64 S.E. 763 | N.C. | 1909
From the ruling and judgment the plaintiff appealed.
The material points in this appeal are embraced in the second and fourth issues — that is to say, whether there was a contract of employment for the entire year of 1907. The action is brought upon the assumption that there was such a contract of employment, and the plaintiff seeks to recover damages for the entire year, although he did no work after the first few days in July, 1907. If there were such a contract and he was wrongfully discharged, he would be entitled to such *570
damages less what he might have earned upon reasonable effort. Smith v. Lumber Co.,
In contracts for personal service the English rule is that when no time is fixed and no stipulation as to payment made, it is presumed to extend for a year. In this country, when no time is fixed and no stipulated period of payment made, the contract is terminated at the will of either party. 20 A. E. Cyc., 14; Soloman v. Sewerage Co.,
The evidence of the contract is wholly in writing, in the form of correspondence, and there is no evidence of any other contract subsequent thereto.
We think his Honor's interpretation of the letters is correct, and in accord with the case of Edwards v. R. R.,
No error.
Cited: Wagon Co. v. Riggan,