At 1 P.M. on 23rd February, the W.S.W.

wind suddenly rose and by half-past two o'clock was blowing a strong gale.

About this time two fishing boats were seen crossing the Montrose Bay heading northwards, one under close-reefed sails, the other with bare masts, and flying a signal of distress. The Life-boat Sarah Ann Holden was promptly launched and proceeded to the boats. A pilot was put on board each one and the Life-boat stood by them as they came into harbour.

The boats were the Glad Tidings and Therisa, belonging to Montrose..