Unpaid wages (1868)

Post date: Mar 21, 2013 11:36:4 AM

Extract from Maidstone Telegraph, 10th October 1868

IRISH HOPPER AND HER MASTER.

Mr Henry Allwork, farmer, Wateringbury, was summoned by Ann Green, Irish hopper, for 3s 6d, balance of wages. Complainant said she was engaged by defendant and left on the 5th of September, and at that time there was 3s.6d. due to her. Mr Wildes to defendant—Look at this book. There appears to be 3s 6d due to the woman. Defendant—l paid the 3s 6d. The woman did not as she stated, leave the work in consequence of ill health, but by reason drunkenness. Complainant—You never paid me. Defendant—l ought to have taken the book from you when I paid the 3s 6d. Complainant—Defendant said he would not pay till the work was done. P.C. John Burgess said he saw defendant pay the woman some money, and heard her say she had not had her rights, and that she should take out a summons to recover her proper money. Defendant—She was intoxicated, and left before the work was done. Out of charity, my man gave her work before the hop picking commenced. I am quite satisfied I paid her the money. Complainant—He owes me the money, and he has not signed the book. The Magistrates dismissed the case.