as I did not feel myself justified in taking charge of a man whom the surgeon of the Wapiti could not cure / especially as I had no Doctor on board ).
Receiving no relief from the Hospital at Russpitale Harbor. Master, I appealed to Governor Sir Richard McDonald, but was unsuccessful in my application to him.
Copies of the originals of the various letters, certificates, & papers are herewith enclosed, as per memorandum at foot.
I was in consequence compelled to take the man Amy on board; this was attained three days, & I have been put to very considerable expense, both at Hong Kong, on the voyage, and in London, the particulars of which I have also had the honor to submit, for the reimbursement of the same, trusting it may meet with your favourable consideration.
In bringing their facts to your notice, it is with complaint against the regulations for the passage of distressed seamen, though at all times I am desirous of giving every assistance in my power, but I consider them unfair to the Master of a vessel from a foreign port in such cases as the present, which creates insubordination; & among an otherwise steady & good crew, their discontent is detrimental, and an annoyance to those concerned in the vessel.
As the circumstances have created a very strong feeling of indignation in Hong Kong amongst shipmasters and residents there, and also amongst others in this country, I would respectfully urge an inquiry into this case, & that of the barque Luzon, so as to prevent a recurrence of the same.
In the case of the Luzon, the seaman had to be removed again to shore, & there died; the particulars of which, & coroner's inquest, verdict will be seen in the Daily News of 7th & 9th of June herewith enclosed.
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Immediately on my arrival in London, the man was carried on board the Queen Charlotte (Dreadnought) in a perfectly helpless condition, with little chance of living. I beg this matter will receive your attentive consideration.
I have the honor to remain,
Yours very faithfully,
Master of the ship Western Chief
List of Vouchers & Enclosures
Letter dated May 1866 from Harbor Master's department, Hong Kong.
Dr. Keeland's certificate dated Hong Kong 25th May 1880.
Mr. Harris, chief officer, Letter to Capt. Hill.
Harbor Master's letter 25 May 1866 to H. Murray Esq., Consigner in the firm of Messrs Jardine Matheson & Co.
Copy of Capt. Will's Letter 28 May 1866 to Governor Sir R. McDonald.
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to Capt. Will of 28th May 1866
Copy of the Daily Press 7th June 1866, with leading article on the case of the Luzon.
Western Chief with Coroner's inquest verdict.
Copy of the Daily Press's 9th June 1866 containing copy of letter relative to shipment of distressed seamen.
Shipping office certificate for distressed seamen signed before the magistrate.