JETTISON, or JETSAM. The casting out of a vessel, from necessity, a part of
the lading; the thing cast out also bears the same name; it differs from
flotsam in this, that in the latter the goods float, while in the former
they sink, and remain under water; it differ; also from ligan. (q.v.)
2. The jettison must be made for sufficient cause, and not from
groundless timidity. In must be made in a case of extremity, when the ship
is in danger of perishing by the fury of a storm, or is laboring upon rocks
or shallows, or is closely pursued by pirates or enemies.
3. If the residue of the cargo be saved by such sacrifice, the property
saved is bound to pay a: proportion of, the loss. In ascertaining such
average. loss, the goods lost and saved are both to be valued at the price
they would have brought at the place of delivery, on the ship's arrival
there, freight, duties and other charges being deducted. Marsh. Ins. 246; 3
Kent, Com. 185 to 187; Park. Ins., 123; Poth. Chartepartie, n. 108, et suiv;
Boulay-Paty, Dr. Com. tit. 13; Pardessus, Dr. Com. n. 734; 1 Ware's R. 9.