Chaplin v. Kirwan, 1 Dall. 187 (C. P. Phila. Cty. 1786)

Common Pleas, Philadelphia County:

September Term, 1786

Chaplin versus Kirwan.

The Referrees in this case, had allowed ex parte evidence to be given, of the current price of Coach-maker's work, at the time when the cause of action accrued. For this reason, the Defendant moved to set aside their report.

And By the Court: If Referrees make enquiry abroad, to ascertain for their own satisfaction, the price of work, or the truth of any other matter, which may be said, comparitively, to be of a public nature, this, so far from being irregular, would be highly commendable. But it is a very different case, when they proceed separately to examine a witness, who has been produced by one of the parties, although the evidence relates only to those general points. The adverse parties should have an opportunity of cross examining the witness.

The Report set aside.

Citation: Chaplin v. Kirwan, 1 Dall. 187, 1 U.S. 187 (C. P. Phila. Cty. 1786).

Last modified: July 31, 2014