The form of the assent is immaterial; but it must be expressed before the magistrate at the time of the binding, which is the time material to the validity of the act; and it must be a written accompaniment of the indenture. In this instance, the mother was not the parent indicated by the statute; and as the father was not present, and did not attest the paper, or give any other written expression of his assent to it, the binding was void.

Apprentice discharged.