Northampton Mercury, 7^th April 1838

Northampton Q Sessions

Thomas Parselow was indicted for stealing a sack and four bushels of wheat, the property of James Mather of Irchester.

James Mather, a farmer, residing at Irchester, stated that his barn was broken open on the 29^th January, and the wheat mentioned in the indictment stolen. The corn was golden drop, with a mixture of white barley corn and oat. Supplied samples to the millers in the neighbourhood. In March last he saw some at a miller’s, and about three bushels were found on the prisoner’s premises, all exactly corresponding with his own. Has no doubt of its identity.

Job Knight, a miller a Rushden, received a sample of corn from the prosecutor. One bushel of Corn was also brought to him by the prisoner which corresponded exactly with the other. Samuel Frost, the constable of Irchester searched the prisoner’s House, and found about three bushels of wheat in a sack, of which he took possession. He then apprehended the prisoner. After he had been some time in custody, he stated that he did not steal the wheat, but had found it in his pig-stye. It lay there for three weeks and then he took it into the house, and he wished he had shot it into the street. He wished witness to speak to Mr. Mather to settle the matter. Mr. Miller defended the prisoner who was acquitted after a long consultation by the Jury.