The concluding stages of the prolonged litigation instituted by the crews of two Russian Volunteer Fleet strs. the Erivan and Astrakhan, against the local agent, for alleged non-payment of wages were marked by a stormy session at the. Mixed Court on Wednesday. Owing, it was stated, to the typhoon weather preventing several members of the Erivan's crew from coming to court, the case had to be adjourned, but it is expected that the next hearing will see the close of the proceedings, which have lasted over a period of 18 months. Counsel in the case were: Mr. M. L. Hartigan, for the Erivan's crew; Mr. Zvergoraff, for the Astrakhan's crew; Dr. A. O. Fischer, for the present agent of the Fleet; and Mr. A. Ting for the former Imperialist agent.
The boatswain on the Erivan, L. Veigmann, gave particulars about extra back pay that he alleged he should have received. This was demanded in view of a subsequent contract stipulating the deduction of a certain percentage of his wages every six months.
Mr. Hartigan—How much is the total deducted and how much do you claim?
The Assessor (Mr. Ivanoff)—This is a matter outside the hands of the agents. Such reimbursement can only be settled by the owners, Dr. Fischer—All this is absolutely immaterial.
Mr. Hartigan—We are making a claim for wages.
Dr. Fischer—It has nothing to do with this petition for wages.
Mr. Hartigan—I make the state. ment again. This gentleman making a claim for wages. His contract with the fleet has expired.
After the vociferations of three interpreters had died down, counsel went on to remark that the statement he had put in gave the whole amount due tchis clients He hoped the Court would take judice ial notice of the fact that these men were severing their connexion with the Fleet. Everything that was due to them ought to be paid now.
The Assessor—If the plaintiffs wish to lodge this other claim, they must file a petition. The present petition is only for ordinary wages.
Mr. Hartigan—Will the Court deny justice to these men for the difference of ai few figures?
The Assessor—Yes, Dr. Fischer—It would only mean that they would get about one more year's pay.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.