A FENCER.

Wanganui Herald, Volume LIII, Issue 160731, 18 August 1920, Page 9

A FENCER.

FLEECES TAIHAPE SHOPKEEPERS. Something of a mild sensation was created among a section of the business community in Taifcapc on Saturday morning last by the arrival of an alleged fencer, who subsequently proved that he was an expert at “fleecing” as well as fencing. He first paid a visit to the Bank of New Zealand, where he deposited and asked for a cheqi'e-book, which was supplied, the number being 634', 117. He then strolled leisurely round the town, entering a shop hero and there and informing the store-keepers that he was the person who had communicated with them by telephone a few days ago relative to supplies of goods. He also intimated that he had been fencing for Mr L. J. Lysnar, of Gisborne, and that he had purchased the Waiouru Station. Prospective business loomed largo iu the eyes of some of the storekeepers, who rushed round fulfilling orders, and in each instance cashing a cheque for JHG, purported to be signed by L. J. Lysnar and marked “Fencing.” •In only one instance was suspicion aroused. The manager of Mr T. E. Thomas’ local branch, not being satisfied with the bona fides of the stranger, rang np the bank and. was informed that, although the money was not there yet, it would be deposited on Monday. Having found the stranger and acquainted him of the lightness of the gold deposit at the bank, the latter replied that he had plenty of money on him, and would willingly meet the little account, which he did. The fencer then strolled out of the town richer for his visit by about JIOO. W bile iu Taihape he had about a month’s growth of heard. He is about 50 years of age and of strong build. A warrant has been issued for his arrest for obtaining .£3O from J. Bluen, tailor, by means of a valueless cheque. The shearer went under the name of A. J. Clarke, alias Jas. William Cameron, and answers Hie description of a person/ named Hackett, who also has several aliases.