AN EXTRAORDINARY CASE.

Greymouth Evening Star, Volume XXXI, 12 October 1901, Page 4

AN EXTRAORDINARY CASE.

An interesting case has just been tried by court-martial at Gravesend Barracks. Color-sergeant John Moore, Royal Marine Light Infantry, who had been in custody since May 23, was charged with insubordination and disrespectful conduci towards Second Lieutenant Edward 0. Reed, 3rd Scottish Rifles. Prisoner had seen twentyone years’ service, and had only three weeks to serve before retiring. He wears three medals, and has always borne an excellent character. Lieutenant Reed, who is a young officer, complained that while he was inspecting pickets on the parade ground prisoner walked in front of him and ordered the Royal Marine picket to march off. Witness asked him what he meant. Prisoner turned round and said: “I beg your pardon, sir, you are ten minutes late.’’ Witness ordered him to bring the picket back, but he refused, remarking: “These are marines, not foot soldiers.” In defence Sergeant Moore denied that ho made such an absurd remark. Toe picket had not marched off to time, and not seeing any superior officer present, and thinking he was doing right under the circumstances, ho ordered his own picket to march before Lieutenant Reed appeared. Many witnesses were heard The Court found prisoner not guilty. On being released he was received by all the soldiers in barracks with round after of cheering.