Shinn v. Shinn

I believe the result reached in this case is not consistent with the basic rule of construction of deeds as stated in scores of cases: in determining the intention of the parties, a deed is to be construed from its four corners so as to give effect, if possible, to the entire instrument and harmonize all its parts. Gibson v. Pickett, 256 Ark. 1035, 512 S.W. 2d 532 (1974); Davis v. Collins, 219 Ark. 948, 245 S.W. 2d 571 (1952); Holmes v. Countiss, 195 Ark. 1014, 115 S.W. 2d 553 (1938).

Here, one of two courses is open: we can treat the words “his wife” as intending to convey an estate by the…