Frederick Demond

[BettyO]

Let's be clear, John's wonderful research does not "tip the scales in favor of Lipman's version". What John has done is given Lipman some credibility when, before, he had absolutely none. John has confirmed that Lipman was in the Papal Zouaves at the same time as John Surratt, which is significant I grant you. This revelation does not prove Lipman's version, but merely means that there is at least some chance it could be true. However, the weight of evidence including period documentation from the Papal States and John Surratt's own words, still supports John Surratt making a daring leap from the barracks in Veroli. You may choose to believe Lipman instead, which is your prerogative, but the bulk of the evidence is still vastly in favor of the leap.

Quote:I interpret it this way. When John first proposed Lipman's version with nothing beside his (Lipman's) account to give it credibility, he was saying a tiny pebble was more reliable than the bricks of evidence on the other side. With John's research, the pebble has changed into a seed. The evidence against Lipman is still larger, but, if John keeps it up, that seed may grow into a tree that will outweigh the traditional story. Now John needs to continue his research on Lipman's time in the Zouaves and look at the movements of his regiment to see whether or not they were with Surratt's regiment at the times Lipman stated. He should check the names of the other guards Lipman mentions to see if they were stationed at Veroli when Surratt was arrested.

Right now John has proven that Henri Lipman was in the Papal Zouaves at the same time as John Surratt. It's a good start, but just because that small detail is true doesn't mean everything else Lipman states is true. If he keeps cultivating his seed, the evidence may grow but, as of now, the weight of evidence is still in favor of John Surratt's leap.

Bravo! Great detective work, Dave - I wholeheartedly agree.... One has to put together ALL the pieces of the puzzle before assuming anything -