Hanson v. Hall Manufacturing Co.

This appeal involves a question of jurisdiction and nothing else. Did the cause of action- stated in the counterclaim to which the demurrer is addressed involve state or Federal jurisdiction? We think the case of American Well Works Co. v. Layne & Bowler Co. 241 U. S. 257 (60 L. Ed. 987) is controlling on the point in issue. Here, as there, the question depends upon the allegations upon which the cause of action is declared. Here, as there, the cause may be summed up in a few words.

Plaintiff alleges ownership in a certain United States pat*1214ent, the legal title to which was in the defendant…