10,660. So that these dealers run a considerable risk in giving credit at all?-Yes.
10,661. Do you think a large firm, which is engaged both in the shop business and in the fish-curing business, [Page 260] has a great hold over the fishermen, so as to secure their services for the fishing season?-That depends entirely upon the place and the circumstances. If the firm has control over the men, from having a lease of the lands on which they live, they must necessarily have a great influence over them.
10,662. But may such a control not be obtained merely by them having, a number of the men in debt?-I believe it may.
10,663. Are you aware of such control having been exercised by fish-merchants in Shetland?-I have heard about it, but it is not within my own knowledge. My own experience has been that indebted men and bound men are the most difficult men to deal with, and that a clear independent man is the man easiest to deal with in every way.
10,664. Is there any other general statement which you wish to make with regard to the state of Shetland?-I don't remember any. I would mention with regard to the Buness estate, that we have offered leases to a great number of the tenants, but they don't seem inclined to take them.
10,665. Are you acquainted with the rules which have been laid down on the neighbouring estate of Major Cameron?-Yes.
10,666. Do you know how far the tenants have been adopting them?-I believe they are working into them gradually.
10,667. The lease in that case is rather a short one, is it not?-I think it is too short for an agricultural lease, especially with the obligations they are under.
10,668. Do you mean with regard to peats and scattalds?-No; I mean especially the obligations they are under with regard to improvements.
10,669. There are obligations to make certain improvements, and to uphold and improve the houses?-I believe so.