RUSE THAT FAILED.

Hawera Star, Volume XLVII, 4 May 1928, Page 5

RUSE THAT FAILED.

CONDEMNED MAN’S ATTEMPT TO COMMIT SUICIDE. [UNITED PRESS ASSOCIATION—BY ELECTRIC TELEGRAPH—COPYRIGHT.) (AUSTRALIAN PRESS ASSOCIATION.) LONDON, May 3. The most , puzzling feature' of Browne’s attempt to. commit suicide is liow he obtained the razor blade with which he cut his throat.. Officials are holding an inquiry, realising he- is the most dangerous and violent criminal in England, and egotistical to an astounding degree. He is not permitted the slightest relaxation of the strict regulations. Two warders watch day and night. Morning and evening his clothes arc searched, and the cell is examined twice daily. Every article he uses is closely scrutinised. The governor of the prison is empowered to order him to a padded cell and to shackle his hands and legs. It is revealed that Browne actually made up his mind to shoot himself during the trial at Old' Bailey. He coolly asked counsel while lie was in the witness box to hand- him a- revolver and cartridges in order better to illustrate his evidence. Judge Avory immediately saw the ruse, and' snapped out: “You can give evidence without handling the revolver.”

Browne. defeated momentarily smiled cynically.