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Feb 11, 2014



Following Contents quoted from “CRAWFORD’S STATUTORY CONSTRUCTION interpretation of Laws”



Miscellaneous Statutory Rules of Construction-But Not Found in Massachusetts.-An examination of the various statutory rules of construction, reveals that the statutes of Massachusetts do not include certain statutory rules which are found in a consider-able number of other states. Like the statutory provisions quoted from the laws of Massachusetts, these also, in many instances, closely resemble each other, as will be indicated in the following sections.'

The Common Law of England Adopted.-"The common law of England, so far as it is not inconsistent with the constitution, laws and institutions of this state, shall, together, with such institutions and laws, be the rule of decisions, and shall continue in force, except as from time to time it may be altered or repealed by the legislature." 37

Negro and Person of Color.-" The term 'negro', within the meaning of this code, includes mulatto. The term 'mulatto' or 'person of color' within the meaning of this code, is a person of mixed blood, descended on the part of the father or mother from negro ancestors, to the fifth generation.38

Children and Grandchildren.—" 'Children' and 'Grand-children', as used in these statutes generally refer to legitimate descendants, unless there is something which shows a contrary intent on the part of the legislature." 39

Children.—"The term 'children' includes children by birth and adoption.,, 40

Men.—"The term 'men' includes boys.,, 41

Convict.—" The word 'convict' shall mean a person con-fined in the penitentiary of this or any other state, or of the United States.” 42

Offense.—" The word 'offense' includes every act or omission for which a fine, forfeiture or punishment is imposed by law." 43

Head of a Family.—"The phrase 'head of a family' shall include any person who has charge of children, relatives, or others living with such person.” 44

Chattels.—" The term 'chattels' includes goods and chattels." 45
 



Following Contents quoted from “CRAWFORD’S STATUTORY CONSTRUCTION interpretation of Laws”


Property.—" The word 'property' includes both real and personal property." 46

Personal Property.--" The words 'personal property' includes money, goods, chattels, things in action, and evidences of debt." 47

Money and Dollars.—"The words 'money' or 'dollars' shall be construed to mean lawful money of the United States.), 48

Residence.—" The term 'residence' shall be construed to mean the place adopted by a person as his place of habitation, and to which, whenever he is absent, he has the intention of returning. When a person eats at one place and sleeps at another, the place where such person sleeps shall be deemed his residence." 49

Usual Place of Residence, etc.—" The terms 'usual place of residence' and 'usual place of abode' when applied to the service of process or notice, shall be construed to mean the place usually occupied by a person. If such person have no family, or do not have his family with him, his office, or place of business, or if he has no place of business, the room or place where he usually sleeps shall be construed to be such place of residence or abode." 59

Under Disability.—"The phrase 'under legal disability' includes persons within the age of minority or of unsound mind, or imprisoned." 51

Roman Numerals and Arabic Figures.—"The Roman numerals and Arabic figures are to be taken as a part of the English language." 52

May.—" 'May' ordinarily denotes permission and not command. Where the word as used in a statute concerns the public interest or affects the rights of third persons, it will be construed to mean `must'." 53

And, Or.—" 'And' may be read as 'or', and 'or' read as 'and', if the sense requires it." 54

Heretofore and Hereafter.—"Whenever the term 'heretofore' occurs in any statute, it shall be construed to mean any time previous to the day when such statute shall take effect; and when-ever the term 'hereafter' occurs, it shall be construed to mean the time after the statute containing such term shall take effect." 55

Week.—"The word 'week' shall be construed to mean seven days." 56

Calendar Day.—"A calendar day includes the time from midnight to midnight. Sunday or any day of the week specifically mentioned means a calendar day." 5"

Computation of Time.—"The time in which any act provided by law is to be done is computed by excluding the first day, and including the last, unless the last is a holiday, and then it is excluded." 57

Months Before or After a Certain Day-Computation of.-"A number of months after or before a certain day shall be computed by counting such number of calendar months from such day, exclusive of the calendar month in which such day occurs, and shall include the day of the last month so counted having the same numerical order in days of the month as the day from which the computation. is made, unless there be not so many days in the last month so counted, in which case the period computated shall expire with the last day of the month so counted." 58
Statutes in Derogation of Common Law.-" The rule of the common law that statutes in derogation of the common law are to be strictly construed, has no application to this code. Its provisions and all proceedings under it shall be liberally construed with a view to promote its objects and assist the parties in obtaining justice." 59

Penal Statutes.—" The rule of the common law that penal statutes are to be strictly construed, has no application to this code. All its provisions and all penal statutes are to be construed according to the fair import of their terms, with a view to effect the objects and promote justice.,, 60

General and Special Provisions.—”In the construction of a statute the intention of the legislature—is to be pursued if possible ; and when a general and a particular provision are inconsistent, the latter is paramount to the former. So a particular in-tent shall control one that is inconsistent with it." 61

Punishment.—"In all penal statutes of the state where by the terms of such statute a definite punishment of imprisonment in the penitentiary is prescribed, the time of such imprisonment shall be construed to be the maximum of imprisonment, unless such statutes expressly provide that such time is the minimum." 62
Retroactive Operation—Generally.—"No statute is retroactive unless expressly so declared therein." 63

Retroactive Operation—Offenses, Indictments, Penal-ties, etc.—"All offenses committed and all penalties or forfeitures incurred prior to said repeal, may be prosecuted and punished in the same manner and with the same effect as if said repeal had not been made.), 64

Retroactive Operation—Contracts and Procedure.— "Laws prescribe only for the future ; they cannot impair the obligation of contracts, nor, usually have a retrospective operation. Laws looking only to the remedy or mode of trial may apply to contracts, right and offenses entered into or accrued or committed prior to their passage; but in every case a reasonable time subsequent to the passage of the statute should be allowed for the citizen to enforce his contract, or protect his right. No bill of attainder or ex post facto law shall be passed." 65

Intent of the Legislature.—"In all interpretations, the court shall look diligently for the intention of the legislature, keeping in view at all times the old law, the evil and the remedy." 66

Reason and Spirit of the Law.—" The universal and most effective way of discovering the true meaning of a law, when its expressions are dubious, is by considering the reason and spirit of it, or the cause which induced the legislature to enact it." 67

Context.—" Where the words of a law are dubious, their meaning may be sought by examining the context with which the ambiguous words, phrases and sentences may be compared in order to ascertain their true meaning." 68
Statutes in Pari Materia.—"Laws in pari materia, or upon the same subject matter, must be construed with a reference to each other; what is clear in one statute may be called in aid to explain what is doubtful in another." 69

Natural Rights.—"Where a statute is equally susceptible of two interpretations, one in favor of natural right, and the other against it, the former controls." 70

Section Headings and Headlines.—" The sectional headings or headlines of the several sections of this code printed in black-faced type are intended as mere catchwords to indicate the contents of the section, and shall not be deemed or taken to be titles of such sections, or as any part of the statute, and, unless expressly so provided, they shall not be so deemed when any of such sections, including the headlines, are amended or re-enacted." 71

Grammatical Errors.— “Grammatical errors shall not vitiate a law, and a transposition of words, and clauses, may be resorted to when tile sentence or clause is without meaning as it stands. In no case shall the punctuation of a law control or affect the intention of the legislature in the enactment thereof." 72

Strict Construction of Statutes Enjoining or Directing Acts.—"In all cases where a remedy is provided, or duty enjoined, or anything directed to be done by any act or acts of assembly of this Commonwealth, the directions of the said acts shall be strictly pursued, and no penalty shall be inflicted, or anything done agree-ably to the provisions of the common law, in such cases, further than shall be necessary for carrying such act or acts into effect." 73


Ref:

 14 Mass. Gen. Laws, 1932, Ch. 4, § 6. For similar provisions, see: U.S. CA., § 28, Ch. 2, Title 1; Ala. Code, 1927, Ch. 1, § 15; Rev. Code Ariz., 1928, Ch. 73, § 3042; Dig. Stat. Ark. (Pope), 1937, § 13282; Colo. Stat. Anno., 1935, Ch. 159, § 3; Gen. Stat. Conn., 1930, § 6568; Comp. Gen. Laws, Fla., 1927,
Art. 2, § 96; Ida. Code Anno., 932, § 70-115; Ill. Rev. Stat. (Smith-Hurd), 1935, Ch. 131, § 3; Anno., Ind. Stat. (Burns) 1926, § 255; Code of Iowa, 1935, 63; Kan. Gen. Stat., 1935, § 77-201; Carroll's Ky. Stat., 1931, § 464; Comp. Laws Mich., 1929, § 77; Mason's Minn. Stat., 1927, § 10930; Pub. L., N.H., 1926, Ch. 2, § 37; N.M. Stat. Anno., 1929, § 139-104; Consol. L. N.Y. (Ca-hill's), 1930, § 23:90; N.C. Comp. L. 1913, § 7315; Code of Ohio (Baldwin), 1930, § 25; Okla. Stat., 1931, § 7; R.I. Gen. L. 1923, § 418; Rev. Stat. Utah, 1933, § 88-2-5; Pub. L. Vt., 1933, § 33; Code of Va., 1930, § 5; Code of W.Va., 1932, Anno., § 32; Wis. Stat., 1937, § 370.01; Wyo. Rev. Stat., 1931, § 112-103. And see People v Hendrick, 93 Colo. 512, 27 Pac. (2) 493; Columbia Ry. Gas Co. v Carter, 127 S.C. 473, 121 S.E. 377. The rule was otherwise at common law. White River Lumber Co. v Drainage Dist. (Ark.) 216 S.W: 1043, and I3aum v Thomo, 150 Ind. 378, 50 N.E. 357. But repeal of initiated law does not revive prior laws. Armstrong v Mitten, 95 Colo. 425, 37 Pac. (2) 757. And mere reference to title is not sufficient to revive. Florer v State, 133 Ind. 453, 32 N.E. 829. This section enacts merely a rule of construction, Jacksonville etc. R. Co. v U.S., 118 U.S. 626, 30 L.Ed. 273, 7 S.Ct. 48, and applies to statutes and not the common law. State v Mines, 38 W.Va. 125, S.E. 470. It also applies to repeals by implication. Milne v Huber, 17.-Fed. Cas. No. 9617.



15 mass. Gen. Laws, 1932, Ch. 4, § 6. States with similar provisions: U.S. C.A., § 29, Ch. 2, Title 1; Ala. Code, 1923, Ch. 1, § 10; Rev. Code Ariz., 1928, Ch. 73, § 3046; Colo. Stat. Ann. 1935, Ch. 159, § 4; Gen. Stat. Conn., 1930, § 6568; Ida. Code Anno. 1932, § 70-106; III. Rev. Stat. (Smith-Hurd), 1935, Ch. 131, § 4; Ind. Stat. Anno. (Burns) 1926, § 255; Kan. Gen.. Stat. 1935, §77-201; Carroll's Ky. Stat. 1930, § 465; Rev. Stat. Me. 1930, Ch. 1, § 4; Comp. Stat. Neb. 1929, §§ 81 and 7101; Pub. L. N.H., 1926, Ch. 2, §§ 35 and 36; Consol. L. N.Y. (Cahill) 1930, § 23:93, 94; N.D. Comp. L. 1913, § 7316; Code of Ohio (Baldwin) 1930, § 26; R.I. Gen. L. 1923, § 416; Comp. L. S.D. (1929), § 10658, Code of Tenn. 1932, § 12; Code of Va. 1930, § 5; Code of W.Va. 1932 (Anno.), § 31; Wis. Stat. 1937, § 370.01; Wyo. Rev. Stat. 1931, § 112-104. And see Lamar v U.S., 260 U.S. 711, 67 L.Ed. 476, 43 S.Ct. 251; Cloud v State, 36 Ark. 151; Peo. ex rel. v David (III.) 168 N.E. 264. This section abrogates the rule that rights under statutes repealed by subsequent law without saving clause are lost. Cavanaugh v Patterson, 41 Colo. 158, 91 Pac. 1117. And since laws of one legislature do not bind another, this section must be taken as merely a rule of construction, having no applica-tion where the legislative intent appears clearly to the contrary. Dyer T Ellington, 126 N.C. 941, 36 S.E. 177. This statute becomes a part of every repealing act that does not specifically state that it is to have a retrospec-tive effect. State v Brown, 146 Kan. 525, 73 Pac. (2) 19. 16 Mass. Gen. Laws, 1932, Ch. 4, § 6. For similar statutes, see: Rev. Code Ariz., 1928, Ch. 73, § 3040; Pol. Cod. Calif. (Deering), 1931, § 16; Cola Stat. Ann., 1935, Ch. 159; § 2; Gen. Stat. Conn., 1930, § 6568; Dela. Rev. Code. 1935, Ch. 1, § 1; Ga. Code, 1933, § 102-102; Ida. Code Ann., 1932, § 70-113; Ind. Stat. Anno. (Burns), 1926, § 247; Code of Iowa, 1935, § 63; Kan. Gen. Stat-1935, §77-201; Carroll's Ky. Stat. 1930, § 460; Dart, La. Civ. Code. Ann_ 1932, §§ 14 and 15; Rev. Stat. Me. 1930, Ch. 1, § 6 (including provision that "and" and "or" are controvertible); Comp. L. Mich. 1929, § 76; Mason's .Minn. Stat., 1927, § 10932; Miss. Code Ann., 1930, §1394; R. S. Mo. 1929. § 655; Pub. L. N.H., 1926, Ch. 2, § 2; Rev. Stat. N.J., 1937, § 1:1-1; N.M. Stat. Ann., 1929, § 139-102; N.D. Comp. L. 1913, § 7278; Stat. Okla., 1931_ § 24; Rev. Civ. Stat. Tex., 1925, Art. 10; Rev. Stat. Utah, 1933, § 88-2-11: Wis. Stat., 1937, § 370.01; Wyo. Rev. Stat., 1931, § 112-101. And see Owen T Going, 13 Colo. 290, 22 Pac. 768. This section is declaratory of the common law on the subject. Bailey v Common. (Ky.) 11 Bush. 688.
17 Mass. Gen. Laws, 1932, Ch. 4, § 6. For states with similar provisions, :zee: U.S. C.A., § 571, Ch. 15, Title 18, and § 1, Ch. 1, Title 1; Code of Ala. -:23, Ch. 1, § 1; Rev. Code Ariz. 1928, Ch. 73, § 3040; Digest Stat. Ark. (Pope) 1937, § 13258; Pol. Code Calif. (Deering) 1931, § 17; Colo. Stat. Ann. 1935, Ch. 159, § 2; Gen. Stat. Conn. 1930, § 6568; Rev. Code Dela. 1935, Ch. 1, § 1; Ga. Code 1933, § 102-102; Ida. Code Ann. 1932, § 70-114; III. Rev. Stat. (Smith-Hurd) 1935, Ch. 131, § 1; Ind. Stat. Anno. (Burns) 1926, §§ 247 and 9•?1; Code of Iowa, 1935, § 63; Kan. Gen. Stat. 1935, §77-201; Carroll's Ky. Stat. 1930, § 457; Rev. Stat. Me. 1930, Ch. 1, § 6; Anno. Code Md. 1924, Art. 1, f§ 7 and 8; Comp. L. Mich. 1929, § 76; Mason's Minn. Stat. 1927, § 10932; Miss. Code Ann. 1930, §§ 1395 and 1396; R.S. Mo. 1929, § 651; Comp. Stat. Neb. 1929, §§ 81 and 6903; Pub. L. N.H. 1926, Ch. 2, § 3; Rev. Stat. N.J. 1937, 1; 1-2; N.M. Stat. Ann. 1929, § 139-102; N.C. Code Ann. 1931, § 3949; N.D. Comp. L. 1931, §§ 7307, 7308; Code of Ohio (Baldwin) 1930, § 10213; Stat. Okla. 1931, §§ 30 and 33; R.I. Gen. L. 1923, §§ 402 and 403; Code of Laws, S.C. 1932, § 2081; Code of Tenn. 1932, § 14; Rev. Civ. Stat. Tex. 1925, Art. 10; Rev. Stat. Utah 1933, § 88-2-12; Pub. L. Vt. 1933, § 25; Code of Va. 1930, § 5; Code of W.Va. Ann. 1932, § 33; Wis. Stat. 1937, § 370.01; Comp. Stat. Wash. (Remington) 1932, § 148. And see Boone County v Keck, 31 Ark. 387; State v Holder, 49 Idaho 514, 290 Pac. 287 (plural and singular); Greanleaf v Woods (Ky.) 96 S.W. 458 (singular may include plural); In re Eikel, 283 Fed. 285. The purpose of this section was to avoid the use of such expressions as "such person or persons", "he, she or they", "himself or themselves", found in some poorly drawn statutes. Von Glahn v Harris, 73 N.C. 323. This statute should be applied only in order to carry out the legislative intent. First National Bank v State of Mo., 263 U.S. 640, 44 S.Ct. 213, 68 L.Ed. 486. Consequently, a statute may be clearly applicable to males only. In re Maddox, 93 Md. 727 (admission to bar). "Juror" held to embrace both women and men. People v Bartz, 212 Mich. 580, 180 N.W. 423. Will of a woman construed to be the "will of a person leaving his widow." In re Roton, 95 S.C. 118, 78 S.E. 711.
  18 Mass. Gen. Laws, 1932, Ch. 4, § 6. Also see: Code of Ala. 1923, Ch. § 3; Rev. Code Ariz. 1928, Ch. 73, § 3040; Pol. Code Calif. (Deering) 1931_ § 15; Gen. Stat. Conn. 1930, § 6568; Ga. Code 1933, § 102-102; Ida. Code Ann_ 1932, § 70-112; III. Rev. Stat. (Smith-Hurd) 1935, Ch. 131, § 1; Code of Iowa, 1935, § 63; Kan. Gen. Stat. 1935, § 77-201; Carroll's Ky. Stat. 1930, §-US: Rev. Stat. Me. 1930, Ch. 1, § 6; Comp. L. Mich. 1929, § 76; Mason's Minn. Stat. Ann. 1927, § 10932; R.S. Mo. 1929, § 655; Pub. L. N.H., 1926, Ch. It_ § 15; N.M. Stat. Ann., 1929, § 139-102; Code of N.C. 1931 (Ann.) § 3949: N.D. Comp. L. 1913, § 7314; Stat. Okla. 1931, §32; R.I. Gen. L. 1923, §404: Code of Tenn., 1932, § 22; Rev. Civ. Stat. Tex. 1925, Art. 10; Rev. Stat. Utah. 1933, § 88-2-10; Pub..L. Vt., 1933, § 16; Code of Va., 1930, § 5; Wis.. Stat. 1933. § 370.01; Wyo. Rev. Stat. 1931, § 112-101; Code of W.Va. 1932 (Anno.) § 33- And see Metsker v Whitsell, 181 Ind. 126, 103 N.E. 1078, and Blevins V Mar-ledge &-, Allen, 5 Okla. 141, 47 Pac. 1068. This section refers only to the construction of statutes and to public officers and other persons deriving authority from a statutory source. Fraley v Nickels, 121 Va. 377, 93 S.F.__ 636. This statute applies unless a contrary intention appears by express words or by clear implication. Carpenter v Hale, 159 Ky. 465, 167 S.W. 426_ 19 Mass. Gen. L. 1932, Ch. 4, § 7. Also see: Ind. Stat. Ann. (Burns' 1926, § 900; Mason's Minn. Stat. 1927, § 10933; Rev. Stat. N.J., 1937, §§ 1:1-and 1:1-2. 20 Mass. Gen. L., 1932, Ch. 4, § 7. Also see: Code of W.Va., 1932 (Anno.) § 27. 21 mass. Gen. L., 1932, Ch. 4, § 7. Also see: Rev. Code Ariz., 1928, Ch. 72, § 3040; Dela. Rev. Code, 1935, Ch. 1, § 1; Carroll's Ky. Stat. 1930, § 461; Rev. Stat. Me., 1930, Ch. 1, § 6; Comp. L. Mich., 1929, § 76; Pub. L. N.H-1926. Ch. 2, § 16; Pub. L. Vt. 1933, § 12; Wis. Stat. 1937, § 370.01.
22 Mass. Gen. L., 1932, Ch. 4, § 7. Also see: Ill. Rev. Stat. (Smith-Hurd) 1935, Ch. 131, § 1; Code of Iowa, 1935, § 63; Kan. Gen. Stat. 1935, § 77-201; Rev. Stat. Me., 1930, Ch. 1, § 6; Mason's Minn. Stat., 1927, § 10933; Pub. L. N.H. 1926, Ch. 2, § 26; Code of Tenn., 1932, § 23; Rev. Stat. Utah, 1933, I 88-2-12; Pub. L. Vt. 1933, § 13; Wis. Stat. 1937, § 370.01.
23 Mass. Gen. Laws, 1932, Ch. 4, § 7. For states with similar provisions, see: U.S. C.A., § 1, Ch. 1, Title 1; Rev. Code Ariz., 1928, Ch. 73, § 3040; Digest Stat. Ark. (Pope) 1937, § 13272; Colo. Stat. Ann. 1935, Ch. 159, § 2; Dela. Rev. Code, 1935, Ch. 1, § 1; Ga. Code, 1935, § 102-103; III. Rev. Stat. Smith-Hurd) 1935, Ch. 31, § 1; Ind. Stat. Anno. (Burns) 1926, § 900; Code af Iowa, 1935, § 63; Kan. Gen. Stat. 1935, § 77-201; Carroll's Ky. Stat. 1930, 450; Rev. Stat. Me., 1930, Ch. 1, § 6; Comp. L. Mich., 1929, § 76; Mason's Minn. Stat., 1927, § 10933; Miss. Code Ann., 1930, § 1390; Consol. L. N.Y., 1930 (Cahill) § 23:28; R.I. Gen. L., 1923, § 406; Code of Tenn., 1932, § 14; Rev. Stat. Utah, 1933, § 88-2-12; Pub. L. Vt., 1933, § 14; Code of Va., 1930, § 5; Code of W.Va., 1932 (Anno.), § 33; Wis. Stat., 1937, § 370.01.
24 Code of Ala., 1923, Ch. 1, § 1; Rev. Code Ariz., 1928, Ch. 73, § 3040; Stat. Ann., 1935, Ch. 159, § 2; Dela. Rev. Code, 1935, Ch. 1, § 1 ("kin Lad kindred"); Code of Iowa, 1935, § 63; Gen. Stat. Kan., 1935, § 77-201; aev. Stat. Me., 1930, Ch. 1, § 6; Comp. L. Mich., 1929, § 76; Mason's Minn Szat, 1927, § 10933; Pub. L. N.H. 1926, Ch. 2, § 20; Pub. L. Vt., 1933, § 15; Wis. Stat.. 1937, § 370.01.
  25 mass. Gen. Laws, 1932, Ch. 4, § 7. For other states with similar pro-visions, see: Ala. Code, 1923, Ch. 1, § 2; Rev. Code Ariz., 1928, Ch. 72, § 3040; Digest Stat. Ark. (Pope) 1937, § 13261; Pol. Code Calif. (Deering), 1931, § 17 (2); Colo. Stat. Ann., 1935, Ch. 159, § 2; Dela. Rev. Code, 1935, Ch. 1, § 1; Ida. Code Ann., 1932, § 70-114; Ind. Stat. Anno. (Burns) 1926, § 900; Code of Iowa, 1935, § 63; Kan. Gen. Stat., 1935, .§ 77-201; Carroll's Ky. Stat., 1930, § 458; Rev. Stat. Me., 1930, Ch. 1, § 6; Comp. L. Mich., 1929, § 76; Mason's Minn. Stat., 1927, § 10933; Miss. Code Ann., 1930, § 1375; R.S. Mo., 1929, § 655; Pub. L. N.H., 1926, Ch. 2, § 21; Rev. Stat. N.J., 1937, § 1:1-2; Consol. Laws N.Y. (Cahill) 1930, § 23:40; N.D. Comp. L., 1913, § 7309; Stat. Okla., 1931, § 26; R.I. Gen. L., 1923, § 409; Code of Laws, S.C., 1932, § 897; Code of Tenn., 1932, § 15; Rev. Stat. Utah, 1933, § 88-2-12; Pub. L., 1933, Vt., § 32; Code of Va., 1930, § 5; Code of W.Va. Ann., 1932, § 33; Wis. Stat., 1937, § 370.01. And see Walpoe v State Board, 62 Colo. 554, 163 Pac. 848.
26 mass. Gen. Laws, 1932, Ch. 4, § 7. For similar provisions, see: Ala. Code, 1923, Ch. 1, § 9; Rev. Code Ariz., 1928, Ch. 72, § 3040; Dig. Stat. Ark. (Pope) 1937, § 13274; Pol. Code Calif. (Deering) 1931, § 17 (4); Colo. Stat. Ann., 1935, Ch. 159, § 2; Gen. Stat. Conn., 1930,. § 6568; Dela. Rev. Code, 1935, Ch. 1, §1; Code of Ga., 1933, § 102-103; Ida. Code Ann., 1932, § 70-114; III. Rev. Stat. (Smith-Hurd) 1935, Ch. 131, § 1; Code of Iowa, 1935, § 63; Carroll's Ky. Stat., 1930, § 452; Rev. Stat. Me., 1930, Ch. 1, § 6; Comp. L. Mich., 1929. § 76; Mason's Minn. Stat., 1927, § 10933; Miss. Code Ann., 1930, §§ 1377 and 1393; R.S. Mo., 1929, § 655; Pub. L. N.H., 1926, Ch. 2, § 8; Rev. Stat. N.J., 1937, § 1:1-2; Consol. Laws N.Y. (Cahill) 1930, § 23:31; N.C. Code Ann., 1931, § 3949; N.D. Comp. L., 1913, § 7305; Stat. Okla., 1931, § 39; R.I. Gen. L., 1923, § 411; Code of Tenn., 1932, § 16; Rev. Stat. Utah, 1933, § 88-2-12; Pub. L. Vt. 1933, § 22; Code of Va., 1930, § 5; Code of W.Va., 1932 (Anno.) § 27; Wis. Stat., 1937, § 370.01; Comp. Stat. Wash., 1922 (Remington), § 149; Wyo. Rev. Stat., 1931, § 112-101. And see Daly v Concordia F. Ins. Co., 16 Colo. Ap. 349, 65 Pac. 416; Harpold v Doyle, 16 Idaho 671, 102 Pac. 158; Rice v Blair, 58 Ky. 680, 166 S.W. 180 (embraces leap year); Garfield v Hubbell, 6 Kan. Ap. 785, 59 Pac. 600 (year A.D.). The 29th of February is counted as one day in computing time of service of process. Helphenstine v Vincennes Bank, 65 Ind. 582. This section adopts the civil law's method of computation. Satterwhite v Burrell, 51 N.C. 92.
27 Mass. Gen. Laws, 1932, Ch. 4, § 7. Also see: U.S. C.A., § 1, Ch. 1, Title 1; Ala. Code, 1923, Ch. 1, § 1; Dig. Stat. Ark. (Pope), 1937, § 13273; .Pol. Code Calif. (Deering) 1931, § 17; Gen. Stat. Conn., 1930, § 6568; Dela. Rev. Code, 1935, Ch. 1, § 1; Ga. Code, 1933, § 102-103; III. Rev. Stat. (Smith-Hurd), 1935, Ch. 131, § 1; Ind. Stat. Ann. (Burns) 1926, § 900; Code of Iowa, 1935, § 63; Kan. Gen. Stat., 1935, § 77-201; Carroll's Ky. Stat., 1930, § 451; Rev. Stat. Me., 1930, Ch. 1, § 6; Md, Ann. Code, 1924, Art. 1, § 9; Comp. L. Mich., 1929, § 76; Mason's Minn. Stat., 1927, § 10933; Miss. Code Ann., 1930, § 1379; Pub. L. N.H., 1926, Ch. 2, § 24; Rev. N.J. Stat., 1937, § 1:1-2; N.M. Stat. Ann., 1929, § 139-102; Consol. Laws N.Y. (Cahill), 1930, § 23:36; N.C. Code Ann., 1931, § 3949; N.D. Comp. L. 1913, § 7309; Code of Ohio (Baldwin) 1930, § 10213; Stat. Okla., 1931, § 26; R.I., Gen. L., 1923, § 410; Code of Tenn., 1932, § 14; Rev. Stat. Utah (1933) § 88-2-12; Pub. L. Vt., 1933, § 26; Code of Va., 1930, § 5; Code of W.Va., 1932 (Anno.) § 30; Wis. Stat., 1937, § 370.01; corporal oath and solemn oath, held synonymous. Common. v Jarboe, 89 Ky. 143, 12 S.W. 138. 28 it.1.7.Z,s; Gen. Laws, 1932, Ch. 4, § 7: For similar statutory provisions, see: U.S. C.A., § 1, Ch. 1, Title 1; Code Ala., 1923, Ch. 1, § 1; Digest Stat. Ark. (Pope) 1937, § 13258; Pol. Code Calif. (Deering) 1931, § 17; Colo. Stat. Ann., 1935, Ch. 159, § 2; Gen. Stat. Conn., 1930, § 6568; Dela. Rev. Code, 1935, Ch. 1, § 1; Ga. Code, 1933, § 102-103; III. Rev. Stat. (Smith-Hurd) 1935, Ch. 131, § 1; Ind. Stat. Anno. (Burns) 1926, § 900; Code of Iowa, 1935, § 63; Kan. Gen. Stat., 1935, § 77-201; Carroll's Ky. Stat., 1930, § 457; Rev. Stat. Me., 1930, Ch. 1, § 6; Md. Ann. Code, 1924, Art. 1, § 15; Comp. L. Mich., 1929, § 76; Mason's Minn. Stat., 1927, § 10933; Miss. Code Ann., 1930, § 1381; Comp. Stat. Neb., 1929, § 81-6903; Pub. L. N.H., 1926, Ch. .2, § 9; Rev. Stat. N.J., 1937, § 1:1-2; N.M. Stat. Anno., 1929, § 139-102; Consol. Laws N.Y., 1930 (Cahill) § 23:37; N.C. Code Ann., 1931, § 3949; N.D. Comp. L., 1913, § 7294; Code of Ohio (Baldwin) 1930, § 10213; Stat. Okla., 1931, § 35; R.I. Gen. L., 1923, § 405; Code of Tenn., 1932, § 14; Rev. Stat., Utah, 1933, § 88-2-12; Pub. L. Vt., 1933, § 28; Code of W.Va., 1932 (Ann.) § 33; Wis. Stat., 1937, § 370.01; Comp. Stat. Wash., 1922 (Remmington) § 146. And see State v Lockie, 43 Ida. 580, 253 Pac. 618.. "Person" includes artificial as well as natural person. Norris v State, 25 Ohio St. 217. This section does not apply to municipal corporations. Phillips v Baltimore, 110 Md. 431. It may, however, include them. City of Jackson v State (Miss.) 126 So. 2. Thus, a county may be sued where "person" included "bodies corporate". Donaldson v San Miguel, 1 N.M. 263. The word "person" will also include "persons". State v Dunn, 134 N.C. 663, 46 S.E. 949. Where a corporation was held subject to income tax as a "person", see Hattiesbury Gro. Co. v Robertson, 126 Miss. 34, 88 So. 4, 25 A.L.R. 748.
   29 Mass. Gen. Laws, 1932, Ch. 4, § 7. Also see: Ala. Code, 1923, Ch. 1, § 5; Rev. Code Ariz., 1928, Ch. 73, § 3040; Gen. Stat. Conn., 1930, § 6568; Ga. Code, 1933, § 102-103 (also defining "aforesaid"); Ind. Stat. Ann. (Burns) 1926, § 247; Carroll's Ky. Stat., 1930, § 462; Rev. Stat. Me., 1930, Ch. 1, § 6; Comp. L. Mich., 1929, § 76; Mason's Minn. Stat., 1927, § 10933; R.S. Mo., 1929, § 650; Pub. L. N.H., 1926, Ch. 2, § 13; Code of N.C. (1931) Ann., § 3949; Pub. L. Vt. 1933, § 31; Code of Va., 1930, § 5; Code of W.Va., 1932 (Ann.) § 33; Wis. Stat., 1933, § 370.01; Wyo. Rev. Stat., 1931, § 112-101.
30 Mass. Gen. Laws, 1932, Ch. 4, § 7. Also see Mason's Minn: Stat., 1927, § 109-33; Pub. L. N.H.,1926, Ch. 2, § 19.
31 Mass. Gen. Laws, 1932, Ch. 4, § 7. For similar provisions, see: Code Ala., 1923, Ch. 1, §§ 6 and 7; Rev. Code Ariz., 1928, Ch. 73, § 3040; Dig. Stat. Ark. (Pope) 1937, § 13271; Colo. Stat. Ann. 1935, Ch. 159, § 2; Dela. Rev. Code, 1935, Ch. 1, § 1; Ida. Code Ann. 1932, § 70-114; III. Rev. Stat. (Smith-Hurd) 1935, Ch. 131, § 1; Ind. Stat. Ann. (Burns) 1926, § 247; Code of Iowa, 1935, § 63; Kan. Gen. Stat. 1935, §77-201; Carroll's Ky. Stat., 1930, § 446; Rev. Stat. Me., 1930, Ch. 1, § 6; Comp. L. Mich., 1929, § 76; Mason's Minn. Stat., 1927, § 10933; Miss. Code Ann., 1930, §§ 1386, 1389; R.S. Mo., 1929, § 655; Pub. L. N.H., 1926, Ch. 2, § 4; Rev. Stat. N.J., 1937, §1:-1-2; Consol. Laws, N.Y. (Cahill) 1930, § 23:46; N.C. Code, 1931 (Anno.) § 3949; R.I. Gem L. 1923, § 407; Code of Tenn., 1932, § 18; Rev. Stat. Utah, 1933, § 88-2-12; Pub. L. Vt., 1933, § 37; Code of Va., 1930, § 5; Code of W.Va., 1932 (Ann.) § 33; Wis. Stat., 1937, § 370.01. And see State v Briggs, -116 Ind. 55, 18 N.E. 395 (Dist. Columbia).
  32 Mass. Gen. Laws, 1932, Ch. 4, § 7. Also see: Colo. Stat. Ann., 1935, Ch. 159, § 2; Kan. Gen. Stat., 1935, § 77-201; Code of Iowa, 1935, § 63; Rev. Stat. Me., 1930, Ch. 1, § 6; Mason's Minn. Stat., 1927, § 10933; R.S. Mo., 1929, § 655; Pub. L. N.H. 1926, Ch. 2, § 5; Rev. Stat. N.J., 1937, § 1:1-2; R.I. Gen. L., 1923, § 408; Rev. Stat. Utah, 1933, § 88-2-12; Code of Va., 1930, § 5; P.L. Vt., 1933, § 41; Code of W.Va., 1932 (Ann.) § 33; Wis. Stat., 1937, § 370.01. And see Owens v George, 13 Colo. 290, 22 Pac. 768, that this section refers only to incorporated towns and hence not to townships. 33 Mass. Gen. Laws, 1932, Ch. 4, § 7. For similar statutes, see: U.S. C.A., § 571, Ch. 15, Title 18; Code Ala., 1923, Ch. 1, § 1; Dig. Stat. Ark. (Pope) 1937, § 13258; Colo. Stat. Ann., 1935, Ch. 159, § 2; Dela. Rev. Code, 1935, Ch. 1, § 1; Ga. Code, 1933, § 102-103; Ida. Code Ann., 1932, § 70-114; III. Rev. Stat. (Smith-Hurd) 1935, Ch. 131, § 1; Ind. Stat. Ann. (Burns) 1926, § 247; Code of Iowa, 1935, § 63; Kan. Gen. Stat., 1935, § 77-201; Rev. Stat. Me., 1930, Ch. 1, § 6; Comp. L. Mich., 1929, § 76; Mason's Minn. Stat., 1927, § 10933; Miss. Code Ann.. 1930, § 1392; R.S. Mo., 1929, § 655; Pub. L. N.H., 1926, Ch. 2, § 23; Rev. Stat. N.J., 1937, § 1:1-2.4; N.M., Stat. Ann., 1929, § 139-102; N.C. Code Ann., 1931, § 39.49; N.D. Comp. L., 1913, § 7311; Stat. Okla., 1931, § 44; Code of Tenn., 1932, § 14; Rev. Stat. Utah, 1933, § 88-2-12; Pub. L. Vt., 1933, § 44; Code of Va., 1930, § 5; Code of W.Va., 1932, § 33; Wis. Stat., 1937, § 370.01; Wyo. Rev. Stat., § 112-101. See Carraway v State (Ark.) 219 S.W. 736; Ausmus v Peo., 47 Colo. 167, 107 Pac. 204 (irrespective of statute, sign-ing by mark is a written signature). 34 Mass. Gen. L., 1932, Ch. 4, § 7. Also see: R.S. Mo., 1929, § 655; Code of Iowa, 1935, § 63; Mason's Minn. Stat., 1927, § 10933; Rev. Stat. N.J., 1937, § 1:1-2; Rev. Stat. Utah, 1933, § 88-2-12; Wis. Stat. 1937, § 370.01.

35 Mass. Gen. L., 1932, Ch. 4, § 9. For similar provisions, see: Dig. Stat. Ark. (Pope) 1937, § 13281; Pol. Code Calif. (Deering) 1931, §§ 12, 13; Ga. Code. 1933, § 102-102; Ida. Code Ann., 1932, § 70-110; Ind. Stat. Anno. (Burns) 1926, § 903; Carroll's Ky. Stat., 1930, § 454; Miss. Code Anno., 1930, § 1397: N.M. Stat. Ann., 1929, § 139-102; N.D. Comp. L.. 1913. § 7300; Rev. Stat. Utah. 1933, § 88-2-8. Also see § 376, infra. 36 Infra, §§ 355-392. 37 Code of Ala., 1923, Ch. 1, § 14. For similar provisions, see: Rev. Code Ariz., 1928, Ch. 73, § 3043; Colo. Stat. Ann.. 1935, Ch. 159. § 1; Ida. Code Ann.. 1932, § 70-114; R.S. Mo. 1929, § 645; Purdon's Pa. Stat., 1936, § 152: Rev. Civ. Stat. Tex., 1925, Art. 1; Rev. Stat. Utah, 1933, § 88-2-1; Code of Va.. 1930, § 2; Code of W.Va. (Ann.) 1932, § 22; Comp. Stat. Wash. (Remington) 1922, § 143. See Rains v Rain, 97 Colo. 19, 46 Pac. (2) 740. This section seems copied from Rev. Stat. of the U.S., Brown v Challis, 23- Colo. 145, 46 Pac. 679; Northern Pac. R. Co. v Hirzel. 29 Idaho 438, 161 Pac. 854 (riparian rights). Later decisions may be considered in determining what the com-mon law was at that time. Johnson v U. P. Coal Co.. 28 Utah 46, 76 Pac. 1089. 38 Code of Ala., 1923, Ch. 1,. § 2. Also see Code of Tenn., 1932, § 25.
  39 Ga. Code, 1937, § 102-103. 40 Stat. Okla., 1931, § 27. 41 Consol. Laws N.Y. (Cahill) 1930, § 23:29. 42 Code of W.Va. (Anno.) 1932, § 33. 43 Code of W.Va. (Anno.) 1932, § 33. 44 Kan. Gen. Stat., 1935, § 77-201. 45 Consol. Laws N.Y. (Cahill) 1930, § 23:15. 46 P01. Code Calif. (Deering) 1931, § 17. Also see: Dig. Ark. Stat. (Pope) 1937, § 13263; Ida. Code Ann., 1932, § 70-114; Ind. Stat. Ann. (Burns) 1926, § 900; Code of Iowa, 1935, § 63; Kan. Gen. Stat., 1935, § 77-201; R.S. Mo. 1929, § 655; Rev. Stat. N.J., 1937, § 1:1-2; Consol. Laws, N.Y. (Cahill) 1930, § 23:38; N.C. Code, 1931 (Anno.) § 3949; N.D. Comp. L., 1913, § 7309; Okla. Stat., 1931, § 26; Code of Laws, S.C., 1932, § 899; Code of Tenn., 1932, § 15; Rev. Stat. Utah, 1933, § 88-2-12; Code of W.Va., 1932 (Anno.), § 33; Wis. Stat., 1937, § 370.01.
  47 Pol. Code Calif. (Deering) 1931, § 17. For similar statutes, see: Dig. Stat. Ark. (Pope) 1937, § 13262; Ida. Code Ann., 1932, § 70-114; Ind. Stat. Anno. (Burns) 1926, § 900; Code of Iowa, 1935, § 63; Kan. Gen. Stat., 1935, § 77-201; Carroll's Ky. Stat., 1930, § 458; Rev. Stat. N.J., 1937, § 1:1-2; Consol. L. N.Y. (Cahill) 1930, § 23:39; Code N.C. Anno., 1931, § 3949; N.D. Comp. L., 1913, § 7309; R.S. Mo., 1929, § 655; Okla. Stat., 1931, § 26; Code of Laws, S.C., 1932, 898; Code of Tenn., 1932, § 15; Rev. Stat. Utah, 1933, § 88-2-12; Pub. L. Vt., 1933, § 29; Code of W.Va., 1932 (Anno.) § 33; Wis. Stat. 1937, § 370.01. Deed to land held personal property. State v Hughes, 80 Miss. 609, 31 So. 963. 48 Dela. Rev. Code, 1935, Ch. 1, § 1.
49 Kan. Gen. Stat., 1935, § 77-201. Also see R.S., Mo., 1929, § 655. 50 Kan. Gen. Stat., 1935, § 77-201. 51 Kan. Gen. Stat., 1935, § 77-201. Also see R.S. Mo., 1929, § 655.
   52 Kan. Gen. Stat., 1935, § 77-201. Also see Code of Iowa, 1935, § 63; Code of Tenn., 1932, § 17. 53 Ga. Code, 1933, § 102-103. 54 Code of Ohio (Baldwin) 1931, § 10213. 55 R.S. Mo., 1929, § 649. Also see Consol. Laws N.Y. (Cahill) 1930, § 23:10. Wis. Stat., 1937, § 370.01. 56a Consol. Laws, N.Y., 1930 (Cahill), § 23:19.   57 Ida. Code Ann., 1932, § 70-109. For similar provisions, see: Rev. Code Ariz., 1928, § 3039; III. Rev. Stat. (Smith-Hurd) 1935, Ch. 131, § 1; Carroll's Ky. Stat., 1930, § 453; Mason's Minn. Stat., 1927, § 10933; R.S. Mo., 1929, § 655; Pub. L. N.H., 1926, Ch. 2, § 34; Consol. Laws N.Y. (Cahill) 1930, § 23- 20; Code of Ohio (Baldwin) 1930, § 10216; R.I. Gen. L., 1923, § 412; Comp. L. S.D., 1929, § 10665; Code of Tenn., 1932, § 11; Rev. Stat. Utah, 1933, § 88-2-7; Pub. L. Vt., 1933, § 39; Code of Va., 1930, § 5; Code W.Va. (Anno.) 1932, § 26; Wis. Stat., 1937, § 370.01; Comp. Stat. Wash. (Remington) 1923, § 150. Also see § 392, supra. And note Hogg v Christenson, 29 N.D. 8, 149 N.W. 562; Fuller v Ferrin, 51 Utah 105, 168 Pac. 1179.. An intermediate Sunday is not excluded. Svea Ins. Co. v McFarlan, 7 Ariz. 131, 60 Pac. 936; C. M. & St. P. Ry. Co. v Nield, 16 S.D. 370, 92 N.W. 1069. In computing time for serving summons, day on which service was made is excluded. Soderman v Peterson, 36 Idaho 414, 211 Pac. 448. Notice of appeal filed on 91st day held good where the last day fell on-Sunday. Myers v Harvey, 39 Idaho 724, • 229 Pac. 1112. For meaning of "by" as fixing time for performance of an act, see 12 A.L.R. 1168 and 21 A.L.R. 1543. 58 Consol. Laws, N.Y. (Cahill) 1930, § 23:30. 59 Code of Iowa, 1935, § 64. Also see: Stat. Ark. (Pope) Digest, 1937, § 13277; Ida. Code Ann., 1932, § 70-102; N.D. Comp. L., 1913, § 7312; Code of Ohio (Baldwin) 1930, § 10214; Stat. Okla., 1931, §§ 2 and 3; Comp. L. S.D., 1929, § 10656; Rev. Civ. Stat. Tex., 1925, Art. 10; Rev. Stat. Utah, 1933, § 88-2-2. See State v Grace, 98 Ark. 505. This section changes the common law rule, McQueen v Moscow, 28 Ida. 146, 152 Pac. 799, and is mandatory. Hammond v Wall, 51 Utah 464, 171 Pac. 148.
,   60 Comp. L. S.D., 1929, § 3577. 61 Ore. Code Ann., 1930, § 9-215. 62 N.M. Stat. Ann., 1929, § 139-103. 63 Rev. Code Ariz., 1928, Ch. 73, § 3038 § 10666. 64 Ida. Code Ann., 1932, § 70-118. Also Nev. Comp. Laws, 1929 (Hillyer) § 112-65 And note § 372, supra.
. Also see Comp. L. S.D., 1929,
see Rev. Code Mont., 1935, § 97; ; Rev. Stat. N.J., 1937, § 1:1-15.
,   65 Ga. Code, 1933, § 102-104. 66 Ga. Code, 1933, § 102-102. 67 Dart La. Civ. Code Ann., 1932, § 18. 68 Dart La. Civ. Code Ann., 1932, § 16. 69 Dart La. Civ. Code Ann., 1932, § 17. 70 Ore. Code Ann., 1930, § 9-222. And see Spencer v Portland, 114 Ore. 381, 235 Pac. 279.
 , 71 Code of W.Va., 1932 (Ann.), § 33. Also see Jordan v So. Boston, 138 Va. 838, 122 S.E. 265. 72 Rev. Civ. Stat. Tex., 1925, Art. 11. 73 Purdon's Pa. Stat., 1936, §§ 156 and 3712.
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