24.--During a severe gale from the N.N.W., accompanied by heavy snow
squalls, the Raby Castle, of 60 tons burden (Greensides, master), went
ashore at Salthouse, and became a total wreck. She was bound from London
to Stockton, with a valuable cargo. The crew and passengers were saved.
"When she broke up the beach was strewed with spirits, wine, oranges,
nuts, teas, toys, hampers, boxes, &c. The scene beggared description.
The most outrageous and beastly conduct was exhibited. Here might be
observed a group broaching a spirit cask, and letting it run into their
oil-skin hats, shoes, &c. There another stood filling their pockets and
handkerchiefs. Plunder, wholesale plunder, appeared to be the order of
the day, in spite of contingents of coastguard men. Many who were
charged to watch the property became themselves intoxicated. Many were
conveyed from the beach literally dead drunk, and it is with disgust we
add that many women were in the same state." The cargo of the Raby
Castle was worth 5,000 pounds; about 800 pounds worth was recovered. The
vessel was sold by auction for 41 pounds.