Lœber v. Delahaye & Co.

Wright, C. J, Defendants were in default before the justice, and, in the district court, took no steps to set aside this default, by asking leave to plead, or otherwise; nor did they, at any stage of the proceedings, answer the plaintiff s cause of action. Deing thus in default, they were in no position to ask instructions. All they could do, was to cross-examine the witnesses of plaintiff, at tlié time of the assessment of damages. Code, section 1831; Cook & [479] Owsley v. Walters, 4 Iowa, 72. We do not stop, therefore, to inquire into the correctness of the instructions, for the defendants are in no position to complain. A defendant, being in default, admits the right of the plaintiff to recover. While in this attitude, his rights are exceedingly circumvented by the express language of the Code. The proceeding is substantially in the hands of the plaintiff. While the default continues, the plaintiff has nothing to do, but to prove his damages. In doing this, his proof will, of course, vary according to the nature of his cause. If a defendant is in default, however, he cannot claim that plaintiff is entitled to recover nothing. Tie is, at least, entitled to nominal damages. In the adjudication of the question, whether he is entitled to more, the defendant is given the fight to appear and cross-examine witnesses. If he would do more, he must first remove the default. These remarks are made in view of the objection of appellants, that the petition is insufficient to authorize, the judgment. We are clear that it is not so wanting in substance, as that the objection can avail a party in default. Judgment affirmed.