There is no statement who owed, or paid, the fine. But the lady governor who received the money gave this receipt for it.
Explicitness of the Code regarding legal responsibility
The Code makes very clear the legal aspect of this transaction. A minor or a slave could only deposit under power of attorney.[676] A deposit was not recoverable unless made by a deed, or delivered in presence of witnesses and duly acknowledged by a receipt.[677] The receiver was liable for all loss occurring to the goods in his possession on deposit, even when the loss was such as involved the loss of his own goods as well.[678] For corn, the Code fixed a yearly fee for warehousing of one-sixtieth the amount deposited.[679]
The bond destroyed on payment
As we learn from the few actual cases which occur, the receipt given for the goods was returned to the recipient on the return of the goods and the tablet broken as cancelling the responsibility. One form which it might take is illustrated by the following:[680]
Ten shekels of silver, which according to a sealed receipt was deposited for the share of Ṣili-Shamash, he has taken from Ṣili-Ishtar and Amêl-ili, his brothers. His heart is contented; he will not dispute. Oath by Ḥammurabi, the king. Seven witnesses. Fourth year of Ḥammurabi.
Here apparently three brothers share, but one being absent the two hold their brother's share for him, giving a sealed receipt for it. This the judge delivered to him and he claimed and received his share.
Examples of deposit rare
Actual examples of deposit are rare; probably because our collections refer to temple transactions, rather than to private family deeds. We have a deposit of lead,[681] from which we learn that silver was worth twice as much as lead. It was to be sent from Ashnunna, on demand. Here is another:[682]
Receipts