Maidstone Journal and Kentish Advertiser, Tuesday 14 March 1854.

West Malling.

T. Barton, of the "Shepherd's Arms," beer-shop, was charged with allowing gaming in his house, on 20th of February.

Comport, the constable, said he went to the house on the 20th, about 10:30, and through the window saw four men playing at cards.

G. Selby, one of the players corroborated his statement, and said the landlord was not at home.

John Young, a constable said he went into the house at 8 o'clock in the evening of the same day, and saw the landlord and others playing cards. Mr. George for the defence, contended that playing cards was not gambling, unless money or money's worth was played for - that when the landlord was playing there was nothing played for - that when he was not at home. If the parties got the cards without his knowledge, and played for beer, he was not liable. After some consultation the defendant was discharged with a caution.