NOETH DEAL, KENT.—The's.s. Bion, of Newcastle, laden with oil, from Batoum for London, stranded on the inner part of the North Goodwin Sand in a thick fog on the morning of the 15th Feb., 1902. In response to signals from the Gull Light-vessel, the Lifeboat Mary Somerville was launched about 8 A.M. and proceeded to the vessel. The services of the Life-boat men, in conjunction with the crews of two luggers, were engaged to pump some of the oil out of the tanks in order to lighten the vessel. About 1500 tons were thus jettisoned, and about 40 tons of bunker coal were thrown overboard. Kedge anchors were laid out, and ultimately, with the help of four steam-tugs, the steamer was got clear of the sands, her own engines being, by the advice of the coxswain of the Life-boat, put full speed ahead to assist in the operation.

Having been taken into deep water, the Bion proceeded under her own steam for Gravesend, accompanied by one of the tags, and having on board the coxswains of the Life-boat and luggers, who remained to assist the master with their local knowledge..