On 30th January at 9 A.M., in consequence of a signal from the Hock Lighthouse, at the entrance of the Mersey, that a ship was in distress at the back the banks on "Square 43," the Lifeboat Willie and Arthur proceeded down the river in tow of the steam-tug Universe, and at noon the life-boatmen succeeded in boarding the distressed vessel. A very heavy sea was running and it was blowing strong gale from the N.W. The vessel boarded was the barqne I. E. Chase, of Savannah, bound from that port to Liverpool.

She had cut away her mainmast and had her sails all blown away. The Life-boat remained by her till, taken in tow by the Guiding Star, she was carried safely into port. The Life-boat shipped some heavy seas while returning to its station, and had most of the oars and other gear washed away..