20. He should study the charter under which he is operating—if under charter. Is it a "time charter" or a "trip charter"? He will be largely responsible for the carrying out of his owner's part of the contract. If abroad he may sign the charter party, as agent of the owner.
21. He is the accredited representative of the owner. He has the authority to act contrary to the wishes of the ship's agents, when he is satisfied that such action is to the best interests of his owners; he must be prepared to bear full responsibility for his actions.
22. He is responsible to his owners for the safety of his vessel, whether he is on board or not.
23. He cannot delegate his authority, or name his successor to command, without the consent of his owners—unless physically unfit for duty, and then he has the authority to retain command and delegate such duties as he may be unable to perform himself.
24. He is always in command of and responsible for the safety of the vessel, whether he is using the services of a pilot, or otherwise, and his station, while in pilot waters under way, is on the bridge.
25. He has the authority to take the vessel from the pilot's control at any time, when in his opinion her safety demands such action. The use of the pilot indicates that the most careful measures are being taken to prevent accident, and for the protection of the insurance underwriters. Under such conditions, the taking over of the vessel from the pilot is weighted with the fullest responsibility.
26. He is responsible for the correct keeping of the wage account of the crew.
27. He is responsible for the safe carriage of mail entrusted to the vessel.
28. He is responsible for the acceptance on board of anyone except his crew, or regularly accredited passengers. He is accountable to the port authorities of the first port visited, for the presence of the same.
29. He must see that the legal requirements safeguarding the carriage of live stock are complied with.