By Isle of Wight Observer
This story from the Isle of Wight Observer published on 16th August, 1919 caught our eye. The felon could hardly fail to be found guilty – given what he had written. But hopefully all turned out well for him in the end and a job was found for him, either in the magistrate’s garden or elsewhere!
TELL-TALE ENTRY.
George Wallis Russell, belonging to London, was charged on remand for stealing the shop key of Mr. and Mrs. Soper, fruiterers, of Mill Hill-road, Cowes, on the previous Sunday.
The key was left temporarily in the front door, and was missed by Mrs. Soper. In the evening P.S. Snow saw prisoner trying to unlock the shop door and on arresting him found upon him a note book containing the following entry: “Went for a walk; passed greengrocers and what should I see, O joy! but the key in the door. Very cautiously I managed to buy two lovely tomatoes, ever so big, juicy, and perfect. Am going again to night.” Prisoner said he took the tomatoes, and was going back for some more, as he was hungry.
Sir Godfrey Baring, Bart., J.P, on the Bench, said that he wanted a boy in the garden, and would make enquiries about the defendant.
The defendant was remanded to the Workhouse, with a view to work being found for him.