;
HONGKONG.
2nd June, 1913.
134
Sir:-
Mr. Sandeman, the Honorary Agent for the Guild in
Hongkong, has asked me for the details of the piracy
of the Steamship "Tai On", which took place in Chinese
waters on the night of April 2nd, 1913, I being at the
time Chief Officer of that vessel.
I would state that the "Tai On" is a small twin
screw steamer of 428 tons net register, flying the
British flag, and owned by Chinese.
Licensed by the British Authorities to carry 1208
passengers, the vessel is compelled to carry a British
certificated master, mate and engineer.
The "Tai On" runs between Hongkong and Kong Mun, a
treaty port on one of the western branches of the Canton
river, a distance of 84 miles from Hongkong; leaving
Hongkong the one evening at 7 o'clock, and returning
the next night, the whole running being night work.
At the time of the piracy Captain Holmes was Fuster
myself (Cornwell) being Mate. Both
members of ".S.G.
The
he Secretary,
Imperial Merchant Service Guild.