Topliff v. Topliff

Citations

• 122 U.S. 121
• 7 S. Ct. 1057
• 30 L. Ed. 1110
• 1887 U.S. LEXIS 2093

Syllabus

<p>When the language of a contract is ambiguous, the practical interpretation of it by the parties is entitled to great, if not controlling influence.</p> <p>In this case the court holds that a contract made by the parties in 1870 is still in force, and that under its terms the appellee is entitled to make use of the combinations covered by the patent to John A. Topliff, one of the appellants, of August 24, 1875, without the payment of royalty, and without being charged with liability as an infringer.</p>