Opinion

Ulster County Savings Institution v. Young

  • 161 N.Y. 23
  • 15 E.H. Smith 23
  • 55 N.E. 483
  • 1899 N.Y. LEXIS 915
Court
New York Court of Appeals
Filed
Nov 21, 1899
Status
Published
Author
Bartlett
On the bench
Martin, Bartlett
Cited by
44 cases

The opinion

Bartlett, J.

(dissenting). I am of opinion that, under the principle of

strictissimi juris,

the surety is not liable within the precise terms of his contract.

I do not think full force and effect is given, in the prevailing opinion, to the words, “ It being understood that this bond

*35

is to be binding for all the time that said Matthew T. Trum-pbour shall hold said office of assistant treasurer, even though he hold under successive appointments. * * *” These are words of exclusion and limitation, and the surety in effect says,

“

A new bond is not necessary on the expiration of the first appointment for one year, as I make myself liable under successive appointments.” The fact is, that there were two successive appointments, and no more, upon which this provision operated. The imposition of additional liability on the surety is to extend it by construction beyond his specific engagement.

I vote for reversal.

All concur with Martin, J., for affirmance, except Parker, Ch. J., not sitting, and Bartlett, J., who reads dissenting memorandum.

Judgment affirmed.

This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.

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