IRISH SWEEPSTAKE

Northern Advocate, 7 November 1931, Page 7

IRISH SWEEPSTAKE

FIRST PRIZE LITIGATION. DISPOSITION STILL DOUBTFUL. (Received 1.2.-‘iO p.m.) LONDON, November G. The disposition of the balance of the first prize of the Irish Sweepstake of last year was drawn by Emilio Scala, and of which several of his compatriots claimed a share under alleged agreement, still remains in doubt. Mr. Justice Meredith gave judgment that the number of the winning ticket was inserted after the draw in a document which Scala and others drew up. Nevertheless there had been a verbal agreement to include an additional ticket in the pool. The case was adjourned for a fortnight to enable further legal argument as to whether Scala had allocated the particular winning ticket to the pool before he decided on the destiny of the £88,436. Judge Meredith commented on the conflict of evidence, which, ho said, was almost unprecedented. It was impossible to accept entirely the version of either side.

“T would like to adapt Byron's lines beginning with ‘Wo were of all tongues and creeds,' said the Judge, inserting two lines to make the passage conclude: ‘Some were sellers, some were buyers, nearly all were priceless liars,’ yet through the* wide world you might search nor find a mother crew of blighters.' " ’ Nevertheless he had not had to deal with unmitigated ruffians perjuring themselves for the sake of gain. On the contrary, ho had received the unconquerable impression that both sides believed that justice rested with them. He instanced Mrs Apicella holding rosary beads while giving evidence, and carefully placing a cross on the Testament while taking the oath. She had been storming the heavens with prayers for the success of the case, and she trusted her prayers would be answered.

“Whether or not she has perjured herself I do not know,” said His Honour.