MINISTER AND WARDEN.

Shannon News, 30 September 1924, Page 2

MINISTER AND WARDEN.

LONDON, Aug. 29.

Parishioners crowded' the Brixliaiu t,Devon) Police Court to hear evidence in summonses arising out of a church s qua able. Sir Thomas Leonard, one of tlie wardens, a bootmaking magnate, charged tlie minister, the Rev. Frank Dowiand-Ryaii; wiio was born in Australia, with assault. • Sir Thomas Leonard gave' evidence that when lie approached the minister and asked why a notice, calling a parochial meeting, had been removed, the Rev. Dowland-Ryan replied.,’ “I don’t want anything to do. with a ’ person like you. You. are a fool.” Sir Lennard retorted, “You*" are a cad.” The minister' then punched him on the chest, and sent him staggering. A .companion intervened, and Lennard said, ‘“I shan’t strike, but 'l’ll summons you.” Counsel: Do you admit that tlie Rev. Dowland-Rypn is a gentleman? Lennard: No. ’ Don’t you think it deplorable to drag the Church into tlie police court? Lennard: I anv not responsible. The witness admitted that..the trouble arose because the minister called Communion Mass, and introduced the confessional and incense. The defendant denied the assault, and the change was dismissed.