¶1This paper cannot be called an estimate or calculation. It goes to substantiate the demand of the plaintiffs. It is a dangerous precedent, and may lead to ill consequences, though we do not suppose there was any intention here of doing wrong. All the cases agree, that a party delivering papers to the jury, without consent or the leave of the court, a new trial shall be granted. 5 Bac. 291. We know not what effect this paper may have produced in the minds of the jury; but we well know, they should not have had it delivered to them. Solely on this ground, and without expressing our sentiments as to the merits of the case, a new trial is awarded.
2 Yeates 273
Sheaff v. Gray
Decided March 15, 1798
Supreme Court of Pennsylvania · decided 1798-03-15
’ A Verdict was given for the- plaintiffs for 3137i. 8s. llaf. at the last sittings, on the 12th March instant. On a rule to show cause why a new trial should not be granted, it appeared that a paper was delivered to the jury, containing an account of expenditures respecting a house built on the lands of defendant, said to be with the knowledge of the defendant, referring to the bankrupt’s books and their several pages, without the consent of the adverse counsel.
Decided 1798-03-15