Amongst the papers of the Dunn family (NRO 02988/23) is correspondence relating to Henry Percival, former butler to William Dunn of Bath House, Newcastle upon Tyne, who was tried and sentenced for stealing and pawning various items of silver plate.
The evidence heard at the trial came from four different pawnbrokers based in Newcastle; William Wilson, John Garrett, Thomas Cook and Israel Jacobs as well as William Dunn and the arresting officer. Percival had received money when items were pledged, some of the items were sold when the pledge was subsequently forfeited i.e., the item not collected within the allotted pledge time. Each pawnbroker said that Percival had claimed the right to pawn the items either by saying they belonged to his father or by giving a false name. William Dunn gave evidence confirming that Percival had been his butler and house servant for 5 years and as such had the keys to the pantry. Percival was arrested in the pawnshop of William Wilson; and did not say anything when charged. Following Percival’s arrest, Dunn had examined the pantry to compile a list of missing items and found the pawn tickets. Items of silver plate that were missing included silver tongs, dessert spoons, teaspoons, a cream jug, teapot and dishes. A number of the original pawnbroker receipts are amongst the Dunn family papers.
The ‘Newcastle Guardian and Tyne Mercury’ newspaper reported the outcome of the trial in January 1860. Percival pleaded guilty. The court reporter condemned the conduct of the pawnbrokers for not making sufficient enquiries into the ownership of the items stating that the thefts would not have occurred if more care had been taken. Percival was told that he had taken advantage of a confidential position with a generous master. On 4th January 1860 Percival was convicted of the offence ‘Larceny by Servant’ and sentenced to 4 years.
The England and Wales Criminal Register confirms that he spent 3 years, 3 months and 5 days in prison, moving from Newcastle Gaol to Millbank, Pentonville, Portland and Portsmouth during this time. His conduct was very good other than being caught with a piece of tobacco in his cell whilst at Portland gaol in March 1861. He was discharged on license on 8th April 1863.
Correspondence survives amongst the papers from Percival to William Dunn whilst he was imprisoned and following his release. Whilst held at Newcastle Percival wrote describing the situation of his wife and his 5 children, who had moved to York hoping to open a small confectionary shop. He asked for help stating that “my wife was as innocent as yourself of my misconduct”. After his release he again wrote asking this time for outstanding wages from November 1859, and later for kindness to be shown so that he would be able to earn an honest living.