The Proceedings of the Old Bailey

 

659.   JOSEPH RUSHLEIGH was indicted for stealing, on the 13th of July last, one iron axe, value 2 s. the property of   Samuel Harrison .

  SAMUEL HARRISON sworn.

I lost an axe from  Stephen-street, Tottenham-court-road ; I found it on the prisoner, about fifty yards from the yard; I had seen it ten minutes before; I had a new eye put to it, I am sure it is mine, and I know the handle; the prisoner said he meant to bring it back after he had cut some wood, he was going from the house.

PRISONER's DEFENCE.

I took it to chop a bit of wood, and I should have returned it, I asked him to go

with me, and see the two bits of wood; and he would not; I think he is too sharp, he first valued it at 8 d. then he came to me at Clerkenwell, and wanted to make it up, then he valued it at two shillings; and as I never was in such a place before, I must leave it to you.

Prosecutor. I never offered to make it up; his son has offered to me.

The prisoner called two witnesses, who gave him a good character.

NOT GUILTY .

Tried by the second Middlesex Jury before Mr. RECORDER.