In this case, the Washington, Alexandria and Georgetown Steam Packet Company (the plaintiffs) sued Frederick E. Sickles and Truman Cook (the defendants). The plaintiffs argued that they had a contract with the defendants to transport goods from one place to another for a certain fee. However, when the defendants failed to pay their bill in full after receiving their goods, the plaintiffs sought damages for breach of contract. The Supreme Court ultimately ruled in favor of the defendants on grounds that there was no evidence presented by either party proving an enforceable agreement between them existed at all. Furthermore, even if such an agreement did exist it would be considered void due to its violation of public policy as it involved transporting slaves without proper documentation or authorization from local authorities.

In this case, the Washington, Alexandria and Georgetown Steam Packet Company (the plaintiffs) argued that they were not liable for damages caused by a collision between their vessel and another. The defendants contended that the plaintiff was negligent in failing to take proper precautions to avoid such an accident. In his dissenting opinion, Justice McLean disagreed with the majority's decision on two grounds: firstly, he argued that there was sufficient evidence of negligence on behalf of the plaintiff; secondly, he maintained that even if no negligence had been established it would still be reasonable to hold them responsible as owners of a vessel which caused damage through its operation. He concluded by stating that "it is better policy...to make those who employ vessels answerable for all injuries resulting from their use".