It is painfully unpleasant to me to appeal to the public through the medium of the newspapers, but in consequence of the extraordinary proceedings of my partner, Mr Charles Appleton, and the want of opportunity to justify myself, I am compelled to adopt the only mode left me of placing a plain and impartial statement of facts before that public, leaving them to judge who is in the right.
Upon being made aware that Mr Appleton was in the warehouse, I immediately proceeded there. He had not even the common courtesy to offer salutations but proceeded to business by folding his arms akimbo and saying, ‘Well Mr Jones, I am here and have come to take charge of this business myself’.
He demanded to see the accounts, state of the cash, et cetera. A sort of sparring dialogue was then kept up, during which I considered it necessary to lock a desk which I did not choose he should ransack in his then turbulent disposition. He demanded in the most despotic manner the possession of the key. Upon my refusing it, he broke open the seal by force and possessed himself of all the cash and bills. He then took the bill-heads and struck out my name.
On Tuesday, Mr Appleton brought Todd with him and wanted again to take charge. I thus found myself placed in such a situation that I must either stand by and suffer reiterated insults or else act in my own defence. I accordingly took Todd by the shoulders and turned him into the street, although not without receiving a blow which forced the blood from my mouth. Mr Appleton now commenced another tack, by desiring the customers to pay all monies to him. Some were frightened and ran away. Finding he was obstructing the business I desired him to walk out, at the same time taking him gently by the shoulders and putting him towards the door. This is the assault complained of. Had I not sufficient provocation?
