Folkestone Express 29 August 1868.

Wednesday, August 26th: Before The Mayor, Captain Kennicott, and Alderman Tolputt.

The licensing day was held at the Town Hall on Wednesday.

Fresh Application:

R.P. Smith, of the Marquis Of Granby, High Street, applied for a license for his house.

Note: Smith is not listed in More Bastions.

Mr. Minter called the attention of the Bench to the fact that at Liverpool the magistrates granted licenses to every respectable applicant, and the houses there were of a good class and character. He did not think this ought to be a question of necessity, but one of respectability.

After a short consultation, the Mayor stated that the magistrates were unanimous in refusing the application. They did not see any necessity in the application, and they wished it to be understood that they will not grant licenses without the necessity is shown.

Folkestone Express 20 February 1869.

Monday, February 15th: Before Captain Kennicott R.N. and Alderman Tolputt.

William Newman was charged with being drunk and creating an obstruction in High Street.

P.C. Sharpe said: On Saturday evening I was on duty in High Street about half past seven o'clock, when I saw the prisoner opposite the Eagle Tavern, and a lot of people round him. I told him to go away, and he said he had fought for his Queen and country and didn't care for no-one. I pressed him to go away, and as he would not I took him into custody to clear the street.

The prisoner said he was quite drunk and did not know anything about it. He had come here to see some of his old comrades and they had a drop together. He had served in the Crimea, and had been in the army altogether 17 years and 10 months, in the 52nd and 56th Regiments.

The Bench discharged him on promising to leave the town.

Folkestone Express 20 November 1869.

Wednesday, November 17th: Before R.W. Boarer and J. Clark Esqs.

Alfred Thorne, proprietor of the Eagle beerhouse, High Street, was summoned for keeping a disorderly house. Defendant was unable to attend, owing to illness; his wife appeared in answer to the summons.

P,C, Swain was on duty in High Street on the night of the 11th, and visited the Eagle beerhouse in High Street about half past ten o'clock, when he saw several loose characters in the tap room. He had cautioned the defendant previously in the presence of his wife. The house had been complained of by the neighbours, as they left the house drunk and noisy.

P.S. Reynolds deposed to the above facts. He visited the house in company with P.C. Swain the same evening. The complaints of neighbours have been about the noise.

On the part of defendant it was stated that he was entirely ignorant of the character of the females in the room.

William Sinclair was called for the defence. He stated that he had seen nothing improper in the conduct of the people present on the occasion referred to.

The Bench considered the case proved, and fined the defendant 40s. and 12s. costs.

Folkestone Express 27 November 1869.

Tuesday, November 23rd: Before The Mayor, W. Bateman and J. Tolputt Esqs.

Sinclair Hartnup, alias William Sinclair, a tailor, was charged with stealing a macintosh coat from outside P. Hart & Co.'s shop, High Street.

Thomas Clark said: I live at No. 1, Beach Street. On Monday afternoon about three o'clock I was standing at a window in my house, when I saw the prisoner cross Tontine Street to High Street. He attracted my notice because he stumbled and I thought he looked intoxicated. As he passed Mr. Hart's shop in High Street I saw him put up his right hand and take a coat from a nail. He then put the coat across his left arm and walked up the street, and went into the Eagle Inn. I immediately went across to Mr. Hart's and saw Mr. Henochsberg. I asked him if he had lost a coat. He enquired of a boy and he said there was a coat missing from outside the shop. I then went up to the Eagle, where I saw the prisoner sitting in front of the bar. I did not say anything to him, nor did I see the coat. I spoke to the landlord privately and informed him that the prisoner had taken the coat. I then returned to Mr. Hart's shop, and during that time the prisoner left the public house and walked up the street.

Mrs. Ellen Thorne, wife of Alfred Thorne, said: I know the prisoner by his lodging at our house for three nights. He came in about three o'clock yesterday afternoon. He had something on his arm, and he afterwards asked me to take care of a coat for him till he came back. I saw the coat was a wet macintosh. He put it down in the parlour, and then sat down in the front bar. The last witness then came into the house, and remained there five minutes. A short time after, Mr. Henochsberg came in, and he gave him the coat.

By the Bench: The prisoner was not sober when he brought the coat.

Mr. Henochsberg said: I was in the shop yesterday about three o'clock when Mr. Clark came in. In consequence of what he told me I found a macintosh was missing. It had been hanging outside on the window. Mr. Clark then went up to the Eagle, and I looked out for a policeman. I went up the street with P.C. Hills and I pointed out the prisoner to him. We stopped him at the top of the street, and I asked him what he had done with the coat. He replied “I know nothing about a coat”. I then told Hills to take him into custody. I immediately returned to the Eagle and saw the landlord, and his wife brought out the coat. I immediately recognised it by the ticket attached to it. It is the property of Mr. Phillip Hart, and is valued at 22s. 6d. I know the coat by the make as well. The prisoner is a man that worked for us under the name of Hartnup.

P.C. Hills deposed to taking the prisoner into custody and charging him, when he replied he knew nothing about it. On being shown the coat at the station he said “I did take it. It was a drunken spree”.

Mr. Henochsberg said he did not wish to press the charge; he was a perfect stranger in the town.

The prisoner (crying) pleaded Guilty to the charge. He said he was under the influence of drink at the time or he should not have committed the offence.

The Bench sentenced him to three months with hard labour.

Folkestone Express 8 January 1870.

Granting Licenses.

Wednesday, January 5th: Before The Mayor, R.W. Boarer, C. Dashwood, J. Clarke, and J. Gambrill Esqs.

John Wallis applied for power to sell beer at the Eagle Tavern, High Street. The application was granted.

Note: This date differs from information in More Bastions.

Folkestone Express 9 July 1870.

Transfer of License.

Wednesday, July 6th: Before The Mayor, Captain Kennicott R.N., W. Bateman, and J. Tolputt Esqs.

Eagle Beerhouse: On an application for the transfer of the license of this house, the Magistrates were afraid that they had no power to transfer a license more than once during the year, and as this house had been already transferred they could not grant the application.

Folkestone Express 27 August 1870.

Annual Licensing Meeting.

Wednesday, August 24th: Before The Mayor, Capt. Kennicott, J. Tolputt, A.M. Leith and C.H. Dashwood Esqs.

The Eagle, High Street: Mr. Robert Fisher applied for a beer license. After some hesitation the license was granted.

Folkestone Express 11 October 1873.

Wednesday, October 8th: Before R.W. Boarer Esq., and Col. De Crespigny.

Mary Fisher, of the Eagle Tavern, High Street, was summoned for assaulting George Marshall Tutt of the Fountain Inn in the same street.

Mr. Minter appeared for complainant and briefly opened the case.

Complainant said: Defendant lives at the Eagle Tavern, nearly opposite to my house. At seven o'clock in the evening on the 2nd October I was standing in my passage, just behind my front door. Defendant came in and said “Can I speak to you?” I replied “Certainly you can”. She then said “Will you step across to my house?” I said “Certainly not. You must speak to me here”. She then came into my passage, past my wife, and said “You have a girl here nursing your baby”. I said “What of that?” She replied “Did you tell her mother not to let her come to my house?” I said “Certainly not. I don't want to have any words with you. I would rather we should be good friends”, and asked her to leave my premises. She said she should go when she liked. I put my hand on her shoulder and told her I did not want anything to do with her. She called me names which I cannot repeat, which caused me to put my hand on her shoulder. She turned round and said “Don't you meddle with me”, and struck me twice on the mouth with both her hands, and kicked me twice on the knees. I then pushed her out of the door, using only necessary force to do so. She flew at me again and missed my face, and knocked my hat across the road. Her language was awful. Her mother came and took her away. I have received annoyance from her for some time, and complained to the police several times. I am fearful that she will do me some injury.

By Mr. Wightwick, who appeared for defendant: I have kept the Fountain about fifteen months, and previously kept a public house at Dover about eleven months. A week ago defendant sent a prostitute to annoy me; I heard her do so. I don't know that complainant has complained of my putting about scandalous reports concerning her during the last fortnight. I have not made reports about her house. She kicked me with her right leg on my left knee first, and then with her left leg on my right knee. I did not strike her.

Re-examined: Defendant has been continually helloing after me and my wife in the streets. I told Superintendent Wilshere of her conduct and he told me if it occurred again to summon her, and to turn her out of my house.

By Mr. Wightwick: She called after me “Who stole the clock?”

Thomas Bailey corroborated complainant's evidence.

Mr. Wightwick said the Bench would have no difficulty in coming to the conclusion that it was a paltry case. Complainant and defendant kept two public houses and possibly there was a little jealousy between them. Defendant had kept the Eagle four years and has never had a complaint before the Magistrates. If there was a disturbance in a public house, which was open to the world, it was the landlord's duty to call the police, and complainant had really committed an assault by pushing defendant out of his house. If it had been a private house he would have been justified in doing so. Defendant, being a woman, was quite justified on striking complainant in her own defence.

The Bench said they had no doubt an assault had been committed, and complainant was justified in putting defendant out of his house, notwithstanding what Mr. Wightwick had said to the contrary. Defendant must pay a fine of £1 and 9s. 6d. costs.

Mr. Wightwick said he could produce a case in support of what he had stated.

Mrs. Fisher paid the money, and said she went to complainant about a report he had circulated with reference to an illness she had.

Note: Dates for both parties' tenure at their houses is at variance with information in More Bastions.

Folkestone Express 27 December 1873.

Wednesday, December 24th: Before The Mayor and J. Tolputt Esq.

Ellen Hill was charged with being drunk and disorderly in Tontine Street.

Prisoner, on being called to plead, said: I was not drunk. I was only skylarking.

P.C. Keeler said he saw prisoner and some men and prostitutes come out of the Clarendon Hotel about twelve o'clock on Tuesday night. They stood talking in the street some time, and he desired them to disperse. Prisoner was drunk and he told her to get away two or three times, and as she refused and made use of bad language he locked her up.

Superintendent Wilshere said he saw the prisoner on the steps of the Eagle public house about a quarter before nine on Wednesday night. She was drunk and had her arms round a sailor's neck and was kissing him. He told her to go away, which she did.

Prisoner said: I was not tight, but only skylarking. I had a glass or two on account of a young friend going to be married next day.

Fined 5s. and 5s. 6d. costs, or seven days' hard labour.

As prisoner was being removed she turned to the Bench and said “I wish you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year”.

Folkestone Express 29 August 1874.

Annual Licensing Sessions.

Wednesday, August 26th: Before The Mayor, W. Bateman and J. Tolputt Esqs.

The seventy four licensed victuallers, twelve beershop keepers and twenty three grocers and wine merchants had their licenses renewed, with the exception of those named.

The Eagle beershop: The Superintendent opposed the renewal of the license to Thomas Fisher on the ground that he knowingly allowed his house to be the habitual resort of prostitutes.

P.C. Ovenden deposed to having visited the house several times and found soldiers, sailors and prostitutes assembled in the bar and in a room. He had cautioned the landlord, who said they were there for refreshments. He had paid second visits within an hour and still found them there.

Mrs. Fisher asked if she were to ask women whether they were prostitutes when they came in for a glass of ale. She said it was “no good” cross-examining witness.

Sergt. Reynolds said he had visited the Eagle many times up to Sunday last, and found a great number of prostitutes there every evening. He called Mrs. Fisher's attention to it and she turned round and abused him, and told him to go and look at other people's houses.

In cross-examination witness said he had heard rows in the house frequently.

Applicant said she did not wish to say anything; she conducted the house as well as she could.

The Mayor said it seemed applicant did not profit from the caution given by the magistrates on a former occasion, and as the house seemed to be conducted very badly the magistrates unanimously refused to renew the license.

Folkestone Express 26 September 1874.

Wednesday, September 23rd: Before The Mayor, J. Tolputt and J. Clark Esqs.

This being the day for hearing the adjourned applications for licenses, the following was disposed of:

The Eagle Beerhouse: Mr. Mowll, in supporting the application of John Stevenson for the renewal of the license of the Eagle beerhouse, High Street, formerly held by Thomas Fisher, remarked that the Bench had very properly come to the conclusion that Fisher was not a fit and proper person to hold the license, but Messrs. Holmes and Styles, of Maidstone, the owners of the house, had got rid of Fisher as soon as they discovered that the house had been improperly conducted, which was not until the license had been refused to Fisher. They had succeeded in obtaining a respectable tenant in the person of the applicant, and he had every confidence in asking the Bench to renew the license to him.

Mr. John Holmes said they let the Eagle four years ago to Fisher after making very stringent inquiries as to his character. They had had no intimation that the house had been badly conducted, or they should have ejected him at once, which they did as soon as they discovered the fact. They had been in the trade 26 years and held about 200 licenses, and never lost one, because they exercised the most scrupulous care in their selection of tenants.

Mr. Alfred Harris, agent to Messrs. Holmes and Co., said he engaged Fisher, who had a very respectable character at the time, being a pensioner from the army. He had visited the house once a week and had never seen any bad practices there. If he had he should have reported the fact.

The license was granted, The Mayor remarking that the Magistrates felt sure that Messrs. Holmes and Co. did not know that the house was improperly conducted.

Folkestone Express 23 January 1875.

Wednesday, January 20th: Before Col. De Crespigny and J. Clark Esq.

The license of the Eagle Tavern, High Street, was transferred from John Stevenson to George Marshall Tutt.

Note: This transfer does not appear in More Bastions.

Folkestone Express 22 May 1875.

County Court.

Saturday, May 15th: Before G. Russell Esq.

In the judgement summons case of Edward Wilkinson against George Marshall Tutt of the Eagle, in High Street, it was stated that the defendant had not paid under the order, and he was committed forthwith for fourteen days.

Folkestone Express 29 April 1876.

Wednesday, April 26th: Before The Mayor and R.W. Boarer Esq.

The license of the Eagle Inn, High Street, was transferred from John Stevenson to William Baker.

Folkestone Express 4 January 1879.

Shortly before eight o'clock on Saturday morning the body of a man was seen lying in the inner harbour, having apparently been left there by the receding tide. On examination it proved to be that of a plasterer, a comparative stranger in the town – in fact his name was found out almost accidentally to be Henry Dickenson, whose home would appear to have been at Peckham, in Surrey. He was known to a soldier at the camp, and a day or two ago had been there to see him. The soldier gave the address of a friend who knew a friend of the deceased's relatives, and a telegram was sent to request him to acquaint them with the occurrence. An inquest was held on Saturday evening at the Town Hall, when the following evidence was given:

James Jordan, landlord of the Queen's Head Inn, identified the body as that of a man whose name he believed to be Henry Dickenson, and who was at his house about half past eight o'clock on Friday night. He had known him as a frequenter of the house for a few days, but did not know where he lived. Witness saw him go out with a baked potato can belonging to a man named Brand, for the purpose of going into the streets to sell them. There was no fire in the can. Deceased was sober.

John Freeman Hall, a mariner, living in East Street, said a little before eight that morning, James May, a fisherman, went to him and said there was a man drowned in the harbour. He went directly to the east side of the tramway, and on crossing the metals he saw the body lying by the side of the steamer Maud, to the west of the Pent Stream. The potato can and a knife were near the body, which was lying face downwards on the mud.

P.C. James Knowles said about eight o'clock that morning he went to the harbour. He saw deceased lying face downwards on the mud, close to the steamer Maud in the inner harbour. He procured a stretcher, and with assistance placed the body on it. Deceased was dead and cold. He was lying five or six yards from the edge of the slipway leading down to the sluice, with his head to the east, and a knife was lying nearer the corner. He should think deceased fell over when the water was up. The can was lying near the quay opposite the Pavilion. They put the body in the tan house and searched it, but only found a comb and a piece of a pencil.

Hall was recalled and said it would have been high tide about two o'clock. There would have been no water in the inner harbour at nine, as the tide only then began to flow.

Mr. Richard Mercer, surgeon, said he had examined the body, and found no marks of violence, scratches, or bruises. Deceased had been dead some hours. The hands and face were covered with mud, and the clothing was soaked with water. In his opinion death was caused by drowning.

Henry Stone, a plasterer, living in North Street, said he had known deceased for about a fortnight. He was a plasterer, and came from Margate. He believed he belonged to Peckham. He said his name was Harry Dickenson, and that he was known to a soldier at the camp. Deceased told him that he had work to go to on Monday if the frost broke up. Witness last saw deceased at ten minutes to eleven on Friday night. He had previously seen him just before nine. He said he was going to lodge at the Eagle in High Street. When he saw him at just before eleven he had had something to drink, but was sober. Witness found deceased's boot in a boat in the harbour. He wore no stockings.

Hall explained that when the body was found, it only had one shoe on. The other was picked up and placed in the boat.

The jury, in the absence of any evidence to show how deceased came in the harbour, returned a verdict of “Found Drowned”.

Folkestone Express 25 August 1883.

Annual Licensing Day.

Wednesday, August 22nd: Before R.W. Boarer, F. Boykett, W.J. Jeffreason, and J. Clark Esqs., and Alderman Caister.

The ordinary business of renewing licenses having been concluded, the following application was heard:

The Eagle Tavern.

Mr. Minter, on behalf of James Dove, applied for a full license for the Eagle Tavern, High Street. He explained that the house formerly had a full license, which was lost through the negligence of a former tenant. The premises had been restored recently.

Mr. Mowll opposed on behalf of the owner of the Fountain, and said the license was lost seven or eight years ago.

Superintendent Taylor also opposed on the ground that there was no necessity for the license.

The Bench refused the application.

Folkestone Express 3 November 1883.

Monday, October 29th: Before The Mayor, General Armstrong, Alderman Hoad, M.J. Bell and A.M. Watkin Esqs.

Henry Bailey, labourer, was charged with rescuing a prisoner from the custody of P.C. Knowles, and further with resisting the police in the execution of their duty.

P.C. Knowles said he was on duty on Saturday about eight o'clock in Tontine Street. There was a disorderly mob there of 700 or 800 people shouting and hooting. He saw a man there whom he did not know, who was throwing his arms up and appeared to be acting as a leader, and he arrested him for disorderly conduct. The crowd then came round him, and the prisoner with others dragged him out of his hands and took him down Tontine Street. He saw no more of him that evening. Last night he saw the prisoner Bailey in the Eagle, High Street, and charged him with the rescue and took him to the police station.

Prisoner in defence said he did not know anything about it. He had had a little drink.

The Mayor said they were very serious charges against him, and for rescuing a prisoner he could be sent to the assizes and would be liable to two years' imprisonment. The Bench would take that course if any similar case was brought before them, but on the present occasion, for the resistance to the police, he would be sent to prison for one month with hard labour.

Folkestone Express 15 December 1883.

Wednesday, December 12th: Before The Mayor, Aldermen Caister and Sherwood, J. Holden and J. Fitness Esqs.

Samuel Barker was charged with obtaining a horse and cart by false pretences from William Swan.

Mr. Minter prosecuted, and Mr. Martin Mowll defended.

Prosecutor said he was a labourer, living at Postling, and on the 5th of December he owned a pony and cart. He came into Folkestone on that day, and put up at the New Inn. Had not seen the defendant previously. He saw him at the New Inn stables, and afterwards at the bar. Witness was going to “chop” his horse and cart with a man named Stone, and he was waiting for Stone to come. Defendant told him Stone would not come back, he told him “straight”, and it was no use his waiting. Between three and four o'clock he told defendant that he would sell the lot and go to work again. He said he wanted £7 for it. Baker said he would give £5. He refused to sell it for £5, but afterwards told the defendant he could have it for £5 5s. Defendant said he would have it, and if witness would go with him he would pay him. They went to the Harvey Inn, and defendant asked if someone was in. The landlord said “No”. Defendant then took 10s. out of his pocket and gave it to witness, saying he would go out and get the remainder. He told Baker he was not going to have the horse and cart without the money. He replied “O h, you needn't be afraid of your money. You come along with me”. They went together to a public house in Dover Street, where defendant said he could “get a bit of money”. He said he was the owner of houses, and had lots of property. Then they went to the Eagle Tavern, High Street, where defendant had a paper written out (two or three scraps of paper were put in). He told witness he would pay at ten o'clock the next morning. Witness still refused to let him have the horse and cart. In the presence of the landlord, Baker said he was the owner of houses, and believing that statement was true, he allowed him to take the horse and cart, and defendant promised to pay him at ten o'clock the next morning. Witness went to defendant's house at Foord at ten o'clock the next morning and saw defendant's wife, but defendant was not at home. He could neither find defendant nor his pony and cart. He searched about the town for him that day and the next, and then went to the police.

Cross-examined: I came to Folkestone with the intention of “chopping” the pony away with a man named Stone, a horse dealer, of Dover, whom I saw the day before. The 10s. was paid me at the Harvey, and the agreement was drawn up at the Eagle Tavern by the landlord. It was drawn up to show Baker would have to pay me £4 15s. on the next day. I made an entry in my pocket book. I saw the police on Thursday morning. A policeman told me I must summons him. I believe I told the policeman that Baker said he had property.

Re-examined: I should not have parted with the horse and cart if Baker had not said he was the owner of houses. I proposed to come to your office. Baker said you closed at four o'clock. The sergeant of police told him the character Baker bore.

Sergeant Ovenden said he had known Baker about ten years. Never heard of his having any house property. Could not say whether the furniture in his house belonged to him.

By the Court: Defendant is a dealer in ducks, horses, rags and bones, and bottles.

Mr. Minter asked the Bench to commit the prisoner for trial on the evidence.

Mr. Mowll contended that there had not been a prima facie case made out, but that on the contrary, the complainant, a dealer, sold his property to another dealer, and that there was not the slightest possible cause for saying the defendant had been guilty of a criminal act.

The Magistrates' Clerk said if the defendant did not intend to pay for the property, and if all those papers were a mere trick, then it was a case of larceny.

The Bench decided to commit the prisoner for trial at the Quarter Sessions.

Folkestone Express 12 January 1884.

Quarter Sessions.

Monday, January 5th: Before W. Frederick Laxton Esq.

Samuel Baker was indicted for obtaining by false pretences a horse and cart and harness, value £5 5s., from Wm. Swan, at Folkestone on the 5th December. Mr. Denman prosecuted, and the prisoner was undefended. The case was heard so recently before the magistrates that it is only necessary now to give a summary of the evidence.

William Swan, a labourer, living at Postling, stated that he came into Folkestone on the 5th December and put up at the New Inn, where he expected to meet a man named Stone, who had arranged to buy his horse and cart. Stone did not come, but he saw Baker, who said Stone would not be back, and asked him what he wanted for the horse and cart. He asked £7. Prisoner said he would give him £5, but afterwards offered £5 5s. Prosecutor agreed to sell for that amount. They went together to the Harvey Hotel, where prisoner gave him 10s. He told him that he need not be afraid about his money – that he owned lots of houses round about there, and had plenty of money. He wanted prisoner to go to Mr. Minter's office and get an agreement drawn up. Prisoner replied “Mr. Minter shuts up at four o'clock”. They afterwards went to the Eagle Tavern, where the landlord wrote a memorandum in prosecutor's pocket book to the effect that prisoner would pay the balance at ten o'clock the next morning. He believed that prisoner was the owner of houses, or would not have consented to part with the horse and cart. The next morning at ten o'clock he returned to Folkestone, and went to prisoner's house at Foord. His wife said he had gone down town. The money was not there. He searched all round the town for prisoner, but could not find him. He never received the money, nor had he seen the horse and cart since. He gave information to the police.

In reply to prisoner, witness said he did not order Mr. Back to hand the horse over to him. Prisoner paid for the stabling. He went three times to his house on the 6th, and again on the following day, and delivered a bill. He told him not to pay his sister, but told prisoner's wife he would take part of the money and leave the rest for a week or two.

Sergeant Ovenden was called, and in reply to Mr. Denman he said he had known prisoner for about ten years as a dealer in bottles, rags and bones, &c., going round with a cart. Never heard that prisoner had any property.

In reply to prisoner, witness said he had never known him to be before the magistrates.

Prisoner alleged that he bought the horse and cart, paid a deposit, and agreed to pay the balance in a few days.

At the close of the case, the Deputy Recorder asked Mr. Glyn if he had no evidence to negative the statement by the prisoner that he had lots of houses. It was quite possible that he had property which the police sergeant knew nothing of.

Mr. Glyn replied that if it were true that the man had houses it would be very easy for him to rebut the charge of false pretences.

The Deputy Recorder said it was a question whether he ought not to withdraw the charge and direct the jury to return a verdict of Not Guilty. However, in deference to Mr. Glyn, he would allow the case to go to the jury. He then summed up strongly in the prisoner's favour, pointing out that it was possible the prisoner had property, and it was not necessary that it should be situated in Folkestone. They must be careful not to allow a Criminal Court to become a Court for collecting or enforcing the payment of debts, because the prosecutor could recover the balance of his money in the County Court. Further, he referred to the fact that the prisoner, who had been known to the police for ten years, had nothing against his character, and that, considering his avocation was that of a dealer, a class of men likely to be thrown into contact with the police, it was very much in his favour.

The jury, however, retired for a few minutes, and returned with a verdict of Guilty.

Two previous convictions at the East Kent Quarter Sessions were then proved against the prisoner, and it appeared that on that occasion there was a prior conviction. This was in July, 1873, and prisoner then went in the name of Henry George, and was sentenced to six months' hard labour.

Superintendent Taylor said he had known the prisoner two or three years, and had had repeated complaints about him. He associated with three or four other persons who frequented fairs and markets in the neighbourhood to get hold of weak-minded people to swindle them out of their goods in such a manner as to evade the criminal law.

The Deputy Recorder, in sentencing the prisoner, said the facts of the case as just stated were not known to him, and perhaps it was quite right that a judge should not know them until after the prisoner was convicted. But the jury had found him guilty after having carefully considered their verdict, which they had not arrived at hastily. There was no doubt that the countryman parted with his property on the faith of the misrepresentations he had made, and the law held that to be an offence. Unfortunately for the prisoner, that was not his first offence. He did not pay particular heed to the statements of Superintendent Taylor, but there was the record against him, that he was convicted at the East Kent Sessions in July, 1873, and there was a conviction, it appeared, previous to that, and he was sentenced to six months imprisonment. Therefore that was the third offence known against him. Of course such cases must be severely dealt with. It was an unfortunate thing for the prisoner's family, but the law must take it's course without contemplating what would be the effects on a man's family. He had consulted the magistrates on the Bench and they quite concurred that it was his duty to pass a sentence of twelve months' imprisonment with hard labour.

The Court then rose.

Folkestone Express 17 May 1884.

Advertisement.

To Let, the Eagle Tavern, High Street, Folkestone. Apply to T.J. Harrison, Auctioneer and Valuer, Folkestone.

Folkestone Express 6 September 1884.

Local News.

The landlord of the Eagle Tavern, High Street, has sustained a severe loss through the dishonesty of a “visitor” who has stayed at his house, and who has decamped with about £36. Suspicion attaches to a man, who gave the name of Richardson, who had access to the upper rooms, and who suddenly disappeared. A man answering his description left on the day of the robbery by the Boulogne steamer.

Folkestone Express 1 November 1884.

Wednesday, October 29th: Before Captain Crowe, F. Boykett and A.M. Watkin Esqs.

Transfer Of Licence.

The licence of the Eagle, High Street, was transferred to George Hopkins.

Note: No record of Hopkins at Eagle in More Bastions.

Folkestone Express 4 April 1885.

Saturday, March 28th: Before The Mayor, Captain Fletcher, Alderman Hoad, and F. Boykett Esq.

A man who gave the name of Smith, and who said he had no home, but had worked in Folkestone some time since, was charged with breaking a square of plate glass, value 50s., the property of the landlord of the Eagle Tavern, High Street. It appeared the prisoner went into the house and begged of the people in the bar. He was drunk, and the landlord requested him to leave, upon which he deliberately thrust his hand through the glass, and attempted to break a second one.

Prisoner said he had no money, and could not get a bed. If he had not been locked up, he should have walked the streets all night.

In default of paying £2 18s. 6d. he was sentenced to one month's hard labour.

Folkestone Express 23 July 1887.

Saturday, July 16th: Before General Armstrong C.B., Col. De Crespigny, Surgeon General Gilbourne, J.H. Brooke, H.W. Poole and W. Wighwick Esqs.

John Hawes, landlord of the Eagle Tavern, in High Street, was summoned for having his house open during prohibited hours.

Sergt. Butcher said on Tuesday, about ten minutes past twelve he was on duty in High Street with P.C.s Scott and Smith. He saw a light in teh window of the Eagle Tavern. The landlord opened the door to let two soldiers out, and he entered the house. He asked the soldiers if they had passes, and they produced them. He went to a small room at the back of the bar, and found two quart pots and three glasses on the table. One of the pots was half full of liquor. He went to a back kitchen upstairs, and found a corporal and a female sitting there. He said he was courting her – she was the landlord's daughter. The landlord said that was correct. In another room over the bar he found six other pots and four glasses. One pot was full and another three parts full of malt liquor, but there was no-one in the room. He went to another room, which was locked, and the landlord refused him leave to enter it. One of the four men told him there were about a dozen men upstairs. He told the landlord he should report the case, and he made no reply.

P.C. Scott gave corroborative evidence.

The defendant, who was not present and was not represented, was fined £5 and 10s. costs, or in default one month.

Corporal John McCagney, Privates Joshua Lambert, John Clay and Randolph Richards, all belonging to the King's Royal Rifles, were charged with being on the premises on the 5th July.

Supt. Taylor said he did not press for a heavy penalty.

The corporal said he was courting the landlord's daughter. He did not go for the purpose of drinking. He asked the Bench to consider his position.

General Armstrong: Why do you go at that hour in the night? (Laughter)

The Bench dismissed the charge against McCagney, and fined the other three defendants 1s. each.

The defendant Hawes came into court at this time, and appeared surprised that his case had been disposed of. He was told that the £5 was only half the penalty which might have been imposed.

Folkestone Express 25 August 1888.

Saturday, August 18th: Before The Mayor, Captain Carter, J. Holden, J. Fitness, J. Clarke, and E.T. Ward Esqs.

James Harris pleaded Guilty to being drunk and disorderly. He was also charged with resisting P.C. Dunster in the execution of his duty, to which he pleaded Not Guilty.

P.C. Dunster said at eleven o'clock on Tuesday night he saw the prisoner leave the Eagle Tavern, High Street. He used abusive language to Boat Inspector Brice. He was very drunk and violent, and they were obliged to “cuff” him. While they were doing so he struck and kicked witness.

Brice said the prisoner had stopped him earlier in the evening and asked for a copper. He was drunk then, and went into the Eagle Tavern. He called Dunster's attention to defendant.

Defendant said he was very sorry, and he had made up his mind to drink no more. He had been wounded in the head in the Zulu War. He admitted that he was really mad with drink.

The Bench fined him 5s. and 4s. 8d. costs for each offence, or 14 days' hard labour in default.

Folkestone Express 24 July 1897.

Saturday, July 17th: Before The Mayor, Aldermen Pledge and Spurgen, T.J. Vaughan, J. Holden, and J. Fitness Esqs.

The licence of the Eagle Tavern, High Street, was transferred to Mr. Beaton.

Folkestone Express 21 January 1899.

Wednesday, January 18th: Before Capt. Carter, James Pledge, John Holden, and T.J. Vaughan Esqs.

Mr. G.W. Haines applied on behalf of Mrs. Beeton, widow of the late landlord, for a transfer of the licence of the Eagle Tavern, High Street. Granted.

Folkestone Express 17 October 1903.

Wednesday, October 14th: Before Lieut. Col. Hamilton, W. Wightwick, G.I. Swoffer and C.J. Pursey Esqs.

The transfer of the Eagle Tavern from Mrs. Beaton to William Giles was adjourned as the brewers had not forwarded a copy of their agreement seven days before the application.

Folkestone Express 31 October 1903.

Saturday, October 24th: Before Alderman Banks, Lieut. Col. Hamilton, W. Wightwick, and W.G. Herbert Esqs.

Mr. Minter made an application for the temporary transfer of the licence of the Eagle Tavern from Mrs. Beaton to William Giles, and explained that the case was adjourned from the special sessions in consequence of the brewers' agreement not having been lodged with the Justices' Clerk seven days before the sessions. The applicant had for 17 years held the licence of the Gun Tavern, and had never had a complaint lodged against him.

Mr. Herbert: How is Giles in a position to pay £20 a year rent, seeing that until recently he was an inmate of the Elham Union?

Mr. Minter: You have received an anonymous letter, but as a Guardian you ought to be thankful for the relief of the rates. His son-in-law has come forward with money to relieve him of anything that might be against him.

Mr. Bradley: Poverty would not disqualify him if he is a fit and proper person to have charge.

Mr. Herbert: It appears as though the real licensee is Clark.

Mr. Minter: At that rate, then, no licence holder is allowed to borrow money?

Temporary authority was granted by the Bench.

Folkestone Express 5 December 1903.

Wednesday, December 2nd: Before Colonel Westropp and E.T. Ward Esq.

The licence of the Eagle was transferred from Eliza Beeton to William Giles.

Folkestone Express 30 December 1905.

Tuesday, December 26th: Before The Mayor, Alderman Vaughan, Lieut. Colonel Fynmore, G. Spurgen and T. Ames Esqs.

Henry Minter, of the Buffs, was charged with being drunk and disorderly in High Street on Saturday evening, and further with assaulting P.C. Harry Johnson in the execution of his duty.

P.C. Johnson said at 8.20 on Saturday evening he was called to High Street, where he saw prisoner surrounded by a crowd of people. He was very drunk and in a fighting attitude, and making use of most abusive language. He entered the Eagle public house in High Street, and witness asked him to leave. Prisoner refused, and as witness made an attempt to eject him, he struck witness a violent blow in the mouth. With the assistance of P.C. Kettle, witness handcuffed Minter and brought him to the police station.

Fined 2s. 6d. and 4s. 6d. costs, or seven days', for being drunk and disorderly, while the charge of assault was dismissed.

The money was paid by an officer of the regiment.

Folkestone Express 3 March 1906.

Wednesday, February 28th: Before E.T. Ward Esq., Lieut. Col. Fynmore, and T. Ames, W.G. Herbert, J. Stainer, R.J. Linton and G.I. Swoffer Esqs.

The following licence was temporarily transferred: the Eagle Inn, High Street, from Mr. W. Giles to Mr. W.H. White.

Folkestone Express 14 April 1906.

Wednesday, April 11th: Before The Mayor, Alderman Vaughan, Lieut. Colonel Fynmore, and R.J. Linton Esq.

The following licence was transferred: The Eagle Tavern, from William Giles to William Henry White.

Folkestone Express 17 November 1906.

Local News.

Mr. W.H. White, the landlord of the Eagle Tavern, High Street, and also a gunner in the 1st C.P.R.V.A. (Vols), was on Monday, at Ramsgate Drill Hall, presented with a long service medal.

Folkestone Express 14 September 1907.

Saturday, September 7th: Before The Mayor, Alderman Vaughan, Lieut. Colonel Fynmore, W.C. Carpenter and T. Ames Esqs.

Henry Nelson Scrase, an elderly man, was charged with stealing an overcoat.

Edward Woodhams said he was a labourer, and lodged at the Eagle Tavern, High Street. Between six and seven o'clock on Friday evening he was in the bar. He had his overcoat with him, which was lying on a seat. He remained in the bar for about half an hour, and then went into the kitchen to have some tea. When he returned to the bar the coat which he left lying on the seat was gone. He gave information to the police. Shortly afterwards he accompanied P.C. Allen to 14, Radnor Street, a common lodging house, where he was shown the coat produced, which he identified as his property. The value was 3s.

Winifred Kate White said she lived at the Eagle Tavern, High Street. Her father was the landlord, and she assisted in the business. Prisoner, she believed, came into the bar between six and seven o'clock, and witness served him with a pint of beer. He had some articles like those produced. Witness subsequently left the bar, and the coat was then lying on a seat. When she returned prisoner was gone, and also the coat. About eight o'clock she went to the police station, where she identified prisoner, whom, to the best of her belief, was the man who was in the bar.

Harriett Stamford said about seven o'clock the previous evening she was in the kitchen of 14, Radnor Street, where she saw prisoner. He had the coat produced and some wirework. He hung them on a peg and then went out. While he was gone P.C. Allen came in. She could not say whether the coat was there before prisoner came in.

P.C. Allen said at ten minutes to seven, from information he received from the prosecutor, Woodhams, he went to 14, Radnor Street. In the kitchen he saw a coat hanging on the same peg as the wirework produced. He showed it to Woodhams, who identified it as his property. Witness took possession of the coat, and at eight o'clock he again went to 14, Radnor Street, where he saw prisoner. The witness Stamford, pointing to the prisoner, said “That's the man that brought that coat in”. Prisoner said he did not know anything about the coat, and had missed a coat himself from the peg during the evening. Witness brought him to the police station, where he was identified by Miss White.

Scrase pleaded Guilty, and was sentenced to twenty one days' hard labour.

Folkestone Express 8 February 1908.

Annual Licensing Meeting.

Wednesday, February 5th: Before E.T. Ward, W.G. Herbert, W.C. Carpenter, and R.J. Linton Esqs., and Lieut. Col. Hamilton.

Superintendent's Report.

This report was read by Mr. Harry Reeve, as follows: Gentlemen, I have the honour to report that there are at present within your jurisdiction 129 premises licensed for the sale by retail of intoxicating liquors, viz.; Full licences, 78; beer “on”, 9; beer “off”, 6; beer and spirit dealers, 15; grocers &c., 11; chemists, 7; confectioners, 3; total 129. This gives an average, according to the census of 1901, of one licence to every 237 persons, or one “on” licence to every 352 persons. At the last annual meeting, one “off” licence for the sale of wines and spirits was not renewed as the business had been discontinued by the licence holder. One new licence for the sale of cider and sweets was granted, and three new licences for the sale of wines were granted to chemists. At the adjourned annual licensing meeting, held in March, five “on” licences (four full and one beer) were referred to the Compensation Committee on the ground of redundancy. One full licence was renewed at the preliminary meeting of the Committee, and at the principal meeting three of the licences were refused and one renewed. The licences which were refused were the Queen's Head, Beach Street, Channel Inn, High Street, and the Perseverance beerhouse, Dover Street. Compensation was paid in the cases of the Queen's Head and Channel Inn, and the premises were closed on the 28th of December last. In the case of the Perseverance Inn, the amount of compensation has not yet been settled; a provisional renewal of the licence will, therefore, be required until the amount of compensation has been determined. There are two houses licensed by the Inland Revenue authorities for the sale of beer in quantities not less than 4½ gallons, also to sell wines and spirits in single bottles. These licences can be granted by the Inland Revenue authorities without a Magistrates' certificate, but only for premises used exclusively for the sale of intoxicating liquors. Since the last annual licensing meeting 13 of the licences have been transferred; one licence was transferred twice. Eleven occasion licences were granted for the sale of intoxicating liquors on premises not ordinarily licensed for such sale, and 31 extensions of the usual time of closing have been granted to licence holders when balls, dinners, etc., were being held on their premises. During the year ended 31st December last, 125 persons (110 males and 15 females) were proceeded against for drunkenness; 113 were convicted and 12 discharged. This is a decrease of six persons proceeded against, as compared with 1906, and a decrease of 58 persons when compared with 1905. Three licence holders have been proceeded against for permitting drunkenness on their licensed premises; only one conviction was recorded by the Magistrates, but this was afterwards quashed on appeal by the Recorder at Quarter Sessions. One licence holder, who was convicted just previous to the last annual licensing meeting for an offence under Section 16 of the Licensing Act, 1872, appealed to Quarter Sessions, but the conviction was affirmed at the Borough Sessions held on the 5th April last. I beg to suggest that the consideration of the renewal of this licence, the Railway Hotel, Coolinge Lane, be deferred till the adjourned meeting. I have no objection to offer to the renewal of any of the other licences on the ground of misconduct, the houses generally being conducted in a satisfactory manner. The order made by the Bench at the last annual licensing meeting, that all automatic gaming machines were to be removed from licensed houses, was at once complied with by the licensees. Eleven clubs, where intoxicating liquor is sold, are registered in accordance with the Act of 1902. There are 16 places licensed for music and dancing, and two for public billiard playing. I would respectfully suggest that the Committee again refer the renewal of some of the licences in the congested area to the Compensation Committee to be dealt with under the provisions of the 1904 Act. I have received notices of four applications to be made at these Sessions for new licences, viz.; one full licence and three beer “off””.

The consideration of granting licences to the following licensed houses was referred to the adjourned licensing sessions; Railway Inn, Beach Street; Bricklayers Arms, Fenchurch Street, and Eagle Tavern, High Street, which are to be opposed. The licences of the Railway Hotel, Coolinge Lane, and the Packet Boat, Radnor Street, were adjourned.

From the Folkestone Express 7 March 1908.

Adjourned Licensing Sessions.

At the annual sessions the granting of five licences was adjourned; The "Railway Tavern," the "Eagle Tavern" and the "Bricklayers Arms" on the ground of redundancy, the "Railway Hotel," Coolinge, because a conviction had been recorded against it, and the "Packet Boat," so that plans for alterations could be submitted to the Justices.

Folkestone Express 7 March 1908.

Adjourned Licensing Sessions.

The adjourned Licensing Sessions for the Borough took place on Monday, when the licensing Justices on the Bench were E.T. Ward Esq., Lieut. Cols. Fynmore and Hamilton, and J. Stainer, W.G. Herbert, W.C. Carpenter, R.J. Linton and G. Boyd. At the annual sessions the granting of five licences was adjourned; The Railway Tavern, the Eagle Tavern and the Bricklayers Arms on the ground of redundancy, the Railway Hotel, Coolinge, because a conviction had been recorded against it, and the Packet Boat, so that plans for alterations could be submitted to the Justices.

The Eagle Inn.

The Eagle Inn, the tenant of which was William Henry White, was next considered.

The Chief Constable said the opposition was on the ground that it was not necessary for the requirements of the neighbourhood. He put in the figures dealing with the congested area. The house was an ante-69 beerhouse, with a wine licence, situate in High Street. The present tenant obtained a transfer of the licence on April 27th, 1906, and the registered owners were Messrs. Style and Winch, Maidstone. The rateable value of the house was £32. There were two entrances to the house from High Street. The bar was divided into two compartments, with one entrance to each compartment. There was no other accommodation for the public. There was a small room behind the bar, which was used as a living room by the licensee. That room was dark and required artificial light. There were three licensed houses in High Street, the nearest being the Earl Grey, 82 yards away. The pavement in front of the house was only from two feet to two feet three inches wide. The urinal opened directly off the footpath. The accommodation for the public was inferior to that of the nearest licensed houses, and as he passed the house several times a day he had noticed there was really no trade to the house. Within a radius of 200 yards there were 25 other licensed houses. He visited the house at 2.30 p.m. on February 27th, and there was no-one but the landlady on the premises. She informed him that her husband had gone out to get some work to earn a few shillings, and although the house had been opened since seven o'clock, up to the time of his visit she had taken 3½d. He had no doubt that the licence was unnecessary.

Cross-examined by Mr. De Wet, Mr. Reeve said he could not see where any further accommodation could be provided on the premises. The bar was well lighted. No-one could use the urinal without obtaining the key from someone in the bar. He had seen Mrs. Beeton, who had previously had the licence, and who said she was going to apply for the transfer of the licence, but was going to wait to see the result of the proceedings.

P.C. Simpson said he had had occasion to visit the house many times since White had been the tenant. On November 11th last he visited the house for the purpose of serving the tenant with a summons for poor rate. On November 21st he was in the Court when White appeared in answer to the summons. He complained to the Magistrates that he was unable to pay it, and also that the collector would not take it by instalments. He was allowed a month for payment, and afterwards a distress warrant was to be issued. On November 23rd he served the tenant with a summons for non-payment of General Rate. On December 12th an order for payment forthwith was made by the Magistrates, as no-one appeared in answer to the summons. On December 20th he served the order, and in that case a distress warrant was afterwards issued. On January 28th Mrs. White called at the police station and asked him if he would tell her the amount owing on the General Rate, as her husband was going to Maidstone to see the brewers, who would pay the rates for him. She had previously got the amount of the Poor Rate owing from the collector. On February 1st he went to the house with Mr. Cooper to levy the distress for the Poor Rate and the tenant paid the money. He particularly wanted a receipt, so that he could send it on to the brewers. He then produced the distress for the General Rate, and told him that the amount for which he was going to levy was £1 13s. 2d. He said he would pay him if he would give him a receipt, so that he could show it to the brewers. On one occasion White said trade was pretty bad. He (witness) knew the house, and considering the requirements of the neighbourhood, he did not consider it necessary. So far as his observations were concerned, there was really no trade to the house.

Cross-examined by Mr. De Wet, witness said that Mrs. Beeton did a much better trade than what the present tenant did. Possibly Mrs. Beeton was more attractive to her customers than what Mr. White was.

Mr. De Wet said there was no doubt Mr. White was not well fitted for the particular trade of the house. Mrs. Beeton, who was the holder of the licence of the Lifeboat, was willing to take the house again.

The Magistrates retired for a short time. On their return into Court the Chairman announced that they had decided to refer both the Railway Tavern and the Eagle Tavern to Canterbury.

Folkestone Express 11 July 1908.

East Kent Licensing.

At the Licensing Committee's sitting at Canterbury on Thursday, the three licences referred by the local justices, namely the Eagle Tavern, High Street, the Railway Tavern, Beach Street, and the Bricklayers Arms, Fenchurch Street, were considered, and the Court decided not to renew any of them. They will be dealt with by the Compensation Committee.

Folkestone Express 24 October 1908.

East Kent Licensing.

At a meeting of the East Kent Licensing Committee on Monday, many cases were dealt with.

In the case of the Eagle, High Street, Folkestone, and ante 1869 house, of which Mr. W.H. White is the tenant, and Messrs. Style and Winch Ltd. the registered owners, the parties asked for £633, but the Committee could not see any justification for allowing such a large sum, and they referred the matter to the Commissioners of Inland Revenue for adjustment. Mr. Cobb, the Committee's advisor, offers £300 as a reasonable amount for compensation.

Folkestone Express 6 February 1909.

Annual Licensing Sessions.

Wednesday, February 3rd: Before Mr. E.T. Ward, Major Leggett, Lieut. Col. Fynmore, Lieut. Col. Hamilton, Messrs. J. Stainer, W.C. Carpenter, W.G. Herbert, C. Jenner, R.J. Linton, and G. Boyd.

The Chief Constable (Mr. H. Reeve) read his annual report as follows:- Gentlemen, I have the honour to report that there are at present within your jurisdiction 125 premises licensed for the sail by retail of intoxicating liquors, viz.:- Full licences 76; beer “on” 7; beer “off” 6; beer and spirit dealers 15; grocers, etc. 11; chemists 7; confectioners 3, total 125. This gives an average according to the Census of 1901 of one licence to every 245 persons, or one “on” licence to every 369 persons.

At the adjourned licensing meeting last year three licences (two full and one beer) were referred to the Compensation Committee on the ground of redundancy, and refused renewal by that Committee on the 9th July last.

Two of the houses, the Railway Inn, Beach Street, and the Bricklayers Arms, Fenchurch Street were closed after the payment of compensation on 28th September last.

The amount of compensation in the case of the other licence refused, viz., The Eagle, High Street, has not yet been settled. A provisional renewal of the licence will, therefore, be necessary, although the house has been closed for the sale of intoxicating drink since October last, the Excise licence, which expired on the 10th of that month, not having been renewed.

There are two houses licensed by the Inland Revenue Authorities for the sale of beer, wines and spirits, in certain quantities, off the premises, under the provisions of the Excise Acts, for which no Magistrates' certificate is required.

Since the last annual licensing meeting twelve of the licences have been transferred; one licence was transferred twice.

Three occasional licences were granted for the sale of drink on premises not ordinarily licensed for such sale, and 40 extensions of the usual time of closing have been granted to licence holders when balls, dinners, etc., were being held on their premises.

During the year ended 31st December last 107 persons (86 males and 21 females) were proceeded against for drunkenness; 101 were convicted and six discharged. This is a decrease of 18 persons as compared with the preceding year. Of those proceeded against, 29 were residents, 17 non-residents, 48 of no fixed abode, and 13 were soldiers.

Two licence holders were proceeded against and convicted during the year, viz.:- Permitting drunkenness – fined 40s. and costs 11s.; selling beer to person when drunk – fined 20s. and costs 11s.

In the former case the house has since been closed under the provisions of the Compensation Act.

Fourteen clubs where intoxicating liquor is sold are registered in accordance with the Act of 1902.

There are sixteen places licensed for music and dancing and two for public billiard playing.

I have no objection to offer to the renewal of the present licences on the ground of misconduct, the houses generally being conducted in a satisfactory manner.

I have received notice of four applications to be made at these sessions for new licences, viz.:- one full licence, two beer “off”, and one billiard licence.

I am, Gentlemen, your obedient servant, H. Reeves, Chief Constable.

The granting of the licences to the Wonder Tavern and the Eagle Inn were referred to the adjourned licensing sessions to be held on March 3rd.