Letter written to Joseph Gibson Esq, Dundee, from Thomas Benbow Phillips at Rio Grande, dated 18 August, 1873

Thomas Benbow Phillips explained that the “Beautiful Star” of Dundee had arrived at the port of Rio Grande on 17 July in a very damaged condition. Her master applied to the British Consul for the necessary surveys to confirm the lowest tender for repair. That sum was over £200. The Consul had advertised for money on a bottomry, but there had been no tenders. Thomas Benbow P hillips enclosed a copy. No money, no repairs! If the ship was put up for sale, she would be sold for a very low figure. After consultation with the Consul, Thomas Benbow Phillips concluded the ship should be laid up until he received further instructions from Joseph Gibson. He would be going on board to take an inventory and would put a ship-keeper in charge.