A Model Husband

Southland Times, Issue 19550, 3 May 1905, Page 2

A Model Husband

Per United Press Association

CHRISTCHURCH, May 2.

Before Mr Bishop, S.M., to-day the wile of George Pugh applied for a maintenance order against her husband, who had deserted her four years ago and had since done nothing to support her or their five children, one of whom is imbecile. The defendant said he pleaded guilty under extenuating circumstances. Tha Magistrate said the defendant was just the sort of man he had no sympathy with and if he could send him to gaol for a long term he would do it. Here was a poor woman, who had had to work and slave to keep her family whilst her lazy loafing husband had been away for four years, probably enjoying himslfff. to the full of his bent-. It was a scandalous case and the' defendant made no charge against his wife, but. thought her sons were keeping her. Those were. “ extenuating circumstances !” Such men ought io have a long term of imprisonment : if they would not support their families they should be made lo werk for the State. Defendant was ordered to contribute £1 a week towards tho support of his family and-'.o find security for £5O, in default six months' imprisonment:.