The screw flat Victoria, of Liverpool, bound from Pen- maenmawr to Birkenhead with a cargo of macadam, became unmanageable in the Rock Channel on the 12th March, in consequence of a mishap to the steering gear and the bursting of the engine-room casing. Signals of distress were observed by the Coastguard, and the Life-boat Hannah Fawsett Bennett was promptly launched. The crew of five hands were rescued and the vessel, before they left, was scuttled to prevent her driving on to the bank and becoming a total wreck. There was a moderate E.N.E. wind at the time and the sea was rough. It was high water when the men were rescued, but at low water it was possible to pump the vessel out and refloat her and she was eventually taken to Birkenhead.

The vessel belonged to the North wich Carrying Company, Ltd., and the follow- ing month they showed their practical appreciation of the services rendered by sending the following letter to the local Hon. Secretary of the Branch, J. P.

Brocklebank, Esq. : — " Northwich Carrying Co., Ltd., "19, Brunswick St., Liverpool, "llth April, 1910.

" J. P. Brocklebank, Esq., " Dear Sir, " Victoria.

" We as owners of the above steamer, wish (through your good self) to most heartily thank the crew of the Life-boat, who rendered such valuable and timely service to her crew when their vessel was in difficulties off Hoy lake, 12th March last, and as it is our desire to further express our appreciation by contributing to the funds of the ROYAL NATIONAL LIFE-BOAT INSTITUTION, we will be glad if you will kindly inform us as to whom the contribution should be sent.—Yours faithfully, " NORTHWICH CARRYING Co., LTD.".