On 12 February 1819, John Barker was tried at the Old Bailey for stealing wine-glasses, a pepper-box and other items from the Albion Tavern in Aldersgate Street. Found guilty after the goods were discovered hidden on him, the 46-year-old waiter was sentenced to three months’ confinement.
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This Day in History: 11 February 1818 — George Tomkins and the Three Sixpences
On 11 February 1818, George Tomkins was tried at the Old Bailey for stealing three sixpences from his employers on Holborn Hill. Caught in the act by a shopman and found guilty, the 36-year-old porter was sentenced to one month’s confinement, highlighting how even small thefts were prosecuted in Georgian London.
Quote of the Day: A holiday begins long before the suitcase is opened
Today’s Quote of the Day from The Sage celebrates the simple pleasure of planning a getaway: “Half the joy of a holiday lies in the maps you spread across the kitchen table.” A warm reminder that anticipation and imagination often bring as much happiness as the journey itself.
Advice of the Day: Holiday Planning
The Sage offers travel wisdom: choose your holiday destination based on how little you want to pack. A funny “Advice of the Day” about suitcases, stress, and sensible laziness.
Quote of the Day: The True Beginning of the Weekend
Today’s Quote of the Day from The Sage captures the true start of the weekend: “The weekend starts the moment you stop pretending to be productive.” A witty reminder that rest begins with honesty, and that productivity often fades long before the clock says it’s allowed to.
Advice of the Day: Drunkenness Denial
The Sage offers practical drinking wisdom: if you feel drunk, sit very still and blame the chair. A funny “Advice of the Day” about denial, balance, and misplaced responsibility.
This Day in History: 6 February 1806 — Thomas Crumpton and the Stolen Copper
On 6 February 1806, Thomas Crumpton stood trial at the Old Bailey for stealing copper and metal goods worth just over a pound. Found guilty, he was sentenced to twelve months in the House of Correction and fined one shilling, highlighting how minor thefts were punished in Georgian London.
This Day in History: 5 February 1808 — Edward Westbrooke and the Stolen Cotton
On 5 February 1808, London’s highest criminal court, the Old Bailey, heard the case of Edward Westbrooke, who stood accused of stealing hundreds of printed cotton handkerchiefs and other textiles — goods of considerable value in the commercial heart of Georgian England. His trial, conviction and ultimate fate reveal much about how property, punishment andContinue reading “This Day in History: 5 February 1808 — Edward Westbrooke and the Stolen Cotton”
Quote of the Day: The Aftermath of a Meal
Today’s Quote of the Day from The Sage reflects on food, company, and the aftermath of a good meal: “You can tell how good a meal was by how long the washing-up is avoided.” A warm, humorous reminder that enjoyment often leaves evidence — and that some moments are worth delaying practicality for.
Advice of the Day: Evening Decision-Making
The Sage offers practical evening wisdom: choose what to have for tea based on how tired you are, not how hungry. A funny “Advice of the Day” about exhaustion, realism, and dinner decisions.
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