At 5.30 A.M. on the 7th December signals of distress were observed in the Barry Roads, and the assembly signal was fired for the crew of the Life-boat John Wesley. Before the boat was launched the tug-boat came into the harbour and reported that a steamer was ashore about a mile to the east of the entrance.

The boat proceeded there and found the s.s. Amisia, of Bremen, on the rocks, with the sea breaking right over her.

The crew of the vessel declined the offer to land them, and stated they preferred to remain on board until the tide had ebbed sufficiently for them to get ashore.

The Life-boat therefore stood by the steamer until after high water, and then returned to her station, arriving at 8 A.M..