stylistic:style_transfer, stylistic:tone
History of the rule

If we are to extend the law it must be by the development and application of fundamental principles. We cannot introduce arbitrary conditions or limitations; that must be left to legislation: and if we do in effect change the law, we ought in my opinion only to do that in cases where our decision will produce some finality or certainty. If we disregard technicalities in this case and seek to apply principle and common sense, there are a number of parts of the existing law of hearsay susceptible of similar treatment,... The only satisfactory solution is by legislation following on a wide survey of the whole field... A policy of make do and mend is not appropriate.