In re the Estate of James

HOGAN, Presiding Judge.

On November 24 or 25, 1960, Lucy Ann Louise James, age 75, died intestate in Laclede County, Missouri. Letters of administration were granted to the respondent, Art Wood. He executed a bond, and 26 days after the first publication of notice of letters granted, the appellants filed a joint claim against the estate for $3,000.00 *661for personal services rendered. For the general background of this litigation, see Hart v. Wood, Mo.App., 392 S.W.2d 20.

Subsequently, Mr. Sutherland, Mrs. Hart and Mrs. Crall filed their claims separately, and each was removed to circuit court and…