"Mr. Lawson: 'We have brought the inquiry now to this point. Supposing the erasure to have been made on the day in question, the commission of the offence lies between M. Julian Bordier and the person who visited the registrar's office in his absence.'
"The Magistrate: 'Quite so. I think the registrar should keep these important public books in a more secure place--in an iron safe.'
"The Registrar: 'I am not supplied with one, your Worship, and I cannot afford to buy one. My servant's evidence comes upon me as a surprise.'
"The Magistrate: 'I repeat what I said. These official records should be kept in safer custody. The authorities should provide proper receptacles for them.'
"Mr. Lawson: 'I shall proceed now to prove that it is an utter impossibility that M. Julian Bordier can be guilty of the offence with which he and his father are charged. Call Mr. Wordsworth.'
"This gentleman, whose name and fame are world-renowned, then gave his evidence, which was short, conclusive, and surprising.
"'You are an oculist?'--'I am.'
"'You are attending M. Julian Bordier?'--'Yes.'
"'Is that the gentleman?'--'That is the gentleman.'
"'What are you attending him for?'--'For his sight.'