PERILS OF THE SEA.

Wanganui Herald, Volume XXXXII, Issue 12437, 9 April 1908, Page 5

PERILS OF THE SEA.

The Bega's Castaways

Captain Davies' Narrative

PrpßS Association .—Telegraph .—Copyright. Received April 8, 9.14 p.m. SYDNEY, April 8. The steamer Peterborough, bringing part of the Bega's castaways to Sydney, put into Kiana, disabled, through an accident to an air pump. The castaways were landed and the remainder made the journey by train. Interviewed, Captain Davies, who was acting chief .officer of the Bega, and in charge oi the women's boat, declared that the boats were fitted with everything necessary. He denied that one of the boats was without rowlocks, and the plug out of the passengers' boat towing the women's boat. He confirmee the statement that the suggestion was made to cut the painter by a seaman, who produced a knife. This was strongly resented by the others in the boat, and anyone attempting to use the knife was threatened v\ itu rough treatment. The knife was afterwards returned to the owner.

All fay tribute to the coolness and bravery of the women and children.

The steamer Coomonderry, which had been sent to the relief of the remaining castaways, met with an acident to the engines, delaying her for several hours.