Trump v. The Thomas , 24 F. Cas. 250 ( 1796 )

BEE, District Judge.

This is a suit for seamen’s wages, against a vessel that has been condemned in a foreign court of admiralty, (on a like suit brought by others of the crew) sold at public sale under that decree, and purchased by a third person for a valuable consideration. These facts are stated and charged in the libel. It is contended on the part of the libellants that they have a lien on the vessel notwithstanding this decree and sale. On the other side it is insisted that by the maritime law, and usage of courts of admiralty, the lien of these men on the vessel is totally at an end.

I have considered this case with great attention, and find that the proceedings of the admiralty court at Providence were in the usual mode. The libellants were on the spot, and might, on the return of the monition have been made parties to the suit. Nay, even after the decree, and previously to the sale, I think the court, upon hearing their case stated, would have let in their demand. ButPit does not appear that they took a single step in the business, though there is proof before the court that they might have done so. They are therefore, strictly within the rule of law, “Vigilantibus non dormienti-bus subveniunt leges.” The sentence of a court of admiralty is notice to all the world. The court at Providence had competent jurisdiction; this sale was made openly and without any pretence of collusion; and I am of opinion, that the present claim against the vessel cannot be sustained. If it could, no purchaser would be safe. I dismiss the libel, but without costs.