It may be a general rule, that the port of destination is the proper place for a final adjustment of the average. (g) But as the master has a lien on all goods saved, for the contribution due from them in general average, he need not and would not deliver the goods at an intermediate port, although deliverable there by the bill of lading, unless this contribution were first paid or secured. But this contribution cannot be determined but by an adjustment of the general average, over all the contributory interests.

It is therefore customary and proper that such an adjustment should there be made. (h) And it is a universally recognized rule, that such an adjustment, made under the law of the port where made, is binding everywhere, upon all parties whose interests it affects, unless it can be set aside by proof of fraud, or of gross and material mistake. (i)