SIMPLE CONTRACT. One, the evidence of which is merely oral, or in writing,
not under seal, nor of record. 1 Chit. Contr. 1 1 Chit. Pl. 88; and vide 11
Mass. R. 30 11 East, R. 312; 4 Barn. & Ald. 588; Stark. Ev. 995; 2 Bl. Com.
472.
2. As contracts of this nature are frequently entered into without
thought or proper deliberation, the law requires that there be some good
cause, consideration or motive, before they can be enforced in the courts.
The party making the promise must have obtained some advantage, or the party
to whom it is made must have sustained some injury or inconvenience in
consequence of such promise; this rule has been established for the purpose
of protecting weak and thoughtless persons from the consequences of rash,
improvident, and inconsiderate engagements. See Nudum pactum. But it must be
recollected this rule does not apply to promissory notes, bills of exchange
or commercial papers. 3 M. & S. 352.
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