57 Tex. 243 | Tex. | 1882
There is no allegation in the petition that the agreement between Horm and Mrs. Shamblin was not in writing, and it was not necessary to allege that it was in writing; the exception to the petition, on the ground that the agreement therein set up was in violation of the statute of frauds, is not well taken.
It is claimed by appellee that the agreement asserted by the petition is such as will not be enforced, because it is against public policy; and upon that ground the court correctly sustained the demurrer to the petition and dismissed the suit. The object and purpose of the pre-emption laws are to secure the settlement, improvement and cultivation of the public domain. It is true that no one who has a homestead is permitted to acquire land in this way. Gambrell v. Steele, decided at the last Tyler term.
As a prerequisite to obtaining a patent under the pre-emption laws, the party must occupy and improve the land for three years.
We are of the opinion that the court erred in sustaining the exceptions to the petition and dismissing the suit, for which the judgment ought to be reversed and the cause remanded.
BeVERSED AND REMANDED.
[Opinion delivered June 9, 1882.]