In cases of loss by fire, or in any manner whatsoever beyond his control, of a book or books by an officer, who is required to transmit them to his successor, or if the same is so worn as to become useless said officer shall make a statement setting forth all the circumstances under which the loss occurred, which statement shall be sworn and subscribed to before an officer entitled to administer oaths, and certified to by the clerk of the county under his hand and seal of the court, and forward the same to the secretary of state, who, after examination of said affidavit, he being convinced that the facts as set forth in the affidavit are true, and that in his judgment the officer is not responsible for the loss of the book or books, is hereby empowered and authorized to replace the book or books lost as claimed, and in his discretion may send the book or books either to the county clerk or to the township clerk in whose township the loss occurred.