THE CONWAY CASE.

Greymouth Evening Star, Volume XXXI, 16 July 1901, Page 4

THE CONWAY CASE.

Mrs. Smith’s Statement to the Jury.

I stand here with the terrible charge against me which lam innocent of. I knew Mr Conway in New Zealand. My husband and I had dealings with him in money matters. Deeds were given for security, and returned on money paid. It was paid some time before my leaving New Zealand. J left home in January, with my husband’s consent, and stayed in Christchurch for three or four weeks. There I bought ' poison for my friends in the country, and left Lyttelton to join some friends in Sydney, travelling under the name of Smart. Over eleven years ago I saved an only child from drowning in North New Zealand. Twelve months ago they visited me. and settled their child’s life policy of £SOO, to be lifted at hu death, and a free trip round with them and home, if only I would say the word. It was also fixed that if anything should happen me before the child my husband was to receive the £3OO. I was then headsalcswoman, and had a little interest in the business of Clarke and Co., in the North of New Zealand. In the year 1892 I was presented with a diamond bangle on my leaving for Sydney. Over six years ago I was married at Sydney. I have known Mr Conway over two years, and was always friendly with him and his brother and sister. In Christchurch (New Zealand) I paid Mr Conway £1 I owed him, at Mrs Ilesketh’s shop. I met Mr Conway on board, and was friendly to him, and he was always friendly with me. I never gave Mr Conway anything to cause him pain or death, and I had nothing on board which contained any such thing as poison. I did not think it necessary to bring any of my friends over here as witnesses, as it is quite bad enough for myself and husband. Also the witnesses that have said I was out of the cabin Saturday and Sunday, I can truthfully say I was not. Also the witnesses-who have been saying I spoke disrespectfully about Mr Conway, and using such phrases, 1 can trutl fully say I never used the words or even spoke disrespectfully about Mr Conway or anyone belonging to him, and I would try to do good to those who have tried to do evil to me. The only and last thing I wish to say is that I am innocent.