Report of John William Rose, Recorder of London, on 1 individual petition (Henry...

Report of John William Rose, Recorder of London, on 1 individual petition (Henry Thornton, King's Arm Yard) on behalf of William Jenkinson, William Read and Henry White, convicted at the Old Bailey[?], for a burglary in the house of Simon Jackson. Grounds for clemency: the trial came sooner than anticipated (hindering their making a defence), they were convicted on the evidence of one William Smith, himself 'an Old Offender & a very bad Man', Jenkinson - youth (16 years), worked for his father (pin making), rarely stayed out overnight, had 'slacken' somewhat in his duty towards his parents but never turned his back on them and has an offer of apprenticeship from a local grocer. White - youth (17 years) and although he had 2 indictments (not convicted) against him he was regularly entrusted with money by a former employer and was 'always faithful'. Reid - youth (22 years), no other reasons given and not really addressed in the petition. Initial sentence: (all 3) death. Recommendation: none made; however, Jenkinson and Read are described as 'Old Offenders', while White is spoken of relatively favourably.

Folios 130-133.