Typical of Smith’s ‘modus operandi’ was the way he treated a young victim, Miss Sarah Faulkner. On a so-called business trip to Southampton, he met and courted Miss Faulkner, passing himself off as George Rose. After a whirlwind romance they were married, and went to London on honeymoon. Having relieved his bride of £350 in cash and all her jewellery, Smith took his new bride to an art gallery where, during their visit, he left her sitting on a bench for ‘a few moments’ whilst he went to the toilet. It was the last she saw of him.

As Sarah awaited Smith’s return, he was returning to their hotel where he stole the rest of her money and her clothes. But Sarah was lucky; at least she was spared her life.