At one time the only evidence that was allowed to be given as to handwriting was that of the writer himself, or of someone who had seen the writing done, or was well acquainted with the handwriting in question.
Examples of evidence of this kind are numerous and occur in many of the cases mentioned in other parts of this book, such as the trial of Spencer Cowper in 1699, or of that of the Perreaus in 1775.
In the trial of Spencer Cowper (1699) an important part of the defence was that the girl had drowned herself in a fit of depression, and letters written by her were put forward to prove this view.
A gentleman named Marshall produced letters that he had received from her, and a man named Beale gave evidence that he believed it to be in her handwriting, having seen her write and holding a receipt of hers.
The jury declared they were satisfied with the evidence, but the judge (Baron Hatsell) remarked that they might ask the mother to say whether it was her daughter’s handwriting.
Sarah Stout’s brother was also questioned.
Mrs. Stout.—How should I know! I know she was no such person; her hand may be counterfeited.
The Judge.—But if it were written in her more sober style, what would you say then?
Mrs. Stout.—I shan’t say it to be her hand unless I saw her write it.
Mr. Stout.—It is like my sister’s hand.