Henry Smithson: The Deposition of Henry Smithson 9 June 1702

June 9._th 1702.

Northumb. Ss.Henry Smithson Deposeth that about Martinmass 1700. he was at Henry Robsons in Newcastle and there the Said Henry Robson did shew to this Deponent a peice of Metall covered with Silver which he Said was p^repared to be coyned into a halfe Crown, and that he could do it himselfe, and Said he could also cover counterfeit money, and that he had entertained James Blades and Joseph Thomson (now in Durham Goale for Coyning) in his house for a considerable time togeather, and that they were brought thither in order to coyn for one M^r Richard Warwick late off Silver street in New Castle, and he further saith, that he is acquainted with the Said Warwick, & that the said Warwick did show to this Deponent at his said house in New Castle Severall coyning Instruments and this deponent knowes that he employ'd the Said Blades & Tompson & Turner in Coyning for him, and further saith that he knows one Edw.^d Gare a Smith and his wife who lives at or near Shotton Edge in Cond Northumb.^er and that the said Gare did also lodge the Said persons at his house where they did also coyn for the said Warwick, And further saith that the Said Warw^k told this deponent that he had clear'd above 500.^£ by clipping Capt et jurat Corā W m Blackett.                      Hen: Smithson