Royal George 1870s

Folkestone Express 24-2-1872

The Bankruptcy Act, 1869

In the County Court of Kent, holden at Canterbury

In the matter of proceedings for liquidation by arrangement or composition with creditors instituted by Robert Nelson Stratton of the Royal George Hotel, Folkestone, Kent.

Notice is hereby given that a first General Meeting of Creidtors of the above named person has been summoned to be held at the Royal George Hotel, Folkestone, Kent, on the sixth day of March next, at 3 o`clock in the afternoon precisely.

Dated the 14^th Day of February, 1872

John Minter,

Folkestone,

Attorney for the said Debtor.

Folkestone Express 18-5-1872

Monday, May 13^th: Before The Mayor, T. Caister, J. Tolputt and J. Clarke Esqs.

Temporary License

The license of the Royal George Hotel was temporarily transferred to Thomas Groves

Folkestone Express 1-6-1872

Wednesday, May 29^th: Before The Mayor, R.W. Boarer, J. Clarke and S. Eastes Esqs.

Mr. Minter applied for temporary authority to sell at the Royal George, by Mr.Thomas Groves, stating that Mr. Stratton had petitioned to have his affairs wound up in liquidation, and under the Bankruptcy Act the property was vested in Trustees, who had given notice of their intention to apply for the license to be granted to Mr. Groves. He apprehended that the new Licensing Act vested the license in the Trustee, to be given by him to anyone to be approved of by the Bench.

The formal notices to the Overseers of the Poor and the constables were proven to have been served by Mr. Pilcher and certificates of character were put in.

A temporary license was granted to Mr. Groves.

Folkestone Express 13-7-1872

Wednesday, July 10^th: Before The Mayor, T. Caister and J. Tolputt Esqs.

The license of the Royal George Hotel was transferred from the Trustees of Mr. Stratton to Mr. Groves.

Folkestone Express 22-3-1873

Thursday, March 20^th: Before W. Bateman and J. Tolputt Esqs.

George Lambert, shoemaker, was charged with stealing a pair of boots, value 6s., the property of Richard Hawke, being bailee of the same, on the 18^th instant.

Prosecutor said he was a porter at the Royal George Hotel. On Monday last he gave prisoner a pair of boots to repair, and prisoner brought them back on the following day about noon. On trying them on he found they hurt his feet, and followed prisoner, and giving him the boots back told him they crippled him and that he must alter them and let him have them back as soon as possible. Prisoner took the boots and told prosecutor he was to call for them at his house if he wanted them. From what he had been told he went to Mrs. Evans`s second hand shop in Dover Street, and was there shown his boots, which Mrs. Evans said prisoner had sold to her. In the evening he went to the Superintendent of Police, who told him he had better have Lambert apprehended, which was done. The boots produced were his property.

Elizabeth Evans said prisoner went to her shop on Tuesday and asked her to buy a pair of boots, which she did for 2s. 6d., and a pair of boy`s leggings. She did not inquire who they belonged to, as shoemakers were in the habit of selling her second hand boots and shoes.

Prisoner pleaded Not Guilty, and declined to make any statement at present or to call any witnesses. He also elected to have the case sent for trial.

The Bench said he would be committed for trial at the Quarter Sessions, but they would accept bail, himself in £10 and one surety in £10, which prisoner said he had no doubt he could procure.

Southeastern Gazette 25-3-1873

Local News

At the Petty Sessions on Thursday last, George Lambert, a shoemaker, was charged with stealing a pair of boots, value 6s., the property of Richard Hawke.

Prosecutor said he was porter at the Royal George Hotel. On Monday he gave prisoner a pair of boots to repair, which he did and brought them back on Tuesday at noon. Finding they hurt his feet, he requested prisoner to take them back and alter them and to let him have them back again as soon as he could. Prisoner took them away but did not return them. From information received, witness went to Mrs. Evans’s second-hand shop, Dover- Road, where he found his boots, Mrs. Evans telling him that she had bought them of the prisoner. He then communicated with the superintendent, and prisoner was apprehended.

 Mrs. Evans gave evidence to the effect that she bought the boots of Lambert for 2s. 6d., and a pair of boy’s leggings.

The prisoner was committed for trial.

Folkestone Express 3-5-1873

Quarter Sessions

Tuesday, April 29^th: Before J.J. Lonsdale Esq.

George Lambert, who was committed on a charge of stealing a pair of boots and a duck was stated by His Honour to have been sent to a lunatic asylum by order of the Secretary of State.

The Grand Jury returned No True Bill with reference to the boots, and a True Bill with reference to the duck.

His Honour said that under the circumstances the recognisances of the witnesses would be respited, and they would be liable to appear again when called upon.

Folkestone Express 16-8-1873

Saturday, August 9^th: Before The Mayor, J. Tolputt and J. Clarke Esqs.

Amelia Spearpoint, Dover Street, was charged with using obscene language in the Royal George on the 4^th August.

Mr. Till was for the prosecution in this case.

Emily and Mary Pope, the defendants in the last case, were the complainants in this affair, and deposed to defendant using bad language towards them at the Royal George on the night of the 7^th August.

Defendant`s statement was that Emily and Mary Pope said something unladylike about her hisband, but denied using any bad words to them.

Defendant was fined 10s. and 11s. costs.

Mrs. Pope and her two daughters came to and went away from the court in a cab. The two girls were very fashionably attired, with a profusion of jewellery, including large stars in their head dress.

Folkestone Chronicle 21-3-1874

Monday, March 16^th: Before The Mayor, J. Tolputt and J. Clarke Esqs.

Mr. Hobson Wright Lebutt applied for a temporary license to sell excisable liquors at the Royal George Hotel. Granted.

Folkestone Express 21-3-1874

Monday, March 16^th: Before The Mayor, J. Tolputt, and J. Clark Esqs.

Mr. Hobson W. Le Butt applied for and obtained temporary authority to sell intoxicating liquors at the Royal George Hotel under the license obtained by Mr. Thomas Groves.

Wednesday, March 18^th: Before The Mayor, J. Clark and J. Tolputt Esqs.

The license of the Royal George was transferred to Mr. H.W. Le Butt.

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 Chronicle 2-5-1874

Saturday, April 25^th: Before The Mayor and J. Tolputt Esq.

Eliza O`Leary, wife of Jeremiah O`Leary, was charged with having, on the evening of the 23^rd inst., broken two windows of glass at the Royal George.

Mr. Lebutt said that defendant came into the inner bar of his house last Thursday evening, the 23^rd of April, about half past nine o`clock. She asked for a glass of whisky. He said to her “You had better not have any more tonight. If you come back tomorrow you shall have one”. At that moment her husband came into the bar, took her by the shoulders, and pushed her into the street. Within two minutes afterwards, five stones in succession were thrown at the windows of the bar which faces the tramroad. One large stone came through into the bar. Two panes of glass were smashed. He did not see the stones thrown. He went outside and saw defendant, who was talking to a crowd that had collected. He said to her “What did you do this for?”, and she replied “I have done it, and must suffer for it”.

Catherine Smith deposed to seeing defendant take up a stone and throw at the glass.

The prisoner was remanded until Wednesday next, the Bench accepting bail, and one surety in £10.

Folkestone Express 2-5-1874

Wednesday, April 29^th: Before The Mayor, J. Kelcey, J. Hoad, and R.W. Boarer Esqs.

Elizabeth O`Leary was charged with wilfully damaging a window to the amount of £6, the property of Mr. Hobson Wright Le Butt, Royal George Hotel, on the 23^rd April.

Mr. Le Butt said: Defendant came into the inner bar of my house last Thursday evening about half past nine o`clock and asked for a glass of whisky. I said to her “You had better not have any more tonight. If you come tomorrow you shall have one”. She was drunk. At this moment her husband came into the bar and took her by the shoulders and put her into the street. Within two minutes afterwards five stones in succession were thrown at the window of the bar which daces the Tram Road, and one large stone came through into the bar and two panes of glass were smashed; it was plate glass, a quarter of an inch thick. I did not see the stones thrown; one only came inside, the others dropped into the street. I went outside and saw defendant there; she was talking to a crowd of people who had collected. I said to her “What did you do this for?” She said “Well, I have done it, and I must suffer for it”. She said she could do six months for it, and would break every ---- pane of glass in the house. I asked her why she should do so, and she said because her husband came there. P.C. Keeler came up at the time.

Catherine Smith said: I am a widow, and live on The Narrows. I was with defendant last Thursday evening between nine and half past. We went into the Royal George and had a pint of porter, which I paid for. After we had drunk the porter we went into the front bar, and just as we were going out defendant`s husband came in, and as soo as she saw him she went out into the street. I saw her husband strike her before she got out of the house. I went out of the house about five minutes after defendant, but before the windows were broken. She was in the road and I saw her throw stones twice and heard a smashing of glass after the stones were thrown. I saw the bar window of the Royal George broken after she had thrown the stones. I saw Mr. Le Butt come out of the house and heard him ask her what she had done it for. She said because her husband had knocked her about. She went home with me.

Defendant was remanded to Wednesday, the Magistrates offering to accept bail of £10, failing which she was sent to Dover.

Southeastern Gazette 4-5-1874

Local News

At the Police Court, on Wednesday, before the Mayor, R.W.Boarer, J. Kelcey, and J. Hoad, Esqs., Elizabeth O’Leary was charged with breaking two panes of plate glass, value £6 in the Royal George Hotel.

It appears that Mrs. O’Leary, after increasing her naturally high spirit by the aid of alcohol, went to the hotel in question, and demanded a glass of whiskey. This Mr. Le Butt refused to let her have on the ground that she had already “fortified ” herself sufficiently. Indignant at the imputation the lady took up a handful of stones, and avenged the insult at the expense of the bar windows. She was remanded to prison for a week, to give her time for reflection

 

Folkestone Chronicle 9-5-1874

Wednesday, May 6^th: Before The Mayor, J. Kelcey and J. Hoad Esqs.

Eliza O`Leary was charged on remand with smashing windows at the Royal George.

The evidence of Mr. H.W. Lebutt, which was given in our last, having been taken, Thomas Burtenshaw assessed the damage done at £6 10s.

The prisoner was committed for trial at the Quarter Sessions, bail being accepted in one surety of £10, another in £5, and herself in £25

Folkestone Express 9-5-1874

Wednesday, May 6^th: Before The Mayor, J. Hoad and J. Kelcey Esqs.

Elizabeth O`Leary was brought up on remand from the previous Wednesday on a charge of wilfully and maliciously breaking two panes of glass, value £6 10s., at the Royal George Hotel.

The evidence of Mr. Le Butt and Mrs. Smith, as reported in our last, was read over, and the following additional evidence taken.

Mr. Tom Burtonshaw, foreman to Mrs. Baker, plumber, said he was called by Mr. Le Butt to examine a window on the 24^th April, and found two squares of British polished plate glass broken in the bar window. The costs to replace them would be £6 10s., the dimensions being 71¼ in. x 26¾ in, each window containing 13 ft. superficial. It would not be possible to replace the glass for £5. He got estimates from two houses, and £6 10s., the one he had quoted, was the lowest.

P.C. Keeler deposed: I was on duty at the bottom of Dover Street about a quarter before ten on the night of the 23^rd April, when I saw a mob of people in front of the Royal George Hotel. On going to see what was the disturbance I saw prisoner standing among a crowd of people. I went up to her, and before I said anything to her she said “I broke those windows”. I saw two panes broken in the bar window facing the Tram Road.

Prisoner was committed for trial at the Quarter Sessions, the Bench offering to accept bail, two sureties in £5 each, or one in £10.

Prisoner said she did not know of anyone who would be surety for her, and was removed in custody.

Folkestone Express 30-5-1874

Tuesday, May 26^th: Before J. Kelcey and R. W. Boarer Esqs.

Catherine Harrington was placed in the dock, charged with being drunk and disorderly. Prisoner pleaded Not Guilty.

P.C. Hogben said he was called by Mr. Le Butt, Royal George Hotel, at half past one on Monday afternoon to remove prisoner from his bar, as she would not leave, because he refused to serve her with beer as she was drunk. Witness asked her to leave, and with an oath she said she would not. He put her out and told her to go home quietly, but she refused to do so. He followed her, and two or three ladies and gentlemen called his attention to her disorderly conduct. She was drunk and he took her into custody. Prisoner denied being drunk and said she only went with her mother to have a glass of beer, and the landlord refused to serve her mother. She had no maney herself to get any beer.

Supt. Wilshere said he was at the Police Station shortly aftr prisoner was locked up, and she was decidedly drunk and abusive.

By prisoner: I did not call you an Irish brute.

Prisoner said her mother could prove that she was not drunk, but on being called she did not answer.

Fined 5s. and 5s. 6d. costs, or seven days` hard labour. Locked up in default.

Folkestone Express 20-6-1874

Wednesday, June 17^th: Before J. Tolputt Esq.

A dirty, unkempt fellow, who gave the convenient name of John Smith, and who appeared in the dock innocent of soap, shirt and vest, was charged with begging and also with being drunk.

P.C. Hogben gave an account of the fellow`s proceedings, which were as follows: At half past eight on Tuesday night he saw prisoner coming down Dover Street, and accosted a Provost Corporal, telling him the “bobby” has been watching him all the evening, and that he was going to watch the “bobby”. He then went to the Royal George and laid a tract on the counter and asked someone to buy it, and refused to go away unless something was given to him, which was done. Thence he went to the True Briton and offered a coastguardsman a tract, and received a coin. Thence to the Alexandra Hotel, and then followed two gentlemen with a tract in his hand and rolled against them, and they told him they would punish him if he did not go away. He then followed some gentlemen coming from the Pavilion. Hogben, thinking the fellow had enjoyed his game long enough, asked him if he had a certificate for hawking, and he said a gentleman had given him the tracts to get a living with when he came out of a London hospital, and that he had a wife and two children. Prisoner was worse for drink, and he was run in.

Tenpence halfpenny and a bundle of religious tracts were found on prisoner, who begged hard to be let off, promising never to visit Folkestone again. He was sent to Dover for fourteen days` hard labour.

Folkestone Chronicle 27-6-1874

Wednesday, June 24^th: Before The Mayor, J. Hoad and J. Kelcey Esqs.

Hobson Wright Lebutt, landlord of the Royal George Hotel, was summoned for assaulting Henry Payne, baker, High Street.

Mr. Minter appeared for complainant.

Henry Payne, sworn, said: On Saturday night, about half past nine, I was at defendant`s house, and called for a pint of ale. I was sitting in the bar parlour; I had a right there. The barmaid brought me the ale, and I gave her sixpence. She brought me the change. Lebutt took it and said “I`ll keep that”. I said to the barmaid “Never mind about him, it is my change”. I tried to take the change. He ordered me out of the house. I tried to take the change from the female, not from him. He would not let me drink my ale, nor go out. Some German there pitched into me. Lebutt caught hold of me and hit me. I did not drink my ale, or get any change.

On the application of defendant the case was adjourned, by consent, until Saturday next.

Folkestone Express 27-6-1874

Wednesday, June 24^th: Before The Mayor, J. Kelcey, and J. Hoad Esqs.

Hobson Wright Le Butt was summoned on a charge of assaulting Henry Paine, baker, High Street. Mr. Minter appeared for complainant.

Complainant said: I was in defendant`s house, the Royal George, on Saturday evening about half past nine o`clock, when I called for a tankard of ale in the bar parlour; the ale was brought to me by the barmaid, who also brought me the change. Defendant would not allow me to take it, but took it himself. I attempted to take it from the barmaid. Defendant ordered me out of the house before I had drank my ale. He then walked about like a madman and put me across a chair and would not allow me to go out, and yet I said I should not stay. I had not a clear course, or I should have gone out. A German gentleman was there, but he had gone away. I hardly knew what defendant was doing to me. I neither had my ale nor my money. It was not the first time defendant has assaulted me.

By defendant: You ordered me out of the house. You begged my pardon and gave a cigar, and we were to be friends. You did not tell me not to come into the bar parlour again. You struck me first.

By The Mayor: Defendant struck me on my right temple with his fist and said “Out with you”.

By defendant: I adhere to the statement that you struck me and knocked me down.

Defendant said as complainant adhered to the statement that he struck him, he must ask for an adjournment as he had two witnesses who were willing to appear.

As Mr. Minter made no objection, the case was adjourned to this day.

Southeastern Gazette 29-6-1874

Local News

At the Police Court, on Wednesday, before the Mayor, J. Kelcey, and J. Hoad, Esqs., Hobson Wright Le Butt, landlord of the Royal George Hotel, was summoned on a charge of assaulting Henry Paine, baker, High Street.

Mr. Minter appeared for the complainant, who stated that he went into the bar-parlour of the Royal George, about half-past nine on Saturday night, and called for a tankard of ale, which was brought to him by the barmaid, who also brought the change. He endeavoured to receive it from her, but was prevented by defendant, who took it himself. Defendant ordered him out of the house, walked about “like a madman,” held complainant across a chair, and struck him on the right temple. He would have left the house, if there had been a clear course. Defendant pulled him about so much that complainant did not exactly know what he did to him, but he neither had his ale nor received his money; and it was not the first time defendant had assaulted him. I

In cross-examination by defendant, Mr. Paine said defendant begged his pardon and gave him a cigar on the understanding that they were to be friends.

The defendant, who denied striking the complainant, requested that the case might be adjourned to enable him to procure the attendance of witnesses, and this request was granted.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 4-7-1874

Saturday, 27^th June: Before The Mayor and J. Clarke Esq.

Hobson Wright Lebutt was summoned by Henry Payne for assaulting him. This case was remanded from last Saturday, and the evidence reported in out last issue.

The Bench fined defendant 5s. and 14s 6d. costs.

Folkestone Express 4-7-1874

Saturday, June 27^th: Before J. Clark and J. Hoad Esqs.

The complaint of Mr. Henry Paine, baker, against Mr. Hobson Wright Le Butt, of having assaulted him on Saturday, June 20^th, which was adjourned from the previous Wednesday for the production of two witnesses by defendant, was again before the Bench.

Mr. Minter appeared for complainant, and in addition to the evidence given on Wednesday called Joseph Timson, who said: I was in the Royal George on the evening in question and saw all that passed in the bar parlour, and heard complaiant order a pint of ale, which the barmaid brought, and also brought threepence change which defendant took and said “That will be a little outset of it”. I don`t know what he referred to. Defendant took hold of complainant to put him out. I saw no blows struck on either side – only a scuffle – and I took complainant away from defendant.

By defendant: You were across a chair as well as complainant; complainant was on top of you.

Defendant said the two witnesses he expected to have produced had left the town, one having gone to Hastings, and the other to London. Complainant was in his private room, and he ordered him to leave, and he was very quarrelsome, and two gentlemen said they would leave the house if he were allowed to be in the bar. Complainant struck him a blow and he returned it.

In answer to Mr. Clark, Mr. Timson said Mr. Paine refused to go out when ordered to do so by defendant, who pushed him before he refused to go.

Mr. Clark said the Bench did not think it was a very serious assault. If defendant did not wish complainant to come into his house he should not have taken his change. Defendant must pay a fine of 5s. and 14s. 6d. costs.

Folkestone Chronicle 1-8-1874

Quarter Sessions:

Tuesday, 28^th August: Before J.J. Lonsdale Esq.

The Grand Jury retired, and soon returned with a true bill against Eliza O`Leary, 30, prostitute, who was committed by W. Wightwick Esq (Mayor of Folkestone) on the 6^th May, charged with maliciously  damaging real property of a personal nature (a window), to an amount exceeding £5, the property of Hobson Wright Lebutt, between the hours of 9 p.m. and 6 a.m., on the 23^rd of April, 1874. The prisoner pleaded guilty.

Mr. Worsfold Mowll, of Dover, appeared for the prosecution, and said he was desired by the prosecutor to recommend her to the merciful consideration of the Court, and to state that she had already been thirteen weeks in custody on this charge.

The Learned Recorder, in passing sentence, said it was a serious charge, and that she was liable to be sent into penal servitude for five years. Taking the fact that she had been such a long time in prison into consideration, he should now award her one month`s imprisonment, with hard labour, in the house of correction at Dover.

Folkestone Express 1-8-1874

Quarter Sessions

Tuesday, July 28^th: Before J.J. Lonsdale Esq.

Eliza O`Leary pleaded Guilty to maliciously damaging real property of a private nature (a window) to an amount exceeding £5, namely £6 10s., the property of Hobson Wright Le Butt, Royal George Hotel, Folkestone, on the 23^rd April.

Mr. W. Mowll, of Dover, who appeared for the prosecution, said prosecutor wished to recommend prisoner to mercy, as she had been in gaol thirteen weeks.

The Learned Recorder: Perhaps that is an interested recommendation. I think, having read the depositions, that you (prisoner) did not quite know what you were doing. It seems the landlord advised you not to have any more liquor that night, but to come again in the morning.

Prisoner: It was through my husband knocking me about. I did not know what I was doing.

The Recorder: I have power to inflict upon you five years penal servitude, but I am not going to do anything like that. It appears that several stones were thrown at the window and some went through, and persons inside the house might have been injured. Believing that you were hardly yourself at the time, and I do not know whether you were drunk or not, which would be no excuse, and taking into consideration that you have been already so long in gaol, I shall only sentence you to one month`s hard labour.

Southeastern Gazette 1-8-1874

Quarter Sessions

The Midsummer session was held on Tuesday, before J. J. Lonsdale, Esq., Reoorder.

Eliza O’Leary pleaded guilty to breaking a window at the Royal George Hotel, on the 23^rd April, doing damage to the amount of £6 10s.

Prisoner said it was her husband’s ill usage which had driven her to the act, and she hardly knew what she was about.

Taking into consideration that prisoner had been in gaol thirteen weeks, she was only sentenced to one month’s hard labour. 

Kentish Gazette 4-8-1874 

Quarter Sessions, Tuesday, before J.J. Lonsdale Esq.

Eliza O`Leary pleaded Guilty to breaking a window at the Royal George Hotel, on the 23<sup>rd</sup> April, doing damage to the amount of £6 10s. Prisoner said it was her husband`s ill-usage which had driver her to the act, and she hardly knew what she was about.

Taking into consideration that prisoner had been in gaol thirteen weeks, she was only sentenced to one month`s hard labour.

Folkestone Chronicle 12-9-1874

Saturday, September 5^th: Before S. Eastes, J. Tolputt and J. Clark Esqs.

Mr. Lebutt, landlord of the Royal George, was summoned for assaulting Adam Forester on the 10^th inst. The evidence of complainant (who was in defendant`s employ) stated that defendant turned him out of the house because he came late, having first stripped him of his clothes.

The defendant said that complainant was insolent to him, and gave him provocation.

The Bench fined him £2, and 18s. costs.

Folkestone Express 12-9-1874

Saturday, September 5^th: Before S. Eastes, J. Tolputt and J. Clark Esqs.

Mr. Hobson Wright Le Butt was summoned on a charge of assaulting Adam Forrester. Mr. Minter appeared for defendant.

Complainant said: On Tuesday morning I went to the Royal George Hotel about a quarter before eight o`clock. I was ordered to get there at six o`clock. Defendant wanted me to make an apology. I was his porter. Defendant knocked me on to the ground with his fist and called me a lazy scamp. He stripped my waistcoat off my back and ripped it into ribbons. He also dragged my trousers off; they belonged to him. He put his hand in my pocket and took out what I had there, but left my keys. After he had taken my trousers off he pulled me through the kitchen, through the servants` hall to the main entrance, by the hair of my head, and threw me into the street nearly naked. I ran to the cottage nearby and waited there till Mr. Austen brought me a pair of trousers to go home in. There were about fifty people present. I did not strike defendant. He assaulted me simply because I was late.

Cross-examined: Defendant complained of my being late. I did not tell him he was a liar. He told me to take my clothes off and leave his service. I went into the kitchen, but he would not give me time to take my clothes off. He kicked me behind in the street.

Defendant was fined £2 and 18s. costs.

Folkestone Express 31-10-1874

County Court

Saturday, October 24^th: Before G. Russell Esq.

A. Forrester v H.W. Le Butt: In this case the claim was for one week`s wages, a week`s notice, a week`s board, and damages to clothing, and detention of a key.

Defendant did not appear, and plaintiff said he was a weekly servant to defendant at 10s. per week and his board, and was turned out without any trousers, and a key and corkscrew which were in his trousers pocket were kept by defendant, who had to pay £4 for the assault by order of the magistrates.

His Honour said he could only deal with the question of wages, and gave judgement for £2 forthwith.

Folkestone Chronicle 7-11-1874

Inquest

An inquest was held yesterday at the Royal George Hotel, before J. Minter Esq., Coroner, yesterday morning, on the body of Henry Samuel Poole, a boy nine years of age, who was drowned in the Harbour on the previous Wednesday. James Baker said he was engaged working on the harbour on the day in question, and left about 10-30, and returned about 10-45, when he saw the body of deceased floating in from two to three feet of water. He saw Mr. Hall, and called his attention to the body, and he (witness) fetched P.C. Sharpe. George Davis deposed that he took the body out of the water, and tried to restore animation. The deceased brought up a quantity of water. The body was taken to the Royal George Hotel, and the landlord put it into a warm bath, wrapped it in flannels, and did all in his power to restore animation, but in vain. Dr. Mercer said that every effort had been made to restore the deceased, who died from drowning. Henry Beer deposed that he knew the deceased, and saw him playing on the Wednesday morning in a rowing boat afloat, which was made fast to the gridiron. A short time afterwards the boat was gone. He heard a lad thus caution the deceased, “If you don`t mind, you will fall”. A little boy, who was too young to be sworn, made a very intelligent statement, for his age, to the Jury as to how the accident had happened. The deceased was playing in the boat, and from there he got on to the jetty, sitting there with his legs hanging over. He told him that if he didn`t mind he would fall. Presently he leaned forward, and in taking hold of something fell into the harbour. He was very much frightened, and ran away and informed his mother of what had occurred. After the Coroner had summed up the evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of “Accidentally Drowned”. The parents of the deceased, who are in very indigent circumstances, return their thanks publicly to Mr. Lebutt for having collected the sum of £10 to discharge the funeral expenses and other matters.

Folkestone Express 7-11-1874

On Wednesday morning a little boy named Henry Samuel Poole was playing on the groynes near the gridirons in the harbour, when he fell into the water and was drowned.

The inquest was held at the Royal George Hotel on Friday morning before Mr. J. Minter Esq., Coroner, and a jury.

H. Poole, father of the deceased, said the child was nine years of age, and was his son. Witness was at sea on Wednesday, and knew nothing of the accident.

Henry Beer, fisherman, Fenchurch Street, deposed: I last saw deceased about nine o`clock on Wednesday morning, playing with another little boy in a boat near the place where the body was found. The boat was afloat and moored to the gridiron. When I passed the place again about half past ten, the boat was gone, and the boys also. I did not see deceased again until the body was found. I heard the other little boy tell deceased to get into the boat or he would fall into the water. There were four or five feet of water. I saw deceased with one leg on the iron work and the other on the boat.

The little boy who was with deceased was too young to be sworn, but stated that he saw him fall into the water when he was sitting on the edge of the groyne.

James Baker said: I was going to the coal bulk about half past ten on Wednesday morning when I saw the body of deceased floating on it`s face near the groyne. I called to Hall, the chief mate of the steam boat, and he got the body out of the water while I went for a policeman.

George Davis, deputy harbour master, said: I was coming along the tramway about a quarter before eleven on Wednesday morning, when my attention was called to the body of a boy floating in the harbour. With assistance I got it out and rolled it, and made the usual means for restoring animation, without effect, and the body was taken to the Rotal George.

Mr. Richard Mercer, M.R.C.S., said he found that every proper means had been used at the Royal George, deceased having been placed in a warm bath, and hot blankets, and attempts were made to produce artificial respiration. Death was caused by drowning, and deceased`s mother told him the child had been subject to fits.

A verdict of “Accidentally Drowned” was returned.

Folkestone Chronicle 21-11-1874

Coroner`s Inquest

An inquest was held last evening at the Royal George Hotel, before F. J. Till Esq. (Deputy Coroner), touching the decease of William Walker, a seaman in the employ of the South Eastern Railway Company, who came by his death under the circumstances detailed below,

The jury having been sworn, they proceeded to view the body, after which the subjoined evidence was taken.

James Jones, being sworn, said: I am a shipwright on the South Eastern Company`s works. I have viewed the body of deceased, which I identify as that of William Walker. I last saw him alive about 9-30 this morning. About 20 minutes after, I again saw him, lying on the deck of the Princess Clementine, and the men endeavouring to restore animation, but he was quite dead.

Adam Pope, a lad of 14, was next sworn, who said: I am a call-boy on board the Princess Clementine. I knew the deceased; he was mate of the ship. I last saw him about 4-00 p.m. under the bridge, on the deck of the vessel. I last saw him alive about 8-15 a.m., going down the quay to go on board. I was going to breakfast. At 9 o`clock I went on board the ship. At 10, Charles Hammond, the boatman, told me to go and call the mate. I went to his berth in the fore part of the ship to find him. The door being open, I saw deceased, and thought he was standing on the locker. I called to him two or three times, but he did not answer. I went to Hammond and told him deceased must be dead or in a deep sleep. Hammond said “I`ll go and roust him out”, and then he went away. The next time I saw deceased he was lying on deck. Yesterday deceased told me to go and tell his wife she was to get her own dinner as he should not be home. I thought he looked white, and I told him so. He said “Yes, Adam, I have got a pain up here” (putting his hand to the back of his head). He had not said anything to me before about this. He was quite sober when I saw him on the quay. (This witness was commended by the jury for the very clear manner in which he had given his evidence)

Thomas Golder said: I am a labourer in the employ of the South Eastern Railway Company. I knew deceased as the mate of the Clementine. I las saw him in his berth on board the ship at about 10 a.m. this morning. Hammond called out to me “Tom, I think Old Will is dead”. I went down to his berth as quick as I could, and looking around, I saw him hanging in a corner. I put up my hand, and felt a cord, and I cut him down. The cord produced is like that I saw on the body of deceased, and has been cut. We took the body on deck and tried to restore him, but he was quite dead. His face and hands were cold when I cut him down, but the body was limp. I have identified the body of deceased as that of William Walker.

Richard Mercer, sworn, said: I am a Member of the Royal College Of Surgeons, and am living in the Sandgate Road. I have seen the body of a man lying on board the Princess Clementine. I saw him about ten this morning on the deck of the vessel, dead. I made an examination of the body, and found his neck dislocated. There was at that time no appearance of the mark of the cord, but since then it has developed itself on the flesh. It was too soon after death to notice this before. The body was warm. The cause of death was dislocation of the neck. I heard that he had had a blow on the head, but I could not trace anything.

James Goodburn, sworn, said: I am the Captain of the Princess Clementine. Deceased was mate on board the vessel. There had been a collision on the 14^th instant between that ship and another vessel in the Channel. Deceased complained of his head several times daily, and said he had been thrown from the wheel on to the deck at the time of the collision. He was always a very quiet sober man.

Superintendent Wilshere: About 11 a.m. this morning I heard of the death of the body viewed by the jury. I visited the ship and searched the body, but found nothing but a purse containing 3d., and a few memorandums. I found in the cabin a quantity of cord similar to that produced.

The Coroner here read a letter received from Mr. James Durden, chief boatman of the Coastguard, stating that deceased had told him of the fall he had received in the collision, and of frequent pains he felt in his head and neck. The contents of this letter were corroborated by the subjoined evidence.

John Reynolds, Sergeant of police, said: I knew the deceased William walker well. I last saw him alive yesterday. I spoke to him about the collision; he told me he was at the wheel, and when the collision happened it threw him over the wheel onto the deck and cut his head. He said the blood ran down his neck from the wound, and he complained of a pain down his neck to his shoulder, so that he could hardly move.

William Earnshaw said, in answer to a juror, that the cord produced is similar to that supplied by the Company.

Henry Woods: I am chief engineer on board the Princess Clementine. I was on board when the collision took place, and the next morning I had some conversation with the deceased, and he complained of a blow on the head as well as a strain in his neck. I have seen him daily since. His cabin is opposite to mine, and we could see into each other`s cabin. He has been daily since the accident writing a great deal, and overhauling his books, contrary to his usual custom. On Wednesday I saw him writing very fast, and that induced me to notice him particularly. I have observed that he has been very strange the last few days, and not inclined to talk.

This concluded the evidence, and, the Coroner having summed up, the jury returned a verdict of “Temporary insanity, caused by a blow on the head, sustained by a fall during the recent collision”.

Folkestone Express 21-11-1874

An inquest was held last evening at the Royal George Hotel before F.J. Till Esq., Deputy Coroner, and a jury, on the body of William Walker, mate of the steam boat Princess Clementine, the particulars of which will be found in the evidence given below:

James Jones deposed: I am a shipwright on the South Eastern Railway Works. I knew the deceased, William Walker. I last saw him alive about half past nine this morning; saw him again about twenty minutes before ten. I lost sight of him for a few moments, and when I saw him again he was lying on the deck, dead. He was quite sober.

Adam Pope deposed: I am fourteen years of age, and call boy on board the Princess Clementine. I knew deceased, who was mate on board the same vessel. I saw him last at a quarter past four o`clock this afternoon, lying dead under the bridge on board the Princess Clementine. I saw him alive at eight o`clock this morning, going down the quay to go on board. I went on board at nine o`clock. About five minutes to ten, Charles Hammond, the boatman, told me to call the mate (deceased) directly. I went to his berth to find him. The door was open and I looked round, and I thought deceased was standing on the locker. I said “Mr. Mercer” and he did not answer. I spoke louder, and still he did not answer. I went to Mr. Hammond and said “He is in a deep sleep, or he must be dead”. Mr. Hammond said he would go and roust him out. Deceased and I had a conversation yesterday about twelve o`clock, when he said “Will you go and tell my wife I shall not be home to dinner, and tell her to get her own”. I thought he looked white and told him so. He put his hand to the back of his head and said “I have a pain here”. He was perfectly sober at eight o`clock. (This witness gave his evidence in such an intelligent manner as to call forth the commendation of the jury)

Thomas Golder deposed: I am a labourer in the employ of the S.E.R. Company. I knew deceased very well, and the last time I saw him was at a little before ten this morning, in his berth. I was called down by Mr. Hammond, who said “I think old Will`s dead”. I went to his berth as quickly as I could, and looked round and saw him hanging up in a corner of his berth. I put my hand up and felt a cord round his neck, and attached to a hook. Mr. Hammond handed me a knife and I cut him down. I think the cord produced is the same which was round deceased`s neck. I took the body on deck, and four or five of us tried to revive him. His hand was cold when I cut him down, but his body was limp. He was swinging clear, and was dead when I cut him down.

Mr. R. Mercer, M.R.C.S., deposed: I saw deceased for the first time this morning, when he was dead, between a quarter and half past ten, on the deck of the Princess Clementine. I made an examination of the body, and found his neck dislocated. I have examined him since, and found the mark of a cord round his neck. The body was cold. The cause of death was dislocation of the neck. I had heard that he had had a blow on the head, and examined him, but could find no traces of it after a second examination.

Captain James Goodburn deposed: Deceased was mate on board the Princess Clementine, of which I am Captain. Deceased complained of his head on the night of the collision of the Princess Clementine with another vessel, and said he was thrown from the wheel to the deck. He complained daily of the pain in his head. He was a very quiet, sober man. The collision happened six days ago.

Superintendent Wilshere deposed: Shortly before eleven today I heard of the death of the deceased, and visited the ship, searched the body, and found a purse, threepence, and some pencils. In the cabin I found some twine corresponding with that now produced.

A letter from Mr. J. Durden, Chief Officer of the Coastguard, was read, which corroborated the statements of the witnesses as to the state of mind of the deceased.

Police Sergeant Reynolds deposed: I knew deceased well. I saw him the last time yesterday. I spoke to him about the collision, and he told me he was at the wheel, and when the collision happened it threw him over the wheel, on to his head and cut it, and blood ran down his neck from the wound, and said it pained him down his neck and his shoulders, so that he could hardly move. He was a sober man.

Mr. W.E. Earnshaw deposed: The Company supply cord precisely the same as that produced.

Henry Woods expressed a wish to give evidence as to the habits of the deceased, and on being sworn said: I am chief engineer on board the Princess Clementine. I was on board when the collision took place, and next morning he complained of a blow on the head, likewise a strain in his neck, and that it was so bad he could hardly move his head. I have seen him on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. His cabin is opposite mine, and we can see into each other`s cabins distinctly. Each day he has been overhauling his books and writing very much, which is contrary to his usual custom. On Wednesday morning he was writing in such a manner which made me notice it. I observed that he had been very strange the last day or two, and not inclined to talk, which is contrary to his usual habits.

Mr. Mercer, by a juror: The injuries deceased complained of would probably have the effect of causing a mental derangement.

The jury returned a verdict that deceased hung himself whilst in a state of temporary insanity caused by the injuries to his head.

Southeastern Gazette 23-11-1874

Inquest

On Friday evening last an inquest was held at the Royal George Hotel, before F. J. Till, Esq., deputy-coroner, on the body of William Walker, mate of the steam boat “Princess Clementine.” It appeared that some time since, deceased had received an injury to his head by being thrown down in a collision. The injury had caused him great pain at times. When a boy went to call deceased on the morning of the day in question, he could get no answer, and, he having called a man named Golder, it was found that Walker had hung himself.

The jury returned a verdict of “Temporary Insanity”.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 5-12-1874

Local Intelligence

About a month ago a boy named Poole fell into the harbour and was drowned. After the Inquest, which was held at the Royal George Hotel, on the body, Mr. Lebutt kindly collected £10 5s. 6d. (in subscriptions ranging from 3d. to 2s. 6d.), for the parents, who are in poor circumstances. Out of this the funeral expenses were defrayed and the balance remaining, £5 11s. 6d., has been handed over to the parents.

Folkestone Express 5-12-1874

Local News

It will be recollected that a little boy named Henry Samuel Poole was accidentally drowned in the harbour on the 4^th ultimo. Mr. H.W. Le Butt, Royal George Hotel, very kindly collected £10 5s. 6d. from 166 subscribers, ranging from 3d. to 2s. 6d. each. After the funeral and other expenses were paid there was a balance of £5 11s. 6d., which Mr. Le Butt has handed to the parents of the poor boy.

Folkestone Chronicle 2-1-1875

An inquest was held last evening at the Royal George Hotel before J. Minter Esq., Coroner, on a child named James Fagg, living in East Street. From the evidence it appears that the poor little fellow caught hold of the kettle, which was on the fire, and drank out of the spout. The hot water injured the mucus membrane, the windpipe, and inflicted other injuries which caused death. The jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

Folkestone Express 2-1-1875

Inquest

An inquest was held at the Royal George Inn last (Friday) evening, before J. Minter Esq., and a jury, on Thomas, infant son of John Fagg, fisherman, East Street, aged two years and nine months. The following evidence explains the fatal occurrence:

Mrs. Fagg said she was boiling some fishing lines the previous afternoon about half past three, in her parlour, with her little girls. There was a fire in the room, and a kettle on the hob. The deceased came in from the street and went to the fire. Witness`s daughter, Annie, suddenly called out “Mother! Tommy is drinking boiling hot water out of the kettle”. Witness turned round and saw deceased screaming in front of the fire. Witness picked him up; he was foaming at the mouth and crying. Witness tried to force butter and milk between his lips, but could not get the deceased to open his mouth. Witness called in a neighbour, and was going to take deceased to the doctor`s, but he cried to go to sleep, so witness stayed in. The child went to sleep for two hours, and after he woke up she took him to Mr. Mercer`s. The child died a little after one a.m.

Annie Fagg, deceased`s sister, aged ten, who said she could not either read or write, corroborated her mother`s evidence.

Mr. Richard Mercer, surgeon, deposed that the child had been scalded in the throat. The upper part of the gullet and windpipe were blistered, and the mucous membrane was parched. The injuries were such as would be caused by drinking boiling water. He prescribed soothing remedies, but it died from the shock to the system and the injury to the throat. There was no hope of recovery from the first.

The jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

Southeastern Gazette 4-1-1875

Inquest

An inquest was held on Friday evening last, at the Royal George Inn, Beach Street, before J. Minter, Esq., and a jury, touching the death of Thomas, infant son of John Fagg, fisherman, East Street, aged two years and nine months. The following evidence was adduced:—

Mrs. Fagg said she was baiting some fishing lines the previous afternoon, about half-past three, in her parlour, with her little girls. There was a fire in the room, and a kettle on the hob. The deceased came in from the street and went to the fire. Witness’s daughter Annie suddenly called out, “Mother ! Tommy is drinking boiling hot water out of the kettle.” Witness turned round and saw deceased screaming in front of the fire. Witness picked him up; he was foaming at the mouth and crying. Witness tried to force butter and milk between his lips, but could not get the deceased to open his mouth. Witness called in a neighbour, and was going to take deceased to the doctor’s, but he cried to go to sleep, so witness stayed in. The child went to sleep for two hours and after he woke up witness took him to Mr. Mercer’s. The child died at one a.m.

Corroborative testimony was given by the little girl Annie, and the medical evidence was to the effect that death had resulted from a shock to the system and injury to the throat caused by drinking boiling water.

The jury returned a verdict of “Accidental Death.” 

 

Folkestone Chronicle 20-3-1875

Wednesday, March 17^th: Before The Mayor, Col. De Crespigny, R.W. Boarer, J. Tolputt, and W. Bateman Esqs.

Hobson Wright Lebutt was summoned for wilfully damaging a ladder, the property of Charles W. Spurrier, on the 13^th inst.

Mr. Minter appeared for defendant.

The defendant was also charged with stealing a cask and a pair of trousers, of the value of 21s., at the same time.

The Bench, having heard the evidence, dismissed both cases.

Notes: Lebutt was licensee of the Royal George and Spurrier the Alexandra Hotel.

Folkestone Express 20-3-1875

Wednesday, March 17^th: Before The Mayor, Col. De Crespigny, R.W. Boarer, J. Tolputt and W. Bateman Esqs.

Hobson Wright Le Butt, of the Royal George Hotel, was charged with wilfully and maliciously damaging a ladder, the property of Charles William Spurrier, of the Alexandra Hotel on the 18^th inst.  Mr. Minter appeared for defendant.

Prosecutor deposed that at half past six p.m. on Saturday evening he was in his bedroom at the back of the house, and heard someone moving some casks. He saw it was Mr. Le Butt, and thinking that he was moving his own casks took no further notice of it. On Sunday morning he missed a ladder which lay partly on his own ground and partly on that belonging to the Royal George. He afterwards found a broken piece of the ladder by the back door of the Royal George; the other part he had seen in the back premises of the same hotel. The value of the ladder was 15s.

Cross-examined by Mr. Minter: I believe defendant is landlord of the Royal George. Had not been unfortunate with his ladder; had often lent it to defendant. Had had no dispute with Mr. Groves, the late landlord. Had not asked defendant for the ladder on account of his state; he considered he would not have done it if he had been sober. He considered he was a dangerous man.

Mr. Minter: And therefore you want to get rid of him.

The Bench dismissed the case without calling on Mr. Minter for his defence.

Mr. Minter: You ought to be obliged to us for taking care of your ladder. You can have it on application.

Mr. Spurrier: Very well, my next action will be in the county court.

Mr. Minter applied for a certificate of dismissal to bar further proceedings, but as the charge was not one of felony, the Magistrates did not grant it.

The same defendant was next charged with stealing a cask and pair of trousers, value 21s., at the same time from the same prosecutor. Mr. Minter again defended.

Mr. Spurrier said on Saturday he had a 36 gallon cask, belonging to Messrs. Truman, Hanbury and Co., standing on ground at the back of his house. He saw it at 5 p.m. At 6.30 he saw defendant moving some casks, and at seven o`clock he found the cask in question was gone. He saw the cask on Sunday in Mr. Le Butt`s back building. Prosecutor also lost a pair of trousers hanging on a line on defendant`s land, and he also found these in this building. He could identify them.

By Mr. Minter: I laid the information and knew that I was swearing that defendant feloniously took these. I did not, as a neighbour and hotel keeper, think it well to ask him for it. The cask stood on the right of way, but on one side, so that defendant could have passed.

The trousers – a very small pair of knickerbockers – were produced by Mr. Le Butt, to the amusement of the Court.

Mr. Minter addressed the Court for the defence, saying he was sorry Mr. Spurrier had allowed his temper to get the better of him and bring forward this charge. He saw that he had not taken the usual course of apprehending the supposed thief under a warrant, but had summoned Mr. Le Butt to answer this trumpery charge. The fact was Mr. Le Butt had suffered depredations on a fowl house, and locked up all the loose property in the yard.

The Mayor said the Magistrates had unanimously decided to dismiss the case.

Applause was expressed in Court at the decision, but this was instantly suppressed.

The parties then left the Court. Miss Spurrier took up the offending pair of breeks left by Mr. Le Butt, and retired with her father.

Southeastern Gazette 22-3-1875

Local News

At the Borough Petty Sessions, on Wednesday, Hobson Wright Le Butt, landlord of the Royal George Hotel, was charged with wilful damage to a ladder worth 15s., belonging to Mr. C. Spurrier, of the Alexandra Hotel.

On March 13th, plaintiff saw defendant moving some casks in a yard common to both hotels. The next morning he discovered that the ladder had been broken and placed in an out-house belonging to Le Butt. He could swear to one of the spokes produced.

Cross-examined by Mr. Minter, who defended, plaintiff said there was no mark on the spoke by which he identified it.

The Mayor said that the Bench would not trouble Mr. Minter, but dismiss the summons. Mr. Spurrier said he should go to the county court for a remedy.

 

Folkestone Express 24-4-1875

County Court

Saturday, April 17^th: Before G. Russell Esq.

In the judgement summons plaint, Simon Joseph, outfitter, High and Tontine Streets v Hobson Wright Le Butt, landlord of the Royal George Hotel, for £10 for a suit of clothes (which had been adjourned from last Court) His Honour committed defendant for 14 days` forthwith.

Saturday, April 17^th: Before J. Tolputt, J. Clark and R.W. Boarer Esqs.

Mr. Hobson Wright Le Butt, of the Royal George Hotel, who did not appear, was summoned for non-payment of £8 16s. on a Gas account due on December 31^st.

Superintendent Wilshere proved the service of the summons.

Stephen Page, the collector of the Folkestone Gas and Coke Company, proved the case, and an order was made for payment within seven days after demand; in default of payment, a distress warrant to issue; in default of distress, one month`s imprisonment.

Folkestone Express 8-5-1875

Advertisement

To be Let, with immediate possession, that well known Family Hotel and Continental  House, known as the Royal George, close to the Railway Station, the Harbour, and Pavilion Hotel, recently painted and decorated, and capable of doing at once a first class business. Incoming moderate.

No stock to take.

Apply for terms &c., to

JAMES PLEDGE,

Auctioneer and valuer,

Folkestone

Folkestone Chronicle 22-5-1875

County Court

Before G.A. Russell Esq.

Interpleader Case

This was a case which occupied the attention of the Court for some time. George Wetherham was plaintiff, Hobson Wirght Lebutt, late landlord of the Royal George Hotel, defendant, and The City Of London Brewery Company, claimed certain sums of money owing to it by defendant from a sum recovered by distraints by plaintiff.

Mr. J. Minter appeared for plaintiff, Mr. Mowll for claimant, but defendant was not represented.

It appears that defendant owed Mr. Wetherham £14 7s., for which a judgement in the County Court was obtained. The deputy bailiff was put in possession of this hotel under the summons, and the goods sold. The City Of London Brewery Company made a claim to the property seized under the levy. After some discussion on legal points, His Honour gave judgement for claimant.

Folkestone Express 22-5-1875

County Court

Saturday, May 15^th: Before G. Russell Esq.

Interpleader Case

In an interpleader action which occupied the attention of the Court a considerable time George Wetherhahn was plaintiff, Hobson Wright Le Butt, late landlord of the Royal George Hotel, Beach Street, defendant; the City Of London Brewery Company appeared to claim certain sums of money owing to it by defendant from a sum recovered by distraints by plaintiff.

Mr. J. Minter appeared for the plaintiff; Mr. Mowll, of Dover, for the claimant; defendant was not represented by a solicitor.

The facts of the case, briefly stated, were these: Defendant owed Mr. Wetherhahn the sum of £14 7s., for which he obtained a judgement against him in this County Court, and issued an execution in due course. The deputy bailiff was put in possession of the hotel under this summons and goods were sold. The City Of London Brewery Company then made a claim to the property seized under the levy and the money was paid into Court to abide the event. It was stated that subsequent expenses had raised Mr. Wetherhahn`s claim to £21 2s. 6d.

When the case came on for hearing, Mr. Smith, a collector for the City Of London Brewing Company, and Mr. Le Butt were called by Mr. Mowll in support of the claimant`s case.

After some contention on legal points raised by Mr. Minter, His Honour gave judgement for the claimant.

Folkestone Express 5-6-1875

Local News

On Tuesday afternoon a large display board was blown from the parapet of the Royal George Hotel, breaking some tiles and boarding in it`s descent. It fell but a short distance from two little girls who were passing the hotel at the time.

Folkestone Express 12-6-1875

Advertisement

The Royal George Hotel, Folkestone.

Now to be LET, with immediate possession.

Apply personally to James Pledge, Auctioneer and Valuer, Folkestone.

Folkestone Express 31-7-1875

Wednesday, July 28^th: Before The Mayor and J. Kelcey Esq.

Ann Owens, 63, old woman of dissipated appearance, but who described herself as “a poor widow trying to earn an honest crust”, pleaded Not Guilty to a charge of being drunk and disorderly in Queen Square on the previous day.

P.C. Hogben proved that on Tuesday afternoon about four o`clock he found the prisoner near the Royal George Hotel drunk and fighting with another woman. Witness had cautioned prisoner a few days before for begging.

Defendant declared with great volubility her innocence of the charge, and called a woman named Ann Besley, lodging at the Radnor Inn, who saw defendant struck by another woman. She seemed then quite sober. The striking went on for about twenty minutes before the police came.

Superintendent Wilshere said that at the time of the wedding of General Casson`s daughter, defendant was drunk near the church and abusive towards the wedding party. She had not been charged with the offence as the witnesses would not come forward.

The Mayor said the Bench would dismiss the case, as oath was brought against oath, although they had strong suspicions that defendant was drunk at the time.

Folkestone Chronicle 6-11-1875

Tuesday, November 2^nd: Before The Mayor, J. Tolputt, and T. Caister Esqs.

Charles Edward Evans, a driver in the Royal Artillery, was charged with stealing a “spinning Jenny”, of the value of 10s., the property of Mr. Lebutt, of the Royal George Hotel, on the previous Saturday.

The prisoner was remanded until today (Saturday)

Folkestone Express 6-11-1875

Friday, November 5^th: Before The Mayor, T. Caister and J. Tolputt Esqs.

Charles Frederick Evans, a driver in the 25^th Brigade, Royal Artillery, was charged with stealing a “spinning jenny”, value 10s., the property of Mr.Le Butt, Royal George Hotel, on the previous evening.

Lieutenant Little, R.A., was present during the hearing of the case.

Eliza Amos, barmaid at the Royal George Hotel, Beach Street, said that on Thursday evening at six o`clock prisoner came to the house. He came into the bar with another man, a civilian called “Dicky Buff”, and asked for two glasses of ale. Witness served the beer and the two stayed in the bar about a quarter of an hour. Prisoner went away first, and in about five minutes afterwards witness missed the “spinning jenny” produced. It stood behind the bar on a shelf and anyone would have to reach over to get it. Prisoner was brought to the hotel about seven o`clock by the provost, some soldiers, and a policeman. The latter asked witness if she had seen prisoner before, and she replied in the affirmative. Prisoner asked where the civilian was who gave it to him, but witness did not reply. Prisoner had a stripe on his arm when he first came in the house.

Frederick Wallis said he was landlord of the Crown And Anchor Inn, Dover Street. On Thursday evening at a quarter past seven prisoner came in alone and asked for a glass of ale. Prisoner produced the “spinning jenny” from under his arm and said he had bought it for the Artillery sports. He asked witness to buy it for 5s., and witness ultimately gave him 4s. for it. Witness afterwards heard that the “jenny” was missing and gave information to the police.

Superintendent Wilshere asked for a remand, and the Bench accordingly granted a remand until today (Saturday).

Folkestone Express 13-11-1875

Saturday, November 6^th: Before The Mayor, J. Tolputt, T. Caister and W.J. Jeffreason Esqs.

Frederick Charles Evans, a soldier in the 25^th Brigade, Royal Artillery, was charged on remand from the previous day with stealing a “spinning jenny”. The particulars appeared in our issue of last week.

Corporal James Hall, of the Garrison Military Police, said he went in search of the prisoner, whom he found in a public house in Dover Street. Witness told him he would have to go to the Royal George. Prisoner asked what for, but witness made no reply. On arriving at the Royal George, the barmaid identified prisoner as having been there that evening.

P.C. Butcher said that about half past seven on Thursday evening he received the prisoner from the last witness and took him to the station. Prisoner was there identified by Mr. Wallis of the Crown And Anchor as the man who sold him the “spinning jenny”. Witness then locked the prisoner up, and afterwards two stripes, which had been on his arm, were found lying on the floor of the cell.

Prisoner, who had nothing to say, was committed for trial.

Folkestone Express 18-12-1875

Wednesday, December 15^th: before The Mayor, R.W. Boarer Esq., and Captain Crowe.

Harris Hayward, a fisherman, was charged with being drunk and disorderly on the previous day.

P.C. Knowles said that about a quarter to eleven on Tuesday morning he heard a noise inside the Royal George public house. On looking in he saw the defendant in a fighting attitude. He went in and endeavoured to persuade him to go out, but he refused to do so, and began fighting another man. Witness and the landlord then ejected him, and on getting into the street he shouted and became so violent that witness was compelled to take him into custody.

The Bench fined defendant 5s., and costs 4s. 6d.

Folkestone Chronicle 29-1-1876

Quarter Sessions

Monday, January 24^th: Before J.J. Lonsdale Esq.

John Frederick Evans, 22, Bombardier in the 25^th Brigade, Royal Artillery, was indicted for stealing one spinning Jenny, value 10s., the property of Mr. Hobson Wright Lebutt, landlord of the Royal George, Folkestone.

Mr. Kingsford prosecuted.

Prisoner stole the article from the counter of the Royal George, and afterwards sold it to the landlord of the Crown And Anchor for 4s.

The Recorder sentenced him to six months` imprisonment with hard labour.

Folkestone Express 29-1-1876

Quarter Sessions

Monday, January 24^th: Before J.J. Lonsdale Esq.

John Frederick Evans, 22, a bombardier in the Royal Artillery, was charged with stealing a “spinning jenny”, value 10s., the property of Hobson Wright Le Butt, on the 4^th November, 1875.

Prisoner pleaded Not Guilty.

Mr. Kingsford prosecuted, and briefly stated the facts of the case to the jury. He then called Eliza Amos: I am a barmaid at the Royal George Hotel. On the day in question I saw the prisoner come in, and I also saw the “spinning jenny” quite safe. After the prisoner was gone out I missed the “spinning jenny”. Prisoner had two gold stripes on his arm. The same evening prisoner was brought to the house. I had given information to the police.

By the prisoner: There were two other men in the house. I do not know them.

Frederick Wallis: I am the landlord of the Crown And Anchor, Dover Street. On the 4^th November prisoner came to my house and offered a “spinning jenny” for sale. He said he had bought it for the Camp Sports, but did not want it. I bought it from him for 4s.; he asked 5s. for it. I heard afterwards that a “spinning jenny” had been stolen from the Royal George, and I gave information to the police.

Corporal J. Hall, 41^st Regiment: I went in search of the prisoner and found him in the Crown And Anchor. He was in the tap room. I called him out and handed him over to P.C. Butcher.

P.C. Butcher: I received the prisoner into custody and charged him, but he made no reply. I took him to the station and saw Mr. Wallis, who said “That`s the man I bought the “spinning jenny” from”. Prisoner had two gold stripes. I afterwards saw him in the cell, but the stripes were taken off his jacket and were lying on the floor under the bed.

Mr. Wallis, re-called, said: Prisoner had two stripes on his arm.

Prisoner said that he went into the Royal George with two sailors, and soon after one of them came out with the article and asked him to sell it. He took it to one place, but could not sell it, and he then took it to Mr. Wallis who bought it. He bore a good character in the regiment, and if it had not been for drink he should never have had anything to do with the matter.

The learned Recorder, in summing up the case, reverted to the fact that there had been an attempt on the part of the prisoner to disguise himself by cutting off his stripes.

The jury returned a verdict of Guilty, and the Recorder said he did not think it was a case in which the prisoner wished to get out of the army, and he should therefore only sentence the prisoner to be imprisoned with hard labour for six calendar months.

Southeastern Gazette 29-1-1876

Quarter Sessions

The Epiphany Quarter Session for this borough was held on Friday last, at the Town-hall, before the Recorder (J. J. Lonsdale, Esq.).

 John Frederick Evans, 22, a bombardier in the 25^th Brigade Royal Artillery, was indicted for stealing a spinning jenny, value 10s., the property of Mr. Hobson Wright le Butt, landlord of the Royal George, Folkestone. Mr. Kingsford prosecuted.

Prisoner, who made drink the excuse for his crime, was sentenced to six months’ hard labour.

Folkestone Express 15-4-1876

Monday, April 10^th: Before The Mayor, Col. De Crespigny, Ald, Caister, and W.J. Jeffreason esq.

John Philpott was charged with being drunk and begging in Queen`s Square on Sunday evening.

Superintendent Wilshere said that at about nine o`clock on Sunday evening he saw prisoner go to several persons. Prisoner afterwards went into the Royal George, and witness followed him. Prisoner went round with his hat, saying that he was nearly blind, and had had nothing to eat all day. He was very drunk. Witness called the attention of the landlord, and prisoner was told to go out. He refused to go, became very violent, threw himself down, and had to be dragged to the police station.

The Mayor: Has the prisoner been here before?

The Superintendent: Not that I can trace, according to the name, though his face seems familiar to me.

Alderman Caister: I am sure I have seen him before.

The prisoner was ordered to pay a fine of 5s. for being drunk, or in default seven days` imprisonment with hard labour, and was committed for a further term of seven days for begging.

Folkestone Express 10-8-1878

Wednesday, August 7^th: Before The Mayor, Alderman Caister, General Armstrong, and J. Kelcey Esq.

The license of the Royal George was transferred to Mr. Crump.
 

Folkestone Express 13-12-1879

Wednesday, December 10^th: Before The Mayor, R.W. Boarer Esq., Aldermen Banks and Hoad, Captain Crowe and Captain Fletcher.

Benjamin Cloke was summoned for assaulting George Dorrell on the 3^rd December. Mr Minter appeared for the defendant.

Complainant, a hawker, of Hythe, said on Wednesday he was in the Royal George shortly before five in the afternoon. As he was going in, defendant came up and wanted to fight. He declined to fight, and sat down on a form for a minute or two, and defendant then struck him with his fist and knocked him off the form.

Cross-examined: I did not strike defendant at all, and the landlord did not tell me to let defendant alone.

George Wire, a hawker, of Hythe, corroborated complainant`s statement. He added that Cloke was annoyed because Dorrell had taken his trade away.

Robert Crump, the landlord of the Royal George, said the parties had been in and out of his house several times during the day. He served Cloke with shrub and cloves. He saw Cloke strike complainant, because he pulled his jacket off. Cloke was excited, and complainant was annoying him. The witness Wire had had too much to drink and he was requested to leave the house.

Henry Newman said complainant struck the first blow and defendant returned it.

The Bench dismissed the case.