Rector in Court Scene

The Rev. Ralph Doyle, rector of Greensted, was summoned at Ongar on Saturday for the non payment of rates. He said he was willing to pay the rates, which he has withheld as a protest against the way in which the road near the church was kept.
The Chairman: “This court has nothing to do with the roads. All we wish to know is whether you are going to pay, or whether you wish us to issue a distress warrant.”
Defendant, “I deny that you have any right to issue a warrant. I will pay under protest.”
Essex Newsman, 15th October 1927.