At about 9 A.M. on the 18th March, Coxswain Bowen, who was on duty near Cardigan Bay, observed a signal of distress from the ketch Clara, of Milford Haven, which appeared to be in imminent danger of being driven ashore. He at once took steps to summon the crew of the Life-boat Elizabeth Austin, and the boat was launched in a very heavy sea. A strong N.N.W. gale prevailed at the time, and the weather was very cold, with snow showers.

The Life-boat proceeded very promptly to the Clara, and was just in time to save the crew of two men, who were in great peril, as the ship was dragging her anchors, and was being buffeted by wind and sea. After the crew had been rescued, the vessel became a total wreck..