The report of the referee may be excepted to by either party to the action or to the proceedings before the referee, in like manner and with like effect as in ordinary cases. If a lien creditor is absent from the Virgin Islands, or his residence therein is unknown, and that fact appears by affidavit, the court may by order direct that service of the notice may be made upon his agent or attorney of record or by publication thereof for such time and in such manner as the order may prescribe.