The notes given to the judge at the trial of Mr. Darney by John Barsad contained incriminating information that seemed to connect Mr. Darney to treasonous activities with an unnamed foreigner (later revealed to be Mr. Lorry of Tellson's Bank). The specific contents of the notes are:
"An emigrant named Charles Darnay, or formerly of that name, was received at Calais by a banker who is a notorious Republican, and who made signs to another man, also a Republican, who said in English, 'Long live the Devil!'
He paid his way at Dover in assignats."