16
(1)iv.
From my experience the normal set and
drift of the current would be N.E., and the drift
would be dependent on the local weather conditions.
The "Hong Kheng" had a Kelvin 10" dry card
compass. I have no experience of any magnetic
phenomena which would affect the compass. Chilang
Point Light was not functioning. I also attached
great importance to Chilang Point Light. FI OL
leaving the Ninepins the visibility improved, and
at no time did I estimate it at under 3 miles but
I believed there was low cloud over the land,
Occasional rain showers were logged but I saw none.
The last position obtained was about 9.30 P.M. on
the 18th July being a cross bearing of Waglan and
one of the Ninepins.
The D.F. gear was never used.
I saw the rocks of Reef Islands about 2
cables off. From sighting the rocks to taking
evasive action the time elapsed would be about 15
seconds.
over
At the time of the stranding the engines
were doing 11.5 kts. and our the ground about 10.0
knots. The only book brought from the wreck was the
scrap Log Book and also the working chart. I carried
two officers. The 2nd officer was promoted to Acting
Chief officer when the Chief Officer was landed on
sailing day due to eye accident.
Only about one third of the behaved
in an exemplary manner the remainder were of no
assistante to me. The compass was adjusted October,
1946 and observation since that date confirmed the
deviation
dwestien direction card supplied by the adjusters.
Ac there was no moon we had no hope of seeing Pedro
/Blanco.