THE BRIGANTINE UNION.

West Coast Times, Issue 620, 19 September 1867, Page 2

THE BRIGANTINE UNION.

TO TITE EDITOE OF THE WEST COAST TIMES.

Sib — In your shipping report of the 17th inst., certain statements are made relative to the brigantine Union, reflecting on her captain and on me which I caunot allow to pass unnoticed.

It is stated " that this vessel appears to have-come to this port heinously unprovided for — being absolutely ehort of lines to moor with."

I have now to state that when the Union left Melbourne she was thoroughly equipped and seaworthy, and was pronounced so- by three marine surveyors who had occasion at different times to survey her. During her stay in the roadstead, as your reporter is aware, she lost two of her anchors and cables, and also her best mooring lines, which wore used for the purpose of enabling the anchors to bo picked up when weather permitted. I may add that nearly one-half her cargo is the owner's, and it is highly improbable that he would send his ship away with 'so much at slake, in tho condition your reeporter would have people believe. In coming to the West Coast fbv the first time, with fche largest sailing vessel that has crossed Hokitika bar, I should rather have expected sympathy for the losses sustained in your roadstead, than that they should bo made a subject of roproach.

Trusting that jou will give this a place in your columns,

I am, Sir, youiy, &c., NEL3ON EtDRIDOE, Schooner Union. Hokitika, September 18.