Extraordinary Damages
p. 41 · Read in the full issue
Claim In Tahiti
AN extraordinary case (a claim for damages) has developed in Tahiti as the result of an in accurate press report. Defendant is Captain F. I. L. Barnes, an Aus tralian, manager and part-owner of Les Tropiques hotel.
As recently reported in PIM, the Messageries Marit i m e s liner Tahitien, when clearing Papeete Pass, suffered an engine break-down which caused the vessel to take a sheer as she neared the inner entrance. Smart handling by the pilot, including the quick dropping of an anchor, probably saved the vessel from grounding.
Apparently Captain Barnes, who represents some overseas news papers, accepted current reports without checking and cabled over seas a statement that the liner had grounded. This caused inquiries by an insurance company and by relatives of passengers. As a re sult Messageries Maritime Line is suing Captain Barnes, claiming damages of one million francs.
Papeete. May 24.
The court to-day heard the case against Captain Barnes. Decision reserved. r Travelling by the Gilbert and Ellice Government vessel Kiakia, Mr. P. G. Roberts has taken up duty as District Officer, Line Islands, and Manager of th 3 Christmas Island plantation.