*Annotations to former statutes regarding overseers: Being in derogation of common right, such statute is to be strictly construed. 3 D. 131; 1 C. 79; 5 C. 357. Selectmen making appointment maliciously and without cause are liable in damages. 2 R. 214. Damages will be implied in such case, but not if appointment is invalid. 1 C. 317. Appointment without time limitation is void. Id., 79. Appointment over nonresident is invalid. 3 C. 591. One under overseer is sui juris, except as to contracts. Id.; 5 C. 362. The disability as to contracts is general. 13 C. 247. Powers of selectmen as “overseers of the poor” differ essentially from those of overseers appointed. 38 C. 192. A deed from a ward to his overseer is void. 5 C. 257. A ward may, without the consent of his overseer, appoint appraisers of his land, on execution levied. Id., 357.
