(740 ILCS 145/3) (from Ch. 126, par. 3)

Sec. 3. In actions for slander or libel, an unproved allegation of the truth of the matter charged shall not be deemed proof of malice, unless the jury, on the whole case, find that such defense was made with malicious intent. And it shall be competent for the defendant to establish the truth of the matter charged by a preponderance of testimony.

(Source: R.S. 1874, p. 992.)