South Foreland, Seagate Street c1845 - 1940

South Foreland, c1908. Photo kindly supplied by Martin Easdown

 

Licensees

William Hart c1845 1845 

Mary Hart (Widow) 1845 1848

William Smith 1848 1855 To Clarendon Hotel

James Golder Robinson 1855 1857 From Swan (1)

Mrs. Robinson 1857 1862 

Charles Jordan 1862 1874 

Maria Jordan 1874 1883 

Harry Jordan 1883 1913 

Ann Jordan 1913 1924 

Frank Jordan 1924 1940

R.P. Rawlings 1941 (Protection)

Maidstone Gazette 13-5-1845

A Special Session was held at the Town Hall on Tuesday last before John Bateman Esq., Mayor, W. Major and W. Sherren Esqs. The licence granted to Mr. Richard Hart, deceased, to keep open the South Foreland, was transferred to William Pay.

Note: Earlier date for South Foreland. Neither licensee listed in More Bastions.

Maidstone Gazette 20-5-1845

There appeared an error in our Folkestone news of last week: the following is correct. The licence granted to Mr. Richard Hart, deceased, to keep open the South Foreland, was transferred to Mrs. Mary Hart, his widow and executrix, and the licence granted to Thomas Foord Jun., to keep open the George, was transferred to William Pay.

Note: Earlier date for South Foreland. Neither licensee listed in More Bastions. Earlier date for transfer at George.

Maidstone Gazette 15-2-1848

Petty Sessions, Tuesday; Before Charles Golder Esq., Mayor, and William Major Esq.

Licenses were transferred from Mrs. Mary Hart, of the South Foreland, to Mr. William Smith; from Mr. Wm. Harrison, of the Lord Nelson, to his widow; from Matthew Henderson, of the Northumbrian to Mr. Thomas Spain.

Note: Matthew Henderson does not appear in More Bastions. South Foreland transfer gives finishing date for Mary Hart and new date for Smith.

Folkestone Chronicle 8-8-1857

Wednesday August 5^th: - Before R.W. Boarer esq., (Mayor), W. Major, G. Kennicott, J. Tolputt, J. Kelcey and W. Bateman esqs.

The licence of the The South Foreland was transferred from Mr. W.G. Robinson, deceased, to Mrs. Robinson.

Kentish Gazette 11-8-1857

The licence of the South Foreland was transferred from Mr. W. G. Robinson, deceased, to Mrs. Robinson.

Folkestone Chronicle 12-4-1862 

Petty Sessions, Wednesday, 9^th April: Before Capt. G. Kennicott R.N. and James Tolputt Esq.

The license of the Mariners Home, Radnor Street, was transferred from Ann Tong to Richard Bailey, late landlord of the Queen`s Head. The license of the West Cliff Hotel transferred to Joseph Horwood from G. Giovannini. The license of the South Foreland to Charles Edward Jordan from H. Robinson.

Southeastern Gazette 15-4-1862

Local News

Transfer of Licence: At the petty sessions, on Wednesday, the following transfer was made: The South Foreland, from H. Robinson to Chas. Edward Jordan.

 
 

Folkestone Observer 30-5-1863

Wednesday May 27^th:- Before the Mayor

Mary Kane Skips was charged with being drunk. Pleaded Guilty.

P.C. Ovenden said that the prisoner came along Radnor Street and went into the South Foreland. She had not been there many seconds before she was put out. She was then going into Providence when she tripped over the step, and there lay in the passage not being able to get up, she being so drunk. He took her into custody and brought her to the station.

She was fined 5s., and costs 3s. 6d., to be paid in a week

Folkestone Chronicle 7-3-1868

Wednesday March 4^th: Before The Mayor, J. Kelcey and R.W. Boarer Esqs.

James Burgett, seaman, pleaded guilty to a charge of being drunk and riotous, but not guilty of assaulting the police or using abusive language in Dover Street on Tuesday.

P.C. Swaine said that he was on duty at half past eleven o`clock in the lower part of the town, and saw prisoner committing a nuisance against the South Foreland Inn, and on remonstrating with him he used very abusive and violent language, and struck at witness` face, but he warded off the blow and it fell on his chest. Prisoner was taken into custody, and witness was obliged to get assistance to take him to the police station. He was very drunk.

Prisoner had nothing to say, for he was too drunk to remember what he said or did.

Fined 10s., and costs 4s. 6d., or fourteen days` imprisonment for assaulting the police, the other charges being dismissed.

Folkestone Observer 7-3-1868

Wednesday, March 4^th: Before The Mayor, R.W. Boarer and J. Kelcey Esqs.

James Burgett was charged with drunken and riotous conduct, indecent language, and assaulting the police.

The prisoner pleaded guilty to being drunk.

Police constable Swain said he was on duty at the lower part of the town shortly after eleven o`clock on Tuesday night, and saw the prisoner committing an offence near the South Foreland, Dover Street. Witness spoke to the prisoner about it, when he used some disgusting language. Witness told the prisoner that if he had any respect for himself he would not have committed the offence. Prisoner thereupon struck out at the witness`s face, but struck him in the throat, and used some very bad language. Prisoner was very drunk and exceedingly violent, and witness was necessitated to throw him on the ground, when the prisoner kicked witness on the leg and tried to bite him. Witness was compelled to get the assistance of police sergeant Reynolds and police constable Woodland to get the prisoner to the station. Prisoner was more like a madman than anything, for he pulled his hair out of his head by the handsful and shouted at the top of his voice. When at the station he said that if it was seven years to come, he would do for witness. On the way to the station a number of roughs followed, and the prisoner kept shouting to them to release him.

Prisoner now had nothing to say. He was sorry. When anyone was drunk they said anything. He did not recollect assaulting or threatening the police.

Fined 14s. 6d., including costs, or 14 days` imprisonment.
 

Folkestone Express 20-3-1869

Saturday, March 13^th: Before J. Gambrill and R.W. Boarer Esqs.

William Henry Wenham was charged with being drunk and riotous, and using obscene language.

P.C. Ovenden said: This morning about quarter past twelve I was on duty at the bottom of Seagate Street, standing opposite Mr. Jordan`s in company with P.S. Reynolds. The prisoner went to the door of Mr. Jordan`s house, the South Foreland, and knocked, but was refused admission. P.S. Reynolds then advised him to go home, and he walked a short distance up the street, and turned round and said “I don`t care for you b---- bobbies. If you run you can`t catch me”. He then ran away, and we went after him. He was then stopped by P.C. Smith at the bottom of the steps leading to Saffron`s Row. He was quite drunk, and when ordered home made a great noise. He could run very well.

P.C. Smith said: I heard prisoner use the language Ovenden has repeated. I was standing at the bottom of Dover Street.

The prisoner said he never made use of such language, and had not been in trouble before. He had resided in the town now eight or nine months, and when he first came here lodged at Mr. Bromley`s, the Dew Drop, Fancy Street. He was brought up as a witness when Mr. Bromley was summoned for assaulting a police constable. Since that the police had threatened to lock him up several times. On the night in question he was coming down the street when he saw a policeman talking to a man at the bottom of High Street. This man came to prisoner and asked him for some beer; he accordingly knocked at the door of Mr. Jordan`s, but could not get in. He did not know the man, and should not have tried to get the beer, only he was drunk at the time.

The Bench said the prisoner admitted being drunk, and as it was the first time any complaint had been made against him, he must pay a nominal fine of 1s. and 5s. 6d. costs, or seven days` imprisonment. The fine was paid.

 

Folkestone Observer 9-10-1869

Tuesday, October 5^th: Before W. Bateman and James Tolputt Esqs.

William Kelly Sergeant, George Kelly, and Michael Moore, gunners in the 10^th Brigade, Royal Artillery, were charged with being drunk and riotous in Dover Street on the night previous. They were also charged with assaulting the police in the execution of their duty.

Prisoners denied both charges, Kelly saying he was knocked down before he was aware of it.

P.C. Swain said: About one o`clock on Monday morning I saw Kelly in company with another artilleryman and two men of the 10<sup>th</sup> Hussars. They were knocking at the door of the Royal Engineer, High Street. I told them they could not get into the house as it was past closing hours. Kelly was then drunk. They all went away. About two o`clock they were knocking at the Harbour Inn, and I told them to go away, and Kelly became insolent. Shortly after two I saw Kelly in company with the other prisoners, another artilleryman, and two Hussars near Mr. Jordan`s, South Foreland. They were then making a great noise.  They left there and went up Dover Street. I afterwards saw P.S. Reynolds and reported the circumstances. Some minutes after, P.C. Hills came down, followed by the prisoners. P.S. Reynolds went up to speak with them. They surrounded the sergeant, and P.C. Hills and myself went to his assistance. Moore struck Reynolds at the back of the head, and sent him sprawling. I then took Moore into custody, when he kicked me on the leg, and I hit him on the head with the staff. Prisoner then struck at me and I knocked him down again with my staff. P.C. Hills took Kelly, and the other prisoners ran away, P.S. Reynolds following. When on the first occasion I saw them in High Street they said they were out for a spree.

P.S. Reynolds said: I was on duty at the bottom of the town about three o`clock this morning. P.C. Swain called my attention to some soldiers who were drunk and riotous in Dover Street. There were the three prisoners, two Hussars, and a fourth artilleryman. I cautioned them, and told them not to make any disturbance, and to get out of the town. The whole of the prisoners were drunk and riotous. One of the soldiers had a whip and threatened to strike me with it. They surrounded me, and I put out my hand to keep them off, and Moore hit me with his fist, nearly knocking me down. I said “Don`t murder me” and called P.C. Swain to my assistance. Sergeant Kelly then came up to me and caught hold of me by the collar, and I knocked him down with my staff. He got up and ran away down Radnor Street. I caught him and brought him back. They were very violent, and struggled. I saw Swain use his staff when he came up. In High Street Moore kicked and struggled, and I hit him with my staff on his hands and legs.

Mr. Bateman said the police ought never to use their staffs when a man was handcuffed.

P.S. Reynolds said the prisoners were not handcuffed.

P.C. Hills said: I was on duty at the bottom of High Street about three o`clock when Sergeant Reynolds asked me if I had seen any soldiers. I told him I had not, but soon afterwards they came down Dover Street shouting. They were drunk. P.S. Reynolds went up to them, but I could not hear what he said. Shortly after, the sergeant whistled to us, and we went up to him. He had Moore and Kelly in custody. Moore knocked Reynolds backward, and before he could recover himself he told me to take Kelly into custody. The sergeant also told us to draw our staves. I suppose he gave that order because he got knocked down. Prisoners were very violent. When we drew our staves, the prisoners said they could use their whips, and commenced to flourish them about. When I had Kelly in custody he resisted very much, but with the assistance of Mr. Morford I put the handcuffs on with his hands behind him. During this time Sergeant and Kelly ran away. I met the sweep by Mr. Musgrave`s in High Street. I did not use my staff.

Cross-examined: The only cause for locking you up was for hallooing and shouting.

John Hubbard, a sweep in sooty uniform, said: I was up this morning a little after three o`clock, and as I was going down High Street I heard a screaming. When I got down by Dover Street I waited and listened to ascertain where the screaming came from. I went up Dover Street and saw P.S. Reynolds, and P.Cs Swain and Hills. There were also the three soldiers, now in the dock. Moore was very drunk. Sergeant was in a sober state, and went up civilly; Kelly was also quiet. They were all three in custody, and making a great noise. Moore and Kelly were resisting. Moore had hold of Reynolds` hand, and Reynolds asked him to let go, but he would not, and Reynolds drew his staff. Reynolds used the staff upon Moore`s hand and afterwards on his head. He went down when Reynolds hit him. Reynolds then asked him to get up, but he would not, and Reynolds put his hand on his thigh and made Moore moan. Swain then came up and assisted him. Prisoner had not then got up. Before this Hills asked me to assist them in getting the prisoners to the station house. I did so. I did not see that there was any occasion to use the staff. I only saw one policeman use his staff (P.S. Reynolds), and he made good use of it when he was about it. It was when Moore was biting him that he used the staff upon his head. Reynolds did not hit him after he had got his hand at liberty. I saw him hit Moore once in High Street because he would not walk.

Mr. Bateman at this stage of the case came to the dock and examined the prisoner Moore. He said two very heavy blows had been given on his head.

In answer to Kelly, Hubbard said: Although you were handcuffed, Mr. Hills had as much as he could do to get you along.

By Sergeant: I did not hear you make any noise. You were very quiet.

By Moore: You had hold of Reynolds` hand, biting it. This was the only provocation for the policemen to use their staves.

By Mr. Tolputt: I did not see any ill-treatment before Moore bit the sergeant`s hand.

The whole of the prisoners denied the charge. Kelly admitted having some ale, but Sergeant and Moore complained butterly of their treatment by the police.

After a consultation, Mr. Bateman said as Sergeant was drunk, and not riotous, they fined him five shillings and costs, and dismissed the charge of assault in his case. He (Mr. Bateman) was very sorry the men had been knocked about, but the policemen had warned the prisoners on several occasions to go home and not make such a noise, and Reynolds had himself walked up to them from the bottom of the town, so as to cause no excitement on the part of the prisoners, and they attacked him. The policemen were strong men, and they should be merciful as well as strong. If it were not for the injury the prisoners had received, they would be more severely punished. The sentence on them would be a month`s imprisonment, with hard labour.

The prisoners Moore and Sergeant presented a very bloody appearance. Moore had a deep cut over the left eye, a blow on the head – of the pain of which he complained during the hearing -, also a cut on his right ear. From these wounds the blood had run over the man`s face. Sergeant had two cuts above his forehead, and the blood had trickled down his face. Kelly had fortunately come off without any bruises whatever.

Folkestone Express 9-10-1869

Tuesday, October 5^th: Before W. Bateman and J. Tolputt Esqs.

Michael Moor, 34, William Sergeant, 35, and George Kelly, 31, privates of Royal Artillery, were charged with being drunk and riotous, and assaulting P.S. Reynolds and P.C. Swain of the Borough Police. The two first named prisoners bore evident marks of a struggle, their faces being covered with blood. Moore had a severe gash over the eye, a wound on his head, his ear and chin cut. His clothes were torn and covered with dirt. On being placed in the dock he had to be supplied with water and accommodated with a seat. The three prisoners pleaded Not Guilty to all charges.

P,C. Swain deposed that seeing three soldiers in High Street about one o`clock that morning, making a noise outside the Royal Engineer, he told them to go away. The prisoner Kelly was then drunk. They went towards the lower part of the town. He followed them, and saw them knock at the door of the Harbour Inn. He cautioned them, and ordered them to leave the town. Shortly after two o`clock he saw them again outside the South Foreland Inn with three other soldiers (two Hussars and four of the Royal Artillery). Moor was drunk, and they were all making a great noise. Sergeant was not so drunk as he others. He ordered them off and they went towards Dover Street, still making a disturbance. He informed Sergeant Reynolds of the circumstance, and P.C. Hills, whom he had just met. They then heard the soldiers coming down Dover Street making a noise, and Sergeant Reynolds went to them and wished them to be quiet, when Moor struck him on the back of the head. Witness then took him into custody, and being kicked by him on the leg, he retaliated by striking him on the head with his staff. A scuffle ensued, in which Moor was knocked down in the road, and he cut his head by falling. One of the soldiers had a loaded whip.

A man at the back of the room said there was a civilian present who saw the whole occurrence.

P.S. Reynolds, who had his hand bound up, said: I told the prisoners and the other soldiers to go home and not make a disturbance; they were outside the late Mr. Hughes` shop. All were drunk. One of the Hussars shook a whip over my head. Moor struck me on the back of the head and knocked me up against the wall. I said “Don`t murder me”, and told Swain to take them into custody. Sergeant then came up and took hold of my collar. I knocked him down. He then got up and ran away and I caught him in Radnor Street. I did not notice any civilians about. I saw Swain use his staff. I do not know if he used it after the man was a prisoner. I used my staff to Moor because he kicked and struggled. (Witness here showed his hand which had evidently been bit in the struggle)

P.C. Hills said: Sergeant Reynolds went up to the soldiers. Shortly afterwards he whistled to us, and I and Swain went to his assistance. He had Moor and Kelly in custody; Moor nearly knocked Reynolds backwards. He told me to take Kelly into custody and to draw our staffs. The soldiers were drunk and used bad language. I do not know why we drew our staffs except because they knocked him down. All the prisoners resisted, and the Hussars said “If you use your staffs we will use our whips”, and commenced flourishing them about. A man named Richard Morford assisted me in handcuffing Kelly. Other civilians were there. I did not use my staff. The prisoner tried to kick me two or three times.

John Hobart, a sweep, and who appeared in his sables, said: I was going down High Street at three o`clock, and hearing screaming I proceeded to the bottom of the street. I met P.S. Reynolds and P.C.s Swain and Hills. Hills asked me to assist them. Sergeant went up to the station very quietly; he appeared quite sober. All three were in custody when I met them; Moor and Kelly resisted a little. Moor took hold of Reynolds` hand and put it to his mouth. Reynolds told him to let go several times; he would not, and Reynolds drew his staff and used it on his hand and head; Moor fell. I do not know if it was from the result of the blow. Reynolds asked him to get up, and as he would not he put his foot on Moor`s thigh and made him moan. He was taken to the station. I never saw such ill-treatment as that was. Moor was hit once on the leg going up High Street because he would not walk.

Mr. Bateman here came from the Bench and examined the prisoner Moor, and said there were two severe bruises on the head.

Kelly denied making any disturbance; Sergrant said he was knocked down with a staff before he said a word; Moor said he never insulted anyone, and had never been treated so before.

The Bench fined Sergeant 5s. and costs for being drunk, and dismissed the charge of assault. As regards Moor they were sorry he was knocked about as he had been, but no doubt the police struck hard in their own defence, and they sentenced Moor and Kelly to prison for one month.
 

Folkestone Express 28-3-1874

Wednesday, March 25^th: Before The Mayor, Col. De Crespigny, J. Clark, W. Bateman, and J. Tolputt Esqs.

George Brooks, alias Poole, pleaded Guilty to being drunk and disorderly, and committing wilful damage by breaking a window, the property of the Executors of the late Charles Edward Jordan, South Foreland Inn.

Mr. H. Jordan said prisoner went to the South Foreland and asked for some beer, but as he was drunk he refused to serve him, and he became so abusive he was obliged to put him out, when he went to a private compartment and kicked at him through the window and broke it, doing damage to the amount of 5s.

Supt. Wilshere said the police were called to the Royal George, the Dew Drop, and the Victoria to turn prisoner out.

Mr. H.W. Le Butt, Royal George Hotel, said prisoner threatened him because he would not serve him with beer, and took up a pewter pot which he thought he was going to throw at him, and he sent for the police. Prisoner had been the terror of the neighbourhood for three days.

A previous conviction for assaulting the police in September, 1872, was proved.

Fined 1s. for the wilful damage, 5s. the cost of the window, 5s. for being drunk, and 7s. costs, or 21 days` in default.

Folkestone Express 10-4-1880

Wednesday, April 7^th: Before General Cannon and R.W. Boarer Esq.

James Mahoney, charged with being drunk and refusing to quit the South Foreland Inn when requested to do so was fined 2s. 6d. and 3s. 6d. costs, or seven days`.

Folkestone Express 10-11-1883

Tuesday, November 6^th: Before General Armstrong, M.J. Bell and J. Hoad Esqs.

Joseph Dimston was charged with breaking a square of glass, value £3, at the South Foreland on the previous evening.

Mr. Jordan said that the prisoner went into his house on the previous evening, and being intoxicated, he refused to serve him. The prisoner then became quarrelsome, and had to be ejected, whereupon he deliberately broke the window with his fist.

The Bench fined the prisoner 5s. and 3s. 6d. costs, and £3, the value of the window.

Folkestone Express 29-11-1884

Inquest

An inquest was held at the Town Hall on Wednesday evening on the body of James Jordan, whose death resulted from a fall.

Henry Jordan, a licensed victualler, living at the South Foreland, identified the body as that of his grandfather, James Jordan, and he lived at 9, Charlotte Terrace. He was 84 on the 29^th September, and followed no occupation.

Frederick Banks, living at 41, St. John`s Street, saod on Monday evening, the 24<sup>th</sup>, at about seven o`clock, he was near Mrs. Lea`s, the chemist, in Tontine Street, and heard something fall on the steps opposite. He said to a boy “I do believe there`s someone fallen down the steps”, and he ran over and immediately came back and said there was someone lying there bleeding. He went over to the steps, and saw the deceased lying  at the bottom of the steps near the wall, in a pool of blood. The deceased was then conveyed to the infirmary. There was a lamp on the steps and it was alight, but it was very dark there; in fact he could not discern who it was, although he knew the deceased well.

Walter Miller, a boy, living at 12, Grace Hill, said he was in Tontine Street on Monday evening. When Mr. Banks sent him across to the steps to see what was the matter, he saw a man lying in a pool of blood, and he went and asked Mr. Banks to come and help him up. There was no-one on the steps when he got there.

Albert Baillant said he was crossing the road opposite the steps when he heard something fall down the steps. He went to look, and saw deceased lying on his side at the foot of the steps. There was no-one on the steps.

Dr. Tyson said he was called to the Dispensary to the deceased at about eight o`clock. He was in an insensible condition. He examined him and found he was suffering from concussion of the brain, which would be caused by a fall such as was heard by the witnesses. There was a slight scalp wound on the right side of the head. Deceased did not recover consciousness, and died on Tuesday at midnight. The cause of death was concussion of the brain and fracture of the skull.

The jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death and added a rider to the effect that steps should be taken to remedy the defects in the lighting at that spot.

Folkestone Express 18-1-1890

Wednesday, January 15^th: Before Colonel De Crespigny, F. Boykett and W.G. Herbert Esqs.

Henry Jordan, licensed victualler, of the South Foreland, and Henry Killick, his servant, were summoned, the former for allowing a greyhound to go unmuzzled, and the latter for being in charge of an unmuzzled greyhound on Sunday, January 12^th.

Both defendants pleaded Not Guilty.

P.C. Brice said he saw the defendant Killick on the Marine Parade about midday on Sunday, January 12^th, walking about five yards behind a greyhound bitch, unmuzzled. He asked him if he was in charge of the greyhound, and he replied that he was. He (witness) remarked that the hound had no muzzle on, and defendant said he knew that, and that his master was Mr. Jordan.

Superintendent Taylor produced a copy of the order made by the board of Agriculture.

Mr. Jordan, in defence, pointed out to the Bench the paragraph in the notice issued locally, which stated “Packs of hounds or greyhounds while being exercised or used for sporting purposes, or other sporting dogs while being used for sporting purposes, or any dogs while being used for the capture or destruction of vermin, and in every case in charge of competent persons”. His dogs were exercised daily, and he considered he was not infringing the order, as he kept his greyhound for sporting purposes, and the man had it out at exercise which was  the usual thing with all greyhounds.

The Magistrates` Clerk said he did not read the order in teh same manner as Mr. Jordan. The dog should have been muzzled whilst in the town, and not being used for sporting purposes.

The Bench said it was evidently not the intention of the framers of the order that it should be read in the way in which Mr. Jordan had interpreted it, and inflicted a fine of 2s. 6d. on each person.

Folkestone News 26-7-1890

Monday, July 21^st: Before Major Poole and W.G. Herbert Esq.

Emily Koe, 20, was charged with being drunk and disorderly in Sandgate Road on the previous evening.

P.C. Swift said he saw the prisoner outside the East Kent Arms, shouting and using filthy language. He advised her to “move on”, but as she would not, he was compelled to take her into custody.

Supt. Taylor said that nothing was known against the girl, who had been for a fortnight in the employ of Mr. Scott at the East Kent Arms as a domestic servant, and previously at the South Foreland. She had stayed out after ten o`clock, when the house was closed, and had imbibed too freely.

Emily admitted the drunkenness, but denied that she was disorderly or used bad language.

Fined 5s. and 4s. 6d. costs, with the alternative of seven days` hard labour. Prisoner said she could get the money during the day, and she was allowed 24 hours for payment.

Folkestone Chronicle 7-4-1894

Local News

At the Bearsted (Maidstone) petty sessions on Monday, Mr. Harry Jordan, landlord of the South Foreland Hotel, Folkestone, appeared to answer a summons taken out against him by Miss Lillian Jessop, of Thurnham, formerly a barmaid in his employ to show cause why he should not contribute towards the support of her male child, of whom she alleged he was the father.

Mr. A.L. Ellis appeared for the complainant, and Mr. Minter for the defendant.

The evidence was of a very contradictory character and exhibited a terrible amount of perjury on one side or the other. According to the complainant the parties are cousins, and whilst in his service he took her out for a drive, and it was during the drive, she alleged, defendant gave her some refreshment out of a flask he had with him, the effects of which were to stupefy her, and whilst in this condition he seduced her, in spite of her resistance.

Mr. Minter, for the defence, gave the complainant`s story an absolute denial, commented upon it`s improbable nature, and contended there was no evidence upon which the Bench could convict.

Defendant went into the box and emphatically denied the truth of the girl`s story. The Bench, however, after a hearing of two hours and a half, made an order upon the defendant of five shillings per week with all expenses.

Notice of appeal was given.

Folkestone Express 7-4-1894

Local News

Harry Jordan, landlord of the South Foreland, Folkestone, was summoned to show cause, &c., in respect to the child of Lillian Jessop, a barmaid formerly in his employ. Complainant had for some time past been residing at Thurnham.

Mr. A.J. Ellis represented the complainant, and Mr. Minter, of Folkestone, defended.

The case laid before the Magistrates by Mr. Ellis tended to show that defendant administered a stupefying substance to the complainant by means of refreshment whilst taking her for a drive, and took advantage of her condition. Evidence was called in corroboration.

Mr. Minter submitted an absolute denial. He suggested that there was not one tittle of evidence upon which the Bench could convict, and said the case was surrounded by most improbable circumstances. He proceeded to comment upon the evidence, and in conclusion asked the Bench to dismiss the case.

The defendant gave evidence and denied in toto the evidence of the complainant.

 

The Bench retired to consider the case, and after returning into court gave a decision against the defendant and made an order upon him to contribute 5s. per week towards the maintenance of the child. Costs were allowed.

The hearing lasted upwards of two hours and a half.

Notice of appeal was given.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 16-6-1894

Monday, June 11^th: Before Alderman Pledge and Mr. J. Fitness.

Arthur Briggs was charged with being drunk and disorderly in Seagate Street on Saturday night, and further with assaulting James Stiff.

Superintendent Taylor said shortly after the prisoner was taken to the police station, it was reported that the prisoner had kicked another man and broken his leg. The man was at the Victoria Hospital, and unable to be present that morning.

P.C. Lemar saw the prisoner. He was drunk and fighting with another man. There was a great crowd, and he had to get the assistance of P.C. Smoker to get him to the station.

Edward Court said he saw the prisoner kick another man, who fell down, and he was taken on a stretcher to the Hospital. Prisoner said if his mates were there he would serve them the same – they had sneaked his watch and chain.

Superintendent Taylor asked for a remand on the charge of assault.

Prisoner said the two men he was with stole his watch. One of them “blowed” him on the forehead, and they both fell down the steps together.

He was fined 5s. and 5s. 6d. costs, or 14 days` for drunkenness, and on the second charge was remanded for a week.

Superintendent Taylor objected to bail.

Folkestone Express 16-6-1894

Monday, June 11^th: Before Alderman Pledge and J. Fitness Esq.

Arthur Briggs was charged with being drunk and disorderly in Seagate Street on Saturday night, and also with assaulting a man named James Stiff.

Superintendent Taylor said shortly after the prisoner was taken to the police station it was reported that the prisoner had kicked another man and broken his leg. The man was at the Victoria Hospital, and unable to be present that morning.

P.C. Lemar said at ten minutes past ten on Saturday night he saw the prisoner in Seagate Street, drunk and fighting with another man. There was a great crowd. With the assistance of P.C. Smoker prisoner was brought to the station.

Prisoner said he was not drunk, and asked witness if he was not very much excited. Witness said he was, and that prisoner said he had lost his watch and chain.

Superintendent Taylor said the prisoner was drunk when brought to the station, and very excited.

Edward Court said he saw the prisoner kick another man. The man he kicked was standing up. Prisoner was very drunk. Witness had no doubt he was the man. He had previously seen him refused drink at the Chequers. The man he kicked fell down, and he was taken on a stretcher to the Hospital. Prisoner said “If his mate was there he would serve him the same – they had sneaked his watch and chain”.

By the prisoner: The whole of you were refused drink at the Chequers.

Superintendent Taylor asked for a remand on the charge of assault.

Prisoner said the two men he was with stole his watch. One of them “blowed” him on the forehead, and they both fell down the steps together. He called for a police sergeant.

He was fined 5s. and 5s. 6d. costs, or 14 days` for drunkenness, and on the second charge remanded for a week, Superintendent Taylor objecting to bail being granted.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 23-6-1894

Monday, June 18^th: Before Alderman Herbert and Mr. J. Brooke

Arthur Briggs was brought up on remand, charged with assaulting James Stiff, who is at present in the Victoria Hospital with a broken leg.

Dr. Chambers said it would probably be a month before Stiff could attend and the prisoner was again remanded.

Prisoner`s brother was offered as bail in £10, and the case adjourned for enquiries to be made.

On Tuesday morning, however,   the prisoner`s brother declined to enter into his promised bail, and the case was adjourned for 14 days.

Folkestone Express 23-6-1894

Monday, June 18^th: Before J. Brooke and W.G. Herbert Esqs.

Arthur Briggs was charged on remand with assaulting a man named Stiff by kicking him and breaking his leg.

Dr. W.F. Chambers, house surgeon at the Victoria Hospital, said the man Stiff had a fracture of both bones of the right leg. He was unable to attend, and would not be able to for another month.

The prisoner: Do you think it would be likely to be done by a kick?

Dr. Chambers: It would be likely to be caused by a kick.

Prisoner: Would it be as likely to be caused by a fall as a kick?

Dr. Chambers said it would.

Superintendent Taylor asked for a further remand, and it was granted. Prisoner`s brother offered to give bail, and the matter was adjourned until the next day in order that the police might enquire as to his position.

On Tuesday the brother declined to give bail. 

Folkestone Chronicle 7-7-1894

Local News

The appeal of Mr. H. Jordan against the application order made by the Maidstone Magistrates recently was heard at the Maidstone Quarter Sessions on Thursday. Judgement was given for the appellant, and the order of the Magistrates was quashed.

Tuesday, July 3^rd: Before The Mayor, Alderman Pledge, and Mr. J. Fitness.

Arthur Briggs appeared on remand, charged with wilfully and maliciously inflicting injury on James Stiff on the night of the 9^th of June.

Prosecutor was brought from the hospital and was allowed to sit during the hearing of the evidence. He said he was a bricklayer, residing at 75, Dover Street, and that on the night in question he saw the prisoner at Mr. Jordan`s, the South Foreland Hotel, between nine and ten o`clock, when he asked witness if he would treat him. Witness refused to do so, and prisoner called him everything he could lay his tongue to. The landlord, or landlady, said they did not want any bother there, and he went out, followed by prisoner, who was not exactly a stranger to him. When outside they had a word or two, and when prisoner was about two yards away from him, he sprang at witness and kicked him in the leg. The result was that witness fell down, and found that his right leg was broken. He had not threatened the prisoner before he kicked him. He shoved him away from him, but that was inside. When down on the ground prisoner stood over him, and the police came. A man present, who had seen the kick, said it was a brutal shame, and witness was there and then taken to the hospital, where he had been ever since.

In cross-examination witness said: I was not refused drink that evening at The Compasses. I did not speak to you at all, and there were not three of us there altogether.

Edward Court, gardener, 51, Warren Road, said he was coming round the corner of Jordan`s from Dover Street on the night in question about 10 o`clock, when he saw the prisoner kick a man, who fell down. The man was standing sideways to the prisoner when he was kicked. It was just outside of Jordan`s door. When on the ground the prosecutor said “You have done something for me now. You have kicked me and broken my leg”. Prisoner replied “I wish I had broken both both your legs, you ----, and if your mate was here I would serve him the same”.

Cross-examined, witness said a police sergeant was present and heard what was said.

Police Sergeant Lilley said he was passing the South Foreland about 10 minutes to 10 on the night of the 9^th of June, and saw prisoner talking to a man. He did not think it was prosecutor. When about 15 yards past the house he heard a scuffle and saw prisoner and prosecutor fighting, and both struck one another. He saw the prosecutor fall, and he went to him and told prisoner to go away or he would be locked up. Witness told prosecutor to get up, when he said he could not, as his leg was broken. One of the bystanders said something to prisoner, who said “Serve the ---- right. I wish I had broke both his legs. He stole my watch and chain”. Witness sent for the ambulance and conveyed the prosecutor to the hospital. Prisoner was drunk, and witness thought prosecutor was under the influence of drink.

Dr. Chambers, surgeon of the Victoria Hospital, said he was present when the prosecutor was brought into the hospital. He found a fracture of both bones of the right leg. It was now practically healed, but it would be some time before prosecutor would be able to walk.

In cross-examination, witness said he could not tell if the injury was the result of a fall or a kick.

Re-examined, Dr. Chambers said he did not think prosecutor was perfectly sober when brought in, but he was sensible and talked all right.

The prisoner, in answer to the question whether he had anything to say why he should not be committed for trial, amde the following statement:- This gentleman (the prosecutor) and his companion asked me to have a drink. I said I would not, as I could not return it till I had my watch and chain back again. The gentleman`s companion took them from my pocket. We went into The Compasses public house, kept by Mr. Kirby. He called for some beer, but was refused. We came out, and I asked the man for my watch and chain, and he told me to go to ----. I followed them to Jordan`s and patted him on the back and said “Give me my watch and chain or there`ll be a bother”. I came out and the man came out, and this gentleman afterwards. This gentleman said “What`s the matter with you?” I said “I want my watch and chain”, when he gave me a blow on the forehead. I struck him and we both fell to the ground together. That`s all.

Prisoner was then committed for trial at the next Quarter Sessions, and was liberated on bail, one surety of £10, and himself in £10.

Note: The Compasses poses a mystery. No house in Folkestone of that name appears in More Tales From The Tap Room, and in the records of licensees at this period, the only Kirby is listed as being at the Royal Oak. The report in the Express, however, says they were refused at the Chequers, still giving Kirby as the landlord, although he doesn`t transfer there until August!

Folkestone Express 7-7-1894

Local News

At the West Kent Quarter Sessions on Thursday, the appeal in the case of Jessop v Jordan was heard, and decided in favour of Mr. Jordan with costs. It will be remembered that it was an affiliation case.

Tuesday, July 2^nd: Before The Mayor, J. Fitness esq., and Alderman Pledge.

Arthur Briggs, a tailor, was charged on remand with kicking James Stiff on the 9^th June, and breaking his leg.

James Stiff said: I am a bricklayer, and live at 75, Dover Street. On the 9^th of June, in the evening, I saw the prisoner in Mr. Jordan`s, the South Foreland, between nine and ten o`clock. I went in the front bar. The prisoner was there. We had no conversation when I went in. He asked me if I would treat him, and I refused. He called me bad names, and the landlord or landlady said they didn`t want any bother there, and I went out. Prisoner followed me. He was not quite a stranger to me – I had seen him before. Outside we had a word or two. He was three yards from me, and he sprang and kicked me on the leg. I fell down and said he had broken my leg. I had used no threat towards him. I shoved him away from me before he kicked me – that was inside the house. A policeman who was there asked me what was the matter. I told him I had broken my leg. A man standing over me said it was a brutal shame. I was taken to the Hospital.

By the prisoner: I was not refused beer at any house that night. I did not speak to you at all. I did not push you inside Mr. Jordan`s, or strike you. I had no companion with me, and you were not with me. You struck at me like a mad man.

Edward Crouch, gardener, 51, Warren Road said on the 9^th of June, about ten o`clock, he was coming round by the South Foreland, and saw the prisoner kick the complainant, who fell down. H waited until the ambulance came.

By the prisoner: I don`t know the reason why you kicked him. I did not see him strike you. Stiff looked up and said “You`ve done something for me now, you ----, you`ve broken my leg“. Defendant said “I wish I had broke both your legs, you ----. If your mate was here, I`d serve him the same”.

By the Mayor: I heard no altercation between the men previously.

By the prisoner: The Sergeant told you he should want you presently.

Sergeant Lilley said about ten minutes to ten on the night of the 9^th of June he was passing the South Foreland and saw prisoner talking to another man outside the door. He thought it was not the prosecutor, but could not say. When he was about fifteen yards away he heard a scuffle, and saw the prosecutor and prisoner fighting. He saw them both strike one another and saw prosecutor fall. He went up to him, and told prisoner to go away, and pushed him towards Radnor Street, telling him if he didn`t go he would lock him up. He then told prosecutor to get up and go away. He replied “I can`t – he`s kicked me and broke my leg”. Prisoner followed him and stood close, and in answer to a remark made by a bystander, prosecutor said “The ---- monkey has kicked me and broke my leg”. A bystander said something to prisoner, who replied “Serve the ---- right. I wish I`d broke both his ---- legs. He stole my watch and chain”. He sent for the ambulance and conveyed prosecutor to the Hospital. Prisoner was drunk, and he thought prosecutor was under the influence of drink.

Dr. W.F. Chambers, House Surgeon at the Victoria Hospital, said prosecutor had a comminuted fracture of the right leg, and had remained in the Hospital till that morning. The fracture was practically healed, but it would be some time before he would be able to walk.

By the prisoner: I cannot say whether it was done by a fall or a kick. It might have been the result of either.

Prosecutor said, in answer to the evidence of Sergeant Lilley, that they did not fight outside. There was a scuffle.

Prisoner made the following statement: This gentleman and his companion asked me to have a drink, and I said I could not return it till I sold my watch and chain. This gentleman`s companion took it from my pocket. We went into the Chequers public house (Mr. Kirby`s). This gentleman called for beer, and was refused. When we came out I asked the man for my watch and chain. He told me to go to ----. I followed them to r. Jordan`s public house and followed them in. I patted the man on the back and asked him for my watch and cjain, or there would be a bother. I came out. The man I accused of taking my watch and chain came first, and this gentleman afterwards. This gentleman said “What`s the matter?” I said “I want my watch and chain”. He said “Get out with you”, and gave me a blow on my forehead. I struck him and we fell to the ground.

The Bench committed prisoner for trial, offering to take bail, one surety and himself in £10.

Folkestone Herald 14-7-1894

Local Jottings

At the West Kent Quarter Sessions at Maidstone, Mr. J.G. Talbot, M.P. presiding, the case of Harry Jordan (publican of Folkestone) v Jessop came on for hearing. This was an appeal made against a maintenance order. Mr. Glyn and Mr. Matthew were for the appellant, and Mr. Hohler for the respondent.

Defendant was sworn, and deposed that he was a married man and had a family. He emphatically denied all the allegations made in the respondent`s evidence.

Other witnesses having been examined, the Bench allowed the appeal with costs.

Folkestone Up To Date 19-7-1894

Quarter Sessions

Saturday, July 14^th: Before John Lewis Coward Esq.

Arthur Briggs was charged with unlawfully and maliciously inflicting bodily harm upon James Stiff, on the 9^th June at Folkestone.

Mr. Matthew appeared for the prosecution. Prisoner pleaded Not Guilty.

The Recorder asked if he would like to have counsel. On receiving a reply in the affirmative, he appointed Mr. Tassel to defend him.

It was a simple case, and arose out of a public house brawl. Both prisoner and prosecutor were the worse for drink.

Mr. Tassel smartly cross-examined the witnesses and made a very clear address to the jury, pointing out that there was no case against the prisoner.

The Recorder also addressed the jury, and he was acquitted.

Folkestone Chronicle 21-7-1894

Quarter Sessions

Saturday, July 14^th: Before J.C.L. Coward Esq.

Arthur Briggs, 40, tailor, was charged with unlawfully and maliciously inflicting grievous bodily harm upon James Stiff on the 9^th of June, and pleaded Not Guilty.

Mr. Matthew prosecuted, and the Recorder directed Mr. Tassell to defend the prisoner.

The particulars of the evidence have recently been published. The prosecutor and prisoner were at the South Foreland on the night in question, quarrelling, and had to leave. Just outside the door the prosecutor alleged that prisoner sprang at him and kicked him and broke his leg.

A witness also corroborated this, although he saw no other part of the quarrel. Police Sergeant Lilley`s evidence was that the two men were fighting. The prisoner was drunk, the prosecutor fell down, and witness found him on the ground with his leg broken. Dr. Chambers, of the Victoria Hospital, where prosecutor was taken, said he could not tell whether the broken leg was caused by a blow or a fall.

Mr. Tassell, for the defence, said the question was whether the injury was caused by the aggressive act of the prisoner. The evidence of the policeman was the most important and most to be relied on. He had the greatest possible respect for the police of England. (The Recorder: In this case. (Laughter)) The police were often pleased to give evidence that would convict a prisoner, and when they gave evidence that told in his favour, it must be considered evidence of the weightiest kind. He believed that both the prisoner and the prosecutor were the worse for liquor at the time, and he confidently asked the jury for a verdict in favour of the prisoner.

The Recorder summed up briefly, and the jury, without leaving the box, returned a verdict of Not Guilty.

In discharging the prisoner, the Recorder said he had had a narrow escape. He advised him strongly to keep away from the drink.

Folkestone Express 21-7-1894

Quarter Sessions

Saturday, July 14^th: Before J.C. Lewis Coward Esq.

Arthur Briggs was indicted for unlawfully and maliciously inflicting grievous bodily harm on James Stiff. There were tow other counts, one of causing actual bodily harm, and the other for common assault. Mr. Matthew prosecuted. Prisoner was undefended, and the Recorder asked Mr. Tassell to undertake the defence.

The facts of this case have been very recently reported. The parties had been drinking on a Saturday night, and on leaving the public house there was an altercation, and it was alleged that the prisoner ran at the prosecutor and kicked him, thereby breaking his leg.

The Recorder, in summing up, pointed out to the jury that the evidence of the prosecutor was contradicted in two important particulars. He said he was not drunk and not fighting. Dr. Chambers deposed that he was drunk when admitted to the hospital, and the police sergeant proved that the men were fighting. If the jury thought it was a drunken brawl, and there was a free fight, they would not find the prisoner guilty of the charge, and with reference to his remark that he wished he had broken both the prosecutor`s legs, he said the language of a drunken man must not be held too strongly against him.

The jury returned a verdict of Not Guilty.

The Recorder, addressing the prisoner, said: Keep off the drink, or you will find yourself in serious trouble. I know a good deal about you. You have got a good deal here, and let this be a warning to you. You have had a narrow escape this time and now you keep off the drink.

Folkestone Chronicle 5-9-1896

 

Thursday, September 3^rd: Before Messrs. J. Fitness, J. Pledge, and Col. Fynmore.

Edward Charles Plaistow was charged with obtaining £8 by means of false pretences from Gerald Spencer Hertslet on August 21^st.

Prosecutor stated that he was in partnership with his brother as proprietors of the Alexandra Hotel, Harbour Street. He had known prisoner as a customer for about six weeks. He came into the bar on 21^st August about half past seven in the evening. He asked witness to change a cheque for him. He said he was staying with Mr. Kemp, who would change it, but that he had no banking account. Witness agreed to change the cheque. Prisoner drew a cheque on the London Bank, signing it Edward Charles Plaistow. The endorsement in the cheque was in the handwriting of witness`s brother and partner. He gave prisoner £6 10s. in change, all he had at the time, and the balance on the Sunday. Prisoner said the cheque was all right. Prisoner had a banking account at the National Provincial Bank in his brother`s name. Witness received the cheque from his brother on 26^th, and saw it was endorsed “Account Closed”. On 24^th August, prisoner asked witness to cash another cheque, but he told him the other had not gone through, and of course he would not cash another until that was cleared. Witness knew prisoner was lodging at 17, Dover Street.

Prisoner was remanded until Wednesday next.

Folkestone Express 5-9-1896

Thursday, September 3^rd: Before J. Fitness, J. Pledge, and R.J. Fynmore Esqs.

Edmund Charles Cranston was charged with obtaining £8 by means of false pretences from Mr. Hertslet, of the Alexandra Hotel.

Prosecutor said he was in business with his brother. Prisoner, who he knew as a customer for six weeks, went to the bar of the hotel about half past seven in the evening on August 21^st, and asked witness to change a cheque for him. He said he was staying with Mr. Kemp, who would have cashed it, but he had not a banking account. Witness then cashed the cheque, which prisoner drew, and it was endorsed by witness`s brother, E.C. Hertslet. He gave prisoner £6 10s. – all the change he had at the time, and the balance on Sunday, the 23<sup>rd</sup>, when he said the cheque was all right. It was paid into his brother`s account at the National Provincial Bank, and returned and handed to witness by his brother on the 26^th, endorsed “Account Closed”. On the 24^th August, before the cheque was returned, prisoner went to the hotel and asked witness to cash another cheque, but he declined, as the other one had not gone through. He knew prisoner was lodging at 17, Dover Street.

Remanded till Wednesday

Folkestone Herald 5-9-1896

Police Court Report

Edward Charles Plaistow, giving a London address, was charged on Thursday morning (Mr. Fitness presiding) with having by false pretences obtained £8 from Gerald Spencer Hertslett on the 21^st August. The prisoner lodged at the Alexandra Hotel, Harbour Street, of which prosecutor and his brother are proprietors. On the day named prisoner asked prosecutor to cash him a cheque for £8, saying that Mr. Kemp, with whom he had been lodging, would have changed it, but he had no banking account. Prosecutor ultimately cashed the cheque, handing over £6 10s. to prisoner in the evening, and £1 10s. next morning, prisoner saying that the cheque was all right. On being presented at the National Provincial Bank it was returned, the account having been closed.

Remanded for a week.

Folkestone Chronicle 12-9-1896

Wednesday, September 9^th: Before Messrs. J. Fitness, T.J. Vaughan, J.R. Davy, J. Pledge, and J. Salter, and Colonel Fynmore.

Edward Charles Cranston was brought up on remand charged with obtaining by false pretences the sum of £8 from Bernard Hertslet. He was further charged with obtaining £5 from Harry Jordan. The cases were heard together.

The evidence of Mr. Hertslet was read over, as already reported. He now said when he gave prisoner change for the cheque, some of it was in Postal Orders and a bank cheque.

George Edward Chandos Davies, cashier at the Folkestone branch of the National Provincial Bank, said Mr. Hertslet was a customer of the bank. He paid in the cheque produced on Aug. 22^nd. It was sent to the clearing house and returned on Aug. 26^th, marked “Account Closed”.

Harry Jordan, landlord of the South Foreland Hotel, said he had known prisoner as a customer since the last season on and off. On 21^st August he came into his house and asked if he would cash him a cheque for £5. Witness said he would if he had money enough to meet it. He replied “That`s alright, Mr. Jordan, you need not be afraid of that”. He asked for pen and ink, and pulled out his cheque book and wrote a cheque (produced) for £5, drawn on a Huntingdon Bank. Witness endorsed the cheque, and paid it to a customer, a tradesman in the town. It was returned through their bank marked “Account Closed”. It was paid to Salmon and Gluckstein. Witness saw the prisoner, and asked him what he meant by giving a cheque when he had no money to meet it. He replied “That will be all right, Mr. Jordan, you need not trouble about that. My sister has plenty of money – she keeps an hotel. I`ll wire to her”. Witness accompanied him to the telegraph office, and then he sent a telegram in his (Witness`s) presence. Witness had not received his money.

Samuel Elliott Armstrong said he was a clerk in the bank of Messrs. Vesey and Co., of Huntingdon. They formerly had a customer named Edward Cranston. He recognised the prisoner as that man. He produced a copy of prisoner`s account. The account was opened May 5^th, 1894, and £414 10s. was paid in. Thirty cheques were issued to him. This account was closed May 25^th, 1895. No other cheques except those produced had been presented for payment. Thirty eight cheques in all were drawn by prisoner. There had not been a second issue of cheques so far as witness knew.

By Mr. Davy: The cheques produced were issued to prisoner`s sister.

Harry Frederick Carpenter, clerk in Lloyd`s Bank, Folkestone, said they had customers named Salmon and Gluckstein. They paid in the cheque (produced) for £5 on 22^nd August. It was returned marked “Account Closed”

Prisoner, who said he had nothing to say, was committed for trial at the next Quarter Sessions for the Borough.

Folkestone Express 12-9-1896

Wednesday, September 9^th: Before J. Fitness, J.R. Davy, T.J. Vaughan, J. Pledge, R.J. Fynmore, and W. Salter Esqs.

Edmund Charles Cranston was charged on remand with obtaining £8 from Mr. Hertslet by false pretences.

Gerald Spencer Hertslet`s evidence, given on the last occasion, was read over. It will be remembered that it was to the effect that he cashed a cheque for prisoner for £8, which was returned marked “Account Closed”. He added that the money he gave prisoner included two or three postal notes, a bank cheque for 10s., and the balance in gold.

George Edward Chandos Davis, cashier at the National Provincial Bank, said Mr. Bernard Carr Hertslet, a customer at the bank, paid the cheque produced into his account on the 22^nd August, and it was passed through the Clearing House in the usual way. On the 26^th it was returned endorsed “Account Closed”.

Henry Phillips Jordan, landlord of the South Foreland, Seagate Street, said he had known prisoner since last season as a customer. On the 21^st August he went to the house about three o`clock in the afternoon, and asked if he would cash a cheque for £5. He said he would if it was all right, and he (prisoner) had money enough to meet it. Prisoner said “Oh, that`s all right – you need not be afraid of that”. He asked for pen and ink and took out a cheque book and filled up the cheque produced for £5. (This cheque was on a bank at Huntingdon.) Witness endorsed it, and paid it away to Salmon and Gluckstein, in the town, in the evening. It was returned to Salmon and Gluckstein, who took it back to him. It was marked “Account Closed”. He paid the £5, and afterwards saw prisoner, whome he asked what he meant by giving him a cheque when he had no money to meet it. Prisoner replied “That`ll be all right, Mr. Jordan; you need not trouble about that. My sister has got plenty of money. She keeps an hotel, and I`ll wire to her”. They went together to the telegraph office, and prisoner wired to his sister. The money had not been paid. He parted with his money believing the cheque was good for the amount for which it was written.

Sam Elliott Armstrong, clerk in the bank of Messrs. Vesey and Co., Huntingdon, said the bank had once had a customer named Edward Charles Cranston, and he recognised prisoner as the man. He produced a copy of the prisoner`s account in the Bank books. The account was opened May 5<sup>th</sup>, 1894, and £414 10s. was paid in. A book of 30 cheques was issued to him. The account was closed May 25<sup>th</sup>, 1895. He could not say positively whether notice was given to prisoner of its being closed, but undoubtedly it was given. Thirty eight cheques had been drawn. He did not think a second cheque book was issued to prisoner. (The cheques produced were not taken from the book first issued to him.) Witness said the cheques were taken from a book issued to prisoner`s sister, who had an account at the Bank.

Harry Frederick Carpenter, cashier in Lloyd`s Bank, said the cheque produced was paid into the Bank by Salmon and Gluckstein on the 22^nd of August, and it was returned on the 26^th marked “Account Closed”

Prisoner was then formally charged with obtaining money by false pretences both from Mr. Hertslet and Mr. Jordan, and in answer said he had nothing to say.

He was committed for trial at the Quarter Sessions.

Folkestone Herald 12-9-1896

Police Court Report

On Wednesday – Mr. Fitness presiding – Edmund Charles Cranston was charged on remand with having, by false pretences, obtained £8 from Gerald Spencer Hertslett, in the 21^st August. It will be remembered that the prisoner lodged at the Alexandra Hotel, Harbour Street, of which prosecutor and his brother are the proprietors. On the day in question the prisoner asked the prosecutor to cash him a cheque for £8, which prosecutor at length did, prisoner saying the cheque was all right. When presented at the National Provincial Bank the cheque was returned, the account having been closed.

Mr. H.P. Jordan, of the South Foreland, Seagate Street, gave evidence as to the prisoner having been a customer. On the 21^st ult. he asked witness to cash a cheque for £5, which he did, after asking prisoner if it was all right. He paid it to Salmon and Gluckstein, Folkestone, who afterwards returned it to him, marked “Account Closed”. Prisoner said his sister would pay the money, but it had not been paid.

The Bench committed prisoner for trial at the next Quarter Sessions.

Folkestone Visitors` List 14-10-1896

The Court of Quarter Sessions was held on Monday. Mr. Lewis Coward was the Recorder.

There were two counts against Cranston, who presented “cheques” to two tradesmen in Folkestone, and who had no means to meet them. Such gentlemen do “show up” now and again, perhaps in order to remind foolish tradesmen of what the List has reminded them over and over again.

The prisoner was charged with having received money by false pretences, or in other words, with having presented cheques and “got the cash” on account of cheques which had no backbone – that is to say, there was no money in the bank to meet them.

And he committed the crime in such a simple way. He merely presented his cheques and got his “change”. After all that has been stated regarding persons changing cheques and postal orders, it is difficult to conceive who is most to blame, the person who passes the cheques, or the one who accepts it. Locally we have given warnings so often that we cannot sympathise with the losers.

It would, perhaps, be out of place were we to criticise the Recorder`s sentence, but Mr. Lewis Coward has in this case erred on the side of leniency, if at all. Three months on each count against Cranston was not an excessive sentence against a man who deliberately represented that he was a man of means, and had not even an account at the bank. But the learned Recorder, we have no doubt, took the view we have taken all along in cases of the kind, and if tradesmen cannot bear in mind what the Bench and the Press have hitherto taught them, perhaps they will learn by experience. It is said that experience is the best schoolmaster.

Folkestone Chronicle 17-10-1896

Quarter Sessions

Monday, October 11^th: Before J.C. Lewis Coward Esq.

The Grand Jury having found a true bill on two indictments, Edmund Charles Cranston, 25, imperfectly educated, described as a trimmer, was first indicted for unlawfully obtaining by false pretences, from Gerald Spencer Hertslet, a cheque, value 10s., three postal orders, £1 each, and £4 10s. in cash, on Aug. 21^st. He pleaded Guilty.

Mr. Matthew, who appeared to prosecute, briefly went over the facts of the case, which we fully reported at the time.

Prisoner was then indicted for obtaining the sum of £5 from Henry Phillips Jordan on the same day. Mr. Bowles prosecuted. Prisoner pleaded Guilty to this charge also.

Superintendent Taylor said the prisoner was connected with very respectable people in St. Neots, where his mother formerly kept an hotel. He was first apprenticed to an ironmonger, but was lazy, and would not work. His mother then sent him to America for two years in the hope he would alter. On his return he was employed as an engineer`s trimmer. At his mother`s death he received £400. He was in Folkestone twelve months ago, and that was how he was known. None of his relatives were present, as they would have nothing to do with him. He had tired their patience out. He was in very bad health.

The Recorder told the prisoner unless he pulled up he would find himself in a very awkward position. He had had a very good chance. He (the Recorder) saw by prisoner`s pass book that in less than a year he had expended the £400. He knew perfectly well when he gave the cheques that he had no money to meet them. He would be sentenced to three months` hard labour on each charge, the terms not to run concurrently.

Folkestone Express 17-10-1896

Quarter Sessions

Monday, October 12^th: Before John Charles Lewis Coward Esq.

Edmund Charles Cranston, 25, was indicted for obtaining by false pretences from Gerald Spencer Hertslet a banker`s cheque, value 10s., and three postal money orders for the payment of 20s. each, and the sum of £4 10s. in money, the money and goods of the said Gerald Spencer Hertslet and another, with intent to defraud, on 21^st August, 1896, at Folkestone. He was further indicted for obtaining by false pretences the sum of £5 in money from Henry Phillips Jordan with intent to defraud, on the day, year and place last before written. He pleaded Guilty.

It will be remembered that the prisoner induced the prosecutors to cash cheques for him, and when they were presented it was discovered that the account was closed, and had been for a long time.

Superintendent Taylor, in answer to the Recorder, said the prisoner was connected with some very respectable people in St. Neots. His mother formerly kept a large hotel there. Prisoner had been apprenticed to a trade, but was lazy, and would not follow it, and his mother sent him to America, but when he came back he was just the same as ever. He was then employed as a coach trimmer. At the death of his mother about £400 came to him, with which he opened an account at the Bank. He appeared to have lived on that money ever since. He was down at Folkestone twelve months ago, and that was how he came to know the Alexandra and Mr. Jordan`s house.

The Recorder: Is he quite right in his mind?

Superintendent Taylor: I think so. He is in very bad health, I must say.

The Recorder: Any relatives here?

Superintendent Taylor: No, sir. They will not have anything to do with him. They are people in good positions, but he has tired their patience out.

The Recorder, in addressing the prisoner, said he had pleaded Guilty to an offence which the law regarded as a serious one for a man 25 years of age. If he did not pull himself up short, he would find himself in a very awkward place at some time or other in his life. He appeared to have had a good chance, which he had thrown away. His Bank book showed that less than two years ago he had over £400, and on the 25^th of May last his account was balanced, and he drew out £2 4s. 9d. – the very last farthing, and he knew perfectly well there was not a farthing left. Yet he defrauded those tradesmen by drawing cheques while he had not a penny piece to meet them. The sentence of the Court was that he be imprisoned for three months with hard labour – the sentences not to run concurrently – that would be six months hard labour.

The Court then rose, the proceedings having lasted just an hour.

Folkestone Herald 17-10-1896

Quarter Sessions

Monday, October 11^th: Before J.C. Lewis Coward Esq.

Edmund Charles Cranston, aged 25, of imperfect education, described as a trimmer, was indicted for unlawfully obtaining by false pretences, from Gerald Spencer Hertslet, a bankers` cheque, value 10s., and three postal money orders for the payment of 20s. each, and the sum of £4 10s. in money, the monies and goods of the said Gerald Spencer Hertslet and another, with intent to defraud, on 21^st August, at Folkestone, and also for unlawfully obtaining by false pretences the sum of £5 from Henry Phillips Jordan, with intent to defraud, on the same day at Folkestone.

Mr. Matthew prosecuted in the first case, and Mr. Bowles on the other. The prisoner pleaded Guilty to both charges.

Mr. Matthew said the prisoner stayed at the Alexandra Hotel, kept by Mr. Hertslet and his brother,, and Mr. Hertslet cashed a cheque on a bank at Huntingdon for £8, and it was afterwards found that the prisoner`s account at the bank was closed.

Mr. Bowles said in the second case, Mr. Jordan, proprietor of the South Foreland, cashed the cheque, the prisoner having been a customer of his. Mr. Jordan first asked whether prisoner had an account at the bank, and prisoner said it was all right.

Mr. John Taylor, Superintendent of the Borough Police, said that the prisoner was connected with some very respectable people at St. Neots. His mother kept a large hotel, and the prisoner was apprenticed to an ironmonger, but he was lazy and did not get on, so he was sent to America, but when he came back he was the same, and turned his mind to coach trimming. On the death of his mother £400 came to him, and he then opened an account at the bank. He appeared to be living on it ever since,, and he was at Folkestone 12 months before. He seemed to be in his right mind, but was in bad health. His relations would have nothing more to do with him.

The Recorder said the prisoner had pleaded Guilty to a very serious offence. He appeared to have a good chance of pulling up, which he had thrown away. On My 25^th last there was only a balance at the bank of 4s. 9d. to the prisoner`s credit, and notice was given to him, so he knew perfectly well when he drew the cheques that he was defrauding these tradesmen. He would be imprisoned on each of the two indictments to three months with hard labour, the sentences not to run concurrently.  

 

Folkestone Up To Date 17-10-1896

Quarter Sessions

Monday: Before John Charles Lewis Coward Esq.

Edmund Charles Cranston, 25, was indicted for obtaining by false pretences from Gerald Spencer Hertslet a bankers` cheque, value 10s., and three postal orders for the payment of 20s. each, and the sum of £4 10s. in money, the money and goods of the said Gerald Spencer Herslet and another, with intent to defraud, on 21^st August, 1896, at Folkestone. He was further indicted for obtaining by false pretences the sum of £5 in money from Henry Phillips Jordan with intent to defraud “on the day, year and place last before written”. He pleaded Guilty.

It will be remembered that the prisoner induced the prosecutors to cash cheques for him, and when they were presented it was discovered that the account was closed and had been for a long time.

Superintendent Taylor, in answer to the Recorder, said the prisoner was connected with some very respectable people at St. Neots. His mother formerly kept a large hotel there. Prisoner had been apprenticed to a trade, but was lazy and would not follow it, and his mother sent him to America, but when he came back he was just the same as ever. He was then employed as a coal trimmer (sic). At the death of his mother about £400 came to him, with which he opened an account at the bank. He appeared to have lived on that money ever since. He was down at Folkestone twelve months ago, and that was how he came to know the Alexandra and Mr. Jordan`s house.

The Recorder: Is he quite right in his mind?

Superintendent Taylor: I think so. He is in very bad health, I must say.

The Recorder: Any relatives here?

Superintendent Taylor: No, sir. They will; not have anything to do with him. They are people in good positions, but he has tired their patience out.

The Recorder, in addressing the prisoner, said he had pleaded guilty to an offence which the law regarded as a serious one, and it was a serious one for a man 25 years of age, If he did not pull himself up short, he would find himself in a very awkward place at some time or other in his life. He appeared to have had a good chance, which he had thrown away. His bank book showed that less than two years ago he had over £400, and on the 25^th of May last his account was balanced, and he drew out £2 4s. 9d. – the very last farthing – and he knew perfectly well there was not a farthing left. Yet he defrauded those tradesmen by drawing cheques while he had not a penny piece to meet them. The sentence of the Court was that he be imprisoned for three months with hard labour – the sentences not to run concurrently – that would be six months` hard labour.

Sandgate Weekly News 17-10-1896

Quarter Sessions

Monday: Before J.C, Lewis Coward Esq.

Edward Charles Cranston, described as a trimmer, was indicted for unlawfully obtaining by false pretences from Gerald Spencer Hertslet, a cheque, value 10s., three postal orders, £1 each, and £4 10s. in cash, on August 21^st, and for obtaining the sum of £5 from Henry Phillips Jordan by false pretences on the same day. Prisoner pleaded Guilty, and was sentenced to three months` hard labour on each charge, the terms not to run concurrently.

Southeastern Gazette 20-10-1896

Quarter Sessions

The Borough Quarter Sessions were held at the Town Hail on the 12th inst. before the Recorder (Mr. J. C. Lewis Coward).

Edmund Charles Cranston was indicted for obtaining, by false pretences, from Gerald Spencer Hertsed the sum of £6, and from Henry Philip Jordan £5 with intent to defraud.

Prisoner, who pleaded guilty, was sentenced to three months’ hard labour for each offence, the sentences not to run concurrently.

Folkestone Visitors` List 6-4-1898

Kaleidoscope

Mr. H. Jordan, of the South Foreland Hotel, had a very narrow escape from a disastrous fire on his premises on Sunday morning last. It appears that a fire had been used on Saturday night in the children`s nursery, which is immediately above the public bar of the hotel, and that in raking it out the servant must have left some smouldering embers which caught the flooring alight. On Sunday morning at eight o`clock a strong smell of burning was noticed, and Fireman Horace Adams was summoned by telephone and quickly arrived on the spot.

Folkestone Chronicle 9-4-1898

Local News

On Sunday morning a fire broke out in the South Foreland Hotel in the nursery. It appears that, in raking out the fire, the servant had sent some embers on to the floor. The fire was extinguished by Fireman Horace Adams. Three joists had been burnt through entirely.

Folkestone Express 18-3-1899

Monday, March 13^th: Before The Mayor, Colonel Westropp, J. Hoad, E.T. Ward, J. Pledge, T.J. Vaughan, and J. Stainer Esqs.

Thomas Hall pleaded Guilty to being drunk and disorderly in Seagate Street on Saturday. The defendant was ejected from the South Foreland, but refused to go away.

Mr. Jordan, the landlord, said the defendant followed two gentlemen into the private bar and wanted them to “stand him a drink”. They told him the wanted nothing to do with him, and he then used most disgusting language. He knew nothing as to what had happened in the street.

Defendant was before the Court a few weeks ago. He was sentenced to seven days` hard labour, without the option of a fine.

Folkestone Up To Date 18-3-1899

Monday, March 13^th: Before The Mayor, Col. Westropp, J. Hoad, E.T. Ward, T.J. Vaughan, J. Stainer, and J. Pledge Esqs.

Thomas Hall, a young man, was charged with being drunk and disorderly in Seagate Street on the previous Saturday.

A police constable said that while on duty in Seagate Street he saw the prisoner ejected from the South Foreland public house. Outside that resort the prisoner acted in a very disorderly manner, and insisted on going inside the house again.

Harry Jordan, of the South Foreland, Seagate Street, said that on the previous Saturday night the prisoner followed two gentlemen into the house. The prisoner was very drunk, and wanted the two gentlemen to stand him a drink. They said “We have nothing to do with you”, upon which the prisoner used some most disgusting language, and offered to challenge them out to fight.

The Court decided to send the offender to seven days` hard labour, without the option of a fine.