We regret to have to lay before our readers an account of the loss of this fine barque. The particulars are given in a letter which has been received by Mr. H. Moore from the captain, and which has been handed to us for publication.

Henry Moore, Esq., Sydney.
Manila, June 29,1851.

Dear Sir,

I am very sorry to inform you of the total loss of my fine barque George Buckham, with your cargo of coals, on the night of the 30th May, at 10h. 30m. p.m., on a coral reef not laid down on any chart that I have seen or heard of. It is in the Caroline group, latitude 8 deg. 7 min. N., longitude 154 deg. 12 min. E. It was during a squall with rain, so that it was not seen until nearly on it. We tried to clear it with all possible speed, but to no purpose, she struck broadside on to the reef and sea, and soon made water. We scarcely had time to get the boats out, and a little bread and water, until she filled and laid low on her starboard side.

We then left her in the two boats and kept two or three miles to windward all night, intending to board at daylight if possible ; at good daylight I pulled towards the ship, leaving longboat to windward, but could not board, the sea was breaking so violently. In pulling off to join the longboat saw a vessel sailing towards us. which picked as up four miles from the wreck. This vessel was the Duke of Roxburgh, Captain Kirsopp, whom you well know. Captain Kirsopp immediately offered me the use of boats and crew to go on board and save as much as possible and he would wait. I accepted the kind offer, and took two of his best boats ; one I went in myself, with a part of our own crew, and the chief officer took charge of the other, with carpenter and boat's crew. After many attempts we succeeded in boarding, and saved all our specie, with most of our clothes. We were obliged to break up the cases of dollars, and pass them in single bags to the boats, with much difficulty. I expect we have them all, as I took them into my possession, and saw them safe on board the Duke Roxburgh.

When we left the George Buckham (after staying as long as prudent with the safety of our lives), the starboard side was stove in by the heavy lurching, and she was breaking up in the middle, by the end of the poop ; all the main deck was started. We got safe on board the Duke of Roxburgh, and then made sail. I and all my crew have received the kindest treatment, and most gentlemanly conduct, from Captain Kirsopp, for which we feel very grateful, but cannot express it enough - had it not been for his kindness we would not have saved anything. Please to make the public aware of it - I mean his particular kindness - through your paper ; I cannot do it here, but will first chance I have.

Mr. Greenwood, my late chief officer, returns to your place by the Moselle ; assist him if you can to get home - he is a fine young man, respectable and trustworthy.

I am, dear sir,
your obedient servant,
John Matches.

SG & SGTL Vol 8, p 277

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