At 5.45 A.M. on the 4th September the Coast- guard received a telephonic message from the Gunfleet Light-house, stating that a schooner was on the sands.

Without delay the Life-boat James Stevens No. 14 proceeded under sail and motor to her assistance. On reaching the edge of the sand, the water was so shoal that it was not possible for the Life - boat to get alongside, or, indeed, anywhere near her. Several of the Life-boatmen therefore entered the water and waded to the vessel. She proved to be the brigantine Alroy, of Hull, with a crew of eight hands, bound to Gravesend with a cargo of coal. After consulting the Coxswain, the captain employed the Life-boatmen to try and get the vessel off. Most of the crew went aboard, and all then set to work to lay out kedges and to jettison the cargo.

They continued to work until high water about 3 P.M., but the vessel, although she moved a little, did not float. More cargo was disposed of, and about 3 A.M.

on the morning of the 5th idem the vessel floated. In the meantime the wind, which was W.N.W., had freshened, and it was found that the vessel, due to heavy bumping, was leaking badly.

Some of the Life-boatmen were therefore requested to remain on board and assist at the pumps, while the remainder accompanied her in the boat until Gravesend was reached in safety. The Life-boat then left for Walton, where they arrived at about 10.30 P.M., the men having rendered valuable assistance in saving the vessel and her crew..