Francis Johnson, Arthur Grayham, Richard Grayham.
16th January 1684
Francis Johnson , Indicted for Killing Thomas Sydens ; also Arthur Grayham , and Richard Grayham , as Aiders, Abetters and Comforters of Mr. Johnson in the said Fact . It appeared upon the Evidence, that Mr. Johnson, and the two Grayhams, had been late a Drinking at the Castle-Tavern, near St. Fulchers Church, London, came out from thence about One a Clock, on Christmas-day in the Morning; That Mr. Johnson, and Mr. Arthur Grayham had some difference, and drew upon one another: as soon as they came out, that the Watchman upon the next Stand cried out, Watch, Watch, that the Constable and Watch came immediately; but that Thomas Sydens having been at the Watch-house to light his Candle, went that way in the very juncture of their Fighting, and that before the Constable could get up, Sydens was wounded, of which he suddenly died; that the Watch found the said Three persons with their Swords drawn: And by circumstances it appeared, that Mr. Johnson's Sword was sweared, as if with Fat or Grease, about Three or Four Inches next the point, that a wound of that depth was made in Sydens Belly: That none else had Swords but those Three. Many Witnesses were on each side; and the Trial so long, as not to be exactly herein particularized. In conclusion, the Jury found Mr. Johnson Guilty of Manslaughter , but acquitted the Two Grayham's.
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