At the Epithany Sessions at the Guildhall in Exeter, Ann Stringer, a decently dressed young woman, was charged with stealing, on 31st December, 1851, three pieces of Derry cloth from the shop of Mr. Dingle, a draper in Fore Street. The Jury found the prisoner guilty and the judge sentenced her to three months hard labour.
"Mr. Carter, who had appeared for the prisoner, in his usual style told the Jury that their verdict was a disgrace to them.
(N.B. This was the Grand Jury, assembled for the Session and consisting of some of Exeter's most respected and respectable male citizens. The Foreman was Mr. S.S.Bastard!)
"The Recorder interposed, and said that he should not allow such remarks to be made. His conduct was not only improper but indecorous.
"Mr.Carter said he should make his remarks when he thought proper. He should not consider himself under despotic sway. He demanded that the present jury should be discharged, as he had another prisoner to defend, and he did not think they ought to be entrusted with the case.
"The Recorder refused to discharge the Jury, and requested them not to notice the improper observations of the Council (sic) They had discharged their duty as honourable men, and he fully acquiesced in the decision they had come to."
Source: The Exeter and Plymouth Gazetter, 10th January 1852.
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