PRISON THE ONLY PLACE

Dominion, Volume 16, Issue 122, 8 February 1923, Page 4

PRISON THE ONLY PLACE

VAGRANT PROVIDED WITH A HOME. When a middle-aged man, John Marshall, appeared before Mr. E. Page, S.M., in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday to show cause why he should nob bo deemed a rogue and vagabond, he denied the charge in a nonchalant manner. The evidence of several police officers indicated that since his recent discharge from prison the accused had been loitering about the town, particularly at nights, and had successfully evaded work of any description. One constable !declared that tho. man had visited the police station with a request that he be given accommodation for the night as he had nowhore to go. “I have been wandering about the streets looking for work,” replied accused when asked if he had anything to say. “And I have worked at 2s. an hour. Last Monday week—what’s to-day. now? Oh. Monday, yes I was .working last Monday. I’ve been selling fish, pears, apples, an( l bananas. A regular hawker.” Senior-Sergeant Lander said that the accused had fourteen previous convictions for vagrancy and seemed unable to earn his livelihood by honest means. Ho had been in gaol practically since 1910. The accused: Since 1911. not 1910. His Worship: And that seems to be the only place for you. You aro sentenced to twelve months’ imprisonment. That will provide you with a home- '