Collumpton Petty Session: James Gillard, labourer, in the employ of Mr. William Matthews, a farmer, of the neighbourhood of Culmstock, was charged with stealing straw on Saturday last. Prosecutor stated that had lately lost straw. Suspecting the prisoner, he sent for a constable. On Sunday morning, the prisoner came to him crying and asked to be forgiven for what he had done last night. Prosecutor replied that he could not; prisoner must have what the law would give “un.” P.C. Pinsent went Saturday night to the prisoner’s house. He saw him and said, “I want to see that bundle of straw you brought home from Mr. Matthews to see whether its wheat or barley.” Prisoner said, “It’s wheat and that it would be found in the back house.” They both went there, and the prisoner pointed out the bundle now produced. Prisoner was sorry for what he had done and hoped to be forgiven. He further said it was all right what the P.C. had said and pleaded guilty; he was sentenced to fourteen day’s imprisonment with hard labour.
Transcribed in whole or part from scanned originals: Presented with or without modified text and punctuation. For absolute accuracy refer to the original newspapers. Source: The British Newspaper Archive.
Referenced
GROxxxx xxxxx