From the Borough of Greenwich Free Press, 7 February, 1857.

Joseph Brown, a private in the corps of Royal Marines, stationed at Deptford dockyard, was charged with committing a violent assault on Mr. Crow, landlord of the "Beehive," Wellington-street, Deptford.

From the evidence of the complainant, it appeared that shortly before twelve o’clock on Saturday night the prisoner and about fifteen other marines came into his house and wanted to be admitted into a room where a ball was being held, and on being refused, they commenced an attack upon him, swore they would not leave the house until supplied with three gallons of beer. On reaching the bar the attack was renewed, the prisoner seizing a pewter measure and throwing it violently broke several glasses, &c. Complainant, however, succeeded in getting the party out of the house, but had no sooner locked the door than it was forced open, when the prisoner rushed in and dragged him (complainant) into the street, where he again struck him in the mouth, and was given into custody, his companions succeeded in getting away.

In reply to Mr. Seeker, Mr. Crow stated that he had that morning attended at the Deptford dockyard and identified nine men, including a corporal, who were engaged in the outrage, and the whole of whom were under arrest.

The prisoner, who denied acting as described, was fined 30s., for the assault, and 15s. amount of damage, committed, or one month's imprisonment.