Letter (copy) : Crew

              Handed by Mr. M. Arenaya 20.3.40
Copy.
s.s. "Zephyros" 
Barry Docks. March 12th, 1940.
Messrs. A. Lusi Ltd., 
London, E.C.3.
Dear Sirs,
CREW.
It is only to-day that I am in a relative peace of mind to submit you my statement in relation to the Spanish Officers and crew you sent me from London.
These men arrived here on the night of the 4th inst., and have met me the next morning. As the old crew were leaving the ship on the 6th I arranged with them to remain inshore until then. They did so, and on the 6th having come on board informed the Officer in charge that unless the ship provided them with mattresses, blankets, bedsheets etc., shall not join.
On hearing this, I met them and explained to them that in Greek ships the Officers and men have their own bedding, I agreed however, to communicate with you in this regard and satisfy their demands if I could obtain your authorisation.
I telephoned to your Mr. Lusi, who gave me permission to buy the necessary, but when I informed the men that you were agreeable to the above, the two engineers raised another question. They insisted on having one Greaser each for their watch in the engine.
I explained and proved to them that according to the relative Greek Law I cannot take any Greaser, and proposed to arrange with my Chief Engineer to assign them to the same watch. This was also rejected and then the Spanish 2nd Officer and the others but five whose names are given below, told me that they are not joining the ship.
I pointed out to them the possible consequences and they in return told me that they are men enough to bear them.
Since the day they left I trying to find substitutes of these men and shall report immediately my crew is complete.
Sincerely yours,
(SIGNED)  J. MARATOS.
Master.
P.T.O.