THE KNIGHT TEMPLAR'S CREW.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 11658, 15 February 1900, Page 2

THE KNIGHT TEMPLAR'S CREW.

WELLINGTON, February 14. The Government are advised that notwithstanding that the articles signed by the' Lascars on board the Knight Templar have expired, they are compelled by a clause in. the articles to return with her to Bombay ■whether tho vessel goes direct or by way of the Cape. This information has been sent to the shipping master nt Lyttelton, ■with instructions to inform the crew. CHUISTCHURCH,- February 11 .. At the Magistrate's Court at Lyttelton to-day 48 Lascars, the crew of the steamer Knight Templar, the troopship of the third contingent, were charged with absenting themselves without leave. It appeared the men wished to be returned to India direct instead of going to Durban first. The magistrate said that they would be sentenced to:one month's imprisonment, to be put on board when the vessel sailed, and 'to pay the expenses caused by their absence. He added that if the men went on board at once the sentence would not take effect. The Lascars agreed to return on board, except one, who appeared to be the ringleader, and he was sent to gaol. ,

Colonel Webb has received a telegram notifying that free railway passes may be granted to all adult volunteers to Lyttelton on the eamo terms and conditions as laid down for the . second contingent. Applications for passes, with mimes of officers and non-coms, going.' must be sent by captains of companies to Colonel Webb so as to reach him not later than 10 a.m. on Friday. The Mayor of Pra-t Chalmers telegraphed to the Mayor of Chrhtclim-ch yesterday as follows:—'" Snrry can not be with you. Citizens accord third 'contingent their hearty good wishes, and feel confident.that they will keep up the prestige of. I\ Te\v Zealand, and always be to the fore."