RESCUED FROM LAUNCH.

Otago Witness, Issue 3862, 20 March 1928, Page 86

RESCUED FROM LAUNCH.

IKA INCIDENT RECALLED

TL r AUCKLAND. March 15. lhe tnree men who spent two anxious days and nignts drifting out to sea in tho crippled launch ika, and who were picked up by tne Niagara on her last vovago from Auckland to Sydney, returned from Sydney bv the Maunganui. Thev were Alessrs John Buchan. Norman Blalkburu, and Cyril Ledger, and they are none tho worse for their experience. All three praised the manner in which Captain Hill and Ins officers looked after them when they were taken on board. Above all, we wish to express our deepest gratitude,” commented Mr Blackburn. “ The rescue itself, which was cai ned out in a heavy sea, was a splendid piece of work.” Air Blackburn said thev were deeply grateful also for the kindly interest of Dame Nellie Melba who was a passenger by the vessel. He said that as soon as they were brought on board the Niagara, Dame Nellie ordered dry clothes for them all. Later she sang several songs for their benefit, and the collection taken up on their behalf proved very helpful. “ Although the Ika was subsequently recovered. we were in very great danger at the time.” added Air Blackburn. “In the two days we must have drifted about &0 miles, and our plight seemed hopeless. The only thing we could have done in the circumstances was to signal the Niagara. Tho action., of the men was endorsed by Captain Hill, who stated when they were on board that he recognised the danger of their position. His only regret was that ho was unable to rescue the launch for them. The men were carried to Sydney free, but they paid their passages back to Auckland.