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10 S.C.L. 140

Seabrook v. King

Supreme Court of South Carolina

Decided January 15, 1818

Supreme Court of South Carolina · decided 1818-01-15

This was an action of trespass, brought by the plaintiff, the owner of a tract of land on Sian’s Island, against the defendant. It appeared, that a pathway had been opened from the plantation of the plaintiff to a creek dividing Blau’s and Burden’s Islands. Defendant finding this path convenient to him, (he having a plantation on Sian’s Island, and residing himself on Burden’s Island,) made use of it.

Decided 1818-01-15

¶1The opinion of the Court was delivered by

Gantt, J.

¶2This case was brought up on a motion for a new trial, on the ground of misdirection, and I am of opinion that it should be allowed. The jury had certainly no discretion to give to the defendant this right of way, on the ground of convenience. The plaintiff’s right of sole enjoyment is steadfast and firm, unless the road had been established by law, or claimed by prescription. And as the jury were probably influenced in finding their verdict by that part of the charge which *85related to the convenience of the parties, I am of opinion, that a new trial should be allowed.

Bichardson, Attorney General, for the motion. Hayne, contra.Colcock, Nott and Cheves, JJ., concurred.

¶3See 2 McC. 445.

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