WITHIN AN INCH OF DISASTER.

Pelorus Guardian and Miners' Advocate., Volume 8, Issue 30, 12 April 1907, Page 2

WITHIN AN INCH OF DISASTER.

STARTLING EXPERIENCE OP THE LINER MAJESTIC. The White Star liner Majestic only just escaped admad-on collision with the lightship Coningbec during a very heavy fog recently, when three miles off the Wexford coast ami 75 miles after leaving Queenstown for Liverpool. Disaster was only averted by the coolness and quick action of the commander, Captain Hayes. Owing to the fog, the liner* was running at half-speed, when the lightship suddenly appeared under the ships bows, only loft, ahead. In an instant the liner’s rudder was put over hard’' to port, and her starboard side grazed the ludl of the lightship as she swept past. Captain Hayes ordered boats to be manned. This was in order to render assistance to the lightship if required. A hail came back by megaphone, however, that the lightship had suffered no damage. The passengers on the Majestic;, now all on deck, cheered lustily, ami the crew of the lightship responded. The Coningbec bad previously been in wireless communication with tho Majestic, and live unexpected proximity of tho liner is said to have been due to Hie fact that the lightship’s siren was not heard. The starboard plates of the Majestic were scraped by the lightship,