Philps, Thomas | Day 7

Received £7 10s from John Mackins of Stag Inn for erecting 5 flag poles plus £38 from Mr Olds – £6 for canvassing, £5 for a committee room and the remaining £27 to bribe 9 voters.

Witness Type: Briber, Publican, Beerhouse Keeper

Party: Conservative

Witness Testimony:

  • 6670.

    (Mr. Turner.) What are you ? — A publican. 

  • 6671.

    Where ? — At Walmer. 

  • 6672.

    What moneys did you receive in the course of the election ? — I received 38L. from Mr. Olds, and 7L. 10s. from John Mackins. 

  • 6673.

    What was the 7L. 10s. for ? — Erecting five flag POLES, 1L. 10s. each. 

  • 6674.

    Who paid you that ? — John Mackins of the “Stag “inn, Walmer. 

  • 6675.

    Now as to the other sum, 38L. ? — There was 6L. for canvassing, 5L. for COMMITTEE ROOM, and 3L, each to the following voters (handing a list) and I think that will make it up. 

  • 6676.

    You bought nine votes ? — Yes. 

  • 6677.

    What passed between you and them before you paid the money about their votes ?  — They promised to vote, otherwise they would never have had it. 

  • 6678.

    When did you pay them ? — I think most of them were paid the previous day. 

  • 6679.

    They were paid to vote ? — I believe so. I think some of them voted the other side. I think one of them picked it up both sides, and you will find his name in the Liberal list. 

  • 6680.

    They all promised to vote for your side ? — Yes. 

  • 6681.

    And you said you would give them 3L, ? — Yes. 

  • 6682.

    Had you any more money ? — No, none. 

  • 6683.

    (Mr. Jeune.) Who was it, do you think, that got money from both sides — was it Alec Rogers ?  — Yes; I think you will find his name in the Liberal account. 

  • 6684.

    It is very likely. I see he is a sweep ? — You will find his name in the Liberal list.