De testibus et testimoniis theses L

...even if the words of the law are more severe regarding the poor and the infamous, nevertheless, lest we add affliction to the afflicted, we shall console the miserable condition of men in this: that in many cases, we will strenuously defend that their faith and depositions can be accepted.

XVI.
And although those who can be commanded to become witnesses do not seem to be ideal witnesses, we shall nevertheless maintain that some who exercise authority of command and jurisdiction can be admitted to the faith of testimony.

XVII.
For otherwise it would frequently happen that those who have many provinces subject to them would depart unjustly in many cases, because it would be permitted for them to use no one's testimony.

XVIII.
Now, because many approach to testify unwillingly, lest truth be suppressed by favor, fear, or hatred, the laws have granted the judge the most ample power to compel them, for whom no privilege has been granted by which they might excuse their absence.

XIX.
And since those who are compelled to serve for the benefit of others ought not to find their own difficulties, we decide that those who are compelled to make their presence for the sake of giving testimony should not be detained by judges beyond the term of 15 days.

XX.
Indeed, after these days have elapsed, it will be permitted for the witnesses to depart from the judge, who has no license to drag them back again once they have been absent.

XXI.
We think this is so true that if the judge is responsible for the fact that the testimonies are not provided, he must make restitution from his own resources to the injured party for every loss...