LORD'S ESTATE ROBBED.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXI, Issue 18664, 21 March 1924, Page 9

LORD'S ESTATE ROBBED.

SOLICITOR'S SPECULATIONS.

A. and N.Z.

LONDON, Mar. 19.

Amazing disclosures were made at the Guildhall, at the hearing of charges against Herbert Hadd, aged 59, solicitor, of fraudulently converting to his own use the property and deeds of Lord Gerald Foley. Counsel for the prosecution stated that defendant was the subject of a receiving order, and he said he was unable to stale what he owed to Lord Foley.

Counsel explained that Lord Foley, when he attained his majority and inherited his estate, signed a power of attorney by which defendant had power to sign cheques and to dispose of property and securities, also to withdraw money,

While Lord Foley was absent in Italy defendant speculated disastrously. Much of Lord Foley's property was sold, two items being £107,000 and £169,000.

Accused also bought valuable property at Westminster, and had the deeds made out in his own name, obtaining an overdraft on them. '

When the power of attorney was revoked he still held assets worth £158,000. He always paid Lord Foley's money into his own account.

Defendant, for the three years ho was acting for Lord Foley, overspent Ids income to the extent of £15,000. He told the accountants the books were muddled, and asked if they could not be "wangled." The accountant advised him to "put all his cards on the table." Lord Foley filed proof of debts'totalling £23,000.

Counsel intimated that other charges were pending relating to the properties of Lady Mary Foley and Major Mowbray.