521.640. When the petition alleges a setoff, or othercollateral avoidance of the cause of action, the plaintiff mayanswer the same, as in ordinary actions; and, in default of suchanswer, judgment may be taken in like manner and with like effectas in ordinary actions.
(RSMo 1939 § 1502)Prior revisions: 1929 § 1338; 1919 § 1789; 1909 § 2358