From the Kentish Gazette, 26 May 1857.

Saturday. ST. AUGUSTINE’S PETTY SESSIONS.

Fining of a Beer-shop-keeper.

Henry Hilyard Packer, of the "White Swan" beer-shop, Seasalter, was brought to the bar to answer a charge of having his house open at past twelve o’clock in the morning. The evidence was afforded by constable Pitcher, who had been called from his bed to go and witness the infraction of the laws, and there it was he found 25 persons assembled in the large room, highly enjoying themselves, but about to take the "last drop" on his appearance. Defendant’s excuse was that he knew nothing about it as he was from home; yet his wife, who was present, had told him that she had sent for the constable to clear the house. Yes, the constable said, she did, after he had been in and witnessed the jolly assembly. The bench in reply to the excuse asked defendant if they were to believe he had no control over his wife; and further told him that he was answerable for what she had done, and fined him 40s. and 16s. 6d. costs.

Superintendent Walker having stated that he had previously cautioned him. Defendant pleaded inability to pay, stating that he had not been able to do anything for some time, and had a family of eight children to maintain. A week was allowed for payment, and, in default, then to stand committed to prison for a month.