15,534. Do harpooneers and boat-steerers get a higher wage, and are they more sure of getting a berth than ordinary seamen?-Yes, they get higher wages, and are more in demand.
15,535. On the occasion you spoke of, when you went in the 'Camperdown' with Captain Bruce, it was to the captain that you owed your engagement, and not to the agent?-Yes.
15,536. If the agent had had his own way, would you have been engaged?-I would not.
15,537. Had you an account with the agent at that time?-No, I had some more money to get from him.
15,538. Had he not paid you up the whole of the money that was due to you on the sealing voyage?-No; there was a second payment of oil-money which I had to get.
15,539. Is it quite understood among the whalers, that when their money is paid to them at the Custom House they have to go down to the shops and pay it to the agents?-Yes; they quite understand that they have to clear the agent's books.
15,540. I suppose a man would not think of letting his account stand any longer?-No.
15,541. What would be the consequence if he did that?-I cannot say.
15,542. Would he get a berth next year?-He might get a berth next year, but it is best to have the books cleared.
15,543. But suppose a man had other accounts due, would he have to go and pay the agent first, and let his other accounts wait?-I don't know about that.