Delivery makes a deed speak.

Explanation

Until delivery, a deed is a silent instrument — it is the act of delivery that gives life and legal force to the writing.

Where this applies

• The deed was written and signed but never delivered — does it have any force.
• Until the deed is actually delivered, it's just a piece of paper.
• Delivery is what gives legal life to a written instrument.

See also

• 11.2.1 Deeds are more powerful than words.
• 11.2.4 It is the tenor of the deed which gives validity to the estate.