WANDERING SEAMAN

Evening Star, Issue 19848, 23 April 1928, Page 2

WANDERING SEAMAN

EXTENDED WALKING TOUR SLEEPS IN A SCHOOLROOM CSpecial to tub ‘ SrAa.’] CHRISTCHURCH, April 21. Charles Nicholls, of England, a seaman, aged sixty-six, appeared in tho Police Court to-day on charges of breaking and entering, of being a rogue and n vagabond, and of being found at night without lawful excuse on the promises of St. Michael’s School. Ho was also charged with damaging a window valued at IQs 6d, and a lock valued at Ts.

The first charge was withdrawn, and on the second the defendant was ordered to come up for sentence within six months. On the charge of damaging a window he was convicted and discharged.

Sub-inspector Fitzpatrick said that the defendant left his ship in Port Chalmers three months ago. He walked to Christchurch, and arrived last evening. Not being able to find any place at which to stay, defendant went to St. Michael’s and broke into the schoolroom, with the aid of a chisel. He also broke open the cupboards while looking for food. “If lie had been a burglar, your Worship, ho would have chosen some better place than St. Michael’s School.”

The Magistrate: What do you do, Nicholls?—f am an engine room hand. Fairly able-bodied, L suppose?—Yes, sir. 1 was in one of tho Home boats, hut I lost my ship. If I get a chance I will go to" Lyttelton to see if I can get another job. Tlio Magistrate (to Sub-inspector Fitzpatrick)’: Wo had better give this old man a chance.

“Now, look here, Nicholls, tho Salvation Army will take charge of you until you can get a boat,” said Mr Mosley. “You will be called up for sentence at any time within six months on this charge. As you only have 7s in vour possession yon will be convicted and discharged on the charge of damaging the window and tho lock. Now look after yourself.” Defendant: I will not appear before you again, your Worship.