law: Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881 
  37. Maker, drawer and acceptor principals 
  The maker of a promissory note or cheque, the drawer of a bill
  
  of exchange until acceptance, and the acceptor are, in the absence of a
  
  contract to the contrary, respectively liable thereon as principal debtors, and
  
  the other parties thereto are liable thereon as sureties for the maker, drawer
  
  or acceptor, as the case may be.