A WRONG DECISION.

Taranaki Daily News, 7 August 1917, Page 7

A WRONG DECISION.

: ' To the Editor. """" Sir,—l am rather surprised that) the people of New Plymouth have so far Selected to t£}ke some steps to assist Miis Kelly to regain her reputation and livelihood, both of which she was robbed of in the 'wrong decision of the Magistrate in the alleged shouting case in the White Hart Hotel. This young lady was convicted on the evidence of a habitual drunkard, or in other words 011 no evid«nce at all, as he admits that he did not know what he was doing or what his movements were during the day. He »»y« he had a Bum of three pounds in the morning. He only remembered taking three drinks .and didn't kuow what else he did or how he spent his money or anything until he was found on the beach helpless and paralytic. It is quite •vident that it took more than three drinks to put him in that condition. And still tie evidence of this helpless drunkard Is taken by the Magistrate in preference to that of a respectable young lady without a stain on her character and also against that of his two mates" ■which were certainly more capable than Wilson at all events. This proves one of two things—either that the Magistrate was biassed in his judgment o or that he lacks the Intelligence which would enable him to distinguish riofct from 'wrong. And therefore tne sooner he is put off the bench the better for the public safety, as he is too dangerous ft man to bold such p, responsible posi ' tion, Now, Sir, what 1 suggest is that some men in New Plymouth who love fair play should make a collection m aid of (Miss Kelly to enable her to procure the best legal advise to bring an action for damages against the Magistrate because nothing etae will bring them to their senses. If any move is made you can put my name down for one pound towards the cost of rightui" a grievou? wrong.—l am. etc., ° JOHN DIGGIN9.

[We understand that a subscription list 'WBs taken up for the lady in question, and a sum of £44 handed to her befqre she left the town last week—Ed.]