If in such case the executor or administrator does not appear, the plaintiff, instead of suggesting the death of the deceased, may take judgment against him by default or otherwise, as if he were living. The executor or administrator shall pay, on the execution, the amount which he would have been liable to pay to the principal defendant. He shall be thereby discharged from all demands on the part of the principal defendant in the action for the amount so paid, as if he had himself been adjudged trustee.