Mellen v. Athens Hotel Co.

Nov 15, 1912
Versions:

The following is the opinion of Bischoff, J.:

Bischoee, J.:

There can be no question that the matter contained in the letter set forth in the complaint injuriously affected the plaintiff in his profession. While the surrounding circumstances, as alleged, would indicate reason for a ruling upon the trial that the letter was a privileged communication, because referring to a matter of business interest common to the writer and the addressee, the complaint is not rendered thereby insufficient in law. If the writing were ostensibly privileged, a malicious intent upon the part of the writer would destroy the privilege, but the plaintiff would have the burden of proving malice upon the trial. (Odgers Lib. & Sland. [4th ed.] 236; Hemmens v. Nelson, 138 N. Y. 517, 529.) An inference of malicious intent may arise from the writer’s inclusion of expressions beyond such as are necessary for the purpose of the privileged communication, but, whatever the proof available, the plaintiff need not allege his evidence. Here the complaint sets forth the fact that the matter was published maliciously, and upon proof within the allegation of fact a case for the recovery of damages would be presented. Demurrer overruled, with costs, with leave to defendant to plead over on payment of costs within twenty days.