The Rook Family Tree
BASTARDY BATTLES Branchett vs. Rook
Thursday 6th July 1868
THE GUILDHALL, FAVERSHAM, Present:
The within application of Eliza Frances Branchett dated the 28th day of January 1867 was read.
Served on
The said Amos Rook appeared
The said Eliza Frances Branchett , on oath said : Single-woman and reside at the Parish of Boughton Under The Blean in the County of Kent on the 13th day of March 1867, I was delivered of a Bastard male Child, at Boughton Under The Blean in the County of Kent. Amos Rook of Boughton Under The Blean in the County of Kent, Amos Rook is the Father of such Bastard male Child.
(………? Taken last sess. Read).
Mary Ann Stevens …? Of Boughton. I know the parties – she lodged in my house in July 1866. I remember morning of 3rd July Rook was at my house in her bedroom about 6am.
Xx? I saw nothing improper. It was July month – Monday was the 1st and Wednesday the 3rd of July. – it was the year before last. I have seen my husband come out of her living room that was in …? I accused her of courting my husband. I gave her notice. I have seen my Husbands Brother in her room.
Xx?
(Signature?)
I had not seen him in her room before that time. I saw him at the house very often afterwards.
Xx? I never saw anything improper between them.
Bench (?) Sometimes she was at home and sometimes away on Sundays. Rook was often there on Saturday and Sunday nights – I saw him lay there.
12/- paid May 15th 1868
(Signature?)
Clerk Fees 12/
Constable
Midwife rec’d
Adjudged to be the Father of the Child, and ordered to pay 1/6 per week from the day of application, until the child attains the age of 13, &c.