The Deception of Richard A. Sawtelle

The Deception of Richard A. Sawtelle

The Steuben Courier, Bath, NY, January 9, 1885

On New Year's day a Canisteo wedding was indefinitely postponed, after the guests had assembled to witness the marriage ceremony, on account of the non-appearance of the prospective groom Mr. Richard Sawtelle.  he was a handsome, well-appearing young man, came to that village from the west in 1883, and became a member of the Baptist choir.  Thus Miss Carrie Smith, one of the members of the choir, became acquainted with him, and after a time the engagement of the young couple was announced, and arrangements were made for a wedding.  When the hour for that event arrived, Sawtelle did not appear and could not be found.  Miss Smith was prostrated by the base desertion.

 

Chenango American, Greene, NY, January 29, 1885

 

Sometime in 1883, Richard A. Sawtelle, a handsome, well-appearing young man, came to the village of Canisteo, N.Y., from the west.  He at once entered into society, and having an excellent voice was engaged to sing in the choir of the Baptist church.  Among those who sang in the choir with him was Miss Carrie Smith, a bright, vivacious young lady, the daughter of one of the leading families, and considered one of the belles of the village. She saw Sawtelle, became acquainted and a few months ago it was announced that they were engaged.  The marriage ceremony was to have been performed on New year's day, and the many friends of the prospective bride gathered to witness the service.  The time fixed for the ceremony arrived, but Sawtelle did not appear, and a messenger failed to find him.  Sawtelle had for some time been stopping in Cortland and Homer, doing but little work, but was actively engaged in politics during the late campaign.  At his request Miss Smith had sent a quantity of her household goods to Homer, which was to be their future home.  January 3d he was arrested and arraigned before a Justice in Cortland, for the non-'payment of board bills.  On the same day of the examination, a brother of Miss Smith appeared in Cortland looking after Sawtelle.  On being asked why he did not telegraph to Miss Smith, Sawtelle said all the money he had was a postage stamp. The brother had her goods shipped back to their home, and although the blow to her is a severe one, she has reason to be thankful for [her lucky escape].