A NOTORIOUS HIGHWAYMAN.

Globe, Volume II, Issue 195, 23 January 1875, Page 3

A NOTORIOUS HIGHWAYMAN.

Referring to the liberation of the notorious Queensland highwayman known as the “ Wild Scotchman,” who a few years ago was sentenced to 25 years’ penal servitude, the Rockhampton Bulletin says:—“The prisoner in this case had, we believe, served eight years of his sentence, and throughout had conducted himself in a most exemplary manner. When convicted he was a mere lad, and never manifested any vicious propensities until he began to read sensational novels recording the exploits of highwaymen in the mother country. The literature poisoned the young fellow’s mind, and he deserted his parents, who have lived for many years in the Moreton Bay district. to lead the life of the ‘jolly freebooter.’ He committed many robberies under arms during his short criminal career, but, fortunately for himself, never happened to take life. The judge, in passing sentence, stated that it was intended to have a deterrent effect, and was therefore heavier than the circumstances of the crime proved might seem to warrant. The sentence had its effect, for we believe that bushranging has not since been heard of in the colony. The petitioners therefore urged that this was a case for the exercise of the Royal clemency, as well on the prisoner’s own accountas upon the account of his parents, who, being now aged and infirm, would become a burden upon public charity if deprived of the support of their only remaining son. The old people humbly prayed for his release, and believed that he would henceforth prove not only dutiful to them, but also a useful member of society. We understand the prayer of the petition was supported by the signatures of many members of both Houses of Parliament, and hence, no doubt, the favorable consideration it has received from the ActingGovernor.”