Did the attempted suicide actually help

(Herts Merc., Sat., 20th April 2018)

At Hatfield Petty Sessions, Eleanor Chalkley (46), a domestic servant, of Ashwell, formerly in the employ of Mr T.W. Bennett, of Gaden House, Fore Street, Hatfield, as a cook, was summoned for stealing eggs belonging to her employer.  Supt Peck said he had received a report from the Superintendent of Police at Hitchin that the defendant cut her throat on Sunday and that it would be 5 or 6 weeks before she would be able to come into court.  Mr G. Passingham, solicitor of Hitchin, said that he was instructed to appear on behalf of this woman, and that late on Sunday a message reached him from the police that his client had attempted suicide.

Mr Bennett said that he did not wish to press the case, and he asked the magistrates to allow him to withdraw it.  The Clerk asked  “You offer no evidence?”, and Mr Bennett replied  “No”.  Mr Lane Claypon asked  “Have we the power?”   After deliberating privately, the Chairman announced that the case would be adjourned until 13th May.