The Rambler

(after stating the facts as above). This is the ordinary application for limitation of' shipowner’s liability under R. S. § 4283 (Comp. St. § 8021); the prayer of the petition is in the common alternative, viz. that absence of all liability be decreed and enforced, or that limitation be granted in respect of such liability as may be found.

*792The form of the prayer indicates the two branches of investigation, which must be pursued on every' such petition. The first duty of the court is to ascertain whether any liability exists, and if none exists there is the end of the matter. But if liability…