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New Zealand Herald and Auckland Gazette, Volume I, Issue 54, 23 February 1842, Page 2

Auckland, 22nd Febr., 1842. Mr. Editor, Sir,—On Monday last I summoned to the Police Office a man named Domingo Lopos for deserting my vessel, having proved the case against him, Mr. Mathew, the Chief Pol.ce Ma- ► gistrate, decided that Domingo Lopos should immediately repair on board the vessel and resume his duties there, and for not doing so, he was to be imprisoned and forfeit the amount of his wages then due. The man, although ordered as ahove, refused to go on board, and on the following day summonsed myself for the amount of wages due for his prior services. The Police Magistrate " mirabile dictu" decided that the man was entitled to his wages, and that the amount was to be paid f rthwith, and also that he was entitled to his discharge. Is it not singular, Sir, that on one day Mr. Mathew should decide that the man was in the wrong, and order him to resume his duties on board the vessel, and upon the next day decide that>the man was entitled to his wages and his discharge. Surely, Mr. Editor, a circumstance of this nature calls for a further investigation. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your most obedient servant, ALEX. FINLAY.