All sums due for pilotage, half-pilotage, and all other claims and penalties in the nature or in lieu thereof, shall, as they accrue, become and remain a lien upon the vessel chargeable therewith, her tackle, apparel and furniture, until they are paid; and for the recovery thereof, in addition to the remedies now provided, (and which shall remain as heretofore,) such process and proceedings shall issue and be had in the court of common pleas of Philadelphia County, or in any court possessing admiralty jurisdiction, as are usually had in courts of admiralty, for the recovery of seamen's wages. And all half-pilotage forfeitures and penalties in the nature thereof, accruing by virtue of this act, and all other debts, claims and demands, to which “the society for the relief of distressed and decayed pilots, their widows and children,” are legally or equitably entitled to, under any law whatsoever, shall be recovered in the name and for the use of the said society, to whom, or to whose agent, duly constituted, the same shall be paid: Provided, That in all suits and proceedings, to which “the society for the relief of distressed and decayed pilots, their widows and children,” shall be a party, no person shall be incompetent to testify as a witness, because of his being a member thereof.