1195

13FED.CAS.

13FED.CAS.—76

13FED.CAS.—77

INDEX.

[The references are to pages. The asterisk (*) indicates that the case has been reversed.]

ABATEMENT AND REVIVAL.
At common law, all actions founded on contracts, express or implied, survive, but not actions of tort. 1054, 1156
In the absence of an act of congress providing for a survival or adopting a state act, an action for a penalty does not survive. 1056
An action of trespass on the case for harboring runaway slaves survives, under Act Ohio Feb. 14, 1824, as an action for injury to property. 1054
A suit in rem in admiralty, where the claimant appeared and gave bond with sureties for the value of the vessel, does not abate by his death. 326
On an appeal from a judgment for libelant entered after the death of the claimant, the court ordered that his death be suggested on the record, and that the judgment be against the sureties. 326
Accord and Satisfaction.
See, “Payment”; “Release and Discharge.”
ADMIRALTY.
See, also, “Affreightment”; “Average”; “Bills of Lading”: “Bottomry and Respondentia”; “Charter Parties”; “Collision”; “Demurrage”: “Marine Insurance”; “Maritime Liens”; “Pilots”; “Pleading in Admiralty”; “Practice in Admiralty”; “Salvage”; “Seamen”; “Shipping”; “Towage”; “Wharves.”
Jurisdiction—In general.
The jurisdiction depends not on the character of the parties, but on the subject-matter, whether maritime or not. 559
An action in rem will lie without arrest of the property proceeded against, or its presence within the territorial jurisdiction. 1012
In such a case, where want of jurisdiction does not appear on the face of the libel, personal appearance without objection is equivalent to attachment. 1012
—Persons and property.
The court will decline jurisdiction of controversies between foreign masters and crews unless the voyage has been broken up or the seamen unlawfully discharged. 37
Ordinarily, seamen belonging to a foreign ship are not allowed to sue for wages without the consent of the commercial representative of their country. 440
Foreign seamen should show good reason for not obtaining approval of their country's commercial representative. 37
Our admiralty courts will entertain jurisdiction in rem to enforce a bottomry bond executed in a foreign country between subjects of a foreign country when the vessel is within their jurisdiction. 559
Flat boats and coal barges used to transport merchandise down stream, and broken up and sold for lumber at the end of their voyage, are not subject to admiralty jurisdiction. 950
Work done in fitting a vessel for navigation after the hull is launched, where it was loaded with flour for ballast, and towed to the place where the work was done,held done in building the vessel. 89
—Rights and controversies.
Admiralty has jurisdiction of suits in favor of material men. 564
Admiralty has jurisdiction of a claim for damages for refusal to accept boats built under contract with the master of the vessel. *45
Admiralty has no jurisdiction where the contract of shipment is made on land, and the damage sued for is done in port. 991
Admiralty has jurisdiction of a suit by the mortgagee of a vessel after condition broken to reclaim possession from a purchaser at a sheriff's sale under a judgment against the mortgagor. 426
Admiralty has no jurisdiction of a suit in rem for the foreclosure of a mortgage on a vessel, nor of one to try the title or right of property in a vessel. 686
In a possessory action by a mortgagee to recover possession of a vessel, the accounts between the mortgagor and the mortgagee cannot be adjusted. 428
—Torts.
Admiralty has jurisdiction in rem in cases of marine torts where the person or thing is within the territory, and may issue a foreign attachment to arrest the choses in action of the offending party. 72
Procedure.
Admiralty has not jurisdiction over every floating structure on navigable rivers, and the pleadings should contain an averment to show jurisdiction. 950
The power of granting a review, by a court of admiralty, is not limited to the term at which the original decree was passed. 363
The state laws of evidence are not applied in admiralty, and interested witnesses are not excluded except in certain cases of necessity. 7
ADVERSE POSSESSION.
See, also, “Ejectment”; “Real Property.”
Where a person's occupancy of land is necessary to the performance of his contract with the government, he will not be considered to have held the same adversel. 235
Where one enters into land having title, his seisin is not bounded by his actual possession, but is coextensive with his title; otherwise where he enters without title. 235
AFFREIGHTMENT.
See, also, “Admiralty”; “Bills of Lading”; “Carriers”; “Charter Parties”; “Shipping.”
Ostensible ownership and present possession and authority are sufficient to give the right to bind the ship by a contract of affreightment. 215 1196
The shipper has no right to demand the cargo at an intermediate port, without paying full freight, whether it be damaged or not. 1105
For injury caused by a rain at night to cement carried on deck while the canal boat was waiting to unload,held, that she was liable where she took no means to protect it. 337
Damages to cargo of coffee, from Sumatra and Java to the United States,held, on the evidence, due to dampness and sweat in the hold incident to the voyage, and not to negligence. 89
Vesselheld not liable for delay to lighters in taking heavy timber aboard caused by smallness of vessel's hatch and between decks, where the kind of timber was not specified in the contract. 64
In estimating damages for a failure to deliver the goods, expenses of the shipper in hunting up the property and in defending his title in court are not allowed. 215
APPEAL AND ERROR.
An appeal to the circuit court will be allowed from a decision of the district judge discharging on habeas corpus a prisoner held under an illegal sentence of the district court. 1175
An action of debt to recover a penalty is a “civil cause” (Act 1789, § 9), in which a writ of error lies from the district to the circuit court. 267
In a suit for an assault and battery on the high seas, no appeal can be sustained from a decree of the district court unless there be an ad damnum laid in the libel exceeding $50. 539
An inferior court of admiralty, notwithstanding an appeal, has control over the property, subject of the suit, and may order its sale where perishable. 1058
The authority of the district court in cases pending on appeal extends only to the protection of parties against unreasonable delay. A motion to dismiss must be made in the circuit court. 1150
An appeal taken to the superior court of the territory of Arkansas without the affidavit prescribed by law must be dismissed. 346
If a term intervenes between the issuing of the writ of error and filing the record and writ, plaintiff in error will be non prossed. 347
Where the judgment on the whole record is right, it will not be disturbed, though errors were committed. 770
ARBITRATION AND AWARD.
See, also, “Reference.”
The award must decide the whole matter submitted, and be certain, final, and conclusive thereon. 321
ARMY AND NAVY.
A person drafted under Act March 3, 1863, is in the custody of the provost marshal from the time he regularly reports for duty. 98
The board of enrollment has no power, after publication of its decision declaring a person exempt on the election of his widowed mother, to revise the same. 98
Arrest.
See, “Bail”; “Criminal Law”; “Execution”; “Extradition”; “False Imprisonment”; “Malicious Prosecution.”
Assignment for Benefit of Creditors.
See, “Bankruptcy.”
Associations.
See “Benevolent Societies”; “Building and Loan Associations”; “Corporations”; “Exchanges.”
ASSUMPIST.
See, also, “Contracts.”
A balance remaining due from the due increase and sale of property received as security for a debt, and to be accounted for, may be recovered in an action at law under a count for money had and received. 594
The person who obtains possession of the slave of another is responsible for hire, although the slave ran away before expiration of the time, and the bailee be liable for his loss. 344
Where one gets possession of chattels tortiously, the owner may waive the tort, and sue in assumpsit for the value or the proceeds. 344
Or, where they have been returned by the trespasser, the owner may waive the trespass, and recover in assumpsit for the time of their detention. 344
Although the contract offered in evidence vary from that stated in the special count, the receipt for the purchase money at the bottom of the contract is evidence on the money counts. 311
ATTACHMENT.
See, also, “Bankruptcy”; “Garnishment.”
The wages of a seaman are not subject to attachment. 667
The affidavit, in the territory of Arkansas, may be made before the clerks of the circuit court. 309
A judgment in a proceeding by attachment is erroneous where the service of the writ does not conform to the statute. 309
The attachment first served is entitled to priority of payment. 745
ATTORNEY AND CLIENT.
A client can change his solicitor whenever he pleases, subject to the solicitor's lien. But the lien does not extend so far as to enable the solicitor to stay or delay the proceedings in the suit. 151
A clandestine and collusive settlement by the parties out of court is not binding upon the attorney, where no provision is made to satisfy his costs. 728
AVERAGE.
The law of contribution by general average cannot be extended to the case of the cutting of a cable by a vessel at anchor to avoid impending collision with a vessel adrift. 702
BAIL.
See, also, “Principal and Surety.”
When required of defendant in an action on a note. 745
An affidavit by plaintiff that the sum charged is just and true, to the best of his knowledge and belief, is not sufficient to hold to bail. 919
Special bail refused to be ordered in debt on a replevin bond, although there had been judgment for a return, etc. 533 1197
BAILMENT.
See, also, “Carriers.”
The acceptance on a redelivery on demand of property which has been placed with another for repairs or additions thereto does not admit that the services have been performed as agreed. 134
BANKRUPTCY.
Operation and effect of bankruptcy laws, and of proceedings thereunder.
A petition in bankruptcy will lie against an insolvent insurance company, notwithstanding a decree of dissolution and the appointment of a receiver on proceedings in the state court by the state insurance commissioner. (Affirming 18.) 13
A sheriff has no right to make a levy under process of the state court after commencement of proceedings in bankruptcy until the question of bankruptcy is disposed of. 987
The assignee in bankruptcy cannot maintain an action in the federal court to take from a state sheriff property of the bankrupt which he has taken upon attachment duly issued to him out of the state court before the proceedings in bankruptcy were commenced. 732
A bankrupt held in custody under orders of arrest will be released until the Question of his discharge in bankruptcy shall be passed upon in the bankruptcy court. 279
The state court out of which an attachment has issued is not bound to take judicial notice that the debtor has been adjudicated a bankrupt. 732
Where the rights of assignees are not regarded in the state court, their remedy is under section 25 of the judiciary act. 732
A foreclosure suit in the state court, commenced before the filing of the petition and the adjudication in bankruptcy, may be proceeded with thereafter, and the decree enforced. 108
Claims previously determined by courts having jurisdiction cannot again be tried in the bankruptcy court, under section 1. (Act 1867.). 103
A maritime lien may be enforced by process in admiralty against a vessel after the filing of a petition in bankruptcy by its owner. 103
Proceedings which affect only the assets in bankruptcy are of the nature of proceedings in rem, and bind all the world; otherwise where they affect property not embraced in the assets. 1193
Jurisdiction of courts.
Courts of bankruptcy derive all their jurisdiction from the act creating them. 648a
Albemarle, Cape Fear, and Pamlicoheld “districts,” within Act 1814, § 7. 719
The adjudication of a firm in one district does not prevent a subsequent adjudication in another district of a firm in part composed of the same persons. 585, 591
A bill in equity will not lie by an assignee in bankruptcy in a district court other than the one in which the bankruptcy proceedings are pending. 648
An appearance and answer by defendant does not preclude him from raising the question of jurisdiction. 648
A subpoena in a suit by the assignee to restrain foreclosure of a mortgage cannot be served on the defendant in another district. 644
Commencement of proceedings—Voluntary bankruptcy.
A municipal officer who receives moneys as license fees is a public officer, within the act of 1841, and, if a defaulter, cannot maintain a petition. 718
After the lapse of four years, it will be presumed, as against a stockholder of the corporation, that a petition filed by an officer by order of the directors was authorized by the stockholders as required by law. 432
A creditor, after his claim has been duly proved, has the right to ask that the petitioner amend defects in his petition or schedule. 933
—Involuntary bankruptcy.
An insurance company is a “business or commercial” corporation, within Act 1867. 13
A judgment creditor of a manufacturing corporation cannot sustain a petition against its officers or stockholders who are made personally liable for its debts for failure to comply with the law. 300
Creditors fraudulently preferred are not to be counted in estimating the number and value of creditors who must join in the petition. 175
Attaching creditors are not to be counted, nor their claims computed, in estimating the number and amount of creditors joining in the petition. 584
A petitioner in proceedings commenced since December 1, 1873, where no adjudication is had, must file a sworn amendment to the petition, alleging that the petitioners represent the requisite number and amount of creditors. 908
The allegation that the petitioners constitute the requisite amount and number of the bankrupt's creditors is not jurisdictional, and such an allegation may be amended on a hearing on the question of the acceptance of a resolution of composition. 580
Judgment creditors who would be damaged by the adjudication may intervene to oppose proceedings alleged to have been brought by fraudulent collusion between petitioner and defendant. 187
Any creditor whose interests are directly affected may intervene and contest the allegations of the petition with regard to acts of bankruptcy, though the debtor fail to appear on the return day. 923
Where one who files a petition in bankruptcy against another is himself adjudged a bankrupt, his assignee is properly substituted as petitioner in his place. 935
The bankrupt court has full equitable discretion, and can allow a case to be withdrawn if without prejudice to any party. 27
Where stockholders of bankrupt railroad purchase all outstanding floating indebtedness save minor claims held by petitioners, they may have proceedings dismissed on securing payment to them. 27
The respondents have the right to open and close the case on a trial on the issue of bankruptcy. 441
Acts of bankruptcy.
The suspension of payment and nonresumption within 14 days must be alleged to have been fraudulent. Leave granted to amend the petition in this particular. 557
But such suspension and nonresumption is prima facie evidence of fraud, and casts upon the debtor the burden of proof. 557
Suspension of payment of a note given after the maker had ceased to be a trader, but in payment of a debt contracted while he was a trader, is no ground of adjudication. 187
A general assignment for benefit of creditors without preferences is an act of bankruptcy. 1030
A conveyance by an insolvent of property to secure a creditor, if not made to give a preference or in contemplation of bankruptcy, is not an act of bankruptcy. 1030
A conveyance made by an insolvent in contemplation or with the intention of breaking up his business is an act of bankruptcy. 1030 1198
A debtor cannot be said to have procured his goods to be taken on execution where he remains passive when they are attached, and does nothing to aid the creditor. 1030
An act of bankruptcy by one of two persons jointly and severally liable for a debt, who are not copartners, is no ground of adjudication against the other. 300
Adjudication.
A decree of bankruptcy, and an order for the discharge of the bankrupt, must be made in court and not at chambers. (Act 1841.). 719
Where the record on its face shows jurisdiction, the decree is conclusive as to the jurisdiction of the court in all collateral proceedings. 181
An injunction to restrain the bankrupts from a transfer of their property issued under Rev. St. § 5024, will cease to operate when the adjudication is made, notwithstanding it contains the words “until the further order of the court.” 108
Meeting of creditors.
The register cannot refuse to permit claimants who have made due proof to vote at a second meeting of creditors, where their claims are contested, as he has no power to expunge the proofs. 399
Assignee—Election, appointment, and removal.
Such claims as are of questionable or doubtful character may be postponed until after an assignee is appointed. 933
A postponement of proof of a claim until an assignee is chosen is entirely within the discretion of the register. 280
Reasonable substantial doubt only of the validity of a claim, and of the creditor's right to prove it, is sufficient to justify postponement of proof until after election of an assignee. (Rev. St. § 5083.) 191
Irregularity in admitting a claim is no ground of setting aside the proceedings, where its exclusion would not change the result of the election. 191
“Opposing interest,” as used in section 13, Act 1867, does not mean opposition to the appointment of any particular person, but to the exercise of the appointing power by the register. 191
Where the creditors fail to elect an assignee, the register may appoint one, if no specific objections are made. 191
—Rights, duties, and liabilities.
An assignee who fails or refuses to sell real estate of the bankrupts for the benefit of creditors is personally responsible. 203
Property of bankrupt—What constitutes.
A power of revocation and a power of appointment by deed or will, reserved to the grantor in a deed of realty, does not pass to his assignee. 942
Compensation for services rendered by the bankrupt under a contract will be apportioned between the assignee and the bankrupt, in proportion to the value of the services rendered before and after the bankruptcy, where payment was not contingent upon full performance of the services. 934
—Custody and control.
The assignee of a bankrupt partner in possession of firm assets must account to the creditors of the firm for the proceeds. 996
Pending the publication of notice and election of assignee on a voluntary petition, the court has power to take possession of the bankrupt's property. 103
The possession of the marshal taken as messenger, and without any order of court, is not considered as the possession of the court. 103
—Exemptions.
The bankrupt law is not rendered unconstitutional by reason of the want of uniformity in the exemptions allowed in different states. 1079
The amendment of March 3, 1873, in relation to exemptions, is not unconstitutional as applied to existing liens. 1079, 1082
An unmarried man, living in one town, and supporting his mother and unmarried sister, who board with a married sister, in another town, is not entitled to the exemptions allowed in Georgia to the head of a family. 956
A merchant tailor, in Kansas,held entitled to the right of exemption of goods to the value of $400 which may be asserted against the proceeds of goods in the hands of the court where illegally refused by the assignee. 931
The effect of a chattel mortgage on the stock in trade upon the right to an exemption, and what property falls within the phrase “stock in trade,” as used in the exemption statute, considered. 931
Where a certain sum is allowed by statute to be invested in a homestead, it may be put into an undivided part interest in a homestead in premises to which others hold the legal title. 771
Partners are not entitled to homestead exemptions out of partnership realty. 203
—Liens.
Congress has power to destroy any lien upon property of the bankrupt, whether created by contract, by statute, or by judgment. 1079, 1082
The assignee will take the bankrupt's property subject to a maritime lien existing when the petition was filed. 103
The granting of the certificate of amount due, and not the levying of the distress warrant, before the commencement of the bankruptcy proceedings, gives the landlord a perfected lien. (Gross' St. Ill. 1871, p. 412.) 1159
A creditor holding a homestead-waiving bond or note may have payment thereof out of the homestead when it has been set apart without notice to him. 1193
A lien obtained by a judgment or levy of execution on property fraudulently assigned is valid as against the assignee in bankruptcy of the debtor where they are obtained before the commencement of the proceeding. 794
A creditor who is precluded from assailing an assignment as fraudulent cannot obtain a lien on the property which will be valid as against the assignee in bankruptcy. 794
Until a receiver is appointed in a creditor's suit, there is no lien as against chattels which are subject to levy and sale on execution, which can be upheld as against an assignee in bankruptcy. 794
The lien acquired by filing a creditors' bill extends only to property which cannot be reached on execution. 794
A second mortgage on a stock of goods given in place of a mortgage executed two years prior thereto,held to supersede the prior lien, and to be a fraudulent preference. 1121
—Sale.
Creditors who failed to obtain a review of an order directing a private sale of the bankrupt's property cannot object to the incidental expenses attending the sale. 881
Proof of debts.
The statute liability of stockholders of a corporation for its debts is not a claim provable in bankruptcy against them. 300
Where a savings bank, in violation of its charter and the laws of the state, discounts notes of the bankrupt, neither the notes nor 1199a claim for money loaned thereon can be proved. 390, 393
A claim against a bankrupt insurance company, founded upon a covenant to repay part of die premium on cancellation of the policy, is provable. 20
Creditors holding notes or bills secured by a mortgage to an accommodation indorser have a lien for securing their payment, under section 20, Act 1867. 399, 409
A creditor who surrenders his preference without suit may prove his whole claim, under section 23, Act 1867. 177
Section 23, in this particular, was not repealed by Act June 22, 1874, § 12, amending section 39 of the original act. 177
Promissory notes cannot be properly proved without their production or proof of their loss. 399
The absence of the principal from the state, where he is within the United States, is not sufficient to permit proof of a debt by the agent. 191
One creditor may, without the consent of the assignee, intervene and oppose the allowance of the claim of another alleged creditor. 1124
On the overruling of the opposition and allowance of the claim, the creditor may take the question to the circuit court for review, by bill, petition, or other proper process. 1124
Where, through ignorance or mistake, a secured claim has been proved as unsecured, the creditor will be allowed to withdraw his proof, if he has not accepted a dividend upon the whole debt. 409
Payment of debts: Priority: Dividends.
A partner who has taken notes on the sale of his interest to his copartner cannot receive a dividend from the estate of the latter in bankruptcy until all partnership debts have been paid. 594
On an adjudication against a member of a firm, where both joint and separate assets come to the assignee's hands, the separate and joint creditors must look to the different funds. 40
Partnership creditors are entitled to be paid pari passu with individual creditors where the individual assets consist principally of goods purchased from the partnership on its dissolution, in the original purchase of which the partnership debts originated. 583
An agreement between traders to unite their stocks and capital, and that their separate business debts shall be considered joint debts of the firm, will not entitle a separate creditor, who has not consented to the arrangement before bankruptcy, to prove his claim as a joint creditor. 148
Where property delivered to the bankrupt in trust does not remain in specie, and cannot be traced, the cestui que trust must come in pari passu with the other creditors. 348
Attorneys rendering services to the bankrupt prior to the adjudication must prove their debt as general creditors. 398
A balance of the bankrupt's deposits for fees paid over to the assignee after the bankrupt has obtained his discharge should be distributed among the creditors who have been returned by the bankrupt. 291
Examination of bankrupt, etc.
The bankrupt will not be adjudged in contempt for disobeying an order for examination issued after his discharge was granted, where the same had not been set aside. 935
Where the bankrupts have been examined by the assignees, a new examination will not be ordered on the application of creditors opposing a discharge, unless reason is shown therefor. 167
The examining party has the right to have the examination reduced to writing and sworn to and subscribed by the witness. 204
Costs: Fees: Disbursements.
Costs will be apportioned between the separate and joint estates where both come to the assignee's hands on adjudication against a member of a firm. 40
Costs of an attachment dissolved by the bankruptcy proceedings are not allowed out of the fund unless designed to aid the bankruptcy proceedings, and of benefit to the general creditors. 99, 535
The power of the supreme court to fix officers' fees, etc., in cases of bankruptcy, is plenary, with the limitation that they shall not exceed the statutory rate for similar services in other proceedings. (Rev. St. §§ 4990, 5126, 5127.) 876
The court has no power to make discretionary allowances to the marshal beyond the specific fees prescribed by statute and general order No. 30. 876
Both actual attention to the business of the trust and the necessity therefor must be shown to entitle the assignee to the per diem allowance. (Act 1867, § 17.). 936
The marshal will be allowed for the custody of property only actual disbursements and for his personal attention. 876
For collecting money on drafts and checks, the marshal will be allowed the same fees as on an attachment in rem in admiralty. 876
Fees for making inventor. 876
The creditor must pay for such services performed by the register at his request as are in addition to those that the register would have been compelled to perform in the regular course of his duties. 204
Attorneys for the bankrupt will not be allowed compensation for services rendered between the time of adjudication and the choice of an assignee, unless it appeared that they benefited the estate or were necessary to preserve it in the interest of the general creditors. 398
Reasonable counsel fees are allowed out of the fund to the creditor successfully prosecuting the petition in bankruptcy. 284
An allowance of $50 to petitioning creditor for counsel fees in an uncontested caseheld proper and reasonable. 936
The assignee, by taking possession and using leased premises occupied by the bankrupt, is not bound to pay the rent reserved, bat is liable for a reasonable compensation, where the occupation has been beneficial to the bankrupt's estate. 183
Discharge—Opposition: Acts barring.
A creditor cannot oppose a bankrupt's discharge for acts in which he participated. 937
The discharge cannot be opposed on the ground that the facts stated in the petition as to the length of petitioner's residence within the district are not true. 181
A fraud at common law or under a state law will bar a discharge if committed so recently that it would affect any of the creditors who can come in under the bankruptcy. 932
Where the books of a firm doing an extensive business do not show the state of accounts between the members, they are not entitled to a discharge. 1122
The court may allow amendments to specifications of objections, or enlarge the time for filing the same after the time has expired. 274
—Scope and effect.
A discharge under the act of 1841 frees the bankrupt from all debts provable under the act, whether actually proved or not. 718 1200
Prohibited or fraudulent transfers.
A promise to give security made at the time of the loan must contemplate the giving of a specific and definite security, such as could he enforced by bill in equity, to sustain a mortgage otherwise invalid as a preference. 260
The surrender of a policy of insurance under a stipulation giving such right, with a return of part of the premium, is not a preference to the insured. 20
A person who has no knowledge of his insolvency may pledge his property to another to secure payment of money which he has unlawfully used. 529
An agent may make such pledge, though not authorized in writing. 529
Money paid to redeem property thus pledged cannot be recovered by the assignee. 529
A general assignment for the benefit of creditors with preferences, made in contemplation of insolvency, is void under the bankrupt act, and the property received thereunder may be recovered from the trustee by the assignee in bankruptcy. 229
A trader is insolvent when he cannot pay his debts in the ordinary course of business, though he may not be compelled to stop business, and, on settlement of his affairs, may have a surplus. 229
The conveyance of the joint assets of an insolvent firm to a continuing partner is a fraudulent preference. 721
The joint creditors may assent to such conveyance and share in the separate estate of the continuing partner, who has assumed the joint debts. 721
The furnishing of money for the building of a homestead upon land contracted to be purchased by the wifeheld fraudulent as to creditors, except as to the extent authorized by law. 771
Suits and proceedings in relation to the estate.
The assignee may maintain an action in a court of justice for the recovery of the property of the bankrupt. 732
The circuit court has no jurisdiction of a bill in equity filed by creditors before the appointment of an assignee to restrain a chattel mortgagee in possession from disposing of the goods of an alleged bankrupt. 793
Proper procedure to restrain proceedings under an execution issued on a judgment by confession, which operates as a fraudulent preference. 111
Where the value of the property mortgaged exceeds the mortgage, or where its validity or amount is disputed, the bankrupt court will refuse to permit foreclosure in the state court. 97
Where the validity of a mortgage given by the bankrupt is not questioned, and the premises are worth less than its amount,held, that the bankruptcy court properly allowed the mortgagee to foreclose. 365
A bona fide purchaser, without notice, from a fraudulent vendee of the bankrupt, takes a good title as against his assignee. 365
Creditors who receive warehouse receipts as security, but subsequently turn over the goods to the assignee of the debtor under a general assignment, and receive payment from him as preferred creditors,held liable to the assignee in bankruptcy for the amount of such payments, but not for the property covered by the warehouse receipts. 985
The assignee cannot maintain trover to recover the value of mortgaged personal property which the mortgagee has taken possession of, and appropriated to his own use, before the commencement of the bankruptcy proceedings. 994
The assignee under a general assignment for creditors with preferences is not liable to the assignee in bankruptcy for money paid out by him under the assignment. 985
Review.
The court will not review the action of the register in postponing proof of a claim until after the election of the assignee, where no objection is made until after the assignee is appointed. 191
The cause of action on appeal to the circuit court from a rejection of proof of debt must be the same as that presented to the district court. 390
Arrangement with creditors.
Act June 22, 1874, § 17, in providing a remedy by composition, does not operate to repeal the general provisions of the bankrupt law. 271
Upon the submission of a resolution duly accepted and confirmed by the requisite number of creditors, the court is not limited to the determination of the mathematical result. 271
The court will not confirm a composition duly accepted by the requisite number of creditors where fraudulent preferences to some of the creditors have not been taken into consideration. 271
The court will refuse to confirm a composition under which all the property of the bankrupts is to be restored to them on their giving their individual notes, unsecured and unindorsed, for 75 per cent, of their debts. 347
A resolution of composition will not be recorded where a creditor's right to make suitable inquiries of the debtor has been denied or postponed by a vote of the meeting. 580
A creditor buying up enough debts to prevent the acceptance of a resolution, and publicly offering to take all other debts at the same rate, may vote upon debts so bought. 580
The creditors at a meeting held after the appointment of an assignee may make an arrangement by trust deed to have him removed, and a trustee appointed. 933
A valid composition may be proposed and made, though the verification of the petition be defective. 580
The defect in the verification is waived by the debtor when he calls a meeting for composition; and, in the absence of fraud, the dissenting creditors cannot take advantage of it. 580
BANKS AND BANKING.
See, also, “Bills, Notes, and Checks.”
A national bank has no authority to lend its credit on personal security. 885
As between the seller and purchaser of national bank shares, the sale is complete when the certificate is delivered duly assigned, with power of transfer on the books of the bank, and payment received therefor. 758
The directors of a national bank have no power to refuse to register a bona fide transfer of stock without some valid and sufficient reason therefor. 758
A shareholder in a national bank, who sold his shares through a broker to the president of the bank, executing blank transfers, without knowledge of the real purchaser or the insolvency of the bank, and received in payment the broker's check on the bank, which was paid out of the bank's funds,held not liable for the amount to the receiver of the bank. 758
Where the officers of a national bank have been making preferential payments, a court of equity, on the application of a depositor, will appoint a receiver. 100 1201
BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES.
The directors of a mutual insurance company are personally liable for a failure to make an assessment when a claim for a loss is presented, though its validity is denied and litigated. 1102
BILLS, NOTES, AND CHECKS.
What law governs.
The question as to due presentment of a bill of exchange is determined by the law of the place of payment, whose tenor, existence, and effect may be proved by parol. 33
Indorsement and transfer.
An accommodation indorsement on a note does not make it commercial paper, as to the accommodation indorser. 63
It is no defense to an accommodation acceptor of a bill of exchange that plaintiff took the same from the drawers in payment of a pre-existing debt, with knowledge that it was an accommodation paper. 609
One who, takes drafts of a national bank with knowledge of the fact that they were issued as accommodation paper cannot recover, thereon against the bank in the hands of a receiver. 885
Demand: Notice: Protest.
If, the last day of grace fall on Sunday, demand must be made on Saturday, but the notice may be given on Monday. 115
Notice to the indorser pf nonpayment of a promissory note, not payable to order, is not necessary in Virginia. 167
Due diligence in giving notice of dishonor to an indorser is a question for the jury. 167
A notary's sealed certificate of protest of foreign bill, payable in his country, is good evidence of presentment and nonpayment. 33
The notary's certificate under seal is evidence of the facts therein recited. 980
One protest to a bill of exchange is sufficient, and that must be according to the laws of the place where the bill is payable. 33
Actions.
In an action against the assignor or guarantor of a note, a demand on the maker when it became due must be alleged. 362
A count upon the indorsement of a promissory note, not payable to order, without averring a consideration for the indorsement,held bad. 351
A plea in an action against the indorser that the maker of the note, at the date of the writ, had goods and chattels to a greater amount than due thereon, is no answer to an averment of insolvency. 351
A seal and the words “witness my hand and seal,” on an inland bill of exchange, may be rejected as surplusage, and the bill be declared on in the usual form. 115
BILLS OF LADING.
See, also, “Admiralty”; “Affreightment”; “Carriers”; “Shipping.”
A bill of lading, signed in blank by the master of a vessel, is not valid, either against the vessel or owners, even in the hands of a bona fide holder. 1141
The owner of a vessel is not estopped from having the circumstances attending the signing and transfer of a blank bill of lading inquired into by the court. 1141
Damage to cargo by rats is not a peril of the sea or danger of navigation, within those terms in a bill of lading, at least, unless ordinary care and diligence to guard against injury therefrom be shown. 157
A printed clause, “not responsible for leakage,” in a bill of lading for oil, changes the general rule that the acknowledgment of goods being received in good order casts the burden on the carrier of showing want of negligence. 78
Proof of greater than average leakage is not sufficient Actual negligence must be shown. 78
The fact that the manner of stowing or the carrying of other kinds of cargo produced dryness, and caused casks to leak, does not show negligence, where such stowing and carriage were usual in the trade. 78
While the ship is still detained in port by ice, an action will not lie for breach of a bill of lading; for goods laden thereon, without a rescission of the contract. 954
Person to whom goods were delivered, though not consignee,held, on the evidence, in an action for nondelivery, duly authorized by the consignee to receive them. 87
BONDS.
See, also, “Municipal Corporations”; “Principal and Surety”; “Railroad Companies.”
Railroad bonds payable in different sums, according as the place of payment might be fixed by indorsement of the president, and bearing an indorsement in which the place of payment was left blank,held not negotiable, and not valid in the hands of a bona fide holder for value, where they were stolen from the company. 257
In a suit against a surety on an official bond, where the principal is dead, a plea of general performance, craving oyer of the bond and conditions, is good. 247
BOTTOMRY AND RESPONDENTS.
See, also, “Maritime Liens.”
The master is not liable for a deficiency on a bottomry bond given by him, in the absence of a covenant binding him personally for the debt. 93
The lien of a bottomry bond is not discharged by a payment of the debt by the agents of the shipowners with their own money, where they take an assignment thereof. 730
In such case, freight moneys will be applied first to the payment of unsecured disbursements of such agents, leaving the surplus only to be credited on the bond. 730
Bridges.
See, also, “Navigable Waters.”
BUILDING AND LOAN ASSOCIATIONS.
Loans made to their members by building loan associations, conducted in accordance with the ordinary and well-known methods adopted by such societies, are not usurious. 784
Such associations are partnerships, and loans made to their members are dealings with partnership funds, in which the borrower has the same interest before and after the loan as the other members. 784
The contracts made with the borrowing members upon the well-known and usual terms of such contracts are not such as equity will relieve from, as unconscionable and oppressive. 784 1202
CARRIERS.
See, also, “Affreightment”; “Average”; “Bills of Lading”; “Charter Parties”; “Shipping.”
Of passengers.
The proprietors of steamboats engaged regularly in carrying passengers between certain points are common carriers, and are bound to receive all persons on board to whose character and conduct there is no reasonable objection. 442
Common carriers may inquire into the habits and motives of persons offering themselves as passengers, and exclude all persons of bad character or habits, or those whose objects are to interfere with their interests, or to disturb their line of patronage, or who refuse to obey reasonable regulations. 442
The proprietors of a steamboat may exclude therefrom one who takes passage for the purpose of soliciting passengers for a connecting line running in opposition to a line with which the steamboat proprietors have a contract to carry passengers through to a distant point. 442
Where a passenger's money is stolen from his stateroom in a steamboat by reason of his neglect to lock and bolt his stateroom door, tie owners of the vessel are not liable. 661
A gold watch and chain, gold ornaments for presents, and American coin are not baggage. 88
Where the passenger informed the carrier that his trunk contained nothing but clothing, whereas it contained a large amount of coin and gold ornaments,held, that the carrier was not liable for any of the contents where it was lost. 88
Of goods.
The carrier is liable for a want of proper care and skill in guarding against damages or deterioration arising from the nature of the goods or of the voyage. 80
A stipulation for exemption from liability for damage by rats, where due diligence is not used to guard against injury, must be disregarded. 157
Sale at auction, without communicating with the owners, of flour injured by the capsizing of a vessel at her wharf before sailing,held an unlawful conversion. 1153
In such case the cargo owners are entitled to recover the value of the cargo at the port of delivery at the time when the vessel should arrive, deducting freight and charges, with interest on the balance. 1153
An insurance company which pays the loss on an insured cargo, though not legally bound therefor, may maintain an action against the carrier for negligence. 65
CHARITIES.
The law of charities is fully adopted in Georgia, as far as is compatible with a free government, where no royal prerogative is exercised. 957
Gifts to charities in form absolute were followed by a clause directing that the devises should not be “executed or take effect” until the completion of a memorial building in process of erection at testator's death, and full payment therefor.Held, that not the gifts but only the payment thereof were suspended. 957
An immediate gift to trustees for a general charity, which cannot take effect except on the occurrence of contingent and uncertain events, is valid, and the fund will be held up for a reasonable time to await the happening of the contingencies. 957
A gift to the trustees of a church to devote the income to such destitute and needy churches in the state as they may select, so as to promote the cause of religion,held not void for uncertainty. 957
A gift to “The Widows' “Society of Savannah,” for “the benevolent purposes of said society,” where such society was incorporated for the relief of indigent widows and orphans,held sufficiently definite. 957
A devise for the establishment of “a hospital for females within the city of Savannah, on a permanent basis, into which sick and indigent females are to be admitted and cared for,” is not void for uncertainty as to the beneficiaries. 957
A general direction that an act of incorporation should be obtained for the hospital does not render the devise void. 957
A condition against alienation annexed to property devoted to charity does not render the devise void. 957
A gift to the trustees of a church on condition that they shall not allow any alteration in the pulpit and galleries of the church, and shall not alien the Sabbath school lot, is valid. 957
The fact that a charitable society has already a surplus of funds does not vitiate a gift to it. 957
Where a charity is definite, the court of chancery will provide a trustee if none is named, or if the one named is incompetent to act. 957
CHARTER, PARTIES.
See, also, “Admiralty”; “Affreightment”; “Average”; “Bills of Lading”; “Shipping.”
A special agent of the charterer cannot charge, against the owners, expenses, advances, or liabilities incurred for the ship. 1132
The charterers of a canal boat are not liable to the owner where she is sunk by the explosion of the boiler of a tug which they had employed to tow her, where they were free from negligence. 213
The damages, for breach of charter by the shipper, are the difference between the price stipulated and the freight that could be obtained by reasonable diligence. 1098
CHATTEL MORTGAGES.
See, also, “Bankruptcy”; “Shipping.”
At common law, a mortgage, where possession and power of sale is given to the mortgagor, is absolutely void. 780
In Georgia a mortgage of a stock of goods is valid, though possession is given to the mortgagor with power of sale, and is binding on subsequent additions to replenish the stock as against sellers who had no notice of the mortgage. 780
Record of a mortgage of personal property pursuant to the laws of the state is equivalent to a delivery. 1030
CITIZEN.
See, also, “Prize”; “War.”
In the United States expatriation is considered a fundamental right. To sustain it the government to which allegiance is sworn, if independent in fact, need not have been recognized as such by the United States. 1179
The right of expatriation recognized in the case of an American citizen accepting from a foreign government a commission authorizing him to cruise as a privateer. 356
COLLISION.
See, also, “Admiralty”; “Pleading in Admiralty”; “Practice in Admiralty”; “Towage.”
Nature of liability—Inevitable accident.
A collision occurring in the daytime in fair weather may be an inevitable accident. 384 1203
Where a vessel, deserted by her officers and crew to save their lives, drifts into collision with another, each vessel must bear its own loss. 702
A collision in a slip, caused by a bark pulling out a pile to which her bow chain was fastened, in a storm lasting two or three days,held not due to inevitable accident. 651
Where a ship brought into a slip to avoid peril from running ice is warned that her position is dangerous to another vessel in the slip, injury caused by her, where her fastenings are carried away by the ice, is not a case of inevitable accident. 900
It is no defense in such case that the vessel injured was lying in the slip head out, in violation of the rule of the harbor master. 900
—Contributive fault.
A vessel closehauled, crossing the course of another sailing free, will not beheld in fault for luffing, where the vessels are brought into imminent danger of collision through the fault of the latter in not keeping away. 895
Rules of navigation.
The rules of navigation for avoiding collision, the use of lights, etc., before the adoption of the statutory rules. 971
Quaere, whether rule 9 of the board of supervising inspectors (Act Feb. 28, 1871) has the force of law in respect to the lights to be carried on tows. 566
Between steam and sail.
Where any doubt exists as to the ability of the steamer to pass ahead of the sail vessel, the former must delay to permit the latter to pass. 289
The burden is upon the steamer to show a sufficient reason for not keeping out of the way of the sailing vessel. 382
A sailing vessel coming down the Hudson river does not hold her course within the meaning of the law when, without cause, she changes from the west to the east side of the river in rounding West Point. 637
Overtaking vessels.
A schooner will beheld in fault for suddenly luffing up across the course of an overtaking ferry, for the purpose of taking in sail to make her landing. 425
A steamer with 12 barges lashed alongside ported, to avoid a shoal, and brought an outside barge in collision with a schooner which was outsailing and passing her. The schooner had time to change her course.Held, that she was solely liable. 90
Vessels moored, etc.
A vessel is not at fault in leaving her sails up while at anchor in broad daylight, at a place where she could be seen for a long distance, and was not obstructing the channel. 715
A vessel injured while at anchor, at night, in the middle of the Hudson river, cannot recover where she failed to keep a good light and a sufficient watch on deck. 22
Anchoring in middle of Hudson river, opposite Ft. Lee, at night,held not culpable conduct. 22
Tugs and tows.
As against a sail vessel, a tug and tow must be considered as one steam vessel. 619
River and harbor navigation.
A steamship running under the stern of a vessel at anchor, standing high out of water, should proceed with great caution, and at such rate of speed as will enable her to keep clear of sail vessels passing on the other side. 1190
A steamer carefully navigating a crowded harbor will not beheld in fault for collision with a schooner just getting under way behind the hull of a large ship, which could not be seen in time to avoid her. 384
A steamer will beheld in fault in keeping up a high rate of speed in a narrow channel full of vessels ahead of her, some of which did not become visible, owing to the presence of others, until too late to avoid collision. 337
Speed: Fogs.
Excessive speed in a steamer is not excused by the fact that she is under contract with the government to carry the mails in a specified time. 323
Vessels sailing during a dense fog are bound to have on deck all the disposable part of their crew, to aid in keeping a lookout. 971
lights: Signals, etc.
A tug which has no mast must carry the vertical mast headlights required by Rev. St. § 4233, of vessels towing, in such manner as to be equivalent in effectiveness to that prescribed by the rules. 566
Lookouts, officers, etc.
The master of a tug, where performing other duties, is not a competent lookout. 672
Every doubt relating to the consequences is to be resolved against the vessel which is without a lookout. 672
Particular instances of collision.
Between schooner and brig off Barnegat, where the latter washeld in fault for a change of course. 551
Between bark sailing free and ship close-hauled, where the latter was notheld in fault for luffing when danger of collision was imminent. 895
Between sloop beating up the East river and sloop coming down with wind free, where the latter washeld solely in fault for failure of lookout, though the former, in extremis, undertook to go about, and missed stays because of a defective tiller. 683
Between ferryboat crossing from New York to Jersey City, on an ebb tide, under a port helm, and propeller coming up the river, where the latter washeld in fault for not keeping away, and the former was not in fault for keeping on without slowing where her single whistle had been answered by a single whistle from the propeller. 896
Between steamer and schooner at sea on a dark and hazy night, where the former washeld liable for too great speed and the want of a vigilant lookout. 323
Between steamer and bark at night, the latter being sunk, and all on board save one person lost, where the former washeld in fault, on her own evidence, for too great speed or the want of vigilant lookout. 382
Between steamer and sloop rounding West Point in the Hudson river, where the former washeld in fault for not keeping the usual course in such cases. 637
Between steamer off Sandy Hook, looking for towing employment, and brig sailing free, outward bound. 84
Between steamer going through Hell Gate and schooner drifting with the tide in a light wind, where the former washeld in fault for not stopping to let the schooner pass. 171
Between steamer and schooner in Hell Gate, where both wereheld in fault, one for too great speed, and the other for indefinite maneuvers. 371
Between steamer and schooner in Buttermilk channel, where the former washeld in fault for not giving the latter a wider berth. 289
Between steamer rounding into her berth and schooner under way in light breeze, 1204where the latter was held in fault for not keeping away. * 147
Between schooner and tow lashed alongside of tug near the Astoria dock in the East river, where the latter washeld in fault for not keeping out of the way. 619
Between the tows of two tugs in the East river, caused by the effort to avoid an overtaking steamer navigating near the shore, where the latter washeld solely in fault. 177
Between steamer under way and schooner at anchor in middle of Hudson river at night, without sufficient light or watch. 22
Between the tow of a tug coming into and the tow of a tug going out of the Atlantic basin, where the former tug washeld solely in fault for making a turn too short to enable her to see the approaching vessel in time to avoid a collision. 429
Between schooner at anchor in the East river, between Blackwell's and Manhattan Islands, with her sails up, and schooner under way, where the latter washeld in fault. 715
Between steamer passing under the stern of a large vessel at anchor and schooner hidden from view, where the former washeld liable. 1190
Between brig at anchor on the flats in the Penobscot river and schooner in tow, where the latter washeld solely liable. 430
Between tug and tow coming down the East river, near the piers, and ferryboat just starting out, where the former washeld in fault. 665
Procedure.
Owners of cargo must be made parties to the suit before they can avail themselves of the operation of the decree. 971
A change of course of the tug, set up in defense in the answer to a libel by the tow against the colliding vessel, will not prevent a recovery, where it was justifiable. 90
On a libel against two tugs by the tow of one which came into collision with the tow of the other, the answers of the tugs charging negligence of each other are not evidence against each other, and libellant must offer evidence of negligence to be entitled to recover. 328
Where all the persons on board of a bark sunk in a collision with a steamer who could have given evidence for her were lost, and the steamer is found to have been in fault, she must make out a clear case of fault on the part of the bark to render her equally liable. 380, 382
The testimony of the master of the vessel at her wheel as to the relative positions of the vessels is entitled to greater weight than that of seamen on the bow of the other vessel. 551
In the case of a single stipulation for value, where both tug and tow are libeled for a collision, it is not necessary to decide which of them is in fault, if only one. 665
Rule of damages.
The injured vessel is entitled to be put into as good condition as before the injury, and no allowance is to be made for new materials instead of old. 430
A ferryboat injured by a collision while coming out of her slip at Fulton street, Brooklyn,held not in fault for attempting to reach Jersey City, where her officers examined her injuries, and were of opinion that she could be kept afloat. 665
An item of $800 for the difference between the value of the injured vessel before and after repairs disallowed. 146
An item of $465 for loss of earnings during detention for repairs founded upon the mere opinion of the master and mate, not rejected on exceptions, where the cost of sending the report back would probably equal any abatement in the amount. 146
Division of damages.
Where the collision is caused by inevitable accident, each party bears his own loss. 557, 702
In cases of mutual or inscrutable fault, damages are equally divided between the vessels. 684
Review.
A rehearing not allowed in the district court on the ground that since the trial libelant's witnesses testified differently in another suit, growing out of the same collision, as such evidence is admissible on appeal. 665
Compromise.
See “Bankruptcy”; “Release and Discharge.”
CONFLICT OF LAWS.
A deed or power of attorney executed and acknowledged according to the laws of New York is a good execution under the law of Ohio. 834
The law of the state where the contract is made will fix the rate of interest in an action thereon in a federal court sitting in another state. 285
CONSTITUTIONAL LAW.
A grant of power is to be construed according to the fair and reasonable import of its terms, and not necessarily controlled by a reference to conditions existing when the constitution was adopted. 194
A law which takes away all remedy is equivalent to a law impairing the obligation of the contract, and hence unconstitutional and void. 734
The repeal of the provision of a limitation law excepting the time of the debtor's absence from the state, without allowing any time to sue after his return,held unconstitutional. 734
A state tax upon receipts for transportation through the state of goods carried from and to points outside the state is unconstitutional. 24
A corporation is not a “citizen of the United States” or a “person,” within the meaning of Const. U. S. Amend. 14, § 1. 67
A law imposing a higher tax upon a foreign corporation doing business within the state than upon a domestic corporationheld not in violation of a constitutional provision that “taxation shall be equal and uniform throughout the state.” 67
State statutes authorizing actions in rem against vessels for causes cognizable in admiralty are unconstitutional as conferring admiralty jurisdiction. 217
The United States has jurisdiction over navigable streams so far as may be necessary for commercial purposes. 919
CONTINUANCE.
In a suit on bottomry bond executed in a distant foreign country, where an attested copy was produced, a continuance was allowed to enable libelant to produce the original. 559
CONTRACTS.
See, also, “Assumpsit”; “Sale”; “Vendor and Purchaser.”
Construction of contract for the building of an engine and boiler for a steamboat “of the most approved construction.” 134
Where the work under a contract on property placed in the hands of a contractor 1205for repairs and improvements thereto is to be paid for in installments as the work advanced, the owner cannot take possession without compensating the contractor for the benefits actually received, though the work did not comply with the specifications. 134
Where the owners of a steamboat take possession and run her, without giving the builders of her engines opportunity to test their work as agreed, the conditions as to the test will beheld to be waived. 134
A third person who, at the request of a contractor, executes the contract, cannot maintain an action against him thereon. 1035
In Arkansas, plaintiff may sue all or as many of the joint contractors as he may see proper. 735
On the adjustment of a decree for a balance remaining due on work done under contract, the employer is not entitled to be credited with interest on partial payments made as agreed. 143
In a suit for the contract price for work done, the contractor is entitled to interest on the amount due, at least from the commencement of the suit. 143
But where the right of recovery is doubtful, and the amount is to be adjusted, interest is only recoverable after the amount is determined. 143
Plaintiff will be entitled to interest from the filing of a report of referees where the same is confirmed, though both parties prosecuted exceptions thereto. 143
COPYRIGHT.
A musical composition, to be the subject of a copyright, must be substantially a new and original work, and not a copy of an older piece, with additions or variations which a skilled writer might readily make. 910
The deposit of a printed copy of the title of the work before publication, the printed notice of copyright, and a deposit of a copy of the work, are the three preliminary steps for securing a copyright. 910
The title is an appendage to the work and, where the latter is not protected by a copyright, the former is not. 910
The appropriation of the whole or any substantial part of a new air or melody is a piracy. 910
Where the defense was that plaintiff's musical composition was a copy, with slight additions and alterations, of a composition previously published abroad, the decision on the motion for injunction was suspended, and an issue at law directed, the defendant being required to keep an account of sales. 910
CORPORATIONS.
See, also, “Banks and Banking”; “Benevolent Societies”; “Building and Loan Associations”; “Counties”; “Insurance”; “Marine Insurance”; “Municipal Corporations”; “Railroad Companies”; “Receivers.”
The general power to make/amendments to existing charters is not taken away by the constitutional provision (Georgia) prohibiting the general assembly to grant corporate powers and privileges to any private companies except business companies. 957
A transfer of shares in a failing corporation, made for the purpose of escaping liability to creditors, is void as to such creditors and other shareholders. 758
A corporation of one state may maintain an action in the state or federal courts of Another state. 65
COSTS.
Costs not refused on a libel for wages because libelant did not sue in the state court, where there was ho apparent intention to annoy respondents. 951
Where a libel in rem for repairs to a vessel was sustained for only a small part of the amount demanded, costs were refused. 902
The docket fee of $10, and not that of $20, is taxable where a suit at law is tried by the court, a jury being waived. (Act 1853.) 1014
The feebill of 1853 does not interfere with the practice of courts of equity or bankruptcy to allow counsel fees as costs in certain cases. 284
Costs can be taxed for only two counsel of the same party. 284
Where claimants in admiralty, in different rights, appear by the same counsel, but one bill of costs will be taxed. 555
Taxation of costs in case of a claim on proceeds of a vessel in admiralty where other parties are interested. 564
Costs in admiralty upon exceptions to a commissioner's report made in the alternative. 1153
The custody fees where a vessel is held by virtue of two warrants to arrest, in different suits, are chargeable equally upon the two suits. 902
The expense of a stenographer is not taxable. 284
The expense of printing the record and evidence in an equity suit is properly taxable as part of the costs. (Second Additional Rule, May 25, 1842.) 1084
COUNTIES.
See, also, “Municipal Corporations”; “Railroad Companies.”
The board of county commissioners in Ohio is a quasi corporation only, and not liable in an action sounding in tort. 276
COURTS.
See, also, “Admiralty”; “Bankruptcy”; “Equity”; “Justices of the Peace”; “Maritime Liens”; “Removal of Causes.”
Comparative authority of federal and state courts: Process.
Persons, with knowledge that a vessel was under attachment by a marshal, during the temporary absence of the ship keeper, forcibly carried her into another state, and caused her to be attached by process out of the state court.Held, that the marshal might follow and retake her. 1136
Federal courts—Jurisdiction in general.
The federal district courts having, under the constitution and acts of congress, exclusive original cognizance of all civil causes of admiralty and maritime jurisdiction, the courts of common law are precluded from proceeding in rem to enforce such maritime claims. 158
—Grounds of jurisdiction.
Where, in a suit for infringement of copyright, the parties are residents of the same state, and plaintiff fails to make out his title to the copyright, the court has no jurisdiction to restrain the use of the title of the work upon principles relating to the good will of trades. 910
—Circuit courts.
The circuit courts of the United States have no original jurisdiction in admiralty. 356 1206
—District courts.
The district court in admiralty may order the restoration of property, the right to the possession of which is in the marshal of the adjoining distric. 1136
—Administration of state laws.
On questions of local law the federal courts follow the decisions of the highest judicial tribunal in analogous cases. 1
The decisions of the state court upon questions of general commercial law are not binding upon the federal courts. 609
The decision of the state court that a tax paid under a void law cannot be recovered back where there was a natural obligation to pay it is not binding on the federal court, where the law conflicts with the federal constitution. 688
The mode indicated by the state statute as a judicial process for setting off dower will be pursued in the federal court. 888
Creditors' Bill.
See “Bankruptcy.”
CRIMINAL LAW.
See, also, “Bail”; “Extradition”; “Habeas Corpus.”
Act 1790, limiting the prosecution of offenses not capital, etc., to two years, applies to offenses under statutes subsequently passed. 867
A bar, under the statute of limitations, to be available, must be pleaded. 867
A person may be arrested for trial and imprisoned or bailed for violation of a statute, although the only punishment prescribed therein is a fine. 194
The day laid in the indictment is not material, and the offense may be proved to have been committed at any other time within the limitation. 867
But one judgment should be rendered where the various offenses charged substantially constitute but one offense, though a separate verdict of guilty is rendered on each count. 1175
Where a separate sentence was rendered on each verdict, the prisoner is entitled to be discharged on serving the full term of imprisonment under one judgment. 1175
CUSTOM AND USAGE.
The adoption by a produce exchange of a rule requiring cargo to be received from lighters in two days does not make a binding custom for the port. 64
CUSTOMS DUTIES.
Customs laws.
General terms include all the subordinate or special kinds of goods so generally described, though commercially designated by a specific name. 285
Specific names are to be construed according to their general use in trade and commerce. 285
“Silk laces,” as used in Act June 30, 1864, § 8, embrace all laces made of silk, except such as are specifically known exactly by other terms used in the tariff acts. 285
Payment: Protest.
The receipt of a collector acknowledging payment is only prima facie evidence. 868
Actions for duties paid.
The entry for withdrawal from the warehouse, and not the entry for warehousing, fixes the time from which the 10-days limitation of time for giving notice of dissatisfaction runs. (Act March 3, 1857 § 5.). 166
Violations of law: Forfeiture.
Sufficiency of warrant for the seizure of papers and the mode of separating and examining the same determined. 1077
Vessel forfeited for smuggling cigars on the testimony of their owner, who produced an invoice for their shipment to the place from which the vessel sailed, and a letter from the master of the vessel stating that they had been shipped, and that he had paid, the master the agreed freight, though the master denied the shipment. 680
A vessel, arriving from a foreign port, is forfeited by landing goods without a permit from the collector after her arrival in the port of discharge. 663
The prohibition of unlading without a permit (Act March 2, 1799, c. 128, § 50) applies though the port is not that originally intended for the port of discharge. 25
Section 27 of said act applies to vessels which have not reached their port of destination and discharge. 35
A vessel engaged in the coasting trade, having goods on board, which have not paid duties, is not within Act 1799. c. 128, § 50, as to landing foreign goods without a permit. 254
Bonding: Warehousing.
The cancellation of a bond for duties without receiving payment, in connivance with the debtor, is void. 868
Where a check taken in payment is not paid, the bend is not discharged. 868
Customs officers.
The collector cannot bind the government by any acts beyond or contrary to the authority given him by law. 868
DAMAGES.
See, also, “Contracts”; “Collision”; “Patents.”
The measure of damages for refusal to accept boats built under contract is the difference between the contract price and the amount received on a sale to others. 45
The probable earnings of a boat for the time she was delayed in repairing the injury sustained by collision with a bridge are recoverable as damages. 919
Death.
See “Abatement and Revival.”
DEBT, ACTION OF.
Debt lies for the recovery of a penalty given by statute where no remedy for its recovery is expressly given. 267
DECEIT.
Shippers for the account and risk of another, having no opportunity to examine the goods,held not liable for a false description in the invoice, copied from a prior invoice, upon the faith of which the consignee made advances to the owner. 282
DEED.
See, also, “Specific Performance”; “Vendor and Purchaser.”
A subscribing witness to the execution of a deed may be compelled to attend court to prove it. 123 1207
DEPOSITION.
The mode of issuing and executing a dedimus granted in pursuance of Rev. St. § 866, is regulated by common usage or practice. 999
A witness examined under a dedimus should be sworn according to the law of the forum whence it issued. 999
The commissioner need not certify when or where the examination was taken, nor by whom reduced to writing, or that the witness was cautioned before being sworn, or the form of the oath. 999
Notice of a motion for a dedimus to take depositions in a foreign country may be given to the attorney at law. 113
Notice given at 8 o'clock of the taking of depositions between 9 and 2 of the same dayheld unreasonable. 341
The circuit court in a state to which a commission issued by a bankrupt court in another state is sent may compel a witness to testify or punish for a refusal. 881
All the facts necessary to make the deposition evidence under the statute must be certified by tie magistrate. 986
The official character of the person taking a deposition will be presumed, without further proof. 376
A deposition taken de bene esse under the judiciary act cannot be read in evidence where it is neither delivered to the court personally by the magistrate or by him sealed up and directed to the court. 995
What is a sufficient return to a subpoena to enable a party to read the deposition of the witness taken de bene esse. 957
Testimony taken on a commission in blank sent abroad is admissible on proof that the names and materiality of the witnesses were unknown when the commission was sued out. 37
The deposition of a deceased person taken in another cause may be read as hearsay. 907
Discharge.
See “Bankruptcy”; “Release and Discharge.”
DISCOVERY.
To obtain a discovery under Act Sept. 24, 1789, § 15, it is only requisite that the cause should be at issue, and that the court should be satisfied that the evidence will be pertinent to such issue, and that the discovery would be decreed in equity. 281
A notice of the time and place of making the application and a plain designation of the documents sought for are sufficient. 281
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.
The corporation of Washington has power to prohibit the granting of tavern licenses to colored persons. 876
The corporation of Washington has the right to prohibit colored persons from being out at night after 10 P. M. 547
Justices of the peace have jurisdiction in cases against women. 876
Domicile.
See “Courts”; “Prize”; “Removal of Causes”; “War.”
DOWER.
At common law the widow was entitled to dower in all lands of which her husband was seized at any time during coverture. 888
The right to dower in land sold during covertureheld within the saving clause of a statute restricting dower to lands of which the husband died seised, providing that no right which had already attached or vested should be affected thereby. 888
The dower to be set off must include all casual and natural enhancement from circumstances, excluding all improvements actually made by the tenant. 888
EJECTMENT.
See, also, “Adverse Possession”; “Real Property.”
No length of occupancy under an Indian grant can ripen into a title by adverse possession. 235
Possession, accompanied with a claim of ownership in fee, is prima facie evidence of such an estate. 235
No other deed or title than that originally asserted can be set up to help out the possession. 235
Whether a dead is to be presumed from long possession is a mixed question of law and fact, to be submitted to the jury under the advice of the court. 235
The recitals in a warrant to a third personheld admissible as evidence when corroborated by circumstances, where the papers of the surveyor general have been destroyed by fire. 320
ELECTIONS AND VOTERS.
Rev. St. § 2010, gives no jurisdiction to the United States circuit court of an action to recover possession of an office from which plaintiff has been ejected after his title had been established by an election. 755
EMBARGO AND NONINTER-COURSE.
In the absence of fraud, the court will not hold that sea stores taken on board under a permit from the collector were more than were necessary. 161
The construction by the customhouse of arms and ammunition for the defense of a vessel, as sea stores, adopted by the court. 161
EQUITY.
See, also, “Courts”; “Discovery”; “Injunction”; “Patents”; “Pleading in Equity”; “Practice in Equity.”
A conveyance will not be set aside for inadequacy of consideration unless the consideration be grossly inadequate, and such as to clearly indicate the existence of unfair dealing, fraud, imposition, or oppression. 456
A conveyance made to his attorney by a party in embarrassed circumstances will not be set aside unless it be shown that he had been consulted in regard to the particular transaction, or that he was in a position to take an unfair advantage. 456
A bill in the nature of a bill of review lies only after a final decree, and not upon an interlocutory decree. 504
A., owning, alone, certain property, joined with B., who was tenant in common with him of other property, in conveying all of the property to C.Held, that A. could alone sue in equity both B. and C. for neglect in managing the estate, and for an account of proceeds. 594
In such suit A. can only recover the proportion which his interest bears to the whole property. 594 1208
Six years' delay in bringing suit to set aside a sale for fraud,held sufficient to bar relief. 709
ESTOPPEL.
The government is not ordinarily bound by an estoppel. 868
In a suit for infringement, plaintiff's patent washeld to be anticipated by that under which defendant was licensed.Held, that plaintiff was not estopped by such judgment in another action against one claiming under a license granted before the judgment. 45
A person is estopped to deny the existence of the authority exercised by another claiming to represent him where he neglects to look after his interests for an unreasonable length of time. 585
The owners of property, who continue their superintendence and payments on account of work done after the time fixed for its completion,held estopped to claim damages for the delay. 134
EVIDENCE.
See, also, “Appeal”; “Deposition”; “Tender”; “Trial”; “Witness”.
Judicial notice.
The federal courts take judicial notice of the laws of the respective states. 376
Best and secondary.
A receipt for money is inadmissible to prove on whose account it was paid, as the person who paid it should be produced. 1113
County surveyors who officially know that certain lands are covered with prior surveys are competent witnesses to prove the fact. 939
Proof that an individual has acted notoriously as a public officer is prima facie evidence of his character, without producing his commission or appointment. 267
The original entries in a book of accounts must be produced, and not a copy. 322
Declarations and admissions.
The declarations of a person exercising authority, that he possesses it, are inadmissible to prove authority. 319
In an action against a surety for money advanced to another, the admissions of the latter as to receipt of the money are admissible against defendant. 48
Opinions.
The ability of the expert, his knowledge of the art, his impartiality, and his fairness of expression, as well as the reasons assigned, are to be taken into view in considering his opinion. 823
Documentary.
A connected map of a number of surveys, duly recorded, is evidence, when accompanied by the explanations of the surveyors, without producing the separate surveys. 939
The copy of an award, exemplified by the certificate of the proper officer of one of the courts of the state, is not primary evidence in Pennsylvania. 306
A paper signed by one person as attorney for another cannot be read in evidence, unless the power of attorney is produced. 306
A record produced to prove a fact, and found defective, cannot be assisted by evidence dehors the same. 319
The books of a merchant, although correctly kept, are not admissible in evidence in his favor. 432
Papers which had been proved by deposition a considerable time before the trialheld admissible in the admiralty without strict proof. 614
Parol evidence.
In cases of a joint purchase, where each purchaser is to have an interest in the purchase in proportion to his advances, parol evidence is admissible to establish the trust, as well as to rebut, control, or vary it. 462
Competency: Materiality: Relevancy.
A receipt for one year's rent is evidence that the rent for the preceding years has been paid. 455
Fraudulent transactions with third person are not admissible to show fraud and collusion in a case not connected therewith. 986
Evidence of general reputation of a fact can only be given where the persons are dead, or where their death may be presumed from length of time. 907
Handwriting.
The testimony of a subscribing witness may be dispensed with where he is out of the country. 989
Where the clerk is dead who made the entries in a book of accounts, his handwriting may be proved. 322
Weight and sufficiency.
To determine the truth from contradictory statements, the court will consider which statement is the more probable, aided by such corroborative evidence as there may be. 1098
The testimony of the master of a foreign vessel that he discharged a seaman, will not prevail in a suit for wages against his official report that the seaman deserted. 37
EXECUTION.
See, also, “Attachment”; “Bankruptcy”; “Garnishment”; “Judgment”; “Judicial Sales.”
Goods in a bonded warehouse under the revenue laws are not subject to levy under an execution against the owner. 881
The judgment creditor in the federal court is entitled to the proceeds of a sale by a marshal under his execution, though the judgment, execution, and levy were subsequent to a judgment, execution, and levy of process from the state court. 1078
EXECUTORS AND ADMINISTRATORS.
See, also, “Wills.”
An executor may be allowed credit for the loss upon a sale of stock, though the sale was made without order of court. 926
The administrator of a defendant who died after office judgment and writ of inquiry awarded cannot plead plene administravit, nor any other plea which the original defendant could not have pleaded. 352
Exemptions.
See “Bankruptcy.”
EXTRADITION.
A prima facie case must be made out by competent evidence showing that the person charged with crime is a fugitive from the state by whose executive he is demanded, before the warrant of arrest can issue. 197
A copy of the indictment or an affidavit made before some magistrate charging the crime must be presented with the demand for extradition. 197 1209
FACTORS AND BROKERS.
See, also, “Principal and Agent.”
A factor ordered by his principal to ship goods in his possession has a right to retain no more than enough to secure any lien that he may have upon the goods. 914
He may consign the entire lot to a third person, with orders to deliver the goods to the owner on payment of the sum due. 4
A commission merchant who takes a bond for a simple contract debt for goods sold on commission, and for a debt of his own, is answerable to the principal for the amount of the goods sold. 205
In such case a demand of the bond before bringing suit is not necessary. 205
A usage for a consignee of a vessel, who is also owner of the cargo, to charge a commission on freight paid by himself to the master, is unreasonable and not binding. 437
FALSE IMPRISONMENT.
It is a false imprisonment to detain another by threats of personal violence, or to deprive him of the freedom of going at will by a well-grounded apprehension of personal danger. 840
Defendant may plead the general issue, and give in evidence justification under warrant from the proper magistrate. 61
FALSE PRETENSES.
A false assertion by means of which money or goods, etc., are fraudulently obtained, is a false pretense. 1035
Persons jointly indicted for obtaining a check by false pretenses are equally guilty where they participate in the proceeds, though the check was given to one only. 1035
FISHERIES.
A seaman discharged abroad, at his own request, from a whaling ship, is entitled to be paid the pro rata part of his lay reckoned on the value of the catch at the home port. 537
Where a settlement is made on a different basis under protest, the seamen may recover the difference. 537
The owners of whaling vessels whose crews are paid by shares are responsible for only ordinary care in selecting agents and carrying the cargo. 1163
The freight home on oil where a whale vessel is condemned abroad as unseaworthy is chargeable to the owners, unless there is a usage of the port to the contrary. 386, 1163
The owners are liable to the seamen for their lay where the master embezzles the proceeds of oil sold abroad on condemnation of the ship. 386, 1163
Interest will be allowed after reasonable time for the sale of the oil, adjustment of the voyage, and demand by libelants. 386
Where the whaler is lost, and the cargo sent home, the seaman's remedy is against the owner for his lay, and not against the master for wages. 387
The owners are bound to account to the shareholders for any proceeds of her cargo which come to their hands where the vessel is lost, though the contract be not to pay them until her return. 1163
Where a long delay (nearly six years) to prosecute for a share in the catch is not shown to have led to any losses, acts, or divisions of profits, injurious to the owners, he delay is no bar. 1163
Forfeiture.
See “Customs Duties”; “Internal Revenue”; “Shipping.”
FORGERY.
An innocent purchaser for value of a treasury note, on which the indorsee's name is forged, and the name of the indorser is erased, is entitled to receive the amount thereof from the treasury. 374
FRAUDS, STATUTE OF.
The Massachusetts statute of frauds is substantially similar, as respects trusts, to the statute of 29 Car. II. 462
The statute of frauds is never allowed as a protection to fraud, or as a means of seducing the unwary into false confidence to their injury. 462
An agreement of defendant to reduce a trust to writing, or to keep a private memorandum thereof, will take the case out of the statute. 462
FRAUDULENT CONVEYANCES.
See, also, “Assignment for Benefit of Creditors”; “Bankruptcy.”
A conveyance to one's attorney is not rendered fraudulent by the fact that part of the consideration was the paper of a firm to which the vendor belonged, which was not worth its face value. 456
The fact that the attorney purchases without an abstract or examination of title is not proof of fraud. 456
The fact that the negotiator of a loan, who personally guarantied the paper, received a large compensation for so doing, does not vitiate a conveyance made to him in settlement of a part of the loan which he was afterwards compelled to take up. 456
A transfer of “all the goods and merchandise” in a certain store is a sufficient description to transfer the title where immediate possession is given. 1030
A conveyance will not be set aside as made to hinder and delay creditors unless the intention of both parties be shown. 456
A creditor who, with full knowledge of the facts that constitute the fraud, concurs with other creditors in assenting to its execution, cannot impeach it as fraudulent. 794
But an assenting creditor may impeach the transfer as to a claim which he has purchased from a nonassenting creditor. 794
A creditor who purchases property from a trustee, in ignorance of the fraud is not precluded from impeaching the assignment. 794
A party who purchases a judgment has no higher right to impeach a fraudulent assignment than his assignor had. 794
GARNISHMENT.
See, also, “Attachment”; “Execution.”
Where the garnishee is taken andheld to special bail, under Act. Md. 1795, c. 56, § 6, no judgment can be rendered against him until he has appeared. 983
As to the form of a capias against a garnishee. 983
GRANT.
See, also, “Public Lands.”
An entry and survey do not, in Virginia, convey the legal estate in lands out of the commonwealth. 939 1210
HABEAS CORPUS.
Where the court which passed sentence had jurisdiction, its proceedings are not subject to review on habeas corpus. 867
The federal court may issue the writ to produce a federal officer arrested and imprisoned under a state process for his conduct in executing a federal process, and to inquire into the cause of commitment, and, if illegal, order a complete discharge. 445
Where the indictment does not show that the alleged offense was committed by the officer while acting under a federal process or law, the court will admit evidence to sustain the allegations in the petition that the acts alleged were done in proper execution of a federal process. 445
On habeas corpus the court has the power to review its former judgment so far as to determine whether it exceeded its powers in passing such judgment. 1175
On a question of conflict between state and federal process, counsel, not authorized by the state or its proper officers, have no right to appear in defense of the state process. 445
Homestead.
See “Bankruptcy.”
HUSBAND AND WIFE.
A note given for money loaned by the wife while unmarried, and prior to the passage of the married woman's property act (Wisconsin), passes to the husband under the common-law rule, and his interest is unaffected by the subsequent act. 927
Securities taken in the wife's name by the husband will not be considered as a settlement upon her, where it appears that they were used and collected by him with the wife's consent. 927
A settlement upon the wife by a husband free from debt, and not contemplating bankruptcy, by deed which reserved a power of revocation and a power of appointment by deed or will, will be upheld as against an assignee in bankruptcy. 942
Where the husband habitually receives the income of the wife's separate estate and disposes of it for the benefit of the family he will not be required to account therefor. 927
INDIANS.
The seisin of lands belonging to Indian tribes is in the sovereign, and a purchaser from the Indians can only acquire the Indian title. 235
INJUNCTION.
See, also, “Equity”; “Patents.”
An injunction to prevent the removal of a colored person who has petitioned for freedom will not be granted upon a mere statement of plaintiff's apprehension. 547
Insolvency.
See “Assignment for Benefit of Creditors”; “Bankruptcy.”
Inspection.
See “Shipping.”
INSURANCE.
See, also, “Benevolent Societies”; “Marine Insurance.”
A premium note, when negotiable, is entitled to grace as other commercial paper, and a tender of interest within the days of grace will prevent a forfeiture for nonpayment of interest at maturity. 364
A general agent, by charging himself with the payment of a premium in his account with the company, and giving credit to the insured, may waive the condition of the policy requiring payment in cash. 938
Construction of stipulation providing for a right to surrender at any time on payment of customary short rates. 12
Repairs necessary to remedy defects endangering the safety of the insured property may be made, and new machinery substituted for old, where the risk is not increased. 309
The substitution of a horizontal for an upright boiler in a woolen mill, and the building of a structure to cover the projecting end and a brick chimney and fireplace, where thereby auxiliary motive power was obtained,held not to render the policy void. 309
The right of a mortgagee whose interest has been insured under a policy payable to him as mortgageeheld not affected by other insurance obtained by the mortgagor without his knowledge. 776
The rules stated under which recovery may be had in a case of suicide. 373
Where death by suicide or impairment of health by intemperance are excepted under the policy, there can be no recovery where the mental condition under which the insured committed suicide was produced by intemperance. 373
A policy of life insurance is subject to a lien in favor of creditors under Rev. St. Me. 1871, c. 50, § 65, for the excess of premium over $150 per year paid by the debtor for two years. 1076
A quarterly payment amounting to less than $150 will not subject the policy to such lien. 1076
A stockholder in an insurance company rendered insolvent by a fire cannot escape liability on a demand note given for stock, by giving in payment of his note, a certificate of indebtedness on an adjusted policy. 453
Interest will run on such note from the date of demand by the assignee or of the exchange of the certificate for the note. 453
INTEREST.
See, also, “Building and Loan Associations.”
The law of the state must be produced to prove the rate of interest allowed therein. 285
INTERNAL REVENUE.
A double-stamp dutyheld not incurred on a conveyance to the original purchaser through an irresponsible middleman. 303
An enhancement of value by stipulated improvements to be made by the purchaser is not to be considered in fixing the amount of the stamp. 303
Nonresident aliens are not liable to the income tax under Act June 30, 1864. 232
Undivided earnings of incorporated companiesheld not taxable as income in the returns of stockholders. 179
Two offenses—the conspiracy to defraud, and a knowledge of a violation of law without reporting the same—may be committed by a revenue officer, and may be joined in the same indictment. (Rev. St. § 3169.) 1175 1211
International Law.
See “Citizens.”
JUDGMENT.
Validity.
Where the service of process is simply defective or irregular, the judgment is valid until set aside or reversed; but, where there is no service of process, the judgment is void. 154
Operation and effect.
The judgment is a lien on subsequently acquired land. 206
A judgment against a partner individually is a lien upon real estate held by the firm, subject, however, to the payment of the firm debts, and the equities of his copartners. 794
A lien by judgment does not create any vested right in the property subject to the lien. 1079
A judgment is not barred under Act Va. Dec. 19, 1792, where execution has been issued thereon, and returned 10 years after its date. 123
A sci. fa. is not necessary to revive a judgment if a fi. fa. has been issued and returned. 744
Where the judgment is revived between the original parties, it is not necessary to issue a sci. fa. to purchasers from defendant. 206
A decree that a preliminary injunction stand continued on the performance of certain acts within a certain time, otherwise to be dismissed,held not an absolute bar to a future suit, where the acts are not performed. 462
Amendment.
The terms of a final judgment cannot be altered by the court in any material part except on a review, or appeal, or writ of error, or rehearing allowed for sufficient cause. 517
Decrees are final, after the end of the term at which they are rendered, unless specially entered otherwise. 517
A decree entered up as final, with a view to other proceedings upon it as a final decree, will be considered as final from the day of its entry. 517
Where time of payment has been fixed by a final decree in equity, an extension cannot be granted. 517
Relief against: Opening: Vacating.
A judgment may be set aside at a subsequent term for irregularity. 983
In the absence of fraud or irregularity, accident in not appearing, or otherwise happening before final decree, cannot be relieved against thereafter except by bill in equity. 517
Of different jurisdictions.
The judgment is as final and conclusive in every other state as in the one where it is entered. 283
Actions on judgments.
Nil debet cannot be pleaded to an action on a judgment. 283
A release, the statute of limitations, or payment may be pleaded. 283
The plea of nul tiel record brings up the validity of the judgment and the description of it, as set forth in the declaration. 283
JUDICIAL SALES.
See, also, “Execution.”
A sale of land lying in the outer part of a town may be made in lump, and not in parcels, though a company had been formed to purchase the same in lump, which might prevent competition in bidding. 709
JURY.
Where the statute gives a right to each party to challenge peremptorily two jurors, plaintiff may be allowed to exercise the right after he has once expressed himself as satisfied with the jury, and after defendant has used his challenges. 1047
The challenged juror cannot be examined as a witness to the triors. 907
The two jurors first sworn in a cause are the proper triors of a challenge for favor. 907
The court will not permit counsel to argue to the triors upon a challenge for favor. 907
JUSTICES OF THE PEACE.
Notice of appeal from justice's decision. 278
Where due notice of appeal was not given, the appeal maybe dismissed, with costs, but a judgment on the merits cannot be rendered for the other party. 278
After the justice has certified a transcript on appeal, defects cannot be supplied. 278
Where no proceedings are had for two terms after the death of appellant pending the appeal, the sureties in the appeal bond are not liable for appellant's failure to prosecute the appeal with effect. 431
LANDLORD AND TENANT.
An agreement for a lease will be construed as a present demise if no future formal lease be contemplated, and possession be taken under it. 513
Construction of agreement of lease and of the possession taken under it, and the rights of the parties determined in the case of conflict as to the ownership of property. 513
The building must be restored to its former condition where it is injuriously affected by alterations permitted subject to the condition that the lessee would surrender the premises in as good state as reasonable use would permit. 579
The right of action for breach of covenant is not impaired by the fact that the alterations make the building more convenient to the tenant to whom it was relet by the lessor before the expiration of the lease. 579
Rent is discharged by the taking the note of a third person therefor, and giving time of payment thereon until the maker becomes insolvent. 1162
Goods fraudulently removed by the tenant, though not secretly, may be followed and distrained by the landlord. 455
A distress for rent, laid on the last day of the term, at noon,held too soon. 779
LIBEL AND SLANDER.
Mere words of disgrace are not actionable where not written and published. 734
It is not actionable to call a white man a “yellow negro,” “a villain and a liar.” 734
License.
See “Patents.”
Liens.
See “Admiralty”; “Bankruptcy” “Maritime Liens” “Mechanics' Liens” “Shipping.” 1212
LIMITATION OF ACTIONS.
See, also, “Adverse Possession” “Ejectment” “Equity” “Maritime Liens.”
The statute of limitations is the law of the forum. 978
Where a judgment by default in a suit commenced before plaintiff's demand was barred was set aside after the statute period had elapsed,held, that defendant was not entitled to the benefit of the statute. 154
If the statute of limitations has once run against a tenant in tail, it is a complete bar to a subsequent tenant in tail upon a descent east. 62
Actions of formedon are within the statute of Rhode Island for quieting possessions, and 20 years' possession under the statute is a good bar. 62
A formedon in descender is not within the proviso of the statute of possessions of Rhode Island. 62
The statute is no bar where the holder of an accepted bill of exchange was beyond seas at the time his cause of action accrued, and so continued until suit brought, though the indorsers always were residents of the United States. 113
An acknowledgment, accompanied by a refusal to pay, unless compelled by law, will not take the case out of the statute of limitations. 454
A reply to a plea of the statute that plaintiff lived in another state is not good. 978
Lotteries.
See “Post Office.”
MALICIOUS PROSECUTION.
It is no defense that defendant's oath did not in law authorize the magistrate to grant the warrant if the defendant personally availed himself of it. 740
MANDAMUS.
A mandamus will issue from the federal court on petition of nonresident holders of overdue coupons of county bonds who have obtained judgment thereon in the federal court to enforce the levy and collection of a tax to pay the same. 454
MARINE INSURANCE.
There is no implied warranty of seaworthiness in antedated time policies. 982
It is a material concealment not to exhibit, at the time the contract of insurance is made, a letter communicating the time when the voyage insured commenced, where the vessel is then out of time. 782
A vessel injured in a collision put back to port, where her cargo of cotton was found so greatly damaged that it was sold, by the consent of master and shippers, and the vessel proceeded on a different voyage.Held, that insurers on the freight were not liable. 1105
Insurers take no risk with regard to the length, retardation, or interruption of a voyage if it be subsequently resumed, or be capable of being resumed. 1105
Insurers cannot avail themselves of freight earned in a new voyage which they have not insured, by way of recompense for losses on another voyage which they have insured, and which has already terminated. 1105
MARITIME LIENS.
See, also, “Admiralty”; “Affreightment”; “Bottomry and Respondentia”; “Charter Parties”; “Salvage”; “Seamen”; “Shipping.”
The right to a lien.
The wages of a watchman employed on a vessel while laid up in port are not a maritime lien. 897
The ship keeper of a domestic vessel which is being repaired for a new use has no lien for wages under the general maritime law. 172
The master of a vessel incumbered for more than her value, appointed by the owner after she was libeled in admiralty, has no lien for his wages. 172
No lien arises on a vessel for compressing cotton for more convenient carriage and stowage. 1132
Neither costs of advertising a vessel for sea, portage, nor commissions for procuring freight, nor wages for stevedores or lightermen, are liens on the vessel. 1132
The premium due on a policy of insurance on a vessel is not a maritime lien. 897
A lien arises for advances to release a boat belonging in another state from the possession of the marshal. 350, 1176
But not to save the vessel from a threatened seizure. 350
In the absence of express application by the owner, freight money received by the consignee of the vessel is to be deemed to be applied to the discharge of the liens on the vessel. 616
A lien arises for advances made upon the credit of a foreign vessel for necessary repairs and supplies where the money is actually employed for that purpose. 616
Where the equitable owner lives in the port where the work is done, and the dealings are with him as owner, the ship is domestic so far as liens are concerned, though the legal title be in a foreigner. 172
Supplies furnished and charged to a vessel belonging to a nonresident insolvent owner, who was personally present,held a lien upon the vessel. 331
To sustain a libel in rem for repairs to a vessel in a foreign port, the necessity for the repairs and for a lien upon the vessel to enable the master to procure them must be shown. 331, 333
The burden is on libelant to show that materials furnished at the request of the master and former owner, at the place of the latter's residence, were furnished on the credit of the vessel. 1006
Priority and enforcement.
A claim for salvage services rendered to a vessel in collision has priority over a claim for damages by the collision. 555
Claims for repairs for damages caused by a collision have priority over a claim of the other vessel for damages. 555
The master's claim for wages and for advances of wages to the crew take precedence to a lien of a bottomry bond given by him. 93
A lien for repairs to a foreign vessel will be preferred to a bottomry interest prior in point of time. 564
Where the proceeds are not sufficient to satisfy either of two mortgagees, a material man whose lien is subsequent only to that of the junior mortgagee cannot object to the application of the proceeds as between the mortgagees. 897
Claims for repairs and supplies in the home port, though duly recorded under the local law, are postponed to maritime liens. 897
A maritime lien is paramount to a later domestic lien, under the state law, and is not affected by a judgment and sale under the statutory lien, regardless of the provisions of the statute. 707 1213
The liens created tinder Gen. St. Mass. c. 151, are postponed to mariners' wages, but they take precedence of an earlier mortgage. 172
The mortgagee of a vessel is entitled to payment of his mortgage out of the fund in the registry in a court of admiralty alter the payment of prior liens. 172
The lex loci contractus is observed in granting or refusing the remedy where a lien is claimed for labor and materials furnished to a vessel in a port of another country. 37
Where a term of credit is given, the lien cannot be enforced until after its expiration. 902
Waiver: Discharge: Extinguishment.
A condemnation and sale, as unseaworthy, set up in a discharge for a previous lien for supplies,held not sustained by the testimony of the claimant, who had, taken part in the proceedings as surveyor, and was an interested party. 614
The burden is on the claimant to prove that time drafts given for the amount of supplies were, agreed to be received in payment. 331
The defense of stale claim in admiralty must be supported by a statement of facts showing that it is inequitable to enforce the claim. 386
Lien for repairs to a canal boatheld lost by 16 months' delay to enforce it, where the boat had returned several times to the place where the repairs were made. 693
Liens under state laws.
Gen. St. Mass. c. 151, giving liens on vessels for repairs, is Valid so far, at least, as it applies to refitting and renewing domestic vessels to adapt them to a new business. 172
A vessel delivered to persons who contracted to purchase her, for the purpose of repairs, though it was agreed that the same should not be a lien on her,held subject to a lien in favor of the material man without notice, as against the owner who retook possession. (Act N. Y. April 24, 1862, § 1. Reversing 667.). 670
Claims for repairs and supplies to a vessel in her home port are a lien under the Louisiana law only when properly recorded. 897
Under the New York lien law, a departure from the port where supplies have been furnished a vessel, although with intent to return, destroys the lien. 455
A steamboat employed upon a ferry between New York and Ft. Lee is a ship or vessel subject to a lien under the New York law. 1134
Such vessel does not depart from the state, so as to destroy the liens, by making one trip on such route on Sunday before her repairs are completed. 1134
The lien is not lost by the vessel leaving the state fraudulently or clandestinely, at a time when the lien creditor could not legally arrest her. 1134
Regular daily voyages between New York and Haverstrawheld to be departures, within the meaning of the New York lien law. 550
A lien created by a state law against a domestic vessel for supplies furnished in the home port cannot be recognized or enforced in admiralty. 172, 217
But the admiralty may pay the same where valid out of the fund in its registry. 172
The lien given by the local law, for repairs to a vessel in her home port may be enforced in the district court. 670
The right to enforce the lien in the district court is not affected by the fact that the same law gives an unconstitutional power to the state courts to proceed in rem to enforce the lien. 670
A bond given by a marshal payable to the president of the United States and his successors instead of the United States, is not good, and the sureties are not liable thereon. 249, 250
MASTER AND SERVANT.
The proprietor of dangerous machinery is bound to use reasonable care to keep, it in a safe and sound condition. 1074
No recovery can be had against the master for an injury caused by the negligence of a fellow servant, unless it appear that he was incompetent, and that the master was guilty of willful negligence in employing him. 1111
The fireman is a fellow servant of an engineer of the same engine, and cannot recover for injury caused by the neglect of the latter to discharge his duties. 1074
MORTGAGES.
See, also, “Chattel Mortgages”; “Shipping.”
A deed, absolute on its face, will not beheld to be a mortgage, unless the grantee, as well as grantor, understood the purpose of the conveyance to be the security of a debt. 940
The fact that the relations between the parties were intimate, and that the vendor expected to be able to repurchase on favorable terms, does not make the conveyance a simple security for indebtedness. 456
MUNICIPAL CORPORATIONS.
See, also, “Counties”; “Railroad Companies.”
Under power to levy a license upon trades, professions, and callings, the city may levy a tax upon foreign corporations double that levied upon domestic corporations. 67
The surrender of its charter by a city, and an organization under a general law, works a dissolution of the old corporation, and the new corporation is not liable on bonds theretofore issued. 1004
Act Kan. March 2, 1872, providing for the registration of municipal and county bonds, is not a curative act, in the sense that it takes away any valid defense which the city or county would otherwise have to bonds theretofore issued. 362
Act Kan. March 9, 1874, was intended to change the mode of levying and collecting taxes to pay bonds, and not to validate or make binding bonds which would otherwise be void. 362
NAVIGABLE WATERS.
See, also, “Constitutional Law.”
A bridge of sufficient elevation, or with a proper draw, is not necessarily an impediment to navigation; nor is any structure such an impediment which facilitates commerce, instead of being a hindrance. 919
Where a bridge constructed over a navigable stream under the authority of a state statute is a material obstruction, the statute is no defense to a suit for an injury caused thereby. 919
Where the injury to plaintiff's boat in collision with a bridge was caused by the negligence of those in charge, he cannot recover, though the bridge was a, material obstruction to navigation. 919 1214
Negotiable Instruments.
See “Bills, Notes, and Checks”; “Bills of Lading.”
NEUTRALITY LAWS.
It is no breach of neutrality on the part of a belligerent to equip vessels of war in a neutral port, unless the act be interdicted. 1179
NEW TRIAL.
Where irregular conduct of the party or the jury is established, it is not necessary that it should appear that it influenced the jury. If it be such that it might have affected the verdict, a new trial will be granted. 798
Where the finding is not only contrary to the evidence, but in direct contravention of the charge of the court, the error cannot be obviated by allowing the prevailing party to remit an excess in the verdict. 798
NOTICE.
Notice of a claim and controversy sufficient to put one upon inquiry is a sufficient notice in equity. 462
NOVATION.
A debtor cannot voluntarily transfer his obligation to pay to a third person without the consent of his creditors. 1059
An agreement for an extension of creditheld not to supersede a prior agreement under which a mortgage was given to secure notes and the right to enforce the same on default in payment. 881
PARTIES.
Where an agreement with A. and B. is to reconvey to each separately the different estates conveyed by them, a separate action will lie by either party for his separate proportion. 594
Where all the creditors of a debtor join in a release, they must all join in a bill in equity to set it aside. 1172
Where one of such creditors is a resident of the same state with defendants, he may be omitted as a party plaintiff in a bill by the others, who are nonresidents. 1172
A bill in equity will be dismissed where, after objection for want of necessary parties, complainant neglects to bring them in. 940
In equity and admiralty courts a person who becomes interested in the subject-matter pending the litigation may come in and protect his interest if application is made within reasonable time. 550
PARTNERSHIP.
See, also, “Bankruptcy.”
A person who permits himself to be held out as a partner is liable as such to one from whom credit is secured upon the strength of the supposed relation. 585
A partnership is not liable on an indorsement in the firm name by one member without the knowledge of the other, of an accommodation note, for the benefit of the third person. 110
The fact that plaintiff is suing on a partnership debt in his own name is available to defendant at the trial under the general issue. 1113
PATENTS.
Patentability.
The result produced by a process patent must be an improvement in the trade in the commercial sense. 1069
A change in form, though slight, if it works a successful result not before accomplished in a similar way, is patentable. 152
The application of an old device for the construction of the exterior of iron safes to the construction of the interior of iron jail walls is patentable. 270
The application of a process for preserving perishable foods, to the preserving of green corn cut from the cob, is not patentable. 980
The specification of a prior patent, to anticipate an invention of a compound, must state the relative proportions of the ingredients in terms sufficient to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the compound without experiment of his own. 533
Who may obtain patent.
The patentee cannot carry back his invention to a period before the attempted restoration of a machine which four years before he had taken apart as incomplete, where in the meantime another has perfected and patented the same machine, and placed it on the market. 798
Prior public use or sale.
Acts of the inventor to determine the value, utility, or success of his invention are to be liberally construed if not inconsistent with the clear intention to hold exclusive privilege. 545
The use of a machine for profit while perfecting the same, where it was concealed from all persons save the workmen in the business,held not sufficient to invalidate a patent therefor. 545
The defense under the statute is only made out by proof that the invention was on sale or in public use, with the consent and allowance of the inventor, for a period exceeding two years before his application. 1017
Abandonment: Laches.
The invention is the property of the inventor until he abandons it to the public, or suffers it to be in public use or on sale with his consent for more than two years. 1017
The fact of abandonment must result from the intention of the patentee, expressly declared or clearly indicated by his acts. 716
An abandonment may be found from the fact that an inventor laid the parts of his machine aside, and did nothing more for four years to perfect his invention. 798, 807
Use of the invention without the inventor's consent during delays in the patent office is no evidence of abandonment. 1017
Proof of knowledge of and acquiescence in the use by others, to show an abandonment, must be beyond all reasonable doubt. 1017
The issue of letters patent is prima facie evidence that there has been no abandonment. 716
An abandonment will not be presumed by the failure to apply for a patent during progress of experiment, and until the inventor has tested the invention by actual practice. 1017
Six years' delay to appeal from the action of the commissioner in rejecting an application, during four of which years the applicant resided in a state in rebellion,held not an abandonment. 716
A patentee experimented for 11 years after discovering the process, and then applied for and was refused a patent, and did nothing further for nine years, when he made a second application.Held no abandonment. 1017 1215
Caveat.
A caveat is not conclusive evidence that the invention is part perfected. 823
A caveat will not protect an unperfected invention which the inventor did not use due diligence to perfect. 823
An inventor cannot, by virtue of a caveat, carry back his invention beyond the date of his application, where he did nothing within the year after the caveat was filed to mature and perfect what he described therein. 807
Application and issue: Interference.
The patent relates back to the date of the application; and patents granted to other inventors during the pendency of such application are no protection to an infringer. 716
In an interference proceeding, a caveat filed by one of the parties is admissible in evidence, as part of the res gestae, so far as it described the machinery then constructed. 1069
A patent, together with the application therefor, affords prima facie evidence that the patentee was the original and first inventor at the date of the application. 798, 807
The burden of proof is on the applicant to show that a change in form produces a better result. The question cannot be decided by a mere a priori argument. 199
Letters and memoranda of a witness experimenting for the inventor, describing appliances and results, are only admissible for the purpose of refreshing his recollection. 1069
Appeals from commissioner's decision.
The decision of the commissioner that he will not review or revise the action, of his predecessor in rejecting an application is no ground of appeal. 349
In interference cases the jurisdiction of the court is not restricted to the mere question of priority, but extends to the question of patentability. 1069
The commissioner on an appeal cannot rely upon references not previously given to the applicant, as required by Act 1836, § 7. 592
Affidavits included among the papers sent up from the office, but which were not taken by authority of the commissioner or acted upon by him in forming his decision, cannot be considered. 199
Extent of claim.
Patents are to be liberally construed. 1
An inventor is entitled to protection in all the functions his invention will perform. 41
A patent for an improvement without specifying the original invention, or referring to anything for information, is fatally defective. 153
The court will determine the extent of the grant by the claim, construed in the light of the specification and the documents in the patent office which preceded the grant. 823
Reissue: Disclaimer.
Patents reissued after the originals have been declared void for want of novelty cannot be sustained. 989
In determining whether the reissued patent is broader than the original, the court is confined to the records in the patent office. 728
Defendant may show the condition of the model at the time it was filed in the patent office, and at the date of the original patent. 728
The case will be opened to permit introduction of newly-discovered evidence to show a change in the model when the reissue was granted. 728
It will be presumed in support of a reissue that the commissioner duly performed his duty of ascertaining that the defect in the original specification was owing to inadvertence, accident, or mistake, and that the amended description is of the same invention as was covered by the original patent. 1092
Extension: Renewal.
Congress may authorize extension of a patent after the original term has expired. 1092
An application filed February 15th for extension of a patent expiring May 15th,held within 90 days, as required by law. 777
The decision of the commissioner in granting an extension is conclusive evidence of all the facts which he is required to find before issuing it. 1092
Assignment.
An assignment of an interest in an invention and of letters patent “to the full end of the term for which they are or may be granted” will pass a subsequent reissue, but not an interest in a subsequently extended term. 531
Licenses.
A grant of an exclusive right to make, use, and vend the patented machine within certain territory is infringed by the manufacture by others of machines within the territory for use without it. 519
A license permitting the invention to be manufactured and used upon certain terms and conditions will not be deemed evidence of an acquiescence in infringements of the licensor's rights. 1092
Infringement—What constitutes.
A mechanical equivalent is one that may be adopted in place of that named, by a person skilled in the art from his knowledge of the art. 823
Who liable.
A contractor who does work for a county is liable for infringement of a patent in such work, though he was ignorant of the patent. 276
Remedy, generally.
Where there is no sufficient ground for an injunction, and compensation only is sought, there is no jurisdiction in equity. 519
The fact that defendant has refrained from the use of the thing patented, and has promised not to further infringe, is no ground for a denial of the remedy in equity. 519
The remedy in equity given to inventors by Act 1836, § 17, extends to their assignees. 519
Preliminary injunction.
The same rule obtains in patent cases as in other equitable cases as to the granting of a preliminary writ. 116
An adjudication in favor of a patent at final hearing on full proofs is controlling unless cogent evidence is presented in addition to that found insufficient upon such hearing. 991
The standing of complainants in the market, and their relation to the trade, may be properly considered on the motion. 116
The fact that defendant has obtained a patent for his process, while not controlling, is entitled to weight. 991
Defendants will be concluded by the statement of their process in their printed labels prepared before the suit was brought. 991
Granted where much more injury would or might result to complainants from refusal than to defendants from granting it. 116
Denied where the court entertained strong doubts as to the novelty of the patented invention. 980
Denied where the infringement was committed by a corporation of another state in which the interested defendant was only one of several directors. 1002 1216
Denied on defendants' giving bond where they were merely selling agents on commission of manufacturers of the alleged infringing articles, against whom a suit was pending in another circuit by complainants. 124
Denied where defendants were misled in continuing the infringement by plaintiffs' answer to their inquiry as to whether plaintiffs regarded their process as an infringement. 991
Denied where the affidavits in opposition raised a doubt as to the novelty of the invention, exclusive possession of plaintiff was not shown, and defendants were able to respond in damages. 953
Procedure.
The profits recoverable for infringements are not regarded as unliquidated damages, and they are subject to assignment. 519
It is a fatal defect in the bill that all the owners of the patent have not been made parties; but those only are deemed owners to whom the patent was issued, or to whom interests in it have been transferred by assignment in writing, duly authenticated. 1092
An answer to a bill for infringement which is indistinct and evasive as to the use of the patented invention will be considered as an admission. 1104
Amendment setting up a new defense not allowed after interlocutory decree, and account proceeded with, where reasonable diligence not shown. 31
In determining anticipation and infringement, the machines or their several devices must be examined in the light of what they do, or what office or function they perform, and how they perform it. 807
The defense of the insufficiency of the specification to enable the invention to be practiced, to be available, must be set up in the answer. 545
A prior decision in another court is no ground for opening an interlocutory decree, where the question has since been passed upon at law in this court. 44
—Evidence.
The patentee has the burden of sustaining by competent and sufficient evidence his claim that his invention antedated his original application. 798
Stamping manufactured articles with the name and date of a patent is conclusive on the manufacturers that they were made thereunder, and, where the patent is held to be an infringement, they will beheld liable. 1039
The issue, reissue, and extension of a patent, and the fact that it has been sustained in previous suits, create a strong presumption against a defense of want of novelty. 1092
Decree, and its effect.
Where the patent expires after the filing of the bill, the court can order an account and grant other relief, though no injunction can be awarded. 1, 1092
Accounting: Damages.
The profits recoverable for infringements are not regarded as unliquidated damages, for defendant stands in the position as a trustee for complainant. 519
On infringement of a patent for an improvement, complainant is only entitled to the value of the improvement separate from the old device. 43
Damages for an alleged reduction in prices or loss of sales caused by the infringement must be based upon evidence furnishing a sound and safe basis of calculation. 47
Various particular inventions and patents.
Adjustable fastener. Reissue No. 4,870, for fish-plate fastening,held invalid, as being for a different invention than that described in the original patent. 741
Canned corn. Nos. 34,928, 35,274, 35,346, and 36,326, for improvement in process of preserving green corn,held valid and infringed 991, *1017
Carding machine. Patent to Goulding, with reissue and extension, for improvement in machinery for the manufacture of fibrous materials,held valid. 1092
Cotton-bale ties. No. 59,144, for improvement,held valid and infringed. 716
Cotton-bale ties. No. 59,144 (reissued No. 4,896), for improvement,held not infringed. 728
Elastic packing. No. 54,554 (reissued No. 3,579), for improvement,held valid and infringed. 525
Grain drills. No. 90,268 (reissued No. 5,976), for improvement,held valid and infringed. 41
Lamps. No. 20,159 (reissued No. 648), for improvement in lamps,held valid and infringed. 1039
Lamps. No. 65,230, 73,012, 89,770, 86,549, and 99,443, for improvement in lamps and lanterns,held valid and infringed. 117
Mowing machines. Reissue No. 3,460, for improvement,held valid and infringed. 212
Photographs. No. 179,316, for improvement in making colored photographs on glass,held valid and infringed. 92
Railroad cars. No. 389, for improvement in mode of supporting bodies of cars, and connecting them with truck, construed, andheld infringed. 1
Railway-track brooms. No. 180,717, for improvement,held valid. 152
Screw augers. No. 56,869, for improved machine for swaging the heads of screw augers,held valid and infringed. 545
Sewing machines. No. 10,597 (reissued No. 355), for improvement,held valid and infringed. 807, 823
Splitting wood. No. 12,857, for improved machine,held valid. 777
Steam globe valves. Patent to Jenkins, for improvement,held valid and infringed. 525
Weaver's temples. Priority of invention of improvement awarded to Jillson. 632
Zinc white. No. 8,756, for improvement in manufacture,held invalid. 1002
PAYMENT.
See, also, “Bills, Notes, and Checks”; “Release and Discharge.”
In estimating freight, expressed in dollars, on goods shipped to England, the pound sterling is to be reckoned at its mercantile value in dollars in England. 437
A creditor holding several notes of his debtor has a right to apply a general payment equally to all the notes to protect them from the bar of the statute. 212
A payment under protest of a half month's storage before the collector would allow goods, which had been entered for warehouse, to be landed for consumption,held voluntary, and could not be recovered back. 106
PILOTS.
The seizure of a vessel on process, which interrupts her regular business, is notice to the pilot that his services are no longer required, and terminates his right to wages. 1142
A pilot has a lien on the ship for services in bringing the vessel into port, rendered 1217under agreement with the passengers in pretended mutiny. 723
PLEADING AT LAW.
See, also, “Abatement and Revival.”
A declaration founded upon a statute must conclude against the form of the statute etc. 1047
A declaration in debt for a penalty describing the offense in the words of the statuteheld good after verdict. 267
A plea that the bill of exchange, on which the action is founded, was not drawn and accepted at the place alleged, constitutes no bar, and is bad on demurrer. 980
The rule that on demurrer judgment must be rendered against him who commits the first fault in pleading is only applicable to faults that are bad on general demurrer. 247
The law of a state need not be set out in a declaration or plea in a federal court, as such court will take notice of the laws of the states without pleading or proof. 978
Where a cause of action is local, a reference to the “district aforesaid,” named in any preceding count, is a sufficient designation of the place. 1057
An averment of citizenship in the first count is sufficient for all the other counts where referred to therein. 980
Counts abandoned are considered as still in the record for matters of references subsequent counts. 1057
Duplicity and all defects in form in pleading can be taken advantage of only by special demurrer. 247
The union of several facts constituting together but one cause of action or but one defense is not duplicity. 247
Payment may be given in evidence under non assumpsit without notice. 432
Where the declaration was for money received to plaintiff's use, and the evidence showed that the money was received on joint account for plaintiff and his partners, a nonsuit was granted for variance. 1112
A verdict will not cure a variance between the covenant alleged in the declaration and that produced on oyer. 49
PLEADING IN ADMIRALTY
See, also, “Maritime Liens”; “Salvage”; “Seamen.”
Technical precision is not required; but the cause of action should be clearly set forth, so that a plain and direct issue may be made up on the charge; and the evidence must be confined to the matter put in issu. 539
Libels in civil actions in rem need not state the occupation and residence of the libelant. 1176
Libels in rem in civil causes (in Indiana) need not be supported by the affidavit of the libellant. 1176
Amendment of answer not allowed to make it correspond with the proofs, where the allegations, were deliberately made, under a full knowledge of the grounds relied on by libelant. 84
On appeal from a decree of the district court dismissing a libel in rem for the foreclosure of a mortgage on a vessel, the circuit court will not permit the libel to be amended so as to convert the suit into an action to recover possession of the vessel. 686
PLEADING IN EQUITY.
A demurrer to a plea to a chancery attachment waives the right to move to strike out the plea, as having been made without giving special bail. 123
An amendment setting up a new defense in the answer will not be allowed where the matter proposed, with reasonable diligence, could have been sooner introduced. (Rule No. 60.). 31
Evidence as to confessions and statements by defendant not charged in the bill are equally admissible in equity as at law. 462
POST OFFICE.
An act prohibiting the carrying, in the mail of letters or circulars concerning lotteries, and punishing as a crime the sending of such matter through the mails, is not unconstitutional. 194
POWERS.
A power of attorney to convey land in Ohio must be recorded before a record is made of the deed. 834
A power which authorizes the attorney to sell and convey lands, does not authorize him to make a deed for lands previously sold. 834
An application of the benefits by the beneficiary of a power in trust in a form which the donee could not lawfully directheld not to render the appointment void, where there was no prior understanding. 50
A power to appoint among “children” may include grandchildren if they are, in a general way, manifest objects of the trust. 50
Under a power to appoint “among such of the children of A. and B., and in such proportions as B. may appoint,” B. may entirely exclude certain children. 50
PRACTICE AT LAW.
A party has no right to inspect papers which he has given the other notice to produce at the trial, unless he consent that they shall be used in evidence. 1112
In Ohio a count cannot be abandoned after the jury retire to consult on the verdict. 1047
An account in bar or set-off must be filed one term before trial, under the rules in the District of Columbia. 350
A demurrer to evidence waives all objections to its admissibility, and admits every conclusion that may be fairly deduced from it. 267, 868, 1040
The court will infer in favor of the party demurring to evidence all the facts which the evidence on the other side conduces to prove. 868
PRACTICE IN ADMIRALTY.
Seamen suing for wages cannot be made colibelants with the holders of a bottomry bond. 380
A default in payment of an installment due on a mortgage on a vessel gives the mortgagee the right to its possession, and he will be permitted to come in and defend a suit in rem commenced the day before the default. 550
Third persons claiming ownership of a vessel seized on process of foreign attachment may move to amend the marshal's false return of “not found,” though they have given bond for release. 70
The objection that the suit was prematurely commenced must be raised by plea in abatement or demurrer, to be available where the right of action is perfected before final hearing. 134
Limitation of time or staleness of libelant's claim will not avail respondent unless pleaded in bar. 1012 1218
Delay pending another case on the same state of facts, arising out of the same transaction, will riot render the claim stale. 1012
A nonsuit which is not the result of a judgment of the court is no bar to a subsequent libel for the same cause. 387
An irregularity of practice must be objected, to by the party affected by it within the term of the court next subsequent to its becoming known to him. 39
A defective execution of a stipulation is within the rule. 39
The requisites of a valid stipulation. 39
Sureties on a bond given by the wife who filed a claim to property attached on a libel against the husband and wife are discharged where, the suit is dismissed against the wife, though a decree is rendered against the husband. 424
Where the amount claimed is sufficient to allow an appeal to the supreme court, summary judgement cannot be rendered by the circuit court against the sureties in the appeal bond on dismissal of the libel until after the expiration of 10 days after the rendering of the decree. 573
Time given to permit production of evidence of payment of money to a third person at seaman's request alleged by way of set-off to his claim for wages. 49
The admiralty courts are not bound by the rules of evidence applied in common-law courts, and they may take notice of matters not strictly proved. 614
Where a sworn answer is not demanded by the libel, libelant may contradict its allegations by proofs, without filing a replication thereto, or notice of such proof. 37
In a suit for collision by the master of a vessel in behalf, of the cargo owners, libelant cannot read in evidence a deposition taken in behalf of the owners of the vessel in a suit by them for the same collision. 686
The decision of experts to which a cause is referred will be adopted by the court unless there is a manifest preponderance of testimony against it. 143
A possessory suit being discontinued, no appearance having been entered, the marshal was directed to discharge the vessel, and libelant assumed possession.Held, that the court had no further jurisdiction in such suit, and could not direct the marshal to restore the vessel to the persons from whom he took it. 188
A notice to the marshal is not sufficient to relieve the libelant from expense of a keeper of the vessel arrested. Application must be made to the court. 13
Where both a libel by the master against consignees for freight and a libel by the consignees against the vessel for damages to the cargo are sustained, a decree will be given for each party, with costs. 157
Purchasers under orders in proceedings pending a suit are not bound by a decree as to right of property between libelants and claimants. 1058
PRACTICE IN EQUITY.
The dismissal of a bill when not on the merits is not a bar to a subsequent suit. 504
Where the court has the means to stay an account, the matter will not be referred to a master unless both sides agree thereto. 594
The want of a replication will not prejudice the case on the final hearing where the evidence has been taken as if it had been filed. 940
Witnesses cannot be examined the second time by a master without a special order of the court, and then only in respect to facts not before testified to by them, and not then in issue. 504
The testimony of a witness thus examined the second time without a special order cannot be admitted to impeach his testimony on the original examination. 504
New evidence cannot be brought forward by a mere order on a petition for leave to file a supplemental bill, but can only be admitted in the supplemental bill. 504
A supplemental bill to admit new evidence, which the party might by due diligence have originally introduced, is never granted after an interlocutory decree. 504
No new evidence is a sufficient foundation for a supplemental bill, unless it be of such a nature that it would, if unanswered, require a reversal of the decree. 504
New oral testimony tending merely to corroborate evidence on the one side, or to contradict evidence on the other, on the points in issue, is not a sufficient foundation for a supplemental bill. 504
Rehearings are only allowed where some plain omission or mistake has been made, or where something material to the decree has been overlooked. 504
As to the evidence admissible on a rehearings. 504
PRINCIPAL AND AGENT.
See, also, “Factors and Brokers”; “Master and Servant”; “Powers.”
Where an agent employed to sell territorial rights under a patent procured a sale to himself of the entire territory, on false representations of his inability to sell to others, the vendor is entitled to have the sale set aside as to all portions of the territory not previously disposed of by the agent, and to an account of the proceeds of sales by him. 433
PRINCIPAL AND SURETY.
Sureties of an insolvent debtor, in a bond for duties to the United States, are not entitled to judgment against their principal at the first term. 708
PRIZE.
See, also, “War.”
The prize jurisdiction embraces the whole question of prize, unrestrained by the locality or the capture. 855
As to the jurisdiction of courts of admiralty in an action for damages for unlawful capture, where the court of appeals of the United States, under the Articles of Confederation, had reversed a decree of condemnation, and awarded restitution without ordering damages. 540
A suit will not lie in a neutral tribunal against a lawfully commissioned cruiser for an alleged illegal capture. 72
The exclusive cognizance of prize cases is vested in the courts of the capturing power. 72
A condemnation of a prize in court of admiralty is binding and conclusive against all the world. 1179
A decree of condemnation passed by a court held on board a vessel at sea, out of the territorial jurisdiction of the country of the cantors, is not binding. 916
As soon as war is declared, all the property of the enemy or of his subjects, whereever found, whether on the land or water, is lawful prize. 855
The commercial residence of the master of a vessel will define his personal relations as apparent owner. 168
A citizen temporarily residing in the enemy's country at the breaking out of the war Is entitled to a reasonable time to collect and convert his effects to enable him to withdraw them from the country. (Reversing 672.). 674 1219
A change of ownership during hostilities will not be recognized where the disposition and control of the vessel continue in the former agent of her formerly hostile proprietors. 168
Sailing with intend to go to a port known to be blockaded is a violation of the blockade. 55
The offense of attempting to violate a blockade is not consummated by the wrongful intent, but the vessel must be intercepted while endeavoring to carry out such intent. 672
Where the intent really given up before the arrest, the property is not liable to confiscation. 672
Want of water alleged as a reason of returning to a blockaded port after warning must be shown by clear proof. 55
After cargo has been delivered to a neutral consignee at a neutral port, it is not subject to capture as having been originally brought from an enemy blockaded port in violation of the blockade. 164
Cargo on board a neutral vessel, to which it has been transshipped in a neutral port from a vessel which has run a blockade, is subject to capture, where there is a solidarity of interests between the vessels, and the voyage was continuous. 164
An American vessel, which, after a knowledge of the war, proceeds from a neutral to an enemy port on freight, is subject to forfeiture on her return voyage to the United States. 1126
Property captured trading with the enemy is deemed quasi enemy property. 1126
A capture may be made by a privateer of the United States within three miles of their shores. 1126
Captures by noncommissioned vessels belong to the government. 1126
In cases of trading with, the enemy, the property is to be condemned to the captors, and not to the United States. 1126
Prizes made by armed vessels either equipped originally, or whose force has been augmented in the United, States, will be restored if brought within their jurisdiction. 1179
The captors will be held liable in damages for unjustifiable conduct towards the crew and property on the prize after her arrest. 341
The spoliation of property or the failure to send in the officers and crew with the vessel for examination can only be justified by an overruling necessity. 341
Irregularities against the property seized or the captured crew will forfeit the right of prize to the captors. 341
The master and principal officers and some of the crew of the vessel captured must be Brought in for examination. 341
The burden of proof in all prize causes is on claimants. 836
Claimants, admitted or proved to be alien enemies, must be presumed to be in the ordinary and usual situation of alien enemies; that is, out of our country. 836
In seizures for breach of, blockade, the captors may put in affidavits contradicting the preparatory testimony as to the nearness of the captured vessel to the blockaded port, and the acts denoting an attempt to violate the blockade. 1144
An answer or claim need contain nothing more than a general denial of the grounds of condemnation alleged. 1143
A, motion by the owner of the cargo for leave to put in a claim allowed, omitting the special averments. 1143
Redress for wrongs committed by the captors, or for want of diligence in proceeding to trial, cannot, be had by way of defense in the prize suit. 1144
Decree for condemnation for want of an answer where proctor on whom monition was served filed exceptions under oath on behalf of the owner against the requirements of the monition. 1148
Where there was reasonable ground of seizing a vessel, all costs and necessary expenses will be allowed the captors, where the vessel is restored. 55
What constitutes a probable cause or capture may depend on the ordinances of the country of the captors, as well as on the law of nations. 72
The costs and expanses of the captors will be required as a condition of the restoration of the property where the proofs in preparatory showed a clear case of enemy's property. 324
Cargo condemned for an attempt by the vessel to violate a blockade, though the vessel was not taken on process in the suit. 1144
Vessel loaded with arms, ammunition. etc., found several hundred miles out of her true course, and heading towards a blockaded port,held properly condemned. 1149
Proofheld not sufficient to show an intent to violate a blockade. 344
Vessel and cargo condemned as enemy property. 617
Vessel and cargo condemned as enemy property, and for violation of the blockade of Charleston. 643
Vessel and cargo condemned as enemy property, and for a violation of the blockade of Mobile. 566
PUBLIC LANDS.
See, also, “Grant.”
Public land in Indiana, containing a salt spring not entered at the land office, or not coming within the 36 sections conveyed to the state (Act 1616), is subject to pre-emption. 25
Pennsylvania proprietary lands.
The title is in him who pays the money and obtains the warrant, though it is issued in the name of another. 306
Surveys may be valid, though made by order of the commissioners of property. 319
RAILROAD COMPANIES.
See, also, “Carriers”; “Corporations.”
Const. Mo. 1865, art. 11, § 14, as to loan of credit by municipalities to railway corporations, construed. 366
Act Mo. March 23, 1868, authorizing township aid to railways, is not in conflict with the state constitution. 1086
Municipal bonds issued under legislative authority to aid a railroad company in erecting machine shopsheld issued for a public purpose. 366
Act Mo. March 18, 1870, authorizing the issue of “machine shop bonds” on a majority vote,held in violation of the constitutional provision requiring the sanction of a two-thirds vote. 366
A prohibition against authorizing any “county, city, or town” to subscribe for stock unless authorized by a two-thirds vote does not restrain the legislature from authorizing “township” aid where sanctioned by a two-thirds vote. 1086
Bonds issued by a county on behalf of an unincorporated township voting the aid can only be enforced by mandamus to compel the levy and collection of the special tax provided by law, whether before or after judgment. 1086
Negotiable bonds reciting the authority under which they were issued to a railroad 1220having power to receive them held valid in the hands of a bona fide holder for value without notice. 1090
The president of a railroad company has the right to indorse and assign notes and mortgages given to it to aid in its construction. 114
Where a note and mortgage given to aid railroad construction were transferred as collateral to the company's bond,held, that a subsequent indorsement of the note by the president of the company was valid to pass its legal title. 114
In distributing the earnings of a mortgaged railroad while in a receiver's hands, and the proceeds of its sale, priority awarded only to laborers and material men who have perfected their lien according to the state law. 573
Claims of connecting lines for their share of through fares and freight stand upon the same footing as other unsecured debts. 573
REAL PROPERTY.
See, also, “Adverse Possession”; “Deed”; “Ejectment”; “Grant”; “Public Lands.”
The grantee in an absolute conveyance intended merely as security is liable to account for rents and profits and for mismanagement of the property. 594
A possessor in bad faith in Louisiana is entitled to compensation for improvements accepted by the owner. 226
RECEIVERS.
The court will not allow its receiver to be sued, unless the petition for leave states a prima facie cause of action against him. 1111
RECORDS.
Where admiralty records have been loosely kept, depositions may be read to prove that a certain order was made in the cause. 1058
REFERENCE.
See, also, “Arbitration and Award.”
The court will not set aside the report of referees merely because the court might not have drawn the same conclusions from the evidence. 914
RELEASE AND DISCHARGE.
A release of one of several joint tort feasors will not in equity be extended beyond the intent of the parties, regardless of its effect at law. 41
In the absence of fraud or unfair practices, equity will not relieve from a release given to a joint debtor under a misapprehension of its operation to discharge a co-debtor. 1174
A release of a claim by an assignee in insolvency, induced by a false and fraudulent statement of account by the treasurer of respondent corporation, will be set aside on bill in equity brought by the assignor after his debts are extinguished. 291, 295
REMOVAL OF CAUSES.
See, also, “Courts.”
Right of removal.
The conditions on which the right of removal depends under Act March 2, 1867, stated by Mr. Justice Miller. 773
A suit commenced in a state court against a corporation of a foreign country cannot be removed by defendant under Act July 27 1868, § 2. 997
It is sufficient if the parties are citizens of different states when the petition for removal is filed, though not such when the suit was brought. 230
A voluntary change of residence made after suit brought, if real, does not affect the right of removal on the ground of diversity of citizenship, caused by such change, although made with intent to give jurisdiction. 773
Either plaintiff or defendant has the right of removal under Act March 2, 1867, which may be exercised at any time in the course of the litigation prior to final hearing or trial. 773
Proceedings to obtain.
A petition stating that defendant has a defense under a certain act of congress is sufficient, without stating what the defense is or the facts which constitute it. 997
The question of the actual existence and validity of the alleged defense cannot be determined on au interlocutory motion where the proceedings have conformed to the statute. 997
The failure of the moving party to file a copy of the record from the state court does not deprive the circuit court of jurisdiction. 230
But in such case the court has discretion to remand the case. 230
The terms of the court appointed for the trial and disposal of criminal cases are not sessions, within the meaning of an act requiring copies of proceedings in a suit to be entered on the first day of the session of the court, to perfect the removal. 997
RULES OF COURT.
The circuit courts have no authority to rescind a rule adopted by the supreme court to govern their equity practice. 519
The rule of the court stated as to the proper practice on motion to open a default. 538
SALE.
See, also, “Vendor and Purchaser.”
A joint bill of parcels is not conclusive evidence of joint property in goods sold. 745
Material misrepresentations as to credit made by the purchaser, and relied upon by the seller, are ground of rescission. 781
The articles sold may be recovered back from one to whom they have been mortgaged to secure an existing debt, but not from a third person to whom the title has passed for a new consideration. 781
SALVAGE.
Right to salvage compensation.
It is an indispensable ingredient of a salvage claim that the service has contributed immediately to the rescue or preservation of property in peril at sea. 903
Where salvors employed by the owner on contingent compensation are compelled to abandon the wreck on account of the severity of the weather, and it drifts to sea, and is saved by another, the former has no claim to salvage compensation. 903
A vessel without any person on board, and in a condition where her instant destruction was menaced, may be rightfully taken possession of by salvors, though another vessel was employed to go to her relief. 675 1221
Salvors thus taking possession may retain it if they are able to effect the salvage, and are conducting the business with fidelity and vigor. 675
Such persons will be regarded as the meritorious salvors where wrongfully interrupted in the work by others who complete the salvage. 675
A vessel dismasted in a gale, and lying at anchor on a bank in the open sea, is in a condition to have a salvage service rendered. 7
The sale by auction of the cargo of a wrecked whaler, which the master had no means of saving or storing, to other whalers homeward bound, will be regarded as a salvage service, and not a purchase. 1012; contra, * 1008
Services in placing a navigator aboard, and navigating back to port a vessel, whose principal officers had been killed or injured in an affray, and in charge of a disabled second mate,held, salvage services. 635
Services rendered to a vessel in need of salvage assistance in pursuance of a signal for a steamer, though not necessarily one of distress, are to be compensated as salvage services. 340
Officers and crew of a United States vessel of war towing into port an American merchant vessel found abandoned at sea, 500 miles distant,held not entitled to salvage. 1150
No exertions for the safety of a vessel by a seaman who remained aboard for his own safety when the others took to the boats will constitute him a salvor thereof. 702
A member of a crew of a vessel at anchor who cuts her cable to avoid collision with a vessel adrift is not entitled to salvage. 702
A corporation organized for wrecking purposes is entitled to compensation for salvage services rendered by its wrecking vessels. 612, 614
Contracts for salvage services.
That the services were rendered at the request of the owner, and upon a promise to pay the bill if reasonable, otherwise to arbitrate, will not bar salvage compensation. 7
Salvage cannot be claimed where there is a bona fide contract to pay a quantum meruit for an attempt to save property, whether successful or not. But any other contract will not change the nature of the service. 7
A contract for salvage service and salvage compensation, where the salvor has not taken advantage of his power to make an unreasonable bargain, will be enforced. 617
$500 agreed to be paid for towing a schooner from a pier on the other side of which a vessel was burning, where both the labor and risk were insignificant,held exorbitant, and $100 allowed. 265
An agreement to pay $3,000, for towing 90 miles a vessel worth $8,000, loaded with sugar, sustained by the court. 617
Forfeiture of salvage.
Willful breaking of boxes or packages of cargo by salvors, except in cases of urgent necessity, will forfeit salvage. 131
The fact that the salvors' boats were not large enough to carry the packages intact will not justify breaking them where there are other vessels at hand sufficiently large for the purpose. 131
Persons who plunder a vessel turned adrift by a privateer before she is stranded are not entitled to salvage for getting her off. 318
It is blamable to refuse to interpose to save property without a salvage compensation or a contract fixing its amount. 7
From a salvage award of $15,000. for six days' towing of a rudderless bark, $3,500 deducted for the mistake of the mate in charge of the salvor vessel in casting off the towing hawser and anchoring the bark when off Absecom. 678
Amount.
Salvage, where a stranded vessel is saved, should be proportionate to the promptness and skill of the rescue. 131
The fact that libelant's vessels were maintained for wrecking and salvage purposes, at heavy expense, and were often unemployed, is inadmissible as a basis for fixing compensation. 612
A less amount is awarded where the vessel is lost than where it is saved. 131
The fact that the salvors' services might prove unavailing by the breaking up of the vessel before any amount of property could be saved is to be considered. 675
The discretion of the court as to the amount should be used with a view to the circumstances of each case, previous decisions, and commercial policy. 653
In the case of an absolute derelict, the court generally awards a moiety. 903
Where a whaling vessel broke up her voyage to save derelict property valued at $3,831,held, that one-half should be allowed, less a moiety of the customs duties. 736
One-half the net value of $96,309 allowed for saving cargo of ship sunk in five fathoms of water, where 434 persons were employed two months. 131
One-fifth only allowed for saving a cargo of negroes valued at $38,800, where the risk was great, but the cargo, from its nature was easily moved. 550
Thirty per cent. allowed for saving cargo and materials valued at $18,000. 1132
Twenty per cent. allowed a brig for keeping by and towing for six days a bark which had lost her rudder in a gale, valued with her cargo at $75,000. 678
For saving a cargo of cotton, 15 per cent. allowed on dry cotton, amounting to $121,826, 33⅓ per cent. on damaged cotton, amounting to $40,000, and 45 and 50 per cent. on the portion dived for. 903
$400 allowed a wrecking tug for pulling off the Romer Shoal a schooner worth, with cargo, $23,000. 612, 614
$750 allowed on a valuation of $3,000 for towing into port derelict schooner loaded with lumber, found by fishing sloop 12 miles from Sandy Hook. 666
$3,000, on a valuation of $50,000, allowed for placing a navigator aboard and navigating back to port a vessel in charge of a disabled second mate, where the master was killed and the first mate seriously hurt in an affray. 635
$6,000 allowed for saving a vessel aground on Pellican Shoals, worth $20,000. 653
$10,000 allowed a tug valued at $60,000. for towing to place of safety a ship worth with cargo $160,000, which had dragged her anchors in a gale in San Francisco harbor. 749
$33,852 allowed for one month's labor in saving property worth $91,076 from ship stranded on Florida Reef. 30
Remedies for recovery.
Salvage remuneration cannot be awarded to the owner of a tug on a libel filed by him where he was not present when the salvage service was awarded, but an equitable compensation will be made for the use of the tug. 190
Cumulative testimony for salvors is admissible. 1012 1222
Where a libel for salvage is filed without notice to the owner of the vessel to whom the service was rendered, costs not allowed. 190
Respondents will be charged with costs where they denied the service, though an exorbitant claim, was made therefor. 749
Apportionment.
The salvor vessel allowed one-half the award of $15,000 for six days' towing services of a rudderless bark, where the master was disabled by the breaking of his leg and the fingers of one hand. 678
The share of a mate in charge of the salvor vessel, the master being disabled, reduced, because of his mistake in performance of the services. 678
Custody of property.
The marshal's duty as to the care of the salved property. 131
SEAMEN.
See, also, “Admiralty”; “Fisheries”; “Maritime Liens”; “Tender.”
Protection, and relief.
Damages in the form of additional wages will be given where the crew is put on short allowance without necessity. 690
The seaman is not entitled to double wages on account of being put on short allowance unless the vessel sailed without the amount of provisions required by law. 690
The contract of shipment.
A tug engaged in towing between Lake Erie and Lake Huron is not within the meaning of Act 1790, § 5, prescribing the contract of shipment to be entered into. 694
The construction most favorable to the seamen will be adopted in the case of ambiguity, uncertainty, or obscurity in the shipping articles. 352
Though no shipping articles are signed, seamen are bound to remain with the ship until the voyage is terminated. 352
Seamen who ship for an indefinite period may leave the ship after the termination of any particular voyage, and the discharge of the cargo at the port of delivery. 352
Under articles for a voyage to Batavia, and thence, if required, to ports beyond the Cape of Good Hope, the voyage may be extended to Japan. 1033
Construction of an agreement in the shipping articles that no wages shall be paid until the return of the vessel to the port of outfit. 833
A seaman shipped without signing articles must be paid according to the act of congress, and he is entitled to all benefits and subject to all forfeitures prescribed by the maritime law. 386
The seaman has no right to refuse duty required of him on a Sunday by our calendar where the day before was observed as Sunday by the custom of the port, but such refusal is no ground of discharge. 739
Threats by a seaman under the influence of liquor furnished him on board, where his previous character was good, will not justify his immediate discharge. 1014
A steward injured while in performance of his duty on board the vessel is entitled to his wages and board and medical attendance while being cured, though the master and owners are free from negligence. 214
A seaman, during illness occasioned by his own fault, is not entitled to wages, and is liable for the expenses of his subsistence; but not for the wages paid another man in his place. 749
In such case the seaman is not liable for the detention of a vessel for want of his services, where the master could have obtained a substitute. 749
Conduct of master or mate in respect to seamen.
As to treatment of intoxicated seamen. 1014
It is the duty of the master to interpose and quell an affray between the mate and the crew. 1115
Master has no right to flog seaman, though acting under the honest belief that the men had conspired to poison him. 1150
Proof that the master and mate separately assaulted and illtreated a seaman will not support an allegation of a combination between them to illtreat and oppress him, without some presumptive evidence of concert between them. 539
Where the master lays a complaint before a consul, who, upon examination, causes the crew to be imprisoned, the responsibility for the tort, if any, is transferred to the consul, where the complaint was such that a competent master might believe it to be within the consul's jurisdiction. 1115
The right of the crew to lay complaints before the consul does not apply to mere affrays or quarrels between the officers and crew. 1115
A refusal of duty because permission is not given to lay complaints before the consul is justifiable only when the refusal is necessary to prevent the loss of the right. 1115
The master has no right to detain the effects of men imprisoned on shore on the request of the consul. 1115
Imprisonment of a seaman in a foreign port is only justified in extreme cases of extraordinary violence, where the safety of the ship or those on board require it. 737
A consular certificate of the facts in justification is not evidence. 737
The master is not justified in imprisoning a seaman on mere suspicion that he is a dangerous man, or on request of the crew; and, if his effects are lost while thus imprisoned, the master is liable. 387
Vindictive damages are not allowed in such case, in the absence of bad motives; but compensation will be allowed for the time of the imprisonment and the articles lost, with interest thereon, and passage home. 387
Deadly weapons should only be used when a mutiny exists or is threatened. 372
The ship is liable for all obligations of the master, whether arising ex contractu or ex delicto, where he acts within the scope of his authority as master. 690
Wages—Right to.
Where the vessel is captured, seamen are entitled to wages to the last port of unloading. 1033
The representatives of a seaman dying on a voyage in the service of the ship are entitled to his wages for the whole voyage. 737
Seamen employed for a specified time, and discharged without cause before its expiration,held entitled to the agreed rate, less the current rate at the time of discharge, with compensation for reasonable length of time to enable them to find other employment. 436
—Remedies for recovery.
The master is responsible to the seamen for wages, and therefore is not a competent witness in suits by the seamen. 1006
A receipt in full given by a seaman is not conclusive evidence against him. 258
A person who pays the wages may be subrogated to the rank of the seamen. 186
A part owner who pays the wages of seamen may be subrogated to the rank of the seamen as against the mortgagee of the share of another part owner. 186 1223
The wages of the last voyage of a vessel have precedence of all earlier charges. 186
Seamen engaged to serve on a ship for a coasting voyage have a lien for wages while she is getting ready, though she never left the port where they performed labor on several trial trips in the harbor. 172
An attachment of the seaman's wages is no excuse for delay in payment, and the penalty is recoverable. (Rev. St. § 4529.). 667
A seaman who has not been discharged cannot sue for wages before the termination of the voyage for which he shipped. 440
—Deductions: Extinguishment, etc.
The amount paid a seaman hired in place of another unjustifiably discharged in a foreign port cannot be deducted from his wages. 737
Intemperance will forfeit wages to the extent that it unfits the seaman for performance of his duties. 375
Payment to the consul of the balance or wages due discharged seaman is not a payment to the seaman. 1014
Seaman who had endeavored to commit a revolt, upon repenting and tendering amends,held entitled to be forgiven, and the forfeiture of wages remitted. 741
Receiving a deserted seaman back into service waives forfeiture of his wages, but allowance will be made for the absence. 49
The entry in the log book is not conclusive; and is admissible in support of no circumstances but those stated in the act of congress. 1006
An engineer verbally hired by the month on a tug on the Lakes is guilty of desertion, forfeiting all wages due, where he leaves his post of duty before his month is up, insisting upon a right to accept another offer. 694
An offer by such engineer, made five or six weeks after he was landed, to return, is not within a reasonable time. 694
The conduct of an engineer of a steamboat in making alterations in the engine at the home port, without the consent of the owner, will work a forfeiture of his wages. 698
SET-OFF AND COUNTER-CLAIM.
Joint debts cannot be set off in equity any more than at law against separate debts, unless there be some other equitable circumstances. 244
An action will not lie on a claim which has been pleaded or offered in evidence as a set-off, and rejected by the verdict of a jury. 352
SHERIFFS AND CONSTABLES.
A rule on a constable to show cause why he should not be removed “for extortion under color of his office” need not specify the particular facts relied upon. 1074
SHIPPING.
See, also, “Admiralty”; “Affreightment”; “Average”; “Bills of Lading”; “Bottomry and Respondentia”; “Carriers”; “Collision”; “Maritime Liens”; “Pilots”;. Salvage”; “Seamen”; “Towage”; “Wharves.”
Public regulation.
It is the duty of the master or owner of a steam vessel engaged in carrying passengers for hire, whether regularly or otherwise, to make a written application for her inspection, under Rev. St. § 4417. 266
An unfinished vessel need not be inspected before being moved from one place to another in the course of her construction. 1155
A voyage from the place where the vessel is constructed to another place, by direction of the inspectors, to enable her to be inspected, is not a violation of the navigation laws. 1155
In a proceeding against a vessel, under Rev. St. § 4499, for the penalty for violation of the laws relating to inspection, an executive seizure prior to the seizure under the libel is not necessary. 1155
The Revised Statutes not being enacted until June 22, 1874, the carrying of petroleum upon passenger steamers in April, 1874, cannot be punished thereunder. 330
An action of debt, and not an information in rem, is the proper remedy to recover a penalty for violation of Act Feb. 28; 1871, § 4, forbidding the carrying of petroleum on passenger steamers. 330
The penalty for failure to exhibit an enrollment or license when demanded under Act Feb. 18, 1793, § 13, is not enforceable against a canal boat which was not enrolled or licensed. 688
Title to vessel: Mortgage: Possession.
The registry of a mortgage on a vessel, to be effectual, must be made in the custom-house of her home port. 897
A later mortgage first recorded will be postponed to a prior unrecorded mortgage, of which the mortgagee had notice. 897
The fact that such prior mortgage could not be registered for want of a proper acknowledgment will not postpone it to the subsequent mortgage taken by one with notice thereof. 897
The legal title and right to immediate possession of, a vessel under an absolute bill of sale given to secure a loan, and registered as a mortgage, is vested in the mortgagee. 426, 428
The filing of mortgages on canal boats in New York depends wholly upon the special act of New York of April 28, 1864. 5
A person purchasing with notice of a prior mortgage is not a purchaser in good faith, within the meaning of the act. 5
A person having notice enough to put him on inquiry will be held to have notice of everything to which such inquiry would have led. 5
The master.
Employment as master for a foreign voyage will not be presumed from the rendition of services as master in loading and preparing the vessel for sea. 952
A master appointed in a foreign port by the American consul on the recovery of a vessel from a master who had barratrously run away with her has the same powers as one appointed directly by the owner. 264
The acts of the master in cases of necessity or calamity, during the voyage, in the exercise of a sound discretion, are binding upon all parties in interest. 1105
To support an hynothecation of sale of vessel and cargo to obtain supplies or repairs, the necessity therefor must be clearly shown. 1163
A sale by the master of a wrecked whaler of cargo, which he had no means of saving or storing, at auction, to vessels which had come to the wreck,held valid. *1008; contra, 1012
The fact that no money was paid at the time, and no bill of sale delivered, and no entry made in the log book, does not invalidate the sale. *1008
The sale of the cargo by the master, to bind the owners, must be bona fide, and under circumstances of extreme necessity, and for the benefit of all concerned. 1008 1224
Where cargo is so much injured that it will endanger the safety of the vessel and cargo, or it will become utterly worthless, the master must land and sell it at the place where the necessity arises, though it might have been carried to its destination. 1105
The master cannot bind the owners for repairs or supplies when some other person is authorized to manage the business of the ship in that respect, with the Knowledge of the creditor. 1132
Liabilities of vessels or owners.
The refusal, to fulfill a contract of purchase does not render the possession of the vendee tortious, so as to prevent him making a contract with third persons binding on the vessel. 215
The master or owner of a vessel taken into a dry dock for repairs is not bound by a printed tariff of charges not brought to his notice. 184
Where the owner of the dry dock charges for his labor in superintending the work, he will not be allowed to charge for the labor of his men a greater sum than that paid them. 184
The vessel is liable for cargo jettisoned to save the vessel, where its peril is directly attributable to want of diligence or skill of the master or crew. 547
Running into the Columbia river without a pilot, and without any imperative necessity for so doing, where the navigators had no knowledge of the tide and wind to be encountered at the season,held negligence. 547
Services in detecting the fraud of a master who had barratrously run away with a vessel, and recovering the property, will be recompensed in admiralty, but not as salvage. 264
The vessel is not liable for gold coin intrusted to the master by a person who intended to take passage, where no bill of lading is taken or note in writing delivered, as required by Act March 3, 1851, § 2. 175
The extent of liability of an English vessel stranded in American waters is to be determined by Rev. St. §§ 4283, 4284, and not by the general maritime law. 655
The jurisdiction of proceedings to obtain the benefit of the act limiting liability belongs to the district court of the district in which the vessel was stranded, where the liability arises from such stranding. 655
The owner of the vessel may, before he is sued, institute proceedings to obtain the benefit of the act. 655
A tender, made in the libel of the vessel and wreckage to be disposed of by the court, is a sufficient abandonment. 655
The libel in a proceeding to obtain the benefit of the limitation of liability will be amended so as to show the residence of the libelant. 655
Slander.
See “Libel and Slander.”
SLAVERY.
Slavery existed only by virtue of the laws of the states where it was sanctioned. 1040
As to the right to reclaim fugitive slaves. 840
A citizen from whom his slave absconds into another state may pursue and take him without warrant, and use as much force as is necessary to carry him back to his residence. 840
Such slave may be arrested on Sunday, in the nighttime, and in the house of another, if no breach of the peace is committed. 840
No person has the right to oppose the master in reclaiming his slave or to demand proof of property, and the master may use force in repelling opposition. 840
Damages for harboring or concealing a slave in a free state are recoverable only by virtue of the constitution and laws of the United States. 1040
Action for harboring or concealing fugitive slaves; notice; pleading; evidence; damages, etc. 1040, 1047, 1057
Right to freedom of slave brought into the county of Washington, D. C. 1101
Where the slave is not brought into the District of Columbia for sale or permanent residence, he is not entitled to freedom. 771
SPECIFIC PERFORMANCE.
Where the vendor agreed that the deed should be made before payment of the consideration, he cannot require the money to be brought into court. 834
STATUTES.
See, also, “Constitutional Law.”
In the construction of laws, punctuation is no criterion of the sense of the legislature, unless it is in conformity with their intention, as expressed in the words used. 125
A statute applicable in its terms to particular actions cannot be applied by construction to other actions standing on the same reason. 267
Survival.
See “Abatement and Revival.”
TAXATION.
See, also, “Internal Revenue.”
Interest coupons of railroad bonds are not taxable under the general tax law of Pennsylvania, nor the act of April 30, 1864. 232
The franchise of a corporation is taxable as well as its property; but the tax must be uniform as to the class on which it operates. 574
The action of a board of equalization in disregarding the return under oath of a corporation, and raising the value of its property without evidence or a chance to be heard,held illegal. 574
As to legal and illegal methods of taxing the property of railroad corporations lying in different counties, and its capital stock. 574
Revenue Act La., 1870, construed as to taxes upon insurance companies. 67
TENANCY IN COMMON.
Tenants in common of a ship who purchased a cargo for a voyageheld tenants in common of the cargo, and not partners. 244
In such case the master has no right to consign the return cargo to one only of such owners. 244
And, where it is so consigned, the consignee has no lien on it for any separate and distinct demand against the other tenants in common. 244
TENDER.
A tender by respondents on libel for services as stewardess of a ship is an admission of ownership of the vessel. 951 1225
TERRITORIES.
The legislature of the territory of Arkansas had power to prescribe the conditions upon which an appeal might be taken to the superior court. 346
TOWAGE.
See, also, “Collision”; “Salvage.”
The liability of a tug for injuries to her tow arises from the nature of the service, and exists although the contract of towage is not made immediately between tug and tow. 544
It is culpable negligence for a tug in her home port to leave her tow beside a dock where, upon the ebbing of the tide, the latter will be in danger from a sunken obstruction. 544
A general direction that the tow brace off from the dock will not excuse the tug when the latter was ignorant of the specific danger to which the tow was exposed. 544
Where the agent of the owner of a barge informs the master of a tug that the master of the barge has no authority to take the risk of being towed through dangerous ice, the tug will be liable for a loss caused there by. 325, 326
A canal boat in a tow on the Hudson river, being unseaworthy, began to leak, and was cast off from the steamboat, but failed to reach a dock, and sunk.Held, that the steamboat was liable for half the loss caused by the failure to reach the dock. 639 641
A vessel engaged in towing is liable in rem for refusal to perform a contract of towage made by her master where the agreed price has been received therefore. 334
A contract to tow boats for a certain sum per trip during the seasonheld inconsistent with the right to a lien, and a' libel in rem will not lie for the towage services. 643
A delay of three years to enforce a claim against a tug for negligent towing, where the ownership of the tow had changed,held to render the claim stale. 573
TRADE-MARKS AND TRADE-NAMES.
A writing extending to the purchasers of a Cincinnati distillery “the use of all my brands formerly used by me in my Cincinnati house,” where the seller also had a New York house,held to convey an exclusive right to use the trade-mark. 831
The surviving partnerheld estopped by partnership letters to purchasers of part of its business, showing assent to the use of trade-marks previously conveyed by one partner, to deny his power to convey the same. 831
TREATIES.
See, also, “Extradition.”
Under the treaty with Great Britain of 1794, the precincts and jurisdictions of army posts are not to be considered as extending three miles in every direction by analogy to the jurisdiction at sea from the coast line. 235
The distinction between “necessary” and “voluntary,” as applied to validity of treaties, pointed out, and the power of the judiciary to decide upon the validityheld restricted to the “necessary” validity. 1059
TRESPASS.
A seizure as prize is no trespass, though it may be wrongful. 1179
A magistrate who orders the arrest or detention of a person without oath, warrant, and probable cause, as well as the persons concerned in the execution of such order, is a trespasser. 840
Where two or more persons agreed to commit, or unite in committing, an unlawful act, each who is present, or advises, consents, aids, or assists in the act, is liable in trespass. 840
TRIAL.
See, also, “Appeal”; “Continuance” “Evidence”; “Judgment”; “Jury”; “New Trial; “Practice”; “Reference”; “Witness.”
Witnesses may be separated, and examined each out of hearing of the others. 907
It is discretionary with the court whether or not to take a question from the jury, and dispose of it as a matter of law, where the facts are undisputed. 441
Where a verdict is rendered on certain counts of the declaration by the express direction of plaintiff, the other counts cannot be referred to as sustaining the verdict. 1047
TRUSTS.
See, also, “Charities”; “Executors and Administrators”; “Wills.”
The title to property willed to executors to convert into a fund, and to keep and distribute, etc., remains in them until actual distribution; and, where a discretion is to be exercised, the ultimate distributee has no previous vested interest. 927
A corporation may be a trustee if not prohibited, where the trust is germane to or in harmony with the objects of the corporation. 957
A church is capable of taking and executing a trust for the benefit of destitute and needy churches, and to care for testator's cemetery lot. 957
A loose settlement in trust for childrenheld not controlling as against a subsequent deed of trust. 50
The fraud of an agent in availing himself of his confidential relation to create an interest adverse to that of his principal creates a trust, even when the agency must be established by parol. 462
A trust created by a release of all claim in land to another for the purpose of freeing it from all claims of the releasor, so as to induce others to advance funds for its improvement, will be enforced in equity. 462
Persons who loan money on certificates of stock which state that the borrower holds them in trust, with knowledge that the same is borrowed for the private use of the trustee, are liable to the cestui qui trust. 376
One who holds premises as trustee of another is entitled to commissions on renting the same where not guilty of gross misconduct, although he is not an open and express trustee. 513
United States Officers.
See “Marshal.”
Usury.
See “Building and Loan Associations.”
VENDOR AND PURCHASER.
See, also, “Bankruptcy”; “Deed”; “Frauds, Statute of”; “Fraudulent Conveyances”; “Grant”; “Sale”; “Specific Performance.”
The metes and bounds, when they can be ascertained, will control the location, although 1226they contained less than the amount of land specified. 253
This rule obtains though parallel lines were to be run, from each extremity of a base line, to be ascertained from a known point, until a certain quantity was obtained where a portion of the base has been cut off by prior grants. 253
A sale of land for unpaid purchase money is not vitiated by the fact that it was made while the purchaser is absent during war with the other belligerent power, and had no notice of the sale. 709
The pendency of confiscation proceedings by the United States against such purchaser does not help to vitiate the sale. 709
WAR.
See, also, “Citizen”; “Neutrality Laws”; “Prize.”
Where a portion of an empire, by force of arms, throws off the authority of the general government, so as to compel it to resort to regular hostilities, a state of civil war exists, as distinguished from rebellion, so as to prevent the parties being liable as trespassers in the United States courts, though the independence of the new government is not politically recognized. 1179
Residence determines national character which can only be divested by actual departure or an unequivocal act showing a commencement of departure from the county. 855
A temporary excursion to the place of the original domicile, or to any other will not be deemed to interrupt the residence. 855
The intention as to residence openly declared, however short the residence, will establish the domicile. 855
An alien enemy not in our country under letters of safe conduct, or under the protection of the government, cannot sue in the common-law courts. 836
No suit or proceeding can be maintained in the courts of a neutral nation by the subject of one belligerent against the subjects of the other for acts growing out of the war. 1179
The subjects of one country incur no liability other than the common hazards of war when entering the military or naval service of another. 1179
A commanding officer of a militia cannot lawfully impress the horse of a citizen even in time of war. 279
A declaration of war by competent authority suspends the running of the statute of limitations and of interest upon debts between citizens of the belligerents, until the conclusion of peace. 259
The claims of creditors which existed prior to the American Revolution were not destroyed by the dissolution of the government, though the judicial means of enforcement were for the time lost. 1059
A debtor of a subject of Great Britain who accepted the offer of Act Va. Oct. 20, 1777, to pay the amount of the debt into the loan office, and receive a certificate of discharge.held not relieved from payment of the debt where the commonwealth did nothing to extinguish the same. 1059
Debts due to a subject of Great Britain before the revolutionary warheld within the treaty of peace, and the hostile legislation of the commonwealths were extinguished thereby. 1059
Waters and Water Courses
See “Constitutional Law”; “Navigable Waters,”
WHARVES.
The liability of a canal boat for wharfage under Act N. Y. May 21, 1875, and the validity of such act, which discriminates between vessels of different classes engaged in different occupations. 699
A wharf owner whose wharf was used as a free public highwayheld entitled to the regular wharfage for goods carried over the wharf to a vessel lying at another wharf, 400 feet distant. 621
A wharfinger has a lien on a vessel for wharfage. 768
Where a vessel, removed from a wharf secretly or wrongfully, is afterwards brought back without fraud or force, the lien of the wharfinger is revived. 768
And this is so though the vessel has been levied upon in the meantime by the marshal. 768.
WILLS.
See, also, “Charities” “Executors and Administrators” “Trusts.”
The intention of the testator which is controlling in the construction of a will must be collected from the whole will. 220
Technical words will be presumed to be used in the sense the law has appropriated to them, unless a contrary intention is manifest. 220
The word “or” may be read “and” when it becomes necessary for the purpose of carrying into effect the clear and obvious intention of testator. 220
A devise is never construed absolutely void for uncertainty except from necessity. 220
A provision devising, on certain conditions, a gift over of devises and bequests already made,held not to vitiate such devises and bequests. 957
A devise to trustees for a charitable purpose, which is to be carried on by them until a building to be erected for the charity shall be completed, which is then to be handed over by the trustees, with the funds to support it, to a corporation to be created, creates no perpetuity. 957
A devise “in fee” to testator's granddaughter, “but, in case of her death without issue,” then over,held a good executory devise, which took effect upon her death without issue. 220
A devise which increases the income of an incorporated society beyond the sum which it is allowed by law to take and hold is not void. 957
A gift for a library and academy of arts and sciences is for an “educational purpose.” (Code Ga. § 3157.) 957
The requirement in the devise of a building for a library that testator's name shall be engraved on a marble slab, and kept over the main entrance, does not render the devise void. 957
WITNESS.
See, also, “Bankruptcy”; “Costs”; “Deposition”: “Trial.”
One defendant in a joint action of trespass cannot be a witness for the other, although they plead severally. 737
The incompetency of the husband to testify as a witness for his wife rests on grounds of public policy, and is not removed by a statute removing the disqualification of interest. 927 1227
A witness will be permitted to refresh his memory as to the items of an account by the original entries only, made by himself or by another in his presence, and he may swear to such items though he has no distinct recollection as to each one. 983
A witness attending for defendant, if sworn and sent before the grand jury by the government, is entitled to be paid by it for his attendance on the trial. 719
WRITS AND NOTICE OF SUITS.
Proper form of process for the commencement of a suit at law in the federal courts in New York. 747
A return by the marshal of “Not found” where defendants, residing out of the district, had a well-known place of business within the district, at which they usually attended every day, is a false return. 70

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