Helmerich v. Simpson

In 1960 the appellees brought suit against the appellant, seeking to have a refinancing agreement declared to be in fact a mortgage. The case was tried on June 29, 1961. At the end of the hearing the chancellor announced his decision in favor of the plaintiffs and allowed twenty days within which they might redeem the land, by paying the debt with interest. The chancellor made a docket entry summarizing his decision, but he stated orally that the interest would have to be calculated by counsel.

The necessary calculations were made promptly, and a final decree was prepared. It was signed and…