Pilcher & Dillon v. Smith

(After stating the foregoing facts.) “A ratification may be expressed or implied from the acts or silence of the principal.” Civil Code (1910), § 3591. Where a cotton factor has disobeyed instructions, by refusing to sell cotton belonging to his principal, it is the duty of the principal upon being informed of the fact, either to affirm the act of the principal or to dissent therefrom. “The agent must act within the authority granted to him, reasonably interpreted; if he exceeds or violates his instructions, he does it at his own risk, the principal having the privilege of affirming or…