The John Jay

MARIS, District Judge.

This is a proceeding to foreclose a preferred ship mortgage under the Ship Mortgage Act of 1920 (46 U.S.C.A. § 911 et seq.). The answer raises but a single question, namely, whether the libelant is entitled to an allowance as a part of its claim of reasonable counsel fees and, if so, whether the sum claimed, $2,500, is fair and reasonable.

The mortgage upon which the suit is brought by section 2 of article 2 specifically authorizes the mortgagee or appointee of the mortgagee to appear in any court and defend the vessel against liens, and provides that the expense of such…