Cinque Ports Arms 1900 - 1904

Folkestone Chronicle 21-4-1900

Local News

On Tuesday afternoon a young man named Weatherhead (son of Mrs. Weatherhead, of the Cinque Ports Arms) fell into the harbour basin, and the tide being low he received a compound fracture of the thigh. He was immediately conveyed to the Victoria Hospital, and on inquiry later we were informed that favourable brogress was being made by the injured leg. There is a coincidence in this accident. Some years since, another son of Mrs. Weatherhead fell over the harbour and broke his leg, with the result that the limb was considerably shortened. This son died a year or two afterwards, but his death was attributed to weakness following the shock of the fall.

Folkestone Express 3-11-1900

Friday, October 26^th: Before C.J. Pursey Esq., and Lieut. Col. Hamilton.

John Wildash Bedwell was charged with stealing a purse containing about 14s. in money, two sleeve links, and other articles, the property of Mr. Cook, of Cheriton, on October 15^th. Supt. Reeve said the facts were rather out of the ordinary.

Mary Cook, the wife of a blacksmith, residing at 17, Stanley Road, Cheriton, said she had known the prisoner since she was a child. She was in Folkestone on Monday, the 15^th October, and about eleven o`clock that night she got into a bus to go to Cheriton. The prisoner got in at the same time and sat next to her on the right. They entered into conversation, and prisoner, who said he had no money, asked her to pay his bus fare, which she did. The fares were called for just by the Central Station. She took her purse from the pocket of her dress and paid the two fares. She put the purse back in her dress pocket. Prisoner was still seated on her right hand side. Her purse contained about 14s. in silver and bronze, a County Court summons bearing the full name and address of her husband, a receipt for 5s. from Messrs. Gosnold`s on a printed draper`s billhead bearing her full name and address. She paid this 5s. as a deposit on a hat which she had ordered from Messrs. Gosnold. There were also a pair of sleeve links in the purse. The bus stopped near the White Lion, Cheriton, and she got out. The prisoner got out at the same time. She accompanied some friends down Risborough Lane, but the prisoner was not with them. When she got to the arch she felt for her purse, and missed it for the first time. Prisoner came up directly afterwards and she told him she had lost her purse, and there was a fortnight`s rent in it. He said “I`ll help you look for it”. She told him it was a red leather purse, and had “A present from Seabrook” printed outside. He struck several matches to see if he could find it. She walked down as far as the White Lion with him and bid him “Good night”. They both looked in the road as they walked down but could see nothing of the purse. On Thursday Detective Burniston showed her the purse and the links now produced, which she identified as the same she lost. The links were worth 1s. 6d.

By prisoner: You sat on my right hand. I was neither drunk nor sober – I had had a glass. He landlady of the Cinque Ports asked prisoner to see me up the road. I went into the field near the arch with two soldiers who were friends of mine. I missed the purse before I went into the field.

George Edward Gosnold, carrying on business at 56, Tontine Street, said he recognised the prisoner, who came into his shop on the morning of the 16^th of October, between 9.30 and 10. He produced one of their billheads, bearing the words “Mrs. Cook, 17, Stanley Road, Cheriton”, also “One hat 8s. 11d. Deposit 5s.” There was no signature. He requested him to refund him 4s. 6d. He asked him to do him a favour and give him back 4s. 6d. of the deposit as he had no money to pay the rent, and his wife had taken his money (5s.) which he had put aside for that purpose. He represented himself as the husband of Mrs. Cook. He told him he was an entire stranger to him, and as he did not know Mrs. Cook`s husband he could not return him the money until he had satisfied himself that he was her husband. He said “But my having the bill would be sufficient proof that I am her husband”. He replied that that was no proof at all. He then told him definitely that he did not feel inclined to let him have the money. He left and took the bill away with him.

Detective Sergt. Burniston said from information received on the 20^th he made enquiries, and at 2.15 on Thursday he saw the prisoner at Mr. Salter`s stores in Park Road. He said “You answer to the description of a man who presented a stolen bill at Gosnold`s shop in Tontine Street on the 16^th of this month with intent to obtain 4s. by means of false pretences. I am going to take you to the police station for the purpose of identification” He said “It is quite right. I own I have done wrong. I had not got any money, so I took the bill to Gosnold`s and tried to get 4s. on it. It had the name of Mrs. Cook, 17. Stanley Road on it. I told them at Gosnold`s I wanted to get the money back to pay my rent. The assistant then questioned me very closely about the bill, and finding I could not get any money I left the shop. I told them my name was Cook”. He asked prisoner where he got the bill. He said “I found it in Risborough Lane last week. It was in a purse which contained a County Court summons, five shillings in money, and a pair of cuff links”. He brought him to the police station, where he was identified by Mr. Gosnold, and charged with stealing the purse. He replied “I cannot say any more than I have told you, which is the truth”. The purse and cuff links produced he received from prisoner`s sister, Mrs. West and brother-in-law Arthur John West.

Arthur John West, prisoner`s brother-in-law, a railway signalman, living at Shorncliffe, said he was walking from Shorncliffe to Folkestone when prisoner gave him a pair of links and afterwards showed him a red leather purse, which he said he found in a field near a stable at Cheriton.

Prisoner elected to be dealt with summarily, and said he was Guilty of finding the purse and spending the money. He was called into the Cinque Ports Arms and asked to see the prosecutrix home. She was treating soldiers in the public house to gallons of beer at a time. When she got off the bus she went straight off with some soldiers. It would be about two o`clock when she went home, and he went to the cook-house at the Camp. He stayed there until five o`clock and was looking for his pipe next morning when he found the purse. What he ought to have done was to have taken the purse to the police station.

The Chairman said they would inflict a fine of 20s. or fourteen days`. He was allowed a week to pay, and told by the Magistrates` Clerk that he might have been charged with a much more serious offence of endeavouring to gain money by false pretences.

Folkestone Chronicle 12-1-1901

Monday, January 7^th: Before Alderman Banks, Lieut. Col. Hamilton, and Messrs. Pursey, Herbert, Swoffer, and Wightwick.

Edward Lordon, a smart-looking young Irishman, a private in the Dublin Fusiliers, was charged with being concerned with another man, not in custody, with stealing a quantity of clothing, valued at £2, from the steamer Christopher.

James Matthews, an ordinary seaman, said: Up to Friday I was a member of the crew of the S.S. Christopher, of Whitstable. On that day I was discharged with the rest of the crew. I left a box (locked), containing my clothes, in the forecastle of the ship. On the following day (Saturday), about noon, I went to the ship and noticed that the box was broken open. On examination I missed the following articles of clothing: three pairs of socks, two blankets, one pair of stockings, one gold ring, set of brushes, knife, fork, and spoon, six spoons in case, one silk muffler, blue serge coat, and three shirts, total value £2. On the way to the police station I met the prisoner in High Street, carrying a silk wrap, which I recognised as the one taken from my box, while a case, similar to the one I had missed, was sticking out from the corner of the handkerchief. I had known the prisoner for three weeks, and been about with him at nights. I asked him where the police station was and he directed me. I went in, and prisoner walked past. On the way to the station I told him I had had my box broken open, but I did not say anything about the handkerchief and box he was carrying, being afraid he might strike me. Shortly afterwards I was in the bar of the Cinque Ports Arms in company with P.C. Kettle. The prisoner came in and Kettle took him into custody. I have not seen any of the property since. He had not the handkerchief with him when he came into the bar.

By the prisoner: On Friday night I was in the bar of the Cinque Ports Arms with three other sailors, yourself, and a man of the 7^th Dragoon Guards. I had on one gold and one silver ring.

John Charrington, mate of the Christopher, proved seeing the prisoner on the boat on Saturday morning, two or three times, with a seaman. Witness saw them go away together, the seaman carrying a bag.

Edward Ashford, landlord of the Channel Inn, deposed to the prisoner coming to the bar on Saturday morning. He laid one or two spoons on the table, and said they were a present from his mother.

P.C. Johnstone proved seeing the prisoner in the churchyard on Saturday at 12.30, carrying a brown and white striped wrap with something in it.

At this stage the Chief Constable asked the Bench to grant a remand until Saturday to enable further enquiries to be made in respect to the missing seaman.

An officer in the prisoner`s regiment was understood to say that he would not be responsible for the prisoner`s appearance if bail were granted. He was accordingly remanded in custody.

Folkestone Express 12-1-1901

Monday, January 7^th: Before Alderman J. Banks, Lieut. Col. Hamilton, and G.I. Swoffer, W.G. Herbert, W. Wightwick, and C.J. Pursey Esqs.

Pte. Edward Lorden, 4^th Batt. Dublin Fusiliers, was charged with being concerned with stealing a quantity of clothing valued at £2, with a seaman, not yet arrested.

James Matthews, an ordinary seaman, said on Friday the 4^th inst., he was one of the crew of the S.S. Christopher, of Whitstable, and took his discharge with the rest of the crew. He left his box, containing clothing, in the forecastle of the ship. It was locked. About 12 o`clock noon on Saturday he went to the ship in Folkestone Harbour and noticed the box had been broken open, and on further searching he missed articles of clothing, which were two blankets, 3 pairs socks, pair stockings, one gold ring, seven brushes, knife, fork, and spoon, and other things in a small case, one silk muffler, blue serge coat, three shirts. He valued them altogether at 40s. He saw the prisoner in High Street, who was carrying a silk wrap, which witness recognised as his property. He also identified a small box inside the silk muffler, which prisoner carried. Witness had known prisoner for about three weeks, and kept company with him at night. When witness saw him in High Street, he asked him where the police station was, and prisoner walked up with him towards the station. On the way witness told him he had had his box broken open, but said nothing as to the property he was carrying. At the top of the street, witness left prisoner and went to the police station. About half an hour afterwards witness accompanied a police constable and they went to the Cinque Ports Arms. While they were in the bar the prisoner came in, but did not have the handkerchief or the box. P.C. Kettle then arrested the prisoner.

In reply to prisoner, witness said on Friday night he went to the barracks with a dragoon. He was only wearing one gold ring and one silver ring on his hand in the Cinque Ports Arms.

Charles Charington, mate on the Christopher, now lying in the harbour, said he saw the prisoner on board the ship about ten o`clock in the morning with one of the seamen who had been discharged the previous day. He remained on board till 11.45 p.m. Witness did not see him below, but always on deck. He might have gone without witness seeing him. Witness went at that time to have a drink, and on his return he met the seaman, who had a kit bag under his arm, in company with the prisoner.

Fredk. Ashford, landlord of the Channel Inn, High Street, said about noon on Saturday the prisoner, who was in uniform, went in for some refreshment. He sat down at one of the tables and brought out two spoons, and remarked they were a present for his mother.

P.C. Leonard Johnson said about 12.30 p.m. he was in the churchyard of the Parish Church, where he saw the prisoner, who was carrying a brown and white striped wrapper, and a small parcel similar to the one described.

Supt. Reeve asked for a remand until next Saturday so that he might make further enquiries and arrest the other man.

The prisoner raised no objection, and he was remanded accordingly.

Folkestone Herald 12-1-1901

Monday, January 7^th: Before Alderman Banks, Lieut. Colonel Hamilton, and Messrs. Swoffer, Wightwick, Herbert, and Pursey.

Edward Lordon, a private in the Dublin Fusiliers, was charged with being concerned with another man, who as yet had not been arrested, in stealing a quantity of clothing to the value of £2 from the screw steamer Christopher.

James Matthews, ordinary seaman, said up to Friday last he was a member of the crew of the steamship Christopher, of Whitstable, and on that day was discharged with the rest of the crew. He left a bag containing his clothes in the forecastle of the ship. The box was locked. On the following morning, Saturday, about 12 noon, he went to the ship. He went into the forecastle and noticed that his box was broken open, and on examination he missed the following articles of clothing: two blankets, three pairs socks, one pair stockings, one gold ring, seven brushes, knife, fork, and spoon, half a dozen spoons in case, one silk muffler, blue serge coat, and three shirts, to the total value of £2. He left the ship to go to the police station, and on the way met prisoner in High Street. Prisoner was carrying a silk wrap, which witness recognised as the one from his box. There was a case similar to the one he had missed, sticking out from the corner of the handkerchief. Witness had known prisoner for three weeks, and had gone about with him at nights. When he saw prisoner on the Saturday morning he asked him where the police station was. Prisoner directed him, and witness went into the station, prisoner walking straight past. On the way he told prisoner he had had his box broken open, but did not say anything about the handkerchief and box which he was carrying, as he was afraid he might get struck.

The Chairman: A still tongue makes a wise head sometimes.

Witness, continuing, said shortly afterwards he was in the bar of the Cinque Ports Arms with police constable Kettle. Whilst there prisoner came in, and the policeman arrested him. Witness had not seen any of the property since. When prisoner came into the bar he had not the handkerchief with him.

By prisoner: On Friday night he was in the bar of the Cinque Ports Arms with three sailors, prisoner, and a man of the 7^th Dragoon Guards. He had on one gold and one silver ring.

John Charrington, mate of the Christopher, deposed that about 10 o`clock on Saturday morning he saw prisoner on board the ship with one of the seamen, whose name he did not know. He remained on board, to his knowledge, until about 11.45. Witness did not see him leave. He did not see prisoner down below, but he could have gone down without witness seeing him. At about 11.45 witness had been to get a drink, and on returning met prisoner and a seaman coming from the direction of the ship. The seaman had a kit bag under his arm.

Edward Ashford, landlord of the Channel Inn, High Street, said about noon on Saturday prisoner came into his bar for some refreshment. Prisoner sat down alongside the table, and witness saw him with one or two spoons on the table. He heard prisoner say they were a present for his mother.

P.C. Johnson said he was on duty in the churchyard about 12.30 on Saturday last, when he saw prisoner carrying a brown and white striped wrap in his right hand. There was some small article wrapped in it.

At this stage the Chief Constable asked for a remand until Saturday so as to make further enquiries, and, if possible, another arrest.

This was granted.

   

Folkestone Chronicle 19-1-1901

Saturday, January 12^th: Before Mr. J. Banks, Mr. Wightwick, Lieut. Col. Hamilton, and Messrs. G.I. Swoffer, and J. Herbert.

Edward Lorden, a private in the Dublin Fusiliers, and Aaron Hall, a seaman, came up on remand charged with being concerned in staeling a quantity of clothing, valued at £2, the property of James Matthews, lately an ordinary seaman on S.S. Christopher.

Lorden was remanded on Monday last to enable the police to make further enquiries. This they did to very good purpose, for on Friday the second prisoner, Hall, made his appearance in the dock, and was remanded to come up on the following day with Lorden.

James Matthews repeated his evidence as given on Monday, stating that he was a seaman of the S.S. Christopher, of Whitstable. On Friday the 4^th, with the rest of the crew, he was discharged. He left a box, which was locked, containing his clothes, in the forecastle of the ship. On the following day, about noon, he went to the ship, and noticed that the box was broken open. He missed various articles, which included three pairs of socks, two blankets, one pair of stockings, one gold ring, a set of brushes, knife, fork, and spoon, six spoons in case, one silk muffler, blue serge coat, three shirts, etc., valued at £2. On the way to the police station he met the prisoner Lorden carrying a silk wrap, which he recognised as the one taken from his box, whilst a case similar to the one he had missed was sticking out of the handkerchief. He had known the prisoner about three weeks, and had been about with him at night. Shortly after, with police constable Kettle, he (prosecutor), went in the bar of the Cinque Ports, and the prisoner Lorden came in, and Kettle took him into custody. The property now produced he identified as that which was stolen from the box on the S.S. Christopher.

P.C. Albert Kettle stated that, in company with Matthews, he visited the Cinque Ports public house, and when Lorden came in prosecutor said “I have seen you with my silk muffler”. He (the constable) asked prisoner what he had done with it. He replied “I never had any”. He was taken into custody and warned at the station. Prisoner replied “You can charge me if you like”. At 11.30 on the 10^th inst. he (Kettle) received the prisoner Aaron Hall into custody from the police at Hayward`s Heath. In the prisoner`s presence the property produced was handed to him by P.C. Gilbert of that division.

Gilbert said that when he arrested the prisoner on the previous day the property produced was in his possession. He was cautioned, and then charged with being concerned with Lorden in stealing the goods, the subject of the charge.

Lorden pleaded Not Guilty, and Hall Guilty.

Lorden, in defence, said he had been eight years in the British Army. He had not stolen anything during that time, and was not going to begin now.

An officer in Lorden`s regiment said that he could not produce the defaulters` sheet as the regimental papers had been lost in Natal. He was afraid, though, that he could not give him a good character. Since he had been home he had been most of his time in hospital, and at the time of his arrest he should have ben in Ireland, as a furlough had been granted to enable him to go there.

The Chief Constable mentioned that he had received a certificate from the Medical Officer of the prison, who stated that Lorden was suffering from a bullet wound received at Spion Kop, and that he was more fit to be in hospital than in prison.

The Bench ordered each of the prisoners to undergo six weeks` hard labour.

Monday, January 14^th: Before Messrs. Wightwick, Pursey, Herbert, Fitness, Swoffer, and Lieut. Col. Hamilton.

James Brien, a private in the Dublin Fusiliers, was charged with stealing about 8s., the property of Mrs. Weatherhead, landlady of the Cinque Ports Arms.

Annie Weatherhead said at twenty minutes to seven on Monday evening the prisoner came into the bar for a pint of beer, which was served, and the money put with the rest of the money on the shelf in a little glass dish. She went downstairs, and subsequently heard a noise in the bar. She sent her son up. He said it was only the soldier calling some men to give them some beer. No-one came into the bar while the prisoner was there. Five minutes after he left, two men came into the bar, ordered some beer, and paid for it. When she went to put the money in the glass dish, she found all the money gone. Her daughter, whom she sent after the prisoner, found him at the Wellington, and brought him back. The money she had missed was six sixpences, two separate shillings, a half crown, and some coppers. Asked if he had taken the money, prisoner said “No” and threw his money out on the counter. There were five sixpences, one shilling, and two half crowns, and one and three in bronze. She then sent for the police, and at the station he was charged.

Lily Weatherhead, daughter of the last witness, corroborated as to finding prisoner, and James Weatherhead, the son, also gave evidence.

P.C. Sharpe stated that, when arrested, prisoner stated that he had been paid 12s. that day. There were five sixpences, one shilling, three half crowns and one and three in bronze on the counter. Prisoner was taken to the police station, and charged by Mrs. Weatherhead.

Prisoner pleaded Not Guilty. He said he would take his oath he never took the woman`s money. He was paid 7s. on the previous day, and won 5s. 4d. playing “banker”.

The Chief Constable said he had ascertained that prisoner was paid 7s.

The Bench considered the evidence insufficient, and discharged the prisoner, ordering the money found in his possession to be returned to him.

Folkestone Express 19-1-1901

Saturday, January 12^th: Before W. Wightwick Esq., and others.

Pte. Edward Lorden, of the Dublin Fusiliers, and Aaron Hall, a seaman, were both charged with being concerned in stealing a quantity of wearing apparel, a gold ring, a silk muffler, and six spoons in a case, all the property of James Matthews, a seaman on the Christopher.

Supt. Reeve said the soldier was remanded on Monday to allow time to arrest the other prisoner, who was brought up on Friday, and on Saturday morning they were both charged with the theft.

The prosecutor repeated his evidence, which was to the effect that he was discharged on Friday the 4^th inst., with some of the other crew. He left his box quite safe in the forecastle of the Christopher, which was then lying in Folkestone Harbour. The man Aaron Hall was one of the crew. His box contained jewels, and was properly locked. He went next morning and found the box had been broken open and a quantity of clothing and jewellery was missing. Since the last trial he had missed, as well as the articles mentioned last week, eight pencil cases and a photograph frame, one box, two pairs trousers, three neckties, and he valued the whole of his goods at 38s. He walked up High Street to give information to the police, when he met the soldier prisoner, who had under his arm a silk muffler wrapped around a case containing six spoons, which he identified as his property. He did not mention anything about his property, and left the prisoner as soon as he was near the police station. Soon after on the same day he accompanied P.C. Kettle to the Cinque Ports Arms, where the prisoner was subsequently arrested. In answer to prisoner Hall, witness said he had a silver watch belonging to the prisoner in his box.

Supt. Reeve said none of the property had been recovered from the prisoner Lorden.

Fredk. Ashford, landlord of the Channel Inn, High Street, said the prisoner came in for a drink, and sat down at the table. The prisoner then brought out a case containing six spoons, and said to witness “This is a present for my mother”.

P.C. Leonard Johnson said on Saturday he was in the Parish Churchyard, when he saw the prisoner with a brown and white striped muffler under his arm. He also noticed a case with some spoons. He did not stop the prisoner.

P.C. Albert Kettle said from information received on the 5^th inst., about 12.40 p.m., he accompanied the prosecutor to the Christopher, and in the forecastle he saw a box broken open, and in consequence of his enquiries he went with the prosecutor to the Cinque Ports Arms, where he arrested the soldier prisoner and charged him. About 11.30 p.m. on the 10^th inst. he received prisoner in custody at Hayward`s Heath, Sussex. In the presence of the prisoner, P.C. Gilbert told witness that the prisoner had in his possession two brushes, two Oxford shirts, two pairs of socks, one pair of stockings, one silk muffler, two blankets, and other articles, not subject to the charge. P.C. Gilbert continued that he arrested the prisoner on the 9^th inst., and he asked the prisoner where he obtained the property, and prisoner replied he bought them off a soldier for six shillings. He waited whilst the soldier fetched them off the ship. He knew they belonged to a man named “Scotty”.

Prisoner Hall pleaded Guilty, and the prisoner Lorden replied Not Guilty.

Supt. Reeve said with reference to the health of Lorden, he had received from the surgeon of Canterbury prison a certificate that the prisoner had a wound in the left thigh caused by a bullet received at Spion Kop, and was not fit for prison.

An officer present said his defaulters` sheet and documents were out in South Africa, so he was unable to give his character. During his stay at Shorncli9ffe the prisoner Lorden had spent his time in hospital and furlough. He ought to have been in Ireland, as he had been granted a furlough to that destination.

The Bench sentenced each prisoner to six weeks` hard labour.

Tuesday, January 15^th: Before J. Fitness, W. Wightwick, and W.G. Herbert Esqs.

Pte. James Brien, Dublin Fusiliers, was charged with stealing 8s., the money of Mrs. Weatherhead,  of the Cinque Ports public house.

Fanny Weatherhead, landlady of the Cinque Ports public house, Seagate Street, said about 6.40 p.m. on the 14^th inst., the prisoner entered the house and called for a pint of beer, and for payment he gave sixpence. Witness gave him fourpence change. Witnes put the money in a glass bowl in a little recess. She did it in the presence of the prisoner. Witness went downstairs to get a cup of tea, and the prisoner followed her. Soon he went straight upstairs through the bar. As soon as this happened, witness heard a noise. She sent her boy up, and he shouted out “It`s only a soldier calling some men to give him his beer”. Prisoner then left the house. During the whole time no-one was in the bar. Subsequently other customers went in, and when she went to put the money in the dish she found it was empty. She had six sixpences, half a crown, and sixteen coppers. She immediately sent her daughter after the prisoner, and she brought him back. Witness asked him if he stole any money, and he threw down money similar to that stolen. Witness sent to the police station, where he was charged with theft. No-one could have come in without her knowledge.

Lily Weatherhead, daughter of the last witness, said she assisted her mother, and about 7.10 p.m. on the day in question she went in search of the prisoner, and found him in the Wellington, and she called him outside and asked him to go up to her mother`s, where he was told he was suspected of stealing the money. The prisoner replied “I haven`t taken it”, and simultaneously produced the coins.

George Weatherhead proved as soon as he heard a noise he went upstairs and saw the prisoner handing his beer to some labourers. When it was emptied, he handed the glass to witness.

P.C. Sharpe said from information received he went, in company with P.C. Eason, to the Cinque Ports public house, where he arrested the prisoner. When charged the prisoner said “Here`s my money. I was paid 12s. today”. He then took him to the police station.

The prisoner said he was not guilty, and he could swear he did not touch a halfpenny of the money. He was paid 7s. for wages, and won 5s. playing banker.

The Bench dismissed the charge as there was not sufficient evidence.

Folkestone Herald 19-1-1901

Saturday, January 12^th: Before Alderman Banks, Lieut. Colonel Hamilton, and Messrs. Wightwick, Herbert, and Swoffer.

Edward Lordon, a private in the Dublin Fusiliers, and Aaron Hall, lately a seaman on board the ship Christopher, were brought up on remand charged with being concerned together in stealing certain articles of clothing to the value of £2 from the ship mentioned.

The evidence given by James Matthews (prosecutor), James E. Ashford, and constables Leonard Johnson and Kettle, which was fully reported in our last issue, was repeated. Both prisoners elected to be tried by the Magistrates. All pleaded Guilty, and Lordon Not Guilty.

Lordon said he had been eight years in the British Army and never stole anything yet, and he was not going to begin stealing now.

An officer in the Dublin Fusiliers appeared, and said he was sorry he could not give Lordon a character because the papers were lost in Natal.

The Chief Constable (Mr. H. Reeve) stated that he had a certificate from the medical officer at the prison, which showed that Lordon had a wound in his left thigh, said to be a bullet wound received at Spion Kop, and was more fit to be in hospital than prison.

Each of the prisoners was sent to gaol for six weeks` hard labour.

Tuesday, January 15^th: Before Messrs. Fitness, Herbert, and Wightwick.

James Brice, a private in the Army, was charged with stealing 8s., the money of Mrs. Weatherhead, of the Cinque Ports Arms.

Fanny Weatherhead, the prosecutrix, said at about 6.40 p.m. the previous night prisoner entered the house and called for a pint of beer. He paid 6d., and she gave him four penny pieces change. She then put the 6d. in a little glass dish in a recess behind the bar. He asked her to have a glass of beer, but she refused, saying she was going to have a cup of tea. With that she went downstairs, and he followed her. Afterwards he went straight upstairs into the bar, and there a noise attracted her attention. She sent her boy upstairs, and he came down and said it was only the soldier calling some men to have some beer. There was no-one else in the bar all the time he was there. About five minutes afterwards she went into the bar and found another soldier and an old gentleman. The prisoner had gone. She went to the dish and found the money gone. When she gave prisoner the change there were six sixpences, two shillings, a half crown, and some coppers in the dish. Prisoner afterwards came back, and in reply to her question he threw his money on the counter. The coins were five sixpences, one shilling, two half crowns and 15d. in coppers. She said “Your sixpences look like mine”, and then her daughter went for the police. No-one could have gone to the bar without her knowledge.

Lily Weatherhead said she assisted her mother in her business. On Monday night she went in search of and found prisoner in the Wellington Hotel. She called him outside, and asked him to go with her, which he did. When he got into the bar she told him her mother had lost some money, and as he was the only man in the house they suspected him. He replied “I have not taken it” and then put out his money on the counter.

James Weatherhead, son of the prosecutrix, said at 6.45 the previous evening he was downstairs with his mother, and heard a noise in the bar. He went upstairs in the bar and found it empty, but prisoner was outside. Prisoner handed the glass to witness, and went away.

P.C. Sharpe said at 7.15 p.m. on the previous night he went to the Cinque Ports Arms in company with P.C. Easton, and Mrs. Weatherhead said she had had some money stolen, and that she suspected prisoner of having it. Prisoner pointed to the money laid on the counter and said “There is my money. I was paid 12s. today”. There were five sixpences, one shilling, two half crowns and 15d. in bronze.

The Bench considered the case not fully proved, and discharged prisoner.

 

Folkestone Express 16-3-1901

Saturday, March 9^th: Before J. Fitness, W.G. Herbert, G.I. Swoffer and W. Wightwick Esqs., and Lieut. Col. Hamilton.

Richard Spearpoint, a fisherman, was summoned for being drunk on licensed premises, to which offence he pleaded Guilty.

P.C. Varrier deposed that on the 2^nd inst., about 5.45 in the afternoon, he was called to the Cinque Ports public house in Seagate Street, and in the public bar he saw the defendant drunk. At witness`s request he left the premises. He saw the landlady, who told witness that she did not serve him with any liquor, but the defendant had the habit of entering the house when intoxicated.

The Bench fined the defendant 10s. and 9s. costs, and allowed him a fortnight to pay the amount.

Folkestone Herald 16-3-1901

Saturday, March 9^th: Before Messrs. J. Stainer, W. Wightwick, W.G. Herbert, and G.I. Swoffer, and Lieut. Colonel Hamilton.

Richard Spearpoint appeared to answer a charge of having been drunk on licensed premises on the 2^nd March.

P.C. Farrier said about 4.45 in the afternoon he was called to the Cinque Ports Arms and found defendant drunk in the front room. He was called to the house by the landlady, who said he had gone in drunk. He used very disgusting language owing to her refusing to serve him.

A fine of 10s. and 9s. costs was imposed, or fourteen days`.

   

Folkestone Chronicle 23-3-1901

Monday, March 18^th: Before Messrs. Pledge, Carpenter, Peden, Stainer, and Vaughan, and Lieut. Col. Westropp.

Oswald Chilcock, a private in the West Kent Regiment, on Saturday evening visited the Cinque Ports public house at Seagate Street. Later on, when going up High Street, Detective Sergeant Burniston, seeing that his pockets appeared bulky, stopped the soldier and asked him what he had in his pockets. The indignant reply was “What`s that to do with you?” The detective sergeant evidently thought it had a lot to do with him, and searched “Tommy`s” pockets, wherein he found two pint glasses, each bearing the name “F. Weatherhead” (the landlady of the Cinque Ports.) Subsequently Chilcock was charged with stealing the glasses.

Annie Crocker, a married daughter of Mrs. Weatherhead, said that she was in the bar of the Cinque Ports on Saturday evening, and saw the prisoner there. The value of the glasses was 8½d. each.

The prisoner admitted that he had a drop of drink, and that he took the glasses more in a lark than anything else.

An officer of the Provisional Batallion, who was present, did not give the accused a very bright character.

Fined 10s., or seven days`. He said he would do the seven days.

Folkestone Express 23-3-1901

Monday, March 18^th: before Alderman J. Pledge, G. Peden, W. Carpenter, T.J. Vaughan and J. Stainer Esqs., and Lieut. Col. Westropp.

Pte. Oswald Chilcott, West Kent Regt., stationed at Shorncliffe, was charged with stealing two pint glasses, valued at 1s. 5d., the property of Mrs. Fanny Weatherhead, of the Cinque Ports Arms, Seagate Street, to which offence he pleaded Guilty.

Det. Sergt. Burniston said about 10.55 p.m. on Saturday evening, the 16^th inst., he saw the prisoner in company with two other soldiers in the High Street. As he passed, witness noticed his pockets were bulky, and in consequence he followed him. When in Rendezvous Street, witness stopped him and asked him what was in his pockets. He replied “What`s it to do with you?” Witness then felt them, and saw the two pint glasses produced. Witness then took him to the police station and charged him, when he replied “All right”. On examining the glasses, witness saw the name “F. Weatherhead” stamped on them.

Harriet Crocker, daughter to Mrs. F. Weatherhead, the landlady of the Cinque Ports Arms, said she assisted her mother on Saturday. The prisoner and another soldier entered about nine p.m., and his companion called for two pints of beer. They then went into the taproom where there were many other soldiers. About 10.30 p.m. the prisoner became noisy, and witness told him and his companion to go outside, which they did. She subsequently went to the police station about 11.30 and saw six soldiers paraded, and from among them she identified the prisoner. She recognised the glasses, which belonged to her mother, and all the pint glasses were marked “F. Weatherhead”.

An officer present said the prisoner`s defaulters` sheet was free from civilian crime.

The Bench fined him 10s. and remitted the costs, with the alternative of seven days`, which he accepted.

Folkestone Herald 23-3-1901

Monday, March 18^th: Before Alderman Pledge, Lieut. Colonel Westropp, and Messrs. Carpenter, Vaughan, Stainer, and Peden.

Oswald Chilcott, a private in the West Kent Regiment, was charged with having stolen two pint glasses from the Cinque Ports beerhouse.

Detective Sergeant Burniston said at 10.45 on Saturday he saw the prisoner in company with other soldiers in High Street. As they passed him, he noticed prisoner`s pockets were rather bulky, and he followed him into Rendezvous Street, where he stopped him. As prisoner refused to tell him, he felt in his pockets and found two pint glasses. On examining the glasses he found the name F. Weatherhead stamped on each.

Harriett Crocker, 6, St. Michael`s Square, said Mrs. Weatherhead, the landlady of the Cinque Ports Arms, was her mother. On Saturday she was assisting her mother in the bar. She saw prisoner and another soldier come into the bar at about 9 o`clock. The other man called for two pints of beer, with which she served him. They left the house just after 10.30. She identified the glasses, which cost 8½d. each, produced.

Prisoner pleaded guilty, and said it was done for a lark.

An officer attended, and said prisoner had only two entries on the sheet against him.

A fine of 10s., or seven days` hard labour was imposed.

   

Folkestone Chronicle 20-4-1901

Wednesday, April 17^th: Before The Mayor, Messrs. Peden, Pledge, Vaughan, and Stainer, and Lieut. Col. Westropp.

Fanny Weatherhead, landlady of the Cinque Ports public house, was summoned for refusing to admit the police. Mr. Minter represented the defendant.

Inspector Swift said that on the night following Easter Monday he saw lights burning and heard loud talking and laughing in a front room of the Cinque Ports Arms. He tried the door of the house, and found it locked. The talking and laughing then ceased. He knocked at the door for about ten minutes, when the defendant put her head out of the window. He asked her to admit him to the house, but she refused three times, and he told her he should report her.

The Chief Constable said that the house was watched all night, and soldiers, who should have been at Shorncliffe Camp, were seen to leave in the morning.

Mr. Minter said that there had been a misapprehension on the defendant`s part. She had no wish to evade the law, but on the night in question there had been a wedding party, and guests had been invited. The advocate, in a powerful defence, invited the Bench to say that if an offence had been committed at all it was only a technical one, done in ignorance. Therefore he suggested a nominal penalty, and also that the licence be not endorsed.

Mr. Minter proposed to call evidence that the party was a legitimate one, but the Magistrates` Clerk said it was not necessary as the charge was one of refusing to admit the police.

The Chief Constable said that he did not wish to labour the case, but the men who left the house all gave wrong names, and they ought to have been in barracks at Shorncliffe.

The Chairman said that the Bench decided that a technical offence had been committed, but they were of opinion that defendant had no intention of evading the law. There would be a fine of 10s. and 9s. costs, and the licence would not be endorsed.

Folkestone Express 20-4-1901

Wednesday, April 17^th: before The Mayor, J. Stainer, T.J. Vaughan, G. Peden, and J. Pledge Esqs., and Lieut. Col. Westropp.

Fanny Weatherhead, the landlady of the Cinque Ports beerhouse, was summoned for refusing to admit the police on the 9^th inst. Mr. G.W. Haines appeared for Messrs. Leney, and Mr. J. Minter represented the defendant, who pleaded Guilty.

Inspector Swift said at 12.15 midnight on Monday, the 9^th inst., he accompanied P.C. Sales to Seagate Street, and saw a light burning in the defendant`s house, the Cinque Ports Arms, and he heard talking, laughing, and singing by men in the front room on the first floor. He tried the doors and found they were fastened. He knocked, and the noise ceased. He continued to knock, and after ten minutes the defendant opened the window, put her head out, and asked who it was. Witness told her, and she said “Nobody is here”. Witness said he had reason to believe that some persons were in there who had no right, and when he asked her to let him in, she replied “I will do no such thing”. He then told her she was liable to prosecution, and she again replied “Yes, I have nobody here”. He again asked her, but she absolutely refused, and he then told her he would report her for refusing to admit the police when requested, and to that the defendant made no reply.

The Chief Constable said the house was watched, and early in the morning several soldiers were found there when they ought to have been in Shorncliffe Camp.

Mr. Minter said that was perfectly true, but the defendant was under a slight misapprehension, yet her answer to the police was quite truthful in view that the soldiers who were in there consisted of a bona fide private party and they were not customers purchasing beer. He asked the Bench to take into consideration that the defendant had held the licence for thirteen years without any previous conviction against her. Although the house was largely patronised by soldiers it was quite respectable. On this occasion there had been a wedding and these soldiers had been invited the day previously, and a private party was being held.

The Bench said they were perfectly satisfied that a breach had been committed, but they considered that there was no intention to evade the law. They therefore fined the defendant 10s. and 9s. costs, and the licence would not be endorsed.

Folkestone Herald 20-4-1901

Wednesday, April 17^th: Before The Mayor, Messrs. Vaughan, Peden, Pledge, and Stainer, and Lieut. Colonel Westropp.

Fanny Weatherhead, landlady of the Cinque Ports Arms, was summoned on a charge of having refused to admit the police. Mr. Minter defended, and Mr. Haines appeared on behalf of Messrs. Leney, the brewers.

Mr. Minter said they must plead Guilty and throw themselves on the mercy of the Justices.

Inspector Swift said at 12.35 midnight on Monday, the 9^th inst., he was in Seagate Street and saw lights burning and heard several men`s voices in the front room of the first floor of the Cinque Ports beerhouse. He knocked, and the noise ceased. After continuing the knocking about ten minutes the landlady put her head out of the window and said there was no-one in the house. In reply to his demand, she said she would not open the door. He then told her she was liable to a prosecution for refusing to admit the police, and as she still refused to admit him, told her she would be reported.

The Chief Constable (Mr. Reeve) said the house was watched all night and early in the morning soldiers, who should have been at the Camp, came out.

Mr. Minter said defendant was acting under a misapprehension. On that night she was having a party to celebrate her daughter`s wedding. A licence holder had a right to have a party. She was wrong in not admitting the police, but it was done under misapprehension, and he could only plead that it was not intentional, and would not occur again. The house was much used by soldiers, and was what was known as a “soldiers` house”. One of the soldiers was courting an unmarried daughter, and he was a bit indignant that the police should interrupt the course of true love. She was wrong in not admitting the police, but he could promise that she would conduct the house in the future in the same way as it had been conducted during the thirteen years she had been there.

The Chief Constable said five soldiers found in the house gave false names and numbers, and were absent from the Camp without leave.

Mr. Minter said the soldiers told defendant they had got their passes until the next day.

The Magistrates believed there was no intention to evade the law, and a fine of 10s. and 9s. costs was imposed.

The licence was not endorsed.

   

Folkestone Chronicle 27-4-1901

Wednesday, April 24^th: Before Messrs. Pledge, Stainer, and Vaughan, and Lieut. Colonel Westropp.

Five smart looking Dragoons were charged under the Licensing Act 1872 with giving wrong names and numbers to the police.

The case arose out of a charge which was made against the landlady of the Cinque Ports Arms for refusing to admit the police. The defence on that occasion was that a wedding party had been held, and the soldiers, who were on the premises, were invited guests. The Bench believed the defence, and a nominal fine was inflicted. The five defendants who now appeared, when they left the premises on Easter Tuesday morning, were requested by the police to give their names and regimental numbers. They complied with the request and gave wrong names and numbers.

A Sergeant Major present said that the defendants had been already dealt with by the military authorities for being from barracks without leave.

They were now fined 2s. 6d. each, including costs.

Folkestone Express 27-4-1901

Wednesday, April 24^th: Before Alderman Pledge, J. Stainer and T.J. Vaughan Esqs., and Lieut. Colonel W.K. Westropp.

Thomas Shields, Samuel Childs, Thomas William Hinds, Charles Hampton Morgan, and Ernest Chester, all privates in the 7^th Dragoon Guards, were summoned for being seen on licensed premises during prohibited hours, and, when requested, with giving false names and addresses, which was a breach of the Licensing Act.

Supt. Reeve said as the prisoners had all pleaded Guilty he would not call any witnesses. He explained that Mrs. Weatherhead, the landlady of the Cinque Ports beerhouse, was fined for refusing to admit the police on Easter Monday, when requested by Inspector Swift, who heard men`s voices. In consequence the house was watched, and early on the following morning the five defendants were found there, and when Sergt. Lawrence demanded their names and addresses they gave him false ones. On making enquiries at the Camp they were found to have been out all night without leave.

Lieut. Colonel Westropp: Have they been dealt with for that offence by the Commanding Officer?

A sergeant, who had the custody of the defendants, said they had.

The Bench inflicted a fine of 2s. 6d. on each, and the costs were remitted

Folkestone Herald 27-4-1901

Wednesday, April 24^th: Before Alderman Pledge, Lieut. Col. Westropp, and Messrs. Stainer and Vaughan.

Five Dragoons, named Thomas Shields, Samuel Childs, Thomas Wm. Hines, Chas. Hampton Morgan, and Ernest Chester were charged together with having given false names when found on licensed premises during prohibited hours on Easter Monday. Each defendant pleaded Guilty.

The Chief Constable said perhaps it would be as well if he explained the case, instead of calling evidence. The landlady of the Cinque Ports Arms was recently summoned for refusing to admit the police. Shortly after midnight on Easter Monday Inspector Swift heard voices in the Cinque Ports Arms. He demanded, but was refused, admission. The house was watched all night long, and early in the morning the five defendants were found there. When asked by Sgt. Lawrence the men gave false names. Inquiries were afterwards made at the Camp, and it was found that the men were absent without leave.

The men were fined 2s. 6d. each, including costs.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 22-6-1901

Saturday, June 15^th: Before Messrs. Ward, Peden, Pledge, and Vaughan, and Lieut. Col. Westropp.

The licence of the Cinque Ports Arms, Seagate Street, was transferred from Mrs. Weatherhead to Samuel Webster, a late employee of Messrs. Leney and Co., the owners of the house.

Folkestone Express 22-6-1901

Saturday, June 15^th: Before E.T. Ward Esq., Alderman J. Pledge, G. Peden and T.J. Vaughan Esqs., and Lieut Col. W.K. Westropp.

Mr. Samuel Webster was granted a temporary transfer of the licence of the Cinque Port Arms, in Seagate Street. He was represented by Mr. G.W. Haines.

Folkestone Herald 22-6-1901

Saturday, June 15^th: Before Mr. E.T. Ward, Alderman Pledge, Councillors Peden and Vaughan, and Lieut. Colonel Westropp.

The licence of the Cinque Ports Arms, Seagate Street, was transferred until the next transfer day to Samuel Webster.

 

Folkestone Express 10-8-1901

Wednesday, August 7^th: Before W. Wightwick, C.J. Pursey, W.G. Herbert, and G.I. Swoffer Esqs., and Colonel Keily Westropp.

The following licence was transferred: the Cinque Ports Arms to Mr. Samuel Robert Webster.

Folkestone Herald 10-8-1901

Wednesday, August 7^th: Before Messrs. W. Wightwick, W.G. Herbert, C.J. Pursey, G.I. Swoffer, and Lieut. Colonel Westropp.

The licence of the Cinque Ports Arms was transferred from Mrs. Weatherhead to Stanley Robert Webster

Folkestone Chronicle 28-3-1903

Saturday, March 21^st: Before Mr. W. Wightwick, Lieut. Colonel Hamilton, and Messrs. S. Penfold, G. Peden, J. Pledge, E.T. Ward, T.J. Vaughan and G.I. Swoffer.

Thomas Woods was summoned for being drunk on licensed premises.

P.C. Thomas Sales said at 10.45 on the evening of the 16^th he was called to the Cinque Ports Arms. As he arrived, defendant, who was drunk, left the premises. Soon afterwards witness saw the defendant at the bar of the Duke Of Edinburgh. He was leaning against the counter. The landlady refused to serve him.

Woods pleaded Guilty. He said he was very sorry, and had never been in a Court before. For the last six years he had been working on the harbour.

Fined 1s. and 9s. 6d. costs, or seven days`, time being allowed for payment.

Folkestone Express 28-3-1903

Saturday, March 21st: Before Aldermen Penfold and Vaughan, Lieut. Col. Hamilton, G. Peden, J. Pledge, W. Wightwick, E.T. Ward, and G.I. Swoffer Esqs.

Thos. Woods was summoned for being drunk on licensed premises.

P.C. Sales said about 10.45 on the night of the 16^th inst. he was called to the Cinque Ports Arms, where he saw defendant in a drunken condition leaving the premises. About 10.55 he saw defendant in the bar of the Duke Of Edinburgh, leaning against the counter. The landlady said “You get outside. I shan`t serve you”. Defendant refused to leave the place, and witness had to eject him.

Fined 1s. and 9s. 6d. costs.

Folkestone Express 4-7-1903

Saturday, June 27^th: Before Lieut. Col. Hamilton, W. Wightwick, W.G. Herbert, and C.J. Pursey Esqs.

William Spearpoint was summoned for being drunk on licensed premises, and on appearing in Court it was at once plain that he had again been imbibing from “the cup that cheers”.

P.C. Allen stated that the previous afternoon he was in Seagate Street, when he saw defendant, who was the worse for liquor, enter the bar of the Cinque Ports Arms. Witness followed, and heard the landlord refuse to serve defendant.

At this stage Spearpoint burst out laughing, and despite his appeal to the Magistrates, which was interspersed with many hiccoughs, to settle the case then as he wanted to go to sea, they remanded him in custody until Monday, in order that he might thoroughly “sober down”.

Monday, June 29^th: Before Lieut Col. Hamilton, W. Wightwick, and G.I. Swoffer Esqs.

William Spearpoint was charged on remand with being drunk on licensed premises.

Prisoner told the Magistrates that two strangers asked him the best place to get a drink, and he showed them into the bar.

Mr. Wightwick: Perhaps you do not recollect quite clearly.

The Bench imposed a fine of 5s.and 10s. costs; in default seven days` hard labour.

Folkestone Express 16-4-1904

Monday, April 11^th: Before Alderman T.J. Vaughan, Lieut. Col. Westropp, Lieut. Col. Fynmore, and W.C. Carpenter Esq.

William Spearpoint, a fisherman, was charged with being drunk and disorderly on Sunday night in Seagate Street.

P.C. Ashby said about 8.30 p.m. he saw the prisoner, who was drunk, being ejected from the Cinque Ports public house. He used obscene language, and when requested by witness to go away, refused to do so. He had to be carried to the police station when taken into custody. Witness had cautioned him a quarter of an hour before for his conduct, and he said he was going home. Prisoner had not been served at the Cinque Ports, and he had also been refused at the Perseverance.

Prisoner said he was very sorry. He had been teetotal for two or three months, and he met a friend last night. He had some spirit which upset him.

The Clerk: It`s the same story every time he comes here.

The Chief Constable stated prisoner had been convicted 14 times previously.

The Clerk: Within the last twelve months he has been here four times. He is liable to be put on the “Black List” and sent to the Quarter Sessions to be tried.

Prisoner hoped they would look over it this time and give him another chance.

The Chairman said prisoner was in an awkward position. He was liable to be put on the Black List and sent to the Quarter Sessions, but the Magistrates had decided to send him to prison for 14 days` hard labour.

Prisoner: I don`t want to go to prison.

Folkestone Herald 16-4-1904

Monday, April 11^th: Before Alderman T.J. Vaughan, Mr. W.C. Carpenter, Lieut. Col. Westropp, and Lieut. Col. Fynmore.

William Spearpoint was charged with being drunk. He pleaded Guilty.

P.C. Ashby stated that prisoner was ejected from the Cinque Ports Arms. He was very drunk, and using obscene language. He requested him to go away, but as he refused, he took him into custody, and with the assistance of P.C. Kettle and a military policeman, conveyed him to the police station.

Prisoner said he had been a teetotaller for two or three months.

The Chief Constable recorded fourteen previous convictions against him.

The Chairman told prisoner he was liable to be put on the Black List and sent to Quarter Sessions for trial. In this instance, however, he would be sent to prison for 14 days with hard labour.