“JOHN THE BAPTIST.”
Story of Tramp who Climbed Trees. “ He started to undress in the Gardens, and when some people approached he climbed a tree. He ran away then, and when a constable came to the scene he was singing and shouting in Hereford Street.” So did Senior-Sergeant F -x describe the antics of Robert Eiiis, fifty-six. a tramp, known in the Lack country as ‘ John the Baptist,” when he was charged in the Magistrate’s Court this morning with causing a disturbance in Hereford Street. Mr Mosley was on the bench. Ellis pleaded guilty, and then favoured the court with a little autobiography. 44 I have friends in Riccarton and I was going to them,” he said. 44 Sure ? ” queried the Magistrate. “ I've got friends all over the place.” said the accused. ' I walk round North Canterbury, and they all like me, because I make good music with the mouth organ. Singing too. I get a shilling here and there They call me John the Baptist.” ” Why not act like him ? " asked the Magistrate, with a smile. “ I think we had better remand you till August 17, so we can have a look at you." Perhaps the imposing beard favoured by Ellis was responsible for his pseudonym.
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https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/TS19310813.2.61
Bibliographic details
Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 191, 13 August 1931, Page 6
Word Count
207“JOHN THE BAPTIST.” Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 191, 13 August 1931, Page 6
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