resigned. bridge, Blyth No. 2, Cardigan, Douglas, Dun- The Committee also specially recognised the garvan, Giles Quay, Harwich, Hayle, Holyhead valuable services, extending over many years, No. 1, Hoylake, Kildonan, Kingsdowne, of the following Honorary Secretaries or Mablethorpe, Margate, New Brighton (steam Treasurers of its Branches:—Captain EOBEBT Life-boat), Newquay (Cornwall), North Deal, BRIGGS, Lancaster; ALLAN LEIGH, Esq., Fet- Padstow, Palling No. 2, Point of Ayr, Porth- hard; Major A. MACQUEEN, Southampton; cawl, Porthoustock, Sennen Cove, Thorpeness, WILLIAM POLLOCK, Esq., Ayr; Mrs. SANDPOBD, Walmer, Whithorn, Winterton No. 2, Withern- of Sandford, Shropshire; M. SIMPSON, Esq., sea, Great Yarmouth and Youghal. Lancaster; Mr.J.WILLIAMS,Kessingland; and Also 2?. to a man who was injured while on ROYSTON WALKEB, Esq., Halifax. service with the Mullion Life-boat on the The Silver Medal of the Institution, a copy 2nd February. of the vote inscribed on vellum, a gratuity of Also 51. to ten men for rescuing by means of 251., and a certificate of service were granted to lines ten persons from the Norwegian vessel Mr. H. TBEWHELLA, late coxswain of the Sap, which stranded at Bum ham in a whole Penzance Life-boat, in acknowledgment of his gale from W.N.W. and a heavy sea^ on the long and gallant services in saving life from 3rd March. shipwreck. Paid 3.982Z. for sundry charges on various Life-boat establishments. Voted 4SQI. 10s. 6d. to pay the expenses of SATURDAY, 27th March, 1897. the following Life-boat services :— The Annual General Meeting of the friends Life-boat. Vessel. £j™| and supporters of the ROYAL NATIONAL LIFE- BOAT INSTITUTION took place this day at St. Appledore No. 2 Ketch John, of Bideford 3 Martin's Town Hall, Charing Cross Road, the Atherfield . Ship Alcester, of Liver- Rt. Hon. G. J. GOSCHEN, M.P., First Lord of pool 22 the Admiralty, in the Chair. Broadstairs . Schooner Nancy, of Goole 4 The Chairman having made some suitable Clovelly . . Smack Telephone, of observations on the great and national character Padstow. Saved vessel of the operations of the Institution, the Annual and 3 Report (which will be found in the May number Donna Nook . Smack May field, of of The Life-boat Journal) was presented to the Grimsby. Stood by meeting. The meeting was also addressed by Sir Fishguard No. 2 Schooner Agricola, of COUBTENAY BOYLE, K.C.B., Secretary to the Cardiff 4 Board of Trade; Captain the Rt. Hon. Lord Gorleston No. 1 Smack Rainbow, of CHABLES W. DE LA POEB BEBESFOBD, R.N., Lowestoft .... 5 C.B.; Vice-Admiral E. H. SEYMOUB, C.B., Johnshaven . Fishing - boats. Stood Admiral Superintendent of Naval Reserves; by vessels. Admiral of the Fleet Sir EDMUND COMMEBELL, Montrose No. 1 About fifty fishing-boats. V.C., G.C.B.; the Rt. Hon. the Earl of GALLO- Stood by vessels. WAY ; Sir EDWABD BIBKBECK, Bart., V.P., Newbiggin . Fishing - cobles. Re- Chairman of the Institution; and Colonel mained by boats. FITZROY CLAYTON, V.P., Deputy-Chairman of Peel . . . Smack Orion, of Ramsey 3 the Institution. Penzance . . Barque Lady Gladys. The officers for the current year were chosen, Landed 17 men. and various resolutions were moved, seconded Point of Ayr . Flat Ann Grace, of and carried unanimously, pledging the meeting Liverpool .... 2 to renewed exertions on behalf of the benevo- Southend(Essex) Barge Ada. Bendered lent and national objects of the Institution, assistance. and expressing the fullest confidence in the „ „ Barge Charles Little, of management. Rochester .... 2 The officers' names and the resolutions will Southsea . . Ketch Fox, of Cowes . 2 be found in the May number of The Life-boat Sunderland S.S. Jacinth, of Dundee. 11 (South Pier) Journal. Walton-on-the- Steamer Paris, of Hull. Naze Stood by vessel. „ „ Brig Green Olive, of THURSDAY, 8th April, 1897. Littlehampton. . . 8 Wexford No. 1 Yawl Fairy Queen, of Sir EDWARD BIBEBECK, Bart., V.P., in Wexford. Assisted to the Chair. save vessel and . . 4 Read and confirmed the minutes of the The Caister No. 2 and Hoylake Life-boats previous meeting. respectively remained by the stranded s.s. Varna, Also read those of the Building, Finance of London, and saved the flat Ann Grace, of and Correspondence and Wreck and Reward Liverpool. Sub-Committees, and ordered that their recom- Voted also 808Z. 4s. 9d. to defray the expenses mendations be carried into effect. of assembling the crews or launching the Sir EDWABD BIRKBECK, Bart., V.P., was following Life-boats with the view of helping unanimously re-elected Chairman, and Colonel 890 THE LIFE-BOAT. [2ND AUGUST, 1897.

FITZEOT CLAYTON, V.P., Deputy-Chairman of Voted the thanks of the Committee to H. M. the Committee of Management of the Institution EMABY, Esq., HECTOR SCTHEBLAND, Esq., and for the ensuing year. Mr. J. WILLIAMS in recognition of their long The members of the Sub-Committees (Colonel and valuable services as Honorary Secretaries FiTzEoY CLAYTON, Chairman) were also elected respectively of the Eastbourne, Wick and for the current year. Also the delegates to the Ackergill, and Kessingland Branches of the Central Committee of the Life-boat Saturday Institution, which offices they had just resigned. Fund. Deep regret was expressed at the decease of Reported that, as requested by the Com- the Rev. Canon SBYMOUB, M.A., and P. J. mittee of the Institution, a Select Committee MESSENT, Esq., who had for many years rendered was appointed by the House of Commons on the the Institution valuable co-operation as Honorary 17th March " to inquire into the administration Secretaries of the Newcastle (Dundrum) and of the KOYAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITU- Tynemouth Branches of the Institution, and TION, and into the adequacy of its organisation it was decided that letters of condolence be for saving life on our coasts." The first sent to their families. meeting of the Select Committee to receive Decided that a new steam Life-boat be built evidence took place on the 6th April. and stationed at Padstow, Cornwall, as early Read the reports of the District Inspectors as practicable. of Life-boats on their recent visits to the Reported the transmission to their stations following stations:— of the Broadstairs, Peterhead and Walmer new Northern District—Girvan, Troon, Ayr, Port Life-boats. Patrick, Port Logan, North Berwick, Cresswell Paid 4,7792. for sundry charges on various and Blyth. Life-boat Establishments. Eastern District—Sunderland(South Outlet), Voted 431?. 0«. 9d. to pay the expenses of Yarmouth, Caister (two boats), Gorleston (three the following Life-boat services:— boats), Lowestoft (two boats), Pakefield, Kessinglaud (three boats), Southwold (two Life-boat. Vessel. Lives boats), Dunwich, Aldeburgh and Thorpeness. saved. Southern District—Yealm River, Plymouth, Arklow Schooner-Egress, of Wex- Salcnmbe, Hope Cove, Teignmouth, Exmouth, ford Brixham, Torquay, Sidmouth, St. Heliers, Ayr . . . Barque Seech Holm, of St. Peter's Port and Ryde. Sunderland. . . Western District — Barmouth, Aberdovey, Burnham . Barque Nornen. Landed Aberystwyth, Criccieth, New Quay (Cornwall), 10 men. Padstow and Bull Bay. Cresswell . . Barque Vaaren, of Tve- destrand .... Irish District—Wexford (two boats), Kilmore, Dungarvan . Rosslare Harbour, Carnsore, Cahore, Courtown, Schooner Maria McMillan, Fethard, Tramore, Dungarvan, Dunmore East, of Dungarvan . Ballycotton, Youghal, Queenstown (two boats), Formby Schooner Waterlily, of Courtmacsherry and Fenit. Liverpool, and Brig Reported the receipt of the following special Concurrent, of Christi- ania. Stood by vessels. contributions since the last meeting:— Girvan Fishing-boats. Attended £. s. d. boats. Her Most Gracious Majesty THE Gorleston No. 1 Lugger Emily, of Gorle- QUEEN (annual subscription) . 50 - - ston. Saved vessel and Miss JANE ISABELLA FLEMING, to Gourdon . Fishing-boats. Stood by provide a Life-boat to be named boats. the Barbara Fleming, and placed Helbre Island Flat Swift. Stood by on the coast of England or Walesl050 vessel. "C. R. S.," per ALEXANDER PECK- HolyheadNo. 1 Boats of s.s. Editor, of OVEE, Esq., LL.D., Lord-Lieuten- Liverpool. Landed ant of Cambridge, through Wis- 27 men. beach Branch 100 - - Irvine . . . S.S. Texa, of Glasgow . R. A. B. PKESTON, Esq., annual sub- Johnshaven . Brig Terra Nova, of scription in aid of Cornish Life- Tonsberg. Saved boats 50 - - vessel. —To be severally thanked. Johushaven . Four fishing-boats. Re- mained by boats. Also the receipt of the following legacies:— Lowestoft No. 1Lugger Faith, of Lowe- stoft. Saved vessel and £. «. d. Montrose No. 1 Thirty-five fishing-boats. The late Lady WHITWOBTH, per Stood by vessels. Manchester Branch . . . .2000 - - Port Logan . Schooner Jessie Bae, of The late G. E. WILLIAMS, Esq., of Belfast. Saved vessel Tunbridge Wells 500 - - and The late W. HUMPHEEY OWEN, Esq., Ramsey Brigantine Uto, of Lille- of Plas Penrhyn 200 - - sand. Landed 6 men. The late Miss E. VEALE, of Stoke Swanage . A Coastguard punt . Damerell 90 - - Walmer Barqueutine Omen, of The late Miss M. A. VEALE, of Stoke Gothenburg. Rendered Damerell 90 - - assistance. 2un AUGUST, 1897.1 THE LIFE-BOAT. 891

Lives sea, and a hard frost, on the 6th February. Life-boat. Vessel. saved. On observing the accident, James Flett divested Wexford No. 1 Yawl Arctic, of Wexford. himself of some of his clothing, plunged over- Remained by vessel. board, swam to the boy, who was then un- Whitby No. 2 Fishing-cobles Mary Alice conscious, rescued him and took him to the and Tranquil, of Whitby. Assisted Also 51. 10«. to eleven men for rescuing the boats. crew of seven men from the brig Mary Stowe, Voted also 3811. 5i. 3d. to defray the expenses of Whitby, which was leaking badly off Corton, of the undermentioned Life-boats in assembling in a moderate W.S.W. gale and a heavy sea, on their crews or putting off to the aid of the the 3rd March. crews of vessels in distress: Banff, Caister Also 51. to ten men for putting off in the No. 2, Cemaes, Oemlyn, Gorleston No. 1, local surf boat at Gourdon, Kincardineshire, Hayling Island, Kessingland No. 2, Montrose and rescuing the crew of five men from the No. 1, Newbiggin, Plymouth, Forth Rhuffydd, fishing-boat Mary and Ann, which was totally RhoBOolyn, Kosslare Harbour, Seaham, St. wrecked in a strong S.E. gale and a very heavy Anne's, Stonehaven, Swansea, Wioklow, Great sea on the 26th March. Yarmouth and Youghal. Also 32. to four men for putting off in a boat Also the Silver Medal of the Institution, a and rescuing the crew of three men from the copy of the vote inscribed on vellum and smack Alarm, of Belfast, which stranded on framed, and the sum of 31. to JAMES FLETT, one Copeland Island, Co. Down, in a moderate S.W. of the crew of the fishing-boat Betsy Hughes, gale and a very rough sea, on the 18th February. of Pittenweem, for gallantly saving a boy who Also 21. 10s. to .five men who rescued the had been struck by the sail and knocked over- crew consisting of five men from the schooner board from the fishing-boat John and Agnes, of Research, of Dundalk, which had stranded at St. Monanoe, when between Anstruther and Giles Quay, in a strong W. gale and a heavy Pittenweem, in a strong N.E. breeze, a heavy sea, on the 20th February.

A LIFE-BOAT STOEY. A dozen of hearts ! and a dozen of hands! But the morning breaks, and the storm is And the courage of death 1—'tis a York- past, shire boast; And over the village, and into the street, It was all they asked one November noon, The sun is shedding its wintry rays When a hurricane blew on the Whitby coast. On the scene where they fought for the For a cry came over the wailing sands, fishermen's fleet; And spread through the village, and swept through the street, And the sea is calm, and the sand is still, There'll be widows to-morrow, and fatherless Where they manned the boat and went to bairns, death. For exposed to the storm is the fishermen's What's that?—out there in the steamer's fleet. wake— Here, give us your glass 1 then they held There was not a minute to dream or to think, their breath; It was "Who's for the Life-boat?" and And a beam of light shot out of the sky, "Who's for the shore?" And a cheer roared out of the Yorkshire Just a kissing of lips of the lasses they loved, throats, Just a sigh, and a cheer, and a grasp of As they saw their life-boat making home, the oar, With the rescued crews from the fisher- For the men out at sea were exposed to the men's boats. storm, But were not forgotten by " pals " on the land; " Never say die " is the motto of men Whilst there's life there is hope, whilst there's Who fight to conquer, and mean to win, strength there's a rope, But it's well worth living to earn the tears The heart of a friend, and the grasp of a That wept them out and that cheered hand. them in. So the tale is told. But there's something Just picture the scene, O my brothers in town, more, With your petty annoyance, and impotent That can never be done by praise or pen. strife, We must think of the sea when the tempests In the midst of our city it is Worship of Self— roar, On the fishermen's coast it is Rescue and And give of our gold to the Life-boat Life! men.

NOTICE. The next number of the LIFE-BOAT JOURNAL will be published on the 1st November, EOYAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION, SUPPOBTED gOLXLT BY VOLUNTABT OOSTEIBDTIONS.

tara — ftradotw His BOTAL HIGHNESS THX PXIKCX or WALES, K.G. HXB BOTAL HIOHHXSS THX PBHTOBSS or WALKS. H.B.H. THB DOKK OF SAXX-COBCRO AKD SOTHA, DUKE OT EDIHBDBGH, K.O. CAPTAIN His BOTAL HISHHEBS THX DUKE or YOBK, B.N., K.G. J)rtBibtnt—His dxAOB THX DUKX ov NOBTHDHBEBULKD, K.G. Ijsinnan—SIB EDWABD BIBKBXCK, BABT , V.P. J|«j)«rj-«^KinnBn—Colonel Frrz-BoT CLATTOH, V J. Sttrrfarp^CHAMM Dixbnr, Ego,, F.B.S£.

APPEAL. THB OOMMTTTEB OF MAHAOBMBHT have to state that during the past year (1896) the BOTAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT IxranrunoH expended £71,476 on its 298 Life-boat Establishments. GBNEBAL SUKMABY OF THB WORK OF THB INSTITUTION DURTNO 1896. Nnmber of Lives rescued by Life-boats, in addition to £ >. d. 80 Vessels saved by them 313 Number of Lives saved by Shore-boats, &e. 149 Amount of Bewards granted during the Year 10,003 7 4 Honorary Rewards:—Gold Medal 1 Silver Medals 5 Binocular Glasses 9 Aneroid Barometers 4 Votes of Thanks on Vellum... 39 Certificates of Service . . . . 5 Total . . 63 461 £10,603 7 4 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 40,182. The rewards and recognitions granted by the Institution in the same period comprised 99 Gold Medals and Clasps, 1,161 Silver Medals and Clasps, 271 Binocular Glasses, 16 Telescopes, 14 Aneroid Barometers, 1,567 Votes of Thanks, inscribed on vellum and framed, 66 Certificates of Service framed, and £174,693 in money. The Committee earnestly appeal to the British Public for Funds to enable them to maintain their 297 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 income. 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 hi 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,OHAELEB DIBDIN, Esq., at the Institution, 11 JOHN STBEBT, AT>aT,pm) London; by the Bankers of the Institution, Messrs. CODTTS and Co., 59 Strand; and by all the other Bankers in the United Kingdom.—2nd August, 1897.