Every person, who shall be served with a copy of a writ against any defendant, may file an answer to the action or suit and defend the suit in behalf and in the name of the defendant.

History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 588; G.L. 1909, ch. 301, § 22; G.L. 1923, ch. 351, § 22; G.L. 1938, ch. 550, § 13; G.L. 1956, § 10-17-17.