Norris v. Lain, 16 Johns. 151 (N.Y. Sup. Ct. 1819).
Norris v. Lain, 16 Johns. 151 (N.Y. Sup. Ct. 1819). Book View Copy Cite
Norris against Lain
New York Supreme Court.
May 15, 1819.
16 Johns. 151
Cited by 5 opinions  |  Published
Per Curiam.

Here was a parol •agreement for the sale of land, which is void by the statute of frauds; and being one single and entire contract, it was void in all its parts, and for every purpose. The preparation of the deed was a mere incident to the contract, and fell with it. If the purchaser had verbally agreed wjth the seller, to this effect: “ bring the deed, and if I then choose to refuse it, and vacate the agreement, I will pay for It,” the seller might maintain an action for the price of the deed. There would then, in fact, be two agreements; one for the sale of the land, which is not binding, and the other a valid agreement in regard to the deed. It is very clear, that the signing and aclcnow [*152] ledging of the deed was not a part performance of the con tract, so,as to take the case out of the statute. (1 Com. Cont. 115, 116.) on