# The Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, Section 38: Prior party a principal in respect of each subsequent party

- Act: The Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881 (Act 26 of 1881)
- In force from: 1882-03-01
- Ministry: Ministry of Finance
- Source URL: https://indiacode.ecourtsindia.com/ni-act/section/38/

## Text

As between the parties so liable as sureties, each prior party is, in the absence of a contract to the contrary, also liable thereon as a principal debtor in respect of each subsequent party. Illustration A draws a bill payable to his own order on B, who accepts. A afterwards indorses the bill to C, C to D, and D to E. As between E and B, B is the principal debtor, and A, C and D are his sureties. As between E and A, A is the principal debtor, and C and D are his sureties. As between E and C, C is the principal debtor and D is his surety.

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