Bunkers v. Guernsey ( 1916 )

WHITING, J.

[1] This, case is 'before us upon rehearing, our former decision being reported in 35 S. D. 574, 153 N. W. 378. In such opinion we held with' iespondent’s contention that the action was not one in tort; that it was an action on implied contract for money bad and received. Apparently this bad been the view of the trial court, .as1 in rendering its findings it failed to find upon the issue of deceit raised 'by the 'pleading's. The trial court and this court in its former opinion were clearly in. error as, under the pleadings: herein, -the action was one wherein 'damages were claimed for deceit. There is thus presented a situation similar to that in Jones v. Winsor, 22 S. D. 480, 118 N. W. 716, wherein this court said:

“'As ¡before stated, it is 'contended by the respondents that these allegations for conversion', etc., may be treated .as sur-plusage, and the complaint held goodi as an action in assumpsit for money had and received; but in our opinion we would1 not be justified in holding that these allegations constitute mere sur-plusage, and might be disregarded by the court. To so> bold would introduce into the law to'o much uncertainty and .ambiguity in pleading, which would have a tendency to mislead the courts and the opposing- party.”

[2] The appellant herein never, in any manner, waived his right to have this .action tried as one based on- alleged deceit. The judgment appealed from was not supported by the pleadings and findings. If respondent desired to- abandon the alleged tort and sue On contract express or implied, he should1 have asked to amend his complaint. Appellant could then have met such new cause of action with such defenses as he may have thereto ; as yet he has not been called upon to answer to any cause of action except one based! 011 alleged deceit.

The judgment and order of the trial court, -as well as the former decision of this court, are reversed.