QSR1879/2/5/8/b

Depositions and examination - William Kempster, alias Smith for receiving from Frederick Smith one skirt and one neck wrapper at Leighton Buzzard on 14 January 1879, knowing them to have been stolen from Henry Stone

1 February 1879

From: 1879 To: 1879

Henry Stone of High Street, Leighton Buzzard, draper – on 14 January he had some skirts and neck wrappers in his shop. He believes those produced to be his property. He had not missed any. John Olden, police sergeant stationed at Leighton Buzzard – on Saturday 25 January he was present with PC Cook at Kempster’s house when searching for a flannel vest. He asked Kempster if he had bought anything else from Fred Smith. Kempster said he had not bought anything other than the vest from his brother. Kempster’s wife who was present said “don’t tell a lie, it is no good”. Turning to him [Olden] she said “Sir, I have got a skirt on as he brought home and there is a scarf upstairs”. She took the skirt off and gave it to him. He then went upstairs with Kempster and was given the scarf. Kempster said he had bought the skirt from his brother Fred Smith and had been given the scarf by him. Kempster said he asked Smith if he stole them and Smith said he did not. Fred Smith was committed yesterday to take his trial on a charge of stealing the goods. William Kempster, alias Smith – nothing to say

item

Kempster, William,
Smith, Frederick,
Stone, Henry,
Olden, John

LEIGHTON BUZZARD, Leighton Buzzard High Street, receiving stolen goods, clothing, police sergeant, draper