MAN SUES HIS WIFE

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume XXIV, Issue 62, 23 February 1934, Page 9

MAN SUES HIS WIFE

Sydney Heiress SETTLEMENT DISPUTED LONDON, Feb. 17. Evidence was begun in the law suit in which Benjamin Shashoua is proceeding against bis wife, formerly Joan Norton, of Sydney, and daughter of the late John Norton, of “Truth.” Shashoua is claiming specific performance of an alleged agreement signed before the marriage on January 8. 1930, in which she undertook within two years to establish a trust fund of £55,000, both equally to share the income from it.

Defendant denies that she ever agreed to execute the settlement, but if she did it was without consideration, and tvas induced by plaintiff's fraud and undue influence, and without explanation of the contents. At the time she was so under the influence of drink as to be incapable of understanding it. Defendant’s particulars declared that plaintiff pretended he was a man of wealth and property, and able to maintain a suitable establishment, whereas he was utterly impecunious. Plaintiff, giving evidence, said he was born in Bagdad, and came to England in his boyhood. He entered the textile business later on his own account. His wife wanted to become engaged to him in 1927, but he said he had just won a divorce case and did not intend to marry again just then. She later visited him at his fiat every day, put an end to all his friends and to some extent took command of ttic flat. She said that she had £38,000 set aside and would buy a home. He urged | that it would be unwise to have all ; the eggs in one basket and that it i miuld be better to put the sum in ' trust, the income from which she, he | or the children could have. Defendant agreed it was a good idea. Her mother never disapproved of the agreement. Defendant stayed with him on Ihe night of the wedding eve. She was sober then and also when she signed the agreement. It was not true that, she did not understand its effect. It was against his wish that his wife hud not sought, legal advice. The hearing was adjourned.