— At 10.15 A.M. on 26th March it was re- ported by a fisherman that the motor coble Royal Empire, of Whitby, was in difficulties three miles N.E. by E. of Runswick and drifting before a strong S.E. gale with a heavy sea. The report was confirmed by the Coastguard, and a few minutes later a distress signal was seen. The Pulling and Sailing Life- boat Hester Rothschild was launched, and found the coble with her engine disabled, without a sail on board, and with her crew of three exhausted. She took her in tow and brought her to Runswick at 12.40 P.M.—Rewards, £19 9*..