desertion of seamen

DESERTION OF SEAMEN, contracts. The abandonment, by a sailor, of a ship or 
vessel, in which he engaged to perform a voyage, before the expiration of 
his time, and without leave. 
     2. Desertion, without just cause, renders the sailor liable, on his 
shipping articles, for damages, and will, besides, work a forfeiture of his 
wages previously earned. 3 Kent, Com. 155. It has been decided, in England, 
that leaving the ship before the completion of the voyage is not desertion, 
in the case, 1. Of the seaman's entering into the public service, either 
voluntarily or by impress; and 2. When he is compelled to leave it by the 
inhuman treatment of the captain. 2 Esp. R. 269; 1 Bell's Com. 514, 5th ed.; 
2 Rob. Adm. R. 232.