SHIPS IN DISTRESS

Evening Post, Volume CVII, Issue 19, 24 January 1929, Page 11

SHIPS IN DISTRESS

GALES IN ATLANTIC

TEARS FOR BRITISH VESSEL

Australian Press Association.

NEW YOEK, 22nd January. The liner America, commanded " by Captain George Tried, who is the hero of many rescues, is battling with mountainous seas in an endeavour to reach sinking ships which have called for aid. •

This afternoon an Italian freighter, the Florida, which has lost its rudder and is otherwise disabled, and tho American tanker Dannedaiek, aro in distress in tremendous seas. Both arc situated about 750 milos off Norfolk, Virginia. Tho Florida has a crew of thirty-two, and the Dannedaiek thirtyfive. Sea coast broadcasting has been silenced, and every attempt is being made to reach the vessels. .

The America is only able to make a speed of ten knots in the westerly gale which is blowing.

Other ships, notably the liver President Harrison, are also held up by the severe weather. It is believed the America cannot reach the ships much before thirty hours have passed, although the President Harrison may be slightly nearer. The Dannedaiek omitted to give particulars, simply advising that she needed immediate assistance.

It is feared that the British .freighter Tessbridge has been lost off Halifax. No word has been heard of her since yesterday, when she reported she, was in distress. The steamer Maine and 'other ships are continuing their search for her, however.

Virtually all hope has been given up for tho recovery of the Tessbridgo, although two ships continue to search.

The American liner President Harrison and the German freighter Yorek are approaching the Florida and the Dannedaiek, the lifeboats of which were all apparently shattered by s,eas. The crews are unable to do more than keep as much of the water out of the bottoms as possible. In the event of the rescuers arriving on the scene tonight, it is probable that they can do little until the morning, because of the weather. The condition of the stricken vessels is not known definitely.