442.300. No proof, by evidence of the handwriting of theparty and of a subscribing witness, shall be taken, unless thecourt or officer taking the same shall be satisfied that all thesubscribing witnesses to such instrument are dead or cannot behad to prove the execution thereof.
(RSMo 1939 § 3421)Prior revisions: 1929 § 3034; 1919 § 2193; 1909 § 2804