A SKIPPER'S V.C. 



the heavy handicap of the lost funnel she overtook 

 the other craft, and, of course, got all the help she 

 needed. One can readily picture that strange flight 

 and pursuit and the appearance of the brave little 

 ship which had survived such a severe punishment 



Skipper Watt had as companions in Otranto 

 Straits five gallant skippers to each of whom the 

 Distinguished Service Cross was awarded for re- 

 maining at his post " under the fire of a ver\ T 

 superior force " ; and these were but selected cases 

 from many fine examples. 



There was Skipper William Bruce, who, with his 

 crew, held on until his drifter, the Quarry Knowe, 

 blew up. 



The drifter Tails was badly damaged and in a 

 sinking state through the enemy's very heavy fire ; 

 but Skipper Robert Stephen remained at his post ; 

 and the same fine tribute was paid to Skipper 

 William Farquhar, who only left his drifter, the 

 Admirable, when she was sinking. 



Very gallant was the conduct of Skipper Robert 

 Cowe, of the drifter Coral Haven, who did as Skip- 

 per Watt had done — he kept his little ship " heading 

 for the enemy " and encouraged his crew " to fight 

 their small gun. Four rounds were fired, and he 

 and his crew only escaped from their ship when she 

 was on fire and in a sinking condition." 



The fifth member of this heroic band was Skipper 

 Dennis John Nichols, of the drifter Floandi, who 

 " remained at his post in the wheel-house, steering 

 his ship, and although wounded himself, assisted in 



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