Steamer New Philadelphia

Patrick F. Brady filed his libel against the steamer New Philadelphia, her tackle, apparel, and furniture, in the District Court of the United States for the southern district of New York, in a case of collision, civil and maritime, alleging that he, the libellant, was owner of the coal barge Ownen Gorman, which was taken by the New Philadelphia to be towed to and left at a certain place in New York harbor; but, owing to the unskilfulness with which the steamer was navigated, a collision occurred between the coal barge and a schooner lying at one of the docks, by which the barge was sunk.

Process was duly issued, and the New Philadelphia attached. The Camden and Amboy Railroad and Transportation Company intervened, and made claim to the vessel, as owners thereof. The proper stipulation being filed on the same day, the vessel was discharged, and the claimants put in an answer denying the material facts set forth in the libel.

The District Court, after hearing a great number of witnesses, dismissed the libel for the following reasons, given by BETTS, J.: