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the moiety expected from them, viz. £104. But M. Kitto refused to pay on the ground that his share was only the registered interest and Williamson had the beneficial interest in the Ship. The Crown Lawyer have confirmed that view.
But then this Williamson seems to be little better than a man of straw. He is at this moment Mate on board of an outward bound ship from the Port of London. The Hong Kong Government (which is itself the party interested) says in the present despatch, very wisely in my opinion, that there is little use in going against a man of no substance; and under all these circumstances I am inclined to think that any appeal to this Williamson would be fruitless, and that it is better to let the matter drop.
To sue him would involve delays and expense for which we should not get compensation - merely to apply to him on the ground of his regard for his own credit would be suitable and useful if he were an established merchant in the City of London, but little benefit could be expected from a seaman who doubtless lives from hand to mouth.
31 Oct.
Elinor.
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