7. Rights of Government.—
The Act of March 3, 1899, (10 U. S. Comp. St. § 9920, etc.) contains provisions for the removal of wrecks in navigable waters by the Government. The obstruction may be broken up, removed, sold or otherwise disposed of by the Secretary of War at his discretion, without liability for any damage to the owners of the same. This authority may be delegated by the Secretary of War and permits the prompt removal of wrecks when they interfere with navigation. The rights and power of the Government to so dispose of wreckage can hardly be doubted and similar power probably exists in all foreign jurisdictions as well as in the several states.