[1] When the proceeds of these activities were sold, John Everet believed that Joseph Williams had maneuvered himself into receiving more than his fair share of the profits.

[2] He hired attorneys and counsel to sue Williams in court for the balance he thought due, pleading "for discovery, an account, and general relief" for the "profits" made under their "partnership".

'"[1] On 30 October 1725 lawyers acting on behalf of John Everet presented a Bill in Equity at the Court of Exchequer, setting out the details of his claim.

[2] Less than two weeks later, on 13 November 1725, the Court of Exchequer was less than impressed with the idea of being asked to settle a dispute amongst highwaymen regarding the division of the spoils and considered the Bill "both scandalous and impertinent".

[2] The general principle is still accepted throughout the western system as law, and despite the insufficient nature of the report, it is still regularly cited for its central proposition.