Samuel Fiddymont

by **Karen** Wed 18 May 2011 - 8:50

WANDSWORTH.
ALLEGED ATTEMPTED FRAUD.

William Smith, a hairdresser, and Thomas Ward, a traveller, were charged with attempting to obtain 10 pounds from Mrs. Mary Ann Eddison, of the Nag's Head, York-road, Battersea, by false pretences.
David Nathan, manager to Mr. Henry James Eddison, the landlord, deposed that on Friday morning the prisoners entered and spoke to Mrs. Eddison, who called him. He went round the bar to the prisoners, and Smith said he had come direct from Mr. Fiddymont, of the Prince Albert, Brushfield-street, Spitalfields, to see the governor. He told him that Mr. Eddison was not in. He replied, "What a pity! I have a good thing for him." He produced an envelope bearing Mr. Fiddymont's address, and said he had sent him for 10 pounds to put on Pythagoras, 5 pounds each way. The prisoner also said, "Can't you do it for him as he is not here?" Witness replied, "Decidedly not." He then asked him if he had any money of his own to put on the horse, saying, "If you have got any money it is sure to win." Tell all of your pals to do the same." Witness then laughed, but he declined to give them any money. He treated the prisoners, supposing that they had come a long distance.
Mr. Samuel Fiddymont was called, and said he was acquainted with Mr. Eddison, but the prisoners were strangers to him until Thursday night, when he saw them in his house. He did not give Smith any authority to apply to Mr. Eddison for 10 pounds. Smith said that he would call and see him again, and asked for a card. Not having a card he gave him the envelope.
In cross-examination the witness said he mentioned the name of the horse, and remarked that it was very likely to win a race. He did not tell him to convey that information to Mr. Eddison.
Police-constable Adams proved arresting the prisoner, who made no reply to the charge.
Mr. Haynes said the prisoner Smith was in business in Battersea-square, where he had been four years.
Mr. Paget committed the prisoners for trial, and allowed bail.

Source: Lloyd's Weekly London Newspaper, November 6, 1887, Page 3