Ex parte Woodruff

We have but recently said, consistent with the authorities on the subject, that the function of a writ of mandamus is to compel a subordinate court to hear and decide a controversy of which it has jurisdiction; or if the case has been heard, to render a judgment or enter a decree in a cause; but not to correct errors, or direct what particular judgment or decree shall be rendered; not to control but compel judicial action. But, according to the decisions of this court, this is not the full limit of the writ, for as we have held, “If an order, or judgment, or decree, is made or rendered, which…