"STRETCHING' THE LAW" FOR A GOOD PURPOSE.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXVII, Issue 8222, 5 April 1890, Page 2 (Supplement)

"STRETCHING' THE LAW" FOR A GOOD PURPOSE.

Charles Chambers, aged '2D, a clerk, of Droop-street, Queen's Park, was charged at Marlborough-street Police Court, on Feb. 7, on his own confession, with stealing a post letter and money orders to the amount of 21s, the property of Messrs. Curry and Pax ton, of Croat Portland-street. Mr. W. Curry said that a few days ago the prisonei came to him and stated that he had appropriated several sums of money belonging to the firm, which statement, on customers indicated l!y the prisoner being communicated with, proved to bo true. He was then given into custody, and charged with stealing the largest of the amounts. Mr. Hannay : Might I ask how much he was paid? Mr. Curry: bis a week and his tea. Mr. Hannay: Ins! Why, I understand that he is married. Mr. Cooper (for the, prosecution) : That is so, sir. When called upon for his defence, Chambers expressed his contrition, and said he supposed he must have been led to do if by the bad company lie had got into during the last few weeks. Ho asserted that ii' time were allowed him he would repay every farthing. Mr. Cooper: 1 must, press for a conviction, your Worship. The prisoner's father, who was much affected, said that up till a few weeks ago his son had been a very good lad. Mr. Hannay: Considering his youth and the wretched payment he received, I think I shall stretch the law a little. (To the father): Will you be- bound for his good behaviour ? The father replied in the affirmative. Mr. Cooper: But wo cannot be satisfied with that. My client has a largo number of hands. Mr. Hannay : I don't care a straw what you think about the matter. lam struck by the very small salary he was paid,, and I think it is a ease in which some clemency may be shown—l hope with advantage. (To prisoner) : Of course, if you transgress again you will be called up for judgment for this offence. I shalll bind your father over in £5 to bring you up if called upon during the next six months.