Few trials, which were not for life, have excited so much interest in the city, as that in which Benjamin Walsh—a member of the senate, a member of the Stock Exchange, and a confessed felon—stood at the bar of the Old Bailey, on the charge of defrauding Sir Thomas Plomer. The bench was crowded with the rank and respectability of the city. The melancholy appearance of the prisoner, his grave bearing, and dejected countenance, excited the interest of the spectators, and spoke the regret of the culprit. In 1811, Sir Thomas informed his broker, Mr. Benjamin Walsh, M. P., that, having bought an estate, it would be necessary to sell out a large amount of stock to complete the purchase. Mr. Walsh advised Sir Thomas not to sell directly, as there was every prospect of the funds rising; and, the title of the estate not being complete, this advice was complied with. About the middle of November, however, Mr. Walsh changed his opinion, and repeatedly urged Sir Thomas to sell his stock, alleging his belief that the price would fall. Again the broker’s suggestion was complied with; but, as it was sold before the money was required for the estate, it was recommended by the prisoner that, to prevent it from lying idle, exchequer-bills should be purchased with the proceeds. Sir Thomas again consented, and gave a check amounting to £22,000 to Mr. Walsh, who promised to lodge the notes at Goslings’, the bankers to Sir Thomas, and hand the latter their receipt. In the evening, however, he presented their acknowledgment for only £6,000, and making some excuse for not having paid in the remaining exchequer-bills, promised to deliver them on the following day; adding that, as he had not settled for them, he had repaid the difference to the account of Sir Thomas. The latter, on his way home, called at his bankers’, and found that, though the £6,000 in exchequer-bills had been deposited, the check of Mr. Walsh for the £16,000 had been received too late for presentation. No suspicion was, however, attached to the transaction until next day, when the check was refused payment. Sir Thomas was immediately informed, and an inquiry instituted. It was soon found that the money thus iniquitously gained, had been disposed of in paying his brother £1,000, in purchasing £11,000 American stock, and in investing £500 in Portuguese doubloons. The prisoner was found guilty; but certain points, reserved for the judges, being interpreted favorably, he was discharged from Newgate, and expelled from the House of Commons.