Case Name: EVANS v. POTTER
Court: United States Circuit Court for the District of Rhode Island
Jurisdiction: United States
Decision Date: 1813-11
Citations: 8 F. Cas. 884
Docket Number: Case No. 4,569
Parties: EVANS v. POTTER.
Judges: Before STORY, Circuit Justice, and. HOWELL, District Judge.
Reporter: Federal Cases
Volume: 8
Pages: 884–884

Head Matter:
Case No. 4,569.
EVANS v. POTTER.
[2 Gall. 12.]
Circuit Court, D. Rhode Island.
Nov. Term, 1813.
Hr. Searle and Trist Burgess, for plaintiff.
Burrill and Dexter, for defendant
Before STORY, Circuit Justice, and. HOWELL, District Judge.
[Reported by John Gallison, Esq.]

Opinion:
STORY, Circuit Justice
(summing up to the jury). A factor is bound to ordinary diligence in relation to the property confided to him. Where his orders leave the management of the property to his discretion, he-is bound only to good faith and reasonable conduct He may lawfully do whatever the course and usage of the trade requires; and, indeed, unless his orders restrict him, he is-bound to conform to this course of the trade. In no case can he wantonly sacrifice the property without being responsible to the shipper. If he can advantageously sell the property, and neglects so to do, he must answer in damages. But if the markets be low, or unusually crowded, if new and unexpected difficulties arise, he is not obliged to sell at all events and under every disadvantage. Neither the interests of commerce, nor-the good faith due to his employer, would countenance such a proceeding. Neither can-a factor lawfully pledge the property of his-principal for his own private debts; but he-may- lawfully pledge it for the duties accruing thereon; or for any other purposes, which the usage of trade sanctions and approves.
Verdict for the defendant.