iCloud email outgoing server offline...unable to fix - HELP!

I am receiving the following message with my iCloud email on my MacBook Air:

"There may be a problem with the mail server or network. Verify the settings for account “iCloud” or try again.

The server returned the error: The server “p13-imap.mail.me.com” cannot be contacted on port 993."

I tried to force account online but that does not work (work for ISP email account). I have tried deselecting SSL option (only to reset) but that did not work. An earlier post said to uncheck and recheck iCloud email under System Preferences but now not only did it not solve problem I also lost the emails I had 'saved' under iCloud. Then tried to synchronize account but that did not work either. However, iCloud email is working fine on iPhone 5. 😕 Any suggestions?? Thanks in advance!