A SLANDERER PUNISHED.

Auckland Star, Volume XXII, Issue 237, 6 October 1891, Page 8

A SLANDERER PUNISHED.

I A case somewhat similar to the Sliorbland case was heard ab Sydney on the 23rd ult., in the shape of an action brought by Annie Sautter, a young woman, residing with her moblier in Bloomaberry-sbreet, Collingwood, in which sho claimed £500 from George Siitton, of Brighton, for slander. Parties were abated to have been on very friendly terms, while the defendant had been in the habit of lending money to plaintitPs mother. However, the latter in the early part of the present year assigned her estate for the benefit of her creditors, amongst whom was Sutton, to whom was due a considerable amount. Accordingly he was alleged to have taken this burn of afliiirsin bad grace, and thenceforward a coolness had sprung up, which eventuated in malice against the whole family of the Sautters. It so happened that a young man rejoicing in the name of Harry Burn was burning in love for the young and gentle Annie; and, taking advantage of an opportunity, defendant bhua addressed him on one occasion:—"l am surprised ab a young , fellow in your position having anything to do with such a girl. She is nothing but a ■ thief ! She is no good. She is only a liar ! I am surprised at your losing co much time over her. I have often told your brother that I am surprised at your losing your time over such a girl as her, You see the way she has been brought up ! She will bo of no good to anyone !" These words were duly reported to the fair one ; and hence Sutton found himself in a court of justice, called on to pay a sum of £500. He the words attributed to him ; and, even if he had uttered them, he claimed privilege under the circumstances. The jury now returned a verdict for the plaintiff for £50. Costs were ordered to be taxed.