XMAS IN PRISON.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 16307, 23 December 1920, Page 7

XMAS IN PRISON.

NEW YEAR MARRIAGE PREJUDICED.

THE EMPTY CHAIR,

“ I’ve spent Christmas in prison for ten years running.” wraihfnlly asserted Selina Parker in tho Magistrate’s Court, before Mr S. 13. M’Cavthy, S.M., to-day. “Wo all used to sit round the Christmas table, but now I’m never there I”

The charge against Parker was that of being an incorrigible rogue.

Sergeant O’Grady said ho visited accused's house at 33, Southwark Street. It was inhabited by thieves and prostitutes. The only furniture in the house was a table and a sola. Accused never worked.

Accused denied not having means of support. .She said that a man named .Murphy had come into town with £ll, and given her £B. She told him to back two horses, Sherwood and another, which paid well. “So I’d like to know how you say I haven’t got means of support,” continued accused. 11 Dan M.urphy told mo that ho couldn't live in a'house with a woman he wasn’t married to.” He belongs to the Hibernians, same as Sergeant O’Grady docs,” 'added accused, apparently thinking that tho Court required Murphy’s credentials.

Sergeant O’Orady’s colour heightened considerably, and the Court greatly enjoyed the situation. “ He's a man that’s never been convicted, is Murphy, 1 ' accused continued. <! I’ve known him since childhood. Ho said he .would marry me in the New Year.” He was now out of town, but would ho hack again soon. 'Hie if agist rate: There will be a happy reunion! , Accused: I don’t think it is a laughing matter-—not fur me, anyhow ! Evidence was given Ify police constables that the house was frequented by thieves and prostitutes, and was in a filthy condition. “I’m not a prisoner, am I!-” asked accused. '‘Can’t I have company if J. want it. This is a free country!’’ At the invitation of the Court she entered the witness box. She repeated 'previous statements, and said her life had been made miserable by police watching the place for Matthews, accused of the Timaru murder. She admitted having been drinking heavily. I’m forty years old, and have spent Christmas in prison for ten years running,” she complained. “We all used to sit round the Christmas table, but now I’m never there!” “Twelve months’ imprisonment” said the Magistrate. 5 Accused shrieked loud protestations as she was led out of Court. Her bigh-pit.tiiof! tones were audible even alter she had reached the street.