1906-12-01 — Page 11

THE

HEUNGSHAN INQUIRY.

CAPTAIN AND OFFICERS COMMENDED.

THE FINDING.

27th ult.

At the Marine Court this morning, a Court of Inquiry was held by Lieut. C. W. Beckwith, RM., Harbour Master and Marine Magistrate, Commander Edward Winthrop, N., H.M. Naval Yard, Harry Gaukrager, Esq., manter, British as. Doric, and Thomas A. Mitchell, Kan., master, British 0.4- Sui Samg, alting with

him as assessors.

The notice for the inquiry and the warrant for holding the Court having been read,

George Frederick Morrisos, master of the KK. Heungskom, sworn, stated: At 8 am, on the 18th September ha lelt Macao, with

THE HONGKONG TELEGRAPH SATURDAY DECEMBER 1, 1906.

the warboard baw; Thin would be about 10.20 when I fished with the anchors, botas 1 bad instructions from the master to remain by the windlass and watch the cables-carefully to see, if the ship was dragging, I stayed down until about soon, when I went up on deck, to see what was going on, as I felt something bumping, and I had hardly arrived there when the ship struck. I then got all the Bailors together and endeavoured to quieten the passenger who were beginning to panic, The Capiain then consulting me about the best way to get the passenger ashore, through the surf, I volunteered to try and get some ropes ashore which I managed to do, ashted by Mr. Harvis, the second engineer, after he war finished in the engine-room. The Captain and Chief Engineer remained on board to organize the stream of passengers who weng of them along to get ashore. A great, many were washed away from the ropes while passing to the shore, but we managed to rescue all of them except two women who were drowned previously to the ropes being gat ashore.

Commander Winthrop: When you were, at- tending the cables after the anchoring, were you in a position either by sight or touch with the

home?

AT THE DOCKS.

BALVING AND REPAIRING OPERATIONS.

As the result of the recent typhoon, the Hongkong and Whampoa Dock Company have been busily occupied la repairing the damages sustained by the larger craft in the barbour and mach progress has been made with the work of setting the coasting feet in operation again. Notwithstanding these efforts: however, to overtake the repairs necessary much still remains to be done.

THE HITCHCOCK."

An interesting announcement was made to day when it was rated that Mr. A. H. Rennie had purchased the sailing ship S. F. Hitchcock, which was thrown over the prays wall in the stoms of 18th Sept. last. The Hitchcock ju nos American ship of 2,086 tour and has been lying in the harbour since August, when she arrived from Manila in ballast. It was understood that Mesars, Butterfield and Swire were anxious to acquire the vessel with the object of converting her into a coal bulk to be stationed at either however, and purchased the vessel, which will be utilised as a sanatorium for the benefit of

AN IMPUDENT QUARTER“ MASTER.

'ABBAULTIMATE, AND INSULTS:CAPTAIN,.

*26th ult

་་

A case which will be read with much interesi by the shipping community of Hongkong was beard at the Police Court this morning when Chu Kwai, quantenmaster on board the British steamer Hawgsires, was charged with disobey ing (be lawful commands of the master of the ship-Captain__Mawleymand assaulting the {'chlef oficer-Mr. J. E. De Woll—oa the 23rd

instant; while on the high seas.

The Chief Officer stated that on the 23rd instant, while midway between Chinklang and Hongkong, the quartermaster and given an

which he blank to carry) out. Witness left the defendant and west into the chart-house. He was in a stooping position, getting out some salts from ther medicine chest, when he received a blow over the head. He was wearing a thick cap at the time and that ved him from getting stunned. Hemrned round be captain struggling with the quartermaster, who held a telescope in his hand. "Look out

·

TURF TOPICS

ANOTHER QUIET WEEK ON THE TURIS

16th ult.

But for a few gallops, and an accident, which fortunately; did not end-seriously› to»: either man or popy, last wesk's work quithm turf wan also a quiet one. The accident referred to was the one in which Mr. J. A. Japp's pony distin. quished himself by pliching his mason loto a ditch, and making galloping: tiempt to re turn to his stable. He would have succeeded in getting there had he not shied at the paddock gate and crashed into it head, first ---This brought the spirited animal to a standstill, and he was returned to his stables, nose, the worse for His little game. The mafoo was greatly shaken, but recovered himself: After a few min.

utes"rest, an

357

CLAIM FOR PROFESSIONAL

SERVICES.

HONGKONG SÚLICTORS V. J. CLIFFORD WILKINSON.'.

FULL' TEXT, OF JUDGMENT.

The full text is to hand of the judgment in the above case delivered on the 7th November when the claim was dismissed with: coats. The reasons given by the Court for the judg: montaro na follows i—

upan

In this case, which in not sun for thes tion of the judgment of a foreign Court, bot for the recovery of remuneration for, aBIZicos rendered, of money advanced, and the of law, proceeding for the scoreshe money mentioned (ike claim being Mostly cantering work was indulged in this the termination of the commission), the ciali week, while # few owners sent their ponies should not be granted soldly on the ground over a distance with the idea of shrofing them that plaintiffs won their case for the same out. The best moving ponian, so far as I can claim in the Hongkong Supreme Court, the make out, are Mr. Jupp's, Mr. Williams, Mr. J. decisión of which Court bat become imeyoce E. Gressen's, Mr. B. N. Mody's black, Mr. Hable. The propriety of the claim must ba, ad-

the Mr. Goetz's pony is evidently tired of work ples of justi e.. It is evident from

15. until 9.30 am, when "heavy squall cable to tell if your anchors were coming amoy or Foochow. Mr. Rennie stepped in, immediately, the blow was delivered and saw }. R. Hunter's chestnut and Mr. Marsball's black; }'Judged in accordance with aci

moderately north-westers wind, light sea, and cloudy weather. The wind increased slight carried away the upper awpinge. We then made all fast, and I turned the ship to the north-west, to enable

Witness: I had my hands on

both cables

and his, behaviour on the occasion" reminded

In considering the case,

the repeatedly during the whole time I was down the employees of the four mill which is in course the captain cried, "this man is dangerous I saw him'the other marsing being girthed up hibit No.., that, plaintiffs have obtaine crew to abip the door, and furl there, but felt no indication of any jerk which of erection: The Hitchcock is admirably fitted! The defendant was then put out of the chart-] ́ ̈me of a buck-jumper in full swing. He'praschet | judgment in their favour in the Hongkong. for that purpose and should answer all the 'house. The querier-master",""continued the bout the places and ended by 'flopping down altered merely for the reason that defendant would indicate the ship's dragging.

John O. Johnson, Chief Engineer, swore, To the Court: What steam had you on the morning of the 18th September, when you left Macao?

thesweings. The was increasing and there were frequent heavy squalls from the North-west. A1′9.50, I saw the end of Saw Chau, bearing K.N.E., distance ri miles- about. The wind and sea there increased with typhoon force, accompanied by blinding rain. then altered my course to W. and W. by 8, steering at full speed until to 20, when I de- cided to anchor. I slowed my engines and anchored letting go my starboard anchor with 15 fathoms of chain, and then I let go the port sochor, and them I veered away my chain untit I had go fathoms well outside on the starboard anchor, and 75 fathoms well outside the port pipe. The depib of water was about 4 fathoms, Ì there endeavoured, by working my engines," to bring her head up to her anchors, which were some fire points on the starboard baw, but owing to one of the awnings blowing adrifi I could not get her head up. At 10.40, finding my efforts to bring her bead up towards her anchor unsuccessful, I stopped the engines. The Chief Officer was stationed at the wind. laki, carefully watching both cables, to see if she dragged. By this time a strong typhoon was blowing from the west, with blinding rain, the ship still with her head south lying.quietly to her I thought this was due to the flood lide making against the wind, The next thing I know was at 12.30, in the midst of blinding rain and a terrific squall, I saw rocks close on my port side: 1 am of spinion that the ship had truck about her port

As

was the next witness..

•

for soon the Fitchoock was towed to the Cosing that he was ill and would de no work requirements of the mill staff. On Saturday chief officer," informed the captain that mord- mopolitan Dock where she will be repaired The captain said that if the man was sick he should take some medicine, and told me to go to the medicine chest and get him some salts." throughout for her new mission.

THE "HEUNGSHAN,' '' Witness: I had 250 lbs, steam, which would" Work has been started on the Hengshan, The accused refused to take medicine, neither would be work. The captain told him that if he give the ship some 13 knots, under normal,which was wrecked outside, Hongkong, and

did not want any medicine he was net sick and conditions.

judging by the energy, which is apparent in granted that the popular excursion steamer

Can you remember, how your engines were worked after anchoring?

Supreme Court. The judgment was, however, day occurrent floor. I am told this is an every resided in country beyond the jurisdiction of

the Court, and did not post its beslis T day occurrence.

I hear that Ardpatrick and Cotswold are ex The claim was not decided on its merits pected here soon, Buxey's string will also decision of the Hongkong Court is insuficient

here before Christmas, and will include to justify the claim; and the fact that the cred Triumph Rase, Glorious Rosa, Coronet Rossion of the Hongkong Court, has becuntje probably another Bose, and able of irrevocable, as shown by Exhibit No. 24. CHO- chargo...

neglecting to make a protest against the jud It is rumoured in racing circles: that Polis ment in his default, and'demanding the re-trial Races next year, but it is even money bating but in acting so he has not admitted his that if Patts has a good griffin or two he will obligation to pay the claim. Defendiat plead. put in an appearance.

ed that he had not requested plaintiffs" to The St Andrew's Staker, a race advertised proceed against other firms, with thraxcaption to take place on the rat proximo, should prove of His Shu & Co, and that the amount of re- a very interesting event, and a good attend-muneration claimed was excessive. Plaintifa ance is anured, notwithstanding the dance failed to bring sufficient evidence to support that is to take place on the right of the 30th.

connection with the vessel it may be taken for / should get to work. The accused again refuted Derby griffins, -with the grant " Snowbill "in not reverse the reasoning just quotail. In As far as I remember the engines appeared / will be put on the river run within a short time; icbart-house, where witness was'engaged at the does not intend to take part in the Hongkong of the case, defendant is guilty of delinquency;

to be worked alternately, as it to maneuvre the ship.

What did you de after she struck? Finding the water coming in through the tunnels I shut down all the tunnel doors, and then closed all the water-tight, doors in the cogios-room. Then as the water sose in the stakehold, to prevent explosion, I opened the safety-valve and blew off the steam.

THE FINDING. ・・

'master

DIVERS AT THE SORSOGON." *

THE "FRONDE,"

and when he was left alons ha dashed into thet

medicine-box, and the assault occurred.

Captain Mawley said that the crew, including defendant, were signed on at Chinking. They then made a trip to Wuhu. On thair returni| 10 Chinklang he ordered the quartermaster one morning to go and get some lead Instead of obeying the order, accused be came very insulting in his language. "Go and get it yoursell, coolie," the skipper said defendant replied. "I am not your coolie." A law days later some of the crew fall sick. A doctor was called, and he testified that the men were suffering from fish poisoning, and pronounced that the men ware not in danger.. Defendant did all be possibly could to get the crew to leave the ship, and as he failed his conduct became worse and he was a suitance on board. On the way to Hongkong bis insolence while at the wheel was a thing: that could not be tolerated. On the 23rd he complained to the captain of being ill and the latter recommended that he should have some medicina. Again he got insolent and refused' to take the medicine. If you don't take medi cins," the captain said, “you are pot sick," and he told the man to get to work. Justead of that he fell flat on his back on the deck, in full sight of the other Chinese, and throwing up his hands and feet and opening and closing his eyes and mouth feigned death. He later said he would jump over the side of the ship. When he was left to himself for a time- his rushed into the chart-house, while the male was at the medicine cheat, picked up a telor scope from the table, and was about to bring it | down on the mate's head, when she captalo sprang on him and was successful in stopping the full force of the blow from descending on the mate's head, although he was struck,

|

SANITARY BOARD.

271h eli.

..

Board was held in the Board-room this after The usual bi-monthly meeting of the Sanitary

Inoon, the usual members being present.

HOUR OF MEETING." Pursuant to notice the President' moved:

That the time of meeting of the Board be changed from 4.13 p.m. to 1.30 p.m.

The Hop. The Principal Civil Medica! Officer minuted: The Legislative. Council ments at 2.30 p.m., and I think this time is a much more suitable one, for many reasons, than 4.15 p.m. The Board meeting is only held once a fortnight, and should get occupy more than an hour.

Mr. Shelton Hooper minsted: I quite agree with the President.

Mr. Humphreys minuled: 230 pm. does out sult me; the present time, vix,4.15 pm, is much better, I should think, for all business men.

With regard to the Sorsogon which has been bought by the Dock Company, divers are at work locating the damage which the vessel sustained in the gate and it is confidently believed that she will be raised without much. difficulty. The divers have been leat from H.M.S. Kams and are doing good work for the wrecked vessel. As most people are aware all thecruisemcarry divers but it is seldom that they The evidence being all completed, the -Pre-havethe opportunity of operating on a real wreck, sident of the Court said:-We, the Court, find While they are instructed in the technique of that the British steamship Heungshan, official the profession and gain some knowledge of number 95,855, of Hongkong, of which George what is required of them, they naturally have Frederick Morrison, master mariner, certifi little chance of appreciating the actual condi

tions.prevailing have to be cate No. 384. New South Wales, was one, sier carried out on & wreck. While the divers of Hongkong, at 8 a.m., with a general cargo, six the Kent are thus assisting the Hongkong and European passengers, and 534 Chinese pas Whampoa Dock Company they are also acquir engers, and 57 crew. The ship was full og an experience which should be exception powered and well found. The weather was ally valuable in times of emergency, and equip quarter some few minutes before that.

cloudy, with moderate N. W. breeze, the them with a practical knowledge which may soon as I saw these rocks i put. my engines barometer high and steady. At 9.30 s.m. the yel prove useful to the Navy. full speed astern, but stapped them immedia wind increased by a series of heavy squalls, tely as I found that she had taken the reef hard and the sea rapidly rose. The ship was then

On the French torpedo boat Fronde, work and fast. I then gave the chief engineer orders to blow off the steam, as there seemed to be turned round to N.W, to assist in getting the men are engaged in an effort to circle the vessel awnings furled and the typhoon doors shut. with Chains and bring her to the surface. At pre- considerable pacic amongst the Chinese pas. That at 9.50 the south end of Sawchen was sentibefore part is firmly wedged in the mud and sengers, numbers of whom were on the guard, seen, bearing E.N.E. 1 miles. The wind she is said to be badly damaged, but although ready to jump into the breakers, and tried to get by this time having increased to typhoon the work of salving is naturally laborious and to the shore, and I considered it advisable to

force, accompanied by blinding rain, the difficult there is every likelihood that she will get lines to the shore. The chief officer, ship then heading about W. by S. and steam-be brought up within a few days. Meanwhile Mr.. Grainger, volunteered for this task, and ing at full speed until about 10.20 ami, she is leaking badly, but the Protector has so far successfully managed to reach the shore,

when the master thought it advisable to an inanaged to keep pace with the iurush of water. through the boiling surf, and was badly bruised

chor. The engines were slowed down, and and knocked about by the rocks Aller this both anchors were let go in a seamanlike man- we passed several ropes ashore, Mr. Grainger ner, with go and 75 fathoms of chain respec being assisted by Mr. Harvie; second engineer, who by this time had finished his duties in the tively, well outside the hawae pipes, and care- engine-room. Then, assisted by the Chief fully attended by the Chief Officer. The engines were worked for a considerable time Engineer, Mr. Johnstone, we passed the pas to coable the ship's head to be brought to the sengers, by means of the ropes to the shore wind, but without success, as the ship was having, put lifebells on them before leaving lying easily to her chain, and the engines were the ship. Many of them on the way to the shore were dashed away from the ropes, but stopped. We, the Court, are of opinion that with the exception of two only, were rescued choring when and where he did.

the master was thoroughly justified in an- by those two officers on shore, Mr. Grainger taking fully into consideration the condition of Aer and Mr. Harvie The two women who were the weather, and the impossibility of seeing -drowned were drowned. bofore, we got the through the blinding rain, and that after anchor which left on the morning of the 23rd to render in which a British officer was sent to gaol in { isms were found present in one portion of the

ropes ashore. It was impossible to render any ing all due precautions were taken, the chain Basistance owing to the panic amongst the par- being carefully watched, and no indication sengers and the officers being employed in en given by jerk or otherwise which it would be deavouring to get communication with the

usual to expect, but that she must have drag- ged both anchors & distance of about 3 miles, we, the Court, find that after the ship took the reef, everything was done by the master and officers to save life and property, special commendation being due to Mr. Grain ger, the chief officer, and Mr. Havie, the sec God engineer, in getting ropes ashore in the breaking sen, and generally helping and res cuing passengers who were washed away from the ropes in the heavy surf.

shore.

His Worship: What sea-sized anchors have you in the Hengsham?

Witness: Two patent anchors, 18 or 30 c#L, and chain to the amount of 120 fathoms to Bach anchor..

Are your anchors constantly marked and altended?

and carpenter,

Yes, constantly attended, by the chief officer How far should you imagine you had steamed after, sighting Sawchau before you auchored?

niles from Sawca, ako my estimation 3

Have you ever before, riding out a typhoon in the Henugshan, bad any difficulty ?

Yes, but I had no difficulty through the anchor dragging, although I bad less chain out than on this occasion,

To Commander Winthrop: When you found yourself on the reef did you notice how your

cables were bearing? -

Witness: Yes, both my cables were on the star. board quarter, the port chain being under the bottom of the ship, and taut out,

After you anchored, you said in your state- ment, you veered to 45 and go fathoms respec- tively; had you both cabler there on an equal straip?

Yes; it appeared that there were both on equal strain.

Captain Gaukroger: Did it appear to you when you left Macao on that morning that you WCXG in

typhoon? No,

We, the Court, are of opinion that it was largely due to the gallant exertions of these officers that only two lives were lost, and fak- under which the ship was navigated. We, the ing into consideration the abnormal conditions

blame. Court, absolve the master and officers from all The President of the Court' then 'thanked the assessors who had assisted him in this inquiry, and expressed a hope that it might be long before a Court would be assembled for any similar inquiry, under such circumstances.

MAD OR ONLY SHAMMING:

· COOLIE'S CURIOUS BEHAVIOUR.

2714 ult.

1 did not think I was going to be in a typhoon, as I had no indication by my barome-telling them humorous stories and when they Jer until later.

こす。

Which anchor did you have the go fathoms on?

On the starboard, which was the heavy 45- chor.

You said in your statement that the ship's head was south, the wind north west and westerly, your anchors were some five points on the starboard bow, South-West by West; did you have no indication at all about the ship dragging or drifting?

No I considered that the tide was making against the wind, this would account for the

tip lying so quietly to her cable.

Captain Mitchell: Did you give the ship a sheer with the helm after letting go the first anchor, and before letting go the second?

Witness: No; I did not think it advisable

|

H.M.S. "ROBIN,"

SUCCESSFULLY KEFLOATED

26th uk.

H.M. river gunboat Robin, which we re ported in our issue of the aznd instant s having gone ashore upon a sandbank. in the neighbourhood of Kum Chuck, was, towed off on the same day, before the with the assistance of the Moorhen, safely arrival of the destroyers Fams and Bandy, assistance.

practically no damage.

We understand that the Rofa has suffered

BRITISH SAILOR DROWNED.

ACCIDENT IN THE HARBOUR,

26th ult.

The captain here produced his telescope, which he said was his private property, gives him by a friend, a souvenir which he treasured, and pointed out to the Court where it was dented in thres places. He said that the tele. scope cou'd not be closed now.

Hon. Mr. E. A. Hewett minuted: I can't agree to give up an afternoon to the Sanitary Board meetings.

Mr. Lau Chu Pak minated: The change is not convenient!

The Hoo, the Director of Public Works minuted: 1 agres with the President.

WELL. AT 16, GAGE STREET.

Mr. Humphreys minuled: The Government Bacteriologist says the sample is non-polabic, but he does not say it is dangerous to life The closing of wells that are not actually dangerous to life is a doubtful expedient, in view of the water supply being intermittent during the winter months, as the Chinese are thereby compelled to draw their supplies from still more contaminated sources, such as stagnant pools and polluted nullahs,

The Government. Bacteriologist submitted Continuing, Captale Mawley declared that all his report on water taken from a well in the cuffs for fear he might jump overboard to spite stated that the result of the examination show- on board were scared to put the man in hand kitchen at No. 16, Gage Street, in which he the officers. He recited a case that took place ed that thoads of colonies of micro-organ Shanghai for three months for handcuffing one sample. These organisms consist chiefly of of his crew, who jumped overboard and liquifying bacteria and colon bacteria. The was drowned, simply to spite the officer. bacillus coli is present in numbers. The sam- "Sening that this man was in such, a fury,"ple is non-potable. went out Captain Mawley, "I thought it quite likely that he would do the same and that was why he was not handcuffed." He blew hit whistle, however, and sent the mate to call the boatswain and to bring along a pair of wristlets. In the meantine witness kept (an eye on the man for fear he might do something The body of a British sailor, which on dangerous. To put a man in handcuffs, went identification turned out to be that of Alexander on the skipper, causes trouble, far it is believed Nichol, a stoker, on board H.M.S. Astraća, morning. The body was recovered from the was seen floating in the harbour yesterday they lose face if it is done. When the boat

swain and the handcuffs arrived, and seeing sen and was buried yesterday afternoon, Cn what was to happen, the boatswain. stood inquiries being made we were informed that security for defendant's good character during deceased, who was about twenty-eight years of really as to set an example to others. The Nichol's death was due to an accident. The the rest of the voyage. He would press the age, was called at half past three o'clock on the morning of the gist instant to light fires and influence of this man over the rest of the crew incited the others to treat the officers of the in to raise steam one of the ship's pinpaces, which was moored on the starboard side of the ship with contempt, concluded Captain Maw-

lay. ship. The deceased was seen to. enter the

His Worship sent defendant to gaol for oas mediately after. "Man overboard!" was called, mouth, with hard-labour,

pinace and to drop overboard almost im.

Life-bells were thrown in the vicinity near where the man bad entered. the water and life boats were launched, but the stoker did not come to the surface again. His cap floated near the gangway even while the search for the body was in progress. After a search of nearly half an hours duration and not seeing any signs of deceased they gave up ibe search,

KÜLANGSU MUNICIPAL

COUNCIL.

CFFICIAL MINUTES.

Minutes of a meeting of the Council held at the Board room, Kulangsu, on the 6th Novem-

Present:—Messis. W. H. Wallace (vice- | chairman), C. A. V. Bowra, A. F. Gardiner, Il Thomas, the Health Officer and the Secretary,

A Chinaman, whose mind is alleged to be unhinged, and who was charged with being in unlawful possession of a piece of iron, created some amusement in the dock at the Police Court this morning before the magistrate took the bench. He amused his fellow prisoners by

failed to laugh at the conclusion of the yarn he tickled the man nearest to him in the ribs and looked pleased when all giggled. He next turned his attention to the Indian and Chinese constables sitting at the back of the dock by standing and staring at them in torn. Some-ber, 1906. body whispered "Hypnotism" One of the | lubangs, who apparently was afraid that some- thing wrong was going to take place, told the alleged lunatic to sit down. The inkong was asked to fight and the ruction he created attracted the attention of the Court Usber, who flung the Chinaman out of the dock, and he was chained by the queue outside the Court. When the case was called the man was brought into the Court. As soon as the usher left him he supported himself on the side of the dock, and stared outside the Court, with his left hand akimbo. "Stand straight!" said Mr. The coallo stood to attention, and as if he were counting one, two, three, he right wheeled, facing the door. "I think this man is shamming_mad," remarked the Court, "Take him to gaol for one week for observa tion." Inspector Collett saw the order carried

The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed.

and asked the Court to impose such

SAD FATALITY IN SHANGHAI.

DEOWNING OF A MARINE OFFICER.

facts of the caso are as follows tem

14

|

Mr. Lau Chu Pak said: 1 agron with Mr. Humphreys. This is another case in which the Government Analyst does not agree with the Bacteriologist. I wonder what the latter should not be closed. will say of the water from the mains: Thewell

Mr. Fong Wa Chun said: Lagree with Mr. Humphreys:

|

their claim, with the exception of the two exhibits in question. The Court, "therefore, cannot admit the propriety of the chim in this case; hence the claim is dismissed,

"The judgment is signed by Judge Suya- naga, presiding, and Judges, Miyake and Hayashi.

LAUNCH OF THE¿SATSUMA",

THE EMPEROR ATʼYOKOSUKAI",

A Yokohama despatch states that the ́battlė-. ship Safiums, 19,000 tops, was successfully launched at 3.25 p.m. yesterday (Nov. 15) In the presence of the Emperor, and amidst tile deafching applause of an immense number of spectators, His Majesty the Emperor appeared to be much pleased at the success of the launch.

His Majesty left Tokyo by the 80 inio, accompanied by Prin, miti Aragawa General Prince Kanin, Admiral Kato, Vice-Minister for the Navy, Marshal Marquis Yamagata, Coust Ma'angata,

Admiral Saito, Minister for the Navy, General Terauchi, Minister for War, and Mr. Mateunba, Minister for Agriculture and Commerce. The Emperor and party arrived at Yokosuka station about 11 o'clock, where his Majesty was welcomed by the Crown Prince and other dignitaries. HM Majesty then drove to the Port Admiralty; and- took time there.

Among the ships in port were the new battleships Kashima and Katori, t'a. Sagami (Into Pireulity, Soya (late Varyig), Suwa (late Pobieda), Suzuya (lato Novik), Chiayin, and a number of cruiser, transports, duitroysis and torpedo boats.

His Majesty visited the new battleships X- skima and Kefori, which were tastefully and brilliantly decorated," and also inspected, the captured war-ships.

BRITISH CONGRATULATI NE The Japan Chronicle of 17th lost, saya şı Lord Tweedmonth, First Lord of the British Admiralty, dispatched a telegram to Admiral Saito, Minister for the Navy, through the Naval Attaché to the British Embassy in Tokyo congratulating the Government on the success ful launch of the Satruma.. Admiral Santo immediately forwarded = cordial acknowledg-

ment.

The telegram from the first T'ord of the' Ad- miralty reads In the name of the Brigh Board of the Admiralty, I beg to tender the most sincere congratulations on the launch of your great battleship the Sattuma" and hope that the historical glory, of the Imperial Japan ese Navy will be proudly maintained by the new vessel."

An article in the visakƒ'on the launch of the battleship may be taken as fairly representing the general feeling; of the nation: on the oc casion.

Hon. Mr. Hewett minuted: The surroundings of the well are reported to be very unsatis-

The launch, says the Osaka" journal, factory, I gather from this the water may be marks a new spock in the history of ship. contaminated through the soil, and that the building in Japan. This tremendous vessel covering over this well will not necessarily has been built in the, short space" of 'keep the water pure. Unless stronger argu: | year and a half, and effons- mide by the ments are brought forward in favour of the well | authorities to accomplish so buge a task in being left open it should be closed..

The Hon. the Registrar General minuted: This well should be protected from contamina tion by being covered over and fitted witha pump.

OVER CROWDING.

The monthly report of over-crowding for the month of October showed that during that

MEETING OR JUSTICES.

27th ult

w

sech short time must be greater than can be imagined. The Japanese nation, which falt reassured on the tale arrival of the. Kashima and Katori, from England, have had their confidence still further increased by the succes ful launch of the Satsuma. This confidence is not created by the mere fact that the new battleship is to be equipped with as aArmAMODI equal to that of the now British, Dreadnought, or because the. Satsuma is some 1,300 tops heavier than the:British ship, but becausartbe Japanese have now demonstrated their ability to build such powerful warships themselves in their own country,

The Japanese nation bas aspired for a long time to independence as to the constraction of abips of war, and this aspiration has been materially intensified by the Russo-Japanese war. Had that war continued until now, saya the Arabi, the Kashima and Kalori would, baya been detained in England; and if the know. ledge of shipbuilding and the building, ac commodation in Japan had remained, in, ita primitive state, the final victory of Japan could not be assured.". It is for this reason that every Power has its own complete ship-building, ac- commodation, The necessity for this becomes greater when it is remembered that there are many secrets in this construction of warships that must be kept from the knowledge of other Powers. By the launch of the Satruma it' is evident that this drawback in Japan has bee largely remedied. There can be so done upst many improvements have been applied" (ott)

The Shanghai Timer of 21st last says:-Wo regret to say that a very and fatality occurred in the Whangpoo River at 11.15 p.m. op Mon. day night, when Mr. J. B. Clark, second officer of the s.s. Volmit, fëll-into the water from the month 801 persons were found on premises in wharf at the New Dock, and lost his life, two excess of those allowed to be there and ware companione who were with him at the time, sen

ejected. bad a narrow escape from the same fate. The Mr. Humphreys minuted: tam strongly of opinion that the movements of the ejected Shortly before 11 o'clock on the night in tenants should be watched and noted with a question three foreigners, one of whom was G. view to ascertaining the economic effect on the Skillen, a constable in the Municipal Police Colony. Force, another named J. B. Glark, the second Mr. Lau Chi Pak minuted: Have steps been officer of the steamer Volwis, lying near the Intaken to ascertain where those ejected have se ternational Dock, and a man named Futher moved to? ford, second engineer of the steamer Nerits, The President said: The Police might assist lying at the New Dock, took a sampan at the us in this matter. Bwo Jetty, in order in go to their respective The Superintendent of Police reports the ships. Rutherford suggested that as the Voluis following cases have been dealt with since the was lying such a long way down stream, it last meeting of the Council-Summonses: would be better for Clark to go on board the Breach of agreement, 1; Debi, 2; Encroaching #arits and remain there till morning. To on property, 1; Assault, 1. Summary arrests: this proposal Clark agreed and the party:

A meeting of His Majesty's Justices of the ft, 2; Being in possession of stolen pro-set out and duly fanded at the New Dock. party, 21 Being in possession of housebreaking Clark and Rutherford, were the first to Peace was held at the Magistracy, this after as she was blown wall astern of bei auchors..

implements, i Being in possession of a bomb leave the sampan and they were walking noon, Mr. F. A. Hazeland presiding, to con Ernest H. Grainger, chief officer of the

to the danger of the public.

along the wharf, when they missed. Skillen, sider an application from one Samuel Jones for Heungshan, sword, said We left the wharf

General business was transacted.

Tarting found they looked back, and as they publican's licence to sell by retail intoxicat at 8 am on the 18th September, We had alx

did so, Clark stumbled against a heavy piece ing liquors on premises, numbered 4 European passengers, 543 Chinese passengers,

of timber which was lying across the barf Praye East, under the sign of "The Praya and 57 crew. The weather was fine but cloudy, looking like rain; the barometer was

s of toppled over and plunged into the icy waters o high and steady. Shortly after. 9 .m. the out

the river. As soon as Skillen and Rutherford Hindsley (Captain apperintendent of police), recent fighting. The Japanese, however, con

cludes our Osaka contemporary, should not weather began to get worse, the ship began

beard the splash and ascertained what had A. D. Melbourne (second police magistrate), content with this, but must steadily improve to roll and pitch, and I then proceeded to UNDER date Shangbai, Nov. 15, Messrs.

Tappened, they jumped into the river and an and R. H. A. Craig (assistant superintendent their navy is the present age of progress, when get the typhoon doors ready for shipping. But Wheelock & Co. report: Although we cADRON BETWEEN $600 and $700 damigo was done is deavoured to rescue Clark, who was getting of the Victoria. Gaol), finding this impossible, owing to the roughness say that rateshare dropped as yet, there are signs fire which broke out in a baker's shop at No. carried away rapidly. They did not succeed in The application was put before the meeting the best ship of to-day falls to second raak of the sea on the weather side, I asked the of their weakening owing to the near closing, Chiu Lung Lane, Wanchai, early on Sunday reaching him, however, and very nearly got and as there was no police objection it was master to make a lee for me, which he did by of the Northern Ports and the falling of the morning. The fire was caused by the over drowned themselves in the effort. It was with granted.

The next application read was from ons P. THE estimated cost of repairs to the British turning the ship toward the wind: Shortly water in the Yangtze River, which preclades heating of an oven, which set several baskets the utmost dimiculty that they reached the shore after this the master sent for me and told me to almost all but the river boats from going up of biscuits on fire, and the firmes spread to the whence Rutherford proceeded to his ship and Wissing for publican's licence to, sell by re-steamer Montsagls, from Victoria, which ran stand by the suchors, giving we orders. that, to-Hankow; this is bound to throw some ceilings. The brigades from No. 2: Folice Skillen crossed, in his dripping clothes, to tail intoxicating liquors on premises numbered are in Hongkong barbour during the bur when I let go the starboard anchor, to roer to tonnage on the market, add to which matters Station and from the Central turned out, and Shanghai and reported, the occurrence to the 266-266, Queen's Road Central, underike sign cleaps of September, 18th last, is $102,000, ex glasive of stum frames, and, propeller. The 15 fathome, and then let go, the part anchors are not so brilliant in the South, where aiready | with one length of hose they managed to con: Police Station. The River, Police were.in. of "The German Tavern. which did, veering to go fathoms on the several boats have begun to lay-up and we are sine the names to that building. After about formed'id turn, but to far we believe, the body around the sonicator as mated

There was also no police objection in this estimated cost of repairs to the Britishing Starrení from Manila for Royal Rosásy, la, best anchor, and 75 on the port. They ap - dimid we have to look forward to a very dull | two hours-work the fire was extinguished, of the unfortunate, young man has not been peared to java equal strain and were, brosdien i time forthe next few months,--

$13,000–45, 24 Chrmisk The first floor alone'was guttad,

That concluded the mesilög.

Hazeland.

· (Signed), W. H. WALLACE,

Vice-Chairman, By Order,

C. BERKULEY Mitchell,

Secretary, K.M.C.

and before he could recover his balance, he Holso present:-Messrs. F. 1. | Satsuma from observations minde daring.

There were:

Lo-morrow,

the