[ London Times ]
This newspaper, most correctly known simply as The Times, began publication in 1785 and continues to this day.
The December 16, 1803 edition of The Times carried the following account, in its "Law Report" section, of a lawsuit in which "who gets the Newfoundland?" was a critical issue.
Court of King's Bench, Guildhall, Dec. 15
Sittings before Lord Ellenborough
Couper v. Fetherston
Mr. Gibbs stated, that this was an action of trover brought to recover a Newfoundland Dog. The Plaintiff and Defendant had formerly been in partnership as Distillers; on the expiration of the partnership, Mr. Fetherton was to take all the stock in trade, etc. on certain terms stated in the deed of assignment. And Mr. Couper, in the presence of a great number of Gentlemen, positively refused to sign the deed of assignment until Mr. Fetherston promised to let him have this Newfoundland Dog, which was extremely valuable, and the more as he had received him as a present from a deceased friend.
Mr Gibbs said his client was very averse to bring such an action as this into Court, and had been always extremely desirous to refer it to any person, and he was then ready to withdraw a Juror.
A number of witness were examined on the part of the Plaintiff; and when it seemed clear that the Plaintiff was entitled to a verdict, even then after great obstinacy had been shown by the Defendant, the Plaintiff agreed that it should be referred.