GIRVAN, AYRSHIRE.—On the 12th February, while the Girvan fishing fleet were off Corsewell, a gale suddenly sprang up from S.E., which afterwards veered to S. and increased in violence.

The boats promptly made for home, and all got in safely with the exception of seven. Shortly afterwards one of these came in and reported he had seen a boat about three miles to seaward with her sails split. The Life-boat James Stevens No. 18 promptly put off and found the Viola, of Girvan, with her sails blown to ribbons, and in danger of foundering ; as soon as communication could be effected she was taken in tow.

The master wished to be taken to Ayr, but as there was another vessel in want of help the Coxswain towed the Viola to Dunure Harbour, and left her at anchor in comparative safety. The Life-boat then stood out to sea again and picked up the Annie Fyfe, which had shipped several seas, and was in grave danger.

On the arrival of the Life-boat an attempt was made to get to Ayr.

Shortly afterwards a tug came up, which took the endangered craft in tow, and Ayr was safely reached. It was however impossible for the Life-boat to beat back that night to Girvan; she was therefore secured for the night at Ayr, and towed back to her station the next day..