Section 91. Proceedings upon return of order to show cause; trial of issue

At the time and place mentioned in the order to show cause,  the  master
  or other person in charge of such vessel, the owner or consignee thereof
  or  any other person interested therein, may apply and contest the claim
  of the lienor as contained in the application for a warrant,  by  filing
  with  the  justice  an  affidavit  controverting any material allegation
  contained in the notice of lien or the application of  the  lienor.  The
  issue so raised shall be tried as are other issues in a court of record,
  without  a  jury,  before the justice granting the order at a time to be
  fixed by him, or they may be referred by him to a referee, to  be  heard
  and determined.