From the Folkestone Observer 19 November, 1864. Transcribed by Jan Pedersen.

POSSESSING A LURCHER

Tuesday November 15th:- Before Captain Kennicott R.N. and W. Bateman, James Tolputt and A.M. Leith, Esqs.

Richard Baker appeared on summons, charged with having in his possession a lurcher dog, property of John Richardson.

John Richardson, licensed victualler and general dealer, living at Hythe, said he bought the dog about three months ago. He was standing at his door one morning when Mr. Allen, who served meat at the camp for Mr. Major, passed the door, having a man with him, and dog. He asked 5s. for the dog, but witness ultimately bought it for 4s. and a pot of beer. It was a middle sized lurcher dog, answering to the name of Ben. The man he bought it of seemed to be a looker, and he said he bought it to look after sheep, but it was too fast for sheep. Witness had the dog about two months, and one day, going to Broad Street with the dog, a man claimed the dog. Witness brought the dog with him to Folkestone, and left it unfastened under the manger with his horse in the "Rose" stables. Had not seen the dog till that morning, but had advertised it in the Folkestone Observer. Last Sunday his son saw the dog with defendant.

William Ellen, butcher, confirmed prosecutor's statement as to the purchase of the dog. Did not know the man the dog was bought of, as he had merely given him a ride in his cart on the road. He seemed to be a drover.

Defendant said the dog was his. He bought the dog of his nephew in Foord, giving a donkey for it and a sovereign. He got drunk at Romney Fair and got locked up, and thus lost his dog.

Thomas Fields, landlord of the "Castle Inn," said the purchase as described by defendant took place in his presence, in his house, four or five months ago.

Aaron Baker had brought the dog from Netley Forest, a pup, and sold it as described to defendant.

The bench dismissed the charge, not undertaking to say in whom the right of property in the dog was vested.