from
Bouvier's Law Dictionary, Revised 6th Ed (1856)
BEST EVIDENCE. Means the best evidence of which the nature of the case
admits, not the highest or strongest evidence which the nature of the thing
to be proved admits of: e. g. a copy of a deed is not the best evidence; the
deed itself is better. Gilb. Ev. 15; 3 Campb.. 236; 2 Starkey, 473 2 Campb.
605; 1 Esp. 127.
2. The rule requiring the best evidence to be produced, is to be
understood of the best legal evidence. 2 Serg. & R. 34; 3 Bl. Com. 368, note
10, by Christian. It is relaxed in some cases, as, e. g. where the words or
the act of the opposite party avow the fact to be proved. A tavern keeper's
sign avows his occupation; taking of tithes avows the clerical character;
so, addressing one as The Reverend T. S." 2 Serg. & R. 440 1 Saund. on
Plead. & Evid. 49.