STEAM SHIP COMPANY LIMITED
AND
NA MUTUAL STEAM NAVIGATION COMPANY LIMITED.
20
S.S. Antilochus
Port Hong ting
Date... 31st Jan 1904.
399
Mr Gutteries
Dear Sir,
It is with the utmost regret that I hear you have temporarily resigned the position of Shipping Master for this Company against you.
As to the accusations made, I personally believe them to be without any foundation.
I have paid the crews of varying ships I have commanded, and in the ten years in which I have done so, I am absolutely sure there has been no irregularity whatever as the wages have been paid in my presence, each sum counted before starting and balanced afterwards.
Your conduct during all these years has been most wonderful, and our dealings have been pleasant in the extreme by the promptitude and despatch with which the business has been conducted.
I hope therefore you will be reinstated in the position you are as well able to fill.
I am yours truly,
Master S.S. "Antilochus"