"The Magistrate: 'Stop a moment. Where were the official books while the gentleman was in the office?'--'In their proper place--the desk.' "Mr. Lawson: 'Was the desk locked?'--'The lock's been broke all the time I've been in the place.' "'So that all a person had to do to get hold of the books was to lift the lid?'--'Yes.' "The Magistrate: 'Your conduct was very reprehensible.' "The witness then left the box. "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.' "'Could he the day before yesterday have erased a name from the register book and written another name above it?'--'It is utterly impossible.' "'Why?'--'Because he was blind. He is blind now; His eyes are open, but he cannot see. It is against my express wish that he left London. If he does not return immediately and abide by my instructions, I shall despair of restoring his sight.' "M. Bordier: 'May I say a word?' "The Magistrate: 'Certainly.' "M. Bordier: 'I came to Glasserton to compare the copy of a marriage certificate with the original entry. My son's happiness hung upon this proof, and he insisted upon accompanying me. He would not be dissuaded, and although I feared there was a risk, I yielded to his wish. When we were arrested I endeavored to explain matters to the registrar and the officer, but they would not listen to me. Ignorant of the methods of English courts of justice, I thought it wisest to obtain counsel and assistance from London. That is all I have to say.' "Mr. Lawson: 'Is it necessary, your worship, for me to address you?' "The Magistrate: 'No. The gentlemen are discharged, and I regret that they have had to submit to this trial. I trust, Mr. Wordsworth, that you will be able to cure M. Julian Bordier.' "Mr. Wordsworth: 'If he will be guided by me, I hope to restore his sight.' "The parties then left the court."