In 1843 households in the area were issued with a warning to be on the look out for a pack of cunning criminals quick to target the gullible. Locals were warned against a gang of women knocking at wealthy properties and enquiring as to whether what clothes were ready for the mangle. If questioned as to the whereabouts of the regular washerwoman, suspicions were calmed by stating that she was either otherwise engaged elsewhere or too unwell for work. In one particularly brazen case a crafty thief waited in the owner’s kitchen a full fifteen minutes before making off with numerous articles of clothing never to be seen again
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They would certainly have had more reasons to perform those type of scams in those days, the social food chain being what it was and keeping in mind the lack of welfare help. I suppose its similar to the modern day scam set up by bogus charity's leaving plastic bags to fill up with unwanted clothes.
Scrubs up well though Geekus, I'm losing the will to live, anyway thats me off my soapbox.
God help us, Come yourself, Don't send Jesus, This is no place for children.
What was that other scam (back in the 1980's) when Social Security allowed people to claim hundreds of £££'s from the Social Fund for alleged 'stolen washing' from back gardens?
Even with welfare help some people try to milk it.
