§ Mr. LAIDLAWasked the Lord Advocate if, in view of the previous good character of James Walter McEwan, and the penalty of six months' imprisonment that was imposed upon him in connection with an assault case at Thornliebank, in May last, he could see his way to advise his release, or at least some mitigation of the sentence?
§ Mr. A. DEWARThe Secretary for Scotland has received representations in favour of McEwan, to which, after careful consideration and inquiry, he has replied that he sees no sufficient reason for advising any remission. My Noble Friend regrets that he cannot depart from this decision.