The Morning News

CLARK NO LONGER A CONVICT.
The Governor Pardons the Schley County Company Defaulter.

Atlanta, Ga., June 16.—A young South Georgian to-day received the benefit of executive clemency, not with a view of shortening his term, which he has already practically served, but in order that his disabilities might be removed and a new chance given him in life. J. E. Clark was convicted of embezzlement in Schley county between three and four years ago. He was the trusted employee of a local bank, and a shortage in his accounts was discovered. At once he and his family turned over all they had to meet the deficiency. Commenting on this, the governor, in his order, states that, while the fact does not extenuate the fault, it shows that the young man is of good family and will be under the guidance of good influences. He hopes that, taken in conjunction with his youth, may place him in a position to redeem his early error and make of him a good and useful citizen. Clark was within a few days of completing his sentence of three and a half years, which the governor regarded as so light a one that he has heretofore resisted all appeals made by the solicitor who prosecuted and the jury which tried, and a large array of citizens whose sympathies had been enlisted by the young man's misfortune.

Unwarranted speculation caused his downfall. He will be released at once.