THE PENGUIN MISHAP.

Gisborne Times, Volume IX, Issue 831, 4 March 1903, Page 2

THE PENGUIN MISHAP.

CAPTAIN AND OFFICERS ACQUITTED OF ALL BLAME.

(Per Press Association.) WELLINGTON, last night

Dr McArthur, S.M., sitting with Capta’ins YVaddilovc and .Smith, as assessors, held an inquiry to-day into the circumstances under which the Union Company’s steamer Penguin grounded off Waihi Point, Jaek26th. Captain McArthur, master son’s Head, on the night, of February of the vessel, deposed that lie ran fnto thick fog a t 11 -DR p.m.. He immediately gave the order to stop,and was preparing to drop anchor when the vessel gently glided or. to the ledge, of kelp-covered rocks. There were five fathoms of Water astern, and three and a-half forward. The vessel was fast, just amidships. It was .impossible to see anything at the time. The vessel came off at high Water, six hours later. The fog had come down tuddenly off the hills. Up til! its appearance the weather had been clear. Navigation of the Sounds was difficult, trying, and hazardous at night, as there were no lights.

Corroborative evidence was given by members of the crew.

The Court found that the mishap was due to a. dense fog enveloping the ship at, a critical moment. The Court acquitted the captain and officers of any blame whatever, and considered their conduct after ilie mishap worthy of all praise.