Moore v. Hatfield

GOLDTIiWAITE, J. This case involves the construe [443] tion of one of the sections of an act, to regulate judicial proceedings, passed in January, 1839. It is in these terms: “ In all suits to be commenced upon accounts, for a sum not exceeding one hundred dollars, the oath of the plaintiff shall be received as evidence of the demand, unless the same be controverted by the oath of the defendant; but this section shall not apply to the case of executors and administrators, trustees and guardians when sued.” This is a remedial statute, and although in derogation of the common law, is not for that reason, to be construed in such a manner as to limit or restrain its beneficial effects. We cannot presume the intention to be, that those who are in health and able to attend the Courts of the country in person, are alone to be permitted to avail themselves of its provisions; nor is it reasonable to suppose our Legislature so churlish as to make a rule entirely for the benefit of residents, when the amendment of the law, could with equal propriety be extended to those residing elsewhere. We think the reasonable construction of the statute, is to make the plaintiff a witness to prove the account, and that his deposition maybe taken, under circumstances which will authorise the deposition of any other witness. We yield, the more readily to this view, because no difficulties can arise from adopting such a practice, as in cases where the deposition is taken, the defendant will necessarily have notice of the manner by which it is contemplated to prove the account; a notice which he would otherwise not receive, as the statute evidently contemplates that the plaintiff may be sworn, whether the defendant is or is not present. Let the judgment be affirmed.