On the •morning of the 23rd October, at about 7 o'clock, the ketch Onward, of Montrose, was observed in the offing, and as there was a heavy sea on the bar, with scarcely any wind, it was realized that the vessel would incur considerable risk if she attempted to make the harbour. At about 11 A.M. it was seen that the ketch was approaching the bar.

The Coxswain therefore, at once, launched the No. 2 Lifeboat Marianne Atherstone, and proceeded down the river. The Life-boat stood by the vessel as she came in. Whilst crossing the bar the ketch was struck by heavy seas, and had a very narrow escape of being thrown on to the rocks near Scurdyness.

As soon as the ketch was in safety the boat was taken back to her station..