Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

Articles taken from the Western Morning News and the Western Daily Mercury

[printed in Plymouth.]

1871 and 1873

Transcribed by Lindsey Withers

Coroner's Inquests were usually held within the space of 48 hours following a death that appeared to be of a suspicious or unexplained nature. They were usually held in a local public-house, ale house, municipal building, or parish workhouse, but sometimes in the building where the death occurred. The Coroner usually came from a legal or medical background and more often than not, appointed for life by the respective County. The Coroner and a Jury of between 12 and 24 persons, usually men of substantial standing, were empanelled to examine the body, hear witnesses, and the Jury then to come to a Verdict as to Cause of Death. The account of the Inquest appearing in local newspapers, included the name of the deceased, where they died, and how they died. Sometimes, age, occupation, parish or address, and other relatives' names can be found. In later years when Hospitals appear, people can be dying away from their parish after having been admitted to that institution, and the Inquest is therefore conducted where the death occurred, rather than where the person was living. 

[Numbers in brackets indicate the number of times that name occurs.]

Names Included: Alford; Allen; Allery; Andrews;  Anstice; Arnold; Atwill; Baker; Balkwill; Barker; Bate; Belworthy; Bennett; Berryman; Blackwell; Blunt; Bolt; Bradford; Brewer; Bromley; Brown; Bryant; Buchan; Burley; Burn; Burnett; Burrows; Cannaford; Carew; Cawes; Chapman(2); Chapple(2); Ching; Chope; Chown; Clements; Cload;  Cole(2); Coles; Collacott; Cook; Coombe; Coomer; Cove; Crocker; Cross; Crump; Daniel; Dare; Dark; Daw; Denley; Devonshen; Dicker; Dinham; Dodge; Drake; Drew; Drewe; Dunn; Eales; Edmonds; Ellis(2); Ewins; Exworthy; Fogwill; Ford; Forquhar; Fradd; Francis; French; Frewin; Friend; Frost(2); Fry; Gee; Glanville; Greenslade; Greet; Gribble; Guest; Guswell; Hake; Hall(2); Hancock; Hannaford; Harding; Harris(3); Harvey; Hawke; Hay; Hayman; Heaney; Hicks; Hill(4); Hoblin; Hockaday; Hocking(2); Hodge; Horner; Horrell; Horton; Horwell; Horwill; Hoskins; Howell; Hughes; Hyne; Ingram; Isaac; Jackman; Jackson(2); Jarvis; Jeffery; Jess; Johns; Jordan; Jorgensen; Kerswill; Key; Labbett; Lampen; Langdom; Langdon; Langman; Lapidge;  Lapthorne; Lashbrook; Lee; Le Leivre; Lillicrap; Lime; Lindeman; Livingstone; Long; Loving; Luke; Lyne; Mackenzie; MacVitty; Mahony; Mann; Martin; Mason; Matthews(2); Maynard; Mayne; McCarthy; Moore; Morgan; Mullings; Munday; Neate; Newberry; Nichols; Northcote; Noyes; Nugent; Oldham; Packer; Pain; Parkhouse; Parkin; Parnall; Pearse; Pederick; Peek; Pengelly; Petherbridge(2); Petts; Pickard(2); Pidsley; Pike; Pile; Poll; Redwood; Reed(2); Riblen; Rider; Rogers; Rowe(4); Rowland; Rugg; Rundle; Ryder; Sanders; Saunders; Scott; Searle; Sercombe; Sherriff; Shrimpton; Sleeman; Smith(5); Sobey; Sollick; Solomon; Stamp; Stanning; Statt; Stephens; Stevens; Stewart; Stibbs; Stirling; Stoddart; Stone(2); Stoneman; Stookes; Stratford; Sullivan; Symons(2); Tamlin; Taylor; Templeton; Thorne; Tipper; Tomkins; Tozer(2); Trevelor; Tucker(4); Underhill; Vaughan; Vickery; Vincent; Voden; Wall; Ware; Weightman; Welsh; Were; Wheaton(2); Wilcox; Williams(4); Wills; Wilton; Wright; Wyndham; Yeo.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 11 January 1871
STOKE DAMEREL - Strange Fatality To A Warrant Officer. - An Inquest was held at the Falcon Inn, Ford, yesterday, by the Devonport Coroner, Mr Allan B. Bone, on the body of MR JOHN HODGE, second-class gunner in her Majesty's service, who died on the previous Saturday under somewhat curious circumstances. Deceased was serving on board the Cambridge, Capt. the Hon. F. A. C. Foley, gunnery ship in the Hamoaze, and on Friday morning, at 10 o'clock, Lieutenant Jenkins, of the Cambridge, was putting half of a battalion of seamen through the sword-bayonet exercise. Deceased was one of the battalion, and stood in the supernumerary rank. The battalion first advanced, and at the word of command from the officer in charge they turned about to repel the supposed attack of an enemy in the rear. Job Taylor, able seaman, one of the men in the battalion, went about swinging his rifle, when the sword at the top of it flew off, described a kind of arch in the air, and, falling, struck into the left arm of MR HODGE. The latter had his drawn sword in his right hand, and as Taylor's weapon struck him he dropped his own sword, and caught hold of his arm with his right hand. He remained on deck attending to his drill for about five minutes and then the men were ordered on the lower-deck to clean arms. Edward Toms, chief gunner's mate, then examined Taylor's sword, and found that the spring at the hilt, which kept it fastened to the rifle, did not work well, which might have been caused by a little dirt getting into the spring; the drill was the first which had taken place since the men returned from their Christmas leave; but Taylor affirmed that he had thoroughly cleaned his sword several times during the past three weeks. Everything connected with the drill was carried out strictly, and Toms did not believe there was any negligence shewn on the part of Taylor which caused the sword to escape from its holding on the rifle. - Taylor said he was using the sword for ten minutes before it flew off, and had he thought it was not securely fastened, he could have stopped and remedied it. After the exercise was over deceased went to Assist. Surgeon Farr, of the Cambridge, who examined his arm, and found a wound about four inches above the elbow, and on the outer side of the left arm. It had an external opening of about half an inch, and a probe was passed into it about an inch and a half between the muscles and integuments. There was little or no blood from the wound, and deceased did not complain that it pained him; MR HODGE treated it very lightly, expressing his surprise that the wound was so deep. Mr Farr put one stitch into it, bandaged the arm, and told deceased to keep quiet. He asked to be allowed to go home, and this was agreed to, Mr Farr telling him if he got worse to be sure to send on board the Cambridge, and if all went well to present himself at the ship in two days. Deceased walked home to his house at Kent-road, Ford, and his wife, at his request, unbound the bandage on his arm, and did it up again, as he complained that it was at first too tight. An hour afterwards he complained of his arm paining him, he vomited and was purged. This continued until the next day, when, as he became worse, his wife sent for Dr J. Rolston, who found deceased suffering from symptoms of a severe shock to the nervous system. He was vomiting, was purged, his pulse was rapid and weak, and his extremities were cold. Deceased died at 11 o'clock on Saturday night. Dr Rolston made a post mortem examination of the body yesterday morning. The wound on the arm shewed nothing from which fatal results might be anticipated. Most of the organs of the body were healthy, but the heart was pale, soft and flabby to the touch, and its condition was such as to lead him to think that deceased was not fitted to bear any great strain or shock, as would be caused by receiving the wound which he had heard described. Deceased died of fatty degeneration of the heart, death from that cause being accelerated by the shock he must have sustained. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly, and expressed the opinion that the wounds were inflicted accidentally. Deceased was 30 years of age, and leaves a widow, but no children.

Western Morning News, Friday 13 January 1871
PLYMOUTH - Death From Drunkenness At Plymouth. - Mr T. C. Brian, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest last evening, at the Cambridge Inn, Cambridge-street, Plymouth, on the body of CHARLOTTE CHOWN. The deceased, aged 44 years, was the wife of a butcher, and lived at 2 Willow Plot. She enjoyed pretty good health, notwithstanding that she was addicted to habits of intemperance. Shortly before Christmas she fell downstairs at her own house, and received a blow on the back of her head. Her state at the time could not be spoken to. On Christmas Eve, while intoxicated, she fell down a flight of stairs in a neighbour's house, but made no complaint that she had received any injury. On Monday afternoon last she asked a girl, named Elizabeth Searle, living in Morley-lane, to come and do her work as she was bad in her head. The deceased then appeared to be sober, but shortly afterwards Searle saw her put a bottle to her mouth, and drink off at one draught a noggin and half of neat gin. She then laid down on the sofa, and in the evening, after being partially undressed by Searle, she went into the inner room and laid on the bed. Searle soon afterwards returned to her own house. The husband, who was in the habit of attending the market every day, came home at nine o'clock on Monday evening, and not seeing his wife he thought she was out as usual. After shaving himself he looked into the inner room, and finding the deceased on the bed partially undressed he exclaimed, "Halloa, what do you call this?" She looked round and tried to speak, but was unable to do so. He then went for Mr Jago, who had been in the habit of attending the deceased, but the surgeon having already in hand a dangerous case told the husband that he was unable to attend. MR CHOWN described the condition in which he had found his wife, and then Mr Jago said he would give him a mixture, but he would not take any responsibility, and if he (the husband) were not satisfied he must go to someone else. The medicine was taken home, but the deceased was unable to swallow any of it. A nurse was sent for other surgeons, but MR CHOWN stated she could not get any answers at their doors. The deceased, to whom the husband was uniformly kind, did not recover consciousness, and died at two o'clock on Tuesday morning. - Mr Jago stated that from what he knew of the deceased, who was of full habit, and what he had heard stated in evidence, he was of opinion that she died from sanguineous apoplexy, in all probability induced by drink. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Sanguineous Apoplexy, induced by Excessive Intemperance." The girl, Searle, aged 14 years, when asked to sign her depositions, stated that she could neither read or write.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 17 January 1871
BARNSTAPLE - THOMAS CHAPPLE, a man who, at the Barnstaple Quarter Sessions, was sentenced to four months' imprisonment for stealing joiners' tools, was found dead in his cell on Friday afternoon. He had not been previous indisposed. A Coroner's Jury returned a verdict of "Died by the Visitation of God."
Western Morning News, Tuesday 17 January 1871
STOKE DAMEREL - Mr Alan Bone, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday afternoon, at the Fisherman's Arms, Richmond-walk, Devonport, on the body of BETSY ANNE STEVENS, aged 45 years, the wife of a caulker in Devonport Dockyard, living at 17 Baker's-place, Richmond-walk, who committed suicide by cutting her throat with a razor in an outhouse at her dwelling on Saturday last. The brother, husband and a neighbour deposed that the deceased had been in very low spirits for some time previous to her death, in fact, since it had been discovered that she had run into debt and had pledged her things some time ago; and it was their opinion that whilst thus depressed she had committed suicide. Deceased had an uncle who died insane. A verdict of "Temporary Insanity" was returned. Deceased leaves a family of five children, of which the eldest is eleven years of age.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 18 January 1871
STOKE DAMEREL - The cause of the death of ELIZABETH T. SOLLICK, four years of age, formed the subject of Inquiry at an Inquest held at the Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, yesterday, by Mr A. B. Bone. The deceased was sitting in front of a fire when a kettle of boiling water fell upon her. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 18 January 1871
EXETER - Mr R. R. Crosse, Coroner for the Exeter District, investigated a sad case yesterday. Living with an elderly couple named Mugford at Little Northbrook Farm, Countess Wear, near Exeter, was SARAH ELIZABETH LOVING, a girl about eighteen years of age, who acted as general servant. For some time Mrs Mugford had suspected her of being enceinte, and had charged her with being so; but she denied it. Her mistress, however, did not believe her denial, and gave her notice to leave. On Friday she complained of being unwell, and Mrs Mugford gave her some of Kaye's Worsdell's pills. The family retired to rest about eight o'clock, and when Mrs Mugford called the girl the next morning she received no answer. Opening the bedroom door, she found her lying on the bed dead. Mr Grigg, surgeon, was soon in attendance, and found that the unfortunate deceased had given birth to a child, which was also dead. The deaths had been caused by want of assistance at the birth. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Thursday 19 January 1871
EXETER - At an Inquest held at Exeter yesterday with reference to the death of MR JOHN SLEEMAN, who was found dead in his house under circumstances reported yesterday, the Jury returned an Open Verdict. Evidence was given shewing that deceased was suffering under mental aberration. The surgeon who examined the body was of opinion that apoplexy was the cause of death.

Western Morning News, Saturday 21 January 1871
REVELSTOKE - The Wreck Of The Eleutheria. - Mr Alan Bone, Deputy Coroner for South Devon, held an Inquest at Revelstoke on Thursday concerning the deaths of PHILIP NOYES, carpenter, and JOHN LINDEMAN, and FRANCIS INGRAM, able seamen of the barque Eleutheria, who, with two others, whose bodies have not yet been recovered, were drowned on Monday morning. - William Butchart said he was captain of the late barque Eleutheria, 764 tons, classed A1 at Lloyds. She left Sunderland on the 3rd of January with 1,120 tons of coal - her full cargo - for Point de Galle, and had a crew of 18, all told. All went well until Sunday morning last about 5.30, when, the barque being close hauled on the starboard tack. a brig was observed on their lee bow, standing close hauled on her port tack. As the brig approached, all hands shouted, but she came on, and struck the Eleutheria with her stem on the after part of her port fore rigging, carrying away part of it, coming along and levelling everything right before her, and carrying away all the port main rigging. The brig was repeatedly hailed but made no reply. Seeing the damage to his vessel was enormous and in the impulse of the moment, he jumped on board the brig to ascertain her name, never doubting but that he should be able to get back to his own ship again. The vessels immediately separated and he asked the master of the brig to wear his ship round on the starboard tack to see if he could get on board his vessel to render her assistance. The master of the brig complied, and in doing so the bow of his vessel was stove in. She made so much water that she could not be pumped free with the pumps, and she bore up for Plymouth, taking him with them, and arriving in the Sound at 10.30 a.m. On coming into the Sound he (witness) hailed No. 5 pilot boat (Surprise), stated the circumstances to the pilot and said his ship's bearing was W.S.W. of the Eddystone, about ten miles. He asked to be taken off to her, and the pilot replied at first he would do so, but subsequently said he had no time to take him on board. At 2.30 he secured the services of the steam-tug Secret, and went out to search for the ship. He stopped on the bridge and swept the horizon with a glass, but could find no trace of the Eleutheria. The Secret went on until a quarter to 5 o'clock, when they were about two miles to the west of the Eddystone, and then the steamboat master would go no further. He (the witness) entreated him over and over again to go on, but he said he would go no further, stating it was no use. The Secret reached Plymouth at a quarter to 7 o'clock, and he made arrangements before leaving to renew the search the next morning. At the time of the collision his port and starboard lights were burning very brightly. He saw the brig five minutes before he observed a light, and the first he saw was a green one. At this time he considered the brig was from a mile to a mile and a half distant. The wind was S.S.W., blowing a fresh gale. They had a speaking trumpet on board, but it was not used. All hands were on deck, and "sung out at the pitch of their voices" when the brig came on. There was a little moon. The collision happened between showers, and when there was no rain there was no fog. At the time of the collision the Eleutheria had a foresail, two lower topsails, foretopmast and mizen stay-sails. They had a good lifebuoy at the proper place, and three boats. When he saw the collision was inevitable he ordered his helm hard down, and the ship answered. Before that he did not touch his own helm more than to keep the ship before the wind. He saw no alteration in the brig but once, and then she gave a small bit of a "wipe" off. He thought she was going to clear. She was then three of her lengths off. In going out in the Secret, the Dulvall and two other vessels spoke them, and they all said the Eleutheria's bearing was S.W. of the Eddystone, two to three miles. That must, of course, have been a mistake. Instead of that the Eddystone must have been from two to three miles west of the vessel. He thought still he was right in his reckoning that the vessel at the time of the collision was from ten to twelve miles W.S.W. of the Eddystone. - James Gordon burr, chief mate of the Eleutheria, said the captain's statement was in accordance with the facts as far as his knowledge went. He saw the captain jump on board the brig, and immediately the latter got clear he (witness) ordered the mainyard to be squared, the helm to be put up, and the ship kept before the wind. With the wreck left and the braces being fouled, they were unable to do this, and in making the endeavour the foremast went by the board over the starboard side. While the officers and crew were cutting away the wreck of the foremast the mainmast also went by the board over the starboard side. They exerted themselves to clear this, and he ordered the helm to be put down, to keep the ship by the wind, and set a sail on the mizen mast - the only one left. He ordered the carpenter to sound the pumps and the second officer to muster all hands to the pumps, but the latter were disabled by the mainmast going over the side. After some time the starboard pump was got partially to work, and all hands worked it as long as possible. The vessel shipped one heavy sea, washing one boat and the cook house overboard, breaking another boat into pieces, tearing the ring bolts and lashings on deck, and staving the longboat. He then ordered the crew to endeavour to throw everything overboard to prevent their legs being broken when working the pumps. The carpenter, in going forward, got his leg "jammed" between the spars, and it was broken. He was carried to the cabin and laid on the sofa. They kept the ship's head to sea as much as possible, all hands stood by the pump, and the ensign was hoisted at the mizen-mast "union down." About noon they saw a ship standing towards them, which he believed to be the John Armstrong. She spoke to them, and he begged the captain to endeavour to turn the Eleutheria's head round, by bringing a warp with his vessel's boat, as the boats of the disabled ship were all gone. This was done as quickly as possible, the captain of the John Armstrong heaving his ship to, and sending a boat with a small warp to endeavour to turn their head, but the warp parted in doing so. He (witness) then said he thought the ship could do no good, and that she had better proceed on her voyage, which she did. The brig Dulvall of Blythe, bore down on them, and asked what assistance he could render, and he was told that by sailing direct for Plymouth and sending a steamer he would do good, and this he immediately did. A pilot then boarded from the Surprise, pilot cutter, and he said he could get the vessel's head round with the cutter. She endeavoured to turn the head of the barque, but could make no impression on her. He then ordered the cutter to leave, and go to Plymouth and communicate with the expected steamer, to let her know the whereabouts of the Eleutheria and how she was driving. They saw no vessel after that. The pilot remained on board, and his crew went away in the cutter to Plymouth. The barque was then, he judged, from 4 to 5 miles off the Eddystone, which bore W.S.W. of them, the barque then driving in a N.E. direction. At dark they commenced to shew "flare up" lights every four or five minutes, and these were continued to be shewn throughout the night and after the ship struck. They saw the land about 1.30 on Monday morning right to leewards, and about ten minutes after the vessel struck. The mizen-mast went by the board immediately, and the vessel broke up. He called to the men to save their lives as best they could. He did not see the five deceased men in the water. He partly swam and partly scrambled on shore, being assisted by a portion of the wreck. He thought when he sent the pilot boat away that the ship was sufficiently near the land and the Eddystone to ensure assistance. He accounted for no assistance coming by the fact that the Secret went, as he heard, too far to the westward. He told the carpenter when the ship struck that he must try to save himself, and he did crawl to the bottom of the companion ladder, but he never saw him afterwards. The two anchors were ready to let go, but the spars that had broke adrift interwove themselves with the cables, and it would have been dangerous to let them go. - Edward Glin, pilot of 25 years' experience in the port of Plymouth, who was put on board the vessel, and was one of those saved, said if any assistance had come to the barque between nine and ten o'clock on Sunday night it would have been useless. In his judgment no vessel could have come at all with safety to render assistance. - Thomas Collinson, master of the George and Richard, brig, 323 tons register, of Sunderland, bound for Alexandria, with coals, said about five minutes past five on Sunday morning, he sighted a vessel right ahead, about half a mile from his brig. He saw her first through the haze. At times there was smart rain. When he saw it was a vessel on the starboard tack he ordered his helm to be put hard up, and to be kept there. This was immediately obeyed. He saw the port light of the Eleutheria perhaps a couple of minutes before the collision. He never saw the green light. The lights of his brig were burning brilliantly, having been trimmed by the second mate at four o'clock. His helm was hard up all the time, being kept there as ordered, but his vessel would not answer properly owing to the terrific sea and the low sail which the brig had set. She answered her helm a little. He thought she was two points off the wind at the time of the collision. After the collision he thought his brig was in a foundering state. The weather was hazy at the time the vessels struck. He was the only one on the look-out, the rest of the crew working the pumps. He had night glasses and used them. - John Seagrew, chief officer of coastguard, stationed at Noss, Yealm, said it was part of the coastguard duty to watch the coast at night. Thomas Thorn had the beat on Sunday night, which included that part where the Eleutheria struck. He (witness) visited the wreck at five o'clock on Monday morning, having been called by Mr Martin, chief officer of the station west of him. They had no rocket apparatus nearer the spot than Mount Batten, neither had they any life lines or buoys. - Wm. Martin, chief officer of the station west of Noss, first saw the lights of the ship at 12.30 on Monday morning, and he passed word to Mr Seagrew at three o'clock in the morning. He should have done so before, but he could not cross the river. The force of the wind on Sunday night was, in his judgment, ten. - John Payn, chief officer of the coastguard, saw the signals of distress from the Eleutheria at 9.30 on Sunday night. He saw the vessel at 5 p.m. the same afternoon; he then saw her outline. At 9.30 it seemed that she had drifted three miles to the eastward. He sent one of his men to Mount Batten to report that he had seen a vessel, and the reply was "that it was all right; that the pilots and the authorities knew all about it." He also reported to the station east of him. The lights were about five miles from the shore when he saw them at 9.30. They must have been quite apparent to the ships in the Sound, from Mount Wise and the Hoe. He tried to lower a boat at the Bovisand station, intending to go to one of the ships in the Sound to ask her to render assistance to the distressed vessel, but the sea was so rough that he could not do so. - After a careful summing up from the Deputy Coroner the Jury found "That the deceased were found dead, being part of the crew of the barque Eleutheria, which was wrecked near the parish of Revelstoke on the night of the 15th instant, having on the morning of that day been damaged by a collision with the brig George and Richard."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 25 January 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held last evening by Mr Brian, Plymouth Borough Coroner, at the Plymouth Workhouse, relative to the death of a child named MARY ANN RUGG, whose body presented a most skeleton-like appearance. A double Jury, of which Mr Henry Lethbridge was Foreman, was empanelled. The deceased, who was four years of age, was the child of FLORENCE RUGG, who was tried at the last Borough Sessions for neglect of the deceased. Evidence was given by Mr Webber and Inspector Edwards of the condition of the poor child on the 25th November last, when it was taken from its mother's house, since which time it has received the greatest care in the Workhouse. - Mr J. N. Stevens repeated the evidence given by him on former occasions, adding that the child greatly improved, but that a week ago it was attacked by dysentery, of which it died. The Coroner summed up carefully, pointing out all the legal bearings of the case, drawing attention to the words of the medical witness - that in this case, independently of all other circumstances, the attack of dysentery was sufficient to account for death. - The Jury were divided in opinion, but a majority (more than twelve signed the inquisition) returned a verdict that the child did from Natural Causes.

Western Morning News, Thursday 26 January 1871
HOLSWORTHY - A Pauper Committed For Manslaughter. - An Inquest has been held at Holsworthy relative to the death of JOHN HARRIS, who in an affray with John Earle, another inmate of the Workhouse, received such injuries on the 20th as caused his death. The evidence produced was to the effect that on Friday morning last HARRIS, Earle, and a man named Piper, also a pauper, were working together by the master's direction in the garden. HARRIS was an idiot, but harmless and quiet. Some time afterwards Earle was heard to say to HARRIS, "Now thee heave thicker stone," and subsequently to strike him. In return HARRIS kicked Earle, when the latter struck the deceased two or three times on the head with an iron bolt. HARRIS was afterwards found sitting on a piece of wood holding some straw to his head, which was bleeding profusely. He said Earle had struck him, and the nurse, discovering three cuts on his head, applies some sticking plaster. Mr Pearse, the surgeon, saw the deceased, and observing that the plasters had been well put on by the nurse, simply "pressed the head with his fingers." HARRIS ate his dinner with the others, and at 4 o'clock went to bed. The doctor was sent for at 6 o'clock, but did not come. He, however, sent a powder and at 8 o'clock the master went himself to see Mr Pearse, who was not home, but his assistant Mr Euston, recommended that some brandy should be given to HARRIS and that cold water should be applied to his head and hot water to his feet. At 8 a.m. on Saturday it was found that deceased's right arm and leg were paralysed, and the doctor was sent for an hour later. He came at 11 o'clock, and saw him twice during the day. HARRIS died on Sunday, and a post mortem examination shewed that death had been caused by the blows on the head. Earle, in reply to the master, stated that he was on his way to the pig-house to bolt the door with a piece of iron, when the deceased asked him to help him. Earle replied that he could not, as the matron had told him to bolt the door; whereupon HARRIS kicked him, and he (Earle) struck him with the iron. - The Coroner (Mr Braund) in summing up, expressed the opinion that the provocation on the part of HARRIS was not sufficient to reduce the crime to manslaughter, and that a verdict of Wilful Murder was necessitated by the evidence. - the Jury, however, found Earle "Guilty of Manslaughter under strong provocation."

Western Morning News, Saturday 28 January 1871
PLYMOUTH - The Fatal Accident At The Plymouth Railway Station. - JAMES JOHNS, a "lumber taker," employed on the South Devon railway, was, as has been previously stated, killed yesterday morning between one and two o'clock, while engaged in shunting trucks at the Plymouth railway station. Several trucks were stationed in No. 1 road near the goods shed, and there was a portion of a train with an engine attached on No. 2 road. The train was in motion, and was proceeding slowly up the line. JOHNS was between the two roads, in company with John Staddon, a "shunting porter." As the train came up, JOHNS said t Staddon, "Be careful; there is no room there. I don't want to see you killed, or don't want to kill myself." Staddon then left JOHNS, and went over on the arrival platform, and he believed that JOHNS was following him. About twenty minutes to one o'clock George Biddlecombe, the guard of the goods train, saw JOHNS standing between the lines, with a lamp in his hands, about 20 feet from the junction of the two lines. As the train was moving at the ordinary speed, Biddlecombe saw a side of a truck strike him, knocking him against the trucks that were standing still, rolling him swiftly round and drawing him along the line for about two yards. Biddlecombe, who was walking towards JOHNS between the lines, immediately ran towards him and found him motionless. He heard him moan once. He was then taken to the porters' room. - Francis Bibbings, a switchman, who was on duty, went for Dr Rendle, who came and found that JOHNS was dead. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at the Coroner's Inquiry held last evening at the station, the Jury believing that no blame whatever could be attached to the railway company. It was stated that the deceased was perfectly sober at the time of the accident, and that the engine driver could not see him. There were lamps on each side of the lines, in addition to the lamps which the men engaged in shunting carried. The deceased had been in the employ of the company for four or five years, and was a valued servant. He leaves a widow and two children, who will get some assistance from the provident society which is subscribed to by the officials of the company.

Wednesday Morning News, Tuesday 31 January 1871 EXETER - MRS PIDSLEY, wife of MR R. H. PIDSLEY, auctioneer, of Exeter, died very suddenly on Saturday. Her youngest child had been with his father to Wombwell's menagerie, and had remained behind to see the beasts fed. As he did not return with his father MRS PIDSLEY became greatly alarmed for his safety. The boy, however, soon returned, but the revulsion of feeling was so great that MRS PIDSLEY, who was a sufferer from heart disease, expired before medical assistance could be obtained. The Coroner's Jury, at an Inquest held yesterday, returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Wednesday Morning News, Tuesday 31 January 1871 PLYMOUTH - WILLIAM HALL, cook and steward on board the barque Ela Beatrice, of West Hartlepool, from Sunderland to Alexandria, died somewhat suddenly in that ship when off the Goodwin Sands on Saturday last. About 10.30 on the morning of that day Captain Charles Smith went below to consult the chart, and saw the deceased lying struggling on the sofa. He was unconscious and continued so until his death, about a quarter of an hour afterwards. The deceased joined the ship on the 18th inst. at Sunderland, and down to the time of his death appeared to enjoy perfect health. He was a native of Sunderland, and was 52 years of age. The ship came into Plymouth yesterday, and at the Inquest held in the evening a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 8 February 1871
EXETER - A waggoner, named JOHN DRAKE, 24 years of age, on getting off his waggon on the Topsham-road last Friday, slipped and fell under the wheels, which passed over his body. He was taken to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, where he died on Sunday, from rupture of the intestines. A Coroner's Jury yesterday returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 8 February 1871
EXETER - Frightful Sufferings Of A Child. - The Exeter Coroner (Mr H. W. Hooper) investigated yesterday a shocking case of alleged parental neglect. From the evidence adduced it appeared that on the 11th November last ELIZA CLOAD, the wife of a farm labourer, living at Uffculme, left her little daughter, a child seven years of age, at home in charge of two younger children while she went out to work. During the morning information was brought the mother that "ELLEN was burning." On hastening home she found that the child's clothes had caught on fire while she was sitting by the grate, and that she was severely burnt about the left thigh. She applied linseed oil to the wound, and sent for Mr Bryden, the parish doctor. He did not come until the next morning, but he continued his visits after that until the 28th January, when he brought a physician with him to see the child. A day or two after he recommended her removal to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, and she was taken there last Thursday. The mother in her evidence said the doctor never dressed the wounds; she always did it. The child lay on one side for three months; she used to scream a good deal when a fresh bandage was put up. - Mr Richard Ley, house surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, said he received the child on Thursday last. She was in a very bad state. He endeavoured to examine her, but the stench was so offensive that he could not do so, and he was obliged to leave the ward, as were several of the patients and his pupils. The child was lying in a bundle of filthy rags. The nurses thoroughly cleaned the deceased and lotions were used to take away the smell. He then examined her wounds, and he could say that they had not been cleaned from the day of the burns. Deceased was very emaciated. There was a severe burn on the left thigh and buttock, and a slight sore between the abdomen and the thigh. The abdomen and the thigh had grown together from neglect, not having been kept properly apart. On the right side of the body there was a large wound, and there were several other wounds on different part of the body, all of which he believed to be bed sores, and to have arisen from neglect. He believed that if the child had been brought to the hospital after she had recovered the first shock she would have lived, for the burns were not deep enough to cause death. Four ribs were exposed on the right side, and he believed that the deceased died from exhaustion, bad living, and inattention. After the nurse had been examined the Coroner said that it would be advisable to have a post mortem examination, and procure further evidence, and the Inquest was adjourned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 8 February 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquiry was held by Mr Brian, Borough Coroner, at the Plymouth Guildhall yesterday, relative to the death of ALFRED GEE, 17 years of age, cook of the ship Nonparfel. It appeared that the cause of deceased's death was shock to the nervous system, the effect of burns received by falling against a stove in the forecastle, his system, however, having been greatly weakened by long indulgence in vicious habits. A verdict in accordance was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 10 February 1871
STOKE DAMEREL - AGNES LIVINGSTONE, a middle-aged woman, the wife of a leading stoker belonging to H.M.S. Valorous, was yesterday found dead at the bottom of the staircase of the Steam Reserve Inn, Newpassage, Devonport, where she resided. An Inquest was subsequently held, and although it was stated that she was at times addicted to drunken habits, there was no evidence to shew whether this caused her death. A verdict of "Found Dead" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 14 February 1871
EXETER - Inhuman Neglect Of A Child. - The adjourned Inquest on ELLEN CLOAD, the daughter of labouring people living at Uffculme, was resumed at Exeter yesterday, before the Coroner, Mr Hooper. The child, it will be remembered, died at the hospital, and the evidence of the house surgeon shewed that it had suffered from shocking neglect. In November last the deceased's clothes caught on fire, and she was burnt on the thigh. The burns although severe were not dangerous, but the poor child had been allowed to lie at her parents' for three months in a most wretched state. When taken to the hospital a fortnight ago she had "bedsores" all over. some of the wounds were four inches square. One of them revealed three ribs, and in several of the others bones were disclosed. This was quite independent of the burns, which had healed to a certain extent; but, owing to want of attention, the thigh and abdomen had grown together. Mr Ley, the hospital surgeon, had made a post mortem examination since the previous Inquiry, and he found all the organs healthy. Death, he believed, had arisen from neglect and want of proper nourishment. Although seven years old, the body weighed only 28 lbs., and was, in fact, nothing but skin and bone. Prior to the child's removal to the hospital she had been attended by Mr Brydon, one of the medical officers of the Tiverton Union, and his evidence was taken yesterday. The child, he said, was dreadfully burnt, and he believed the injuries would prove fatal. He ordered oil dressings. She got on well at first, but screamed a good deal when the wounds were examined. He told the mother particularly to guard against the adhesion of the thigh and abdomen. The child was kept in a filthy state; and he at length directed her removal to the hospital, and wrote the relieving officer directing him to provide an easy waggon to remove her. - Mr White, the relieving officer, said he did not get the note, but he allowed her 1s. to get the child removed to Exeter. The mother employed a donkey-cart, which occasioned the child great suffering. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," appending to that verdict their opinion that death had been accelerated by exhaustion, bad living, and bad attendance; and that the conduct of Mr Brydon, the relieving officer, and the mother was highly censurable. The Coroner concurred with this expression of opinion, designating the conduct of the relieving officer as inhuman.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 14 February 1871
PLYMOUTH - THOMAS WILTON, two months old, died suddenly on Sunday whilst in bed with his parents, and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was recorded by a Coroner's Jury, which met yesterday at the Cambridge Inn, Plymouth.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 14 February 1871
EXETER - A young woman, named ELIZA BREWER, is in custody at Exeter, on a charge of concealing the birth of her illegitimate child. The accused was a domestic servant at Sir John Bowring's. On Saturday night the dead body of a female child was found in a box in her bedroom by a fellow servant. Mr Stonard Edye, surgeon, saw the body and made a post mortem examination. He was of opinion that the child, which was very much decomposed, had been born a fortnight, but that it was not born alive. The Coroner's Jury returned a verdict of "Stillborn." The prisoner will be brought before the justices.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 14 February 1871
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Affray In Plymouth. Verdict Of Manslaughter. - The carpenter RICHARD UNDERHILL, who, as we stated yesterday, was knocked down in King-street on Saturday night by Edward Hallett, an engineer's apprentice, living at 31 Flora-street, and was lying in a precarious condition, has since died. Hallett was yesterday morning brought up at the Plymouth Petty Sessions, before the Mayor (Mr R. C. Serpell), and Mr J. B. Wilcocks, magistrates, on a charge of striking UNDERHILL, and thereby causing his death. The evidence shewed that about twenty minutes past eleven o'clock on Saturday night, Hallett and UNDERHILL were seen by a labouring man, named William Hodder, in the Prince Alfred public-house, Cecil-street. They were talking together, but were not quarrelling. A few minutes afterwards Hodder told UNDERHILL it was time for him to be home. He replied he was not going yet. Hodder then discovered that the conversation between the two men was about a man named Hallett, and heard Hallett say to UNDERHILL, - "You are very glad that Hallett is ...... ." Some place was mentioned, but what Hodder could not tell. Hodder again advised UNDERHILL to go home, when, pointing to Hallett, he said he was telling a parcel of lies. UNDERHILL looked viciously at him, was about to drop a dog he had under his arm, and had uttered the words, "Although you are big, I can ....," when Hodder stepped between them. Hallett said if UNDERHILL struck him he would not strike him again. Hodder then left them. They then appeared to be sober, and to know what they were about. A short time subsequently Hodder saw them again in Cecil-street. They then appeared to be having some words. He saw UNDERHILL drop his dog, raise his right hand and strike Hallett, he believed, in the breast. There was a person near who exclaimed to Hallett, "Give it him, he has struck you;" whereupon he struck UNDERHILL, who was on his defence at the time. UNDERHILL then took off his coat, and gave it to Hodder, who told him he had better not fight. UNDERHILL took no notice, and Hodder put the coat in the public-house. When he came out he saw them in a fighting attitude. He saw Hallett aim a blow at UNDERHILL, but whether it "came home" or not, he could not say. At all events UNDERHILL staggered and fell backwards. Hodder and Alfred Toop, carpenter, of 5 Wyndham-street, went immediately to Underhill, who was insensible, and paid every attention to him. According to Mr Toop he was then lying with the lower part of his body in the gutter and his head on the kerb stone. There were a few drops of blood about the road, which was thought to have come from his nose. UNDERHILL appeared to recognise the mention of his name, but answered questions with a moan and a nod of the head. He was then put on a chair, his face was washed, and he became sensible, and he was taken to his home, 3 Gloucester-place, Hallett, with others, assisting in carrying him thither. Toop asked Hallett why he struck UNDERHILL. Hallett replied that he had been knocked down twice by UNDERHILL, and that then he knocked him down. Hallett added that UNDERHILL had been throwing up things about his (Hallett's) father. UNDERHILL was found to be seriously ill. Hallett was apprehended by Police-constable Rodd about 10.30 on Sunday night at his house. He said he had knocked UNDERHILL down, but he had been struck first. - Mr Supt. Thomas applied for a remand for a week. - Hallett asked for bail. - The Mayor said it was a very serious charge, and bail could not be granted. He was then remanded for a week. - Last evening an Inquiry was held by Mr Brian, the Borough Coroner, in the Guildhall, before a double Jury. Similar evidence to that adduced before the Magistrates was given. The additional evidence given was that of Jane Baker, a married woman, who lived in the same house as the deceased, and who chiefly attended him until his death, at five minutes before three o'clock yesterday morning. He never recovered sensibility. - Mr G. Jackson, surgeon, who also attended the deceased, deposed that he was called to see him at half-past three on Sunday afternoon. He found him quite insensible, with paralysis and rigidity in all the limbs. He was breathing heavily, and had the symptoms of compression of the brain. There was a slight bruise over the nose, but he could discover no other mark of external violence. He considered the case hopeless from the first. Since his death he had made a post mortem examination of the body. He found on removing the scalp a distinct fracture of the skull, extending from the back of the head to about half-way down the frontal bone. This injury was sufficient to occasion death, and might have been caused by a fall backwards on a hard road. - In reviewing the case to the Jury, the Coroner pointed out that the man Hallett, who was seriously implicated, was not present. To his mind and it must appear so to the Jury, it appeared to be a very un-English kind of proceeding. It was an almost invariable rule that when an examination had been gone into against prisoners that they had been always present, and had an opportunity of asking questions. It was not his fault that Hallett was absent. He had written to the Mayor asking for Hallett to be present in the custody of one of the borough police, as the Inquest would be held within the precincts of the Guildhall, where the prisoner was confined. He also added in his letter that he need scarcely point out how undesirable it was that evidence similar to that given before the justices should be taken in the absence of a party likely to be seriously affected thereby. The application, he also wrote, was not made to raise a controversy concerning a question of privilege, but simply that justice might be done, and that the prisoner might not be prejudiced by absence from the Inquest. At six o'clock that evening he received a reply from the magistrates' clerk, by order of the Mayor, simply stating that Hallett had been before the justices and had been remanded for a week. That, Mr Brian continued, was the answer he got to his appeal. It would be superfluous for him to comment upon it. - Several Jurymen expressed displeasure at such an abrupt reply. After a short consultation they returned a verdict of "Manslaughter." - Hallett is a powerful young man, about twenty years of age; UNDERHILL was a small man, and was about 45 years of age. He is described by those who knew him as a "quiet and inoffensive man." 

Western Morning News, Saturday 18 February 1871
FALMOUTH - Strange Occurrence At Falmouth. - A somewhat strange affair has occurred at Falmouth. On Saturday last a young woman, apparently about 22 years of age, arrived by the 1.15 p.m. train, and obtained lodgings at Florence-terrace. She conducted herself in a very creditable manner, and there was nothing unusual in her behaviour, but on Wednesday morning her bedroom door being locked, and no reply being given to repeated knocks, access was obtained by the window, when she was found lying on the floor and dead. An empty bottle, which had contained prussic acid, was discovered in the room, and at an Inquest held on Thursday the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased had died from taking poison, but that there was no evidence to shew the state of mind she was in at the time. The deceased stated that her name was ISABELLA VAUGHAN, and it is believed that she belonged to or near Exeter.

Western Morning News, Monday 20 February 1871
WINKLEIGH - A Boy Shot Dead. - An Inquest was held by Mr R. Fulford on Friday to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN PICKARD, 11 years of age. It was stated in evidence that the boy, whose parents reside near Winkleigh, asked the wife of a labourer to lend him a pistol belonging to her husband. She refused, but the deceased took the pistol away, the woman being in bed ill. Some time afterwards he came to his parents and told them that he had been shot, and that he had seen smoke issuing from a stable. It is supposed, however, that the unfortunate boy was carrying the pistol in his pocket when it exploded the charge, which according to Mr Dingley, surgeon, consisted of powder simply, entering the lower part of his body. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The pistol has not yet been found.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 21 February 1871
EXETER - The fatal effects of an excessive use of intoxicating liquors was exemplified at an Inquest held at Exeter yesterday on THOMAS STAMP, whose body was picked up in the Exe. A verdict to the effect that deceased committed suicide while labouring under Temporary Insanity was returned, and it was stated in the course of the Inquiry that deceased had been suffering from delirium tremens for a week prior to drowning himself.

Western Morning News, Friday 24 February 1871
EXETER - The Mysterious Disappearance Of A Lady From Exeter. - An Inquest was held yesterday at the Cowley-bridge Inn, Exeter, on the body of MRS ANNE DICKER, 40 years of age, whose body was found near Stafford's Weir, in the river Exe, on Wednesday. Deceased was the widow of a clergyman, who had served as a missionary on the West Coast of Africa, and who died about five or six years since. In 1865 MRS DICKER was placed in the Wonford Asylum, Exeter, and Mr Thomas Lyle, M.D., the resident medical superintendent of that establishment, noticed then that her state of mind generally was one of depression, whilst her general bodily health was good. She was not at all violent. She left the Asylum in 1865 with the consent of her friends, but returned in a month. During the last two or three years she repeatedly wrote to the commissioners in lunacy, maintaining that she was sane, and urging that she should be discharged from the Asylum. The commissioners wrote to Dr Lyle, but he did not then feel so satisfied with her state of mind as to discharge her. On the 28th of September, 1868, the commissioners who inspected the Asylum, after a conversation with the deceased, made a note in a book recommending that she should be allowed to leave, but with this Dr Lyle did not concur, and she did not go. After this deceased gradually got better, and in 1870 again urged that she was in a fit condition to leave the Asylum. Before consenting to this Dr Lyle allowed her to go out whenever she pleased to call upon her relatives, and then return to the establishment. This went on for some months, and as she continued well, on the 14th of September last deceased finally left the Asylum and went to her friends. On the 26th of November she went to the house of Mrs Townsend in Friars Walk, Exeter, where she stopped until the 21st of January last, when she removed to 3, Southernhay. During her stay at Mrs Townshend's she was very quiet, but appeared much depressed. On one occasion when Mrs Townshend asked her what troubled her, she said "perhaps she would tell her one day." On the morning of the 26th of January she came down to breakfast at nine o'clock and then wore a brown dress. She left the house at ten o'clock the same morning, and as the ladies who occupied the premises - Miss Allen and Miss Mayo - knew she had been invited to visit her cousin, Miss Medland, at Hill's Court, nothing was thought at her going out in that way. She did not return that night, and inquiries at Hill's Court on the following morning led to the discovery that she had not been there. Her bedroom was then entered, and it was discovered that the brown dress which she had worn at breakfast was hanging up behind a door, and a black one, with white spots, taken away. Her watch and chain, purse (containing money), and keys were also found in the room. Every possible inquiry was made, and advertisements giving a description of MRS DICKER were issued; but nothing was heard of her until Wednesday. At about twelve o'clock on that day William Sirey, of Stoke Canon, who said he was employed "in looking after the river Exe," whilst walking in the marshes near Stafford's Weir, noticed something white between two elm trees, and on going to the spot found it to be the body of a woman, clothed in her under garments only. She was lying on her back, with her knees bent up, one shoulder resting against a railing and the other against a tree. Near her head was found a red flannel petticoat, but no other garments could be seen, nor had any been found, although a very careful search was subsequently made. The body was a considerable distance from the river, and had not been in the water at all. On her finger were found her gold wedding ring and keeper. The body was much decomposed. - Dr Lyle said he saw deceased in December and she was then very sadly depressed, and he advised her to take a little medicine. She had been with her husband at Sierra Leone, and had had a fever there, and he had often thought that the climate must have affected her. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Dead," it being the general opinion that deceased had died of cold, one of the Jurors remarking that "a more bitter night than that of the 26th of January he had never known. " - Deceased has two daughters, one aged 18 and the other 14.

Western Morning News, Saturday 25 February 1871
PLYMOUTH - The Fatal Accident At The Barbican, Plymouth. - An Inquiry was held yesterday at the Plymouth Guildhall, by Mr T. C. Brian, Borough Coroner, concerning the death of WILLIAM PEARSE, land surveyor, 73 years of age, who resided at Varna Cottage, Stonehouse. - A waterman named Burns stated that shortly before ten o'clock on Thursday night he was standing on the Barbican pier when a man - the deceased - passed him, and went to the top of the old steps. Thinking this was a person who had previously engaged his services he went towards him, when the deceased suddenly reeled, fell over a few steps, and then head foremost into the water. Witness in running after him also fell into the water, but he caught hold of the deceased and shouted for help. P.C. Yabsley came immediately to his assistance, and took the deceased to the Barbican station. He appeared to be in a stupor, and was quite unconscious. Mr J. N. Stevens, surgeon, was sent for, and after a "rather long period" came and examined the deceased, whose pulse was full and quick. Mr Stevens ordered him to be taken to the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, and a cab was accordingly sent for, but before he was half way to the Hospital, deceased expired. By a Juror: Mr Stevens did not stay at the Barbican station for more than two minutes. The deceased was not in the water for longer than half a minute. - P.C. Yabsley gave corroborative evidence. When the deceased was brought to the station he appeared to be in a fit. Witness went for Mr Stevens, who arrived at the station about twenty-five minutes after he (witness) left his house. The deceased recovered a little, and said he lived at Yealmpton. - George Craton, armourer to the Plymouth Volunteer Corps, saw the deceased the same evening as the accident. He was quite sober and appeared to be in perfect health. - John Nicholls Stevens, surgeon, stated that when P.C. Yabsley came to his house he was weighing out medicine, but he went shortly afterwards to the Barbican. The deceased's pulse was quick and full and his heart was beating in a proper manner. He did not think quite twenty-five minutes elapsed between the time he was called and when he saw the deceased. - R. Anderson, house surgeon at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, saw the deceased shortly before 12 o'clock on Thursday night. He was lying on a bed, and was quite dead. Witness subsequently made an examination of the body. There was nothing on the brain to account for death, but the vessels of the heart and chest were somewhat congested. This would be quite consistent with drowning or suffocation. Sudden immersion in the water might prove fatal to a man of deceased's age. - The room having been cleared the Jury discussed at some length the advisability of censuring Mr Stevens, but the majority were against such a course, and ultimately a verdict was returned that the deceased died from Shock to the Nervous System, caused by sudden immersion in the water in consequence of an accidental fall. The Jury also expressed themselves very greatly pleased with the conduct of Burns and Yabsley.

Western Morning News, Monday 27 February 1871
DARTMOUTH - An Inquiry was held at Dartmouth on Saturday by Mr J. M. Puddicombe, Coroner, relative to the death of JOHN PEEK, 79 years of age. The deceased complained on Thursday night of being rather unwell, and on Friday morning a relative going into the room to call him and his wife found that the former was dead, and had been so for a considerable time, the latter lying by his side asleep. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Visitation from God."

Western Morning News, Monday 27 February 1871
PLYMOUTH - Sudden Deaths At Plymouth. - The circumstances attending two sudden deaths formed the subjects of Inquiry at two Inquests held on Saturday by Mr Brian, the Plymouth Borough Coroner. The first Inquest was at the Harvest Home. JOHN CROSS, 39 years of age, ostler at the inn, went to bed on Friday night in apparently good health, and was found the next morning quite dead. His body, which was partially out of bed, was covered with blood, and there was also a pool of blood on the floor. It was shewn that death was caused by the rupture of a blood vessel, and a verdict that deceased died from Natural Causes was returned. The second was held at the Dock Hotel on HARRIET CULVERWELL, 69 years of age, who resided at 7 Bath Cottages. The deceased's husband went to bed on Friday night at nine o'clock, and extinguished the light, leaving his wife, who appeared in her usual health, sitting in an arm-chair. He awoke at one o'clock, and finding that the deceased was not in bed, he searched for her, and found that she was still sitting in the chair, her head resting on her right shoulder, and quite dead. She was of somewhat intemperate habits, but, according to her husband's statement, had never had a day's illness. There was no suspicious element in the case, and a verdict similar to that in the previous Inquest was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 28 February 1871
PLYMOUTH - Another Sudden Death At Plymouth. - Another sudden death has occurred at Plymouth. A man named CHARLES TIPPER, 47 years of age, belonging to Mr Luscombe's boarding gig, entered the boat yesterday afternoon in apparently excellent health and spirits. The gig shortly afterwards left for the Sound, and when she had got just outside the Cobbler Buoy, the deceased placed his oar across the boat and leant upon it. Mr Williams, the chief boatman, inquired if anything was the matter with him, and he replied, "I never felt such a thing in all my life before; I was giddy and for the time as blind as a bat." About a minute and a half after Mr Williams asked the deceased if he was better, and he replied in the affirmative, and resumed pulling, which he continued until they reached the vessel they were sent to. Mr Williams boarded her, and during his absence TIPPER'S head was observed to drop, and he would have fallen if one of the boatmen, named Harding, had not caught him. Mr Williams was called, and he directed the men to pull for the shore; but before they had got half way to the Barbican TIPPER died. An Inquest was held later in the day, and in summing up the evidence adduced the Coroner (Mr Brian) referred to the advisability of a place for the reception of bodies provided nearer the Barbican than the present dead-house. The Jury found that the deceased died from the Visitation of God.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 1 March 1871
TORQUAY - A Young Woman Burnt To Death. - An Inquest was held at the Clarence Hotel, Torquay, yesterday, on SARAH COLES, aged twenty-three, who died on Sunday from the effects of burning. The deceased, who was a servant at Normount, was cleaning out the kitchen on Saturday, and was moving backward towards the stove, when her clothes caught fire. She was so frightfully injured that she died on Sunday afternoon. Jane Ham, her fellow servant, exhibited much intrepidity in putting out the fire with a blanket, for which she was complimented by the Coroner and Jury. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 3 March 1871
ST. MARYCHURCH - An Inquest was held by Mr Michelmore, Coroner, at Babbicombe, yesterday, on RICHARD FORD MATTHEWS, whose body was washed ashore on Oddicombe beach on Wednesday morning. The deceased, who was a labourer, and forty-five years of age, left his home on the 18th of January, and has not since been seen alive. It is presumed that he fell into the sea under Walls Hill, and his body became embedded in the sand, from which it was dislodged by the strong swell during the last few days and thrown up on the beach. A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 4 March 1871
PLYMOUTH - A housemaid named DAW, living at Cromwell Lodge, Higher Compton, Plymouth, complained on Tuesday of being in great pain, and subsequently told a fellow servant that a baby was in the closet. Upon a search being made it was discovered that the child had been pressed down the pan so tightly that the syphon had to be broken, and the masonry taken away to get the body out. Before DAWE informed the servant respecting the child being in the closet it was not suspected that she was enceinte. At an Inquest held on Thursday Mr G. Jackson, surgeon, stated that he did not think the child had had an independent existence. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Dead."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 7 March 1871
STOKE DAMEREL - An Inquest was held yesterday at Devonport on RICHARD HOSKINS, a mason and builder. Deceased had been depressed in spirits for some time past, owing to the death of a son, and marriage of his only daughter, who had taken charge of his home. He was heard to say that he would destroy himself as life had become a burden, and he was found in an outhouse yesterday morning hanging from a beam quite dead. The Jury returned a verdict of "Temporary Insanity."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 7 March 1871
PLYMOUTH - A Child Drowned At The Hoe. - A girl, about thirteen years of age, named ANNIE LAPTHORNE, living with her father and mother in Finewell-street, Plymouth, was drowned last evening off Pebbleside steps, at the Hoe. She and others were on the steps looking at the strong waves rushing in on the beach, when she was knocked off the steps by one of them, and while on the beach was carried off by a succeeding wave. An elderly gentleman took off his coat and made two attempts to rescue the child but was unable to do so the waves carrying him against the wall. The body of the child was recovered about nine o'clock, and the Coroner's Inquest will be held today. When the father and stepmother of the deceased were made acquainted with the circumstances they were under the influence of intoxicating liquors, and appeared but little concerned in the matter.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 8 March 1871
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Accident At chemical Works In Plymouth. - Mr William Harvey's cement and chemical manufactory, Plymouth, has been the scene of a very lamentable accident. PHILIP CANNAFORD, a steady and intelligent man, but rather careless, was employed in manufacturing sulphate of ammonia, work which eight years' experience had made him minutely acquainted with. In order to make this substance the gas liquor from the gas house is brought by pipes into tanks in the ammonia house. Sulphuric acid is then let in by a sealed syphon, and its contact with the gas liquor frees sulphurated hydrogen. this is heated in the tank, but it is possible, under careless management, that some may escape and float into the ammonia house. CANNAFORD was at work early last Saturday morning in this house, with a boy assistant named William Turner. He sent the boy on an errand, and when the latter was returning he looked into the window of the house, and saw CANNAFORD sitting down on the ground, leaving against a pan, just under the window. His eyes were shut, and his head was on one side. He was quite insensible, and appeared to be dead. He was taken to his home near Deadman's Bay, where he was attended by Mr Square, jun., surgeon. At the Inquest yesterday, Mr Square said he found the deceased totally unconscious with violent spasmodic contractions of nearly all the muscles of his body. His pulse was very rapid and his respiration very quick and laboured. His skin was of a dark, almost copper colour, from lividity. He was sweating an extremely acid sweat. The only treatment Mr Square could give him was fresh air. He tried to give him some brandy, but could not get him to swallow it. The deceased died on Sunday evening. Mr Square explained that the only thing that could have saved the deceased at the time he first saw him was the inhalation of oxygen, but there was no apparatus in Plymouth for applying it to the lungs of the deceased. It would have taken several hours to make a rude apparatus, and by that time it would have been the wrong treatment, because he would have passed through the stage at which it was necessary. He believed the death of the deceased was caused by chemical decomposition in the blood, from the inhalation of some noxious gas. Sulphurated hydrogen and carbonic acid gas combined were sufficient to produce a fatal effect. - Mr Harvey stated that the works were considered rather healthy than otherwise. - The Jury returned a verdict "That the deceased died from the effect of Poisoning of the Blood, which was entirely the result of an Accident."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 8 March 1871
PLYMOUTH - Shocking Disclosures At A Coroner's Inquest. - A case of shameful brutality was brought under the notice of a Coroner's Jury at the Plymouth Guildhall last evening, when an Inquest was held concerning the death of HANNAH LAPTHORNE, 14 years of age. - Henrietta Rogers, a playmate of the deceased, stated that they with two or three other girls were playing on the steps at Pebbleside, under the Hoe, shortly after 4 p.m. on Monday, when a wave came in and carried deceased off. Witness heard her cry, "Catherine, Catherine - Hetty, Hetty, come and save me," and a man ran down, threw off his coat, and rushed into the water. At this time the deceased was struggling near some pieces of timber, about 30 feet from the steps, and the man's effort to reach her were fruitless, the water knocking him back against the wall. The witness then proceeded to the deceased's residence to inform her parents of the occurrence. they were not at home, and she went to a beerhouse at the bottom of Finewell-street, which she knew the deceased's father frequented. Here she found him and his wife - deceased's stepmother - sitting at a table with a pint of beer before them. The witness, who was crying, went up to LAPTHORNE and said, "Your HANNAH'S drowned;" to which the miscreant replied, "Let the little ...... go." He was drunk at the time. In continuation the witness stated that the deceased, who had no frock on, told her that her stepmother had pawned the garment, and the poor girl appeared to be vexed that her clothes were so ragged. - Mr Williams, Coroner's officer, stated that he went to deceased's home on Monday night, and found the stepmother crouching in a corner. He told her to get up, which she did, with the assistance of another woman, but she was so intoxicated that she could not stand without holding to the table. He went away and returned shortly afterwards, by which time the body had arrived. He saw deceased's father, and said to him, "This is a pretty state of things; here's the mother beastly drunk, and you're very little better." LAPTHORNE replied that he could not help it, and, leaning over the body, observed, "I may as well die too." Witness then went to look for the mother, whom he found crouching behind the door of an empty room. He said to her, "You have pawned the child's frock for a shilling;" and she replied, "Well, what of that? Yes, I did it to buy food." - Mr Brian, the Coroner, in summing up, said the case was the most deplorable and disgraceful that had ever come before him, the more so because it did not seem to have the slightest effect on the parents, of whose culpable negligence they had had evidence. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and severely censured the parents for their neglect of the child, and their disgraceful conduct. The man and woman were both present, and appeared little concerned at the tragic occurrence. In fact, when asked if they wished to say anything, they made statements so evidently false as to elicit cries of "shame," and to induce the Coroner to observe that he was glad he had not sworn them. LAPTHORNE is a quarryman and has been in the receipt of 17s. pr week for the last three months. A neighbour present stated that the deceased had been supported by a brother, her parents having thoroughly neglected her.

Western Morning News, Friday 10 March 1871
PLYMOUTH - Singular Death At Plymouth. - The circumstances attendant on the death of RICHARD TREVELOR, cattle drover, formed the subject of an Inquiry at an Inquest held at the Plymouth Guildhall yesterday by Mr Brian. The deceased, who was 31 years of age, resided at 27 Richmond-street, and a neighbour named Charlotte Parker stated that on the evening of the 2nd instant she was called to deceased's room by his wife. She found a quantity of blood on the floor, and was informed by deceased's wife that he had crept under the bed, whence witness and her niece pulled him. She asked deceased, who was intoxicated, what was bleeding, and he replied, "It's my finger," at the same time holding up his right hand, from which a great quantity of blood was coming. Witness washed the hand, and applied sticking plaster. He went to work on Monday and Tuesday last, and on the latter day, Mr Jackson, surgeon, called and gave him a prescription. On Wednesday morning he was very ill, and Mr Jackson was sent for. Mr Jackson, on his arrival, scolded them for calling him out of his "warm bed" at six in the morning for such a "foolish matter," and then told deceased to pen his mouth. The latter muttered through his teeth that he could not, and endeavoured to do so with both his hands. Mr Jackson, then, having procured a spoon, tried to force deceased's mouth open, and said to him, "You can open your mouth if you like." MRS TREVELOR remarked "If he could he would see", and Mr Jackson replied that he could do nothing with him, he would not open his mouth, and said he would return in company with another gentleman and chloroform him. Deceased had had a fit of convulsions before the arrival of Mr Jackson, and cried out "Oh, my back." Mr Jackson returned at one p.m., but deceased had been removed to the hospital under Mr Eccles's direction. - Louisa Cragg, niece of the last witness, corroborated a portion of her evidence, and said on Saturday morning deceased was intoxicated and ran after his little boy, upsetting the table and cutting his big toe slightly by the side of the nail. Witness bound it up for him. The deceased was a tolerably healthy man, but she had heard him complain of pains in his back. - Harriet Pratt, acting nurse of the accident ward at the South Devon Hospital, stated that the deceased was received shortly after noon on Wednesday, and was put to bed and attended to by the house surgeon. His jaw was firmly set, but as he had lost one of his teeth, a little brandy and water was supplied to him through the aperture. Witness heard him say, "I fell I am dying." He died at a quarter past 3 o'clock. - George H. Eccles, M.R.C.S., stated that on Wednesday he was attending a person living opposite to the deceased, when he received a very urgent message asking him to come and see a dying man. He went immediately, and found deceased in bed, lying on his back, with a peculiar fixed smile on his countenance, and perspiring profusely. He told him to pen his mouth, and deceased opened his teeth just far enough for a double sheet of paper to have been passed between. Witness examined him, and found the muscles of his body rigid, but not quite so much as is usual in such cases. There was a jagged wound across the top joint of the fourth finger of the right hand,, from which a humour was exuding, and a considerable quantity came out on a slight pressure. He asked deceased the cause, and deceased murmured that he was carrying half a bullock on Thursday week last and slipped and split his finger. The deceased fancied he had cut a vein, as it had bled very much. Witness incised the finger, ordered a turpentine injection, and powdered calomel to be thrown between his teeth, and caused him to be removed to the hospital. Witness thought that deceased's death was caused by tetanus, induced by the cut on his finger, and aggravated by intemperate habits. Witness was not aware before the Inquest that deceased was being attended to by Mr Jackson. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Tetanus from a cut on the finger caused by a fall."

Western Morning News, Saturday 11 March 1871
SOUTH TAWTON - An Inquest was held by Mr R. Fulford, at South Zeal, on Thursday, on WM. COOMBE, ten years of age, who was killed by being crushed between two waggons on the Okehampton Railway, now in course of completion. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 22 March 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held by Mr T. C. Brian, at the Plymouth Guildhall yesterday, on a man named TOZER, found drowned at the Hoe. The deceased when last seen alive, at 6.30 on Monday morning, stated that he was going to work, but from his recent conduct it seemed that he was of unsound mind. A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned. The deceased was 58 years of age.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 29 March 1871
EAST STONEHOUSE - Mr A. B. Bone held an Inquest at the Queen's Arms Inn, Stonehouse, yesterday, on WILLIAM GLANVILLE, aged 55, pork butcher, Edgcumbe-street, who about ten days since, when riding from Liskeard to Lerrin, was violently thrown, and received injuries which proved fatal, by his horse running against the pole of a mail phaeton. It was stated that the deceased was blind in one eye, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 29 March 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at the Plymouth Guildhall by Mr T. C. Brian, relative to the death of a child named WILLIAM JOHN HUGHES, son of a labourer in the Victualling Yard. The child fell about four months ago, and a few days since a swelling appeared on his back, and although medical assistance was obtained he died on Monday. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 4 April 1871
PLYMPTON - A charge of concealment of birth was preferred against an unmarried woman named MARY ANNE MARTIN, a domestic servant, at the Roborough Petty Sessions yesterday. Mrs Adams, the prisoner's mistress, charged the girl with being enceinte, but the latter denied it. Mrs Adams, however, told her she had better go home, and MARTIN left on the 5th March, returning on the 19th. The body of a child greatly decomposed was found in a tub in Mrs Adams's coal cellar, and at an Inquest held at Plympton on Saturday the Jury returned an Open Verdict, the body being too much decomposed to allow of any certainty as to whether the child was born alive. Prisoner was committed for trial.

Western Morning News, Thursday 6 April 1871
STOKE DAMEREL - Starved To Death. - Mr Allan B. Bone, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday, at the Devonport Guildhall, on MARY ANN CHAPMAN, 33 years of age, who had been married twice, her second husband being at the present time a private in the 2nd (Queen's) Regiment. - ELIZABETH ANN LOUTH, aged 13 years, daughter by the first marriage, stated that she and her mother lived in an upstair room in a court at the back of 12 Queen-street. They were maintained by the money obtained on rags and bones which she (LOUTH) picked up on the parish quay. She generally made about 2s. a week, 1s. of which went for rent. Her mother, who was partially blind, had been ill for a long time, and was obliged to keep her bed for two months. She never applied to the parish for relief. When she (LOUTH) went away to pick up rags and bones her mother always made her lock the door, and take the key, as she was afraid that if the neighbours came and saw her they would get her removed to the Workhouse. The deceased told her if people asked her whether her mother had a doctor she was to say "Yes." About two months ago the husband, CHAPMAN, paid three visits to the deceased, who complained that she wanted nourishing food and clothing. On the first occasion he gave her 6d.; on the second, a pint of porter, half of which he drank himself; and on the third, two pennyworth of potted conger and two pence. Last Sunday her mother grew worse and died. - On being asked by the Coroner if she went to school, LOUTH said twelve months ago she attended the Naval and Military Free Schools, and her mother paid a penny a week. At that time they lived with her (LOUTH'S) grandmother, who maintained them by picking up rags and bones. - Elizabeth Julian saw the deceased about a month ago, and on asking her if she had a medical man she replied "Yes." There was no bedstead in the room. Deceased lay on the floor. The bedding consisted of a tie filled with straw and flock, an old quilt, and two black skirts. She saw in the room a pound of treacle and a half-quartern loaf just cut, one candle and a small quantity of coals. Deceased told her she had not applied for relief, because she would rather die than go into the Workhouse. - CHAPMAN, the husband, stated that he was sent out to the East Indies in 1866, and after he arrived there he had to spend a lot of money in clothes. In 1867 he sent home to the deceased 30s., and asked her to send out "the marriage lines," as he would try to get her on the strength of the regiment. She sent out word that she did not want to come. For more than two years he never heard from his wife. While he was in the East he drew his pay, which he spent in tobacco and other things he required. He arrived home on the 28th November last, and on finding out the deceased he asked her whether he should try to get her on the strength of the regiment. Her reply was that she did not want to have anything to say to him. Two days afterwards he went away on a six week's furlough with £4 in his pocket. The last two months he had been in the hospital, and was still under the doctor's care. - Mr Bazeley, surgeon, who had made a post mortem examination of the body, said there was a tubercular disease in the left lung, with slight adhesions from old pleurisy. Deceased had not, however, disease to any extent. Judging from the condition of the body, which was emaciated, with very little fat, he thought that if she had been supplied with proper food and medicine, under favourable circumstances, her life might have been spared for some time. The cause of death was want of proper nourishment, coupled with the disease which existed in the left lung. - The Coroner thought from the evidence the woman was in a proper condition to provide for herself, because she had been living with her daughter, whom she might have instructed to apply for parochial relief. - The Jury found that the deceased died from Want of the proper Necessaries of Life. They said they could not censure the husband, because when he went to the deceased she said she did not want to have anything to say to him. - The Coroner told CHAPMAN that he had had a very narrow escape. It was the duty of a husband to provide proper necessaries for his wife, and if the deceased had been in such a condition as would have prevented her from applying for parochial relief, it was clear there would have been a verdict of manslaughter.

Western Morning News, Saturday 8 April 1871
TEIGNMOUTH - Suicide At Teignmouth. - An Inquest was held on Thursday evening by Mr H. Michelmore, at Higher Holcombe Farm, Teignmouth, on JOHN WILCOX, retired grocer, aged 58, who lodged at the farm, the occupier of which is Mr Brimage. The deceased left the London Hotel at about quarter to eleven o'clock on Wednesday night, arriving home at half-past eleven, at which hour Mr Brimage, who was in bed, heard him fasten the door. Shortly after midnight Mr Brimage heard one of the chairs moved in the kitchen, but thought little of the occurrence, as the deceased was accustomed to take refreshments before retiring to rest. Between five and six o'clock on Thursday morning some farm labourers upon entering the kitchen found MR WILCOX dead and rigid, hanging by a flag from a hook in the ceiling, and did not attempt to cut down the body until the arrival of Police-sergeant Coles. It was evident that the deceased, who for some time past has been in a desponding state of mind, had retired to rest, but had shortly afterwards risen to carry out his fatal intention. It is supposed that the noise heard by Mr Brimage was caused by the deceased kicking away a chair found close to his feet. A verdict of "Temporary Insanity" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 10 April 1871
STOKE DAMEREL - The Death From Shooting At Milehouse. Verdict Of Manslaughter. - Mr Allan B. Bone, Coroner, held an Inquest on Saturday at the Britannia Inn, Milehouse, on RICHARD JOHN FRANCIS CRUMP, aged 14 years. On the previous day (Good Friday) James Wedlock, confectioner, living at Rendle-street, Plymouth, erected a "shooting gallery" in the path field, behind Rose Cottage, Milehouse, and left it in charge of Elizabeth Hannah Gibbs, his servant, who was accustomed to the management of such an apparatus. Firing commenced shortly before midday, and was continued until between three and four o'clock in the afternoon. At that time Sergeant Walter Thompson, 2nd (Queen's) Regiment, had four shots, the rifle being loaded each time with powder, sufficient to fill the gauge of a powder flask, and a bullet. The last ball fired went through the target and entered the head of the deceased, who fell upon the ground insensible. He was picked up by Richard Partridge, a carpenter, and carried to the Britannia Inn, where he died shortly before six o'clock. At the request of the Coroner, John Eva Pearce, smith and fitter, in the employ of Mr E. Couch, Fore-street, Devonport, had made a careful examination of the shooting gallery. Many parts of the tube, he said, were eaten out with rust and wear. The target box, which was about two feet square, fitted into the end of the tube. In the middle of the box was a round iron plate, and in the centre of this plate was a hole which was called "the bull's-eye." Behind this hole was another plate of iron called "the striking plate," which worked on a pivot, and to which was attached three bells fixed on a stem of iron, and which stem was inserted into the rod of the striking plate. On the top of the box was a square piece of wire netting, with a square hold in it, about two inches in size, through which the rod of the striking plate passed. There was no protection for the bells, which were above the wire netting. The box, the outside of which was wood, appeared to be thoroughly worn out, being patched in all directions. Had the box been in perfect order the accident could not have happened. The wire netting should have been a fixture, whereas it was moveable. Had it been fixed, firing would have been perfectly safe. Owing to its being moveable, whenever a rifle was fired the force of the shot would move the wire netting, and the striking plate being in consequence put out of position allowed a shot entering the "bull's-eye" to pass out through the end of the box. Taking the condition of the machine as he found it, he considered that an accident was probable. - The witness, on being cross-examined by Mr T. C. Brian, who watched the proceedings on behalf of Wedlock, who was in custody, said he had never constructed shooting galleries, but had often examined them. The box seemed to have been constructed in the usual way, and the iron plates were about the ordinary thickness - half an inch. The striking plate was a good deal larger than the "bull's-eye". The plate, therefore, might be very much out of place, and yet a shot might make the bells ring. The shot, however, would have to go through the "bull's-eye" to make them sound. Whilst there was enough of the plate to cover the "bull's-eye" there was no danger of the bullet passing out at the back of the box. He thought every shot was calculated to displace the striking plate a little after once being moved, and each successive shot a little more. Both plates in the box were perfectly strong enough for tall the purposes intended. - The servant, Gibbs, said Good Friday was the first day that the machine was worked by Wedlock, who purchased it from a man named Brewer. Saw Wedlock put on the wire netting, but could not tell whether he fastened it. During the day the bells rang several times, which indicated that the bullet had entered the "bull's-eye." When the last shot was fired by Sergeant Thompson she did not hear them ring. - Partridge, who picked up the deceased, said there were in the field at the time three shooting galleries, besides roundabouts and whirligigs. - Mr Brian contended there was not sufficient evidence to shew criminal negligence on the part of Wedlock, who put up the machine in full and perfect confidence and belief that it was fit for the purpose for which it was intended. Had anything happened immediately after the gallery was erected, it would have borne out Mr Pearce's opinion that an accident was probable, but the firing lasted four hours, and the bells rang several times. An accident, then, at the time it commenced was rather improbable. He submitted that no impact by firing would have the effect of drawing the striking plate one way or the other, and that it was more likely some mischievous person tipped it on one side, and thus allowed the bullet to pass through the box. - The Coroner pointed out to the Jury that they should not allow any feelings of disgust arising from the scandalous, he had almost said blasphemous, desecration of one of the most solemn days of the year to influence their judgment with regard to the verdict. They had simply to consider whether Wedlock, who brought the shooting gallery into the field for the purpose of its being used, took the trouble to acquaint himself with its proper condition. The circumstance of his having been so recently in possession of it did not, in his opinion, make any difference. It was Wedlock's duty to have satisfied himself that it was safe. If, after the evidence they had heard, they believed the youth died in consequence of a bullet from that machine striking him, and if they also believed that the shooting gallery was in such a defective state as to make it probable that an accident would happen, then he thought their verdict must be manslaughter. If they had any substantial doubt - if they thought the machine was fit and safe for use - then it would be one of accidental death. He was sorry he could not find any law affecting the disgusting practice of sporting on that solemn day - Good Friday. He confessed it would have been a great satisfaction to him if all the parties in the field on the previous day, who were engaged in promoting these unseemly and scandalous sports, could have been brought before a proper tribunal and punished. There was no doubt that the man Wilcox would hear from his lessee, that the terms of his lease had been violated by allowing shows to be erected in the fields on Good Friday. - The Jury, after a quarter of an hour's private consultation, returned a verdict of Manslaughter against Wedlock, who stands committed for trial on the Coroner's warrant. - Mr bone said he would be willing to take bail, Wedlock in £40 and two sureties in £40 each. - Wedlock was brought up at the Devonport Guildhall on Saturday morning, and charged with causing the death of RICHARD CRUMP, in a field at Milehouse, by having a defective shooting gallery there on the 7th of April. - Mr Brian appeared for the prisoner. - Mr Superintendent Lynn said he was at Milehouse on the previous day, and saw the boy die. Afterwards witness came to the police-station, where he found the prisoner, who said he did not know that the shooting gallery was defective, as he had bought it from a man named Brewer, and that was the first day he had used it. There was a young woman named Gibbs present, who said she was in charge of the gallery, and he (Mr Lynn) asked her if it were in the same state while she were using it as prisoner left it? The prisoner answered, "I erected it in the morning." - Wedlock was then remanded until this morning.

Western Morning News, Thursday 13 April 1871
HARBERTON - An Inquest was held last night at the Maltster's Arms, Harbertonford, by Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on JAMES ANDREWS, who was killed on Monday evening by being thrown from a dray. The evidence adduced was in accordance with the facts detailed yesterday. The position of the barrels in the drag led to the supposition that the deceased must have been jerked out. At the place where the accident happened two deep gutters cross the road, and the sudden jerk caused by crossing the gutters was supposed to have been the cause of the accident. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and recommended that a representation should be made to the highway authorities that the spot in question was dangerous to travelling, and that the gutters should be carried under the roadway.

Western Morning News, Saturday 15 April 1871
ST MAWES, CORNWALL - CAPTAIN FOGWILL, of the Royal Tar, of Brixham, which had put in at St. Mawes, for orders, was accidentally drowned by walking over the pier when proceeding to join his boat. The body was recovered in about 45 minutes, but life was extinct. An Inquest was held on Thursday, when a verdict of Accidentally Drowned was returned. The deceased leaves a wife and five children.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 18 April 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquiry was held yesterday by Mr T. C. Brian, Plymouth Borough Coroner, on CHARLOTTE HOCKING, found dead in her bed on the night of the 15th inst. The deceased was a woman of very intemperate habits, and a verdict was returned that the deceased died from Natural Causes, accelerated by intemperance.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 19 April 1871
EAST STONEHOUSE - The Inquiry into the death of WILLIAM HILL, stoker, belonging to the Indus, who, as we yesterday stated, was found dead in the mud in Stonehouse Lake, close to the shore, on Monday morning, was held yesterday by Mr Bone, Coroner, and a verdict of "Found Dead" was returned. One of the toll collectors at the Stonehouse Bridge, named Henry Lang, heard a gurgling noise, as if someone was drowning, between one and two o'clock on Wednesday morning of last week. He looked over the bridge, and went down the slope between the bridge and the brewery, but could see no one, and he did not hear the noise repeated. The Coroner called attention to the great need of some fence, or barrier, to prevent persons from going down this slope. He was sure that if the attention of the lord of the manor were called to it, he would do what was possible to make it safer.

Western Morning News, Saturday 22 April 1871
PLYMOUTH - A man named TEMPLETON, aged 62 years, residing in Plymouth, died suddenly in bed yesterday morning. He had not been seriously indisposed. An Inquest was held, and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 22 April 1871
STOKE DAMEREL - A painful case was investigated by the Devonport Coroner yesterday. HENRY MOORE, who had formerly been in the Metropolitan police, from which he was invalided, committed suicide by hanging on Thursday, in consequence, it is supposed, of depression of spirits caused by being told that he would never recover from his illness. A verdict of "Suicide whilst in a state of Unsound Mind" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 22 April 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at the Plymouth Workhouse yesterday on JOHN MAYNE, aged sixty-nine years. The deceased was admitted in the hospital ward about a month since suffering from a carbuncle, and if anything he asked for was not given at once he would grumble, and say he would throw himself out of the window. On Wednesday he went to the closet, and a few minutes afterwards thrust himself through a small window, and falling on an earthen pan, received a severe wound on the right temple, which proved fatal. A verdict of "Temporary Insanity" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 25 April 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest on MINNIE KING ATWILL, aged four months, who, as was stated yesterday, was found dead in bed by the side of her mother, who resides at the Post-office Inn, Plymouth, was held by Mr Brian, Borough Coroner, yesterday, and after evidence shewing that the deceased was very delicate, and subject to convulsions, had been received, a verdict of "Suffocation from Accidental Pressure" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 25 April 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at the Harvest Home, Plymouth, yesterday, by Mr T. Brian, Borough Coroner, on a man named HILL. Mary Askell stated that on Saturday, between 7 and 8 p.m., she saw deceased walking up Week-street rather unsteadily, and upon going to him he told her that he had been running. He was taken to Mr Cole's stores, and died in a few minutes. Mr Cole, china merchant, said the deceased, who had been in his employ for the last thirty-three years, was very intemperate, but he had not noticed him intoxicated for the past fortnight. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Friday 28 April 1871
PLYMOUTH - The injuries sustained by the boy - GEORGE ROWLAND, aged 8 years - who fell over the rocks at the ladies' bathing place at Plymouth Hoe, on Wednesday, proved fatal; and at an Inquest held yesterday by Mr T. C. Brian, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and recommended the erection of a fence to prevent boys climbing the wall.

Western Morning News, Thursday 4 May 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held yesterday by Mr Brian, Plymouth Coroner, on HENRY BURN, labourer, aged 64, who died suddenly from heart disease, whilst working at the Prince Rock limekilns. Deceased told his wife an hour or so before his death that he never felt better in his life. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 5 May 1871
EAST STONEHOUSE - Fatal Accident To A Marine. The Jurisdiction Of Coroners. - An Inquest was held at the Royal Naval Hospital Inn, yesterday afternoon, by Mr A. B. Bone, County Coroner, on the body of a private in the Royal Marines, which was found floating in the Hamoaze on the previous day. Mr Nicholas James Wood, carpenter of the Terrible, observed the body in the water a hundred yards north of Keyham, and he took it n tow. On the great coat which it had on was, "A. SHERRIFF, R.M., 1866." The body was taken to H.M.S. Indus, and by order of the commander of that vessel to the Naval Hospital. - The Coroner said, on the night of the 21st March last a marine named SHERRIFF, while on duty as sentry on board the Agincourt, fell over-board and had not since been heard of. There could be no moral doubt that this was the body of the poor fellow, but the fact of names being on the clothes, and nothing else, was not a legal identity of the body, and the only verdict that the Jury could return was that the deceased, who was not known, was found drowned. - One of the Jurors said there was no doubt in his mind that it was SHERRIFF'S body, and if the Jury could return a verdict to that effect whatever money or effects he had would be restored to his relatives. - The Coroner said they must be bound by the law .. (hear, hear) - and the suggestion of the Juror could not be carried out. - A verdict as suggested was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 11 May 1871
PLYMOUTH - ELLEN LASHBROOK, 13 months old, daughter of a wheelwright residing at Laira, near Plymouth, was scalded on Saturday night by boiling over of water in a kettle. The child died on Monday, and at an Inquest held by Mr Bone, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 11 May 1871
BARNSTAPLE - Shocking Accident Near Barnstaple. - Early yesterday morning JOHN SMITH, aged 26, went to the Playford paper mills, where he was employed, and, it is thought, opened the cover of the manhole of a revolving boiler. Through this the steam rushed with great force, hurled SMITH to a considerable distance, fracturing his skull and severely scalding him. He appears to have been the only man on the premises, and as he staggered towards Barnstaple, a Mr Vickery residing in the first house on the road heard the poor fellow's groans, and, getting out of bed, dressed and went to seek a conveyance to convey the sufferer, whose skin in several parts was peeling off, to Barnstaple. No less than three persons who were applied to refused a conveyance, but the fourth, Mr Allen, immediately acceded to the request. The poor fellow, who had a wife, and child, subsequently died in great agony in the North Devon Infirmary. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed great disapprobation at the unfeeling manner in which the parties refusing their conveyances acted. The Coroner, Mr I. Bencraft, concurred in this censure, and said it was scarcely credible such cold-hearted people could be found in the present day. The individuals referred to are a dairyman named Laverton; Wm. Harding, a labourer in the employ of Colonel Harding; and a nurseryman named Ireland.

Western Morning News, Friday 12 May 1871
EXETER - Mr H. W. Hooper, the Exeter Coroner, held two Inquests last evening on children who had met their deaths by accident. In one case the grandchild of MR HANCOCK, a brickmaker, of St. Sidwell's, fell into a stagnant pool of water, and was not discovered until she was quite dead. In the other the infant son of a man named HORWILL, living in Bartholomew-street, had his head injured by a mangle which his father was working, and died in a few hours. The child had crept into the room unnoticed, and got between the end of the mangle and the wall. In both instances verdicts of "Accidental Death" were returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 17 May 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at the Plymouth Guildhall, yesterday by Mr T. C. Brian, Coroner, relative to the death of a lad named GEORGE HENRY JEFFERY. Mr Worth, farmer, Bugle Farm, near Shaugh, stated that on Monday week the deceased was driving the horses attached to the machinery for crushing corn. Witness was in an adjoining compartment attending to the crushing, when suddenly the machine stopped and he heard a shriek. On going out he found that the deceased had entangled one of his legs in the horse gear. Mr Ellery, surgeon, Ridgeway, was promptly in attendance, wrapped the wound up, and ordered the lad to be taken to the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital. There was no danger if the deceased had kept in the right path, but according to his own statement he stood on the wheel of the horse gear, and touched the horses with the whip when they jerked him off, and his leg came in contact with the wheel. - Dr Anderson, surgeon of the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, stated that on Tuesday, the 9th of May, the deceased was admitted into the Hospital with a fractured leg. All went favourably until Thursday, when the deceased had slight fainting fits, and gradually got worse until he died on Monday. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 23 May 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest on a woman named JANE TAMLIN, aged 43 years, the wife of a tailor, was held yesterday at the Plymouth Guildhall by Mr Brian, Coroner. The deceased had been in delicate health, and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 25 May 1871
SALCOMBE REGIS - The Mysterious Affair At Salcombe. - An Inquest was held yesterday by Mr Michelmore, on ZENAS SHARIZER DREW, a lad about 10 years of age. It has been previously stated that the deceased on Saturday last went out in a boat with a man of unsound mind, named Steer, who returned without him, and that a pilot named Jarvis subsequently found the boy's body in the water, being attracted to the spot by seeing a hat, which it was proved the deceased had been wearing, on a rock. Jarvis asserted that it was impossible for a boy to reach the spot where the hat was found. - Samuel Clark, labourer, stated that on Saturday morning Steer and a lad about eight years of age came into Spray Cove, where the witness at that time was at work. Steer invited witness to come down to the boat, and they had some bread and butter and cider together. Steer gave the deceased, to whom he appeared very kind, a piece of bread and butter, and then sculled away with him. Witness subsequently saw Steer go up the harbour alone. - Richard Cook, miner, deposed that he met Steer near the spot where the deceased was found, and the latter said to him he was looking for a little boy whom he had lost somewhere, and had been calling for ten minutes. - Joseph Winsor, mariner, was spoken to by Steer upon his return to Salcombe after the cruise he had taken in company with the deceased. He said in conversation, "I am a curious old fellow, and there is mischief belonging to me." - P.C. Matthews found traces of two persons walking through the wood near the place where the body was picked up. Saw a mark as if someone had slipped over the cliff. - J. M. B. Langworthy, surgeon, had examined the body. There were two wounds on the head, just above the right ear, and two slight bruises on the arm, caused, he thought, by a fall, and not by a sharp instrument. Considered it dangerous for children to ramble about with Steer, who was not responsible for his actions. - Police-Sergeant Knight said the cliff above the spot where deceased's body was found was very dangerous. It was overhung with ivy, upon which in some places a person might step and imagine he was about to tread upon firm ground. - Steer was called, but his manner appeared to convince all present of his insanity, and the Coroner gave the man's son instructions to carefully watch him. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Saturday 27 May 1871
BIDEFORD - The Suspected Infanticide At Bideford. - An Inquest on the newly-born male child which, as was stated yesterday, was found decapitated and minus one leg in a house in Honestone-lane, Bideford, was held yesterday. The evidence shewed that ZENA MAYNARD, thirty-six years of age, domestic servant to Mr Murray, Rowenna, Westward Ho! was suspected by her mistress of being enceinte, but she denied such was the case. On Tuesday last she performed her work as usual, but in the evening Mrs Murray observed that she was looking unwell and believing that she was about to be confined caused her to be conveyed to the residence of her aunt at Bideford. Information was given to the police, and upon Superintendent Vanstone visiting her she at once admitted that she had been delivered of a child at Rowena, and upon being asked for the body shewed the mutilated remains, stating that the child was born dead, and that she cut off with a knife the head and a leg, which she burnt in the stove at her mistress's house. - Dr Ackland expressed the opinion that the child had lived, and had had an independent existence, and the Inquest was adjourned until June 16th.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 13 June 1871
SOWTON - Concealment Of Birth By A Widow. - At the Woodbury Petty Sessions yesterday, ELIZA HAY, the mother of eight legitimate children, the proprietress of a dairy at Sowton, near Exeter, was charged with concealing the birth of an illegitimate child. For some time past rumour had alleged that the prisoner, whose husband died two years ago, was enceinte, but she stoutly denied this to the rector, the Rev. Preb. Sanders. On the 3rd June, when the dead body of her child was in her bedroom, she again denied to Mr Sanders that she had been pregnant and consented to submit to a medical examination. This examination was made by Mr Gibbs, surgeon, of Topsham, and he came to the conclusion that MRS HEY had not recently given birth to a child, and gave a certificate to that effect. On the night of the 1st of May, a midwife, named Harris, was sent for by the prisoner and found that she had given birth to a fine male child. She told the woman that her mother and sister were coming next morning from Cullompton and would take away the child. Mrs Harris left before daylight. One of the prisoner's daughters in the morning heard the child cry, but it was not seen alive afterwards. On the 5th Detective Hurson went to the house of the prisoner, who admitted that she had given birth to a child and that it was dead, and shewed him the box in which she had placed the body. She stated that after the nurse left she gave the baby some brandy, and when she awoke in the morning she found it dead. Later in the day Hurson apprehended her on the charge of murder. - Mr Somers, a surgeon, of Broadclist, proved that death arose from suffocation. - On Thursday last an Inquest was held, at which the Jury returned an Open Verdict, and afterwards the charge of murder was abandoned. - The Bench committed the prisoner for trial to the assizes, but accepted bail. Mr W. Friend prosecuted, and Mr Toby defended.

Western Morning News, Thursday 15 June 1871
PLYMOUTH - JOHN TUCKER, a farm labourer, of Hooe Meavy, aged 35 years, who a month ago was knocked down by a train while trespassing on a railway viaduct near Horrabridge, died at the South Devon Hospital on Tuesday. An Inquest was held yesterday, when the railway officials were entirely exonerated, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 17 June 1871
BIDEFORD - The Infanticide At Northam. - The adjourned Inquest on the illegitimate male child of ZENA MAYNARD, domestic servant, who had been residing at Rowena, Westward Ho! prior to the birth of the child on the 23rd of May last, was resumed yesterday at the Bideford Townhall. The woman, who appeared to be in a weak condition, was present, and after the reading of the evidence of Police-Sergeant Vanstone, who stated that she confessed to him that she had cut off the head and one of the legs of the child and burnt them in a stove, and that when he apprehended her she gave up the rest of the remains, which she had concealed in a house in Honestone-lane, Bideford, the prisoner admitted that the statements were quite correct. The evidence of Dr Ackland went to shew that the child was born alive, but Sabina Slater, who slept with the prisoner, stated that she did not hear a child cry, and had it done so she must have heard it. Prisoner asserted that the child was stillborn. The Jury returned a verdict of "Wilful Murder," upon which the Coroner remarked, "How could you bring in that verdict?" Two of the Jury, asserting that the verdict was theirs, protested against the Coroner making any such observations, and the latter then said, "I think the child was destroyed some way or other." This, however, was not the only difficulty. An attempt was made to alter the manner in which the Jury had couched their verdict, and in which the murder was stated to have been committed at Northam, in which parish Westward Ho! is situate. Again the Jury protested against the Coroner's interference, and insisted upon their written verdict being recorded. The accused will be brought before the County Magistrates on Monday.

Western Morning News, Thursday 22 June 1871
TORQUAY - An Inquest was held by Mr Michelmore at the Torbay Infirmary, Torquay, on REGINALD GEORGE PEDERICK, aged three years and nine months. Deceased in endeavouring, on Tuesday afternoon, to pull some field flowers from some grass which was in a timber waggon, fell under the wheels and was crushed to death. No blame could be attached to the man in charge of the waggon, as he was walking by the side of his horses and knew nothing of the accident until he heard a shriek. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 26 June 1871
STOKE DAMEREL - An Inquest was held at Vosper's Arms, Devonport, by Mr Allan B. Bone, Coroner, on THOMAS BERRYMAN, superannuated joiner in the dockyard, who committed suicide that morning by hanging himself in his room. The Jury returned a verdict of "Temporary Insanity."

Western Morning News, Monday 3 July 1871
SOUTH HUISH - The Lamentable Death Of A Lady Near Kingsbridge. - An Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MRS BALKWILL, who was found dead early on Thursday morning, was held by Mr Michelmore on Friday evening, at the deceased's residence, South Huish, near Kingsbridge. Mr Joseph Earle, of Alston, was elected Foreman of the Jury. - George Brown, commissioned boatman in the Coastguard, stationed at Hope Cove, stated that on his round on Wednesday night he had to pass Thurlestone Sands. He passed at one o'clock in the morning, and saw nothing particular then, but on passing again at twenty minutes to three o'clock, when it was just getting light, he saw something white lying in the wash of the sea and moved by the motion of the waves. He went towards it, and discovered it to be the dead body of a female lying on her face and hands. It was then about high tide. He took the body a short distance up on the sands, to prevent the waves taking it away. Knew MRS BALKWILL, but did not then recognize her features. she had on a nightdress, a knitted cap on her head, and a flannel jacket, boots unlaced, and stockings. Getting assistance from a man who lived at a limekiln nearby, they unhung a door at the kiln, laid the body on it, and placed it in a cellar, the door of which he (witness) locked, and took the key in his pocket. He went to Hope Cove, and informed his officer of the occurrence. The officer sent to Malborough and informed the police of it. On returning to the cellar where the body was he met a man, who told him MRS BALKWILL was missing. He then recollected that the features of the corpse resembled MRS BALKWILL. Saw no trace of footmarks on the sand leading him to suppose that a struggle took place. - MR HENRY BALKWILL, husband of the deceased, was the next witness. He was led into the room in an almost unconscious state, apparently overwhelmed with grief by his irreparable loss. In answer to the Coroner's questions he stated that he was married to the deceased on June 1st. They went away together after marriage, and returned to that house (South Huish) on the 23rd. He never had a quarrel with his wife. They lived happily together. She appeared to be in good health lately, and on Wednesday night was apparently quite well. They went to bed together at ten minutes past ten, and she was then very cheerful. They talked together about a quarter of an hour after they were in bed. He went to sleep before his wife. Awoke next morning at half-past five o'clock and found his wife was not in the room. He took no notice of it, thinking that as they were to have company that day she had got up early to make preparations. She was very nervous about this party for several days previous and appeared to be afraid that it would not pass off all right. He dressed leisurely, and hearing someone in the stairs, who he thought was his wife, spoke, and was replied to by the servant. He asked her where her mistress was, and she replied that she did not know. He then went downstairs, looked in all the rooms, garden, outhouses and all the premises, but could not find her. The front door he found unlocked and unbarred; the night previous he had locked and barred it. Sent for Mr Jellard, a neighbour, who continued the search, and he sent also for his (MR BALKWILL'S) brother, who rode away and soon came back with the fatal news. Had never known his wife to walk in her sleep. She had never by word or deed given him the least idea that she meditated self-destruction. - Thirza Skedgell, the servant of MR BALKWILL, said she had lived with MR and MRS BALKWILL since their return after marriage. During the past week her mistress appeared quite happy, and on Wednesday night MRS BALKWILL told her she expected company, and wanted the work done early. Witness got up the next morning at six o'clock, and went about her work. She heard no noise during the night, but shortly after she came down her master called, and asked if her mistress was down. She looked in the parlour and kitchen, and told her master that she was not down. The front door was closed, but unlocked and unbarred. Had known deceased for the last six years, but had never heard that she walked in her sleep. - MR THOMAS ADAMS, of Hope Barton, brother of the deceased, stated that she was extremely nervous. Five years ago, when she lived with him, she was very much frightened by a man knocking at the door at night. From this fright she never recovered. She had told him that she had passed sleepless nights; that was two or three years ago. Saw his sister the day before this sad occurrence; she then appeared quite happy. Had never known her walk in her sleep. - The Jury, after a short deliberation, returned as their verdict "That the deceased was Found Drowned on Thurlestone Sands, but how, or by what means, there was no evidence to shew." - It should be mentioned that there was nothing of a pecuniary nature to trouble the deceased lady's mind, as she had not only a comfortable competence settled upon her, but her husband was also a well-to-do young farmer.

Western Morning News, Thursday 6 July 1871
PLYMOUTH - Manslaughter By A Woman At Plymouth. - An Inquest was held at the Plymouth Guildhall yesterday on JAMES RIBLEN, a labourer, who resided in Queen-street, Plymouth. - Bessie Trenoweth, wife of an assistant relieving officer, deposed that the deceased was of intemperate habits. She saw him on Monday morning, when he left her house to look for work. She last saw him at the Hospital on Tuesday evening, when he was quite sensible and recognised witness. She asked him "how he came by the accident," and he said "The woman knocked him down." On witness leaving RIBLEN asked her to come and see him on Thursday with his wife. He had then no fear of death. Deceased's wife was blind; she (witness) had never seen him come home "beastly drunk." - Emma Scown, keeper of the Cadogan Inn, King-street, stated that deceased called at her house on Monday afternoon, and had two glasses of ale. He was slightly under the influence of drink. Whilst deceased was there a woman named Emma Creed, accompanied by another woman, came in and asked RIBLEN for a glass of ale. He refused to give her one, and she accused him of owing money at Millbay. Deceased then used abusive language to Creed, who gave him a slap in the face. Witness got between the deceased and the woman, and parted them. Deceased shortly afterwards left and Creed followed him, the other woman remaining behind. A few minutes afterwards Creed passed the house in the custody of a policeman. Creed was quite sober. - James Ley, a baker, residing at 161 King-street, saw deceased walking up the street and a woman running after him. The woman caught deceased by the collar of his smock-frock, which she pulled over his head and struck him all around the head. She then pulled him into the gutter and on to the curb, where he fell, his legs seemingly being doubled up under him. Witness was of a decided opinion that the deceased fell from the woman's treatment and not from intemperance. After he fell the woman caught him by the collar and pulled him in further on the pavement. She struck him several times, and then walked rapidly away. Witness seeing deceased trying to get up went across the road to assist him. He caught him by the arm and endeavoured to get him up, but could not. RIBLEN said, "Oh, my leg," twice, and witness put his hand down and found the leg was completely broken, the upper part of the bone projecting from the lower. With the help of two policemen deceased was brought into witness's shop, where his leg was placed on a chair. A cab was called, and deceased was taken to the hospital. - In answer to a Juror, witness said he might have prevented deceased falling, but he did not know the circumstances. He was aware the deceased and the woman were not man and wife, as he was acquainted with MR RIBLEN. - In answer to the Foreman, witness emphatically declared that the woman struck deceased the instant before he fell, and that he fell from the force of the blow. - Mr Brian (the Coroner) here strongly commented upon the absence of Creed at the Inquest. Owing to this circumstance the last witness was unable to swear if she was the woman who maltreated deceased. - Robert Lamerton, a policeman, stated that he saw the deceased walking up the street. Just afterwards Creed came out of the house, ran after deceased, and struck him. Witness saw deceased fall and Creed bending over him, but could not say if she struck him on the ground or not, as her back was turned towards him. A minute afterwards Creed walked away, and he then, with Mr Ley and P.C. Wall, helped to take deceased into Mr Ley's shop. Witness ran after Creed, whom he overtook, and brought he back to where the deceased was lying. He asked her if she knew what she had done, and she replied, "I don't know, and don't care;" and on witness telling her that RIBLEN'S leg was broken, she replied, "Oh, his leg is no more broken than mine is." Creed was brought up on Tuesday, before the sitting magistrates, and remanded until Monday. Witness also stated, that whilst in Mr Ley's shop deceased told him to take "that woman" into custody. - Wall, police-constable, gave evidence corroborating that of the last witness. He also deposed that he saw deceased in the Hospital, where he (RIBLEN) told him that the woman followed him, knocked him down, thumped his head against the stones, and stepped upon his leg. - Sedley S. Woolferstan, surgeon, stated that he was sent for shortly before six o'clock on Monday evening, and on arriving at the Hospital found the deceased, JAMES RIBLEN, in the accident ward. He examined him, and found that he had sustained a compound fracture of the left leg. There were two small bones from the upper wound, a fragment of each protruding. Witness was certain the upper two wounds resulted from a protrusion of the bone, and the lower one was probably caused in the same manner. He set the leg, having to enlarge the upper wounds before he could return the bones. Believed that deceased had been drinking, but he answered all questions very rationally. Thought that the chances of deceased recovering were very small. RIBLEN had passed a bad night on Monday, and had delirium tremens. On Tuesday night he was in a very precarious condition. Shortly afterwards he commenced to sink rapidly, and died about twenty minutes to eight yesterday (Wednesday) morning. - Richard Harrison, house-surgeon at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, stated that when the deceased was seized with delirium tremens he was almost unmanageable. Witness on making a post mortem examination of the deceased, in conjunction with Mr Woolferstan, found the brain congested, and it bore symptoms of old disease, and the heart was considerably diseased, the disease partly being of old standing and structural, and partly functional. The liver and kidneys were all organically diseased. The stomach was empty. The injury to the leg was a compound fracture, very severe. The extreme purple appearance of deceased arose probably from loss of blood. Looking at the general statement of the deceased, he was of opinion that the compound fracture of the leg might very probably cause death; it was doubtless accelerated by it. - Dr Woolferstan, recalled, stated that he considered the immediate cause of death was disease of the heart, but if he had not received any injuries in the leg, deceased would have lived for some time longer. - The Coroner, in summing up, strongly animadverted on the absence of the woman CREED, now in custody, which he said was unworthy of the English law. If the Jury considered the fracture of the leg accelerated the death of deceased they must return a verdict of manslaughter. - The Jury, after a short consultation, returned a verdict of Manslaughter against Emma Creed.

Western Morning News, Monday 10 July 1871
PARKHAM - The Murder In North Devon. - The Inquest on ANTHONY CLEMENTS, whose murder we have already announced, was held on Saturday. The deceased, a labourer, 82 years of age, lived at Goldworthy, in the parish of Parkham, about six miles from Bideford. He was the sole occupant - his wife died twelve months ago - of one of two thatched cottages, separated from each other by a thin partition. A labourer and his wife resided in the adjoining premises. The cottages, which were at least half a mile distant from any other dwelling-house, were held under a lease by the deceased; who, although in the receipt of 2s. a week poor relief, possessed, it was thought, a great deal of money. For some time past the old man has expected to come into possession of a considerable fortune, and he has been to London once or twice, it is said, with a view to obtain it, in company with a known fortune-teller of Bideford. Nothing, however, resulted from it. Deceased was missed and last seen alive by his neighbour, Mary Short, on Wednesday, the 28th of June. She stated that the old man was accustomed to come into her house to have most of his meals, and on that day he came in and said he was going to Hartland to see someone who owed him some money, and asked her to change a sovereign, which she could not do. He next asked her to change half a sovereign, and as she could not comply with his request he borrowed 2s. from her. About two o'clock in the afternoon Mrs Short went into the garden behind the cottages, where he had gone to pick some gooseberries, to give him a shilling, a part of his relief, which had been brought, and she says that there she saw a strange woman who had on a sealskin jacket. She was "biggish," but her back was towards her, and consequently she did not see her face. A quarter of an hour afterwards the deceased brought in the key of the garden gate to Mrs Short, and asked her to take care of his donkey, as he thought of going to Hartland by the carrier. He went out and she heard him in his own house "lock upstairs and down," but did not hear a second person, nor did she see him leave for Hartland, where it is known he did not go; neither did she see anything of the woman she saw in the garden. Shortly after midnight on Thursday she was awoke, she said, by a smash as if earthenware was broken in deceased's bedroom, and she then heard a groan. She heard no scuffle or voices. She awoke her husband, and told him; but he replied it might be someone outside. From that day up to last Friday Mrs Short does not appear to have said anything about the noise or the groan, although she felt distressed at deceased's long absence, as he had never been away from home before during her residence in the house. On Friday morning she told a man named Samuel Lewis, who was passing, that she was distressed at deceased's disappearance, and induced him to look into the bedroom window, which he did by means of a gate, and there he thought he saw the old man on the bed. Further assistance was obtained, and access was obtained through the window. A man named Pearson and deceased's eldest son were the first to enter, and a ghastly sight was presented to them. On a bed (there were two in the room), close to the thin partition separating the room from that in which the Short's slept, the old man lay on his right side, with his head, which appeared to be a mass of coagulated blood, hanging over. The fragments of an earthen ware article, which had been smashed, were lying by the bedside. The face was quite black, and decomposition had set in. He had on a pair of fustian trousers, stockings, waistcoat, and neckerchief. The forehead and left temple were greatly bruised. Above the left ear were marks of violent blows. The skull was broken in four different places. The blows had apparently been inflicted with a circular instrument, such as a hammer. The bones of the skull were beaten in, and a fracture extended from the middle of the forehead to the crown of the head. The blows appeared to have been struck while the old man was in a sitting position, and their force was so great that the blood had spurted out and splashed the ceiling and the partition as if ejected from a syringe. The room was undisturbed, but no money was found, with the exception of three pence, which deceased had in one of his pockets. There were a few red gooseberries in the bed, as if placed there by accident or design. There was no blood about the bedroom, nor on the fragments of earthenware. The key of the front door was searched for, but could not be found, though the door was locked and not bolted. On the upper stair there were large spots of blood, which appeared to have been accidentally wiped by the sweeping of a dress, and on the side of the wall close by the top stair was a large spot of coagulated blood, as if it had been shaken from something. The motive of the crime appears to have been to obtain the little money the murdered man was supposed to possess. The Inquest was held at the New Inn, Parkham, by Mr Toller, Deputy Coroner. Mr Superintendent Rousham watched the case for the police. In addition to the evidence to the effect of the preceding statement, Edward Pearce, miller, Parkham, who was one of the first to enter the room on Friday, said the bed clothes were partially thrown over deceased. There was no blood on the clothes, which looked as if they had been thrown over the old man after he had been killed. Deceased's arms were folded. - SAMUEL CLEMENTS, son of the deceased, stated that he met a man named Jolliffe, who said Mary Short was in distress to think that deceased had not returned from Hartland, where witness understood he went the Wednesday fortnight previous. He went to his father's cottage, and Mrs Short said she was afraid his father was dead. Witness went up to the window and saw deceased, and said so. Mary Short exclaimed, "Don't say so, don't say so; if you do I shall die." - By the Jury: He was accustomed to sleep the side on which he was found dead. He was not in the habit of taking out the key of the door, but used to bolt the door. - Dr Ackland, of Bideford, who examined the body, said he found the deceased lying in a mass of coagulated blood extending as far as his waist. The forehead, left temple, and the upper half of the face, were greatly swollen, and bruised of a bluish black colour. On dividing the scalp and dissecting the parts down to the skull, a large quantity of dark blood was found, occupying the whole half of the head. Above the left ear there were marks of violent blows, which had broken the skull in four places, the bones heaving been beaten in. From the fractures a fissure or crack extended as far as the middle of the forehead, and another in an upper direction to the crown of the head. These injuries had evidently been the cause of death. In reply to the Jury he stated that there could be no doubt that the deceased was murdered, and said the blood on the stairs had been wiped with a cloth, or swept by a dress or something of the kind. - The Inquest was adjourned until Saturday next.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 11 July 1871
PLYMOUTH - Mr T. C. Brian, Plymouth Borough Coroner, held an Inquiry yesterday at the Jubilee Inn, Exeter-street, into the circumstances attending the death of CATHERINE JANE WARE, aged 40 years, the wife of a labourer, living in Friary-street, Plymouth. Deceased died suddenly on Saturday night whilst in a greengrocer's shop purchasing vegetables. She had been in indifferent health for some time, and taking these circumstances into consideration, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Monday 17 July 1871
PARKHAM - The Murder In North Devon. Additional Particulars. The Resumed Inquest. - The police, under the direction of Superintendent Rousham and Detective Hanson, have been very active during the last few days in collecting additional particulars concerning the murder of ANTHONY CLEMENTS. The police on Saturday morning discovered in a field not twenty paces from the cottage of the murdered man a common mason's hammer about four or five pounds in weight, on which were a few grey hairs and what appeared to be spots of human blood. It appears to have been placed in the hedge in which Mary Short was accustomed to hang her clothes, and was sworn to by a son of deceased as the property of his father. - The adjourned Inquest was held at Horns Cross on Saturday. The Coroner (Mr J. Toller, of Barnstaple) said he considered it somewhat singular that when Mary Short, the neighbour of deceased, saw the murdered man in company with a woman in the garden she did not, with a woman's curiosity, ascertain who that woman was. Referring to her statement, that on Thursday night, the 29th of June, between the hours of twelve and one, she heard the crash of earthenware and a groan, and drew her husband's attention to the circumstance, he remarking that it might be someone in the road, he (the Coroner) asked whether it was probable that anyone would have been in the road at that time of night. Mary Short said she heard nothing more than the crash and the groan, but they would have thought that with her haring quickened she would have heard the stealthy steps of the murderer: the rustling of the dress, supposing it was a woman, and the unlocking and locking of the door, but still she heard nothing. The unfortunate man went, she imagined, to Hartland, but she made no inquiry as to his prolonged absence. - The woman in custody, Izet Williams, was present at the Inquiry, and appeared very calm and collected. On the evidence of Mary Short being read the prisoner asked her questions as to her knowledge of her, and the replies of Short went to shew that they were intimately acquainted. The last question was, "You know me well?" Short: "I should not know you if your back was towards me." Mrs Short was previously cautioned by Superintendent Rousham, who had charge of the case. - LUCY CLEMENTS, about 15 years of age, deceased's grand-daughter, gave evidence to the effect that on the 28th of June, between eleven and twelve o'clock she was passing the cottages occupied by her grandfather and Mrs Short. She looked into the house of the latter and saw tea things on the table. Did not see anyone in the cottage besides Mary Short. I went on a little further and saw a woman come out of grandfather's garden door. She went into grandfather's kitchen. She had on a black hat made of straw and trimmed with black velvet, a dark jacket with wide buttons in front, and a grey linsey dress. I did not speak to her, nor she to me. When she saw me she turned her head towards the wall. Grandfather was with her. He came from the garden. He went into his own kitchen after the woman. Don't know if he shut the door. I went on. I looked back, and saw Mary Short come out of her cottage and look after me. I arrived home about twelve o'clock. I saw mother, and said to her, "Who do you think I saw with grandfather?" She replied "I don't know, my dear." I said, "I think 'tis Mrs Williams." Mother replied, "How do you know that, my dear?" I said, "It is the same woman I took into Bideford last summer in grandfather's donkey-cart." - Witness was requested to look around the room to ascertain if she knew the woman. "I think it is that woman, sir," she said, pointing to Mrs Williams. Superintendent Rousham: Look well, witness. - Witness: Yes sir; that is the woman I saw with grandfather. I have no doubt about it. - Cross-examined by Williams: I was not far from the woman, not the length of the table. I saw the woman's face before she turned it to the wall. - Q.: Was it me? - A.: Yes; it was you. - Q.: Could Mrs Short see if anyone was in ANTHONY CLEMENTS'S cottage? - A.: Yes, if the door was open. I did not see very much of the woman's face. She looked at me first, and when I looked at her she turned away. I saw all her face. - ANN CLEMENTS, mother of the last witness, gave evidence corroborative of that of her daughter's, so far as the conversation between them is concerned. In continuation she stated that shortly after the death of deceased's wife her (witness's) daughter conveyed the prisoner to Bideford in deceased's donkey-cart. She heard the murdered man then say to her daughter, "LUCY, if anyone ask you who it is, say it is Mrs Luxton." - Robert Heal, of Parkham, carpenter, said on the 28th of April last he was passing ANTHONY CLEMENTS'S cottage, and was called in by him. The deceased said, "Well, Robert, I have wanted to see you for some time. I was minded to have something done about giving away my things. I was thinking I would have a "deed of gift" made. My children have served me very bad, and what I have got left I shall give to other folks. There is my old friend in Bideford, and my neighbours." He did not mention names. Deceased asked him when he could come in and do it for him, and witness replied that he could not tell him when. They parted, and witness did not call upon him again. He did not know Mrs Williams. - Robert Barrow, brewer, Bideford, saw prisoner in Bideford about the 28th or 29th of June last. She was dressed with a light hat, and, he thought, the dress she was then wearing. - Bartholomew Parkhouse of Bideford, labourer, on the 28th or 29th of June saw the prisoner on Bideford Quay. She had on a white hat and seal skin jacket. - Thomas Lee, of Goldworthy, farmer, stated that, that morning, at the request of the police, we went to cut a hedge belonging to his farm, and about eighteen or twenty paces from the house of the murdered man, at the end of Mary Short's cottage, was the gate. The hedge was high from the road, and low from the inside of the field. Mary Short came into the field; she had some towels on the hedge drying. She said, "I will pick this in out of your way," and "You will spoil all my hanging of clothes here." After cutting two or three feet he found a hammer. It was an ordinary mason's wall hammer. there was a mark by the side of the hedge. The hammer could not have been placed in the hedge from the road. - JOHN CLEMENTS, labourer, Parkham, son of the deceased, identified the hammer as having belonged to his father. - William Hurson, detective officer of the county police force, found spots, apparently of blood, on the handle of the hammer, and what appeared to be some grey hair. There were also spots on the hammer itself. - Dr Ackland, of Bideford, had made an examination of the hammer. On the top were a number of hairs, some white, and others whitish brown. On the side of the hammer were two spots, which appeared to be blood. On the middle of the handle were three or four stains similar to those produced by blood. The injuries which caused the death of ANTHONY CLEMENTS might have been inflicted by the weapon produced. He believed the stains to be blood, but they should be subjected to a further test. He examined one of the hairs under a microscope of high power, and it had every appearance of being human hair. - Superintendent Rousham said he had several more witnesses to call, and in a few days he hoped something decisive would turn up. He therefore asked for an adjournment, which was granted.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 18 July 1871
EXETER - An Inquest was held at Exeter yesterday on MISS FANNY SOLOMON, aged 11 years, whose death has already been announced. It will be remembered that the deceased, the daughter of an Exeter tradesman, on Thursday afternoon was going through a narrow street, near the Guildhall, when a painter's ladder fell on her. She was immediately taken to her father's house. About 24 hours afterwards concussion of the brain set in, and she lingered until Sunday morning, when she died. She was unconscious from the time of the accident to her death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death;" and recommended that the Local Board should take steps by widening the street to prevent a recurrence of such accidents.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 18 July 1871
EXMINSTER - Fatal Gun Accident At Exminster. - A fatal accident, caused by the incautious handling of firearms, occurred at the Devon and Exeter Boys' Industrial School, at Exminster, on Sunday. The victim was a servant girl, named ANGELINA WERE, employed at the institution. It seems that on Saturday evening the schoolmaster, Mr F. T. Dickson, who had been shooting birds in an orchard attached to the institution, placed his gun -which was loaded and capped - in the entrance hall, behind a glazed double door. Being at the moment called to attend some visitors, the fact that he had placed the gun there escaped his memory until the following morning, when he noticed that the weapon was not in its usual place in his study. He then ordered one of the inmates of the school - a lad named George Ash, about 15 years of age - to fetch the gun and bring it to him. Scarcely had the boy left the room than a report was heard, and directly afterwards Ash ran in with the smoking gun in his hand, looking fearfully pale, and exclaiming in broken accents that the gun had gone off and hurted "ANN," as the deceased was known in the house. Mr and Mrs Dickson and several other persons, at once went to her assistance, and found her lying on the steps, with a frightful wound in the head, from which blood was flowing fast. Dr Kingdon, of Exminster, was called, and he ordered her removal to a bedroom, where she lingered for an hour and a half and died. The wound was a large one; the scalp was driven in, the base of the skull was fractured, and a portion of the brain had been blown out. An Inquest was held on the body by Mr Coroner Crosse yesterday afternoon. The evidence adduced shewed that the occurrence was a pure accident. The boy Ash stated that when he took up the gun, he lifted the hammer to see whether or not there was a cap on the nipple. At the moment the deceased, who was on the steps outside the hall door, spoke to him; he looked up suddenly, the hammer slipped through his fingers, and the gun went off. In the course of the Inquiry it came out that the deceased and Ash had frequently had trivial quarrels, but they had always become friends again very shortly afterwards, and on the very morning of her death the unfortunate girl had given him some of the dripping which she received as a "perquisite" from the kitchen, to spread upon his bread - a fact shewing that the two were then on the most friendly terms, as the boys generally have to eat dry bread with their porridge at breakfast time. - The Coroner observed that the conduct of the master in leaving a loaded gun in such a place, and sending a boy after it instead of fetching it himself, was very reprehensible. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - Mr J. Trehane, jun., Solicitor to the institution, appeared to watch the case for the managers.

Western Morning News, Monday 24 July 1871
A man named RICHARD DART, aged 61, whilst in a hay field at Waybrooke farm, on Wednesday, fell from a waggon on his back, and sustained injuries which resulted fatally on Saturday. A Coroner's Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 25 July 1871
CREDITON - THOMAS GREENSLADE, aged two years and five months was drowned in a mill cistern, at Fordton, Crediton, by, it is supposed, accidentally falling in, in an endeavour to reach some apples floating on the water. At the Inquest it was stated that the path leading to the tank was not fenced, and was accordingly very dangerous, but it was promised on behalf of the owner of the mills that something should be done to prevent a recurrence of such an accident. "Accidental Death" was the verdict returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 26 July 1871
STOKE DAMEREL - Death By Drowning At Devonport. - The body of a man belonging to the Army Service Corps was discovered at 5 a.m. yesterday by a labourer named Richard Wood lying on the mud in Joll's Canal, at the bottom of Tamar-street, Morice Town. Later in the day an Inquiry was held at the Ferry Inn, Newpassage, by Mr Allan B. Bone, Coroner for the Borough of Devonport. The principal witness was a constable named Squires, who stated that he saw the deceased, MICHAEL HEANEY, at 40 minutes to one yesterday morning at the end of John-street, Morice Town, when he heard the landlady of a public-house refuse to give him any ale, as he had no money. Deceased then went away in the direction of Tamar-street, but at 1.30 am., upon arriving at the Tamar Inn, he saw deceased sitting on the ground with his back against a post quite near the water. Witness ordered him off, and deceased got up, staggered a little, and walked away. He was slightly under the influence of drink, but on being spoken to he replied, "All right," and seemed quite capable of taking care of himself. Deceased walked by the side of the canal, and witness followed and caught him by the shoulder, saying, "You shall not go that way any further, you will be very likely to fall into the water." The deceased replied, "I shall not do that," and turned up an ope leading into John-street, Morice Town. Witness never saw him afterwards. - Sergeant-major Richardson stated that he had known deceased 13 years. HEANEY had been in the service 25 years, and had two medals, but no good conduct stripes. The last time he saw him was on Monday evening. He ought to have been in barracks at 10 o'clock that night but at a quarter past ten he was reported absent. Deceased was a very quiet man, and not addicted to excessive drinking. - Mr R. Wood and P.C. Brooks gave evidence relative to the finding of the body, on which no marks of violence were visible, and stated that the canal was in rather an unprotected state. There were chains, but they were not fastened in some places, as carts had to pass for unloading the ships in the canal. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Dead."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 1 August 1871
SALCOMBE REGIS - Death From Morphia Near Sidmouth. - A gentleman named WALL, aged thirty-three, living at Salcombe Regis, near Sidmouth, who was in the habit of taking morphia, sent the other day a prescription to a chemist named Webber, for a mixture containing a small quantity of that narcotic. Having received the medicine he took a dose of it and went to bed. Meanwhile the chemist discovered that he had put a scruple instead of a drachm of muriate of morphia into the mixture, and immediately despatched a messenger to obtain possession of the bottle, but too late, half of the quantity taken being enough to kill an habitual morphia taker. Everything was done by the medical men who attended MR WALL, but he did a few hours afterwards. "Death by Misadventure" was the verdict at the Inquest, and the chemist was admonished to be more careful for the future.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 2 August 1871
TEIGNMOUTH - Yesterday an adjourned Inquest was held at the Queen's Hotel, Teignmouth, on the body of MARY JORDAN, who died on Friday night last, at Brook-street, Teignmouth. It appeared that the deceased was taken ill at six o'clock on Friday evening, when Dr Workman was sent for and prescribed for her, but she died at half-past 11 the same evening. An Inquest was held on Saturday night, when a post mortem examination was ordered. From this it appeared that a small blood vessel had burst on the brain, and a verdict was returned yesterday of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 8 August 1871
EXETER - Near the Quay at Exeter, at a place called Haven Bank, there are several large timber yards, through which a public thoroughfare runs, at a few feet from the water's edge. On Sunday afternoon a boy named GEORGE BELWORTHY, about eleven years of age, mounted a piece of timber to look at some boats, when it toppled over and rolled down the bank towards the river, passing over the luckless lad, and crushing the life out of him. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned yesterday at an Inquest held by Mr Crosse, Coroner, who expressed a hope that the owners of the yards, policemen, and adult passers-by generally would in future do what they could to prevent children playing with the timber, as this was not the first fatal accident that had occurred at or near the spot in question.

Western Morning News, Thursday 10 August 1871
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - Suicide Through Jealousy. - Mr Crosse, Coroner, held an Inquest at St. Thomas, Exeter, yesterday on EPHRAIM LUKE, who committed suicide on Monday evening by jumping into the river Exe, just below the city. The deceased who was a married man, 27 years of age, was in the employ of Mr Lang, corn merchant. He was seen struggling in the water, and a policeman and three other men went to his assistance in a boat; but the body was not recovered for ten or twelve minutes, and all efforts to restore life were then unavailing. Deceased, it appeared, was jealous of his wife, and had just accused her of being unfaithful to him, alleging an improper intimacy with a man lodging in his house. The wife denied it, and left the house and the husband following her, saw her speak to the lodger. He immediately afterwards went to the river and drowned himself. He had been in a desponding state for some time. The Jury returned a verdict that deceased committed Suicide while in an Unsound state of Mind.

Western Morning News, Thursday 10 August 1871
PLYMOUTH - Singular Suicide At Plymouth. - The circumstances attending a somewhat strange suicide were investigated at an Inquest held at the Plymouth Guildhall. A young man, named FROST, was found dead, and hanging from a beam in an empty room of the New London Inn. Upon him the portrait of a female was found, and on the back was written:- August 7th. JANE E. FROST. - May she feel her heart full of sorrow now I am dead and gone. I have written to Emma and mother today." - Emma Skelton, the young woman referred to as "she," stated that she had been engaged for sixteen months to the deceased, who told her on Sunday that that would be the last time she would see him, but that she had done nothing to offend him. The letter he spoke of she received on Monday. The father of the deceased said his son had for some time been in a desponding state, the result, he believed, of a blow from a stick. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 15 August 1871
NEWTON ABBOT - An Inquest was held at the Newton Townhall by Mr H. Michelmore, on JOHN MULLINGS, labourer, who hanged himself in Birdwell-court, East-street. The Jury returned a verdict that deceased destroyed himself while in a state of Temporary Insanity.

Western Morning News, Friday 18 August 1871
HIGHWEEK - The Inquest on JOHN HORWELL, who was killed on Tuesday night by falling under the wheels of a waggon of which he was in charge, was held yesterday at the Swan Inn, Newton Bushel, when a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. Deceased was only 20 years of age, and was the sole support of his aged mother.

Western Morning News, Friday 18 August 1871
EXMOUTH - Melancholy Tragedy At Exmouth. - About midnight on Wednesday MR WALTER SHRIMPTON, station-master at Exmouth, Mr Nankivell, draper, Mr Bickford, Chemist, and Mr Maynard, watchmaker, of the Strand, who had been spending the evening together, were in the house of the last mentioned. Mr Maynard, according to custom, placed his stock in a box, preparatory to removing it to his bedroom. After the jewellery was placed in the box, MR WALTER SHRIMPTON jocularly remarked, "Let's garotte him, and take away his watches." Mr Maynard, entering into the joke, went into a room adjoining the shop, and returning with a breechloading revolver in his hand pointed it at MR SHRIMPTON, observing, "This is what settles garotters!" Mr Bickford exclaimed, "Don't point it, it may be loaded," and Mr Maynard replied, "Oh, it is not loaded," but he had no sooner spoken than the pistol exploded. MR SHRIMPTON said, "Oh, George, you've shot me!" and it was ascertained that a ball from the pistol had entered MR SHRIMPTON'S body, near the right shoulder, and striking the collar bone had turned aside and entered the lungs. He was taken to his residence, and Messrs. Turnbull and Langley, surgeons, were quickly in attendance, but MR SHRIMPTON after rallying a little expired shortly before two o'clock. The deceased was greatly respected and the sad affair has cast a gloom over the town. MRS SHRIMPTON was away from home at the time, but she was immediately telegraphed for. Deceased, who had no family, was about 35 years of age. - At the Inquest held yesterday afternoon Mr Maynard, who appeared deeply affected by the sad occurrence, stated that he and the deceased were great friends. Witness met him at the billiard-room on Wednesday, about a quarter after ten o'clock. They played together, and were very friendly. They left there about twelve o'clock, and went to his (witness's)( shop. He proceeded to take down his watches, and the deceased said something about burglary in a jocular manner. Witness remembered he had the revolver, and he thought he would shew MR SHRIMPTON the action of it. Deceased said, "Let's garotte him;" and witness replied if the revolver were loaded he should be able to fire six shots before a man could garotte him. The pistol then exploded, and the deceased said he was shot. He stood for a few minutes and then fell. Witness was not quite certain when he last used the pistol, which he was in the habit of keeping loaded in his bedroom. He might have fired off the pistol three weeks ago, and he must have reloaded it then, for he had not touched it since. - Mr John Langley examined the deceased, and discovered a wound on the right side of his neck; it lay downward between the right collar bone and through the right lung. No ball could be felt, as it probably was buried in the substance of the left lung, and it was not wise to make further search for it. The symptoms generally were those of a gunshot wound. The deceased died two hours after the accident. The cause of death was Suffocation from effusion of blood in the cavity of the chest. Deceased said it was an accident and that he forgave George (Mr Maynard). A verdict of "Homicide by Misadventure" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 21 August 1871
SHALDON - The Sad Occurrence At Shaldon. - On Saturday morning an Inquest was held at the Crown and Anchor, Shaldon, by Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on DAVID SMITH, who, as was stated in Saturday's Western Morning News, was drowned on Friday afternoon. MRS SMITH, the wife of the deceased, said her late husband was a schoolmaster at Brixton, London. He bathed on the beach whilst she remained on the rocks. He was an excellent swimmer, and she saw him swimming, but after a while she lost sight of him, and found that he had altogether disappeared. Previously he did not call out, or make any sign of being in danger. Her impression was that the body of her husband was not in the water longer than half an hour, but other evidence made it almost certain that it had been there about two hours. MRS SMITH was deeply affected by her loss. - A fisherman, named Scown, deposed to finding the body. It was first seen by Captain Beer; then a number of fishermen joined hands and brought it to the shore, near the targets of the rifle corps. - As the deceased entered the water opposite to Clifford's tunnel, his body must have drifted 500 yards. As the deceased made no sign of distress before disappearing, it was suggested that he might have been seized with the cramp, or some kind of fit; but the roughness of the sea and the strength of the undertow (the tide having just turned) are quite sufficient to account for the catastrophe. A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 22 August 1871
DARTMOUTH - Dead and hanging by his neck in a cellar at the back of the Town Arms, Dartmouth, a man named CHARLES SAUNDERS, 63 years of age, has been found. The deceased had for some time previous to committing suicide been in a desponding state, and at an Inquest held by Mr J. M. Puddicombe yesterday the Jury returned a verdict that the deceased put an end to his existence whilst Temporarily Insane.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 22 August 1871
PLYMOUTH - Mysterious Death In Plymouth. - The resumed Inquest on WILLIAM SANDERS, who died after drinking some coffee in a somewhat mysterious manner on Tuesday last, was held at Holy Trinity Church Schoolroom, Plymouth, yesterday. Mr Jackson stated that he had further analysed the crystals found in deceased's stomach, but could say nothing definite concerning them. He had tried their effect on a puppy of his own, and they put the animal in great pain, but did not kill it. He could find no traces of poison in the stomach, but he considered that it was lost when deceased vomited. - Mr Williams, Coroner's Officer, deposed that he had made every endeavour to discover where SANDERS drank the coffee, but had been unable to do so in consequence of deceased being unknown to the coffee vendors. - The Coroner, in reviewing the case, said he did not consider the deceased had wilfully poisoned himself, as his manner tended to prove the contrary, but he thought it unlikely that time would add any additional evidence to the matter. He concurred with Mr Jackson in believing that the poison had been lost in vomiting. The Jury, after a short consultation, returned a verdict "That deceased died from the effects of poison, but of what character the poison was, or where deceased received it, there was no evidence to shew." A vote of thanks was accorded Mr Jackson for the energy he had shewn in the matter.

Western Morning News, Saturday 26 August 1871
EXETER - An Inquest was held yesterday at Exeter, by Mr Barton, Deputy Coroner, on MR J. NICHOLS, who was killed on Thursday by falling from a cliff at Mount Dinham. Evidence was given shewing that the occurrence was purely accidental, and a verdict to that effect was returned. It appears that there is a rail fence some feet from the edge of the cliff, at the place where the deceased fell; but the Jury considered it an insufficient protection, and requested the Coroner to call the attention of the trustees of the property to the matter.

Western Morning News, Saturday 26 August 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at the Morley Arms, In Plymouth, yesterday by Mr A. B. Bone, Coroner, on URIAS HANNAFORD, who was drowned on Thursday. Deceased was in a boat, in company with his brother and two men and his three children, when it capsized in Pomphlete Lake, near the iron bridge. All the occupants of the boat, with the exception of the deceased, were quickly rescued by small craft lying near, but deceased, who was a very stout man, disappeared from sight. The river was dragged, and he was shortly found, and taken to the Morley Arms. He did not, however, survive long. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Monday 28 August 1871
EXETER - A Girl Burnt To Death At Exeter. - Mr H. D. Barton, Deputy Coroner for Exeter, held an Inquiry on Saturday into the circumstances attending the death of ELIZABETH DANIEL, whose mother carries on a fancy business in High-street. The deceased, who was eleven years of age, was kindling the kitchen fire on Thursday, when her apron caught fire. She called to a younger sister and asked her to blow out the flames, which the little girl vainly tried to do. The deceased then ran upstairs, where she met her aunt, Miss Gibbs. By that time her dress was in a mass of flames. Miss Gibbs the deceased's mother extinguished the fire as quickly as possible, and Mr Woodman, surgeon, was called in. He found her very severely burnt on the upper part of the face, chest and arms. The usual remedies were applied, but the poor girl never rallied, and she died at ten o'clock on Saturday morning. The verdict of the Jury was "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 30 August 1871
PLYMOUTH - Supposed Suicide In Plymouth. - An Inquest was held at the Dorchester Inn, Cecil-street, Plymouth, yesterday by Mr J. Shelly, Deputy-Coroner, into the circumstances attending the death of a woman, about 21 years of age, who assumed the name of ELLEN JARVIS, which has been ascertained to be an alias. - Hannah Ough, a widow, residing at 8 Cecil-street, said the deceased had lodged in her house for about five weeks. She said her name was ELLEN JARVIS, and was brought to the house by a person unknown to her (witness). She noticed that deceased was enceinte on her taking the lodgings, and after her arrival she gave birth to a fine male child, which died on Saturday. On Monday morning, at nine o'clock, deceased, who was then partly dressed, called for a jug of warm water, and about ten minutes afterwards she again called for witness, who found her lying on the bed with her face downwards. Deceased said, "Oh my stomach! Oh my stomach! Mrs Ough, don't cry for me!" Witness told her to put her trust in God, and then deceased moaned, "My Jesus! My Jesus!" Witness sent for Mrs Johns, the nurse who had been in attendance during the confinement, and deceased was laid on the bed and a doctor sent for, but before he could come she died. She was dead within a quarter of an hour from the time witness was first called by her. She had had tea that morning before she got up, but nothing else that witness knew of. During the time deceased lodged with her no one had been to see her, and she went out once only, and that previous to her confinement. She was in continual receipt of letters, which she destroyed, and had received two the morning of her death, which witness had given to the Coroner's officer. Deceased was always in low spirits. - Mary Eleanor Johns stated that she attended deceased during her confinement as nurse. She never mentioned where she came from, and spoke of her father as being in grief about her, but that he did not frown at her. She understood that the deceased was not married. When she was called in the room she got some brandy for the deceased, which, however, she refused to drink. She bathed her temples with it, and on deceased complaining of pain in her stomach, applied a flannel dipped in warm water. Mrs Ough put the tea in the teapot for deceased's breakfast and the witness poured some water on it, and made her some toast. No one was present whilst deceased was at breakfast. There was nothing to indicate that she had taken anything besides the tea and toast. During the time she was ill she appeared anxious to get better. On Monday she took two letters up to deceased, who appeared to have cried after reading them. She seemed to bear the loss of her baby well. Witness in reply to a Juryman stated that she made some purchases for the deceased, who, on paying her for them, said playfully, "If my friends don't soon come I shall be short of money." Witness stated that she slept with deceased the night before her death. - W. Bray Stephens said he was a medical practitioner, residing at 4 Buckland-terrace, and attended deceased during her confinement. He first saw her on the 16th inst., and attended her up to the 24th. He also saw her on the 25th and 26th, when attending the child, and she was then progressing very favourably. He knew her as MRS JARVIS, and thought she came from Dartmouth. The child died on Saturday of diarrhoea. He was called to the house on Monday morning, and found on his arrival deceased laid out. It was about noon when he got there. His suspicions being aroused at the suddenness of her death, he communicated with the Coroner, who ordered him to make a post mortem examination. He found the body very well nourished, but the food in the stomach was mixed up with something intensely acid. The stomach in some parts was congested, and the lips were charred with the acid. The lower part of the palate was congested. The heart, lungs and liver were perfectly healthy. The cause of her death was some irritant poison, probably oxalic acid. Not having made the analysis he could not positively say what it was. He looked about the deceased's room, but could find no trace of poison. He also examined the teapot, which did not contain acid. He also looked at a piece of stocking found in the jug of water, and at a piece of paper which was the advertisement of a Dartmouth chemist, and in which something had been wrapped up, but without discovering any poison. There was nothing in the course of his attendance on her to lead him to suppose that she intended to make away with herself, or to attach suspicion on any person. On Saturday she was very much distressed at the death of her child. - J. Williams, Coroner's Officer, stated that he was called to the house at 3 p.m. on Monday. He examined the room, and asked if there were any letters, and received two which had arrived that morning, one containing an enclosed note, apparently from her sister, which bore the Sherborne post mark, and was addressed to MISS H. HAWKE, South Town, Dartmouth. The letter in which the note was enclosed was signed E. Tucker. The other letter was in a man's writing, and was as follows:- "My dear NELLY, - From day to day something seems to prevent my coming down to see you, and I am all the more amazed that I did not manage to get down last week, as by today's post I have received a letter from the doctor telling me of the loss of the baby. I know very well this, dear NELLY, that you feel this very much; but we must not give way; it, no doubt, is all for the best, and however much we now feel it, it must be looked at with a knowledge that the dear little thing is now happy, far more than if it had been spared to you. So, my dear NELLY, be of good heart, and make yourself as easy so to soon get strong again. I long to see you again; if you can write me a line, the Dr. will post it, and I will come as soon as I can possibly get away. I have a William Faithful staying with me, an old man; as soon as he goes I will run down. I don't know any news. The regatta is tomorrow, but it will be a poor one. There is not any dancing this year. Good-bye, my dear old lady. Make haste and get well. Much love, from yours as ever, G. M. - P.S. - I will tell father Kitty has gone out as cook in Wales." - The Deputy Coroner said it was evident that the deceased had lived in Plymouth under an assumed name. They were ignorant as to who her friends were, and the Inquest would be adjourned until Thursday to see if any one claimed her. In the meanwhile an Officer would be sent to Dartmouth for the purpose of endeavouring to find out the friends.

Western Morning News, Thursday 31 August 1871
SALTASH - A Youth Drowned Near Saltash. - An Inquest was held at the Townhall, Saltash, yesterday, by Mr J. L. Clark, mayor and Coroner, concerning the death of ALFRED CHOPE, aged nineteen years, a servant of Captain Fellowes. Deceased was one of a picnic party from Devonport, which had landed at Antony Passage, and being desirous of bathing he pushed off in a boat with a youth named George Roberts. CHOPE dived from the boat, and when he came to the surface appeared to be in distress, either because he was suffering from cramp or could not swim. Roberts, without waiting to take off his clothes, gallantly jumped into the water to render assistance to the deceased, but his garments becoming saturated he could make little or no progress, and was obliged to give up the attempt whilst CHOPE drifted away with the tide, and was found some time afterwards in water only fourteen inches in depth. He was then dead. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," and concurred with the Coroner in his eulogium of Roberts's bravery.

Western Morning News, Friday 1 September 1871
PLYMOUTH - Mysterious Poisoning At Plymouth. - The adjourned Inquest held yesterday on the young woman who died at 8 Cecil-street, Plymouth, on Monday, resulted in her identification, and also in the discovery of the man who "kept" her. She was known to Mrs Ough, the landlady of the house in which she lodged, as MRS JARVIS, but her real name, as we stated was more than probable, was ELLEN HAWKE, an unmarried woman, belonging to Dartmouth. No clue was obtained as to the means by which deceased became possessed of the oxalic acid of which she had partaken, or by whom it had been administered. - Mr J. Shelly, the Deputy Coroner, told the Jury yesterday that Williams, the Coroner's officer, had been to Dartmouth, and had obtained the attendance of an aunt of the deceased and of another person, both of whom had seen and identified the body. Her father would have been in attendance, but he had unfortunately injured his leg, and was unable to travel. Williams had made inquiry of the chemist whose name was on the paper produced at the last Inquiry, as to what he had sold to the deceased. The chemist (Mr Cutcliffe) recognised the young woman's name, and in a letter he had written him (the Deputy Coroner) he said:- "Neither my assistant nor myself can recollect selling ELLEN HAWKE any poison, and on reference to my registry I find that the only poison sold has been to farmers for farm purposes." The first witness examined was:- Eliza Tucker, housekeeper, residing at Dartmouth, who said she had visited 8 Cecil-street, and identified the deceased as MRS JARVIS, whom she brought to Plymouth about five weeks since. Her real name was ELLEN HAWKE about twenty years of age, and she was the daughter of EDWARD HAWKE, a carter, residing at Southdown, Dartmouth. She came to Plymouth in consequence of her being enceinte, and witness left her at the house in which she died. She cried very much then, but there were no appearances of insanity about her. - A Juror: Did anyone engage you to bring the deceased to Plymouth? - A.: A gentleman had got her an engagement with Dr Stephens. - Q.: did you know the gentleman? - A.: Yes, perfectly. - Q.: What is he? - A.: A retired captain from the East India Company. - Q.: Is he married? - A.: Yes, but he is separated from his wife. - Q.: What money had the deceased when you left her? - A.: Not much, but the gentleman sent her £5. - Q.: Did you hear anything about the death of her child? - A.: I heard it from the gentleman, who came and told me of it. - Q.: Do you know if she obtained anything of a druggist? - A.: No. - Q.: Do you know if she employed anyone to do so? - A.: No; before she came down to Plymouth I was always in her company. I live with her father. - Q.: Does the gentleman you speak of live at Dartmouth? - A. He used to, but he now resides at Kingswear. - Q.: Have you had any correspondence with this gentleman since the death of the child? - A.: No. - Q.: What is his name? - A.: Arthur Brooking; he is between 53 and 54 years of age. - Q.: Did he go to the house of deceased's father? - A.: Not before she got into trouble. She had a sister a cook in his service. - Q.: Did deceased appear depressed when she came to Plymouth? - A.: No, because she was looking forward to going back again. - A friend of the relatives of the deceased asked, through the Coroner, under whose instructions witness came to Plymouth with the deceased? - Mrs Tucker replied that she was sent by Brooking. Deceased was a dressmaker. Witness saw Brooking on Monday, and he appeared very much depressed. Brooking was not divorced from his wife, and deceased could have had no hopes of ever becoming his wife. - The Deputy Coroner said he had received a communication from Brooking, who was in Plymouth, and ready to be examined. - Williams, the Coroner's officer, said he went to Dartmouth, and saw the father of the deceased. He appeared very much grieved, and said that Brooking had called on him, and informed him that he had arranged for the funeral. The father expressed his belief that his daughter had not poisoned herself. Witness saw Brooking, who appeared to feel his position very much. Witness had also called on Mr Cutcliffe, the chemist, and asked whether deceased's father, Brooking, or any person connected with the family, had purchased any poisonous article of him, and he replied in the negative. Brooking told him that he was sorry anything of this kind had taken place. - The Jury desired that Mr Brooking might be sent for. - W. Bray Stephens, surgeon, had made an analysis of the contents of the stomach of deceased, and although not sufficiently skilled to make a thorough analysis, he still considered that deceased had been poisoned with oxalic acid. That poison was very frequently used for cleaning, and could be obtained easily. He had seen a glass found in deceased's room after he death. It contained ale only. Three drachms of oxalic acid had been known to cause death, but not so rapidly as in this case. He should think an ounce was taken by deceased. - The Deputy Coroner observed that he had learnt from one of the leading chemists in Plymouth that persons in that trade were not bound to record the names of purchasers of oxalic acid as they were in the cases of other poisons. - A Juror asked why Mr Stephens did not tell the Jury who the gentleman was that signed himself "F. M." in his letter to deceased? - Mr Stephens said he was not asked the question. - A Juror said the letter was read after Mr Stephens left, and knowing the difficulty the Jury were in with regard to the case, he (the speaker) thought Mr Stephens, as a gentleman, should have communicated to them the name of his correspondent and employer. (Hear, hear.) - Mr Stephens: If you had asked me his name I would have told you. - The Foreman asserted that he asked Mr Stephens the name of the gentleman, and he replied that "He had had a communication from Dartmouth, but did not know the name of the writer." He (the Foreman) naturally felt that, as a gentleman, Mr Stephens could not tell the name or he would willingly have done so. - The Deputy Coroner said even, supposing Mr Stephens had done so they would have had to adjourn the Inquest, and would not have been much further ahead. - Mr Stephens said medical men had secret communications, and he did not think unless asked they were bound to reveal those communications. - The Foreman urged that in such an important case as this Mr Stephens should have done so to clear up the mystery. - Mr Stephens, in answer to the Jury, said he had known Capt. Brooking for three or four years. He lived at Plymouth at one time. He was not a personal friend of his. - A Juror asked if Mr Stephens had ever done anything of this kind for Capt. Brooking before? - The Coroner observed that this did not appear to be the question before them, and said it was undesirable to wander from the point. - The Foreman thought it was to the point, and yet it was not. It might shew the Jury that the cause of this young woman's death might apply to others. - Mr Stephens said he would rather say nothing about the matter. - The Foreman replied that witness was not bound to answer, and the Jury would take silence for consent. - Elizabeth Prior, wife of William Prior, labourer, Devonport Dockyard, residing at Woolsden-place, Plymouth, was called to see deceased on Monday. She was lying on a bed in the greatest agony, and said to witness, "Rub my stomach; is the doctor coming?" She afterwards said, "Oh, Jesus! Jesus!" and in a few minutes died. Deceased did not fret, after the loss of her baby, any more than she had before its death. She was always low-spirited. - Captain Brooking then tendered himself as a witness, and was asked by the Deputy Coroner if he was ready to give evidence? He replied that he was ready to do anything which might be required of him. He then said: My name is Arthur Brooking, and I am a retired captain from the East Indian Company's service. I reside at Kingswear. I have known the deceased for several years; I cannot say exactly how long. During the whole time I have known her I have never observed anything whatever which would lead me to suspect that she was insane, or anything like it. She was sent to Plymouth by my directions, and at my cost. She was supplied by me with everything she wanted. May I add that she was sent to Plymouth with the consent of her parent - her father. - The Deputy Coroner: As far as you know, did she obtain any poison, or anything of a poisonous nature, before she left? - Witness: I have not the remotest idea of her ever having a thought in that direction. I had no reason whatever to believe that she had any poison in her possession. She never spoke or communicated to me in writing about this. - The Coroner: I am going to ask you a question which you need not answer unless you like. Did you in any way communicate with her about poison. - Witness: Not in any way. - The Coroner: Is there anything you would like to add relating to the matter? - Witness: If I may add a word, I may say that I have always found her to be truthful and upright in every way, and I had no reason to suppose she would ever commit an act of this sort. I have not seen the body since I have been down, but I suppose it to be that of MISS HAWKE. I have had no direct communication with her since she was confined. I have had intimations about her through Mr Stephens. I wrote to Mr Stephens about her confinement, telling him to get it all over and I would pay all expenses. Mr Stephens kindly undertook to attend to her. The money I sent deceased was always sent in letters directed to her. I cannot afford the Jury any clue whatever as to how she got the poison. - The Foreman remarked that it was a curious thing that within half an hour after letters arrived on Monday - one from "F. M." - the young woman was found dead. The letter did not seem such as to cause any rash act to be committed. - Witness: I cannot recollect the exact words I wrote, but I was always in the habit of writing in one manner, because I had great esteem and regard for the young woman. I had made arrangements with Mr Stephens, with reference to her confinement, previously to her coming to Plymouth and taking lodgings. I made no agreement with him whatever as to the money he should be paid. He would be paid his usual fee, and I would pay the landlady for the lodgings. I have known Mr Stephens for about four years. - A Juror: Did you ever happen to know anything of this kind take place before with Mr Stephens and anyone else? - Witness: I cannot tell of anyone else; but even if I did I should appeal to the Coroner as to whether I was bound to mention it. - The Coroner said they must confine themselves to the case in question. - The Foreman said the reason for asking such questions was, that they wanted to see where the poison came from if they could. He could not understand why deceased should wish to destroy herself when she knew her child was dead, and she could then make a fresh start in life. Did witness know if anyone sent poison to her to give to her child? - Witness: I have no knowledge whatever. With regard to her making a fresh start in life, her friends were quite prepared to receive her back. I cannot tell, unless I had my account book, of the money I sent her. Whenever she said she wanted any money, I used to send it to her. I don't know how she became so badly off as only to have 3s. 7 ½d. when she died. I should say I sent her £10. I think she had £5 before she left. - Hannah Ough, re-examined, said she had not used oxalic acid in her cleaning work for five years. A servant who worked for her five years ago used it. There was no one in her house who would be likely to use it. Deceased went out once for a short time before she was confined. - The Deputy Coroner said they had all the evidence which would throw light on the case, which was one of considerable mystery and difficulty, and the Jury had taken great pains in the investigation of it. The actual cause of death, after the surgeon's evidence, was quite clear, that deceased had been poisoned by oxalic acid, which was not a poison coming under the Act of Parliament by which chemists were bound to keep a record of the person to whom they sold it. It was therefore impossible to ascertain how the deceased came by the poison, as it was quite easy to obtain it. She might have been the victim of some terrible mistake, drinking out of a cup which contained the oxalic acid which had been inadvertently left behind, and which she thought was sugar. They had no evidence that she ever appeared to contemplate committing suicide, and it was therefore utterly impossible for them to say in their verdict that she poisoned herself. This might be so, as the surgeon had told them that women soon after child-birth required to be carefully watched, being at times unaccountable for their actions, and it was possible that in some temporary state of that kind she might have taken away her life. Then she would not be accountable for her actions. All that was a mere supposition, and the evidence only shewed that she died from the effects of poison. It was unfortunate that they could carry the case no further. It would be interesting and useful to know exactly how death arose, whether by deceased's own act, or by accident which could be guarded against in the future; but the whole affair was a mystery and likely to remain so, the truth being known only to God. He did not think a further adjournment would tend to throw more light on the case, and it must be obvious to the Jury that the only verdict they could return would be that the deceased died from poison, but how the poison was obtained, or by whom it was administered, they were unable to ascertain. - A Juror would like a post mortem examination of the child to be made. - The Coroner pointed out that it was stated that the child died of diarrhoea, and Mrs Ough, who saw it die, said although racked with pain it did not display the same symptoms as its mother did before her death. - A Juror remarked that it would have been more satisfactory if a second surgeon had assisted in the post mortem examination of the mother. (Hear, hear.) - The Deputy Coroner said he had a double duty to perform in the case. His duty compelled him to take the best possible means for inquiring into the circumstances of every case, and he was bound not to saddle the ratepayers with too much expense. It was distinctly laid down that in a case where a surgeon attended a person who died suddenly, and an Inquest was held, another surgeon would be requested to make the post mortem examination. Where, however, as in this case, the patient had not been attended for some days, and had apparently recovered, this would not be necessary. - Mr Stephens said he asked Mr Graham to assist him, but that gentleman could not attend. - A Juror was sure the inhabitants would not have minded the little extra expense. - The Coroner knew that. - Ultimately the Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the views the Coroner expressed at the end of his summing up.

Western Morning News, Saturday 2 September 1871
WINKLEIGH - By falling from a barley rick at Hole Farm, Winkleigh, a man named THOMAS WHEATON, 53 years of age, dislocated his neck. An Inquest was held, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 2 September 1871
WEMBURY - Mr Bone, Coroner, held an Inquest at Wembury yesterday, on the body of the man which had been picked up there, as already reported. An almanack was found on deceased in which "EDWARD ELLIS" was written. A verdict of "Found Dead" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 2 September 1871
RINGMORE - An Inquest was also held at Challaborough coastguard station on the body of a man found there yesterday morning. Mr Pyke, stationer, of Devonport, identified the body as that of WILLIAM WELSH, who was lost in the yacht Minnie. A verdict in similar terms was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 4 September 1871
STOKE DAMEREL - The Murder At Devonport. - On Saturday morning the man, James Taylor, who, as has been stated, murdered on Friday morning an old man named HENRY RIDER, at 8 George-street, Devonport, was brought up at the Devonport Police Court before the Mayor (Mr J. May) and Messrs. J. W. W. Ryder, and T. Crossing, magistrates, charged with having committed the crime. The greatest interest was manifested in the case. Taylor, who is a fine, broad-shouldered young man, about six feet in height, while in Court looked despondent. - Superintendent Lynn was examined, and said he saw the prisoner at the station-house soon after half-past twelve o'clock on Friday morning. he went to 8 George-street, and in an upstairs room found RIDER dead, lying on a bed. There were several marks of violence on his head. On returning to the police-station he charged the prisoner with having wilfully murdered HENRY RIDER. The prisoner replied, "Yes, I did it. When I came home from sea his daughter robbed me of all I had. Yesterday I went and asked the old man if he could do anything for me. The old man ate his own dinner and gave me a bit of dry bread and this morning (Friday) he offered me a penny. I slept in the house last night on a sofa." Witness asked the prisoner his address, and he replied, "I live in Devonport, but I have no fixed place of residence. I slept in the house last night with the man I have murdered." Witness said, after taking the charge, "Constable Blackler has found a most murderous implement in the house, which would appear to shew that this act was not done under a sudden impulse." The prisoner replied, "It was not so, and I intended it." - No more evidence was then offered, and the prisoner was remanded until today. - The Inquest. - The Inquest on RIDER was held by Mr Bone at the Guildhall in the afternoon. The first witness examined was:- Samuel Blackler, a police-constable, who said on Friday, about a quarter past twelve o'clock, he went into George-street, where he saw a man named James Taylor looking out of the window of a house No. 8 in the street. He said, "Policeman, I want you to come up here, for |I have committed murder. I want you to examine the room before you take me away." Witness at once rushed up the stairs of the house in company with the Port Admiral's coxswain. On the landing of the second pair of stairs he saw Taylor standing at the door of the front room. He said, "Policeman, I have committed murder; I have murdered that old man. I have done it with the "flat," and you will find it in the bed. I intended doing it. I have known the old man for years. I have a reason for doing it. He's brought me to what I am." Witness told him he would have to go to the station with him on a charge of murdering this old man. He said, "I have not done it for any robbery. His (the old man's) watch and chain are hanging up by the side of the mantelpiece." Witness told him he must go to the station with him, and he replied, "I am prepared to go." Witness saw the dead body of the deceased in bed, lying on his right side, with the head towards the foot of the bed, covered with blood. There was a quantity of blood on the bed, and some of the clothes were thrust in his mouth. Also saw spots of blood on the floor of the room, and also spots of blood on Taylor's hands. Saw severe cuts on the skull of deceased. At the station-house he examined the cap which Taylor wore, and saw a spot of blood on the peak. Prisoner at the police-station said, "Yes, I am the man who did it." Examined the dead man's pockets, and found them undisturbed. In about five minutes from the discovery of the murder Mr James Bennett, surgeon, arrived, and said the man was quite dead. Just afterwards he (witness) examined he bed, and then saw an instrument lying by the side of the head of the deceased. It was stained very much with blood and human hair was upon the heavy end of it, which appeared to be a "flat" iron covered with canvas. Charged Taylor with murdering the old man, and he replied, "Yes, I intended doing it." Taylor was perfectly sober. - At this stage of the Inquiry a Juryman asked that Taylor might be present, but was told by the Coroner that no one was charged with anything at the Inquest. They met for the purpose of Inquiring how the deceased came by his death, and until the evidence was adduced there was in point of law no charge against any person, and it was not usual to call for a prisoner in such a case. - Eliza Rowe, the wife of Richard Rowe, printer, Devonport, said she resided at 8 George-street, where the deceased rented a front room. He had occupied the room for some months past. About 10 o'clock yesterday morning saw Taylor go through the court of the house, and at about 12 o'clock heard the old man RIDER go up the stairs towards his room. Heard him say to someone, "Tis 12 o'clock." About ten minutes after, whilst in her own room, which was on the same landing as that which RIDER occupied, she heard a strange scream. Two or three minutes afterwards witness's daughter knocked at the door of RIDER'S room. There was no answer, and she then tried to open the door, which did not open. The key was in the door, and in trying to unlock it she locked the door. About two or three minutes afterwards heard a knock from the inside of the door, and then went to the door and found it locked. Turned the key and opened the door. Then saw Taylor standing in the middle of the room. He said, "I've killed him; his watch and things are all safe. I have called the police from the window, and they are coming upstairs." When she heard the scream witness looked through the keyhole of the door of the deceased's room, and saw a man leaning over the bottom of the bed with his hands down on the bed. - Mary Ann Snow, wife of Robert Snow, innkeeper, Devonport, had known the deceased two years and a half. On Friday morning, about a quarter before ten o'clock, called upon the old man, and saw him in his room. There was a man in the room mending some clothes for the old man. He was a smart and nice looking man, but she had not seen him in court, and therefore did not know that he was the same man that had been before the magistrates. - James Bennett, M.R.C.S., said on Friday, about half-past twelve o'clock in the afternoon, he went to a room up two flights of stairs of 8 George-street, and saw the body of a man on a bed. The man was dead, but warm, probably had been dead ten minutes or quarter of an hour. Particularly noticed a long incised wound on the right side of the head, which divided the scalp to the bone of the skull. Also saw a great deal of blood over the face and head on the right side, and on going to the left side of the man saw another scalp incised wound on the left temple, which divided the scalp to the bone, and a little beneath the end of that incision saw another and lacerated wound which was not continuous with the incision, but a small interval of scalp intervened between the two wounds. There was a fracture of the skull at the lower end of the incision on the right side of the head, and on the left side of the head at the lower end of the incision there was also a much depressed fracture of the skull, more evident there than on the right side. There was an incision also on the left side of the face an inch and a half in length. Had no doubt the instrument produced would cause such injuries as described, and they were quite sufficient to account for the death of the deceased. - John Lynn, superintendent of police, was again examined, and detailed the conversation which he had had with prisoner, and which he gave in evidence that morning. Some trouble, he said, had, in his opinion, been taken to make the instrument with which the murder was committed. It was made of canvas rolled up and then sewn, and answered the purpose of what was popularly called a sling shot. - In answer to a Juror, Mr Lynn said, as far as he could judge, prisoner was perfectly sane; and whole in his custody he never exhibited any signs of being otherwise. - The Coroner, after repeating the evidence which had been given in the case apart from the admissions made by Taylor, said had that man made no admissions whatever it would be for the Jury to consider whether the evidence given was not so strongly as to induce them to return a very serious verdict in the case. The man Taylor was not only seen in the room, but he pulled up the window, calling upon a policeman and others to come up, as he had murdered a man, and repeatedly to Mr Lynn did he make a similar admission, and also that he intended it. He (the Coroner) need not say much to them - intelligent men as they were - with regard to manslaughter. That meant the death of a man arising out of the impulsive act of another without an intention to do grievous bodily harm. But here was a man who said "I intended to murder him," and offered what he seemed to consider as reasons for doing it. The question was whether the Jury could feel any doubt at all in the present case. Did they believe that the deceased's death was attributable to the act of the accused, and that he intended to do grievous bodily harm to him? and from the instrument found in the bed they must judge this, combined with the remark accused had made, that he intended to murder. - The Jury, after a minute's deliberation, returned a verdict of "Wilful Murder" against James Taylor.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 5 September 1871
MAKER - A private in the 57th Regiment, stationed at Maker, named ALLAN DEVONSHEN, a native of Okehampton, was drowned on Saturday whilst bathing. The deceased, with two other privates, went under the cliffs at Maker for the purpose of bathing, and the deceased, who could not swim, was last seen by his companions in about three feet of water. They swam off, and the deceased must have walked further out and fallen into a pit, from which he did not rise. The two privates on returning to the shore could not find the deceased, and after dressing they reported their companion's absence to Colour-Sergeant Healy, who proceeded to the spot and discovered DEVONSHEN lying on his side in about four feet of water. An Inquest was held yesterday, and a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" returned. The deceased will be buried with military honours at Maker Church this afternoon.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 6 September 1871
BRENT - An Inquest was held at the Anchor Inn, Brent, by Mr H. Michelmore, coroner, to Inquire into the cause of death of a mason named WILLIAM MORGAN, aged 53, who was found dead in a linhay at Stidston Farm on Friday. The Jury returned a verdict of "Died from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Saturday 9 September 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at the Plymouth Guildhall yesterday by Mr J. Shelly, Deputy Coroner, relative to the death of WILLIAM DARK, aged 37. - John T. Demellwick, fisherman, said on Thursday, about 1 p.m., he and deceased went out together in a fishing-boat, and proceeded about twenty miles from land. The deceased complained of toothache at about 4 p.m., but little notice was taken until eleven o'clock, when the deceased lay down, groaning in his agony. He soon got up, however, and was dressing, when the witness, who was in the stern attending the lines, heard a noise, and on going to the fore part of the boat saw that the deceased had fallen down. He neither moved nor spoke, and the witness took him up and laid his head on a pillow. Witness then hauled up the anchor, took in the lines, hoisted sails, and made for Plymouth, which was reached about 5 a.m. on Friday. The body was then given to Inspector Manning, who took it to the dead-house. Deceased did not complain of anything but the toothache whilst at sea. He had nothing to make use of except the victuals he brought with him and some pudding the witness gave him. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 12 September 1871
DARTMOUTH - Fatal Carriage Accident. - An Inquest was held yesterday at Wall's Trafalgar Inn, Dartmouth, by Mr J. M. Puddicombe, Borough Coroner, on a child named ROBERT LIME, aged 18 months, who was driven over in the New-road on Saturday. From the evidence it appears that whilst Mrs Burr, of Stokefleming, was driving up the New-road, her dress caught in the wheel of the carriage, and she was in the act of passing the reins to a gentleman when the child, who was running across the road, was knocked down by the horse, and the wheels of the carriage passing over him, he was killed instantaneously. The father, who is a steward on board H.M.S. Britannia, was the first to reach the spot and pick up the body of his dead child. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Jury exonerating Mrs Burr from all blame.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 12 September 1871
BARNSTAPLE - Alleged Manslaughter At Barnstaple. - Late on Saturday night a man named JAMES CHAPPLE, about 70 years of age, landlord of the Mariners Inn, Trinity-street, Barnstaple, received injuries in a quarrel which resulted in his death on Sunday evening. Two brothers, named John Todd, 23 years of age, and Charles Todd, 19 years of age, the former CHAPPLE'S son-in-law, were apprehended and brought before the magistrates yesterday morning, and remanded by them until Monday next, on the application of Mr L. Bencraft, who prosecuted. - Last evening an Inquest was held by Mr I. Bencraft, Coroner. - Wm. Carter said he was at the Mariners' Arms on Saturday night. There was a quarrel between John Todd and the deceased's sons. The former was excited by women calling him names, and his wife interfering, he struck her, upon which deceased interfered. Todd knocked him down, and in the scuffle he and his brother Charles got on the ground also, where they all remained about an hour. On being got up the old man said he had been kicked in the lower part of the body, and could hardly stand, and, pointing to Charles Todd, said, "That young blackguard has kicked me." He did not see John Todd kick the deceased. - MARIA WOOLLEY, daughter of the deceased, said her father, thinking John Todd was about to strike her mother, got up and caught hold of him. Charles Todd, who had been sitting down in the kitchen, rose, and knocked her father down, and kicked him three times whilst he was on the ground. John Todd did not strike her father at all. She could not tell where Charles Todd struck or kicked him. Her father said Charles Todd had given him his death blow, and that he had kicked him. - William Parsley saw John Todd strike MR CHAPPLE and they both fell down. After the old man got up, Charles Todd rushed in, pushed him down and fell upon him. - MRS CHAPPLE, widow of deceased, said she did not believe John Todd struck or kicked her husband, as he was very fond of him. - James Spurway, grandson of the deceased, saw John Todd push his grandfather back, when Charles Todd got up from the seat, struck his grandfather in the face and kicked him several times in the side. John and Charles were both on his grandfather at one time. - At this juncture the Inquest was adjourned until this evening.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 13 September 1871
BARNSTAPLE - The Alleged Manslaughter At Barnstaple. - Mr Bencraft held the adjourned Inquiry at the Barnstaple Townhall last evening, relative to the death of JAMES CHAPPLE. - Mr Tooke, surgeon, said he made a post-mortem examination of the body of the deceased. On opening the abdomen he found a portion of the small intestines very much inflamed, and a rupture of the gut, which, in his opinion, caused death. There was no appearance on any other part of the body which would account for death. The injury was caused by a severe pressure on the abdomen, and if anyone fell on him, it was quite as likely to produce death as a kick or blows. If he had been kicked, it was somewhat strange that there were no extensive bruises. - The Jury returned a verdict of Manslaughter against John and Charles Todd.

Western Morning News, Saturday 16 September 1871
TORQUAY - The Tourist Drowned At Torquay. - An Inquest was held on Thursday night at the Roughwood Hotel, Torquay, on THOMAS JOHN SMITH, who was drowned on Wednesday whilst bathing at Anstis Cove. The deceased was a clerk in the office of a firm of London solicitors, and came to Devonshire for his holiday. The body was identified by his father, the hall porter at the Royal Institution, Albemarle-street, Piccadilly, London. The deceased went into the water at the Whitebeach, close to Anstis Cove, when the water was very rough - one of the witnesses describing the breakers as ten feet high. He swam very well, but suddenly called for help. Thomas, the boatman, stripped, put a rope round his waist and waded out as far as he could, when he was flung back on the shore by the waves. Thomas and two men launched a boat, and this, too, was dashed ashore and filled with water; again launching the boat, they sculled away for the body, and found it head under water. It was brought to shore, and under the direction of Dr Bernard, a physician retired from practice, efforts to restore animation were continued for an hour and a half, but without avail. It is believed that the deceased died before being taken into the boat. From the time he cried for help until the body was taken up, twenty minutes elapsed. A verdict of Accidental Death was returned, and the Jury stated that they considered Thomas's conduct very praiseworthy.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 19 September 1871
PLYMOUTH - The Mysterious Death At Plymouth. - An Inquest was held at the Plymouth Guildhall yesterday by Mr T. C. Brian, Coroner, relative to the death of JAMES BROWN, aged 21. - Thomas Rockey, waterman, stated that on Sunday, about 1 p.m., he was on Millbay-pier, and seeing some people running went to a beach at Rusty Anchor, where he found the body of a man lying face downwards. He remained by the body until Police-constable Thomas took possession of it. - Police-constable Thomas found an incised wound on the back of the head of the deceased, which might have rendered him insensible had he fallen from the rocks, which were nine feet high. There was also a small scratch on the left cheek. On searching the deceased he found a purse containing a slip of paper, on which was written "You owe 5s. 6d. for board;" and also a postage stamp and a pocket-handkerchief. He saw no signs of a struggle near the place. - LYDIA BROWN said she was the sister of the deceased and resided with him at 13 Princess-street. On Saturday, about 9 p.m, he said he was going to tell a policeman to call him in the morning, in order that he might attend to his duties at the Post-office, where he was employed as a clerk. He went out, but did not return. He was 21 years of age last birthday. - The father of the deceased said his son formerly worked at Mr R. Langford's wine and spirit merchant, but left and went to London, where he endeavoured to get a situation. Not succeeding he went to Dublin, where he was also unsuccessful. He then returned to Plymouth, and was taken on at the Post-office. He was always cheerful before going to London, but on his return he seemed depressed. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Western Morning News, Thursday 21 September 1871
ST MARYCHURCH - An Inquest was held at the Cary Arms, Babbicombe, yesterday, by Mr H. Michelmore, concerning the death of a young man named ALBERT JACKMAN, who was drowned on the 10th instant at Teignmouth. Evidence was given by Henry Stoneman and Frank Hannaford, who were bathing with the deceased at the time. The sea was very rough, and, although they both endeavoured to save him, the waves separated them. The body was picked up on Tuesday in Babbicombe Bay by William Stiggins. The Coroner condemned the reckless manner in which young men persisted in bathing when the sea was too rough. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidentally Drowned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 23 September 1871
NEWTON ABBOT - The Mysterious Death Near Newton. - The resumed Inquest concerning the death of EDWARD THORNE, aged 66 years, who was, on the 12th inst., found in an insensible state in Gappah-lane, Ideford, and who subsequently died in the Newton Workhouse, was held yesterday. No important facts were brought to light, and the manner in which the deceased came by the wounds in his head which were the cause of death, is as deeply shrouded in mystery as ever. The general belief is that the deceased, whilst in a state of intoxication, fell from a gap in a hedge to the road beneath, and pitching on some stones received the injuries, but nothing has been elicited concerning the dead man's hat, "slop," basket, and stick, which were in his possession when he bade the men with whom he had been to Ideford "revel" "good night." The deceased was addicted to drunkenness, but when he left the men referred to he was, according to their story, perfectly sober. The woman who, with her husband, a sailor, passed through Gappah-lane at a late hour on the night during which it is supposed THORNE met with his death wounds, gave evidence at the resumed Inquest, and stated that the deceased was not lying in the lane when she and her husband passed through it, as the road at the spot where he was found was so narrow that they must have walked over him if he had been lying there. The Jury returned the following verdict, which accorded with the evidence of Mr F. J. Gillard, house surgeon at the Newton Workhouse, who made the post mortem examination:- "That the deceased was found in Gappah-lane in an insensible state on the 12th September, and that the cause of death was effusion of blood on the brain, and fracture of the skull, but how the deceased came there, there is no evidence to shew." 

Western Morning News, Monday 25 September 1871
STOKE DAMEREL - The Suicide By A Soldier At Devonport. Verdict Of Felo De Se. - A few additional details relating to the suicide of JAMES FREWIN, private soldier of the 18th (Royal Irish) Regiment, transpired at the Inquest held by the Devonport coroner on Saturday. - The young woman Waycott, who, as stated in the account published in the Western Morning News on Saturday, had "walked" with the deceased, was examined at some length. After leaving the public-house in which they had been drinking, the deceased refused to go to barracks, and they went for a walk to Richmond-walk. There deceased said, "I will do it," and on witness asking him what he meant, he said, "You will see." She said, "Then my dream" (referring to one she had had) "is coming true." FREWIN asked her to tell him the dream, and she refused to do so. He said, "Won't you tell me the last dream for the last night?" Afterwards he again said he would not go to barracks any more, and she said he was only saying this to frighten her. He replied that he would do it, and then she made the remark about "making a hole in the water." Deceased got on the wall overlooking Mr Winlo's quay, and said "the water was looking very smooth, and the moon shining beautifully." She told him that he would break his legs if he went over the wall as there was no water there, and added, "You are not game to do it." He then flung his belt to a comrade named McCaffery, who was with them, jumped off the wall, and fell to the quay below. He got into a stooping posture, with one hand on the ground, and one on his knee, and having crept to the edge, of the quay threw himself overboard. He was intoxicated, but knew what he was saying. Three weeks since she passed the Stonehouse Pool with deceased, after having had a few angry words with him, when he looked towards the water, and said, "If I go in I will take you with me." A day or two after he told her "if he saw her looking at, talking to, or walking with any young man he would murder her and himself too." - McCaffery corroborated Waycott's evidence relating to Friday night's procedure, except with regard to that portion where she said she saw deceased leap from the quay into the water, after jumping from the wall. He did not see this, he said, and thought he must if it had occurred, as he had as good an opportunity of seeing as Waycott had. He believed FREWIN rolled from the quay into the water. - Mr Symons related his endeavours to save deceased on Saturday. - Captain Thacker, 18th Regiment, proved that deceased was 18 years and 8 months old. He came from St. Pancras, having joined the regiment last January. While in the regiment he bore a very high character indeed. - The Coroner, in summing up, put it to the Jury whether they believed that deceased committed suicide or not. He referred to the discrepancy in the evidence of Waycott and McCaffery about jumping into the water, and told the Jury that if they believed that in jumping off the wall he intended to destroy his life, that was sufficient to justify a conclusion of suicide, without caring if he jumped into the water or not. Then, if they thought it a case of suicide, they must consider whether the evidence shewed that he was of unsound mind at the time he committed the act. - The Jury, after a quarter of an hour's deliberation with closed doors, returned a verdict of Felo De Se. - A Juror wished it to be known that ten of the double Jury dissented from this verdict. - The Coroner said he only wanted the verdict of the majority. - The body was carried to the cemetery about eleven o'clock on Saturday night, by soldiers of the regiment, and consigned to its last resting place, without ceremony or mourners.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 26 September 1871
EAST STONEHOUSE - The Suicide Of A Naval Officer. - The Inquest on JAMES RICHARD JACKSON, engineer, of the turret ship Prince Albert, who, as we mentioned yesterday, had died at the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, from the effects of poison, was held yesterday by Mr Bone, County Coroner. In addition to the particulars already published further information was given. - Charles Marks, gunner of the Prince Albert, said he had been in the ship five months. Deceased had been in a state of depression during a great portion of that time, and would not speak to his comrades as he used to. On Friday he saw deceased walking on the deck, and said "Good morning" to him. He made no reply, and witness put his hand upon his shoulder, and said "What is the matter again, old man? Bad?" Deceased replied "No," turned round, and went below. At five o'clock the same day he met deceased, and said, "Come, JACKSON, the liberty men are piped to 'fall in;' get yourself ready to go ashore." The liberty men got into the boat and witness went in, and as MR JACKSON did not come, he sent a servant to say that the boat was ready and waiting for him. Deceased replied "that he was not going on shore that night." - John Sanders, gunner, said MR JACKSON had been on board the Prince Albert for sixteen months; for the past six months he had been very low spirited. He related the circumstances - already published - under which deceased was found clinging to the rudder chains of the ship on Friday night. - William J. Baird, M.D., surgeon of the Cambridge, was called to see deceased on Friday night. He found him weak, cold and pulseless, but conscious. He vomited frothy mucus mixed with blood. He asked him what he had taken adding, "You must have taken something." After some persuasion deceased said he had taken corrosive sublimate. He gave him egg and fluid, placed him in a cot and had him conveyed to the Naval Hospital at Stonehouse. He encouraged deceased to vomit in the cot, and he did so several times, both on board and while in the cot. At the Hospital he asked deceased how much of the poison he had taken. He replied, "A teaspoonful," and that he had bought it. He had taken it at four o'clock. This quantity was sufficient to cause death. - Thomas Carter, engineer's servant, found a piece of corrosive sublimate about the size of a bean in deceased's coat pocket on Saturday. It was wrapped in paper, which contained directions relative to medicine, but the word "poison" was not observable. - The Coroner asked if the paper could be produced, because it was an offence to sell poison without indicating in print what it was. - Dr Baird said he had not seen the paper. Corrosive sublimate was used on board ship for bronzing metal. - Henry Lander, assistant-surgeon at the Hospital, stated that he saw deceased on Friday night, when he was in a state of collapse, almost pulseless, and cold. He vomited mucus mixed with blood. The usual remedies were applied, but deceased never rallied. Having made a post mortem examination, he found the stomach in a complete state of disorganization, such as would be caused by some strong irritant: corrosive sublimate would create such appearances. He examined the brain, and found that disease had commenced in it, and the softening of the brain, which existed was calculated to affect the reason. All the other organs of the body were healthy. He analysed the contents of the stomach, and found evidence of the presence of corrosive sublimate. The poison killed deceased and not his immersion in the water. - T. H. JACKSON, brother of deceased, said the latter was 31 years of age. He had been a very persevering, studying young man. So long ago as last April twelve months he complained of dizziness in his head. - Geo. Park, retired naval officer, with whom deceased lodged prior to his marriage - 11 months since - said although some time ago he was an exceedingly lively young man, within the past six months he had become reserved and taciturn. When he saw him, ten days ago, he appeared a little better than he had been. - The Coroner, summing up, said the Jury must agree with him that the evidence clearly shewed that deceased was the author of his own death. Regarding the state of his mind, he imagined they could feel no doubt upon the subject, for not only was there evidence of peculiarity of manner and despondency, for some months past, but, what was much more material, for despondency was not insanity, he was found to have disease of the brain quite sufficient to account for want of reason. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst labouring under Temporary Insanity."

Western Morning News, Saturday 30 September 1871
TOTNES - The Coroner's Inquest concerning the two little girls - HANNAH ALLERY and GRACE STANNING - who were drowned in the mill lake, Totnes, buy falling into it while at play, was held yesterday. The Jury appended to their verdict a direction that the timbers in the water on which the children were walking should be at once removed by the race committee, by whom they had been left in the lake.

Western Morning News, Friday 6 October 1871
TOTNES - The Fatal Accident At Totnes. A Missing Witness. - An Inquest was held yesterday at the William IV Inn, Totnes, by Mr H. Michelmore, County Coroner, and a Jury, of which Mr Angel was Foreman, to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of MR WILLIAM EWINS. - William Harvey, farmer, Ashprington, said he and the deceased, a butcher residing at Ashprington, were together on Tuesday last (Totnes market). At about seven o'clock they were at the Railway Hotel, where deceased had a glass of brandy and a bottle of ginger-beer. They left the house together. Witness's pony being ready first, he rode towards the town, deceased saying he would overtake him. He rode quietly into the town, and waited for MR EWINS at the corner of the William the Fourth Inn. Shortly afterwards he heard two horses coming, but one suddenly appeared to stop. A man on horseback, and wearing shiny leggings, then came on the road and rode down the street, and about a minute after the horse the deceased had been riding came in the road without a rider. The deceased was quite sober when he left the Railway Hotel. The horse was a quiet one; it was the same on which MRS EWIN'S former husband was riding when he met his death. He had no reason in riding away from deceased, except that his pony was ready first. He believed deceased was 33 years of age. Nicholas Ball, landlord of the Railway Hotel, considered the deceased was quite sober. - Joseph Roe, merchant, residing at the Rectory, Totnes, was walking on the road with a man who had brought him a horse, to shew him the way to his stables, when he heard horses coming at a rapid pace. They got out of the way, and called to the riders to pull up, and his impression was that the deceased tried to pull up. One of the horses, he thought it was the deceased's, ran against the hind quarters of witnesses horse, and the rider (deceased) instantly fell. The two men were riding side by side. He did not think the other man drew up. The deceased was not dragged at all. Had no idea who the other man was. - T. E. Owen, surgeon, Totnes, was called to the deceased, and found him totally insensible, with blood oozing very fast from the ears, nose and mouth. He examined him thoroughly. He found a lacerated wound at the back of the head and a fracture of the base of the skull. - The Coroner, in summing up, said in reference to Mr Roe's evidence, that it appeared that in coming in contact with Mr Roe's horse, the stirrup gave way, and deceased was thrown off, and met with the injuries which caused his death. There was no evidence to prove that the man who was riding with deceased knew that he was thrown off. If the man, however, knew that the poor fellow met with an accident, and did not pull up, then he would not be criminally but morally to blame. The stirrup leather was quite rotten, and the girth was a single one, and ought not to have been ridden with. He believed butchers to be the most careless class of men in this respect. He had stopped butchers in his own town, Newton, and told them they ought not to send boys out with one girth, and he had also told them he should hold them culpable in case of accident. But still for all this he found they still sent them out with this imperfect material. The Jury then returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 11 October 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest has been held at the Plymouth Guildhall by Mr T. C. Brian, Coroner, to Inquire into the case of CHARLOTTE ROWE, who committed suicide on Sunday evening by hanging herself. The husband of deceased, who is a retired tradesman living at 43 Ebrington-street, stated that of late deceased had been in the habit of talking incoherently to herself. On Sunday evening she was left alone for a short time, and soon afterwards was found by her husband hanging by a piece of cotton print. Dr Hingston stated that he had recently attended deceased, who, he found, was out of her mind. She accused her husband and all her friends of ill-treatment, which statements he afterwards discovered had no foundation. The Jury instantly returned a verdict to the effect that deceased committed Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity.

Western Morning News, Friday 13 October 1871
YARNSCOMBE - The North Devon Tragedy. - An adjourned Inquest was held at Yarnscombe on Wednesday, concerning the deaths of the two children murdered by their mother, JANE PETHERBRIDGE, under circumstances which have already been reported. The only additional evidence offered was that a bed gown was found from which a string had been torn, with which, it was supposed, one of the children was strangled. - Mr Jones, surgeon, said he thought that as the woman was paralysed on one side, and could have used only one hand, that she jammed her eldest girl against the side of the bed to produce strangulation. The Jury returned a verdict of "Wilful Murder" against the mother of the deceaseds.

Western Morning News, Monday 23 October 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held on Saturday at the Plymouth Guildhall concerning the death of JOHANNES JORGENSEN, cook and steward of the Norwegian barque Lucie, Capt Larsen. The barque is last from Shields, with coals, for Smyrna. The deceased, who is 31 years of age, for the first few days appeared to be in very good health, but subsequently became ill, and on the vessel arriving at Shields was taken by the captain to a surgeon, who prescribed for him, said he would soon be all right, and that he might go on in the barque. On Tuesday last deceased was obliged to take to his bed, and on Thursday he died. The captain put in at Plymouth to bury the body, and on a post mortem upon it by the house surgeon of the South Devon Hospital, it was discovered that the deceased had been suffering from a very severe case of hernia, which had become aggravated with a violent inflammation of the bowels, from which he died. Verdict, "Died from Natural Causes." Deceased was buried at the Plymouth Cemetery yesterday morning. 

Western Morning News, Monday 23 October 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was also held respecting the death of MR NUGENT, egg merchant, of Cambridge-street, Plymouth, who died in the South Devon Hospital from injuries received by falling into the water between Millbay Pier and a Cork steamer on October 6th. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 24 October 1871
STOKE DAMEREL - A Coroner's Inquest was held yesterday at Devonport concerning the death of MATHEW HENRY LONG, boiler--maker, in Keyham Factory, who died suddenly from excess of drink and Natural Causes.

Western Morning News, Thursday 26 October 1871
PLYMOUTH - Shocking Occurrence At An Inquest. - An Inquiry was commenced yesterday at the Prince Arthur Inn, Cecil-street, Plymouth, by Mr T. C. Brian, Borough Coroner, for the purpose of investigating the cause of the death of CHARLES KEY, aged eleven months, who had died under somewhat suspicious circumstances. Among the Jurymen was a Mr William George, an elderly man, a fruiterer, residing in Cecil-street. The Jurors had been sworn, and were returning from visiting the body, when Mr George complained that he could not walk fast, as his heart was fluttering. On entering the room he appeared to be very warm, and he took a seat by the door. The first witness had been called, and had repeated her name, when Mr George made a peculiar noise, and was falling to the ground, but was caught by Police-Sergeant King, the Coroner's officer. At this moment Mr Connell Whipple entered the room, which was at once cleared, and the man laid upon the floor, his scarf removed, collar loosened, and a pillow placed under his head. Mr Brian obtained some brandy and sent for leeches, and prevented Mrs George, who had arrived, and was in an exceedingly excited state, from entering the room where her husband lay. Before the leeches were brought the unfortunate man had expired, death occurring within three minutes of his being attacked. The deceased was very stout, and, inasmuch as he died in the presence of the Coroner, and Mr Whipple, who has certified that death resulted from Natural Causes - whether from apoplexy or heart disease is not known - it has been deemed neither necessary nor desirable to hold an Inquest. The Inquiry concerning the death of the child Key was postponed until today.

Western Morning News, Saturday 28 October 1871
STOKE DAMEREL - An Inquest was held at the Royal Albert Hotel, Morice Town, yesterday, concerning the death of MR THOMAS BUCHAN. The evidence adduced was to the effect that the deceased, a shipwright, forty-eight years of age, was in September last working on the fore topmasthead of the Doris. He was engaged in shipping an outrigger, which, he being unable to place over the stud, struck him on the breast, and jammed him against the mast. Since that time he has always complained of a pain in the chest, from which he did not suffer prior to the accident. On Wednesday he was carrying a "collar" on which the boom rests 36lbs. in weight on his shoulders, when he suddenly threwed it down, staggered, and fell to the ground. He was at once conveyed to the surgery, but died before reaching it. Upon a post mortem examination being made it was discovered that there had been a great effusion of blood and serum into the pericardium. The medical officer (Mr Mair) who made the examination said he considered that this was sufficient to have caused death, which, he believed, had been accelerated by the injury to deceased's chest. The Jury returned a verdict that the deceased died from Natural Causes, having been accelerated by the accident which befell him on board the Doris. The Inquest concerning the death of MR THOMAS BUCHAN, who died suddenly in Keyham Factory on Wednesday last, has resulted in a verdict that he died from Natural Causes, death being accelerated by an accident which befell him some time ago whilst working on board H.M.S. Doris. We presume, therefore, that the annuity usually allowed to the wives of artisans in her Majesty's dockyards whose husbands are killed whilst engaged in work will be allowed to the wife of the deceased.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 1 November 1871
TORQUAY - The adjourned Inquest on HENRY CHING, four years of age, who was found drowned in the Torquay harbour on Thursday evening, was resumed on Monday. The Inquiry had been allowed to stand over to test the accuracy of a statement made by a child of the same age, named Blanchett, from which it appeared that they were playing together, and that Blanchett pushed the deceased into the water. There was, however, no reliable testimony to prove this, and the Jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 1 November 1871
PLYMOUTH - Singular Death In Plymouth - The circumstances attending an extremely singular death were investigated at an Inquest held at the Seymour Inn, Plymouth, yesterday, by Mr T. C. Brian. An unmarried woman, named MARY POLL, aged 63 years, has for the last three weeks been lodging at 24 Regent-street, where she acted in the capacity of attendant to a Mrs Nicholas, 83 years of age. The evidence of Dr Square and other witnesses tended to shew that during Sunday night the deceased, probably because she felt sick and faint, was in the act of getting out of bed, with a lighted candle in her hand, when she overbalanced herself, and her head fell on the round. When discovered on Monday morning the upper part of her body was out of the bed, and her face rested on the candlestick, a part of the bottom of which was in her mouth, and the top of the socket pressing against her windpipe. She was quite dead. It is supposed that when she fell her faintness increased, and that being unable to move the pressure of the top of the socket caused suffocation. The various organs of the body were healthy. Mrs Nicholas was lying in the bed at the time the deceased was found, but Dr Square stated that the old lady was in her dotage. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Western Morning News, Monday 6 November 1871
EXETER - A shocking suicide has taken place at Exeter. The deceased, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL STIRLING, who formerly served in India, was 77 years of age. For some time past he has been in a strange and depressed state, induced by family troubles; and a month or two ago was closely watched, having been found one day on his knees with his necktie off and an open razor in his hand. When interrupted he said he feared he must be going mad. On Thursday last he possessed himself of a small pistol, the barrel of which he placed in his mouth, and then fired it. One side of his face was greatly shattered by the bullet, and death was almost instantaneous. At an Inquest held on Saturday the Jury returned a verdict that deceased committed Suicide while labouring under Temporary Insanity.

Western Morning News, Monday 6 November 1871
EXETER - A fatal accident occurred at Exeter on Thursday night. MRS PETHERBRIDGE, a widow, living at Heavitree, was driving from Exeter about seven o'clock, and when on the Heavitree road, just beyond the Training College, she came into collision with another cart. Neither had lights. MRS PETHERBRIDGE'S trap was upset, and the occupants thrown into the road. MRS SARAH MITCHELL , a nurse, belonging to Broadclist, was in the trap, and she fell on her head and sustained concussion of the brain. She was taken to the Hospital, but died the same night. At the Inquest on Saturday a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 6 November 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest on the body of FREDERICK COOK, a child about five years of age, was held at the Guildhall on Saturday. The child was walking with its mother in Vauxhall-street on Friday, when his leg caught in the wheel of a passing cart, which turned the child over on his side and broke two of his ribs, causing death some time after. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Thursday 9 November 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at the Harvest Home Inn, Plymouth, by Mr T. C. Brian, Coroner, to Inquire into the cause of death of JOHN ROGERS, aged five months, the illegitimate son of ELIZABETH JANE HAYMAN, 17 years of age, who stated that the deceased was born at Kingsbridge, and left in the care of an aunt, who, unknown to witness, put it in the Union. Witness in consequence brought it to Plymouth, and obtained a room in Park-street, the child being supported as well as the witness by her sister, who lived in James-street. The child was always delicate. On Saturday, unknown to her sister, she applied to Mr Nicholson, relieving officer, for an order for the child to be taken into the Workhouse, as he was sick, and had an eruption on his face. Mr Nicholson gave witness an order to see Mr Prynne, surgeon, but on Sunday morning the child died. She understood that she was to see Mr Prynne on Monday morning. - Mr R. J. Nicholson said that HAYMAN told him quite a different story. She said that the child's mother was called Brown, and that the child had been left at her sister's house by some woman. He gave her an order for Mr Prynne, telling her that she was to take it at once. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 14 November 1871
PINHOE - An Inquest was held at Pinhoe, Exeter, yesterday to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of MR JOHN R. HICKS, of Plymouth, who received fatal injuries from a carriage accident which occurred some days ago. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 14 November 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at the Tradesmen's Arms, Octagon, Plymouth, yesterday, by Mr T. C. Brian, Coroner, to Inquire into the cause of death of THOMAS SOBEY, aged forty-one years. The deceased is in the employ of Messrs. Skardon and Sons, and yesterday morning he left the Freemason's Hall in company with two men to go to Mr Wyatt's Auction Rooms, Union-street, where Mr Skardon was to have held a sale. About 10 a.m. the deceased complained of a pain in the pit of his stomach, and after sitting for about five minutes resumed his work. On going upstairs, however, he fell backwards, and Dr Peard was sent for, but SOBEY died before medical assistance arrived. The deceased had complained of a pain in the stomach on the day previous. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 21 November 1871
PLYMOUTH - A very sudden death occurred at Plymouth yesterday. A man named JOHN NORTHCOTE, aged 69 years, who had been and was apparently in very good health, went to work at 2 Clarence-street, about 9 o'clock in the morning, but had been there scarcely any time when he fell, and died within three minutes. An Inquest was held, and a verdict of Death from Natural Causes returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 27 November 1871
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at the Plymouth Guildhall on Saturday, by Mr T. C. Brian, Coroner, concerning the cause of death of THOMAS FARLEY KERSWILL, packer on the South Devon Railway. On Friday last the deceased was employed at the Laira junction. About six o'clock a goods train was shunted off the line on which the down express was to pass, and after the express had passed a signal was given for the goods train to go on. The train had just started when the guard, Ball, heard a voice calling out. He turned on the red light, the train was stopped instantly, and on going to see the cause of the call he found that KERSWILL had been run over by one of the trucks. A telegram was sent to Plymouth, and a special train (containing Dr Stevens and Mr Welsh, of the South Devon Railway) was at once despatched to the spot. It was found expedient to send the poor fellow to the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, where he was immediately attended to by Dr Anderson, house surgeon, but died within half an hour. No account can be given as to how he got under the wheels, but it is surmised that he wanted to get a ride into Plymouth in the trucks, and in getting up became entangled in the wheels. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 5 December 1871
KINGSBRIDGE - An Inquest was held by Mr Michelmore at the Kingsbridge Townhall last evening, respecting the death of the newly born male infant of EMMELINE HYNE, a widow, whose husband has been dead four years. According to the evidence of a Mrs Crispin, who MRS HYNE sent for a few days ago to attend her, as she was ill, she had no suspicion at first that MRS HYNE was enceinte, but Mr Sherrard, the surgeon who attended upon MRS HYNE told witness that he expected she was enceinte. Witness then charged MRS HYNE with it, but she denied such was the case, and said "it was a yarn of the neighbours." On Saturday night witness slept with MRS HYNE, and early in the morning she awoke and saw her out of bed. She said she was in great pain and should die, but afterwards came into bed. About nine o'clock witness got up and MRS HYNE told her not to touch anything under the bed. She, however, looked and saw the dead body of a child. Mr J. Elliot, surgeon, who had made a post mortem examination of the body, gave a decided opinion that the birth was premature, and the Jury returned a verdict that the child was Stillborn. A further investigation of the case will take place before the magistrates, as soon as MS HYNE is sufficiently recovered to be brought before them.

Western Morning News, Saturday 9 December 1871
KENTISBURY - Young Lady Drowned Near Barnstaple. - MISS JULIA FROST, a young lady governess in the family of Mr F. L. Smyth, Westland Pound, Kentisbury, about nine miles from Barnstaple, went skating on a pond within a short distance of Mr Smyth's house on Thursday afternoon. The ice gave way, and the young lady was immersed. Every effort was made to rescue her, but as the water in the pond was deep she sank, and was drowned. An Inquest was held yesterday, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 9 December 1871
PLYMOUTH - The Loss Of The Yawl Dabb. A Merchant Captain Censured. - The Plymouth Coroner, Mr Brian, and a Jury, of which Mr Silas Lillicrap was Foreman, yesterday Inquired into the circumstances attending the death of RICHARD LAPIDGE, a fisherman belonging to the yawl Dabb, of Plymouth, which foundered after striking on the wreck of the Ajax, which was wrecked some years ago at the Mewstone. Deceased went to sea about a month ago in the Dabb with the owner, who was named Frank Morley, and another man. The yawl was wrecked on the 17th of November, and on Thursday the crew of the fishing boat Augusta picked up the body, which was floating three miles off Stoke Head, and about four miles from the Mewstone. The corpse was identified by the deceased's brother, who recognised it by warts on the left hand, a boot, and a muffler. The body was conveyed from the Barbican to the dead-house in the Guildhall by Damerell, the Barbican constable, who told the Jury that the effluvia arising from it was very offensive. - The Coroner told Damerell to consult with his officer for the future before removing a body found at sea from the Barbican to the Guildhall. A place had been procured in that neighbourhood for the reception of dead bodies, in preference to their being carried to the Guildhall through crowded streets. A place could instantly have been procured on the quay for the reception of the corpse, as had been done in other cases where it was found impossible to bring them through the town. - Damerell said he saw one of his superior officers before removing the body; but was again told by the Coroner to consult with his officer, Mr Williams. - John Gill, until lately ordinary seaman on board the schooner Pandora, of Salcombe, Pepperell, master, stated that on the 17th of November, at ten minutes to four in the afternoon, he was at the wheel, and an able seaman named Cooksley, and also a passenger, were on deck. The crew of the Pandora consisted of five hands, exclusive of this passenger. At the time mentioned he put the schooner "about" in order to weather the buoy off the Mewstone, and then he saw a little hooker to windward of their vessel, which had apparently been "put about" at the same time that the Pandora had. There was a nice breeze, but not much sea running. The hooker had not got over her tack more than five minutes before he saw her strike against something; she rose once, and then turned over and went down. The Pandora was then quite half a mile from her. Just at this time the master came on deck, and the witness said to him, pointing in the direction in which the accident had occurred, "There is a hooker gone over with all hands." When she struck the Dabb was between the Pandora and the Mewstone, and when he spoke to the captain he could see no one in the water. In reply to his remarks the captain said, "It is no good; we can't save them." He then told witness to "keep the Pandora full," as he had kept her "shaking" prior to attempting, as he thought, to bear down on the spot where the hooker had gone down. When he spoke to the captain witness with his naked eye thought he saw a small portion of the gunwale of the vessel above the water, but the captain, who used his glass, said he could see nothing. - In answer to questions, witness said he did not know if the Pandora could have borne down to the spot where the Dabb sank, but at any rate she might have made the attempt; he thought, however, there would have been danger in doing so. They had a boat on board, but no attempt that he saw was made to lower it, although there was nothing to prevent the boat pulling to the Mewstone, if properly manned. The day after the ship arrived in Plymouth he left her, not liking to be with the captain because he was always drunk. [A Juror thought this "finished the yarn."] A boat could have been got out if the captain had wished. The captain was tipsy when he came on deck. - Some Jurymen thought that the Pandora might have been taken within two cables length of the wreck, and others remarked that whether sober or dunk the captain ought to have endeavoured to save the men, that his conduct was disgraceful, and that he ought to have reported the occurrence of the wreck to the coastguard officers when he landed. - In summing up, the Coroner said he was glad Gill was enabled to come before the Jury, and expressed a wish that others could have been forthcoming. From the evidence which was given on oath, there appeared to be nothing to prevent a boat being lowered to the assistance of the unfortunate men, even supposing the ship could not have been brought nearer to the spot, which, however, many Jurymen thought might have been done. Even supposing the captain did not send to the assistance of the Dabb when he might have done so, he would not be criminally liable, because an omission of that kind, however inhuman, however contrary to common ideas of what was right and what was wrong, did not make a man criminally liable unless he had been in a position which obliged him as a matter of duty to render assistance to anyone in danger. They could have but one feeling and opinion, after hearing the evidence, concerning the omission on the part of Captain Pepperell. Regarding the remains of the Ajax - a paddlewheel - still remaining on the rocks off the Mewstone, and on which the Dabb was supposed to have struck, the Coroner told the Jury they might add a remark to their verdict if they thought the remains encumbering the rocks made them more dangerous than before. - A Juryman said a buoy was placed in the neighbourhood denoting that there were the remains of a wreck on the rocks, and vessels were supposed to keep outside this buoy. If the buoy was taken away the danger would be greater, as other vessels might be wrecked. - Other comments were made on the conduct of the master of the schooner, and ultimately, in returning a verdict of "Found Drowned," the Jury added, "according to the evidence considerable blame attaches to Captain Pepperell in not having gone to the rescue of the men of the hooker at the time when the disaster which had befallen her was reported to him, considering that he had a boat at his command and there was nothing to prevent her rendering assistance."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 12 December 1871
EXETER - Victims To Drink. - A shocking affair has occurred at Exeter, a widow named JANE MACVITTY having sustained injuries from burning whilst in a state of intoxication which caused her death. It appears that about a fortnight since the deceased, who was addicted to drinking habits, was seen to take a large bottle of gin to her room. She must have consumed he greater portion of the gin, as the bottle was afterwards found on a table by her bedside with only a little spirit in it. Having drunk the gin, it seems she lay down on the bed, without divesting herself of any of her clothing except her outer garment. A little child, who was in the room, commenced playing with some lucifer matches which he found on the floor, and accidentally set fire to the bedding. The child's cries attracted some of the neighbours, who found the room full of smoke, and saw the bed-clothes and MCVITTEY'S petticoats, &c., in flames. They extinguished the fire as quickly as possible, and then took the deceased to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, where it was found that she had sustained serious injury to her chest, arms, and neck. Deceased, when discovered, was so much under the influence of the ardent liquor she had taken, as to be unable to understand what had happened and resisted as much as she could the attempts made to remove her. Mr Tosswill, the house surgeon at the Hospital, stated at the Inquest held yesterday, that there was from the first no hope of the deceased's recovery. She died on Friday from exhaustion, caused by the shock to the system. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 12 December 1871
PLYMOUTH - Mr T. C. Brian, Borough Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest at the Tradesman's Arms, Plymouth, relative to the death of ELIZABETH COOMER, who resided at 92 King-street. The deceased, it appeared, cooked supper for an old man named Carter, with whom she lived, at about half-past eight o'clock, and then went out, returning to the house intoxicated at about a quarter to eleven. She was then seen going upstairs by a man named Carter, who told her to "mind herself," and went out. Five minutes afterwards he returned, and found the woman at the bottom of the stairs insensible. He called Carter and a Mrs Allen, and deceased was taken to her room and put into bed. Her head was bleeding a little. She had many times fallen over stairs before, and Carter thought she would sleep off the effects of the accident as previously. The woman, however, died about two o'clock, no medical assistance having been called in. The Jury returned a verdict that deceased fell over stairs and received fatal inquires whilst in a state of intoxication.

Western Morning News, Thursday 14 December 1871
PLYMOUTH - Mr T. C. Brian held an Inquest at the Plymouth Guildhall yesterday concerning the death of ELIZABETH SMITH, aged 88. The deceased, who was found dead in her bed on Tuesday morning, had previously been very infirm, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Friday 15 December 1871
EXETER - Fatalities At Exeter. - The dead body of a man named ROWE, who had been missing from Alphington (Exeter) a short time, was found late on Wednesday evening in the canal near Salmon Pool drawbridge. It is supposed that owing to the fog he accidentally fell into the water. Upwards of £4 and other valuables were found in the man's pockets. An Inquest will be held today (Friday). 

Western Morning News, Friday 15 December 1871
EXETER - Mr Hooper, Coroner, held an Inquest at Exeter on Wednesday, concerning the death of SAMUEL VICKERY, 44, who died in the Hospital the previous day, in consequence of injuries sustained at Thorverton Mills a few weeks since. The deceased was engaged in working a chaff-cutter, when in some way he got entangled in the belt, and was carried two or three times through a small aperture made in the wall for the passage of the belt. He marvellously escaped instant death, but his lower limbs and head were so much hurt that recovery was hopeless. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Monday 18 December 1871
PLYMOUTH - Mr Brian, Plymouth Coroner, held an Inquest on Saturday afternoon concerning the death of an old woman named SARAH HOWELL, who was found dead that morning in her house in Regent-street. She was deaf and dumb, and had been delicate all her life. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 18 December 1871
PLYMOUTH - The Disaster Off The Mewstone. A Second Censure. - The body of JOHN STOOKES, one of the men drowned when the fishing hooker Dabb went down off the Mewstone on November 17th last, was picked up by Thomas Huggett, of the fishing lugger, Mary Anne, off Stoke Head, on Saturday morning, and brought into Plymouth. At the Inquest held in the evening by Mr Brian, Coroner, no evidence was forthcoming as to how the hooker was capsized, but important testimony was given by a seaman named George Cooksley, belonging to the schooner Pandora, Captain Pepperell, hailing from Salcombe, which was near the Dabb when she was seen to go down. the Pandora, he said, passed the Mewstone at four o'clock in the afternoon on her way to Plymouth. The weather was fine, and there was no "sea" running. When nearing the Mewstone an ordinary seaman named Gill was at the wheel and the captain was below. Just after Cooksley had told Gill to go about, a passenger on board, who was a seafaring man, and who acted as chief mate, ran forward to Cooksley and said, "There is a boat gone down," pointing towards the Mewstone. Cooksley looked, but could see nothing then. He thought the Pandora was a mile and a half from the Newstone. About five minutes afterwards he saw the foremast of the boat and then it sunk. He did not see any man in the water. Just as he ran aft the captain came on deck. The passenger told the captain a boat had just gone down, and pointed in the direction of the Mewstone. The captain replied, "I can't see her," and went below again. The captain was then drunk. At that time the vessel was shaking, and he (Cooksley) told Gill to put the tiller over, but the captain told gill to keep the vessel full, to make her go through the water. Before the captain came on deck he (Cooksley) ran forward to catch hold of the boat to launch her, expecting the captain when he came on deck would order them to do so. He (Cooksley) did not like to lower the boat without orders from the captain, and nothing was done to save the men who were in the water. Witness asked the chief mate if it was well that they should lower the boat, and he replied, "With all my heart, if the captain gives orders." The day after he heard in Plymouth that the fishing boat had gone down. He left the Pandora four days afterwards, having discharged himself. - The Coroner, in summing up, remarked that what had been elicited respecting the captain could not be made the subject of any criminal charge, although it shewed unmistakeably that he was a very cruel man. - A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned, and appended to it was the following:- "In the opinion of the Jury there was a great lack of humanity on the part of the captain of the schooner Pandora in not sending his boat off to render assistance to the crew of the fishing hooker Dabb."

[NOTE: No newspapers in the Archive for 1872]

Western Morning News, Monday 13 January 1873
PLYMOUTH - An illegitimate child having died at the house of Mrs Mary Ann Webb, Treville-street, Plymouth, under circumstances calling for an Inquest, Mr Brian held an Inquiry on Saturday at the Guildhall. Mrs Webb's evidence was to the effect that the mother of the deceased infant - JOSEPH STANGER FRY - came to her house from London about a year ago, and was confined: that she went away within a week, leaving the infant in witnesses charge. Mrs Webb had but once seen or heard from the mother - LOUISA FRY - since that date, but money and clothes for the child were sent to her regularly by Mrs Bell, living, witness thought, at Vinegar-hill, but she knew neither her address nor that of the mother or any relative. The infant became blind soon after birth, owing to weakness, and last Friday died "in a fit," no medical man being called. Witness, who said that she was the mother of 22 children, 17 of whom were living, did not concur with the Coroner in thinking the infant to be the smallest she had ever seen, and did not think it strange that she was content to go on keeping the child without knowing the whereabouts of the mother. The child's life was insured in the "Liver" Friendly Society, but had died too soon for the insurance to become payable. - The Coroner commented on the peculiar features of the case, but remarked that he did not blame Mrs Webb, who appeared to have been kind to the child. The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 14 January 1873
PLYMOUTH - A woman named MARY ANN COLE, aged 47, has died from an accident she lately met with on the china clay tramway, near Plym Bridge. while walking by the line, contrary to regulations, she was overtaken by a waggon, which seems to have caught an umbrella she was carrying, wheeled her round, and then cut off her left foot on the rail. The waggon being loaded, the bones of the poor woman's ankle were crushed to splinters. Amputation was promptly performed by Mr Miles, but the shock of the accident to the system had been too great to allow of her recovery. Mr Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest at Plym Bridge Cottage yesterday (Mr Pillipp, Foreman) at which a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 22 January 1873
BRENT - Fatal Accident At Totnes. - On Monday night as Mr T. E. Owen, surgeon, of Totnes, was riding in the road leading from Totnes to Brent he came across a man lying in the road. His horse having stopped he got off, and on examining him found he was quite dead. Being near the Carew Arms he obtained assistance from that house, and the body was removed there. On examination he found that several of his ribs were broken, and he had also sustained fatal injuries to his head; he was quite dead. The Coroner having been communicated with, he held an Inquest last night at the Carew Arms, Brent, when the body was identified as that of a man called FRENCH, in the employ of Mr Churchwood, wool dealer, of Buckfastleigh, and it was stated that he had been engaged riving a waggon containing wool on the day mentioned. The deceased was a very steady man, but it is supposed he must by some means have been thrown from the waggon, and the wheels passing over him, death must have been instantaneous. The evidence of Mr Owen having been taken deposing to the finding of the body, and the nature of the injuries he had received, and the body having been identified, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Friday 24 January 1873
STOKE DAMEREL - The Suicide At Devonport. - The Inquest on ELIZA BATE, 60 years of age, who cut her throat at her residence 19 Chapel street, Devonport, on Wednesday, was opened yesterday by Mr Bone, and a double Jury. Evidence was given by deceased's nephew and brother which shewed that she was a weakly woman, and had been low spirited of late, but had never been heard to make statements which would lead anyone to suppose she intended to take her life. On Wednesday morning when her brother came home from his duties at the post-office (where he is a stamper) he found her with her throat cut. Mr Bazeley, surgeon, was sent for, and a woman named Worsley heard deceased say several times, "I have done it; let me die." Mr Bazeley ordered her removal to the hospital and while one or two witnesses said they did not think he bandaged the wound, Mr Worsley said he believed he saw something round her neck. The woman was kept outside the Hospital in a cab, it was said, for fully a quarter of an hour before being admitted. She died at the Hospital. Mr T. Leah, surgeon, who had attended deceased previously found her low spirited and nervous. She told him she was low spirited about her nephew. She was sane, and he did not think she would take her life. - The Coroner: If the wound had been carefully bandaged at the time when deceased was first seen, might her life have been saved? - Mr Leah: That is a difficult question to answer. Supposing the wound had been bleeding very freely, and there was a free opening into the windpipe, the effects of putting a bandage would be to have driven the blood into the windpipe and caused suffocation. - The Coroner, having ascertained from one of the medical officers of the Hospital (Mr Boase) that a post mortem examination would determine if blood in the windpipe had caused suffocation, adjourned the Inquest until today for that examination to be made.

Western Morning News, Friday 24 January 1873
EXETER - Death From Inhaling An Anaesthetic. - An Inquiry was held at Exeter yesterday into the circumstances attending the death of MISS IDA WYNDHAM, a lady whose death occurred on Wednesday afternoon at the residence of Mr J. T. Browne-Mason, surgeon-dentist, of Southernhay, Exeter, after the extraction of a tooth while under the influence of nitrous oxide gas. Considerable interest attached to the case, inasmuch as it is believed to be the first instance of fatal results attending the administration of the gas, which for two or three years had been largely used instead of chloroform for the purpose of dentistry. The deceased lady, who resided at the Manor House, Seaton, went by appointment to Mr Mason's on Wednesday, in company with her brother-in-law, Dr Pattinson, of Seaton, for the purpose of having her teeth examined. MISS WYNDHAM was advised to have a double upper-tooth extracted, and she consented, but expressed a great wish to be put under the influence of nitrous-oxide gas. Mr Mason, foreseeing that the operation of drawing the teeth would be a very painful one, made no objection, and proceeded to administer the gas. After a few respirations, Dr Pattinson, who held the deceased's wrist, noticed that the pulse was getting weak, and told Mr Mason, who at once withdrew the nitrates, and commenced to draw the tooth. They had evidently had no effect beyond that of quieting the pulse a little, as the patient manifested symptoms of great pain. After an ineffectual attempt to extract the tooth had been made, MISS WYNDHAM asked for water, with which she washed out her mouth, and then said she must have more gas if anything more was to be done, remarking that she had no idea that she was such a coward. Mr Mason proceeded to administer more gas, and himself took charge of the pulse. When a sufficient quantity had been inhaled Mr Mason finished the extraction of the tooth. Dr Pattinson noticed the features become suddenly livid, but he was not alarmed as he was given to understand that was a usual symptom. It soon became evident, however, that something was wrong, and Mr Mason went in haste for Dr Drake, a physician residing near, who came immediately. Everything was done that the medical men could think of - ammonia was applied to the nostrils, and an attempt was made to set up artificial respiration - but they could not restore the patient to consciousness, and she died in the course of a few minutes. - Dr Pattinson stated at the Inquest that he had for many years been the deceased's medical adviser, but he had no reason to believe that she suffered from weakness of circulation, and she was in good health and capital spirits up to the commencement of the operation. In his opinion, as a medical man, Mr Mason used due caution in administering the gas. Mr Browne-Mason, tendered himself as a witness, being anxious to give every explanation. He said the deceased was not in any degree rendered insensible by the first inhalation. It was his practice, if he gave a patient two effective inhalations at one sitting, to insist on a long interval between, but in this case the only effect of the first inhalation was to quiet the pulse a little. The second time the patient took the gas in the usual way, no symptoms occurring to make him uneasy. She did not appear faint. When witness considered she had taken as much gas as was necessary, he removed the inhaler, and recommenced to extract the tooth. He had to split the tooth and remove the fangs separately. It was after he had completed the operation that he first observed the lividity of the face, which at that stage was a most unusual symptom, because if it occurred at all it generally accompanied the inhalation and disappeared when the patient breathed pure air instead of gas. The features commenced to swell, and the tongue protruded. Witness then went to summon Dr Drake, who came immediately. In answer to questions Mr Masons aid he obtained his gas from Messrs. Ash and Sons, of Broad-street, Golden-square, London, who are the first manufacturers. He was quite satisfied as to its purity, because he had previously administered gas from the same flask to two patients, and he had that morning himself inhaled a gallon and a half of it. He had almost daily used the nitrous oxide gas for dental purposes during the past two years and never with any untoward results. - Dr Drake stated that he knew the effect of nitrous oxide gas by hearsay only. He believed death to have been caused by paralysis of the parts which regulate the breathing, apparently arising from the inhalation of nitrous oxide gas. In his opinion there was a combination of paralysis of the lung and of the muscles which expand the chest. Deceased was as powerless to breath as though she had been immersed in water. - The Coroner (Mr H. W. Hooper) asked witness if he had reason to suspect anything abnormal in the state of the heart? - Witness: Certainly not. - Mr Mason asked Mr Drake if he considered, from MISS WYNDHAM'S general appearance that she was a bad subject for an anaesthetic? - Witness: There was a disposition to corpulency, and possibly that, with other things, might be considered an objection; but she had such an excellent chest, and the organs seemed to be in such a healthy condition, that I do not think there could have been, in the judgment of anyone, any objection to her breathing the gas; nor do I think any forethought in the case could have prevented what occurred. It might have happened to any doctor or dentist in the ordinary course of his practice. - The Coroner carefully summed up, pointing out that if the Jury considered Mr Mason had exercised proper caution, both before and during the administration of the nitrous oxide gas, their verdict would be one of "homicide by misadventure;" if, on the contrary, they thought he had neglected hid duty in any particular, they would have to return a verdict of manslaughter. - The Jury, after a brief consultation, returned a verdict of "Homicide by Misadventure." The Foreman said they wished to express their unanimous opinion that every possible precaution was taken by Mr Mason, and they entirely exonerated him from blame. - The Coroner said he quite concurred in the verdict.

Western Morning News, Saturday 25 January 1873
STOKE DAMEREL - The Suicide At Devonport. - The adjourned Inquest on ELIZA BATE, who committed suicide at Devonport on Tuesday, was resumed at the Royal Albert Hospital yesterday afternoon, before Mr Coroner Bone, and a double Jury. - Dr Thom said he had made a post mortem examination of the body, and found that the razor had cut three inches into the windpipe. The lungs were filled with blood, and there was also a small quantity of blood in the stomach. The heart was fatty, and there was a slight ossification of the valves. When deceased was brought to the Hospital her pulse was weak. Witness sent for brandy and meanwhile was engaged in stopping as many of the cut vessels as he could. Witness tried to pour some brandy down her throat, but she gradually sank, gasped and died. From inquiries made he thought that from the time at which the cab arrived at the Hospital gate to the time she was admitted was ten minutes, and unless they had been expecting somebody it could not have been done quicker. Deceased died from the loss of blood which entered into the lungs. When she came into the Hospital she had a piece of flannel on her throat, which he thought answered its purpose of keeping out the cold air. - William Bazeley, surgeon, who saw the deceased before removal, said he found her lying a little on her right side, and a razor by the side of the bed on a chair. She was perfectly conscious, and on witness saying she ought not to have cut her throat, she said, "I didn't know what to do," or something of that sort. Witness, in cleaning the wound, found a clot of blood which he did not remove as there was little or no haemorrhage. He considered from the state of the woman, the state of the room, and the want of appliances that it would be much better to remove her to the Hospital, and on mentioning it she jumped at the idea, and said she should like to go. A cab was sent for, and after deceased had taken out money from her dress, and directed it should be given to her brother, she was assisted into it. he had tied a piece of flannel round her neck to keep the cold air out. He did what 99 out of 100 medical men would have done. If there had been active haemorrhage he would not have thought of removing the deceased. - The Jury, after a short deliberation, found that deceased cut her throat whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 29 January 1873
EXETER - An Inquest was held yesterday at Exeter on the body of the woman STONE, who after having been with a young child missed for two or three days, was found dead in a mill leat at Exeter. Nothing new was elicited, and a verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned by the Jury. It was stated at the Inquest that all efforts to find the body of the child had failed.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 29 January 1873
TEIGNMOUTH - A Coroner's Jury at Teignmouth yesterday Inquired concerning the death of MR C. SYMONS, who was found dead in bed on Monday morning. His head was lying in a basin by the side of the bed, and his feet entangled in the bedclothes; there were superficial cuts about the head and face, and the evidence of Mr Edwards, surgeon, shewed that deceased had been seized with apoplexy and had fallen out of bed.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 29 January 1873
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - The door porter at St. Thomas's Union Workhouse committed suicide on Sunday by cutting his throat. JOHN ELLIS, the deceased, who was about 58 years old, had given notice of his intention to leave the situation, and it is supposed that he repented of the step he had taken, and brooded over it, until his mind became affected. As he did not make his appearance on Sunday morning at the usual hour, the door of his bedroom was broken open, and he was found leaning over the bucket with his throat cut, a closed razor being near him. A doctor was sent for, but before his arrival the poor man was dead. At an Inquest held by Mr R. R. Crosse yesterday afternoon a verdict of "Temporary Insanity" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 29 January 1873
PLYMOUTH - The Plymouth Borough Coroner held an Inquest last evening at the Houdiscombe Inn, James-street, concerning the death of ELIZABETH EMMA STONEMAN. ELIZABETH STONEMAN, mother of the deceased, about three weeks since left her room and went to a neighbour's house to get a piece of stick to light her fire, leaving the deceased in bed with three other children. While she was away the deceased's clothes were ignited - her brother ALFRED setting fire to her chemise with a candle while looking for his stockings. The eldest son was left in charge of the children in bed, but he for some reason left the room. The child that did the mischief was about two and a half years old. The Coroner said there was no doubt but that the child died through being burnt in consequence of some neglect. If the candle had not been left in the reach of such a young child the Jury would not have been sitting there that day. The children were left all awake in a small room playing in the bed, with only one, who was ten years of age, to look after them, and he left the room. Even if the candle had been put out for a short time it would have been a better plan. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Thursday 30 January 1873
EXETER - The child of MRS STONE, who was found drowned in the Bonhay Mill leat, Exeter, on Sunday, was discovered on Tuesday in the same stream. An Inquest was held yesterday afternoon when an Open Verdict was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 1 February 1873
EAST STONEHOUSE - An Inquest was held at Stonehouse yesterday before Mr Rodd respecting the death of the infant child, aged three months, of ELIZABETH HORNER, which was found dead in bed by her mother's side. There was no evidence imputing misconduct, and a verdict of "Found Dead" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 6 February 1873
STOKE DAMEREL - Another Child Scalded To Death. - The Devonport coroner (Mr A. B. Bone) held an Inquiry yesterday relative to the death of EMMA JANE SEARLE, a child four and a half years of age. The mother of the child, who lives in King-street, on Monday dinner time left the child in a room whilst she went to speak to someone, and on returning just afterwards found the child had pulled off the fire a kettle containing boiling coffee. MRS SEARLE took the clothes off deceased, and carried her to a neighbour's house, after wrapping her up in a shawl. The child was subsequently conveyed to the Royal Albert Hospital, where its mother did not go to see it until the following morning. The child previous to the accident was sitting on a box before the fire, and there were children with her - one about eleven years of age. The injuries were about the face and neck. - The Coroner deprecated young children being left for one instant within reach of such dangerous articles, but the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Saturday 8 February 1873
BARNSTAPLE - A case of sudden death has occurred in Barnstaple. On Thursday night MR RICH. LABBETT, landlord of the Bear Inn, Green-lane, Barnstaple, a man about 65 years of age, was found by his family lying dead in his stable. It is thought he died through sudden exposure to the cold. An Inquest was held last night, when a verdict of "Death from Syncope" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 12 February 1873
PLYMOUTH - Mr T. C. Brian, Plymouth Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at the Workhouse yesterday, touching the death of JOHN LILLICRAP, who died on Sunday last. The deceased was a waterman, and reduced in circumstances, and had to go into the Workhouse, where he became unwell. Mr Thomas, the house surgeon, attended him for a slight cold, and to all appearances he was getting on well. On Sunday evening, on his entering a water closet, blood came flowing out of his mouth, and he fell to the ground. Two inmates being near conveyed him into the wardroom, where he soon expired. The deceased did not appear to be worse that morning, and was not suffering from any stage of consumption, for had he been so Mr Thomas would have attended him as the case required. The Coroner said there was no reason to believe that the deceased died from any other than Natural Causes, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Saturday 15 February 1873
BUCKLAND MONACHORUM - An Inquest was held by the County Coroner, Mr R. R. Rodd, at the White Hart Inn, Horrabridge, on Thursday evening, on the body of JOHN HARDING, an old man aged 61 years. The deceased the previous day hung himself and the Jury found he committed the deed whilst in a fit of Temporary Insanity.

Western Morning News, Saturday 15 February 1873
BUCKLAND MONACHORUM - Mr R. Robinson Rodd, the County Coroner, yesterday held an Inquiry at the Industrial Home, Buckland Monachorum, concerning the death of MARY BURROWS. The deceased, who was 84 years of age, fell over a flight of stairs, and thereby sustained mortal injuries. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 18 February 1873
EXETER - Death Accelerated By Eating Pork. - An Inquest was held yesterday at Exeter on the body of MISS TUCKER, an elderly lady, who for some years has carried on the business of a grocer in the High-street of that city, and who was found dead in her bed on Saturday morning. It appeared that she ate some pork for her supper on the previous night, and the medical man who was called in stated that such food was likely to produce indigestion, which might have caused a spasm of the heart, from which he believed MISS TUCKER died. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 18 February 1873
CLAYHIDON - Death From Starvation. - Mr Coroner Crosse held an Inquest a few days since at Clayhidon, near Wellington, on the body of a woman named BETTY REDWOOD, aged 49, residing at Hessle Bottom, in the parish of Clayhidon. The woman was found dead in her bed with her clothes on; her clothes were in a very tattered condition. At the time of her death no article of food of any description was found in the house, with the exception of a small piece of hard bread, about the size of a walnut. Dr Morgan gave it as his opinion that the deceased died from starvation, and the Jury returned a verdict to that effect.

Western Morning News, Thursday 20 February 1873
BERE FERRERS - Death From Lock Jaw At Beeralston. - On the 29th of last month a young man named WILLIAMS was with others witnessing a pigeon-shooting match, being held at Hole's Hole, and whilst a man called William Toll was loading his gun - a breech-loader - the charge exploded, and the shot entered the right side of the left foot of WILLIAMS. Mr Kent, surgeon, stated at the Coroner's Inquest, which Mr R. R. Rodd held at Beeralston on Thursday, that the bones in the foot were broken and two of the front tendons completely smashed. The deceased was removed from the hotel he had at first been taken to, to his lodgings at Beeralston. He ate food and appeared to be doing well, but on Sunday week a change took place, and slight symptoms of tetanus set in. The deceased gradually sank, and died on Sunday. He suffered very much during his illness. A verdict of "Death from Tetanus" was returned. The man Toll has sailed for America, but no blame is attached to him.

Western Morning News, Friday 21 February 1873
BRIXHAM - A Coroner's Jury assembled at Brixham yesterday concerning the death of MR WILLS, a smack owner, aged 53, who was found floating in the harbour. He had been subject to fits. No one could tell how he came into the water. Four other fatal accidents having lately occurred at that place, the Jury asked the Coroner to endeavour to secure some protection at the quays.

Western Morning News, Friday 21 February 1873
PLYMOUTH - Sad Death From Drowning At Plymouth. - Mr T. C. Brian, the Plymouth Borough Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Plymouth Guildhall last evening, concerning the death of EMMA CHAPMAN, aged 41 years. Mr G. Cox was Foreman. William Pepperel stated that shortly before midnight on Tuesday he was on the North Quay, when he heard a splash in the water about forty yards off. He at once went to the spot, and heard someone struggling in the water between a vessel and the quay. He procured a boat and with help got the body out of the water and landed it on the quay. The tide was high at the time. He could not say whether she was dead or not at the time. - The Foreman: How long do you think she was in the water from the time you heard the splash until you got her into the boat? - Witness: Not more than two minutes. No one was near the spot when he heard the splash, but there were many some distance off. - Police-sergeant Henry Hill deposed that about eleven o'clock on Tuesday night he saw the deceased in Higher-street under the influence of liquor. She said to him, "You want to lock me up, but you won't get the chance tonight." He had not said anything to her previously, nor threatened to arrest her. About twenty minutes after she had left Higher-street he went to the North Quay, and saw the last witness, who had the charge of the deceased, and said he was the first man that picked her up. Witness rubbed the deceased, and turned her over on her side, but without avail. Another constable felt her pulse, but found no sign of life. The deceased could not have been in the water long, as her stockings were quite dry. She resided in Batter-street, Plymouth. About midnight Dr Harper arrived at the Guildhall, and pronounced her to be dead. Deceased had been committed to prison thirteen times since June, 1870, having in some instances three months' imprisonment for drunkenness. She had been very troublesome for many years. The Coroner said that the deceased was in a very emaciated condition. The evidence did not shew how the deceased came into the water. She might have jumped over or accidentally fallen, or been pushed into the water, but as to this no evidence could be procured. No doubt the deceased was under the influence of liquor at the time. - The Jury returned an Open Verdict. Some of the Jury felt dissatisfied at the unprotected state of the quay. They considered that chains ought to be placed around the edges of the quays. The quay was a public thoroughfare, and a very dangerous one. The Coroner remarked that at the spot where the deceased was found there was no protection whatever.

Western Morning News, Saturday 1 March 1873
PLYMPTON - The Sad Death By Drowning Near Plympton. A Dangerous Road. - Mr Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Ring of Bells Inn, Underwood, Plympton, last evening, on the body of ABRAHAM RYDER, a publican of Turnchapel. From the evidence of the wife of the deceased, it appeared that her husband left home at about midday on Tuesday, and she had not seen him alive since. It would seem that the deceased went to Oreston, and called upon another publican there named Richard Skinner, and they both went off to Battisford, and after being there some time returned to Plympton, where they went to Mr Kinsland's public-house. Late in the evening, after they had been together for about nine hours, the deceased was missing, and up to the time that Skinner left he had not returned. The deceased had been drinking; but he seemed to be sober, and to know what he was about before he was missed. Skinner left Plympton about eleven o'clock and saw nothing more of the deceased, though he passed up the same road on the way back to Oreston as the deceased must have done to have returned to his home. After the deceased left the public-house at Plympton he appears to have gone to the Union Inn, Underwood, and asked Mr Pitts, the landlord, to accommodate him with a bed. Mr Pitts could not do that, but he made arrangements for him to go to sleep at another person's house in the vicinity. The deceased then said he had decided to go home, and as the night was stormy and dark, and the deceased appeared to have been drinking - though he was not drunk - Mr Pitts got a man named Bray to accompany him. The roads had been altered and were very rough and Mr Pitts thought the deceased might lose his way. A glass of gin was supplied to the deceased at the Union Inn, but not till he had been there some time, for the landlord considered that he had had sufficient previously. After leaving the Union Inn with Bray, the deceased walked on with him to the main road, at the top of Kinnel-hill, where they separated, the deceased being, according to Bray's statement, quite capable of taking care of himself. In this main road is a pond, which, on being full, is on a level with the road. Into this pond deceased must have walked or fallen, for nothing more was seen of him till about 3 o'clock on the following morning, when P.C. Rowe, on his way to Plymstock, noticed something unusual in the pond. He went into the water, and found the body of the deceased there, life being quite extinct. Later in the morning Rowe examined the road, and found a footmark corresponding with the size of the deceased's boot near a portion of the pond which extended into the road. When found the deceased was lying in a depth of water of about eight inches, with his face downwards, and his head under water. The pond is about 150 feet long, and the road at that point only ten feet wide. The pond is considered so dangerous that Rowe stated that he never passed it at night without looking into it, for it was very easy for a stranger or an intoxicated man to get from the road into the water without perceiving it till he was there. As the deceased was about ten feet from the road when found, the probability is that he walked into the water, missed his footing, and thus got drowned. A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned by the Jury; but they omitted to make any public united recommendation as to the enclosure of the pond, although they freely expressed individual opinions to that effect.

Western Morning News, Saturday 1 March 1873
EXETER - Death At Exeter From A Criminal Attempt. - The City Coroner for Exeter, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquiry yesterday into the circumstances attending the death of a domestic servant, aged 18, named ANN SERCOMBE. The deceased was in service at a Mr Collins's house, on the Friars Walk, and was taken very ill last Saturday night. She was attended upon by Mrs Collins and one or two others, and as she seemed to be in great pain, a surgeon was sent for. He (Mr Hunt) attended and found that she was in great pain. He considered that she was suffering from the effects of abortion and taxed her with it; but she firmly denied that it could be possible, and he then prescribed some medicine. On the following morning (Sunday) he visited her again, and found her in about the same state, and she continued so till Monday afternoon, when she died. At the instigation of the Coroner he made a post mortem examination of the body, and found that the deceased was enceinte, and that she had certainly aborted. From the state of her stomach she had evidently taken some irritant, but of what description he was unable to say. The immediate cause of death was uterine haemorrhage. The Jury returned a verdict "That the deceased died from the effects of some irritant, but what or by whom administered there was no evidence to shew." The deceased was engaged to a Plymouth sailor, and had always appeared to be well conducted.

Western Morning News, Monday 3 March 1873
TORQUAY - An inquest was held at Torquay on Friday night on the body of PHILIP R. STODDART, six years of age, son of CAPT. STODDART, the superintendent of police. Some weeks ago the child got out of bed, and, by some accident, his bed-gown became ignited,. and he was much burnt, and he has since died. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 5 March 1873
EXETER - Mr H. W. Hooper, the Exeter Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday on the body of SAMUEL PILE, a middle aged single man. The deceased, who lived at Exeter with his parents, was in the employ, as labourer, of a Mr White. On Friday, while driving home a load of Indian meal from Exeter, he fell from the shaft of the waggon, the wheels of which passed over him and inflicted injuries from which he died on Sunday at the County Hospital, whither he was removed directly after the accident occurred. Evidence was given which shewed that the poor man at the time of the accident was under the influence of drink. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 10 March 1873
PLYMOUTH - On Saturday morning JAMES STIBBS, who has for many years carried on trade at the Commercial Wharf, Plymouth, was discovered in his house lying on the floor, quite dead. At an Inquest subsequently held, a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned. Deceased was 62 years of age.

Western Morning News, Saturday 15 March 1873
EAST STONEHOUSE - Death From Excessive Drinking. - It was last evening the duty of Mr Coroner Rodd and a Jury to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of a master blacksmith of South Hill, named WILLIAM ROWE, aged 48, who was found dead in a Stonehouse brothel on Thursday morning. On Tuesday night deceased came to Plymouth to see his niece, who was going to London. He saw her off the next morning, and during Thursday he was in the company of his cousin, Benjamin Rowell, a tailor. Rowell says when ROWE left him at five o'clock on Thursday evening he was not drunk, although he had had two or three glasses of brandy and water. He then said he was going to Hatt Farm, near Saltash, to pass the night. After leaving Rowell, deceased seems to have met a soldier of the 2nd (Queen's) Regt., and with him went to the old Black Boy, a house in Fore-street, Stonehouse. A woman living in the house deposed that deceased was drunk at this time, and he fell against her. She accompanied him to North-corner to see him on board the Saltash steamer, and as they were too late for the steamer, she got a boat to take him to Saltash, but he would not go in it. They then had several glasses of brandy at a public-house at North-corner, afterwards returning to the Black Boy. She fetched many noggins of brandy after this, deceased telling her he would drink nothing else, although he said he had not had any for 14 years previously. He went to bed at eleven o'clock, having previously drunk a half-pint of brandy raw. At one o'clock, when Bartlett went to the room, she found deceased lying on his face and hands. He was quite dead. - Mr Thomas Leah, surgeon, examined the body, finding no marks of violence. From the evidence he had heard he thought deceased might have died from excessive drinking. He saw nothing to induce him to believe that the deceased had been poisoned; he had not vomited in the room. - The Jury returned a verdict "That deceased died from Excessive Drinking."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 19 March 1873
NEWTON ABBOT - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was yesterday returned at the Inquest on the body of MARY JACKSON, who was found dead in a sandpit near Newton, where she went on Saturday, as was her custom, for sand, and got buried by the falling of a large quantity of that article.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 19 March 1873
TAVISTOCK - A watchman named JOHN BURLEY, working at the Wheal Friendships mine, near Tavistock, was on Saturday last oiling the crank of a water-wheel. Whilst thus engaged his coat caught on the crank, and he was carried round, and fatally struck in the head by the crank. Mr R. R. Rodd, Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest when a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 26 March 1873
PLYMOUTH - WILLIAM RUNDLE, a man-of-war's man, who was invalided after the Russian war, died in his bed yesterday morning, and the Plymouth Coroner held an Inquest in York-street yesterday evening, when the Jury were satisfied that he died from Natural Causes.

Western Morning News, Monday 31 March 1873
CREDITON - The Inquiry on Saturday concerning the death of MR DREWE at Crediton, terminated in a verdict of "Found Drowned". Mr Hambly, a fellow clerk as the deceased, deposed that on the day when he was first missed he complained of great pain in his head and Mrs Warren, with whom he lodged, gave evidence that from deceased's general manner, and his being under an impression that his "books were wrong" she had, before he left her house on the evening on which he so evidently disappeared, arrived at the conclusion that he was labouring under some mental infirmity. Deceased's watch and his purse, containing seventeen shillings, were found on him. Some surprise has been expressed that the police did not succeed in finding the body, but it is well known that many volunteers assiduously laboured with them for several days, and they considered that every food of the river had been searched.

Western Morning News, Monday 31 March 1873 EXETER - The Exeter Coroner held an Inquest on an aged woman, who died from injuries caused by fire. MARY MANN, the deceased, was an inmate of St. Catherine's Almshouses, and was about 80 years old. At the time the accident occurred she was ill in bed. It appears that the poor woman was trying to extinguish her candle, when the sleeve of her night-dress caught fire, and being in a very weak state she was unable to prevent the bed-clothes igniting. A neighbour who went to her assistance found the bed enveloped in flames and the room was full of smoke. He took the deceased in his arms and carried her to Cross's Country House Inn, and after she had partly recovered the shock, and the fire had been put out, he took her back to her own house. For some reason no medical man was sent for until the following day, and a few hours after she had received professional attendance, she died. At the Inquest it was shewn that she was severely burnt on the left side of the body. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

[Note: No newspapers in the Archive for April 1873.]

Western Morning News, Monday 2 June 1873
NEWTON ABBOT - MR SAMUEL MATTHEWS, of Newton, who threw himself from his bedroom window on Wednesday, died on Friday evening from the injuries he received. An Inquest was held on Saturday and the Jury returned a verdict of "Temporary Insanity." Deceased was 66 years of age.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 4 June 1873
PLYMOUTH - Sudden Death In Plymouth. - Mr T. C. Brian, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at the Plymouth Guildhall yesterday relative to the death of MR RICHARD FRIEND, baker, of Emma Place, Stonehouse, aged 51 years. - HELEN FRIEND, daughter of the deceased, about 12 years of age, stated that on Monday evening she accompanied her father to Plymouth to see the illuminations. About half-pat nine witness and deceased were in the midst of a great crowd in George-street, and as the coloured light was displayed from Messrs. Moon and Sons, an alarm of fire was raised, and there was a great rush down the street. The deceased reached as far as the offices of Messrs. Hicks and Co., Wine Merchants, when he fell down exhausted, and appeared to be dying. Before leaving home her father, who had been suffering from disease of the heart, said he was feeling better. - Eleanor Corin said she saw the deceased lying on the footpath close to Messrs. Hicks and Co.'s, office. She lifted him up and let him rest partly on her arm and partly on the office windowsill. She saw he was dying. A cab was sent for, and he was taken to the Hospital. - Mr Whipple, surgeon, stated that the deceased had been a patient of his for some time. He had been treating him for disease of the heart of a serious character. Witness told him that he must not lift any heavy weights or walk very far. He believed that death was accelerated by MR FRIEND'S walking to Plymouth and being in such a crowd. - The Coroner, in summing up, said he thought no blame could be attached to the deceased, who must have thought that as he was better a walk would do him no harm. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Friday 6 June 1873
NEWTON ABBOT - Fatal Railway Accident At Newton. - MR DODGE, a boiler-smith, employed at the locomotive works at Newton, was crossing the goods siding yesterday in order to get some beer while the engine was making a "flying shunt." He was struck by a buffer of one of the trucks, and so seriously injured that he died shortly afterwards. An Inquest was held by Mr H. Michelmore last evening, and Mr Wright, superintendent of the locomotive department, stated that no workman had reason to cross the line. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 10 June 1873
SALTASH - Suicide through Blighted Hops. - A sad story was told yesterday at an Inquest held at Saltash by the Mayor, Mr Wm. Rundle, relative to the death of MARY ANNE LYNE, whose dead body was found on Sunday, on the beach at Drake's Island. P.C. Bennett Tallack, of the Plymouth Police Force, having deposed to finding the body, Jane Hamblyn, residing at 17 George-street, Stonehouse, was called. She stated that on the 17th May the deceased, passing by the name of MARY ANNE MILLER, came to live in a furnished room in her house. She asked her if she was married, and deceased said she was not, but that she was about to be soon to a soldier at Tregantle Fort. A few days after a Mrs King, of Edgcumbe-street, Stonehouse, wanted a nurse to tend on her by day, and the deceased was engaged. She returned every evening in good time up to Friday last. At half-past twelve that night deceased had not come, and witness accordingly locked the door and went to bed. The next day she found in the letter box two communications addressed to Mrs King, to whom she handed them. - In answer to a Juror, witness said she had heard deceased say, "I have not seen my sweetheart for a fortnight," to which witness replied, "never mind, don't trouble about that." - Uriah King said he knew the father of the deceased, but did not recognise the deceased whilst she was with his mother, being misled by her passing under the fictitious name of Miller. She behaved herself well during the time she was with his mother. On Thursday she came late, and when his mother asked the reason she said she had been out all night, having met her young man, who had told her he was going to India. She was in low spirits, and his mother encouraged her to build up her hopes, but during the day she seemed to be very excited and depressed. As the deceased did not come to work he went to her mother at Millbrook and asked her if she had a daughter called POLLY. On her answering in the affirmative she was shewn the letters, and as soon as she saw them she exclaimed, "My daughter is dead." - ROBERT LYNE, father of the deceased, said she was 22 years of age. She had been living at Kingsbridge but the work being too heavy she came back to Millbrook. Whilst there she fell in with a soldier and witness took her to task for it, as did also her mother. The soldier promised he would marry her, but his wife went to the Fort and ascertained that he bore a bad character. The deceased had obtained a situation at Tiverton, but would not go there, although she sent on her boxes. - The two letters written by the deceased were read, and from them we give extracts. The first began:- "Dear Mrs Hamblyn. - I am sorry to have given you this trouble, but will you post these letters if I do not claim them? My mother is in Millbrook. She will fetch my boxes. I am sorry that I had not listened to her, and not have given up my situation; for I should have been happy now if I had gone there, and not have come to this. I thought to have remained here until I had something to do; but everything is against me. Do not be alarmed about me. All my boxes will be fetched if you will send the letters to my mother. I was not served as I ought at home. My father told me not to come there again. My sister put my mother against me. I never forget that; it rang in my ears from morning until night. I know Mr King, he has been to my father's more times than once. I was afraid he would know me, but he did not. My name is LYNE, not Miller. I could not go on the town, I should be ashamed to do so - I would rather die at once. So if you will send this letter, I should be very obliged to you. Your unhappy servant - POLLY LYNE - 91 West-street, Millbrook." The other letter commenced:- "My Dear Mother, - Ere you receive this I shall be no more. Oh, that I had never heard the words that he spoke; I have never forgotten them. I never should have acted like I have, if it had not been for that, and father watching me like he did, and then telling me he never wanted to see me any more. You are all to blame for my unhappy end. I have been with Mr King's mother by day. I have seen him; I was afraid he would know me, and ask for father, but he did not do so. There are several of my things over there; you can fetch them. My blue dress and velvet jacket give to LUCY, the pincushion for BOB; the rest you can do as you like by. Walker is going to India. That I should ever have met him, but one thing I am not disgraced. Give my love to all my sisters and my two brothers; tell them to forget that they ever had a sister POLLY. That I could have seen them once before I took this fatal step! it is no use now. You are to blame; you would insist upon tea[?] my life out about it. It only made me worse; but I never thought he would deceive me like this. I shall be out of your way now altogether; I never shall want to come home again. Give my love to all home. Tell Annie Miller if I had listened to her I never should had anything to say to him; but I loved him as I never loved another. If he had only been true to me! He may now, for all I know. I never heard anything against him, only what I took in my own head: it may be my fancy. My head has been bad all the week, and my spirits are completely broken down. I have no one to speak to, to tell my little troubles to. There are two or three aprons and slippers at Mrs King's. You can fetch them; I wish you to keep as much of my clothes for yourself as you can, and the rest for Lucy. Give my love to all, good-bye! I am in despair now, I must do it for father won't let me come home there, and what am I to do? Good-bye ever more. My dear mother, oh that I had listened to you. Say good-bye to all. I never thought to come to this. Give my chain to Lucy as well. The Inquest was adjourned in order that the young man Walker may be examined, and his whereabouts at the time of the supposed suicide ascertained.

Western Morning News, Thursday 12 June 1873
SALTASH - A verdict of "Temporary Insanity" was returned at the adjourned Inquest held at Saltash yesterday relative to the death of MARY ANN LYNE, who had committed suicide by drowning. John Walker, a private in the 33rd Regiment, to whom the deceased referred in her letters, gave evidence, but could throw no more light upon the sad occurrence.

Western Morning News, Thursday 12 June 1873
PLYMOUTH - Death Accelerated By Excitement. - Mr T. C. Brian, Borough County Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest at the Plymouth Workhouse relative to the death of ELIZABETH STEWART, aged 74 years. Sarah Royal, an inmate, stated that the deceased had complained of a pain in the back two days previous to her death. Whilst at tea on Tuesday she became very excited because she had a wrong cup and when she left the dining-hall she said "She would be served as well as the others, or she would die first." About fifteen minutes afterwards she fell back upon her bed and died. The Coroner thought it was clear that the excited manner in which the deceased put herself hastened her death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Saturday 14 June 1873
A Boy Crushed To Death. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Volunteer Inn, Laira, yesterday, relative to the death of JOHN STEPHENS, aged fourteen years. On Thursday evening five trucks were being drawn by horses from Plym Bridge to Lee Moor crossing, when the deceased, despite the admonition of the driver, placed his sister on the buffer of the last truck, and, it is thought, got himself between the first two trucks. Some little time afterwards James Moore, the railway policeman at Lee Moor crossing, saw the deceased under the trucks, and shouted to the driver, who brought up. The trucks were then going at the rate of three miles an hour. On going to the spot it was found that deceased, who had been dragged some twenty yards, was lying on his face, and that the second truck, which had been thrown off the line, was on his back. Moore placed his hand on the head of the boy, who asked to be taken out. Moore replied "My dear fellow, I can't," and the deceased, who saw his sister standing by, aid to her "Never mind, my dear MARIA." The trucks were dragged back, and the poor boy was then taken up. He was frightfully mangled and died within a short time. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Monday 16 June 1873
An Inquest was held at the Plymouth Workhouse on Saturday, relative to the death of a man named BAKER, a labourer, aged 34 years, who had died from injuries to the spine received on the 2nd April last, by falling, in consequence of a fit, on a heap of stones whilst carrying a heavy weight on his shoulders. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 17 June 1873
SOMERSET - The Suicide of Captain CAREW - The Inquest on the body of CAPT. CAREW, only son and heir of SIR WALTER CAREW, Bart, of Castle Haccomb, near Newton Abbot, whose melancholy suicide was reported yesterday, was held last evening by Mr R. Baggs, Deputy Coroner for Somerset. The evidence shewed that the deceased, who had previously exhibited eccentricities, had within the last fortnight become subject to symptoms which caused his friends to feel the necessity of placing him under medical restraint. He was sent to an asylum near Bristol. Here, at his own urgent request, he was allowed to sleep without an attendant being placed in the same room. One, however, remained outside. During Saturday morning the deceased was heard walking about the room till four o'clock, and between five and six he was found lying dead on the floor. A small dinner knife was in his hand, and his throat was fearfully cut. He was quite dead. It is supposed that he must have secreted the knife during a previous meal. In summing up, the Coroner, while paying a very high compliment to the admirable management of the asylum generally, said that there appeared to him to have been a want of caution on the part of the attendants in allowing a patient to have secreted a knife, and although the proprietor could not be expected to enter into minute details, he was answerable for the acts of his servants; on the other hand, there was this great extenuation in this case, that the servant who laid the meal was not the same who removed it, and this accounted for the knife not been missed. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Western Morning News, Saturday 21 June 1873
YEALMPTON - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at Pitten Farm, Yealmpton, with respect to the death of MRS SARAH HORTON. On the 20th May last, MR HORTON was banging a loaded gun up when his foot slipped, and he fell to the ground. In falling the gun exploded and the charge was lodged in deceased's leg. A verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 21 June 1873
PLYMOUTH - The Plymouth Borough Coroner held an Inquest yesterday relative to the death of JANE GUSWELL, who resided in Looe-street. The deceased had recently been confined, and had for some time been in very low spirits. Her husband died seven months ago, and she appears to have anticipated her confinement with great apprehension. She was in great distress on Thursday, and grieved respecting her children. About half-past three o'clock yesterday morning she spoke to her nurse, who was in bed in the same room, remarking that she had had no rest again that night. The nurse fell asleep and upon waking about half past six found that the deceased had strangled herself by tying a pocket handkerchief around her neck. A verdict of "Temporary Insanity" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 23 June 1873
PLYMOUTH - Unsatisfactory Evidence At An Inquest. - Mr Brian, Coroner for Plymouth, held an Inquest on Saturday relative to the death of CHARLES BRADFORD, aged 6 years. The deceased's father is a shoemaker residing in Flora Cottages. The mother stated that the deceased was well when he went to bed on Thursday night, and became unwell about one o'clock the next morning. At six o'clock he was seized with fits, and he died about an hour and a half afterwards. Dr Pearse saw the deceased about three-quarters of an hour after. The witness was recalled, and then stated that she gave the deceased a powder on Thursday evening, as he appeared to be unwell. The discrepancies in her statements as to the child's health when he went to bed were commented upon, and the Inquiry was adjourned until this evening, in order that a post mortem examination of the body might be made. In the course of the proceedings the Coroner expressed a hope that medical men would refuse to give certificates in cases where they did not see the deceased persons before death.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 24 June 1873
PLYMOUTH - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned at an adjourned Inquest held last evening by Mr Brian, Coroner for Plymouth, relative to the death of CHARLES BRADFORD, aged 6 years, a post mortem examination of the body by Mr W. Square, jun., surgeon, having failed to discover any traces of a deleterious substance.

Western Morning News, Thursday 26 June 1873
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Accidents In Plymouth. - Two Inquiries have been held by Mr Brian, Coroner for Plymouth. The first, which took place at the Cambridge Inn, was relative to the death of JONATHAN BOLT, aged 72 years. Thomas Collings deposed that on the 13th instant, the deceased and others were engaged at the North Quay in unloading a schooner laden with coal. A basket was being drawn up by a winch when a piece of coal about five pounds in weight, fell from the deck into the hold and struck the deceased on the head. A rope was passed round deceased's waist and he was hauled up to the deck by the winch. Mr Harper, surgeon, stated that when he first saw the deceased he was suffering from a wound of the head. By the following Wednesday he had recovered from that injury, and then suffered from inflammation of the stomach caused by the pressure of the rope passed around his body. Death resulted from inflammation of the stomach. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Thursday 26 June 1873
PLYMOUTH - The second Inquest was held at the First and Last Inn, Jubilee-street, and was relative to the death of WILLIAM PENGELLY, aged thirty-three years. Samuel King, a labourer, stated that on Monday afternoon he and deceased were engaged in loading a truck at the Sutton Harbour station. After the truck had been loaded they proceeded to cover it with a tarpaulin, and deceased stood between the rails. A train came up, and witness called to deceased to get out of the way, but before he could do so he was crushed between the buffers of two trucks. Witness did not think the deceased heard the engine whistle. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, and recommended that some person should be employed at the Sutton Harbour station to see that the line was clear when a train was approaching.

Western Morning News, Monday 30 June 1873
DAWLISH - Fall Of Cliff And Loss Of Life At Dawlish. - A Coroner's Inquest was held at the South Devon Inn, Dawlish, on Saturday, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of THOMAS FRADD, of Torquay, who was killed at the Langstone cutting, on the South Devon Railway, the same morning, by several tons of earth falling upon him whilst at work for Mr Crookham, contractor under the South Devon Railway Company. The deceased, with several others, were engaged in removing the cliffs and cutting under them, when a portion gave way unexpectedly, falling upon him and two others, who were not hurt. Evidence was produced that every necessary precaution was taken by the contractor to avoid accidents. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and gave their fees to the widow and children (four); the Coroner also kindly added five shillings to make it a guinea. The deceased had been working at the same cutting about fifteen months.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 2 July 1873
EXETER - Fall From A Railway Carriage. - Mr H. W. Hooper held an Inquest at Exeter yesterday touching the death of ALICE JANE TOMKINS, aged 4 ½ years. The mother and the deceased were returning from London on Saturday last, and when between the Ottery-road and Whimple stations on the London and South-Western Railway the deceased fell out. On arriving at the last named station the mother alighted and went back, in company with the station master, in search of the child, and found her walking along the line towards them. She was covered with blood, and after being attended to, she was removed by the next train to Exeter, where she was taken to the Hospital and died. The guard in charge of the train and the station-master at Ottery-road spoke to having secured all the carriage doors on the train leaving that station. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," entirely exonerating the guard from blame.

Western Morning News, Thursday 3 July 1873
DARTINGTON - The Fatal Accident At Dartington. - An Inquest has been held by Mr Henry Michelmore, County Coroner, relative to the death of MR NATHANIEL EDMONDS, of Bellany Farm, Dartington, near Totnes. NATHANIEL EDMONDS said he was deceased's son, and was engaged with his father on Monday in mowing a field of grass. There were three horses attached to the machine, and he was driving them, the deceased being in front attending to the machine. He had been trying to get out a cork from the pipe leading to the connecting rod, but was unable to do so, and he told his father it would be as well to wait until they got round to the gate, where he had left a corkscrew. One of the traces had got displaced, and he asked his father to put it right. Deceased did so and told the horses to go on. The witness was stooping to put a chisel into the tool-box, and on looking up saw his father fall just behind the machine. He picked him up and found the deceased had received a dreadful cut just above the ankle on the right leg, which was bleeding profusely. He placed him on one of the horses, but had not gone far when deceased fainted. Deceased was then put into a trap and taken home. Deceased merely said there was no one to blame but himself, and died from loss of blood in about a quarter of an hour after he was got home. The cutter it appears was four feet six inches in length, and no doubt deceased thought as he stepped aside, that he had cleared the knives. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 8 July 1873
EXETER - A case of suicide was that of an elderly man, named THOMAS BLUNT, butler to Mr Miles, of Dix's Field, whose body was found in a well on his employer's premises. The deceased was missed from the breakfast table, and it was at first thought he had gone away by train, but his non-appearance after several hours induced search to be made. The coachman, on going into the garden, found the cover of the well had been taken off, and on his looking down he observed the deceased at the bottom. The body was immediately taken out and removed to a surgeon's house, but life was extinct. The deceased had been in a despondent state for several days previous to the sad occurrence, and this had been observed by the other domestics in the house. At an Inquest, held before Mr H. D. Barton, Deputy Coroner, a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 11 July 1873
KINGSTEIGNTON - The Clay-Pit Accident Near Newton. - The adjourned Inquest on the body of ROBERT STATT was held at Kingsteignton yesterday. We have already reported that the death of the deceased was caused by a box of clay falling upon him on the 24th ult., while at work at the bottom of a clay mine belonging to Messrs. Whiteway and Mortimore, clay merchants, Kingsteignton. At the first sitting of the Jury, evidence was taken that the rope by which the box was being hauled to the surface gave way at a splice and the Inquest was adjourned to obtain information as to its condition. - Joseph Hall, mariner, of Teignmouth, now said he was accustomed to splice ropes, and having examined the rope at the mine he considered the splice not long enough and was dangerously weak. - Edward Lake, mariner, said he was accustomed to splice ropes, and made the splice in question, which was as long as the last witness said it ought to be. He stated that when the rope was given him to splice it was old, and unfit for the purpose, and was told to make the best he could of it. He answered that he could not make it better than it was. He admitted that the rope was dangerous to use for the purpose for which it was required, and said he cautioned the men to watch it. - Another witness, who was on the surface, said he observed that the strands of the splice were slipping, but there was no time to give notice to the men at the bottom of the pit, which was 70 feet deep. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and recommended that in future the ropes should be regularly inspected to prevent accidents of a like nature.

Western Morning News, Monday 14 July 1873
NEWTON ABBOT - Inquest On An Infant. - An Inquest was opened on Saturday at Newton Abbot by Mr Henry Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of KATE HARRIS, an infant about a month old, daughter of MR HARRIS, butcher, of Newton, who died that morning under rather peculiar circumstances. The child had been poorly for a day or two, and on Friday night between nine and ten o'clock the servant was sent to Mr Ponsford's, chemist, for some medicine. He gave her some dillwater mixture. A half a teaspoonful for a dose was the exact quantity. By mistake the child had a teaspoonful; but Mr Ponsford remarked that if it had taken the whole it would not have caused death. The nurse stated that the child had not been well since it was born, as it had always had a difficulty of coughing. The Inquest was adjourned for an analysis of the medicine.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 16 July 1873
SYDENHAM DAMEREL - Fatal Accident At Devon Great Consols. - Yesterday afternoon Mr Coroner Rodd held an Inquest at South Sydenham, near Tavistock, on the body of WILLIAM LANGMAN, a miner, 29 years of age, who was killed on Saturday at the Wheal Emma section of the Devon Great Consols. Deceased was in company with another miner, called Watts, at the plat of the 130 fathom level, waiting for the skip. Watts suddenly heard a noise, and immediately missed his comrade. Concluding that LANGMAN had fallen down the shaft, Watts at once descended to the 160 fathom level, where he found deceased in about three feet of water, much mutilated and senseless, and in about five minutes afterwards he died. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. Dr Le Leve Foster, Government Inspector of Mines, was present to watch the Inquiry.

Western Morning News, Saturday 19 July 1873
PLYMOUTH - Sudden Death In Plymouth. - Mr T. C. Brian held an Inquest last evening at the Seymour Inn, North-street, relative to the death of MR CARY SYMES LE LEIVRE, who had resided in Seymour-terrace. The evidence shewed that the deceased had been suffering from shortness of breath, and at times was compelled to have assistance to reach his house. On Wednesday evening he left home for a walk, and had returned within a few yards of his residence when he became unwell, and was taken into a gentleman's house, where he died before medical assistance could be obtained. - Mr Henry Greenway, surgeon, said he attended the deceased about eighteen months ago for indigestion, and shortness of breath, but not for any serious complaint. He believed that death resulted from heart disease. - The Coroner again complained of surgeons giving certificates in cases where they had not attended persons before death. Mr Greenway having given a certificate, although he had not attended the deceased for eighteen months. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 22 July 1873
PLYMOUTH - The Plymouth Coroner held an Enquiry yesterday respecting the death of WILLIAM HOBLIN, aged 81 years. The deceased fell down stairs a fortnight ago and sustained concussion of the brain. Under the care of Mr Lewis, surgeon, however, he appeared to be recovering, when he was attacked by bronchitis, and death occurred a short time afterwards. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed the opinion that the stairs were exceedingly dangerous.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 22 July 1873
STOKE DAMEREL - An Inquest was held yesterday by Mr A. B. Bone, Coroner for Devonport, relative to the death of a child named JOHN BROMLEY, aged six years. A cab was on Friday passing the Raglan Barracks, when a tram was approached and the driver of the cab turned nearer the footpath. At that moment the deceased ran in front of the horse, and being knocked down a wheel of the cab passed over his body, inflicting fatal injuries. The cab was going at an ordinary rate, and in returning a verdict of Accidental Death, the Jury exonerated the driver from all blame.

Western Morning News, Thursday 24 July 1873
EXETER - A Boy Drowned In His Parents Presence. - An Inquest was held at Exeter yesterday, relative to the death of a lad named HAKE, son of the organist of St. Sidwell's Church. On Monday evening the lad was walking on the canal banks with his parents. The latter were in front and on the father turning his head he saw the boy falling into the water. MR HAKE could not swim, and as the water was deep he did not go in after him. Efforts to reach the struggling boy with his walking-stick failed, and an appeal for assistance to a canoeist who paddled up was not responded to, the occupant being afraid to risk capsizing his frail craft. The distressed father got a boat and rowed to the place where he had left his boy battling for life, but he had then sank. The body was not removed until the following day. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 25 July 1873
PLYMOUTH - Mr Brian, Coroner for Plymouth, held an Inquiry yesterday into the circumstances attending the death of a child named KATE FORD, aged eight months. On Sunday the deceased's sister was pouring some boiling water into a basin, when she let the kettle fall. The girl at the same moment held the basin near the deceased, who seized it, and threw the contents over herself. The scalds were dressed by Mr Pearse, but the child died within forty-eight hours as after the accident. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 25 July 1873
NEWTON ABBOT - Inquest At Newton. - Mr H. Michelmore, County Coroner, at the Newton Townhall last evening, resumed the Inquest respecting the death of an infant child, named KATE HARRIS. The deceased was three weeks old, and had been weak from its birth. As it appeared worse MRS HARRIS sent her servant to Mr Ponsford, chemist, for a mixture to expel the wind, from which it was thought the child was suffering. Shortly after taking the medicine - dillwater - it became much worse and died. In the interval between the first Inquiry and yesterday the dillwater had been analysed by Dr Stevenson of London, who found traces of morphia in it, but so slight that he was unable to ascertain the exact proportion. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." Mr Creed, solicitor, watched and took part in the proceedings on behalf of Mr Ponsford.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 30 July 1873
STOKE DAMEREL - Death From Drowning. - Mr A. B. Bone, Coroner for Devonport, held an Inquest at the Falcon Hotel, Ford, yesterday, relative to the death of JOHN REED, printer, aged 23 years. William Mitchell stated that the deceased was his nephew, and came from Falmouth on a visit on Saturday last. On Monday evening witness and deceased were walking on the Saltash-road, and when near the western end of Camel's Head viaduct, the deceased, who was unable to swim, said he wished to have a bathe. Both went into the water, and witness swam for a log of wood about 400 yards distant. After deceased had walked out some 200 yards on level ground, he came to the lake, which was out of his depth. Witness heard a scream and upon turning round saw the deceased holding up his arms and sinking. He swam to his assistance, and deceased catching hold of witness they sank together three times. About two hours afterwards the deceased was discovered by a boy named Pinch, lying in the lake. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning."

Western Morning News, Thursday 31 July 1873
PLYMOUTH - Sad And Mysterious Fatality At Plymouth. - A melancholy affair occurred at Plymouth yesterday. MRS JULIA MUNDAY, a middle-aged lady, left her residence in Caroline-place, Stonehouse, about eleven o'clock in the morning, in order, it was thought, to visit a relative. She was not afterwards seen alive by her friends. About noon a boy, whilst passing the Western Hoe Baths, noticed a lady sitting on the rocks under the Hoe; and a quarter of an hour afterwards some boys called the attention of a man to a body floating in the water, face downwards. The body was some fifteen or eighteen feet off a rock, the top of which was ten feet above the water. The boy, who could not swear that the deceased was the person he had seen, said the lady was sitting two or three feet from the edge of a low rock. As the body could not be reached, the man spoke to a policeman, named John Rodd, who was close by, and the body was speedily landed by a boat. The policeman, seeing that there was a fresh colour in the face, thought at first that the lady was alive; but afterwards concluded that she was dead, from the circumstance of there being, as he stated at the Inquest, held in the evening, froth around the nostrils and mouth, and because "she did not move in the slightest degree, and no pulse was beating." The body was taken to the Guildhall. No medical man saw the deceased, although the policeman said he sent for one as soon as he could. MRS MUNDAY, who was married only about five weeks ago, had complained of pains in the head during the past few days, and was also subject to lightness of the head. At the Inquest Mr Brian, the Coroner, referred to the fact that the rocks under West Hoe-terrace were much frequented by ladies who read books there, and suggested that MRS MUNDAY had fallen into the water through tripping her foot when in the act of rising, or through being seized with lightness of the head. He said he thought that no blame could be attached to the policeman who did everything he could. An Open Verdict was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 31 July 1873
CHUDLEIGH - Fatal Accident At Cricketing. - A young gentleman, named LLEWELLYN OLDHAM, son of MR JOSEPH OLDHAM, of Oakfield, was playing cricket at Chudleigh, on Tuesday evening, when a ball, bowled by a youth named Edward Wright, of Coburg, rebounded and struck him on the left side of his head. He was conveyed to his father's residence, where medical attention was bestowed upon him by Dr Lillies, but without avail, as he died at about four o'clock yesterday morning. An Inquest was held last evening at Oakfield by Mr H. Michelmore, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, Dr Lillies having given it as his opinion that concussion of the brain was caused by the cricket ball. The deceased was 18 years of age.

Western Morning News, Saturday 2 August 1873
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at Plymouth last evening relative to the death of a journeyman butcher named JOHN WILLIAMS, who on the 17th July fell from a loft and sustained concussion of the brain. He appeared to be progressing favourably up to Wednesday last, when inflammation of the brain set in, and resulted in death. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 8 August 1873
MEAVY - Mr R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest on Wednesday evening, at Meavy, relative to the death of ISAAC PETTS, driver in the Royal Engineers. The Rev. J. Abbot was Foreman. The deceased, who was about 22 years of age, became unwell whilst on duty, and was attended to by the military surgeon. Deceased died soon afterwards. The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

Western Morning News, Thursday 14 August 1873
BARNSTAPLE - Mysterious Death At Barnstaple (Special Telegram). - An Inquest was held last night at Barnstaple on the body of MRS YEO, wife of an innkeeper, who died mysteriously. The medical testimony was to the effect that she died through poisoning by arsenic. It appeared that she suffered from cancer, and called in a friend who thought he would cure her. It is believed that arsenic was applied to the woman's breast, and that it got into her system. The Inquiry was adjourned until Saturday to allow a post mortem examination of her body being made.

Western Morning News, Friday 15 August 1873
STOKE DAMEREL - Sad Death Of A Child At Morice Town. - Mr A. B. Bone, District Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at the Alfred Hotel, William-street, Devonport, in relation to the death of a child named FREDERICK LEE, aged 4 years and 11 months. ANN LEE, the mother, deposed that on Tuesday evening last the deceased partook of his tea as usual, and with it eat half of a potted pilchard. About eight o'clock the same evening the deceased was put to bed, and during the night he became very restless and convulsed. The following morning the child was put into a bath, but was still convulsed. Witness went to Dr Wilson about nine o'clock, but he did not attend until a quarter past ten, when the child was dead. Doctor Wilson said when he examined the body he found several blotches on it. The immediate cause of death was convulsions, occasioned by the poisoned condition of the blood, caused by eating a quantity of fish. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Friday 15 August 1873
TAMERTON FOLIOT - Fatal Accident At Tamerton. - Last evening Mr R. R. Rodd, Coroner, aided by a Jury, instituted an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JANE DUNN, aged about 70 years, who was thrown out of a trap about a mile from Tamerton whilst returning from witnessing the military manoeuvres at Princetown. The accident occurred about half past six on Wednesday evening. From the injuries sustained death immediately resulted. The evidence adduced at the Inquest was to the effect that deceased, with some others, was returning home in a cart from the manoeuvres and on getting near "Lofer's-hill" the pony became restive. In endeavouring to control the animal both reins gave way, and on trying to get out of the cart deceased fell on the road, sustaining the injuries from which she died almost immediately. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Monday 18 August 1873
BARNSTAPLE - The Mysterious Death At Barnstaple. - On Saturday night the adjourned Inquest upon the body of MRS YEO, wife of MR JOHN YEO, landlord of the Farmers' Inn, Holland-street, Barnstaple, was held at the Guildhall in that town, before Mr J. Bencraft, Coroner, and a respectable Jury. It transpired in evidence that the deceased, who was an elderly woman, suffered from a cancerous affection of the breast, and instead of applying to a doctor or surgeon for advice, she consulted a Mr Goss, herbalist, of Braunton, who gave her something to apply to the sores. On Tuesday night last she became worse and expired soon after. It was thought necessary to hold an Inquest on the body, and the medical officer called in thought some poisonous lotion had been used by MRS YEO to her breast. It is thought arsenic had got into her system, and that death was caused thereby. The Inquiry was further adjourned for a fortnight to allow of the stomach being examined by an analytical chemist.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 20 August 1873
PLYMOUTH - Mr T. C. Brian, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Plymouth Guildhall yesterday on the body of a man named WILLIAM HALL, aged 33 years, who, it appeared from the evidence, came by his death by being thrown from a cart he was driving through Woodland-terrace on the 11th inst., the horse having become restive. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 26 August 1873
PLYMOUTH - Horrible Mutilation Of A Child. - Mr T. C. Brian and a double Jury met at the Plymouth Guildhall last evening to investigate the circumstances attending the death of the newly-born female child of JANE PARNALL. - Ann Eyres, a middle-aged woman, deposed that she resided next door to JANE PARNALL in Stillman-street. On Saturday night last, about eleven o'clock, she went to MRS PARNALL'S room and noticed a very large fire, in which there was something crackling. After receiving what she wanted, witness went to the grate, and saw fingers protruding between the bars. She asked MRS PARNALL what she had done, and the latter replied, "I am burning some stinking meat." Witness told her that it was not meat, but it was human flesh, which MRS PARNALL denied. She had seen that MRS PARNALL was pregnant, and about three weeks ago spoke to her upon the subject, but she denied that such was the case. After witness had left the room MRS PARNALL followed and said, "What do you mean? You hold your noise. You will either hang me or transport me." Witness answered that she saw human flesh in the fire, to which MRS PARNALL again replied, "You are mazed; you saw nothing." - John Eyres, husband of the former witness, stated that after his wife had told him what she had seen, he went to MRS PARNALL'S house, and saw her go to the closet holding a bundle under her apron. There was a smell as of burning hair in the room. He at once ran for the police, and brought back Sergeant Farmer. - William Hinman, who lived in the same house as PARNALL, stated that the woman went to the closet twice within the space of two or three minutes at half-past eleven on Saturday night, and afterwards threw water down the closet. - By the Coroner and Jury: About half-past five o'clock that morning heard a weak cry, as of that of a baby, but was unable to say from whose room it proceeded. - Philip Judd found, at about midnight on Saturday, part of an arm and a portion of the entrails of a newly-born child, near a wall opposite to the door of PARNALL'S house. - Sergeant Farmer said he went to MRS PARNALL'S residence in Stillman-street, and on arriving there saw MRS PARNALL standing on the opposite side of the street, just at the spot spoken of by the witness Judd. He asked her to go indoors, to which she replied, "Yes my dear, I'll go with you; I'm not afraid." He considered she had been drinking. After getting into the room he said, "This man tells me that you have been delivered of a child, and you have been burning of it; " and she replied, "It's a lie; they envy me, and they are afraid I am going to do well." Witness examined the room, and MRS PARNALL said, "You can search everywhere, you won't find anything." Ultimately he examined the closet and found pieces of human flesh upon the seat. There were spots of blood on the floor of the room, near the bed. MRS PARNALL seemed to laugh, whereupon witness said, "You treat this matter very lightly. I can tell you it is a very serious matter if it is true?" MRS PARNALL replied "I don't care what they say about me; they can't prove it." According to witness's instructions three women entered MRS PARNALL'S room for the purpose of examining her to see whether she had been recently confined. Shortly after they entered witness heard a strong altercation and ultimately they stated that she had been recently confined. The witness then went on to describe the various discoveries made in the closet of portions of a child's body, and stated that neither the skull nor feet could be found. Some parts of the body had evidently been burnt. He further stated that Mr F. A. Thomas examined PARNALL, and asserted that she had been recently confined, but this she at first denied. Mr Thomas asked her what she had done with the head of the child, and she replied "I'll tell you the truth. I suppose the head is burnt, I don't know what I done with it in the fright." She said that she was confined on Saturday morning about seven o'clock and witness asked her where she kept the child all the day, to which she replied, "under the bed." Witness heard Mr Thomas ask her if the child cried, and she answered "No; if it had I should not have done what I have. I put it all in the fire with the head down first, fearing the public would know it, and I should lose the bread from my little children's mouths." Witness saw MRS PARNALL that morning and she said that "the head was burnt and that was the truth." He asked her whether she was confined alone, to which she answered, "Yes, and there was no witness but God alone, as my children were in bed, asleep. - Frederick Aubrey Thomas, M.R.C.S., stated that he examined MRS PARNALL, and found that she had been recently confined. He received all that had been found of the child's body. He examined a large quantity of loose bones and flesh, which were apparently in a parboiled condition. He did not believe the child was born alive, and felt confident that it had not had an independent existence. - The Jury returned an Open Verdict.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 26 August 1873
BUCKLAND MONACHORUM - The Death of COLONEL MACKENZIE. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Rock Hotel, near Horrabridge, yesterday, relative to the death of COL. KENNETH DOUGLAS MACKENZIE. Mr Samuel Tremayne was elected Foreman. - The Coroner said he had thought at first that he would have a post mortem examination, but he had consulted a medical man who knew the deceased, and who stated that he had been a sufferer from heart disease. Consequently the examination had not been made, but if the Jury thought necessary the Inquest could be adjourned. - After proceeding the Gratton Farm and viewing the body the Coroner and Jury returned, and John Charles Ready Colomb, of Ireland, late in the Engineers, was called. He stated deceased was his brother-in-law and was just under 60 years of age. He was colonel and assistant-quartermaster general at the Horse Guards. He was on duty at Dartmoor in the manoeuvres and his office was a Greenwall Farm, in the parish of Meavy - about a mile and a quarter from the scene of the accident. Witness with deceased left there at about three o'clock on Sunday afternoon in a two-wheel cart to go to the head-quarter camp near the Rock Hotel. On coming down to the ford below Gratton Farm at Meavy (this was about half-past three), witness observed that there was an unusual flood in the river, and remarked it to the deceased. Witness said, "I wonder if it's quite safe?" and deceased replied, "I wonder so, too; but it can't be so deep." Witness was driving. They entered the river and had crossed the centre. The horse was evidently getting up to the bank on the west side, but stopped. Deceased said, "Keep ahead, up-stream as much as you can." Witness touched the horse with a stick, and the animal moved forward. The trap then rose on the side on which witness was, either from the horse stumbling to the near side, or from a stone under the right wheel. Just as deceased stood up the cart turned over. Witness was under the trap, and on getting to the surface he saw deceased standing up to his middle in the stream, holding on to some bushes on the Gratton bank of the stream, some distance below. Witness called out "All right," and deceased said something he could not catch. On getting out witness ran to him, but he let go before witness reached him. He was carried to the middle of a rapid below. Witness took off his heavy great coat, and got him out. Deceased had on his uniform and great coat. They held on to the bank, and when he was got out witness said, "Thank God, we're all right." Deceased smiled and said, "All right." He walked, leaning on witness, about five yards from the river. He was much exhausted, and witness sat and then laid him down, with witness's coat under his head. He said he would run for some brandy to Mr Andrews' house at Gratton Farm, and Mr Andrews came down with him. On returning witness found deceased had entirely changed his position and was lying over on his right side. He turned him over, and gave him some brandy, just as Mr Andrews arrived, and held his head, while witness undid his things, and then ran up the lane for a doctor. Deceased was evidently dying. Dr Don arrived in three or four minutes. Witness had been in the habit of crossing the stream, and had ridden the same horse across it before. - William Gerard Don, M.D., surgeon-major on the staff, was called shortly before four o'clock on Sunday afternoon to see COL. MACKENZIE, who was reported to be nearly drowned at Gratton Farm. He immediately went to the spot, accompanied by Major Durnford, R.E., and Mr Andrews. Deceased was apparently then quite dead, pulseless, with dilated pupils; but the surface of the body was moderately warm. Witness pulled off his heavy great coat, and tried artificial respiration, as employed for the resuscitation of the apparently drowned, and put brandy to the chest and limbs. He persevered in this for half an hour, assisted by men from the head-quarter camp, who had arrived with blankets. He did not come round. There was a slight scratch on his left eye, and several on his hands and arms - also on his leg, these scratches being evidently caused by the bramble bushes. At Mr Andrews' house, where deceased was removed, bricks were applied to the spine, but no sign of life was exhibited. Witness had no doubt that deceased died from syncope (faintness) occasioned by fright of being in the water. There was no froth at the mouth to indicate suffocation, nor any evidence of a struggle in dying. From deceased's age and appearance witness had no doubt he suffered from fatty degeneration of the heart. - The Jury returned an unanimous verdict of "Death from Natural Causes, accelerated by immersion in the water," and Mr Andrews was thanked for his humane kindness in supplying restoratives immediately when applied to. - The remains of the gallant officer will be interred on Thursday morning next at Bickleigh with military honours. Great regret has been felt among the troops remaining in the camp at the fatal occurrence.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 27 August 1873 BARNSTAPLE - At the Inquest on THOMAS ISAAC, the labourer killed through being crushed between the buffer of two trucks at the Barnstaple Railway Station on Saturday afternoon, the evidence went to shew that the accident happened through deceased's own negligence.

Western Morning News, Monday 1 September 1873
BARNSTAPLE - Alleged Manslaughter By An Herbalist At Barnstaple. - On Saturday the adjourned Inquest upon the body of MRS YEO, wife of MR JOHN YEO, landlord of the Farmers' Inn, Barnstaple, was held before the Borough Coroner. It will be recollected that the deceased died suddenly three weeks ago, and on Mr Fernie, surgeon, being called in, he thought death had been caused by arsenic, in a lotion she had used at her breasts, getting into her system. MRS YEO, instead of calling in a medical man for her bad breast, had applied to a herbalist, named Goss, of Braunton, and he gave her some lotion, the application of which, according to medical testimony, was calculated to be "serious." The Jury, after one and a half hour's deliberation returned the following verdict:- "The Jury are of opinion that there is no positive evidence as to the immediate cause of death, but believe it would have been accelerated by the unskilful treatment of Mr Goss, of Braunton." - The Coroner said that was such a decision as would entail on him the necessity of recording a verdict which in effect would be that of Manslaughter. - Mr Goss was apprehended in the evening, and charged before the magistrates with manslaughter. He was committed for trial, bail being taken in two sureties of £100 each.

Western Morning News, Monday 1 September 1873
RATTERY - Fatal Accident At Rattery. - The wife of a labouring man named TOZER, living in the village of Rattery, between three and four miles from Totnes, came by her death in a very distressing manner on Friday afternoon, by falling into a well, to which she went for water, and where she was found by her daughter, a little girl aged nine years. A portion of the railing which she held by having given way, caused her to fall into the well. An Inquest was formally held on the body and a verdict in accordance with the circumstances of the death returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 3 September 1873
DAWLISH - JOHN TUCKER, the foreman mason, who sustained serious injuries by the falling of a wall near the Dawlish Railway Station, on the South Devon Railway, as reported in our issue of Monday, has died on his wounds, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned by the Coroner's Jury who held an inquest on the body yesterday.

Western Morning News, Monday 8 September 1873
SIDMOUTH - Fatal Accident At Sidmouth. - On Saturday, an Inquest was held at Sidmouth, before S. M. Cox, Esq., Coroner, on the body of THOMAS WHEATON, labourer, who had been engaged on the works of the Sidmouth Branch Railway. From the evidence adduced it appears that he was engaged with others at the deep cutting near Bulverton Farm, about a mile from Sidmouth, and that whilst the poor fellow was engaged in excavating or undermining what appeared to be solid earth at about ten feet from the surface it gave away, completely burying the deceased and a man named Mutters. They were speedily extricated and taken to their homes, where Dr Mackenzie, the surgeon of the works, attended them. Deceased had both his legs - one of them in two places - and his ribs broken. He had also suffered injury to his back and thigh, and died early the following morning. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Monday 8 September 1873
STOKE DAMEREL - Imputed Negligence Of A Midwife. - Mr A. Bone, Coroner, on Saturday, instituted an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MRS EMMA WEIGHTMAN, aged 24 years, and wife of a private in the 57th Regiment, who, it was alleged, came by her death by negligence in not procuring timely medical aid. A.M. Oldfield, midwife, was in attendance on the deceased, who was confined on the 26th ult., and who suffered severely from an illness which set in immediately after. It was imputed that the midwife failed to act upon the suggestion to send for a medical man, but that allegation she denied. Dr Wilson, surgeon, was called in on Tuesday last - eight days after her confinement - and then found that death was imminent. He applied the usual remedies to prevent the deceased vomiting. He was of opinion that if a medical man had been in attendance upon deceased at her confinement, her life would in all probability have been saved. Mrs Oldfield, the midwife, volunteered to give evidence, and distinctly denied that any suggestion was offered to her to send for a doctor. Witness asked deceased whether she should send for a surgeon, and she (deceased) replied that if a doctor came she knew she should die. The Coroner asked witness why she suggested a surgeon, and she assigned as her reason that deceased was looking weak, and did not recover as she ought to. The husband of the deceased deposed that he heard the last witness say something about a surgeon, and his wife said she was afraid. - MARY ANN PIERCE, mother of the deceased, deposed that her daughter fainted several times after her confinement, and complained of pains in her head. In answer to the Coroner, witness said she blamed herself for not calling in a surgeon, but she thought "midwives always had surgeons upon whom they could call." - Mr Wilson, surgeon, was of opinion that a patient was rarely lost under such symptoms as manifested by the deceased if properly attended to. From the number of days during which deceased battled with the illness, he thought that by proper means there was a great chance of saving her life. In his opinion no midwife ought take upon herself the responsibility of such critical cases, unless they were thoroughly trained. The Inquest was adjourned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 9 September 1873
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Accident At Cattedown. - Last evening Mr Eliot Square, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Cattdown on the body of CHARLES SYMONS, aged 31 years, who came by his death while basting rocks in Mr Sparrow's quarry. In the afternoon of yesterday, deceased having charged a hole, gave the usual alarm, and retired about sixty yards from the spot. After the explosion his fellow workmen heard him cry out, and hastening to his assistance found him lying insensible, with his face very much injured by fragments of rock which had struck him. The injured man died whilst being conveyed to the Hospital, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 9 September 1873
STOKE DAMEREL - The Dangers Of Unprofessional Midwifery. - The resumed Inquiry relative to the death of ELIZABETH ANN WEIGHTMAN, wife of a private in the 57th Regiment, was held yesterday at the Devonport Guildhall by Mr A. B. Bone, Borough Coroner. The deceased had died eight days after her confinement under circumstances that led to the inference that the midwife who attended her had been guilty of gross negligence in not calling in the services of a medical man and of strongly dissuading deceased's smother from doing so when she urged that a doctor ought to be called. The midwife, Mrs Oldfield, however, denied that she had any objection to a surgeon being called in, and stated that she urged on one occasion that the advice of one should be sought, but the deceased was very much opposed to it. At yesterday's Inquiry Dr Wilson was recalled, and said that what was amiss must have been seen by those who attended the deceased and he had no doubt that death resulted therefrom. His opinion was that with proper and early medical attendance life might have been saved; but he could not undertake to declare positively that death had been caused by the absence of such attendance. - The Coroner, in summing up, said that everyone, whether professional or non-professional, who undertook the office of accoucher, and who, through gross ignorance, negligence, or inattention, caused or accelerated the death of anyone was guilty of manslaughter. According to the evidence of her mother, the deceased suffered for some days from what was caused, as had been shewn, by a portion of the placenta remaining in the uterus, and that should have been removed by a medical man. It appeared to him (the Coroner) that Mrs Oldfield was responsible for the proper care of the deceased, notwithstanding the presence of her mother and husband. The Jury would have to consider, first, whether the deceased died from the cause assigned; second, whether Mrs Oldfield had been guilty of gross ignorance, negligence, and inattention; and third, whether such was the cause of death, and if they were of this opinion their verdict would be one of manslaughter. It must, however, be borne in mind that Mrs Oldfield denied having seen anything to shew what was wrong, and asserted that she heard nothing about it until the day the medical man was called in. Mr Bone went on to explain that erring in judgment or discretion was not criminal, and must not be confounded with gross neglect and carelessness, and he concluded by quoting the opinions of learned judges on the subject. - The Jury retired, and upon returning into Court, the Foreman said they were of opinion that the deceased died from the cause assigned, and whilst there was no evidence to shew any neglect on the part of the nurse, they believed that great blame was to be attached to the mother for not calling in the services of a medical man. - The Coroner remarked that it was the midwife and not the mother who had the care of the case. - The Foreman replied that notwithstanding this they did not think much blame was to be attached to Mrs Oldfield. - The Coroner, addressing Mrs Oldfield, said he was sorry he could not concur with the Jury, for he considered that she, having charge of the case as a midwife, the care of the deceased devolved upon her. He thought the mother had great reason to blame herself for not calling in a doctor; but Mrs Oldfield was there, as it were, in a professional position, and it was her business and duty to have obtained the services of a medical man. In places where it could be obtained, medical aid should in general be sought in all such cases; but it appeared to be quite clear that it was incumbent upon a midwife, who had no official diploma, or certificate, immediately there were any unusual symptoms to get medical assistance. He could not tell why Mrs Oldfield had not attempted to enforce what she said was her wish, despite the objection of her patient, for it would have made no difference in her remuneration. - Mrs Oldfield said she went out of charity, and had had no money; indeed, she did not receive anything in half the cases she attended. - The Coroner thought this was very kind, but hoped the present calamity would be a lesson to her. - The verdict, omitting the reference to the mother, who Mr Bone observed would not receive her expenses, was then formally agreed to.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 16 September 1873
MAKER - The Suicide At Whitesands. - Yesterday, at Withacre Farm, near Millbrook, Mr John Jagoe, County Coroner, instituted an Inquiry into the circumstances connected with the death of ELIZABETH BLACKWELL, whose body was found at the Whitesands on Saturday. - The first witness examined was Richard Willcocks, who deposed that about six o'clock on Saturday evening he was working in his farmyard, when he suddenly heard whistling as if in the direction of the Whitesands. He noticed four young gentlemen coming apparently from the sands. Witness walked in that direction and met them, when Mr William Bennett informed him that there was a body lying on the sands. Witness accompanied them to the spot, where he saw the body of a female. He examined the clothes, and found them to be very wet, evidently recently released from the water. Witness noticed two dogs with the four young gentlemen, and these, he was informed, were the means of finding the body. On Sunday the uncle of the deceased arrived at witness's residence, and identified the body as being his niece. FREDERICK BLACKWELL, Devonport, stated that the deceased was his niece, and she resided with his mother. On Friday evening she left home, and as was thought, going into Devonport to transact some business. Deceased did not return home on Friday night, and the first intimation witness received as to her whereabouts was on Saturday evening when he received a letter which had been forwarded to him by the deceased. The letter was as follows: "I am mad. I have drowned myself at the Whitsands. - E. BLACKWELL." - The Jury returned a verdict "That the deceased committed Suicide while of Unsound Mind."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 16 September 1873
EAST STONEHOUSE - Terrible Catastrophe At Stonehouse. Several Workmen Buried Alive. Seven Lives Lost. - In the vigour of manhood and youth seven human beings were yesterday struck down by death whilst pursuing their ordinary labours. The scene of this sad calamity was the same where a few weeks ago a fierce fire raged, and destroyed some dozen houses. The place is well-known to every person resident in the Three Towns, for its frontal abuts on Union-street, and it was here that Messrs. Snawdon and Sons, furniture dealers and upholsterers, had their shop, and Mr E. A. Northey, auctioneer, his office. The fire extended from Union-street back to Union-place, and left only a few walls standing, and it was to the fall of a portion of one of these walls that the lamentable sacrifice of life is attributable. The wall in question ran between the premises of Messrs. Snawdon and Mr Stevens, china merchant, and was about forty-five feet in height. Its length was also very great, and as there was no support, grave doubts respecting it were entertained by many persons. About ten days ago Mr William Snawdon received notice that the Surveyor of the Local Board considered it to be dangerous, and he was requested to remove a specified number of feet. Mr Snawdon, who had had men working on the ground since the fire complied with this request to a certain extent, but so inadequately that on Friday last Mr Snawdon had handed to him a formal summons from the Local Board to take down the wall. It appears, however, that Mr Snawdon had been advised that the danger was not so great as had been represented, and he was desirous of utilising the wall in the building he purposed erecting. - Yesterday morning a gang of men and boys, about a dozen in number, set to work under the direction of Mr Blight, builder, of Plymouth, to clear away stones and rubbish, and to prepare for the foundations of the piers on which would rest the longitudinal girders. no undermining was going on, but there can be no doubt that the wall, already weakened by the fire, had suffered greatly from the late boisterous weather. A strong gale, accompanied by violent showers of rain, had prevailed during the whole of Sunday night, and continued at intervals yesterday morning. The wind was chiefly from the north-west, and sweeping down over the Brickfields and Mill-lake beat fiercely against the strip of unprotected masonry that checked its progress. At about eleven o'clock the men were working on steadily and Mr John Snawdon and Mr Blight were talking together near the wall, when someone suddenly cried, "Look out, it's coming." A glance upwards and they saw the wall coming right down upon them. Running backward, however, Mr Snawdon and his companion just succeeded in avoiding the crash, but the escape of the former was so narrow that a stone struck and cut one of his hands. Two of the men at work had a few minutes previously gone into the next building and were saved, but their eight companions were instantly crushed and mangled beneath the fallen wall, about forty feet of the middle part of which had given way. Those who saw it fall say that as it toppled over the centre bent outwards, and came with a crash into the back part of Mr Steven's premises, where it demolished a spacious store just erected by the insurance company with whom Mr Stevens had been insured previous to the fire. About £100 worth of goods and the building were entirely destroyed. - The search for the unfortunate victims was promptly commenced. As many men as could find room worked with a will, the majority using their hands to remove the super incumbent stones. Some twenty minutes elapsed before the first man was reached. he was between 60 and 70 years of age, and had received some fearful gashes over his bald head. Shewing signs of life, however, some brandy, which a gentleman in the crowd had in his flask, was offered him, and he drank a little. The poor fellow, whose name is Wm. Foster, was at once conveyed to the Royal Naval Hospital close by, where he promptly received attention. He is suffering from three scalp wounds and a severe wound on the jaw, besides minor injuries about the body; but he is doing well, and hopes of his recovery are entertained. Foster was the only one of the eight who was living when found, the remainder - four men and three boys - having apparently been killed instantaneously. Next were discovered the bodies of two boys, and then those of two men, the face of one of whom was tranquil as if in sleep, whilst the other had been buried head downwards. The bodies were quickly covered with sheets, and the whole of them were afterwards removed to a house belonging to Mr James Taylor, which had been greatly damaged by the recent fire, where they lay until the Inquest. The work of disinterment had been carried on regardless of the danger from the remaining portions of the wall, and after the two men last referred to had been taken out a tall chimney in the central wall which had divided Messrs. Snawdon's and Mr Northy's houses was pulled down by means of ropes as it threatened to topple over on the bystanders. The last body was taken out nearly two hours after the accident, and it was then found that the dead were WILLIAM VODEN, mason's boy, 15 years of age; JAMES MCCARTHY, labourer; FRANK BENNETT, mason, married; RICHD. HARVEY, mason, married; DENNIS SULLIVAN, labourer's boy; EDWARD NEWBERRY, a boy in Mr Snawdon's employ; and JOHN STRATFORD, mason, married and father of one child. All the deceased appear to have seen their impending fate, though too late to avert it, for in every instance the death-blow had been received on the front part of the head, and the poor fellows were lying on their backs. One man was overwhelmed as he ran, and it was in digging him out that the great difficulty was experienced, for his whereabouts were unknown. The features of the deceased presented a frightful spectacle. A lad had his face and nose crushed in; one poor fellow, with a smashed forehead, lay with wide-open eyes; whilst another had his arm doubled in under his head. The injuries about the bodies were also very great; and one of the deceased had a broken thigh. - News of the calamity spread rapidly, and an immense crowd speedily congregated. Among them were the relatives and friends of the men at work, and they gave expression to loud cries and lamentations. As body after body was brought up, fathers and mothers, wives and lovers, pressed forward in horrified eagerness to see if they could recognise their relative. And then, as recognition took place, the sobs and wailing were redoubled. At length, however, the last lifeless body was found, and the crowd rapidly diminished. - In consequence of the disaster a special meeting of the Works Committee of the Local Board was convened, and held in the afternoon at the scene of the disaster, under the presidency of Mr Hubbard. There were also present - Messrs. Thomas James Taylor, Walker, Thomas Taylor, Mason, Bulteel, Kent and Treverton. The walls and ground were carefully examined, and the following resolution arrived to:- "The committee, after hearing the opinions of the surveyor and Mr Hammett as to the dangerous character of the remaining portion of the east and west party walls of the premises, resolved that Mr Hammett be forthwith instructed to take down the whole of the wall considered to be in a dangerous condition." - It would be difficult to adequately describe the sadness of the scene at the Inquest which was opened in the evening by Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner. It was held in the Police Court, behind St George's Hall, and a double Jury of which Mr F. A. Graham was the Foreman, was summoned. Many of the relatives of the dead had assembled in the dimly-lighted room, and their sobs and suppressed groans were most painful to listen to. Each time the list of dead was called over, there was a fresh outburst of grief. The mother of MCCARTHY fainted in the intensity of her grief, and had to be supported by a kind friend. She would not leave the court, but kept wringing her hands, and amidst her ejaculations of "My darling, my darling," kept inquiring why he (the Coroner) was so long, and did not let them go. To her the formalities of an Inquest were scarcely endurable; what she wanted was to obtain [?] was mortal of her darling, and to mourn over him in her own home. - Mr Rodd explained to the Jury that he had simply convened them that evening with a view to identify the bodies of the deceased prior to their removal for interment. With this view Mr Blight was called and the necessary identification having been formally made, the Coroner suggested that the services of a surveyor to inspect the place should be obtained, and that the Inquest should be adjourned until Monday next. With these suggestions the Jury concurred, when Mr Bulteel rose and remarked that there was a general feeling among those around him that the question should be asked whether it was not possible to make a shorter adjournment as in cases of this kind wounds were kept open until the Inquest was over. [Murmurs of Hear, hear.] He said this with all due deference and without at all disputing the Coroner's authority. - Mr Rodd replied that he had himself thought of this, but time was required, as some points in the evidence might have to be worked up. Still, he was quite prepared to take an earlier day; and it was then arranged that the adjournment should be until Thursday. It having been agreed to employ the services of two surveyors. Mr Bulteel then rose and said that as chairman of the Local Board he felt bound to bring before the notice of the Coroner and Jury, the fact that the Works Committee had visited the scene of the accident that day and found it necessary to employ the services of a builder to remove parts of the wall thought to be dangerous, as they felt that many persons and the public generally were still exposed to danger. If, however, the Jury and Coroner wished them to wait until their surveyors had visited the premises he, as chairman of the Local Board, was prepared to promise that the work should be delayed. - The Coroner expressed a wish for such delay, and Mr R. G. Edmonds, who was present in the interest of Mr Snawdon, interposed, asking who, seeing that the Works Committee had thought it necessary to remove the wall, would bear the responsibility if it fell in consequence of the delay, and more persons were killed or injured. If such a thing occurred the blame ought to rest upon none but those who were responsible for the delay. - Mr Bulteel again offered to postpone the work, but Mr Rodd declined any responsibility in the matter. Ultimately, however, it was understood that the wall should be surveyed early this morning, so that its demolition should not be delayed.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 17 September 1873
PLYMOUTH - Last evening Mr Elliot Square, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Plymouth Workhouse on the body of MRS SARAH ROWE, aged 55 years and wife of WM. ROWE, landlord of the Freemasons' Arms, Millbay. Deceased left her home on Monday morning to see Dr Shepheard and having had a fit on the way she was taken to the Workhouse for medical treatment. The medical testimony was to the effect that she died of Apoplexy, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Friday 19 September 1873
EAST STONEHOUSE - The Calamity At Stonehouse. The Resumed Inquest. - The resumed Inquest on the bodies of WILLIAM VODEN, JAMES MCCARTHY, FRANCIS BENNETT, RICHARD HARVEY, DENNIS SULLIVAN, HERBERT NEWBERRY, and JOHN STRATFORD, was held before the County Coroner, Mr R. Robinson Rodd, assisted by Mr Elliot Square, Deputy Coroner, at St. George's Hall, Stonehouse, yesterday afternoon. The Jury was a double one, and Mr F. A. Graham was the Foreman. - Mr J. W. Shelly, solicitor, appeared on behalf of the Local Board, and said he would be glad to assist the Inquiry in any way in his power. - The Coroner said he should be very glad of Mr Shelly's assistance. - Mr R. G. Edmonds, appeared on behalf of Mr Snawdon, and Mr J. E. Dawe for Mr Stevens. - The first witness called was Michael Burke, labourer, living at 2 Granby-lane, Plymouth, who said that on Monday he was working on Mr Snawdon's buildings at Union-street, East Stonehouse. As far as he could understand Mr Snawdon's brother employed him. - [Mr Edmonds said he was the agent of Mr Snawdon.] - Witness went to work at nine o'clock on Monday morning, and all the deceased, with three more, were working there. Witness started work (the foreman of the work, Mr Blight, being present) on the piece of an arch in the centre of the building; and when he had finished that he set about taking out some of the foundation of the floor. They were taking out the foundation east to west - parallel to Union-street. Witness was working about fur yards from the west wall - the wall that fell. He was digging, and as he dug a mason in front and a mason behind cleared away the rubble he loosened. He did this work for about an hour and a half. The men working in front and behind were BENNETT and HARVEY. He was called by two men to push a partition on which they were engaged, as it was too heavy for them. These men were John Harrington and Patrick Callaghan, and witness and a man named Patrick Donovan were "heaving" as heavy as they could, when the wall came down across them, without their having time to notice it. They had had nothing to do in the work with the foundation of the wall itself that morning. It was fifty feet high, and was about two feet wide to the first storey, and eighteen inches upwards. not a word had been said about the state of the wall by the men that morning. The wind was blowing very stiffly from the west when the wall fell in, and the deceased were soon after taken out dead. Witness pointed out where each lay, and they were taken out. At the time of the accident witness was on the opposite side from the wall that fell in, pushing the partition. The partition was on the other side of the building (by the public-house), and had nothing to do with the western wall. He was not at work at the place before that morning at nine o'clock. The partition was nine yards from the western wall. - James Radmore, labourer, deposed that he was working on the building on Friday last. He helped tearing down the centre wall, and finished work in the middle of the afternoon, and then Mr Snawdon sent for witness to go upon the high wall that fell in. Witness got up on the ladder and thought the wall was in a dangerous state. he considered it dangerous because it was then all of a shake. Witness came down as soon as he could, fearing it would have fallen in. On coming down to the bottom of the wall he saw Mr Snawdon's nephew, and told him he was not going to risk his life up there. He also told him that if he went up and got killed his wife had not enough money to bury him. The young man said, "The workhouse will bury you," and witness said, "Thank you, sir." He was then told to go on "screening" a little lime which he did until half-past five. Then the young man said he had nothing more for him to do if he did not go up and take down the wall. Witness refused saying he could not risk his life. He was paid his money, took up his tools and had not been there since. He was asked to go up on the wall for the purpose of pulling it down. The ladder was in the courtlage of Mr Stevens' building, about twelve feet from the bottom of the wall. The wall was very nearly two-double and as round as a hoop. Did not know the wall was dangerous or hear anyone say it was until he got up. The top of the wall was laying right in, and overhanging some feet, and witness could not see down straight. - William John Quint, carpenter, 10 Melbourne-street, Plymouth, said he was present when the accident occurred, and was working on the premises. He was employed in taking the joist out of the kitchen and putting them on the shop floor. He was looking at the men throwing the end partition from the Forester's Arms, and on looking up saw the wall fall in, and Mr Snawdon and Mr Blight run away. He had no conversation with anyone about the wall previously, nor had he noticed its condition. - John Stevens, china dealer and naval pensioner, of 42 Union-street, (the adjoining house to Mr Snawdon), said that on the 22nd of July Mr Snawdon's establishment was destroyed by fire. Witness pronounced against the state of the wall immediately after the fire, when he observed the west wall separated about twenty-five feet perpendicular with his (witness's) back-room; it had separated at the top four inches, and one-eighth of an inch at the bottom. He pointed out the state of the wall to the surveyor of the insurance company, Mr Greenwood, who surveyed it, and witness said the wall would have to come down, but Mr Greenwood said "No; if it does Mr Snawdon will have to rebuild it." Three weeks ago the crack opened and varied from an inch downwards. Witness went and saw Mr John Snawdon and told him the wall had "left him" again, and asked him to accompany him to see it. He, with his nephew, and witness, ascended by a ladder to the top of the wall. He told him if he did not take it down and it began to blow, it would leave him altogether. Mr Snawdon said he would proceed with it at once, but nothing was done. The evening of the day after he saw Mr Wm. Snawdon and they went inside his (Mr Stevens') house. Next morning he witness went to St James's Hall, and saw Mr Wm. Snawdon. Addressing his brother, John, Mr Snawdon said, "Here is Mr Stevens uneasy about his house, I will proceed with it at once." Witness saw Mr J. Snawdon at a subsequent part of the day, and told him nothing had been done. he said he would "shore" it, but it was not done. Seeing nothing was done, witness applied to the Local Board on the 4th of Sept. Next day he went before the Board, and pointed out that if it came on that night to blow from the westward the end of the wall would go out - it would go east - before the morning. On retiring from the Board he was told by the surveyor he would not be wanted any more, and he thereupon asked him if the Board intended to act promptly, and the surveyor said "Yes." Next morning Mr W. Snawdon came into witness's shop and said, "Who has advised you?" I said "No one. The fact of your not paying any attention to my appeals, I expect the Board to act." He said, "If you want to act cross-purposes there's not a fellow better able to do it than I am." Seeing nothing was done on the first three days of the next week, witness went to the clerk of the Local Board, but he was in London. He then went to Mr John Roberts, the Board surveyor, and told him nothing had been done, and he said he would speak to the Board about it. Witness said if they would cut off the wall a foot on his side he would be satisfied. On the 6th of September, the surveyor, with Mr Walker, a member of the Local Board, went through witness's house and on to the roof. They said there was a reason for the complaint that had been made. Nothing whatever was done up to the time of the accident. he often saw men working on Mr Snawdon's place, but not on the foundation of the wall. At the time of the fire the wall was so hot that one could not put his hand to it. On the morning of the accident, witness was at the back of the premises looking at the wall. He saw Mr John Snawdon, and on the latter approaching, said to Mr T. Bloom (to whom witness had been talking), "This gentleman is the owner of the property." Mr Bloom said, and Mr Snawdon must have heard, "It is in a very dangerous condition." He subsequently said "The wall will fall today." Before the crack was plastered, one could see through it. After it was plastered it separated again, but not so much. - By Mr Edmonds: I was advised by Mr Stevens it was not a party wall. Used a portion of the wall after the fire. A shed was erected two years ago, and the highest part did not exceed ten feet. A shed forty feet long had been erected since the fire, and had bearings in the wall. - Mr Edmonds asked why witness did not take the wall down, as it was a party wall? - Witness said he had no right to take it down. He was advised by the Local Board. - Mr Edmonds: Oh, the Local Board were your legal advisers. Take better advice another time. (Laughter). - Witness did not say anything to the men working about the danger. None of the west wall was taken down. The chimney on the front wall was taken down, but not more than four feet of the wall itself. - Mr Edmonds asked the cross-examination of this witness might be deferred until the lease was procured to show if the wall were not a party wall, in which case Mr Edmonds said it would be Mr Stevens' duty to take down the wall. - Mr Dawe said such was not the case. - Mr Edmonds said this was a fundamental point. - In answer to Mr Dawe, witness said he did not build any part of the wall, which was there when he bought the house. He did not build anything against the wall except the shed, which was there before the fire, and had been re-erected since. The bearings of the shed were not two inches in the wall. Mr Snawdon did not once say it was his (witness's) duty to take down the wall, and he had not heard of it. He saw the dangerous position of the wall before rebuilding it; but Mr Snawdon said he was going to take down the wall, though it would not be taken down so far as where the shed came. - Mr Edmonds: After the fire, did not Mr Snawdon tell you he had been to the Manor-office, and the wall was a party wall? - Witness: No. - By Mr Shelly: On the 6th of September Mr Snawdon said he would not take down the wall for the Local Board. This was the day after witness made a report to the Local Board. He (witness) did not consider the wall was his. - The lease was then sent for, but members of the Jury said this was ridiculous, and had nothing to do with the accident. - The Coroner said he could not allow any such observations to be made. - Thomas Bloom, bricklayer, proved having a conversation with Mr Montgomery on the morning of the accident. He called his attention to the rottenness of the bricks and the imperfect "storing" of some of the wall. He also told Mr Snawdon the wall would fall, but he made no reply. - Henry Blight, builder, of Princess-street, Plymouth, said he employed the men for Mr William and Mr John Snawdon. They were engaged to build the walls of Mr Snawdon's house. had been to the premises several times for the last fortnight, but had never examined them. Was never ordered to pull down the westerly wall. There was a written contract between witness and Mr Snawdon. - Mr Dawe applied for its production, and the contract was read. It agreed to rebuild the walls and house, but did not refer to taking down existing walls. - Witness took breakfast under the wall that morning, and never anticipated any accident. We were going to build a cross wall, and if it had been built the wall which fell would not have been taken down. They were working without a plan, for the latter was at the Local Board office. He did not know there was anything the matter with the wall. The plans for rebuilding the place were at the Local Board office. - Mr Edmonds: This delay in getting the plans kept them from taking down the outer wall. - He (witness) did not critically examine the wall, but believed there was no danger. - Mr Dawe was about to examine the witness, when Mr Edmonds inquired for whom he appeared. Mr Stevens was threatening action for £100 against Mr Snawdon, and he objected to the Inquest being made a medium for getting information. - Mr Dawe said Mr Edmonds had himself done so by bringing the case forward. - Witness, in explanation, said he had not had any conversation with Mr Stevens about the work, but only with Mr Snawdon. The latter said those who had bearings in the wall must pay for it. He knew Radmore had refused to work, but the man was a sufferer from rheumatics. He (witness) had been waiting day after day for the plans to be passed by the Local Board. - Mr Shelly: And began without the plans being passed. - Thomas Henry Pearse proved that by the lease the wall was a party wall. - Alfred Norman, architect, with Mr Jenkin, said that at the request of the coroner they had visited Mr Snawdon's premises on Tuesday morning. The westerly wall, between Mr Snawdon's and Mr Stevens's, was a building of five stories, including the basement. He was speaking of that portion not including the front room of Mr Snawdon's house. The wall at the top is seventeen feet in length, and on getting to the first floor it extended to forty feet in length, and to fifty feet downwards. The wall hung over very considerably about the centre. The wall was about forty feet high in its highest part, and was separated from the back wall in Mr Stevens's house. The rent in the highest point was three or four inches, and diminished downwards. The crack was filled up with plaster, which had "started" since filled up, shewing the wall had moved. That rent must have been observed by everyone within and without the building. It rendered it dangerous but the hanging-over portion, and that which rounded about, shewed it was also dangerous. Did not remember ever seeing a wall that he considered in a more dangerous condition. The mortar had been considerably affected by the fire. That morning when witness was at the place, some workmen arrived without anyone to superintend them, and witness ordered them to desist from any operations until he had communicated with the Chairman of the Local Board. An hour after he cautioned Mr Hammett, contractor, to carefully "shore" the wall on both sides before it was pulled down. He found it had not been shored. The front wall in Union-street was now in a very critical condition. The present side wall was gradually giving way from Mr Stevens's house. Attention was attracted to the cubre walls, and he decidedly thought they should have been removed immediately after the fire. The heat much weakened the wall, and he thought the wall should have been examined immediately after the fire. Thought it dangerous for men to work without its being shored. - Mr Shelly: The shoring is put up now. The difficulty was to get men to put it up. - Thomas Jenkin, builder, had also inspected the premises on Tuesday morning. The day after the fire he saw the centre wall, which he thought of too great a height to remain unsupported. He should have thought any man should have critically examined the wall before sending men to work there. - The Inquiry then adjourned for a short time, and on resuming, Mr Shelly said Mr Norman was under a misunderstanding in saying the shoring to the all had not been put up. It was put up two days ago. - Mr Norman could not see the shoring, as it was on one side only. - Mr Christopher Bulteel, chairman of the Local Board, deposed that the Board met on the day of the fire, and found the wall between Mr Snawdon's and Mr Northey's in such a dangerous condition, that it was pulled down. The other walls were not considered in such a dangerous condition as to necessitate pulling down. The plans for Mr Snawdon's new place were sent in on the 28th, but were not passed, as certain things in them were objected to. On the 5th of September they were again sent in, and certain side windows were objected to. Immediately after the fire it was pointed out that the wall between Mr Snawdon's and Mr Northey's had parted. It was plastered up as a test, with instructions that if it parted again Mr Stevens should again warn the Board surveyor. At a meeting on the 5th the surveyor said he thought the wall in a dangerous condition and it should be taken down to the level of the second floor. It was intended after this portion was removed to inspect again, and see if any more should be taken away. Mr Snawdon and Mr Stevens were present, and the former was asked if he would carry out what the surveyor recommended; and he said he would the very next day. Mr Bulteel explained that the legal notice would not operate for three days, but they trusted to Mr Snawdon as a man of honour. On the Board meeting on the 12th the Board were informed that the promise had not been complied with, and a small chimney and a few stones only had been taken down. Mr Snawdon said that from the opinions of two qualified men he had consulted there was no necessity for pulling down the walls. A legal notice was then served, and before the three days, at the end of which time the notice came into operation, the accident occurred. Was on the ground within ten minutes of the accident, and his attention was drawn to a chimney-stack on Mr Balson's premises, and on his own responsibility ordered it to be pulled down. Saw Mr Blight, and asked him why they did not begin at the top of the wall before they began at the bottom, and he said because of the state of the weather. He (Mr Bulteel) was prepared to show that since the accident the Board had acted in compliance with Mr Norman's directions, and had gone even further. - Mr Edmonds said it had been remarked there were builders on the Local Board. Could not any member on the Board engage with a person to erect his building, and then vote on the very plans, in which he was interested? - Mr Bulteel said he could not say. - Mr Edmonds: Did not Mr Snawdon send to the Board's surveyor to know if they had taken down sufficient wall, and for him to come down and say, and the surveyor did not come? - Mr Bulteel said he could not say. - In cross-examination witness said that during the last fortnight he thought the fall of the wall inevitable. He looked upon it as Mr Snawdon's property, and on the 5th he offered to take it down. He would swear Mr Snawdon did not say it was a party wall. He thought it must have belonged to Mr Snawdon, or else he would not have been so ready to promise to take it down. - Mr Edmonds: Were you not asked to send down a competent surveyor? - Mr Bulteel would not swear that he was. - By the Foreman: Mr Snawdon promised to take down the wall from the second floor. There was nothing in the plans to shew whether the old wall was to be taken down or a new one put up. The limit to which the wall should be torn down was not stated in the Board's minutes; but Mr Snawdon was present at the meeting, and the part to be taken down was pointed out to him; and it was understood he would pull down the wall. - John Roberts, surveyor, visited Mr Snawdon's on the day of the fire, and ordered the centre wall, which was dangerous, to be taken down. The committee had decided on this. He had never refused to visit the premises. - In reply to Mr Edmonds, witness said he was inspector of nuisances, and those duties took him half-a-day on an average. He had been requested to visit the place by young Mr Snawdon to see if enough wall had been taken down, and he went there, but did not see the latter. He went the Monday after, when young Mr Snawdon was on the top of the building, but did not go up to him. Saw the wall hung over the foundation, but had seen walls hanging nine or ten inches over the foundations. There was nothing inconsistent with the plans in taking down what had been taken down. He did the plans and specifications for Sir Massey Lopes for twelve years. Did not suggest the wall should be "shored", as he understood Mr Snawdon would have taken it down. Knew the premises were dangerous last Friday; but did not know men were going to work there on the Monday. - The Inquiry, which was adjourned until Monday, created much excitement, and lasted more than seven hours.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 23 September 1873
EAST STONEHOUSE - The Late Calamity At Stonehouse. Verdict of Manslaughter Against Mr W. Snawdon And Mr Blight. - The Inquest on the bodies of WILLIAM VODEN, DENNIS SULLIVAN, JOHN STRATFORD, FRANCIS BENNETT. JAMES MCCARTHY, HERBERT NEWBERRY and RICHARD HARVEY, was again resumed at Stonehouse yesterday, before Mr R. Robinson Rodd, County Coroner, and Mr Elliot Square, his Deputy. Mr F. A. Graham was Foreman of the double Jury. Mr J. Shelly appeared for the Local Board; Mr J. J. E. Dawe for Mr Stevens; and Mr R. G. Edmonds for Messrs. Snawdon. - John Harrington, labourer, living at 2 Quarry-lane, Stonehouse, said he went to work on the gutted premises at Union-street yesterday fortnight. He was engaged by Mr Henry Snawdon (Mr Wm. Snawdon's son), and worked all the week except Saturday. He did not observe the westerly wall, but there were a good many cracks in it. On the 8th was sent for to take down the centre wall, but said he did not like it; and a good many were refusing it. Witness said that before he went to work on it he should like to have it shored, and Mr Snawdon said that before he went to work at it he could put as many spars as he liked to it, and a dozen spars were put. Witness went to work at six o'clock on the morning of the accident. He was then engaged in working on the eastern wall. The deceased came to work at about six o'clock. The week before DENNIS SULLIVAN said to him that the walls were rather high and he did not wish to go to work on them. Witness said he saw more danger in the centre wall than in the westerly one. - By Mr Edmonds: Knew the man Radmore, and he was incapable of going on the wall. Radmore said the wall was too high for him. After we had finished the wall we were about, we intended to go on the high walls. It was necessary to take down the centre wall before the other, but they had not finished the wall by Monday morning. It was necessary to take down the centre wall because it was in the contractor's way. Radmore had said he had been working for Mr Willcocks, but was not able to work because there was something the matter with his right leg. The wall (the westerly wall) was not shored. Witness was told to go to work on the westerly wall, and he said he should have 3s. 6d. a day for taking it down, as it was very high. The usual pay was 3s. - Samuel Roach, slate merchant, of Plymouth, said he knew the premises when they were first built. He visited the place after the fire, and made a survey for Mr Snawdon with respect to the claim for insurance money. He knew the westerly wall, and took notice of it at the time. He examined the wall two or three days after the fire. He included in his valuation the taking down and rebuilding it, because he thought it would be for the proprietor's interest. He was asked by Mr Snawdon (the insurance agent being present) about the valuation, and he replied, certain walls would have to be taken down. Mr Snawdon said his (Mr Roach's) price was within £50 of two other gentlemen who had been asked. The valuation was £1,770, or thereabouts. - By the Foreman: Witness made a general survey, and did not pay particular attention to the westerly wall, which was not worse than the other parts of the place. Was not afraid of the wall, it was so soon after the fire. The wall was originally quite strong, and there had been hundreds of tons on each floor of the house. He thought if the insurance had been paid quicker, the wall would have been covered in, and not have come down. If the other walls had been re-erected quicker he thought the wall which fell would have been standing now. Thought it was the place of the person whom Mr Snawdon employed to see every precaution was taken. When he went to the place a few days after the fire, the westerly wall did not look dangerous, but the centre wall looked as if it were coming down every five minutes. - John Greenwood, builder and surveyor, of Devonport, went on the 24th of July (two days after the fire) to inspect the place for Mr Stevens, on behalf of the insurance company. Next day went again, and took memoranda of the damage done to the premises, and made an estimate of it. Saw the western wall had gone off a little from Mr Stevens', but it was very little, and he thought it could be stopped. The wall was gone off in the top about two inches, but nothing in the bottom. Witness saw Mr Snawdon and asked him what he was going to do about the wall. Mr Snawdon said it was Mr Stevens' wall. Witness said it was not Mr Stevens' evidently, for his stack of chimneys were built independently of it. Witness told Mr Snawdon he would have to take down the wall, that was a sure thing, but he made some remark, saying it would not require to be taken down. He drew Mr Snawdon's attention to the over-hanging state of the wall, but he said he thought it would stand. He did not try it, but he thought it over-hung about 18 inches. During the progress of the work Mr Stevens drew witness's attention to the fact that the wall was going further out, but he told Mr Snawdon not to trouble as if it came down Mr Snawdon would have to rebuild it. - By Mr Dawe: Did not include anything in the valuation on account of the wall. - By Mr Edmonds: it is my opinion Mr Snawdon should take it down because he built it. He built it for his accommodation, and he thought he ought to take it down. Could not understand why the Local Board surveyor had not seen the wall hanging over. - Mr Shelly said he would not ask any question, but thought it was in evidence that Mr Roberts had seen it hanging over. - William Snawdon examined by Mr Edmonds, said he was one of the owners of the property burnt down. The wall that fell was a party wall. After the fire two insurance agents came and inspected the property. One said it was as good a wall as he had ever seen in his life, and a better could not be rebuilt. He received only £1,200 for the insurance. Had to get out plans for his new place, and Mr James Taylor, one of the Local Board, often came in and said the wall was quite safe, and there could not be a better. Mr Keats prepared the plan. Mr Taylor wished to build the premises by day work, and offered to pass the plans as quickly as he had passed his own. He said, "See how quickly I have passed mine." The first time the plans were sent in they were postponed, and he would not give up the area lights because Mr Taylor said the Board had no right to deprive him, but wanted to get it out of him. The passing of the plans was delayed, owing to there being certain objections. Went to the Board meeting, and heard Mr Taylor say the Board should enforce the giving up of the area lights. On the 9th he went before the Board, and was told to take down as much of the wall as the surveyor directed. The plans were returned. He took down a chimney and four feet of the wall. On the 12th again attended a meeting, and on his coming into the room they said he had not done what the surveyor wanted him. He said he wished to be treated fairly, but the surveyor was under Mr Wilkes, who was an enemy of witness, and he offered to pay for a competent surveyor to examine the wall. Was handed a notice on Friday, but on Saturday the weather was bad, and on Monday witness was away. When present at the meetings of the Local Board was not told to shore the wall, and no part of it was boarded. The plans went in on the 28th of August, and he was waiting to go on with the work. As soon as Mr Taylor found the work was going to be put to tender he quarrelled with witness. He said he passed his plans very quick, and he could do the same for him if he had given him the work. Mr Taylor said, "You'll have some difficulty in passing your plans; I belong to the Board of Works; that's the beauty of belonging to a board of works." - By Mr Shelly: As soon as the plans were drawn there were objections to certain windows in the plans. Had private conversation with Mr Taylor a day or two after the fire concerning the walls, and he said they were good. When in the Local Board room he was asked if he was prepared to make certain alterations in the plans, which would facilitate the passing of them. The week after the fire he saw the Board surveyor on his premises, but he said nothing about the walls. When the plans went before the Board there was exception to side lights in case of fire. Took away the plans from the Board after the objection had been made, and took them back again on the 12th. - By Mr Dawe: First spoke about the party wall when Mr Stevens mentioned the wall was going away from him. Swore that he said in the Board-room before Mr Bulteel and Mr Stevens that the wall was a party one. If they said he did not it was false. Witness built a portion of the wall. When Mr Stevens told him that the wall was leaving him he did not say he would attend to it at once, but said the wall was a party wall. - By the Foreman: The centre walls, if rebuilt, would have supported the westerly wall. Four weeks after the fire Mr Taylor said the wall was a good one. Did not know that Mr James Taylor had much influence on the committee, but thought he had with the clerk. (Laughter.) - Mr Edmonds said he was aware that what Mr Taylor said was not official, but much obstruction was put in Mr Snawdon's way by a person taking advantage of his being on the Board. - In answer to a Juror, witness said he would not have stopped men from working on the Monday morning if he had been at Stonehouse, thinking it was quite safe. Did not see it overhung more than six inches. - James Keats, architect, who drew out the plans, said he went before the Local Board sub-committee on the 28th of August and saw Mr Wilkes there. There were objections to the footlights, and to the side windows, but he said the neighbours could allow Mr Snawdon to have them if they liked. He said time was of importance, and they wanted to get on with the work, so they would take the plans without the windows. He was then told the plans had not been considered, and he offered to retire until they were, but then it appeared they must go before the general Board. It transpired, however, that they had been considered, and an objection, that the building was too high, was then made; but by the draught bye-laws (not yet confirmed), it was shewn this only applied to new street. - Mr Shelly: This was only a side matter. - Mr Edmonds said he was shewing why the cross wall was not built sooner. - Examined the western wall two or three weeks after the fire before he drew out the plans, and, in his opinion, it was not dangerous. Did not direct the men to go to work on the morning of the accident, nor did he know they were going to work. - After adjournment the Coroner summed up. He said it was his painful duty to address them on the subject of the investigation into which they had so patiently and completely Inquired; and painful though it was, he felt it to be wanting in his duty to the public, to the high office for whose protection it was created, he should be wanting in his duty if he did not recount the evidence brought forward. Several witnesses had been called, and some of them might be seriously affected by the verdict. After expressing a hope that all prejudice would be dismissed from their minds, the Coroner recapitulated the evidence. Mr Snawdon, he noted, acted as proprietor of the wall, and the only person who shewed he had any right over it. He asked them to dismiss from their minds the question of the party wall, which did not concern them in the present Inquiry; and their duty was to say whether the deaths were caused by accident, or whether there was a contributory negligence on their part, or whether it was their painful duty to record that the deaths were caused by the negligence of any of the parties to whom the property belonged, or who ought to have guarded against accident; and if so, who was to blame, and, however painful it must be, they must return a verdict of manslaughter. After defining what legally constituted manslaughter, the Coroner said he thought the contract between Mr Blight and Mr Snawdon with the plans, proved conclusively that Mr Snawdon was exercising right of ownership in respect to the wall which caused the accident, and that Mr Stevens was never considered to have any claim or right to it either by contributing to its erection or otherwise. The notice served on the 12th had been commented on as vague in its terms, and not definitely pointing out the portion of the wall to be removed. But was explained by Dr Bulteel and Mr Roberts, both of whom said, that before the notice was served Mr Snawdon distinctly promised to pull down the wall, and it was clearly shewn to him what part was to be pulled down. They must consider whether in this case there was on the part of anyone negligence or want of ordinary precaution. If, on consideration of the evidence, they decided that such was the case they must return a verdict of manslaughter; but if otherwise, the verdict must be one of accidental death. - The Jury, after deliberating about an hour, returned into Court. They had agreed on their verdict, and found Mr William Snawdon and Mr Blight were guilty of Manslaughter; and the Local Board were severely to be censured. - There was some applause, which was immediately suppressed. - Mr Edmonds applied for bail for Messrs. Snawdon and Blight, and it was accepted in each case - two sureties of £100 each. - Mr Rodd, before the public retired, said the Jury had very kindly and properly given up their fees for the relief of the sufferers, and would also start a fund for their relief. Mr Broom, a working man, had kindly given £1. The Inquiry lasted nearly six hours.

Western Morning News, Friday 26 September 1873
STOKE DAMEREL - Suicide At Devonport. - At an Inquest held yesterday in the Devonport Guildhall, before Mr A. B. Bone, Borough Coroner, and a double Jury, on the body of JANE FRANCIS, aged thirty-five years, who had committed suicide the same morning at her residence, 63 James-street, by cutting her throat with a razor, the evidence given by the husband of the deceased and others shewed that she had been in a desponding state for some time, and that several members of the family were insane. The Jury found that the act was committed while deceased suffered from Temporary Insanity.

Western Morning News, Saturday 27 September 1873
STOKE DAMEREL - Terrible Suicide By A Soldier At Devonport. - Mr A. Bone, Coroner, held an Inquest at the White Lion Inn, Devonport, yesterday, on the body of JOSEPH SMITH, private 11th Regt., who committed suicide that morning at the Gunwharf, Devonport. From the evidence it appeared that the deceased's parents resided at Galway, Ireland, where his father held a high position in the constabulary. About sixteen months ago the deceased enlisted into the 11th Regt., he then being 21 years of age. During his service he had appeared to be in a melancholy state of mind, and had been often seen speaking to himself in the guard-room, but no one had heard him say he disliked the army. From the evidence of Metropolitan Constable Samuel Pitt it appeared that, having heard the report of a gun, he at once went to No. 3 post at the Gunwharf, where he saw the deceased lying on his back into the sentry-box, and quite dead. Shortly afterwards Sergeant Scott, of the 11th Regiment, and officer in charge of the guard, arrived, and on examining the deceased found that the boot was off from his right foot, and his rifle lying down on the ground before him. Sergeant Scott made examination of the spot, and found the shake of the deceased about eight yards from the sentry-box, and lying alongside was a piece of deceased's skull. The back of the deceased's head was blown away, and some of his teeth blown out. This led Sergeant Scott to believe, from the fact of his boot being off, that the deceased pulled the trigger of the gun with his toe, placing the muzzle into his mouth. The empty cartridge was in the barrel of the gun when found. Deceased was paraded at three o'clock yesterday morning in company with other soldiers who formed the relief guards, and he then appeared in his usual state of mind. The Jury, of whom Mr William Burt was Foreman, returned a verdict, "That the deceased committed Suicide whilst in a state of Unsound Mind."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 30 September 1873
REVELSTOKE - Mr Rodd, Devon County Coroner, held an Inquest last evening at Noss, concerning the death of HAROLD TUCKER, aged 4 years, who died suddenly on Saturday. The cause of death not being certainly known, Mr Atkins, of Yealmpton, at the request of the Coroner made an examination, the result of which was that the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 1 October 1873
PLYMOUTH - The Drowning Off Lambhay Point. - Yesterday morning a waterman named Samuel Michell, who had been dragging, succeeded in finding the body of SAMUEL REED, who was drowned the previous afternoon by losing his footing whilst in the act of casting the anchor of the schooner Leader, of Plymouth, off Lambhay-point. An Inquest was held last evening by Mr Elliot Square, Deputy Coroner, and a verdict of "Accidental Drowning" returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 1 October 1873
EXETER - Fatal Railway Accident At Exeter. - An Inquest was held yesterday afternoon, at Exeter, touching the death of ALBERT J. PICKARD, a lamp trimmer, aged 20, engaged at the St. David's station of the Bristol and Exeter Railway. On Monday afternoon an engine and carriage was being shunted with the view of making up the five train to Plymouth, when the deceased, who was standing on the platform, caught hold of the handle of the carriage with the intention of jumping on the step. He fell between the platform and the carriage, three wheels of the engine passing over his thighs, both of which were fractured in a frightful manner. He was removed to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, but he died shortly after his admission. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death". It was stated by Mr Inspector Green that the employees of the company were strictly forbidden from jumping on carriages whilst in motion.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 7 October 1873
STOKE DAMEREL - An Inquest was held at the Freemasons' Arms, Morice Town, by Mr A. B. Bone, Borough Coroner, and a double Jury, on Saturday, relative to the death of JOHN HORRELL, aged 64 years, who committed suicide the previous evening by hanging himself to a beam in his stables at the back of Gloucester-street, Morice Town. The son of deceased said his father was a coal dealer, and a man who had enjoyed very good health, but of late he had complained of pains in his head, and at times had been in a very desponding state. Deceased had given away to drink very much during the last four months. The Jury returned a verdict of "Temporary Insanity."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 7 October 1873
PLYMOUTH - Sudden Death At The Plymouth Workhouse. - Yesterday Mr Elliot Square, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Plymouth Workhouse relative to the death of MARIA HILL, who died suddenly the previous day. The evidence adduced shewed that the deceased was an inmate of the Workhouse, and had apparently enjoyed good health. On Sunday she became ill and before medical assistance could be procured she expired. Dr F. A. Thomas had made an external examination, but could not say what was the cause of death. The Jury were of opinion that a post mortem examination should be held and the Inquiry was adjourned until tomorrow in order that this should be made.

Western Morning News, Thursday 9 October 1873
PLYMOUTH - In Bed With A Corpse. - CAROLINE PAIN, 75 years of age, was found dead in her bed beside her aged decrepit husband yesterday morning at their house, 45 Neswick-street, Plymouth. Deceased was out the previous day, and although she received parish pay, her friends took care that she wanted for nothing. At an Inquest held last night before Mr Brian, the Plymouth Coroner, a verdict of Death from Natural Causes was returned. 

Western Morning News, Thursday 9 October 1873
PLYMOUTH - The Necessity Of Post-Mortem Examinations. - The adjourned Inquest relative to the death of MARIA HILL, aged 46, wife of REUBEN HILL, gardener, who died suddenly in Plymouth Workhouse on Sunday - the day after she became an inmate - was resumed last evening before Mr Elliot Square, Deputy Coroner. - The woman before her death had a fit and vomited. Mr F. Aubrey Thomas, surgeon, stated at the Inquest on Monday that he believed she died of apoplexy, but he would not swear so. The Jury thought a post mortem examination necessary, and the Deputy Coroner mentioned that he had not ordered it in consequence of a statement made before the Plymouth Guardians to the effect that unnecessary post mortem examinations were ordered. - In opening the proceedings last evening, Mr Square made a lengthy statement, first mentioning that the Coroner, who had returned to Plymouth, approved of the course taken. He (Mr Square) considered that in all cases of sudden death, where the deceased had not been attended by a medical man, or where nothing of his or her bodily infirmities were known, an Inquest should be held. (Hear, hear.) Some time ago an Inquest was held by him at the Workhouse on a woman named Rowe. She left her home comparatively in perfect health, and having been suffering from headaches, she was going to Mr May, the surgeon of the family. She was taken ill in the street, was conveyed to a public-house and there seen by Mr Shepherd, one of the parish surgeons. He thought she was seized with apoplexy, and ordered her removal to the Workhouse for attendance. Here she died; but no medical man, none having attended her, could be found to give a certificate, which was as binding upon them as an oath, as to what she died of. He then ordered the post mortem examination, and this was subsequently objected to, he supposed because the individual who ordered it was the Deputy and not the chief officer. In fact, he believed it was hinted that he so ordered the examination because he was somewhat connected with the medical profession; but this, in his opinion, was rather a recommendation than a disqualification for a Coroner. He need only say that he held his profession and the medical profession to be far too honourable to have examinations if unnecessary, and it would be a bad thing if the Plymouth professional men had to resort to such means to get a few shillings of the ratepayers' money. In this case he ordered no examination, and at the Inquest Mr Thomas declined to say positively of what she died. Then the post mortem examination was ordered by the Jury, no one knowing anything of the woman's antecedents, and now they were assembled to hear the results of it. - A Juror complained of the waste of time which they were subject to by the Coroner not using his discretion as to when a post mortem was necessary. - Mr Thomas stated that he had made the examination, and found that the deceased died of epilepsy, caused by two tumours on the brain. The tumours were of long standing and were no doubt the cause of the woman being sent to Salisbury Asylum 18 months' since. - The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

Western Morning News, Saturday 11 October 1873
PLYMOUTH - Worried To Death By A Drunken Wife. - The Plymouth Borough Coroner investigated a case on Thursday evening which exhibited some distressing features. FREDERICK WILLIAM COVE, a pensioner and working as a porter for Mr E. B. Whipple, ironmonger, was on Wednesday found drowned in Gill's Greek, at Millbay. The man and his wife were formerly employed by Colonel Elliott, of St. George's-terrace, Stonehouse, the man being temperate and industrious, while the woman was always causing unpleasantness by her intemperate habits. Being unable to submit to the wife's conduct Colonel Elliott discharged both, but eventually re-engaged deceased. The wife then took to visiting him when in a state of drunkenness, and being unable to submit to this annoyance, Colonel Elliott had to again discharge COVE. Soon after this he attempted to drown himself off Longroom, and when brought before the magistrates for this offence, by the intercession of his late master, who proved how he was harassed was discharged. The wife then promised amendment, and Col. Elliott took both into his service again. Soon after the woman's old habits re-appeared, and both were once more sent out of the Colonel's house. Deceased subsequently got into Mr Whipple's employment, where he remained for eighteen months, giving great satisfaction. His wife continued to be as bad as ever, annoyed her husband, and threatened to burn Mr Whipple's house down. The poor fellow was noticed to be continually depressed, and more than once tried to effect an arrangement whereby he could be parted from his wife. This never came to anything. On Tuesday evening he was in worse spirits than usual, and having had a glass of ale in a public-house in Market-place, told the landlord, Mr Collacott, that he should cut his throat, shewing a razor which he had in his possession. The next day his body was found in Gill's Creek, suicide having been committed by drowning, the razor deceased spoke of was found in his pocket. - The Coroner remarked that although no criminal proceedings could be taken against anyone, there was no doubt as to who was morally responsible for the death of the deceased. The Jury, after a short deliberation, returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased committed Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity, such insanity being caused by the intemperate and cruel conduct practised towards him. At the suggestion of the Jury, the Coroner remonstrated with the wife as to her conduct; but she did not seem to be affected by his words.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 14 October 1873
A Naval Officer censured By A Coroner's Jury. - On the 24th of August last JOHN BURNETT, a seaman, of the Resistance, ironclad, was drowned in Plymouth Sound. His body was not discovered until the 7th of September, sand an Inquest was opened the next day by Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, when it was adjourned in order that two of the men who were in the punt at the time with the deceased might give evidence. Mr Rodd subsequently wrote to the Admiralty, stating that he had adjourned the Inquest for the attendance of the two men in the boat, and pointing out that they were then on board their ship. He asked that the Admiralty would procure their names and order their attendance; he would further adjourn the Inquest if the Resistance was likely to return to Plymouth. The reply from the Admiralty stated that it was not possible for the men to attend. The adjourned Inquest took place yesterday, when the letters were read. - The coxswain of the steam launch of the Resistance was examined. He stated that on the 25th of August he saw four men in a copper punt alongside the Resistance, which was moored in Plymouth Sound. Witness subsequently noticed the punt about twelve feet ahead of the Resistance when she was under way; in a few seconds he saw three men thrown into the water. A man jumped from the stem of the vessel to save BURNETT, but did not succeed in doing so. In answer to the Foreman witness said that it was usual for copper punts to be got out when a ship was at moorings after trial trip, but not when she was under way. There was a slight sea on at the time. The Resistance was going about five knots an hour when the accident happened. In answer to the Coroner witness said that if the painter of the punt had not been attached to the vessel the accident would not have happened. - After an hour's deliberation the Jury returned the following verdict:- "The Jury are of opinion that JOHN BURNETT was Accidentally Drowned by the capsizing of the copper punt attached to the Resistance, there being neglect of duty on the part of the officer of the watch in not taking the punt on board previous to drifting the ship to other moorings in the Sound while under steam."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 15 October 1873
EGG BUCKLAND - An inquest was held at Egg Buckland yesterday by Mr Rodd, County Coroner, respecting the death of a labourer named GEORGE COLE, who died whilst on his way to work at the Lee Moor Clay Works. Deceased was found lying dead on the tramway, and as it was shewn that he had suffered greatly from epileptic fits a verdict of Death from Natural Causes was returned. COLE was formerly in the Royal Marines.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 21 October 1873
PLYMOUTH - Death Cheating The Law. - The first Inquest for five years at the Plymouth Borough Prison was held yesterday. This long immunity from Coroners' Inquiries is all the more remarkable from the fact that the law requires an Inquest to be held whenever a death occurs in gaol. The deceased was a butcher named EDWARD VINCENT, who, with another butcher named Trethewy, was committed for trial in August last on a charge of stealing a sheep, the property of Mr Pitts, of the Plymouth Market. VINCENT was to have been brought up at the quarter sessions on Saturday, but the day previous he was suddenly attacked by illness, and complained of severe pain in the stomach. He vomited blood and his pulse became very weak. Dr J. N. Stevens, the prison surgeon, attended to him, and on Saturday morning the deceased appeared to rally, but he was still too ill to appear before the recorder. Mr Stevens attended the sessions to explain the reason VINCENT could not be present, and was about to make a statement when information was brought that the man was dead. Up to Friday the deceased had not complained of being unwell, and Mr Stevens was of opinion that death had resulted from natural haemorrhage. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and concurred with the Coroner in according great praise to Mr Wm. Brewer, the chief warder, for the attention and kindness shewn by him to the deceased.

Western Morning News, Thursday 23 October 1873
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at Plymouth yesterday relative to the death of an infant child that had been suffocated whilst in bed with its mother, MARY ANN ARNOLD. The evidence went to shew that death had been Accidental, and a verdict accordingly was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 25 October 1873
PLYMOUTH - Censure By A Coroner's Jury - Mr T. C. Brian, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at the Regent Inn, Plymouth, yesterday, on the body of HARRIET FORQUHAR, a woman fifty-six years of age, widow of a quartermaster in the 42nd Regiment. Deceased lived in North-street with a married sister named Parrott, and on Thursday morning was engaged in folding mangled clothes, when she was suddenly taken ill and put to bed. While there a person named Cave went to her and lifted her up, but no answer was returned to her inquiry what was the matter; deceased looked sleepy. Two hours after, on going to the bed, the woman was found to be dead. No stimulants were applied, or medical attendance obtained. - The Coroner, in addressing the Jury, thought the deceased might have been attacked in the first place with syncope, and had she been attended to in a proper manner might possibly have lived. He severely commented on the conduct of the sister in taking no means to restore her, and for not procuring medical assistance, pointing out that putting a woman attacked with syncope to bed was the worst thing that could possibly be done. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," expressing concurrence with the views of the Coroner. The latter disallowed Parrott's expenses, advised her to procure assistance next time anyone was taken ill, and to remember the golden rule to do to others as she would be done by.

Western Morning News, Thursday 30 October 1873
EXETER - A Young Woman Burnt To Death. - An Inquest was held at Exeter, by Mr Barton, Deputy Coroner, relative to the death of EMMA LANGDOM, aged 18 years. the deceased was the daughter of a labourer residing at Trusham, near Chudleigh. She suffered from fits, and on Monday last was attacked by one, and fell upon the fire that was burning on the hearth. A younger brother ran to an aunt who lived next door, and who found the poor girl's clothes on fire. She quickly extinguished the flames, and the sufferer was taken the same evening to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, where she died the following morning. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 1 November 1873
TAVISTOCK - Concealment Of Birth At Tavistock. - Last evening Mr Coroner Rodd held an Inquest at Tavistock on the body of a newly-born child, the daughter of a domestic servant named SCOTT. The accused was a cook with Mr Roseveare, of the Manor House, and had only been in his service since Saturday last. On Thursday, at dinner time, she asked the groom if he could keep a secret; and then told him she had been confined about seven o'clock the previous evening. She had put the child into her box, and wanted him to carry it away. He told her to be very careful, for it was a bad job, and he then thought it right to tell his master, and afterwards he made the police acquainted with it. P.C. Porter afterwards saw her, when she gave him the key of the box, which he unlocked and found there the body wrapped up in an apron and jacket. - Mr Northey, surgeon, yesterday, at the request of the Coroner, made a post mortem examination, and found that the child, which was between six and seven months, had a separate existence, but in his opinion died from Natural Causes. A verdict in accordance with that evidence was therefore given.

Western Morning News, Monday 3 November 1873
PLYMOUTH - Sudden Death At Plymouth. - An Inquest was held on Saturday evening at the Cambridge Inn, Plymouth, concerning the death of WILLIAM PACKER, who died suddenly the previous night. Mrs Rendle deposed that the deceased had lodged at her house, in Morley-street, for about five years, and lived upon an allowance made by his friends. His habits were intemperate, but his health was good. About half-past nine o'clock she went to his bedroom to ascertain what he would have for supper. He was in bed, and had been there all the day, it being no unusual thing for him to lay in bed for many days after drinking freely. For a month previous to that day week he had not been home, but off on a drinking bout with two others. He gave her directions for his supper, and she went out to procure what he wanted. Upon her return she found the back door open, and to her surprise was told that MR PACKER had fallen down in the back court. She then saw him sitting on the stones, and asked him what made him leave his bed, but he made no reply. With assistance she got him up, and was able to get him to bed. The deceased complained of being dizzy, and thought that he had cut the back of his head, but the blood came from the nose. He had had another fall by which he bruised his face and nose. He asked for brandy and drank some, but could not distinguish it from water. He then complained of the closeness of the room, and almost immediately afterwards said he was dying and begged her to send for Dr Rendle which she did. In the meantime she called in Mr Eales, who was in the neighbourhood, but before that gentleman arrived the unfortunate man was dead. The deceased was 33 years of age and she had communicated with his friends in London. About two or three hours previous to his death he was singing cheerfully and was sober. - Ann Lethbridge corroborated the evidence of the first witness. - The Coroner (Mr Brian) congratulated Mrs Rendle on the prompt manner in which she had acted, and the clear way she had given her evidence. There was no doubt that congestion of the brain was caused by the injury resulting from the fall, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - In a paragraph inserted on Saturday it was erroneously stated that the deceased was apprehended some fourteen months ago on a charge of complicity in the death of a woman whose body was found in the Dart at Totnes. At the Inquest held at the time, it was stated that the woman had been in the deceased's company a short time before her death, and he was accordingly ordered to appear at the adjourned Inquiry. This he neglected to do, and was in consequence apprehended on the Coroner's warrant, and brought up in custody to give evidence.

Western Morning News, Monday 3 November 1873
CULLOMPTON - Killed Whilst Crossing A Railway. - On Saturday afternoon Mr R. R. Crosse, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Cullompton respecting the death of a middle-aged man named JAMES PARKIN, who was on Thursday afternoon knocked down and killed by the down express train. The evidence shewed that at half-past three o'clock, when the up train from Exeter was leaving the station the express was due. The passengers by the up train were prevented by Mr Ward, the station-master, from crossing the line until the express had passed, but it seemed that the deceased, who intended to proceed by the next ordinary train down, had gone over by the signal-box, and , not noticing Mr Ward's caution, attempted to cross as soon as the up train had cleared, in utter ignorance of the near approach of the express. The engine of the latter caught him and carried him along some distance. The poor man then fell and the train passed over him, literally cutting off the top part of the skull and otherwise mutilating the body. Death was, of course, instantaneous. The deceased, it transpired, had but recently been discharged from the artillery, and it is supposed he had intended to go to Hele to seek employment at Mr Collins's paper mills there. His widow came from Woolwich to attend the Inquest. She is left with three children. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" but recommended that a bridge should be erected at the railway station to enable passengers to cross from one platform to the other in safety. They attached no blame to anyone in the present case.

Western Morning News, Monday 10 November 1873
PLYMOUTH - A Warning To Parents. - An Inquest was held at Plymouth on Saturday concerning the death of the infant daughter of WILLIAM DINHAM, cab proprietor. The deceased was sixteen months old, and had been in good health up to Friday last, but on that day some beef-steak pudding was given to it to eat, and, according to the evidence of Mr Jackson, surgeon, this caused fatal syncope, as so young a child was unable to digest such food. Mr Jackson thought that possibly he might have saved the child's life if called in when first it became unwell. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 10 November 1873
EAST STONEHOUSE - The Fatal Fire At Stonehouse. Inquest On The Child. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Stonehouse Guildhall on Saturday, on the body of the child FREDERICK EXWORTHY, who was burnt to death on Friday morning by the fire which occurred at 107 Union-street. - EMANUEL EXWORTHY, tailor, father of the deceased, said the boy was aged about 2 ½ years. Witness occupied three top rooms in the house 107 Union-street, and his family lived with him there. On the night of Thursday, the 6th inst., he went to bed at 10.30. Deceased was in the cradle when he went to bed, but his mother, who retired at eleven o'clock took him from there and brought him into their bed. About ten minutes after two o'clock on Friday morning, witness was disturbed by something falling at the bottom of the house, and with the same he heard Mr Hill, landlord of the house, saying "Oh, my God, MR EXWORTHY, there is a fire." He got up and with Mr Hill went downstairs. Hill ran to his shop when he came to the bottom of the stairs, and witness went to the front door. Hill caught hold of the back parlour door to open it, and at that moment the door fell inwards; the flames flew out, and knocked Mr Hill backwards. He ran upstairs, where witness's wife and children were, and sung out to them to shut the door. They would not, but followed him, with the exception of the deceased, and even he got over the bed. The eldest girl got into the street by the door; the others were taken out of the window. - By the Foreman: did not hear anyone at work after he had gone to bed. Heard Mr Hill come from the back parlour at 10.30 and go to his bedroom. All that he believed was in the back parlour was Venetian blinds, and no mattresses. - James Swiggs, foreman of the West of England Fire Brigade, stated that the brigade got to the burning premises soon after three on Friday morning. The back part of the house was all in a blaze. One hose was got through the passage, and played into a back bedroom. There was a great body of fire in that room; witness heard no one crying. When he got into the room he found the body of deceased under the head part of the bed, with his feet towards a partition of lath and plaster at the west end. This partition had fallen in and buried him. Witness removed the burning timber which covered the deceased to the throat, and carried him into the street. He was dead and much burnt. It seemed as if deceased had been crawling towards the door when he was knocked down or fell down from suffocation. - Sergeant Helwill, of the Devon County Constabulary, stated that at 10.30 on Friday evening he visited Union-street beat and stopped directly opposite the house which had been burnt. Everything was all right, and he smelt nothing burning, but at 2.20 a.m. he heard that the place was on fire. He went to the spot, and at once sent to the Marine Barracks for the fire-engine. He took a boy from a first-floor window, and afterwards a girl was taken off the ladder by him. He sent for Mr Leah, surgeon, who attended to the children. - John William Hill said he was a cabinet-maker and resided at 107 Union-street. He went to bed at 10.45 on Thursday night. Prior to going to bed he went to the back parlour, which was used as a workshop, to get a candle to go to bed by. Not being able to find one, he took some matches, struck one, and lit a candle in the parlour. After he lit the candle he put the match on the floor and put his foot on it. Previous to that, the candle having a long wick to it, after lighting it he blew the wick off and re-lighted it with the first match he had struck. There were some straw bands close by the place where he lit the candle; also some old carpeting and sacking. He only effected an insurance on the property last Saturday or Monday for £200. At two o'clock the next morning he was awoke by a noise like a knock at the door, and found his room, which was immediately over the back parlour, full of smoke, so that he was nearly suffocated. On getting out of bed the floor was so hot that he could not bear his feet on it. He managed to call MR EXWORTHY. He locked the shop after he left it, and no one could have got into it. - Mr Sloggett (one of the Jury): Was it not a very careless thing to let the snuff of a candle fall on a floor where there were things which might catch fire? - Witness: Certainly it was. - Mr Sloggett: Did you see the snuff go out after you blew it off? - Witness: I did not see it go out. I blew it across the counter as I thought. There might have been something dropped. - Mr Sloggett: It was a very careless thing. - Witness: Yes, I know it was. I had not been out of bed a quarter of an hour before my bedstead fell into the parlour beneath. - The Coroner having summed up, remarked that although the case was a painful one, it was quite clear. - Whilst the Jury were considering, a man named Stephens, who lives near the burnt house, said he could give some information to the Jury. Turning to Mr Hill he said, "Will you swear that you turned the gas into the street?" - Mr Hill: I have no gas in the house whatever. - Mr Stephens: Will you swear that there was nothing put ----- . - The Coroner, at the instigation of the Jury , said he must protect the witness, and that Mr Stephens had better make a statement than ask a question. - Mr Stephens said he was one of the first at the fire, and when he came down the front door of the house was open. He begged that the door might be shut, and the people got out from the window, as there was a blaze coming out of the parlour. - Mr Randall (one of the Jurymen) appealed to the Coroner to say if this was evidence. - The Coroner: It has nothing to do with the present Inquiry. People aroused in the middle of the night were not as discreet as they would be in the daytime. - Mr Stephens: I will swear that when the first shutter was knocked the fire blazed up more than six feet. - The Coroner: We have nothing to do with that. (To the Jury) Would you like to have Mr Stephens examined? - Several Jurymen replied, "Certainly not." - Mr Stephens: I should like to know what it was in the corner of the shop to make an illumination. (Laughter). - Mr Sloggett: Can you tell how the fire occurred? Otherwise it is no use listening to you. - Mr Stephens: But no one took notice of that illumination. - Sergeant Holwill explained that this was caused by the air, which got in when the first shutter was taken down. - In answer to Mr Sloggett, Mr Hill said there was no one in the house but the EXWORTHY family and himself. - The Jury after a short deliberation, returned as their verdict "That deceased died from Suffocation caused by Fire," and expressed their approval of the way in which Mr Hill had given his evidence.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 12 November 1873
PLYMOUTH - A boy named HENRY JESS was attempting to get on the shaft of a cart at Coxside, Plymouth, on Monday evening, when the horse started, and he fell off. The wheel passed over his body, and he received fatal injuries. An Inquest was held last evening by Mr E. Square, Deputy Coroner, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 15 November 1873
HOLBETON - THOMAS ANSTICE, of Holbeton, was killed at that place by a wheel of a cart passing over him, after the horse he had been driving ran away and he had been thrown. A Coroner's Jury, at the Inquest held by Mr R. R. Rodd, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Monday 17 November 1873
EAST STONEHOUSE - Fatal Accident At Devonport Dockyard. - An Inquest was held at Stonehouse on Saturday, by Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, relative to the death of SAMUEL ALLEN, ordinary seaman, serving on board the Royal Adelaide. The deceased, who was 20 years of age, was standing on the upper deck of the Tamar troopship at about half-past 9 on Friday morning, assisting in shipping tent poles. The poles were being shipped by means of the steam hoist, and after Mr Fudgelow, boatswain of the Tamar had shouted "stand clear," deceased placed two more poles on the hoist, and before he could get away he was struck and knocked down the hatchway to the troop deck, a distance of eight feet. He fell on a protecting rail, between which and the frame of the hoist he was jammed, there not being time to reverse the engines. He received severe internal injuries, and died the same evening at the Royal Naval Hospital.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 18 November 1873
SIDMOUTH - Infanticide At Sidmouth. - An Inquest was held at Sidmouth yesterday relative to the death of the child of ELIZABETH JANE PIKE, of Honiton, aged 21. Mrs Webber deposed that the girl was in her service, and on Friday last noticing that she was very pale, asked if anything was the matter, and the girl replied, "Oh, ma'am, I've had a child and destroyed it. I must be mad." She told where the body was, and it was found with the throat cut. - Elizabeth Taylor said she assisted to put the girl to bed. She told her that she was mad with pain and hearing the child crying she cut its throat for fear others would hear it. - Dr Mckenzie deposed that the child was well formed and mature. - P.C. Watts said that the girl stated that the child was born a month before she expected. She had baby linen at home and intended giving notice that week, and she was mad when she cut its throat. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Wilful Murder."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 19 November 1873
PLYMPTON ST MARY - Sad Death At Ridgway. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the George Inn, Ridgway, last evening, relative to the death of SAMUEL LANGDON. - William Wellington, cartman, in the employ of Mr Soper, forage dealer, Plymouth, deposed that he and the deceased proceeded with two wagons to Calefornia, near Modbury, where they arrived at 11.30 a.m. They left Calefornia, loaded with hay, at about seven o'clock, and on arriving at Chaddlewood-hill witness called out, "We must make haste, SAM, or else we shall miss the gate." He did not receive any answer, and on looking towards deceased's cart could not see him. Witness at once made for Lee Mill, where he had last spoken to deceased, and on the way there the horse jumped at something lying beside of the hedge, which proved to be the body of the deceased. He was lying on his back, and his neck was broken. At Lee Mill hill the deceased and the witness sat on the shafts of the cart, and then proceeded at the pace of four miles an hour. Witness and deceased were quite sober. Both horses were quiet, but the night was very dark. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death". Some of the Jury handed over their fees to the deceased's wife.

Western Morning News, Saturday 22 November 1873
IPPLEPEN - Fatal Accident To A Farmer. - A fatal accident befell MR J. B. MASON, a farmer, of Ipplepen, on Thursday night. He arrived at Newton by the eight o'clock train from Exeter, where he had been to visit his niece, who was ill. He then proceeded home in his trap. At nine o'clock he was found lying in the road, 200 yards from his house, by Mr Berry, who previously occupied deceased's farm. He was removed to his residence, and surgical assistance procured. An examination of his injuries shewed that he had received a fracture of the skull. The horse arrived home with the trap before MR MASON was discovered, and the harness being much damaged it is supposed the animal took fright, and the deceased, in jumping out, fell backwards and pitched on the back of his head. An Inquest yesterday a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. MR MASON leaves a widow and seven children. he was well known at Totnes and the neighbourhood, having formerly resided in the parish of Harberton, where he will be buried on Monday. The deceased was 48 years of age.

Western Morning News, Monday 24 November 1873
PLYMOUTH - A Child Fatally Burned At Plymouth. - Mr E. Square, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Plymouth Guildhall on Saturday relative to the death of a child named CORNELIUS MAHONY. The mother of the deceased, whose husband had deserted her, went to work on Thursday morning, leaving the deceased and two elder children in her room. About noon a neighbour saw the child running out enveloped in flames, which she speedily put out, and then bathed the little sufferer in oil. The child was afterwards taken to the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, where it died on Friday evening. The Coroner, in summing up, said that no blame could be attached to the mother, as it was necessary for her to leave her children in order to gain a livelihood; but he hoped that, before long, an institution in which such children would be taken care of, while their parents were at work. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 25 November 1873
TORPOINT - At the Inquest held at Torpoint yesterday, relative to the death of PHILIP CROCKER, who was drowned some six weeks ago, and whose body was picked up on Saturday, a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned. Deceased, who was a labourer in the Devonport Dockyard, was 26 years of age. He leaves a wife and two very young children.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 25 November 1873
PLYMOUTH - A Fatal Kick. - Mr Elliot Square, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest last evening relative to the death of CHARLES FREDERICK ALFORD, stableman, in the employ of Mr Jackman, Caprera Mews, Plymouth. Deceased was in a loose box with a mare, and the animal kicked him in the stomach. He was taken in a cab to his home, after Mr Square, surgeon, had given him some medicine. He continued in about the same state all night, and died in the morning. Most probably he died of rupture of the liver. Mr Jackman thought that when the deceased went into the box he might have dropped the bucket on the horse's heels, or that in opening the door the animal's tail was struck, and it reared. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 25 November 1873
BRIXHAM - Suicide At Brixham. - An Inquest was held yesterday at the Bolton Hotel, Brixham, by Mr H. Michelmore, County Coroner, with respect to the death of WM. TAYLOR, aged 52 years, who was found suspended by a rope in the wash-house of his residence, on Saturday last. The evidence shewed that the deceased had been in a desponding state of mind for some time past, and on Saturday morning about five o'clock he rose, intending to prepare a cup of tea for his wife, who was unwell. He returned to the bedroom two or three times, and about half-past seven his wife, finding that he did not come with the tea, sent her niece to get it. When she got downstairs she saw her uncle hanging by a rope and upon raising an alarm a man named Harris came in and cut him down. Mr C. Green, surgeon, was soon in attendance, and found life was extinct. The Jury returned a verdict that "The deceased committed Suicide whilst in an Unsound State of Mind."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 2 December 1873
NEWTON ABBOT - Sudden Death At Newton. - An Inquest was held at Newton yesterday by Mr H. Michelmore, County Coroner, relative to the death of THOS. B. WRIGHT, a man between 50 and 60 years of age. The deceased appears to have been an engraver, and to have had friends residing in Manchester. He came to the Market House Inn, at Newton, on Thursday and remained there up to the time of his death. He had been ill for some days, and during his stay at Newton he drank rather freely. On Sunday he became worse, and Mr Haydon, surgeon, was called in, but WRIGHT died in the evening. Mr Haydon considered that death was caused by Apoplexy.

Western Morning News, Friday 5 December 1873
PLYMOUTH - Mr E. Square, Deputy Coroner for Plymouth, held an Inquest at the Harvest Home, Tavistock-street, relative to the death of ANN GRIBBLE eighty years of age, who died from injuries received on the 19th ult. Deceased, who was very deaf, was crossing a road, and, not hearing the shouts of the driver, was knocked down by a cab horse. One of her legs was broken, her ear nearly severed from her head, and she received a lacerated wound over the left eye.

Western Morning News, Saturday 6 December 1873
PLYMOUTH - Sudden Death At Plymouth. - Mr E. Square, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry at Plymouth relative to the death of ELIZA HOCKADAY, who died suddenly. The Coroner mentioned that there would be no medical evidence that evening in consequence of Dr Pearce having begun a post mortem examination only a quarter of an hour previous to their meeting, and he knew that no medical gentleman could make a satisfactory examination in so short a time. The evidence adduced shewed that the deceased went to her brother's house in Ashley-place, the previous evening, and whilst there he and his son quarrelled. The deceased was of an excitable temper, and complained of pains in the side. She returned to 11 Ashley-terrace, where she was employed as housekeeper, and retired to rest in her usual health. About five o'clock the next morning the daughter of the deceased, who slept in the same room, heard the deceased sighing very heavily, and before any medical assistance could be procured she expired. Deceased was a widow, and about 50 years of age. the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 9 December 1873
PLYMSTOCK - An Inquest was held at Turnchapel yesterday by Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, concerning the death of DANIEL WILLIAMS, aged 7 years, who died from injuries received by burning. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 9 December 1873
YEALMPTON - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Yealmpton Arms yesterday, relative to the death of ROBERT CAWES, colt breaker, aged 70 years. The deceased was seized with a fit whilst on horseback, and was found in a state of exhaustion in Gorlaven-lane. Medical testimony shewed that death resulted from Natural Causes, and the Jury returned a verdict to that effect.

Western Morning News, Monday 15 December 1873
PLYMOUTH - The Collision On The Cornwall Railway. Fatal Termination. The Inquest. - On Saturday evening, Mr Elliot Square, Deputy Coroner, opened an Inquest at the Plymouth Guildhall on the body of RICHARD HOCKING, late driver of the engine Brutus, who died on Friday at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, from the effects of injuries received in the collision between two goods trains on the Cornwall Railway on the 2nd inst. - The Coroner, in opening the proceedings, said the cause of the accident was well known to the Jury. At present he only proposed to examine two witnesses and then adjourn the Enquiry for the presence of persons who were in the collision. These parties would have to be brought from Truro. He did not think they would have any difficulty in coming to a verdict and he must say that the Cornwall Railway officials had evinced every desire to assist him in finding out everything which would cast any light on the cause of the accident. - The first witness called was William Storey, who said: I am foreman of engine drivers to the Cornwall Railway Company. On the morning of the 2nd of December I received information of the accident, and I went by the 6.55 a.m. train (which being late did not start until 7.30 a.m.) to about three miles beyond St Germans. I found there had been a collision, and from the place where the collision had been I went to a farm house, Mr Compton superintendent of the line, went with me, besides several other persons. I found the deceased, RICHARD HOCKING there being attended by a doctor. About nine o'clock, deceased and the other men were carried to the railway, placed in a carriage of a train and brought to Plymouth. I accompanied them all the way, and did not leave deceased until after he had been put to bed in a ward of the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital. When the train arrived at Plymouth deceased walked from the side of the carriage to the cab which took him to the Hospital. He spoke to me complaining of his hands being severely scalded. I had known deceased between nine and ten years. He resided at Truro, and was 31 years of age. - The Foreman (Mr Hutchings): You say that the 6.55 train did not leave until 7.30 that morning. Was there anything attributable to negligence in this? - A Juror: That train has nothing to do with the accident. - The Foreman: But the train was half-hour and five minutes behind time. - Witness: That was owing to the collision. - The Foreman: I merely throw out the suggestion, you was a half-hour and five minutes late. - Mr C. E. Compton, traffic superintendent of the Cornwall Railway, explained that the train would have started punctually, but hearing of the accident it was kept a few minutes to take officials to the scene of the accident. - George Payne: I am house surgeon at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital. On the 2nd of December deceased was brought to the Hospital about ten o'clock in the morning. Four other men were brought with him. I had him placed in the accident ward. I examined him, and found him suffering from general shock and scalds to the hands and face, also cuts on the head. He was quite conscious. I sent for the surgeons of the hospital. Mr Connell Whipple came, and deceased was partly under his care at the time of his death. Deceased went on very well at first, but last Tuesday a change for the worse set in. He had incipient tetanus, commonly called lock-jaw. He had pains in the throat and neck, and gradually became worse, dying on Friday about 11 a.m. He said nothing to me about the accident. - The Coroner suggested that the case be adjourned until Tuesday at one o'clock, so that the officials who had to come from Truro might go back the same night. The Inquest was adjourned accordingly.

Western Morning News, Thursday 18 December 1873
EAST STONEHOUSE - Sudden Deaths At Stonehouse. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held two Inquiries at the Red Lion Hotel, Stonehouse, yesterday. The first was relative to the death of FANNY NEATE, aged 45 years, who had for several years been suffering from asthma. On Tuesday night she retired to rest in her usual health, and early yesterday morning she asked her daughter to give her some water, and died almost immediately afterwards. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." The second Inquiry was concerning the death of ANNE DAVEY, aged 56 years. The deceased had for some time past been suffering from lumbago. Yesterday morning she rose about seven, and left her room with the intention of washing her clothes, and about eight o'clock the husband of deceased found her lying dead in the court, with a cut upon her head. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Dead." The husband, in the course of his evidence, stated that his wife was in the washhouse when he went to bed on Tuesday night, and was not in the room when he awoke in the morning, and he could not tell whether she had been to bed for the night, but other evidence went to shew that she had been. The deceased women resided within a very short distance of each other.

Western Morning News, Monday 22 December 1873
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Accidents and Sudden Deaths. - At the Plymouth Guildhall, on Saturday, Mr E. Square, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest relative to the death of ELIZABETH COLLACOTT, who was found dead that morning. JANE COLLACOTT, deceased's step-daughter, deposed that on the previous evening the deceased was very much intoxicated, and had been in the habit of frequently getting in this condition. - The Coroner: Have you ever seen her drink anything? - Witness: I have not, but have seen her greatly intoxicated, and I have found bottles of spirits secreted under her bedtie. About seven o'clock on Saturday morning her father asked her where the deceased was as she was not in bed, and witness found her sitting in a chair in the kitchen. She was dead, and her hands were quite black. Last saw her mother alive at half-past twelve o'clock, when she was lying on the bed very much intoxicated, and with her clothes on. There was a lemonade bottle in a cupboard in the kitchen, which had contained spirit. No spirit was sold in the house, and she had never fetched any spirits for the deceased. - RICHARD COLLACOTT, landlord of the Old Cattle Market Inn, who wept bitterly whilst giving his evidence, said that the deceased had been of very intemperate habits, and he had begged and entreated her not to drink. If she could not obtain ale in the house, she would go out and get spirits. Deceased was in very good health, but when she drank a great deal of spirits, she could not eat anything. - DINAH SIMMONS, deceased's sister, said that she had often entreated the deceased to leave off drinking, but she took no notice of her. She believed that MR COLLACOTT had been a kind husband. - The Coroner, in summing up, said he thought there could be no doubt that the deceased had died from Natural Causes, and that death was accelerated by drink. - The Jury, after a short deliberation, returned the following verdict:- "That the deceased was Found Dead, but that death was accelerated by Excessive Drinking."

Western Morning News, Monday 22 December 1873
TORQUAY - An Inquest was held at Torquay on Saturday night concerning the death of JOHN HILL, aged 63. It appeared that on Tuesday afternoon he attended a funeral with his employer, and on returning he proceeded to take off the traces, and put the horses in the stable. While so doing the animals moved off, knocking the old man down, and the hind wheel of the vehicle went over him. He did not appear much injured, but said he was stiff and sore. He died on Thursday night from compression of the brain, caused by the shock to his nervous system. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 22 December 1873
SHALDON - Shortly before ten o'clock on Thursday night a sad accident occurred in the playground attached to Mr Pridham's School, at Shaldon. There had been some penny readings at the schoolroom; and one of those who attended was a youth named WILLIAM NATHAN BRYANT, aged 18, who had only that day come home from Devonport to spend the Christmas holidays. On leaving the room he went with some other boys to a swing, commonly known as a "giant's stride." While running round, the other boys stopped, but the deceased continuing his career was dashed against the post, falling down and was picked up by his companions dead. An Inquest was held on Tuesday evening at the Clifford Arms, by Mr Michelmore, Coroner, and a Jury of which Col. Brine was the Foreman. DRUSILLA HOSKING stated that the deceased, who was her cousin, was a boy in the training ship Impregnable. - Samuel Tucker, apprentice to Mr Walling, painter, said he saw the deceased after the readings come to the swing and take a rope from a little boy named Harry Denley. They all ran round and then stopped, except BRYANT and Underhill. BRYANT continued running, running, and was swung round against the post, striking his head. He dropped down, but did not speak. they went to him when he groaned, and they took him up and carried him home. There was no larking or quarrelling, and no one gave any signal for them to stop. - William Henry Hugo, surgeon, was sent for shortly after ten o'clock, and found BRYANT dead. there were no external injuries or bruises upon any part of the body, and he believed that the deceased had met with some internal injury, either the rupture of a blood vessel or a fracture of the base of the skull; the latter he thought was the cause of death. The neck was not broken. - A verdict in accordance with the evidence was returned; and the Jury gave their fees to the lad's mother, who is a widow.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 24 December 1873
PLYMOUTH - Last evening an Inquiry was held at the Guildhall by Mr E. Square, Deputy Coroner for Plymouth, concerning the death of ANN LAMPEN, who died suddenly on Sunday. Deceased had suffered from asthma and heart complaint for twenty-seven or twenty-eight years. On Sunday she was in her house in Vauxhall-street preparing dinner, when she complained of headache. She laid down on the bed for some time, and her husband heard her snoring heavily. Shortly afterwards she died. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 24 December 1873
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest relative to the death of a child named MARY JANE WILLIAMS, aged 1 year and 7 months, who died from injuries received through falling from a chair, resulted in a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 24 December 1873
PLYMOUTH - Another Inquiry was with reference to ELIZABETH DENLEY, who died suddenly on Saturday. The deceased had been of intemperate habits during the past twelve months, but previous to this was a teetotaller for eighteen years. On Saturday evening last, notwithstanding that she had been very ill, she left her house in New-street to go to the market where she had a fish stall, and about ten o'clock was returning home when she died. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 24 December 1873
PLYMOUTH - Mr Square also held an Inquiry at the Workhouse concerning the death of CHARLES GREET, a pauper lunatic, who died on Saturday last from injuries sustained. Henry Mitchell Drew, master of the house, stated that the deceased, who had been master of a vessel, was admitted in August last. He was very harmless and never quarrelled with any of the inmates. On the 3rd instant he was informed that the deceased had fallen over some stairs, and he at once ordered him to be put to bed. William Paull Jeffery, workhouse schoolmaster, said that on the night in question he found the deceased lying on his back at the bottom of the stairs leading to the room in which the inmates slept. Witness asked deceased whether he had any pain, to which he replied in the negative. Mr F. A. Thomas, house surgeon, said he attended the deceased, and on examining him, found him to have a broken thigh besides internal injuries, and these resulted in death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 24 December 1873
EAST STONEHOUSE - Mr R. Sleeman, Deputy County Coroner, held an Inquest at Stonehouse yesterday, relative to the death of J. PARKHOUSE, a Marine pensioner, who died suddenly on Sunday night. The deceased had been unwell for the past two months, and on Sunday night he was taken worse, and before any medical assistance could be procured he expired. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 24 December 1873
TAVISTOCK - An Inquest was held at the Tavistock Union Workhouse by Mr R. Sleeman, Deputy County Coroner, respecting the death of MARY ANN BARKER, a widow, about 30 years of age, who fell over the stairs early on Sunday morning, while under the influence of a violent fit, and sustained fatal injuries. A verdict in accordance with the evidence was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 30 December 1873
PLYMOUTH - ELIZABETH EALES, aged 65 years, and residing in Clifton-street, Plymouth, was found dead in her room yesterday afternoon, with a cup and cloth by her side and a poker near her. Her daughter had left her in the morning when her mother seemed very well, although she was a delicate woman and had suffered from palpitation of the heart. There were no marks of violence on the body. Mr Elliot Square, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest last evening, when a verdict of "Found Dead" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 30 December 1873
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Accident To A Railway Guard. - Mr Elliot Square, Deputy Coroner, yesterday held an Enquiry into the death of JOHN GUEST, a railway guard, who died on Friday in consequence of injuries received by his falling from a train on the 12th instant. Deceased was second guard of a train which left Exeter on the night of the 11th instant, and on reaching Kingsbridge-road station was seen to be in his van all right. coming down the Hemerdon incline the head guard, Roger Partridge, noticed that GUEST had not put on the break, and on pulling up at Cornwood "junction" deceased was found to be missing and the door of his van had been knocked off. Meanwhile the unfortunate under guard had got into serious trouble. Standing on the step of his van he was suddenly knocked off by something - he knew not what - falling on his arm. He managed to get to Denniton Farm, some distance from the railway, but had to get over some railings before he could reach there. He arrived in a deplorable condition, but his arm, which was not bleeding very much, was bandaged by Dr Holmes, and Mr Hanton, who occupies the farm, telegraphed to Plymouth to which place deceased was ultimately removed. He was taken to the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, where he was attended by Mr Square, surgeon, who found it necessary to amputate his left arm. Deceased bore the operation well and was getting on very favourably up to last Sunday week, when he was afflicted with sickness. He never rallied, but expired on Friday last. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."