Mexborough and Swinton Times , February 28.
Matrimonial quarrels at Conisborough.
Bamford John Allen Swaby, described as a yeoman, of Conisbrough, was charged with assaulting his wife, Mary Swaby at that place on the fourth inst.
Mr Richardson of Thirsk appeared in support of the information.
In opening the case, he said the complainant was a clergyman’s daughter and had been married to defendant for eight years. For some time he (defendant) had been guilty of the most outrageous conduct towards his wife so much so that it was impossible for her to live with him. He had threatened her with violence until at last it culminated with the assault with which he was now charged. Onbehalf ofthe complainant he now asked for protection and if possible in the form of an order for a judicial separation. The defendant must be compelled to conduct himself with some degree of decency.
All his promises of reform had been broken, and the poor wife was in actual fear of her life, having had to flee from her own house to a cottage close by for refuge.
Mary Swaby said she had been the wife of the defendant for about eight years, and they had two children by the marriage. Two or three years ago her husband took a farm at Bentley, defendant was very unkind towards her, and she had occasion to leave him on account of his violent conduct and threats towards her. She went to her father’s at Coxforth, and received the letter from him now produced. In the letter he acknowledged himself a villain and a scoundrel to his wife.
On his promising to behave better she returned to live with him again. During the time they have resided at Conisbrough his conduct had been even worse than before. Three weeks ago he wanted her to sell some of the furniture, and she did not want to do so, and he violently struck her on the arm. She had suffered very much in consequence. She then left him for the day. He apologised that night and she returned to him.
Here the defendant, who was evidently suffering from the effects of drink, asked Mr Hall if he would undertake his defence. Mr Hall having apparently consented to do so, asked that the further hearing of the case be adjourned for half an hour that he might consult with his client.
Mr Hall and the defendant then left the court.
On their return, in about an hour afterwards, it was agreed that the defendant should be bound over to keep the peace towards his wife for 12 months, himself in £50 on, and his mother in £50.
Defendant tp pay the costs of the present action £1 1s