A MENACE TO GIRLS.

Evening Star, Issue 12101, 6 November 1908, Page 6

A MENACE TO GIRLS.

GETS -SIX MONTHS’ REST.” William Robertson, a shaky elderly man, appeared before Mr T. Hutchison, S.M., , to answer to a charge of being a rogue and vagabond, having been twice previously convicted of vagrancy. He said that most certainly he was not guilty. He could see no crime to answer for. Sub-inspector Norwood said that Robertson formerly held a good position in the City. He had become addicted to drink, however, and did little or no work. Lately complaints had been made to the police that the defendant had been lying about the Town Belt, and tried to induce little girls going to school to go into the bush. Yesterday a constable, in answer to a complaint, went to the bush, and found Robertson there. The constable took several little girls with him, and these girls identified Robertson as the man who asked them to go into the bush. In conclusion, Mr Norwood mentioned that the police intended to do all in their power to have schoolgirls who had to pass by way. of the Town Belt protected from loafers who lay about the bush. Robertson said that he passed the time of day with the little girls. That was no offence. He was perfectly sober, and was merely resting in the Tmsli. Constables West and Bntler gave evidence as to Robertson's idle habits. He smelt of drink when seen by them yesterday. Robertson admitted that he had been twice previously convicted of vagrancy. Ho was not an idle person. He worked when he could get work. And most certainly he was not disorderly. He was a very quiet, peaceable person. Ho was willing to work, but he was old. Magistrate : What work do you do? Robertson : A little gardening now and then. Magistrate: Gardening in the bush, eh? Robertson ; I am getting old. Magistrate: You want a little rest, don’t you? Robertson : Oh, no. Magistrate: I’ll give you six months’ rest.