252. (L.) Thomas Watson proceedingsdefend , was indicted for stealing a loin of pork, value 3 d. the property of John Bentley proceedingsvictim . +

John Bentley < no role > . I am a butcher , and live by the Mansion-house . I lost the loin of pork from off my stall on Friday was fortnight or three weeks, I cannot directly tell which. I found it upon the prisoner about 10 minutes after in Walbrook. It was a stale loin of pork; I really think he did it for want.

For the Prisoner.

Jos. Bentley. I have known the prisoner from a school boy; he has been servant at many places in town, and since this affair, I have made it my business to inquire into his character, and from the whole, I believe he is an honest man. I do believe meer necessity caused him to take this stale pork; he has had a very bad sickness, and is reduced greatly.

Mr. Scantlebury. The prisoner lived servant with me almost two years, he was a very honest lad then, and I have been with a master where he lived since, he gave him a very good character.

Mr. Gibson. I have known him 7 years; he lived with my brother servant between 7 and 8 years ago. He has a very good character.

Acquit .