LOSS OF THE TE AROHA.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXV, Issue 2184, 13 September 1907, Page 3

LOSS OF THE TE AROHA.

Press Association. AUCKLAND, September 12. The Nautical Court was occupied to-day with the inquiry into the loss of the steamer Te Aroha, which foundered off Point Rodney on March 30th on tho voyage from Auckland to Waikato. Edward Hallett, owner, of the vessel, was charged with sending the vessel to sen in an unseawortliy condition. Thomas Alincham, master, was charged with having taken the vessel to se-a in ail unseaworthy condition. Mr. Mays, solicitor for the Marine Department, said it was only fair to state that Hallett, who knew nothing about ships and their requirements, gave absolutely a free hand in the matter of repairs, giving the surveyor of the ship full liberty, and offering to foot the bill. Mr. Wetlierilt recommended certain repairs and alterations, and these were placed in the hands of the Devonport Ferry Company, from which the steamer was purchased. New caulking, planking, and general equipment were carried out. When the vessel entered the water slio leaked considerably, but this gradually ceased, and the water was got down. She had not gone far before she commenced to strain and take in water, and was finally abandoned, and foundered. If the evidence disclosed that others beside the owner and master were liable, it would be for the Court to express such an opinion as might result •n bringing the right persons to book. , _ , After lengthy evidence the Bench dismissed the case, as it had not been proved that the owner and master “knowingly” sent the vessel to sea in an unseiaworthy condition.