THE WAIRARAPA DISASTER.

Temuka Leader, Issue 2747, 6 December 1894, Page 4

THE WAIRARAPA DISASTER.

Auckland, Dec. 2. At the resumption of the Wairarapa enquiry to-day counsel addressed the court. Mr Cooper, for the marine authorities, pointed out that the enquiry came under two heads—the casualty including losb of life at the wreck, as well as the conduct of Captain Mcintosh before the wreck. He left the first, second, and fourth officers in the hands of the court. Mr Button, for the friends of the deceased captain, admitted that the captain had not taken proper precautions, but with his reputation for carefulness these did not amount to recklessness Mr Cotter on behalf of the officers held that the evidence of the officers showed that they did all they could after the wreck; while the captain being ou the bridge up to the time of the casualty relieved them of responsibility. Mr Campbell, for the Union Company, submitted that the two alterations in. the course at 10 and 10.30 showed that the captain was under the impression that he was near the Poor Knights. Everything pointed to the ship being carried beyond her E.S.E. course. The discipline of the men and boats was all that could be desired; but for the vessel's list the boats could have been launched all right. The court will intimate to counsel when judgment will be delivered. Wellington, Dec. 3. At a meeting of the relief committee, it was decided to make this the central distributing point except for Auckland and Dunedin. This is done with the consent of the contributors. Dunedin, Dec. 3. Messrs Williamson aud Musgrove, the well-known theatrical caterers, have donated £6O to the Wairarapa Relief Fund.