Versions of s. 167(b)

crews or single seamen may, if the master thinks fit, be engaged before a shipping master in the same manner as they are required to be engaged for foreign-going ships, but if the engagement is not so made, the master shall, before the ship puts to sea, if practicable, and if not, as soon after as possible, cause the agreement to be read and explained to each seaman, and the seaman shall thereupon sign the agreement in the presence of a witness, and the witness shall attest the signature;