Puckett v. Clarke

The plaintiffs assert title to eight slaves, which they allege are in the possession of the defendant, and that he obtained them, together with two horses, illegally and fraudulently, and under false pretences and promises made to the plaintiffs to preserve them for their benefit, and to restore them when required. The defendant, in his answer, avers that he has a just title to the slaves, and- that this action is brought in fraud to deprive him of his just rights. The case was submitted to a jury, whose verdict was for the defendant, and the plaintiffs have appealed.

It appears that the wife,…