A slight objection to: Now here is the testimony of an old man in an advanced state of decay (he died less than four months later) as to an incident alleged to have occurred over half a century before.
It is not uncommon that unability to write doesn't go with forgetfulness. And a death less than four months later mustn't be an advanced state of decay.
I remember my late beloved grandfather, teacher of classic languages and a proved historian, who decided to die shortly before his 80th birthday, afraid of the honours the community would bestow upon him. Even on his deathbed he discussed historical problems with his visiting friends, and they were astonished how he had the facts present in a marvelous clear mind.


Wilfried