HASTINGS COURT

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume XVII, 8 December 1927, Page 8

HASTINGS COURT

DISHONOURED CHEQUES. CLAIM FOR PAYMENT. At the Hastings Magistrate’s Court yesterday afternoon, F. W. Fitzpatrick (Mr L. A Rogers) proceeded against F. P. Wilkie (Mr E. J. W. Hallett) for £9 and £1 interest, the value of two cheques. In the witness-box. Fitzpatrick stated that the defendant had presented two cheques and received the cash, but when witness sent them to the they were returned dishonoured. He denied that they were given in payment of a bet. He frequently changed cheques for various people. Counsel for the defence claimed that the cheques were given in payment of a bet. The defendant was willing to pay. but at present he was not in a position to do so. The defendant in the box admitted giving the cheques to plaintiff, contended that thev were fqy bets. Mr Rogers: The cheques vou gave him were “dud” ones?—No! I had money in the bank.

How much—twopence?—It might, have been fourpence. The bank account closed itself. I suppose?—No. I closed it. Did vou have £6 in the bank when you gave the cheque?—l thought 1 did. How much did vou have when you closed it? —About £3

So you gave him a pheque when you really did not have enough money in the bank to meet them?— Yes. Have you ever been convicted? Witness (appealing to his counsel): Do 11iave to answer that ?—Yes. ,-To Mr Rogers witness admitted that he had.

What of—forgery?—No. Then what? —False pretences. Well there you are up to the same old game again. His Worship expressed himself satisfied that plaintiff was entitled to the amount claimed, and judgment was entered accordingly, with costs totalling £2 6s.