Report of William Mainwaring on 1 individual petition (prisoner on behalf of Richard...

Report of William Mainwaring on 1 individual petition (prisoner on behalf of Richard Richards, ladies hair dresser, convicted at the Westminster Quarter Sessions, in January last 1785, for stealing a piece of cloth for handkerchiefs, property of Thomas Maurice, linen draper. Grounds for clemency: only a 'young man (28 years), has a wife and 3 small children, the only income provider also supported his aged mother who is now in a state of misery, the family will be a burden on the society for financial support, first offence, the prosecutor received 2 guineas as a satisfaction for his loss and with a promise not to prosecute (this was only mentioned after the trial), prisoner was hurried for trial and denied the opportunity to make preparations for defence, or to give notice to friends to appear as character referees on his trial, his behaviour in prison had been good and has shown contrition. Initial sentence: 7 years transportation. Recommendation: speaks in favour of mercy.

Folios 250-251.