Edward H. Bradshaw v. Island Creek Coal Company

This proceeding in admiralty was commenced for the recovery of damages for injuries sustained by the seaman-plaintiff while working aboard one of the defendant’s boats. Earlier, the seaman’s claim had been settled and the settlement approved by a state court in West Virginia, which entered a judgment in favor of the seaman in accordance with the agreed terms. The seaman now attempts to avoid the effect of the state court judgment by alleging a failure of consideration. He alleges that as a part of the settlement of his claim the employer agreed to give him a “lifetime” job. He was reemployed…