WRECK OF THE VESTRIS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXV, Issue 20115, 28 November 1928, Page 11

WRECK OF THE VESTRIS.

EVIDENCE IN NEW YORK.

STEAMER'S AID DECLINED. WIRELESS LOG PRODUCED. Australian nnel N.%. Press Association. (Received November 27, 7.5 p.m.) NEW YORK, Nov. 26. The main inquiry info tho loss of the British liner Vcstris, off tho coast of Virginia, was continued to-day before Mr. Frank O'Neill, United Stales Commissioner. With him as advisers wero the British and American nautical experts, Captain Ilenry McConkey and E. P. Jesstip. Mr. Charles H. Tuttlc, Attorney for New York South, again conducted the proceedings.

The Marconi International Marine Communication Company's radio log of all tho messages dealing with the Vcstris was produced. These showed that tho late Captain Carey, master of tho lost liner, sent a message to tlio captain of the C'cdric at 10.56 a.m. on tho Monday, saying: "Wo do not need your help." This although Captain Carey had sent an S.O.S. call at 9.58 a.m.

The captain of the Ccdric replied at 10.50 a.m. that ho was 180 miles away and would go to tho assistance of the Vcstris if no other vessels were nearer. It was then that Captain Carey declined help. It was further disclosed hv the log that at 8.37 a.m. Captain Carey had wirelessed (q the steamer Kcdwick Hall: "I'leaso stand by. Wo may need your help." It is assumed that Captain Carey declined the aid of the Ccdric becauso lie believed lie could secure help more quickly from other sources. The commanding officier of the United States battleship Wyoming said the position of the Vcstris as sent out by that vessel was incorrect by 37 miles.