MISHAP TO A STEAMER.

Grey River Argus, 25 June 1906, Page 2

MISHAP TO A STEAMER.

PERTH, June 23. The Norfolk which arrived here yesteiday under sail, left Durban on May 28th, and encountered very rough weatter. On June 10th the engine began to race, and it was ascertained the propeller had broken off flush with the stern post. Every available bit of sail I was set and the vessel got under control, but became unmanageable. DHiring the gale on the 12th she lurched dangerously. The ■ foresail was biotra away. Oil was used to calm the seas. A new mainsail was set, but owinf.to. the heavy weather she refused to answer' her helm. The difficulty was overcome by pumping out the tanks of the forepart and^fillingjhose at the other end. On June' 1 5th and 16th, gales which thieatened the flimsy sails were encountered. The creW'.set to work putting bands on to strengthen the canvas,- while others were constructed Two large sea anchors were blown m shore. Every precaution was taken to meet contingencies. On the followiag Tuesday night a fierce squall came up. The vessel was put dead before the wind and bowled along splendidly until Thursday, when the mainsail carlied away. By joining the hatch coverirgs and old pieces of canvas the vessel was again got under way, and with the liberal assistance of oil managed to reach the vicinity of Freemantle, where distress signals were hoisted, and tugs came to their assistance. During the voyage a seaman named Christensen fell froim aloft and was killed.