Those on the Nevada that were responsible for the collision had to remain behind in Sydney. The matter was investigated by the Vice-Admiralty Court in Sydney, and the judgment condemned the Nevada. It was held that even though the Badger's lights were not faultless, the Nevada did not keep a proper lookout; in fact, the judgment of the Court says the Nevada's people evidently never expected to meet another vessel in those wide waters. The Court expressed regret that the Nevada after the collision did not stop to ascertain what damage had been done. The skipper was somewhat absolved as he was not on deck at the time, although he came up immediately afterwards and saw the Badger astern. The Court adjudged the value of the Badger at £1600, and gave judgment against the Nevada for that sum, the steamer also being mulcted in costs. One thing that would strike anyone reading the judgment is the reference to the "high rate of speed" of the mail steamer. She was doing ten knots!