In re Reynolds

4 Dem. Sur. 68 | N.Y. Sur. Ct. | 1886

The Surrogate.

On the proof offered, probate must be denied. Section 2618 ®f the Code declares that " before a written will is admitted to probate, two, at least, of the subscribing witnesses must be produced and examined, if so many are within the State, and competent and able to testify.” Then, § 2620 provides that “.....if a subscribing witness whose testimony is required is dead.....the will may nevertheless be established upon proof of the handwriting of the testator, and of the subscribing witness, and also of such other circumstances as would be sufficient to prove the will upon the trial of an action.” It will, therefore, be readily seen that in such a case, and in all cases of the kind, it is an indispensable requisite that the handwriting of the testator shall be proven. That is to be done by some one sufficiently familiar with the cast or form of writing of the person, to enable him to identify it as his. But a cross mark has no such cast or form as to distinguish it from a like mark made by any other individual. It cannot be the subject of expert testimony. The difficulty would, doubtless, be obviated were another witness able to testify that he was also present and saw the deceased make his mark.

Probate refused.