THE ARGYLESHIRE ARRIVES.

Taranaki Daily News, 15 March 1919, Page 2

THE ARGYLESHIRE ARRIVES.

A THRILLING EXPERIENCE. The Federal-Shire, 3tearacr Argyllshire, which arrived in Auckland last week from Sydney, where she had brought troops from England, had n thrilling experience in the English Channel during the war. While proceeding to Devonport to embark wounded soldiers for Australia, she was attacked by a submarine. A torpedo hit her stem, carired away the rudder post, buckled the plates, but missed the twin propellers, which, however, were bent by v/reckage. Water poured into the vessel at an alarming rate, and. the engineroom staff were soon wading knee-deep in water. Captain Page found on examination that the engines woiild be able to continue working for some time,, and with the assistance of the engineers determined to make for Plymouth, a distance of about 30 miles. Meanwhile wireless calls were sent out for assistance, and_ five tugs met the Argyllshire in a sinking condition. The vessel had settled <}own to 40ft draught at the stern, &tid the enginernoin ;i;ul other lower c6m})artments wen; completely flooded.' It was feared 'the steamer would sijik in deep water; and the tugs redoubled their efforts, with (lie resiilt that the Argyllshire was docked just in the nick of time. It Was a splendid save, and Captain Page and bis officer's were complimented by the Admiralty on the seamanship displayed.