Introduction

In relating the cases heard in the Courts of the County Assize in Gloucestershire nearly two centuries ago this book offers a variety of examples of the sins and sinners of those days, together with a fascinating insight into the consequences of those wrongdoings.

The punishments awarded varied considerably, from time spent in Gloucester Gaol or a House of Correction, where hard labour or floggings could be expected, to deportation or, the ultimate penalty, hanging.

The reports reproduced in this book come from the Gloucester Journal, the local newspaper of the day. They introduce the reader to all of the characters in each case: the eloquent counsel, the equally eloquent judges, the many witnesses and the condemned themselves.