10,484. You think that is often a better course to take than running for the land in a storm?-Yes; the summer breezes are not very long.
10,845. But do you do that in a winter storm?-In winter we do not go very far off the land in our small boats.
10,846. But in a winter storm with one of the large boats you are to try, you think you may run off to sea and be comparatively safe?- I think so.
<Adjourned>.
[Page 265]
LERWICK: MONDAY, JANUARY 22, 1872
WILLIAM ROBERTSON, examined.
10,847. You are cashier and principal clerk to Mr. Joseph Leask, merchant, shipowner, and agent in Lerwick?-I am.
10,848. You have been for nineteen years in his business, during which time you have been employed in shipping and discharging seamen, engaging and settling with fishermen, and employing and paying hundreds of labouring people?-I have.
10,849. You are also fully acquainted with the barter system as it prevails in Shetland?-I am.