Condonation of delay accepted where illness and absence explained the short filing lapse, with no patent negligence shown.

A short delay in filing the appeal was condoned because the explanation showed one partner was ill and under treatment while the other was away on tour, and the appeal papers were then prepared and posted promptly. The objection based on the medical certificate was held insufficient to show patent negligence or laches on the appellant's part, so the appeal was directed to be heard on merits.

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Issues: Whether the delay in filing the appeal should be condoned.

Analysis: The explanation offered for the short delay was that one partner was ill and under treatment while the other was away on tour, and the appeal papers were thereafter promptly prepared and posted. The objection regarding the medical certificate was not found sufficient to establish patent negligence or laches on the part of the appellant.

Conclusion: The delay was condoned and the appeal was directed to be heard on merits.

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