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52 N.C. 477

Roberson v. . Kirby

Supreme Court of North Carolina

Decided June 5, 1860

Supreme Court of North Carolina · decided 1860-06-05

Action on the case, tried before Shepherd-, at the last Spring Term of Brunswick Superior' Court. The plaintiff declared in two counts — one for the negligent use of fire by the defendant, whereby his woods were burned, and, secondly, in case upon the statute, for injury to his trees by defendant’s setting fire to his own woods, without giving notice in writing.

Decided 1860-06-05

Pearson, C. J.

¶1 The first count, for an injury at common law, cannot be sustained, because there was no proof of negligence.

¶2 The second count, under the statute, cannot be sustained; for, however it may be in respect to an indictment, or an action for penalty, we concur with-his Honor that, in an action for the injury done to the plaintiff, proof that he waived his right to a notice in writing, is an answer to the action. The notice being required for his benefit, it may, of course, be waived in respect to himself; and if damage ensue, in the absence of proof of negligence on the part of the defendant, it is damnum absque injuria, and falls under the maxim voluntas non fit injuria. Indeed, to maintain an action in favor of one who is present and concurs in the act, would be to aid him in committing a fraud on the defendant.

¶3 There is no error.

Per Curiam,

¶4 Judgment affirmed.

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