At 11.30 A.M.

on the 12th December, the Life-boat Sarah Austin was called out to the assistance of the s.s. Rayford, of Glas- gow, which was lying at anchor in a dangerous position in Dunnet Bay.

Owing to the heavy N.W. gale and a heavy sea the vessel was unable to get out of the bay, and was dragging her anchors. The vessel had been shelter- ing in the bay for two days during an E.S.E. gale, but the wind having shifted into the north she was in considerable danger, owing to her anchors dragging.

The Life-boat stood by the vessel until a secure anchorage could be found, and, the weather having moderated some- what and the wind veered to the N.E., the vessel was able to ride out the gale.

The Life-boat then returned to her station..