Page:An introduction to Roman-Dutch law.djvu/83

 Rh appears that they have suffered by reason of the weakness of youth. This remedy is given in respect not only of contracts, but also of alienation of property by donation or otherwise; of compromises; and even of judicial proceedings (e.g. when he has failed to put in his pleadings in time). The benefit of restitution accorded to a minor devolves on death, but is not generally available to persons who have bound themselves as sureties for a minor, therein differing from other cases of restitution. Restitution is refused when a minor has fraudulently misrepresented his age. It is waived by ratification after full age, which may be express or implied. It seems that acquiescence with knowledge or means of knowledge of the true circumstances for four years after full age amounts in law to ratification and excludes restitution, which in other cases is only barred after thirty years. A minor cannot obtain restitution against marriage on the ground of minority alone, nor against his liability for crime or serious delicts. By the Civil Law a minor might exclude the benefit of restitution by oath. This was not allowed in the United Provinces.