On the 18th March, during a strong N. gale with snow showers, the Motor Life-boat William and Laura was called out to the assistance of the steamer Upas, of Newry. When the vessel was five miles south of the Skullmartin Light- ship her cargo shifted, and she began to sink. As she was sinking a steamer, named the Ailsa Craig, belonging to Belfast, came into sight and proceeded to her assistance. A small boat belong- ing to the Ailsa Craig was manned by Mr. Edward Torrens, the chief officer, and two sailors, and, in spite of the heavy sea running, they proceeded to the assistance of the distressed vessel.

By this time the Upas was in a very serious state, and all the boat could do was to save two of the crew, who were washed overboard as the vessel sank.

Unfortunately, owing to the long distance the Life-boat had to travel, she was too late to do anything for the remainder of the crew of the Upas, but her arrival was very timely for the boat of the Ailsa Craig, which was in very great danger, and the Life-boat saved the two men, who had been picked up, and their would-be rescuers. She also picked up the body of one of the men who was drowned in the ill-fated steamer, and then returned ashore. In this case such conspicuous bravery was displayed by the men who manned the boat of the Ailsa Craig, that the Com- mittee of Management presented an aneroid barometer, bearing a suitable inscription, to the chief officer, and made a monetary reward to the two members of the crew..