DEBT DENIED

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23719, 27 July 1940, Page 14

DEBT DENIED

WEALTHY MAN SUED PROTEST MADE'IN COURT "ANOTHER PERSON'S ACCOUNT" [from ouh own correspondent] HAMILTON, Friday A strong protest against being sued for the recovery of a debt which he said was 110 concern of his was made before Mr. W. H. Freeman, S.M., by Francis William Burley, of Hamilton, in the Hamilton Magistrate's Court today. Mr. Burley was cited as defendant in tho qaso in which Louis Norman Sargent, garage proprietor, Hamilton, sought to recover £ls, balance alleged to bo due on an account for benzine and for the recharging of a battery. Mr. H. C. M. Norris, instructed by Mr. W. J. King, asked for an adjournment.

Mr. Burley, who appeared in person, said the debt had never been contracted bv him. He had lent the Government £20,000 at 2\ per cent, and had given £IOOO to the patriotic funds. It was not likely, he said, 110 would want to beat a tradesman for £9, which, he added, was the correct amount of the account. "They have the impudence to sue me in connection with another man's account." he added. "I have called three times at the solicitors office to explain the position. The people concerned owe me £2OO for rent, and now they want me to pay £9 on their account." Counsel said the plaintiff was in camp and an adjournment was necessary. 1 The case was adjourned for a week.