Western & Atlantic Railroad v. Hughes

Mr. Justice Brandéis

delivered the opinion of the Court.

Ira L. Hughes, a travelling fireman, was killed on the Western & Atlantic Railroad while engaged in the performance of his duties. His widow as administratrix brought this action under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act in a state court of Georgia. She recovered a verdict of $17,500, which was set aside as excessive by the presiding judge. At the second trial before another judge and jury a verdict was rendered for $10,000. A motion for a new trial was overruled. Judgment was entered on this verdict; and it was affirmed by the…