Hi,
There was this report in Preston Chronicle Sat. July 1st 1837.
Jeremiah Marsden 16, and John Smith 14, were indicted for stealing at Chorley, one piece of plain black cloth and one piece of uncut fustian, the property of Mr. Joseph Oldfield. Another boy was named in the indictement for being concerned in the same offence, but was not in custody. Marsden pleaded guilty, Smith not guilty. After witnesses were examined Smith was found guilty. The chairman in passing sentence remarked upon the previous character of the prisoners and said they had both been previously committed. Marsden was one of those who tried to escape. Both prisoners were sentenced to be 'transported beyond the sea' for a term of seven yrs. Being taken from the bar Smith called out impudently, and Marsden waited some time disputing with the constable regarding some clothes that had been taken from him, and which he said were his property.
claire