A MUTINOUS CREW.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXX, Issue 3541, 4 June 1912, Page 2

A MUTINOUS CREW.

STORY OF THE BARQUE WHINLATTER.

STORES BROACHED AND DE-

ST RQ YE'D.

CAPTAIN’S PARLOUS PLIGHT

[PEE PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

AUCKLAND, June 3. From details supplied from the storekeeper at Ahipara Bay, the following story is to hand concerning the presence of the Norwegian barque Whinlatter there:— About three months ago the Whinlatter, with a scratch craw ef 18 of all nationalities, left Rio in ballast for New Caledonia to load ere for Glasgow. Right from the start four men refused duty, and were confined and put on short rations. They demanded grog, and were eventually given a few bo Ales, of port, which was the only kind of alcoholic liquor on board. They still refused duty, and the rest of the crew appeared to be in sympathy with the malcontents.

It is alleged that stores were broached, .and that what the crew could not eat was destroyed and thrown overboard. It is also alleged that some of the me if pulled out the pings in the oil casks, leaving: the vessel short of oil and without sidelights. A severe hurricane was experienced just after crossing the equator, and the whole crew refused to go aloft to furl the stormsails, which were consequently blown to ribbons. About a fortnight ago the Whiiilatter fetched up outside Manukau Heads. The captain signalled for a pilot, but,was warned off by the lighthouse keeper, as the bar was dangerous at the.time.

He had subsequently anchored at Ahipara, because lie caw houses there, and be wanted stores. He got these from the storekeeper, and as'ked the Maoris, who went out to the vessel in a whaleboat not to take any of the crew ashore.

Nevertheless, six. of the crew rowed ashore in one of the ship’s boats, which was afterwards found stove-in on the rocks. It is said that three of the deserters are working at Hokianga and three at the Awanui wireless station.

The captain told Mr. Houston that he could rely only on the mate, the sailmaker, and his own 14-year-old son to help him to work the ship. The rest of the crew refused to go further until the six deserters were replaced. A cablegram for instructions has been sent to the owners in Norway, and when a reply comes the ship will be signalled by bonfire from the slicreIt is believed that in her present position the Whin latter is exposed to the full force of the open sea and awesterly gale, and is in some danger of being driven ashore. • Captain Jansen has his wife and child aboard with him.