Wakatu, Got Off.

Patea Mail, 13 September 1882, Page 3

Wakatu, Got Off.

Good fortune favored the Wakatu in getting afloat from her dangerous position behind the breakwater. Captain Bonner has won new laurels by his success in getting out of an awkward fix. He not only worked hard, and took no rest, from Sunday morning till he steamed to sea on Monday night, but he did the right thing in the right way, and rescued his steamer from a peril which seemed very serious. If he could have got more tackle for secure anchorage, he would probably have got away on the morning tide. The hull was afloat for a short lime, but the kedge anchors would not hold, and all that could be done on that tide was to the steamer’s position and f her till the next tide. When the night tide rose, everything was ready, and the steamer became lively enough to make a run for seaward. This was successful, and the steamer then stood off all night, and came in easily on Tuesday’s morning tide. Captain Bonner had to do a lot of hand-shaking when he got into port. He was before reputed for boldness, but he has also proved himself a splendid fellow to get out of the grip of a disaster. About 20 tons of cargo bad been left in her as ballast. The other cargo, of which a list appears in this issue, has been punted up to the wharf, and delivered to consignees. The steamer was insured in the South British office for £4,000. Capt. Bendall came yesterday on behalf of the insurance company, but his services were not then

required. He complimented Captain Bnimor on his goon judgment in placing the steamer in a good position on a sandy bottom, so that she got off safely without any damage. Mr London, collector of Customs, arrived on Monday to make a preliminary inquiry. It is understood that his report is to the effect that the stranding was accidental, and that no blame attaches to any one. Mr London has recommended that Captain Bonner be allowed a bonus for getting the steamer oflf so successfully.