Series of Tragedies.

From this point began a series of catastrophies unparalleled in the history of Canterbury. The crew of the vessel had brought the report to shore that the ship was hanging to a stout hawser only, her cables having parted. This hawser was plainly visible from the shore, the rope standing out at times taut and rigid as an iron rod. It was only a matter of time before this, too, would snap, leaving the vessel to founder on the rocks.

It was only a matter of time—and time was against them. About three o'clock the cry went up, “She's gone!” Three boats could be seen coming away from the ship. The tide was between half and quarter ebb, and the shoaling of the water made the sea much more dangerous. Waiting their opportunity, the boats pushed bravely through the surf, while the hearts of those on shore beat high with anxiety. Taking advantage of every opportunity, the boats battled on. Soon they would be out of

(Continued on page 34.)