Section 4. The repeal of a law by this act shall not affect any act done, ratified or confirmed, any liability incurred, or any right accrued or established, or any action, suit or proceeding commenced or had in a civil case, before the repeal takes effect, but the proceedings in such case shall, when necessary, conform to the provisions of the General Laws; provided, that appeals from orders, decrees or denials of probate courts made before this act takes effect shall be governed by the law then in effect, notwithstanding its subsequent repeal by this act.