The schooner Brazilian of South Shields, whilst bound from that port to Stornoway with a cargo of coal, became windbound and lay in Longhope Bay for some days.

A change in the wind enabled her to proceed on her voyage, but on the 6th January, when off Cantick Head, she was overtaken by a whole N.W. gale which blew away her sails and spars.

She drifted into the Pentland Firth and about 2 P.M. her distress signal was observed by the Lighthouse keeper who promptly telephoned for the Life-boat.

With all haste she proceeded to the disabled vessel, bub on reaching her found it was impossible to go alongside, the sea being exceptionally heavy. As the only hope of saving the schooner and her crew of eight hands was to get her into shelter, the Life-boat preceded her and by the aid of signals piloted her to South Ronaldshay, where she was beached. This was an arduous service rendered in very cold weather and snow-storms, the Life-boatmen being engaged for twenty-four hours. The help was much appreciated by the rescued men, who next day sent a letter of gratitude to the Coxswain of the boat.