143 Ala. 336 | Ala. | 1904
While no general rule can be laid down as to the degree of diligence to be used in making search for the original document, in order to lay a predicate for the introduction of secondary evidence of the contents thereof, it depending largely upon the circumstances of the ease and the character of the document, yet the loss should invariably he proven by the custodian. “The loss must be proved, if possible, by the person in whose custody it was at the time of the loss, if such person is living, and if dead application should be made to his representative and search made among his documents.” — 26 Am. & Eng. Ency. Law, 167, and cases cited ; O’Neal v. McKinnon, 116 Ala. 606.
Reversed and remanded.
To be reported.