417. (L.) Thomas Probit proceedingsdefend was indicted for stealing two brass cocks, value 2 s. the property of Lucy Wells proceedingsvictim , widow , June 21st. ++

Lucy Wells < no role > . I keep the Cheshire Cheese, a public house , in Addle-street, Aldermanbury . The prisoner came to my house, and wanted to go to the necessary, which is in the cellar; as I suspected him, when he came up, I went down into the cellar, and I found two casks turned upside down, and the cocks taken out of them. I called to my maid to bring him back; he was gone but two or three doors. I sent for a constable, who took them out of his pocket in my presence. The boy lighted him down to the cellar, and the cocks were in the barrels then.

William Reynolds < no role > . I am the constable; I was sent for to take charge of the prisoner. When I came, I asked him how he came to take the cocks; he said, he hoped we would be merciful to him. I put my hand into his pocket, and took out these cocks. (Produced and deposed to by prosecutrix.)

Prisoner's Defence.

I had been as far as Whitechapel. I happened to go into this house, I believe, I am not positive, for I was in liquor; as to the cocks, I know nothing of them. I always bore a good character. I lived in the parish of St. Andrew, Holborn, fourteen years. I could bring many people to my character, if I had time. I have had thirteen children. I am a broker, and live in Liquorpond-street.

Guilty, 10 d. W .