Hudson

Appellants contend that the trial court erred in admitting, over their objection, certain parol evidence, which they claimed varied the terms of a written agreement between the parties. The defendant employed the plaintiffs as architects to prepare plans and specifica tions for, and to superintend the construction of, a dwelling-house and garage. Upon their completion, plaintiffs sent the plans and specifications to the defendant and rendered him a bill reading as follows: “To architectural work on residence & garage at San Mateo, agreement five per cent on cost of buildings for plans, specifications and details now completed. Payment now due on account, $1500.00.” Upon the receipt of such bill defendant wrote plaintiffs acknowledging the same, remitting one-half of the amount thereof, and raising questions as to the basis of plaintiffs’ compensation. A few days thereafter one of the plaintiffs called upon the defendant, at which time a discussion was had concerning the terms of the employment. Four days after such interview plaintiffs wrote the defendant the following letter:

Shortly thereafter the defendant wrote the plaintiffs as follows:

Upon the trial oral evidence was…