“ The cross libel occupied the same position as a cross bill in equity, and the general rule is that the original bill and the cross bill should be heard together and disposed of by one decree, although, where the cross bill asks affirmative relief, and is therefore not a pure cross bill, the dismissal of the original bill may not dispose of the cross bill, which may be retained for a complete determination of the cause. ”

“ Whether the controversy pending is a suit in equity or in admiralty, a cross bill or libel is a bill or libel brought by a defendant in the suit against the plaintiff in the same suit, or against other defendants in the original suit, or against both, touching the matters in question in the original bill or libel. ”

“ December 17, 1900, the district court filed its written decision, holding that the cross libel could not be maintained because the court had no jurisdiction to entertain the cause or to enter a decree as prayed for against the United States, whereupon and on that day the court entered a decree that the citation be quashed and that the cross libel be dismissed with costs. 105 Fed. 398. The cross libellant thereupon appealed to this court and the appeal was allowed on the question of jurisdiction. ”