I believe he was employed to play Santa Claus. Perhaps he didn't understand the question correctly.

7 seconds sound clip from the Miracle on 34th Street (1947) movie soundboard.

You can hear this line at 01:08:57 in the Blu-ray version of the movie.

Quote context

[...]

(Judge gavel rapping)

- A very sound answer, Mr. Kringle.

- Do you believe that you're Santa Claus?

- Of course.

- The State rests, Your Honor.

- Well, Mr. Gailey, do you wish to cross-examine the witness?

- I believe he was employed to play Santa Claus. Perhaps he didn't understand the question correctly.

- Oh, I understood the question perfectly, Your Honor.

- No further questions at this time.

- Thank you. (3)

- In view of this statement, do you still wish to put in a defense, young man?

[...]