THE ATLANTIC TRAGEDY.

Waikato Times, Issue 12784, 3 February 1914, Page 5

THE ATLANTIC TRAGEDY.

SINKING OF THE MONROE. THROWN ON HER BEAM ENDS. PASSENGERS TRAPPED BELOW. (Per Presr Association.— Copyright.) NEW YORK, February 1. Capain Johnston, asserting that the Joss of his steamer, the Monroe, was due to the Nantucket's carelessness, has tiled a writ claiming a million dollars damages. Captain Johnston alleges that the Monroe was proceeding at half speed, but the Nanfuckct approached him with such speed that the accident could not he avoided. Officials of the Dominion Line annouce that a search will be prosecuted for all 4he bodies. Further particulars show that the •steamers struck bow lirst in a dense fog Only those who were awakened by the shreiking of the fog sirens were able to escape from the Monroe. STRUGGLE IN ICY SEA. The Nantucket sent out lifeboats, and picked up many who were found struggling in the icy waters. Thousands awaited the Nantucket's arrival at Norfolk, Virginia. The survivors landed wrapped in blankets and were carried to the hospital. Many of them are in a grave condition. NINETY-ONE SAVED. The captain, crew and passengers all behaved with great coolness. 'I he captain and eight volunters launched a lifeboat, picking up 27 persons. The first officer, Mr Horseley, then launched la boat with 24. Two of the Nantucket's boats saved 14. Others were saved ,by means of the Nantucket's life rafts. Altogether it is known that 01 haje been saved, of whom passengers number 36. The hefcvy Irtss of life "is attributed to the Monroe being thrown on her beam ends, this preventing the boats from being launched. The fog. however, was so thick that the Nantucket's searchlight was unable to pierce it. The officers and crew of both boats have been detained pending an investigation.