Mexborough & Swinton Times – Friday 30 May 1890
Quarrelsome Neighbours at Denaby
Annie O’Brien, married woman, Denaby, was charged with having assaulted Lily White, at Denaby.
The complainant said she lived at Conisborough, and so did the defendant. On the day in question she and two friends were walking along when the defendant deliberately threw large stones at her, and two struck her—one on the back, and one on the leg. She had a baby in her arms, and, was afraid it would get injured.
Defendant: What had we been talking about?
Complainant: We had not been talking.
Defendant: Oh yes, we had. You were going to the office to get me turned out of my house.
Complainant: No, we were not.
Defendant: Yes, you were.
Complainant: We wanted to get fresh houses and that was why we went to Mr. Chambers.
Defendant: Mr. Chambers said he would have us all turned out unless we could agree. Do you say I struck you?
Complainant: Yes.
Defendant: Why there isn’t a stone to be found on the road—it is level as the floor of this court. (Laughter )
Complainant: There were many stones about
Defendant : Show the places where I hit you ?
Complainant : Do you think I should do that before all the gentlemen sitting here? (Laughter.)
Several witnesses were called on both sides and characters the reverse of complimentary were given concerning the complainant and her witnesses.
Mr. Yarborough said there might have been provocation received, but the assault should not have been committed, and it was made worse because the complainant had a child in her arms. The defendant denied that the woman had a child.
The magistrates did not impose a fine, the costs being heavy, viz , £1 1s 6d.
Defendant I shall pay nowt.” (Laughter.)