Letter received by Banks from William Bligh, 25 December 1795 (Series 58.03) - No. 0002

[Page 2]

this place for Shelter on the 13th. 

     On last Monday Night some of the Baltic Ships being arrived, a Vessel loaded with Timber took fire exactly to hind of us and the Albion, and in the direct stream of the Tide.  In the most awfull [awful] state of conflagration we saw her approach in such a strong tide's way, that Boats to leward, except our own and the Albion's did not get to her, & those without effect;  while the Boats to windward, their ships being out of danger;  neglected the safety of us.  It was blowing very strong, our Top Gale Masts & Lower Yards struck - Destruction became more rissible every moment, at last I could no longer hope she would drift clear of us - I risked it even within my Anchor Buoy, which I thought long enough to insure my orders being attended to, as consternation began to have its common effects, for the fire was tremendous.  When it was near upon us, our sails being set, I gave the orders to cut from both our cables, it was done with great precision and we got to a Safe Anchorage with our only Anchor.  The Albion who was a stern of us followed our example, & happily by this means we are now safe.  It was peculiarly fortunate that the Vessel was among the outermost in the Road, as by that means she has done no injury to any of the shipping.