The Surat Enquiry.

Cromwell Argus, Volume V, Issue 220, 27 January 1874, Page 7

The Surat Enquiry.

In the Mayor's Court on Tuesday last, judgment was given l in. ..the Surat '-enquiry. Mr Strode read the judgment. After gumming np the facts of the case, it is stated as the opinion of the Court: That the master uxis most blanteable —' 1.- In starting from London with his ship in an unsca worthy condition, inasmuch as lie had not provided himself with detail charts of the coast of New Zealand. 2. In not taking when he made the New Zealand coast, to which he and his- officers tfere strangers, and when night was setting in, the necessary steps to determine his position with accuracy, not even consulting the " New-Zealand Pilot," which work he had on board. That the master and chief officer were most blameable —(l) in making no effort to lessen the leak ; (2) in allowing to pass by, at a time when there was eijjht feet of water in the hold, the steamer Wanganui, whose services they could easily have secured. That the master, chief officer, 'and second officer; were most cu'pable -(1) In rendering themselves by insobriety after the vessel struck and before she was beached, quite unfit for the performance of their duties. (2) In making no effort after the beaching of the vessel and landing of the passengers (all of which was effected at 11 a.m., the day being fine) to save the immigrants' effects. It is then decided— That the certificate of competency of Edmund Joseph Johnson, as master, be cancelled ; the certificate of competency of Abram Forshaw, as master, be cancelled ; and the certificate of competency of Edward Hasselton, as second mate, be suspended for the term of two years from the 20th day of January, 1374.