RUNSWICK, YORKSHIRE.—The usual quietude of Runswick, a small fishing village to the north of Whitby, was considerably disturbed in the early hours of the 1st March by the s.s.

Ajuthia, of London, stranding on the rocks known locally as the " North Steel," during the prevalence of a thick fog and a heavy sea. In response to her signals of distress the life-saving apparatus proceeded to the scene of the casualty, but was unable to effect any communication, as, in spite of strenuous efforts, they could not get into a position for the rocket lines to reach the vessel. However, within a quarter of an hour of the first signal beinsj seen.the Life-boat Cape of Good Hope was launched, but not without tremendous difficulty in consequence of the heavy breakers, and, once afloat, it was not long before she was alongside the distressed vessel, and proceeded to take part of the crew on board. The rough sea and close proximity of rocks rendered this exceedingly dangerous, and on several occasions the Life-boat was nearly thrown on to the steamer. After leaving the ship on the return journey, the Life-boat broached to, being for the moment completely buried; having regard to the large number on board the position was somewhat desperate, especially as several oars were broken, but fortunately the crew managed to get her before the sea without further accident, and the twenty rescued men were landed in safety. Undaunted by the arduous nature and danger of their first trip, the sturdy fishermen prepared to return without delay to those left on board the Ayuthia. The boat was hauled up on her carriage and another launch successfully effected, but to do this the many willing launchers had to go waist deep into the water.

Reaching the stranded vessel after another desperate struggle, the remainder of those on board, numbering sixteen, including the captain's wife, were rescued and taken into safety, the Life-boatmen being thoroughly exhausted when they reached the shore the second time. They were enthusiastic in their praises of the behaviour of their Life-boat, and this service, resulting in the saving of 36 lives, is considered locally the finest one ever performed in the neighbourhood. The Committee of Management, in appreciation of the gallantry displayed, made an additional award to the crew of the Life-boat..