When the proceeds of the sale of a share or parcel belonging to persons who are parties to the action are paid into court, the action may be continued as between the parties for the determination of their respective claims to the proceeds, which shall be ascertained and adjudged by the court. Further testimony may be taken in court or by a referee at the discretion of the court, and the court may, if necessary, require the parties to present the facts or law in controversy by pleadings as in an original action.