“Stretching the Law” for A Good Purpose

South Canterbury Times, Issue 6187, 11 April 1890, Page 3

“Stretching the Law” for A Good Purpose

Charles Chambers, aged 20, a clerk, of Droop street, Queen’s Park, was charged at Marlborough-street Police Court, on February 7, on h>s own confession, with stealing a post letter and money orders to the amount of 21s, the property of Messrs Curry and Paxton, of Great Portland-street. . Mr W. Curry said that a few days ago the prisoner came to him and stated that be had appropriated several sums of money belonging to the firm, which statement, on customers indicated by the prisoner being communicated with, proved to be true. He was then given into custody, and and charged with stealing the largest of the amounts, Mr Hannay : Might I ask how much he was paid.. Mr Curry .- 15a a week and his tea. Mr Hannay: 15s! Why, I understand that ,he is married. Mr Cooper (for the prosecution) : That is so, sir. When called upon for his defence, Chambers expressed liis contrition, and said ho supposed he must have been led to do it by the bad company he had got into during the last few weeks. He asserted that if time were allowed him ho would repay every farthing. Mr Cooper : I must press for a conviction, your Worship, The prisoner’s father, who was much affected, said that up tiil a few weeks ago his son had been a very good lad, Mr Hannay: Considering bis 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 we cannot be satisfied with that. My client has a large number of hands. Mr Hannay : I don’t care a straw what you think about the matter, I am struck by the very small salary he was paid, and I think it is a case in which some clemency may be shown—l hope with advantage. (To prisoner): Of course, if you transgress again you will ba called up for judgment for this offence. I shall bind your father over in £6 to bring you up if called upon during the next six months.