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JOURNAL
HALIFAX DISASTER RECORD OFFICE
CHRONICLE BUILDING
HALIFAX N.S.
February 4, 1918

[cut offf] ments and intended movements of vessels in the harbor.

10. In dealing with the C. X. O.'s. negligence in not ensuring the efficient carrying out of traffic regulations by the pilots, we have to report that the evidence is far from satisfactory that he ever took any efficient steps to bring the notice of the Captain Superintendent neglect on the part of the pilots.

11. In view of the allegations of disobedience of the C. X. O.'s. orders by pilots we do not consider such disobedience was the proximate cause of collision.

12. It would seem that the pilots of Halifax attempt to vary the well known Rules of the Road and in this connection we think Plot Renner, in charge of an American tramp steamer on the morning of the collision, deserving of censure.

13. That the regulations governing the traffic in Halifax Harbor in force since the war were prepared by the competent Naval authorities; that such traffic regulations do not specifically deal with the handling of ships laden with explosives, and we have to recommend that such competent authority forthwith take up and make specific regulations dealing with such subject; we realize that whilst the war goes on under present conditions explosives must move, but in view of what has happened we strongly recommend that the subject be dealt with specifically by the proper authorities.

Given under my hand, at the City of Halifax, this 4th day of February, A. D. 1918.

Concurred in by the Nautical Assessors
respecting all Nautical matters
(Sgd) L. A. DEMERS F.R.A.S.
WALTER HOSE, Act. Captain, R.C.N.
(Sgd) DRYSDALE, L. J. A.

Witness Released

After the Court's report had been read in answer to Mr. C. J. Burchell K. C., counsel for the Imo, Mr. Justice Drysdale said there was not necessity of further detention in the city of witnesses who had given evidence in the matter.

A Coincidence

A coincidence in connection with the collision is that Mr. C. J. Burchell, who was acting as counsel, for the Norwegian ship is the son of a Canadian who was honored by the King of Norway about ten years ago by being made a Knight of the Order of St. Olaf.

Mr. Burchell's father who is Mr. J. E. Burchell of Sydney was over forty years manager of the Royal Bank of Canada at the place for the greater part of this time was Norwegian Vice Council. On retiring from this office the King of Norway conferred this honor upon to him in recognition of his services.