DEDDINGTON.

PETTY SESSIONS, APRIL 7.

Before J.C. Lechmere, Esq., C.C. Dormer, Esq., and the Rev. T. Curme.

TRESPASS IN SEARCH OF GAME.

William Smith, labourer, Steeple Aston, was charged with trespassing on land in the occupation of Mr. Pratt, in the parish of Great Barton, in search of game, March 16.

George Pratley, assistant gamekeeper to - Hall, Esq., said I saw defendant about five o'clock in the afternoon of the 16th ult., in a field in the occupation of Mr. Pratt. He was setting wires to catch hares ; the wire produced as the one I took from the spot where I say defendant standing. When he saw me he ran away. I followed and ascertained his name and address.

Defendant, in a very emphatic manner, denied the charge, and stated that he was at work on Mr. Hall's estate tying up wood, and he did not run across the field as stated by last witness, but simply walked across into the turnpike road on his way home. The keepers had t4ried to entrap him and his fellow work-men by putting rabbits in traps, but they had not succeeded. He knew nothing at all about the charge brought against him.

Mr. Lechmere said defendant had hares to sell before, and they did not believe his story. Fined 10s., expenses 10s., and 4s. police expenses. Allowed a month.