Rask

This is an action in claim and delivery brought by the United States of Mexico to recover the possession of one of its patrol boats from Peter Rask. A bond was given by appellant and the boat delivered to it. Respondent answered and alleged that he was a shipwright and that the boat was brought to him as such by appellant for a general overhauling and repair; that he furnished labor and materials in performing this work and was entitled to a lien upon the vessel and its possession until his account was paid.

The fáets are undisputed .and may be briefly summarized from the findings- of fact as follows: That appellant has been and is now a sovereign, independent and friendly nation, recognized as such by the United States of America, and was, and now is the owner of the oil screw patrol boat “S. A. F. No. 2”, formerly known as the “Tecate”, subject to a special interest of respondent therein. For several years prior to June 12, 1929, this vessel was owned and used by appellant in its sovereign capacity for the purpose of advancing the trade of its people, providing revenues for its treasury, and as a patrol boat on and along the Pacific Coast of Mexico in connection with and…