§ MR. SHIRLEY (Yorkshire, W.R., Doncaster)asked the Secretary of State for War, Whether it is intended to take any criminal proceedings against, or otherwise to secure the proper punishment of, Gentleman Cadet Ward, for the culpable negligence by which he 1662 shot an errand boy, named William Vicars, at Woolwich, on Saturday, 7th May?
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE (Mr. E. STANHOPE) (Lincolnshire, Horncastle)This matter has been somewhat exaggerated. the boy Vicars did not fall down insensible, and his injury if, fortunately, not dangerous. Compensation has been offered and accepted, and the police have withdrawn from interference. Although it has not been deemed necessary to detain Gentleman Cadet Ward in arrest he has been most seriously cautioned as to his future conduct. His behaviour has been hitherto most exemplary, and the recollection of his indescribable folly will be in itself a severe punishment to him.