Child Murder.

Manawatu Standard, Volume 4, Issue 124, 2 May 1883, Page 2

Child Murder.

THE PRISONER PKEGWANT. HER SENTENCE RESPITED. A* the Supreme Court yesterday, the prisoner having; been brought up, the formal question was asked as to whether she had anything; to say why the sentence that she should be hanged should not be t-xecuted. The prisoner being: deaf, did not hear the question. His Honor remarked that he undern stood the prisoner was pregnant. Mr Hutchison : She says she U pregnant ; T have not asked her as to her particular condition, but it is a fac* that she is so. ' His Honor : Then the ordinary course will have to follow. Mr Hutchison then asked the prin soner whether 6he wished an examination, to which she rep'iei lt Yes." The jury hawing; been sworn, Wis Honor informed them that what they had to determine was whether the prisoner was pregnant. If they should desiro to have the assistance of a medical gentleman they could do so, skilled assistance being m attendance. If they would retire into an oater room, the j prisoner would be taken to them m the custody of the gaoler's wife. The jnry then retired. Aftei'w*rds, as they desired medical assistance, Dr Earle was sworn, and proceeded to th<? room. After an hour's deliberation the jury returned to the Court, and the forematron intimated that they were all decined but one. His Honor : Like other verdicts it must be unanimous — either "yea" or " nay." I must ask you to retire again. After a few remarks the jury again retired. At ten minutes to one they again came imo Court, and the. jury returned the verdicb, " To the best of our belief she (the prisoner) is quick with child." His Honor : The execution is respited till the next session of the Supreme Court m Wnnganui, m October. The prisoner will be taken back to the gaol. The recommendation of the jiirj will be communicated to the Government, and wi'l no doubt receive the consideration which it is entitled to. The prisoner was then removed.