Court Opinion

ID: 8634724
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2022-11-24 19:43:20.871554+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T16:55:53.524371
License: Public Domain

BENEDICT, District Judge.
It is clear upon the evidence that the libellant’s vessel, while being towed by the steam tug Caleb, was run on shore by reason of the breaking of the rudder-chain of the tug. It is equally clear that the breaking of the rudder-chain was owing to a palpable defect in the chain itself. The tug’s rudder-chain was worn out and insufficient, and this was known to the claimant at the time the libellant’s vessel was taken in tow.. It was manifest negligence to attempt to tow the libellant’s boat with such a chain, and the tug is accordingly responsible for the damages which ensued. Deere? for the libellants, with an order of reference.
[An appeal was taken to the circuit court, which affirmed the decree above entered, but allowed the claimants to take proof upon the question of certain set-offs, should they so desire.. Case No. 9,6S3.]