Tilly
The following report makes sad reading, particularly as the son witnessed the loss of his father, the Master of the ship.
Hull Daily Mail 10 January 1893
THE DEATH OF A YORKSHIRE CAPTAIN
The SS STAG which is owned by Messrs Robinson and Sons, North Shields, has just arrived at Leith, after going through a hurricane and most tempestuous weather in crossing the Atlantic, during which the gallant skipper, Captain John Robinson, a native of Staithes, Yorkshire, lost his life. He was either drowned or killed on the night of the 20th Ult, shortly after 10 0’clock which was the last time he was seen alive on the bridge. Captain Robinson who was much respected by his crew, with his usual care for the safety of the ship, had remained at his post. He was not missed until four the next morning when the Second Mate called on him to report that the weather had moderated. On a search being instituted the body of the deceased was found with his head fixed through the porthole which lets the water away from the after deck. The body was being washed to and fro by the water sweeping over the deck, the sea running very high. His body was entirely naked, except his stockings, his clothes having been washed off by the violent sea. At daybreak his Guernsey, waistcoat and watch were found, his watch having stopped at 1.20am. The body was laid out in the chartroom and next day, after an affecting burial service, was committed to the sea. It is not known how Captain Robinson came to his death. It is conjectured that, either being struck by a sea, or making a false step, he had been precipitated on to the deck, and being stunned, had been drawn by the action of water into the port. The deceased leaves a widow and family to mourn his loss and one of his young sons witnessed his father’s committal to the deep.