KIDNAPPING A LANDSMAN.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXIX, Issue 4165, 27 July 1874, Page 3

KIDNAPPING A LANDSMAN.

* (From the Neivcastle Pilot, July 9.) A most atrocious case of this branch of the crimping business has occurred in New South Wales. A bushman named Driscoll came into town on Monday with a little money, and, falling into the hands of the Philistines, got drunk. He remembers, however, several occurrences since then, but again became intoxicated on Tuesday, and remembers nothing more until he found himself on board the Wemyss Castle, which vessel was just ready for sea. He endeavored to explain his position, but was told by the captain that he was shipped as one of the crew, and must proceed with the ship. The man had never been to sea in his life, and refused to go, being confident that he had never willingly come on board. The chief mate was appealed to, who confirmed the captain's statement. In his despair the poor fellow jumped into the pilot boat, which was just leaving; but it appears the pilot crew had no authority to bring the man ashore under such circumstances, and a rope having been thrown from the ship, the man was hauled on board again like "dumb-driven cattle," in fact, with not half so much care. Fortunately for Driscoll a vessel was passing, on board of which was a man whom Driscoll knew. Driscoll called to him for God's sake to tell the police that he was'being dragged to sea against his will. This person came direct to Inspector Thorpe, who at once sent the water police-boat after the ship. The police brought the man back, who immediately made a statement to Inspector Thorpe, which resulted in the chief mate being apprehended on warrant, and the ship being detained. We have given the bare outline of facts, which' has already roused the indignation of the community. As the matter will be brought under the notice of the proper authorities, we refrain from further comment. The man may thank Inspector Thorpe for his prompt decision in the matter.