FOOLISH RESENTMENT.

Otago Witness, Issue 3804, 8 February 1927, Page 28

FOOLISH RESENTMENT.

ATTEMPTED ARSON CHARGE. AUCKLAND, February 5 Resentment, manifesting itself in an attempt to create a fire on the doorstep of the man against whom the grudge was nurtured, resulted in the trial yesterday of Joseph Henry Trask, charged with attempted arson, and (alternatively) with setting fire to material in circumstances likely to damage the dwelling. Accused’s signed statement showed that he had been drinking, and had found his way,into the grounds of the dairy where he had been employed on milk delivery. When leaving he recalled occasions on which his conduct had been criticised, and felt he would retaliate by giving his employer a fright. He poured kerosene on a sack, and left after igniting it. He had no deliberate intention of destroying the house (attached to the dairy). Counsel described the incident as a foolish alcoholic prank, and Mr Justice Stringer agreed that the jury should pav more attention to the .minor charge. The fire had been very trivial, but another five minutes might have made all the difference. Accused had not been too drunk to remember his actions, and could not. be excused on I the grounds of irresponsibility. He was found guiltv on the minor charge, and sentence was deferred till Wednesday.