THE LOSS OF THE PATRICIAN.

Waikato Argus, Volume I, Issue 30, 17 September 1896, Page 2

THE LOSS OF THE PATRICIAN.

(liV TKLEGK.vnr—GWX CORKKSroXDEXT.) Dunkdin, Last Night. The decision of the Magisterial Enquiry into the loss of the ship Patrician was given today. Mr Carew, S.M., expressed the opinion that tdo loss of the ship was due to the heavy gale of wind and high sea. To whatever cause the loss of the ship may be attributed lie recommended the Government to pay the eos;s of the inquiry. 3lr Thomson, the nautical assessor, concurred, but having the advantage of nine years' experience in the coal carrying trade, was of opinion that Capt. Sterling iu not making use of shiftiig boards in the 'tween deck and lower hold did not fully preserve the seaworthiness of the vessel to safely encottnrer the tempestuous weather. A cargo without shifting boards was right for ordinary weather o'.dy. Although it did nob appear in the evidence that the cargo was seen to have shifted, still it was shown that the vessel was noticed to be gradually listing over which was acccouuted for by the captain I)3' the water in the hold, but if that caused the vessel to Ist when put ou the opposite tack she would have cone over quickly to the othsr sid°. This sin- d : d not do, therefore it was a sure i' (lex the coal had shifted. There appeared to him as much nre.i for a compulsory shifting board regulat : on for the safety of vessels carrying coal, and grain as for a compulsory free board rule. lie a'so suggested tint rocket apparatus should fo.m part of the equipment of vessels The court suitably expressed i's admiration of the gallai.t conduct of the mate, boatswain and (jiurtei master of the Fifeshire.