Saturday January 1st, 1831

---

MACHINE BREAKING.
David Hawkins and John Jennaway were indicted for breaking the thrashing machine of Charles Spanswick

Charles Spanswick sworn - Is a farmer at Lambourn. On the 23d of November I was in bed; and alarm was given; I got up; the mob came and began beating the door with a sledge hammer and bludgeons; they asked me if I had a machine. They demanded a light, and said they were come to destroy it. I said if you will have a light an destroy it, I'll go and light you myself. I was alarmed; there were 50 or 60 persons gathered round the door, my machine was placed in the yard, they destroyed it with hammers. I think Hawkins was [...] that came to the door. Jennaway took a very active part in demolishing my machine. Hawkins asked for 2 sovereigns, I refused; when one said d--n him, knock out his brains." Hawkins flourished his bludgeon over my head, and swore he would have two sovereigns. I said I could not afford it, I would give him one; he swore he would have two. After some hesitation I said I would give him two. They accompanied me to the door, and said they would have some beer. I gave the money to Hawkins.
Cross examined by Mr. RIGBY - The machine was a perfect one; I was persuaded [?] by many persons to break it to pieces, but I said I would not; it was not put out for the purpose of being destroyed.

Hawkins said Mr. Spanswick desired him to destroy his machine.
Jennaway said Mr. Spanswick said he was glad the machine was broken. Guilty.

---