ADMINISTRATION OF THE LAWS. 177 having property, in Newfoundland , although such debts should have been contracted in Great Britain, or other parts of his majesty's dominions. of Vice-Admiralty, held by a judge com¬ missary, has had little to do since the last war. It holds cognizance of maritime causes, and causes of revenue. Appeals lie from it to the of Admiralty in England . There is a Court of Probate, held by the chief justice and assistant justices, for the probate of wills, and granting letters of administration. At John's, and at most of the out-harbours, where the population renders it necessary, there is a court of session, held by two magistrates, who have the same jurisdiction as in England . On the issuing of writs of attachment, if it be made to appear, on investigation, that the party is insolvent, the court declares his insolvency, and authorizes one or more creditors, chosen by the major part in value of such creditors whose debts amount to L .10, or upwards, to collect the debts and effects of such insolvent, and distribute the same under the directions of the court. The distribution of the property of insolvents at Newfoundland , is as follows:—In the first place, all wages due to seamen, fishermen, and servants em¬ ployed during the current season, 20s. in the pound ; after which, debts due for all supplies furnished for the current season, 20s. in the pound, if the effects of the insolvent will realize as much. Then, debts contracted within two years claim a VOL . I. M