All returns of surveys, which have been actually executed since the fourth day of July, 1776, by deputy surveyors, whilst they acted under legal appointments, shall be received in the land office, although the said deputies may happen not to be in office at the time of such return or returns being made: Provided, That no returns be admitted that were made by deputy surveyors who have been more than nine years out of office.
64 P.S. § 381