The Case of the Carrier Who Broke Bulk Annon v. The Sheriff of London
Court of Star Chamber
64 Selden Soc. 30 (1473)
Relevant factsFree
A merchant hired a man to carry a package of dye goods from London to Southampton. Instead of delivering it, the carrier broke open the package, removed the goods, and hid them; the goods ended up in the custody of the Sheriff of London, who was then sued by the owner.
IssueFree
Whether a bailee who is lawfully in possession of goods commits larceny by "breaking bulk" -- opening the package and taking the contents into his own possession without permission.