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BereniceUK
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A DISHONEST SOLDIER.
Extensive Thefts by a Scots Guards Corporal
Arthur Edward Davies, 24, who appeared in the dock in the uniform of a corporal of the Scots Guards, pleaded guilty at the County of London Sessions yesterday to stealing the property of officers, non-commissioned officers, and privates of the Scots Guards and Grenadier Guards stationed at Wellington Barracks. - Mr. Slade Butler, who prosecuted, said the prisoner had confessed to seven thefts. Davies, who had been in the Scots Guards for years, was originally in the Royal Artillery. He deserted from that corps, and joined the Guards. Afterwards he was recognised, and ordered 84 days' imprisonment. In the Guards, however, his conduct was so satisfactory that he was raised to the rank of corporal. He was sent to South Africa in June, 1901, and served there until October, 1902. During that time he was suffering from enteric fever, but was able to return with the battalion, without being invalided. On the voyage home many officers and privates were robbed of their bags, clothing, and other property by an unknown thief. At Aldershot, whilst the troops were getting ready for general inspection, medals, money, and jewellery continued to be missed. At Wellington Barracks, where Davies, owing to his ostensible good character, was deputed to act as doctor's orderly, parading and attending the sick, robberies were reported frequently. In addition to the seven cases, five others were traced against Davies by Detective-sergeant Watts. - His Lordship passed sentence of twelve months' imprisonment in the second division.
Evening Express, 23rd April 1903
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