§ 12-688. Taking account or proof or assessment of damages on default or decision of issue of law.

If the taking of an account, or the proof of a fact, or the assessment of damages, be necessary to enable the court to pronounce judgment upon a failure to answer, or after a decision of an issue of law the court may, with the assent of the party not in default, take the account, hear the proof, or assess the damages; or may, with the like assent, refer the same to a referee or master commissioner, or may direct the same to be ascertained or assessed by a jury.  If a jury be ordered, it shall be on or after the day on which the action is set for trial.

R.L. 1910, § 5130.