When paper ballots are used, any elector applying to vote who shall state under oath to any of the inspectors (which oath may be administered by any one of the inspectors) that by reason of his inability to write the English language, or by reason of blindness or the loss of the use of his hand or hands he is unable to prepare his ballot may have the assistance of any person he may select. In such case, said elector must remain within the polling place, and the inspector shall send for the person selected. If the person first selected cannot be found, then such elector may select another person to assist him. The person so selected shall render said elector all such assistance in the preparation of his ballot as he may require so that the ballot may be voted for the candidate of his choice in the manner provided in this article. In cities of more than 3,000 inhabitants, the elector and the person selected to assist him shall retire to a booth or compartment and there prepare the elector’s ballot. In all other cities and towns they shall be permitted to prepare it at any point in the polling place.