looked & previous to the accident I considered the chain sufficient to hold a larger ship I was told that there was now a heavier sea running where the Geffrard lay than either at Lockville or the Lighthouse. I consider Geographe Bay perfectly safe in the winter months but ships must be extremely well found in ground tackle. I consider the anchorage to be thorough good holding ground. I left no special instructions with the Chief Officer on leaving the ship he knew what my wishes were and acted the same as if I had been there I do not know whether the heavy chain was tested Had the second anchor been on the bottom with 40 fathoms out I consider it would have parted just the same The ship sheered a great deal as much as 4 or 5 points. A very strong current runs in the Bay during blowing weather When I left the ship the Barometer was at 29.90 it falls to 29.60 before any bad weather be apprehended There was no indication of bad weather when I left the ship.
Taken and sworn
Before us
| 7 July 1875 — | Sd. J S Harris Sd.„ J G Bussell |
George Allen sworn oath
I am chief mate of the 'Geffrard' Sunday 13th 1875 5 a.m. Calm with a heavy swell from the North 6 a.m.; breeze sprung up from the N.E & reeled round to north & commenced to freshen put riding tackle on the chain 10 a.m. blew a perfect
