HC Deb 09 August 1877 vol 236 cc674-5
MR. WHALLET

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, Whether Jean Luie, a witness in the Tichborne Trial, is now in this country; and, if so, in what prison; whether he intends to reply to letters addressed to him by Charles Dunsby, one of the Tichborne jurymen, as to a Memorial to Her Majesty; and, whether, in reference to a newly invented instrument called an identiscope, whereby scientific certainty is alleged to be secured as to the original of photographic portraits taken at different periods and brought to his notice, it is his intention to make any inquiry; and, if not, whether he will receive and consider the evidence of photographic experts in support of such proof of identity?

MR. ASSHETON CROSS

Yes, Sir, I believe Jean Luie is in this country— at least, I hope so. He is, or should be, in Portland. Prison. The last letter from Mr. Dunsby was written, I believe, on July 30, and answered on the 4th of August. I know nothing whatever about the identiscope. I believe this gentleman did allude to such an invention in one of his letters; but I know nothing about the merits of the instrument. In this case every paper which is sent in will receive the consideration which is due to it.

MR. WHALLEY

asked the right hon. Gentleman, whether he would make further inquiry as to the accuracy of the photograph?

MR. ASSHETON CROSS

said, he had nothing before him which would induce him to make any further inquiries.