Scrutinizing the evidence for N(1685)

The helicity-dependent observable E for the reaction gamma d -> eta n(p) with a spectator proton was recently measured by the A2 Collaboration at MAMI in Mainz. The data were interpreted as further evidence for a narrow resonance with spin and parity J(P) = 1/2+ (P-11 wave). However, a full partial-wave analysis without any narrow resonance leads to an excellent description of the data. Imposing a narrow resonance with the properties suggested by the A2 Collaboration leads to a significant deterioration of the fit quality: there is no need for a narrow resonance.