Hawkins v. The Viola

BROWN, District Judge.,■ As stated in the previous decision in this case, (59 Fed. 632,) it seems to me beyond doubt, that congress, by the act of February 13, 1893, (27 Stat. 445,) did not intend to legislate generally concerning the rights or liabilities growing out of collisions, but designed only to deal with the carrying vessel and her own cargo. Upon that view, all the principles and rules of decision previously applicable as to the apportionment of damages in cases of mutual fault should be still followed as closely as possible, and no more changes admitted than the evident intent of…