Page:An Inquiry into the Authenticity of certain Papers and Instruments attributed to Shakspeare.djvu/27

Rh which no person who knows any thing of the rules of evidence will subscribe. It would not substantiate the most insignificant paper that has been exhibited; though it is justly required, and ought to be made, before any one of these pretended ancient MSS. can be entitled even to an examination.

the Prerogative Court, if any Will or testamentary writing is exhibited at a time when, or from a quarter where, it might not reasonably be expected, the party producing it is always asked, in the first place, in what cabinet or coffer belonging to the deceased, or where else, it was found; how long it has been in his possession; when, and to whom he first mentioned the discovery, &c. The ground of these questions is obvious. In such a case a suspicion concerning the genuineness of the instrument or paper produced naturally arises; and therefore: to repel that suspicion, and to set the claimant right in the opinion of the Court, he is called upon to account for its not having been produced sooner, and to state where it was found. This is the first thing required to be done; without which the claimant is not allowed to advance a single step. His