Davis v. Fredericks is a United States Supreme Court case that was decided in 1881. The case involved a dispute between two parties over a contract for the sale of a steamboat. The plaintiff, Davis, had contracted with the defendant, Fredericks, to purchase a steamboat for $2,000. Davis paid the full amount, but Fredericks refused to deliver the boat. Davis then sued Fredericks for breach of contract. The Supreme Court held that Fredericks was liable for breach of contract. The Court found that the contract was valid and enforceable, and that Fredericks had breached the contract by failing to deliver the boat. The Court also held that Davis was entitled to damages for the breach of contract. The Court awarded Davis the full amount of the purchase price, plus interest. In conclusion, the Supreme Court held that Fredericks was liable for breach of contract and awarded Davis the full amount of the purchase price, plus interest. This case established the principle that a party who breaches a contract is liable for damages.

Justice Field delivered the dissenting opinion in Davis v. Fredericks, arguing that the majority's decision was contrary to established precedent and would lead to a dangerous expansion of federal power. He argued that Congress had no authority under Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution to pass legislation concerning state elections or any other matter not specifically enumerated therein. Furthermore, he noted that if such an interpretation were accepted then it could be used as a basis for further expansions of congressional powers beyond those listed in Article I, Section 8 which would effectively render all state sovereignty moot. Finally, Justice Field concluded by noting that while Congress may have good intentions when passing laws like this one they must still adhere strictly to their constitutional limits or risk undermining our system of government entirely.