Quote#Speech
The law has outgrown its primitive stage of formalism when the…
Quote byBenjamin N. Cardozo · 1870–1938
Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: Judicial opinions, Wood v. Lucy, Lady Duff-Gordon, 222 N.Y. 88, 91; 118 N.E. 214 (N.Y. 1917)..
English (original)
The law has outgrown its primitive stage of formalism when the precise word was the sovereign talisman, and every slip was fatal. It takes a broader view to-day. A promise may be lacking, and yet the whole writing may be "instinct with an obligation," imperfectly expressed. If that is so, there is a contract.
— Benjamin N. Cardozo
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