906. Was there any particular reason at that time for the petition being got up?-There was plenty of reason.
907. Was there any more reason for it then than at any other time? Was there any threatened expulsion, or any strict enforcement of the obligation to fish?-If my memory serves me right it was immediately after we had been asked to sign an obligation in Messrs. Hay's office to pay for our sons' labour.
908. But you said that was eight years ago?-Yes; about that time.
909. Was the memorial not sent up within the last three or four years?-No; it was longer than that, to the best of my recollection. Our petition was got up very shortly after we were wanted to sign the obligation.
910. Did you complain much at that time about the herring fishery?-I believe some of the men did but am not a herring fisher.
911. What is the usual amount of rent that you pay in Burra?-It will run from £6 to £2, 10s., or perhaps as high as £7.
912. That rent is paid for a small piece of ground?-Yes.
913. Is there a right to the pasture in the scattald besides?-Yes.
914. Your scattalds in Burra are not extensive or of much value?- No; they are of very little value.
915. Do you know of any other agreement having been signed by the Burra men, or asked from them, except that one eight years ago?-I have heard of another, but it was before I came to the island.