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Show 4543 Freeman- D 2562 original documents that would be themselves competent evidence in this case, if Mr. Freeman states that any excerpt is a true copy of the original, we will raise no question as to competency, that is, as to the competency of offering the copy made by Mr. Freeman. I have no doubt if Mr. Freeman states that anything appearing in his book, any copy from historical works or documents, are true copies, that they are true copies, and I will not raise that question. I can not how this testimony with reference to his experience, which has been very broad, will aid in arriving at a conclusion on the issues of fact in this case. THE SPECIAL MASTER: Eventually, of course, I have got to pass on the admissibility of this particular book which has been offered in evidence. I understand Mr. Blackmar offers the book, or parts of the book as historical matter. Of course the doctrine of admissibility of books of history, science, and so on, is pretty broad. Many times the court consults historical books, takes judicial notice and consults them without their having been introduced in evidence. Seems to me it assists me in determining the admissibility of that book to know the extent of what investigation has been made, with reference to any historical matter that may be embodied in it. |