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+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 14065 ***
+
+THE HISTORY OF THE REMARKABLE LIFE OF JOHN SHEPPARD
+
+Containing a Particular Account of His Many Robberies and Escapes,
+
+
+     _Viz_.
+
+     His robbing the Shop of Mr. _Bains_ in White-Horse-Yard of 24
+     Yards of Fustian. Of his breaking and entering the House of
+     the said Mr. _Bains_, and stealing in Goods and Money to the
+     Value of 20 l. Of his robbing the House of Mr. _Charles_ in
+     _May Fair_ of Money, Rings, Plate, &c to the Value of 30 l. Of
+     his robbing the House of Mrs. _Cook_ in _Clare-Market,_ along
+     with his pretended Wife, and his Brother, to the Value of
+     between 50 and 60 l. Of his breaking the Shop of Mr. _Philips_
+     in _Drury-Lane,_ with the same Persons, and stealing Goods of
+     small Value. Of his entering the House of Mr. _Carter_, a
+     Mathematical Instrument Maker in _Wytch Street_, along with
+     _Anthony Lamb_ and _Charles Grace_, and robbing of Mr.
+     _Barton_, a Master Taylor who lodged therein, of Goods and
+     Bonds to the Value of near 300 l. Of his breaking and entering
+     the House of Mr. _Kneebone_, a Woollen-Draper, near the _New
+     Church_ in the _Strand_, in Company of _Joseph Blake_ alias
+     _Blewskin_ and _William Field_, and stealing Goods to the
+     Value of near 50 l. Of his robbing of Mr. _Pargiter_ on the
+     Highway near the Turnpike, on the Road _Hampstead_, along with
+     the said _Blewskin_. Of his robbing a Lady's Woman in her
+     Mistress's Coach on the same Road. Of his robbing also a Stage
+     Coach, with the said _Blewskin_, on the _Hampstead_ Road.
+     Likewise of his breaking the Shop of Mr. _Martin_ in
+     _Fleet-street,_ and stealing 3 silver Watches of 15 l. Value.
+
+     ALSO--
+
+     A particular Account of his rescuing his pretended Wife from
+     St. _Giles's_ Round House. Of the wonderful Escape himself
+     made from the said Round-House. Of the miraculous Escape he
+     and his said pretended Wife made together from _New-Prison_,
+     on the 25th of _May_ last. Of his surprizing Escape from the
+     Condemn'd Hold of _Newgate_ on the 31st of _August_: Together
+     with the true manner of his being retaken; and of his
+     Behaviour in _Newgate_, till the most astonishing, and never
+     to be forgotten Escape he made from thence, in the Night of
+     the 15th of October. The Whole taken from the most authentick
+     Accounts, as the Informations of divers Justices of the Peace,
+     the several Shop-keepers above-mentioned, the principal
+     Officers of _Newgate_ and _New Prison_, and from the
+     Confession of _Sheppard_ made to the Rev. Mr. _Wagstaff_, who
+     officiated for the Ordinary at _Newgate_.
+
+_LONDON_: Printed and sold by JOHN APLEDEE in _Black-Fryers_,
+J. ISTED, at the _Golden-Ball_ near _Chancery Lane_ in
+_Fleet Street_, and the Booksellers of _London_ and _Westminster._
+(Price One Shilling.)
+
+
+
+
+TO THE CITIZENS
+
+OF
+
+_London_ and _Westminster_.
+
+
+GENTLEMEN,
+
+_Experience has confirm'd you in that everlasting_ Maxim, _that there is
+no other way to protect the_ Innocent, _but by Punishing the_ Guilty.
+
+_Crimes ever were, and ever must be unavoidably frequent in such
+populous Cities as yours are, being the necessary Consequences, either
+of the_ Wants, _or the Depravity, of the lowest part of the_ humane
+_Species_.
+
+_At this time the most flagrant Offences, as_ Burning of Dwellings;
+Burglaries, _and_ Highway Robberies _abound; and_ Frauds _common_
+Felonies, _and_ Forgeries _are practic'd without Number; thus not only
+your Properties, but even your very Lives are every way struck at_.
+
+_The_ Legislative Power _has not been wanting in providing necessary and
+wholesome Laws against these_ Evils, _the executive part whereof
+(according to your great Privileges) is lodged in your own Hands: And
+the Administration hath at all times applyed proper Remedies and
+Regulations to the_ Defects _which have happen'd in the_ Magistracy
+_more immediately under their Jurisdiction_.
+
+_Through the just and salutary Severities of the Magistrates, publick
+excessive_ Gaming _has been in a manner Surpress'd; and some late
+Examples of divine Vengeance have overtaken certain of the most
+notorious lewd_ Prostitutes _of the Town, which together with the
+laudable endeavours of the great and worthy_ Societies, _has given no
+small check to that enormous and spreading_ Vice.
+
+_But here's a_ Criminal _bids Defiance to your_ Laws, _and _Justice _who
+declar'd and has manifested that the_ Bars _are not made that can either
+keep him_ Out, _or keep him_ In, _and accordingly hath a second time
+fled from the very_ Bosom Of Death.
+
+_His History will astonish! and is not compos'd of Fiction, Fable, or
+Stories plac'd at York_, Rome, _or_ Jamaica, _but_ Facts _done at your
+Doors_, Facts _unheard of, altogether new, Incredible, and yet
+Uncontestable_.
+
+_He is gone once more upon his wicked Range in the World. Restless
+Vengeance is pursuing, and_ Gentlemen '_tis to be hoped that she will be
+assisted by your Endeavours to bring to Justice this notorious
+Offender_.
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF
+
+_JOHN SHEPPARD, &c._
+
+
+This _John Sheppard_, a Youth both in Age and Person, tho' an old Man in
+Sin; was Born in the Parish of _Stepney_ near _London_, in the Year
+1702, a Son, Grandson, and great Grandson of a _Carpenter_: His Father
+died when he was so very Young that he could not recollect that ever he
+saw him. Thus the burthen of his Maintenance, together with his
+Brother's and Sister's, lay upon the Shoulders of the Widow Mother, who
+soon procured an Admittance of her Son _John_ into the _Work-House_ in
+_Bishopsgate-street,_ where he continued for the space of a Year and
+half, and in that time received an Education sufficient to qualifie him
+for the Trade his Mother design'd him, _viz_. a _Carpenter_: Accordingly
+she was recommended to Mr. _Wood_ in _Witch-Street_ near _Drury-Lane_,
+as a Master capable of entertaining and instructing her Son: They agreed
+and Bound he was for the space of seven Years; the Lad proved an early
+proficient, had a ready and ingenious Hand, and soon became Master of
+his Business, and gave entire Satisfaction to his Master Customers, and
+had the Character of a very sober and orderly Boy. But alas unhappy
+Youth! before he had compleated six Years of his Apprenticeship, he
+commenced a fatal Acquaintance with one _Elizabeth Lyon_, otherwise
+call'd _Edgworth Bess_, from a Town of that Name in _Middlesex_ where
+she was Born, the reputed Wife of a Foot Soldier, and who lived a wicked
+and debauch'd Life; and our young _Carpenter_ became Enamour'd of her,
+and they must Cohabit together as Man and Wife.
+
+Now was laid the Foundation of his Ruin; _Sheppard_ grows weary of the
+Yoke of Servitude, and began to dispute with his Master; telling him
+that his way of Jobbing from House to House was not sufficient to
+furnish him with a due Experience in his Trade; and that if he would not
+set out to undertake some Buildings, he would step into the World for
+better Information. Mr. _Wood_ a mild, sober, honest Man, indulg'd him;
+and Mrs. _Wood_ with Tears, exhorted him against the Company of this
+lewd Prostitute: But her Man prompted and harden'd by his HARLOT, D---
+n'd _her Blood_, and threw a Stick at his Mistress, and beat her to the
+Ground. And being with his Master at Work at Mr. _Britt's_ the _Sun_
+Ale-house near _Islington_, upon a very trivial Occasion fell upon his
+Master, and beat and bruised him in a most barbarous and shameful
+Manner. Such a sudden and deplorable Change was there in the Behaviour
+of this promising young Man. Next ensued a neglect of Duty, both to God
+and his Master, lying out of Nights, perpetual Jarrings, and
+Animosities; these and such like, were the Consequences of his intimacy
+with this she _Lyon_; who by the sequel will appear to have been a main
+loadstone in attracting of him up to this Eminence of Guilt.
+
+Mr. _Wood_ having Reason to suspect, that _Sheppard_ had robb'd a
+Neighbour, began to be in great Fear and Terror for himself. And when
+his Man came not Home in due season at Nights bar'd him out; but he made
+a mere jest of the Locks and Bolts, and enter'd in, and out at Pleasure;
+and when Mr. _Wood_ and his Wife have had all the Reason in the World to
+believe him Lock't out, they have found him very quiet in his Bed the
+next Morning, such was the power of his early Magick.
+
+_Edgworth Bess_ having stol'n a Gold Ring from a Gentleman, whom she had
+pick'd up in the Streets, was sent to St. _Giles's_ Round-house;
+_Sheppard_ went immediately to his Consort, and after a short Discourse
+with Mr. _Brown_ the Beadle, and his Wife, who had the Care of the
+Place, he fell upon the poor old Couple, took the Keys from them, and
+let his Lady out at the Door in spight of all the Out-cryes, and
+Opposition they were capable of making.
+
+About _July_ 1723, He was by his Master sent to perform a Repair, at the
+House of Mr. _Bains_, a Piece-Broker in _White-Horse Yard_; he from
+thence stole a Roll of Fustain, containing 24 Yards, which was
+afterwards found in his Trunk. This is supposed to be the first Robbery
+he ever committed and it was not long e're he Repeated another upon this
+same Mr. _Bains_, by breaking into his House in the Night-time, and
+taking out of the _Till_ seven Pounds in Money, and Goods to the value
+of fourteen Pounds more. How he enter'd this House, was a Secret till
+his being last committed to _Newgate_, when he confessed that he took up
+the Iron Bars at the Cellar Window, and after he had done his Business,
+he nailed them down again, so that Mr. _Bains_ never believed his House
+had been broke; and an innocent Woman a Lodger in the House lay all the
+while under the weight of a suspicion of committing the Robbery.
+
+_Sheppard_ and his Master had now parted, ten Months before the
+expiration of his Apprenticeship, a woeful parting to the former; he was
+gone from a good and careful Patronage, and lay expos'd to, and comply'd
+with the Temptations of the most wicked Wretches this Town could afford
+as _Joseph Blake_, alias _Blewskins, William Field, Doleing, James
+Sykes_, alias _Hell_ and _Fury_, which last was the first that betray'd,
+and put him into the Hands of Justice, as will presently appear.
+
+Having deserted his Master's Service, he took Shelter in the House of
+Mr. _Charles_ in _May-Fair_, near _Piccadilly_, and his Landlord having
+a Necessity for some Repairs in his House, engag'd one Mr. _Panton_ a
+_Carpenter_ to Undertake them, and _Sheppard_ to assist him as a
+Journeyman; but on the 23rd of _October_, 1723, e're the Work was
+compleat, _Sheppard_ took Occasion to rob the People of the Effects
+following, _viz._ seven Pound ten Shillings in Specie, five large silver
+Spoons, six plain Forks ditto, four Tea-Spoons, six plain Gold Rings,
+and a Cypher Ring; four Suits of Wearing Apparel, besides Linnen, to a
+considerable value. This Fact he confess'd to the Reverend Mr.
+_Wagstaff_ before his Escape from the Condemn'd Hold of _Newgate_.
+
+_Sheppard_ had a Brother, nam'd _Thomas_, a _Carpenter_ by Profession,
+tho' a notorious Thief and House-breaker by Practice. This _Thomas_
+being committed to _Newgate_ for breaking the House of Mrs. _Mary Cook_
+a _Linnen-Draper_, in _Clare-street, Clare-Market_, on the 5th of
+_February_ last, and stealing Goods to the value of between 50, and 60
+l. he impeach'd his Brother _John Sheppard_, and _Edgworth Bess_ as
+being concerned with him in the Fact; and these three were also Charg'd
+with being concern'd together, in breaking the House of Mr. _William
+Phillips_ in _Drury-Lane_, and stealing divers Goods, the Property of
+Mrs. _Kendrick_ a Lodger in the House, on the 14th of the said
+_February_: All possible endeavours were us'd by Mrs. _Cook_ and Mr.
+_Phillips_, to get _John Sheppard_ and _Edgworth Bess_ Apprehended, but
+to no purpose, till the following Accident.
+
+_Sheppard_ was now upon his wicked Range in _London_, committing
+Robberies every where at Discretion; but one Day meeting with his
+Acquaintance, _James Sykes_, alias _Hell_ and _Fury_, sometimes a
+Chair-man, and at others a Running Foot-man. This _Sykes_ invited him to
+go to one _Redgate's_, a Victualling-house near the _Seven Dials_, to
+play at _Skettles_, _Sheppard_ comply'd, and _Sykes_ secretly sent for
+Mr. _Price_ a Constable in St. _Giles's Parish_, and Charg'd him with
+his Friend _Sheppard_ for the Robbing of Mrs. _Cook_, &c. _Sheppard_ was
+carried before Justice _Parry_, who order'd him to St. _Giles's_
+Round-house till the next Morning for farther Examination: He was
+Confin'd in the Upper part of the Place, being two Stories from the
+Ground, but 'ere two Hours came about, by only the help of a Razor, and
+the Stretcher of a Chair, he broke open the Top of the Round house, and
+tying together a Sheet and Blanket, by them descended into the
+Church-yard and Escap'd, leaving the Parish to Repair the Damage, and
+Repent of the Affront put upon his Skill and Capacity.
+
+On the 19th of _May_ last in the Evening, _Sheppard_ with another Robber
+named _Benson_, were passing thro' _Leicester-fields_, where a Gentleman
+stood accusing a Woman with an attempt to steal his Watch, a Mobb was
+gathered about the Disputants, and _Sheppard's_ Companion being a
+_Master_, got in amongst them and pick'd the Gentleman's Pocket in good
+earnest of the Watch; the Scene was surprizingly chang'd, from an
+imaginary Robbery to a real one; and in a moment ensued an Out-cry of
+_stop Thief_, _Sheppard_ and _Benson_ took to their Heels, and
+_Sheppard_ was seiz'd by a Serjeant of the Guard at _Leicester_ House,
+crying out _stop Thief_ with much earnestness. He was convey'd to St.
+_Ann's Round House_ in _Soho_, and kept secure till the next Morning,
+when _Edgworth Bess_ came to visit him, who was seiz'd also; they were
+carried before Justice _Walters_, when the People in _Drury-Lane_ and
+_Clare-Market_ appeared, and charged them with the Robberies
+aforemention'd: But _Sheppard_ pretending to Impeach certain of his
+Accomplices, the Justice committed them to _New-Prison_, with intent to
+have them soon removed to _Newgate_, unless there came from them some
+useful Discoveries. _Sheppard_ was now a second time in the hands of
+Justice, but how long he intended to keep in them, the Reader will soon
+be able to Judge.
+
+He and his MATE were now in a strong and well guarded Prison, himself
+loaded with a pair of double _Links_ and _Basils_[17] of about fourteen
+pounds weight, and confined together in the safest Appartment call'd
+_Newgate Ward_; _Sheppard_ conscious of his Crimes, and knowing the
+_Information_ he had made to be but a blind Amusement that would avail
+him nothing; he began to Meditate an Escape. They had been thus detained
+for about four Days, and their Friends having the Liberty of seeing
+them, furnish'd him with Implements proper for his Design, accordingly
+Mr. _Sheppard_ goes to work, and on the 25th of May being _Whit-son
+Monday_ at about two of the Clock in the Morning, he had compleated a
+practicable breach, and sawed of his Fetters; having with unheard of
+Diligence and Dexterity, cut off an Iron Bar from the Window, and taken
+out a Muntin, or Bar of the most solid Oak of about nine Inches in
+thickness, by boring it thro' in many Places, a work of great Skill and
+Labour; they had still five and twenty Foot to descend from the Ground;
+_Sheppard_ fasten'd a Sheet and Blanket to the Bars, and causes Madam to
+take off her Gown and Petticoat, and sent her out first, and she being
+more Corpulent than himself, it was with great Pain and Difficulty that
+he got her through the Interval, and observing his Directions, was
+instantly down, and more frighted than hurt; the _Phylosopher_ follow'd,
+and lighted with Ease and Pleasure; But where are they Escap'd to? Why
+out of one Prison into another. The Reader is to understand, that the
+_New Prison_ and _Clerkenwell Bridewell_ lye Contiguous to one another,
+and they are got into the Yard of the latter, and have a Wall of
+twenty-two Foot high to Scale, before their Liberty is perfected;
+_Sheppard_ far from being unprepared to surmount this Difficulty, has
+his Gimblets and Peircers ready, and makes a Scaleing-Ladder. The
+Keepers and Prisoners of both Places are a sleep in their Beds; he
+Mounts his _Bagage_, and in less than ten Minutes carries both her and
+himself over this wall, and compleats an entire Escape. Altho' his
+Escape from the Condemn'd Hold of _Newgate_, has made a far greater
+Noise in the World, than that from this Prison hath. It has been allow'd
+by all the Jayl-Keepers in _London_, that one so Miraculous was never
+perform'd before in _England_; the broken Chains and Bars are kept at
+_New Prison_ to Testifie, and preserve the Memory of this extraordinary
+Villain.
+
+_Sheppard_ not warn'd by this Admonition, returns like a _Dog to his
+Vomit_, and comes Secretly into his Master _Wood's_ Neighbourhood in
+_Witch-street_, and conceits Measures with one _Anthony Lamb_, an
+Apprentice to Mr. _Carter_ a Mathematical Instrument-maker, for Robbing
+of Mr. _Barton_ a Master Taylor; a Man of Worth and Reputation, who
+Lodg'd in Mr. _Carter's_ House. _Charles Grace_, a graceless Cooper was
+let into the Secret, and consented, and resolved to Act his Part. The
+16th of _June_ last was appointed, _Lamb_ accordingly lets _Grace_ and
+_Sheppard_ into the House at Mid-Night; and they all go up to Mr.
+_Bartons_ Appartment well arm'd with Pistols, and enter'd his Rooms,
+without being disturb'd. _Grace_ was Posted at Mr. _Barton's_ Bedside
+with a loaded Pistol, and positive Orders to shoot him through the Head,
+if in case he awak'd. _Sheppard_ being engag'd in opening the Trunks and
+Boxes, the mean while. It luckily happen'd for Mr. _Barton_, that he
+slept Sounder than usual that Night, as having come from a Merry-making
+with some Friends; tho' poor Man little Dreaming in what dreadful
+Circumstances. They carried off in Notes, and Bonds, Guineas, Cloaths,
+Made and Unmade, to the value of between two and three Hundred Pounds;
+besides a Padesuoy Suit of Cloaths, worth about eighteen or twenty
+Pounds more; which having been made for a Corpulent Gentleman,
+_Sheppard_ had them reduc'd, and fitted for his own Size and War, as
+designing to Appear and make a Figure among the _Beau Monde_. _Grace_
+and _Sheppard_, having disposed of the Goods at an Ale-house in
+_Lewkenors Lane_ (a Rendezvous of Robbers and Ruffians) took their
+Flight, and _Grace_ had not been since heard of. _Lamb_ was apprehended,
+and carried before Justice _Newton_, and made an ample Confession; and
+there being nothing but that against him at his Tryal, and withal, a
+favourable Prosecution, he came off with a Sentence of Transportation
+only. He as well as _Sheppard_ has since confirm'd all the above
+particulars, and with this Addition, _viz_. That it was Debated among
+them to have Murder'd all the People in the House, save one Person.
+
+About the latter End of the same Month, _June_, Mr. _Kneebone_, a
+Woollen-Draper near the New Church in the _Strand_, receiv'd a Caution
+from the Father of _Anthony Lamb_, who intimated to Mr. _Kneebone_ that
+his House was intended to be broke open and robb'd that very Night. Mr.
+_Kneebone_ prepar'd for the Event, ordering his Servants to sit up, and
+gave Directions to the Watchman in the Street to observe his House: At
+about two in the Morning _Sheppard_ and his Gang were about the Door, a
+Maid-Servant went to listen, and heard one of the Wretches, say, _Da--n
+him, if they could not enter that Night, they would another, and would
+have 300l. of his_, (meaning) Mr. _Kneebone's_ Money. They went off, and
+nothing more was heard of them till _Sunday_ the 12th Day of _July_
+following, when _Joseph Blake_, alias _Blewskins, John Sheppard_, and
+_William Field_ (as himself Swears) came about 12 o'clock at Night, and
+cut two large Oaken-Bars over the Cellar-Window, at the back part of the
+House in _Little-Drury-Lane_, and so entered; Mr. _Kneebone_, and his
+Family being at Rest, they proceeded to open a Door at the Foot of the
+Cellar-Stairs, with three Bolts, and a large Padlock upon it, and then
+came up into the Shop and wrench'd off the Hasp, and Padlock that went
+over the Press, and arriv'd at their desir'd Booty; they continu'd in
+the House for three Hours, and carry'd off with them One Hundred and
+eight Yards of Broad Woollen Cloth, five Yards of blue Bays, a light
+Tye-Wig, and Beaver-Hat, two Silver Spoons, an Handkerchief, and a
+Penknife. In all to the value of near fifty Pounds.
+
+The _Sunday_ following, being the 19th of _July, Sheppard_ and
+_Blewskins_ were out upon the _Hampstead_ Road, and there stopt a Coach
+with a Ladies Woman in it, from whom they took but Half-a-Crown; all the
+Money then about her; the Foot-man behind the Coach came down, and
+exerted himself; but _Sheppard_ sent him in hast up to his Post again,
+by threat of his Pistol.
+
+The next Night being the 20th of _july_, about Nine, they Robb'd Mr.
+_Pargiter_, a Chandler of _Hamstead_, near the Halfway-House;
+_Sheppard_ after his being taken at _Finchley_ was particularly
+examin'd about this Robbery. The Reverend Mr. _Wagstaff_ having receiv'd
+a Letter from an unknown Hand, with two Questions, to be propos'd to
+_Sheppard_, _viz._ Whether he did Rob _John Pargiter_, on _Monday_ the
+20th of _July_, about Nine at Night, between the _Turnpike_ and
+_Hamstead_; How much Money he took from him? Whither _Pargiter_ was
+Drunk, or not, and if he had Rings or Watch about him, when robb'd?
+which, Request was comply'd with, and _Sheppard_ affirm'd, that Mr.
+_Pargiter_ was very much in Liquor, having a great Coat on; neither
+Rings on his Fingers or Watch, and only three Shillings in his Pocket,
+which they took from him, and that _Blewskins_ knock him down twice with
+the Butt-end of his Pistol to make sure Work, (tho' Excess of drink had
+done that before) but _Sheppard_ did in kindness raise him up as often.
+
+The next Night, _July_ 21, they stopt a Stage-Coach, and took from a
+Passenger in it, Twenty-two Shillings, and were so expeditious in the
+Matter, that _not two Words were made about the Bargain_.
+
+Now Mr. _Sheppard's_ long and wicked Course seemingly draws towards a
+Period. Mr. _Kneebone_ having apply'd to _Jonathan Wild_, and set forth
+Advertisements in the Papers, complaining of his Robbery. On _Tuesday_
+the 22d of _July_ at Night _Edgworth Bess_ was taken in a Brandy-shop,
+near _Temple-Bar_ by _Jonathan Wild_; she being much terrify'd,
+discover'd where _Sheppard_ was: A Warrant was accordingly issued by
+Justice _Blackerby_, and the next Day he was Apprehended, at the House
+of _Blewskin's_ Mother, in _Rose-Mary-Lane_, by one _Quilt_, a Domestick
+of Mr. _Wild's_ though not without great opposition, for, he clapt a
+loaded, Pistol to _Quilt's_ Breast, and attempted to shoot him, but the
+Pistol miss'd fire; he was brought back to _New Prison_, confin'd in the
+Dungeon; and the next Day carried before Justice _Blackerby_. Upon his
+Examination he Confess'd the three Robberies on the Highway
+aforemention'd, as also the Robbing of Mr. _Bains_, Mr. _Barton_, and
+Mr. _Kneebone_, he was committed to Newgate, and at the Sessions of
+_Oyer_ and _Terminer_, and Goal delivery, holden at the _Old-Baily_, on
+the 12th, 13th and 14th of _August_, he was try'd upon three several
+indictments, _viz._ First for breaking the House of _William Philips_.
+
+_John Sheppard_, of the Parish of St. _Martin_ in _the Fields_, was
+indicted for breaking the House of _William Philips_, and stealing
+divers Goods, the 14th of _February_ last. But there not being
+sufficient Evidence against the Prisoner, he was acquitted.
+
+He was also indicted a Second Time, of St. _Clement Danes_, for breaking
+the House of _Mary Cook_, the 5th of _February_ last, and stealing
+divers Goods: But the Evidence against the Prisoner being defficient as
+to this Indictment also, he was acquitted.
+
+He was also indicted the Third Time, of St. _Mary Savoy_, for breaking
+the House of _William Kneebone_, in the Night-Time, and stealing, 108
+Yards of Woollen Cloth, the 12th of _July_ last. The Prosecutor depos'd,
+That the Prisoner had some Time since been his Servant, and when he went
+to Bed, the Time mentioned in the Indictment, about 11 a-Clock at Night,
+he saw all the Doors and Windows fast; but was call'd up about four in
+the Morning, and found his House broke open, the Bars of a Cellar-Window
+having been cut, and the Bolts of the Door that comes up Stairs drawn,
+and the Padlock wrench'd off, and the Shutter in the Shop broken, and
+his Goods gone; whereupon suspecting the Prisoner, he having committed
+ill Actions thereabouts before, he acquainted _Jonathan Wild_ with it,
+and he procur'd him to be apprehended. That he went to the Prisoners in
+New _Prison_, and asking how he could be so ungrateful to rob him, after
+he had shown him so much Kindness? The Prisoner own'd he had been
+ungrateful in doing so, informing him of several Circumstances as to the
+Manner of committing the Fact, but said he had been drawn into it by ill
+Company. _Jonathan Wild_, depos'd, The Prosecutor came to him, and
+desir'd him to enquire after his Goods that had been stolen, telling him
+he suspected the Prisoner to have been concern'd in the Robbery, he
+having before committed some Robberies in the Neighbourhood. That
+inquiring after him, and having heard of him before, he was inform'd
+that he was an Acquaintance of _Joseph Blake_, alias _Blewskins_, and
+_William Field_: Whereupon he sent for _William Field_, who came to him;
+upon which he told him, if he would make an ingenuous Confession, he
+believ'd he could prevail with the Court to make him an Evidence. That
+he did make a Discovery of the Prisoner, upon which he was apprehended,
+and also of others since convicted, and gave an Account of some Parcels
+of the Cloth, which were found accordingly. _William Field_ depos'd,
+That the Prisoner told him, and _Joseph Blake_, that he knew a _Ken_
+where they might get something of Worth. That they went to take a View
+of the Prosecutor's House, but disprov'd of the Attempt, as not thinking
+it easy to be perform'd; But the Prisoner perswaded them that it might
+easily be done, he knowing the House, he having liv'd with the
+Prosecutor. That thereupon he cut the Cellar Bar, went into the Cellar,
+got into the Shop, and brought out three Parcels of Cloth, which they
+carried away. The Prisoner had also confest the Fact when he was
+apprehended, and before the Justice. The Fact being plainly prov'd, the
+Jury found him guilty of the Indictment.
+
+Sentence of Death was pronounc'd upon him accordingly. Several other
+Prosecutions might have been brought against him, but this was thought
+sufficient to rid the World of so Capital an Offender: He beg'd
+earnestly for Transportation, to the most extream Foot of his Majesty's
+Dominions; and pleaded Youth, and Ignorance as the Motive which had
+precipitated him into the Guilt; but the Court deaf to his
+Importunities, as knowing him, and his repeated Crimes to be equally
+flagrant, gave him no satisfactory Answer: He return'd to his dismal
+Abode the Condemn'd Hold, where were Nine more unhappy Wretches in as
+dreadful Circumstances as himself. The Court being at _Windsor_, the
+Malefactors had a longer Respite than is usual; during that Recess,
+_James Harman_, _Lumley_, _Davis_ and _Sheppard_ agreed upon an Escape,
+concerted Measures, and provided Instruments to make it effectual; but
+put off the Execution of their Design, on Account the two Gentlemen
+having their hopes of Life daily renewed by the favourable Answers they
+receiv'd from some considerable Persons; but those vanishing the day
+before their Execution, and finding their Sentence irreversible, they
+two dropt their hopes, together with the Design, they form'd for an
+Escape, and so in earnest prepar'd to meet Death on the Morrow, (which
+they accordingly did.). 'Twas on this Day Mr _Davis_ gave _Sheppard_ the
+Watch Springs, Files, Saws, _&c._ to Effect his own Release; and knowing
+that a Warrant was Hourly expected for his Execution with Two others, on
+the _Friday_ following; he thought it high time to look about him, for
+he had waited his Tryal, saw his Conviction, and heard his Sentence with
+some patience; but finding himself irrespitably decreed for Death, he
+could sit passive no longer, and on the very Day of the Execution of the
+former; whilst they were having their Fetters taken off, in order for
+going to the Tree, that Day he began to saw, _Saturday_ made a progress;
+but _Sunday_ omitted, by Reason of the Concourse in the _Lodge_:
+_Edgworth Bess_ having been set at Liberty, had frequent Access to him,
+with others of his Acquaintance. On _Monday_ the Death _Warrant_ came
+from _Windsor_, appointing that he, together with _Joseph Ward_ and
+_Anthony Upton_ should be Executed on the _Friday_ following, being the
+4th of _September_. The Keepers acquainted him therewith, and desired
+him to make good use of that short Time. He thank'd them, said _he would
+follow their Advice_, and _prepare_. _Edgworth Bess_, and another Woman
+had been with him at the Door of the Condemn'd Hold best part of the
+Afternoon, between five and six he desir'd the other Prisoners, except
+_Stephen Fowles_ to remain above, while he offer'd something in private
+to his Friends at the Door; they comply'd, and in this interval he got
+the Spike asunder, which made way for the Skeleton to pass with his
+Heels foremost, by the Assistance of _Fowles_, whom he most ungenerously
+betray'd to the Keepers after his being retaken, and the Fellow was as
+severely punish'd for it.
+
+Having now got clear of his Prison, he took Coach disguis'd in a Night
+Gown at the corner of the _Old Baily_, along with a Man who waited for
+him in the Street (and is suppos'd to be _Page_ the Butcher) ordering
+the Coachman to drive to _Black-Fryers Stairs_, where his prostitute
+gave him the Meeting, and they three took Boat, and went a Shoar at the
+_Horse-Ferry_ at _Westminster_, and at the _White-Hart_ they went in,
+Drank, and stay'd sometime; thence they adjourn'd to a Place in
+_Holbourn_, where by the help of a Saw he quitted the Chains he had
+brought with him from _Newgate_; and then like a Freeman took his Ramble
+through the City and came to _Spittle-Fields_, and there lay with
+_Edgeworth Bess_.
+
+It may be easy to imagine what an alarm his Escape gave to the Keepers
+of _Newgate_, three of their People being at the farther End of the
+_Lodge_, engag'd in a Discourse concerning his wonderful Escape from
+_New-Prison,_ and what Caution ought to be us'd, lest he should give
+them the slip, at that very Instant as he perfected it.
+
+On _Tuesday_ he sent for _William Page_ an Apprentice to a Butcher in
+_Clare-Market_, who came to him, and being Pennyless, he desir'd _Page_
+to give him what Assistance he could to make his way, and being a
+Neighbour and Acquaintance, he comply'd with it; but e're he would do
+any thing, he consulted a near Relation, who as he said, encourag'd him
+in it; nay, put him upon it, so meeting with this Success in his
+Application to his Friend, and probable an Assistance in the Pocket, he
+came to _Sheppard_ having bought him a new blue _Butcher's_ Frock, and
+another for himself, and so both took their Rout to _Warnden_ in
+_Northamptonshire_, where they came to a Relation of _Page's_, who
+receiv'd and Entertain'd them kindly, the People lying from their own
+Bed to Accommodate them. _Sheppard_ pretending to be a _Butcher's_ Son
+in _Clare-Market_, who was going farther in the Country to his Friends,
+and that _Page_ was so kind as to Accompany him; but they as well as
+their Friend became tir'd of one another; the _Butchers_ having but one
+Shilling left, and the People poor, and Consequently unable to Subsist
+two such Fellows, after a stay of three or four Days, they return'd, and
+came for _London_, and reach'd the City on _Tuesday_ the 8th of
+_September_, calling by the way at _Black-Mary's-Hole_, and Drinking
+with several of their Acquaintance, and then came into _Bishopsgate
+street_, to one _Cooley's_ a _Brandy-shop_; where a _Cobler_ being at
+Work in his Stall, stept out and Swore _ther was_ Sheppard, _Sheppard_
+hearing him, departed immediately. In the Evening they came into
+_Fleet-street_, at about Eight of the Clock, and observing Mr. _Martins_
+a Watchmaker's Shop to be open, and a little Boy only to look after it:
+_Page_ goes in and asks the Lad whether Mr. _Taylor_ a _Watchmaker_
+lodg'd in the House? being answer'd in the Negative, he came away, and
+Reports the Disposition of the Place: _Sheppard_ now makes Tryal of his
+old Master-peice; fixeth a Nail Peircer into the Door post, fastens the
+Knocker thereto with Packthread, breaks the Glass, and takes out three
+_Silver Watches_ of 15 l. value, the Boy seeing him take them, but could
+not get out to pursue him, by reason of his Contrivance. One of the
+Watches he Pledg'd for a Guinea and Half. The same Night they came into
+_Watch-street_, _Sheppard_ going into his _Master's_ Yard, and calling
+for his Fellow 'Prentice, his Mistress heard, knew his Voice, and was
+dreadfully frightened; he next went to the _Cock_ and _Pye Ale-House_ in
+_Drury-Lane_, sent for a Barber his Acquaintance, drank Brandy and eat
+Oysters in the view of several people. _Page_ waiting all the while at
+the Door, the whole Neighbourhood being alarm'd, yet none durst attempt
+him, for fear of Pistols, _&c._ He had vow'd Revenge upon a poor Man as
+kept a Dairy-Cellar, at the End of _White-Horse-Yard_, who having seen
+him at _Islington_ after his Escape, and engag'd not to speak of it,
+broke his Promise; wherefore _Sheppard_ went to his Residence took the
+Door off the Hinges and threw it down amongst all the Man's Pans,
+Pipkins, and caus'd a Deluge of Cream and Milk all over the Cellar.
+
+This Night he had a narrow Escape, one Mr. _Ireton_ a Sheriffs Officer
+seeing him and _Page_ pass thro' _Drury-Lane_, at about Ten o'clock
+pursu'd 'em, and laid hold of _Page_ instead of _Sheppard_, who got off,
+thus _Ireton_, missing the main Man, and thinking _Page_ of no
+Consequence, let him go after him.
+
+_Edgworth Bess_ had been apprehended by _Jonathan Wild_, and by Sir
+_Francis Forbes_ one of the Aldermen of _London_, committed to the
+_Poultry-Compter_, for being aiding and assisting to _Sheppard_ in his
+Escape; the Keepers and others terrify'd and purg'd her as much as was
+possible to discover where he was, but had it been in her Inclination,
+it was not in her Power so to do, as it manifestly appear'd soon after.
+
+The People about the _Strand_, _Witch-street_ and _Drury-Lane_, whom he
+had Robb'd, and who had prosecuted him were under great Apprensions and
+Terror, and in particular Mr. _Kneebone_, on whom he vow'd a bloody
+Revenge; because he refus'd to sign a Petition in his behalf to the
+_Recorder_ of _London_. This Gentleman was forc'd to keep arm'd People
+up in his House every Night till he was Re-taken, and had the same
+fortify'd in the strongest manner. Several other Shop-keepers in this
+Neighbourhood were also put to great Expence and Trouble to Guard
+themselves against this dreadful Villian.
+
+The Keepers of _Newgate_, whom the rash World loaded with Infamy,
+stigmatiz'd and branded with the Title of Persons guilty of Bribery;
+for Connivance at his Escape, they and what Posse in their Power, either
+for Love or Money did Contribute their utmost to undeceive a wrong
+notion'd People. Their Vigilance was remarkably indefatigable, sparing
+neither Money nor Time, Night nor Day to bring him back to his deserv'd
+Justice. After many Intelligences, which they endeavour'd for, and
+receiv'd, they had one which prov'd very Successful. Having learnt for a
+certainty that their Haunts was about _Finchly Common_, and being very
+well assur'd of the very House where they lay; on _Thursday_ the 10th of
+_September_, a posse of Men, both of Spirit and Conduct, furnish'd with
+Arms proper for their Design, went for _Finchley_, some in a Coach and
+Four, and others on Horseback. They dispers'd themselves upon the
+_Common_ aforesaid, in order to make their View, where they had not been
+long e're they came in Sight of _SHEPPARD_ in Company of _WILLIAM PAGE_,
+habited like two _Butchers_ in new blue Frocks, with white Aprons tuck'd
+round their Wastes.
+
+Upon _Sheppard's_ seeing _Langley_ a Turnkey at _Newgate_, he says to
+his Companion _Page_, _I see a Stag_; upon which their Courage dropt;
+knowing that now their dealing way of Business was almost at an End;
+however to make their Flight as secure as they could, they thought it
+adviseable to take to a Foot-path, to cut off the pursuit of the
+_Newgate Cavalry_; but this did not prove most successful, _Langley_
+came up with _Page_ (who was hindermost) and Dismounting with Pistol in
+Hand, commands _Page_ to throw up his Hands, which he trembling did,
+begging for Life, desiring him to _Fisk_ him, _viz._ (search him,) which
+he accordingly did, and found a broad Knife and File; having thus
+disarm'd him, he takes the _Chubb_ along with him in quest of the
+slippery _Ele_, _Sheppard_; who had taken Shelter in an old Stable,
+belonging to a Farm-House; the pursuit was close, the House invested,
+and a Girl seeing his Feet as he stood up hid, discover'd him. _Austin_
+a Turnkey first attach'd his Person. _Langley_ seconded him, _Ireton_ an
+Officer help'd to Enclose, and happy was the hindermost who aided in
+this great Enterprise. He being shock'd with the utmost Fear, told them
+he submitted, and desir'd they would let him live as long as he could,
+which they did, and us'd him mildly; upon searching him they found a
+broad Knife with two of the Watches as he had taken out of Mr.
+_Martin's_ Shop, one under each Armpit; and now having gain'd their
+Point, and made themselves Masters of what they had often endeavoured
+for, they came with their _Lost Sheep_ to a little House on the _Common_
+that sold Liquors, with this Inscription on the Sign, _I have brought
+my_ Hogs _to a fair Market_; which our two unfortunate _Butchers_ under
+their then unhappy Circumstances, had too sad Reason to apply to
+themselves. _Sheppard_ had by this time recover'd his Surprize, grew
+calm and easy, and desir'd them to give him Brandy, they did, and were
+all good Friends, and Company together.
+
+They adjourn'd with their Booty to another Place, where was waiting a
+Coach and Four to Convey it to Town, with more Speed and Safety; and Mr.
+_Sheppard_ arriv'd at his old Mansion, at about two in the Afternoon. At
+his a-lighting, he made a sudden Spring; He declar'd his Intention was
+to have slipt under the Coach, and had a Race for it; he was put into
+the Condemn'd-Hold, and Chain'd down to the Floor with double _Basils_
+about his Feet, _&c._ _Page_ was carried before Sir _Francis Forbes_ and
+committed to the same Prison for Accompanying and aiding _Sheppard_ in
+his Escape. The prudence of Mr. _Pitt_ caus'd a Separation between him
+and his Brother the first Night, as a Means to prevent any ensuing
+Danger, by having two Heads, which (according to our Proverbial Saying)
+_are better than one_.
+
+The Joy the People of _Newgate_ conceiv'd on this Occasion is
+inexpressible, _Te Deum_ was Sung in the _Lodge_, and nothing but
+Smiles, and Bumpers, were seen there for many Days together. But
+_Jonathan Wild_ unfortunately happen'd to be gone upon a wrong Scent
+after him to _Sturbridge_, and Lost a Share of the Glory.
+
+His Escape and his being so suddenly Re-taken made such a Noise in the
+Town, that it was thought all the common People would have gone Mad
+about him; there being not a _Porter_ to be had for Love nor Money, nor
+getting into an Ale-house, for _Butchers_; _Shoemakers_ and _Barbers_,
+all engag'd in Controversies, and Wagers, about _Sheppard_. _Newgate_
+Night and Day surrounded with the Curious from St. _Giles's_ and
+_Rag-Fair_, and _Tyburn Road_ daily lin'd with Women and Children; and
+the _Gallows_ as carefully watch'd by Night, lest he should be hang'd
+_Incog._ For a Report of that nature, obtain'd much upon the Rabble; In
+short, it was a Week of the greatest Noise and Idleness among
+Mechanicks that has been known in _London_, and _Parker_ and _Pettis_,
+two _Lyricks_, subsisted many Days very comfortably upon _Ballads_ and
+_Letters_ about _Sheppard_. The vulgar continu'd under great Doubts and
+Difficulties, in what would be his Case, and whether the _Old Warrant_,
+or a _New One_ must be made for his Execution, or a New Tryal, _&c._
+were the great Questions as arose, and occasion'd various Reasonings and
+Speculation, till a News Paper, call'd the _Daily Journal_ set them all
+to Rights by the Publication of the Account following, _viz._
+
+
+     '_J. Sheppard_ having been Convicted of Burglary, and Felony,
+     and received Sentence of Death, and afterwards 'Escap'd from
+     _Newgate_; and being since Re-taken'; we are assur'd that it
+     must be prov'd in a _Regular_, and _Judicial_ way, that he is
+     the same Person, who was so Convicted and made his Escape,
+     before a Warrant can be obtain'd for his Execution; and that
+     this Affair well be brought before the Court at the _Old
+     Baily_ the next Sessions.'
+
+This was enough; People began to grow calm and easy and got _Shav'd_,
+and their Shoes _finish'd_, and Business returned into its former
+Channel, the Town resolving to wait the _Sessions_ with Patience.
+
+The Reverend Mr. _Wagstaff_, who officiated in the absence of the
+_Ordinary_, renew'd his former Acquaintance with Mr. _Sheppard_, and
+examin'd him in a particular manner concerning his Escape from the
+Condemn'd Hold: He sincerely disown'd, that all, or any, belonging to
+the Prison were privy thereto; but related it as it has been describ'd.
+He declar'd that _Edgworth Bess_, who had hitherto pass'd for his
+_Wife_, was not really so: This was by some thought to be in him Base,
+and Ungenerous in that, as she had Contributed towards his Escape, and
+was in Custody on that Account, it might render her more liable to
+Punishment, than if she had been thought his Wife; but he endeavour'd to
+acquit himself, by saying, that she was the sole Author of all his
+Misfortunes; That she betray'd him to _Jonathan Wild_, at the time he
+was taken in _Rosemary-Lane_; and that when he was contriving his
+Escape, she disobey'd his orders, as when being requir'd to attend at
+the Door of the Condemn'd-Hold by Nine, or Ten in the Morning to
+facilitate his Endeavours, she came not till the Evening, which he said,
+was an ungrateful Return for the care he had taken in setting her at
+Liberty from _New-Prison_; and thus Justify'd himself in what he had
+done, and said he car'd not what became of her.
+
+He was also Examined about Mr. _Martin's_ Watches; and whether _Page_
+was privy to that Robbery; he carefully guarded himself against uttering
+any thing that might affect him, peremptorily declar'd him Innocent of
+that, as well as of being privy to his Escape, and said, that he only
+out of Kindness, as being an old Companion, was resolv'd to share in his
+Fortunes after he had Escap'd.
+
+He was again continually meditating a second Escape, as appear'd by his
+own Hardiness, and the Instruments found upon him, on _Saturday_ the
+12th, and _Wednesday_ the 16th of _September_, the first Time a small
+File was found conceal'd in his Bible, and the second Time two Files, a
+Chisel and an Hammer being hid in the Rushes of a Chair; and whenever a
+Question was mov'd to him, when, or by what Means those Implements came
+to his Hands; he would passionately fly out, and say, _How can you? you
+always ask me these, and such like Questions_; and in a particular
+manner, when he was ask'd, Whether his Companion _Page_ was an
+Accomplice with him, either in the affair of the Watches, or any other?
+(he reply'd) _That if he knew, he would give no direct Answer_, thinking
+it to be a Crime in him to detect the Guilty.
+
+It was thought necessary by the Keepers to remove him from the
+Condemn'd-Hold to a Place, call'd the _Castle_, in the Body of the Goal,
+and to Chain him down to two large Iron Staples in the Floor; the
+Concourse of People of tolerable Fashion to see him was exceeding Great,
+he was always Chearful and Pleasant to a Degree, as turning almost every
+thing as was said into a Jest and Banter.
+
+Being one _Sunday_ at the Chapel, a Gentleman belonging to the _Lord
+Mayor_, ask'd a Turnkey, Which was _Sheppard_, the Man pointed to him?
+Says _Sheppard, yes Sir, I am the_ Sheppard_, and all the Goalers in the
+Town are my Flock, and I cannot stir into the Country, but they are all
+at my Heels_ Baughing, _after me, &c._
+
+He told Mr. _Robins_, the _City Smith_, _That he had procur'd him a_
+_small Job, and that whoever it was that put the Spikes on the
+Condemn'd-Hold was an honest Man, for a better peice of Metal,_ says he,
+_I never wrought upon in my Life._
+
+He was loth to believe his frequent Robberies were an Injury to the
+Public, for he us'd to say, That _if they were ill in one Respect, they
+were as good in another, and that though he car'd not for Working much
+himself, yet he was desirous that others should not stand Idle, more
+especially those of his own Trade, who were always Repairing of his
+Breaches._
+
+When serious, and that but seldom, he would Reflect on his past wicked
+Life. He declar'd to us, that for several Years of his Apprenticeship he
+had an utter abhorrence to Women of the Town, and us'd to pelt them with
+Dirt when they have fell in his way; till a _Button-Mould-Maker_ his
+next Neighbour left off that Business, and set up a Victualling-house in
+_Lewkenhors-Lane_, where himself and other young Apprentices resorted on
+_Sundays_, and at all other Opportunities. At this House began his
+Acquaintance with _Edgworth Bess_. His sentiments were strangely
+alter'd, and from an Aversion to those Prostitutes, he had a more
+favourable Opinion, and even Conversation with them, till he Contracted
+an ill Distemper, which as he said, he cur'd himself of by a Medicine of
+his own preparing.
+
+He inveigh'd bitterly against his Brother _Thomas_ for putting him into
+the Information, for Mrs. _Cook's_ Robberry, and pretended that all the
+Mischiefs that attended him was owing to that Matter. He acknowledg'd
+that he was concern'd in that Fact, and that his said Brother broke into
+his Lodgings, and stole from him all his Share and more of the acquir'd
+Booty.
+
+He often-times averr'd, that _William Field_ was no ways concern'd in
+Mr. _Kneebone's_ Robbery; but that being a Brother of the Quill;
+_Blewskin_ and himself told him the particulars, and manner of the
+Facts, and that all he Swore against him at his Tryal was False, and
+that he had other Authority for it, than what came out of their
+(_Sheppard_ and _Blewskin_) Mouths, who actually committed the Fact.
+
+And moreover, that _Field_ being acquainted with their Warehouse (a
+Stable) near the _Horse-Ferry_ at _Westminster_, which _Sheppard_ had
+hir'd, and usually resposited therein the Goods he stole. He came one
+Night, and broke open the same, and carried off the best part of the
+Effects taken out of Mr. _Kneebone's_ Shop.
+
+_Sheppard_ said he thought this to be one of the greatest Villanies that
+could be acted, for another to come and Plunder them of Things for which
+they had so honourably ventur'd their Lives, and wish'd that _Field_, as
+well as his Brother _Tom_ might meet with forgiveness for it.
+
+He declar'd himself frequently against the Practice of _Whidling_, or
+_Impeaching_, which he said, had made dreadful Havock among the
+_Thieves_, and much lamented the depravity of the _Brethren_ in that
+Respect; and said that if all were but such _Tight-Cocks_ as himself,
+the _Reputation_ of the _British Thievery_ might be carried to a far
+greater height than it had been done for many Ages, and that there would
+then be but little Necessity for Jaylors and Hangmen.
+
+These and such like were his constant Discourses, when Company went up
+with the Turnkeys to the _Castle_ to see him, and few or none went away
+without leaving him Money for his Support; in which he abounded, and did
+therewith some small Charities to the other Prisoners; however, he was
+abstemious and sparing enough in his Diet.
+
+Among the many Schemes laid by his Friends, for the preserving himself
+after his Escape, we were told of a most Remarkable one, propos'd by an
+ingenious Person, who advis'd, that he might be Expeditiously, and
+Secretly convey'd to the Palace at _Windsor_, and there to prostrate his
+Person, and his Case at the Feet of a most Gracious Prince, and his Case
+being so very singular and new, it might in great probability move the
+Royal Fountain of unbounded Clemency; but he declin'd this Advice, and
+follow'd the Judgment and Dictates of _Butchers_, which very speedily
+brought him very near the Door of the _Slaughterhouse_.
+
+On the 4th of _September_, the Day as _Joseph Ward_, and _Anthony Upton_
+were Executed, there was publish'd a whimsical Letter, as from
+_Sheppard_, to _Jack Ketch_, which afforded Diversion to the Town, and
+Bread to the Author, which is as followeth, _viz._
+
+
+     _SIR_,
+
+     I Thank you for the Favour you intended me this day: I am a
+     Gentleman, and allow you to be the same, and I hope can
+     forgive Injuries; fond Nature prompted, I obey'd, Oh,
+     propitious Minute! and to show that I am in Charity, I am now
+     drinking your Health, and a _Bon Repo_ to poor _Joseph_ and
+     _Anthony_. I am gone a few Days for the Air, but design
+     speedily to embark; and this Night I am going upon a Mansion
+     for a Supply; it's a stout Fortification, but what
+     Difficulties can't I encounter, when, dear _Jack_, you find
+     that Bars and Chains are but trifling Obstacles in the way of
+     your Friend and Servant.
+
+     JOHN SHEPPARD.
+
+     _From my Residence in Terra Australi incognito_.
+
+     _P.S._ Pray my Service to Mr. _Or---- di---- y_ and to Mr.
+     _App---- ee_.
+
+On _Saturday_ the 10th of _October_, _Anthony Lamb_, and _Thomas
+Sheppard_, with 95 other Felons were carried from _Newgate_ on
+Shipboard, for Transportation to the Plantations; the last begg'd to
+have an opportunity given him of taking his final Leave of his Brother
+_John_; but this was not to be Granted, and the greatest Favour that
+could be obtain'd, was that on the _Sunday_ before they had an Interview
+at the _Chapel_, but at such a distance, that they neither saluted, or
+shook Hands, and the Reason given for it, was that no Implements might
+be convey'd to _Sheppard_ to assist him in making an Escape.
+
+This, Caution seem'd to be absolutely necessary, for it appear'd soon
+after that _Sheppard_ found Means to release himself from the Staples to
+which he was Chain'd in the Castle, by unlocking a great Padlock with a
+Nail, which he had pickt up on the Floor, and endeavour'd to pass up the
+Chimney, but was prevented by the stout Iron Bars fix'd in his way, and
+wanted nothing but the smallest File to have perfected his Liberty. When
+the Assistants of the Prison, came as usual with his Victuals, they
+began to examine his Irons; to their great Surprize they found them
+loose, and ready to be taken off at Pleasure. Mr. _Pitt_ the Head
+Keeper, and his Deputies were sent for, and _Sheppard_ finding this
+Attempt entirely frustrated, discover'd to them by what means he had got
+them off; and after they had search'd him, found nothing, and Lock'd
+and Chain'd him down again; He took up the Nail and unlocked the Padlock
+before their Faces; they were struck with the greatest Amazement as
+having never heard, or beheld the like before. He was then Handcuff'd,
+and more effectually Chain'd.
+
+The next Day, the Reverend Mr. _Purney Ordinary_ of the Place came from
+the Country to visit him, and complain'd of the sad Disposition he found
+him in, as Meditateing on nothing, but Means to Escape, and declining
+the great Duty incumbent upon him to prepare for his approaching Change.
+He began to Relent, and said, that since his last Effort had prov'd not
+Successful, he would entertain no more Thoughts of that Nature, but
+entirely Dispose, and Resign himself to the Mercy of Almighty God, of
+whom he hop'd to find forgiveness of his manifold Offences.
+
+He said, that _Edgworth Bess_ and himself kept a little Brandy-shop
+together in _Lewkenhors-Lane_, and once sav'd about Thirty Pounds; but
+having such an universal Acquaintance amongst Theives, he had frequent
+calls to go _Abroad_, and soon quitted that Business, and his Shop.
+
+On _Friday_ the 2d, of _October_ his old Confederate _Joseph Blake_
+alias _Blewskin_, was apprehended and taken at a House in St. _Giles's_
+Parish by _Jonathan Wild_, and by Justice _Blackerby_ committed to
+_Newgate_. _William Field_ who was at his liberty, appearing and making
+Oath, that _Blewskin_ together with _John Sheppard_ and himself,
+committed the Burglary and Felony in Mr. _Kneebone's_ House, for which
+_Sheppard_ was Condemn'd.
+
+The Sessions commencing at the _Old-Bailey_ on _Wednesday_ the 14th of
+_October_ following, an Indictment was found against _Blewskin_ for the
+same, and he was brought down from _Newgate_ to the _Old-Bailey_ to be
+Arraign'd in order to his Tryal; and being in the Yard within the Gate
+before the Court: Mr. _Wild_ being there Drinking a glass of Wine with
+him, he said to Mr. _Wild_, _You may put in a word for me, as well as
+for another Person?_ To which Mr. _Wild_ reply'd, I cannot do it. _You
+are certainly a dead Man, and will be tuck'd up very speedily,_ or words
+to that effect: Whereupon _Blewskin_ on a sudden seiz'd Mr. _Wild_ by
+the Neck, and with a little Clasp Knife he was provided with he cut his
+Throat in a very dangerous Manner; and had it not been for a _Muslin_
+Stock twisted in several Plaits round his Neck, he had in all likelyhood
+succeeded in his barbarous Design before _Ballard_ the Turnkey, who was
+at Hand, could have time to lay hold of him; the Villain trumph'd
+afterwards in what he had done, Swearing many bloody Oaths, that if he
+had murder'd him, he should have died with Satisfaction, and that his
+Intention was to have cut off his Head, and thrown it into the Sessions
+House-Yard among the Rabble, and Curs'd both his Hand and the Knife for
+not Executing it Effectually.
+
+Mr. _Wild_ instantly had the Assistance of three able Surgeons, _viz._
+Mr. _Dobbins_, Mr. _Marten_ and Mr. _Coletheart_, who sew'd up the
+Wound, and order'd him to his Bed, and he has continu'd ever since, but
+in a doubtful State of Recovery.
+
+The Felons on the Common Side of _Newgate_, also animated by
+_Sheppard's_ Example, the Night before they were to be Shipt for
+Transporation, had cut several Iron Bars assunder, and some of them had
+saw'd off their Fetters, the rest Huzzaing, and making Noises, under
+pretence of being Joyful that they were to be remov'd on the Morrow, to
+prevent the Workmen being heard; and in two Hours time more, if their
+Design had not been discover'd, near One Hundred Villians had been let
+loose into the World, to have committed new Depredations; nothing was
+wanted here but _Sheppard's_ great Judgment, who was by himself in the
+strong Room, call'd the _Castle_, meditating his own Deliverance, which
+he perfected in the manner following.
+
+On _Thursday_ the 15th of this Instant _October_, at between One and Two
+in the Afternoon, _William Austin_, an Assistant to the Keepers, a Man
+reputed to be a very diligent, and faithful Servant, went to _Sheppard_
+in the strong Room, call'd the _Castle_, with his Necessaries, as was
+his Custom every Day. There went along with him Captain _Geary_, the
+Keeper of _New Prison_, Mr. _Gough_, belonging to the _Gate-house_ in
+_Westminster_, and two other Gentlemen, who had the Curiosity to see the
+Prisoner, _Austin_ very strictly examined his Fetters, and his
+Hand-Cuffs, and found them very Safe; he eat his Dinner and talk'd with
+his usual Gayety to the Company: They took leave of him and wish'd him a
+good Evening. The Court being sitting at the _Old-Bailey_, the Keepers
+and most of their Servants were attending there with their Prisoners:
+And _Sheppard_ was told that if he wanted any thing more, then was his
+Time, because they could not come to him till the next Morning: He
+thank'd them for their Kindness, and desir'd them to be as _early as
+possible_.
+
+The same Night, soon after 12 of the Clock Mr. _Bird_, who keeps a
+Turners-shop adjoyning to _Newgate_, was disturb'd by the Watchman, who
+found his Street Door open, and call'd up the Family, and they
+concluding the Accident was owing to the Carelessness of some in the
+House, shut their Doors, and went to Bed again.
+
+The next Morning _Friday_, at about eight Mr. _Austin_ went up as usual
+to wait on _Sheppard_, and having unlock'd and unbolted the double Doors
+of the Castle, he beheld almost a Cart-load of Bricks and Rubbish about
+the Room, and his Prisoner gone: The Man ready to sink, came trembling
+down again, and was scarce able to Acquaint the People in the _Lodge_
+with what had happen'd.
+
+The whole Posse of the Prison ran up, and stood like Men depriv'd of
+their Senses: Their surprize being over, they were in hopes that he
+might not have yet entirely made his Escape, and got their Keys to open
+all the strong Rooms adjacent to the _Castle_, in order to Trace him,
+when to their farther Amazement, they found the Door ready open'd to
+their Hands; and the strong Locks, Screws and Bolts broken in pieces,
+and scatter'd about the Jayl. Six great Doors (one whereof having not
+been open'd for seven Years past) were forc'd, and it appear'd that he
+had Descended from the Leads of _Newgate_ by a Blanket (which he
+fasten'd to the Wall by an Iron Spike he had taken from the Hatch of the
+_Chapel_) on the House of Mr. _Bird_, and the Door on the Leads having
+been left open, it is very reasonable to conclude he past directly to
+the Street Door down the Stairs; Mr _Bird_ and his Wife hearing an odd
+sort of a Noise on the Stairs as they lay in their Bed, a short time
+before the Watchman alarm'd the Family.
+
+Infinite Numbers of Citizens came to _Newgate_ to behold _Sheppard's_
+Workmanship, and Mr. _Pitt_ and his Officers very readily Conducted them
+up Stairs, that the World might be convinc'd there was not the least
+room to suspect, either a Negligence, or Connivance in the Servants.
+Every one express'd the greatest Surprize that has been known, and
+declar'd themselves satisfy'd with the Measures they had taken for the
+Security of their Prisoner.
+
+One of the Sheriffs came in Person, and went up to the _Castle_ to be
+satisfy'd of the Situation of the Place, _&c._ Attended by several of
+the City Officers.
+
+The Court being sat at the _Sessions-House_, the Keepers were sent for
+and Examin'd, and the Magistrates were in great Consternation, that so
+horrid a Wretch had escap'd their Justice. It being intended that he
+should have been brought down to the Court the last Day of the
+_Sessions_, and order'd for Execution in two or three Days after; if it
+appear'd that he was the Person Condemn'd for the breaking Mr.
+_Kneebone's_ House, and included in the Warrant for Execution, _&c._
+
+Many of the Methods by which this miraculous Escape was effected, remain
+as yet a Secret, there are some indeed too Evident, the most reasonable
+Conjecture that has hierto been made, is, that the first Act was his
+twisting and breaking assunder by the strength of his Hands a small Iron
+Chain, which together with a great Horse Padlock, (as went from the
+heavy Fetters about his Legs to the staples) confin'd him to the Floor,
+and with a Nail open'd the Padlock and set himself at Liberty about the
+Room: A large flat Iron Bar appears to have been taken out of the
+Chimney, with the Assistance thereof 'tis plain he broke thro' a Wall of
+many Foot in Thickness, and made his way from the _Castle_ into another
+strong Room Contiguous, the Door of it not having been open'd since
+several of the _Preston_ Prisoners were Confin'd there about seven Years
+ago: Three Screws are visibly taken off of the Lock, and the Doors as
+strong as Art could make them, forc'd open. The Locks and Bolts, either
+wrench'd or Broke, and the Cases and other Irons made for their Security
+cut assunder: An Iron Spike broke off from the Hatch in the _Chapel_,
+which he fix'd in the Wall and fasten'd his Blanket to it, to drop on
+the Leads of Mr. _Bird_'s House, his Stockings were found on the Leads
+of _Newgate_; 'tis question'd whether sixty Pounds will repair the
+Damage done to the Jayl.
+
+It will perhaps be inquir'd how all this could be perform'd without his
+being heard by the Prisoners or the Keepers; 'tis well known that the
+Place of his Confinement is in the upper part of the Prison, none of the
+other Felons being Kept any where near him; and 'tis suppos'd that if
+any had heard him at Work, they would rather have facilitated, than
+frustrated his Endeavours. In the Course of his Breaches he pass'd by a
+Door on his Left belonging to the _Common-Side_ Felons, who have since
+Curs'd him heartily for his not giving them an opportunity to kiss his
+Hand, and lending them a favourable lift when his Hand was in; but that
+was not a Work proper for Mr. _Sheppard_ to do in his then
+Circumstances.
+
+His Fetters are not to be found any where about the Jayl, from whence
+'tis concluded he has either thrown them down some Chimney, or carried
+them off on his Legs, the latter seems to be Impracticable, and would
+still render his Escaping in such Manner the more astonishing; and the
+only Answer that is given to the whole, at _Newgate_ is, _That the_
+Devil _came in Person and assisted him_.
+
+He undoubtedly perform'd most of these Wonders in the darkest part of
+the Night, and without the least Glimpse of a Candle; a word, he has
+actually done with his own Hands in a few Hours, what several of the
+most skilful Artists allow, could not have been acted by a number of
+Persons furnish'd with proper Implements, and all other Advantages in a
+full Day.
+
+Never was there anything better Tim'd, the Keepers and all their
+Assistants being obliged to a strict Attendance on the Sessions at the
+_Old Bailey_, which held for about a Week; and _Blewskin_ having
+confin'd _Jonathan Wild_ to his Chamber, a more favourable opportunity
+could not have presented for Mr. _Sheppard's_ Purposes.
+
+The Jaylors suffer'd much by the Opinion the ignorant Part of the People
+entertain'd of the Matter, and nothing would satisfie some, but that
+they not only Conniv'd at, but even assisted him in breaking their own
+Walls and Fences, and that for this Reason too, _viz._ That he should be
+at Liberty to instruct and train up others in his Method of
+House-Breaking; and replenish the Town with a new set of Rogues, to
+supply the Places of those Transported beyond Sea.
+
+This is indeed a fine way of Judging, the well-known Characters of Mr.
+_Pitt_, and his Deputies, are sufficient to wipe of such ridiculous
+Imputations; and 'tis a most lamentable Truth, that they have
+often-times had in their Charge Villains of the deepest Die; Persons of
+Quality and great Worth, for whom no Entreaties, no Sums how large
+soever have been able to interfere between the doleful Prison, and the
+fatal Tree.
+
+The Officers have done their Duty, they are but Men, and have had to
+deal with a Creature something more than Man, a _Protoeus_,
+Supernatural, Words cannot describe him, his Actions and Workmanship
+which are too visible, best testifie him.
+
+On _Saturday_ the 17th, _Joseph Blake_, alias _Blewskin_, came upon his
+Tryal at the _Old Bailey_: _Field_ gave the same Evidence against him,
+as he had formerly done against _Sheppard_; and the Prisoner making but
+a triffling Defence, the Jury found him Guilty of Buglary and Felony.
+The Criminal when the Verdict was brought in, made his Obeysances to the
+Court, _and thank'd them for their Kindness_.
+
+It will be necessary that we now return to the Behaviour of Mr.
+_Sheppard_, some few Days before his last Flight.
+
+Mr. _Figg_ the famous Prize Fighter comeing to see him, in _NEWGATE_,
+there past some pleasant Raillery between them; and after Mr. _Figg_ was
+gone, _Sheppard_ declared he had a Mind to send him a formal Challenge
+to Fight him at all the Weapons in the strong Room; and that let the
+Consequence be what it would, he should call at Mr. _Figg's_ House in
+his way to Execution, and drink a merry Glass with him by way of
+Reconciliation.
+
+A young Woman an Acquaintance of his Mother, who wash'd his Linnen and
+brought him Necessaries, having in an Affray, got her Eyes beaten Black
+and Blue; says _Sheppard_ to her, _How long hast thou been Married_?
+Replyes the Wench. _I wonder you can ask me such a Question, when you so
+well know the Contrary_: Nay, says _Sheppard_ again, Sarah _don't deny
+it, for you have gotten your Certificate in your Face_.
+
+Mr. _Ireton_ a Bailiff in _Drury-Lane_ having pursued _Sheppard_ after
+his Escape from the Condemn'd-Hold with uncommon Diligence; (for the
+safety of that Neighbourhood which was the chief Scene of his
+Villainies) _Sheppard_ when Re-taken, declared, he would be even with
+him for it, and if ever he procur'd his Liberty again, _he would give
+all his Prisoners an_ ACT OF GRACE. A Gentleman in a jocose way ask'd
+him to come and take a Dinner with him, _Sheppard_ reply'd, _he accepted
+of the Invitation, and perhaps might take an opportunity to wait on
+him_; and there is great Reason to believe he has been as good as his
+Word.
+
+He would complain of his Nights, as saying, _It was dark with him from
+Five in the Evening, till Seven in the Morning_; and being not permitted
+to have either a Bed or Candle, his Circumstances were dismal; and that
+he never slept but had some confus'd Doses, he said he consider'd all
+this with the Temper of a Philosopher.
+
+Neither his sad Circumstances, nor the solemn Exhortations of the
+several Divines who visited him, were able to divert him from this
+ludicrous way of Expression; he said, _They were all Ginger-bread
+Fellows_, and came rather out of Curiosity, than Charity; and to form
+_Papers_ and _Ballads_ out of his Behaviour.
+
+A _Welch_ Clergyman who came pretty often, requested him in a
+particularly Manner to refrain Drinking; (tho' indeed there was no
+necessity for that Caution) _Sheppard_ says, Doctor, _You set an Example
+and I'll follow_; this was a smart Satyr and Repartee upon the _Parson_,
+some Circumstances consider'd.
+
+When he was visited in the _Castle_ by the Reverend Mr. _Wagstaff_, he
+put on the Face only of a Preparation for his End, as appear'd by his
+frequent Attempts made upon his Escape, and when he has been press'd to
+Discover those who put him upon Means of Escaping, and furnish'd him
+with Implements, he would passionately, and with a Motion of striking,
+say, _ask me no such Questions, one File's worth all the Bibles in the
+World_.
+
+When ask'd if he had not put off all Thoughts of an Escape and
+Entertain'd none but those of Death, would Answer by way of Question,
+not directly, whether they thought it possible, or probable for him to
+Effect his Release, when Manackled in the manner he was. When mov'd to
+improve the few Minutes that seem'd to remain of his Life; he did indeed
+listen to, but not regard the Design and Purport of his Admonition,
+breaking in with something New of his own, either with respect to his
+former Accomplices, or Actions, and all too with Pleasure and Gayety of
+Expression.
+
+When in _Chapel_, he would seemingly make his Responses with Devotion;
+but would either Laugh, or force Expressions (when as an Auditor of the
+Sermon) be of Contempt, either of the Preacher, or of his Discourse.
+
+In fine, he behav'd so, in Word, and Action, (since retaken) that
+demonstrated to the World, that his Escape was the utmost Employ of his
+Thoughts, whatever Face of Penitence he put on when visited by the
+Curious.
+
+
+     An Account of SHEPPARD'S Adventures of five Hours immediately
+     after his Escape from _Newgate_, in a Letter to his Friend.
+
+     DEAR FRIEND!
+
+     Over a Bottle of _Claret_ you'll give me leave to _declare
+     it_, that I've fairly put the _Vowels_ upon the good Folks at
+     _Newgate, i.o.u._ When I'm able, I may, or may not discharge
+     my _Fees_, 'tis a _Fee-simple_, for a Man in my Condition to
+     acknowledge; and tho' I'm safe out of _Newgate_, I must yet
+     have, or at least, affect, a _New Gate_ by Limping, or Turning
+     my Toes in by making a right _Hand_ of my _Feet_. Not _to be
+     long_, for I hate _Prolixity_ in all Business: _In short_,
+     after _Filing, Defileing, Sawing_, when no Body _Saw_.
+     _Climbing_ (this _Clime in_) it prov'd a good _Turner_ of my
+     Affairs, thro' the House of a _Turner_. Being quite past, and
+     safe from _Estreat_ on Person or Chattels, and safe in the
+     _Street_, I thought Thanks due to him who cou'd _Deliver
+     hence_; and immediately (for you must know I'm a _Catholick_)
+     to give Thanks for my Deliverance, I stept amongst the
+     _Grey-Fryers_ to come an joyn with me, in saying a
+     _Pater-Noster_, or so, at _Amen-Corner_. The _Fryers_ being
+     _Fat_ began to _Broil_, and soon after _Boild up_ into a
+     Passion to be disturb'd at that time of Night. But being got
+     _Loose_ and having no Time to _Lose_, I gave them good Words,
+     and so the Business was done. From thence I soon slip'd
+     through _Ludgate_, but was damnably fearful of an _Old Bailey_
+     always lurking thereabout, who might have brought me to the
+     _Fleet_ for being too _Nimble_, besides, I was wonderfully
+     apprehensive of receiving some unwelcome _Huggings_ from the
+     _W....n_ there; therefore with a step and a stride I soon got
+     over _Fleet-ditch_, and (as in Justice I ought) I prais'd the
+     _Bridge_ I got over. Being a _Batchelor_, and not being
+     capable to to manage a Bridewell you know. I had no Business
+     near _St. Brides_, so kept the right handside, designing to
+     _Pop_ into the _Alley_ as usual; but fearing to go thro'
+     there, and _harp_ too much on the same _String_, it gave an
+     _Allay_ to my Intention, and on I went to _Shoe-lane_ end but
+     there meeting with a _Bully Hack_ of the Town, he wou'd have
+     shov'd me down, which my Spirit resenting, tho' a _brawny
+     Dog_, I soon _Coller'd_ him, fell Souse at him, then with his
+     own Cane I _strapped_ till he was force to _Buckle_ too, and
+     hold his _Tongue_, in so much he durst not say his _Soul_ was
+     his own, and was glad to pack of at _Last_, and turn his
+     _Heels_ upon me: I was glad he was gone you may be sure, and
+     _dextrously_ made a _Hand_ of my _Feet_ under the
+     _Leg-Tavern_; but the very Thoughts of _Fetter-Lane_ call'd to
+     mind some Passages, which made me avoid the _Passage_ at the
+     end of it, (next to the Coffee House you know) so I soon
+     whip'd over the way, yet going along two wooden _Logger-heads_
+     at _St. Dunstan's_ made just them a damn'd Noise about their
+     _Quarters_, but the sight of me made perfectly _Hush_ in a
+     _Minute_; now fearing to goe by _Chance-a wry-Lane_, as being
+     upon the _Watch_ my self and not to be _debarr'd_ at
+     _Temple-Bar_; I stole up _Bell-Yard_, but narrowly escap'd
+     being _Clapper-claw'd_ by two Fellows I did not like in the
+     Alley, so was forc'd to goe round with a design to _Sheer-off_
+     into _Sheer-Lane_, but the _Trumpet_ sounding at that very
+     time, alarm'd me so, I was forc'd to Grope my way back through
+     _Hemlock-Court_, and take my _Passage_ by _Ship-Yard_ without
+     the Bar again; but there meeting with one of our trusty
+     Friends, (all Ceremonies a-part) he told me under the _Rose_ I
+     must expect no _Mercy_ in _St. Clement's_ Parish, for the
+     _Butchers_ there on the _Back_ on't would _Face_ me, and with
+     their _Cleavers_ soon bring me down on my _marrow_ Bones; you
+     may believe I soon hastened thence, but by this time being
+     Fainty and night Spent, I put forward, and seeing a _Light_
+     near the _Savoy-Gate_, I was resolv'd not to make _Light_ of
+     the Opportunity, but call'd for an hearty Dram of _Luther_ and
+     _Calvin_, that is, _Mum_ and _Geneva_ mix'd; but having Fasted
+     so long before, it soon got into my Noddle, and e'er I had
+     gone twenty steps, it had so intirely _Stranded_ my Reason,
+     that by the time I came to _Half-Moon-Street_ end, it gave a
+     _New-Exchange_ to my Senses, and made me quite _Lunatick_.
+
+     However, after a little Rest, I stole down _George-Passage_
+     into _Oaf-Alley_ in _York-Buildings_, and thence (tho' a vile
+     Man) into _Villiers-Street_, and so into the _Strand_ again,
+     where having gone a little way, _Hefford's-Harp_ at the Sign
+     of the _Irish-Harp_, put me a _Jumping and Dancing_ to that
+     degree that I could not forbear making a _Somerset_ or two
+     before _Northumberland-House_. I thought once of taking the
+     _Windsor_ Coach for my self _John Sheppard_, by the Name of
+     _Crook_---- but fearing to be _Hook'd_ in before my Journey's
+     End, I stept into _Hedge-Lane_, where two Harlots were up in
+     the _Boughs_ (it seems) _Branching_ out their Respects to one
+     another, through their Windows, and People beginning to gather
+     thereabout, I ran _Pelmel_ to _Piccadilly_, where meeting by
+     meer chance a _Bakers_ Cart going to _Turnham-Green_, I being
+     not _Mealy Mouth'd_, nor the Man being _Crusty_ I _wheel'd_
+     out of Town.
+
+     I did call at _Hammersmith_, having no occasion directly. I
+     shall stay two or three Days in that Neighbourhood, so, if you
+     Direct a letter for Mr. Sligh Bolt, to be left with Mrs.
+     _Tabitha Skymmington_ at _Cheesewick_, it's Safety will _Bear
+     Water_ by any _Boat_, and come _Current_ with the Tyde to
+
+     Dear BOB
+     Yours from the Top
+     of _Newgate_ to the Bottom
+
+                   J. _SHEPPARD_.
+
+     _P.S._ If you see _Blewskin_, tell him I am well, and hope he
+     receiv'd my last--I wou'd write by the _Post_ if I durst, but
+     it wou'd be, certainly _Post-pon'd_ if I did, and it would be
+     _stranger_ too, to trust a Line by a _Stranger_, who might
+     _Palm_ upon us both and never Deliver it to _Hand_.
+
+     I send this by a _Waterman_, (I dare trust) who is very Merry
+     upon me, and says he wou'd not be in my _Jacket_. _Saturday
+     Octob._ 17, 1724.
+
+We shall conclude with what had been often observ'd by many Persons to
+_Sheppard_; _viz._ That it was very Imprudent in him to take Shelter in
+the City, or the adjacent Parts of it, after his Escape from the
+Condemn'd Hold; and withal to commit a _Capital Offence_, almost within
+Sight of _Newgate_, when his Life and all was in such Danger. His Reply
+was general, _viz._ That it was his Fate: But being ask'd a particular
+Reason for his not taking a longer Rout than the City, and the
+Neighbouring parts: pleaded Poverty as his Excuse for Confinement within
+those Limits; at the same time urging, that had he been Master at that
+time of five Pounds, _England_ should not have been the Place of his
+Residence, having a good Trade in his Hands to live in any populated
+Part of the World.
+
+*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 14065 ***