Marquis Of Lorne 1880s

Folkestone Chronicle 28-8-1880

Wednesday last was the Annual Licensing Day for the Borough of Folkestone, the magistrates on the Bench being The Mayor, Ald. Hoad, Capt. Crowe, and Ald. Caister.

The landlord of the Marquis Of Lorne was cautioned respecting the manner in which he kept his house.

Folkestone Express 28-8-1880

Wednesday, August 25^th: Before The Mayor, Captain Crowe, and Aldermen Caister and Hoad.

Annual Licensing Day

The existing licenses were all renewed, the only feature of note being that the licensee of the Marquis Of Lorne was cautioned.

Folkestone Express 6-5-1882

Thursday, May 4^th: Before The Mayor, Captain Carter, Dr. Bateman, Alderman Caister, W.J. Jeffreason and J. Clarke Esqs.

William Hart and John Newington, charged with being reputed thieves and frequenting Folkestone Harbour for the purpose of committing a felony, pleaded Not Guilty.

Henry Bailey, night watchman at the harbour, said he was on duty on Wednesday night, and saw the two prisoners, about half past ten, go over the bridge from the Harbour Station. He was standing behind a coal truck. Prisoners got into a boat and pulled out into the harbour, and were away about twenty minutes or half an hour. They were taken into custody by a policeman.

William Hall, landlord of the Marquis Of Lorne, said about ten o`clock on Wednesday night, in consequence of what Bailey told him, he went with others in a boat and rowed among the boats in the harbour. When they were near the East Pier he saw Newington get out of Starling`s boat, The Bessie, No. 199. They rowed alongside and asked prisoners what they were doing. They replied “Nothing”. He said he had seen Newington get out of Starling`s boat. He asked whose ferry boat they had got, and they replied “Mr. Sturgess`s”. He advised them to run ashore, and as they declined, witness and Robert Fagg towed her ashore with the prisoners in her. Prisoners stood on the quay until P.C. Knowles and P.C. Swain arrived, when Mr. Starling gave thm in charge.

Robert Starling, owner of the fishing boat Bessie, said the prisoners were not in his employ, nor did they have any business on board his boat. He had several times missed things from his boats during the past week. He knew one of the prisoners. The other was a “foreigner” to him.

The prisoners were remanded until Saturday.

Folkestone Express 13-5-1882

Saturday, May 6^th: Before The Mayor, Captain Carter, Alderman Caister and W. Bateman Esq.

The two young men, Newington and Hart, were brought up on remand, charged with wandering about at the harbour with intent to commit a felony. It will be remembered that they were apprehended on Wednesday night about 10.30, when Newington was seen to get out of the lugger Bessie.

Sergeant Ovenden said he knew both the prisoners. He had seen them about the town, and they appeared to do very little to obtain a livelihood. They had not been in regular employment. He was in court on the 3^rd April, 1878, when Hewington was charged with vagrancy and sentenced to be imprisoned for one month. He was also present on the 3^rd March, `81, when the same prisoner was charged with begging. He gave the name of James Smith on that occasion, and was sentenced to 14 days` hard labour. He had known prisoner to go to sea at times, and also to be engaged in chopping wood. The other prisoner was occasionally hawking fish, or sprat catching.

The witness Bailey, who was instrumental in causing the arrest of the prisoners, said he had known Hart from childhood. He had seen Newington before, but knew nothing of him. He had seen both of them about the harbour.

Newington said he went on board the boat to get a bit of fish for bait.

The Bench sentenced Newington to six weeks`, and Hart to four weeks` imprisonment with hard labour.

Folkestone Chronicle 27-1-1883

Saturday, January 20^th: Before The Mayor, Ald. Caister, J. Holden and W.J. Jeffreason Esqs.

William Hall, landlord of the Marquis Of Lorne, Radnor Street, was summoned for having unlawfully and knowingly suffered William Knowles, a police constable of the borough, to remain on his premises whilst on duty, he not being there for the execution of his duty.

Mr. Minter appeared for defendant.

Supt. Taylor said on the previous Saturday morning he went to the house in question, when defendant`s wife was in the bar, and Knowles was lounging in front, and in front of him a pint glass which had contained liquor. In answer to a question, “What are you doing here, Knowles” he replied “Nothing, Sir”, but afterwards said he had gone in to enquire about a little girl who had been assaulted, which he (witness) thought an afterthought.

In answer to Mr. Minter witness said Knowles was liable to be proceeded against, but he would be dealt with by the Watch Committee. With regard to the girl it was not his business to enquire about the matter, and it was for the purpose of making enquiries that led him (the Superintendent) to the house, when and where he met Knowles.

Mr. Minter said that the only distinction in the uniform of a policeman when on, and off duty, was that in the former case he wore an armlet, and how, he asked, was a publican to know that? He should call evidence to prove that Knowles did look in to enquire after the child, and that he had no liquor drawn for him.

Sarah Warman, servant at the Marquis Of Lorne, said she was in the house when the police constable came in and asked how the little girl was that was interfered with. He did not ask for any beer, nor was any drawn for him.

The Mayor said that the evidence was not sufficient to convict defendant and therefore dismissed the summons, but wished it to be known that any publican knowingly harbouring a policeman was liable to a penalty of £10.

Folkestone Express 27-1-1883

Saturday, January 20^th: Before The Mayor, Alderman Caister, J. Holden and W.J. Jeffreason Esqs.

William Hall, landlord of the Marquis Of Lorne, Radnor Street, was summoned for having unlawfully and knowingly suffered William Knowles, a police constable of the borough, to remain on his premises during the time of his being on duty, he not being there for the purpose of keeping or restoring order, or in the execution of his duty.

Mr. Minter appeared on behalf of the defendant, who pleaded Not Guilty.

Supt. Taylor said: On Saturday morning about half past nine, I went to the Marquis Of Lorne, Radnor Street, kept by the defendant. Defendant`s wife was behind the bar, and in fron of it P.C. Knowles was lounging. He had both arms on the counter, and was wearing his armlets, showing he was on duty. In front of him was a pint glass that had contained malt liquor. I said to him “What are you doing here, Knowles?” He replied “Nothing, sir”. I told him he had no business there, and I should report him for being out of his beat. He afterwards said he had gone in to enquire about the little girl that was assaulted. I told him that was evidently an afterthought, and that I should take proceedings against the house for having him there. I asked Mrs. Hall if she had supplied him with any drink, and she denied having done so.

In reply to Mr. Minter, the witness said Knowles was downstairs, but he did not propose to call him as a witness.

Mr. Minter: If he was, as you say, there whilst on duty, he is liable to be proceeded against? – Yes.

You have not proceeded against him? – He will be dealt with by the Watch Committee. It has nothing to do with this Court.

You say defendant was not in the house? – No, sir.

You don`t suggest that one of the Folkestone policemen would go into the house to get some beer? – This particular one might. (Laughter)

But it is a fact, I believe, that defendant`s little girl was knocked down the night before? – Yes. It was that which took me to the house.

Why then should you deny the notion that your man wanted to know as well as you? – He had no business to go near.

Not even to make enquiry about a little girl who had been injured? – No.

Mr. Minter addressed the Bench, submitting that it was not a serious case, and not one in which the Bench would be justified in inflicting a fine. They heard that defendant was not in the house, but he did not for a moment contend that he was not liable for the acts of his wife, who was conducting the business in his absence. He pointed out that the only distinction in the uniform of a policeman when on duty and when off was the wearing of an armlet, and how, he asked, was a publican to know that? He should call evidence to prove that Knowles did look in to ask after the child, and that he had no liquor drawn for him. And what was a landlord to do? He could not take hold of him and put him out. It was a dangerous thing to lay hands on a policeman, but surely, because a publican did not do so, he ought not to be charged with unlawfully suffering him to be there.

Sarah Warman, servant at the Marquis Of Lorne, said she was in the house when the police constable went in. She was standing in the passage. He asked her how the little girl was that was interfered with the previous night. She said that she did not know, for she was not in the house at the time. Her mistress came out of the bar parlour, and the constable enquired of her. He did not ask for any beer, and none was drawn for him.

The Mayor, at the conclusion of the case said the Bench had come to the conclusion that they would not be justified in convicting the defendant, and therefore dismissed the summons, but they wished it to be known that any publican who wilfully harboured a policeman was liable to a penalty of £10.

Folkestone News 23-5-1885

Monday, May 18^th: Before General Armstrong C.B., and F. Boykett Esq.

William Smith was charged with being drunk and disorderly on the 17^th inst.; also with assaulting a police constable, and with breaking a square of glass.

P.S. Pay said: About a quarter to ten o`clock last evening I was on duty in Radnor Street. I saw the prisoner there, drunk, shouting and swearing, and using obscene language. I went towards him, and then saw him break a square of glass with his fist. He was charged by Edward Heritage, landlord of the Marquis Of Lorne, with breaking the glass, and given into custody. He then became very violent and struck P.C. Scott a violent blow with his fist on the right side of the face.

P.C. Scott corroborated.

Noble Heritage, sister of the landlord of the Marquis Of Lorne, said the value of the glass was 2s. 6d.

Superintendent Taylor asked that the case should be severely dealt with, as prisoner was one of the flower sellers there had been so many complaints about.

The Mayor inflicted fines and damages amounting altogether to £1 4s. 6d. for the various offences, and prisoner was sent for 21 days` hard labour in default.

Folkestone Express 29-8-1885

Wednesday August 26^th:

The Annual Brewster Sessions were held on Wednesday. The Magistrates present were The Mayor, Dr. Bateman, Capt. Carter, Alderman Caister, F. Boykett and J. Clark Esqs.

The licence of the Marquis Of Lorne (James Heritage) was opposed by Supt. Taylor on the ground that the applicant was not the actual occupier of the premises and that they were conducted in a disorderly manner.

Sergt. Harman said the applicant lived at 85, Black Bull Road. On the 5^th of July he visited the house. Mrs. Heritage was standing behind the bar.

Mr. Mowll, who appeard in support of the application, said James Heritage, out of charity, put his brother`s wife into the house. His brother was now an inmate of Chartham Asylum. The woman was, he admitted, unable to control the class of people who frequented it, and he therefore asked that the application should be adjourned, and in the meantime he undertook to provide another tenant.

The Magistrates consented to this course.

Folkestone Express 24-7-1886

Wednesday, July 21^st: Before The Mayor, J. Clark, J. Fitness and J. Holden Esqs., and Alderman Caister

John Murphy, a private in the Manchester Regiment, was charged with assaulting Helena Nicholls on the 20^th July.

Complainant, a married woman, but not living with her husband, said she resided at No. 20, Radnor Street. On the 20^th July she met defendant in the Marquis Of Lorne at 10.30. She had a glass of stout. He asked her to have another, and she accepted it. When they left the Marquis Of Lorne they went to her house, five soldiers and herself. They stayed till half past twelve, and then she wished them to go. Four of them went, but defendant insisted on staying. She told him she had someone to meet. Defendant threatened to “smash her two eyes into one” if she did not let him stay, and he then struck her in the face and tripped her up. One of the other soldiers, hearing the noise, returned and remonstrated with his companion. She reported the case to an officer of the regiment.

Samuel Crouch, a private in the Manchester Regiment, said six of them went to complainant`s quarters after the public house closed. After they had drank the beer they left. Defendant stayed, and hearing a noise inside, he went back and saw the defendant knock complainant down and cut her head.

Sergt. Harman said the complainant showed him a cut on her head and bruises on her breast.

Private Banks said the whole five of them left the woman`s house together. He did not see defendant go back again.

Private Jackson also swore that the whole of the men left the house together, and Private Crouch went back. He saw no quarrelling and no blows struck. He saw the woman fighting previously in the Marquis Of Lorne with a navvy`s wife.

The Bench fined defendant 20s. and 16s. 6d. costs, or 14 days` hard labour.

Folkestone Chronicle 14-8-1886

Wednesday, August 11^th: Before The Mayor, Gen. Armstrong, F. Boykett and W.H. Poole Esqs.

William Paul was charged with permitting drunkenness on the premises of the Marquis of Lorne, Radnor Street, but as there was a doubt as to whether defendant supplied the liquor, the case was dismissed.

Folkestone Express 14-8-1886

Wednesday, August 11^th: Before The Mayor, General Armstrong, H.W. Poole and F. Boykett Esqs.

William Hadlow Paul was charged with permitting drunkenness in his house, the Marquis Of Lorne.

P.C. Lilley said on Sunday afternoon he was called to the defendant`s house. In the back yard he saw three men with their colthes off fighting. He enquired for the landlord and was told he was out. A man named Spratling, living there, said he was in charge. He called his attention to what was going on and said he should report the landlord for allowing it. He took the names and addresses of the three men, who, Spratling said, were lodgers at the house. He got them into the house, and saw the house closed. In the kitchen there was another man, lying dead-drunk on the table. About ten minutes after he went to the house with Sergeant Pay, and saw the “deputy”, who wished to give a man in charge for striking him. That man was not drunk, and they recommended him to summon him.

Sergeant Pay said about twenty minutes past three, one of the lodgers asked him to go to the Marquis Of Lorne, saying they were fighting with knives. He went there and found great disorder inside. He saw three men sitting there drunk and one lying helplessly drunk on the table.

P.C. Swift gave similar evidence.

Defendant said he was away from home at the time. The men were lodging at his house, but they did not get drunk there. He called Spratling, who said he was appointed defendant`s deputy on Saturday night. He was in the kitchen on Sunday morning. There were about fifteen lodgers. White and Murphy were annoying them. Murphy and Edwards went out and returned about two o`clock, drunk. White did not go out, and he was sober. He sent for the police because there was a disturbance. Murphy and Edwards were fighting in the yard. White tried to stop them, and the other two turned on him and beat him. A man they called “Bition” assaulted him for sending for the police. The man on the table was not asleep – only feigning. He had been out fighting in the morning. The men got their drink outside.

The Bench thought there was a doubt as to whether the men were supplied with drink in defendant`s house, and dismissed the summons.

William White was summoned for being drunk on licensed premises. He was unable to appear owing to the injuries he had received, and the summons was adjourned.

Superintendent Taylor said Murphy had absconded, and the summons against another man had not been served.

Southeastern Gazette 16-8-1886

Local News

At the police court on Wednesday, William Paul, the landlord of the Marquis of Lorne, Radnor Street, was dismissed with a caution on a charge of permitting drunkenness.

Folkestone Chronicle 25-9-1886

Monday, September 18^th: Before The Mayor, Dr. Bateman, Ald. Caister, J. Holden and J. Fitness Esqs.

John Rust was charged with being drunk and doing wilful damage at the Marquis Of Lorne Inn amounting to 5s.

The Bench considered that the landlord was not wholly free from blame in the matter, having given the prisoner drink.

Prisoner was fined 5s. and costs.

Folkestone Express 25-9-1886

Monday, September 20^th: Before The Mayor, Dr. Bateman, Alderman Caister, J. Holden and J. Fitness Esqs.

John Rust, a labouring man, was charged with damaging a door in a public house in Radnor Street, and also with being drunk and disorderly. He pleaded Guilty.

Mr. Paul, the landlord, said the defendant went to his house on Saturday evening, and remained drinking with the lodgers. At closing time he asked to be allowed to stay, as he did not want to walk all the way to his lodgings at Etchinghill. After the house was closed, he made a disturbance and smashed the panel of a door.

The Bench dismissed the charge of wilful damage, as they believed the man got drunk in the house. For being drunk he was fined 5s. and costs.

Folkestone News 25-9-1886

Monday, September 20^th: Before The Mayor, Dr. Bateman, Alderman Caister, J. Holden and J. Fitness Esqs.

John Rust, dressed in the garb of the workhouse, was charged with wilful damage and with being drunk.

William Paul, landlord of the Marquis Of Lorne, said prisoner was in his house and created a disturbance, when he was put outside, and he then kicked in the panel of the door.

In answer to the Bench, witness said prisoner had been drinking before he came to his house, and he had been served with two pots of beer, besides drinking with other people in the kitchen. The damage to the door amounted to 5s.

The Bench considered the landlord had contributed towards the damage by giving the prisoner drink, and they dismissed that part of the charge, but fined him 5s., with 3s. 6d. costs, for being drunk, or seven days`.

Folkestone Chronicle 20-11-1886

Saturday: Before The Mayor, J. Clarke and J. Holden Esqs.

Benjamin Freeman, a labourer, was charged with having stolen a bottle of cherry brandy, one of whisky, and one of cloves.

Henry Spillett, landlord of the Tramway Tavern Inn, Radnor Street, said that on the previous day prisoner entered his house several times and had drink. One one occasion he went in about 5-30 while witness was having tea in a room behind the bar, and remained about ten minutes. He was in the bar alone during that time. A few minutes after prisoner left he missed two bottles, the one containing about a pint of Scotch whisky, and the other about the same quantity of cloves. He had also missed a bottle of cherry brandy after one of prisoner`s visits in the afternoon. Prisoner could reach the bottle from where he stood in the bar.

William Henry Forbes, landlord of the Marquis of Lorne, in Radnor Street, said that prisoner went into his house on the previous day, about two o`clock in the afternoon, and engaged lodgings. He then left, but came back in half an hour`s time and, taking a bottle from his pockets, poured some of it`s contents into a glass of beer which he had called for. Prisoner wanted him to taste it, which he did. It tasted like rum, and prisoner told him he had got it from a wreck at Romney. He then drew another bottle from his pocket, and offered it to him (Mr. Forbes) for 2s. He ultimately bought it. He thought it was home made cherry wine. Prisoner came back to his house again about six o`clock and offered him a bottle of whisky for 2s., which he declined to buy. Prisoner then called for a glass of beer and poured something into it from another bottle he had. He was asked by prisoner to smell it, and knew it to be cloves.

P.C. Lilley apprehended the prisoner, who, in answer to the charge, said “There is no charge. You can`t find anything on me”. At the police station prisoner said nothing when the charge was read to him.

Prisoner, in defence, said he bought three bottles from a “chap” on the Leas, and three others he brought from a wreck at Romney. They might send him to gaol, but he should settle the matter with the “chap” who sold him the stuff when he got out.

He was sentenced to one month`s hard labour, and the Mayor advised Mr. Spillett not to buy bottles of wine over his bar counter in this way.

Note: No mention of Forbes in More Bastions. Could this have been “Paul” misheard in court?

Folkestone Express 20-11-1886

Saturday, November 13^th: Before The Mayor, J. Fitness, J. Clark and J. Holden Esqs.

Benjamin Freeman, a labourer, who said he came from Bexhill, was charged with stealing a quantity of whisky, cherry brandy, and cloves, the property of Henry Spillett.

Henry Spillett, landlord of the Tramway Tavern, Radnor Street, said the prisoner was in his house several times during Friday, drinking. The last time was about half past five. He then remained about ten minutes. No-one else was in the bar whilst prisoner was there. Witness was in the bar parlour getting his tea when he heard the prisoner leave, and when he went back into the bar two or three minutes after prisoner had left, he missed two bottles from a shelf, one containing about a pint of Scotch whisky, and the other about a pint of cloves. Previous to that, about four o`clock in the afternoon, he missed two bottles – one of cherry brandy, and the other a show bottle.

William H. Paul, landlord of the Marquis Of Lorne, said the prisoner went to his house about two o`clock on Friday and took lodgings. He went away and returned about three. He had a pint of beer, and took a bottle from his pocket, and poured some of the contents into the beer. He asked witness to taste it. He did, and said “That is funny stuff. What do you call that?” He replied that he had a lot of it, brought from a shipwreck at Romney. Two other lodgers came in, and they tasted the liquor in the bottle, but none of them could say what it was. It tasted like a weak solution of rum, sugar, and water. After that prisoner pulled out a full bottle and offered to sell it for 2s. It had a capsule on it, but no label. He drew the cork from the bottle and tasted it, and gave the prisoner 2s. for it. He thought it was home made cherry wine. Prisoner went away, and returned a few minutes before six. He then pulled another bottle from his pocket, and witness found it was whisky. He told prisoner he did not want it. Prisoner had another half pint of beer, and poured something out of another bottle into it. He asked witness to taste that, but he declined. He smelt the glass afterwards, and it smelt strongly of cloves.

P.C. Lilley said he received information from the prosecutor that he had lost a quantity of spirits. In consequence of what was said he went with prosecutor to the Queen`s Head, where they found the prisoner, and prosecutor gave him into custody. Prisoner, in answer to the charge, said “There is no charge. You can`t find anything on me”. He at first refused to go to the police station, but another constable came up, and with some difficulty they conveyed him to the station. He had the appearance of a man who had been drinking, but was not drunk. He had 6s. and some bronze in his possession.

Prisoner pleaded Not Guilty, and said he bought three bottles of a man, to whom he gave 3s. 6d. for them, and the other bottles he brought from Romney. He was sentenced to one month`s hard labour, and the Bench recommended Mr. Paul in future not to buy bottles of liquor in his bar.

Folkestone News 20-11-1886

Saturday, November 13^th: Before The Mayor, J. Fitness, J. Clark and J. Holden Esqs.

Benjamin Freeman, a labourer, was charged with stealing a quantity of whisky, cherry brandy, and cloves, the property of Henry Spillett.

Henry Spillett, landlord of the Tramway Tavern, Radnor Street, said the prisoner came to his house several times during Friday drinking. The last time was about half past five. He then remained about ten minutes. Witness was in the bar parlour getting his tea when he heard the prisoner leave, and when he went back into the bar two or three minutes after prisoner had left he missed two bottles from a shelf, one containing about a pint of Scotch whisky, and the other about a pint of cloves. Previous to that, about four o`clock in the afternoon, he missed two bottles – one of cherry brandy, and the other a show bottle.

William H. Paul, landlord of the Marquis Of Lorne, said the prisoner went to his house about two o`clock on Friday and took lodgings. He went away and returned about three. He had a pint of beer and took a bottle from his pocket and poured some of the contents into the beer. He asked witness to taste it. He did, and said “That is funny stuff. What do you call that?” He replied that he had a lot of it, brought from a shipwreck at Romney. Two other lodgers came in and they tasted the liquor in the bottle, but none of them could say what it was. It tasted like a weak solution of rum, sugar and water. After that, prisoner pulled out a full bottle and offered to sell it for 2s. It had a capsule on it, but no label. He drew the cork from the bottle and tasted it, and gave the prisoner 2s. for it. He thought it was home made cherry wine. Prisoner went away, and returned a few minutes before six. He then pulled another bottle from his pocket, and witness found that it was whisky. He told prisoner that he did not want it. Prisoner had another half pint of beer, and put something out of another bottle into it. He asked witness to taste that, but he declined. He smelt the glass afterwards, and it smelt strongly of cloves.

P.C. Lilley said he received information from the prosecutor that he had lost a quantity of spirits. In consequence of what he said he went with prosecutor to the Queen`s Head, where they found the prisoner, and prosecutor gave him into custody. Prisoner, in answer to the charge, said “There is no charge. You can`t find anything on me”. He at first refused to go to the police station, but another constable came up, and with some difficulty they conveyed him to the station. He had the appearance of a man who had been drinking, but was not drunk. He had 6s. and some bronze in his possession.

Prisoner pleaded Not Guilty, and said he bought three bottles off a man, to whom he gave 3s. 6d. for them, and the other bottles he brought from Romney.

The Bench sentenced him to one month`s hard labour, and recommended Mr. Paul in future not to buy bottles of liquor in his bar.

Folkestone Chronicle 13-8-1887

Saturday, August 6^th: Before General Armstrong, Alderman Banks, and H.W. Poole Esq.

William Hadlow Paul was summoned for having kept open his licensed premises – the Marquis Of Lorne, Radnor Street –during prohibited hours on the night of the 1^st August.

Defendant pleaded Not Guilty, remarking that the persons found on his premises were only friends of his, and that they were there by invitation.

Police sergeant Pay said on Monday night he was on duty in Radnor Street near the Marquis Of Lorne about ten minutes to 12, when he heard some laughing and talking inside the house. He was in company with Police constables Smith and Stock. They went up the passage to the back of the house. They found the door standing wide open, and they all entered the house. On going into the bar parlour they saw a civilian and three sergeants belonging to the Oxfordshire Regiment, stationed at Shorncliffe. Their names were Buckingham, Williams and Stanmore, and the civilian`s name was William Richey. The landlord`s wife was sitting down in a chair, and the landlord was also present. Witness called defendant`s attention to the time. He said “Those sergeants are friends of mine. Sergeant Harman won`t say anything; have a drink”. Witness found a quart jug, nearly half full of malt liquor, standing on the table. Two half pint glasses were also on the table, containing malt liquor. Witness took the names and told the landlord he should report the case to the Superintendent. In defendant`s presence one of the sergeants said “Don`t do that. It won`t hurt us, but it will do him a lot of injury”. They drank their beer and went. Saw the four men come out of Harbour Street and go into Radnor Street.

P.C. Smith deposed that he accompanied the last witness to the Marquis Of Lorne on Monday night. They went to the bar parlour where he saw three soldiers and a civilian. The landlord was standing against the door, which was wide open, and his wife was also there. On the table there were two glasses and a quart pot containing malt liquor. One of the sergeants said to Sergeant Pay “I am very sorry that this has occurred. Have something to drink, and I hope you will look over it”. Sergeant Pay ordered them out and they obeyed. When Sergeant Pay told the landlord he should report the circumstances, he replied “Those are my friends”.

P.C. Scott, who was with the other witnesses, gave corroborative evidence.

Defendant said the men found on his premises were friends of his. They came to his house early in the evening, and he asked them to come back again before they went to the Camp. They returned to the house some time after it was closed. They went to the back way and he asked them in. They did not pay for any drink.

General Armstrong said the defendant was found Guilty, and as he had committed a previous offence he would be fined £5. He was also in danger of losing his licence, but the Bench had decided not to go to the extent of endorsing it, but they hoped it would be warning to him for the future. In default of payment he would be committed to one month`s imprisonment.

Defendant said he objected to the case being dealt with in that way. He had not made any defence.

The Magistrates` Clerk said the defendant had said that he had no witnesses to call.

After some consultation with the Bench the Magistrates` Clerk said the defendant could call who he liked as a witness.

Defendant, who said he was not aware that he could call a person who was on the premises, then proceeded to examine the persons who were found there.

Sergeant Buckingham, of the Oxfordshire Regiment, said he was at defendant`s house between 8 and 9 o`clock on the evening in question. The landlord asked him and his comrades if they would look in again before they went home. He promised to do so. He went round to the back of the house after it was closed. Did not order any liquor. Defendant placed some on the table. Did not remember asking for any cigars, but he had some. They called there to have a drink. Had known defendant ever since he had been home from India. Had used the house two or three times a week. Could not say when he was invited into the landlord`s private room last. Had been in the house several occasions before during prohibited hours, merely by invitation. They remained at the house on the first occasion about 20 minutes. The other sergeants were with witness then. Paul knew that they were on pass. Should think he had been in the house about half an hour when the police came. When he went to the house he went up the passage at the back. The door was closed, and it was opened by Mr. Paul. A civilian did not accompany him to the house. Noticed him some time after he got in there – just when the policeman came. It was the same one who was summoned that morning. Could not say whether he had anything to drink or not.

Sergeant Ernest Stanmore, also of the Oxfordshire Regiment, said on the night in question he went into defendant`s house between 8 and 9, and defendant asked him to call at the house before he went home. He returned and went to the back door. Defendant did not speak to witness at the back door. He asked them if they would have a glass of beer. He did not give him any money for it. The last witness knew the way to the back of the house, and witness followed him. He had been there on previous occasions. Richey followed them in the house. First noticed him near the public house. One of the sergeants spoke to him. Thought it was Wilson, but was not sure. Richey went into the house. Could not say what Richey had to drink. Paul was in the room, but did not remember him speaking to Richey. Witness was quite sober. Did not know Sergeant Pay before he saw him in the house. Could not say whether Richey was talking to Sergeant Wilson or not. Witness understood that he was there by invitation.

Sergeant Thomas Wilson, of the Oxfordshire Regiment, said he went to the house with the other sergeants. Defendant said to them “Come in and have a glass together”. Did not ask for anything, and did not see anyone pay for what they did have. Did not see Richey have anything to drink. The civilian did not say anything. In the evening witness was in Mr. Paul`s house, and he asked him if he would call in again before he went home. First saw Richey just before they got under the arches. Did not tell him where we were going. There was no objection made to Richey`s admission. Mr. Paul drew the beer.

William Richey said he belonged to Ireland, and was employed on a coal collier lying in the harbour. Could not remember the name of the ship. He went to the public house with three sergeants. Wilson said he was going to see a friend. He asked witness to go with him to the house. Witness did not know where he was going. When he got into the house he sat down, but did not speak to them. He drank some beer from a glass which was given to him by a sergeant. Wilson came from Belfast. He knew that by his speech.

Sergeant Pay, re-called, said he saw all four of the men walking abreast in Radnor Street about 20 minutes to 12. They were going along singing and laughing. He stopped them and said “You sergeants ought to know better this time of the night”. They passed on towards Radnor Street.

General Armstrong said the Bench were convinced that the police had done right, and defendant would be fined £5 and 15s. costs.

Buckingham, Wilson and Stanmore were then brought before the magistrates, together with a civilian named William Richey, and summoned for being found on licensed premises during prohibited hours.

The defendants pleaded Guilty, but stated that they went there simply by invitation.

In addressing the prisoners, General Armstrong said the Bench had decided they were wrong in being at the house, but would be dealt with leniently. The fine would be 2s. 6d., with 8s. costs, to be levied by distress, or, in default, seven days` imprisonment with hard labour. Communication would be made to the Commanding Officer informing him of the affair, and ask him if he could not prevent sergeants setting such an example.

The money was paid.

Folkestone Express 13-8-1887

Saturday, August 6^th: Before General Armstrong C.B., H.W. Poole Esq., and Alderman Banks.

William Hadlow Paul, of the Marquis Of Lorne, was summoned for having his house open for the sale of liquor during prohibited hours.

Sergeant Pay said on Monday night at ten minutes to twelve he was on duty in Radnor Street, and heard laughing and talking inside the Marquis Of Lorne public house. He went up the passage to the back door, which was wide open. He went into the bar parlour and saw the landlord, three soldiers and a civilian. He called defendant`s attention to the time, and he said one of the Sergeants was a friend of his, and asked him to have a drink. On the table there was a quart jug containing malt liquor, and two glasses. One of the Sergeants drank in witness`s presence, and pressed him to have something.

After hearing the evidence the Bench imposed a penalty of £5 and costs.

The defendant complained that he had not stated what his defence was, and four other men having been summoned for being on the premises during prohibited hours, and having stated that they were there at the landlord`s invitation and not as customers, the Bench decided to hear their evidence on behalf of the landlord.

Alfred Buckingham, John Wilson, and Ernest Stanmore, three Sergeants on the Oxfordshire Regiment, and William Ritchie, a sailor, were severally called by Paul, and the three sergeants stated that they went to the house after eleven o`clock at the invitation of the landlord, and that Ritchie followed them in. They entered and drank at the expense of the landlord. Neither of them paid for either beer or cigars.

Sergeant Pay stated that he saw the three sergeants and Ritchie together in Beach Street about twenty minutes to twelve. They were singing, and he told them they ought to know better than make a disturbance at that time of night.

The Bench told Paul that they had carefully reconsidered all the circumstances and they saw no reason to alter their decision. He would be fined £5 and 15s. costs.

The four men who were on the premises were each fined 2s. 6d. and 8s. costs.

Folkestone Chronicle 24-12-1887

At the Police Court on Thursday, before Alderman Banks and H.W. Poole, Margaret Knott, a dilapidated looking woman, was placed in the dock, charged with being drunk and disorderly in Radnor Street that morning.

P.C. Wood deposed to finding prisoner at quarter past one on Thursday morning outside of the Marquis Of Lorne, drunk. Had to get assistance to take her into custody.

Prisoner pleaded Not Guilty, and stated that she was a lodger at the Marquis Of Lorne, and went to bed at ten o`clock, but that they pulled her out by the hair of her head, giving her a black eye. She belonged to Dover, was married, and living at 7, Queens Street.

Fined 5s, 4s. 6d. costs, or seven days`. Removed below.

Folkestone Chronicle 25-2-1888

Wednesday, February 22^nd: Before The Mayor, Surgeon General Gilbourne, Major Poole, Alderman Sherwood, S. Brooke, F. Boykett and W. Wightwick Esqs.

William Hadlow Paul, landlord of the Marquis Of Lorne, was summoned for keeping his house open for an unlawful purpose.

Sergeant Harman stated that he was on duty in Radnor Street on Sunday 15^th inst. from seven till ten o`clock. At 7.45 he observed two women – Louisa Harris and Rose Flowers – whom he believed to be prostitutes, come from the Tramway Tavern and enter the Marquis Of Lorne. They went back to the Tramway, and subsequently at ten minutes to eight returned to the Marquis Of Lorne. They spoke to two other women outside of this place and afterwards went inside, remaining there about 20 minutes. They came out again at half past eight with four soldiers and went to No. 20, Radnor Street, the house of Mrs. Spearpoint. One soldier came out of here at ten past nine and another went in. Then another soldier came out with Rose Flowers and went across to the Marquis Of Lorne, and was followed shortly afterwards by another soldier. The girl Harris next came out and went into the same place. She came out again at 9.10 with another soldier in the Oxfordshire Regiment and went across to Mrs. Spearpoint`s, and returned again in 20 minutes with the same man to the Marquis Of Lorne. At that time Rose Flowers came out with a soldier in the Hussars` uniform and went in the direction of Mrs. Spearpoint`s house, and came back again at quarter to ten. At ten minutes to ten witness visited the Marquis Of Lorne and saw the two girls at the bar. There was a third woman, but witness did not know her name. She was a stranger to him. The bar was full of soldiers and some of them had their arms round the waists of the women. Defendant was behind the bar serving. Witness said to him “You see those women standing in front of the bar? They are prostitutes, and you know them to be such”. He answered “Yes, but I have never been spoken to about it”. Told him that he had had the house under his observation for two or three hours and should report the matter, and probably he would be summoned. When he had been in the house about five minutes he saw the woman Harris leave in company with a civilian, but could not say where she went to. Was on duty Friday and Saturday in Radnor Street, but did not see any of those women frequent the house then. Had frequently seen other women there. One`s name he knew to be Lewis.

By Mr. Minter, who appeared for defendant: On this particular occasion there were a great number of soldiers at the house. Did not go into the Tramway Tavern and caution the landlord not to serve the soldiers.

P.C. Lilley said he was on duty in Radnor Street on the 6^th of Jan. and on the 5^th of Feb. He kept the Marquis Of Lorne under his observation. He had seen women there he had known to be prostitutes. Had seen them leave sometimes with soldiers, and sometimes alone. He had seen them go across to Mrs. Spearpoint`s – 20, Radnor Street.

Mr. Minter said as far as the evidence went, it was clear that no offence for which they could convict the defendant had been committed on his premises. Defendant could not prevent prostitutes entering his house or soldiers bringing them there. The charge was that these women remained in the house longer than was necessary for the purpose of obtaining refreshments. He did not know what was the length of time, for he had never heard it mentioned. The defendant wished him to impress upon the Bench the difficulties which a publican of that class had to prevent that kind of people coming in and out. There was nothing against the defendant`s character, and he tried to keep his house respectable.

Mr. Bradley said it was a question whether these women were not there for the purpose of prostitution.

Mr. Minter said there was no evidence to show it. It was all against Mrs. Spearpoint.

The Mayor said although it was a suspicious case the Bench had decided to dismiss it.

Folkestone Express 25-2-1888

Wednesday, February 22^nd: Before The Mayor, Surgeon General Gilbourne, F. Boykett, W. Wightwicj, and J. Brooke Esqs.

Wm. Hadlow Paul was charged with allowing his house, the Marquis Of Lorne, to be used by immoral women.

Sergeant Harman said on the 5^th he was on duty in Radnor Street from seven till ten o`clock. At 7.45 he saw two women, Louisa Harris and Rose Flowers, whom he believed to be prostitutes, go from the Tramway Tavern to the Marquis Of Lorne. At eight o`clock they came out, and went to the Tramway Tavern. At ten minutes past eight they returned to the Marquis Of Lorne. Outside they spoke to two women, Mrs. Spearpoint and Mrs. Banks. They remained inside twenty minutes, and came out with four soldiers of the Oxford Regiment. Two of the soldiers remained on the pavement and the other two went into Mrs. Spearpoint`s house with the two girls. At ten minutes past nine one soldier came out and another went in. At nine another soldier and Rose Flowers came out and went across to the Marquis Of Lorne. At five minutes past nine the other soldier came out of Mrs. Spearpoint`s and went to the Marquis Of Lorne, and ten minutes after he was followed by the other girl. At twenty minutes past nine she came out and went with another soldier to Mrs. Spearpoint`s. At half past nine she returned with the soldier to the Marquis Of Lorne. Rose Flowers came out with another soldier belonging to the Hussars and went across to Mrs. Spearpoint`s. They returned to the Marquis Of Lorne at 9.46. Five minutes after, he visited the Marquis Of Lorne, and saw the two girls and a third woman there. The bar was full of soldiers. Paul was behind the bar serving. He said to him “You see those women there in front of the bar. They are prostitutes, and you know them to be such”. He said “Yes, but I have never been spoken to about it”. He told him he should report the matter, and probably he would be summoned. About five minutes after he saw Harris accompany a civilian in the direction of Mrs. Spearpoint`s. Both Flowers and the other woman left at ten o`clock.

In reply to Mr. Minter, witness said there were a great many soldiers in Radnor Street that night. He had not been into the Tramway Tavern to caution the landlord.

P.C. Lilley said he was on duty in Radnor Street between the 5^th and 6^th of January. He saw prostitutes go in and out of defendant`s house with soldiers, and go to Mrs. Spearpoint`s, No. 20.

Mr. Minter contended that the evidence went to show that no offence was committed. The women had a right to go in and stay a reasonable time. He had never heard it defined what was a reasonable time. No complaints had been made against the defendant. He suggested that instead of the defendant, Mrs. Spearpoint, of No. 20, should have been prosecuted, because it was clear that it was her house that was the resort of prostitutes. The defendant had carefully prevented any girls from going beyond the passage of his house.

The Bench dismissed the summons against the defendant, but cautioned him as to his future conduct.

Folkestone Chronicle 26-5-1888

Friday, May 18^th: Before Major W.H. Poole, Surgeon General Gilbourne, and J. Brooks Esq.

James Manser, aged 60 years, deputy manager of the Marquis Of Lorne Inn, was charged with having indecently assaulted a little girl named Bertha Thomas, ten years of age.

The girl is the daughter of a travelling musician, who is staying at the Marquis Of Lorne, where the offence was alleged to have been committed.

As the child did not understand the nature of an oath, and there being no other evidence, Manser was discharged.

Folkestone Express 4-8-1888

Wednesday, August 4^th: Before Dr. Bateman, Captain Crowe, Alderman Banks, and H.W. Poole Esq.

Elizabeth Dawson was charged with stealing from the person of James Day, a tin box containing 9s.

Prosecutor, a labourer belonging to Hampshire, said he was at the Marquis Of Lorne between six and seven o`clock. Prisoner called him out into the street, and when he got out his box and money was all gone. The box was in his waistcoat pocket – his trousers pockets were worn out. (Laughter) He was quite certain he had the box in his pocket when he went out. He felt the prisoner put her hand into his pocket. He went with a constable, and found her in the Rodney lodging house and gave her into custody.

Mr. Bradley: Were you sober?

Prosecutor: Don`t matter whether I was sober or not. She had no business to take my money. (Laughter)

Prisoner said the prosecutor followed her daughter into the street and put his arm round her waist.

William Hadlow Paul, landlord of the Marquis Of Lorne, said the parties were in his house on Tuesday evening. He saw the man go by the woman, and as he passed her she took hold of his arm and said “Come here, I want you” and took him out into the street. When he returned he said he had lost his box and his money. The woman and her daughter were then outside, but he said nothing to them.

P.C. Keeler said he found the prisoner at the Rodney with another woman. Prosecutor charged her with stealing his money. She replied that she knew nothing about the prisoner or his money. He brought prisoner to the station, where she was searched, but no money was found on her. He also searched the room where he found the prisoner.

Prisoner pleaded Guilty, and was sentenced to one month`s hard labour.

Folkestone Express 18-5-1889

Friday, May 10^th: Before W. Bateman, J. Hoad, J. Sherwood and J. Pledge Esqs.

Harry White was charged with stealing a quantity of water cress, value 15s., the property of Mr. Pilcher, greengrocer.

Prosecutor said at the end of his garden there was a stream of water, in which he cultivated water cress. On the 22^nd of April, between six and seven in the morning, he missed a large quantity of cress. It had been torn up with the roots – not cut. He was afterwards shown a quantity of water cress at the police station. He would not like to swear to them as his property, but believed them to be. They were pulled up, roots and all. There was more than a bushel, and he estimated the worth of them at 15s.

William Hadlow Paul, landlord of the Marquis Of Lorne Inn, said on the 22^nd of April prisoner was in his house in company with a man named Turner. They left a closing time, and returned next morning between eight and nine. Prisoner had a quantity of water cress, and they were bunching them up in the wash house.

Sergeant Butcher said he went to the Marquis Of Lorne on Tuesday, the 22^nd of April, about eleven o`clock, and in an outhouse he found a quantity of water cress, some of them bunched. There was a basket full standing in the coal hole. They had not been properly cut, but pulled up with the roots. He took them to the police station, and afterwards showed them to Mr. Pilcher.

Sergeant Pay apprehended the prisoner at Swingfield Minnis. He told him the charge, and he replied “I meant to give you a run for it”. Prisoner had left the town. When charged at the police station, he said “I was hungry”.

Wm. Bowman, “deputy” at the Marquis Of Lorne, recognised the prisoner as having been at that house on the 22^nd of April. He saw him next morning with a quantity of water cress.

Richard Cooper, a clerk in the office of the Clerk Of The Peace, produced a conviction against Henry White, of Folkestone, labourer, in May 1885, for stealing tulips and wallflowers from a garden, when he was sentenced to six weeks` imprisonment.

Supt. Taylor identified the prisoner as the same man.

Prisoner pleaded Guilty, and elected to be dealt with summarily.

The Magistrates` Clerk said it was a curious state of the law, but for the first offence the prisoner was liable to imprisonment for six months, but because he had been previously convicted, the Act provided that the second offence was simple larceny only, to be dealt with under the Summary Jurisdiction Act, and they could only order him to three months` imprisonment.

The Bench inflicted the full punishment of three months` hard labour.