In the autumn of 1844
a shoemaker from Newtown was selling his wares at the market
in Llanidloes.
His name was Richard Jones and he set up his stall near the old market
hall. While he was helping someone a pair of boots was stolen from his
stall.
Mr Jones did not see it happen but a
bystander called Mary Davies did. The thief
was caught and handed over to the police and both Richard Jones and Mary
Davies gave a statement to them. These statements still survive and from them we can understand what really happened. Below is part of Mr Jones' statement. He was able to sign it himself.
