On the evening of the 16th March the S.W.

wind at Holyhead is reported to have reached the force of a hurricane, and at 8.35 P.M. signals of distress were observed from the brigantine Fortuna, of Glasgow, and the ketch Esmeralda, of Milford, which were at anchor in the outer roads. The steam Life-boat Duke of Northumberland was with promptness despatched to their assistance, and found that the anchors of both vessels were dragging. The crews of five hands were rescued from the Fortuna and two hands from the Esmeralda, the Life-boat then returned ashore. The sea was very rough but happily both vessels rode out the gale in safety. The Fortuna was bound at the time from Tynemouth to Glasgow with a cargo of china clay, whilst the Esmeralda was on her way to Portmadoc laden with gunpowder..