Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

1846-1910

Articles taken from Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser

and

Torquay Directory and South Devon Journal

Inquests

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.

Provided by Lindsey Withers

[No's in brackets indicate the number of times that name occurs]

Names Included: Abbot; Abbott; Abel; Abrahams; Abrams; Ackrell; Adams(5); Aggett(3); Agnew; Allan; Allen; Allin; Amery; Andrew; Andrews(2); Angel; Antony; Arbin; Arlidge; Armstrong; Arscott; Ash(3); Ashford; Ashton; Aspland; Aston; Austin; Avery(2); Ayshford; Babbage; Badcock(2); Badge; Baiss; Baker(10); Ball; Balsom; Barnes; Barr; Barrett; Barter; Bartlet; Bartlett; Baskwell; Bassett; Baxter; Beck; Beer; Bell(2); Bellamy; Bennett(3); Bent; Bentley; Berrett; Best(2); Bicknell; Bidder; Bidwell; Biggar; Bindon; Bingham; Binmore(2); Bird(3); Bishop(2); Blackburn; Blackler(2); Blake; Blight; Blyde; Bodley; Bond(4); Borlase; Botterill; Boucher; Bousfield(2); Bovey(2); Bow; Bowden(3); Bowdon; Bradford; Bradd; Bray; Breton; Brewer(3); Bridgett; Bridgman; Brooking; Brooks; Broom; Brown(8); Browne(2); Browning; Bruce; Bryant; Buchan; Buckingham; Buckpitt; Budd; Buffett; Bullen; Bulley; Bulteel; Bunch; Bunclark(2); Burbage; Burgess; Burne; Burnett; Burrows; Burt(2); Button; Callard; Callicott(2); 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Torquay Directory and South Devon Journal - Friday 10 April 1846
TORQUAY - Fatal Occurrence. - An Inquest was held April 2nd, at the Half Moon Inn, Torquay, on the body of WILLIAM TUCKER, a young man, who met with his death in the following manner:- Mr Andrew Bearne: lives opposite the street where the rock was blasted; on Wednesday last, about 6 o'clock, I heard an explosion; I went over and found the rock cracked very much. John Westaway then began to put more gunpowder into the original hole; he put a cup and half of powder; I suppose the cup to hold about ¼ lb.; he Westaway then said to his master, Mr Coysh, I must tamp it in again and get more powder, as I have not sufficient; Charles Bedford was the person who was assisting John Westaway, handing him a kettle with rubbish, such as they use to tamper holes; about 7 o'clock I heard another explosion; I then ran into the street from my house; I saw a great crowd collected just below my house; I went to see what was the matter; I there saw a young man; several men were raising him on his legs; I then observed blood issuing from some part of the head; I saw a stone there about nine or ten pounds close to the deceased; the deceased did not appear to be the least conscious, and did not speak; Westaway was standing in the crowd; I asked him how much powder he put into the hole after I left the first time; in answer he said about a pound and a half. I then went over to the building; I saw a quantity of rock blown out, and the walls and joist knocked down; many stones fell on my house and over it; I have seen stones with blasting thrown out in the road, but never saw so much stone thrown out at one time before. - John Chillcott, policeman: I live near the spot where the rock is; I was in the street; I heard a boy give notice of fire; I heard a man's voice also from the quarry; very soon after, about a second or two, a great blast took place; I saw a lot of stone flying over the building nearer to Mr Rossiter's house than upwards. When I saw the rock coming over the building I ran towards Temperance Street; I soon returned, and saw the deceased lifted up by a man; I saw a stone lying beside of him about ten or twelve pounds; I saw the man had been injured; I saw the blood about the back part of his head; in the road was a very large stone; the road was strewed; I saw a person take up the stone, who carried it away; I don't know the person. I said to John Westaway that it was a serious job; he then said it would not have happened if it had not been the rock was shelving; he stood behind in a recess after he had blasted the rock. Westaway told me that he fired the holes, and that Bedford had nothing to do with firing the hole. - Sarah Collings, (the wife of Richard Collings, and aunt to the deceased); deceased lodged at my house, was a labourer; was brought home to my house on Wednesday last about half-past 7 much injured about the head; he only spoke once, saying take care of my watch; I helped to undress him; he died about half-past 10 o'clock the same evening. The deceased is about 19 years of age. - Mr Edward Rossiter, who lives near, heard a violent blast about 7 o'clock, on Wednesday evening last; I was standing at my bar; I thought the house was coming down; a stone came through the roof of my house ,and also broke in two windows; I observed the deceased walking on the pavement by Mr Matthews's door; I saw a large stone come from the blast of the rock and fall on the deceased's head or shoulders, who immediately fell with the blow; I sung out that the man was killed; I then ran to the quarry directly and saw Westaway; I said, you rascal you have done it now - you have killed a man; he said ----------- what do you know about it. I have cautioned Westaway many times about his overcharging the holes. - Charles Bedford who works in the quarry belonging to Mr Coysh with John Westaway; on this occasion he fetched the materials for Westaway, who charged the hole with powder and lighted it. I then called out "fire" from the rock on which we stood. - John Jolley, Surgeon: I first saw the deceased soon after 7 o'clock on Wednesday evening last; I found him at his lodgings sitting in a chair supported by two men; I ordered him immediately to be put to bed; I then examined his head, but could not detect any fracture from the great extravasation of blood. I endeavoured to administer some brandy and water but he could not swallow it. I saw him again about half an hour after, and then found deceased suffering under compression of the brain. Having ordered the head to be shaved, I applied cold lotions; bled him largely; took 25 oz., or as near as I can judge; ordered hot brick to his feet; gave him an injection when he breathed his last. - The cause of death, compression of the brain caused by the falling of a stone. Verdict, "Manslaughter" against Westaway, who was committed by the Coroner, Mr Gribble, to take his trial at the next Assizes.

Torquay Directory and South Devon Journal - Friday 3 July 1846
KINGSTEIGNTON - On Friday se'nnight an Inquest was held on the body of WILLIAM LANG, whose death resulted from gangrene caused by a stroke of the sun.

Torquay Directory and South Devon Journal - Friday 17 July 1846
TORQUAY - An Inquest was held at the King William the Fourth Inn, in this town, on Saturday sen'nnight, before J. Gribble, Esq., County Coroner, on view of the body of EDWIN HAMLYN LAWRENCE, aged 22 years. From the evidence adduced at the Inquest, it appears the deceased has been in a desponding state of mind for some time past, and on Thursday morning left his home and proceeded under the Beacon Hill, and after fastening an handkerchief around his waist, to which there was a large stone attached, threw himself into the sea. A report spread on the evening of that day that probably deceased had destroyed himself as he could not be found, and search was made and the body of the unfortunate man was picked up on Friday morning, a lifeless corpse. Verdict - destroyed himself while in a fit of Temporary Insanity.

Torquay times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 7 August 1869
DEVONPORT - Murder Of A Non-Commissioned Officer At Devonport. - Corporal ARTHUR SKULLIN, of the 57th Regiment, now stationed in Raglan Barracks, Devonport, was on Saturday morning shot dead by William Taylor, a private soldier in the same corps. On Saturday morning the accused, a very fine man, about twenty-two years of age, was brought up at the Devonport Guildhall, before the Mayor (Dr Rolston), Colonel Brown, Messrs. C. Row, J. L. Cutcliffe, J. May, A. Norman, and R. J. Laity, magistrates, charged with the wilful murder of SKULLIN. Sufficient evidence was given to justify a remand until Monday. - On Saturday afternoon Mr A. Bone, the borough Coroner, met a Jury at the Military Hospital Inn, Stoke, where the latter were sworn, after which they proceeded to the dead-house, at the Military Hospital, to view the body of the deceased, which presented a fearful spectacle, a great part of the head being shot away. The Coroner and Jury then adjourned to the Devonport Guildhall where evidence was taken. Mr John Beer appeared to watch the case on behalf of the War Department; prisoner was present in the charge of Inspector Bryant. It appeared that from the evidence that about half-past six on Saturday morning Taylor and two other soldiers "fell in" on the Barrack-square for defaulters' drill. The whole of these men were ordered by the deceased corporal to "fall out," and shew their knapsacks, it being a regulation in the army for all men who are undergoing defaulter's drill to appear on parade with the whole of their kits in their knapsacks. There was some portion of clothes in two of the men's knapsacks, but Taylor's was entirely empty. This was reported by SKULLIN to Sergeant Bailey, and he informed the sergeant-major of the circumstances. Presently Bailey said that Taylor had better be sent to the guard-room for disobeying orders, but SKULLIN said he would report his conduct to the adjutant of the regiment. Taylor said "he was for guard that day, and he had borrowed a knapsack to appear on parade with." SKULLIN desired him to proceed to his barrack-room, and put on his own knapsack, and added that he had better take his rifle - a Snider breech-loader with him. Taylor took up his rifle and went away to his room, but previous to his doing so his rifle and ammunition - 20 rounds of ball cartridge - had been examined by Sergeant Bailey; this being another regulation with regard to defaulters. Taylor was absent from the square for a few minutes, and when he returned he and the two other defaulters were drilled by SKULLIN. This continued until 7.30 when they were dismissed, and the deceased walked away towards his room. Taylor followed about seven paces behind him, and when they had proceeded about twenty yards the accused halted. He brought his rifle, which had been at the trail, up to the "present" at the shoulder, and before anyone could prevent him he fired at SKULLIN, who instantly fell to the ground. Lance-Corporal Burns and Drummer Walsh, both of the 57th Regiment, who were in the square and had seen Taylor fire, instantly ran and seized him, and after taking away his rifle and bayonet, marked him to the guard-room, where he was given into the custody of Sergeant Green. He was put in a cell, and Green said to him, "What made you do this?" Prisoner said, "It will end my life, and that is what I want; you don't know everything; I have a wife and child, and have behaved very badly to them." In the meantime Mr Poppelwell, the surgeon of the regiment, had been sent for, and on arrival he examined the deceased. He was dead, and there were two large wounds in his head; one behind the left ear, and the other under the left eye. The wounds were such as would be caused by a rifle bullet which was fired at a short distance. The whole of the bones on the left side of the head and face were smashed, and the brain was protruding. Death, said Mr Poppelwell, must have been instantaneous. - P.C. Shubert took accused into custody. He charged him with the murder of SKULLIN, and he replied, "Yes." He was then taken to the station-house, and on the way there, he said to Shubert - "It is curious what things come into a man's mind. He was the drill corporal, and he was annoying me the whole morning. I had seven days to barracks. I had not my kit in my knapsack, and he took my name down to report me. It must have been the devil that tempted me." When prisoner was taken into custody his ammunition was examined, and it was found that one cartridge was missing. - Sergeant Green said, in answer to a question from a Juror, that he had known Taylor for two years, and that he bore a good character in the regiment; at this time he had a good conduct badge. The Coroner remarked to the Jury that the case appeared to him to be as plain as it was melancholy. A verdict of "Wilful Murder" was instantly returned against Taylor. - On Monday morning, Taylor was taken before the Plymouth magistrates, charged with the Wilful Murder of SKULLIN, and after a long Inquiry, was committed to take his trial at the assizes, and unless there is a gaol delivery he will not be tried till March next. The funeral of SKULLIN took place on Monday afternoon from the Military Hospital, Stoke. The body was placed on a gun carriage, drawn by two black horses, and conveyed to the Cemetery, where it was interred with full military honours. The whole of the officers and men of the regiment not on duty - to the number of about 400 - attended. The band of the regiment was also present, and played the Dead March.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 21 August 1869
BABBICOMBE - Melancholy Cases of Drowning. - On Saturday afternoon last, a young gentleman, about 21 years of age, named WILLIAM WALTER HOLT, was drowned at Babbicombe whilst bathing. The deceased suffered from something in one of his legs, which caused a weakness, and, whilst bathing in shallow water, fell backwards, and the outward current took him into deep water. Assistance was immediately at hand, but the body was not recovered till some time afterwards, when life was extinct. Mr Steel and Mr Pollard, surgeons, were speedily in attendance, but their efforts were of no avail. An Inquest was held on Monday, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" returned.

TOTNES - Another accident of a similar nature occurred at Totnes on Saturday evening. Some boys had been pilfering apples, and being detected, one of them named JOHN ANDREWS, ten years of age, ran away; and, instead of crossing at a shallow part of the river Dart, ran into deep water and was drowned. A young man jumped into the water immediately afterwards and recovered the body. Three surgeons were quickly on the spot, but their united efforts to restore life for three hours were useless.

Torquay times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 4 September 1869
TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of A Young Man. - A young man named HENRY TOTHILL, about 21 years of age, a footman, in the service of Miss Masters, at Highfield, was found dead in his bed on Saturday morning. He had only been in his situation a few days, and was a very well conducted young man, very regular in his habits, and had never had a day's sickness in his life. He complained of pains in the head on Thursday and Friday last and was rather low spirited, but in the afternoon of Friday took a trip on the water, and returned home about 6 o'clock. He appeared to be very sleepy in the evening, and had to be aroused to do his work. He went to his bed at 10 o'clock and as he did not appear at the usual time the next morning, a servant went to his room and found him quite dead. An Inquest was held at the house by Dr Gay, Deputy Coroner, on Monday, and a post mortem examination of the body was made by Dr Huxley, who said the heart, lungs, viscera, kidneys and the other organs were in a very healthy state; but on examining the brain he found it far advanced in decomposition and quite liquid: there was no trace of apoplexy or serious effusion. At the base of the skull there were evidences of tubercules, and in the absence of disease in any other part of the system, he attributed death to disease of the brain, accelerated by the warm weather. He had been informed by Dr Ramsay, with whom the deceased lived temporarily, that he frequently complained of pains in the head, and had no doubt that he was suffering from some obscure disease of the brain. A verdict of Death from Natural Causes was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 11 September 1869
BERRY POMEROY - Curious Case Of Drowning. - The body of a man named STREET BREWER, a labourer of Stoke Gabriel, was found in a brook at Berry Pomeroy, on Tuesday last. At the Inquest which was held on Wednesday, before Mr Henry Michelmore, a man named Drew said that he discovered the body of the deceased in the brook, when there was no more than a foot of water, with his face downwards. Mr A. J. Wallis, surgeon, was of opinion that the deceased was attacked with apoplexy and was afterwards drowned. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 2 October 1869
BABBICOMBE - Case Of Drowning At Babbicombe. - On Tuesday night last, about eleven o'clock, JOHN GOLDSWORTHY, 44 years of age, captain of the yacht, Kestrel, belonging to Dr Smith, of Babbicombe, was drowned in Babbicombe Bay. Deceased and the mate were proceeding in a punt to the yacht, and on their way, stopped to take off some fish from a net, and while doing so the punt capsized, and both were precipitated into the water, the boat being turned bottom upwards. The mate, William Edwards, immediately after the accident, heard the deceased cry out, "Bill, save me," but could not get near enough to do so, and only escaped himself by swimming ashore, where he arrived in an exhausted state. The two men fell one on each side of the boat, and the mate endeavoured to get into the boat, but it upset twice. The body was found the next morning, with the boat close to it on Oddicombe Beach, by Jonathan Thomas, a fisherman, and taken to the Cary Arms. An Inquest was held on Thursday afternoon, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 16 October 1869
PLYMOUTH - Concealment Of Birth At Plymouth. - ELIZABETH DOWN was charged on Tuesday at the Plymouth Guildhall, by Superintendent Wreford, with concealing the birth of her male child on the 2nd October. Prisoner had been nurse in the Exminster Asylum. She had been living in Torquay lately, and on October 2nd she came down to Plymouth and left her parcels in the Brunel Arms. While she was absent one of the servants, who was dusting the room, thought she felt a baby's head in one of the parcels, a brown paper one. She partly opened it, and finding it was a child gave information to the police. When the police arrived prisoner had come back, and she was arrested. Prisoner's friends lived at Gunnislake, where she was going, but feeling ill she stopped at the Brunel Arms. The Inquest was held on the day the body was found. By a post mortem examination it was found that the child had never breathed. Prisoner was committed for trial.

DARTMOUTH - Mysterious Death At Dartmouth. - The body of a woman named MARY ANN JONES was found in the Dartmouth harbour on Thursday morning. The deceased, who was forty years, and an immoral character, was seen talking to a grey headed man having a dog with him, on Wednesday evening. The captains of the vessels were examined, and stated that although they were in conversation with women at the end of the pier, they did not speak to the deceased. At the Coroner's Inquest the medical evidence was conflicting. Dr Newman stating that he considered death resulted from blows on the head, whilst Dr Puddicombe thought that death was caused from drowning. The police are thought to have a further clue to the mystery.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 23 October 1869
DARTMOUTH - The Mysterious Death At Dartmouth. - At the conclusion of the Coroner's Inquest, which was held upon the body of MARY ANN JONES, which was found in the Dartmouth harbour last week, the Jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned, but whether drowning was accidental or wilful there was no evidence to show.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 13 November 1869
ELLACOMBE - The Finding Of The body Of SAMUEL STONE. - The body of SAMUEL STONE, a mason, who had been missing from his home at Ellacombe for some days was found in the river Teign at Newton, on Monday by two lightermen. An Inquest was opened on the body the same day but adjourned to this day (Friday) for the production of other evidence.

BABBICOMBE - Suicide - GEORGE CROOTE, a labourer, in the employ of the Torquay Local Board, committed suicide on Monday. Mr Callard, a butcher, had occasion to pass Bishop's Brake, near Bishopstowe, on the Babbicombe-road, and discovered the body of the deceased hanging from a small tree. With the assistance of a man called Godfrey the body was cut down, but life was extinct, and it was supposed he had been hanging there for two or three hours. Mr Chilcott, surgeon, was called to see the deceased. The body was subsequently removed to the Roughwood Inn, Babbicombe, where an Inquest was held on it on Wednesday morning, before Mr H. Michelmore, and a verdict of "Temporary Insanity" returned. At the wish of the Jury, the Coroner severely reprimanded the wife of the unfortunate man, who, it is said, was much addicted to drink, and had driven him to commit the rash act.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 20 November 1869
Inquest. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," at the Coroner's Inquest on the body of SAMUEL STONE, on Friday last.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 4 December 1869
KINGSKERSWELL - Mysterious Death At Chapel Hill. - The lifeless body of ABRAHAM DYER, landlord of the Seven Stars Inn, Kingskerswell, was found in the ruins of the old chapel on Chapel Hill, under somewhat mysterious circumstances, on Monday afternoon. The deceased left his home to go to Torquay for the purpose of transacting some business, but instead of doing so seems, after his arrival at the Torre Station, to have met a friend or two, and subsequently to have proceeded to Chapel Hill, for what purpose is not known. The finding of the body was purely accidental. A Mr Runcorn and a friend were walking on the hill, and to settle a dispute regarding the former use of the old building they entered the interior, and much to their surprise there saw the body of the deceased. Examination was at once made, but life was quite extinct, and the deceased seemed to have died in a very placid manner. Information was at once given to the police, and the deceased removed to the Clarence Hotel, Torre. Mr H. Michelmore held an Inquest on the body on Tuesday, when, after hearing the evidence as to the finding of the body, it was adjourned till the following day for the purpose of making a post mortem examination of the body, as there were no signs whatever of any violence having been used. The Inquiry was resumed on Wednesday, when evidence as to the post mortem examination was given by Drs. Finch and Evans, of St. Mary Church, who stated their belief that death resulted from apoplexy, and a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

TORQUAY - Sad Death Of A Coachman. - Mr H. Michelmore also held an Inquest at the Infirmary on Wednesday evening, on the body of GEORGE WILLIS, about 25 years of age, coachman to Dr Hall, who came by his death in a very sad manner. The deceased about noon on Monday, was engaged in singeing one of his master's horses, and whilst in a crouching position under the belly of the animal, from some cause it kicked the deceased in the abdomen. He did not call the assistance of anybody, but went into his room by the fire, where he was found some time afterwards by his master in a very pitiful state. He was at once put to bed, and everything that was requisite done for him by Dr Hall. It was found that the deceased was getting worse in the night, when Dr Pollard was called in, and after a short consultation it was decided to send him to the Infirmary, to which place he was speedily and carefully removed. He there received every attendance, but only lingered on in great agony up to Tuesday night, when he expired. He was a native of North Devon, and had lived with Dr Hall about two years, and was a very quiet, steady, and well conducted young man. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 11 December 1869
EXETER - Death Of A Torquay Cabman In The County Gaol. - An Inquest was held at noon, on Friday last, in the infirmary of the Devon County Prison, before Mr Coroner Crosse, to Inquire into the death of JOHN TAPSON. Mr Rose, the governor, said the deceased was received into the Prison on December 15th last year. He had been a gentleman's servant, but since that a cab driver of Torquay, from which place he was committed on the charge of maliciously wounding a man with whom he had a quarrel, and at the January Sessions of this year he was sentenced to twelve months' hard labour. His age was 28, and when he came into the Prison he appeared in good health, and underwent the usual labour. He was a very well-behaved man, and did not complain of his illness until it was noticed by the warders. On the 18th of October he came under the doctor's care, and continued so up to the time of his death. On the 25th of November he was removed to the Infirmary, and was placed under the care of a nurse, whose sole duty was to attend to his wants. The doctor's certificate was sent to the Home Office and on the 24th of November he (the governor) received a pardon for him from the Secretary of State, but he was too ill to be removed and continued to get worse up to the time of his death, which occurred on Thursday morning last. During his illness his relations were communicated with, and his sisters came and saw him before his death. Verdict - "Died from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser -Saturday 1 January 1870
PLYMOUTH - Death Of A Woman From A Blow By Her Husband At Plymouth. - On Monday evening a man named HENRY WILLIAMS, a seaman, had a quarrel with his wife, SUSAN DOVE WILLIAMS, in the Napoleon Inn, High-street, Plymouth. The man, it appears, entered the house some little time prior to the arrival of his wife, who came in accompanied by another woman. He received great provocation from her, and submitted to it several minutes, but the annoyance on the part of his wife was carried to such an extent that he became exasperated, followed her from the room in which they had been drinking, and struck her a blow in the face. The poor woman staggered and fell, and it is believed that her head came in contact with the gas meter. At any rate, she died in a few moments afterwards. Her husband was at once taken into custody by P.C. Lock, who was called in by the landlord of the house immediately after the unfortunate occurrence, and on Tuesday morning he was brought before the Mayor (William Luscombe, Esq.) and James B. Wilcocks, Esq., charged with striking his wife and thereby causing her death. Several witnesses were examined, and the prisoner was remanded, the Mayor informing him that if in the meantime he desired to obtain the presence of persons who could place the matter in a proper light before the Bench, he could do so through the police, and every assistance would be rendered him. - An Inquest was held in the afternoon, at the Guildhall, by Mr Coroner Brian. The same witnesses who gave evidence before the magistrates in the morning were again examined, and those who had known the deceased were cross-examined by Mr Elliot Square, who watched the proceedings on behalf of the prisoner, as to what her mode of life had been. They stated that she had been lately leading a very immoral life, and that on the evening of the unfortunate occurrence WILLIAMS did all he could to avoid her, and seemed desirous of preventing a quarrel. The evidence of the surgeon, Mr J. N. Stevens, was to the effect that in his opinion, death resulted from the effects of a fall, and not from the blow, and after a short deliberation, a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

PLYMOUTH - The Death Of A Child From Starvation At Plymouth. Verdict Of Manslaughter Against The Mother. - The adjourned Inquiry into the death of a female child, named GUNHOUSE, four months and a half old, was held on Tuesday evening at the Plymouth Guildhall. Mr Graham, surgeon, who had at times attended the child, said the mother brought the child to his house about a fortnight ago for examination. It was then in a very emaciated state, and the mother was smelling of alcohol. The child had the appearance of being very much neglected. He prescribed for her, and told the mother to come again within two days, but she did not do so, and he did not see the child until Mrs Wilkinson (who causally attended the child just previous to her death, and who had been previously praised for her kindness) brought the infant to him about a week after in a dying state. He had made a post mortem examination of the child. Its body was greatly emaciated. The features were contracted, looking more like an old person than that of a child. The body weighed 6lbs. 14.oz. From 8lb to 11bs. is the proper weight of a newly-born child. There was no subcutaneous fat whatever about it. There was also appearance of uncleanliness externally. The body indicated disease, and shewed that the child had been properly cared for two or three days previous to death. In his opinion the child died from pleura-pneumonia, a disease generally brought on from want of proper nourishment and care. The disease was not of more than two or three weeks' standing. - ANNE CUNNINGHAM, the mother of the child's mother, was then sworn, and said her daughter's husband, who is a captain of a coasting vessel, had been away nearly five weeks. She had seen her daughter every day during that time; she had generally been tipsy, and had spent much of her time in public houses near her house. She had seen the mother give the child the breast every night. She would swear the mother was every night in bed at 11 o'clock - when the beer-shops closed - when she was often very tipsy, and was not in a condition to take care of the child. Witness had repeatedly stopped there all night. She had noticed that the child was wasting away during the absence of its father, and drew the mother's attention to it. The mother, she believed, took it to Doctors Pearse, Dale and Graham. She had repeatedly seen her give the child the breast, and had often accused her of neglecting it. Last Monday week she found the child gone. She would swear the child was not left 18 hours alone. The child was always delicate, and did not improve at all. It had got much worse the last five weeks. The mother left her house every morning, and did not return until the last thing at night, and then was tipsy. The Coroner reviewed the case and pointed to the state of the body, as one of the strongest facts of the case. - The mother, who was present, was asked if she would like to say anything to the Jury? - She replied - "I should like to say something, but there are so many against me." - The Coroner told her that if she gave evidence she would have to submit to cross-examination, and advised her to say nothing. - She began to cry and said - "I acknowledge my fault - a very great fault - in neglecting my child." - She was again asked if she would give evidence and consented, but at the advice of the Coroner, refrained saying - "Perhaps I am not worthy to make a statement." She attributed her mother's evidence to "passion more than anything else," and frequently muttered she did not think the child was dangerously ill. The Court was then cleared for the Jury to consider their verdict, during which time the mother fainted. After a short consultation, the Jury returned a verdict that MRS GUNHOUSE did "feloniously kill and slay" her child. The mother, who conducted herself with much decorum, was afterwards taken charge of by the police and committed for trial under the Coroner's warrant.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 22 January 1870
BURRINGTON - Terrible Accident In North Devon. - A heavy gloom has been cast over the little village of Burrington, North Devon, and a strong sympathy for the sufferers has been excited throughout the whole of the county, by a calamity, the like of which within anything like local range, it is not often our painful duty to record. A house, belonging to a Mr Wm Buckingham, of Exeter, and held under lease from Earl Portsmouth, was rented by a young man named EDWARD BIRD, who with a family of three children, and an old man named GOULD had resided there for seven years. During this period the cottage has been thatched two or three times; but the rain permeated the straw and settled upon the wooden supports of the house, so as to cause them to rot. BIRD had constantly noticed that the rain came into the house, and saw the damage that was being done, and had spoken to the landlord respecting putting the house in repair. In November last MRS BIRD intimated to Mr Buckingham the state of the house, and showed him the necessity of at once having the house made safe and inhabitable. Mr Buckingham immediately ordered the necessary work to be done. This order, from some cause which at present remains unexplained, was not attended to, and the rough weather of December and January made the chimney base bricks loose, and caused the gradually rotting beams to break up by pieces. From November, when the order for repair was given, up to last Friday, nothing further was heard of the work. On that day, however, the landlord's mason visited the premises for the purpose of reporting the state of the same to Mr Buckingham. On Friday night MRS BIRD, with her children and the old man GOULD, retired to their respective bed rooms: MR BIRD being in employ at Barnstaple, only visited his house about two or three times a month, and was not on this occasion at home. During the night MRS BIRD was aroused by the cry of her youngest child, a boy, and whilst searching for a candle, she heard the fearful crash which caused the death of two of her children, and the old man; her preservation was almost miraculous. The chimney, weakened probably by the recent winds and rain, fell upon the roof, which gave way in a mass, crushing to death under it BIRD'S eldest and youngest daughters, and the old man GOULD. Although surrounded by bricks, beams and straw, a beam seems to have fallen and rested just above the bed of MRS BIRD, completely sheltering her from the stones and timber work which lay so thick about her. Moreover the place where her bed was resting was the only part of the bedroom boarding which did not fall through to the kitchen floor. The chimney was a huge pile of stone and brick which stood upon the cob wall, and weighed several tons; this mass of stone work falling in a body upon the roof of an already shaky building, could have produced no other effect than that of demolishing the house. The tenants of the adjoining homesteads, called from their beds by the fall, speedily rendered assistance. Those enabled to speak were first removed, and then the groans of the old man buried in the debris, called the neighbours to a corner of the ruin. Before the stones and straw could be removed the old man had breathed his last. The two girls were next searched for, and when found were quite dead. The elder seemed to have received no blows, but was apparently suffocated; the head of the younger was jammed between two pieces of timber. The whole tale is a sad one. BIRD, poor fellow, has lost house, furniture, and two children, and has scarcely a penny in the world. Great sympathy is evinced by all the villagers for the saddened and bereaved parents; their loss is great. The Pastor of the parish, and the ministers of the dissenting Churches, made strong appeals on Sunday for aid for the sufferers, and the congregations expressed their pity and sympathy by good collections. A Committee has been formed for the purpose of receiving and appropriating subscriptions for the aid of BIRD, and Mr Dillon, of Pavington, Burrington, will be glad to receive the same. An Inquest on the bodies was held on Monday, before Mr H. Toller, Deputy Coroner; during which the landlord of the house, who is a solicitor at Exeter, met with a rather exacting questioner in the person of the Foreman of the Jury. The following is a portion of the examination. - The Foreman: Do you mean that you thought from your books that the work was done? - Witness: From my book? What do you mean? - The Foreman: You pay your servants every week I believe, and you could tell if the work was done by your books. - Witness: I pay my labourers weekly, but not he thatcher, mason, and tradesmen. - The Foreman: Do you mean to say then, Mr Buckingham, that you believe the place had been repaired? - Witness: It is my impression that it had been done. - The Foreman: But do you really mean to say so? - Mr Buckingham: I have already told you so on my oath. I don't know what you mean to question my word in this way. I think you are a very unfit man to be in the place you are. The way in which you have put questions is most improper. You are taking a very one sided view of the matter. - The Foreman: It's a very bad case of it, Mr Buckingham. The Jury, after some little consultation, returned the following verdict:- We believe the death of these persons to be Accidental, through the fall of a house, which, however, at the time, was out of repair. The Jury gave up their fees for the benefit of the BIRD family.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 26 February 1870
TORRINGTON - A very singular suicide occurred at Torrington, North Devon, on Tuesday. A woman, sixty years of age, took a razor and deliberately cut her arm so badly that from loss of blood she died. On Wednesday an Inquest was held on the body of the woman, whose name was WAKELEY, before Mr J. Toller, when a verdict of "Temporary Insanity" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 19 March 1870
BRIXHAM - Melancholy Death Of A Brixham Innkeeper. - On Monday a Coroner's Inquest was held at Banfield's Old George Inn, Brixham, before H. Michelmore, Esq., the Coroner, on the body of MR WILLIAM MICHELMORE, the landlord of the Rising Sun. Deceased died on Friday last from injuries alleged to have been received in quelling a disturbance in his house in December last. A sailor, named Isaac Crocker, assaulted MR MICHELMORE and broke his thumb, and it appears that the deceased has been ailing ever since, and ultimately succumbed. Crocker was summoned before the local magistrates, in January last, and convicted of an assault and fined £1. After hearing the evidence, the Coroner adjourned the Inquest in order to produce testimony sufficient to show if the deceased fell, or was thrown down. The investigation will be resumed on Monday, the 11th April.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 9 April 1870
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident At The New Harbour Works. - An Inquest was held at the Torbay Infirmary on Tuesday, before Mr Michelmore, the Coroner for the district, on the body of HENRY FURNEAUX, a mason, 21 years of age, who sustained fatal injuries at the new harbour works on the previous Friday afternoon, from which he died the following Sunday afternoon. It appeared from the evidence of John Hemmett, a labourer, who was at work near the deceased at the time of the accident, that several men were engaged in lifting a large stone into its place when the chain that supported the derrick broke, and it fell down on deceased's thighs, glanced off, and struck him across the left leg, below the knee, breaking the bone. The derrick was immediately removed, and the young man removed first in a wheelbarrow to the cab-stand, and then to the Infirmary. When admitted he was sensible, but he shortly after became unconscious, and remained in this state until his death. The only cause for the breaking of the chain was attributed by Mr Mountstephens, the clerk of the works, to a "kink" having been left unobserved in it - or in other words, that it had been left twisted, and the strain of the stone had thus caused it suddenly to snap. He said it was not caused by the weight of the stone, for the chain was a 7/8 inch one, and it was capable of lifting eighteen tons, whilst the stone it was lifting at the time of accident weighed only about three tons. A curious incident in connection with the sad event was that the broken link of the chain had not been found since the occurrence, although search had been made for it; and it was conjectured that it must have flown out into the sea. Mr Mountstephens bore testimony to the quiet and respectable conduct of the deceased, observing that he had so much confidence in him that he could trust him anywhere. Dr Powell, the house surgeon at the Infirmary, attributed the cause of death to an effusion of blood on the brain, no doubt caused by the shock received to the system by the accident. He said the deceased's left leg was broken and he had received some severe contusions about the knees and thighs, but these injuries were not in themselves the immediate cause of death. The Coroner, in addressing the Jury, of whom Mr J. H. Morgan was the Foreman, pointed out that the only question in this sad case was whether proper care had been exercised in the erection of the machinery used for the purpose of lifting the stones. For his own part he said he had not the least doubt on that point, after hearing the evidence that had been adduced. The Jury concurred in this opinion, and returned a verdict of "Accidental Death". Several of the Jurors presented their fees to the Infirmary.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 21 May 1870
COLYFORD - Murder in East Devon. - On Monday an adjourned Inquest was held at Colyford, near Seaton, on the body of JAMES PEPPERELL. The deceased, a labourer, of Membury, was thirty years of age, and of rather dissolute habits. On the 22nd April he went to the East Devon steeplechases, at Colyton, where he indulged pretty freely in drink, and on the same evening he was drinking at the White Hart, Colyford, with James Harris, a labourer, of Lyme Regis, and a woman of ill-fame named Gunn. At eleven o'clock Harris left, going in the direction of Axminster and PEPPERELL followed alone about ten minutes afterwards. Nothing was seen of PEPPERELL until a fortnight afterwards, when his body was found floating in the river Axe, about a couple of hundred yards from the White Hart - where he was drinking on the night of the races. When taken out of the water his head was found to be covered with bruises, and it was evident that he had met with foul play. Suspicion at once fell on Harris, who bears but an indifferent character. On his being apprehended he denied any knowledge of the affair, stating that he was at home at two o'clock on the morning of the races, and that he had never had any stick in his possession on the night in question. (A stick, which was stated to be similar to that carried by Harris on the night of the murder was found near the spot.) When the Inquest was opened about a week since evidence was given shewing that the statements respecting the hour on which he arrived home, and that he had not any stick with him, were false. It was also stated by a Mr Fowler, a farmer, that about half-past eleven on the race night he heard loud cries as if of a man in distress coming from the direction of Axe Bridge - near where the body was found - but the cries did not frighten him, as he thought it was merely a row between people returning from the races. His daughter also stated that she heard cries of distress. Mr Hoare, a miller of Shute, said he found the prisoner sleeping in a field about half a mile from the scene of the murder on the day after the races. The prisoner complained of being cold and thirsty, and when witness offered to give him some beer if he came as far as the public-house he took off a "slop" he was wearing, remarking that if he kept it on, as it was torn, people would think he was a rough fellow. When nearing the bridge, where the body was afterwards discovered, Harris crossed from one side of the road to the other, and on coming to the bridge he looked over into the water on the same side as where the body of deceased was found. Sergeant Gunn apprehended Harris, and on his "slop" were marks of blood, which he said were caused by a rabbit which he caught. The Jury, after a short consultation, returned a verdict of "Wilful Murder against James Harris," who was afterwards removed in custody to Axminster. At the Axminster Petty Sessions on Tuesday, James Harris was charged with the Wilful Murder of JAMES PEPPERELL. No new facts were elicited, and the magistrates remanded Harris until today Friday at 10.30, when he will be brought up at the Axminster police-station. Prisoner still remains in the Axminster lock-up.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 18 June 1870
DAWLISH - Distressing Suicide. - Dawlish Station was the scene of a sad death on Tuesday afternoon. A retired tradesman, named WILLIAM HENRY EDWARDS, of Clifton, about 40 years of age, who for some time previously had been in an imbecile state of mind, arrived with his wife at the station from Exmouth, by the train leaving Exeter at 1.40 p.m. It is stated he was only married a few months since. He was also accompanied by a man who was engaged a week ago to render any assistance, should MR EDWARDS in any way become violent. MR EDWARDS was standing close to the edge of the up platform, on the approach of the train, having crossed over the line from the down train, his wife being a little behind him, and the attendant was engaged taking out their luggage. When the train was about two-thirds of the distance up the platform, and just where MR EDWARDS was standing, he made a sudden jump on to the outer rail, and being knocked down by the engine was caught under the "guard", thrown across the rail, and carried along three or four yards; the engine and two carriages then passed over the poor man's body, causing instantaneous death. The body was afterwards removed to the Royal Albert Hotel, where an Inquest was held on it on Wednesday, and a verdict to the effect that the deceased committed suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 2 July 1870
TORQUAY - Another Fatal Accident At The New Harbour Works. - We have the painful duty of recording another fatal accident in connection with the works now being carried out at the New Pier. It was only a month or two since that a young man named Furneaux lost his life by a derrick falling on him, and last Saturday evening DAVID WHITE, a labourer, 37 years of age, met an untimely death by missing his footing and falling into the water whilst engaged in walking backwards with a rail. In falling the poor fellow struck the back of his head against an abutment, by which he was evidently stunned. The body sank almost immediately, and was not recovered until after the lapse of half an hour or more, when it was taken up by means of a grapnel. The dangerous practice of walking backwards with a rail, was commented on by the Coroner, Mr Michelmore, of Newton Abbot, at the Inquest held on the body, at the Bath Saloon, on Monday morning last. The following is a full report of the proceedings:- The first witness called was the wife of the deceased, CHARLOTTE HELEN WHITE, who stated that her husband's age was thirty-seven, and that he was a labourer, working for Mr Mountstephen. Samuel Piper, a labourer, stated that he knew the deceased, DAVID WHITE, who had worked with him on the New Harbour Works. He was with him at half-past eight on Saturday night; witness and the deceased were taking up a railway metal to carry it out on a balk, and he helped to take it out with him. Deceased said it had better be left to him, and then another man took the other end. The deceased then took the rail and walked out backwards on the staging, and when he got out to the end of the permanent works, instead of stepping on the plank, which joined on to the permanent work, he missed his footing and fell overboard backwards. Witness looked over, and saw the deceased lying in the water; his back and head were visible. He gave a rod to Bulley, in order to catch hold of him. Bulley touched him two or three times, but as the body was sinking he could not get hold of it. The deceased never moved. Directly WHITE fell over the man who had hold of the other end of the rail put it down and went over to see what was the matter. The two men were working very steadily. It was a customary thing to walk backwards with the rails. - William Pope stated that he was one of the persons who had hold of the other end of the rail. There were four men in all working in shifting and carrying the rails. The deceased and Piper had hold of one end of the rail, and witness and Netherway had the other. The deceased said it had better be left to two, and thereupon witness and Piper let go. As soon as deceased began to step back with his end of the metal, he fell over; he was in the act of stepping from the permanent work on to a plank, which was of the usual width. He saw the deceased taken out about three-quarters of an hour after. The plank was the ordinary size used - eleven inches. The deceased was not pushed over. Mr Halls, one of the Jurymen, said an eleven-inch plank was insufficient for men carrying such heavy weights as the rails, and more planks ought to have been put down. - Thomas Bulley, a fellow workman, said he saw the deceased stooping down and walking backwards, and then fall over; he struck against a cross piece of wood, and rebounded into the water. The wood was bound and fastened with iron, and the deceased struck against the iron work. Witness immediately got down with a rod, with the object of getting hold of the deceased, but he never once moved. The body might have been in the water about three-quarters of an hour before it was recovered. The Coroner: What were you doing all the time; was nothing done to save him? - Witness: Nothing more than what I have said; he sank directly. The Coroner: You said you were trying to touch him with a rod? - Witness: The body was going down then. The Coroner: How long was it before it sank? - Witness: It was sinking when I got down with the rod; I saw it going down. The Coroner: How was the body taken up? - Witness: By a grapnel from a boat. - George Netherway was called in, and in reply to the Coroner, stated that he was not well, and had not been to work that morning, having been so much affected by the accident. He stated that he had been working with the deceased and others, and had put down the rail; also that he was under the pile engine, fastening it, at the time the accident occurred. Piper and witness were close together; could not say who carried the metal, and could not say whether Piper let it go. He and others were passing the rails from one to another. The Coroner: Who had hold of the rail? - Witness: I do not know; I was about another job I did not see the accident. The Coroner: What were you about? - Witness: I was under the pile engine, fastening it with a rope. The Coroner: Who had hold of the rail? - Witness: The deceased was not carrying the rail, he was lifting the end to put it on the balk. The Coroner: We have had evidence that you and the deceased were carrying the rail at the moment of the accident, that you were helping him with the rail. Witness: I was not touching the rail when he fell. I was on the other side of the balk, making fast the engine; there was not room for all of us about the job. The Coroner: The other witnesses said that you had hold of the other end of the rail. Witness: It's a mistake. The Coroner: Did you hear the deceased make any remark as to their being too many, and that two would do better than four? - Witness: I did not. The Coroner: Did you see Pope there and the other man? - Witness: Yes, but I did not notice what they were about. The Coroner: Can you say whether Pope held on the rail with you? - Witness: I cannot exactly say. Pope, Piper and Bulley were then called in and confronted with Netherway. The Coroner asked these men if Netherway was the man who had hold of the rail at the end of the permanent way, and they replied affirmatively, adding that Piper and the deceased was at one end, and Netherway with another man at the other. The Coroner: How far from the pile engine was the end of the rail? - All the men replied that it was close by. The Coroner enquired whether they saw any one fastening the pile engine? - The three witnesses stated that no one was near it. The Coroner: Can you all swear that Netherway was not near it? - Piper: I did not see him; I believe he was at the end of the metal. Pope: Netherway was at the end of the metal when I let go, and he continued to carry it with the deceased till the accident happened. The Coroner (to Netherway): You have nothing to fear from telling the truth. Netherway: I have told the truth; I was under the pile engine, and ran over to see the poor fellow in the water. The Coroner: Do not be afraid to speak out: if you did have one end of the rail, you may not be more to blame than the others. Why were you not at work this morning? - Witness: I felt too ill. The Coroner: May it not be that you cannot recollect what occurred, or that the shock has caused you to be afraid? Witness: I know I was under the pile engine after I helped over the rail. The Coroner, in addressing the Jury after Netherway had left the room, said he thought there was a very unfortunate discrepancy in his evidence, which he must leave to them to form their own opinion on. The witness Netherway, although stating he was near the spot at the time, most effectively denied having hold of the rail at the time of the sad occurrence; and it so happened that the man who had hold of the other end would be the only man who must have had anything to do with the accident. Although they had had three witnesses before them, and two had sworn that Netherway had hold of the rail, they had also the fact that he was not at his work that day, which, if he had had nothing whatever to do with the accident, and was only a spectator, would be rather singular. he was inclined to form his own opinion that Netherway had not told the truth, whilst he believed that the other three men had told the truth. But, as they said that at the time of the accident Netherway did nothing out of the common, he did not think they were obliged to take any notice of it. He left it to them to say whether Netherway had done what he ought not to have done, or whether they would attach any weight to his denial. It might be for them, in considering this denial of all participation whatever in this sad affair, to say whether the evidence of the three other witnesses was to be relied upon, and whether it would exculpate Netherway from all blame. If they considered his denial, not as the result of fear, but as a wilful denial, they would then view the case with suspicion, and take into consideration their verdict accordingly. They might be inclined to think that the walking backwards was a dangerous practice, and one that should not be continued in future; but still he did think the contractor was to blame in this respect. The room was then cleared for the purpose of allowing the Jury to have some deliberation in arriving at their verdict. After the lapse of a few minutes, the reporters were admitted, and, the Coroner addressing the witness Netherway said: The Jury have returned a verdict that deceased met with his death Accidentally. I cannot, however, dismiss you without a few words of caution. I believe you have come here today and have - possibly through fear or forgetfulness - travelled out of your way and told a falsehood, for I cannot look at it in any other way. The three witnesses distinctly swear that you had hold of the end of the rail, and you went out of your way to swear that you not only had not hold of the end of the rail, but that you were under the pile engine at the time of the accident. One of the witnesses says he saw the deceased with the other end of the rail, and I cannot help giving the poor fellow the credit of carrying out the orders given him. I wish to caution you, for on these occasions you have nothing to fear if you tell the truth and the whole truth. Again I saw you have nothing whatever to fear on these occasions, and I hope that you will always tell the truth and stick to it. At the same time, the Jury give you credit for saying what you have through fear. The verdict of "Accidental Death" was then recorded, and the Jury, through Acting Sergeant board, gave their fees to the poor widow, who is left with five children.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 23 July 1870
ELLACOMBE - The Last Fatal Accident. - An Inquest was held on Saturday last at the Country House Inn, Ellacombe, on the body of GEORGE POTTER, a labourer, twenty-nine years of age, who came to an untimely death at the quarry beneath Daddy Hole on the previous Thursday, under circumstances reported in our last week's paper. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 6 August 1870
TORQUAY - Melancholy Sudden Death From Intoxication. - A sad case of sudden death, the result of suffocation produced whilst in a state of intoxication, has been enquired into during the present week. The deceased was a sailor, named WILLIAM EDWORTHY, 28 years of age, and it seems that he returned to Torquay from sea about five or six months since with a large sum of money in his possession. Instead of living with his parents, he had preferred low company, and his dissolute habits eventually resulted in his untimely end. He was found dead early on Sunday morning in a house of ill-fame at Ellacombe, having been conveyed there in a helpless state of intoxication the previous night. The Inquest on the body was opened on Monday evening at the Torbay Infirmary, before the Coroner, Mr H. Michelmore, and the following gentlemen, who were empanelled as a Jury:- Messrs. J. Brittan (Foreman), P. Blampey, W. Aysh, J. Chillcott, E. Spreckley, W. Soper, G. Shinner, A. Palk, and W. Lambshead. The first witness called was:- JOHN EDWORTHY, the father of the deceased, who is a labourer, living at Torre. He said his son came home from sea the Tuesday before Christmas-day, and had been living in the town ever since. He saw but very little of him, and knew that he was living in a bad house at Ellacombe, where he ought not to be. Between half-past five and six o'clock on Sunday morning he was told that his son was dead, and he went to No. 39 Higher Ellacombe Road, where he saw the body lying on the bed. A girl called Millman was in the room, and also an elderly woman, named Sarah Farmer. The latter told him that deceased was brought to her house in a cab, very tipsy, the night before, and that she helped to undress and put him to bed, and the girl said she found his son dead by her side about five o'clock the next morning. - By the Jury: His son had over £100 when he came home, but he did not know whether he had any left at the time of his death. - By the Coroner: He had been told that some person had had the handling of the money, but it was no one in Farmer's house, or connected with it. He did not care to say who it was; it was the landlord of the Steam Packet Inn. - William Tregaskis, a seaman, said he knew the deceased, and had been his companion since he had been home from sea. He met him at the Steam Packet Inn, about twelve o'clock on the previous Saturday, and remained there until ten minutes before twelve at night, when he left him there. When he left deceased was the worse for liquor, but he had his senses and could walk. The deceased had his dinner with the servants at the inn, and had been drinking beer the best part of the day. They played a few games of skittles together, and slept for more than two hours after seven o'clock in the evening. When he woke up deceased, who was tipsy before, said he was quite fresh, and began drinking again, and he was drinking gin and water when he left. He was stopping at Ellacombe at the same time as the deceased, though not in the same house. Early on Sunday morning he was called by Isabella Millman to come down, as she said BILL was dead. He went as far as the door of the house, but refused to go in until a policeman came. - The Coroner: What was your object in not going in? - Witness: I thought it was no good after he was dead. - The Coroner: What! and he a companion of yours, and you wouldn't go in when you only heard, and didn't know for certain, that the poor fellow was dead? - Witness: I didn't think it was my place to go in before a policeman came. The Coroner: If you had been in a similar position, would you have liked him to have done the same thing? - Witness: I didn't know whether I was doing right or not in going in. They told me they had sent for a policeman. The Coroner: And did you wait outside until he came? - Witness: Yes, sir. The Coroner: And did you go in then? - Witness: Yes; and I found him lying dead on his back, in Millman's room. In continuation he said he did not know whether deceased paid for the drink he was supplied with at the Steam Packet Inn. He knew that he sometimes left his money with Mr. Crocker, the landlord, but he knew he had none for him now, as he was drinking on "tick" some time during Saturday. About three months ago he saw deceased give Mr Croker a £5 note. Mr Croker supplied him with the gin and water, but he did not see deceased pay for it. - Edward Langworthy, a plasterer of Happaway Row, Stentiford's Hill, stated that he saw the deceased at the Steam Packet Inn, about seven o'clock on the previous Saturday evening. He was then sitting in the skittle alley with his coat off, as if he had been playing. He was still there when witness left, and when he returned to the inn he again saw the deceased at "turn-out time" 0 a few minutes before midnight. He then came out with the rest of the people, and caught hold of the rails, as he was very tipsy and could hardly stand. Deceased came out by himself, and there was a young woman, named Millman, waiting outside for him. Thomas Harding, James Aggett, and another young man named Shears came out at the same time as witness, and when they had got to the Strand Aggett said he should be sorry to see deceased get into trouble and he went back for him. The girl Millman had hold of him by one arm and Aggett by the other, and in this position they walked on together until they came to the Big Tree, when the deceased wouldn't go any further and wanted to lie down. The girl let him go, and Harding took him by the arm and assisted him up as far as the London Inn. They could get him no further, as he had fallen down on his knees, and some of them looked out for a cab. The girl Millman, who was looking on at the time, took off deceased's hat and caught him by the hair of the head, saying "You're not so drunk as you make out." She afterwards partly lifted him up, and repeating what she had said before she gave him a shove and exclaimed with an oath, "Lie there!" He fell back in the road; and after he had lain there about a minute they took him up, carried him over to the pavement and sat him up. Millman went up the street, and Shears and witness went to look for a cab. In the meantime three of the other young men had taken the deceased on their shoulders and carried him as far as Mrs Rippon's, the fruiterer, when they heard a cab coming. The girl, Millman, hailed it, and the deceased was put in with the girl and drove away to Ellacombe. - By the Coroner: He didn't know whether the deceased fell down when he came out of the Steam Packet Inn, but he had no chance of falling after they assisted him. The girl swore when she pushed him: s he was not drunk, and though she had been drinking she knew what she was about. - By the Jury: When she pushed the deceased he should consider, by the sound of the blow, that it was violently. He did not speak when he was put into the cab. - Thomas Harding, a painter, of Torre, corroborated the evidence of the previous witness in almost every particular, and especially with reference to the girl pushing the deceased. He said when she pushed him he fell violently and struck the back part of his head. He never spoke afterwards, but groaned three times. - William Huxham, a fly driver, living at the Belgrave Mews, proved being hailed by the girl Millman shortly after twelve o'clock on the Saturday night, as he was driving up Fleet-street, after attending the late express train at Torquay station. He also stated that according to Millman's instructions he drove to the house No. 39, Higher Ellacombe Road, where he helped to put the deceased on a bed. - By the Jury: He was not undressed when he left him. He saw no stains of blood on his carriage the next morning when he cleaned it, nor did he see any marks of violence on the deceased. - At this stage of the proceedings, it being nearly ten o'clock and several additional witnesses to be examined, the Coroner adjourned the Enquiry until six o'clock the following evening. On its being resumed, the Coroner briefly recapitulated to the Jury the facts already adduced in evidence, and proceeded to call:- Henry Crocker, the landlord of the Steam Packet Inn, Victoria Parade, who stated that the deceased had used his house ever since his return from sea. He came there on the previous Saturday between twelve and one o'clock in the day; and, with the exception of his going out some time during the evening, he remained there until closing time. The deceased let him have three £5 notes on one occasion, about two or three months ago, to keep for him, but they were returned the next morning. Deceased never told him what money he had. He had frequently lent him 5s. but he had always paid him back again. When the deceased left his house he wished him "good night" and walked half-way across the road by himself. - The Coroner: Are you sure of this, because we have direct evidence to the contrary? - Witness: I am certain of it, but he may have come back again afterwards. - The Coroner: What state was the deceased in when he left your house? - Witness: Well, I should think he had had plenty enough, but I have seen him go away with more. I do not know what he drank, as I did not supply him during the evening. - Tregaskis, re-called, was asked by the Coroner if the deceased went out during the evening. He replied that he did not see him leave, and that if he did, it must have been only for a short time. - Isabella Millman, a single woman, said the deceased had spent his nights with her nearly all the time he had been home from sea. She gave her version of the manner in which the deceased was conveyed from the Steam Packet Inn, and the only material difference in her evidence from that of the other witnesses was that, instead of pushing him, the deceased was leaning heavily on her, and she was obliged to let him fall to prevent herself from falling. She admitted saying when he fell, "You're not so drunk as you make out;" and said the deceased fell with the back of his head on a woman's boot. He never spoke whilst in the cab with her. When they got him into her room she helped to undress him and laid him in the bed on his left side. She went to bed herself about ten minutes afterwards, and slept soundly until five o'clock. When she awoke the deceased was lying on his face, and after she turned him round she saw that blood was coming from his nose and mouth, and that his face was slightly discoloured. - Sarah Farmer, the wife of a labourer, of whom the girl Millman rents the room in which the deceased was found dead, proved helping to put him to bed and being called by the girl the next morning and finding the deceased as described by her. Some lamentable facts were elicited by the Jury from the witness relative to the character of the house in which she lives. - P.C. Boundy proved being called to see the deceased on Sunday morning, and finding him dead, in the house No. 39, Higher Ellacombe Road. He took possession of his clothes and found a watch and chain, 2s. in his watch-pocket, and a brass tobacco-box with his name engraved on it. - Dr Powell, house surgeon at the Infirmary, said he should think that the deceased had been dead some hours when he was called to see him. He examined the body externally, but found no marks of violence: the face and neck were of a dark purple colour. He had since made a post mortem examination. He first opened the head, and found the membranes of the brain healthy, though there was a great deal of congestion on the surface, and throughout its substance. He next examined the chest, and found the heart full of dark fluid blood; the walls were thin and soft, and there appeared to be some fatty degeneration there. The lungs were intensely congested, and when cut a quantity of dark blood issued from them. The wind-pipe was also much congested, and there was a slight disease of the liver, but it was not of any consequence. In the stomach he found a few mustard seeds and a little undigested food, but no trace of beer - only a slight alcoholic smell. The blood throughout the body was fluid. All the internal organs were much congested, but they were not sufficiently diseased to cause death. He believed the immediate cause of death was deprivation of air, which produced suffocation. The habits of life of the deceased would certainly tend to produce congestion. - By the Jury: There were no marks of a blow on the back of the head. The appearance of the brain was not the result of a blow; if the deceased had received a violent blow he must have seen appearances of it. In his helpless and drunken condition, the deceased had no doubt turned over on his face whilst lying in the bed, and thus being deprived of air he had been suffocated. - Tregaskis, re-called, said, in reply to the Coroner, that there was quarrel at the Steam Packet Inn during the time he was there with the deceased. - The Coroner then summed up the evidence in his usual clear and lucid manner, commenting on the statements of the several witnesses. He said he considered that Tregaskis had been guilty of a great unkindness to the deceased, towards whom he professed to be a companion and comrade, in not going into the house when he was told he was dead without a policeman. With reference to Mr Crocker, he did not say that he was free from blame, for it was evident that it was at his house that the mischief began which ended in the death of the deceased. He did not know, however, that the Jury should take any notice of this, as it was more a question for the police if the house was not conducted in a proper manner. They might possibly think it right to say that when the deceased left that house he was turned out not in a fit state to go away; but then it had been proved that he found some persons to take care of him and Crocker had denied supplying him drink, but another person in his house did. Still there could be no doubt that the deceased was supplied with drink when he was not in a fit state to receive it. As regarded the girl Millman, he thought she gave her evidence in a straight-forward way, and that there was nothing criminal proved against her. From the first she seemed to have tried to assist the deceased to her home, and the only discrepancy in the evidence was that the other witnesses who were with her said she pushed him down. She confessed she let him fall, and that she told him he was not so drunk as he made out, but her subsequent conduct was different, and not the conduct of one who was intentionally serving the deceased bad, for the next thing she did was to get a cab, pay for it, and take the poor fellow to her own home. He did not justify her conduct or general character, or either that of Mrs Farmer, but in this Enquiry the Jury had nothing to do with the offence against morals which had necessarily been brought out against the parties. Dr Powell had conclusively proved that the deceased had not met his death from any blow, and he found after a careful examination of the body that the congestion of nearly all the organs was the result of his habits of life - that they were produced from other causes and not from any blow. It would be for the Jury to say whether the evidence of the doctor as to the supposed cause of death was sufficient; whether the suffocation which had resulted in death was accidentally or purposely caused by the girl, for she alone could have done it; or whether there was sufficient evidence before them to say how the deceased came by his death. If they believed the evidence of the girl they had quite sufficient before them to say that the deceased came to his death by suffocation in an accidental way; if they had any doubt on this then they had only the evidence that he was suffocated, but how they could not say. If they did not place credence in Dr Powell's evidence, that deceased had no violence shewn him, then it would be their duty to return a verdict of manslaughter or even murder against some person; but he need not direct them to that, because the evidence did not go to that extent. He left it with them to say whether the death of the deceased resulted from suffocation, caused accidentally or by the girl Millman, or whether they had any evidence to show how it came. - After a short consultation the Jury returned the verdict "That the deceased died from Accidental Suffocation whilst in a state of helpless intoxication." - The Coroner, in accordance with the almost unanimous wish of the Jury, then called in Mr Crocker, the landlord of the Steam Packet Inn. After informing him of the verdict arrived at by the Jury, he said they and himself quite concurred in the opinion that the deceased was in a helpless state of intoxication when he left his house on Saturday night. The evidence abundantly proved that he was there during the whole of Saturday, that he was not only drunk once, but that he afterwards went to sleep and in a measure got sober, and that drink was then supplied to him again. He was of course aware that he was equally responsible if the deceased was supplied with liquor by any other person as if he had supplied him himself, because it was his duty to leave proper persons in charge of his house, and to see they did not do wrong. He trusted that this sad circumstance would prove a warning to him, and that he would not let this occasion pass by and think no more of it; but that if on any future occasion a young man or an old man came to his house in an intoxicated state he would not allow drink to be supplied them after they had had enough. There was not the slightest doubt but that this had been done in this case. He impressed on him not to let this sad affair pass without its proving a warning to him, and he trusted it would be for the benefit of the house generally. - Tregaskis was next called in and reprimanded for his conduct in refusing to go in to see the deceased before a policeman came. The Coroner said he had stated that his comrade and companion was lying dead in a house of ill-fame, where he knew he was for no good purpose, away from his parents, and in the company of this girl; and after being told he was dead he trusted to the statement and took no further steps whatever to see if he could do him any good. He only trusted that if on any future occasion he should be placed in a similar position, which he trusted he never would, that he would consider it his duty to act as a faithful friend and endeavour to see if assistance was required; and he also hoped that if ever he should be found in the same condition that he would have a kinder friend than he had proved to the deceased. If he had been in a fit he might, by going to him immediately, have been the means of saving his life, although the evidence proved in this instance such was not the case. He trusted that if in the future he had an opportunity of being of any aid to a fellow mortal, he would do so. In this case it was running no risk, and if he had gone into the house for the purpose of saving the life of a fellow creature, no blame whatever would have attached to him. - The woman, Sarah Farmer, was the last witness called, and to her the Coroner said that she might consider herself very fortunate that the Jury had returned the verdict they had. He trusted this would prove a warning to her. She had laid herself open to a very serious charge, for had anything criminal happened in her house which would have brought her under the eye of the law she would have been placed in very serious circumstances. She was at that moment keeping an improper house in Torquay, and he hoped after this she would go home and do her best from henceforth to improve it, and to lead a proper life.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 17 September 1870
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident At The New Pier. The Inquest. - Another fatal accident happened at the New Pier Works on Thursday morning, by which two men, named HENRY STRAWBRIDGE and GEORGE VEAL, lost their lives, and two others were so injured as to necessitate their removal to the Torbay Infirmary. The Inquest on the bodies were held at the Bath Saloon this (Friday) morning, before H. Michelmore, Esq., Coroner. The following gentlemen were empanelled as a Jury:- Mr John Brittan (Foreman), and Messrs. W. Aysh, R. Butland, T. G. Stedham, G. S. Bridgman, G. Tripe, A. Saunders, J. Chubb, J. M. Bovey, J. H. T. Wills, T.Edwards, and Baker. The Coroner and Jury, having viewed the bodies and the scene of the sad disaster, returned to the Bath Saloon, where the following evidence was adduced: LOUISA STRAWBRIDGE, the wife of the deceased HENRY STRAWBRIDGE, said she identified the dead body she had seen as that of her husband, who was a labourer, and was 35 years of age. He had worked at the New Pier about two years and six months. - JAMES VEAL, a labourer, of Victoria Cottages, Ellacombe, also proved the identity of his brother, GEO. VEAL, who he said was 29 years of age. He was about to be married in a month or six weeks. John Guest, a labourer, living at No. 5, the Braddons, said: I am employed on the New Pier works, and have worked there nearly two years, under Mr James Mountstephens. I was there at work on Thursday morning, looking after the trolly on the cross-road. The deceased, HENRY STRAWBRIDGE and GEORGE VEAL were there at work at the same time: STRAWBRIDGE was on top of the traveller, lowering the block, and VEAL was in the boat under. The diver John Niass, signalled for the traveller to go ahead to Westcott, who was in charge of it. I saw the traveller go ahead about a foot or eighteen inches, and when it had gone this distance Westcott told me to "slack out," as my chain was of no more use. My gear was fastened to the traveller and the block as well; the block was lowered in its place within four or five inches. I let go my chain, and with the same the traveller went down into the water, and I went down with it. I saved myself by catching hold of a plank on getting to the top of the water, and so got ashore. My chain had nothing whatever to do with fastening the traveller; it was only to guide the block. John Niass, a mason, said: I have been employed on the New Pier works above three years. I was at work there yesterday morning, setting a block under the water. I was standing completely under water, at a depth of about sixteen feet, on a block that had been fixed, ready to fix the other, which was required to be placed about three inches further ahead. I signalled to John Towell, the man who attends to the life lines, to shift the block as I required, and when I looked up again I saw the traveller and the whole of the gear coming down into the water. I immediately jumped off the block, and the men on the top pulled me up by the life-line I had attached to the diving-dress. Five or six minutes afterwards I went into the diver's boat and descended into the water again, and brought up the bodies of VEAL and STRAWBRIDGE as quick as I could. I found VEAL at the bottom, lying on his face; I brought him up first, and then went down again for STRAWBRIDGE, who was lying flat on his back. By the Jury: The block that was being lowered was about the usual size. The traveller, when picked up-, was out over the end of the works beyond the blocks. - Mr Jas. Mountstephens, Foreman in charge of the works at the New Pier, said: I direct the work, and all the men take their orders from me. I was on the stage of the Pier yesterday morning. Edward Westcott was the man who had charge of the crane which was the cause of the accident. It was being used for lowering the blocks. Westcott has had this duty to perform nearly two years. When the crane is brought to the edge for the purpose of lowering the blocks, it is usually fastened by a crab-winch at the top, and by a chain made fast to the main road. When the crane requires to be moved this chain should be slackened a little, and then Westcott, with a bar, should move the crane ahead. There are two means of fastening the crane - one by the crab-winch, and the other by fastening the wheel with a chain. Either of these precautions would keep the crane safe, but both are not generally used, except when there is a heavy sea running. I had just left when the accident happened, leaving STRAWBRIDGE on the crane, attending to the lowering of the block. When I left I noticed that the crab-winch chain was secure, but the wheel was not fastened. The block that was being lowered at the time was twelve tones in weight - about three tons lighter than those generally lowered. When I left VEAL was in a boat under the stage, in order to pick up any one that might accidentally fall over the stage into the water. Just after I left I turned round and saw the crane running right out over the works. From the place where the block was being lowered to where the crane went out over into the water it was a distance of about ten feet, one half of which was metalled. I attribute the running out of the crane in this manner to the crab-winch being undone altogether, instead of being only slackened, so as to allow the crane to go on three inches. It is at times the duty of Westcott to undo the crab-winch, and fasten it in front in order to move the crane, but not when it is only required to be shifted such a short distance as three inches. When the crane is wanted to be moved a few inches or a foot, it is done by slackening the chain at the wheel and forced a forward by bar; and when it is wanted to be moved a distance of five feet or more it is stopped by a piece of chain or timber being placed in front of the wheel by the man in charge. I do not know of my own knowledge that the winch-chain was fastened in front at the time of the accident, but I should consider it was, and that the crane was propelled forward by the jerk of the men at the wheel whilst fastening the chain in front. I have always found Westcott a trustworthy man, and up to this time he has always carried out the work properly. - By the Foreman: The lowering of blocks is certainly a most important part of the work, but I could not be everywhere. There was no defect in the machinery, for when it was found nothing was broken. - Edward Westcott, a labourer, living at No. 4, Melville-street, said: I have been working at the New Pier works about three years. I have generally had charge of the large traveller used for lowering the blocks of cement into the water. There is a chain at the back of the traveller attached to a smaller "crab" and with this chain it is moved either forward or backward. The traveller is never moved with the bar whilst the block is being lowered. Just before the accident happened yesterday morning the block was swung, and I had just received a signal from the driver to heave the crane ahead. I moved it ahead with the chain about a foot, and then put a piece of four-inch deal timber under both wheels. Just as I had done this, and before I had time to undo the chain and fasten it back, I heard something cracking under the front wheels of the traveller, and before we had time to see what it was we were all struggling in the water. I could not move the crane forward with the bar, because the rails inclined upwards, and the wheels were greasy. The bottom block was laid about three weeks ago, and the crane was then shifted into the proper position by the crab-chain, with the piece of timber placed before the wheels, exactly as it was done yesterday. I chain is sometimes used to fasten the wheel f the traveller to the metal baulk, but it is not used when a block is being lowered by the side. It is impossible to move it with the bar when the block is swinging and the metals incline upwards, as they did in this instance. The accident must have happened by something giving way under the crane: it could not have gone forward else, as the piece of timber was in front of it. - By the Jury: I don't think the crane ran right over the works; I fell down into the water with the timber. I don't know what it was cracking, but I should think it must have been the wood-work under the front wheels of the traveller. When I got to the top of the water I caught hold of a piece of baulk, many pieces of which were in the water. At the time of the accident, the crane was about eighteen inches out over the last cross-piece. - Mr Mountstephens, re-called, in answer to the Coroner, said he could not deny the statement of the last witness as to the manner in which the traveller was fixed when the bottom block was laid three weeks since. his opinion was that the cracking the men heard was the piece of deal in front of the traveller being cracked by the wheels. He stood and saw the crane go out over the end of the works; if it had gone down bodily the men that were on it would have been smashed to pieces. - William Pearce, a labourer, living in Lower Union Lane, who was at work on the top of the traveller when the accident happened, said he was helping to fasten the chain when he heard something crack underneath, and immediately fell down into the water. When he found himself in the water he was a little on one side of the place where he had been working; he didn't believe the crane moved forward but went straight done. - The Coroner, in summing up, said he was afraid the result of the evidence left a great deal to the imagination of the Jury, as it was very scant and meagre as to how the accident happened. He referred to the straight-forward manner in which the man Westcott gave his evidence; and he said a consideration of the evidence adduced brought him to the idea that there was not sufficient precaution used in moving the crane when the blocks were being swung. If it was necessary - and he believed, from the weight of the blocks, that it was necessary - in order to move the crane that something more than an iron bar should be used, it ought not to be moved forward unless a chain was attached at the rear. He thought the sad affair was the result of a pure accident, for everyone seemed to have used the means given them. If the Jury thought Westcott had been guilty of carelessness or negligence it would be their duty to return a verdict of manslaughter against him, but for himself he did not think Westcott was much to blame. After some consultation, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," with a recommendation to Mr Mountstephens to have a back-chain placed to the crane in future and also to have additional piles placed beneath the tramway. The Inquiry lasted four hours.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 3 December 1870
TORQUAY - Sad Case Of Infanticide. - An Inquest was held at the Torbay Infirmary on Wednesday morning last, on the body of a newly-born male child, which was found in a box at Fernhill House on the previous day. Mr R. R. Crosse, of Cullompton, acted as Coroner, in the room of Mr H. Michelmore, who is at present in Germany. Mr Henry Crockwell was the Foreman of the Jury. The mother of the child is named ELIZABETH SMITH. She is twenty-two years of age, and has been acting for the past eleven months in the capacity of lady's maid to Mrs Trant. Mrs Trant is an elderly lady, upwards of eighty years of age, and has occupied Fernhill for some years. It appeared from the evidence adduced that during the time the young woman SMITH has been in Mrs Trant's employ she has been on a visit to Dublin, the residence of Mr Ion Trant Hamilton, Mrs Trant's grandson. This gentleman has in his service a footman, named William Robinson, who was called as the first witness. He stated the fact of SMITH'S being in his master's house in Ireland, and her leaving about a month ago for the purpose of returning to Torquay. He also said she was in Mr Hamilton's house about three months, and that the first time he became acquainted with her was about four months and a half ago. Eliza West, the housemaid at Fernhill, and who has been on intimate terms with her fellow servant since they have lived together, stated that she never suspected SMITH of being enceinte, and that when she complained of being unwell she attributed it to another cause. The crime was discovered by Mr William Pollard, surgeon, who was called to attend the young woman at the request of her mistress, SMITH herself having refused to have medical assistance. He first called on her on Sunday last, when she made the same false representation to him as to the cause of her illness as she had to her fellow servant. Believing her statement at the time to be correct, he gave her advice as to what to do, and left. He saw her again on the following day; and having in the interim had his suspicions aroused by a communication made to him in the house, he questioned SMITH as to whether or not her illness was not occasioned by a cause otherwise than that she had stated. She denied that such was the case; but when he questioned her more closely on the matter on the following day she confessed to him that she had been confined on the previous Saturday. He asked her where the child was, and she pointed to a box by her bedside and gave him the keys to unlock it. He did so, and underneath some clothing he found the dead body of a new-born child, lying on its face. He lifted it up a little, but on perceiving that there was a tape tied round its neck he replaced it in its original position and immediately communicated with the police. On his asking the mother if the child was born alive, she replied that she did not know, but that she believed it was still-born as it never cried, and remained motionless for half-an hour after its birth. She also said that she tied the tape around its neck to enable her to put the body into her box, as it slipped from her hand when she held it by the arm. Since her confinement the subsequent discovery and confession, SMITH told her fellow servant West, in the course of conversation, that she could not tell her how she could have so deceived her, but that she thought the devil had helped her. Sergeant Ockford stated that, in consequence of the information he received from Mr Pollard, he went to Fernhill, and found the dead body of the child in SMITH'S box. There was a good supply of servants' clothing in the box, but no baby linen whatever. When he charged the young woman with concealing the birth of her child, she replied, "Oh, dear! oh, dear! what shall I do?" The sergeant had the body removed to the Infirmary, where it was examined by Dr Powell, the house surgeon. The result of his post mortem examination shewed that a piece of tape had been tied twice round the child's neck, with a double knot tied in two places. It was a remarkably fine child, and fully developed, weighing 7 ¾ lbs., and being 22 inches in length. Respiration had fully taken place, and all the organs of the body were in a healthy condition. All the appearances were consistent with the fact that the child was born alive; and the cause of death was strangulation, caused by the tape tied round its neck. The Coroner, in summing up the evidence, pointed out to the Jury that if they believed the evidence of Dr Powell, that suffocation was the cause of death, then they must disbelieve the voluntary statement made by the young woman to Mr Pollard. He considered that the house surgeon's statement was entitled to the most credence, and that this was either a case of murder or nothing at all. The Jury, after a brief deliberation, returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against the mother of the child, ELIZABETH SMITH. Of course she was not able to attend, but as soon as she is sufficiently recovered she will be brought before the Magistrates for her offence. The witnesses were severally bound over in their own recognizances to appear and give evidence in the case at the next Devon Assizes. The fees of the Jury were handed over to Sergeant Ockford in aid of the funds of the Infirmary. The Coroner complimented the sergeant at the conclusion of the Enquiry on the excellent manner in which he had prepared the evidence, considering the short notice he had received.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 4 March 1871
BABBICOMBE - Sad Death At Babbicombe. - An Inquest was held at the Roughwood Inn, Babbicombe, on Thursday, before Mr H. Michelmore, County Coroner, on the body of a labourer named RICHARD FORD MATTHEWS, forty-five years of age. The deceased left his home on the 18th January, and was not again seen alive. His dead body was picked up on Oddicombe Beach on Wednesday morning by a fisherman. It appears that the poor man had previously been in a depressed state of mind. A verdict of "Found Dead" was returned.

TORQUAY - Sad Death Of A Servant. - An Inquest was held on Tuesday last at the Clarence Hotel, before Mr H. Michelmore, County Coroner, on the body of ELIZA COLES, aged 23. The deceased was a domestic servant at St Norbert's, St. Michael's Road. It appears that on Saturday week whilst engaged in her household duties, the deceased was standing with her back to the fire, when her dress by some means became ignited. A fellow servant, named Ham, extinguished the flames by throwing a blanket over the deceased, but she died on Sunday last from the effects of the burns. The Coroner complimented Ham on the presence of mind and coolness she displayed under the circumstances. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. The Jury kindly gave their fees to the Torbay Infirmary.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 24 June 1871
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident To A Child. - An Inquest was held at the Torbay Infirmary on Wednesday last, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, touching the death of REGINALD GEORGE PEDRICK, aged three years and nine months. Mr J. Robinson was Foreman of the Jury. GEORGE PEDRICK, residing at 7, Brunswick-square, Torre, father of the deceased, deposed that he last saw the child alive at his house on Tuesday afternoon, at two o'clock, when it left for school. The child was usually accompanied by an elder brother, who was unfortunately ill on this occasion. About ten minutes after the child had left, he was informed that he had been run over by a timber waggon; and on going out he saw two policemen taking him to the Infirmary. - Thomas Ashford, a labourer, in the employ of Mr Stooke, timber merchant, of Kingskerswell, stated that on Tuesday last he left Newton to go to Bradley, for an oak tree to take to the New Pier at Torquay. When near Mr Oliver's, draper, he heard the people screeching. He stopped the horses immediately, and found that a wheel of the waggon had passed over a child. A bundle of trifolium grass was on the vehicle, just before the hind wheels. In answer to the coroner, the witness said he did not notice any children playing near the spot just before the accident. P.C. Payne said whilst on duty at Brunswick Square on the afternoon of Tuesday last, he saw a waggon pass driven by the last witness. On looking round he saw the deceased in the act of picking flowers from the bundle of grass which was on the waggon. The child was knocked down immediately by the wheel which passed over his shoulder and neck. With the assistance of P.C. Cooper, he picked up the child and carried it to the Infirmary. The child never moved after it was picked up. The driver was proceeding very steadily, walking at the head of his horses on the opposite side to where the child was picking the flowers. One of the Jury mentioned that a similar accident happened some time since, and suggested the desirability of having two men to attend to these timber waggons. The Coroner remarked that this was a very humane suggestion, but it could not go any further; they could not compel the owners of timber-waggons to employ two men because children ran under the wheels. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 15 July 1871
PARKHAM - Shocking Murder In North Devon. - A shocking murder has been committed in North Devon. From the facts that have already appeared, it would seem that up to Wednesday, the 28th of June, there lived in a little cottage at Goldsworthy, near Bideford, an old man, named ANTHONY CLEMENTS. He had been a labourer, but though in receipt of parish relief, he was popularly supposed to have put by some money, and he lived in the expectation of one day coming into a fortune. He was the sole occupant of his cottage, and his only near neighbours were a labourer and his wife, Mr and Mrs Short, who occupied the adjacent cottage, separated from that of CLEMENTS by a thin partition. On Wednesday week, Mrs Short says, she last saw her neighbour alive; he came to her, told her he was going to Hartland, and asked her to take care of his donkey during his absence. That was the last she saw of him. The last she heard of him was the sound of his locking the doors inside the house, and she afterwards concluded he had gone to Hartland, though she did not see him pass out of the cottage. Shortly after midnight on Thursday Mrs Short was awakened by what she describes as "a smash like earthenware being broken," and then she heard a groan. These were remarkable sounds to issue from a supposed empty house, but Mrs Short was satisfied with her husband's suggestions that "it might be some one outside," and made no remark to any body till last Friday morning, when CLEMENTS not having returned, and nothing having been heard of him, she told a man named Samuel Lewis, who was passing, that she was distressed at the 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 Shorts 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 earthen ware. 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 taken 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, and after evidence of the above facts were elicited it was adjourned until Saturday. There is at present no clue to the identity of the criminal, beyond that which the police are always announced to be in possession of contemporaneously with the discovery of a murder. It is hoped, however, that the perpetrator of this dreadful deed will not long go undetected.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 22 July 1871
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident To A Child. - A sad occurrence happened on Monday at Hutton, Belgrave Crescent, Torre, the residence of MR J. and the HON. MRS FARRELL, by which their youngest child LUCRETIA, sixteen months old, lost its life. The facts were detailed at an Inquest held at the house on Tuesday evening, before Mr Michelmore, Coroner. Mr T. Memery was the Foreman of the Jury. About half-past two on Monday afternoon Margaret Byran, the head-nurse, was in the nursery at the top of the house with the child: the nurse was engaged in doing something at a chest of drawers, which were close to the window, from which the deceased was looking to see her brothers at play in the green below. There are two protecting bars across the lower part of the window, which was open about half-way up; and whilst the nurse was occupied as stated she suddenly missed the child from the window and just caught sight of her dress as she fell out over the bars of the window on to the balcony. The nurse immediately ran downstairs, but on her way she met her mistress - who had heard the fall and picked up the child - with the deceased in her arms. The girl was too terrified to explain how the accident had occurred, but she did so subsequently. Mr Stabb, surgeon, was sent for, and was promptly in attendance. He found the child had sustained severe contusions about the body, and that there were two blows on the head - one on the temple, and the other over the left eye. He examined the body, and found no bones broken, and after being dressed and put in a bath the child was laid in its cot in the nursery. The surgeon told MRS FARRELL that if the deceased had sustained no internal injuries she might do well. He called again at six o'clock, when he found the child worse; blood was oozing from the ear - a sign which did not make its appearance on his first examination. The child died about eight o'clock on Monday evening, the cause of death being fracture of the base of the skull. MRS FARRELL, the mother of the deceased, was deeply affected on entering the room to give her evidence, supported by her husband, and much sympathy was felt for the bereaved lady. She bore testimony to the kindness the nurse had always shewn towards her child, and expressed her belief that she had met her death under purely accidental circumstances. There could be no doubt, the Coroner observed, that the child met its death by falling out of the window; and the only question was whether it was the result of an accident or not. After haring MRS FARRELL'S evidence on this point, however, he thought the Jury would be doing their duty by returning a verdict of "Accidental Death." A verdict in accordance with the suggestion of the Coroner was accordingly returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 29 July 1871
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident. - A sad accident happened on Thursday morning to FREDERICK WILLIAM ABBOTT, aged fourteen, the eldest son of MR ABBOTT, butcher, of Fleet-street. The deceased was riding a horse near the Torbay Road, when he accidentally fell, through the breaking of the girth of the saddle. The unfortunate lad sustained severe injuries about the head. Capt. Bentill, of Furswill House, St. Mary-Church, found the deceased and conveyed him to his home. Dr Pollard was sent for and was quickly in attendance, but medical skill proved of no avail, the injuries terminating fatally about five o'clock in the afternoon. Much commiseration is felt for MR and MRS ABBOTT in their sad and sudden bereavement. An Inquest on the body will probably be held this (Friday) evening.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 5 August 1871
TORQUAY - The Recent Fatal Accident. - An Inquest was held at the Town Hal on Saturday morning last, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of FREDERICK WILLIAM ABBOTT, fourteen years of age, the son of MR ABBOTT, butcher, of Fleet-street. A brief notice of the unfortunate event appeared last week, and some additional particulars were adduced at the Inquiry. It seems that on the Thursday morning the deceased had rode out to Mr Froude's house for orders, and that on his return, shortly before eleven o'clock, he met Philip Michelmore Crockwell, a son of Mr H. Crockwell, upholsterer, and stopped and spoke to him near the slip at Livermead beach. He subsequently rode on, but he had not proceeded thirty yards when he was seen to sit loosely on his horse and then to fall off, pitching on his head and shoulders, the cause of his fall being the breaking of the saddle girth. Crockwell ran to the deceased and picked him up, but he was insensible, and unable to speak. He sat him up against the wall, whilst the horse galloped on to the turnpike-gate, where it was stopped. Captain Bentall happened to be passing in his carriage at the time, and took up the deceased and drove him to his home. Mr J. Pollard, surgeon, who attended the deceased about an hour after the accident, found him quite insensible. There was a bruise on the left hip. The deceased remained insensible up to the time of his death, the cause of which was believed to have been owing to the brain being lacerated, causing an effusion of blood on it. It was explained that the pace at which deceased was riding at the time of the accident was just over a canter. This explanation was given at the wish of the father of the deceased, who said people might otherwise think the accident was caused by fast riding. Rufus Barter, a salesman, and MR ABBOTT also gave testimony; and in summing up the Coroner condemned the two prevalent practice of butchers' boys riding with a single saddle girth. The verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned; and the Jury, of whom Mr Bond was the Foreman, presented their fees, amounting to 11s., through Acting-Sergeant board, to the Torbay Infirmary.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 9 September 1871
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident. - An Inquest was held at the Torbay Infirmary on Saturday, before Mr H. Michelmore, on the body of WILLIAM CAME, a plasterer, who received injuries which resulted in his death by falling off the roof of Hendon House, on the 24th June last. The evidence shewed that the deceased, who was sixty years of age, was at work on the roof in the morning. In consequence of having neglected to fasten a small ladder on which he was standing, and in endeavouring to repair a chimney, he overbalanced himself and fell to the ground. He was taken up in an insensible condition, and was found to be suffering from concussion of the brain. He was at first attended by Dr Thompson, and afterwards removed to the Infirmary, where every attention was paid him by Dr Powell, the house surgeon. He gradually sunk under his injuries, however, and died on the 31st August, from softening of the brain, caused by the accident. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, and they presented their fees, through Sergeant Ockford, to the Infirmary.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 16 September 1871
BABBICOMBE - Melancholy Death By Drowning. - An Inquest was held on Thursday evening at the Roughwood Hotel, Babbicombe, on the body of JOHN THOMAS SMITH, aged twenty, a solicitor's clerk, of London, who was drowned off the White Beach at Anstis Cove the previous day, under circumstances as detailed in the appended evidence. Mr H. Michelmore was the Coroner, and Mr Thos. Gibson was chosen as the Foreman of the Jury. From the evidence it appeared that between half-past seven and eight o'clock on Wednesday morning the deceased went to the White Beach for the purpose of bathing. On his way to the beach he met a sailor named James Earle, whom he asked if there were any machines let out there for gentlemen. Earle replied that there were not, and deceased then went to the water and commenced bathing in a rather rough sea - so rough that some of the waves were said to rise at a height of ten feet before breaking on the beach. The deceased swam out very well for about a hundred yards, and then returned; and he swam out again a second time. When he had got out the same distance as at first he suddenly cried out for help. and on hearing this Mr Henry Thomas, the boatman at Anstis Cove - who happened to be passing from one beach to the other at the time - immediately ran towards the White Beach. He requested his man Earle to get him a rope, and having partially undressed himself he waded through the water as far as the rope would allow him. He called to the deceased to get as near him as possible, but the more he tried to do this the further he got from him. The waves then knocked Thomas off his legs, and when he recovered himself he went back to the beach, at the same time telling deceased to swim on his back whilst he procured a boat. The young man did this at once, and Thomas and his man went to Anstis Cove and put off a boat to rescue the deceased. More than twenty minutes elapsed, however, before they could approach him, in consequence of the rough sea that prevailed, and when at length they got near the body it was turned over with the face downwards, but still floating on the water. The body was taken into the boat and conveyed to Thomas' house at Anstis Cove. Dr Bernard, who had previously been sent for, was quickly in attendance, and when he arrived he found the persons there were taking the proper means to restore him. They had dressed him in dry clothes; they were rubbing his body, and had put hot water bottles to his feet. The appearance of the body was that of a healthy, well-grown man; and, hoping it might be only a case of suspended animation, they continued their efforts to restore it for an hour and a half, Mr Thomas supplying everything that was wanted, as if it had been his own son. No circulation, however, could be restored; and Dr Bernard considered deceased died from the lungs being filled with water, as was the case with persons whose deaths were caused by drowning. MR THOMAS SMITH, the father of the deceased, who resides at Duke-street, Grosvenor-square, was present at the Inquest. The Coroner, in summing up, said it was a very clear but painful case. This poor young fellow came down from London to enjoy his holidays in Devonshire, and, with a little foolhardiness, perhaps, he went out to bathe when he ought not. He thought they would agree with him that both Earle and Thomas did all they could to save the life of the deceased, that no blame attached to any one, and that his death was the result of a pure accident. The Jury concurred in the observations of the Coroner, and returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 23 September 1871
BABBICOMBE - Reckless Bathing. - An Inquest was held at Gasking's Cary Arms, Babbicombe, on Wednesday morning, by Mr H. Michelmore, on the body of ALBERT JACKMAN, a young man who was drowned at Teignmouth on the 10th inst. Henry Stoneman and Frank Hannaford, who were bathing with the deceased at the time of his death, gave evidence that the sea was very rough, and although they both endeavoured to save him the waves prevented them. The body was picked up by Wm. Stiggins in Babbicombe Bay on Tuesday. The Coroner, in commenting on the evidence, condemned the reckless manner in which young men persisted in bathing when the sea was too rough. A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned by the Jury.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 21 October 1871
ST. MARY CHURCH - Fatal Accident at St. Mary-Church. - A very sad occurrence took place at the Palk Arms Brewery, St. Mary-Church, about six o'clock on Saturday evening last. A brewer named ROBERT SYMONS, about forty years of age, in the employ of Mr Mortimore, was walking over a vat containing boiling liquor, when he unfortunately missed his footing and fell into the seething, scalding liquid. The poor man's injuries and sufferings must have been frightful; he was severely scalded about the lower parts of the body. Dr Finch was sent for and was promptly in attendance, but notwithstanding all that was done to alleviate the unfortunate man's intense pain he gradually sank and died on Sunday evening. What makes the occurrence all the more sad is that the deceased had only just recovered from a bad scald, and that he leaves a widow and one child unprovided for. At the Inquest, which was held at the Palk Arms, on Tuesday evening, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death"; and at the same time expressed their opinion that a rail should be placed around the vat, and a lighted lamp at its head. This Mr Mortimer, the proprietor, stated should be done. The Jury, of whom Mr Wm. Taylor, was the Foreman, agreed to give up their usual fees to the widow of the unfortunate deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 28 October 1871
TORQUAY - Death By Drowning. - On Thursday a little boy, named HENRY CHING, four years of age, the son of MR CHING, broker, of Market-street, fell into the water near the coal quay and was drowned. An Inquest was held on the body this (Friday) afternoon, at the Torbay Infirmary, but the Enquiry was adjourned until Monday morning next for further evidence.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 24 February 1872
TORQUAY - Sad Death Of A Sailor. - An Inquest was held at the Torbay Infirmary on Wednesday evening, before Mr H. Michelmore, the County Coroner, and a Jury, of which Mr Hammick, of Union-street, was Foreman, to Enquire into the circumstances connected with the death of GEORGE POMEROY, whose body was found close to the coal quay on Monday evening last. The Jury found a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 23 March 1872
TORQUAY - Melancholy Sudden Death. - An Inquest was held at the Town Hall, Torquay, on Saturday afternoon last, before Dr Gaye, Deputy Coroner, on the body of MARY CHARLOTTE, the wife of MR JOHN ADAMS, boot and shoe maker, of Lower Union-street, who was found dead early the previous morning. Mr John Pook was the Foreman of the Jury. - MR ADAMS said he had been married twenty-four years, and had one son living. His wife's health was, to the best of his belief, usually good. She attended to the household duties, and made no complaint until Thursday, when she said she felt unwell. He last saw her alive between ten and eleven o'clock on the night preceding her death. She was then sitting in a chair in his son's bedroom, partially undressed. She was apparently very sleepy when he wished her good night. His wife had been to Torre during the evening, and on her return at eight o'clock she appeared perfectly well. As far as he knew, his wife was a most temperate woman. He never saw her take gin and water before going to bed. She sometimes slept with him and sometimes not. It was a quarter to six on Friday morning when he discovered his wife sitting in the chair, leaning on her arm, with her head hanging down. He received no answer on speaking to her, and when he put his hand to her heart and found she was dead, he gave information to his next door neighbour, Mr Turner, and sent for a doctor. - FRANCIS ADAMS, the son of the deceased, said after his mother came back from Torre they shut the shop together. He went to bed the same time as his mother, who sat down in the chair. She did not complain of being unwell, nor did she appear so. After undressing he went into his father's room and slept with him. He was awoke early the following morning by his father, who told him he thought his mother was dead or dying. He had not heard any disagreement between them the previous evening. - Mr Geo. Turner, jeweller, of Lower Union-street, said the deceased came into his house between six and seven o'clock on Thursday evening. She seemed in her usual spirits, and said she was going to Torre to get some money. When he went into the house next morning, at MR ADAMS' request, he saw the deceased in a chair, with part of her dress undone, and her head lying downwards. Finding she was dead, he went for Dr Robinson. He had never heard the deceased and her husband quarrel, nor had he on any occasion heard her complain of any ill-treatment by her husband. - Dr Robinson said when he saw the deceased her head was resting on her shoulder, with the palms of her hands outwards. She must have been dead five or six hours. She appeared to have vomited slightly over her dress, apparently being unable to move. The vomit consisted of food partially digested, and there was no blood mixed with it. He had professionally attended the deceased during the last four or five years, and he had no reason to think she was addicted to drink. In the post-mortem examination he subsequently made he was assisted by Mr P. Q. Karkeek. They found no bruise or abrasion of the body, which was well nourished; and in his opinion serous apoplexy was the cause of death. A verdict of "Died from Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 8 June 1872
TORQUAY - Melancholy Suicide Of A Woman. - For some time past ELIZABETH MILSON, fifty-two years of age, the wife of a smith in the employ of Messrs. Stark & Co., has been suffering from despondency, and on Wednesday she complained of pains in the head and sought medical aid. She was last seen alive at her house in Melville-street about nine o'clock on Wednesday evening by a next-door neighbour. The next morning her dead body was discovered by a lady residing in Scarborough Terrace lying just beyond the slip at Livermead, partially covered with sand. The face was swollen and disfigured; her bonnet was on, but her cloak was found about sixty yards off. The lady at once informed Andrew Berryman, the young man in charge of the Torre Abbey turnpike-gate, of what she had seen; and he promptly caused the information to be extended to P.C. Hurson, who happened to be on the Torbay-road at the time. He soon procured a conveyance, and took the body to the Infirmary, where an Inquest has been held on it this (Friday) afternoon by Mr H. Michelmore, the County Coroner. A verdict of "Found Drowned" was the result of the Inquiry. The poor woman was much esteemed by her friends and neighbours, and much commiseration is felt at her sad end. She leaves one child, a daughter, about sixteen years of age.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 8 March 1873
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident. - An Inquest was held on Friday evening last, by Mr Michelmore, Coroner, at the residence of MR SUPT. STODDART, on the body of his little boy, six years of age, whose night-dress caught on fire whilst he was in bed on the 56th of February. Notwithstanding the prompt attendance of Dr Huxley, and his subsequent attention to the little sufferer, he gradually succumbed to his injuries, and died on Wednesday week. A verdict of Accidental Death was returned; and the Jury, through Sergeant Board, gave their fees to the Infirmary. The funeral of the deceased took place at the cemetery on Tuesday, when the members of the police force attended. Sergt. Board and P.C.'s Hurson, Grills, and Charley acted as bearers; and Sergt. Ockford and 20 Constables formed an escort in front.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 12 April 1873
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident to A Quarryman At Babbicombe. - An Inquest was held at the Torbay Infirmary, on Saturday evening, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM LEWIS, a quarryman, 69 years of age, who was accidentally killed whilst at work at the Wall's Hill Quarry, on Friday afternoon. The deceased, who was in the employ of Mr Wm. Drake, of Ellacombe, had been engaged in quarry work for forty years. John Hutchings, a quarryman, of Babbicombe, who was at work with the deceased at the time of the accident, about three o'clock in the afternoon, said they were engaged in blasting rock, and had charged two holes with powder. The witness fired the fuse, but before he lighted it the deceased had gone off at a distance of fifty yards in the open air, there being no covered shelter. They were both standing near each other at the same place before the first charge went off. When it did, a large stone came flying in the direction of the deceased; and, although his companion pulled him by the arm, he failed to get out of its way quick enough, and it struck him in the middle of the back and knocked him down. The stone was a half hundred weight or more, and came in a sideway direction. The deceased was knocked into a pit of water close by, and when his fellow workman picked him up he was almost speechless. He was at once laid on sacks in the bottom of a cart, and taken to the Torbay Infirmary, but he was dead by the time he arrived at the institution. In reply to the Coroner, Hutchings said the charge of powder in the hole, which was uncovered, was fifteen inches deep, at a depth of three feet, and about an inch and a half in diameter. Fifteen inches of powder was none too much, in fact was scarcely enough, to lift the piece of rock three feet deep. The cause of the stone coming in the direction of the deceased was that a piece of rock about a foot in depth from the top was blown off. Instead of stepping sideways to get out of the way, the deceased attempted to run away in a straight direction, and so the stone struck him in the back and knocked him forward. The Coroner remarked that the occurrence was purely accidental, although he thought fifty yards was hardly a sufficient distance for quarrymen to retire whilst the fuses were being fired without any covering on the holes charged with powder. A verdict of Accidental Death was returned; and the Jury, of whom Mr Pepprell was the Foreman, gave their fees through Sergeant board to the widow.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 19 April 1873
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident. - On Monday evening several lads were at play in the Avenues, and one of them, named HARRY MARTIN, ten years of age, had climbed up a tree. He was suddenly surprised by one of the other boys calling out that a policeman was coming, and in his hurry to descend he fell from one of the braches to the ground. He received such injuries to his head that he died during the night at the Torbay Infirmary, where he was removed. The deceased was the son of SAMUEL MARTIN, of America, and formerly a gardener in the employ of Dr Gillow, of Stapleton. A letter from MARTIN, speaking of the good field of labour in Canada recently appeared in our columns. An Inquest was held on the body at the Infirmary, on Tuesday evening, before Mr Michelmore, Coroner, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned. The Jury, through Sergeant Ockford, handed their fees to the Infirmary.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 27 September 1873
TORQUAY - Coroner's Inquest. Fatal Accident At Hope's Nose. - An inquest was held at the Torbay Infirmary on Tuesday evening, before Mr H. Michelmore, to Enquire into the circumstances attending the death of ROBERT PIM, a fisherman, who was brought into the institution about six weeks since suffering from injuries sustained by an accident, and who died on Monday morning. Mr Pook was the Foreman of the Jury. The following evidence was adduced: RICHARD PIM, a fisherman, living in Pimlico, said the deceased was his father, and resided opposite him. He was 70 years of age, and died on the 22nd September from injuries sustained in falling over a cliff at Hope's Nose. Witness spoke to him at nine o'clock the same morning, whilst he was looking out for mackerel, but he did not again see him until two days after the accident, when he was insensible. he had frequently seen him since, and in reply to a question the deceased once said he slipped as he was going down the pathway. Thomas Harvey, a fisherman, of Pimlico, said he was fishing off Hope's Nose on the day in question, when he saw the deceased coming down by the lower path which led from his hut to the beach. He was about 150 yards from the spot at the time, but he saw the deceased slip over the edge of a cliff where two paths meet, roll a little way down on to a grass plot, and then fall nearly fifty feet further to the bottom. Witness gave the alarm, and immediately ran to the deceased's assistance, with other fishermen. He found that he was insensible, and apparently "dead to the world;" and he was at once put into a boat and brought to Torquay. Sergeant Ockford said he saw the deceased brought in, and the men pulled as if for their life. Mr William Powell, house surgeon at the Infirmary, said the deceased was brought there on the 8th August, and had continued under his care until the previous day, when he died. He was insensible when brought in. On examining him he found he was suffering from fractured ribs on the left side and a lacerated wound on the head. In all probability he had also sustained internal injuries; and from the first he never had any hope of his recovery. A fisherman, named John Harrington, one of the crew that pulled in the boat, and who had been summoned to attend as a witness, did not appear, but the Coroner said he would not on this occasion carry out the penalty of the law against him. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - Fatal Accident At The Old Woods. - At the same time and place a second Inquest was held respecting a fatal accident that had happened the same evening. Several of the Jurymen complained of the lateness of the hour in holding the Inquests. They thought it most unreasonable and unjust to be called away from their homes at so late an hour - nine o'clock for the first Inquest and ten o'clock for the second. The Coroner said he was sorry to hear the remarks made, because he did not think it reasonable to call them together a second time the following morning. The remarks were uncalled for, and but for the special occasion he would not allow them to have been made. He did not expect such observations, and he hoped he should hear no more of them. The Inquest was then proceeded with. - The name of the deceased was WILLIAM CATER, a labourer in the employ of Messrs. Webber and Stedham, brickmakers and cement manufacturers, of Market Street, Torquay. He was at work digging clay on the Old Woods Brick Works on the Newton Road, during Tuesday. He was undermining a bank of clay about nine or ten feet high, and when Mr Webber spoke to him about four o'clock in the afternoon he saw no signs of cracks. Robert Melhuish, tilemaker, and foreman at the works, said he saw the deceased about an hour before his death, and also shortly after the clay had fallen on him, before he had ceased moaning. He immediately took a shovel and removed about nine inches of clay from the face of the deceased. From the position in which he was lying, witness considered the deceased was not at work when the clay fell on him. He breathed three or four times when the clay was removed from his face, but by the time his whole body was taken out the man was dead. In reply to the Coroner, witness said the only reason he could give for the fall of the clay was that the recent wet weather might have caused the clay to fall more quickly than at other times. CATER had recently been home ill, and had only resumed work on the previous Thursday. Frederick Llewellyn Bowerman, a brickmaker, also employed at the works, said it would perhaps be rather safer, but propping was not required in the process of undermining. It was usual for a man to watch the tope, but deceased did not call any one to watch during the afternoon. He should think half-a-dozen tons of clay altogether fell on the deceased. He thought the fall was caused by a gutter running at the back of the bank, causing it to be moist. In reply to the Coroner, Sergt. Ockford said the deceased was 33 years old, and buried his only child a few weeks since. The Coroner remarked that undermining clay seemed to be a dangerous process, and one in which they might possibly think precautions might be taken in carrying it out. It was for the Jury to say whether the slip was caused accidentally, or whether precautions might not have been taken by propping, or to have a man or boy to watch. They might recommend this precaution, although the want of it was not criminal in this case, because the men could always have someone to watch for the asking. Still they might be doing a kind act to the rest of the workmen there, and at other works in the neighbourhood, by making such a recommendation. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and the Coroner impressed on the Foreman the importance of acquainting every workman in future of the nature of the clay he has to dig. In the first case the Jurymen's fees were given to the Infirmary, and in the second they were given to the widow, through Sergt. Ockford.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 20 December 1873
TORQUAY - Fatal Cab Accident. - An Inquest was held at Mr D. Gibbons' Commercial Hotel, Torwood-street, on Monday evening, before Mr H. Michelmore, County Coroner, to Enquire into the circumstances attending the death of JANE GEORGE, a widow, 76 years of age, who died the previous Saturday from injuries received from being knocked down in the street a few weeks ago. Mr Tripe was the Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness was John Boles, who said he saw the horse and cab which knocked down the deceased on the 22nd November. The horse was coming along at a rate of about five or six miles an hour. - Ann Berry, a widow, residing at 2, Park Lane, said the deceased, who lived at her house, was brought home on the evening in question, having sustained injuries in her right arm and side, from which she died on Saturday morning. - Dr Nind said he was called to see the deceased about quarter past six on the evening named. He found her in bed, suffering from a contusion of the right elbow, a fracture of the neck of the thigh bone on the same side, and a shock to the nervous system. He was informed she had been knocked down by a cab, but he did not enquire from the deceased how the occurrence happened. The cause of her death was exhaustion, principally from the shock to the system. - George German, boots at the Royal Hotel, said he saw the deceased on the ground outside the hotel. The horse and cab were stopped, and the driver was assisting to help the old lady up. It was a very dark night, though the lamps were lit. - Peter Payne, the driver, after receiving the usual caution from the Coroner, expressed his wish to tell the truth about the occurrence. He said he was in the employ of Mr Hodge, of Ilsham Cottages. On the evening in question he was trotting along slowly from Bater's shop, in Victoria Parade, in the direction of Torwood-street. Just as he got outside the hotel the horse's head came in contact with the deceased, who was crossing the road. It was very dark, and he did not see her before. He called to her the moment he did see her, and he pulled up so quickly that only the horse's nose touched her and knocked her over. - The Coroner, in addressing the Jury, said there was only one witness who could carry the evidence any further, and that was the boots at the Royal Hotel, who saw the occurrence. He was too ill to attend, but he was not prepared to lay blame on anyone. Payne, the driver, had given his evidence fairly enough, and he saw no necessity for carrying the Enquiry further, though the Jury could obtain additional evidence if they wished. It was rather a pity that neither Ann Berry nor Dr Nind enquired of the deceased and obtained from her an account of how the occurrence happened. If the Jury were of opinion that the driver could not have helped knocking the deceased down they would return a verdict of accidental death. The Foreman said he thought the occurrence was undoubtedly the result of an accident, but he thought the coroner should caution the cabman. What was the prescribed rate of driving - six miles an hour? - The Coroner: Is there no bye-law in Torquay to that effect? - Sergeant board said there was not. The Foreman said he did not think any blame was to be attributed to the driver, a remark in which the remainder of the Jury concurred. A verdict of Accidental Death was therefore returned. The Coroner then, at the wish of the Jury, called in Payne, the driver, informing him that he was not to blame in this case, yet he desired to caution him and through him the other cab-drivers in the town that it behoved them to be more careful. He had heard that there had been several accidents and narrow escapes in Torquay lately in consequence of furious driving, and he expressed a hope that this would prove a general caution to all. The Jury gave their fees, and Mr Gibbons also gave the fee for the use of the room, through Sergeant Board, to the daughter of the deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 27 December 1873
TORQUAY - Coroner's Inquest At The Town Hall. The Necessity For Holding Inquests. - An Inquest was held at the Town Hall, Torquay, on Saturday evening, before Mr H. Michelmore, County Coroner, on the body of JOHN HILL, a livery-stable keeper, late in the employ of Messrs. Holman and Son, carriage proprietors, of Cobourg Place, Rock Road. The deceased, who was sixty-three years of age, and resided in Melville Street, died on Thursday night from injuries received on the previous Tuesday afternoon. Mr John Pook was the Foreman of the Jury. The first duty of the Jury was to go and view the body, and on their return, Mr W. Croft, as a Juryman, asked the Coroner, whether there was any necessity for holding this Inquest, after the certificate of death which had been given by Dr Colt. - The Coroner: The necessity for the Inquest has been shewn by your being summoned here this evening. Had there been no necessity for the Inquest I should not have issued a warrant for it. Mr Croft said of course he could not ask where that warrant was derived from. - The Coroner: (sternly) The warrant, Sir, was derived from my hand. This was all that was then said on the subject, and Mr Croft resumed his seat. - William Henry Leader, a blacksmith, of Melville Street, was the first witness called. He said he had known the deceased for many years, and as Mr Holman's coach-house door was opposite his shop he saw him go out and return with the shillabeer, or modern hearse, on Tuesday afternoon. Whilst still on the box, the deceased asked witness to shut the coach-house door, and he did so. Knowing that one of the two horses attached to the vehicle was young and spirited, witness proffered his assistance further, but the deceased said he could do without it, and witness returned to his shop. The deceased then got off the box and commenced taking off the harness and the next thing that attracted the witness's attention was a rumbling noise and a cry. On turning round he saw the vehicle going sharply around the corner, and one of the wheels going over the body of the deceased, who was on his face and hands. He ran to him as fast as he could, and he got up nimbly for a man of his age. The horses had got loose and gone down over the hill, and witness went after them to prevent further accident. A man named Hyne had hold of one, and the other, which had broken away from the remaining trace, had run away down the hill through Coburg Place on to Mr Dendy's front door. The deceased helped the vehicle back, and returned with Mr Holman and himself to the stable. The deceased's mouth was bleeding, but he did not complain, and on witness saying he must have been shaken he said he should soon be better again. Witness saw him the next day, when he complained of being sore and stiff, but hoped it would pass off again. That was all that passed, and he never saw the poor old man after. The young horse he had mentioned was fresh and rather skittish, but not inclined to be vicious. In reply to several questions from the Jury, the witness said he was positive that the wheel passed over the body of the deceased. He saw marks of dirt on his clothes, but whether they were produced from the fall or by the wheel he could not say. - James Western, a youth sixteen years of age, apprentice to Mr Leader, said on the afternoon in question he saw the deceased get off the box and undo the reins, and he then went on with his work. Hearing a "rumpus," he turned round and saw the deceased going after the two horses, which had broken loose. He could not catch hold of the other he fell and the front and hind wheel of the vehicle passed over him as it went down over the hill. The deceased got up as soon as the wheels had gone over him. - Honor Trace, wife of John Trace, yachtsman, living in Melville-street, said she saw the deceased drive the shillabeer back. She saw him get off the box, and whilst he was undoing the traces, his shoulder seemed to touch the rump of one of the horses, which started round. As he caught the other hold by the bridle he lost his legs and fell, and the left hind wheel of the vehicle went over his should towards the hip. - Thomas Archer Colt, M.D., residing at Maidencombe, said he saw the deceased on Thursday afternoon, having been requested to visit him. He enquired of the deceased the nature of the accident, and he said he was unharnessing a young horse that was rather fresh on Tuesday afternoon when the both horses made a bolt and flung him violently on the ground, and that some of his neighbours told him the hearse had gone over him, but he was not aware himself whether it had or not. Witness examined him, and found a considerable bruise on the inner side of the left leg and eye. He was also exceedingly tender about his liver and stomach, and had been and was then vomiting. Deceased also complained so much of pains in his head that he concluded, from the flashing of his eyes and dilation of the pupils, that he was suffering from compression of the brain. He told the relatives it was an exceedingly critical case, from the age of the deceased, and said he would see him again the next day. He died, however, the same night. In the opinion of the witness, the cause of death was the shock to the system and compression of the brain, which might unquestionably have been caused by the body being thrown violently to the ground, just as in the case of a railway accident. In reply to the Coroner, Dr Colt said he gave Mr Waymouth the certificate of death conditionally, on his informing him that the deceased was ill three days, and that the occurrence was not attributable to any wilful violence. The Coroner said then it was his duty to caution Dr Colt that when he gave the certificate to Mr Waymouth he had no right to do so. It was not for Mr Waymouth or the doctor to say how this occurrence happened. It was for the Jury alone to say whether the shock to the system was caused by an accident or by any other means. Dr Colt admitted this was so, and said he would take care he would not give a certificate under similar circumstances in future. The Coroner, in addressing the Jury, said he did not think they would have any difficulty in coming to a verdict in this case. The witnesses called had proved that the deceased was thrown to the ground by some means in connection either with himself or with the two horses. If they were satisfied that the horses were safe, they would say at once that it was by accident, and not wilfully, that the occurrence happened. Compression of the brain must be caused by something beyond natural causes, and in this case there was the shock to the system to account for it. Whether this shock was caused by the wheel passing over the body or by the fall would be immaterial, provided death was caused by one or the other, and that either was an accident. Before, however, leaving the case to the decision of the Jury, he wished to answer more clearly and fully the question which one of their number put to him at the opening of the enquiry. From the information he received he had not the slightest doubt that an Inquest was necessary, and this had been fully borne out by the evidence. The certificate given by Dr Colt ought not to have been given, for if it had been taken to a registrar he could not have ordered the burial on that alone. The Jury were called together, not to enquire whether this was a natural death, but, knowing possibly that death resulted from the shock to the system, they had to decide what caused it, and whether it was accidental or otherwise. It was not for Mr Waymouth to tell the doctor that there was no one near the deceased at the time of the occurrence, or that no one was to blame in the matter; that was a question for the Jury, and the Jury alone. It was not even for him (the Coroner) to say such a thing; in any case of death by violence an Inquest must be held. A man might be thrown from his horse and have his leg broken, and might not die for a week afterwards, and in such a case persons had frequently enquired as to the necessity for holding an Inquest. But the doctor could not say how the leg was broken, or the shock caused; he could only say that the deceased died from the shock to the system. That, therefore, was the necessity for holding an Inquest in such cases. He was always loath to hold an Inquest where he thought he could avoid it, and the number of recent sudden deaths in Torquay, which he had not caused to be enquired into except by himself with the police, testified to this. Whenever he could avoid holding an Inquest he did so, but in such a case as the present he was bound, as Coroner, to hold an Inquiry, and he could not prevent it. With these few remarks, he left it in their hands to say whether the deceased's death was the result of an accident or not. The Jury immediately returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The fees were given, through Sergeant Ockford, to the widow of the deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 24 January 1874
BISHOPSTEIGNTON - Sad Occurrence. - A painful occurrence has taken place at Bishopsteignton. A young woman named ANN PETHERICK, 27 years of age, a lady's maid to Mrs Huddlestone, at The Lodge, returned from London, where she had been with her mistress, on Monday, the 5th inst., and on the following Tuesday she was taken ill. She went to bed, and it was supposed that she had taken cold whilst on her journey down. She refused to see a doctor, saying that "it was very cruel of them to bring a doctor when she had no wish to see one." On the Wednesday and Thursday there were no signs of her getting better, and she was again advised to have medical advice, but she refused, stating that she would soon recover. On Saturday last Mrs Gater, wife of the gardener at The Lodge, on going to a cupboard in the young woman's room, found the dead body of a male child wrapped up in a shawl. A doctor was sent for, and PETHERICK was accused of being the mother. She at first denied it, but on Sunday evening, confessed to Mrs Huddlestone that she had given birth to the child. On Monday Mr Michelmore, County Coroner, held an Inquest, at which Mr Edwards, surgeon, gave evidence to the effect that the child was fully developed, but he could not say whether it had had an independent existence, and an Open Verdict was returned. The matter has had a still more tragical termination than is usual in such cases, for from the time the discovery was made the unfortunate mother sank gradually, and on Tuesday she died.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 14 February 1874
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident. - An inquest was held at the Torbay Infirmary, on Thursday afternoon, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM BURNETT, a marine store dealer, who resided at Brunswick Square, Torre, and who was a well-known character in the town and neighbourhood. From the evidence adduced, it appears that on the evening of Wednesday week the deceased was walking along the road near Mr Knight's, baker, Torre, when, in getting out of the way of a carriage which was passing, he was by some means knocked down. One of Mr Farrant's waggons, loaded with goods, was coming from Torre Station at the time, and the wheel passed over his leg, breaking it at the ankle joint. He was immediately picked up by the driver, Richard Crute, and a man named Tall, and placed in a cab and taken to the Infirmary, where he was promptly attended by Dr Powell. During the evening a consultation was held by Messrs. J. Pollard, W. Pollard, J. Huxley, and Dr Powell, at which it was decided to amputate the foot above the ankle joint, the operation being performed by Mr Huxley, assisted by Dr Powell. The old man, who was in his sixty-seventh year, never rallied, and expired about midnight on Tuesday. The Jury, of which Mr J. Pook was the Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," exonerating the driver from all blame. The Jury fees were given, through Sergt. Ockford, to the Infirmary.

TORQUAY - Accidental Death. - An Inquest was held at the Torbay Infirmary on Monday evening, before Mr Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of LOUISA ROW, belonging to Paignton. On Tuesday, January 27th, it is presumed she was taking a kettle of water off the fire when her dress caught. Her screams brought to her assistance two women named Pope and Furze, who extinguished the flames, but the girl was so badly burnt as to necessitate her removal to the Infirmary, where she died on Saturday last. Dr Powell, who attended the deceased, stated it as his opinion that she died from burning, and shock to the system. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and through Sergeant Ockford gave their fees to the father, whose wife died only about a month since.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 21 February 1874
TORQUAY - Death Through Sucking Matches. - An Inquest was held at the Town Hall, Torquay, on Monday evening, before Mr Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of EMILY ZABLE, aged two years and three months, who lived with her parents at 22 Melville Street. The mother of the deceased girl, SARAH JANE ZABLE, stated that she was a married woman, that her husband was called FRANK ZABLE, and that they lived at 22 Melville Street. The deceased was their daughter, and was two years old last November. About half-past ten on Saturday morning she went upstairs to scrub the bedroom, leaving the deceased at the front door at play. About eleven o'clock, when she came down again, she found the deceased in the living-room with a lucifer match in her hand, going to put it in her mouth. The witness took the match away, and washed her mouth out, and the child went away to play again. Witness also saw some matches under the grate. The child ate a good dinner about half-past twelve, but about four o'clock she was a little sick. Witness then took her to Mr Glynn, chemist, of Abbey Road. She told him that about eleven o'clock the deceased had sucked some matches, and asked him if he could give her something for the child. Mr Glynn gave her some castor oil; he did not tell her to do anything to the deceased, but said if the child got worse she was to take it to a medical man. Witness then took the child home and gave it the castor oil, and about three quarters of an hour afterwards she vomited. The deceased slept during the night and about one o'clock on Sunday morning she woke up, had some tea and biscuit, played with her little sister and went off to sleep again. She again woke up about five o'clock, and called for her father, who gave her some warm tea. Witness went downstairs for Mrs Knapman (who lives in the same house), who came up with her at once. Her husband went for Dr Powell, at the Infirmary, but returned without him. She then went up with her husband for Dr Dalby, who lives in the Warren Road, and when they returned with him the child was lying where she left her, dead. FRANK ZABLE stated he was the husband of the last witness and a lamp-lighter in the employ of the Local Board. On Sunday morning, between one and two o'clock, he left his house to make out the lamps. The deceased slept in a bed with her sister in the same room as his wife. He subsequently went for Dr Powell, at the Infirmary, as soon as he saw there was a change. When he arrived there a woman asked him through the door what he wanted, and when he had told her a man came out. Witness told him that there was a little girl dying at 22 Melville Street; he also said she had been sucking matches on Saturday. The man asked him whether he had a ticket and he replied no. The man then said that he should go and get a medical man. Witness came home, and went with his wife for Dr Dalby, who came back with them. Witness stated that his wages were 16s. per week, and that he had a wife and three children to maintain. Dr Powell was next called, and stated that he was the house surgeon at the Infirmary. Between five and six o'clock on Sunday morning he received a message from the dispenser that a child called ZABLE, living in Melville Street, who had been sucking matches the day before, was dying. He sent a message to say that if they wanted the child attended at the house, they must send for a medical man, the rule of the Infirmary being that all cases of accident and emergency should be treated at the institution. Mr William Bennett Dalby, M.D., living at Warwick House, Warren Road, said about half-past five on Sunday morning he was called and told by MRS ZABLE that her child had been sucking matches on Saturday. The deceased was dead, however, before he arrived. Mr Dalby, in answer to the Coroner, said he could not say that if the child had been taken to a surgeon in the first instance its life could have been saved. A grain of phosphorous was sufficient to destroy life, and it was probable that the child had taken that if not more. The child was delicate, and it was a deadly poison. The Coroner having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death from Poison," and through Sergt. Ockford gave their fees to the parents.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 28 February 1874
PAIGNTON - Fatal Accident To An Actor. - An Inquest was held at the Pier Inn, Paignton, on Wednesday evening, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of FRANCIS WALTER WATTS, an actor at the Paignton Bijon Theatre, and whose stage name was FRANK CLIFFORD. The evidence adduced shewed that the deceased and his wife had been lodging at a house near the pier, kept by Mrs Mary Dowell, during the past three weeks. They came in about one o'clock on Tuesday morning, after drinking, although the deceased was said by the manager to have been sober when he left the theatre on Monday night, shortly after eleven. His wife, however, had been drinking at the Commercial Inn during the night, and was said by the landlord to be drunk. Angry words passed between the two on their arrival at their lodgings, and the deceased went out once, but returned again. The quarrel was again renewed, but although the deceased's wife spoke angrily he spoke in a kind tone. She was heard to ask him to go downstairs and get the matches, and as he was going over the stairs he fell nearly from the top to the bottom. His wife and the landlady ran down at once, the former screaming dreadfully. They found the deceased quite unconscious, and he died within two hours and half-an-hour before Dr Pridham, who was sent for, arrived. The cause of death was fracture of the skull. The wife of the deceased was present at the Inquest, and seemed much affected. She was cautioned by the Coroner, but made no statement. A verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 14 March 1874
TORQUAY - The Fatal Canoe Accident At Anstis Cove. - An Inquest was held on Wednesday evening, before Mr H. Michelmore, County Coroner, to Enquire into the circumstances attending the death of ERNEST ALFRED CROWDY, the young gentleman who was drowned off Anstis Cove on the previous Thursday afternoon, and whose body was picked up on Wednesday morning off Hope's Nose. The Enquiry took place at Ilsham, Middle Warberry Road, the residence of the parents of the deceased Mr W. Hearder was the Foreman of the Jury. MR CROWDY, the father of the deceased, was the first witness. He briefly said that his was eighteen years of age, and was very fond of going on the water. - Henry Thomas, boatman at Anstis Cove, said he knew the deceased very well. He was frequently in the habit of going on the water with him; and last summer had often been out in a common canoe, one built by Salter, of Oxford. This was the first time, however, he had used it this season. On Tuesday the deceased was out with him all the afternoon, and he then engaged to go out in a sailing boat shooting on Thursday, should there be any wind. He came down about three o'clock on Thursday afternoon, but did not bring any gun with him, saying as there was no wind there was no chance of sailing. he then said as it was very smooth, there being scarcely a ripple on the water, he should prefer having the canoe. Witness tried to persuade him from it, saying it was early yet for canoeing, and that the water was cold. He had heard deceased say he couldn't swim, and that he intended to come with witness and learn in the summer. Deceased, however, would not be persuaded against going, and offered to help witness take the canoe down from where it had been stored during the winter. This was done in a few minutes, and witness pushed the canoe off with the deceased in it. There were a number of fishermen's boats out in the cove. Witness watched the deceased for the first half-hour, and saw that he handled the double paddle very cleverly. He saw him cruising about the cove, and had him under his notice within a minute of the canoe being capsized. His attention to it was called by a gentleman and another man; at this time the canoe was three quarters of a mile from him. He saw that all was not right, and he instantly ran to the water's edge, where his wife launched the boat with him and his man in it. Not more than seven minutes elapsed before he reached the canoe, which he found bottom up, with the footboard, sponge and deceased's cap floating alongside. He saw nothing of the deceased, and after the lapse of about two minutes, during which two other boats had arrived at the spot, he went ashore for the lines and creeps, with which he again put off instantly, these lines being always kept ready in case of accidents. He left a man in a boat in the event of the deceased rising to the surface, but he did not do so. They then grappled for the body until dark, but without success. About half-past ten on Wednesday morning they were out sweeping for the body, which was found about a mile off Hope's Nose, in ten fathoms of water. He had hold of one part of the line and his cousin the other, and on bringing the body up it was conveyed at once to the residence of the parents of the deceased. In reply to Jurymen, witness said where the deceased went down was seven fathoms of water, which was two deep for diving. This was the first accident of the kind he had ever had at Anstis Cove. He had six life-belts for any one to use who liked to use them, but young gentlemen did not think it plucky to wear them. A canoe when capsized and full of water would float and would keep anyone up, it being provided with air-tight compartments. The Coroner advised Thomas in future to refuse young gentlemen the loan of his canoes unless they could swim. Witness said he would do so, although he believed deceased would not have been drowned if he had not been suffering from heart disease. MR CROWDY said he was not aware his son had ever been out in a canoe before: had he known it, he should certainly not have permitted it. - Robert Weeks, a painter, of Plainmoor, St. Mary-Church, said he was standing on Stoodleigh Hill on Thursday afternoon, overlooking Anstis Cove. He saw the canoe pushed off with deceased in it, and he afterwards noticed him paddling about near the rocks. He was looking through a glass, and saw him paddle from Blackhead Point, to the right of Anstis cove, to a black object which he struck several times with his paddle, and he went round it three times to get closer to it. Then he appeared to lean on one side with one hand as if to pick the object up, but instead of that he fell over on it, the canoe upsetting. He first heard the deceased call out for Thomas, and saw him throw out his arm as if to catch hold of the keel of the canoe, but he missed it. He then went under water, witness hearing him call out "Hoy." Witness halloaed to some persons on the beach and they called to Thomas, who was on the White Beach at the time. He quickly went from one beach to the other, and got out to the canoe in about five minutes. He did not know what the black object deceased struck was, but he was told afterwards that it was a kettle floating. - George Thomas, a boatman, who also went out to the canoe, said he noticed a black tin can floating about 100 yards from the canoe. This can, which would hold about half a pint, he struck with his oar, and it filled and sank. The Coroner remarked that there was no object in pursuing the Enquiry as to what this object was. The evidence shewed that the deceased was out by himself, that he was able to manage a canoe perfectly well, and that, the weather being calm, Thomas did not consider there was any danger in letting him go. It was also shewn that the canoe was accidentally upset in his endeavour to reach over to this object, whatever it was. It seemed to be a fact that the unfortunate young man had been suffering from heart disease, and very possibly and very probably, when he got into the water, that would bring on an attack of the complaint. He might have been seized with a spasm, and that might have been the reason of his not making an effort to save himself, and therefore the immediate cause of death in that way. The questions for the Jury to decide, in order to return a verdict of accidental death, were whether they thought the canoe was accidentally upset and whether they were satisfied it was the deceased's own act in going out in it on the day in question. It would be much better, bearing this sad occurrence in mind, that in future Thomas should refuse to let young gentlemen have canoes who could not swim. A Juryman asked if there was no way of compelling persons unable to swim to take life-belts with them on going on the water? The Coroner said there was none, except a person's own common sense. There was no law on the subject. A boatman was placed in a rather awkward position under the circumstances. If he said to a young gentleman, "You shan't go out because you can't swim," he would go elsewhere with his custom. They could not throw any blame on a boatman if, after he had warned a young gentleman, and tried to persuade him against going, he still went out in a canoe. In reply to the Foreman, MR CROWDY said he did not attach any blame to Thomas. Several Jurymen expressed their opinion that there ought to be a law of some kind providing that no light boats - especially canoes, being so risky and dangerous - should be lent to young persons unable to swim. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, and through Sergt. Board gave their fees to the Torbay Infirmary.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 9 May 1874
NEWTON ABBOT - Fatal Accident. - An Inquest was held in the Board-room of the Newton Abbot Union on Friday, before Dr Gaye, on the body of WILLIAM STOCKMAN, about forty years of age, who was accidentally killed the previous day by a quantity of earth falling on him whilst at work in constructing the new line of railway from Newton to Torquay. The deceased, who was a single man, and lived at St. Mary-Church, was a brother-in-law to Charles John Blank, a cabman, of this town, by whom he was identified. It appeared from the evidence that the poor fellow was engaged with another man in filling a waggon, when suddenly one of the others digging at the cutting saw a quantity of dirt falling. He gave the alarm, and all three ran away, but the deceased, in an attempt to recover his shovel, which he had left behind, was caught by a large lump of earth in his heels. This threw him down, and he got embedded in the earth up to his chest. The weight of the earth was two tons, and the deceased received such severe injuries that death resulted in an hour afterwards. A verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 23 May 1874
Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Suicide Of A Torquay Tradesman. - A very painful feeling was created throughout the town during Sunday on the intelligence becoming known that MR EDWIN GREENSLADE BRADFORD, jeweller, of the Strand, had committed suicide by cutting his throat with a bread knife late the previous night or early the same morning. The Inquest was held at the residence of the deceased on Monday afternoon, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner. The Jury composed as follows:- Mr H. Crockwell (Foreman), and Messrs. J. C. Wreyford, G. Turner, J. Fogan, Jas. Blackmore, J. Hammick, R. Bartlett, P. Michelmore, C. Narracott. G. Clow, W. D. Marler, W. Watson, jun., and Capt. Graham. The Jury having viewed the body, the following evidence was adduced. - Jane Maria Redaway, a domestic servant, said she lived with the deceased, and about quarter to seven on Sunday morning she was coming towards the landing, and had gone up three stairs, when she saw the body of her master lying along the landing covered in blood. She immediately went back again, and told MISS BRADFORD. After the body was removed, she found the knife with which the deceased had cut his throat. It was a white-handled bread knife, and she saw it on the table the previous night at supper time. She removed the supper things at half-past six on Sunday morning, and when she did so the knife was not there. It was almost directly afterwards that she approached the landing and discovered the body of the deceased. She had been in his service seven weeks, but during that time she had not noticed anything peculiar about him. He went to bed about nine o'clock on Saturday night, and after that she saw him; she asked him if he was comfortable and if the fire was all right, and he said it was. His brother, MR DENIS BRADFORD, was with him at the time, and stopped talking to him until ten. On the previous Tuesday he said something to one of his daughters which led them to think he was out of his mind, and they gave him a sleeping draught to pass it off. She had heard MISS BRADFORD say she heard some one go downstairs between eleven and twelve o'clock on Saturday night, and she now thought it must have been her father. - MR DENIS JOHN BRADFORD, jeweller, of Victoria Parade, said he was the brother of the deceased, who was 57 years of age. He had been in the habit of frequently visiting the deceased since his wife's death in September last, and there could be no doubt he had much altered since then. He (witness) came up to his house about nine o'clock on Saturday night, and then found him in bed. He had been suffering for several months past from a pain in his throat, and during their conversation he said that the pain was going from his throat to his head. He said nothing, however, which led him to think he was premeditating destruction. He left him within a few minutes of ten o'clock still in bed. He never complained of anyone ill-treating him, or of his being in difficulties with regard to money matters. He had, however, often since his wife's death, said he heard a voice speaking to him and saying, "What are you doing here? one half of you is buried in the grave." During his wife's life she and the deceased lived on the most affectionate terms. (MR BRADFORD gave his evidence under the influence of much emotion.) - Dr Charles Radclyffe Hall said he had known the deceased for upwards of twenty years, and during the last year and a half he had been in occasional attendance upon him. He had been suffering from general feebleness of health and relaxed throat. He had had impressions that the sensation to his ears and nostrils in consequence would lead to something serious, but he told him that was a mistake. He had always been depressed about his health, and since his wife's death he had been much more depressed. He had just recovered from a slight attack of pleurisy, and he advised him that he would soon get well if he could get a change of scene. He was only waiting for the west winds to pass away, when he was to go away for a time to renovate his health. On the previous Tuesday witness called, and MISS BRADFORD told him that her father, who was out at the time, had not slept for ten nights. He left a prescription for a sleeping draught, which was given the deceased, and the draught was repeated every night. The deceased appeared refreshed in consequence, and when witness saw him on Saturday he was particularly bright and cheerful. He told him then that there was nothing the matter with him which a change would not remedy. The last time he saw him was on Saturday evening. He (witness) was riding on horseback, and as he passed deceased, who was walking in the Torbay Road, he nodded to witness in an unusually cheerful manner for him. MISS BRADFORD had mentioned to him that her father said the sleeping draught benefitted him, and made her promise that, if he went out of his mind, she would not have him sent to an asylum. - Mr Wm. Pollard, surgeon, said he was called at half-past seven on Sunday morning, to come to the house of the deceased at once. On arriving he was told by MISS BRADFORD that her father had killed himself. He found him lying on his back on the landing on the first flight of stairs. He examined him, and found he was dead, with his throat cut. The knife was lying close by his right hand, as if it had just been dropped. The wound in the throat was just such as that which a man would inflict on himself. He attended deceased previous to his wife's death, but beyond holding exaggerated ideas of the complaint in his throat he had not noticed anything peculiar about him. There was an immense gash in the throat. The body was quite cold, and the deceased must have been dead many hours. The deed was no doubt committed between eleven and twelve the previous night. The deceased was in his shirt and stockings. He knew that his father was once placed under restraint for insanity, and that he died in a lunatic asylum. - The Coroner said he had called before the Jury what he hoped they would consider sufficient evidence to prove that the deceased was not in a right state of mind at the time the deed was committed. He wished to spare the members of the family as much as possible and unless the Jury wished, he did not propose to call any more of them. The Jury concurred in these remarks, and immediately returned a verdict of Temporary Insanity. The fees were given, through Sergt. Ockford, to the Torbay Infirmary. The funeral took place on Wednesday morning in the Torquay Cemetery. Mr H. Crockwell was the undertaker.

TORQUAY - Fatal Accident At Ellacombe. - An Inquest was held at the Country House Inn, Ellacombe, on Wednesday evening, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, to Enquire into the circumstances attending the death of ERNEST MARK STIDWORTHY, a little boy, a year and ten months old, who was run over by a water cart opposite Ellacombe Terrace the previous day. An absent Juryman was about to be find for non-attendance, but he put in an appearance directly after the Jury had been sworn, and Sergt. Board having stated that it was the first time he had known the Juryman to be late, and that he had always found him very willing to attend, the Coroner stated that he would pass it over this time. - The first witness called was the father of the deceased, JOHN RICHARD STIDWORTHY, who stated that he was a shoemaker, and resided at 15, Ellacombe Terrace. The deceased child was his; he was called ERNEST MARK STIDWORTHY, and was one year and ten months old. The deceased was quite well when witness left home in the morning, and was left in charge of its mother. He was not present when the accident occurred, but saw the deceased about half-past eleven, lying on the table injured. The child died about quarter-past one in the afternoon; Mr Gill was not present at its death. The deceased was not very strong on his legs. - Mr Stanley Augustine Gill stated that he was a surgeon practising in Torquay. He was coming up Ellacombe when the accident happened, and as far as he recollected it was about quarter-past eleven. He saw the water cart previous to its running over the deceased. Witness hearing some one scream, looked up and saw a dark object on the ground, and the wheel of the cart pass over it: the cart was about 30 yards ahead of him. On running up he had the child taken into a neighbour's house, and from there into the father's, where it was placed on a table on pillows. he had the clothes taken off, and on examining the deceased he found a slight laceration on the right and back part of the head, a severe bruise on the upper part of the thorax, and a fracture of the ribs on the upper part of the chest. On the right arm there was a slight laceration of the skin just above the elbow joint. His impression, from the position of the bruises, was that the wheel passed over deceased's throat and chest in a slanting direction. The child was insensible when he picked it up, and he had no hopes of saving its life. Witness gave it a quarter pint of brandy and water, and applied a fomentation to its chest. He was with the deceased over half an hour, and used all the remedies he could to save its life. - James Saunders, the driver of the cart which ran over the deceased, was next called, and having been cautioned by the Coroner, stated that he wished to tell all he knew about it. He said that he was a labourer, working for the Torquay Local Board. On Tuesday he was watering the streets, and on coming up by Ellacombe Terrace he noticed the deceased about three houses off before he came up to him, standing on the edge of the footpath. The water-cart was on the side of the road nearest the footpath. As he was going to put on the water pump, he saw the deceased fall out under the horse's legs and the wheel. Witness called out and pulled up the horse as fast as he could, but the wheel went right over the child. He was so frightened that he could not touch the deceased, but the child's grandfather, Hearing witness call to the horse to stop, ran out and picked the deceased up. There was no one present when the accident occurred. The cart was full of water at the time. Children were very plentiful in Torquay, and gave him a great deal of trouble. The Coroner stated that Saunders had given his evidence in a straightforward manner, and was, in his opinion, quite exempt from blame. He (the Coroner) nearly drove over three children as he was coming up to the Country House Inn, they having run right across his horse's head; in fact, had he been going down hill instead of up, he did not think he could have saved them from being run over. The Jury, of whom Mr John Riley was the Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The fees were given, through Sergeant Board, to the parents of the deceased child, the father of whom desires to thank the Jurymen for their kindness.

TEIGNMOUTH - Fatal Boat Accident At Teignmouth. The Result of "Larking." - On Sunday evening five lads belonging to Teignmouth proceeded in a boat for a row on the river. They had been out some little time, and when near Floor Point some of them began rocking the boat. By this means the boat was capsized, and the boys were thrown into the water. A boatman hearing their cries for help put out and succeeded in taking four out of the five on board, but the other, a boy named KEMBLE, had disappeared, and although a search was made his body was not then recovered. The rescued boys were at once removed, in an exhausted condition, to their homes, where one of them, named ALFRED FREDERICK HILTON, died soon afterwards from exhaustion consequent upon his immersion. The Inquest was held on Tuesday. The evidence of the other three boys who were in the boat, and who were saved by James Hook, the waterman, went to show that they all went to Coombe Cellars, where they had two quarts of beer and three pints of cider. On their return journey they changed oars near Mr Hill's house, at "Floor," Bishopsteignton. When changing one of them slipped, causing the boat to roll on its side. The whole of them rushed to the other side, upsetting the boat. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and complimented Hook on his courage and zeal in rescuing the boys. The Jury gave their fees to Hook and Mr Hill, to whose house the boys were taken after their rescue.

ST. MARY CHURCH. - Sudden Death At St. Mary Church. - About nine o'clock on Thursday night EDWARD HILLMAN, fifty-six years of age, who has recently been earning a livelihood as a newsman in Torquay, and who lived at Ellacombe, died suddenly on the road as he was entering St. Mary Church. The deceased had walked from Exmouth during the day, and it is supposed he died from exhaustion. An Inquest will be held on the body either this (Friday) evening or tomorrow morning.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 30 May 1874
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident To A Child. - An Inquest was held at the Crown and Anchor Inn, Swan Street, on Thursday evening, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of EDWIN LETHBRIDGE, three years and a half old. The evidence shewed that on the afternoon of Tuesday week the deceased, whilst sitting on his mother's lap, was scalded in the lower part of the stomach by the upsetting of a teapot. The child was attended by Dr Huxley, and subsequently by Mr Nicholson, house surgeon of the Torbay Infirmary, but died from the injuries received on Wednesday last. The Jury, of whom Mr J. Brittan was the Foreman, returned a verdict of Accidental Death

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 11 July 1874
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident. - An Inquest was held at the Castle Inn, on Thursday evening, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of MR WILLIAM HARDING, late a pawnbroker, of Higher Union Street. It appears, from the evidence adduced, that the deceased, on Monday evening last, was riding with two friends on a waggonette belonging to Mr Robert Chambers to Torre Station to catch the 7.39 p.m. train. The driver got off from his seat when near Mr Oliver's, at Torre, to speak to Mr Chambers, and during his temporary absence the deceased, in attempting to get into the driver's seat, fell over on the lamp iron. He went on, however, to the station, but on arriving there he said he felt unwell. He was placed in a cab, and sent home, where he complained of excruciating pains in his stomach. Mr J. Lawton, surgeon, soon after arrived, but no external injury was visible. He had no doubt, however, that death was caused by internal injuries to the bowels. The deceased, who was 48 years of age, died early on Wednesday morning. The Jury, of whom Mr W. Carleton was the Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." With regard to the fees, it was proposed by Mr Collis that they should be handed over as usual, through Sergt. Ockford, to the Infirmary. Several of the Jurymen, however, considered that, as they were debarred from holding the Inquiry at the institution, the fees should be withheld. This was the opinion of the majority, and the fees were consequently withheld.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 1 August 1874
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident Off The Old Pier. Inquest This Day: Searching Inquiry. - An Inquest was held at the Torbay Infirmary this (Friday) morning, at nine o'clock, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of JOHN GOULD, a shoemaker, living at Ellacombe, who fell off the steamer Sensation at the Old Pier on Wednesday night. Mr Joseph Abbott was the Foreman of the Jury. - Mr A. Tucker, principal officer H. M. Customs, at Torquay, stated that he knew the deceased by sight, but not personally. The first time he saw him was on Wednesday night, on board the steamer Sensation, standing on the paddle-box. The steamer belongs to Teignmouth; she had been running hourly during the afternoon, and left Paignton with a good many passengers on board for the last time about ten minutes before nine, arriving at Torquay about quarter-past. The passengers were landed at the Old Pier-head; some of them went on shore before the deceased got on the paddle-box. Witness did not observe any one on the paddle-box, excepting the captain and mate, who were conducting the passengers on shore. The top of the paddle-box was much lower than the quay, and the passengers were landed across the usual plank from the bridge of the steamer. It was misty at the time, and witness would not be certain whether the plank was put out from the bridge or paddle-box. The deceased came up from the deck of the steamer on to the paddle-box, and then made a leap on to the quay. The distance between the paddle-box of the steamer and the quay, he should think, was between two and three feet. He did not think, when the deceased jumped to the pier, that he was going to fall. Directly he heard the splash in the water he considered it was the deceased who had fallen in, because there were no other passengers attempting to land in that way. Witness raised an alarm, and rendered assistance. It was scarcely two minutes after the alarm was given before the deceased was picked up again. He fell clear into the water and made an effort to swim; the master of the vessel then threw a rope round the arms of the deceased and kept him up until a boat arrived and he was taken up. He was apparently insensible when he was taken out. Dr Huxley arrived and attended to the deceased, and he was afterwards taken to the Infirmary. There were no hand rails to the plank. He attributed the accident to the deceased jumping from the paddle-box instead of going over the plank. - Mr George M. Tripe, collector of harbour dues at Torquay, said he knew the deceased and saw him get into the Sensation at Paignton. Witness told him to go down on the deck, as he had been taking a little something, but he was not the worse for liquor, and witness thought if the deceased stayed on the bridge it would be dangerous. The deceased declined to go down on the deck, and he saw nothing further of him until he was being put into the cab after the occurrence. - Henry Wise Bond, sailing master of the steamer Sensation, said on Wednesday they were making trips to Paignton and back. He assisted the passengers to land on the last trip home. He took the passengers in at the Old Pier-head, and landed them there again. He directed the passengers to come upon the steps on each side of the paddle-box and go ashore over the plank, but many of them did not wait for the plank to be put ashore. As witness was coming up the fore side of the paddle-box, the deceased came up over the aft side of it, and when the deceased got on the top of the paddle-box witness told him to be careful, as he was rushing along like a mad man. In attempting to get ashore the deceased tripped in the plank and fell into the water on the bow side of the steamer. There were no passengers on the plank at the time the deceased attempted to get ashore. He was picked up by the towing master in three-quarters of a minute. No passengers came up over the steps on the bridge, but over the paddle-box. He did not see the deceased knock himself when he fell into the water. - Robert Call, second hand on board the Sensation, said he did not notice the deceased when he came on board at Paignton, and the first time his attention was called to him was just as they got alongside the Old Pier and made all safe. He then heard some one fall into the water; he was close to the deceased when he fell. Deceased swam two or three strokes. Witness then put a rope around his arms, until the arrival of a boat, when he was put in the steamer. Their landing-stage had no rails, and was about ten or twelve feet long, he could not say for certain. He generally steered going in and out of the harbours, as he was more acquainted with them than the captain. - Mr Arthur Nicholson, house surgeon at the Torbay Infirmary, stated that he was not present when the deceased was admitted to the Infirmary on Wednesday night. The deceased was received by the dispenser. He saw him in the ward about eleven o'clock; he had not all his senses. Witness did not notice any bruises about him, and left him in bed. About twenty minutes to two o'clock the nurse called him and said the deceased was much worse, and when witness got to him he was dead in the bed where he left him. The deceased was almost in a state of collapse when he left him, and he left orders to be called. He did not expect the deceased to die so early as two o'clock. Mr James Pollard saw the deceased about ten minutes after his admission, and he gave the necessary instructions to his assistant, Mr Bartlett, and to the nurses. He examined his chest thoroughly and found the heart intermittent, and it occurred to him that there had been previous disease of the heart. He told the nurses to wrap the blanket around him, and leave him perfectly quiet; in his opinion nothing more could be done. The ward was full of patients, and he was astonished to find the deceased dead when the nurse called him. - Mr James Pollard stated that when he left him the deceased was in a state of collapse. He gave him some tea to see if he could swallow and he did so. - Francis Bartlett, dispenser at the Torbay Infirmary, said the deceased was received in the institution about ten minutes past ten on Wednesday night. He was insensible and was wet through. He was undressed and put to bed. It was about twenty minutes afterwards that Mr Pollard saw him. He was rubbed with flannels, a poultice was applied to his chest, mustard and water was given him to drink, and hot water bottles were applied to his feet. Mr Pollard said the poultice was not required, and it was taken off. He inquired, when they brought the deceased to the Infirmary, how long he had been in the water, and they told him two minutes. He believed he told Mr Nicholson how long the deceased had been in the water. - Emma Verender, the day nurse at the Infirmary, said when she left the deceased about half-past twelve he was breathing heavily. Mr Nicholson told her that if the deceased got worse he was to be called immediately. Witness was called again at half-past one o'clock by the other nurse, Elizabeth Rice, who said the deceased was much worse or dying. She did not think the deceased breathed after she got into the room, and he was lying where she left him at half-past twelve. A policeman named Trott was left in charge of the deceased whilst the nurse called the doctor. - Elizabeth Rice, the night nurse at the institution, said she had charge of the deceased on Wednesday night, and the first time she saw a change for the worse was when the deceased attempted to get out of bed to go to the closet. She called P.C. Trott, who was in the next ward watching the man Chalcroft, to help the deceased into bed, which he did. Trott stayed there whilst she went for Mr Nicholson. The deceased only drew one breath after she came back from Mr Nicholson and died. - P.C. Trott said when he was called into the ward he saw the deceased on the floor and helped him into bed. - Mr John Webb Toms, tailor, of 32 Victoria Parade, stated that on Wednesday evening he was coming in to the harbour in a small boat, and heard a splash in the water. It was his boat that picked up the deceased and assisted to help him on board the steamer. Witness should say the paddle-box was close to the pier. He picked the deceased up from the bow side of the steamer. - Mr John Henry Wills, pawnbroker, stated that the deceased, JOHN GOULD, was 51 years of age. He had known him to be suffering from heart complaint for many months. He was witness's brother-in-law, and was a shoemaker by trade. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the time deceased was in the water was not sufficient to cause death; it more probably arose from heart disease. His belief was that the deceased jumped from the paddle-box and got a footing on the pier, but immediately fell back into the water. The Jury, after some consultation by themselves, returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased came to his death by Accidentally Falling into the Water from the steamer; that he was suffering from heart disease at the time, and the shock caused death. They did not blame anyone, but strongly recommended that pleasure steamers should in future use proper landing-stages, and come sufficiently alongside the pier when they discharged passengers. The Inquiry lasted over four hours. The Jury gave their fees, through Sergeant Ockford, to the widow of the deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 8 August 1874
TORQUAY - Sad Case Of Destitution. Inquest At The Town Hall. - Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, and a Jury, of whom Mr Jas. Hammick was the Foreman, were occupied three hours on Wednesday night, at the Town Hall, in investigating the circumstances connected with the death of SARAH DENNIS, a poor woman, living in Swan Street, who died somewhat suddenly on Monday night. The Coroner, after swearing the Jury, and prior to their proceeding to view the body, said statements had appeared in the public prints concerning the case, but whether they were true or false it was their duty to dismiss them from their minds and to give a verdict according to the evidence that would be adduced. - The first witness called was WILLIAM DENNIS, a boy fourteen years of age, and the eldest son of the deceased. He said his father was a gatherer of rags and bones, that he lived in Swan Street, and had three brothers, one of whom was a baby six weeks old the previous Monday. His mother had been ill a long while, and he had stayed home to look after her. Dr Pollard saw his mother at her confinement, and attended her four days, but he did not know that any other doctor had seen her since. His mother was ill before the baby was born; his father used to bring home money to maintain them all, and he (witness) used to go the errands and buy bread and meat. They had had tings given them; sometimes he would fetch it, and sometimes it would be brought. When his mother was taken ill, when they lived at Ellacombe, something was given her from the parish, but that was a year ago. Since they had lived in Swan Street, she had had a loaf of bread from the relieving officer, but he did not know of anything more. His mother died in the middle of the night on Monday. No doctor was there to see her during last week. Dr Hartland, the parish doctor, called once, but his mother was at the Town Hall, where his brother was in custody for stealing apples. Witness had never been kept short of food. Mrs Ford, a neighbour, got them some bread and meat for dinner. On Monday he had bread and treacle to eat, but no meat. He had no meat on Sunday. He thought he had some meat during last week, but he wasn't certain. Mother had meat several days; it was bought from Riley's eating-house, and two ounces lasted two days. - MARY MERRIFIELD, a widow, and the mother of the deceased, living in Pimlico, said her daughter was 35 years old. The deceased had had six children altogether, of whom two were dead. She had been ill three or four months, and had grown worse since she was confined. Witness had been stopping with her since May, and at first she slept in the house. Dr Pollard attended her in her confinement; she supposed she had him through paying into a club. The parish doctor came to see her on the previous Wednesday, but she was at the Town Hall at the time. The doctor told witness if her daughter was able to go there she was also able to come to him. She told deceased what he said when she came home, and she said Dr Hartland's was too far for her to go to. A fortnight ago she went to the Infirmary and saw the house-surgeon, who gave her some castor oil, and, she being very deaf, he wrote on a piece of paper telling her to get a recommend. She tried several places to get one, but did not succeed. Witness was with the deceased every day, and no doctor saw her after her visit to the Infirmary. She always had a bit of bread and butter and a cup of tea. Witness did not eat much herself, and took nothing from them. On Monday the deceased went out in the middle of the day, and was brought home by a lady in a carriage about half-past five. The lady said she found her in the St. Mary-Church Road, and helped her, as she was very weak. She was so weak that she could hardly get up over the three flights of stairs. Witness did not think it necessary to get a doctor for her, as she had been in a weak state for several weeks past. She made her a cup of cocoa and gave her that and a biscuit. The deceased went to bed about nine o'clock and witness left her asleep at ten and went home. The husband fetched her just before twelve, saying his wife had been taken worse. She went immediately, and the deceased died in about twenty minutes after her arrival. She tried to speak, but couldn't; she was too far gone. She had never seen the deceased's husband ill-treat her, nor heard her complain that he had refused her anything. Neither had she complained of not having enough to eat and drink. - Selina Bishop, wife of a baker, said she lived near the deceased and went to see her daily since her confinement and washed the baby for her. She was very ill during the last few weeks, and about three weeks after her confinement she went to the Dispensary, but she had had no medical attendance since. She had food to eat, but not of that kind which she ought to have had, for what was bread and butter to keep a dying woman alive? She wanted beef tea and other nourishing things. She could not eat bread, for as soon as she tried to swallow it she threw it up again. Witness had occasionally given her a little gruel and other things, as much as she could afford. On Monday night, at ten o'clock, the deceased sent for her ,and she found her very ill and weak. Witness said her mother ought to go for the doctor, but the mother said the doctor wouldn't come, as he had said if she was able to go out she was able to go to him. The deceased was in bed at this time, and complained of great pain in her bowels. Witness fried some salt and applied to her bowels; and also sent for two-pennyworth of wine and gave her. She thought before that the deceased was dying, but this seemed to rally her. Her mother left at ten o'clock, just after she came. When witness left, half an hour afterwards, she told the eldest boy to call her if his mother was taken worse. he did fetch her, but by the time she got to the room she was dead. Witness had never heard that the deceased's husband had ill-treated her. - Mr Arthur Nicholson, house surgeon at the Infirmary, said he remembered the deceased coming to the Infirmary a fortnight since. That was the first time he had seen her. She then complained of a cough, of weakness, and of great pain in her bowels. She said she had had the cough for two months. He examined her chest, and formed the opinion that she was suffering from bronchitis. He gave her a ticket to go to the dispenser for some medicine for this, and also some castor oil, and told her to come again to be treated for worms. He also told her to get a recommend by going to one of the governors; he did not tell her who they were, they were too many. - The Coroner: How was she to find out who they were? - Witness: I'm sure I don't know. The Coroner: Did you tell her to come again when she had a recommend? - Witness: Yes. The Coroner: You didn't tell her to come again without a recommend? - Witness: No, I didn't. The Coroner: Now when you saw the deceased did you consider her case such a bad one that she was going to die so quickly? - Witness: No, I did not. The Coroner: And, judging from what you saw of her in that examination, if she had had proper nourishment, is it your opinion she would have died suddenly? - Witness: No, if no other disease had supervened. The Foreman of the Jury: When poor people come to you, and you tell them to get a recommend, do you ever tell them where to apply for one? - Witness: I tell them when they ask. I don't volunteer information. The Foreman: And this woman didn't ask for information? - Witness: No. Another Juryman: Is it your opinion the woman had not sufficient to eat? - Witness: I cannot say. She was very thin and emaciated when I saw her. - CHARLES DENNIS, the husband, was the next witness called. He gave his name in a loud tone of voice, and in a manner utterly different to what might have been expected under the circumstances. The Coroner: Do you live in Swan Street? - Witness: Yes, sir when I'm there. The Coroner: What do you mean? - Witness: Why, when I'm there and ain't anywhere else. The Coroner: Where have you been during the last two hours? - Witness: Well, let me see, for the last two hours I've been here, sir. The Coroner: Where did you come from then? - Witness: From Swan Street. The Coroner: Are you sure you didn't come from a public-house? - Witness: Yes, sir. The Coroner (sternly): Then just be steady in your answers. The Witness, in continuation, said he had been married to the deceased nine years. He had no regular work. Sometimes he did a little on the quay; at others he took his shoe-black box; and, when he had a shilling to start with, he would take out his rag bag and try to earn a loaf of bread. He was formerly in the navy, but was invalided from it on account of fits. The Coroner: What should you say you have been able to take home to your wife and family? - Witness: When working on the quay, 18s. a week; and when with the blacking-box 2s. a day more or less. And when I've taken out the rag bag I've been out many a day and not earned a penny. He went on to say that he gave the money he earned to his wife, and that when he wanted a shilling to start with he asked her for it. On the 24th of July he applied for relief and got a 2s. 6d. ticket from the relieving officer. he was never refused except once, when two of his boys were ill. He then went before the Newton Board of Guardians, and they offered him an order for him and his wife and family to go into the house, but he refused it. The lying-in ticket was got from an institution at Torre. - The Coroner: You must have seen your wife was ill; why didn't you go for a doctor for her? - Witness: Her mother was there, and I thought she was as much able to go for a doctor as I was a stopping home and hindering me from getting a loaf of bread. The Coroner: Have you had tings given you? - Witness: Yes; it's no good to tell a falsehood about it, I have. Some ladies have been very kind. The Coroner: Have you, so far as your pocket would allow you, found things for your wife to make use of? - Witness: Yes, I have, sir, as far as my pocket would run. I couldn't do impossibilities. - Mr Ash, a Juryman: Have you ever run away from your wife? - Witness: Never. Mr Ash: Haven't you absconded from her several times? _ Witness: Only once, and then I gave her notice I was going to the manoeuvres. Mr Ash said he had evidence to prove that the witness had absconded from his wife several times, for he had visited her day after day, when she had not more than 1s. 6d. of her husband's earnings for two or three weeks. When he returned it would be in a fit of drunkenness lasting a day or two. The Coroner (to Mr Ash): you ought not to have been put on the Jury if you were a witness of this. You had better leave the Jury, and I will take you as a witness. Mr Ash thereupon vacated his seat as a Juryman, and placed himself in readiness to give evidence. The husband in reply to further questions, said his wife had helped him to get a livelihood by hawking braid-work and combs. This she did on the Friday and Saturday prior to her death. - The Foreman: How much did you bring her home last Saturday night? - Witness: Sevenpence! - The Foreman: Was that sufficient to keep you all from Saturday night to Monday morning? - Witness: Excuse me, sir, but I went out on Sunday morning with my blacking-box and earned 2s. The Foreman: What did you earn the week before? - Witness: Four shillings and that I got for beating carpets. In reply to another question, the husband said he did not go home until eleven o'clock on the previous Saturday night, he was out with his blacking-box and not in the public-house. - Mr Wm. Ash, broker and general commission agent, said he knew the deceased woman, and had heard her complain of her husband's conduct to her, but not recently. She then complained of her inability to pay the rent in consequence of the small earnings of her husband, and his having absconded and left her destitute. She said the little he did earn was spent in drink, and he would go away from her for a fortnight or three weeks at a time without her having the slightest knowledge of his whereabouts. Witness went to the deceased's house daily for many days on one occasion, having been employed to collect the rent, and after waiting a long time he found the husband had returned and was dead drunk. That was more than twelve months ago, and he had not seen him in a similar state since. - Mr Pratt, officer of the Torquay Mendicity Society, said the deceased has never complained to him of want or ill-treatment from her husband. He knew she had been offered mendicity tickets, and that she had never accepted them. - P.C. John Patt said he had known the deceased fourteen or fifteen months, and she had complained to him of the ill-treatment of her husband in coming home drunk with no money, and smashing up the tings. Sometimes, she said, he would bring her home 6d., or 1s., or 1s. 6d., and he remembered that when she spoke to him first about it she said her husband had not brought her home anything for a fortnight. That was about fourteen months ago. The deceased's last complaint was made to him two months since, when she was on her way to the Town Hall for a policeman to get her husband locked up. She said he would be the cause of her death, the way he was going in and the state she was then in. When she complained of her husband smashing up the things they lived in Boston Fields, and witness saw the broken crockery-ware himself. He locked him up on one occasion, and he was fined for drunkenness; and witness had cautioned him several times since. - Mr C. A. Tozer, relieving officer, said he had given the husband relief at various times. This case had never been brought under his notice, except by DENNIS or members of his family. DENNIS came to him when his wife was confined and he gave him a ticket for a half-crown's worth of bread and groceries. Witness was at the house some time afterwards, to register the child, and on his enquiring he was told the husband was at work. No further relief was then asked of him. - This was all the evidence, and the Coroner, in summing up, said the main point for the Jury to decide was whether this poor woman came by her death from natural causes or whether it was from neglect, and if so whether that neglect was proved to their satisfaction to be sufficient to render any one culpably liable. The evidence of all the family was to the effect - and there could not be the slightest doubt about it - that this poor creature had been living in an utter state of destitution. Whether this was the result of the dissipated and drunken habits of the husband or not was a matter for their consideration, but that the family had not sufficient to live must, he thought, be plain before them. The witness Mrs Bishop had told them that the food that could be bought with the money brought home by the husband was not of that class and not sufficient to keep a dying woman alive. The poor woman had evidently for a long time been in a bad state of health, and had ultimately succumbed to it; and it would be for the Jury to say whether her death had been hastened by culpable neglect or not. The statement of the policeman shewed that the husband must have spent a portion of the money he earned in drink, but that of itself would not be sufficient to find him guilty of the death of his wife. That the woman's life had been lost and her death hastened by want and neglect there could not be the slightest doubt; and her husband, although he might be acquitted at their hands of any criminal blame, must see that his wife's death had been hastened by his conduct, and that the poor woman had been sent to her last end quicker than she otherwise would if he had gone steadily to work and brought her home all his earnings to provide for herself and the family instead of spending a portion in drink. At the same time he did not think there was sufficient evidence before the Jury to justify them in saying that anything beyond moral blame attached to the man. He had taken a great deal of the evidence because he was informed that the woman had died from want, and that her death was partly attributable to her not getting relief when it was sought at the hands of the relieving officer. He thought that had been fully answered, and that there was no reason in any way to cast blame on the relieving officer or on the Board of Guardians. If the Jury were of opinion that they did not attach any criminal neglect to the husband, but were inclined to concur in what he had previously said - and which he hoped DENNIS would remember as long as he lived - then they might blame him without going so far as to say he was guilty of manslaughter. A man, if he was able to provide for his wife, was supposed to do it; and he had no right to spend his earnings in drink and leave his wife to starve. If the husband had done that wilfully and knowingly, he was guilty of her death; but if the woman came by her death from natural causes, hastened by his neglect, then the Jury would return a verdict to that effect. - The Jury found that the deceased died from bronchitis, and, whilst they did not think the husband guilty of criminal neglect, they requested the Coroner to address a few words of warning to him. - DENNIS was then called forward by the Coroner, who spoke to him as follows: You have just heard the verdict of the Jury. It is a correct one, in my opinion, but at the same time it is a merciful verdict for you. You have undoubtedly been guilty of neglect in providing drink for yourself when you might have provided necessaries for your dead wife. You stated on oath that you had done so. I wish you had told the truth instead of a lie. If you had only stuck to the truth, and not given way to those habits of drink, you would have been enabled to maintain your wife and family honestly. Let this be a warning to you. You have now, although not a wife to help you, four children to take care of. Let this sad lesson remain with you, and remember that if you work honestly God will help you, but if you continue in habits of idleness and drunkenness you will have no one to hold out a helping hand to you. The Jury do not mean to be unkind to you, but they hope this will prove a warning to you. If you will only remember this lesson, and let it work good in you instead of evil, it will, though severe, be of real and lasting service to you. - DENNIS assured the Coroner that when he went into public-houses he was asked to sing a song and then offered beer. That was hoe he got intoxicated without squandering a shilling a week of his earnings. The Coroner: Then let this be a lesson to you to keep out of temptation's way. DENNIS who by this time appeared to have come to a more sensible state of mind, promised to bear in mind and act on the warning given him. This Inquiry commenced at eight o'clock and terminated at eleven.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 15 August 1874
EXETER - Execution At Exeter - On Monday morning, at eight o'clock, THOMAS MACDONALD was hanged within the Devon County Gaol at Exeter for the murder of BRIDGE WELSH, at Plymouth. The convict was only thirty-five years of age, and had been discharged from the Royal Marines. He then went to live with WELSH, who was a married woman with a family of children, but separated from her husband. Upon the evening of July 29th he violently assaulted the woman, and at noon the next day both MACDONALD and WELSH were found in the lodgings they occupied stretched out upon the floor apparently dead; but this was not the case, only with the latter, for, although the man's throat was cut, he was insensible, and was soon restored and cured. On the table of the room there were two letters, which he had written - one before and one after the deed. These letters were, as the learned judge described them, a "mixture of ignorance and religion." In the first the prisoner alleged that the woman had been unfaithful to him, and expressed his intention of killing her. In the second he stated that he had killed her, but he hoped that they would meet in Heaven, and he trusted that her fate would be a warning not to "try a man too far." He requested that his property (between £20 and £30) might be divided among the poor of Stonehouse, and he also mentioned a sum to be paid to the Roman Catholic priest for masses for the souls of the woman and himself. At the trial a defence of insanity was set up, but there was no evidence to support this, and almost without a moment's hesitation the Jury found the prisoner guilty. Since his conviction the condemned man has appeared to be quite resigned to his fate, and the moroseness which distinguished him at the trial passed away almost immediately afterwards. He was very attentive to the ministrations of the Roman Catholic priest, the Rev. Father Hobson. Calcraft was the executioner, but he brought an assistant with him. The prisoner has, ever since his sentence, expressed himself prepared for his fate, and has during the interval conducted himself perfectly satisfied with the justice of his sentence. It is believed that MACDONALD is a feigned name, as no inquiries have been made by an relatives since he has been in gaol. The convict himself stated that he had a father and mother living, and they were in good circumstances, but he would rather die a hundred deaths than they should hear of the end that had overtaken him. On Sunday night he slept well for between six and seven hours, and got up and dressed about half-past five o'clock on Monday morning. An hour afterwards he received the priest in his cell, and the rev. gentleman remained with him until his death. The prisoner walked firmly to the scaffold, but just as the priest was leaving the platform the convict fell back into the arms of Calcraft's assistant; simultaneously, however, the drop fell, and the culprit appeared to die at once. An Inquest was held at half-past nine.

TORQUAY - Strange Death Of A Mason At Upton. - An Inquest was opened at Giles's Torbay Inn on Monday evening, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, to Enquire into the circumstances attending the death of ROBERT BECK, a mason, who resided at Church Road, Torre. The first witness called was George Taylor, a mason, living at Upton. He said about half-past five on Thursday morning, as he was coming from Upton to go to Vane Hill, he found the deceased lying along the road, near his residence. He was on his back, and had his boots and hat off, and his clothing was undone. He spoke to the deceased, but could get no sense out of him. As witness was lifting the deceased up a man and woman looked out of a window close by. Witness asked them if they could tell him where the deceased lived, and they replied that it was old MR BECK, and that he lived at No. 5. Just then a man named Noyes, a fowl-seller, came up, and they both helped the deceased to his house and left him in charge of his brother, who said he wondered he had not been in before. When witness first saw the deceased something of a green colour was issuing from his mouth, but he did not notice whether it was still coming out when he left him in charge of his brother, for to tell the truth he (witness) was frightened at the time. He had not seen the deceased before and had not the slightest knowledge of how he came into the road. - FRANCIS BECK, brother of the deceased, stated that he was a plasterer and resided at 5, Church Road. The deceased was a plasterer by trade; he was 56 years of age, and resided with him. On Thursday morning he was at the back of his house and was called from his back door by a man named Eden, who said "Your brother is out in the street almost dead." Witness ran right through the house, and when he got to the front door he saw the deceased about two doors off, sitting on the kerb, with his feet in the road. The last witness, Mr Noyes, Mr Short and Eden were there. Mr Short helped the deceased into witness's house and they put him to bed. The last time (before Thursday morning) that he saw the deceased was on Tuesday night, about half-past nine, when he sat with him after supper and he smoked his pipe. He was sorry to say that the deceased had taken to drinking lately. He was a widower, and had five children, none of whom, however, lived at home. After he was put to bed witness's wife took the deceased up a cup of tea and a piece of bread and butter, both of which he took in. He was sound asleep at dinner-time on Thursday, but in the evening he saw that the deceased was ill, and the next morning he applied for a Dispensary ticket and sent for the doctor. At eleven o'clock, when witness went to bed, he took the deceased up some coffee and he drank half a tea-cup of it. The next morning he saw that deceased was worse; his eyes began to sink in his head, and he breathed very heavily. He believed the ticket was taken to the Infirmary about ten o'clock on Friday morning and the doctor came about three o'clock in the afternoon of the same day. He always left the back door open so that the deceased might come in. He died at five minutes to five on Saturday evening. - Mr Arthur Nicholson, house surgeon at the Infirmary, stated that the ticket to visit the deceased was left at the Infirmary about half-past eleven on Friday morning, and he visited him about three o'clock the same day. He examined the deceased, but did not find any marks about him. He treated him for bleeding on the brain; when he saw the deceased he thought he was dangerously ill. He saw him twice before he died, and his assistant once. The bleeding on the brain might have been caused by a blow, or by disease of the arteries of the brain. He did not detect any smell of drink. He could not leave his duties at the Infirmary until three o'clock to attend the deceased. He expected bleeding on the brain commenced on the deceased becoming insensible after the fall. - The Coroner here stated that he did not think it was any use calling the remainder of the evidence at present, as he thought, after the evidence of the doctor, a post mortem examination was necessary. The Inquest was then adjourned for this purpose until eight o'clock the next evening. The Inquiry was resumed on Tuesday, when the following additional evidence was given:- Charles Brunt, landlord of the Brunswick Inn beerhouse, Torre, said he knew the deceased and saw him last on Wednesday afternoon between five and six o'clock, when he came into his house and had a pennyworth of cider, which he paid for. The deceased also had a pint of cider given him by some man who was there. He left soon after he drank it. He never saw the deceased after; he was quite sober when he left. - Elizabeth Kentisbeer, the wife of Joseph Kentisbeer, who keeps the Old Church Inn, Torre, said the deceased came into her house about six o'clock on Wednesday evening and stayed there until nine. He was perfectly sober when he left; two other men were also there, and they drank between them and the deceased three or four pints of beer. She did not see the deceased after he left in the evening. He was a very quiet man when under the influence of drink. - Jane Rendle, a single woman, living at 57, Higher Union Street, said she saw the deceased standing at the corner of Mr Oliver's house at Torre about ten minutes before ten on the night of Wednesday week. There was another man with him, dressed in dark grey clothes. She afterwards saw the deceased go into Mr Brunt's with the man who was with him; she saw him come out from Mr Brunt's again about ten minutes before eleven o'clock with the same man, and the two then parted. She went over and spoke to the deceased, who was tipsy; she would not let him go home with her as he was so drunk, and she was afraid he might go to sleep in her room. The deceased had been home with her before. She told the deceased to go home and go to bed, and he replied "he thought he should." The deceased was so drunk that he did not know what he was talking about. She then said "good night" and left him. She was sure it was Brunt's house the deceased came out of. She had known the deceased go home more tipsy than he was that night. She left him at the back of Brunswick Terrace. - The Coroner here told Sergt. Ockford to recall the witness Brunt, who, in answer to the coroner, stated that he always told the people to clear out at closing time, and he was quite positive the deceased was not there when he cleared his house on the night in question. - Mr Arthur Nicholson, house surgeon at the Infirmary, stated that he had made a post mortem examination of the deceased. He first examined his head and found a slight swelling on the side, which was covered with hair. On cutting down through the scalp to the skull, he found a bruise about an inch and a half in diameter; there was more blood there than he expected to find in a bruise of that description, between the scalp and the skull. The skull was not fractured, nor were there any marks on it. On taking off the skull cap there was a congestion of blood on the left side of the head. He was satisfied that the cause of death was the presence of blood on the brain, caused by the rupture of an artery. A blow from a fall or otherwise would be sufficient to cause such a rupture. - Charlotte Brunt said she knew the deceased and saw him in their house between five and six o'clock on the evening in question with a gardener named Roberts. The deceased did not come into her house after six o'clock, and she was present when the house was closed. Several men, named Nosworthy, Eden, and Charles Brooks were present when the house was closed. She did not recollect any of these who were there besides the men she had named. There was no public house near on the same side of the street. She was sure the deceased did not come in after six o'clock. - William Fragall, a plasterer, residing at Mason's Row, Torre, said he met the deceased at Oliver's corner on Wednesday night. He was walking along when he stopped witness and spoke to him. He was not tipsy, and was not much "out of the way". He went into Mr Brunt's house and might have stayed there half-an-hour. They went into the parlour and had two pints of beer between witness and the deceased. There were several other men there, and they all came out at ten minutes to eleven. Witness ordered the ale and Mrs Brunt drew one pint and the girl the other. Witness thought when the deceased came out from the public-house he had had quite enough to drink. He parted with BECK at Oliver's corner, and the deceased went down at the back of Brunt's towards his house. It was little after ten when he first saw the deceased at Oliver's corner. - The brother of the deceased, FRANCIS BECK, re-called, stated that he found no money on the deceased. Witness's son took out the deceased's tobacco-box and knife. The Coroner, in summing up, cautioned Mr and Mrs Brunt against supplying people with drink whilst the worse for liquor, and to take more notice of their customers in future. The Jury, of whom Mr R. C. Lemon was the Foreman, returned a verdict "That the deceased died from presence of blood on the brain, but how it came there, there was no evidence to show."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 22 August 1874
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident On The South Devon Railway. - A fatal accident occurred on Tuesday afternoon on the South Devon Railway, close to the Torquay junction. For some few months past the work of widening the line, so as to admit of additional rails being laid for the Torquay traffic, has been proceeding. Only a short distance from the junction there is a bridge, and a man called JOHN PARNELL, of Totnes, was at work at the back of this bridge excavating the earth. He had been engaged at this for a rather long time, and was on the point of being relieved by another man, called John Perring, when the poor fellow saw some earth giving away, and began to run, but it caught his feet, preventing him further progress, and about a ton weight fell on him, crushing him very badly, and causing instantaneous death. Perring, who had a narrow escape, managed to get out of the way. Dr aye was telegraphed for, and he arrived shortly afterwards, but his services were of no avail. On the body being extricated it was removed to the Workhouse, where an Inquest was held on it Wednesday morning. Deceased was about 30 years of age, and married.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 12 September 1874
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident On The Paignton Road. - A carriage accident unhappily attended with fatal consequences, occurred on the road between Torquay and Paignton, near the Gas Works, on Saturday night. It appears that one vehicle was coming in one direction, and another conveyance was going in the other, that coming to Torquay having lights. The other had no lamps, and it was a very dark night. The occupants of the trap going from Torquay to Paignton were two men, two women, and an infant; and, as they were on the brow of the hill leading down to the Gas Works, the wheel of the one vehicle collided with the wheel of the other. The immediate effect of this was to frighten the horse in the trap going to Paignton, and the animal started off at a furious rate down over the hill. In the rush it seems to have drawn the vehicle close to the hedge, and that there the wheel struck against a stone with such force as to upset the trap and pitch the occupants out into the road. With the exception of the infant, they were all more or less injured, and one of the men - JAMES HUMPHRIES, a shoemaker, of Paignton, about 30 years of age - sustained concussion of the brain and died about six hours after the accident. One of the women was thrown out at the top of the hill when the first collision occurred. An Inquest on the body, which was lying at the Torbay Infirmary, where the unfortunate man was conveyed, was opened before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on Monday evening. Mr John Rowse was the Foreman of the Jury. All previous inquiries of this kind have been held in the Board Room of the institution; but, in consequence of a decision arrived at some time since by the governing body, the Inquest was held on Monday in a low, underground place said to be a consulting room, filled with the obnoxious and sickening stench of fresh paint. After the Jury had viewed the body, one of the Jurymen, complaining of the smell of the paint, asked if they could not hold the Inquiry in another room. The Coroner said he could not say anything in the matter. It was the decision of the authorities that they must come down there, and he supposed they must submit, although the decision was, to say the least of it, a very curious one. Still, if it was the wish of the Jury, he would adjourn to the Town Hall. A Juryman said he thought it was very uncourteous of the governing body of the Infirmary to relegate them to such a room as that. It was thought, however, that as the witnesses were in attendance the Inquiry should proceed there for that occasion. The Coroner then proceeded to take evidence. - William Warren, driver of the Torbay Hotel omnibus, was the first witness. He said the occurrence took place about forty yards from the gas house. He had been to Paignton, and was walking home, about quarter past eight, with a man named Foale and his wife. His attention was first attracted by hearing a noise as of two wheels meeting at the top of the hill. Then he heard a horse start, and a conveyance came down over the hill, and just as it got opposite them it upset and the occupants fell out into the road. There were two men, a woman, and a child. The horse went on, dragging the conveyance after it. The baby was crying, and he picked that up first, and gave it in charge of Mrs Foale after she had recovered a little from the fright. He next picked up the woman and placed her against the hedge. There were no lights in the vehicle, and it was very dark at the time. The woman did not speak for ten minutes, and then, when witness asked her where they were going, she whispered "To Paignton." The other vehicle, which had previously passed them on the way to Torquay, was a short distance further on. It had lamps lit; it was occupied by a lady and gentleman, and came from the Crown and Anchor at Paignton. Witness borrowed one of the lamps from this vehicle, and attended to the other sufferers, Foale also assisting. By this time, feeling giddy and being subject to heart disease, and other persons having arrived to render assistance, he left. The vehicle came down over the hill at a very fast pace, and in his opinion the horse had run away. He also thought the more immediate cause of the vehicle being upset was that the wheel came with great force against a stone by the side of the hedge. - William Foale, who looks after the Silkstone Coal Company's stores at Paignton, and who with his wife was in company with the last witness, said he noticed the Crown and Anchor midge pass them on the road to Torquay. It was being driven very steadily, not more than five or six miles an hour, by William Hesking. This vehicle had gone on about twenty yards when he heard a crash. Then he heard another vehicle coming down over the hill towards them at a fast rate, and as it was passing them it upset, and the people in it were thrown out. He picked up Mr Crute, manager of the Crown and Anchor. He came to his senses after the lapse of about eight or ten minutes. Witness then asked him how the occurrence had happened, and he said he could give no reason for it. Witness could not say whether the man was sober or not at the time. It was so dark that he could not see, when the vehicle approached them, who was driving; in fact he saw no persons distinctly until they were thrown out. The Coroner said this was the only evidence that could be called before the Jury that evening, except that of the wife of the last witness, and that would only be confirmatory of what he and Warren had already stated. He had received a medical certificate from Dr Goodridge, of Paignton, stating that William and Emma Crute, the most material witnesses, would not be well enough to attend an Inquiry for five or six days, and under these circumstances he thought the safer plan would be to adjourn it for a fortnight for their attendance. Mr Arthur Nicholson, house surgeon at the Infirmary, said the deceased was admitted into the institution at half-past nine the previous night. He was insensible, and was suffering from a concussion of the brain and a scalp wound. He never recovered consciousness and died about twenty minutes past two on Monday morning from the injuries. A Juryman expressed a hope that the next Inquiry would not be held at the Infirmary, but at the Town Hall. The Coroner said in future all Inquests would be held at the Town Hall. They would have to meet and view the body at the Infirmary and then go to the Town Hall; then they should not be interfering with the arrangements of the Dispensary in any way. The Inquest was then adjourned until he evening of Friday next, the 18th instant, when it will be resumed in the Town Hall at quarter to seven.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 26 September 1874
TORQUAY - The Late Fatal Accident On The Paignton Road. Adjourned Inquest. - The Inquiry into the circumstances attending the fatal accident on the Paignton road, Torquay, on the evening of Sunday week, the 6th instant, was resumed at the Town Hall, last Friday evening, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, and a Jury, of whom Mr John Rowse was the Foreman. The evidence given at the previous Inquiry was to the effect that, shortly after eight o'clock on the Sunday evening in question, two vehicles were on the Paignton Road, near the Gas Works, the one returning to Paignton and the other coming to Torquay. It was said to be dark at the time, and the vehicle going to Paignton had no lamps lit. When on the top of the hill the wheel of the one vehicle collided with the wheel of the other, and the horse started off. Almost immediately after the vehicle drawn by this animal struck against a stone and upset, and the occupants - Mr and Mrs Crute and MR and MRS HUMPHRIES and child, all of Paignton - were thrown out with some violence, and were more or less injured. JAMES HUMPHRIES, who was a shoemaker, and about thirty years of age, sustained concussion of the brain, and died six hours after the occurrence at the Torbay Infirmary. The following additional evidence was adduced:- Elizabeth Crute, wife of Wm. Henry Crute, said on the night of the accident she was riding in the dog-cart with her husband, who was driving. JAMES HUMPHRIES, and his wife and child, were in the vehicle with them. Witness was sitting in front with her husband. There were no lamps lit. They left Torquay about eight o'clock, and she did not consider it a dark night. Her husband was quite sober when they left; he went into one public-house (Swann's London Hotel), but he only remained there a few minutes. They were not in Torquay more than an hour and a half. On going down over the hill, near the Gas Works, she saw another vehicle coming, and as they passed it she felt a jerk, and was thrown out. She was not rendered insensible, and remembered the horse and trap passing her whilst she lay on the ground. She could then see that her husband and HUMPHRIES and his wife were still in the trap, which went on, but she could speak of nothing that happened afterwards. - William Henry Crute, manager of the Crown and Anchor Hotel, Paignton, (who had his head bandaged and his left arm in a sling), said on the evening in question he drove his wife and the deceased and his wife and child to Torquay, leaving Paignton at a quarter to six in a two-wheeled dog-cart. They went through Babbicombe and St. Mary-Church, and left Torquay for the return journey at eight o'clock. All he had to drink at the London Hotel was a bottle of ginger-beer with three-pennyworth of brandy in it. He had lamps in his cart, but he did not light them because he did not think it sufficiently dark. He had driven the same horse three times before, and it was a quiet animal. He saw the other vehicle coming as he was driving down over the hill near the Gas Works; he saw it was a fly, and he could make out distinctly that it was being driven by William Hosking, a man in his employ. He (witness) was driving at a trot at the time, about six or seven miles an hour. The fly was also coming towards him very slowly, and well on the left side. Just before he came to the fly the breeching of his harness broke, the mare jumped across the road, and his wheel struck the wheel of the fly. The effect of the sudden plunge was that his wife was thrown out. Then the animal bolted down the hill and the cart struck against a stone in the hedge; the vehicle upset, and he and the others, who were sitting behind, were thrown out. - William Hosking, ostler of the Crown and Anchor Hotel, Paignton, said he was driving two ladies from Paignton to Torquay on the Sunday night. He had lamps in his fly, but did not light them because it was not dark enough. As Mr Crute was passing him in his dog-cart his horse jumped suddenly across the road, and the wheel of the dog-cart struck against the hind wheel of the fly and Mrs Crute was thrown out. The horse then started off and ran against an embankment, and the wheel striking against a stone, the cart turned over, and one of the shafts was broken directly. He stopped his fly and, as soon as he could, helped the deceased into it and drove him to the Infirmary. The harness of the dog-cart was thoroughly sound about ten months ago, and he considered it perfectly safe to be used on the day of the accident. - Miss Emily Weston, residing at Olivet, Vansittart Road, Torre, who, with her maid, was being driven in the fly at the time, said she heard her driver call out twice, and immediately afterwards she heard a crash. The driver was perfectly sober and he was driving very steadily at the time. This was all the evidence, and the Coroner, in summing up, congratulated Mr Crute and his wife on having escaped with comparatively so little injury. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Jury exonerating the drivers of the two vehicles from blame.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 13 February 1875
TORQUAY - The Concealment Of Birth In Pimlico. Adjourned Inquest And committal For Trial. - The adjourned Inquest on the remains of the child found partially burned in the house of the woman Ireland in Pimlico was held at the Town Hall, Torquay, on Saturday, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner. The accused woman, Ireland, was present in custody during the Inquiry. - Mr Carter, sen., solicitor, attended on behalf of a young woman named Hooper, who he said was present and ready to make a statement concerning the case. - The Coroner first drew attention to the hearing of the evidence given at the previous Inquiry. He said the police-sergeant then proved the removal of the remains of the child from Ireland's house; Mrs Milton proved finding Ireland in an excited state on her returning home; and Mrs Skinner also proved being with Mrs Milton at the time the remains were found and handing them over to the police. Another witness, Mrs Clary, who lived in the house before Mrs Ireland, also stated that no child had ever been born in the house whilst she was there. Ireland, on being sworn, made a statement that the child was still-born in her house, the mother being a girl called ELIZABETH HOOPER, and that she kept the body in the house from that time until the day when the remains were discovered. The Coroner then asked what additional evidence was forthcoming, when Mr Supt. Vaughan said the young woman who was confined in Ireland's house was present and was ready to tell all she knew about the matter. ELIZABETH HOOPER then stepped forward, but prior to her making any statement, The Coroner said: It is my duty, before you are examined - although your solicitor says you are willing to state everything you know in this case - to warn you that whatever you say will be taken down in evidence to be used in any proceeding that may hereafter arise. Having warned you, do you still wish to give evidence? The witness replied in the affirmative, and, in answer to questions put to her by Mr Carter, she said: I am a single woman, 24 years of age, and I reside at Mrs Paterson's, Pinecliff, Torquay. I know Mrs Ireland; she lives in Pimlico. In 1873 I was in the family way, and was confined on the 10th of June in that year in Mrs Ireland's house. At the time I went there I agreed to give her 7s. a week. I remained there, and I paid her at the end. Mrs Ireland attended on me in my confinement. I was in her house about a fortnight before I was confined. I had not been in a very good state of health for some time previously. The child was still-born; I never heard it cry. I was very ill at the time and did not see the child, but I believe it was a female. I gave Mrs Ireland 10s. to bury the child in the Upton churchyard, and she promised she would get a box and bury it. I had provided baby linen and everything requisite for the child. Not requiring it, I gave some of the baby linen to my cousin Mrs Watson, and the rest I destroyed. I remained with Mrs Ireland a week after my confinement, being there altogether three weeks. I paid her £2 10s. before I left; that was for her trouble and attendance, for the three weeks' lodgings and 10s. for burying the child. I have not seen Mrs Ireland since nor been in her house; neither have I had any communication with her. - By the Coroner: I took no steps to find out whether the child was buried or not because I thought it was done. During the time I was in the house I slept in the kitchen with Mrs Ireland. There was a person living up over whose name was Clary. It was an illegitimate child, and the father - whose name I do not wish to disclose - had previously arranged with me to pay all the expenses. I saw no doctor during my illness. - By the Jury: The reason I was not confined at my mother's house was because my mother has been in an asylum once, and I thought it would upset her again. She knew nothing about my confinement, which took place last June twelve months. - The Coroner: Is this the only child you have ever had? - Witness: Yes, sir. - The Coroner: Then it is not true what Mrs Ireland said, that you were confined in her house in February, March, April, or May of last year? - Witness: No, sir; it is not true. By a Juryman: I was living at Fisher Street, Paignton, at the time this happened. I was in my present situation in February of last year; I have been there thirteen months last Saturday. - Dr Powell, recalled, was asked by the Coroner if there was any possibility of the body of the child found burned and that stated to have been born in 1873 being the same. - Dr Powell: I think it is possible, although I have no actual experience to guide me. I think that, had the body been partially burned shortly after birth, the skin, after a lapse of eighteen months, would have presented the same appearance as it did when I examined it. A Juryman: but wouldn't there be an offensive smell from keeping the body in a room? - Dr Powell: Certainly, if the body had simply undergone decomposition, there would undoubtedly have been a smell. The Coroner, in summing up the evidence, remarked upon the painful nature of the case, and pointed out how in some respects the statement of the woman Ireland had been confirmed, although there were discrepancies in regard to the date of the birth of the child. both, however, stated that the child was born dead; and, as the Jury had no evidence before them to show to the contrary, they would have to return a verdict that the child was found dead, but whether born alive or not there was no evidence to show. Or, if they were satisfied with the evidence that the child was born dead, then they could return a verdict to that effect, and there the case would end. He should rather recommend them, however - the case being one of so much suspicion against the woman Ireland - to return an open verdict, for them, if thought necessary, the case could be brought before the magistrates. - The Jury, after a brief consultation, returned a verdict that the child was found dead, but there was no evidence to show whether it was born alive or not. The Coroner, remarking on the case, said it shewed that there had been existing in Torquay a house that ought not to exist anywhere. They had had it in evidence that this woman Ireland had been getting her living by fortune-telling, and that in this house poor young women had gone to be confined. He had no doubt that the mother of the child in this case was recommended there by those who had been there previously. They had also had evidence before them that infants born there had, at any rate once, been tried to be put out of the way in an improper manner. That such a kind of house had been existing in Torquay for some time past there could be no doubt, and he only hoped that the proceedings now pending would lead to a stop being put to it. The Coroner subsequently drew the attention of Sergt. Ockford to the remains of the burned child, and asked him how it was they were not taken to the Infirmary and placed in the dead-house. Sergt. Ockford said he took the remains to the Infirmary, but Mr Nicholson, the house-surgeon, refused to take them in. - The Coroner: What was the excuse? - Sergt. Ockford: He said he should have to call the nurses and open the dead-house, and it would be a lot of inconvenience. - The Coroner: Were the nurses gone to bed? - Sergt. Ockford: No, sir; the institution was all open. I took the remains up quietly about six in the evening. The body of the child found on the sands was taken up direct and put in the dead-house. These remains were brought to the police-station first and then taken up to the Infirmary. The Coroner: Did you show them to any doctor before going? - Sergt. Ockford: Yes, sir. to Dr Powell, who requested me to take them to the Infirmary. The Coroner: I consider this a shameful case. I do not know why the dead body of one infant should be taken in and not another. It looks very much to me as if the remains were refused to be taken in at the Infirmary because another doctor not connected with the Institution had something to do with the Inquest. Whether taken at a doctor's request or not, they are not bound to take a body in; but when there is a dead-house there it would prove, as I have before stated, a great convenience to the inhabitants in such cases as these. I consider it very strange, to say the least, that of two bodies taken to the Infirmary within a very short time of each other, one not having been seen by a doctor and the other having been seen by a doctor, that one of them should be refused admission. Notwithstanding all that has recently been said and written about the Infirmary, I shall certainly write and ascertain why this refusal was made. If bodies are not to be admitted when taken there by the sergeant of police, he had better not take any there again. - Sergt. Ockford: I have taken a good many there, but this is the first time I was ever refused. - The Crooner: Well, I hope it is possible that an explanation may be given. The Jury were then discharged, the Coroner expressing a hope that it would be a long time before he should require their services for a similar case again.

Torquay Times And South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 19 June 1875
TOPSHAM - Singular Death On The Exmouth Railway. - A most singular and fatal event took place on the Exmouth branch line on Saturday evening. On the departure of the 10.15 p.m. train for Exmouth, the acting guard, GEORGE RICHARDS, took his place in his van as usual. On arriving at Topsham, the attention of one of the porters was called by a first-class passenger, in a compartment some two or three carriages removed from the guard's van, to the fact that blood was running down the side of the carriage in which he was seated. A search was made for the cause, and on the top of the carriage the unfortunate guard was found quite dead, with the back of his head smashed in. It is supposed that he got on the top of the carriage for some reason, and was caught by the bridge which crosses the line about half a mile from the Topsham station. In the ordinary course of events he had no business on the carriage, and what he was doing there remains a mystery. The deceased, who was a married man with one child, resided in Exeter, and was very steady and well conducted. At the Inquest, held before Mr Coroner Crosse, at Topsham, on Tuesday, some curious and remarkable disclosures were made. One of the witnesses alleged that the deceased left his van to go on the top of the carriage for the purpose of seeing a female, but his statement was not confirmed. George Bath, the driver of the train, was asked by the Coroner if he ever saw a man on the top of one of the carriages. - Witness: I have heard of its being done. The Coroner: Did you ever see it? - Witness: I never did. - The Coroner: Do you know if it's possible for a man to look into a carriage? - Witness: yes, they can. They lay on their face and hands on the top of the carriage, catch hold of the chain which covers the lamp, and so securing their safety, lean over the side, and in that way look into the window. - The Coroner: So that is done is it. What is their object? - Witness: I don't know, nor do I know what was his object. I have been thinking since Saturday if he wanted to detect anyone cutting the cushions. - The Coroner: You have heard that guards have been in the habit of getting on the top of the carriages and watching and overlooking the passengers? Have you never heard the reason why they did so? - Witness: I don't know that I ever have. Of course I can think what their motive has been. He may have been spying on the people inside. - The Coroner: With what object? - Witness: To see what he could see, I suppose. - The Coroner: for the purpose of extorting money? - Witness: I can't say. - The Coroner: You have heard of its being done? - Witness: I have, sir. - The Coroner: This is a very sad state of things. - Witness: I have heard of its being done, but never did it myself. I should be very sorry. - The Coroner: do you believe it is done to extort money, or from curiosity only? - Witness: From curiosity, I should think. If I saw a man on the top of a carriage I should guess what he was there for. - The Coroner: He must have some object beyond watching, for there must be great danger in his position, and I should think there must be some other motive beyond curiosity to induce a man to incur so much risk. - Witness: Well, sir, its curiosity, but I assure you its curiosity I shall never carry out. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times And South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 3 July 1875
TORQUAY - A Quarryman Drowned Near London Bridge. The Inquest. - An Inquest was held at Davey's Railway Inn, Torre, this (Friday) morning, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of JAMES RICE, a labourer, thirty-two years of age, who was drowned near London Bridge on Thursday morning. Mr Jas. Blackmore was chosen Foreman of the Jury. The facts in connection with the sad occurrence will be gleaned from the evidence adduced. The first witness called was Thomas Winsor, a labourer, living in Church Street, Torre. He said he was foreman over the men working at Land's End quarry, just beyond the Imperial Hotel, and deceased had been working there for the past three weeks. On Thursday morning the deceased, instead of being at work at six o'clock, did not come until twenty minutes past seven , when witness told him he would have to lose a quarter day. Deceased said he didn't mind that, and sat down and had his breakfast. He had a little conversation with the other men, during which the deceased said something about how the women had served him. About five minutes afterwards witness heard the deceased cry out, and on going to see what was the matter he saw him just above the water, putting up his hands, and going down. They threw a rope to him, but it was no good; he had sunk before he could catch hold of it. Witness saw his clothes near, shewing the deceased had undressed. He sent for the police, and it was about an hour and a half before the body was recovered. He did not know whether the deceased could swim; none of the other men had bathed there. - By the Jury: He believed the deceased was terrified in mind because he had been robbed of his money and watch by some women in South Wales, from whence he had recently returned. When they threw the rope to deceased he was below the water and was too far gone to take hold of it. He must have walked into the water over the rubble heap made there. P.C. Edwards said he was on duty on the Strand about half-past eight, when he was told that a man had been drowned in the quarry near the Imperial Hotel. Witness went out, and found the deceased's clothes lying on the rubble under the cliff. He sent for a boat, and the coastguardsmen came with their grappling irons. Witness got into the boat and assisted, but it was about an hour and a half before he and a boatman named Tom Brown recovered the body, which they saw lying on its left side in the water, completely undressed. They took it in the boat and conveyed it to the deceased's lodgings at Torre. He searched the clothes of the deceased, and found an empty purse, two pawn tickets, and a knife. There were no marks about the body. - The Coroner said the evidence before the Jury was that the deceased went to his work, but that he did not begin work because he was under orders to lose a quarter of a day, and that whilst he was waiting about for the quarter to elapse he seemed to have undressed himself and gone into the water, and then, in the presence of his fellow-workmen, he sunk and was drowned. Some evidence had been given by the witness Winsor as to the state of mind of the deceased prior to his death, but he did not think this material to the Inquiry, as the Jury had no evidence before them to lead them to think that the deceased was insane at the time and that he drowned himself. The evidence was that he undressed before he went into the water, and that fact alone would almost point to the conclusion that the deceased went in to bathe and was accidentally drowned. The Jury returned a verdict to this effect.

Torquay Times And South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 1 July 1875
TORQUAY - Sad Occurrence At Edenhurst. Two Females Suffocated By Gas. - About mid-day on Sunday a report was circulated that two women had been murdered during the previous night at Edenhurst, Park Hill Road. Mr Livingston the owner of the house (who is at present staying in London), had removed to Sidney Lodge whilst Edenhurst was being renovated, under the superintendence of Mr H. Manley, house agent, of Victoria Parade. The report that a murder had been committed was happily not true, but a horrible and fatal occurrence had taken place, of which the following are the particulars:- A woman named MOGRIDGE, the wife of a shoemaker residing at 14 Higher Ellacombe Terrace, had been employed for some time past to sleep at Edenhurst every night. Being rather lonely her grand-daughter, ELLEN ANN MOGRIDGE, used to sleep with her. They left their home as usual on Saturday night to go to Edenhurst, but as they did not return at the usual hour on Sunday morning, MR MOGRIDGE began to get uneasy. He waited for some time and as his wife and grand-daughter did not make their appearance he sent his daughter to Edenhurst. On her arrival she found the doors and windows safely secured, and, not being able to gain admittance, became fearful that some accident had befallen her mother and niece. She returned immediately to her home, and described her visit . A young man named Friend, who lodged with MOGRIDGE, proceeded immediately to the house, and as he could not enter he sought the assistance of P.C. Bond. P.C. Bond mounted the ladder which Friend had put up, and opened the window for the purpose of gaining admission into the house. Directly he opened the window an immense quantity of gas rushed out, almost sufficient to knock him off the ladder, and he had to descend immediately to escape suffocation. Soon after Sergeant Board arrived, and learning what had occurred, made an entrance into the house by breaking open the window of the servant's hall. He at once opened the whole of the windows, and then broke open the door of the bedroom which the women occupied. He had to beat a precipitate retreat on account of the outpour of gas from the room, and it was many hours afterwards before the smell which pervaded the house decreased. As soon as possible an entrance was made into the room, when a frightful spectacle was beheld. The woman and girl were dead in bed, lying in about the same attitude. The woman was partially uncovered, and seemed to have had a struggle before death, but her grand-daughter had a peaceful expression on her countenance. MRS MOGRIDGE'S body seemed to be greatly charged with gas. She is about 56 years of age, and her grand-daughter 14. Dr Powell was called in by Sergeant board, and he stated that death arose from suffocation by gas. On Saturday Mr Fouraker, plumber and gas-fitter, of Victoria Parade, was at the house making an examination in the pipes, and from directions received he did not turn the gas off from the meter, but left it on, as there was a leakage, and he wanted to find it out. In the room where the deceased slept a gas bracket had been removed from the pipe and here the gas escaped.
The Inquest. - An Inquest was held on Monday evening on the bodies, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, when the following evidence was adduced. The first witness called was Dr Powell, who stated that on Sunday between one and two o'clock he was requested by Sergt. Board to go to Edenhurst. He went, and on going to the back of the house found a ladder placed against a window, which he went up and entered the room. He found the bodies of the two females on a bed in the room, lying on their backs quite dead. There being a strong smell of gas in the room he left. He afterwards entered the house from the ground floor, and the door of the room which was locked on the inside, was broken open, and some gas immediately rushed out. he did not see any marks of violence on the bodies, and death was evidently caused by gas. - ELIZABETH MOGRIDGE, the daughter of the deceased, stated on Saturday night between 10 and 11 o'clock she last saw her mother and the little girl alive. They left about that time to go to Edenhurst to sleep. Her mother was fifty-six years of age and her niece fourteen. Between ten and eleven o'clock on Sunday morning she went to the house and finding the key in the back door on the inside, she knocked, but did not get any answer. She then went round to the bedroom window and threw gravel up to it, but did not receive any answer. The deceased had slept at the house every night for two or three months. Witness went home and gave the alarm. They usually came home to their breakfast about nine o'clock. Friend returned to the house with witness. Her mother was cheerful when she left home on the Saturday night, she did not notice any change whatever in her, and when she left home she wished witness "good night." Her mother lit herself to bed with a benzoline lamp. She had slept with the deceased on one or two occasions, when she always put the lamp out. Witness received the key of the back door between six and seven o'clock in the evening of Saturday last from Mr Fouraker, and took it home to her mother. - Samuel Friend, a tailor, residing at 11 Ellacombe Terrace, said he lived with WALTER MOGRIDGE. He knew both of the deceased. ELIZABETH MOGRIDGE told him that about eleven o'clock she had been out to the house and did not find them there, and thought she had missed them. She left immediately, and about half an hour afterwards he followed her. Finding that WALTER MOGRIDGE was going, he told him he would go as he could walk faster than he could. When he got to Edenhurst he saw ELIZABETH MOGRIDGE, who pointed out the window in which she supposed her mother was sleeping. He threw up some gravel, but getting no answer he put up a ladder and went up. The blind was down and the window as not keyed. he knocked at the window, but got no answer. He then pushed up the window and pulled back the blind, and noticed a woman in bed dead. he did not smell any gas. he saw it was ANN MOGRIDGE. He at once ran for a policeman and found P.C. Bond. He returned with him and they went up the ladder together. he then smelt a strong smell of gas. Bond entered the room, and whilst he was there witness asked him if he saw a little girl there, and he replied "yes, and they are both dead." he then came out from the room and they both proceeded to the Town Hall. P.C. Bond stated that about quarter to one o'clock the last witness asked him to go up to Edenhurst as he thought there was a woman dead, because he could not get any answer from her. He returned with the last witness and found a ladder placed beside the window. He went up the ladder and when he opened the window he smelt gas very strong. On entering the room he found the woman and the girl dead. They were lying on their backs, the little girl had the appearance of being asleep. He looked around the room to see if he could find any place from whence the gas escaped, but could find none. The gas nearly choked him and he had to leave the room. He went and gave information to Supt. Vaughan who directed him to go and give information to Sergt. Board, and then fetch Dr Powell. He went to Dr Powell's house but that gentleman was not at home, and he afterwards found Sergt. Board had brought Dr Powell to the house, and found him in the room in which he found the bodies. - Sergeant Board stated that from information he received from the last witness, he was going to Edenhurst, and meeting Dr Powell on his way there, he requested him to accompany him. When he arrived there he was shewn a ladder by the witness Friend. He mounted the ladder, and smelled the gas very strongly. He put his head into the window but at once withdrew it. He told Dr Powell what he had smelt and he then went up to the window and said he did not think it safe to enter that way. He afterward broke a pane of glass in the window of the servant's hall, and lifting the window up entered the house and broke open the door of the bedroom. As soon as the door was opened he experienced a rush of gas, and they waited for about a minute before they entered. He found the bodies as described by Dr Powell. He could not find the place from which the gas escaped. He searched for poison but found none. He found a lamp placed on the washing basin in the room. There was a box of matches beside the basin. He found the clothes of MRS MOGRIDGE and examined the pocket, and found the letter, card, and purse produced. The purse contained 4s. 11 ½d., and several small items. The clothes of E. A. MOGRIDGE were on a chair at the side of the bed. he sent for Mr Fouraker and Mr Manley. He searched very carefully around the room to see if there was a plug but found none. He lived next door to the deceased and he never saw anything in her manner which would lead him to believe she was wrong in her head. He afterwards proceeded with Mr Manley and Mr Fouraker, and saw Mr Fouraker turn the gas off from the meter. If a plug had been in the room he might have found it and he gave directions to two females to look for it, but they had not been able to find it. He saw nothing about the pipe which would lead him to believe that it had been plugged. - WALTER MOGRIDGE, husband of the deceased woman, stated that the letter produced was in the handwriting of his wife, who ought to have posted it. - Mr H. Manley, stated that he was agent for Mr Livingston, the owner of the house, and went up occasionally at Mr Livingston's request, to look over the house. Mr Bovey had the contract for the painting, and Mr Fourakers the gas work. From directions witness received from Mr Livingston, he told Fouraker to make three new connections in the gas pipe, so as to get a better light. He should think it was done about five weeks since. There were no alterations required in the room in which the deceased slept. He went through the house on Saturday last, but did not enter the room in which the deceased died, as MRS MOGRIDGE kept the key. At Mr Livingston's request he went to the Gas Office, and directed them to disconnect the gas, as Mr. Livingston did not wish any gas to be on during the alterations. At his request the gas was put on Saturday morning about 10 o'clock. He believed Mr Fouraker was present when the gas was connected by the gas company's workman. Mr Fouraker, with him, examined two of the joints with a lucifer match, but could not find any leakage. Mr Fouraker went out, and took up a plank of the floor at the back landing, smelt about, and said to witness, "I'm glad to say it is all right." He knew that the gas was kept on during the night for the purpose of seeing if any leakage occurred. About the 24th of May he gave orders for every bracket to be taken off, so that the painters might proceed with their work. Some of the pipes were plugged with wood and white lead, and others with brass caps. He could never get into the room in which the poor females slept, as MRS MOGRIDGE kept the key. When the meter was disconnected the pipes were plugged temporarily. - A young man named Bowles was called forward and said he came with the deceased to the house on Saturday night, but did not notice anything strange in her manner. - Supt. Vaughan said he had examined all the rooms in which he could enter, and found all the pipes plugged in a proper manner. - Robert Norcombe, tin-plate worker and gas fitter, living at Torre, said he lately worked for Mr Fouraker. About two months ago Mr Fouraker gave him orders to come to this house and take down the brackets and pendants. Before he commenced to work he asked Mr Fouraker where the gas meter was, that he might turn it off, Mr Fouraker replied that the gas was disconnected altogether. As he took off each bracket he plugged it with wood and white lead. He remembered the room in which the women met their death, and took off the bracket which was about 18 inches above the bed. MRS MOGRIDGE was there and showed him the rooms, and the one in which they died was not locked. On the Monday following he came and put two brass caps to two of the brackets, to make them more secure. He had been in the house to work since then, but not about the gas. - By the Foreman: He was quite sure he plugged the bracket in the room in which the women were found. - James Fouraker, plumber and gas fitter, of Victoria Parade, said he received orders from Mr Livingston to do the gas in the house, and had since received orders from Mr H. Manley. He gave the last witness directions to take off the brackets and pendants. He considered the last witness able to do the work. He did not remember going over the room, nor had he been in the room where MRS MOGRIDGE slept since she had charge of the house. He put brass stops to those pipes where brackets were not to be placed again, and he knew that some months ago gas was laid on in this room, and that the gas was disconnected, but had been laid on again about half-past nine on Saturday morning. He turned on the gas and went with Mr Manley into the room where the brackets had not been removed, and found there was no gas there. He fetched the gas man to see if it was properly turned on, and he examined the meter and said "It is all free." He afterwards let some water out from the meter, and the gas came all right. He tried all the new connections. - The Coroner in summing up remarked that the cause of death was clear, and that he did not think there had been any criminal intention on the part of any one, but it was for the Jury to say if there had been gross carelessness on the part of some one. It was evident that carelessness had occurred, and he hoped it would be a caution to gas fitters for the future. - The Jury having consulted together for a few minutes, the Foreman (Mr Lambshead) said the Jury returned a verdict to the following effect, "We find that the deceased died from inhaling gas, and we think there was carelessness on the part of Mr Fouraker, in not making a particular examination of the room occupied by the deceased, but we do not think that it amounted to criminal carelessness. The Coroner cautioned Mr Fouraker to be more careful for the future. The Inquiry lasted from half-past six to nearly eleven o'clock. Mr F. Manley, accompanied by Captain Graham, a member of the Jury, made a close search of the room on Tuesday, and found a gas pipe plug on the floor, which suggests that it must have been blown out after the women had gone to sleep. The funeral took place on Thursday afternoon.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 24 July 1875
TORQUAY - The Alleged Death By Violence In Pimlico. - The Inquest upon the body of ELIZABETH CROKER was held at the Town Hall on Tuesday evening, when the following particulars were given before a Jury of which Mr John Brittan was the Foreman. After the Jury had viewed the body which was lying in Pimlico, Maria Tucker said, she resided in Pimlico, and kept a lodging-house. She knew the deceased who had lived in her house sixteen months with a man called BUCKPITT, a lumper. The deceased died on Monday at half-past two, but complained of being ill on Saturday evening. The witness advised the deceased to have a doctor, and went to Mr Tozer's to get an order for the doctor; Mrs Tozer would not let her have one, because Mr Tozer was not home, but told her to come again. Witness said the deceased needed the doctor immediately. She then sent for Mr Gamble, surgeon. She had seen her kicked and struck by Buckpitt. She saw him hit her across the face with his dinner of bread and meat in a cloth, and the deceased said, "Why did you do that for after my hard day's work?" She did not touch him. She had seen Buckpitt kick the deceased in her legs, and saw him knock the deceased on a Sunday. Witness did not think he would have inflicted any bodily injury on the deceased if he had not been in liquor. Buckpitt and the deceased lived pretty comfortably together, except at times when he was drunk. She sent the order which she received from Mr Tozer to Mr Gill about half-past one o'clock on Monday. He came about three, but the deceased died about half-past two. Witness did not think that Buckpitt ill-used the deceased who was a very hard-working and industrious woman. Witness gave the deceased some ginger and pale brandy, and put up a mustard poultice on her body. - Mary Dennis, the wife of William Dennis, a plasterer, stated that they had apartments at the back of Mrs Tucker's house, and had resided there about six weeks. She knew the deceased who died in witness's arms on Monday. About eleven o'clock on Monday morning the deceased complained to witness of a pain in her body. She again complained to witness on Sunday. Witness had not seen Buckpitt ill use her, but believed that they had a few words twice. Some time since, on a Sunday, she heard the deceased and Buckpitt have a few words, and he struck her in the face with his hand, knocking her down to the floor, she was helped up by Mrs tucker and some other woman. On Friday Buckpitt came home the worse for liquor. He complained to the deceased that his supper was not ready. The deceased replied, "How could I get your supper before, when I have been out all day hard to work." She never heard the deceased complain of being in want. A man named Harrington here stood up and wished to be allowed to speak, but the Coroner refused, saying he might want him to speak presently. - William Leat, a painter, lodging at Mrs Tucker's house, said on Monday morning, just before six o'clock, he saw the deceased in the stairs holding her side, and complaining of pain. He told the deceased that she might go up in his room along with his wife. Witness had not heard the deceased complain of being served badly. He thought that the deceased was afraid to go back into her own room, but it was only a supposition. The deceased had her dress on and was not crying. - Sarah Jane Leet, wife of the last witness, stated that she had known the deceased for a short time. The deceased came into witness's room on Monday morning, just before six o'clock, and laid down by the side of her bed. When witness asked the deceased if she felt any better, she said she had a pain in her left side. The deceased remained in witness's room about half-an-hour, but did not say what made her leave her own room. She had a short nap while in witness's room, but afterwards returned to her own, and was given a cup of tea by Mrs Tucker's servant. There was a large number of lodgers in Mrs Tucker's house. On Sunday the deceased complained that she felt very unwell on her inside. She had heard Buckpitt and deceased have a few words "such as man and wife would have." If there had been a great quarrel in the room of the deceased witness must have heard it. The Coroner here called the man Harrington before him, and he made the following statement: On Saturday night I was in Mr Pim's beerhouse, which is situated four or five doors from the house in which the deceased lodged. Buckpitt was there and four or five strangers - navvys employed on the sewerage words - were also present. The deceased was there, sang a song, danced and gave Buckpitt threepence. As she was going out the door she stumbled and fell. She got up and said "Look at my arm." Buckpitt said "Serve you right, good job if you'd broke your neck." I was drinking with Buckpitt all the afternoon, and he was between half drunk and drunk. The Coroner: Perhaps that is what I should consider drunk. - Catherine Harrington, stated that she and her husband resided at Mrs Tucker's house. She knew the deceased and Buckpitt. Witness slept in the same room as Buckpitt and the deceased, but saw very little of them except at bed time, as her trade called her out of doors a great deal. She never knew the deceased and Buckpitt to have a row in the bedroom. She did not know who went to bed first on Friday night last. The deceased first complained to her of the pain in her stomach on Sunday morning. On Monday morning the deceased was in bed when witness got up, and complaining of being very thirsty witness fetched her a cup of water. If the deceased got out of bed on Monday morning it must have been whilst witness was asleep, and she did not complain of being served bad by Buckpitt. On Sunday night when witness and her husband went to bed Buckpitt was in bed asleep. The deceased came into the room just after they went to bed. - By a Juror: I have never seen the deceased the worse for liquor. - Mr S. Gamble, surgeon, stated that about eleven o'clock on Monday morning he was called to see the deceased in a house in Pimlico. He found her in bed; she was quite conscious, but almost pulseless, and her hands and feet were cold. She was very sick, and suffered from ramping pains in the bowels. He asked her whether she had taken or done anything which would produce those symptoms. He requested Mrs Tucker to apply some poultices to the body of the deceased, and also to give her some brandy. Witness considered the deceased, who did not make any complaint of ill-treatment, to be in immediate danger. He made an external examination of the body to see if there were any external marks of violence, but found only a slight abrasion on one knee, which might have been caused by kneeling, or a fall. He believed the deceased was suffering from a rupture. He attributed the cause of death to English cholera and the consequent exhaustion. Buckpitt was here called forward, who, in reply to a question put by the Coroner, whether he would like to make a statement, said he did not, except that he did not think the deceased dangerously ill. - The Coroner addressing the Jury, said that they had several witnesses before them, who had proved that Buckpitt had ill-used the deceased, and as recently as Friday night he struck her in the face. On Sunday the deceased complained that she was unwell, and on Monday she died. The question before them was how the deceased came by her death. A witness sleeping in the same room as deceased and Buckpitt, distinctly stated that Buckpitt did not ill-use the deceased whilst in that room. Buckpitt had very properly not denied ill-using her. He (the Coroner) was sure the state of society in Mrs Tucker's house was very bad. If the cause of death had been ill-treatment of a recent occasion, marks of violence must have been found on the body. - The Jury returned a verdict of Death from "Natural Causes." The Coroner concurred in the verdict, and thought it was the only verdict under the circumstances that could have been returned. Buckpitt was then called forward by the Coroner, who cautioned him as to his future conduct. He believed he acted in a proper manner when sober, but his conduct when tipsy was very bad. If he (Buckpitt) should ever be allied to another woman he hoped he would treat her kindly. Mrs Tucker also received a sever caution respecting the conduct of her house, and the Coroner hoped she would manage it better for the future.

Torquay Times And South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 21 August 1875
EXETER - Distressing Suicide. - A painful case of suicide was brought to light at Exeter between four and five o'clock on Tuesday afternoon. As a woman named Dunn was walking in the fields adjoining the river Exe, just above Salmon Pool, she found a girl's hat, and underneath it a letter, on the envelope of which the following words were written:- "To my dear mother, MRS BIDDER, Christow, near Exeter. I have an aunt living in Parr-street, St. Sidwell's; Cumming is her name." The woman took the letter with all speed to P.C. Clements, who immediately proceeded to Parr-street and found out Mrs Cumming. The latter opened the letter and immediately recognised the writing as that of her niece, ELIZA JANE BIDDER. The letter was couched in the most affectionate terms. The girl admitted that she had been leading a wicked life, and had proved a disgrace to her relatives; and for this reason she had determined to put an end to her existence. She expressed a hope that her parents would forgive her for the trouble she had caused them, and that her sister would turn out a better girl. Whilst the constable was thus employed, some men living near the Quay procured the drags and after a short search the body was recovered near Salmon Pool, and conveyed to the Port Royal Inn, where it awaits an Inquest. On the deceased being searched, a letter similar to the one above referred to was found in her pocket, which had the appearance of having been written some time. Subsequent enquiries lead to the conclusion that the statement made by the girl in the letter, to the effect that she had been leading a wicked life, is not without foundation. A few months ago her friends procured her a good situation at Torquay, but she left there, and it seems that it was only on Tuesday that her whereabouts was discovered. The presumption is that immediately she found out that her friends were on her track she ran away and committed the fatal act, which, to judge from the letter found in her pocket, has been premeditated for some time past. The deceased is 21 years of age, and daughter of a labourer residing at Christow. The deceased has lived in different situations at Torquay for several years past. The last place at which she resided was at Mrs Fowles', Kendall Villa, but she was discharged from there about a fortnight since. The Inquest on the body of the deceased was held at the Port Royal Inn, Exeter, before Mr Coroner Crosse, when, after hearing the evidence of the various witnesses, the Jury returned a verdict that "The deceased committed Suicide, whilst in an Unsound Mind."

Torquay Times And South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 2 October 1875
TORQUAY - Inquest At The Town Hall. - An Inquest was held at the Town Hall on Monday evening, at seven o'clock, on the body of ERNEST, illegitimate child of JANE COOK, aged one year and nine months, before Mr Michelmore, Coroner, and a Jury of which Mr Wakeham was the Foreman. - JANE COOK, dressmaker, the mother of the child, stated that she was a single woman, and resided at 1, Market Street. She was confined in the Union, and remained there a month after. She then put the child with Mrs Burridge, of 36 Higher Union Street, because she could not attend to it and her business. Mrs Burridge kept it over 12 months. Witness went to live at Mrs Sims, Hyde Park Terrace, Ellacombe, after she left the Union; there were three women living with her at Hyde Park Terrace, Ellacombe, but she did not care to let either of them have it. She nursed the child for one month- the time she was in the Union where she was confined. Then she gave the child - a boy - to Mrs Burridge. After that she gave the child to Mrs Vincent of Stentford's Hill, who kept it for a month. She took the child from Mrs Burridge because that person being a widow woman had to give it up to go to a situation. Mrs Vincent could keep it no longer as it was not convenient for her. Since April, 1874, she had been living at Mr Brocken's, hair-dresser, of 1 Market Street. After she took the child from Mrs Vincent, she put it with Mrs Setters, a widow of Ellacombe. That was about three months ago. She kept it about six weeks, and then the child was put with Mrs Uren, of No. 3, Pimlico. She paid Mrs Setters and Mrs Uren 3s. 6d. a week. The child was put with Mrs Uren on Tuesday, 14th September. She had only seen it twice since, viz., on Tuesday the 21st, and Friday last. There was nothing the matter with the child when she put it with Mrs Uren; but it was never a strong child. It was only recently that she thought the child was delicate. On Saturday morning at six o'clock Mrs Uren sent for her to come and see the child as it was ill. Before going to see the child she sent for Dr Powell. When she got to the child, it seemed to be dying, and she went to meet the girl she had sent for Dr Powell, who stated he could not come, and she then went for Dr Gill. She then went to her lodgings to get some money and returned to the child, which however died about ten minutes after she got there, and before the doctor came. Mrs Uren had one nurse child besides hers, and a little girl of her own about 10 years old. Although she resided only four minutes walk from where the child lived she did not see it for the whole week it was with Mrs Uren. - Annie Maria Uren said she was a widow, living at No. 3, Pimlico. She had the child a week and three days. The child was taken to her by Mrs Setter's daughter. Her son got 10s. a week. She received 3s. 6d. for one child, 4s. for the other, and 2s. from the parish. She had had 15 children, 10 of whom had died in fits, all of them under three years and nine months. The deceased child did not die of fits, but slept away. She fed the children on bread and milk. When the child was brought to her it could not stand. She believed the weakness of the child was in its back, and was caused by sitting. About 12 months ago an illegitimate child died in her house. Setters said she had kept the child for six weeks, and it seemed very weak in the back, and when she told the mother so, she gave her a pair of stays for it at once. JANE COOK, re-called, said the child had been weak since it was four months old. - Dr Powell stated that he had made a post mortem examination of the body of the child. He found sufficient disease to account for death. He considered the primary cause of death to be tubercular disease and the secondary cause cerebral effusion. He found nothing to lead him to have any suspicion. The Coroner summed up. The child was one of these unfortunate ones which, unless the Coroner looked after them, nobody did. After the evidence of Dr Powell, they could only arrive at the verdict that death resulted from "Natural Causes". Verdict accordingly.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 29 January 1876
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident At Dartmouth. - An Inquest was held at the Torbay Infirmary on Monday afternoon, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of NICHOLAS TUCKER, who met his death under the circumstances narrated below. The first witness called was Mr John Billingsley Richardson, house-surgeon at the Torbay Infirmary, who stated that on January 5th, the deceased was admitted into the Infirmary from Dartmouth. He saw the deceased soon after his admission and found him to be suffering from a compound fracture of all the bones of the right foot. It was necessary to amputate the foot the same evening, which was performed by Mr James Pollard, witness and Mr W. Pollard, Mr Huxley being also present. The deceased progressed favourably for the first 48 hours, and then haemorrhage set in, which was topped at the time. It came on continually after that, and it was probably due to ossification of the arteries. It became necessary that the leg should be amputated above the knee joint, which was done on Saturday last. It was successful as far as it went, but about an hour after he died from exhaustion consequent upon the loss of blood. - Samuel James Stevens, a labourer of Dittisham, said he knew the deceased, who was a labourer of Dittisham. The deceased was 59 years of age. On Sunday January 9th, he saw the deceased at the Infirmary when he told witness how he became injured. He said that he was on board a lighter laden with sand going to Kingswear and on reaching there the lighter ran against the jetty, forcing back the bowsprit which jammed his foot between the end of the bowsprit and fore-hatchway. The deceased was first taken across the river to Dartmouth, where Dr Soper saw him and ordered him to be taken to the Infirmary. The Jury, of whom Mr Thomas Taylor was the Foreman, returned a verdict of Accidental Death. The Jury gave their fees towards the funds of the Infirmary.

BABBICOMBE - Inquest at Babbicombe. - An Inquest was held at the Globe Inn, Babbicombe, this (Friday) afternoon before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of BLANCHE SHARLAND, the illegitimate child of a woman named SHARLAND, residing at Babbicombe. It appears that the deceased, who was about two years of age, slept with her mother and was found dead in bed by her on Thursday morning. Dr Chilcote was sent for, but he found that life was quite extinct, and refused to give a certificate of death. The Coroner was communicated with, and under the circumstances ordered a post mortem examination to be made, which was performed by Dr Chilcote.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 4 March 1876
COCKINGTON - Sudden Death At Cockington. - An Inquest was held at Cockington on Monday afternoon, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of MARIA NORTHWAY, daughter of a labourer at Cockington. It appears that during Friday night the child was seized with convulsions, and died on Saturday afternoon, at two o'clock. Mr Pollard was called in, but his services were of no avail. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned. The deceased was five years of age.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 15 April 1876
PAIGNTON - Fatal Accident At Paignton. - An Inquest was held at Paignton, on Monday, by Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, respecting the death of JOSEPH ROWE, carter, who died on Saturday from the effects of an accident that occurred on the previous evening. The deceased was returning from Staverton, whither he had been to fetch a new cart, and had nearly reached Paignton, when, whilst standing up in the cart, he turned to speak to a passer-by, overbalanced himself and fell out, breaking the spinal cord. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 22 April 1876
TORQUAY - Supposed Suicide. - A man named GEORGE COLE, was found in the stream, at the bottom of old Mill Lane, this (Friday) morning. He was lying face downwards, and is supposed to have committed suicide. The body was conveyed to the Rising Sun Inn, where an Inquest will be held.

TORQUAY - Sad Death Of An Old Lady In Torquay. - An Inquest was held at 4, Sunbury Terrace, on Tuesday morning, at ten o'clock, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of MRS ANN ELIZABETH BIGGAR, who met her death under the circumstances mentioned below. The first witness called was Mrs Emma Burge, wife of Mr T. Burge, builder, residing at 5 Sunbury Terrace, who stated that she had known the deceased about four or five years, and had been in the habit of seeing her almost every day. She last saw the deceased on the previous Saturday night about quarter to ten o'clock, at her house. She then appeared as well as usual and in perfect spirits. She often complained of shakiness and weakness in her foot, and the deceased told witness that she had recently met with an accident at Newton, falling and hurting her arm. The deceased lived in the house alone, with no one to regularly attend upon her. Witness scarcely ever saw the deceased on Sundays and she was not astonished at not seeing her on the previous Sunday. On Monday morning as she had not fetched her milk as usual, witness knocked at the door about ten o'clock. She knocked loudly three or four times, and not receiving any answer, she became alarmed, and sent to Mr Oliver's at the next house, and also sent for Mr Burge, and they called the police. There was nothing in deceased's manner to lead witness to think that she had committed suicide. Witness's impression was that the deceased fell in going up the stairs, her arm having given away. When the police broke open the door, witness found the deceased lying at the foot of the stairs, partly undressed, and quite dead. The husband of the deceased died about twelve months since. Witness did not think that the deceased had been to bed when found. - Mr William Powell, surgeon, stated that between twelve and one o'clock he was called to Sunbury Terrace by Sergeant Ockford. He found the deceased at the bottom of the stairs, life being quite extinct. The body was lying on the right side, with the face rather downwards. There was a graze on the forehead and also one on the bridge of the nose. By an external examination he could not tell whether the vertebrae was broken, but the neck appeared to be twisted a great deal. He thought that there was sufficient violence to cause concussion of the brain, and to render her insensible and the probability was, that, lying in the strained position she was, she very soon expired. The grazes led him to suppose that the deceased fell against the edge of the stairs, and he should not think that the blows were inflicted by any sharp instrument. By the Jury: He should think that the position she was lying was sufficient to stop her breathing. Sergeant Ockford stated that on Monday morning he received information from Mr Burge, who supposed that something was wrong at 4 Sunbury Terrace. He knocked at the door very loudly, but could get no answer. He found the doors and windows securely fastened, and had to break open two doors before he could get into the house. He found the deceased lying with her feet in the stairs, and her head resting on the mat at the foot. On the fourth stair he found a candlestick with the candle evidently having burnt out. By her side he found a satchel with patchwork in it. Her watch was fastened round the neck with a black guard, and the watch appeared to have stopped at half-past four o'clock. In her pocket was a purse containing 7s. 6d. in silver and some coppers, and some trinkets and a ring. He believed that the deceased came down for her satchel and then fell down. There were no marks on the body to lead him to believe that there had been foul play. The bed clothes had been thrown back and on the bed he found a box containing some bracelets and other jewellery. The body was quite rigid. The Coroner having summed up, the Jury, of whom Mr Saunders was the Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 29 April 1876
TORQUAY - Death By Drowning. - An Inquest was held at the Rising Sun Inn on Friday evening on the body of GEORGE COLES, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner. It appears from the evidence adduced that the deceased, who is a labourer, 75 years of age, and very infirm, was found by George Morgan on Friday morning last in the stream which runs across the road leading to Cockington near the Devon Rosery. it is supposed that the deceased fell in whilst returning home. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned by the Jury, of whom Mr Samuel Lambshead, senr., was the Foreman.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 6 May 1876
ST MARY CHURCH - Suicide. - An Inquest was held on Saturday evening at the Palk Arms, St. Mary Church, before Mr H. Michelmore, County Coroner, on the body of MR JOHN WAYMOUTH, a retired baker, residing at Lummaton Place. Deceased had for a long time been a great sufferer, and about a fortnight since broke his leg. This increased his suffering, and whilst his niece was at the surgeon's to obtain medicine to alleviate the pain he hanged himself. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 20 May 1876
NEWTON ABBOT - Suicide At Newton Abbot. - On Wednesday morning a waggoner named SKINNER, in the employ of Messrs. Pinsent and Sons, brewers and spirit merchants, hung himself in his employers' waggon-house. The unfortunate man rose about six o'clock and went to the stable to feed the horses, and two hours later his lifeless body was found by a fellow-workman suspended from one of the high beams by a piece of strong tarred rope. The act must have been very deliberate, for the beam could only be reached by standing on one of the carts, and the rope being properly adjusted, he probably made a spring from the cart. He leaves a widow and several children. Some months ago the poor fellow was under treatment from an affection of the head, and several times since he has shown symptoms of a return of the malady. Later on in the day an Inquest was held when these facts were deposed to, and a verdict returned accordingly.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 27 May 1876
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident. - A fatal accident occurred on Wednesday at the Sewerage Works, in the No. 2 shaft at Hope's Nose. It appears that about ten o'clock on the morning of the day in question, a young man named RICHARD PAYNTER was descending the shaft when by some means the bucket in which he was descending hitched in the side of the shaft, and tipping over pitched out PAYNTER who fell heavily to the bottom. Just as the deceased reached the bottom the bucket unhooked and falling to the bottom of the shaft struck the deceased heavily, and either by his fall or the bucket his hip was broken as was also one of his arms. Assistance was quickly at hand and the deceased was hoisted to the surface and speedily removed to the Torbay Infirmary, where his injuries received every attention from the house surgeon, Mr J. B. Richardson. The deceased, however, expired about six o'clock the same evening. An Inquest will be held this (Friday) evening.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 3 June 1876
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident To A Navvy. - An Inquest was held at the Infirmary on Friday evening last, on the body of RICHARD PAYNTER, a navvy employed at the sewerage works, who met his death under the circumstances recorded in our last issue. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - Sudden Death On The Newton Road. - On Saturday morning a sad occurrence took place on the road between Newton and Torquay. JOHN HUNT, a carter, in the employ of Messrs. Vicary and Sons, wholesale tanners, of Newton Abbot, had been sent to Torquay to gather skins as usual, and was returning with his horse and waggon between three and four o'clock. He was accompanied by his little boy, seven years old, and when near Law's Bridge the man said to his son that he was feeling very bad. Almost immediately, and whilst the horse was going on, the man fell off his seat in the front part of the waggon to the ground. The boy stopped the horse at once, and several persons happening to be near took up his father, who was found to be dead. The body was removed to the Torbay Infirmary, where an Inquest was held in the evening, before Mr H. Michelmore, County Coroner. The evidence shewed that the cause of death was heart disease, and a verdict to this effect was returned. The deceased, who leaves a widow and six children, lived in the Grove, Newton Abbot, and was 40 years of age.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 17 June 1876
TORQUAY - Found Dead. - An Inquest was held at the Country House Inn on Monday evening, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of RICHARD LEMON, the infant child of MRS LEMON, of 28 Ellacombe Terrace. It appears that on Sunday, when MRS LEMON awoke she found the deceased by her side dead, and it is supposed that the child was over-lain by its mother. A verdict of Death from Suffocation was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 1 July 1876
TOTNES - Drowned In The Dart. - A man, supposed to be called STOCKMAN, and who is stated as belonging to Paignton, but who has been staying at Totnes for a few days, was drowned on Wednesday night while bathing in the Dart. He must have been able to swim, for having crossed the river he turned to come back, but was observed by some boys near the spot to sink suddenly. The river was dragged and the body recovered, after it had been in the water for an hour, and was taken to the Seymour Hotel, where an Inquest was held, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" returned.

TORQUAY - Babbicombe. - An Inquest was held at Ash's Commercial Hotel, on Saturday evening before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, to Enquire into the circumstances of the death of ALICE JANE OWEN, a young lady, who met her death under the circumstances narrated below. The first witness called was Mr James Brown, residing at Sidmouth View, Babbicombe, who deposed as follows:- I have known the deceased some years. On Saturday morning I met her in the village some time before she went to bathe. She was going in the direction of Babbacombe, and I was going in a contrary direction. I had three nieces bathing, and about twelve o'clock, I was with my three boys sitting on the Babbacombe Down, waiting for my three nieces to come up. Whilst I was sitting there, I saw two ladies in the water. I could see the machines and beach perfectly. The two ladies came from one machine, and at first they were no distance out; apparently one was teaching the other to swim. I saw they had the ropes, and they were walking backwards, and at last they were out such a distance that I became alarmed, and said to my boys "They are drowning." The event occurred almost as quickly as I have related it, and they had apparently lost the rope. I saw a boy standing near a boat, and I shouted out "The ladies are drowning, put out the boat, quick." There were several persons on the beach, and I took off my hat and waved it, to draw the attention of those on the beach. The lad at first seemed to take no notice, and I still continued shouting, and then he went up to the house of the keeper of the machines, which is on the beach. I then saw him go back and put off the boat, and I saw another boat come in another direction. There was a lad on the downs on a pony, and he, at my request, galloped off for Dr Chilcote. I saw nothing more, and as fast as I could, I went into my house and got some brandy. When I got on the beach, the body was on a plank, and appeared to be dead. I don't know that there is any special arrangements for saving life, as far as I am aware of. - By the Jury: The bodies were not more than 40 feet off the beach. There did not appear to be any one in charge of the boat. The machine was not in the water at all. The tide was falling. The beach of my own knowledge is dangerous, unless persons know it. I should say the body was in the water three minutes. Drs. Steel and Chilcote were indefatigable in their attention and every remedy human nature could think of was applied. I remained with the body three hours, but animation could not be restored. - Elias Waymouth, deposed as follows:- The bathing establishment on Oddicombe beach belongs to me. I was there this morning and within a few minutes of twelve o'clock I let the machine to the deceased and her sister. I am not certain which I let the machine to. It was about five or six minutes after I let them the machine they went into the water. I let the machine down to the water, the front wheels being about a foot and half in the water. I have ropes about six fathoms long attached to each machine. I saw the two girls go into the water. I was in one of my own boats at the time. I may have been from 10 to 12 yards at the time they went into the water. After they went into the water I went off about 50 yards to a lobster pot which was quite abreast of the machine. My back was turned, and I heard someone shout, I pulled for the shore and saw one on the water, apparently to me, floating. I pulled direct to the lady, which was floating took her in my arms, and pulled to the shore. She was lying face downwards. The way the boat had made it touch the beach directly. I took up the lady, and I then passed it to my wife. It appears to me that one went without a hand line or both had hold of the same, as one line was on the steps. I picked up the line where I rescued the second lady. There were several ladies on the beach. My wife attends to the bathers, as well as myself. I was in attendance on this machine. My little boy - called Thomas - went with my wife to get a drink of water, and the boy who gave the alarm was a stranger. Supposing that I had been at the capstan to pull the machine in shore, I was not so far away at the lobster pot, and if I had to launch a boat I should not have got to the bathers as quickly as I rowed from the lobster pot. I consider it to be my duty to have a boat in attendance. I took the second body on shore, and was there whilst attempts were made to revive life, but they were unsuccessful. That body is that of the deceased. When I took up the bodies I called for medical aid. The ladies were bathing in a good part of the beach. They had bathed at the beach four seasons before the present, and were thoroughly acquainted with the beach. I have a life-buoy in the boat on the beach, and I rescued the deceased with a grapnel I had in the boat. The body was perfectly visible, and when I took her up she was alive, as she moved in the boat, and threw up a quantity of salt water. I should think the body was in the water three minutes. - Wm. Thomas stated as follows:- I was in the cottage on the beach when a little boy came up and said that one of the ladies was drowning. I ran down and pushed off the boat, but Mr Waymouth had reached the bodies before me. - John Thomas Hancorn stated as follows: I am a chemist residing at the Medical hall, St. Mary Church. The deceased is not any relation of ours, but is a friend. She is 15 years of age. I don't know MRS OWEN'S name neither do I know the name of MRS OWEN'S late husband. He was a captain in the merchant service. The deceased's sister is called ADA. They came to our house to spend the day, and they left about quarter to 12 to go for a bathe. About one o'clock a little girl, who went with the deceased, came and told me that the deceased and her sister had got out of their depth. She said she saw one brought in. About half-past one, I saw the body of the deceased on the beach, on a plank covered over with flannel. Medical men were there, and were attempting to restore life, but could not. One or other of them have been to my house frequently to bathe, and they know the beach well. - The Coroner in summing up, said that the evidence pointed to one conclusion, a conclusion which it was for the Jury to arrive at. He then directed attention to the different points of the evidence, and added that there was no direct evidence to shew how the deceased came by her death, the only evidence which could shew how the deceased came by her death was that of her sister, but she was in such a condition that it would be dangerous to call her at present. The evidence pointed out that it was a pure accident. Waymouth had given his evidence in a very straight forward manner, and he (Waymouth) considered he was in attendance, although he went some distance off. There could be no doubt that there has been no wilful neglect on his part, and that he did his utmost to save the life of the deceased. Waymouth was not doing what he ought to have done, namely keeping a boat in attendance on the machines. He would wish the Jury to tell Waymouth that if not legally, at least morally he would not be doing his duty if he did not have a boat in attendance. The Jury retired to consider their verdict, and on their return, the Foreman, Mr Robert Lear, said the Jury had returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." They wished the Coroner to inform Mr Waymouth that he had not given proper attention in not having a boat and that he should be told to be more cautious in the future. The Coroner cautioned Waymouth in accordance with the Jury's request.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 8 July 1876
DEVONPORT - Another Murder At Devonport. - We are, unfortunately, again required to record a fatal quarrel between a man and his wife, resulting in the death of the woman from the effects of a fall, following on a blow. A shoemaker named THOMAS ELLICOTT, residing at Devonport, is now in custody on the charge of having caused his wife's death. An Inquiry into the circumstances will be held before the magistrates this morning, and the Coroner holds an Inquest this afternoon. - Plymouth Mercury.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 29 July 1876
TORQUAY - Fatal Fall. - On Wednesday afternoon, a little girl, four years of age, named LEEM, whose parents reside at Upton, fell over the quarry at the rear of Prospect Terrace, Upton, and received such injuries that she died shortly after being admitted to the Torbay Infirmary. An Inquest was held on Thursday evening at the Town Hall, before Mr H. Michelmore, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" returned. The Jury were sworn in bare-headed in front of the dead house, not being allowed to enter the Infirmary, through the Governors refusing to allow Inquests to be held there after seven o'clock. The Coroner at the conclusion of the Inquest spoke in rather strong terms of this piece of red-tapeism, referring to the great inconvenience it would cause both to the Jurymen and Coroner alike.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 9 September 1876
DAWLISH - Bathing Fatality At Dawlish. - On Monday morning MR EDWARD WAY, of London, went with a friend to bathe at Dawlish. Shortly after entering the water he appeared in difficulty, and although help reached him before he sank animation could not be restored. An Inquest was held on Tuesday, when a verdict of "Accident Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 23 September 1876
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident In Torbay. - On Tuesday evening an Inquest was held at the British Workman, No. 2, Vaughan Parade, on the body of GEORGE SCOTT, who was drowned in Torbay on Friday, September 8th. The Jury having viewed the body which was lying in a store on the Old Quay, the first witness called was WILLIAM SCOTT, father of the deceased. He stated that his son was in the 25th year of his age, and was a fisherman. He was drowned in the Bay on September 8th. Witness took a punt and paddled out with the deceased, to the barque Lizzie Fox, together with his youngest son, ALBERT SCOTT. Witness boarded the barque and the deceased steered the punt alongside the vessel, which, on his attempting to board, capsized with the force at which the vessel was going through the water. The deceased was thrown into the water, but the body was not recovered, although every exertion was made to do so. On Tuesday morning about a quarter to six, when abreast of Meadfoot Beach, he saw a body about a quarter a mile off the shore. He towed the body into the harbour, and recognised it as that of his son. Everything was done that could be done on board the barque and, with the exception that there was no boat ready to launch, he had no fault to find. There was a boat lowered in about three minutes. The deceased, when in the water, caught hold of the punt's keel, which was bottom upwards, and witness then assisted to lower the boat. After that was done he went on the poop to look for the deceased, and could not see him. He believed that when the punt righted it struck and stunned the deceased. Samuel Down, captain of the Lizzie Fox, of Brixham, stated that on 8th of September he was coming into the harbour. The father of the deceased came aboard and he agreed with him that he should assist him into harbour. Hearing a noise under the ship's quarter he left the wheel, and on looking over the side he saw the boat in the act of capsizing. He saw the deceased and his brother in the boat. Witness went over the ship's side and caught the brother by the collar and placed him on board the vessel. Witness was reaching over to the deceased when the boat's painter parted, and the boat capsized with the deceased under. The deceased rose to the surface and swam some distance. He did not hear him utter any cry for help. The life-buoy was thrown quite close to the deceased but he did not take hold of it although requested by his father to do so. The Coroner pointed out that there appeared to be no blame attached to anyone and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The Jury fees were given to the widow of the deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - 30 September 1876
PAIGNTON - Fatal Fall At Paignton. Dr Pridham Censured By The Jury. - An Inquest was held at the Police-station on Thursday evening, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of JOHN MICHELMORE, of Paignton. The Jury were sworn outside the Infirmary, and having viewed the body adjourned to the Police-station, where the following evidence was taken:- EDWARD MICHELMORE, father of the deceased, a labourer living at Paignton, stated that his son would have been thirteen years old on the 9th of October. On Saturday, September the 16th, he was called home to take his son to the Infirmary by the orders of Dr Pridham. His son said he went into an orchard with Mr Palk's son to pick some apples for dinner, when he fell off the tree and broke his arm. He took the deceased in a cab to the Infirmary. He had seen his son three times since the accident, but he did not vary in his statement as to how the accident happened. He saw his son on Monday morning and evening, and he was then very ill. Mr John B. Richardson, house surgeon at the Infirmary, stated that on Saturday 16th of September, he received the deceased from his father. He had him placed in bed, but did not minutely examine his arm, as it had already been placed in splints by Dr Spurway. There were no other injuries. He did not open the bandages on the arm of the deceased for two days. On examining the arm on the 18th of September, he found a compound fracture of both bones of the arm. There was no fault in the manner in which the splints had been placed. He did not at first consider the deceased to be in danger, but, on the 22nd, he observed that he was dangerously ill. From that time he had very slight hopes that the deceased would live, and he died on September 26th, the cause of death being tetanus brought on by the fracture of the arm. Everything was, in his opinion, done to save the boy's life. - Frank Palk, son of Mr Charles Palk, butcher, of Paignton, stated that in company with the deceased, he went into his father's orchard to pick apples on Saturday, 16th of September. The deceased went up the trees to shake down the apples when the branch, which was rotten, upon which he stood, broke, and the deceased fell to the ground, with his arm under him, a distance of seven or eight feet. The deceased got up and said it had knocked the wind out of him, and after a while he said he thought he had broken his arm. A woman then took the deceased home. - Mrs Elizabeth Ann Fuge stated that seeing the injury the deceased had received, she took him to Dr Pridham. She saw him, and he told her to take the deceased to Dr Spurway, when she said she could not. Dr Pridham did not do anything to him. They waited there an hour and a quarter and then Dr Spurway arrived and he set the arm of the deceased, and put it in splints. - The Coroner said that he apprehended the Jury would have no difficulty in agreeing that the deceased met his death accidentally. The witness, Mrs Fuge, certainly deserved credit for obtaining medical skill for the poor boy, and he wished he could say the same of every person who seemed to have been acquainted with the accident. He did not wish to say more in the absence of a professional gentleman. Any person knowing the way, ought to render assistance, and, although not legally bound to do so, yet he thought they would all consider themselves morally bound to act. He could not understand why assistance was not earlier rendered, and it might have been that if assistance had been earlier given the poor boy's life might have been saved. The only person in this instance who could have rendered early assistance had refused for some reason or other to do so. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," at the same time passing a vote of censure upon Dr Pridham for not rendering earlier assistance. The Jury gave their fees to the father of the deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 4 November 1876
TORQUAY - Melancholy Sudden Death. - An Inquest was held at Mr Hatcher's, Vaughan Parade, today (Friday) at one o'clock, on the body of GEORGE CLAY RIX, son of MR RIX, of Nepaul, Torquay, who met his death under the following melancholy circumstances. The deceased was a member of the Leander Rowing club, and was present at the club supper held on Wednesday evening at Mr Hatcher's. After the supper, and shortly before ten o'clock, he was descending the staircase, preceded by Stephen Hatcher, when just before reaching the bottom, he hitched his heel, tripped, and fell to the bottom, striking his head against the wall, one of his feet being under him, and the other resting on the stair. He was assisted up, and placed on a chair, and slightly revived. Shortly after he was asked if he would go for a walk, and he replied "All right, Steve." Not seeming very well, he was taken upstairs, and put to bed. He was thought to be slightly stunned, and it was expected that after a little rest he would get better. He, however, never rallied, and about 12 o'clock a message was sent to his father that the deceased was unwell, and the father thinking his son might be ill, went to Mr Hatcher's and found him unconscious, apparently sleeping. Dr Gamble was speedily summoned, but before he arrived the deceased expired at quarter to two. Dr Gamble stated that the deceased died from a rupture of a blood vessel at the base of the skull, which was in a very congested state. It was a hopeless case from the first, and if medical aid had been called earlier the life of the deceased could not have been saved. The Coroner remarked that the deceased met his death purely accidentally. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The deceased was highly esteemed amongst a large number of friends, all of whom deeply regret his untimely end. The deceased will be buried tomorrow (Saturday) afternoon. The funeral will leave Nepaul at half-past two, and will be attended by the members of the Leander Rowing Club and the Italian Band.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 30 December 1876
TORQUAY - Fatal Fall. - On Wednesday night a woman named MARY ANN WOTTON, aged 51, the wife of ROBERT WOTTON, a plasterer, residing in Lower Union Lane, fell down stairs whilst in the act of retiring to bed. Her head was very badly cut and blood flowed freely. Her son was in bed at the time, and hearing his mother fall went to her assistance, and found she had received very serious injuries, and was quite insensible. Assistance was obtained and she was conveyed to the Infirmary in a cab, where her injuries received attention. She, however, never rallied, and died on Thursday morning at eleven o'clock. An Inquest will be held this (Friday) evening at the Town Hall.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 13 January 1877
TORQUAY - Fatal Fall From A Roof. - An Inquest was held at the Police Station, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on Tuesday evening, on the body of JOHN TRICKEY. Mr Thomas Paish, lodging-house keeper, of Higher terrace, stated that on Monday last the deceased was repairing the roof when he fell to the yard below. Witness ran down stairs, and found the deceased lying on his back, and appearing quite unconscious, blood flowing profusely from the back of his head. There was a hammer lying near the deceased. The roof, which was slate, was rather flat. P.C. Fowler said that, having received information that an accident had happened, he went to 8 Higher Terrace, and found the deceased in a sitting position in the back yard. He called in Dr Lombe, who was passing, and he said that he was afraid that the deceased was dead, and recommended that he should be taken to the Torbay Infirmary. This witness did at once, but, when he arrived, Dr Richardson pronounced life to be extinct. Mr Richard Shinner said that the deceased had been in his employ for over twenty years. Witness told him to go and repair the roof on the previous week, and it was quite optional to him if he took a ladder to protect himself from falling off the roof. He examined the roof soon after the accident and saw marks which led him to believe that the deceased slipped from within two or three feet from the top. He believed that the accident arose from the wet state of the roof. Mary Stanlake, sister-in-law of the deceased, identified the body as that of her husband's sister's husband. He was 67 years of age, and she had never known him ill during the whole of his residence in Torquay. The Coroner in summing up, remarked that it was doubly dangerous during the wet weather for me to go on roofs, and expressed a hope that it would prove a warning to builders to caution men from going on roofs without proper appliances to keep them from falling. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 17 February 1877
TORQUAY - Killed By A Water Wheel. - An Inquest was held at the Torquay Police-station, on Tuesday evening, on the body of JAMES JOINT, a lad, who met his death under the following circumstances. James Rendell, a farmer, residing at Rocombe, stated that he knew the deceased, who was 14 years old. He took him out of the Newton Abbot Union 13 months ago, since which he had been in his employ. On Saturday, February 3rd, he was sent on an errand to Stoke, between three and four o'clock in the afternoon. He afterwards received a message from a boy in Mr Bond's employ, who stated that the deceased was dead. Witness rode over to Stoke, and saw JOINT in a cart at Mr Bond's, quite insensible, and a man and woman attending to him. Dr Chilcote was sent for, but not being home, the deceased was removed to the Torbay Infirmary. Ann Pye, residing at Stoke-in-Teign-head, stated that on the afternoon of February 3rd, she saw the deceased standing near some machinery at Mr George Bond's linhay. The machinery at that time was not in motion. When she returned she saw the deceased lying in a linhay with a wound in his forehead, apparently in a dying state. George Mudge stated that about half-past three o'clock he was engaged in removing douse from the thrashing machine, and as he passed the linhay he saw the water-wheel stop, and the deceased coiled around the driving bar. A rope attached to the machinery became entangled around the boy and that brought the wheel up. Witness had the water stopped and the deceased was then taken from off the bar. The linhay was quite open, and, if children were playing about on the carts, they could easily reach the bar. He thought that the deceased got across the bar whilst in motion, and that his clothes became caught in the bar, because they had to cut his clothes before they could get the deceased off. Evidence was given by Mr Richardson, house surgeon at the Torbay Infirmary, shewing that the deceased had sustained injuries to his skull, and also had both his thighs and two ribs broken, and that he died on Monday from the injuries which he had received. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned by the Jury, of whom Mr Giles was the Foreman, and a recommendation was added that Mr Bond should be asked to cover in the machinery of the water wheel, so as to prevent like accidents in the future.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 14 April 1877
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident. - On Monday morning an Inquest was held at the Torbay Infirmary before Mr Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of ROBERT SANDERS. It appears that the deceased, who was 57 years of age, was a carter in the employ of Messrs. Slade and Sons, and on Wednesday week last was delivering goods with a horse and cart at Kilmorie. Whilst returning, either from the noise of the engine near at hand, or from some other cause, the horse became frightened and started off, and the deceased either jumped or was thrown out of the vehicle. He sustained such injuries that he died on the following Friday morning at the Infirmary, where he had been removed. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and the Jury, through Sergt. Ockford, gave their fees to the widow of the deceased, for whom a subscription is being raised, she being in very destitute circumstances. Messrs. Slade and Sons have given a subscription of £5, and they will be glad to receive additional subscriptions.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 26 May 1877
TORQUAY - Mysterious Death Of A Child At Torquay. - An Inquest was held at the Torquay Police Court, on Tuesday afternoon, before Dr Gaze, Deputy Coroner, on the body of MARY DONOVAN, a child, one year and eleven months old. Charlotte Rice stated that she was a widow, earned her living as a charwoman, and resided at Mrs Tucker's lodging-house. She had known the deceased for several months, the father and mother resided in the same house. On Friday, May 18th, she saw the deceased in the street, just before dinner. A short time after dinner, between one and two o'clock, she saw the deceased sitting in the stairs crying, and just then noticed that she was sick and appeared to be ill. Witness called the attention of deceased's mother to her condition. The child was crying very much and the mother came to the child. On Saturday morning she saw the child and it was then lying as if dead. The children of the DONOVANS were, as far as she had seen, well cared for and fed. - CATHERINE DONOVAN, mother of the deceased, stated that on Friday, about twelve o'clock, she gave the deceased her dinner of bread and meat, and tea, and Mr tucker gave her a baked potato. Having had her attention called to the deceased by the last witness, she went out to the stairs and found the deceased vomiting badly, and groaning very much. Seeing the condition of the child, witness asked some one standing near to run up stairs and see whether the child had been drinking something which had been left up stairs by a lodger. A person went up stairs and brought down a bottle which contained, she believed, spirits of salts, and she thought the deceased had drunk some of it, the cork being out. She then took the child to Mr Narrcott's, chemist, and he sold her two penny-worth of wine, which made the child sick. As it appeared to get worse about three o'clock, witness took the deceased to the Infirmary where it received attention, and the next morning about six o'clock she thought it was a little better. The deceased, however, never rallied, and died about one o'clock on Saturday morning. - John Hyalman, a wire-worker, stated that he kept a bottle of spirits of salts, in a tin case. There was a very small portion of salts in it, and it had not decreased in quantity during his absence. He kept his tools in a case under his bed; there were four beds in the room, and no lock to the door. It would be easy for a child to get into the room. - Mr Marsh, house surgeon at the Torbay Infirmary, was the next witness examined. Mr Marsh: Before I give my evidence may I be allowed to ask whether I shall receive my fee. I have not been properly summoned, and I therefore decline to give my evidence. - The Coroner: I called at the Infirmary, and was told that Mr Richardson was ill and could not attend, and I then asked you to attend in the place of Mr Richardson. A summons is a mere matter of form, and I have not one with me now, and it is usual only tor quest the surgeon of an institution to attend. I have already summoned Mr Richardson, and you, I understand, come in his place. - Mr Marsh: I understand that when a person dies out of the Institution I am entitled to receive my fee. - The Coroner: When a person died in an Institution, it is not usual to give fees to house surgeons of such Institution who are the servants of the public, and I am not sure that it is in the present instance. However, I will take a note of your objection, and make enquiries, and if you are entitled to receive a fee, I will see that you get it, otherwise I am not allowed to give it, and if I paid it, I should pay it out of my own pocket. It might be rather hard, but it was one of the rules of the Institutions that house surgeons should not receive fees. Do you consent to give your evidence? - Mr Marsh: Yes, I do under protest. The witness then proceeded to state that the child was brought to the Infirmary on Friday afternoon. It was very cold, and had the appearance of having swallowed some poison. The symptoms were then such as to lead them to believe the child was suffering from acute bronchitis. Mr Richardson administered an emetic, which had the desired effect. The child was breathing very heavily, and getting very much worse, a poultice was placed at the back, and the child was then taken home by the mother at her own request. If the child had swallowed some of the spirits of salts, it would account for the great difficulty of breathing. It would depend upon the strength, but two drams of spirits of salts would be sufficient to cause death. - By the Jury: He believed that the secondary cause of death was acute bronchitis. He did see the child on Saturday morning, and the change was for the worse. Dr Campbell stated that he had made a post mortem examination of the body of the deceased. The body was that of a well developed healthy child of about two years old. There were no external marks of violence, but there were patches of post mortem lividity over the trunk and limbs. The mucus membrane of mouth, tongue, and palate was shrivelled and softened. Both lungs were acutely congested - right vena cava and auricle destined with dark blood. The valves of the heart were healthy. The stomach showed patches of dark purple colour - externally - a ligature was applied below the pylorus, and another above the cardiac orifice, and the stomach dissected out. A small opening was made near the pylorus to examine the condition of the interior; the fluid was of the consistence of gruel - dark green in colour - the mucus membrane softened and coming off in patches, a ligature was again applied above the opening to preserve the remaining contents, and the whole stomach put into a jar and sealed. The liver, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, and large and small intestine were healthy, as was also the peritoneum. He did examine the brain. The appearance of the mouth, gullet and stomach were as such as might have been caused by taking such a poison as oxalic acid, or hydrochloric acid, supposing the poison to have been quickly vomited. Were the poison got rid of in this way, not so much local mischief would result as if it were retained for a length of time. The immediate cause of death was congestion of the lungs, which might have been produced by a dose of poison, not of itself necessarily fatal. Such secondary results are not uncommon. The Coroner having summed up, the Jury, of whom Mr Gardener was the Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," caused by the accidental swallowing of some irritant poison, and recommended that in future all poisons essential for the performance of any business should be put in some place entirely without the reach of children. The Coroner, addressing the man Hyalman, said the Jury were of opinion that by allowing the bottle to remain on the floor he had been the cause of the death of the deceased, and he hoped he would be more careful in future. If there was a recurrence of any similar accident, he might depend that he would e visited by the penalty of the law, for leaving dangerous articles within the reach of children.

TORQUAY - A Fatal Fall. - An Inquest was held at the Police Station on Tuesday evening, on the body of WILLIAM BOND, a little boy, aged three years, whose parents reside in Pimlico. Elizabeth Westaway, a laundress, residing at 1, Market Street, stated that about two o'clock she was in her bedroom facing the cliffs when she saw a little boy in a very dangerous position. The child appeared to be alone. She was for a moment absent from her room, and when she returned she saw a man carrying the child from the foot of the cliff. The child was outside the iron railings at the top of the cliff, having crept under. She was not sufficiently near to have cautioned the child. - Charles Snell, a whitesmith, stated that about two minutes after two, as he was returning to work, he was informed that a little child had fallen over the cliffs. Witness ran down the steps to the foot of the cliff, and, after searching about, he found the body of the child behind the buildings. When he picked it up it was breathing but died in his arms. There were some other children at the top of the cliff; the railings were about two feet from the edge of the cliff, and there was plenty of room for children to get through; it was a very dangerous place for children. A Juror remarked that it was 150 feet high. Mr Marsh stated the deceased was brought to the Torbay Infirmary shortly after two. It was then dead. On examining the body he found an extensive fracture of the skull, and there had been bleeding from the ear. There were no bones broken, and the injuries were such as would likely to result from a fall from such a distance, and quite sufficient to have caused death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." Mr Webber said there had been several accidents at the spot, and some better fence ought to e provided. Mr Butland quite agreed with this, and mentioned that the children were attracted to the edge by some kind of flowers which they wished to pick. Mr Pierce said the present fence was only a farce; there ought to be a wooden one.

KINGSKERSWELL - Sudden Death At Kingskerswell. - On Sunday evening MR and MRS ASHFORD, of Kingskerswell were out walking together, and then visited a friend's house. Soon after sitting down MRS ASHFORD complained of a pain in her chest, and fainted. Medical assistance was at once sent for; but before Dr Brown had arrived MRS ASHFORD had expired. At the Inquest held on Tuesday morning by Dr Gaye, Deputy Coroner, Dr Brown said he had made a post mortem examination of the body of the deceased, and found that there had been a rupture of one of the blood vessels of the heart, the walls of which were quite empty and dry. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 23 June 1877
TORQUAY - Suspicious Case Of Drowning. - An Inquest was held at the Town Hall, on Monday afternoon, before Mr Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of a young woman, which was found in the water off the Torbay Road, on Sunday afternoon. The first witness called was - Thomas Ascott, a young man, who stated that on Sunday afternoon, between three and four o'clock, he observed a body floating in the water opposite the seats just past Sulyarde Terrace. The body was lying face downwards in about a foot of water. On seeing the body witness at once sent a companion, named Charles Harden, for a policeman, witness remaining opposite the body. A policeman soon arrived. The body was about six feet from the wall. - P.C. Trott stated that on Sunday afternoon his attention was called to the sea beach, a body being in the water. Whilst going for a boat, he saw one proceeding in the direction of the body, and it returned to the old quay with the body. He should think that the body was lying in about four or five feet of water, and was about seven or eight yards from the wall. - Daniel Skinner, a fisherman, stated that on Sunday afternoon seeing a crowd collected on the Torbay road, witness and two others rowed a boat to the spot, and the bow oarsman observed the dress of a female body floating in the water, being jammed between the rocks. Witness cast a rope around the armpits, and towed the body to the old pier. The body was in about two feet of water, and was about seven or eight fathoms from the wall. The tide was then on the ebb. The witness Ascott, in answer to the Coroner, stated that when he observed the body it was not, at the outside beyond ten feet from the wall. - P.C. Trott stated that, when the body was brought ashore by the last witness, he placed it in a shed on the quay, and ultimately it was removed to the mortuary at the Town Hall. The body was completely dressed, but there were no shoes on the feet, and the hair was hanging quite loose. He received from P.C. Adams the net produced. He had seen the deceased walking about the town on afternoons and evenings, and in company with a girl called Stockman. He was not aware of having seen the deceased talking to any men. he did not know the deceased by name, and did not know of any complaint having been lodged against her. - P.C. Adams stated that he found on Sunday afternoon a hair net and a piece of velvet on the wall just opposite the spot where the body was discovered. After having assisted placing the body in the shed, he returned to the spot and found the show produced at the foot of the wall in about six inches of water. - Sergt. Board stated that on Sunday afternoon he received information that a body of a drowned female had been recovered, and he at once sent for a medical man, and Dr Marsh arrived. He searched the body and found in the dress a pin, a photograph, a book and a pocket handkerchief. He could recognise the photograph of the young man. He also produced a hat which was left at the station by a person whom he did not know, but that hat had been identified as that belonging to the deceased. - The Coroner, in answer to a question from a Juror, stated that the book found on the deceased was a Biblical one, being the life of Mrs Hannah Moore. - JOHN POWLESLAND stated that he was milk seller at Barton. He had seen the body of the deceased and identified it as his daughter. She was eighteen years old and he last saw her alive on Saturday, June 9th, at Mr H. Lear's, St. Mary-Church, where she had been in service for the last two years. On Sunday morning, June 10th, he was told by Mrs Lear that his daughter had run away, but she did not come home to him. The deceased always appeared to be very steady, and was in the habit of coming home on Sunday afternoons. he was not aware that she was keeping company with any young man and had never seen her with one. He fancied that he had seen the features of the young man of the photograph produced, but could not state positively. he was not aware that the deceased had ever shewn any symptoms of insanity, and was not aware of her whereabouts from the time she left Mr Lear's. - Mrs Emily Lear stated that the deceased had been living in her employ about two years. On the Tuesday previous to Sunday, June 10th, witness gave the deceased notice to leave on the following Tuesday. The reason for giving the deceased notice was that in witness's absence she had gone away and left her children in the house alone, and when witness returned about half past eleven the children were greatly frightened. Witness did not speak to the deceased then but on the following morning gave her notice to leave. Of late the deceased had been in the habit of going out during witnesses absence. When witness gave her notice the deceased did not state where she had been, and witness did not ask her. She did not have any words with the deceased when she told her to leave. When the deceased went to bed at eleven o'clock on Saturday night, June 9th, she was in good spirits. She could recognise the hat and shoe produced as belonging to the deceased, but could not the photograph or the book. She had not observed anyone answering the description of the photograph around her premises. She was generally a cheerful girl, and her habits would not lead witness to believe that she was a person who would commit suicide. - William Worden, a shoemaker residing at Upton, stated that he had known the deceased about eight years, being related to her. The deceased did not come to his house very frequently, but on Friday night she came to the house. She said she had been to Messrs. Slade and Sons and got a place, and that her grandmother had told her to come there. She said she had been to her grandmother's at Exeter, and was going there on Saturday morning. The mother of the deceased died when she was young, and the deceased generally stayed with her grandmother. She said that she was going to the situation on the following Wednesday. Deceased had some supper and whilst doing so she took out a photograph, and said it was the likeness of her young man, that he drove a pair of horses for a gentleman, and was called JOHN DART, living on the Braddons. She chatted in a rational manner. On Saturday, when witness left for his work, the deceased was in bed, but she left during the day, stating it was her intention to return before she left for Exeter. She did not, however, do so. On Saturday evening he saw her in Fleet Street opposite the Dustpan. She turned up the street just before reaching witness, and seemed as if she wished to avoid him. He did not know a young man named John Nias. - William John Jeffery, a coach-wheeler, living at St Mary-Church, stated that he had known the deceased about two years. He did not keep company with the deceased, but had walked out with her. The last time he did so was on Tuesday evening, June 5th, and he left her at Mrs Lear's door, at about half-past eight o'clock. On Monday morning he saw the deceased looking in Messrs. Westley's window; she came over and pulled his coat, and he then walked up and down the Strand with her. On Saturday evening, about half-past eight o'clock, he saw the deceased in Fleet-street opposite the Brewing Company's offices. He stood talking with the deceased for some time, but did not go for a walk with her, she went up the street and he down. Later the same evening he saw the deceased talking to a young man named Nias. He could recognise the photograph produced as that of Niass. To his knowledge he had not seen the deceased with any other men. The deceased had never complained to him of anything, and never seemed down in her spirits or melancholy. - Susannah Godfrey, a widow, residing at 4, Temperance Street, stated that she could recognise the body of the deceased. On Monday night, after she had gone to bed, the deceased, and a young man named Robert Tregaskis, knocked at her door and asked for a bed. She thought it was a man and his wife, and if she had not been deceived she should not have left them remain there. The deceased had not slept in her house since. She never saw the deceased before in her life. She did not deny that she had any one sleeping in her house on Sunday night, but did deny having any weekly lodgers in the house. - Mr Edwin Addison Marsh, assistant house surgeon at the Torbay Infirmary, stated that on Sunday afternoon he was shewn the body of the deceased on the old quay. There were no marks of violence except a bruise across the eye brow. he had made a post mortem examination of the body, and found the general condition of the body was that of a healthy well nourished female. There was a contusion over the right eye brow, and which might have been caused by washing against the rocks. The lips were blue and bitten in one or two places, and the mouth closed and teeth clenched. The finger nails were also blue. There were no marks of sexual violence. On opening the chest the lungs were found very much congested, and there was fluid in the cavity. The cavities of the heart contained dark fluid blood, the substance of the heart being congested, but was otherwise healthy. He came to the conclusion that the deceased was not and never had been pregnant. He had no doubt the cause of death was drowning. When he saw the body, just after being taken from the water, rigidity was about commencing. - Robert Tregaskis was the next witness examined. He stated that on the previous Monday night he met the deceased at ten minutes to eleven, outside the London Inn. She asked him what he was going to stand, and he replied "Couple glasses of beer, if you like." She asked him to take her home to his lodgings, but he said he could not do that. The deceased then said "I have no place I can stop to." Witness then told her he thought he could find lodgings for her, and took her to Mrs Godfrey's where they were supplied with a bed. Since then he had not seen the deceased. - John Nias stated that on Saturday night about half-past ten he took the deceased home to her aunt's at Upton. He met her about eight o'clock. He did not see her on the Sunday. He never knew the deceased before Friday night, when he met the deceased on the Strand whilst the band was playing. he went home that night about ten o'clock and took the deceased to her aunt's at Upton. The deceased was strolling about on Saturday night and he met her again and went for a walk. He gave the deceased the photograph on Friday evening. he did not see her on Sunday and did not on Saturday night promise to meet her on Sunday. He left the deceased outside the house, when she told him it was her aunt's, but the door was not open when he left her. He did not see her go in, but saw a woman enter with a jug in her hand. - Mr Marsh, in answer to a Juror, stated that he could not tell how many hours the body had been in the water, but it was something under twenty-four hours. The body was quite limp when it was taken out of the water. - Nias, re-called, stated he gave the photograph in his own name. He walked with the deceased in the Public Gardens. The deceased gave him the name of Ellen Lear, and he went to the house at Upton, on Sunday evening to see her, but was told that no one of that name lived there. - The Coroner, in summing up, remarked that it was a melancholy case, and the evidence revealed a very sad history, one which he would rather not have enquired into, but was bound to do so in the interests of justice. The deceased was supposed to have been leading up to the previous Monday night a respectable life, as a quiet and steady girl, but the evidence before the Jury clearly showed that the poor girl had been leading a disreputable life. That being so, it might have been that the deceased, during the few hours that she was last seen alive, was so struck with the consciousness of her guilt for the life she was leading, that she was induced to drown herself. They had, however, no proof how she got into the water; she might have jumped in, and, although for one moment he would not lead them to believe that she had been thrown in by either of the two men called before them, yet she might have been thrown in the water by some of the other men who had doubtless become acquainted with her, or she might having been setting down on the steps, been overtaken by the tide, and accidentally drowned. There was no evidence to lead them to any conclusion, and he advised them to return an Open Verdict. - The Jury, of whom Mr Shinner was the foreman, returned a verdict of "Found Drowned, but how the body got into the water, there was no evidence to show." - The Coroner then called up the witnesses Tregaskis, Nias, and Godfrey, and told them that he hoped they would take a lesson from what had happened. Although they were not answerable for her death yet they had each done their share to ruin the poor girl, he did not mean to say that they had done more than that, but that they had ruined her there was not the slightest doubt. It should prove a warning to Godfrey; she was worse than the young men, in aiding and abetting, and if it was not for such women as she, her sex would not suffer as they did. The Coroner then said there had been great inconvenience prior to, and during the holding of the Enquiry, and which he felt it was his duty to bring before the notice of the Jury. The public mortuary at the bottom of the Town-hall had been so constructed as not to allow a post mortem examination to be made, and the body had to be removed to a public-house for that purpose. Such a state of things ought not to exist, as a mortuary to be of any use ought to be open for the purpose of making post mortem examinations; and he had no doubt, if attention was drawn to it in a proper way, that it would be remedied. It was painful to the parents and to the public to see a body carried about the streets as had that day been done. The Enquiry, which created a good deal of excitement, a large crowd assembling around the Town Hall, lasted nearly four hours.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 18 August 1877
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident At Meadfoot. - On Wednesday evening an Inquest was held at the Torbay Infirmary, before H. Michelmore, Esq., Coroner, on the body of ROBERT PHILLIPS, a ganger, employed on the sewerage works. The first witness called was ELIZABETH PHILLIPS, the wife of the deceased, who stated that her husband would have been 58 years of age on the 4th of November. She frequently saw the deceased after his admission to the Infirmary, and he told her that he was in the act of throwing a bag when the skip caught him in the side, and threw him over the wall. The deceased never complained to her that it was through the carelessness of any person that the accident happened. - Mr Marsh, junior house surgeon at the Infirmary, stated that the deceased was brought to the Institution on Monday, August 6th, about seven o'clock in the evening. He examined the deceased and found him suffering from a fracture of the spine with a dislocation, and had lost all power and sensation of the body below the injury. The skin of the back was not broken, but there was a large swelling. There was a scalp wound at the back of the head, but that was not of much importance. The deceased died on Tuesday morning, August 14th, from an injury to the spinal cord, which would be caused by a fall. The deceased never recovered and his life was despaired of from the first. Mr Phillipps, the engineer of the works, stated that the deceased was a ganger and the men, over which he was foreman, were engaged in transferring gravel, by means of a steam crane, from the front of the sea wall, at Meadfoot, to the back. He would be standing on top of the wall so that he could watch the men working on either side. There were wooden skips used and they would hoist it on the outside and lower it on the inside. The deceased had been employed on the works about two years, and was a steady industrious man. The top of the sea wall was rough, but a man could stand on it. There was a good feeling existing between the deceased and the men. - William Gale, a labourer, stated that on the previous Monday week, he was working under the deceased at Meadfoot. The deceased was standing on the top of the wall with his back towards the sea, and his face towards the steam crane. The skip had just been emptied, and the deceased was in the act of picking up an empty bag when the crane was swung round. The deceased stepped back to get out of the way of the skip and fell off the wall, which on the inside was scarcely four feet high. Witness did not think that the skip touched the deceased. The distance deceased fell was seventeen feet. When on the ground, the deceased was resting on his hip, with his shoulders against a large stone. When the deceased was picked up, he complained that the lower part of his body was dead. Whilst in the cab being conveyed to the Infirmary, he said, "I'm finished, I shan't do any more work." He did not attach blame to anyone. - John Elliott, the engine driver, stated that he received orders from a labourer, named Shimmells, to start and stop the engine. He did not see anything happen to the deceased, until he saw him falling off the wall. - Edward Shimmells stated that when the skip came over the wall full, the deceased was not in the track of the skip, but before it returned he had moved forward in the track of the skip. Seeing the deceased was in the way, witness called out to the engine-driver, and the engine was immediately stopped. He saw the deceased lose his balance in trying to escape from the skip, and fall over the wall. - The Coroner said the deceased was in his proper place on the wall, and was discharging his duty, although the bags might be put in a better place. It appeared to be a pure accident. The Jury, of which Mr R. M. Bovey was the Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 20 October 1877
TORQUAY - Sad And Fatal Accident To A Coachman In Torquay. - Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Torbay Infirmary on Wednesday evening, on the body of JOHN ANDREW COAD, a coachman in the employ of Mr Remfry, of Firsleigh, who met his death under the following circumstances. The first witness called was MARY JANE COAD, who identified the deceased as her husband, and stated that he was in the employ of Mr Remfry, of Firsleigh, Higher Warberry road, as coachman. He was 37 years of age. She heard on Sunday night that the deceased had met with an accident, and on Monday she went to the Torbay Infirmary and saw her husband. He did not explain how it happened, and merely said "This is a sad job, my dear; never mind, I dare say I shall soon be better." He enquired as to who was looking after the horses, and she replied "A man." At the suggestion of Dr Smith, she wished her husband "Good morning." - John Marker, a gardener, stated that he had been acquainted with the deceased for about four or five years. He saw him on Sunday afternoon looking out of his bedroom window, and witness, at the urgent request of the deceased, went in and looked around the coach-house, stables and gardens. After that witness and the deceased went for a walk, and near St Matthias' Church met two men, named Josling and Freer. The conversation then turned on hunting. Witness remarked that that locality would not be a bad place for hunting, and then the deceased rejoined that there were no hares thereabout, and gentlemen would not care about hunting over such ground. With the same the deceased jumped in over a fence close by. The hurdle was about three feet from the spot from where they were standing, and there was a fall of about four feet. The deceased fell on reaching the ground, and at once exclaimed, "Marker, I've broke my leg." Witness replied, "Nonsense," and then the deceased said "I have." Witness and the other two men jumped down, and witness observing that the bone was protruding through his stocking took a handkerchief and bound up the leg. One of them ran down and fetched a midge, and witness gave him two glasses of water. The deceased was shortly after removed to the Infirmary. He did not think that the deceased hitched his foot in the gutter, but surmised that he fell in the gutter close to the hurdles and twisted his leg. The deceased was perfectly sober, and there was no wager or inducement made to the deceased to jump. He was quite sure that the deceased was not pushed as he jumped. - John Josling gave corroborative evidence, and said that the deceased jumped of his own free will. - Mr J. B. Richardson, house surgeon at the Infirmary, stated that the deceased was admitted to the institution on Sunday evening. On examining him he found that he was suffering from a compound fracture of the leg near the ankle. It was as bad a fracture as there possibly could be. Mr James Pollard, Mr William Pollard, and Mr Huxley also attended and amputation was decided upon. Mr William Pollard performed the operation, the leg being amputated about midway between the ankle and knee. Ether was administered to the deceased by Dr Nankivell, and he revived and rallied after the operation, which was successfully performed. Witness was called at half-past two on Monday morning, haemorrhage having set in. Witness topped this, but it again set in at eight o'clock and lasted until five o'clock. Messrs. Wm. and James Pollard were present, but all efforts proved useless to stop it. About five o'clock the deceased experienced a difficulty of breathing, and from then, until half-past eight, he gradually sank, and died. He believed that death arose from the shock of the accident and the amputation combined, the deceased being a person of weak and debilitated constitution, and had the deceased been of strong constitution he might have withstood the shock. It was impossible to re-set the leg, as the lining of the bone was gone. The Coroner having summed up, and the Jury, of whom Mr Wagstaffe was the Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 29 December 1877
EXETER - Sad Accident At Exeter. - An Inquest was held at Exeter on Christmas Eve on the body of MR JOSEPH NEALE, aged 42, the architect under whose directions the extensions at the Devon County Asylum have been executed. The case was watched on behalf of the Great Western Company by Mr Walton, the superintendent of the Bristol and Exeter section. Henry Martin, the guard of the 3.5 up (from Exeter) train on Saturday, stated that on arriving at St. David's he saw the deceased, who was perfectly sober, on the platform. He spoke to him, but the witness did not see MR NEALE again until the passengers were seated, and the whistle blown for the engine-driver to proceed. Just as the train commenced moving out, the deceased ran up to witness, and said, "Hold hard, I'm going." On blowing the whistle a second time, the driver shut off steam, and in another half-a-minute the train would have been brought to a standstill. When the witness blew the whistle secondly his back was to the deceased; but on turning round he saw MR NEALE attempting to jump into a first-class carriage, and, in doing so, he fell on to his side between the steps of the carriage and the platform, being dragged several yards whilst in this position. Every effort was made to save him, but they were unsuccessful, and the wheels of the carriage went over his right leg. Deceased was got out from under the train, and removed on a stretcher to the Devon and Exeter Hospital. Deceased was in the habit of frequently going over the line three or four times a week. - By the Jury: Witness did not open the carriage door for the deceased; he believed that MR NEALE was possessed of a railway key. He was constantly in the habit of taking his seat at the last moment. - John Chapman, the platform inspector, corroborated. After the witness had started the train, he saw MR NEALE, and heard him say, "I must go." He rushed towards one of the compartments, and witness assisted him in trying to get in. Just as deceased had his hand on the door, he stumbled and fell on to one of the carriage steps, and was dragged some distance, but eventually he fell between the carriage and the platform, and the wheels went over his leg. When extricated he asked to be removed somewhere as quickly as possible, stating that he had hurt his leg. On the way to the hospital deceased was heard by Anstey - a porter - to say, "I blame no one; it's entirely my own fault." - Mr Cummings, house surgeon, deposed that when MR NEALE was received, he was in a state of almost complete collapse. The right leg was crushed to pieces below the knee, and there was a large wound on the thigh. There were also bruises on the front of the right arm, and a smaller one at the back of the head. Endeavours were made to restore the deceased, and witness had a consultation with Mr Bankart as to the advisability of amputating, but MR NEALE never recovered from the effects of the shock, and died at 12.30 on Sunday morning, from the injuries he had sustained. This was the whole of the evidence, and the Coroner, in summing up, said the Jury would doubtless regret, as he did, that the deceased should have met with so untimely an end. It was for them to say whether there was any negligence on the part of any one, or whether the affair was purely accidental. In answer to the Coroner, Mr Walton said there was a certain amount of discretionary power permitted the employees of the Company in allowing persons to get into the carriages after the trains had started. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," considering that no one was to blame but the deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 9 February 1878
PAIGNTON - Inquest At Paignton. - Mr Michelmore, County Coroner, held an Inquest on Monday evening at the Oldenburgh Inn, Paignton, on the body of a mason, named JOHN STEPHEN SKINNER, who was discovered by his brother on Sunday morning hanging by the neck in Langdon's Barn, near Goodrington. Mr Pridham, surgeon, said deceased had suffered for some three years from softening of the brain, which would render him unaccountable for his actions. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst suffering from Temporary Insanity."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 2 March 1878
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident To A Child. Sir Lawrence Palk And His Roads. - An Inquest was held at the Town Hall, before H. Michelmore, County Coroner, on Monday afternoon, on the body of a child named ALFRED JAMES BASSETT, aged nearly six months, the illegitimate child of RHODA JANE BASSETT. The first witness called was the mother of the deceased, who stated that five weeks after her confinement she placed the child out to nurse with Mrs Coombe, of Oxton Road, Ellacombe. She arranged to pay her 3s. 6d. per week for the keep of the child, but she was to provide clothing. She paid the money monthly, and at the present time there was only a fortnight due. She last saw the child alive on Wednesday. It had been weakly ever since its birth, but on the day she saw it, it appeared better. On Saturday evening just before five o'clock she was called by Mrs Sidders to go to see the deceased. She asked whether it was dead, but the person would not tell her at first. When she got to the doorway, however, to leave, Mrs Sidders told her that Carry had let it fall, and that the child died after it got in the house. Mrs Coombe sent for the doctor before she arrived. Mrs Coombe had five children at the time she left hers, and Carry was the oldest. She was thirteen years of age, and the youngest was three months. - Sarah Jane Coombe, wife of a cab-driver, said she did not know the last witness until after her child was brought to her. She took it at Mrs Sidders' request. When the child was brought it was five weeks old. When she took the child, she had five children, the youngest being two and a half years old, but a month after witness was confined. The last time she saw the deceased before the occurrence was about three-quarters of an hour. She sent it about three o'clock on Saturday afternoon with her daughter, Carry, believing, as it was weakly, that it would gain strength. When the child was brought home it looked pale, and she bathed its head in cold water. She asked whether she had let it fall, and the little girl replied "No, but I fell with it. I fell over an iron pipe in the Cavern Road." Finding the child did not recover, she sent for Dr Wills, who came in about half-an-hour. - By Mr Chilcott: Her daughter was rather near sighted. - The Coroner asked Mrs Sidders, who was present, the reason why she sent the deceased to Mrs Coombe when she took in children herself. - Mrs Sidders replied that she had no child looking after, but as she went out to work, and her daughter was invalided, she did not think it advisable to take in another. - The Coroner: Was that your only reason? - Mrs Sidders: It was, sir. - Caroline Coombe, daughter of a previous witness, was called, but not sworn. She said that on Saturday afternoon, as she was walking up Cavern Hill with the baby in her arms, a place was open, and, not observing the iron pipe, she hitched her foot and the baby fell along the road. She picked the baby up, and took it home. - Matilda Squance, wife of a gardener, residing at Devonshire Terrace, Oxton Road, said she knew the pipe in question. It was a water pipe leading from the roof of a house belonging to a Mr Smith. The road was in a very bad condition. - Dr Wills said he had been attending the child for the last three months. When first brought to him it was in a most emaciated condition and suffering from sores. He saw the deceased on Saturday after life was extinct, but found no marks of violence on it whatever. He was told what had happened, and his opinion as to the cause of death was "Shock to the system." - The Coroner, in summing up the evidence to the Jury, remarked that he thought it clearly proved that the child's death was purely accidental. The accident happened in broad day light, and it was a point for the Jury to consider whether any person with ordinary care could go over the place without anything happening. He was given to understand the road was a private one and the only remedy, therefore, open to the Jury was for them to make a presentment, through him, to the lord of the manor, and, through him, get something done. A presentment from them might do some good. The road was in a most disgraceful condition. That was a strong word, but one not too strong. In consequence of the road being a private one, the Jury could not bring any one in culpable for the death of the child. - Mr Newton, a Juryman, said twelve months ago a woman broke her arm wrist almost near the same spot where this child had lost his life. - Mr R. Butland, the Foreman of the Jury, said he thought there could be but one opinion amongst them, and that was, that the cause of death was accidental. They had visited the spot and could only come to one conclusion, that the footpath was in a disgraceful condition, and it was evident something must be done. They had prepared a resolution, and its effect was: "That the attention of the lord of the manor and of the Local Board, be called to the dangerous condition of the footpath and of the necessity of its being placed in a proper state of repair, so as to prevent a repetition of such accidents." The Coroner said he should e very happy to convey the Jury's resolution to the proper authorities, and it would be for the members of the Jury to see that the authorities did what was wished. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was then formally returned. The Jury gave their fees to the mother of the child.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 30 March 1878
BRIXHAM - Serious Effects Of Excessive Stimulants. - On Monday Mr Michelmore, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Waterman's Arms, Higher Brixham, on WM. STONE, aged 36, a stonemason. From the evidence of Sarah Ann Green, with whom deceased lodged, it appeared that STONE came home on Saturday at eight p.m. very tipsy, and asked for a light, which was given him. He then went to the closet, and not returning for a quarter of an hour or so, Mrs Green sent her daughter to see what he was doing, and she found him lying insensible on the floor. She called STONE'S father, who was in the house at the time, and he was taken into the back kitchen, and placed on the floor, where he was allowed to lie until eight o'clock the following morning. As he then shewed no signs of returning consciousness, he was taken up and put to bed. Mr G. Searle, the parish doctor, was sent for, but on his arrival the man was dead. Deceased had, it was said, for many years been given to habits of intemperance. The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased died from an apoplectic fit brought on by excessive drinking, and the Coroner severely censured the conduct of the lodging-house keeper, and also the father, for the gross neglect in allowing the deceased to lie on a cold floor so many hours unattended, either by them or any medical man.

TORQUAY - A Child Fatally Scalded. - On Wednesday evening, at the Torquay Police Court, an Inquest was held by Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, as to the death of NELLIE LIGHTFOOT, aged 2 ¼ years, the daughter of DANIEL and MYRA LIGHTFOOT, 7 Queen-street, Torquay. EMMANUEL LIGHTFOOT deposed that he was the uncle of the deceased, and on the 17th instant, the father and mother of the deceased had gone out to chapel. He was nursing the child in front of the fire when she suddenly "threw up its little hands, and threw over the saucepan," thereby scalding herself. He took the child to the doctor. - Dr Richardson said that she lingered until the 26th March. when she died from effects primarily brought on by the scalding - the scald in the inside of the mouth having extended to the bronchial tubes. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 13 April 1878
TORQUAY - Strange Fatality. - On Tuesday evening an Inquest was held, before Mr Michelmore, in the Torquay Town Hall, on the body of MARY PATTERSON, of Pimlico. Mr Thomas, boatman of Anstis Cove, deposed that he observed a body floating in the sea on the Babbicombe side of Hope's Nose. He saw it there all day Sunday, but he could not bring it to land until Monday. When the body was floating in the water on Sunday afternoon he could not launch his boat. Neither could he do so early on Monday. He could not reach the body, on account of the rough sea, until late on Monday. The wind was in the right quarter to keep the body in the vicinity where it was first seen. A daughter of deceased gave evidence that she left home last Thursday night at about nine o'clock, and she never saw her alive afterwards. It was nothing unusual for her mother to be away from home. Deceased, who was 53 years of age, had been for many years employed by house agents to take care of unoccupied houses, and it was supposed that she had gone out on such employment, and no special uneasiness was felt until it was found she did not put in an appearance on the Sunday. Mrs Shapcott, who keeps a shop in Torquay, for the sale of machines and brushes, &c., stated that she had known deceased for some years. A few weeks back MRS PATTERSON obtained some brushes as if for some one other than herself. The goods came to £1 10s. 5d. It appeared that the person named did not order the goods, and it had been intimated that an explanation must be given in order to prevent unpleasantness. Deceased did not call in as she promised. It was queried as to whether MRS PATTERSON was in straitened circumstances. On the Thursday night named, she was informed that she would not be required to do certain work at Mrs Stark's - such as fire-lighting, &c., at the Studio named, on account of the fine weather. She had been receiving 1s. 6d. a day. After a number of witnesses were examined, the Jury decided upon returning "An Open Verdict."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 20 April 1878
NEWTON ABBOT - A Peculiar Case. - An Inquiry was held on Friday before Mr Michelmore (Coroner), and a Jury, respecting the death of the infant child of ELIZABETH BRAY. - William Cater, labourer, 2 Lemon-road, Newton Abbot, deposed that ELIZABETH BRAY was his sister-in-law. He saw her at Newton on March 26th. She was at his house previously, and on that date. The last time he saw her was at about 7 o'clock on the morning named. She had been staying at his house for 13 weeks. He knew she had left when he came home from work in the evening. He had no idea she was enciente. Never once dreamt of such a thing. She did not pay him anything for her keep during the time she was in the house. It did not strike him as odd that she did not look for a place. She had said she was going to Bristol. When it was known that she had left, his wife sent his daughter to the Railway Station to try and find out where she was gone, but he heard nothing until he received information from the police in respect to the case now under consideration. - John Drew, the landlord of the "Star" public-house, deposed that on Tuesday 25th, ult., the woman now charged made an enquiry for a bed for herself, and she stated to his wife that she had just come by the last train from Exeter and was a stranger in the town. As they could not accommodate the young woman he told her so, and then, as she seemed very desirous to get a bed - it being 11 o'clock at night - he accompanied her, by the advice of his wife, along the street, until he saw young Croaker talking at the corner of the street with a man and two females. Croaker promised to look for a lodging for the young woman, and he accordingly left them. - The Coroner questioned witness as to the propriety of leaving the young woman in the care of a strange young man at that time of night. - Mrs Maria Croaker deposed that her husband came to her before she was up - about eight o'clock - and said that a young woman had been sleeping in the house. She had not heard anything after she retired between 10 and 11 o'clock the previous night. Her son usually got home at about 11 o'clock at night. Sometimes he came home earlier,. When she was called up in the morning she went down to the room where the young woman was, and she saw the body as described. Witness asked her why she did not call, and she replied that she could not. In reply to other questions, she said she had no brothers or sisters and no father or mother living. Witness did not ask BRAY what was her name, but, in reply to a question as to where she came from, she answered that she had no home. - Mrs Webber, daughter of Mrs Croaker, said that she had been married to a butler for two-and-half years. She had no family. She occupied two rooms in the house of her mother. On the night of Tuesday, 16th March, her brother called her up at about 11 o'clock and told her there was a young woman who had come by train and could not get a lodging. By the request of her brother, she got up and went down into the kitchen, where she made up a bed on the couch for the young woman. She left BRAY between 11 and 12 o'clock, and did not go down again until about eight o'clock next morning, when witness asked her how she had slept. The reply made was to the effect that a misfortune had occurred. Information was at once given to Mr Croaker, senr., and his son, and they acted as had been described., - Maria Cater deposed that ELIZABETH BRAY was her sister, and that she had lived with her for 13 weeks. Did not know why she left her last place, Mr Bowden's, draper, and did not suspect she was enciente until the last week she was there, then, from what she had heard rumoured, she taxed her sister, who denied the insinuation in toto. Witness's sister's leaving was without her knowledge, until a boy came for her trunk. She did not hear until the Monday after where she was going, and then she found out, to some extent, by accident, that her trunk had been labelled for Torquay via Torre. - ELIZABETH BRAY - who had been in a fainting condition during a great portion of the three hours' Enquiry - upon being asked whether she had anything to say, replied - "No" - whereupon she was allowed to retire. - Dr J. B. Richardson deposed that on March 27th he was called to attend at No. 4, Higher Braddons, as a woman had been confined there. On entering the room he saw a female lying on the sofa. She was still very weak, and would not be able to appear in court before this day week. In the evening of the 27th he examined the body of the child, and found that it was a fully matured, well-nourished female child. Blood had issued from the mouth and nostrils. On the neck were spots, and abrasions on the right shoulder, and on the left side of the neck there was an abrasion and two indentations, slightly abraded, such as would have been made by finger nails. The direction of these indentations were curved downwards. Whether the marks in the vicinity of its neck were accidentally caused or not, he could not say. It was quite possible they were the result of accident. The scalp was congested and the sinuses of the brain gorged. The tongue partially protruded, the heart was healthy. The lungs were mottled and crepitated, and by testing in water, they floated freely, evidencing that the child had breathed, and most probably had a separate existence, although it might have only taken one long breath of consciousness. It was possible it was not conscious, for the pressure might have been otherwise caused. His opinion was that the child died from exposure, accelerated by pressure upon the large vessels of the neck. - George Croaker, Army Reserve, deposed that he lived with his mother at 4, Higher Braddon Street. The first time he saw the woman was on the night of the 26th. He met her below the Castle Inn, in Union Street, at twenty minutes after eleven. She was talking with the landlord of the Star Inn, named drew, about a lodging. Witness said if the woman liked to go with him he would get her a lodging. He first took her to Mr Dear's. Accused said she did not care what she paid. Dear's place, however, was closed, and he said, if she liked to go home with him, no doubt his mother and sister would make up a bed for her. She consented. When witness reached home his mother and sister were gone to bed. He at once called up his sister, and she came down and made a bed for her on the sofa. Witness went to his own bed-room and left his sister with the girl. At eight the next morning his sister told him that there was something wrong, and witness went at once and gave information to the police. Never saw the woman in his life before he met her in the street on the night of the 26th. - The evidence of a butler, the husband of Jessie Webber, the sister of George Croaker, gave evidence, showing that when "young George" called witness's wife he at first objected to her going down to her brother, but he at length consented. In the morning at about seven o'clock he had occasion to enter the room to get his coat, and he did not notice anything that led him to suspect what since transpired. - The evidence of P.S. Board was recapitulated, and he stated that since the 27th he had made further enquiries, and found that the girl's real name was ELIZABETH BRAY. By direction of Mr Vaughan, Superintendent of Police, witness went to the railway station, and there found a common trunk. There was no address on it, beyond the railway label to Torre. Witness took possession of the box, and had since examined the contents. The woman had told him that she had left a box at the Station. It was not locked; but tied with a wrapper. There was no apparel in it for an infant,. Witness read over a list of wearing apparel, consisting of petticoats, chemises, stockings, skirts, gowns, boots and hats, cuffs, piece of lace, some photos, and four books. The books consisted of a bible, a prayer book, a novel, and something else. In one of the books was the woman's name - "BRAY." After that, on the 28th, he saw a man named JOHN BRAY, at the station. Witness asked BRAY if he could recognise the photos, and he said he could not. told him he had reason to believe that a sister of his was at 4 Higher Braddons, and asked him to go there with him; BRAY consented, and on being shewn the woman he would not at first identify her; witness caused the woman to show her face, and he then said, "That's LIZZIE, my sister." This was at seven o'clock in the evening. He said her name was ELIZABETH BRAY, and that she had been living with a sister, Mrs Cater, No. 2, Lemon Road, Newton. The woman whispered something to her brother, but witness did not hear what it was. Had since ascertained that it was correct. The girl had been living at Newton since Christmas out of service, and had left the night before. Witness charged her with concealing the birth of the child, and causing its death. When he found the body it was under the sofa, on a petticoat, and partly covered. Asked the sister about the girl's condition, and she said she had taxed her with being enciente, but she denied it. When he charged the woman with concealing the birth of the child, she said, "I did not kill it." Witness had already cautioned her that what she said might be used against her, and he cautioned the people in the house to that effect. - The Coroner summed up at about half-past eight o'clock, and in his doing so complimented the Croaker family on their kindness. - The Jury retired for consultation, and their private enquiry lasted for near upon two hours, at the end of which they returned a verdict of "Manslaughter" - attaching a rider to their verdict to the effect that the Croaker family had acted very humanely. At the Police Court on Saturday, before Mr W. Bridges, most of the evidence was given again. Prisoner was committed for trail on the charge of manslaughter.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 1 June 1878
TORQUAY - A Suspicious Death. - An Inquest was held at the Castle Inn on Thursday evening, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on the body of SARAH ANN UNDERHAY, a young woman, 19 years of age, and living in Higher Union Lane with her father. Rose Courvoisor stated that she was a nurse, and attended the deceased during the last week, and on Wednesday deceased told her that she had been taking something which some man had given her and which made her ill. She died on Thursday morning at four o'clock. Dr Richardson stated that the deceased was under his care for inflammation of the bowels, and that he suspected something wrong. About a week since he received two bottles of liquid which he could not tell the contents of. The Inquest was adjourned until Thursday next at the Police Station. A post mortem examination was ordered, and the bottles of stuff were ordered t be analysed.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 8 June 1878
ST MARY CHURCH - Melancholy Death Of Two Little Sisters By Drowning At Oddicombe. - An Inquest was held at Westhill Farm, St. Mary-Church, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, on Thursday night at nine o'clock, concerning the deaths of DORA KATE TAYLOR and LILY MARGARET TAYLOR, aged ten and nine years respectively, daughters of the REV. N. S. TAYLOR, minister of the Free Church, St. Mary Church, which took place by drowning on the same afternoon, between Petit Tor and Babbacombe beach. Mr Jonas Honywill was the Foreman of the Jury. - WILLIAM SNEYD TAYLOR, 13 years of age, said he was the son of the REV. N. S. TAYLOR, incumbent of Furroughcross Free Church, St. Mary-Church, and brother of the deceased girls. He went that morning with his sisters to Petit Tor to sail boats. As he was trying to get the boat out he slipped into the water. He let fall his reel of cotton with which he was fishing with crooked pins attached, and he asked DORA to wind off his cotton on to another reel, and as she was trying to do so she slipped off the rock into the deep water. He did not see her fall, but heard the splash and heard her crying out. She did not sink, her dress seemed to be holding her up. He went into the water to try to help her out; she got hold of his arm and he was getting her in, when she called to his sister LILY, who had come to the top of the rock, to come and help her. He tried to prevent LILY coming, but she came to the edge of the rock which was covered with green sea weed, and slipped in also. Both of his sisters laid hold of him. He was trying to get to the rock and he got clear of them and swam into where he could stand. He went back to them again, but being very tired a wave knocked him down. He afterwards got to the top of the rocks. LILY was sinking then, and DORA was lying on her face on the water. He called to a lady and a gentleman and a boy, who were in a boat, and they came and took the bodies out of the water. He should think they were in the water a quarter-of-an-hour before they were taken out. - The Rev. Wm. Hamerton, senior curate in charge of Torre, deposed as follows: He hired a boat at a quarter to four at Oddicombe Beach and took his wife out, and the boy who had charge of the boat. He saw the last witness on the rock pointing down to the water. he told the boy rowing to hurry on. He saw a hat floating on the sea. On getting nearer he heard the last witness say "Little sister is in the water." They got about a boat and a half up between the rocks and saw a girl floating on her face. He kept the boat steady whilst the boy with him pulled her into the boat. On coming away he saw another body lying at the bottom. They got up the body with great difficulty. It was in six or seven feet of water. Witness told the boy to go round to Oddicombe beach, and he pulled round with the bodies. He got them out of the boat, took their clothes off, and had their feet and hands rubbed and put in hot water and put flannel bathing dresses on the bodies. There was not the least sign of returning animation. He sent for medical assistance and two doctors came, who after moving the bodies and applying hot water, pronounced life to be extinct. The doctors did not use artificial respiration. It was 10 or 12 minutes that the bodies were in the boat. The little boy looked half drowned. - The Coroner said the sad facts were very clear. He would not say that everyone should know the means to restore the apparently drowned which are posted up at every coastguard station, but had there been anyone at the beach who knew the proper mode of restoring life, and had used it, there might have been a different result. He trusted all in charge of boats would make themselves acquainted with the rules for restoring life, and that should anything approaching a similar occurrence take place, other means than merely rubbing the body would be resorted to. He believed the death was purely accidental. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death by Drowning. We believe that MR TAYLOR, the father of the children has recently come to St Mary Church from Ireland, having given up a good living there to take the incumbency of the Furroughcross Free Church. MR TAYLOR is himself very ill.

TORQUAY - The Suspicious Death Of A Young Woman. - The adjourned Inquiry into the death of SARAH ANN UNDERHAY, a domestic servant, was held on Thursday afternoon at 3 o'clock, at the town Hall, before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, and a Jury of which Mr Jordan was Foreman. - Mr Richardson stated that since the last Inquiry he had made a post mortem examination of the body. There were no marks of violence. The brain, heart, and lungs were healthy. A hard ulcerated stone was found in the gall-bladder. He never heard of a similar case in one so young. The cause of death was peritonitis. She was not pregnant. - Mr Henry Snelgrove, surgeon of Newton, assisted at the post mortem examination, and he agreed with Mr Richardson as to the cause of death. He had never heard of a similar case in one so young. He believed the case to be unique. The pain must have been so intense that it must have killed her very quickly. - Miss Mary Murray, of 2, Woodville, had known the deceased for seven years. She heard of her illness in March last, and witness went to deceased's father's house in March. Deceased, in answer to witness, said she hoped she was not in the family-way. Witness did not like the woman attending deceased, and she sent Courvoisier to her. Witness said to the deceased that she hoped she had not spoken to anyone but the doctor about it, and she made no answer. On the morning of the day on which Courvoisier came in the afternoon she found two bottles, one a small bottle like that in which brandy is sold at railway stations, and which witness gave to Mrs Edwards, and a larger one like a light wine bottle which she sent to Mrs Edwards by the servant. The small bottle contained a dark brown fluid and was half-full; the larger bottle contained a much lighter fluid and was nearly empty. The deceased said to witness respecting the liquid in the larger bottle "Don't take it; it is poison; and don't let the doctor see it." Witness asked her where she got it, but she did not answer straight, and merely said it was a man. Nurse Courvoisier told witness where the man lived and who he was and she described him. Witness asked her if it was in her first or that illness that she took the stuff, and she replied that illness. Nurse Courvoisier told her in the presence of the deceased that deceased had taken something to put away her child. Deceased explained to witness that it was the stuff in the larger bottle that she drank. She did not ask deceased who the man was as she knew who lived next door but one. The man was called Train, but witness did not know what he was, although she heard he went about collecting ferns. - Mrs Lucy Edwards, wife of Mr Thos. Edwards, coach-builder of Union Street, had known the deceased all her life. The girl's father worked for witness's husband, and she was interested n the girl. Deceased always denied being in the family-way. Witness saw both the bottles in the girl's box. She secured the bottles in her own house on the Sunday, until Mr Richardson came for them on the following Tuesday, and were in precisely the same state when delivered to him as when received by witness. - Sergt. Ockford deposed to having received the two bottles, and the contents of the stomach in a bottle sealed from Mr Richardson, and delivered them in the same condition to Dr Blythe, County Analyst. - Dr Alexander Wynter Blythe, County Analyst, of Barnstaple, stated that he received two bottles on the 31st of May, - the one contained two drams or two teaspoonfulls of a rather thick, dark coloured liquid, which was rather mouldy. The other bottle contained seven ounces of an orange coloured liquid. He analysed the contents of the large bottle on the day he received it, and found that it contained three-fifths of a grain of soluble matter, but no poison - mineral or vegetable - whatever. The sediment he examined microscopically, and proved it to be some finely powered vegetable substance not derived, he believed, from any poisonous plant. The liquid in the smaller bottle was almost tasteless and contained a crystalline substance, which he found to be gallic acid in solution to the extent of 81.4 grains per pint. There was no other active ingredient. He did not think that would produce a dark secretion, nor would it stain the skin. It was not poisonous, but was often prescribed as an injection in certain diseases. Both those liquids were harmless, and would not have poisoned the girl. The contents of the stomach he analysed, and found it contained about three ounces of a chocolate coloured fluid; no mineral poison was detected; but there was a small quantity of morphia and some acid - both the constituents of opium - present. The stomach was perfectly healthy, there was no trace of inflammation; and had she taken a short time before her death any irritant poison it would have shown its effects on the stomach. The opium found was probably that which had been administered medicinally. - GEORGE UNDERHAY stated he was the father of the deceased. He had never seen the man Train in his house. He did not know what time his daughter came in at night. he did not know whether Train was giving anything to his daughter. - William Bridgman lived next door to the UNDERHAYS. He heard Train say that he and "Bill," his son-in-law, went out one day, and gathered some herbs for SARAH ANN UNDERHAY. Train said if she took them she would be well in a week. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the evidence was very clear and distinct. On the last occasion they had reason to believe that the girl did not meet with her death in a fair way, that she either murdered herself, or was murdered. The mystery had been cleared, however, by the doctors' evidence. The case was a curious one, in that the medical men had never known one like it. The poor girl thought up to the time of her death that she was two months gone with child, and she took some harmless stuff to do away with the child. She paid the money to the man for the stuff, and she was to have paid more. The Coroner hoped the case would not be lost on the man who had given her the stuff. If the man believed that the stuff he had given her would do what the girl wished, he would have been, in his own mind at least, guilty of wilful murder. In trying to get a little money from the poor girl he was very nearly guilty of a most serious crime. The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

TORQUAY - Concealment Of Birth At Torquay. - An Inquest was held at the Torbay Infirmary on Thursday evening, before Mr Michelmore and a Jury of which Mr J. C. Watson was Foreman, on the body of the illegitimate male child of LOUISA HARDING, 27 years of age, a domestic servant living with Mr Bovey, builder, of 4 Woodland Grove, Babbicombe road, Torquay. - The Jury having viewed the body, Mrs Annie Bovey, wife of Mr E. P. Bovey, builder, said LOUISA HARDING had been in her employ as a general servant for five months and a fortnight. HARDING is a single woman and was confined last Wednesday. On that day she asked the servant what was under her bed, and she replied "Well, it was born dead." The girl was about her work in the scullery. She went with witness to her bedroom and unlocked her box, and took out something wrapped in linen and put it on the floor. When it was opened she saw a fine baby, which was dead. Witness asked her if she had any clothes and she said she did not know. Witness went for her husband who sent for the police. The police came. - Mr E. P. Bovey said he fetched Police Sergt. Ockford, who took the body away. Sergt. Ockford went to the house of Mr Bovey and found the girl HARDING looking very ill and weak, doing her hair. He charged her with concealing the birth of the child, and said it was very probable she might be charged with killing it. She said "I was alone; I have no friends; and I did not know what to do. My missus was always very kind to me; I wish I had told her of it." There was not a vestige of baby linen in the room. He took possession of the body of the child, and took the woman to the Infirmary. - Mr Richardson, house surgeon, Torbay Infirmary, said he had seen the body of the child, and he had made a post mortem examination. It was a fine child of full time. There was post mortem discolouration over the whole body. There were no external marks of violence and no fractures. The lungs were congested in places, but were crepitate. The child was undoubtedly born alive, it had a separate existence, and witness considered the cause of death to have been suffocation. In answer to the Foreman, Mr Richardson said as there were no exterior marks of violence he thought the child was left among the clothes and so died. If the woman had had the necessary attendance it would have lived. The Coroner summed up, and the Jury returned a verdict of Manslaughter against the mother.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 29 June 1878
PRINCETOWN - A Convict Killed At Dartmoor prison. - An Inquest was held on Saturday afternoon at Princetown on the body of the convict who was crushed by a stone on the previous day. The chief clerk, Mr Turpin, said the deceased was B1,317 FREDERICK WHITTY, who was undergoing a sentence of penal servitude for forgery committed at Manchester 1875. He was now about 51. His friends had been informed of the accident and death. Mr John Hodge, principal warder, was the next witness. He stated that he had the general charge of the convicts employed in the particular district where the accident occurred. The prisoner was under the immediate charge of Warder Mayer, who called him when the stone caved in which occasioned the prisoner's death. He should think the stone was over a ton in weight. The depth of the hole in which the prisoner got crushed was not more than two feet deep. He was extricated within two or three minutes after the accident, and conveyed to the prison. Warder Mayer said the deceased and another man were employed in draining some waste land near Rundlestone. They were in the act of undermining the stone which caused the death of the prisoner, when the ground, which appeared perfectly safe, suddenly caved in, and the stone toppled against the prisoner. Dr Power, the surgeon of the prison, said the prisoner was received by him about half-past nine on the morning of the accident. he was severely crushed. Every attention was paid to him, but the injuries were such that no human aid could save him. He died fully conscious at about a quarter to nine the same night. The Inquest lasted over two hours, and at the close the Jury returned a unanimous verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated the officers from all blame.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 27 July 1878
STARCROSS - Fatal Fall At Starcross Railway Station. - An Inquest was held at the Courtenay Arms, Starcross, on Thursday, by Mr R. R. Crosse, County Coroner, on the woman killed by the train on Tuesday. She was identified by MR BARTLET, saddler, of Kenton, as his mother. She was of eccentric habits, and has occasionally been known to enter and leave trains as if she did not wish to be seen. She took a ticket on Tuesday evening from Starcross to St. Thomas, and though the train remained at the station for three or four minutes, giving all who wished to do so ample opportunity of entering, she appears to have attempted to get into a carriage after the train was in motion. Two passengers by the train saw her slip, and the train was quickly brought up, and the poor woman extricated. The evidence fully exonerated every person from blame.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 28 September 1878
TEIGNMOUTH - The Mysterious Boat Accident Off Teignmouth. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, on Monday afternoon held an Inquest at the Mount Pleasant Inn, between Dawlish and Starcross, upon the body of SARAH STEER, aged 25, who was drowned in the boat accident off Teignmouth on the evening of Saturday, the 14th inst. It will be remembered that on the day named the deceased, in company with her husband (THOMAS STEER), Henry Hartnoll and his son, of Teignmouth, and two men named Staddon and Fowler, went in a boat belonging to Hartnoll from Teignmouth to Dawlish, and on the way back the boat capsized in smooth water in a most unaccountable manner, three of the occupants being drowned. STEER, on the body of whose wife the Inquest was held on Monday, was a widower with five children when he married the deceased. - THOMAS STEER, husband of the deceased, said his wife was 25 years of age. On Saturday, the 14th, he and some others hired a boat of Mr Henry Hartnoll, of Teignmouth. There were six in the party, the boat being quite competent to carry six. They sailed to Dawlish; there was little wind. They stayed at Dawlish a short time. None of them were tipsy. They subsequently left Dawlish to return to Teignmouth. There was half a gallon of ale taken on board the boat, but this was not touched. Witness was sitting by the side of his wife, when the boat upset suddenly, and all the occupants were thrown into the water. The sail was down, and they were just going to pull into Teignmouth, as the wind had dropped. He was looking over his left shoulder when the boat was upset, and he was thrown with the others into the water on the right side of the boat. He did not know that he was in the water until he rose to the surface. Deceased said "Oh, TOM, what is the matter?" She then sank, and witness did not see her again. The others clung to the boat, which turned over three or four times. They (the survivors) clung to the bottom of the boat until they were picked up. - Henry Hartnoll, owner of the boat used, said he had carried fourteen persons in the boat. He saw no drink on board, and knew none was touched. All the previous witness had said was perfectly true. Could not imagine how the boat had upset, as there was no "larking," and no one moved. Did not even feel the uplifting of the boat. - The Rev. H. Hutchins, resident at Teignmouth, said the boat used was a new one, and very good. - William Hartwell, farmer, said he found the body at about 4.30 p.m. on Sunday about half a mile east of Langstone Point. In company with a coastguardsman he brought the body to that house. This being all the evidence, the Coroner remarked that there did not appear to him to have been any impropriety upon the part of anybody in the boat at the time of the accident. The Jury had heard the evidence; they would now consider their verdict, and he would record it. It seemed to him that the occurrence was an accident, and God only knew how the boat was upset. - The Foreman (Mr Loram, of Dawlish) who has been a captain in the merchant service, remarked that he could only account for the upsetting of the boat by the rising under it of a large fish. He did not think a porpoise could have done it; though a "black fish" might have. "Black fish" had been known to upset a ship. The Jury at once returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - Inquest. - An Inquest was held at the Magistrates Court Hall, on Friday evening last, before Mr R. Rodd, and a Jury, of which Mr John Pook was Foreman touching the death of the infant child of CLARA TOZER, aged 21, a domestic servant, which had been found under somewhat suspicious circumstances. After the Jury had viewed the body, Mr R. W. Clements, Fleet Street, Torquay, was called. He said CLARA TOZER had lived in his service about eight months, but left a year ago. She came back again on Saturday, the 14th inst. and asked Mrs Clements for a reference for the Queen's Hotel, but he and his wife thought she would be of service to them, and they asked her to come and live with them again, until she could get another place. She agreed, and came in that same night. About quarter past 11 on the evening of the 18th, a person told him there had been a case of concealment of birth on his premises, by CLARA TOZER. he asked her about it, and she said it was true, and told him where to find the body. He then gave information to the police, and P.C. Trot went with him to his kitchen where they found the body concealed under the shelves of the dresser. Mr J. B. Richardson said he had made a post mortem examination of the body, and found it to be a female child; it weighed three pounds 13 oz., and measured 16 inches. The brain was healthy and there were no marks of external violence, it was a premature birth, and he attributed its death to that cause, and not to any neglect. This being the whole of the evidence, the Coroner said it only remained for the Jury to say how the death happened. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony of premature birth.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 5 October 1878
TORQUAY - Sad Death From Poisoning. - An Inquest was held at the Torbay Infirmary on Tuesday evening last before Mr H. Michelmore, Coroner, and a Jury of which Mr Robert Butland was Foreman, touching the death of JOHN HART, a young man aged 17, who was employed at the Brick Works, Lowe's Bridge, and who died at the Infirmary from the effects of poison. - The Jury having viewed the body, the first witness called was WILLIAM HART, father of the deceased, who stated that he was a labourer, and resided at Park Place, St. Mary-Church. He said that on Saturday last, between six and seven, he met his son on Hele road. He was then foaming at the mouth. Witness took him to a chemist at St. Mary-Church. On the road he said, "Father I have drunk some poison by mistake." Mr Hoyle, chemist, gave him some stuff to take, but as witness was not satisfied, he sent for Mr Finch. Mr Finch being away, his nephew, who was a surgeon, came in his stead, and he said that the stuff the chemist gave would neither do good nor harm. The doctor sent some medicine at once, and stayed with the deceased some time. On Sunday morning he came again with Mr Finch and told witness to take his son to the Dispensary, or he would die if an operation were not performed. Witness took him at once to the Infirmary, where he died shortly after nine on Monday morning. - Edward Norris, engine driver, at Lowe's Bridge, was next called. He stated that he saw the deceased at work on Saturday up to within a few minutes of the accident. He next saw him with the bottle produced (a black glass wine bottle) in his hand, and bending forward. Witness knew at once what was the matter, and he threw the bottle away and told the deceased to rinse his mouth while he went and got an emetic. The stuff the bottle contained was sulphuric acid, used for testing whether lime existed in the clay or not. After the deceased had drunk the emetic that witness had procured, he threw up what was apparently a lot of water. The deceased remained at the works about half-an-hour, and he was then taken home. Witness knew no one on the works who was in the habit of drinking anything from a bottle like the one produced; they always used cans for their tea, as no ale was allowed to be taken in. - In answer to a Juryman, the witness said that it was the manager's duty to test the clay with sulphuric acid. - Mr Albert Howard, manager of Messrs. Thomas's works, at Lowe's Bridge, said the deceased worked under him. He first heard of the accident about nine o'clock on Saturday evening. The sulphuric acid was always kept on the works, but never more than one bottle at a time, and was usually kept in the clay pit under the ganger who had charge of the clay catching. The deceased would not have the use of it in any way. He knew he was always a steady lad. A well was being sunk on the works, and he could only account for the accident by supposing that the lad thought the bottle contained ale, brought in by a man employed at the well to keep out the cold, and that being the case, he drunk it with so sad a result. There was not more than a wine glass full of liquor in the bottle at the time. The bottle was labelled "poison." - The father, re-called, said his son could scarcely read or write, and he should hardly suppose he would be able to read the word "poison." - Frederic Grainger, a clay catcher, said he had had charge of the bottle containing the sulphuric acid. Deceased worked at the cutting table inside, and he did not see him on Saturday with the bottle. Witness left the bottle concealed between some bricks not far from the well, on Saturday, intending to take it back to its place as soon as he could, but he was sorry to say he forgot to do so. - Mr E. A. Marsh, house surgeon at the Infirmary, was the last witness called. He stated that the deceased was taken in on Sunday morning, suffering from great difficulty in his breath, and his face was very dusky. Witness was told that the deceased had taken by mistake some sulphuric acid, and on examining his mouth found his tongue very much burnt, and scorched by the acid. Was unable to examine his throat, as he could not open his mouth sufficiently. His sufferings was so great that witness sent for Mr Huxley, and they opened the throat of the deceased, and found the glottis was very much swollen owing to the acid. A certain amount of relief was afforded, but the air was unable to get to the lungs, which were very much congested in spite of the operation. He would give as the immediate cause of death "Congestion of the lungs, produced by the effects of swallowing sulphuric acid." It was difficult to say whether life would have been saved if the operation had been performed sooner. The operation had been successfully performed, but, owing to the danger attending it, it was never resorted to until the last moment. - This was the whole of the evidence, and the Coroner summed up the case. He said that, so far as the evidence went, there was no blame to be attached to anyone. The question for the Jury to decide was, whether the deceased drunk the poison accidentally, not knowing what it was, or whether he drank it with the intent to kill himself. He thought it was accidentally done. The Jury unanimously returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." All the witnesses belonging to the works, were then called into the room, and cautioned by the Coroner as to their future use of the sulphuric acid. Mr Howard replied that he had had a box made, and lock attached, wherein to keep the bottle, and that every precaution would be taken.

KINGSKERSWELL - Death By Misadventure At Kingskerswell. - On Monday week, MR CHARLES HENRY WILLS, of Kingskerswell died under circumstances which were detailed at a Coroner's Inquest held on the following day and on Monday last. It appeared that deceased had been in the habit for some time of taking sedatives for the purpose of allaying pain, produced by a fractured elbow, and inducing sleep. In the deceased's bedroom was found a box labelled "medicine - poison" in which were various medicines including a box of morphia pills, upon which was printed "Poison. J. W. Cocks, Torquay," and "Arthur H. Cox, Tasteless Pill Manufactory, Brighton." Mr Cocks stated that about three months back the deceased asked him to get a box of Cox's half-grain morphia pills for him, that he did so, and that he said to the deceased, "It is a full dose, captain," to which deceased replied, "I know it; I have been having such pills from Dr Brown (his own medical man), and I don't want to be constantly troubling him for them." Deceased always conversed like a man who knew a good deal of medicine. This evidence was supported by the deceased's uncle, who said that the deceased acted as doctor on board ship whilst taking a number of convicts to Bermuda. The Coroner, in summing up, characterised the case as a sad and important one. Mr Cocks, however, had satisfactorily explained the circumstances under which deceased purchased the pills, and had shewn that he had not sold them without giving proper caution. The evidence had been sufficient to shew that there was no reason for deceased's taking the pills with the intention of committing suicide. If the Jury thought that deceased took the pills unwittingly, and only for the purpose of alleviating pain, they would say so. After a brief deliberation the Jury returned a verdict as follows:- "We find that the death of the deceased, CHARLES HENRY WILLS, was caused by an over-dose of morphia, contained in pills taken by him for the purpose of allaying pain and procuring sleep."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 19 October 1878
EXETER - Fatal Occurrence At Exeter. - A distressing accident, directly attributable to alleged recklessness, occurred at Exeter on Saturday night. About half-past eight a party of four men left the Buller's Inn, Alphington-street, in a trap, their destination being Haldon, some six miles distant. The driver was Richard Watson, the whipper of the pack of foxhounds Sir Lawrence Palk is "mustering" this season. The other occupants were James Killworth, the blacksmith, and Henry Coffin and Alfred Skinner. The horse was nearly thorough-bred, but had the reputation of being well-behaved. As soon as the party left the Inn, Watson used the whip pretty freely, and this, of course, provoked the animal into a furious pace, and the rate of speed seems to have attracted general attention. About a quarter of a mile out of Alphington-street stands the first turnpike-gate, and the female in charge, hearing the sound of a fast approaching trap, sent out her daughter BESSIE FLORENCE GOVIER, to open the gate. The girl, who is 12 years of age, proceeded to do so, but in the meantime the trap dashed up, and literally flew through the gate and continued it's mad career. Such was the force with which the vehicle came into contact with the gate, that the latter, although composed of the usually heavy woodwork, was completely wrecked. It was broken into two parts, the formidable rails on top and beneath snapping like carrots. Upon the body of the unfortunate child fell the debris with a crash, and the mother ran out to find her daughter lying there insensible, in a pool of blood, which was fast welling from her ears and mouth. A doctor was promptly sent for, and Mr Farrant quickly arrived on the scene, but the terrible injuries the child sustained caused it to expire within a quarter of an hour. Unaware of the melancholy results of his collision, Watson, it seems, continued his journey at the same furious rate. The blacksmith entreated him to go back and see what damages he had done, but he refused, and then Kilworth begged him to slacken his pace. He, however, did not do so, and the result of an altercation was that Kilworth got out, preferring to walk. He was induced, however, to remount, and the journey was continued to Alphington, where a stoppage was made at the Bell Inn. Here Watson mentioned that he had been in collision with the gate, and made some bravado remarks to the effect that he would drive through any turnpike gate. The trap was then taken on to Haldon. As soon as the child died P.C. Dymond procured a cab, and went in chase of the trap, but did not overtake it. As soon, however, as he reached Haldon he discovered who the parties were, and he at once went to Watson, and told him he had come about the gate. The man replied he knew he had done some damage. The officer then told him that not only damaged the gate, but that he had killed the girl, upon which the man seemed astounded, and burst into tears. He was then taken into custody. Since he has been in custody, Watson has stated that he was speaking to one of the men, and did not notice the gate was so near. The horse made a little bolt, and on his "pulling" it increased its pace. He knew he had damaged the gate, but had no notion the child was there. He was not intoxicated, as had been pretty generally rumoured. Captain Chichester, County Magistrate, attended at head-quarters on Sunday morning, and bail not being forthcoming, remanded Watson in custody pending the Coroner's Inquest. - The Inquest was held at St. Thomas, Exeter, on Tuesday. Evidence was adduced in proof of the child having been struck down by the falling gate, which was caused by the furious driving of a horse and trap. - P.C. Dymond stated that he went in pursuit of the parties in the trap, and apprehended a man named Watson, Sir Lawrence Palk's whip at Haldon House. Watson stated that he was unaware of having done any damage to the toll-gate or to the child, and afterwards said "I know I have done damage to the turnpike-gate, but I know nothing about the poor child." He also stated that he was the sole driver of the trap, and that no one but himself took the reins. He appeared to be under the influence of liquor. - Mr Farrant, surgeon, of St. Thomas, deposed that he attended the deceased, whom he found in the tollhouse perfectly insensible. She was bleeding freely from the ears, nose and mouth, and with the blood from the right ear came a quantity of brain matter. There was a contusion at the back of the head and on the forehead, and an incision on the right eyebrow. The skull was fractured, and the brain consequently lacerated. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and stated that they could not exonerate the driver Watson from blame.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 9 November 1878
TORQUAY - A Young Man Burnt To Death In Torquay. - An Inquest was held at Mount Braddon this (Friday) afternoon, by Mr H. S. Gaye, Deputy Coroner, touching the death of MR JOHN JOSEPH MASSINGHAM, a tutor, aged 23, at Mrs Gregory's, Mount Braddon, Torquay. The Jury having viewed the body, the first witness called was George Caulder, coachman at Mrs Gregory's, who stated that he had known the deceased from the 8th of July last. Witness saw him about ten o'clock on Monday evening, when the housemaid said she thought something was wrong with MR MASSINGHAM, because she had heard him crying out in his own room for help. He then broke the door open, and found the deceased on his knees beside the door. He helped him up, but he said he could not see. Jane Lane, housemaid at Mount Braddon, gave evidence as to hearing him call out for help about 10 o'clock. She saw him in bed afterwards, and asked him how he got it done (meaning some burns), and he replied he could not tell. - Dr W. B. Dalby said he found deceased's right arm burnt up to the shoulder, and the right side and part of the chest, and the whole of the right side of his head, and the left partially. He attended him up to the time of his death, but he was never able to say how it happened. In his (witnesses) opinion, the deceased must have been leaning on the mantle piece, and in a fit fell down and so got burnt. The Coroner having summed up the case, the Jury returned a verdict to the effect "That death was caused through the deceased accidentally falling into the fire."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 18 January 1879
TORQUAY - Found Dead. - On Wednesday evening WILLIAM ROWETT, chief boatman at Babbacombe, took two pills and went to bed. Early next morning he was found dead. A post mortem examination has been made, the coroner communicated with, and an Inquest will be held at the Roughwood Inn this (Friday) evening.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 10 May 1879
TORQUAY - Inquest. - An Inquest was held at the Torbay Infirmary, on Monday evening, before Mr Gaye, and a Jury of which Mr A. Barclay was Foreman, touching the death of WILLIAM KILMINSTER, a boy who died at the Infirmary, on Sunday morning, owing to wounds caused by falling over the cliff at Babbacombe on the previous day. The Jury having viewed the body, the first witness called was MICHAEL KILMINSTER, a plasterer, who said he lived at Torre. The deceased was his son. He was just over 13 years of age. - Mr E. A. Marsh, house surgeon at the Infirmary, said that on Saturday, May 3rd, deceased was brought into the house. That was shortly after two o'clock. Witness was told that he had been picked up at Babbacombe, having fallen over the rocks on to the beach below. He was perfectly insensible, cold, and had every symptom of concussion of the brain. There was a small wound on the scalp, on the front part of the head, and there were contusions on the face, and a great swelling on the right eyelid, and right side of the face; there were also some small cuts about the lips, which bled rather feely, and some slight abrasions of the hands, but nothing serious. There were no broken limbs. He did not recover consciousness at all, and he died on Sunday morning at seven o'clock. He thought the injuries the deceased had sustained might be caused from a fall over rocks. - Charles Campion, a gardener, of Babbacombe, said that on Saturday, about twenty minutes after one, he picked the deceased up. His attention was called to the deceased by some women, who said a boy had fallen over the rocks. He went and found the boy, who was quite unconscious. Witness and another young man carried him up to the top, and witness sent for a carriage and saw him on the way to the Infirmary. Witness thought the height of the rocks would be from 80 to 100 feet, though it would not be a clear fall of that. There were some flowers lying under the deceased at the time, which witness thought he had been gathering on the side of the cliff. Witness found a hat belonging to the deceased some 60 feet up on the cliff. The flowers under the deceased corresponded with those growing on the cliff. - Mr J. B. Guyer, chemist, of the Strand, said the deceased had been in his employ as an errand boy for two years or more. On Saturday last, at about 11.30, witness sent him to Babbacombe, and he did not see him again until after the accident, when he saw him at the Infirmary. - James Soart, a boy of 13, said he knew the deceased. On Saturday morning he was with him on Babbacombe Down. Witness met the deceased at about 12.35, and they both went together picking cowslips. The deceased got down on the side of the cliff and witness saw him fall over, and in his fall he slipped over witness, who had been plucking flowers just below him. The deceased did not stop in his fall at all. Witness called two men, but did not go down to the deceased himself. The Coroner having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the boy met with his death through having Accidentally Fallen Over the Cliff.

NEWTON ABBOT - Fatal Accident At Newton. - A few days ago, MRS PINSENT, and MRS JOHN PINSENT, junr., of Newton, were driving in a pony carriage at Newton when, owing to a fright, the pony dashed away and ran through Devon Square and into Queen-street, where it collided with the wall of a house, and both ladies were thrown out with considerable violence, and were very badly injured. A hand-truck in the charge of two boys was on the other side of the square at the time of the accident, but both boys state that the pony had taken fright before it came in sight of their truck. On Saturday the younger MRS PINSENT died, and, at an Inquest held on Monday, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The Coroner, Mr Gaye, reprimanded the boys for driving so fast down an incline, it being a very dangerous practice.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 5 July 1879
Distressing Suicide. - On Sunday afternoon, a middle aged married woman named HURRELL, whose husband is Foreman to Messrs. Watts & C., clay merchants, committed suicide by jumping into the river, at a point just below the railway bridge. Her husband was away at Teignmouth and she appears to have taken her three children out for a walk and suddenly left them for a time to gather some flowers. Whilst they were thus innocently engaged, their wretched mother walked to the river bank, took off her bonnet and jumped into the water. An Inquest was held upon the body of the woman on Tuesday afternoon and the Jury returned a verdict that she committed Suicide whilst in an Unsound State of Mind.

TORQUAY - Sad Case Of Suicide. - An Inquest was held at the Town Hall on Saturday last - before Mr F. J. Watts - touching the death of SAMUEL BIRD, dairyman, Hele, near St. Mary-Church. Mr Peter Thomas was Foreman of the Jury. The first witness called was EMILY BIRD, who stated that she was the wife of deceased, and had been married to him for nineteen years. He was 45 years of age. She last saw him alive at six o'clock on the previous (Friday) morning. Deceased had recently been very much troubled about money matters. On the previous night he was greatly excited, owing to Mr Shinner (his landlord) and Mr C. Manning (auctioneer, Torre) visiting the house and demanding immediate payment of £5 due for rent of a field at St Mary-Church. Deceased had promised to pay them on the following Saturday, but they said they must have the money at once. This he told them was impossible but they continued going to and from the house, laughing and sneering at him, for upwards of an hour. In their presence deceased produced a rope and threatened to make away with himself, as the difficulty troubled him so much. In default of the necessary payment they locked up the field where the cows were and this preyed upon deceased very much. He said he would not have minded had there not been a cow amongst the lot which was not his. Upon going to bed he was quite hysterical and said:- "The treatment I have received from Mr Shinner weighs me down with grief; I feel I cannot bear up under it." When he got up at five o'clock next morning he asked his wife whether Mr Shinner could do anything to him if he milked the cows. She told him "No," and he went out in the usual way. About half-past five he returned, and going to his wife in bed, kissed her, and said he did not think he should come back any more. She replied that he must not think that, but come to her at Everton when she would try and do something for him. These were the last words that were spoken and the last she saw of him was as he was going down the road to Torquay, with his cans, as usual. Deceased was a very excitable man when he drank, but not at other times. He had not been drinking lately. Besides the field at St. Mary-Church, he rented two grass fields, and a small orchard with a linhay, at Cockington. The only rent he owed was £7 due at Midsummer last. - LILLIE BIRD said she last saw her father about six o'clock on Thursday night. As she saw his cans standing in one place throughout the next morning, she went to the linhay, thinking he might be there. She was afraid to go in by herself, and, looking through the door, caught sight of her father's coat. Soon after she got a man to go in, and he came out and told her that her father had hung himself. - George Green, gardener, Torre, said that about a quarter past two he was asked by his mother to go into the linhay and see if BIRD was there, as it was feared he had made away with himself. Upon going in he saw deceased hanging by a rope from a beam, and his dog licking his arm and trying to get him away. He was quite dead. - Robert Pratt, market gardener, Torquay, proved seeing the deceased about his usual work between eight and nine the same morning. - P.C. Bond said that about 2.30 p.m. on Friday, he was requested to accompany a man to Chelston Manor, where it was said another man had hung himself. He there found deceased as described by Green. The keys of the door were in his pocket and he seemed to have driven a staple in for the purpose of securing the rope. He appeared to have been dead for several hours. - The Deputy Coroner, in summing up the evidence for the Jury, remarked that there was no doubt whatever that the deceased died from hanging. Whether, at the time he committed the act, he was in such a state of mind as to know the difference between right and wrong was for them to say. If they thought he was insane at the time he committed this wrongful deed they would return a verdict accordingly, but if they thought he deliberately committed the act, whilst in his right senses, then they would return a verdict that was known as felo-de-se. - After a few moments' consideration the Foreman of the Jury said they were all agreed that deceased committed Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity, which they considered was brought on by overwhelming grief, accelerated by the action of Messrs. Shinner and Manning; and the Jury further thought that these two men were deserving of censure for treating the deceased in such a manner, after he had promised payment by a certain date. - The Deputy Coroner: I quite agree with you, gentlemen; I think their conduct was very reprehensible. The sympathy of the Jury with the widow - who was in an almost helpless state during the Enquiry - was practically expressed by their unanimously handing over their fees for her benefit. Mr Blackwood, of Chelston Manor, also gave a donation.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 12 July 1879
TORQUAY - Sad Death Of A Child. - An Inquest was held at the Rising Sun Inn, Torre, on Monday morning last - before Dr Henry Gaye, Coroner - touching the death of EMILY JANE, infant daughter of MARIA and GEORGE CHURCHWARD, residing at Mason's-road, Torre. The circumstances under which the unfortunate child came by her death were as follows:- On Thursday afternoon the 3rd inst., the child, who was just over two years of age, was playing in a room with her mother. Suddenly she walked into an adjoining apartment rented by a Miss Buckingham, and, during the temporary absence of the occupier, in some manner upset the boiling contents of a tea-pot, which was standing upon the table. Her mother was attracted by a scream and at once ran to the assistance of her child. She found her rolling upon the floor, having severely scalded the front part of her body with the hot tea. The child was promptly put to bed, the wounds being first dressed with lime water and oil. On the following day she seemed to get worse and Mr Wills was called in. But he, hearing the skilful way in which the child had been treated, did not disturb her. At twelve o'clock that night the child died. The Coroner briefly reviewed the evidence and the Jury at once returned a verdict, "That the child died from the effects of having accidentally scalded herself." At the close of the Inquest Sergeant Ockford was requested by the Jury to hand their fees over to the mother.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 9 August 1879
TORQUAY - Sad Death Of A Somnambulist. - An Inquest was held at the Police Station on Thursday evening, before Mr F. J. Watts, Deputy Coroner, touching the death of JOHN PATRICK SAUNDERS, painter, of 1, Queen-street, aged 59 years. - RICHARD SYDNEY SAUNDERS, son of the deceased, living in the same house, said he last saw his father alive at five minutes past eight on Tuesday evening. About half-past eleven o'clock he heard his mother calling out "He's fallen over the stairs," and going to the spot he found deceased lying on the floor with his head towards the washhouse door. He thought he must be dead as he did not hear him breathe. His mother said deceased had been walking in his sleep. He had lived in the same house for eight years, and during that time deceased had been in the habit of walking in his sleep. Witness had found him several times and woke him up. Witness helped to carry his father back to his room. - Mr S. Gamble, surgeon, stated that he was called to the house about 12 o'clock, and found the deceased lying on his back, quite dead. Upon examination, he found that the deceased had sustained a fracture of the upper spinal bone, which was quite sufficient to account for his sudden death. The injury was what was commonly called a broken neck. Sergeant Ocford stated that he visited the house the same night, and found everything in order, the inmates sober, and everything perfectly satisfactory. After brief deliberation, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death through falling down stairs."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 6 September 1879
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident On The Quay. A Dangerous Footpath. - An Inquest was held at the Police Station, on Thursday morning, before Mr Henry S. Gaye, Coroner, touching the death of ALFRED JOHN KELLOND, a boy 13 years of age, who met his death by falling from the footpath behind the cabstand on the Strand to the slip below, on Tuesday evening last. Mr Daniel Coombes was appointed Foreman of the Jury, and the first witness examined was ELIZA KELLOND, who stated that the deceased was her brother. On Tuesday, about six o'clock in the evening, she was walking with him on the Strand. As she was going along the asphalt pavement on the harbourside, she turned round, and saw the deceased running and trying to catch her up. Suddenly his foot slipped, and he fell heard foremost on to the stone below. He was shortly afterwards taken home to his father's house at Luther Cottages, Ellacombe, but died within three hours. - John Brickwood, labourer, said he picked the deceased up. The boy had fallen about three or four feet, and witness was able to reach him easily with his arm. Deceased was only able to articulate "Oh my head." - Mr Smith, surgeon, said he was called in to see the deceased about a quarter to eight. He found him in bed, but totally unconscious, and breathing in a heavy manner. He had a small wound on the left side of his head, below the temple bone, which injury might have been caused by a fall such as had been described. He was of opinion that death was caused by fracture of the skull and effusion of blood to the brain. The Jury at once returned a verdict of Accidental Death, and desired that the attention of the Local Board should be called to the unguarded state of the footpath, leading from the slip to the Victoria Parade, at the back of the cab stand in the Strand. The Coroner promised that he would communicate with the proper authorities. The whole of the members of the Jury, through Sergeant Ellicott, handed over their fees for the benefit of the friends of the deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 13 September 1879
ST MARY CHURCH - Fatal Effects of A Fall. - An Inquest was held at the Fortune of War Inn, St. Mary-Church, on Saturday morning last, touching the death of WILLIAM HENRY WILLCOCKS, aged nine years, son of SAMUEL WILLCOCKS, saddler, North Tawton. From the evidence laid before Mr Henry Gaye, Coroner, it appeared that the deceased was on a visit (with his brothers) to an aunt named Mrs Jane Sims, who is a laundress living at Plainmoor. On Thursday afternoon he was playing at "Catch me Ten" with some other lads in the Torquay Road. When just opposite the above named Inn, the boy slipped and fell backwards, striking his head against a kerbstone. He got up, however, and merely complained of a headache, but immediately proceeded home. Very shortly afterwards the boy was sick, and suffering in other ways, and Mr Chillcote, surgeon, was called in. The poor boy, however, died at eight o'clock the same evening. Mr Chillcote gave it as his opinion that death ensued from concussion of the brain, resulting from the effects of the fall. The Jury at once returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and at the suggestion of their Foreman (Mr L. Tucker) directed Sergt. Ellicott to devote their fees to the benefit of the parents of the deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 4 October 1879
TORQUAY - Sad Case Of Suicide. - An Inquest was held at the Police Station on Saturday evening, before Mr Gaye, County Coroner, to Inquire into the cause of the death of HENRY ADAMS, a mason, aged 56 years. The first witness called was JOHN ADAMS, mason, Ellacombe, who said: Deceased was my second cousin. I have known him for a long time and lately he has been working with me. I last saw him alive at ten o'clock on Friday morning, when we were both working for Mr Vanstone at South Town House. I did not notice any difference in his demeanour, except that he kept on drinking - as he had done ever since Whitsuntide. He had not been in constant work owing to his drunken habits. He was not exactly sober at breakfast time on Friday morning and he had been drinking all the previous afternoon. He was a married man, but his wife and children left him several months ago. he was a very quiet man and drink did not excite him. Jane Long, married, said: The deceased resided at my house since last July. He generally returned home drunk at night. He was very quiet; and all the time he was with me I thought him a strange man and was always nervous about him. He sighed and groaned a great deal. He returned home about ten o'clock on Thursday night and left before six on Friday morning. - Thos. Leaman, plasterer, said: I only knew the deceased by sight and did not see him until Friday when he was hanging. He was hanging by a sash line suspended from a roof. Mr Vanstone told me of the circumstances. - John Vanstone, builder, Torre, said: Deceased worked for me during the past two months. His drinking habits were often the cause of stopping his work. He was sometimes away for days together. He was working for me on Friday and part of the day before. When he came to his work I accused him of having been drinking. ADAMS first saw him hanging and then I called Leaman to cut him down. - JOHN ADAMS, recalled, said: Three of us were looking for him and a man called Thos. Woollacott first saw him and exclaimed "Here he is 'Stringed' up." - The Coroner remarked that he thought the Jury were now in possession of sufficient evidence to warrant their arriving at a just conclusion as to the cause of this man's death. They had two questions to decide. First how did this man come by his death, and what was the state of his mind at the time? Of the first he thought there could be no doubt that he committed suicide by hanging. But they would further have to determine whether at the time he destroyed his own life - which thus was, in the eye of the law, a criminal act, known as robbing her Majesty of a subject, he was responsible for the act. The Jury took some time to consider their verdict, and after the Court had been cleared for some minutes resolved that HENRY ADAMS committed Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity. The Chairman (Mr R. Butland) strongly advocated the addition of the words "accelerated by drink," but the suggestion was only supported by one other Juryman.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 13 December 1879
TORQUAY - Suicide. - A sad case of Suicide occurred on Thursday morning last. From information received, Sergt. Ellicott, in company with Constable Charley, went to Temperance Street, and found SAMUEL WILLIAM CREWS, an old man, aged 80, lying in his bedroom in a pool of blood, with his throat badly cut. Dr Richardson was sent for, but the man died in a few hours. The Inquest was held this morning at the Police Court, and a verdict of "Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity" was returned.

TORQUAY - Inquest. - An Inquest was held at the Royal Standard Public House, Hele, on Monday last, touching the death of EDWARD JOHN NORRISH, an engine driver, in the employ of Messrs. Thomas & Co., St. Mary-Church. Mr H. S. Gay, Coroner, attended. From the evidence of the Foreman of the Brick Works, in which deceased was employed, it appeared that there was a hot water tank connected with the works, which tank deceased and witness were engaged in repairing on the 5th instant, it at the time containing hot water to the depth of two feet and a half. Part of the repairs being finished, witness left deceased for a few moments, being called away to another part of the works. In a short time one of the men told him that NORRISH had fallen into the hot water tank, and was nearly dead. He went and found the deceased in the boiler house, adjoining the tank, taking off his clothes. He said he had fallen in the water head foremost. Witness with the assistance of some other men undressed deceased, rubbed him with oil, and, wrapping him in blankets, took him to the Infirmary. In answer to a question from the Coroner, witness said he thought the accident was owing to the plank, on which deceased had to stand, slipping away, thus precipitating him into the water. The plank was placed across the cistern directly over the water, and to do the needful repairs it was necessary to lie down on the plank and witness supposed the plank 'canted,' and slipped away, as he found it floating in the water after the accident. - Charles Allford, brickmaker, stated that he was about 60 yards from the tank on the day the accident happened, when he heard a cry for help, and running up found the deceased in the boiler house, rubbing oil over himself. He said the plank had slipped away, and he had fallen in the water. Witness did not see the plank in the tank. The water was nearly boiling. - Mr Horace Lowther, house surgeon at the Torbay Infirmary, stated that on Friday, the 5th instant, the deceased was brought to the Torbay Infirmary, between five and six p.m. He was very severely scalded on the arms, back and thighs. Witness asked him how it happened, and he said he had fallen into a tank of boiling water. Deceased died from the shock to his nervous system. - The Coroner then briefly addressed the Jury, saying that the deceased was engaged in his legitimate work at the time of his death, and it was for them to say whether he met his death accidentally or not. The Jury, after consulting privately, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" at the same time stating it as their wish that Messrs. Thomas & Co., should adopt such means as lay in their power, as would most surely prevent a repetition of the accident.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 21 February 1880
TORQUAY - Inquest. - An Inquest was held at the Country House Inn, on Tuesday last, touching the death of ANNIE BLANCHE LEMON, aged six years, who died suddenly on Sunday. A post mortem examination was made by Dr Midgley Cash, who certified that death was caused by infusion of blood to the brain, which might have been caused by a blow or a fall, and a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was found by the Jury.

TORQUAY - An Inquest was held on Saturday last before Dr S. Gaye, at the Torquay Police Court, on the body of JOHN BARTER, fruiterer. Mr Richard Skinner was Foreman of the Jury. - John Francis, nurseryman, in the employ of Messrs. Curtis & Co., stated that the deceased had been a greengrocer until a short time before his death, when trade being bad he took to book canvassing. On the day of his death he called witness (who was in the Devon Rosery) aside, and told him that he was thinking of going to the asylum, or drowning himself. He also referred to some money which he owed witness, but witness told him not to mind that. Witness did not know whether he had been doing well as a canvasser or not. - George Oaks, manager of the British Workman, No. 2., stated that the deceased stayed at the British Workman for two nights, Tuesday and Wednesday. On Tuesday night the deceased was very restless, yelling the whole of the night. In the morning he said he had a little more work to do and then he should be better provided for. - Robert Pile, naturalist, stated that he was out near Corbon's Head, looking for specimens when he saw the deceased, quite dead, about 50 feet from the sea. It was nearly low water at the time, and the body had evidently been left by the tide. He at once gave information to the police. P.S. Ocford proved finding the body. He stated that he had known deceased for some years as an industrious, sober man. He was very charitable, giving away to his poor neighbours money he wanted for himself. A piece of shard was found in the pocket of the deceased, on which was written, "Speak to all why I left home." The Coroner asked Mr Oaks if the deceased had paid his lodging, and was told he had not. After a short consultation, the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 13 March 1880
TORQUAY - Inquest. - On Saturday last an Inquest was held on the body of MISS EMILY BAXTER, who died suddenly the Thursday before. In accordance with the medical testimony a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 7 August 1880
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident. - On Saturday last at about 10 a.m., JOHN CONLAN, an old man of 81, residing at 3, Geneva Cottages, was crossing the road near the shop of Mr Weeks, chemist, when he was knocked down by a pony and cart. His collar bone was broken and he was rather bruised. He was taken home and attended by Mr Stabb, but died from the shock on Wednesday afternoon. An Inquest was held at the Castle Inn before Deputy Coroner Watts and a Jury, of which Mr T. G. Stedham was elected Foreman. Mr W. W. Stabb said that on Saturday last, at about 10.30 a.m. he was sent for, but not being at home, he did not get the message until a little after one, when he immediately went and attended the deceased. He found he was suffering from a broken collar bone, and two bruises on the legs, the bruises were not of any importance. He attended him every day until Wednesday, when he died. The broken collar bone would not have killed a young man, but acted with the severe shock to the nervous system on so old a man. Mr George Perring, poulterer, of 30 Higher Union Street, said that on the morning of Saturday last at about 10 a.m. he saw deceased try to cross the road. He saw the horse and cart driven by Langworthy, and he saw the accident, and tried to save the poor old man, but in this he failed. Afterwards he picked the deceased up, and carried him to the pavement, got a chair, and seated him in it. Deceased was partially unconscious, but soon came to himself, and asked whether the pony had ran away. He told him he thought it had. Langworthy soon after returned, and took the deceased home in his cart. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

TORQUAY - Inquest. - An Inquest was held at the Infirmary on Saturday last, on the body of a child, named ALBERT LUXTON, who came to his death by falling over the edge of the Quarry at the back of Palk's Arms. It was held under Mr F. Watts, Deputy Coroner, and thirteen Jurymen. The father was examined and gave evidence to the fact that he saw his son at about three o'clock, and not again until after the accident. It happened about 400 yards from his house. Frank Atkins, carpenter, was the next witness examined. He said that at about eight o'clock he saw some children on the top of the Quarry, playing; something on Ellacombe Green seemed to attract their attention, and they ran to see what it was; as they were running, deceased tripped and came head first to the ground. He immediately ran to him, and, picking him up, carried him to the Infirmary; the boy was unconscious and did not speak. The place where the boy fell was a very dangerous part, the boys and girls got up from the street by a narrow winding path, at the back of Pembroke Villas. A Juryman proposed that the Local Board should be asked to dig away the earth at the bottom of the path, and so stop the boys from going up there; this was resolved upon. Mr James Almer, the house surgeon of the Torbay Infirmary, was then examined. He said he saw deceased at about a quarter past eight on Thursday evening, he attended him, and found he was suffering from a severe scalp wound and a fracture of the skull, he was not quite conscious, partly so, and shortly after became quite unconscious. After bandaging the head and applying hot water to the neck of deceased he sent for Dr Powell. The haemorrhage inside the head was very great, and could not be stopped; the skull was smashed in several places. The deceased died at a quarter to ten from concussion of the brain and the shock to the nervous system; he did not speak from the time of the accident to the time of his death. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death. The Jurymen's fees were collected and paid to the father of the deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 2 October 1880
TORQUAY - Inquest. - An Inquest was held on Monday evening last at the Roughwood Arms, Babbacombe, on the body of ELIZABETH TERRY, wife of THOMAS TERRY, of the Mason's Arms, Babbacombe. The Coroner, Dr H. S. Gaye, attended. The evidence given by MR TERRY was to the effect that on the previous Friday night his wife went to bed in her usual health, which was very good. On the Saturday morning on calling her he found that she did not move and was nearly cold. He sent for a doctor. Mr Chilcott, surgeon, came, and pronounced MRS TERRY to be dead, saying that she had been dead about an hour-and-a-half. Deceased was not subject to fits of any kind and she had never once fainted during the whole time they had been married, nearly thirty years. About two years ago she complained a little of palpitation of the heart and was attended by Mr Chilcott. She had not complained of anything since then. Mr Chilcott said he found the deceased on Saturday morning quite dead, and it was his opinion that she died of congestion of the brain. He was afraid she would have had an attack about two years ago; but she did not. He treated her then for apoplexy. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 13 November 1880
BRIXHAM - Death By Drowning. - An Inquest was held on Wednesday afternoon, at Mr Hills, Commercial Inn, on the Quay, before Dr Gay, County Coroner, on the body of JAMES BUFFETT, fisherman, of Brixham, who was drowned on Sunday night. Mr W. Blight, was Foreman of the Jury. - Emily Bubeer said - I am daughter of JAMES BUFFETT; I last saw him alive about 7 weeks since. He is 64 years of age. Elizabeth Blatchford deposed - I am housekeeper at the Crown and Anchor public-house. I knew the deceased JAMES BUFFETT. I saw him alive on Sunday evening about 9 p.m. He came in with Mr Pack and others, and called for two or three pints of beer. He then left in company with the other men. He had not been gone over a few minutes before he called back, and said he had left his handkerchief behind. I took the light and looked for it. He then left the house; it was about 9.30. I did not see him alive after that time, he was quite sober. William Henry Pack stated - I was with the deceased on Sunday evening about 8.30. We went on board, and put the boat "Annie" out alongside the pier, so that we might go to sea early in the morning. We then came on shore and went into the Crown and Anchor. He called for some beer; we then left together. He said he had left his pocket-handkerchief behind. I did not see him alive after. I went on board on Monday morning, and found he had not arrived; I thought at once he must have been drowned. He was quite sober when I left him. Robert Bourneman said - I am gardener at Rock House. On Monday morning at eight o'clock, one of the Orphan Boys called me. I went down and saw the body of the deceased floating near the rocks. We got him up on to the rocks. I should think he floated to where I saw him. - EMILY BUFFETT, re-examined, stated - My father has lived apart from my mother for the last 13 years. I have paid rent for a room for my mother and him for the last six years, but he would never sleep there. Whenever he slept on shore he did so with a man called John Crispin. The Foreman: Had he any jewellery or anything of any value, which would have caused you to suppose that he might have been pushed into the water? - Witness: No; his children would have it if he had anything. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death by Drowning." The Foreman (Mr Blight) suggested that there should be a Public Mortuary at the place where the accident occurred. Dr Gay said he thought there ought to be a place of the kind there, and he would write to the Local Board and embody the wish of the Jury.

EXETER - Suicide Of A Corporate Officer. - On Tuesday an Inquest was held at the Exeter Inn, Bartholomew Street, before Mr Hooper (City Coroner) relative to the death of MR ROBERT NORRISH LENDON, Inspector of Nuisances under the Exeter town Council, whose body was discovered in the Canal on the previous morning. MRS ELIZABETH LENDON, wife of the deceased, said her husband was a retired Builder and Inspector of Nuisances. She had noticed nothing strange about his habits other than he was at times a little low-spirited. He had been attended by Mr Webb for some slight illness. He left his home on Sunday morning about 9.30 after partaking of a hearty breakfast, saying that he was going to disinfect the house of a Mr Balkwill residing at Beedle's-terrace. She neither heard nor saw anything more of him until Monday morning, when information was brought her by a man, named Hamlyn, who said that her husband's hat and stick had been found on the Canal banks. His body was brought home the same morning about ten o'clock. - Walter Husson, residing at Salmon Pool, stated that on Sunday morning about ten o'clock he found a hat and stick on the bank near where Salmon Pool-bridge crosses the Canal. He took them to P.C. Cockram at Alphington. - Harry Hamlyn, deputy to the deceased, said that he left MR LENDON on Saturday at half-past nine, and saw him no more until the body was found near Salmon Pool-bridge. He was aware that deceased suffered extremely from a rupture. - Dr Henderson deposed to having examined the body which had the appearance of being in the water some time. He found the body perfectly rigid. There were no marks of violence upon it, and he concluded that death must have resulted from drowning. - In reply to a Juryman, Dr Henderson said that the pain which the deceased suffered would be sufficient to induce a state of temporary insanity, and, after a brief summing up by the Coroner, the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in an Unsound State of Mind."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 20 November 1880
WESTMINSTER - Death of MR SIDNEY BROWNE. - The Coroner for Westminster (Mr Bedford) has just held an Inquest relative to the death of MR SIDNEY BROWNE, 18, son of MR G. BROWNE, Park Hill, Mannamead, Bedford Street, Plymouth. The deceased was a medical student at King's College Hospital, and on the 9th inst. mounted a ladder to witness the Lord Mayor's Show. The ladder broke in three places and MR BROWNE, jun., fell to the ground; he was found face downwards on some flagstones with two wounds on his head and semi-unconscious; he got worse and died on the 13th inst. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

BRIXHAM - Death By Drowning. - On Monday Dr Gay, County Coroner, and a Jury (of whom Mr W. Howard was the Foreman) held an Inquest at the Queen's Hotel, relative to the death of ANN ELIZABETH BIRD, 53 years of age, who on Sunday morning last was found by a boy named John Bartlett lying lifeless between two rocks in Fishcombe Cove. Elizabeth Stapleton said- I am a married woman, living at Brixham. I knew the deceased very well; she has been living apart from her husband for the last three months, and during that time has been lodging with me. I last saw her alive on Wednesday evening, when she told me she should not be home that night, as she was going to nurse Mrs Stevens in the New Road. I know nothing of what became of her afterwards. Elizabeth Stevens said - I knew the deceased MRS BIRD. I had engaged her to attend me. I saw her alive on Friday evening, she told me that she saw her husband on Thursday night. I don't think that she was in want of anything. - WILLIAM WARNING BIRD said - I am a discharged soldier (pensioner), but now a policeman. I am the husband of ANN ELIZABETH BIRD; she left me on account of her daughter; they could not agree one with the other. She said she could do better by herself. I have seen her several times since. She told me on Wednesday evening that she was going to get a mason to white-wash my rooms. I have been living alone for the last three months. I fancy of late she has been rather low in spirits. - Elizabeth Stapleton stated - I am a married woman; my husband is a policeman. I am a daughter-in-law to the first witness. The deceased woman lived in part of the house with me. I saw her on Friday, she then seemed all right and in good spirits. She washed the entrance to the door, and on leaving the house about one o'clock wished me good morning. - Mrs Stevens, on being questioned by the Foreman, said that MRS BIRD told her that she was afraid to go home with her husband. - Eva Furneaux stated: I am the wife of Walter Furneaux, fisherman, living at New Road. I saw the deceased (MRS BIRD) on Friday morning. She told me that her husband wanted her to go back and live with him, but she could not do so. She often remarked that she had suffered a great deal by her husband's drunkenness. She seemed to be in a great deal of trouble, and said that she did not know what to do about going back to live with him, on account of his drunkenness. She added "I wish I had never seen him." - J. Bartlett stated, I found the deceased on Sunday morning about 12 o'clock, between two rocks, at Fishcombe Cove. Her bonnet and shawl were lying upon the rocks above. I remained by the body, whilst two boys went and fetched a policeman. - Thomas Pollard said - I am a Police Constable, stationed at Brixham. On Sunday morning about half-past twelve o'clock, two boys called at the station and said they had found a woman drowned at Fishcombe. I proceeded to the spot and found the body lying upon the beach; it had been removed from the rocks and placed upon the beach by some men. I searched the clothes and found a pocket handkerchief. The woman had two rings on one of her fingers. Her bonnet and shawl were lying on the rocks. The evidence having been thus concluded the room was cleared, and the Jury, after ten minutes' deliberation, returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 27 November 1880
EXETER - Death In The Gaol. - On Tuesday an Inquest was held at Exeter Prison on the body of JAMES POPE, who committed suicide in that establishment. The deceased was at the last assize sentenced by Mr Justice Denman to seven years' penal servitude for stealing a pony at Northmolton. At the previous July sessions at Bideford he was convicted of stealing four bullocks, and was sentenced to twelve months' imprisonment; hence the severity of the sentence passed by Mr Justice Denman. The authorities of the prison refuse to give any information relative to the case; but it is believed that Pope contrived to strangle himself by twisting around his neck some strips of his bedding, which he tore up for the purpose. The Jury found that he committed Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane.

EXETER - Inquest. - On Monday an Inquiry was held relative to the death of WILLIAM RICHARDS, a baker, of Lapford. He was mounting the stairs of the down platform at St. David's Station with a bag containing a barrel of yeast with the intention of going over to the North Devon platform with it, when the bag swung out over the banisters, carrying deceased with it, and he fell to the ground, a distance of eleven feet. He was conveyed to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, where it was found he had sustained a fractured spine and injuries to his lungs. He died on Sunday afternoon. Verdict of "Accidental Death".

EXETER - Inquest. - A second Inquest was held as to the death of a pensioner named HENRY WYATT, residing in Preston-street. Deceased complained on Saturday night of giddiness, and died the following morning about eight o'clock. Dr Perkins gave it as his opinion that convulsion was the cause of death, and a verdict in accordance was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 4 December 1880
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident At Torre. - On Wednesday night, an accident, which subsequently terminated fatally, occurred at Torre. It appears that about three o'clock in the afternoon, a labourer, named FREDERICK WHITE, 28 years of age, married and residing in Pimlico, while working at an arch which is being widened to suit the requirements made through the laying down of an additional line on the railway, was knocked down, and his head was seriously hurt by a falling plank. At that time, however, his injuries were not believed to be of a fatal nature, and although greatly stunned, he managed to walk home and went to bed. Several hours afterwards he became worse and was attended by the Surgeon of the Torbay Hospital, under whose direction he was conveyed to the hospital, but, although everything was done for him, he gradually sank, and died from concussion of the brain about seven o'clock Thursday morning. - Yesterday afternoon, an Inquest was held on the body in the Castle Inn, by Dr Gaye, Coroner. After the Jury had been sworn, they repaired to the Torbay Hospital and viewed the body. On their return, the first witness called was George Fay, joiner, residing at 2 Park View, Torquay. He said, I knew the deceased FREDERICK WHITE. He was a labourer about 29 years of age, and resided I believe at Pimlico. He was engaged working on the Railway at Torre, and I was present when the accident occurred to him on Wednesday. We were at the time engaged in lowering the bracing of an arch in Paignton Road, close to the Railway Station, and had previously succeeded in lowering two by means of a block and tackle. In all four men were engaged at the work. We had almost got one of the battens upon the ground when the deceased commenced to prize it with a crowbar, and just then the wall plate fell, and struck him upon the head. It knocked him down: I ran to his assistance, but before I reached him he was in the act of rising. He put his hand to his head, and I sent for 6d. worth of brandy, which he drank, remarking afterwards that he felt better. Some water was next given him and saying he felt better still he rose to resume work. I noticed him staggering so I told him to go home and return to work the following day. I sent my son afterwards to assist him home but he told the lad to go back, saying he did not require assistance. I understand that he reached home and went to bed. The accident happened between one and two o'clock. - Mr Lee, contractor, gave the Jury a description of the battens, and described how the accident would probably occur. - Henry Gilliard who was present at the time of the accident was also examined. - Mr Cumming, House Surgeon of the Torbay Hospital said that WHITE was brought to the Institution about ten o'clock on Wednesday evening in an insensible condition and never recovered consciousness, dying about eight o'clock the following morning. There were no external bruises on the head, but in his opinion death had resulted from concussion of the brain. The Jury unanimously returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TIVERTON - At Tiverton Infirmary, an Inquest has been held on the body of JOHN WOLLAND, aged 23, who, dressed in female attire, took part in a "Guy Fawkes" celebration on November 5th, and was so severely burnt with a tar-barrel that he was removed to the Infirmary, where he lingered until he died. A verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 18 December 1880
TORQUAY - The Death Of A Torquay Bicyclist. - At Underwood, on Wednesday, an Inquiry was held as to the death of MR JOHN O. SMYTH, whilst bicycling on Monday. Dr Gaye, the County Coroner attended, and Mr J. Pook was Foreman of the Jury. - MR FREDERICK CAREW SMYTH, father of the deceased, said that his son was 21 years of age; he had only had his bicycle a week, and was learning to ride it when the accident occurred. - William Bowden, labourer, said he saw the deceased about 10 o'clock on Monday morning wheeling his bicycle up the hill at Watcombe. About an hour after he heard of the accident from the police, and went and identified the young man as the one he had seen wheeling his bicycle earlier in the day,. - John Curton, labourer, said that he and his son were going up the hill just past Solomon's Post, when they saw MR SMYTH lying close to the hedge with his bicycle near him. He was alive at the time, but died after the lapse of five minutes. He did not move or speak. He (witness) sent for some brandy and he drank a little, but did not rally. The mark in the road, made by the wheel of the bicycle, showed that MR SMYTH was riding down the hill, and instead of turning the corner where necessary, had gone straight across into the hedge. He must have come down the hill with considerable velocity and lost control over the machine. The mark showed that the front wheel had struck a small heap of earth at the side of the road, had gone over it and had struck against a large stone just behind. The handles of the bicycle were broken off. The road was a wide one, and had MR SMYTH been an experienced rider he could have turned the corner safely. - Dr T. H. Colt said that he saw MR SMYTH at twenty-three minutes past eleven; he was dead. He had evidently been thrown against a large stone which stood at the side of the road. His face was somewhat bruised, but there was not the slightest mark on the skull to point to the cause of death. He died from the severe shock caused by the fall from the bicycle. In summing up the Coroner said this was the first case f the kind that had come under his notice, and pointed out that there was no evidence of any collision, and that MR SMYTH was an inexperienced rider. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 1 January 1881
TORQUAY - Inquest. - On Tuesday Mr F. Watts, Deputy Coroner held an Inquest as to the death of a little boy, 2 ½ years of age, named WILLIAM BAKER, son of WILLIAM BAKER, a tailor, residing in Fairfield-terrace. It appeared that a fortnight since the child fell backwards into some hot water, so severely injuring himself that he died on Monday after suffering severe agony. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

NEWTON ABBOT - Death By Poisoning Of The Coroner's Wife. - Mr F. Watts, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on Friday last, at Newton Abbot, on the body of MRS ELIZABETH EMILY GAYE, 42 years of age, the wife of DR. H. GAYE, Coroner, who died from the effects of taking carbolic acid on the previous night. The Inquest was held at the residence of DR GAYE, Devon-square. It appeared from the evidence of DR GAYE and his servants that on Thursday evening the doctor attended a dinner party. He left home just after seven o'clock, his wife being at the time perfectly well, and in very good spirits. The deceased lady retired to rest about half-past ten, and DR GAYE returned home about eleven o'clock. He went to his bedroom about quarter to twelve, when he noticed his wife, who was in bed, was breathing very short and peculiar. He spoke to her, but getting no answer he touched her, when he noticed she was unconscious. By the side of the bed was a tumbler which evidently had contained carbolic acid. DR GAYE, considering she had taken carbolic acid, sent for his partner Dr Scott, and in the meantime used the stomach-pump. Dr Scott was soon in attendance, and every means was taken that medical skill could suggest to restore the deceased, but all proved futile, as she died shortly afterwards, evidently from the effects of having taken carbolic acid. As nothing peculiar had been noticed in the conduct of MRS GAYE, the assumption was that she had taken the carbolic acid by mistake for a sleeping draught. The Jury accordingly returned a verdict of "Death by Misadventure."

LYMPSTONE - On Tuesday, at an Inquest held at Lympstone on the body of WILLIAM NORTHCOTE, a fisherman, of Lympstone, whose body was found in the River Exe on Christmas Day, a verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned.

KINGS NYMPTON - Fatal Affray at Kings Nympton. - A serious affray has taken place at Kings Nympton, five miles from Southmolton, in the course of which a man named RICHARD BUCKINGHAM, aged about 65, met his death. It seems that on Monday night some young men from the neighbouring parish of Romansleigh were performing as Christy Minstrels at Kings Nympton, and remained until about ten o'clock, when an altercation took place between them and some residents of the village. They left to go home, but threats were used towards them, and a short way out of the village they were waylaid by the Kings Nympton men, and a scuffle took place. The younger men of Romansleigh being nimble escaped, leaving MR BUCKINGHAM to follow; he, however, seemed to have been subjected to ill usage as he was found shortly afterwards by P.C. Blackmore in a dying state. He was taken back to Kings Nympton and died shortly afterwards. Although no marks of violence were found on his body, it is believed death was the result of an injury to the neck. Three men of Kings Nympton are suspected. The Coroner's Inquest was opened on Wednesday, and adjourned till Monday.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 8 January 1881
OKEHAMPTON - An Inquest has just been held at Okehampton, on the body of ANDREW HOWARD; it appeared that whilst suffering from heart disease, he fell down stairs and received a shock which ended fatally. A verdict was returned accordingly.

DEVONPORT - An Inquest was held at Devonport on Saturday on the body of WILLIAM SAMUEL WILLIAMS, a naval pensioner, who had committed suicide by hanging. The Jury found that the deed was done while the deceased was in a state of Temporary Insanity.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 January 1881
DEVONPORT - On Wednesday an Inquest was held at Devonport, relative to the death of ANN RADDON, 57 years of age, wife of a tailor living in Ordnance-row in that town. She met her husband with a telegram that had been sent to him to convey to some other person, and fearing that it contained news of the death of a member of the family, she became excited, complained of pains in her head and died from apoplexy. A verdict accordingly was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 21 January 1881
ST MARY CHURCH - Inquest. Neglect Of An Old Woman. - At Brayley's Hotel, St. Mary Church, yesterday, before Mr Watts, Deputy Coroner, an Inquest was held touching the death of ELLEN AVERY, 56, who died under somewhat peculiar circumstances on Tuesday morning. From the evidence it appeared that MRS AVERY had occupied the room for about eighteen months and was in receipt of parish relief to the extent of 2s. 6d. a week. She had a son, a married man, at whose house she frequently took her meals. Mrs Pomeroy, an old woman, who lodged in the same house as the deceased, said that she (deceased) sometimes did a little needlework, but witness could not say whether she had had any animal food for the past five months. On Monday last the deceased appeared to be ill, and her son's wife, MRS JANE AVERY, visited her, lit the fire and fetched her some brandy. About ten o'clock the same night the deceased began making a noise, and Mrs Pomeroy went and told her if she did not keep quiet she would fetch the police. Deceased was then lying in a state of almost complete nudity, with her head on the floor and the lower part of her body on the bed. She did not call to her husband for assistance because the deceased was not dressed. She went to a neighbour for assistance, but she refused to come. A fire was burning in the deceased's room, and the witness put it nearly all out because the deceased had been burning paper. It was a bitterly cold night. The witness went to bed and during the night heard the deceased move about. The next morning, Tuesday, witness was about to send for MRS AVERY'S son, but he came before the message reached him. That was about half past eleven in the morning, and the deceased was found lying, naked, on the floor quite dead. The witness was too frightened to go and see the woman before. When asked by the Jury why she had not sent to MR AVERY, the deceased's son, for assistance on Monday night, as his residence was not five minutes walk from the house, the witness said she had none to send, although she admitted that her husband and two sons were in the house. MR AVERY said that when he found his mother, the room was very disordered, and there was a little blood on the floor, but he did not notice any bruises on the body of the deceased. - Mr J. N. Chilcott, surgeon, said that he had examined the deceased and in his opinion she died from congestion of the lungs accelerated by cold. - The Jury said they found that the woman died from Natural Causes, but they thought that Mrs Pomeroy had not acted as one woman ought to have acted towards another. As to her husband's false modesty they thought he was a great deal to blame also in the matter. He was an old man and ought to have seen to the deceased.

PLYMOUTH - Serious Affair At Plymouth. - On Wednesday a curious case was investigated by Mr T. C. Brian, the Plymouth Borough Coroner. In November last a woman named MARY DAWE, living at King-street, Plymouth, dreamt that her niece was being injured, and, while dreaming, she jumped out of her bedroom window to effect a rescue. She received severe injuries, from which she has since died. The evidence showed that death was due to progressive weakness, combined with brain disease, accelerated by the injury. A verdict to that effect was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 February 1881
TORQUAY - Inquest. - An Inquest was held yesterday at the Town Hall, the Deputy Coroner, Mr F. Watts attending. The Inquiry was as to the cause of the death of ARTHUR SMALE, a child, aged four years, who died suddenly on Tuesday morning. The father of the child is a coachbuilder residing in Mill-street. MRS SMALE, the child's mother, said that the boy had been ill with the measles, but she had not thought it necessary to have a doctor. On Tuesday morning seeing that the child was worse she went for a doctor, but the boy died before his arrival. Dr Midgely Cash said that the child died from natural causes, but had medical aid been called in sooner his life might have been saved. In summing up, Mr Watts said he considered that serious blame was to be attached to the mother for not calling in medical aid until the child was dying. The Jury after an absence of ten minutes returned a verdict to the effect that the child died from Natural Causes, but, whilst exonerating the mother from criminal neglect, they, nevertheless, considered that she had been guilty of great moral neglect, and she should be censured. Mr Watts informed MRS SMALE that the Jury had taken a very lenient view of the matter and she would do well to be more careful in the future.

DEVONPORT - Adjourned Inquest. - On Wednesday the adjourned Inquiry into the circumstances connected with the death of TIMOTHY O'LEARY, who was killed a short time ago by the fall of a wall at the new Police Hall in course of erection in Fore Street was held. When the Inquiry was first commenced an architect considered that there had been an error of judgment in the designs, and the Inquest was accordingly adjourned to give Mr Knight, architect, an opportunity of bringing forward evidence in support of his plans. Mr g. H. E. Rundle, yesterday, appeared on behalf of Mr Knight, and laid reports from eminent architects before the Court, while Mr Hine, architect, the gentleman who had expressed himself dissatisfied with the plans, was retained by the Coroner (Mr J. Vaughan). Messrs. Edward Adolphus Bruning, architect and surveyor, London, and John Watson, architect and surveyor, Torquay, were examined and both gentlemen considered the designs quite satisfactory and attributed the accident to the excessively wet weather. The Coroner, in summing up, gave it as his opinion that the fall of the wall was purely an accident, over which the parties interested had no control, and the Jury accordingly returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," exonerating all concerned from blame.

PLYMOUTH - Burnt In A Caravan At Plymouth. - At the Plymouth Guildhall on Tuesday night, an Inquiry was held by Mr T. C. Brian, the Borough Coroner, into the circumstances attending the death of JAMES BISHOP, aged 88 years, who died from injuries received the previous day. Dr A. H. Bampton, house surgeon to the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, stated that the deceased was received at the hospital on Monday, at 7 p.m. On examining the deceased, witness found him suffering from extensive burns on both legs recently sustained, also burns on the lower part of the back, abdomen and other places. Deceased gradually sank, and died within two hours after his admission. Witness attributed death to the burns, and shocks to the system which followed. - GEORGE WATERFORD, grandson to the deceased, deposed that the latter had been blind since Christmas 1879, and had been in the habit of living in a caravan, at Pottery Court, Coxside. Witness left the deceased alone in the caravan on the previous evening, for the purpose of fetching him some liquor, and on his return, which was within a few minutes, he found the caravan full of smoke, and heard the deceased say, "Oh, my! what can I do?" Deceased was sitting on a box close to a ship's stove, which they constantly used, when witness left him. Witness immediately groped about, and found the deceased lying on his back in the middle of the van. He then tried to lift him, but failed to do so, and thereupon obtained the assistance of two neighbours. Dr Greenway was called in, and he advised the removal of the deceased to the Hospital. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 February 1881
DEVONPORT - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest Wednesday afternoon at the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, on the body of ROBERT COAKER, aged about 55 years, a labourer in her Majesty's Dockyard, who died on the 21st inst., from the effects of injuries sustained in the execution of his duties,. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

PLYMOUTH - The Inquest on the body of WILLIAM TINKIN WILLS, aged 44, who committed suicide on Tuesday, a telegram respecting which appeared in the Western Evening News of that day, was held yesterday, when the case was adjourned to give time for an analysis of the poison to be made.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 March 1881
DEVONPORT - Suicide Of A Young Lady. - EDITH RAPER, a young woman aged 21 years, whose parents reside at 3 Stopford-place, Stoke, committed suicide in the St. Aubyn Schoolroom, at Devonport, on Monday. So far as information could be gathered it seems that the deceased had been engaged in teaching one of the classes in the schoolroom that evening, and that after the class had finished she poisoned herself. Dr Wilson, who resides in the neighbourhood, was at once sent for, and on arriving found the young lady in violent convulsions. An emetic was administered, but it had no effect, and death ensued within fifteen minutes. The opinion of Dr Wilson was that death resulted from poisoning by strychnine, and in her convulsions the deceased mentioned the name of Mr Dyer, chemist, and said she had taken a dose of "vermin killer." In a purse in her pocket was afterwards found a packet of arsenic, and also a letter. The rumour was that the deceased had been subjected to remonstrances from a certain quarter, and that this had caused her to be very desponding and low spirited. At the Inquest held on Tuesday at Stopford Arms, Stopford Place, Stoke, before Mr J. Vaughan, Devonport Coroner, evidence was heard at great length, tending to prove that deceased was depressed in spirits through religious matters. The Coroner briefly summed up, remarking that he could not see how a young lady, brought up in good society, and well educated, could have behaved as she had done in a sound state of mind. The Jury at once returned a verdict of "Temporary Insanity."

STONEHOUSE - Inquest. - Mr R. R. Rodd, the County Coroner, on Tuesday resumed the Inquest at the Stonehouse Police-court on the body of WILLIAM TONKIN WILLS. The facts of the case have already appeared in the Western Evening News. The Inquest was adjourned in order that an analysis might be made of the contents of the bottles that were found near the deceased on the day of his death. The following letter was read:- "Plymouth, February 28, 1881 - Sir, - The results of my analysis of the contents of the jar, cup, and bottle, which I received from you, through Sergeant Holwill, are as follows: - Jar - three-and-a-half drachms of cyanide of potassium. Cup - about half-a-drachm fluid contained two grains of cyanide of potassium. Bottle - Fluid contents, one pint "vomited", contained from twelve to fifteen grains of cyanide of potassium. - H. P. Hearder, M.P.S." - The Coroner, in summing up, said that now there could be no doubt that the deceased destroyed himself by poison, it would be for the Jury to say what state of mind the deceased was in at the time he took his life. It seemed to him (the Coroner) that he was not in a sound state of mind. He had rather a weak mind. The Foreman said that they had pretty well agreed on the state of the mind of the deceased. The Jury returned a verdict "That the deceased committed Suicide by taking poison whilst in an Unsound Mind."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 March 1881
TORQUAY - Inquest At Torquay. - On Tuesday, at the Infirmary, an Inquest was held touching the death of FREDERICK HEAD, a seaman, who was injured on Thursday last, whilst on board the brig George, now lying in the harbour. Mr F. Watts, the Deputy Coroner, attended, and Mr F. Grahame was elected Foreman of the Jury,. - The Captain of the brig (Mr Banyard), said that he came into the harbour on the 2nd March. The crew numbered six, and the deceased was mate of the vessel. The accident happened on the 3rd instant. It was necessary to move the vessel away from the quay, and four or five sailors manned the capstan which was a wooden one and were turning the handspikes when the pawl, the wooden block which fell into the cogs after each turn, flew out owing to the heavy strain, and the men could not stand at the handspikes. The capstan flew round swiftly and one of the bars struck the deceased on the head, knocking him down to the deck. There was an extremely heavy sea running at the time, which was too strong for the captain. When being removed to the hospital, the deceased said, "It is a bad job, and if it had not been for the harbour-master I should not have got this. It is not fit weather to move a ship." The deceased said that because the vessel had been moored in the first place at the South Quay, but they were ordered to move to the South East Quay by the harbour master. After removing, the sea became too heavy and the vessel was knocking her bottom out on the ground. It was necessary to prevent further damage to moor the vessel farther out although it was not fit weather. Damage to the extent of £100 had been done to the ship. - One of the seamen, named Lenney, who was turning at the capstan at the time of the accident, gave corroborative evidence, and said that the deceased had plenty of time to spring away out of danger. He (witness) called out "Stand clear, the capstan's going," and unshipping his bar, got out of reach, but the deceased still stood there for several moments, until the bar struck him, although he must have heard. - Mr Hamilton Cumming, house surgeon at the Torbay Infirmary, said that when the deceased was first brought there his condition was not such as would lead to the supposition that death would ensue. He, however, never rallied, but sank gradually until Sunday morning, when he died. No fracture of the skull was observable, and although there was no doubt but that the deceased died from the effects of the blow, yet he (the house surgeon) would be glad if he were permitted to make a post mortem examination in order to ascertain the precise cause of death. Mr Watts said he would communicate with the house surgeon on the subject. The Jury said that there was not the least blame to be attached to the harbour master, and gave it as their opinion that the deceased died from purely accidental causes. They also desired the Police Sergeant to communicate with Mr Greenfield, the owner of the vessel, recommending him to have an improved capstan.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 April 1881
DAWLISH - The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death at the Inquiry held on Wednesday, at Ashcombe, touching the death of JAMES FARLEY, a carter, in the employ of Mr French, farmer, of Ashcombe. On the 24th inst. FARLEY was driving along the Ashcombe-road with a cart containing a plough, the property of his master, when, from some cause the horse bolted and the deceased, having but one arm, lost all control over the animal. The result was that the waggon capsized and the plough was smashed to pieces. The deceased was subsequently discovered dead under the implement.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 April 1881
DAWLISH - Inquest. - On Tuesday an Inquest was held at Dawlish, before Mr Watts, Deputy Coroner, on the body of MARGARET HARRIS, wife of a labouring man named JOHN HARRIS, who died on Friday evening. Maria Mildon stated that she was called by a little girl, and on going to the deceased found her lying on the floor. Witness assisted her into bed. About two or three hours afterwards she found deceased much worse, and sent for the doctor. Witness was present when she died, which was about ten minutes before he came. Mr Parsons, surgeon, said that he found no external marks on the body. Witness found the body of deceased well nourished. On opening the head, he found a large clot of blood over the left temple, pressing on the brain, which caused an apoplectic fit, and which, he considered, was the cause of death. The Jury at once returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

PLYMOUTH - Shocking Neglect. - Mr Coroner Brian held an Inquest on Tuesday at the Golden Lion Inn, Bath-street, on the body of the illegitimate infant daughter of CORDELIA PEEK, which was found dead in bed on Monday. The mother was the first witness called, who, in answer to the Coroner, said she had been living for the last fortnight in a cellar of 5 Bath-street, with a man named Thomas Pascoe, a rag and bone merchant. The child, seven months old, was born in the street. She had been living with the man Pascoe for the last twelve months, but he was not the father of the child. After the birth of the deceased witness went to the Workhouse, having at the time no lodgings to go to. After remaining there a few weeks, witness left the house, and again lived with the man Pascoe at Lodgings in Pitt-street. The child was quite well and strong when she left. She (the mother) got sometimes no lodgings, and stopped all night in the street. After evidence had been heard at great length, Mr Manning, Coroner's officer, said he had examined the deceased, and for a child of its age it was very emaciated and small. It was in a very dirty condition. The Coroner having summed up, the Jury, after deliberation, returned a verdict to the effect that the child died from "Natural Causes, induced and greatly accelerated by the want of proper attention, warmth, and care, and the miserable condition in which the mother was living." The Coroner at the same time strongly censuring the man and woman.

NEWTON ABBOT - Fatal Accident To A Tradesman. - Mr F. Watts, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on Tuesday at St Paul's road, Newton, as to the death of CHARLES STRANGER, aged 27, a butcher, carrying on business for his mother in Queen-street. On Monday deceased attended a cattle sale at Parsonage Farm, Staverton, and left in the evening on horseback in company with a man named Sweetman, who was mounted on a horse he had purchased at a sale. Soon after leaving they urged their horses into a fast trot to test the speed of the horse Sweetman had purchased, and after going some distance he drew ahead, and on looking back saw STRANGER'S horse coming on riderless. Sweetman pulled up and went back when he found deceased lying on his right side by the hedge, unconscious and bleeding from the head. He was taken home and Mr Ley, surgeon, called, but deceased did not rally, and died early the following morning, from concussion of the brain. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 April 1881
PLYMOUTH - Inquest. - Mr Brian, the Plymouth Borough Coroner, held an Inquest on Saturday evening, at the Cobourg Inn, Cobourg-street, on the body of ALBERT DOLTON ELLIS, three and a half months old, the illegitimate son of MARY ANN ELLIS, residing at 15 Glanville-place, Victoria-lane. Mr Whipple, M.R.C.S. and senior surgeon of the South Devon Hospital, said he had made a post mortem examination of the child. There were no marks on its body. It was well nourished and healthy, and there was every evidence of its having been well cared for. Death was caused by convulsions. A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical evidence.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 May 1881
EXETER - The Exeter Coroner (H. W. Hooper, Esq.) held an Inquest at the Royal Oak Inn, Guineastreet, on Wednesday, on the body of JOHN HOOPER, who died suddenly the previous day in the Royal Oak Inn. Mr Edward Steele Perkins, surgeon, gave it as his opinion that death had resulted from the failure of one of the large vessels in the neighbourhood of the heart. There were no marks of violence on the body, and there were no indications of the deceased having had a fit. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - Inquest. - An Inquiry was held yesterday at the Town Hall, before Mr F. Watts, Deputy Coroner, touching the death of HARRY BROOM, an infant, five months old. CHARLOTTE BROOM, a single woman, of Teignmouth, and now residing at 5 Church cottages, the mother of the child, said that the child was staying at 8 Sandhill Road, Ellacombe with a widow named Farmer. Last Friday it was taken ill. On Saturday it was worse and on Sunday she took it to the Dispensary, where it was seen by Dr Cameron. She gave some nourishment which he prescribed, but on the Tuesday morning it died. Dr Wills saw it on the Monday night. Mrs Farmer, 8 Sandhill Road, Ellacombe, gave corroborative evidence and said that the mother seemed very fond of the child. The child died at her (witness's) house at about six o'clock on Tuesday morning. Dr Cameron, house surgeon at the Dispensary, said that the child was in a very weakly condition when he saw it. It was very delicate and he did not think with the greatest of care that it would live to a great age. It did not appear as if it had been neglected. Verdict, "Died from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 May 1881
PLYMOUTH - Drowned At Plymouth. - An Inquest was held at the Three Crowns Hotel, Parade, Plymouth, on Wednesday night before Mr T. C. Brian, Borough Coroner, touching the death of WILLIAM HENRY EVANS, who was found drowned in Cattewater yesterday morning, as reported in the Western Evening News of yesterday. Evidence was given as to the deceased being left on the smack, Oimara, in Cattewater, on Tuesday night, and to his body being found in the water, next morning. Deceased was a very good-tempered lad, and had been on friendly terms with the crew. Mr Damerel, quay constable, stated that he received the body when landed at the quay, and had it conveyed to MR EVANS'S house. The only things found on the body were two keys and a knife. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned, but how, there was no evidence to show."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 June 1881
TORQUAY - Inquest. - On Wednesday Dr Gaye held an Inquest at the Castle Inn, Torquay, on the body of THOMAS MARDON, boatman, resident at St Mary Church, who was accidently poisoned. Evidence was given, from which it appeared that on Saturday MARDON had asked another boatman at Oddicombe Beach for a glass of water. He directed him to his boathouse, and sometime afterwards MARDON entered it. Immediately afterwards MARDON came running out of the boathouse with his tongue protruding and saliva running from his mouth. He was taken to St Mary-Church and attended by Dr Steele, who found that he had swallowed some corrosive liquid. MARDON was at once taken to the Infirmary and lingered on until Sunday night, when he showed signs of sinking. As a last resource his wind-pipe was opened, but MARDON, after a temporary recovery, relapsed and expired on Tuesday. He had apparently in the dark lifted a jar containing a strong transparent alkali known as Carson's Detergent, and the Jury, after returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," recommended that the Coroner should be requested to communicate with the makers in Glasgow, asking them in future to label their preparations "Poison," the liquid from its clearness and absence of smell being readily mistaken for water. The Coroner, at the close, again complained of the discourtesy shown by the Hospital Board in refusing to provide a proper room for the Coroner, and said that it was the only institution that had ever refused that favour.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 June 1881
NEWTON ABBOT - SAMUEL BENNETT, a clay cutter, about twenty-six years of age, who met with serious injuries by a piece of timber falling on him whilst at work in a clay-pit at Kingsteignton last Monday week, died at the Newton Cottage Hospital, on Tuesday in the evening Dr Gaye, Coroner, held an Inquest on the body, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 24 June 1881
PLYMOUTH - Mr T. C. Brian, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest on Tuesday at Usher's spirit vaults, Octagon-street, Plymouth, relative to the death of WILLIAM EDGCUMBE, a marine store dealer, living at 60 King-street, Plymouth, who committed suicide by hanging himself on Tuesday morning. Robert Pethick, a lad in the employ of deceased, stated that about a quarter past six that morning he went to his master's stable at the back of his residence. He found the stable door open, and observed a body, the back of which he only saw, suspended from the ceiling. Witness immediately ran into the house and told MRS EDGCUMBE that his master had hanged himself. She got the assistance of Mr Richard Smith, who went to the stable and cut EDGCUMBE down, when it was found that life was extinct. The Jury returned a verdict to the effect "That the deceased Committed Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 July 1881
TORQUAY - Inquest At Torquay. - An Inquiry was held at the Castle Inn today before Dr Gaye, County Coroner, touching the death of WILLIAM JAMES POPE, a tin plate worker, residing at Ellacombe, and which occurred on Wednesday night. Robert Warmington, a carpenter, gave evidence to the effect that deceased had gone up to the Broadlands, where a fire had occurred on Wednesday night, and was riding on the splinter bar of the fire engine. The engine was being taken back from the fire, drawn by men at a walking pace. The deceased suddenly fell from the bar between the wheels of the engine which passed over without touching him. When he was picked up blood was pouring from his mouth, but, beyond an exclamation of pain, he never spoke again. He was taken directly to the Infirmary. The house surgeon at the Hospital, Mr H. S. Branfoot stated that when the man was brought to the Hospital he was quite dead. The lower jaw was fractured in three places, and the upper jaw was smashed. He was covered with blood and death evidently ensued from haemorrhage, the bleeding from the nose and mouth. The deceased must have fallen with tremendous violence, but if he had fallen in a peculiar position it was possible that a fall of three feet might have caused the injuries. The verdict returned was "Accidental Death", and the Jury requested Mr Chilcott, the manager of the engine, to prevent overcrowding of the engine, and, more especially, to prevent anyone riding in the front of it on the splinter bar.

HOLSWORTHY - Fatal Accident At Holsworthy. - An Inquest was held on Wednesday by Mr Coroner Fulford on the body of MR GEORGE WONNACOTT, of Oxenparks, Milton Damerell, near Holsworthy, farmer and shoemaker, who died on Tuesday from the effects of the injuries sustained on the previous afternoon, whilst in charge of two horses and a waggon at Thornbury. It appears from the statements of two children who were present when the accident occurred, that the horses suddenly started off, and on WONNACOTT endeavouring to stop them he was caught in the wheels and dragged for a considerable distance on the ground. Assistance was soon at hand, and the poor fellow was conveyed to his home, where his injuries were attended to by Dr Ash of Holsworthy, and that gentleman then pronounced them to be of a very serious nature. During the night convulsions set in and, before Dr Ash arrived to see him the next morning, MR WONNACOTT died. The deceased leaves a widow and seven children. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 July 1881
EXMINSTER - An Inquest was held at Topsham, on Tuesday, before Mr F. Burrow, touching the death of MR JAMES BAKER, a farmer, lately residing at Exminster, who committed suicide by cutting his throat with a razor. HARRIET BAKER, daughter of the deceased, stated that on Friday morning she heard her father, who was in his bedroom, groaning. She immediately raised an alarm and Mr James Ponsford came to her assistance. At that time witness did not know what had happened. James Ponsford, an acquaintance of the deceased, stated that the last time he saw him alive was on Saturday last, when he went to the house at the desire of the last witness. He found him in his room, upon the floor of which was blood. Jane Heales deposed that she accompanied the deceased on his way to the hospital. He complained of being restless and repeated the words, "Lord have mercy upon me and my children." When about two-and-a-half miles from Topsham he expired, and the body was consequently conveyed to his home. Dr Bothwell stated that when he examined the unfortunate man he found a deep gash on the right side of the throat. He sponged the throat and ordered deceased's removal to the hospital. A verdict was returned of "Suicide whilst in a state of Unsound Mind."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 July 1881
TOPSHAM - On Sunday afternoon a fisherman, of Topsham, named JOHN NORTON, went out with his wife, four of his children and two nephews for a sail. When a short way down the river the boat by some means capsized, and all the occupants were precipitated into the water. The man and his wife managed to save two of the children and get them on shore, but the other four sank before assistance could reach them. - An Inquest was held on Tuesday by Mr Borrows. JOHN NORTON, a mariner, residing at Topsham, stated that LAURA NORTON was his daughter, and WILLIAM and MAY NORTON his brother's children. On Sunday afternoon last witness and his wife went out in a boat, and were accompanied by seven children, belonging to himself and brother, including LAURA and CHARLES (his daughter and son) and WILLIAM and MAY (his brother's children). They rowed as far as Turf, and then got under sail about a quarter of a mile below Lympstone. The boat was then turned in order to make homewards. On reaching Backlake (just below Topsham) witness lost his hat. He put the boat about and called to one of the children to pick it up. When near the hat the children rushed to one side of the boat, which began to fill with water. Witness caught hold of MARY and ALICE and succeeded in bringing them near the shore. He told them to hold on to a paddle, and he then went to the rescue of his wife and son and brought them ashore. He proceeded to the scene of the accident a third time and brought another of his sons ashore, none of the others being visible. When he returned he found that MAY had let go her hold of the oar and had been in the water some time. Mr George Baldwin, surgeon, of Topsham, gave evidence to the effect that death resulted from drowning. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning," and, with one exception, gave their fee to the bereaved families. The ages of the children drowned were:- WILLIAM, 14 years; MAY, 6; LAURA, 6; and CHARLES, 3.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 August 1881
DAWLISH - Inquest. - An Inquest was held on Monday at the London Hotel, Dawlish, as to the cause of the death of MR JAMES COOPER COOPER, who had been residing at Piermont Place, Dawlish, for about a fortnight. From the evidence of MISS COOPER, deceased's daughter, who was much affected, it appeared that her father, whose age was 66, had resided at Torquay for about eight years. He was in feeble health; was a medical gentleman by profession, but did not practice. In answer to the Coroner, witness said that her father found himself better whilst at Dawlish. J. W. P. Peters, son of the landlady of the house where deceased resided, deposed that himself and others found him dead about 8.30 a.m. on Sunday. After hearing the evidence of Dr Parsons, the Jury at once returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

PLYMOUTH - Mr T. C. Brian, Plymouth Borough Coroner, held an Inquest on Tuesday at the Plymouth Prison, on the body of WILLIAM POOLEY, aged fifty-two years, who was committed to the above place for seven days, on Friday last, for nonpayment of a fine, and who died there on Tuesday morning. Mr W. Brewer, acting-governor of the prison, said that on Monday morning it was reported to him that POOLEY was ill and he was placed under the special care of the medical officer. Mr Sidney Wolferstan, surgeon to H. M. Prison, deposed to being sent for to attend POOLEY on Monday morning. He was in his cell in bed, and was suffering from an apoplectic attack. Witness, who knew at that time it would be fatal, gave instructions for him to be moved to the Infirmary. Witness saw POOLEY again the same evening, but there was not much change in his condition. The next morning he received a message, and on going to the Infirmary he found POOLEY was dead. In his opinion death resulted from cerebral haemorrhage. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 August 1881
TORQUAY - A Fatal Fall. - Last night at about eight o'clock a fatal accident happened to a sawyer, named JOHN HOBBS. The unfortunate man was returning to his house, Castle Buildings, Torquay, by the back way, which opens into Castle road, slipped in descending a steep flight of stone steps, and fell the whole distance to the bottom. He was found a few minutes later, but Dr Richardson, who was immediately in attendance, pronounced him to be quite dead. He had received such terrible injuries in falling - his head being almost smashed - that death must have been instantaneous. The Police have communicated with the County Coroner, Dr Gaye, and an Inquest will be held this evening.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 August 1881
TORQUAY - Distressing Suicide In Torquay. - Early Monday morning Sergt. Ockford was called to a house in Coburg Place, Torquay, where, it was rumoured, a woman had committed suicide. Arriving there shortly after eight o'clock he found the rumour, unhappily, too true. CECILIA DART, aged 54, a tailoress, had committed suicide by hanging herself by means of a neckerchief knotted to a piece of rope behind a door. The unfortunate woman had been living for some considerable time with a man named Pinkham, who left her about two months ago. She was then attended by Dr Powell for despondency, but did not seem to rally and has lately been in a very low and depressed state of mind. On Sunday night, although her manner had attracted attention, as it could not fail to do, there was nothing in her action to excite suspicion that she contemplated suicide, and she and her daughter who slept in the same room retired to rest at their usual hour. On awaking in the morning the daughter, a young girl of about fifteen, discovered that her mother had left the room. She had not heard any noise in the night and had not been awakened by her mother getting out of bed. Feeling some little anxiety, but, still, in no way alarmed, she rose and dressed, expecting to see her mother in the next room, as she concluded that she had risen rather earlier than usual and was engaged in getting breakfast. On entering the kitchen, however, she was horrified at seeing her mother hanging behind the kitchen door, quite dead and cold, her feet being some few inches from the floor. The daughter ran for assistance and a cabman, Henry Wills, cut the poor woman down. It was found that rigor mortis had set in and from this fact alone it was evident that the unfortunate creature had been dead some hours. - An Inquest was held at the Town Hall, on Wednesday. Mr F. Watts, Deputy Coroner, conducted the Inquiry. Mr Robert Butland being Foreman of the Jury,. The Jury having viewed the body, Dr W. Powell was called as the first witness, and said that he attended the deceased about three months ago. She was then in a depressed melancholy state, although not suffering from any bodily disease. He had not attended her since that time. Deceased was in such a state as would not improbably lead to temporary insanity. Deceased had given domestic troubles as the cause of her depression. - MARY DART, daughter of the deceased, said that she last saw her mother alive on Sunday night between nine and ten. She slept in the same bed with her, but did not hear her get up in the morning. Witness rose about eight o'clock, and on going into the kitchen, saw her mother hanging behind the door. - Mrs Steel stated she knew the deceased well, and lodged in the same house with her. She had been in a nervous state for a long time, and on Monday morning last she saw her hanging behind a door, quite dead. She had not been in want previous to her death. She had been living with a man named Pinkham, who struck her about four months ago. He left her shortly after. - Sergeant Ockford's evidence was to the effect that he was called to see the deceased after she had been cut down. She had evidently stood on a box and swung off. She was quite cold when found, and had evidently been dead some hours. The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased had hung herself whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity. The Jury gave their fees to the daughter.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 August 1881
NEWTON ABBOT - The young man, GEORGE ELLIS, who was admitted into the Cottage Hospital on Saturday evening, suffering from very severe injuries sustained while at work in Messrs. Parker's quarry at Wolborough, died during Monday night. At the Inquest held on Tuesday, before Mr F. Watts, Deputy Coroner, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 September 1881
EXETER - Suicide At Exeter - The Exeter Coroner (Mr Hooper) held an Inquest at Exeter on Monday touching the death of CHARLES CONNETT, a coachman, aged 63, and residing in Paul-street, who expired in consequence of wounds which he inflicted with a razor on Saturday night last. The widow of the deceased proved that of late her husband had been afflicted with rheumatism, and had been otherwise in failing health. On Saturday evening he went to bed and commenced reading a prayer-book. She left him, but on going into the room two hours later she found him lying on the bed with his throat cut, a razor having been used. He was quite dead. The Jury returned a verdict of "Temporary Insanity."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 September 1881
PAIGNTON - Inquest At Paignton. - Dr Gaye, the County Coroner for the district, held an Inquest at the Gerston Hotel, on Saturday, on the body of THOMAS UNDERHAY, a gardener, of Preston, 65 years of age, who committed suicide by hanging himself in a shed on the previous day. The evidence showed that, after an alarm had been given by deceased's wife, a neighbour, named Langdon, cut him down, after he had been suspended about twenty minutes or half-an-hour. It was stated that the deceased had been very depressed and complained of pains in the head, during the last month. The Jury returned a verdict of "Temporary Insanity."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 October 1881
NEWTON ABBOT - Found Drowned At Newton Abbot. - On Wednesday morning Dr Gaye, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the cause of the death of RICHARD MARTIN, whose body was found in the mill leat near Bellamarsh Mills, Kingsteignton, on the previous day. The deceased, who had been engaged as a roadman, in the employ of Mr Cole, Kingsteignton, leaves a wife and six children. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 November 1881
TORQUAY - Inquest. - At an Inquest held at the Castle Inn, Torquay today, before Dr Gaye, Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM ESCOTT, seaman, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. The evidence was to the effect that the deceased lost his balance whilst furling the topsail yard of the Ellen Widdup, a vessel lying in the Torquay Harbour, and fell a considerable distance, sustaining a compound fracture of the skull. He lingered several days in an unconscious state, and died yesterday morning at eight o'clock.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 December 1881
TORQUAY - Inquest. - An Inquest was held on Monday, on the body of WM. JOHN WILLIAMS, son of a rag and bone collector, of Pimlico, Torquay. It appeared that the lad, who was fifteen years of age, was out with his father on Saturday last when he was suddenly taken ill. He was rapidly driven in a cab to the Hospital, but died on his arrival. The house-surgeon, Mr Bransfoot, who had made a post mortem examination, said that the boy's lungs were affected, and death evidently had resulted from natural causes. A verdict to this effect was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 December 1881
EXETER - The Fatal Accident At St David's Station. - An inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier Inn Tuesday, before Mr Coroner Hooper, concerning the death of WILLIAM HENRY FOOTE, a young man, aged 22, residing with his parents at St. Thomas, who was employed in the contractor's department at St David's Station, and killed whilst performing his duties. The Great Western Railway Company was represented by Mr Supt. Green. The witnesses called were Robert William White, foreman at the mileage department at St. David's Station, who said on Monday week they were working the ten-ton crane, and whilst he was standing looking at them he saw them lift a piece of bulk 40 feet in length. When the timber was about three or four feet above the truck it fell and caught the deceased on the thigh, and after knocking a narrow gauge truck it rebounded and struck him again, and also broke the ribs of Thomas Salter, who was at work with FOOTE. FOOTE was picked up and conveyed to the Hospital. he had seen five tons lifted by the same crane. It was not the crane which broke; it was the nippers of the chain that snapped asunder. George Hill, who was assisting to lift the timber, said the chain broke, and he saw Salter struck by the timber. Much heavier pieces had frequently been hoisted. They were lifting the timber from a broad gauge to a narrow one, and in circling it round the chain broke. Mr Arthur George Blomfield, house surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, said when deceased was admitted at quarter to four on Monday, December 19th, the right thigh was broken, and he was suffering from other severe injuries which caused such a great shock to the system that he died from exhaustion on Christmas Day. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 January 1882
PLYMOUTH - An Officer Drowned. - The body of Captain ELPHINSTONE-HOLLOWAY, retired from the Ordnance Department, and residing at Tamerton Foliott, was found in the water under Plymouth Citadel on Tuesday afternoon. An Inquest was held on Wednesday, when a verdict to the effect that deceased fell into the water and was drowned was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 March 1882
PLYMOUTH - Inquest At Plymouth. - Mr T. C. Brian, Plymouth Coroner, held an Inquest on Tuesday on the body of ELIZABETH CONNOR, aged about seventy. Sarah Bennet, married woman, living at 4 Bath-place, gave evidence as to the nature of the woman's death, and the Jury, after a short consultation, returned a verdict of "Death from the Visitation of God."

NEWTON ABBOT - Suicide. - Inquiry was made at Mr Rendell's farmhouse, Buckland, near Newton, on Monday as to the death of SAMUEL MOXEY, who was found on Sunday morning in Buckland-lane with part of his head shot away. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 April 1882
TORQUAY - The Fatal Fall Over Babbacombe Cliff. - The Inquest on MRS ELIZABETH FIRTH, the lady who was killed by a fall from one of the Babbacombe cliffs on Sunday, was held on Tuesday at 10 York-terrace, where she had been residing for a month on a visit to her friend, Mrs Thompson. Mrs Thompson's evidence showed that the deceased had come to Torquay for her health; that her strength had much increased during her stay; that she had been much depressed at breakfast time on Sunday, but that the depression had quite passed away before she left the house. She left to go to All Saints' Church, and had made an arrangement to return and go for a walk with her friend Mrs Thompson, who was going to Furrough Cross Church. It had been ascertained that she was at the first forenoon service at All Saints', and the following shows that she must have left almost immediately after and gone to the neighbourhood of the flag-post on the Downs. - Jonathan Thomas, a fisherman, said he had particularly noticed the lady (whom he sufficiently identified) between a quarter to and a quarter after twelve, because she seemed uneasy and suffering; so much so that he felt half disposed to go over and ask her what was the matter. Her behaviour also attracted the attention of Mrs Sutton, of Prospect-terrace, who gave her evidence very clearly to the effect that the lady moved so feebly and slipped about so much that when she fell on one occasion she feared she would hardly be able to get up again. She did, however, get up again and regain the top of the Downs, and walked towards the flag post. This was the last she saw of her, and it would seem the last that was seen of her alive. - Sergeant Ellicott proved to having received information of her being missing, and having organised a search for her which resulted in the discovery of the body among some bushes considerably above the beach. Her watch, which had not run down, had stopped at a few minutes to one. It is presumed it had been stopped by the jerk of the fall, and therefore that it indicates the time at which she fell. After a long consultation and a visit to the place the Jury gave the verdict that "MRS ELIZABETH FIRTH died through a fall from the cliff, but whether the fall was accidental or suicidal there is not sufficient evidence for the Jury to determine." Mr Matthews expressed his intention of asking the Local Board to place railings at the edge of the most dangerous parts of the cliff.

TORQUAY - Inquest. - An Inquest was held at the Castle Inn, yesterday by Dr H. Gaye, Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM RENDLE, aged 47, a labourer, lately employed by the Torquay Brewery Company. It appears that on the 22nd of March last he was engaged with another man in putting some patent liquid cement on a large cask, and having a lighted candle, it appears that the gas in the cask ignited, and before he could get out he was badly burnt. The man-hole through which he had to pass was ten feet high, which was got at by a ladder, and which was the only way of exit. He was taken to the Torbay Hospital, where he remained under the care of the house surgeon, and lingered there until the 12th inst., when he died. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death. The deceased was a steady man, married, had a family, and resided at Pimlico. Mr Perry, Foreman of the Jury, said he should use no more of the cement.

TORQUAY - Inquest. - An Inquiry was held on Monday at the Castle Inn, Torquay, by Dr Gaye, County Coroner, as to the death of RICHARD FORD, cabman, aged 57, whose death resulted from injuries he received in falling from his cab in January last. Evidence was given by a cabman, Stanley Dart, to the effect that he saw the deceased, whose cab was on the stand at the time, step down from the driver's seat on to the wheel, and his foot slipping off he fell to the ground breaking one of his legs. He was at once taken to the Torquay Hospital. Mr Bransfoot, house-surgeon at the hospital, deposed that the deceased was brought in suffering from a broken leg. He was put to bed and a day later was attacked with delirium tremens. He never rallied, and was in so low a state that it was not deemed advisable that amputation should be resorted to. He lived twelve weeks, and died on Saturday last. A verdict in accordance with the evidence was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 April 1882
TEIGNMOUTH - Suicide By Poison. - On Tuesday evening at Luton, a village about three miles from Teignmouth, an Inquest was held on the body of JOHN MAJOR, aged 70, blacksmith, who was found on Sunday morning in a state of unconsciousness. He and his wife had been ejected from a house which they had been taken in by neighbours. A proposal to take the poor man to the Union appears to have preyed on his mind, and from the evidence given at the Inquest, it appears that he bought some laudanum on Friday, and must either have taken an overdose by accident or must have wilfully poisoned himself. The Inquest was held by Sidney Hacker, Esq., Deputy Coroner, and a Jury, of which Mr James Vooght was Foreman. A post mortem examination was made by Dr Watson, of Chudleigh, who stated that deceased had died of narcotic poison. A verdict of "Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity" was agreed upon. The deceased had lived in the village of Luton all his life, and was respected by all his neighbours.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser Friday 19 May 1882
TORQUAY - Inquest. - Before Mr H. Gaye, Coroner, an Inquest was held at Letheren's Upton Vale Hotel, on the body of a little child called CHARLES R. HEAD, nine months old, who died suddenly whilst being nursed by Annie Spicer. The child was weakly from birth. No Doctor had seen him lately. After due deliberation the Jury returned a verdict of death by "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser Friday 9 June 1882
TORQUAY - Boating Fatality In Torbay. Two Torquay Young Men Drowned. Inquest At The Town Hall. The Coastguard Censured. - A sad accident, and one which is felt severely in Torquay, occurred in Torbay on Sunday afternoon. Two young men, both well-known and generally respected, MR FRED EDWARDS, son of MR EDWARDS, coachbuilder, and MR HENRY PARKER, manager at Mr Trelease's clothing establishment, went out for a sail on Sunday morning, starting from the Torquay harbour at eleven o'clock. The boat belonged to MR EDWARDS, and from its peculiar shape forward was called "The Ram." She was a three-tonner and a staunchly built, good sea boat. She had, however, a heavy keel and there was a lot of ballast on board. She was decked fore and aft, and could carry an immense pressure of sail. MR EDWARDS, who was a year younger than his companion, 23 years, had made frequent sailing excursions in her. The weather was squally with a strong west-south-west breeze blowing, and there was a heavy lop on in the bay. The boat was watched by several persons, and fishermen remarked upon the great quantity of sail run up. At about mid-day two men on Paignton Beach saw a boat carrying a good deal of sail suddenly capsize and disappear off Paignton Head. They reported the matter to the Coast Guard at Paignton, but no effort was made to assist the drowning men. MR THOMAS EDWARDS, becoming uneasy, went out to see if he could discover anything of the boat, and on reaching Paignton heard the story from the coastguard. After a long and fruitless search MR EDWARDS returned home at about twelve at night, and communicated the sad news to his parents, who are completely prostrated by the occurrence. MR GEORGE EDWARDS, who was in the boat on Saturday last, says that there was nothing on board that could possibly float but the long paddles. MR PARKER is a native of Bromley, Kent, and his relatives have arrived in town. - Operations were actively carried on night and day on Monday and Tuesday for the recovery of the bodies or the finding of the sunken yacht, but no success attended the efforts made until Wednesday morning when, the weather proving fine, elaborate preparations were made, and the start from the harbour was timed at three o'clock. It had been thought by some, the thought springing evidently from the wish, that it was just possible the whole story was without foundation, and that the two young fellows had been carried in their vessel out of the Bay; but Wednesday proved that the published accounts were only too true, and that the two ill-fated young men had met with a watery grave. On Tuesday the diver on going down discovered that what was thought to be the sunken yacht was but an old anchor half embedded in the sand. On Wednesday morning Messrs. Brown, brothers, boatmen, got up steam and went out with their launch, and another boat, to where they supposed the vessel had gone down, reaching the spot at about 5.30. They had constructed a long line, nearly a mile in length, with a bull-taw (conger-line, carrying a great number of hooks) in the centre. This was weighted down, and the bottom of the Bay was dragged for some hours without success. Meanwhile, the two steam launches from Paignton, Mr Dendy's, came out, and after a considerable time the yacht was discovered by MR T. EDWARDS, apparently standing upright, on the bottom, and being scarcely half-a-mile from the shore. Judging the set of the tide and the wind, Messrs. Brown at once commenced dragging for the bodies in a new direction, and at ten minutes to eight, and at a distance of about fifty yards from the yacht, the hooks caught something, which after a momentary resistance came, on the line being hauled in, easily to the surface, and proved to be the body of MR PARKER. No bruises or marks of blows in any way were perceivable, but the fingers were half-clenched and the attitude of the body indicated a desperate struggle for life. The body was taken on board, and, after a short but fruitless search for the other, which it was thought might be found near the same spot, was brought ashore, and conveyed, covered, on a waggon to the mortuary at the Town Hall, when it was searched by P.C's Glyde and Trott. One of the Messrs. Brown remained with the body, and the other two continued their search for the other. It was about 9.20 when the body reached the mortuary and the search was made by the constables; amongst the articles found were a scarf pin, pipe, pocket knife, scissors, tobacco pouch, several keys, watch and chain and a ring, the last-named being on the third finger of the right hand. The watch had stopped at exactly half-past twelve, which was about the time the boat was seen to capsize. One of the hooks of the bull-taw caught in the back of the coat, so that deceased was evidently lying on his face at the bottom. - The search for the other body for some hours proved unavailing, but at 10.30 Mr Brown hooked something when dragging about a hundred yards from the yacht, and a little leeward of the spot where the first body was found. On hauling up, the coat of the deceased came first, on a hook some yards from the body of MR EDWARDS, which followed, caught by the shirt sleeve. It was at once brought ashore and deposited in the mortuary by the side of the body of MR PARKER. The search by Sergt. Bastin and P.C. Glyde revealed ten shillings in silver, sixpence three farthings in coppers, and a large old copper coin. His watch had stopped at seventeen minutes twenty seconds past twelve, and amongst the trinkets on his watch chain was a locket, faced with a lion shilling. The fact of the coat being off would suggest that the deceased, when he found himself in the water, endeavoured to remove his clothing in order that he could swim more easily, but was exhausted and sank before he could do so. - The Inquest: - The Town Hall, Torquay, was densely crowded on Wednesday night, as by six o'clock it had become generally known that the Inquest on the bodies of the late MR F. EDWARDS and MR H. PARKER, who met with death by drowning in the Bay on Sunday last and whose bodies were recovered yesterday, was to be held at seven o'clock. Mr J. A. Hacker, Deputy Coroner, of the firm of solicitors, Messrs. Michelmore and Hacker, conducted the Inquiry, and the names of the Jury were as follows:- Messrs. Graham (Foreman), Hart, Rolestone, G. Fradd, Pridham, Joyce, Cozens, Westley, Hall, Hill, Walland, Porter and Mugford. Capt. Medley, senior officer of the coastguard stationed at Torquay, watched the case, and Mr E. Vivian, who had made an admirable sketch of the Bay, as far as concerned Paignton Head and the scene of the accident, was also present. During the hearing of the case strong expressions of disapproval of the manner in which Mr Hacker's questions were answered by the coastguard were heard from the body of the court and in some instances from the Jury. - The first witness was Mr Richard Trelease, outfitter, Union-street, who stated that he knew both the deceased young men. MR PARKER was his assistance, and he last saw him on Saturday night at about half-past twelve when he heard him invite two friends, Mr Dodsworth and Mr Sharp, to accompany him and MR EDWARDS, on the following morning. MR PARKER had frequently been out before with MR EDWARDS. - MR THOMAS EDWARDS, coach-builder, Union-street, father of the deceased, deposed that he last saw his on alive on Sunday morning at breakfast, and he then said he was going out in his boat. He had been out many times before, and knew well how to manage the yacht. Witness, who was greatly agitated and appeared stunned, was not pressed with questions and retired. - Mr Charles Tomlinson, 13 Roundham cottages, Paignton, stated that he was a butler and on Sunday morning last was sitting on a seat on the south side of Paignton pier with a companion, Wm. Earle. That was about twenty minutes past twelve, and he was watching a yacht that seemed to be leaning over. He said to his companion, "That boat seems as if it is going to capsize." he watched it and he saw it go over, and he and his friend at once ran to the coast-guard to inform them of what had occurred. That was about twenty-three minutes past twelve. The boat had a double-reefed mainsail and a jib. It was taking in water when he saw it first, and drew his companion's attention to it. Half-a-minute after that she went down. The wind was gusty, and the weather rather squally. The officer on hearing the story said he had been sitting at his window writing all the morning, and he did not believe the boat could go over without his seeing it. Witness told him he was positive the boat had gone down, but he said he did not think so. Witness stayed there about ten minutes, and still persisted in what he said that the boat had gone down; but the coastguard did nothing, and would not lower a boat and go out. The officer went outside and asked a coastguardsman if he had seen anything, and he said he had seen a boat pass along by Paignton Head all right. There were about a dozen men round, and they thought witness must be mistaken. Finding he could do no good, witness went home, telling the story to several people he met. He was in Torquay in the afternoon and spoke of the occurrence to several friends. In reply to the Foreman, witness said that the spot where the boat went down could be seen from the coastguard station. Cross-examined by Capt. Medley: Q.- When you went to the officer did he appear to understand that the boat went over? - A.- Well, I impressed it on his mind with all in my power. Q.- How is it then that he did not believe you? - A.- I can't say. Q.- Did you say "My God, won't you go and save the lives of these people"? A.- I might have, I was excited. - Mr Wm. Earle, hair-dresser, Winner-street, Paignton, gave similar evidence, and said the boat was not half-a-dozen seconds in going over. From where he was he could see nothing floating after she sank. The coastguard said that the boat they had seen go over had gone round the head all right. They stood there, he and his friend, and told them most distinctly that they saw the boat go down. Witness told several men, and also the coastguard; but they did not believe it. Witness stood there for a quarter-of-an-hour, and at last thought he must be mistaken, because the men and the coastguard were so positive that the boat had not gone down. The coastguard did nothing, and did not trouble to find out whether the boat had really gone down. - Cross-examined by Captain Medley: Q.- Are you sure about the colour of the sail? - A.- I thought it was a tan sail, as it looked dark. Q.- To whom did you report it? - A.- There was a chief officer and a coastguardsman. - Mr George Greet, chief coastguard, stationed at Paignton, said he was on duty on Sunday last. He was in the watch-room in the morning, and had a view of the Bay from the window. There were three boats in the Bay, a schooner from Torquay, which afterwards anchored, a small boat from Paignton which came in and another larger boat. He watched the last as he thought it curious that, blowing hard as it was, the boat should be cruising about the Bay. The wind was west-south-west and squally. He watched her till she went round the point out of his sight. Q.- Were you informed of the accident? - A.- Mr Tomlinson came and said a boat with tan sails had disappeared from him. I went out and looked round, and sent the watchman round the head, but he returned and said he could see nothing. Q.- Mr Tomlinson was there reiterating his statement, was he not, some time? - He said a boat had disappeared from him. Q.- Would it not be possible for a boat to get from the station to the scene of the accident in a quarter-of-an-hour or twenty minutes? - A.- No: we could not have got out there in less than an hour. [This statement was received with expressions of incredulity by the Jury.] - Q.- Did Tomlinson lead you to believe there had been an accident? No: he led me to believe that a boat had disappeared from his sight. Q.- You mean to say that he was with you for ten minutes, and all that time you did not understand there was an accident? - A.- I did not think there had been an accident. Q.- Did you understand that he wished you to understand an accident had occurred? - A.- I did not think there had been an accident. Q.- I want to know what you understood from Tomlinson's words. Did you understand from Tomlinson's words that he wished you to understand that the boat had gone down? - A.- No sir. Q.- When you sent the man round the head did he find the boat? - A.- No. Q.- Then where did you think the boat had gone? - A.- I thought it had gone to Brixham. By the Jury: How is it that you say you saw the boat go past the head, and now you say you can see the place from your station where she sunk? - A.- Because she had altered her tack and was coming back, standing in. Q.- Did you take any steps eventually? - A.- No. Q.- To launch a boat? - A.- No. Q.- What kind of information do you require before you take action? [The witness did not answer this question.] Q.- Did not Earle tell you of the accident? - A.- I do not know that I saw Earle. [The Jury characterised this answer as an evasion.] Examined by Capt. Medley: Are you quite sure that only one person came to you with regard to that yacht? - A.- I am certain, sir. - Albert Pitman, coast-guardsman, Paignton, corroborated Mr Greet's evidence, and added that he heard Tomlinson repeat his words about a boat being capsized about 100 yards off the Black Rock. He could not see, when sent, the boat that had gone round the head, and thought it had gone to Brixham. The boat could get to Brixham in about a quarter of an hour. He did not understand that there had been an accident, nor did his officer lead him to suppose so. - Mr Tom Brown and William Brown deposed to finding the bodies, and the latter said there had been suspicions as to the boat's stability amongst those who knew her. He did not think either of the deceased was well up in sea service in case of difficulties. The spot at which the boat sunk was about half-a-mile from the nearest shore. By the Coroner: How long would it take to go there in a boat from the Paignton shore? - A.- I could get there inside a quarter of an hour. The Jury: The coastguard says it would take over an hour. Mr Brown: It would not take that time in my opinion. - The Coroner in summing up, said that the accident was only seen apparently by two persons, who ran at once for help. It did not matter whether the officer of the coast guard could see the accident or not, but the men were bound when they were informed there had been an accident, by two persons or even one, to act upon it, and that information should have been sufficient to induce them to man a boat and give what help they could. (Applause). - The Jury, after an absence of about a quarter-of-an-hour, returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased were "Accidentally Drowned," and added that they were "unanimous in censuring the coastguard officer for gross negligence of duty." - A large crowd had assembled round the Town Hall and did not disperse for some considerable time after the verdict became known. It was thought that some action would be taken by the crowd against the coastguard, and the latter did not walk down through the street, but went up Abbey road, a couple of constables following them for a short distance. No violence was attempted, however, and the crowd quietly dispersed.
[A description of the funeral arrangements followed.]

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 June 1882
PLYMOUTH - Suicide Of A Student,. Plymouth, Wednesday. - At Widey Cottage, near Plymouth, this morning an army student named JENKINSON, who yesterday received news of successfully passing an examination, shot himself dead. At an Inquest held in the evening, the Jury found that death resulted from the accidental explosion of a revolver.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 June 1882
TORQUAY - Sad Case Of Suicide At Torquay. - On Monday afternoon, a woman named AUGUSTA MARIA WOOD, living at Normount, Middle Warberries, committed suicide by hanging herself. She was forty-two years of age, and had been an invalid, bedridden, for some fourteen and fifteen years. Her husband, JOHN WOOD, who is in the employ of Mrs Gamble, of Normount, left her in her usual health yesterday, and on returning again shortly after four found her hanging quite dead to the bed-post in her own room. A doctor was called but his services were too late to be of any use. Deceased is supposed to have fallen into a very low state of mind, consequent upon her illness. - Inquest. - At Normount, Torquay, on Wednesday, an Inquiry was held by Dr Gaye, Coroner, and a Jury, touching the death of AUGUSTA MARIA WOOD, wife of the head gardener employed at Normount. It was stated that the deceased was not in the employ of Mrs Gamble, but lived in a building detached from the house. Deceased had been a great invalid for some years, and had stated to Mrs Mary McDonald, the housekeeper, who used to visit her frequently and read to her, that she was assured she would never get any better. None of the witnesses had ever heard her make any reference to taking her own life. She had recently taken to her bed, being unable to walk about. On the day in question, Monday, she was left by her daughter in the afternoon in her usual health and state of mind. She was by no means of a desponding nature. Shortly after four, her husband on going to her room found the door locked, and on obtaining admittance found deceased on her knees by the side of her bed, with a piece of rope twisted tightly round her neck, the other end being looped over the bed-post. Dr A. Deeley, who is managing Mr Gamble's practice during his absence, said that MRS WOOD was quite dead when he arrived, the cause of death being strangulation. In such cases it was by no means unusual for persons suffering as deceased had to have an attack of temporary insanity, and that in his opinion was what had occurred in the present instance. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was given.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 July 1882
TORQUAY - Inquest. - At the Hesketh Arms, Torquay, on Tuesday, an Inquest was held on the body of MARY LOUISA EALES, domestic servant, Kinlet Villa. From the evidence it appeared that deceased had died from the effects of being burnt about the lower part of the body. It will be remembered that the clothes of the deceased caught fire, and, before they could be extinguished, the young woman had received the injuries which on Monday resulted in her death. A verdict of Accidental Death was recorded,. Dr Thompson had attended the unfortunate girl, but from the first it was apparent that she had but little chance of recovery.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 August 1882
BRIXHAM - An Inquest on the body of GEORGE FARLEY, aged 16 years, who was drowned from the fishing smack "Ariel," on Friday morning last, in Torbay roads, and whose body was found on Saturday morning, took place at the Bolton Hotel on Tuesday evening, before Mr Sidney Hacker. Mr R. Drew was chosen Foreman of the Jury. The skipper, Mr G. B. James, the third hand, Mr G. Blackmore, and Mr J. P. James, who found the body, gave evidence as to the accident and recovery of the body. A verdict of "Accidental Death by Drowning," was returned. The Jury recommended the skipper, and every other skipper, to carry life buoys on deck, in a place where they could easily be got at.

PAIGNTON - Sudden Death At Paignton. - Mr Hacker, the newly elected Coroner for the Eastern Division of Devon, held his first Inquest since his appointment on Saturday evening, at the Pier Inn, Paignton, on the body of a little boy named ANDREW WILLIAM PATTON, aged five years, son of MR ANDREW PATTON, master mariner. Death occurred suddenly on Friday afternoon. The little fellow left school about four o'clock. Before leaving he complained that he had a headache, and on reaching his home he told his mother that he had a headache, and that a boy named Sidney Knight had knocked him in the head and stomach. His mother took him upstairs and laid him on a bed. He died a few minutes afterwards. Mr Goodridge, surgeon, who had made post mortem examination, stated that in his opinion deceased had died from concussion of the brain, which might have been caused by a blow on the head, although there was nothing to show that a blow had been given. The lad Sidney Knight, a bright intelligent little fellow of four years old, was brought into the room but, being so young, nothing could be elicited from him. The Jury returned a verdict that the deceased died from Natural Causes.

TIVERTON - Sudden Death Of A Medical Man. - An Inquest was held in Tiverton Town Hall on Tuesday, before Mr Coroner Mackenzie, concerning the death of GODFREY ROHRS, who expired suddenly on the previous day. Deceased was assistant to Dr J. P. McNeill, and had been in the habit of dispensing medicines. On Sunday night about 11 o'clock deceased told Dr McNeill that he had had too much to drink, and added - "Ought I not to take something to prevent the effects of the drink?" Dr McNeill in reply told deceased to go to bed and deceased went. Early in the morning deceased was found unconscious in bed, having vomited and he died about half-past four on Monday afternoon. The housekeeper said that in the course of the previous evening she had seen the deceased take something in a bottle from a shelf containing poisons. Verdict, "Death by Misadventure."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 August 1882
EXETER - A Man Drowned At Exeter. - Mr Coroner Burrows held an Inquest at Exeter on Wednesday on the body of CHARLES PRESTON, aged 46, whose dead body was recovered from the River Exe on Tuesday. It appears that on Monday morning last, deceased, who was a waggoner in the employ of Messrs. Chaplin and Horner, went out with his waggon as usual, and nothing more was seen of him until his body was found in the River Exe, near the Dipping Steps, in Okehampton street, St Thomas, Exeter. Deceased was said to be a very steady man. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," and recommended the fencing of the Dipping Steps.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 August 1882
DAWLISH - Sad Occurrence At Dawlish. - An Inquest was held at the London Hotel, Dawlish, on Saturday evening, by Mr Hacker, Coroner, touching the death of a young gentleman, which took place on the beach after mid-day on Saturday. - The first witness called was deceased's brother, NIXON CHETWODE RAM, who said - Deceased [STOPFORD EDWARD RAM] was 18 years of age last December. We are living at No. 10 Strand, Dawlish. My brother was studying for the University of Cambridge. My mother and sisters are also visiting Dawlish. My brother and myself got up about eight o'clock on Saturday morning and we all ate a hearty breakfast. Deceased was reading until 11 a.m. I went on to the Gentleman's Bathing Cove, and he came to me there. After we had been in the water about a quarter of an hour, my brother said he felt ill and giddy, and remarked that everything looked black, and he said his heart was beating fast. We then came ashore, dressed, and proceeded towards where my mother was sitting in the Ladies' Bathing Cove opposite Cliff House. He told my mother what he had just told me. He might have sat there two minutes, when he said "I am getting giddy again." He then fell down on his side on the shingle, and I ran for the doctor. Dr Parsons came in about ten minutes. In answer to a Juryman, witness said is brother was a very good swimmer. - Mr A. D. Parsons, physician and surgeon at Dawlish, said - When I saw the deceased he was perfectly cold, and I considered he was dead. I tried to restore respiration at once, and then had him conveyed to his home, where I tried restoratives for about an hour. He got what may be termed artificial respiration, but he was virtually dead, pulseless, with no action of the heart. I examined the body externally. I am of opinion that death was caused by heart disease - syncope, hastened perhaps by sunstroke whilst on the beach. If he had a stimulant earlier he might have rallied. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was given.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 October 1882
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Torquay. - On Saturday GEORGE DICKER, about 60 years of age, who was employed by Mr Manley, coal dealer, as cellar man, was engaged in his work when he fell down apparently in a fit. He was conveyed in a cab to the Torbay Hospital, where it was found that he was dead. The body was taken to the house of the deceased in Melville-street. At the Town Hall on Monday afternoon, Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of GEORGE DICKER (59), cellarman, who was in the employ of Mr Manley, coal merchant, and who lived at 1 Melville Place. On Saturday the deceased was at his work, and during the morning he complained to Alex. Saunders, the foreman, that he did not feel particularly well, but thought it would pass off. Between two and three o'clock in the afternoon Saunders found him lying on his back on the ground, breathing but very little and seemingly speechless. Help was obtained, and the man was conveyed in a cab to the Infirmary. Mr Harris, assistant-surgeon, saw him and pronounced life extinct; consequently the body was taken to the house of the deceased. Mr Cumming, surgeon, made a post mortem examination of the body, and found the cause of death to be heart disease. DICKER had complained of illness on the day previous to his death but he was generally considered a healthy man. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 December 1882
DARTMOUTH - Fatal Accident At Dartmouth. - An Inquest was held on Wednesday on the body of CHARLES FREDERICK BURT, able seaman, of H.M.S. Britannia, who fell into the water and was drowned whilst engaged in painting the star-board quarter of the Hindostan, attached to the Britannia. A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 December 1882
BRIXHAM - The Loss Of A Boat Off Brixham. - An Inquest was held on Saturday at the Commercial Inn, Brixham, on the body of THOMAS FLETCHER, who was drowned by the sinking of the lugger Minnie, on Thursday last off Berry Head. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning."

TORQUAY - The Manslaughter Of A Landlord In Torquay. - There died at Exminster Asylum on Monday, MR WILLIAM DEAR, landlord of the Golden Lion Hotel, Union-street, Torquay, whose death is due, according to present circumstantial evidence, to injuries which he received on the night of September 2nd, at the hands of a person named Ernest Stephen, described as an artist at the Watcombe Terra Cotta Works. It appears that on the date mentioned, about 11.30 p.m., MR DEAR was in his cellar, turning off the beer taps, when he heard an altercation in his bar. He went up and found Stephen and a man named Henry Land. His mother was refusing to serve them with any drink, saying that it was after hours. Stephen was drunk and demanded to be served because the door was open. MR DEAR ordered the parties to leave, whereupon Stephen used bad language. The landlord at length commenced to turn the man out. He resisted, and while MR DEAR stood on the doorstep he struck him on the face with a cane. The blow fell on the eye ball and MR DEAR cried out that the man had blinded him. He managed to secure his assailant, but afterwards allowed him to be taken away by some persons who knew him. On October 19th, MR DEAR appeared at the Torquay Police Court to prefer a charge against Stephen of violently assaulting him. From the date of the attack up to that time his eye had troubled him very much, a blow on so sensitive a part naturally causing extreme agony. The defendant Stephen, upon whom the summons had been served by P.S. Ellicott, did not put in an appearance, and the Bench, finding the case of so grave a nature, determined not to proceed further without having the accused before them,. Consequently there was issued a warrant for his arrest. Before it could be executed, however, Stephen decamped and has not since been heard of. After the injury to his eye MR DEAR evinced great anxiety as to his condition. The fear that he would not only lose the sight of the organ which had been hurt but of both his eyes so preyed upon his mind that his brain was quite upset, and it became evident that he was not accountable for his actions. Any doubt which might have been entertained of his condition was dispelled on Friday week, when his madness took the shape of violent acts which imperilled the safety of himself and friends. With a good deal of difficulty MR DEAR was controlled and a few days after his dangerous outbreak he was removed to Exminster Asylum. There it became apparent that there was no hope for him. Rapidly he grew worse, and died on Monday as stated above. The facts as they stand at present show that DEAR died through injuries inflicted by Stephen and consequently there is a prima facie case against that person of manslaughter. The actual whereabouts of Stephen are not known. Nevertheless the police entertain the idea that they may be able to find him. - The Inquest: - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Police Station last evening into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM DEAR, landlord of the Golden Lion Inn, Union-street, Torquay, the particulars of whose death we have already reported. - Elizabeth Ann Harris, wife of Benjamin Harris, employed at the Golden Lion, identified the body. She stated that the deceased was 45 years of age and unmarried. On September 2nd, at night, she was in the smoke room when two men, Ernest Stephen and Henry Land came in. It was after hours and the deceased coming up from the cellar, told them to go away, adding, after some words had passed, that if they did not go out he would put them out. Eventually he pushed Stephen out but he attempted to come in and struck MR DEAR across the shoulder and then on the face with a cane. He struck violently both times. DEAR called out "Oh you blackguard; you're no Englishman; you've blinded me." She saw his eye afterwards; it was much hurt. She had known him four years prior to this time and had never known the deceased exhibit any sign of insanity. After the hurt to his eye he complained much about it and was afraid he would go blind. He said he was able sometimes to see a little with the injured eye. MR DEAR was taken to the Asylum last Monday week and she saw him taken away. - In answer to a Juryman witness said that DEAR did not strike Stephen. The name of the man who was with Stephen was Land: this man did not strike DEAR. He said to DEAR, however, "Why are you striking that man" (meaning Stephen) "like that for?" A crowd took Stephen away after the occurrence. - Samuel Gamble, surgeon, practising in Torquay, said the deceased was a patient of his but he had not attended him for two or three years prior to September 2nd, when he came to him at twelve at night with his left eye very much swollen and the eyelids gorged with blood. Witness examined him and found a lacerated wound on the inner side of the eyeball which must have been produced by violence. He told witness he had been struck with a stick. The sight at the time was wholly gone, the eye being then merely a mass of coagulated blood. After suffering considerable pain there was a little improvement. Later on he found the sight was permanently injured. Towards the end of October DEAR complained of pain in the sound eye, and witness recommended him to see an oculist at Exeter. Subsequently he told witness he was sure the sight of his other eye was going, and it worried him. On the 14th of November there were symptoms of mental disorder and they increased. On the 27th he was removed to the Asylum. He attributed his patient's condition indirectly to the injury the eye received. He was much troubled about his state and he was also very anxious about pecuniary matters. When witness saw DEAR first he was not suffering from any injury likely to cause death. He was a man of very nervous temperament. On a man of strong nerves and of strong will the effect would not have been the same as upon the deceased. The insanity was induced by worry and anxiety consequent upon the injury to the eye. It was his opinion that the injury to the eye did not affect the brain. - Robert Leonard Rutherford, physician at the Devon County Asylum, Exminster, said the deceased had been under his charge since Nov. 27th. He was brought in with his hands and feet tied. He had no power to recognize anyone and did not understand where he was. During the time witness saw him he never heard him speak a sensible word. He was sleepless, excited and objected to take food. What he did take he vomited. He died on December 4th. The cause of death was general paralysis of the brain and fatty degeneration of the heart. He made a post mortem examination and found no acute inflammation of the brain such as would result from an injury. Death could not be attributed to any hurt to the eye. He could not say what produced his madness and did not think that the blow on the eye accelerated his death. Any trouble or worry might have produced the same effect. This was all the evidence, and the Coroner summed up, alluding chiefly to the medical testimony, and expressing the opinion that unless the Jury thought death was due to blow on the eye, which they scarcely could do unless in contradiction to the evidence, they would return a verdict of Death from Natural Causes. If not they must find a verdict of manslaughter. The Jury consulted for an hour and a quarter and returned into Court with the written verdict, read by Mr T. Graham, the Foreman, - "Died from Insanity, produced by worry, chiefly accelerated by anxiety as to his probable loss of sight, from the effects of a blow." - The Coroner said the Jury had not fulfilled their duty by the verdict. They had not found by it the manner in which the deceased came to his death fully. If they attributed the death of the deceased to the effects of a blow it was their duty to find who inflicted the blow and state it in their verdict. He must ask the Foreman to ask the Jury to state in the verdict whether the deceased died from natural causes or whether they wished to attribute death to a blow. He must have a verdict one way or the other and it must be a verdict of manslaughter or death from natural causes. The Jury retired again, the time being 10 o'clock. - At 10.30 the Coroner sent a message to the Jury asking whether there was any probability of their agreeing within the next five minutes. There was an almost unanimous "no," and Mr Hacker directed that they should come into Court again. He told them that if they could come to no conclusion that night he must adjourn the Inquest. - After some conversation it was said there was a possibility of twelve of the thirteen Jurymen agreeing on a verdict, and the Coroner intimating that a verdict of twelve was sufficient, recommended them to retire again. This they did and returned in five minutes with the verdict that the death of the deceased was due to Insanity and that his death was accelerated by the blow given by Stephen. - The Coroner said that that was a verdict of Manslaughter. There was some dissent to this, and the Coroner asked twelve of the Jurors, one by one, if they agreed that the death of the deceased was accelerated by the blow given by Stephen. They replied in the affirmative and the Coroner drew up the inquisition and it was signed by the twelve. The verdict was one of Manslaughter and the Coroner's warrant for the apprehension and committal of Stephen will be issued in the ordinary course.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 December 1882
TORQUAY - Inquest At Babbacombe. - An Inquest has been held at the Globe Inn, Babbacombe, on the body of THOMAS EDWARD HODGSON, a retired master mariner, aged 72, who was on a visit to his sister, MRS STOCKMAN, at Babbacombe. On the evening of the 20th, MRS STOCKMAN retired to rest about ten o'clock, leaving the deceased in the dining room smoking and reading by the light of a paraffin lamp. An hour afterwards, hearing a noise, Mrs Stockman came down and found her brother at the bottom of the stairs - his clothes were on fire. She extinguished the fire and sent for Dr Chilcott. Before his death, which happened a day or two before the Inquiry, the deceased explained how the accident occurred. On leaving the room he did not perceive the candle and matches left for him and took up the paraffin lamp. In going upstairs the lamp slipped and he fell back against the door. Dr Chilcott gave evidence and attributed death to exhaustion and fever caused by the burn. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 February 1883
NEWTON BUSHEL - Child Suffocated. - An Inquest was held by Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, at the Seven Stars Inn, Newton Bushel, on Saturday evening on the body of an infant belonging to a labourer, named HENRY SKINNER. The evidence went to show that the child was suffocated through overlaying, and the Jury returned a verdict to that effect.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 10 March 1883
PAIGNTON - Supposed Concealment Of Birth. - The body of an infant child was discovered on Saturday in a box in a house in which a young woman named SARAH ANN TOOLEY lived, at Paignton. TOOLEY, who was formerly in service in North Devon, has recently kept house for her father at Barnshill, Paignton. She was taken ill last Saturday morning, but not much notice was at first taken of the matter, as for years past she has suffered from spasms of the heart, which at times made her very ill. A younger sister was with her in the house, and thinking her sister's illness to be more than of the ordinary nature, she thought it advisable to fetch a married sister who lives near by. On the arrival of the latter she for the first time suspected that TOOLEY was enciente. She taxed her with being about to give birth to a child, but she denied it. She was left for about ten minutes, and on returning the married sister suggested sending for a doctor. This TOOLEY declined. She left her again and on returning found her in bed. About three o'clock the younger sister observed traces which led her to suppose that her sister had been confined. She ran for a neighbour who came to the house and found the dead body of the child in a box in the bedroom. Dr Goodridge will make a post mortem examination, and an Inquest will be held. - On Tuesday Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner for the district, held an Inquest at the Victoria Hotel, Paignton, on the body of the newly-born illegitimate female child of SARAH TOLLY or TOOLEY, which was found in her bedroom, at Barnshill, on Saturday morning. Mr John Parnell was Foreman of the Jury. Messrs. Eastley and Jarman, solicitors, attended to watch the proceedings on behalf of the mother of the child. - Ann Ellis, an elderly woman, said she was called to the assistance of the mother by her sister HARRIET on Saturday morning. Witness went to see the mother at her father's request. On going into the bedroom the mother was in bed, and from witness's examination of the bed she considered that a child had been born. She asked the mother where the baby was, but she denied having had one. Witness visited the house a second time some hours afterwards and expressed to the mother her determination to know what had become of the baby, adding that unless she was satisfied in five minutes, she would go further. Witness looked round the room, and after a few minutes the mother confessed that the child was in a box near the bed and just within reach of it. Witness lifted up the cover of the box, and there found the child entirely wrapped up in a flannel petticoat. Witness carried the child to the foot of the bed, and saw that it was quite dead. After telling the mother that she "had done a fine thing for herself," witness sent for Dr Goodridge. - Dr Goodridge said that when he called in the evening he at once saw that the child had been born some hours; and as it had not been properly attended to he refused to certify. He made a post mortem examination, and had come to the conclusion that the child was full grown. There were no external marks of violence on the body. Making experiments to ascertain if the child had breathed, he placed the lungs in a basin of water and found that they floated. He was of opinion that at the time of the child's birth it was alive, and had a separate existence. He was further of opinion that the child died of haemorrhage, in consequence of the cord not being tied. If a medical man or some experienced nurse of midwife had been called, the child would probably not have died. - Evidence confirmatory of the statement of Mrs Ellis was also given by HARRIET TOLLY, sister of the child's mother, after which the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the mother of the child, SARAH TOLLY, by her culpable and negligent omission, caused its death. This amounted to a verdict of Manslaughter, and later in the day the Coroner issued a warrant for the committal of the accused, who will be brought before the Magistrates when she is sufficiently recovered to allow of her appearance.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 31 March 1883
TORQUAY - Sad Accident In Torquay. - On Monday morning, Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Upton Vale Hotel, Torre, on the body of HARRIET VAUGHAN MELHUISH, aged 49, wife of MR WILLIAM MELHUISH, tallow-chandler, of Parkhill-road, Upton. The evidence showed that on Saturday week the deceased and her husband went for a drive in a two-wheel trap, from Torquay to Paignton. On the return journey, and when the horse was proceeding at a slow walk down the hill, near Livermead cottage, it slipped up and fell on its side, MR MELHUISH being thrown out on the right side of the horse and his wife on the left. He jumped up very quickly and went to his wife's assistance, dragging her clear from the horse, which was struggling on the ground. The animal just afterwards got on its feet and ran off, with the broken shafts attached to the harness, and MR MELHUISH assisted his wife to walk into Livermead Cottage where her bleeding and bruised forehead and face were bathed. At first she was unconscious, but after MR MELHUISH had placed her in a carriage he had fetched she regained consciousness, and asked to be taken to the residence of Dr Powell, at Torquay. This was done, and after the doctor had examined the deceased she was taken home and put to bed. Her nose was very much injured, her eyes were blackened, her teeth were knocked in, and she was suffering from concussion of the brain. She was attended by Mr Powell, but, although she seemed to rally a little at first, she soon relapsed, and, after intervals of consciousness, she died on Thursday. It was the opinion of Dr Powell that the cause of death was effusion on the brain, consequent upon the injuries the deceased sustained by being thrown on her head and face into the road. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and both the Coroner and Jury expressed their deep sympathy with MR MELHUISH in his bereavement.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 26 May 1883
TORQUAY - Suicide Of A Gentleman In Torquay. - On Tuesday afternoon the body of MR C. H. BULTEEL, of Plymouth, was found in a wood at Cockington, under circumstances which left no room for doubt that he had committed suicide. The deceased was of unsound mind, his condition being such as to necessitate for him the constant supervision of an attendant,. The whole circumstances will be found in the report of the Inquest which follows:- Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest in the Townhall, on Thursday forenoon, into the circumstances attending the death of CHRISTOPHER HARRIS BULTEEL. Mr W. B. Smale was chosen Foreman of the Jury, Mr Harris, solicitor, of the firm of Harris and Baker, Plymouth, attended the Inquiry on behalf of the relatives of the deceased. - The first witness called was James West, the deceased's attendant, who lived with him at Kincorran, Bampfylde Road. He identified the body as that of MR BULTEEL, who was a private gentleman, 37 years of age. Witness was engaged as his attendant in August, 1882. MRS BULTEEL resided at Kincorran. It was witness's duty to be always with MR BULTEEL, to wait at table, and to sleep in the same room with him. He was not in his right mind and was not allowed to go out alone. He saw him last alive on Tuesday morning. After breakfast on that day witness left him with MRS BULTEEL and his sister, MISS BULTEEL, who was visiting him. These ladies had occasion to leave the room, so that MR BULTEEL was left alone. Subsequently witness was told that he was missing and went in search of him in the direction of his usual walks. He was unable to find him, and returned to the house. Later on he went into the Cockington lanes, but with no better success, In the evening, about seven o'clock he heard that a man had been found hanged in Cockington woods, and came to the conclusion that he was MR BULTEEL, making inquiries which confirmed his fears. In the deceased's pockets there was only a pocket-handkerchief; witness was always careful to see that he was not possessed of anything wherewith he could injure himself. The strap with which deceased hanged himself was not known to witness; he had no idea how MR BULTEEL came by it. MR BULTEEL was suffering from nervous depression, and he had talked of poisoning himself. By a Juryman: Deceased had been known to wander from home before, but he returned voluntarily. - MISS BULTEEL, the deceased's sister, said that after breakfasting with him on Tuesday morning, she observed him go upstairs and finally saw him at half-past ten, when she left him in the room, with MRS BULTEEL. She believed that he left the house some ten minutes later. She had never seen him with any strap in his possession. MR BULTEEL had been in an asylum. - James Webber, gardener, Compton Marldon, said on Tuesday evening he was passing along a road skirted by a piece of coppice known as Cockington wood, when he had occasion to go over the fence. He immediately saw a man's neck and head, without a hat, and making further examination, found the deceased's body, with the feet lightly resting on the ground, hanging by a strap from a small branch. The strap was carefully tied, as if by a man who understood the manner of trying particular knots. Witness convinced himself that the gentleman was quite dead, and then went for assistance, afterwards seeing the body cut down. In the meantime, the police were communicated with and P.C. Taylor arrived, and took charge of the body. - Mr Gordon Cumming, physician, gave evidence of having seen the deceased three weeks ago in regard to his mental condition. He found him suffering from profound melancholia. Next he saw him at the mortuary, when he appeared to have been dead several hours. His opinion was that MR BULTEEL died from injury to the spine, caused by hanging - not from strangulation. The spinal cord was damaged. - Thomas Stanbury, Shiphay Collaton, a farmer's son, proved cutting the body of the deceased down. The hat of the man was placed some distance from the spot, in the hedge. - P.C. Taylor said that on searching the deceased he found a handkerchief and a new leather strap; also a pair of gloves. [The strap found in his possession was similar to that which he had used to hang himself.] The witness had the body removed to the mortuary. This was all the evidence. - The Coroner, in summing up, said there was only one question for the Jury to consider, and that was the state of mind of the deceased at the time this act was committed. There was no evidence either that the deceased came to his death by the intervention of any other party, or accidentally. He reminded them of the evidence which had been given tending to show that the deceased was not responsible for his actions. The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased committed Suicide while in a state of Unsound Mind.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 2 June 1883
Fatal Accident. - On Wednesday evening a little boy named EDWARD HENRY HOBLEY, the son of MR HOBLEY, cook, residing at Mr Callard's restaurant, whilst playing, climbed on to the balusters, and fell to the bottom of the landing, receiving such injuries that he died about three hours after. Dr Pollard was called in, but could do nothing for the child. An Inquest was held yesterday, and a verdict in accordance with the facts returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 9 June 1883
ST MARY CHURCH - Suicide At Barton. - Last Sunday, at about seven o'clock in the evening, the body of ANN FOGWELL, aged 75, the wife of NICHOLAS FOGWELL, a retired gardener, residing at Barton, St Mary-Church, was discovered by her husband hanging to a beam in a wash-house on the premises. It appears that she was in the front room with her husband a short time before, and about seven o'clock she went out, and as she did not return her husband went in search of her, and found her hanging in the wash-house. He did not cut her down, but ran off for a man named Nicholas Godfrey, who was near by, who came and cut her down. Dr Finch was sent for, but the woman was dead before he arrived. - The Inquest. - The Inquest for the purpose of enquiring into the death of ANN FOGWELL, residing at Prospect Cottage, Barton, was held at the house of the deceased, before Mr Thomas Edmonds, Deputy Coroner. Mr J. S. Waymouth acted as Foreman of the Jury,. - NICHOLAS FOGWELL, husband of the deceased, identified the body as that of ANN FOGWELL, 75, and said that he last saw her alive on Sunday, 3rd June, at about 10 minutes to 7. She was seated in the front room with him reading. About 7 o'clock she got up from the table in which she was seated, and went out, he asked where she was going, and she said "Only into the kitchen." As she did not return, he went in search of her, but could not find her in any of the rooms of the house. On passing out, however, to go into the garden, he looked into the wash-house and saw his wife hanging to a beam where he usually hung pigs after they had been killed. The rope with which she had hanged herself was always there, but was twisted around the beam, which was about 12 feet high. The knees of the deceased were two or three inches from the ground. He could not say how she reached the rope, but there were several things, such as a form and table in the house. He was too frightened to cut the body down, and he ran off to get assistance, and seeing Nicholas Godfrey in his garden, told him what had happened. Medical assistance was sent for immediately, but when the doctor came life was found to be extinct. His wife had been attended by the doctor for some time but had never before even hinted self-destruction. Nicholas Godfrey, gardener, deposed that on the night in question he saw MR FOGWELL running down the road in a very agitated state, and as he passed he said his wife had hung herself. Witness immediately ran up to the deceased's house and went into the wash house and cut the body down. The knees were resting on the ground. There were no visible signs of life to be seen. Close by he noticed a table with a pail turned upwards on it, but he could not say whether the deceased had reached the rope by means of these. Dr Finch, St. Mary-church, said he had been in attendance on the deceased for some months previous but the last time he was there was the Monday previous to the day in question. She had been suffering from softening of the brain and melancholia. On the previous Monday he called in to see her and found she was much worse and cautioned her husband to watch her. He was called on the Sunday night in question and on his arrival at the house he examined the body and found there was no trace of life. There was a blue mark around the neck caused by the rope. Death was caused by strangulation. He did not think the knees could have been on the ground as the former witness had stated as he had examined the height of the beam. The rope had been tied in a very peculiar manner and death would have taken place in about three minutes. He had never heard that the deceased had attempted any rash act previously. The Deputy Coroner in summing up said that no blame could be attached to anyone. A verdict of "Suicide while in a state of Unsound Mind" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Boating Fatality. - A boating accident occurred in the Hamoaze, Plymouth, on Sunday last, which resulted in the drowning of LOUISA RAWLING, the daughter of a shipwright in the dockyard. She was one of a party of five persons who had engaged a boat for a pleasure trip. An Inquest was held on Monday, when a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Coroner expressing a hope that in future the boatman (Francis) would not allow youngsters to hire boats in stormy weather.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 June 1883
EXETER - An Inquest was held at Exeter on Monday on the body of MR GEORGE DELVES, chemist of High-street, who was found dead in bed on Saturday. MR DELVES was of intemperate habits, and when suffering from the effects of drink he was in the habit of taking bromide of potassium and a saline draught, one of the ingredients of which was prussic acid. In his room were found bottles of the mixture, and Dr Henderson expressed an opinion that MR DELVES met with his death by taking an overdose of prussic acid. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death through Misadventure."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 June 1883
TORQUAY - Singular Death Of A Woman In Torquay. The Inquest. - A Coroner's Jury assembled at the Castle Inn, Union-street, on Tuesday evening to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of ANN ELIZA BOWDEN (31) wife of JAMES BOWDEN, landlord of the White Lion beerhouse, Temperance-street. The Coroner (Mr Sydney Hacker) and the Jury, of whom Mr R. Shinner was the Foreman, having viewed the body, - Annie Dist, 14 years of age, Temperance Place, daughter of Joseph Dist, said she knew MRS BOWDEN and saw her on Saturday at the head of the stairs at the White Lion, having gone there to change a shilling. The deceased was unable to do so, and witness left. This was between one and two o'clock in the afternoon. She believed MR BOWDEN was upstairs because she heard him tell his wife to "come back." She saw that MRS BOWDEN had been crying, and when she came in heard MR BOWDEN "jawing" her. The woman's hair was hanging down. She used to mind the baby at the house and had seen quarrelling and fighting between MR and MRS BOWDEN. When quarrelling they used to throw things about, and she saw MR BOWDEN smack his wife's face. She left about a month since and had not noticed any quarrelling since that time:- By a Juryman: She did not know if they quarrelled a week ago. - In answer to further questions the witness said MRS BOWDEN was not the worse for drink when she saw her on Saturday. MR BOWDEN used to get tipsy, but MRS BOWDEN did not. While witness worked at the house she had seen MRS BOWDEN crying. - Stephen Gay, 38, Union-street, bird dealer, deposed that he knew the deceased well for 14 years. He saw her on Saturday in her own house at 10 o'clock at night, and she served him with some ale. At that time she was in as good health as ever he saw her. No traces of crying were apparent to him. Deceased's husband was sitting at witness's side. He stayed there up to closing time. No words passed between the parties. When the house was closed deceased said "Now Jem, don't stand yarning outside a long time; its past eleven." That was the last he heard of her. BOWDEN'S reply was "All right LIZE," and that was all witness knew. When he left, BOWDEN was standing outside chatting with some persons. BOWDEN had had some drink, but he was very "comfortable," and "in no ways wranglesome." - By a Juryman: Deceased did not speak in an irritating way to her husband. Witness further said that though the deceased might have been a little "out of the way" he could not call him intoxicated. He never saw that MRS BOWDEN was any the worse for liquor on Saturday night. - By a Juror: His private opinion was that MRS BOWDEN was occasionally the worse for liquor. MR BOWDEN was sometimes "wranglesome." He was pretty friendly with MR BOWDEN. - The Coroner: A boon companion of yours? - Witness: No, Sir. - The Coroner: I thought this was a temperance house. - Witness: No, Temperance-street. The witness had seen MRS BOWDEN with bruises on her face, but had never seen BOWDEN strike her. Generally at closing time on Saturday nights BOWDEN was not so "comfortable" as on the night in question. He knew that MRS BOWDEN had had to "fly" out of the house at midnight because of her husband's violence. When he left BOWDEN he was talking to two men named Briggs. He had occasionally prevented BOWDEN striking his wife by crying out to him when he offered to do so. He knew that during the past winter MRS BOWDEN had been kept out in the street at night. The woman had complained to him on several occasions of her husband's violence, and said that he accused her of being drunk. - A Juryman: Do you consider that MRS BOWDEN was what might be called a "little muddled" when you left on Saturday night? - Witness: She might have been muddled, and I might have been muddled also. Witness added that he thought it was two or three weeks back when MRS BOWDEN last complained to him of her husband's behaviour. Deceased and her husband were more than ordinarily quiet on Saturday night. - A Juryman: Was there any dispute between the parties as to the changing of a sovereign? - Witness: That was between a customer and MRS BOWDEN and MR BOWDEN put the matter right. He was not aware that BOWDEN said to his wife "You've no right here; you're not fit to give change." - Mary Cummings, 14 year old, Lower Union Lane, daughter of Robert Cummings, was once a servant at MRS BOWDEN'S, whom she saw on Saturday morning. She saw her again at dinner-time, and had dinner with MR and MRS BOWDEN and their four children. After dinner BOWDEN lay on the sofa and MRS BOWDEN went downstairs. She never heard any quarrelling, nor did she notice that MRS BOWDEN had been crying. All the week she was there she never heard any quarrelling. When she left at 10.30 the woman was all right. In the afternoon MRS BOWDEN complained to her of a pain in the back. She never heard such a complaint from her until that day. The deceased, in addition to speaking about the pain in her back, placed her hand frequently on her chest as though she was also in pain there. At night she did not appear to have taken anything to drink and was in her usual spirits. Witness went out on an errand about tea-time. - Ellen Shears, 4 Temperance-street, dressmaker, wife of John Shears, saw the deceased alive last at noon on Saturday. About one on Sunday morning, after she had gone to bed and to sleep she was awoke by a noise in the street, as though someone was crying "Help." She spoke to her husband, and he said he expected "they were turning out." A little later she heard a knock, but her lodger told her not to go down, because it was a young fellow from next door who had the "blue-devils." The cries of "Help" were continued in a man's voice, and she heard the words "What shall I do; will no one help me?" The cries were certainly not in MRS BOWDEN'S voice. She threw up the window and asked what was the matter and the reply was from a woman, "For god's sake come down, there's something the matter at BOWDEN'S." She ran to BOWDEN'S house and saw MRS BOWDEN lying on the stairs, with BOWDEN standing beside her, crying aloud. "Oh it can't be true! it can't be true!" A Mr Harding, plumber, was there, and a Mrs Gerring. The feet of the deceased were very near the door, and her head was on the second stair. She should think that the body had to be moved before the street door could be opened. She believed her hands were crossed on her body. Her dress was a little raised. Upon her cheek was a mark as though she had struck a stair in falling. - At this point of the Inquiry, a Juryman asked for permission to leave for a few moments, "Somebody" had been taken ill. - The Coroner: A member of your family? - The Juryman: No, it's a horse. (Laughter). The Coroner said he could not allow the Juror to leave on this account. - Witness, continuing her evidence, said she noticed that something appeared to be wrong with the deceased's teeth, and that she looked much older. She waited until a doctor came, and heard BOWDEN say that he fell asleep over the newspaper and that when he went downstairs he found his wife lying there. BOWDEN was in his usual dress. He was very much agitated. Nothing led her to the supposition that BOWDEN had been drinking. When she touched the body she found it was "three-parts" cold. Witness had heard many rows in the parties' house, but had never seen BOWDEN strike his wife. She called the disturbances "nagging." - By a Juror: She did not hear the woman shriek about one o'clock. She would not swear positively that it was a man's voice she heard, but was almost sure it was. She had seen the deceased the worse for drink. On the previous Thursday the witness was speaking to MRS BOWDEN, when she pulled out some false teeth and said "Look here; they're broken and if I'm not careful they'll choke me; I nearly swallowed them the other day." - Mr Gordon Cumming, M.R.C.S., practising in Torquay, said he was called to the case on Sunday morning at 1.30 and found MRS BOWDEN lying at the bottom of the stairs dead. The body was lying almost at full length, with the head on the third or fourth step. On examining the corpse he found the limbs sound, and so far as he could then see there were no marks on the head or face, with the exception of a scratch on the nose and a line across the left cheek, which he believed was a post mortem mark made by the face having rested against the edge of a stair. The body was slightly warm, and the face calm. Probably it had lain in the pace he found it for half-an-hour. On the following day he made a further examination with a view of discovering any bruises which might exist, but found none. His attention was then drawn to the presence of some false teeth which had dropped from their place to the back of the deceased's mouth. On Monday morning he made his post mortem examination. Having removed the scalp he found no marks at all about the head. On opening the body he found that fatty degeneration of the heart was commencing, and that organ had the appearance of being affected. The liver was enlarged. He opened the windpipe from below and found that the teeth had not passed back into the pipe and were not the cause of death. His opinion was that the condition of the heart may have been the cause of death. The liver had the appearance of an organ belonging to a person who took alcohol. The kidneys were not healthy, but not much diseased. The heart was one which a person might have who died under the administration of chloroform, and in regard to whom a medical man could not state before a Coroner that the heart was actually diseased. His impression was that the woman did not fall down the stairs; she might have fallen back against the stairs. There was no displacement or bruise such as would in all likelihood result from a fall down the stairs. - By a Juror: The false teeth would very likely fall back to the throat when the subject was dead. If his opinion of the cause of death were correct the woman would have died without a struggle. He did not think the body had been dragged about. Besides there was very much difficulty in lifting a dead body. - Mr R. Butland, one of the Jurors, remarked that a man dropped dead beside him not long since, and he found no great difficulty in raising and placing the body on his knees. - P.C. Way said that on Sunday morning about 12.45 he was on duty in Union-street, when he heard cries for help in a man's voice, and proceeded into Temperance-street. He found JAMES BOWDEN in the street outside his house, the door being partially open. Being asked the matter he said he thought his wife was dead. Witness proceeded into the house and found the woman on the stairs. He brought Dr Cumming to the place. The position of the body was not changed while he was away. BOWDEN told him that about half-past ten he had a few words with his wife over changing a sovereign, and he then told her she was a bigger fool than ever she was, little thinking these would be the last words he would ever speak to her. He went upstairs just after 11 to get his supper and then took up the newspaper to read. He fell asleep and when he woke up he went to his bed, but not finding his wife there, he went down stairs and fell over something at the bottom. Lighting up the gas, he found his wife lying there, and, thinking she was in liquor, as she had been before, took her up in his arms. She fell back helpless and on looking at her he thought she was dead, and ran out into the street. - JAMES AUSTEN BOWDEN, the husband of the deceased, was then called. - The Coroner, addressing him, said it was his duty, before asking him whether he would give any evidence, to inform him that he was not obliged to make a statement, inasmuch as this might turn out to be a serious inquiry, but if he wished to make any statement, he might do so. Such statement, however, would be taken down, and might be given in evidence against him on some future occasion. - BOWDEN said he had no desire to make any statement whatever, but any question they wished to put to him he wished to answer straightforwardly. Any light that he could throw upon the matter he would. - The Coroner: do you wish the Jury to take your evidence as to the cause of death? - BOWDEN: I don't know the cause of death. - The Coroner: Do you wish to be sworn, and to give evidence? - BOWDEN: I do. - Having been sworn, BOWDEN, who laboured under some emotion while he spoke, said: I live at the White Lion in Temperance-street. I am a mason by trade, and a beer-house keeper. The cause of the death I don't know. The only thing I can say is this. At 20 minutes past 11 last Saturday night, the date of which I forget, she left me in her usual strength and spirits to go down stairs to wash the glasses and get my supper. I took a paper to read, and I heard her go down the stairs as distinct as ever I heard in my life. I never heard her afterwards. While she was away I fell asleep over the paper. After some time I woke up and found my wife wasn't there. And then I thought she was gone to bed. I jumped up and turned out the gas as usual, as I have done before when I have been over-tired, and went into the bedroom to go to bed. I looked round and saw my wife wasn't there. I called her three or four times, "LIZA, where are you?" I went down over the stairs, and put my foot against her. I shook her and tried to wake her and said "Come to bed." I took her up and I thought there was something wrong, something unusual. I lit the gas in the passage, and she was dead. I called for assistance. That is all I have to say. I don't know any more. I could not bring myself to believe it. - The Coroner shortly summed up the evidence, and the Jury considered their verdict. The Jury found, after a few minutes deliberation, that the deceased died from Natural Causes, as described by the medical man. The Jury added to this an expression of opinion that the house was not fit for the business carried on in it, and further that it appeared to be unnecessary for the neighbourhood. The case excited considerable interest, and a number of people collected outside the inn awaiting the verdict.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 July 1883
KINGSWEAR - The Suicide In The Harbour. - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry on Monday at the Royal Yacht Hotel, Kingswear, into the cause of the death of CAROL HEINRICH BENJAMIN HARNACK, the German sailor who committed suicide by hanging himself on board the German cervette Niobe. Mr James Paddon was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the proceedings were watched by Lieut. Von Heiringen on behalf of Capt. Koester, and Mr J. H. Cumming acted as interpreter. Several witnesses were examined, and the Jury, after a short deliberation, returned a verdict of Suicide, but in what state of mind the deceased was there was no evidence to show.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 July 1883
PLYMOUTH - A verdict of Manslaughter was returned by a Coroner's Jury at Plymouth, on Tuesday evening, against a labourer named Robert Matthews. Matthews on Friday last was struggling with another labourer called FRANCIS DRAKE in a room in Middle-lane, when a paraffin lamp in the room was overturned, and so severely burned DRAKE that he died in the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital on Monday from the injuries so received.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 July 1883
ASHBURY - Sad Death Of A Devonshire Magistrate. - Intelligence reached Okehampton during Monday of the death of MR HENRY WOOLLCOMBE , of Ashbury, eldest son of the Venerable Archdeacon WOOLLCOMBE. No definite information could be obtained as to the cause of his death, but it was rumoured that last week he sustained a slight sunstroke, and that he was found dead with a gun lying near him. The deceased, who was married, and has a family, was heir to the Ashbury Estates, which are rather extensive. He was a Justice of the Peace and took an active part in the Okehampton Board of Guardians, Highway Board and other local bodies. Another correspondent states that about ten o'clock on Monday morning John Blatchford, the gamekeeper, was going his rounds, when he was horrified at finding his master lying on his left side in a gateway, to all appearances dead, with a double-barrelled gun near him. One barrel had been discharged, the charge having entered the mouth. MR WOOLLCOMBE had lately been suffering from insomnia, for which he had received medical treatment. On Monday, however, he rose at the accustomed hour, and in accordance with his practice, saw his men, giving them their orders for the day. He then appears to have fetched a gun from the gunroom, and left the house. This proceeding was quite in accordance with his usual custom, as he very often went out with his gun before breakfast. Nothing more was seen of him until he was found as described. On Sunday the deceased attended the parish church at Ashbury, and read the lessons for the day. At the Inquest the Jury found that the deceased committed Suicide in a fit of Temporary Insanity, induced by sunstroke.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 August 1883
PLYMOUTH - MR TOLHURST, cashier of Messrs. Glyn, Mills, and Currie's Bank, Lombard-street, London, while staying at the Farley Hotel, Plymouth, on Tuesday night, committed suicide by cutting his throat with a razor. At the Inquest held on Wednesday evening the Jury found that the deceased died by his own hand, but that there was not sufficient evidence as to the state of his mind at the time. It was stated, however, that on his arrival at Plymouth on Tuesday from London he seemed somewhat depressed in spirits.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 August 1883
TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of A Child. - An Inquest was held in the Town Hall on Tuesday morning for the purpose of Enquiring into the circumstances attending the death of an infant child named ELIZA MARTIN HANLEY, daughter of SUSAN HANLEY, who resides at Perrott's Buildings. - SUSAN HANLEY stated that she was a widow. The child, which was hers, was named ELIZA MARTIN HANLEY, and was ten weeks old. She usually put it out to nurse from eight o'clock in the morning to six in the evening. She was employed at the marine stores in Temperance Street. On Saturday a woman who was named Ann Shields, came to her and told her the child was not well. Witness knew that it had not been well since its birth. She put the child to bed at six o'clock, but it awoke about nine and she took it to bed again at half-past ten. It was alive at two o'clock in the morning, but at half-past four when the father of the child (WM. MARTIN), who was going fishing, got up, she (witness) was aroused and on kissing the child, found that its face was cold. She told the father to fetch some one, and one of the neighbours came in and the child was found to be dead. - Mr Gordon Cumming stated that he made a post mortem examination of the body of the child and found that it had been suffering from inflammation and consolidation of the left lung. The stomach was empty and as the child before death had been suffering from sickness and diarrhoea he should say that was the cause of death. The child was very small but moderately nourished and there was nothing to show that it had been neglected. Ann Shields stated that she was the nurse and that the child had regularly been given good. She noticed that it had been poorly and the mother stated that she should take it to the doctor. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 31 August 1883
ILFRACOMBE - Suicide Of A Devonshire County Magistrate. - An Inquest was held on Monday at Ilfracombe, on the body of MR NATHANIEL VYE, county magistrate, who committed suicide on Sunday by shooting himself with a revolver. The evidence went to show that the deceased had been suffering from melancholia since the death of his sister a few months ago, and a constable discovered him dying, with a bullet wound through the roof of the mouth. "Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity" was the verdict returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 September 1883
KINGSTEIGNTON - Sudden Death At Kingsteignton. - An Inquest was held by Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, at Kingsteignton, yesterday, relative to the death of MR THOMAS PHILIP KNOWLES, butcher, 27 years of age, who died on Tuesday night very suddenly. Evidence was given to the effect that the deceased was apparently in his usual health up to the time of his death, but Mr Ley stated that MR KNOWLES had suffered for some time from severe affection of the heart, and in his opinion death resulted from syncope. The Jury, of which the Rev. P. Jackson was Foreman, returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 October 1883
TORQUAY - Sad Death Of A Torquay Lodging House Keeper. - At the Avenue Inn, Belgrave Road, on Wednesday morning, an Inquiry was held before Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, and a Jury of whom Mr T. F. Graham was Foreman, into the circumstances attending the death of JAMES WADE (72) lodging-house keeper, of Stonehall, Belgrave Crescent. The first witness called was LOUISA WADE, wife of the deceased, who gave evidence of identification. She added that she saw her husband about an hour before the accident happened - between 11 and 12 o'clock on Monday morning - when he went upstairs as usual to clean some windows. While she was in the scullery she heard a fall and when she looked out found her husband lying close to the door, insensible. She then sought assistance. Death ensued about four o'clock in the same evening. Witness thought her husband was in the habit of passing from one window to another when engaged in cleaning them. He had done this work for years, but she had always a horror of it. Apparently he had fallen from the staircase window. - Alfred W. Lewis, living next door to the last witness, said on Monday morning he was called by MRS WADE'S servant, and on going out he saw the deceased lying in the area with his head in a corner. He went for a doctor, and afterwards took the man inside, going again to seek for a medical man. After going to the residences of half-a-dozen he found Dr Midgley Cash. He noticed that the deceased had an open wound at the back of the head and was also bruised. He thought WADE had come into contact with some projecting slates in the fall, because they had been broken away and some pieces lay in the area. - Mr J. B. Richardson, surgeon, said he saw the deceased soon after the accident. He was suffering from a severe wound on the side of the head and a contusion on one of the temples. Dr Dalby and Dr Cash were also present. They did all they could, but WADE gradually sank and died about four o'clock. The cause of death was fracture of the skull and compression of the brain. There was nothing to show that the deceased had had a paralytic stroke or anything of the kind. Probably the injury to the head was caused by a fall on the slates alluded to. The Coroner having briefly summed up the evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 October 1883
TORQUAY - Distressing Fatality In Torquay. - On Wednesday afternoon a most distressing accident occurred in Torquay, exciting much sympathy on account of the fact that the victim was well-known and popular in the town and also because his life was lost while engaged in so simple a matter as recovering a blown-off hat. MR F. T. ROLPH, confectioner, of Victoria Parade, son of MRS ROLPH, widow, was walking on Daddy Hole Plain, when the high wind which was blowing carried away his hat. In attempting to reach it he seems to have lost his footing, and though the lacerated condition of his hands shows that he struggled hard to recover himself, he fell down a precipice 200 feet high, and was instantaneously killed. The full particulars of the sad affair will be found below. - The Inquest. - The Inquest on the body was held by Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, at the Infirmary yesterday afternoon,. The evidence was as follows:- Walter Phillips, 6 Abbey Road, banker's clerk, identified the body as that of FREDERICK THOMAS ROLPH. He proceeded (speaking with emotion): I was with him yesterday. We went for a walk on Daddy Hole Plain about a quarter after three. There was no one else with us. We went towards the cliffs to look at a vessel underneath. We saw her go about, and we turned to come back again. In turning round, deceased's hat blew off. We had gone down the grass slope by Major Bridson's wall about 100 feet; there is a precipice at the end of the slope. People walk on this slope. His hat went over the cliff some distance further off, down to the beach under Daddyhole. There was a very high wind blowing at the time. He went to the edge of the cliff to see the hat fall; took his over-coat off, and put his stick down, saying "Take hold of my coat." I said "Don't go down there," and called to him twice to come back. I saw him, as I leaned over the cliff, disappear around the ledge of a rock below, and then I saw him tumble and fall on a rock underneath where I was,. I never heard him call out. I didn't see him climbing. He pitched on his shoulder after falling about 10 feet, and then he glanced off and fell amongst the rocks. I ran across the Plain and went down by the path. When I got to the place I found him lying at the foot of the cliff, dead, amongst the rocks. He was above high water mark. I think he must have been dead when I got to him. He was lying on his back. He did not tell me he was going to fetch the hat, but I understood that such was the case. I believe Daddy Hole was a favourite resort of his. I called to the coastguard for help as I was going down and also to some other men and they came down after me. I got some water and put on his face, but he made no movement. I saw the body placed in a cab and driven away, I am not aware how he came to slip. The wind might have taken him down; it was very high. - By the Jury: I think he was accustomed to climb about the cliffs. The hat has since been found by a man named Harley. It is about 200 feet from the place deceased fell to where he was found. - Felix Edward Haarer, brother-in-law of the deceased, said MR ROLPH was a cook by occupation. He was 22 years old last birthday. Witness knew nothing of the particulars of the occurrence, but saw the deceased when he reached the Infirmary. - Joseph Neno, a coastguard of the Torquay Station, said:- About a quarter to four on Wednesday afternoon I was standing about 100 yards from the coastguard station at Daddyhole, when Mr Phillips cried out to me that a man had fallen over the cliffs. I ran after him, down the zig-zag path. When I got to the body Mr Phillips had his hat full of water, washing the blood off the face. There were two foreign persons also present. We four lifted the body into an easier position and Mr Phillips asked me if I thought he was dead. I said I thought he was. His mouth was full of blood and his head was bleeding. I ran for more hands to help him up the cliff and more coastguards went down with some sacking, while I took a cab and went for Dr Dalby. I afterwards drove to Mr Huxley and to Mr Pollard and Mr Cumming, but none of them were able to come. So I drove back to the Plain, and put the corpse, which had been brought up by this time, into the cab, and went to the Infirmary. The face of the cliff, looking up from where the body was found, is nearly perpendicular. There is no foothold for a human being. I should think he fell 200 feet. The top of the cliff is much frequented, and there are rails in order to prevent persons going over the cliff. The occurrence took place just on the left of the flagstaff. Deceased must have got over the rails, and I think that either his foot slipped or the wind sent him over. Anybody going down there who made the slightest slip must go to the bottom. You might walk down about 40 yards before the cliff becomes sheer. - Frederick Thomas Thistle, house-surgeon at the Torbay Infirmary, said: I saw the deceased after he was brought to the Infirmary, about 4.45. He was then quite dead. I examined the body. The chief injury I found was a fracture at the base of the skull. The hands were scratched a great deal. No limbs were broken. - The Coroner then summed up. He remarked that the case was a very distressing one, but the duty of the Jury in regard to it was very simple, inasmuch as the evidence was so clear as to the accidental nature of the occurrence. There was nothing to show whether the deceased missed his foothold or was blown over, but that was a matter of detail which would not affect the result. The Jury knew the nature of the ground where the accident happened, and if they had any recommendation to make they could make it. - A Juror said that the Local Board had already done all that was necessary for the protection of the public on the Plain. The Jury immediately found a verdict of "Accidental Death." - At the conclusion of the proceedings the Jury expressed their deep sympathy with MRS ROLPH in her sad bereavement. The funeral of the deceased takes place on Monday at the Torquay Cemetery, at 11 o'clock.

TORQUAY - Suspicious Death Of A Woman In Torquay. - At Giles's Torbay Inn on Monday morning, Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of HELEN CROKER, of 5 Brunswick Terrace, Torre, in regard to which the following evidence was given. - JOHN BROWN, Wellesley Cottage, Ellacombe, labourer, identified the body as that of HELEN CROKER, who was his wife's sister. She was 42 years of age; widow of EMMANUEL CROKER, a labourer. On Friday evening witness saw the deceased, who had lately lived with a man named Robert Gale, at his house, where she had been working for his wife. This was the last time he saw the woman alive. He knew that Robert Gale had served the deceased badly, and she had left him, but he had gone and brought her back. She was pretty cheerful on Friday, but in the early part of the week she had been very unwell. It was witness's opinion that starvation and ill-usage caused the woman's death. He believed that Gale was present when death took place. He was not aware that she suffered from anything but starvation and ill-usage. - By the Jury: He was not aware that any bruises had been found on the deceased's body. - Ann Dally, 5 Brunswick Terrace, who lived in the same house as CROKER, said the deceased occupied a room for which she paid 1s. 9d. per week. Gale did not pay the rent, but the deceased always did. What meals she had she took in her own room. Witness thought she had not been well of late. Some little time since she found MRS CROKER unconscious and frothing at the mouth. Witness thought the woman was subject to spasms. On Monday and Tuesday week she remained in bed, but on Wednesday she was able to go to work. A woman named Jane Hill, living in the same house, paid some attention to deceased. She had seen nothing take place between Gale and the woman. The former had been away, and came back on the 2nd instant, after which time he did not leave the house, as the police had a warrant out against him in connection with a drunken case. Witness did not hear the parties quarrelling all the time they were in her house. On Saturday morning last the man Gale came down about 8 o'clock and called to witness, asking her to come upstairs because "she had dropped down." When she got up she found the woman lying on the floor at the foot of the bed, unable to speak, and just breathing. She was not frothing at the mouth as on the previous occasion. Witness got her into bed and attended to her. She remarked to Gale that she thought the woman was dying, to which he replied "Oh nonsense, she's not dying." She then summoned the sons of the woman, and sent for a doctor. When Mr Wills came she was almost gone. The witness saw her die - about 8.15. From the first to the last she never spoke. There were no bruises upon the body. No money, no papers, or effects of any kind were left in the room. - Mr W. Wills, surgeon, said he was called to see the deceased at 8 o'clock on Saturday morning. She was dead when he arrived, and had probably been so about five minutes. There had been no convulsions or perspiration denoting a death struggle. An external examination showed no traces of ill-usage. Gale told her that she had got out of bed to dress, fell down, and died. The cause of death, he had no doubt, was heart disease. Three or four days previous he had been asked to come and see MRS CROKER, but did not do so. The Coroner summed up the evidence, saying that in the first instance the case had appeared a serious one and attended by suspicious circumstances, but the Inquiry had shown pretty conclusively that there had been no ill-treatment of the woman by Gale, and that death had resulted from Natural Causes. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 December 1883
TORQUAY - Suicide In Torquay. - Mr Sidney Hacker, the district Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Townhall on Friday evening into the circumstances touching the death of ELIZABETH ROBERTS, widow, of No. 1, Bethel Cottages, Ellacombe, whose body was found on the morning of the previous day on Torre Abbey Sands, as reported in last week's Torquay Times. - WILLIAM ROBERTS, coachman, residing at 19, Market-street, identified the body as that of his mother. She was a widow, 58 years of age, and supported herself by doing a little sewing. He last saw her alive on the previous Sunday morning. She was then rather excited. Of late she had been suffering from cancer of the mouth and throat. - Thomas Priston, boot and shoe maker, residing at No. 5, Victoria Terrace, Ellacombe, stated that he saw the body between eight and nine o'clock on Torre Abbey Sands. The water was washing over it. The body was lying face downwards. With assistance he pulled it out. The face had several cuts and bruises. - James Williams, gardener, Cavern-road, Ellacombe, corroborated the last witness's evidence. - P.C. Trott stated that, from information he received, he went, in company with two other constables, to the Torre Abbey Sands, and found the body of the deceased. They conveyed it to the mortuary. The only thing that was found on it was a pocket-handkerchief with the initials "E.R." on it. A jacket had been found on the sands, but it had not been identified as belonging to the deceased. - Mr Gordon Cumming, surgeon, stated that he had examined the body, and found several bruises and cuts on the head, and scratches on the fingers. The fact that the blood was on the face was remarkable, as this would not have occurred after death. His opinion was that the cause of death was drowning. The appearance of the body led him to the conclusion that the woman had fallen on some rocks and fainted, and ultimately been drowned. - Eliza Gidley, residing at No. 1, Bethel Cottages, Ellacombe, stated that the deceased lodged at her house. She saw her on Wednesday night last. She had been in a very desponding state. Dr Powell came to see her on Wednesday evening, and witness gave her medicine at a quarter-past nine, and did not see her after that time. She found in the morning when she came down that the back door was open. Nothing in her room was disturbed. - Dr Powell said he had known the deceased for several years. When he last saw her she complained of a severe pain in her head. She was in a weak, nervous condition; but not suffering from any positive disease. Hannah Fogwell recognised the jacket as that of her sister, ELIZABETH ROBERTS. The last time she saw her wearing it was on Saturday week. A verdict of "Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 January 1884
NEWTON ABBOT - Child Murder. - Before the Newton magistrates, on Saturday, REBECCA LOVERIDGE, wife of a horse dealer, was charged with the murder of her child at Kingsteignton. The evidence showed that the woman knocked at a gipsy's van in the market place, and on being admitted said she had drowned her child, the body of which was subsequently found by the police. She was wet through and the solicitor who appeared for the defence cross-examined the witnesses to ascertain whether she might not have got in this condition in bringing the child from the deep part of the pond to the bank near which it was discovered. Nothing was elicited to warrant the presumption that the unfortunate woman attempted to commit suicide. The case was adjourned. At the Inquest was opened in the evening the husband stated that he had lived happily with his wife, but on Thursday he called her lazy, and this appeared to weigh heavily on her mind. The prisoner was subsequently committed for trial at the Assizes.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 January 1884
TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of An Epileptic In Torquay,. - Mr Sidney Hacker, the district Coroner, held an Inquest at Motton's Country House Hotel, Ellacombe, on Friday night on the body of WILLIAM JEFFREY HARRIS, an imbecile, who died suddenly under circumstances which were briefly related in last week's Torquay Times. - SAMUEL HARRIS was the first witness called. He said he lived at 4 Orchard Cottages, Ellacombe, and was a cow keeper. The deceased was his brother and was 40 years of age last birthday. He was incapable of following any employment and had been dependent for support upon the witness for nine years and three months. He was an imbecile and perfectly helpless in every respect. No moneys had been received for his keep from any person and the witness had not applied to the authorities of his parish (Staverton) for relief on his behalf. The deceased had been always subject to fits and they had come upon him more frequently than usual during the last six months, he having been free of them for two or three years anterior to that period,. Mr Pollard was the medical man who attended him and he visited him last about three-and-a-half years ago, upon which occasion he said there was nothing to be done for the patient when he was seized with a fit, but to bathe his head and keep him cool. Generally speaking HARRIS'S appetite was good and he occasionally took a little exercise, but never went into the streets, witness preventing this because he feared that the boys might tease him. Answering the Coroner, the witness said he had never taken his brother out for a walk; he was very feeble and unable to move about without assistance. His death took place on the previous Tuesday morning. Witness saw him alive last about 4.45 a.m., at which time he was in bed. His wife remained up with him during Monday night because he appeared unwell, having had a slight fit. On that morning he asked his brother how he was, and he made no answer at the time, but afterwards said he was poorly. Before leaving, witness advised his wife to send for a doctor. About nine o'clock his son came to tell him that his brother was dead, and he ceased work and went home. On arriving home he found WILLIAM dead in bed. No medical man was then present, but ne had been sent for. - In answer to further questions from the Coroner, witness said that his wife had charge of his brother and supplied his wants. He had never expressed any wish to go out. At no time had he any occupation, but passed the time away in looking at pictures and books. - MARY ANN HARRIS, wife of the last witness, being first asked as to Monday's occurrences, said the deceased was in bed all day on that date. It was her practice to dress him only two or three times a week. He was not too unwell to get up on that day, and he did not say he wanted to remain in bed; however, she did not get him up. During the nine years the deceased had been with them he was mostly in bed, being unable to dress himself. He was up last on the previous Saturday. On the Monday he ate heartily of boiled rice and milk and oatmeal. At twelve o'clock at night he called for some drink, and was supplied with it. witness did not see him have any fit on Monday evening. She saw him next a little after four o'clock on Tuesday morning, and as he did not then seem very well, she made him a cup of tea, which he drank, eating at that time a piece of bread and butter. A little after eight o'clock she saw a change; he was convulsed and died. - In answer to the Coroner, the witness said that when they received the deceased into their home he had no property of any kind. There was another brother besides her husband, and a sister in London. Her husband took him merely because he should not fall into other hands. Deceased's father was a person who was incapable of taking care of himself, and he died in a similar manner. Deceased was in the habit of coming downstairs at one time, but he had not been down within the last twelve months. He was unable to walk without assistance. - The evidence of Mr Richardson, surgeon, was that he visited HARRIS'S house so soon as he could find it, and examined the deceased. He was one of those unfortunates who suffer from chronic water on the brain and who are liable to epileptic fits. His opinion was that the man had an attack of indigestion which produced an epileptic fit from which he died. There were no marks on the body and considering its deformed condition, it was fairly well nourished. The deceased appeared to have had ordinary care paid to his wants. - Mary Ann Ireland, a neighbour, gave evidence to the effect that she never saw the deceased until the morning of his death, when MRS HARRIS called her into the house. She saw the man dead in bed under the circumstances related by MRS HARRIS. The Coroner summed up the evidence, observing that no blame seemed to attach to deceased's relatives and the Jury found a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 February 1884
TOTNES - Sad Fatality At Totnes. - On Tuesday afternoon, Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquest at the Totnes Guildhall, on the body of MRS ELLIS, who met her death on the previous Saturday by a tree falling on her whilst going home from Totnes market in the terrific gale which prevailed that afternoon. Mr Windeatt, solicitor, watched the case on behalf of the friends of the deceased. The Jury, of whom Mr F. G. Putt was chosen Foreman, having viewed the body at the Kingsbridge Inn, proceeded to the scene of the accident and then to the Guildhall. - MR RICHARD LANGWORTHY ELLIS, residing at Parson's Park, Harbertonford, identified the body as that of his wife, SOPHIA ELLIS, who, he stated was 39 years old. He deposed to being at Totnes market on Saturday with deceased, and of their driving away together to go home. Just after passing Highfield House, they saw a trap coming towards them with two men in it, and directly after passing them, he heard a tree crack, which fell immediately upon them and they were buried. As soon as he recovered himself he saw the horse was dead and found his wife was crushed under the heavy top of the tree. The two men came back and helped him out and then they tried to extricate his wife, but this could not be done until some further assistance was obtained and the branches of the tree cut away, when they found she was dead. He was struck in the hip and in the eye. - George Tucker, living at Bowden Turnpike Cottages, and in the employ of Mr Killock, of Highfield, gave evidence of the position in which the deceased was lying under the tree, and that a heavy branch appeared to have struck her on the head and shoulder. He assisted to get the body out, and had since examined the roots of the two trees which fell. There was nothing to show how they came down, and the roots were not decayed. - By Mr Windeatt: He had not noticed any signs of weakness in the trees, nor during the past five or six years had he received any intimation to take down any of the trees on account of being dangerous. - Mr R. Telley, surgeon, Totnes, next deposed to being called to the spot, and found deceased quite dead on his arrival. She was struck on the base of the skull and her ribs were fractured, which caused instant death. He considered these trees dangerous and about two years ago there was one blown across the road near the same spot. He added that at Follaton and other places there were many trees which were unsafe, but, in reply to the Coroner, he said he had not before made any complaint, as he did not consider it within his province to do so. - The Coroner having summed up the evidence, the Jury retired, and after a short time returned with a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider recommending that the owners of the trees on both sides of the road be requested to examine them, and take down any that were found dangerous. - Mr t. C. Kellock, the owner of the property from which the tree fell causing the death of MRS ELLIS, said no one regretted the occurrence more than he did. He thought it was right to say he had never received any intimation of the roots of the trees being unsound. He had on more than one occasion - as one of the Jury (Mr Foster) could testify - examined the trees on his land, and any that had been found dangerous he had had them taken down. Mr Kellock added that Mr Foster and himself would see that the trees standing were sound or have them removed.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 February 1884
TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of An Infant. - On Monday evening, Mr S. Hacker, the District Coroner, held an Inquest at the Devon Arms, Torquay, on the body of HAROLD GILPIN, aged nine weeks, who died suddenly under circumstances which called for Inquiry. - WILLIAM THOMAS GILPIN, of 3 Madrepore-road, carpenter, the father of the deceased, said the child caught cold on the previous Wednesday. During the early part of Thursday it became worse, but at night rallied. His wife and himself remained up until one o'clock with it, and some medicine was administered. The child was then put to bed, and appeared to be sleeping naturally, but the witness having been awakened by his wife about seven o'clock on Friday morning, found the little one dead. Dressing himself he went to call Mr Richardson. - In answer to the Coroner, GILPIN said that two other young children of his had died - one at three months, and one at ten months of age. - ANN GILPIN, the mother of the child, said it had been a fairly healthy child from its birth. When she saw it was suffering from a cold she applied the usual remedies,. On the Thursday she administered some medicine which she had procured from a druggist, and sleep ensued. During the night she awoke twice, and saw on each occasion that her child was sleeping. In the morning, however, she found it dead as described by her husband. She was positive she had not overlain it. - Mr J. B. Richardson, surgeon, deposed that he was called to the case. Inasmuch as he had not seen the child during life he could not give a certificate. By the direction of the Coroner he had since made a post mortem examination. The body was that of a well nourished child between two and three months old. On opening the chest he examined the lungs, and found that with the exception of a small portion of the apex of the left lung the whole was consolidated. The lower half of the right lung was in the same condition. Inflammation of the lungs was the cause of death. The case had some medical interest from the circumstance that it demonstrated that lung inflammation might be as rapid in causing death as poison, and be unattended with any serious symptoms. - The Jury, of whom Mr J. Dodge was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," accompanied by an expression of opinion that the parents of the child had not failed in their duty under the circumstances.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 February 1884
TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of An Infant. - Mr Edmonds, solicitor, of Totnes, acting for Mr Sydney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquiry at Motton's County House Hotel, Ellacombe, on Wednesday forenoon, touching the death of WILLIAM HENRY HONEYWILL, the infant son of ELIZABETH HONEYWILL, who died suddenly on Saturday last. - Dr Midgley Cash said he attended the child last on January 14th, when it was suffering from a cold but was not seriously ill. On Saturday last he was informed that it had died, and in pursuance of instructions from Mr Edmonds he made a post mortem examination. The body was well nourished, devoid of any external marks. There was congestion of the membranes of the brain and of the large veins inside the skull. Otherwise the organs were healthy. In the absence of other evidence he was of opinion that death resulted from the congestion of which he had spoken, which would arise from natural causes. - ELIZABETH HONEYWILL, general servant, whose natural child the deceased was, said the baby was five months old and had been taken care of by a woman in Ellacombe, whom she paid for its maintenance at the rate of 4s. per week. She called Dr Cash in to see it a month ago but since that time the child had been in good health. She saw it last on the Friday evening and on Saturday noon she was informed that it had died in a fit. The baby was seen by her once a week. Mrs Lane, who had charge of it, always attended to it to her satisfaction. - Rose Lane, wife of Thomas Lane, 9 Garfield-terrace, said she had taken charge of the child for seven weeks, during which time it was never in good health, being very subject to chills and so on. On Saturday it appeared to be in remarkably good condition, but about 12 o'clock, while she had it upon her knees, a fit came on it and sudden death resulted. She did not send for a doctor because it was her custom first to let the mother know if anything was wanting and the mother had sent the doctor when necessary. - The Coroner in summing up, pointed out that it was evident that death had come about naturally and said no blame was attached to the mother of the child nor to its nurse. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 21 March 1884
TORQUAY - A Woman Drowned At Babbacombe. - At the Globe Hotel, Babbacombe, on Saturday evening, an Inquest was held by Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, on the body of EMMA REED, aged 30, who was found drowned on Oddicombe Beach by Mr C. Lawton, on the previous night. From the evidence of Mary Ann Heath, deceased's landlady, and ELIZABETH MAYO, deceased's half-sister, of Hele, it appeared that REED was in a low, desponding state, arising from physical weakness, brought about by a fall over some stairs when she was 15 years old, and this had affected her brain. She scarcely ever went out of doors. She was last seen alive on the previous Thursday night, when her landlady took her her supper in bed. In the morning the front door was found unlocked, and deceased was missing. Search was made for her, and on the evening of Friday, Mr C. Lawton, who is staying at Babbacombe, discovered the body on Oddicombe Beach, where it had been washed in by the waves. - The evidence of Dr Chilcott, of St Marychurch, who had attended the deceased, went to show that she was always in a low, desponding state, and that death had resulted from drowning. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 April 1884
TORQUAY - Suicide In Torquay. - Mr Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquiry in the Townhall yesterday into the circumstances attending the death of EDWARD BENNETT, carpenter, aged 59 years, who resided in Bedford-row, Stentiford's Hill. - EDWARD JOHN BENNETT, son of the deceased, said the last time he saw him alive was on Monday morning. On Tuesday evening he went into a little outbuilding, about half-past six o'clock, where he is in the habit of working occasionally, and there found his father hanging from a beam. He cut him down, but believed he was dead. The body was warm. Witness then sent for assistance. The deceased had been out of employment since last August, and he was afflicted with a bad arm. These circumstances preyed upon his mind. More than twelve months since he tried to hang himself behind his bedroom door, but was prevented. He did not say on that occasion what made him attempt to take his life, although he was asked to do so. Between that time and this he had appeared more cheerful and had made no further effort to destroy himself. Deceased's wife did some laundry work to help support him. He was a fairly temperate man. Witness did not know where he obtained the cord (a very thin one) with which he hanged himself. Fourteen years ago he went away, leaving his wife and family, and remained absent nine years. He had been subject to fits, and rheumatism had troubled him. - MARY BENNETT, wife of the deceased, testified that he conducted himself as usual on Tuesday, excepting that he was rather irritable. She saw him between six and seven o'clock in the kitchen, and he then went out without saying where he was going, smoking his pipe at the time. His arm had been more painful than usual during the day, and he said it was so bad he could hardly bear it. No quarrel had taken place between them. She did not recognise the cord produced. When he attempted to take his life twelve months ago he accounted for it by saying that he was suffering great pain. She was not aware the deceased had any intoxicants to drink on Tuesday. He frequently had epileptic fits. She believed that her husband tried to destroy himself on still another occasion, but she did not know the particulars. - Mary Ann Lethbridge, Bedford Cottage, Stentiford's Hill, said that she was at work at deceased's house on Tuesday. BENNETT was there, and complained of much pain in his arm and leg. She saw him leave the kitchen about six o'clock; he went off in a pettish way, but he was sober. She did not think he was always in his right mind. - Mr E. A. Dalby, surgeon, said he found the deceased in bed at his house. Life was quite extinct. Death was caused by suffocation. Deceased's infirmities would tend to affect his mind. - P.C. Webber said on Tuesday evening about 7.20 he was called to Bedford Row and found the deceased lying in his son's arms. A pipe and tobacco box and some small articles were found on his person. He was shewn the place wherein BENNETT hanged himself; the beam was about 6ft. 6in. high, and it appeared that his feet must have touched the ground. - The Coroner in summing up, and in allusion to the possibility of a verdict of felo de se being returned, reminded the Jury that the law had been altered so that the body of a person who committed suicide might receive burial in the ordinary way instead of being interred without religious rites between nine and twelve o'clock at night. It was well that Jurors should know this. The Jury found that BENNETT hanged himself while in an Unsound State of Mind.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 2 May 1884
BLACKAWTON - Sad Occurrence Near Blackawton. - On Tuesday morning the wife of MR HUGH C. SHORTLANDS was found drowned in a pond belonging to her father, MR W. PERCY DIMES, of Oldstone, near Blackawton. As far as can be ascertained the unfortunate lady was last seen alive on Monday, about noon, when she returned to her father's house from her usual ride, after which she took a walk, as it is supposed, around the grounds, having with her, her favourite dog. The animal returned to the house shortly afterwards, and it was noticed that it was wet. No alarm was, however, felt, as MRS SHORTLANDS very often visited her sister, MRS JOHN SHAPLEY, at Cotterbury, about half-a-mile distant. As evening drew on MRS SHORTLANDS did not return, and a messenger was sent to MRS SHAPLEY, but it was found that she had not been there, neither had she been seen during the day. Anxiety about her grew, and at daylight workmen were sent to search for her. Their efforts were soon successful, and MRS SHORTLANDS was discovered in the large pond about a quarter-of-a-mile from the house, situated amid a number of trees. When discovered the unfortunate lady was in a perfectly upright position, with a fearful mark on her forehead. The body was immediately got out, although with great difficulty, as the water was very deep and the mud at the bottom extremely thick, and conveyed to MR DIMES'S house. MRS SHORTLANDS had then been apparently dead for several hours. It is supposed that she threw something in the water for the dog to fetch, and overbalanced herself and fell in. She had her riding-hat, boots and gloves on, and it is thought that she received the blow in falling which stunned her, and on account of the thick mud at the bottom she was unable to get out. The deceased lady was only married about three weeks ago to MR HUGH C. SHORTLANDS, who it is stated, left ten days ago for New Zealand. The morning of her death MRS SHORTLANDS received a letter from her husband, posted at Brindisi. Much sympathy is felt for the family in the neighbourhood and especially in Dartmouth, where the deceased lady was well-known and respected. She was in the town on Saturday last, and was then in good spirits and health. On Wednesday afternoon an Inquest was held on the body, when a verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 May 1884
ILFRACOMBE - An Inquest was held on Monday at Ilfracombe on the body of MR JAMES SHIPWAY, who died under suspicious circumstances and was believed to have been poisoned. The medical man, however, attributed death to Natural Causes, and the Jury returned a verdict to that effect.

PLYMOUTH - Inquest was also held at Plymouth on the body of JOHN TOWELL, farm hand, who died from injuries received through falling from a ladder.

EXETER - At Exeter an Inquest on a girl named SEARLE, who was terribly burned by the upsetting of a paraffin lamp.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 May 1884
BRIXHAM - Inquest At Brixham. - A Coroner's Inquest was held at the Churston Hotel on Monday, before Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, on the body of the illegitimate child of MATILDA WILLIAMS, living at Galmpton Warborough. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes". The evidence showed that no doctor was present at the birth nor at any subsequent time up to the infant's death. The mother was in service, the child being looked after by the grandmother and a daughter. Six people were huddled together in a small room. The Jury considered the case demanded the attention of the sanitary inspector, and requested the Coroner to write him on the subject.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 June 1884
NEWTON ABBOT - Fatal Accident At Newton. - An Inquest was held on Monday evening at the Seven Stars Inn, Newton Abbot, by Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, on the body of JAMES FENNELL REYNOLDS, aged 21, who met with his death early in the morning by being run over by a luggage-train in the station-yard. - WILLIAM HENRY REYNOLDS, having identified the body as that of his brother, - William Norman, railway packer, said he saw the deceased crossing the line used for goods traffic near the engine shed with a wheelbarrow containing coal. He saw he was in danger as the trucks that were being shunted were approaching him, and witness called out "Let go the barrow." He did not seem to take any notice of it, and immediately afterwards the steps of the goods van came on him and knocked him down. His back was towards the trucks at the time. - Samuel Carr Cole, inspector of the permanent way, also gave evidence. - George Sleeman, goods porter, said he did not see anyone on the line when he gave directions for the engine to push back the trucks. - Emmanuel Churchward, permanent way fitter, said there was no other way for the deceased to have crossed the line. - William Sampson, switchman, said when he gave directions for the luggage train to come back, deceased was standing still on a waste piece of land beside the line. - Dr Ley said he saw REYNOLDS just after the accident. He was then dead, and both his legs were frightfully crushed. Witness was of opinion that he died from the shock to the system, and not from haemorrhage. - At the close of his evidence, Dr Ley called attention to the fact that the town was not provided with a public mortuary. He thought it was a growing scandal, as evidenced in the present instance, for some time elapsed before a place cold be obtained where to lodge the body. The Coroner, in summing up, endorsed the opinion expressed by Dr Ley with regard to the want of a mortuary. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and recommended that the Local Board should be requested to provide the town with a public mortuary.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 July 1884
TORQUAY - The Fatal Fall Over A Cliff. - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquiry at Gasking's Cary Arms Hotel, Babbacombe Beach, on Saturday evening, into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM PYM, who was killed by a fall over Walls Hill cliff on the previous day. Mr J. H. Pope was Foreman of the Jury. The body, which lay in an outhouse near the beach, having been viewed, the following evidence was taken:- WILLIAM PYM, 5, Bethel Cottages, Ellacombe, stone-barge master, identified the body as that of his son WILLIAM PYM, aged 23 years last birthday, who worked with him as mate on board the "Thomas and John" coasting vessel. Witness knew nothing of the circumstances of his son's death. He was in charge of his vessel when the accident happened. His son, who was a single man, lived with him, and he last saw alive on Thursday. He intended to have taken the deceased with him on his journey in the stone-barge on Friday, but he was not ready, having been absent on Thursday night - where, witness did not know. They were on good terms, and there was no reason why his son should have been away on Thursday night. He thought he slept at Boston Fields. - John P:otter, Warberry Cottages, Plainmoor, mason, working for Mr Horn, gardener, said he knew the deceased, who was in his company from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday. Deceased kept company with witness's daughter. They went out on Walls Hill together, and the deceased left him to go down to the quarry, where his father was. On the way out they called at Brunt's hotel, and PYM had a glass of beer. The elder PYM was loading his boat below, and for half-an-hour they watched him from the top, near the shooting butts. Witness at length went home to dinner, deceased going part way with him, and telling him that he was going to Exmouth with his father in the barge. PYM had only two glasses of ale during the time witness was with him. - By the Foreman: They both leaned out over the precipice to look into the quarry, lying flat down to do so. The grass was slippery about there. - By the Coroner: PYM was in his usual health when he left him, and was laughing and joking. No wind was blowing. - Alfred Stiggins, Fore-street, Babbacombe, fisherman, knew deceased by sight. On the previous day he saw him about 1.30 on the Downs, going towards the third (Walls) hill. He passed close to him, but did not speak to him. - William Eales, 3, Exmouth Terrace, Babbacombe, quarryman, at Babbacombe Quarry, said he was at his employment on Friday, loading the elder PYM'S vessel, which left at 2.40 p.m. for Exmouth. The men went into their shed for dinner, and witness was about to join them when he heard a noise which caused him to look up, and he saw a man falling, who struck the cliff about a third of the way down, and then dropped directly to the bottom into the quarry, on his back. As he touched the ground, his head struck a stone. He fell three or four yards from the base of the cliff. When witness went to him he was quite dead, with his head split open. A policeman was sent for, and the body was conveyed to Babbacombe beach. The witness found deceased's hat on the top of the cliff, quite close to the edge, but could form no judgment as to whether it was placed there or had got there accidentally. He did not see anybody on the top of the cliff during the morning. The height of the cliff was about 200 feet. - Police-constable Julius Meech, stationed at Babbacombe, said that on Friday, about three o'clock, the witness Eales gave him information which sent him to Babbacombe beach. He obtained a boat and men, and proceeded to the quarry, where he found the deceased, who had lost a large quantity of blood, and was terribly hurt on the left temple. On the body was a tobacco pouch, and 6s. 2d. in money. The body was brought to Babbacombe beach, and the man's friends were communicated with. The witness had examined the place from whence the deceased was supposed to have fallen, but found no mark or evidence of any kind of a struggle or such traces as anyone clutching at the grass might leave. The grass was dry and slippery. At this time of the year many persons walked around that way. The precipice was steep, and a person falling had no chance of stopping himself. The hill was in the occupation of Mr J. Salter Bartlett, of Ilsham Farm, who rented it from Lord Haldon. - The witness Eales, addressing the Coroner, said the quarry was rated by the St. Marychurch Local Board, the owner being Mr Davy, of Countessweir. Twelve months since a man working there was nigh killed by a stone thrown from the top, and it often happened that stones fell down there because there was nothing to show the public that anyone was working below. On the other hand, the public had no protection at the top, and the men had often to shout up to persons walking there in a dangerous way, but generally they were only laughed at for their pains. - The Coroner in summing up the evidence, said it might be that the deceased fell asleep on the top of the cliff - as had been suggested by his father - or he might have got up hurriedly to go down into the quarry in order to go on board his boat and missed his foot-hold. Nothing, however, had transpired to show the affair was aught but accidental. The Jury would have noticed that several of the witnesses had spoken of the very dangerous state of the cliff in question. It was not the case now, as it might have been fifteen or twenty years ago, that few people went there. On the contrary, there was a path around there, over which the public were constantly walking, without protection, although the cliff was in some places perpendicular. In some spots the ground shelved down, and there was nothing to prevent a person from sliding down and going over. Inasmuch as the place was almost a public thoroughfare, it was for the Jury to consider whether it was not somebody's duty either to put up a fence or railing, or to set up a notice board warning persons not to go inside. Perhaps a notice board alone would not have much effect. They had heard that Lord Haldon was the owner of the property, and he supposed the St. Marychurch Local Board had authority in the neighbourhood. - The Jury withdrew, and after a short consultation, found that the deceased met with his death Accidentally. They asked the Coroner to call the attention of the owner of the hill to its unprotected state, with a view to the erection of notice boards warning the public of the dangerous places, and also cautioning persons not to throw stones into the quarry. - Mr Pope, the Foreman, said no doubt the publication of the verdict in the Press would act as a warning to persons visiting the Babbacombe Hills.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 July 1884
TORQUAY - A Supposed Poisoning Case In Torquay. - An Inquest was held at the Torquay Police Station yesterday afternoon on the body of EDA ALICE WAY, aged 11 years, daughter of SUSAN WAY, 8 Market-street, wife of ROBERT WAY, bootmaker. The mother stated that her daughter had not been well lately, her symptoms being frequent sickness. She went to the chemist about her, but the child continued in a delicate state. Last Sunday, however, she was in her usual health, ate heartily and played about in good spirits. On Monday, however, she was unwell again, but took breakfast and afterwards lay down. During the whole of the day she was seized with fits of vomiting, and a bed was made up for her on the sofa at night. She administered a powder which she got from Mr Ness, chemist, on Monday morning, but the stomach rejected it, and she then obtained another powder, giving her daughter four doses. At night she made the girl comfortable, and retired to a room close by. The vomiting fits occurred at least seven times during the night, and witness attended her daughter on each occasion. On Tuesday morning, seeing a change, she sent for a doctor - to Mr Richardson - but he did not come, and as she was much alarmed about her daughter, who seemed very ill, she sent to other medical men, but she could get no one until after the death of the child, which took place at half-past twelve. A month ago all of her children suffered from similar symptoms to those exhibited by the deceased. She knew of nothing wrong with the drains in her house, in which she had lived four years. - Mr A. Dalby, surgeon, said he was called to see the deceased on Tuesday, whom he found dead. He saw the powder she had been taking - lemon and sherbet. Since then he had made a post mortem examination, assisted by Dr Richardson. The body was that of a fairly well-nourished child, with most of the organs healthy. On examining the small intestines he found them perforated by an ulceration. There was another ulceration present. Peritonitis was the cause of death. There were no signs of an irritant poison. It was remarkable that the child should have appeared in such good health while suffering from disease. The ulceration proceeded from constitutional weakness. - Hannah Richards, a neighbour, gave evidence that the child had complained to her of pain in the stomach and head. - The Coroner said the case was one for Inquiry, as the symptoms were those of poisoning, but the result of the post mortem examination was such as would lead them to the conclusion that death came about naturally. The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 August 1884
DAWLISH - Drowning Case At Dawlish. - On Tuesday morning, shortly after eight o'clock, the body of MR ALBERT COTTON, master bootmaker, a native of Dawlish, was discovered floating on the surface of the mill leat near Barton Gardens, West cliff. Mr Wollacott, general dealer, and Mr Wills, dairyman, who first saw the body, immediately brought it to the bank, and sent for the police and a medical man. Mr F. M. Cann shortly afterwards arrived and pronounced life to be extinct. The body was, however, quite warm, for the deceased only left his home at Manor Row a quarter before eight. The body was conveyed to deceased's home to await an Inquest. The deceased's wife, who was with a daughter at Bath, was immediately telegraphed for, and she arrived in the afternoon. It appears deceased's head was only partly immersed, the face being downwards and the back part of the head as well as his coat being quite dry. At the Inquest a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 August 1884
TOTNES - Bathing Fatality At Totnes. Dangerous Pits In The Dart. - The District Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry at the Steam Packet Inn, Totnes, on Monday, touching the death of the two young men, DYMOND and FISHER, who were drowned in the river Dart whilst bathing on Saturday evening last. Evidence was given by Edward Ball, the young man who was bathing in company with the deceased, Edward Sims, boatman, John Potter, cooper, Mr R. Jelley, surgeon, and Mr L. Harris. The Coroner, in summing up the evidence, thought there would be no difficulty in finding the cause of death; but it was the duty of the Jury to also consider whether any recommendation might be made which would be of public benefit and tend to obviate a recurrence of such a case for the future, particularly as there appeared to be no warning of any danger at these places to non-swimmers. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider to the effect that the attention of the Dart Commissioners be called to the danger of dredging pits, especially in those parts of the river frequented by bathers; also that boards should be placed warning people where the water is of uneven depths, and that the Town Council should provide a suitable place for bathing. - The Coroner observed that doubtless the Press would give publicity to the recommendations of the Jury, and Mr Hains said, as a member of the Town Council, he would assist in furthering the proposal for having a proper bathing place. The deceased young man DYMOND was known in Torquay, having served his apprenticeship with Mr Ward, builder.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 15 August 1884
BOVEY TRACEY - A Child Scalded To Death At Bovey Tracey. - Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest on Tuesday, at Challabrook Farm, Bovey Tracey, on the body of a male infant, 15 months old, the son of MR GILLEY, who died on the previous day from the effects of a scald. It appeared from the evidence that MR GILLEY and his wife were on a visit to MR HAMLYN, father of MRS GILLEY, who resides at Challabrook Farm. About half-past nine the deceased was in the kitchen holding on by his mother's dress, but letting go his hold he fell into a pan of hot milk which was on the floor, and was so severely scalded that, despite the medical skill of Dr Goodwin, who was called in directly afterwards, he died on Monday morning. Dr Goodwin was of opinion that death did not arise so much from the scalds as from the shock to the system. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 August 1884
TORQUAY - Sad Bathing Fatality In Torquay. - Mr Edmonds, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Rising Sun Inn, Torre, yesterday morning, on the body of a young man who met his death while bathing at Corbyn's Head on Tuesday. Following is the evidence:- William F. Easterbrook, carpenter, 26 Fleet Street, identified the body as that of EDWARD JOHN VIGGERS, aged 22, carpenter, lately residing in London, at 64 Bassingpark-road, West, and who had been spending his holidays here since Saturday last. On Tuesday morning witness and his cousin arranged to meet VIGGERS to bathe at Livermead, but he did not keep his appointment. However, as they were returning, they met him near Tor Abbey and went back to the rocks near Corbyn's Head to wait while he bathed. VIGGERS undressed and dived from a rock, where witness himself had often dived. He disappeared, and came up again, but witness saw him going out to sea with his head under water. He called the attention of his cousin (J. W. Easterbrook) to him, and then took off his coat and rushed into the water, which was not more than 3ft. 6in. deep. Having got hold of him, witness lifted his head, and VIGGERS called "Reuben, I'm done," (supposing him to be witness's cousin.) When they got him ashore he told them he was unable to move his head or legs, and they rubbed him at his request to endeavour t restore him, but without success. A policeman, who happened to be near, helped them to carry him to the beach. VIGGERS made a statement to the effect that he had knocked his head, but said he could not account for the hurt to his back. Witness noticed a scar on his side, but no injury to his head. There were a number of rocks at the place where the deceased dived in. A cab was obtained and VIGGERS was taken to No. 8, Bath Terrace, where his mother lives. Witness, in answer to a Juror, said he warned the young man that it was dangerous to dive from the rock where he was standing. The rock was level with the water. Deceased was in the habit of diving very deeply. - Auther Prestwood, police-constable stationed at Cockington, said that on Tuesday morning, at 8.15, he was near Corbyn's Head, and noticed the last witness and his cousin standing on the rocks. Just afterwards he saw deceased dive into the water, and a few moments later observed that he was being pulled out by his companions. Witness ran down and found VIGGERS lying on his back. Asking him whether he had cramp, he replied, "No; I struck myself in diving." He saw VIGGERS was unable to move his legs, and so partly dressed him and took him to the beach. In accordance with deceased's request, some brandy was got for him, and a cab afterwards obtained. Witness saw a mark on deceased's left breast. - Mr J. B. Richardson, surgeon, said he was called to see deceased on Tuesday morning about half past nine. He was suffering from paralysis of the lower extremities due to concussion of the spine. VIGGERS told him he had struck his head, but there was no external fracture of the skull, and at that time no head symptoms. About six in the evening symptoms of compression of the brain set in, and he died at half-past ten, the immediate cause of death being compression of the brain, brought about by a blow on the head. Witness had no doubt that the man had struck both his head and back. - The Coroner having shortly summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 September 1884
GOODLEIGH - Fatality To A Torquay Ex-Police Constable. - The Barnstaple Coroner (Mr J. F. Bromham) held an Inquest on Saturday at Goodleigh, on the body of an ex-policeman named PATRICK GEORGE MOUSIER CULLEN, who was formerly in the Torquay Police Force, and who was found dead in the road on the previous night. Sergeant Allin, of the Devon Constabulary, deposed that on Friday evening, about half-past seven, he was on the highway at Snapper, near Goodleigh, and met deceased, who told him that he had been fishing, and that he was going to see Mr Henry Chichester, of Tree. About three hours after that he was at Goodleigh village, where he met a horse and cart conveying the dead body of the deceased to a public house, but which he directed to be taken to the deceased's house close by, witness going on first to break the news to the wife. The deceased had been in the Devon Constabulary and also in the Metropolitan force; but at the time of his death he represented Singer's Sewing Machine Company. He was thirty years of age. Joseph Vickery, a farmer, of West Buckland, stated that while proceeding home he came across a riderless pony, grazing by the side of the road. He took hold of the pony, and on going a little further he found the body of the deceased. His feet were in the hedgerow, and his body across the road. Mr Chichester, and two gentlemen with him - one being a doctor - came and saw the body. The medical gentleman pronounced him dead. Mr Chichester sent one of his men to fetch Dr Laing from Barnstaple. When he found the pony he noticed that the stirrup-iron was gone from the off side. The body was conveyed in Mr Chichester's cart to the deceased's home. Mr Henry Chichester, of Tree House, stated that on Friday night, about half-past nine, the deceased called on him on business. As it was late he asked the deceased to call on him one day in the following week. He shook hands with him and went into the house, and the deceased went away. He was sober when he saw him, and he had nothing to drink at his house. Dr Laing said that when he examined the body he found a bruise over the left eye-brow and another bruise on the other side. The neck was not broken. He was of opinion that the deceased had fallen from his pony and died from the effects of concussion of the brain. He did not think that he died from heart disease, as he was a man of active habits and generally in pretty good health. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

DARTMOUTH - Sudden Death At Dartmouth. - PETER LAMBLE, 71 years of age, a shipwright, and for many years Town Crier of Dartmouth, died suddenly on Monday. It appears he had been making a packing case for the Rev. J. R. Bennett, Wesleyan minister, who is removing to Wales, and went to his home in Silver-street about half-past eleven. He complained of feeling unwell, and shortly afterwards was seen to fall. On the people at the house going to him they found him quite dead. The Inquest was held in the evening at the Guildhall, before Mr Prideaux, Borough Coroner. Mr T. Dunning was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MISS BESSIE LAMBLE said her father came into the kitchen and said he felt quite done up. Shortly afterwards he fell and died before medical assistance could be obtained. He had been carrying the heavy packing case home up a slippery causeway. - Dr Dawson said he found LAMBLE lying on his back in the kitchen. He was quite dead. Witness considered he came by his death through the exertion of carrying the box up a steep hill. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 September 1884
TORQUAY - Sudden Death In Torquay. - Mr Edmonds, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Torquay Townhall on Tuesday afternoon on the body of ELIZABETH BLANK STONE, who died suddenly on Saturday night, and into the circumstances of whose death it was necessary to enquire inasmuch as she had not previously been attended medically. - HANNAH PYM, wife of Robert Pym, fisherman, identified the deceased as her mother, ELIZABETH BLANK STONE, who lived at No. 2, Pimlico, and was a widow. She was aged 68 years. On Saturday night just before eleven o'clock she was in witness's kitchen, but made no complaint excepting that she felt a sinking in her inside. In fact she was in much better spirits than usual. When MRS PYM and her husband went to bed they heard a noise as of a fall, and the former, going into her mother's room, found the deceased lying on the floor. Witness's husband's mother also slept in the room, and with her assistance they placed her in the bed. A doctor was sent for although witness was sure she was dead. Mr Finch came, and pronounced life extinct. The woman had been ailing for a long time, and had been treated at the local dispensaries. - Elizabeth Pym, widow, and mother-in-law of the last witness, said she slept with MRS STONE on Saturday night. MRS STONE appeared in good health and spirits, and they laughed and talked before they went to sleep. Soon afterwards she heard a fall, got out of bed, and found deceased, who she thought had fainted, on the floor. After she had been put into the bed witness went for a doctor. - Mr T. Finch, surgeon, said he was called to see deceased just after 12 o'clock on Sunday morning. He found her lying in bed quite dead. From the circumstances of the case he imagined that the cause of death was heart disease. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

EXETER - Frightened To Death. - An Inquest was held on Tuesday at Exeter, by Mr Coroner Hooper, on the body of MARY LEE, a widow, aged seventy, who died suddenly on Sunday evening under somewhat curious circumstances. Deceased's son keeps the Elephant and Castle, and on Sunday afternoon he went out, leaving her in charge of the house. A terrier dog, which was kept in a stable, was making a noise, and MRS LEE ordered her servant to unloose it. On the dog being set free it flew at the girl, biting her severely in the legs. MRS LEE went to her assistance, and having pulled the girl away from the dog, immediately afterwards became hysterical, and subsequently died. The medical testimony was to the effect that death resulted from heart disease brought on by fright. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

SOUTH NORWOOD - The Sudden Death Of A Torquay Gentleman. - An Inquest has been held at South Norwood by Mr Hicks, Deputy Coroner, on the body of MAJOR THOMAS WILLIAM KINDER, aged 66, retired from the militia, whose home was at Beaumont, Lincombe Hill-road, Torquay, and whose sudden death was reported in last week's Torquay Times. Major Wood, of the royal Artillery, identified the body of the deceased, whom he had known for eighteen years. He knew the deceased had suffered from heart disease. He had been abroad a great deal. For three years he was governor of the Mint at Hongkong, and for five years director of the Mint of Japan, he then being employed under the Japanese Government. About eight or nine days ago he came up to Town on some business and had to go to South Norwood to arrange about some property, of which he was trustee, the owner being the widow of an old friend of his. Witness believed he was only in Norwood one day. - Inspector Moon, of the London, Brighton and South-Coast railway, said that on Tuesday night the deceased entered Norwood Junction Station and inquired of witness the time of the London trains, and after he had been told he went to the time-bill to compare it with a card he had with him, and whilst thus engaged he fell forward and died, without a murmur, in witness's arms. - Dr Churchward said he had made a post mortem examination, and found that deceased died from syncope of the heart. The liver and kidneys were much diseased, no doubt from long residence in a hot country, and the heart disease was secondary to the disease of the kidneys. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 October 1884
TORQUAY - Suicide In Torquay. The Inquest. - On Tuesday last a painful occurrence took place at Babbacombe, when MRS JOHN GREENSLADE, a woman 59 years of age, whose mind has failed of late, escaped from the custody of a nurse, and jumped over the cliff, sustaining injuries which resulted in her death a few hours later. - The Inquest was held on Wednesday night, at 6, York Terrace, Babbacombe, the residence of deceased's husband, by Mr S. Hacker, Coroner. Mr A. W. Blackler being Foreman of the Jury. For some unexplained reason it was sought to exclude reporters from the Enquiry, not, of course, by the Coroner, but by MR GREENSLADE, whose behaviour was most extraordinary, and by his son, an indiscreet youth, who was acting presumably under the direction of his father. The boy, standing in the hall, endeavoured to obstruct the passage of the reporters, but being kindly but firmly set aside, the elder GREENSLADE made an appeal to the Coroner to exclude them. He was told by Mr Hacker that he had no power to exclude the representatives of the press, but he persisted in his application until peremptorily stopped by the Coroner. Abandoning his hostility then, he proceeded with much ostentation to provide accommodation for the reporters, and having shaken hands effusively with the Jurors, quieted down. Evidence was taken as follows:- JOHN GREENSLADE, 6, York Terrace, Babbacombe, said: The person lying dead is my wife, JANE GREENSLADE, who was 59 years of age. She left her residence yesterday morning about 10.30 in company with her nurse, who has been attending upon her for about six weeks. MRS GREENSLADE has required a nurse for about seven months. She has suffered from hysteria and weakness of nerves for some years. - The witness here made an irrelevant statement about the nurse, who, he said, had been discharged from an establishment at Wonford, but whom, he said excitedly, he would not have "impeached." Continuing his evidence he said: I joined them on Babbacombe Downs shortly after they left here, and found them resting on a seat. I conducted them to another seat opposite Malwa House, about 14 feet from the edge of the cliff. I left for a few minutes walk, and when I got to the end of the downs I turned and saw that my wife had disappeared. When I ran back a lady told me a woman had thrown herself over the cliff. I sent messengers for doctors and policemen, and went for some brandy. There were some people about, but they made themselves scarce directly. I saw my wife being brought up from the cliff; she was living and recognized me, and drank some brandy. I was present when my wife died. She had been brought here, and died in the bed in which you have seen her. Death took place about three o'clock in the afternoon. She was brought here about 11.30. - By the Coroner: Deceased had not suffered from excitement lately. She had been suffering from softening of the brain. I have had two of the best nurses for her that could be got in Devonshire. I had intended to send her to Totnes for a change. She did not know where she was going. I told her she should go somewhere, but did not tell her where. - Eliza Lathiby, of 4 Swithin-street, Exeter, single woman, said: I have been living here from August 21st., attending deceased. Yesterday I took MRS GREENSLADE for a walk according to my usual custom. We went to Babbacombe Downs. MR GREENSLADE being with us for a short time. She was talking to MR GREENSLADE, but nothing exciting took place. MR GREENSLADE moved away for a moment and deceased turned to me and said, "Do you see father" (GREENSLADE) coming." I turned my head, and she got up and ran. I followed her, but she went down the slope and over the cliff. All the other seats were full of people. It was impossible for me to catch her. I went down a narrow path, and found the woman in a bramble bush. She appeared to have fallen down the cliff, and then to have rolled. I don't know how far down she was. I can't say if she would have fallen further if the bush had not been there. A gentleman helped to pick her up and then said he would go for a doctor. She walked up over the cliff, and at the top she asked what she had done. She walked across the Downs to a donkey-chair, and in that she was brought home. We put her to bed and a doctor was sent for. Mr Chilcott came. All the woman said to me on the top of the cliff was "What have I done?" When her son was helping her up over the stairs of the house she said she had slipped her foot. Lately MRS GREENSLADE has been rather better than usual. She did not lead me to think she was disturbed because she was going away. - By a Juror: Had not noticed any symptom of insanity. She had been on the seat about 20 minutes before the accident happened. The seat is the nearest one to the edge of the cliff. That was the only seat we sat on that morning. - Mr Herbert N. Chilcott, surgeon, Babbacombe, said: The deceased was a patient of mine. I saw her yesterday about 12 o'clock. She seemed insensible and was suffering from shock. I saw no bruises about her or marks of any kind. I saw her when she was dying; she was still insensible. She died about 3.15. My opinion is that death was caused by shock. She was in a weak state, and an occurrence such as has been described would be sufficient to cause death. I have attended her on and off for 14 years. For the last seven months she has suffering from softening of the brain. She did not suffer from any mania; she was quiet and harmless. She has been under the delusion that she was unable to swallow. - Police-Sergeant Nott, stationed at St. Marychurch, said: With the witness Lathiby I went to Babbacombe Downs today, and was joined by P.C. Boughton. We measured the distance from the seat to the spot the woman fell over, and found it to be 40 feet. It is only 14 feet to the edge of the cliff, but the route the woman took was 40 yards. The woman must have fallen 26 feet to a ledge, and then have rolled 10 feet to the bramble bush. She must have had a clean drop of 26 feet. Had not the bush been there, she would have gone further. - Nurse Lathiby, recalled, said she could give no idea of the distance from the seat to the edge of the cliff. She showed the sergeant where the woman went over. Had she gone straight from the seat she could not have fallen over, but she went round to a steeper place. - The Coroner summed up the evidence, saying that he thought the Jury must, after the evidence which had been given, first find that the deceased was of unsound mind, and then it would be their duty to say whether she intentionally jumped over the cliff, or whether the occurrence was accidental. - The Jury found that the woman Committed Suicide while in an Unsound State of Mind. Some discussion took place as to the desirability of fencing the cliff on Babbacombe Downs, but the Jury did not make any recommendation.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 24 October 1884
BRIXHAM - Shocking Accident At Brixham Station. - A shocking accident occurred at Brixham station on Monday. A train was being moved from one platform to another and the brake had been applied to stop it when the stoker, JAMES SNELL, tripped and fell off between the train and the platform. The carriages were not stopped until one of the trucks had passed over the spot where the unfortunate man fell, and on being taken out he was found quite insensible and terribly injured. His left forearm was crushed dreadfully just below the elbow, and the hand only remained attached by the sinews. His right arm was also dislocated, and his right ear cut completely off. His head and neck were badly cut. Dr G. C. Searle, who happened to be on the platform, at once attended to the injured man, bandaging and strapping his wounds together and then ordering him to be at once sent to the Torquay Infirmary, which was done, Dr Searle accompanying. SNELL was about 27 years of age, and a native of Exeter. He had passed the examination for the post of driver, and had been many years in the service of the company. After his admission to the hospital, he seemed for a time to be going on favourably, but early on Wednesday morning he died. - The Inquest. - An Inquest was held at the Castle Inn yesterday morning at 9 a.m. before Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, to Enquire into the circumstances attending the death of JAMES SNELL, 27, fireman, living at Brixham in the employment of the G.W.R. Co. Mr W. Watson acted as Foreman of the Jury. The first witness called was George Way, engine driver, residing at Brixham. He said the body he had seen was that of JAMES SNELL who had worked with him for the past two years. Deceased was not married. On the day of the accident about four minutes to three he was engaged at Brixham in shunting the train from the fish platform to the passenger side. They were running tender first and when he last saw the deceased before the accident he had his hand on the brake to stop the engine. Witness was looking over the right side of the train and on hearing a shout he looked around and saw that deceased was gone. He immediately reversed the engine and the train came to almost a dead stop. The name of the engine was the Taurus and witness in company with the deceased had been driving her for the last three week. The construction and fencing of the engine were the same as all through the line. Deceased had been perfectly well and in good spirits during the day. When found he was lying between the engine and platform. He was sure there was no jerk of any kind to cause the deceased to lose his balance. He could not say whether SNELL fell over the rail or through the small gangway made for the purpose of getting into the engine. When the deceased was laid on the platform he recognised and spoke to witness. There were no turn-tables at Brixham or Churston which would enable them to turn the engine. - John Rowe, engine cleaner, residing at Brixham, stated that he was standing on the platform on the 20th about five minutes to 3 and saw Way put steam on the engine and shut it off to stop again. Saw deceased go to the brake, he was standing on the foot-plate which was fixed about a foot from the edge of the engine. SNELL turned round to look for a signal from a porter on the platform. He saw the deceased suddenly fall through the gangway, head first. His left hand was on the brake at the time. Witness called to the driver to reverse the engine, which was instantly done, and he jumped down and saw that one of the wheels of the fish truck was on deceased's arm. The engine was put back and deceased was lifted to the platform and examined by Dr Searle, of Brixham, and immediately taken to Torquay. - John Trust, fish-hawker, Brixham, corroborated the former evidence. - John Tonkin Fortescue, locomotive superintendent of the South Devon district, said the engine was of the same construction as those used on the Great Western line. he had been at the work for 25 years and had never before known of such an accident. - Mr F. W. Thistle, house surgeon at the Torbay Infirmary, said the deceased was brought to the hospital about 3.45 p.m. on Monday last. He was suffering from a severe fracture of the left fore arm which was nearly severed from the body, the right arm was crushed near the shoulder, the right collar bone was broken and the lung injured, the right ear was nearly torn away as was also the left side of the scalp. It was found necessary to amputate both arms. The deceased rallied on the following day, but died on Wednesday morning about 2 a.m. There was no doubt that death was caused by the injuries received. - A verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 December 1884
TORQUAY - Supposed Suicide Of A Nurse. - The body of FELICE CHAMPFLEURY, a Frenchwoman, about thirty years of age, was found on Monday afternoon by a fisherman named Rowden, between some rocks near Watcombe, between Maidencombe and Labrador. The deceased, for the last eight years, had been in the service of General Lucas, of Dunmoor, Shaldon, as nurse and during that time had deposited most of her wages in the bank. She left her master's house on Saturday morning, about half-past ten, with a parcel for someone at Teignmouth. She delivered it to a ferryman to take to Teignmouth. She was afterwards met by a man going towards the sea coast at Labrador, but he suspected nothing unusual. As she did not return to her master's house that day the inmates became uneasy, and inquiries were instituted respecting her whereabouts, but to no purpose until Monday afternoon. Near where the body was found were discovered the deceased's hat and umbrella. An Inquest was subsequently held, the verdict being that the woman committed Suicide while in an Unsound State of Mind.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 December 1884
BISHOPSTEIGNTON - The Bishopsteignton Drowning Case. - The mystery surrounding the disappearance from Bishopsteignton of MARY ANN FEY, some weeks since, has just been cleared up. An Inquest has been held at Eype, near Bridport, on a body washed ashore at that place, and which was identified by MR WILLIAM FEY, of Bishopsteignton, as that of his daughter. The body could only be identified by its clothing, as it was in an advanced state of decomposition. The flesh and hair were entirely gone from the head, and the flesh from the hands as far as the wrists. After having heard the evidence of P.S. Harrard and the father, the Jury returned an Open Verdict.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 January 1885
TORQUAY - Death By Poisoning In Torquay. - A death occurred in Torquay yesterday under very sad circumstances. MR JOSEPH MURCH, a well-known cab-proprietor, who resided at Braddons Hill, had for some time past been suffering from palsy. Dr Richardson has attended him, and, in the ordinary course, prescribed medicine for him. Unfortunately his medicine bottle seems to have been kept near some poisonous lotion, for on Tuesday MR MURCH swallowed some of the lotion under the impression that he was taking his medicine, and subsequently showed alarming symptoms. The efforts which were made to remedy the mischief proved of no avail, however, and the patient died at half-past two yesterday morning. The Coroner has been communicated with and an Inquest will be held.

TORQUAY - Suicide In Torquay. - On Sunday evening last, SAMUEL WILLIAMS, cabinet maker, 2 Pembroke Terrace, Cavern-road, who upon that day attained his 54th year, committed suicide by hanging himself. - An Inquest was held upon the body on Wednesday morning by Mr T. Edmonds of Totnes, Deputy Coroner, at Mr Motton's Country House Hotel, Ellacombe. - The evidence of deceased's widow, which was taken at her residence owing to her indisposition, was to the effect that her husband had been attended by Dr Powell, who found him suffering from a diseased brain, and who seemed to be of opinion that it was scarcely likely the patient would recover. His mother died insane and deceased inherited the disorder. WILLIAMS had been depressed in mind for some time. - Henry Clapp, 1, St. Leonard's Terrace, said that on Sunday evening the son of deceased called his attention to the occurrence. He entered the house by the front door, and found the man suspended to a hook in the ceiling by the rope produced. He cut him down, but life was extinct, deceased having been hanging, witness thought, at least an hour. The feet were about a foot from the ground. A chair was close by, and he had evidently made use of this to accomplish his purpose. Witness knew WILLIAMS very well, and had seen him lately, but did not notice anything peculiar about him. The witness sent for the police. - Mr T. Finch, surgeon, said that a little after nine o'clock on Sunday evening he was called to see deceased, whom he found quite dead. There were marks of a rope around his neck, and he had evidently been stifled. Witness had never attended deceased. Having regard to the statement made by deceased's widow, witness said it was likely that WILLIAMS should have committed suicide. - The Coroner said the Jury would probably gather from the evidence that the man had taken his life while in an insane condition. The Jury found a verdict to the effect that WILLIAMS hanged himself while of Unsound Mind.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 January 1885
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident. - An Inquest was held on Saturday afternoon last in the Court House, before Mr T. Edmonds, Deputy Coroner, into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN CASPALL, sailor, aged 37, who died on the previous morning in the Torbay Hospital, from the effects of a fall on board the Thursby. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - The Torquay Poisoning Case. - An Inquest was held on Saturday evening last in the Court House, Torquay, before Mr T. Edmonds, Deputy Coroner, touching the death of MR JOSEPH MURCH, aged 63, cab proprietor, Underwood Cottage, who, as reported last week, died from the effects of poisoning. The first witness called was MRS MURCH, who deposed that her husband had for some time been suffering from palsy. On Tuesday about noon she was called by her daughter into his room and found him vomiting very much. She asked him what was the matter, and he replied that he had taken the wrong medicine. She looked round and found that he had been drinking from a bottle containing a poisonous lotion. She sent for the doctor immediately. Deceased had appeared very feeble that morning. Occasionally he had fits of dizziness, and after eating his sight was sometimes defective. - Dr J. R. Richardson stated that he had been in the habit of attending the deceased, and on Monday ordered him a lotion composed of one ounce of liniment of aconite, and one ounce of liniment of belladonna. Deceased was a sufferer from what was known as trembling palsy. Witness saw him on Tuesday afternoon when he was suffering from the effects of poisoning. For some time he was at the point of death, but under treatment he partially recovered in two hours and a half. At 9.30 that night he was fairly well, and the next morning he had recovered consciousness. Witness then asked him how he came to make such a mistake, and he replied, "I don't know how I came to make such a mistake." Between 5 and 6 o'clock on Wednesday evening, he was progressing capitally, but at one o'clock on the following morning failure of the action of the hart had again set in, and death took place at 2.30 a.m. In witness's opinion death resulted from poisoning, the patient being in a weak nervous condition at the time. The only wonder was that death did not sooner follow the unfortunate mistake. The dose taken of either of the two poisons was quite enough to kill an ordinary person in good health outright. - The Deputy Coroner pointed out that the bottle containing the poison could not have been more completely labelled. Probably the mistake was made in a fit of dizziness. There seemed no alternative but to find that the deceased died from accidentally taking the poisonous lotion. The Jury returned a verdict in the spirit of the Deputy-Coroner's summing-up.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 March 1885
PAIGNTON - Singular Fatality At Paignton. - On Wednesday morning a man was found dead in a field at Preston, near Paignton. It appears that the deceased, whose name is WILLIAM HUGHES, who is 29 years of age, and is a brushmaker, engaged on Monday evening in company with a man named Frederick Wyatt, to row some French sailors from Torquay Harbour to their trawler, which was moored some little distance off. When they put the Frenchmen on board, HUGHES and Wyatt were asked on deck, where they partook of some brandy, having been drinking before. When they left to return to Torquay they were both drunk, HUGHES worse than the other. In attempting to row in they lost their paddles and the boat drifted on to Preston beach. Here they scrambled ashore, HUGHES being only able to walk to the field in which the artillery guns are placed, being so drunk that Wyatt left him. On Tuesday inquiries were made, but he did not turn up at his mother's, who lives at Stentiford's Hill, Torquay. Whatt and MRS HUGHES visited Paignton on Tuesday night, and on Wednesday morning they went to the spot where Wyatt had left HUGHES. About 100 yards above this place in the same field he was lying on his face and hands in a ditch having a few inches of water. He was quite dead, having evidently fallen into the ditch and been suffocated. - The Inquest on HUGHES took place last night at the Manor Inn, Preston, before Mr Sidney Hacker. After hearing the evidence of the mother of the deceased; of the young man Wyatt, who was in the boat with deceased when they went on board the French smack, Mareo; P.C. Smith; Mr J. Goodridge, surgeon; and one of the French fishermen, the Jury found that the deceased came to his death by Accidental Suffocation by Drowning.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 4 April 1885
TORQUAY - Shocking Death Of A Torquay Tradesman. - A Coroner's Jury, of which Mr Crockwell was Foreman, sat at the London Hotel, Torquay, on Thursday afternoon for the purpose of Inquiring into the circumstances under which DAVID PYKE (61), dairyman, 72, Fleet-street, came to his death. - Mr Sidney Hacker, the coroner, said his information was that the subject of the Inquiry was found dead that morning under circumstances which rendered an Inquest necessary. The following evidence was taken:- SUSANNAH BRAY, 10 Lucius-street, said: I identify the body as that of DAVID PYKE, my step-father. He was a greengrocer and dairyman. I saw him last alive a fortnight since last Monday. He was then rather stupid from drink. I was his housekeeper for 12 years, but left him because of his bad conduct. For the last six years he has been drinking heavily. He took whiskey and gin, which he kept in a "dark dungeon." During the last six months I was with him he was unbearable. He had delirium tremens and used to throw things about at night so that we could not sleep. He used to drink alone and did not go to public-houses. A fortnight before I left he fell over the stairs and was in his bed for four days. I found him sitting on the stairs when I came down in the morning; he then being the worse for drink. He used to get drunk two or three times a week within the last six months. - By a Juryman: I don't know why he commenced to drink unless it was because of the failure of the West of England Bank. He had money there that his wife and I did not know about. - Mr H. C. Cumming, surgeon, said: I have made an examination of the body of deceased. There are no external marks of violence, except one of an old wound on the head. An internal examination showed a considerable disease of the heart; there was great congestion of both lungs, especially the right, and some recent congestion of the brain, but there was no other affection of the brain. The cause of death was heart disease and congestion of the lungs. I think he must have been ill for three or four days from the appearance of his lungs. The symptoms of drinking were not marked; they were not those of a man who had been a hard drinker for six years. It is strange that he should have been so heavy a drinker and yet have so sound a liver. His death is not attributable to hard drinking. The exertion of mounting the stairs was sufficient to produce death in the state in which the heart was. - Anna Tunkin said: I have been living at MR PYKE'S as a servant with a little girl named Mary Vincent since last Monday, when the housekeeper (Miss Jones) left. MR PYKE used to attend to business when he was sober, but he was drunk all the time after the housekeeper left. I saw him last night about eight o'clock in the kitchen, scalding milk, and asked if I should turn out the gas, but he said he would do it himself. I came down afterwards and turned out the gas, but did not speak to him. We heard nothing during the night. At a quarter past six this morning we came downstairs and found MR PYKE sitting on the stairs leading into the kitchen, with his head leaning on his arm. We called him but could not make him hear, so we asked a man driving a coal cart to come in and he told us he was quite dead and that we had better send for a policeman. He did not complain of illness to me. He had not been in bed for two nights, and was nearly always in the dark room where he kept his drink. - P.C. Nicholls stated that he was called to the house at 6.30 a.m. PYKE was sitting on the stairs, dead. The body was cold and stiff. With assistance he conveyed the body to a bedroom. He searched the body, but found nothing of importance. In the kitchen there was a chair before the fireplace as though someone had been sitting in it, but there was no liquor about. - The Coroner having briefly summed up the evidence, the Jury found that deceased died from Heart Disease and Congestion of the Lungs and that his death was accelerated by excessive drinking.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 April 1885
TORQUAY - Inquest. - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Town Hall, Torquay, on Wednesday evening, touching the death of EDMUND SHILSON SCOWN SAUNDERS, aged one year and eight months, who was found dead beside its mother, who lives in Queen-street, on the previous Monday morning. Dr Thistle having given evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of "Died from Convulsions."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 24 April 1885
LITTLEHEMPSTON - On Sunday last a child named FRANK KING, aged about 21 months, met its death at Littlehempston, near Totnes, in a singular manner by being attacked by a game cock. The child appears to have run after the fowl, which flew at him, causing him to fall to the ground and then the bird spurred him behind the ear. medical aid was obtained, but the child died from the effects of the blow on the head. An Inquest was held on Monday evening by Mr Hacker, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 9 May 1885
SHALDON - Sad Accident At Shaldon. - A most distressing death has occurred at Shaldon, near Teignmouth. On Friday evening DR FREDERICK PHILIP PHELPS, of Exeter, who has been lodging for some time at 7 Gloucester-terrace, Teignmouth, went with his wife and six children on a pleasure trip to the rocks near Labrador, and after being there some time MR PHELPS started for the boat near the Ness, which had previously conveyed them to Shaldon, with the understanding that his wife and children would follow him. On the arrival of the latter to the beach it was found that the doctor had not been seen. A search was instituted, but was not successful until about twelve o'clock on Saturday, when the body was seen by a coastguardsman in a cavity of the rocks near the Ness. The deceased, who had received terrible blows on the forehead and the head, was afflicted with heart disease, and it is surmised that whilst in a fit he slid down the hole, and whilst unconscious the tide came in and drowned him. At an Inquest held on Monday a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 16 May 1885
LUSTLEIGH - The Fatal Accident At Lustleigh. - Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquest on Monday at Lustleigh touching the death of the woman WILCOCKS, who was killed whilst going over a level crossing near Lustleigh on Friday afternoon last week. It was shewn that the deceased was crossing the line, and that the driver of the train, on seeing her, blew his whistle, which the deceased failed to hear, through being deaf. The front of the engine struck her and she was killed instantly. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death and recommended that some bushes near the spot should be taken down so that persons using the crossing might be able to see an approaching train.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 23 May 1885
TORQUAY - Sad Death Of A Young Woman In Torquay. - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquiry at Mr Motton's Country House Hotel, Ellacombe, on Tuesday, into the circumstances attending the death of ALICE TRIPP (23), domestic servant, who died on Saturday, after having given birth to a child on the previous Wednesday. - Deceased not having been attended by a medical man, the doctor who was called in just prior to her death, withheld his certificate, and so an Inquest became necessary. - CELIA TRIPP, who lives at Weston-super-Mare, identified deceased as her daughter, ALICE ANN BROWN TRIPP, who lived as servant with Mrs Chubb, and was a single woman. She had been in Torquay for four years, but had worked for Mrs Chubb only a few months. Witness saw her daughter last Wednesday, having received a telegram stating that she was ill. She found her daughter at the house of Mrs Ball, 18, Lower Wellesley-road. She was confined there. Witness did not know previously that anything was wrong with her daughter. In the afternoon she returned to Weston-super-Mare, leaving the young woman to all appearances progressing favourably. Witness understood that her daughter left her situation on the previous Saturday. She seemed to be very comfortable at Mrs Ball's, who treated her very well indeed. Deceased had a child some three or four years since, which was kept by Mrs Ball. The child born on Wednesday died. - Mr W. Wills, surgeon and parish medical officer, said that on Saturday morning he received by post an order from Mr Tozer, Relieving Officer, to attend the deceased, and called on her about 11 o'clock. She was then dying, and upon inquiring of her friends why the order had not been sent earlier, he was told that they thought it most convenient to put it in the post. The woman was suffering from puerperal fever and the child was already dead. it was such a doubtful case that he conceived it his duty to communicate with the Coroner. At four o'clock, on returning to the patient, he discovered she was dead. having made a post mortem examination, he found some contraction of the lungs, but death was due to puerperal fever. It was an unusual thing for a woman to die so soon after confinement from puerperal fever. Possibly death came about through insufficient attention, but there was no medical evidence of neglect. It was his opinion that if the order of the Relieving Officer had reached him so that he might have attended her earlier the patient would have recovered. Deceased must have been dreadfully ill from the moment she was confined. - Elizabeth Howe, 32, Victoria Park, who was the nurse called in, said that her patient went on all right up to Friday afternoon, when she complained of pain in her side. Witness said she must have a medical man, but the young woman said she could not afford one. She then saw the Relieving Officer and got an order for medical attendance, which she handed over to Mrs Ball, who said she would send it to Mr Wills that night. The witness tried to get the attendance of Mr Smith, surgeon, about nine o'clock on Saturday, but was unsuccessful. Mr Smith was the medical man who certified the death of the baby. - Sarah Ball, widow, said she had known deceased for twelve months, having taken care of her child for about that time. She left her situation on Sunday evening and on Tuesday, witness, being suspicious of her condition, sent for Mrs Howe. She advised the girl to have a doctor, but she refused. Witness posted the Relieving Officer's order to Mr Wills, not understanding that a doctor was wanted immediately. She had no one to send with it, and could not go herself. She had been told that the woman was in a critical state, but did not try to obtain the attendance of Mr Wills the same night. On Friday morning Dr Wills ordered some medicine; Mrs Howe sent a child for it, and it arrived at half-past four in the afternoon. - Dr Wills remarked that a lame child from Boston Fields fetched the medicine. - This being all the evidence, the Coroner summed up, pointing out that it appeared that neither Mrs Howe nor Mrs Ball knew that deceased was in a critical state until Friday afternoon, and that it was for the Jury to say whether or no Mrs Ball was to blame for not sending immediately for the doctor instead of posting the order. The Jury returned a verdict, after consideration, that the deceased died from Natural Causes. Mr Satterford, a late Juror, who had been fined by the Coroner, had the penalty remitted on apologizing for and explaining his absence. The fees of some of the Jurors (seven in number) were given to the mother of the deceased.

TORQUAY - Accidental Death In Torquay. - An Inquest was held by Mr Sidney Hacker on Thursday evening at the Upton Vale Hotel, Torquay, upon the body of JANE TICKELL (60), who died from injuries accidentally received. - SAMUEL TICKELL, 4 Park Cottages, labourer, stated that the deceased was his wife. On Tuesday last, about seven o'clock, she left the kitchen for an instant, and he, hearing a call, ran out and found her lying on her back at the bottom of some steps leading to a stable. He picked her up and found that she was bleeding from the top of the head and also from the mouth. He asked how she came to fall, and she replied "I didn't fall." A doctor was sent for, and Dr Powell attended. Deceased died about six o'clock on Wednesday evening. The witness added that his wife was in the habit of leaning upon the rail protecting the steps. One of the rails was now broken, but he could not say how it happened. With the exception of a bad leg his wife enjoyed good health. On the night in question she was in particularly good spirits. - Emily Bright, who lives in the same house, said that on the date in question she heard a child calling her, and, going out, saw MRS TICKELL lying at the bottom of the steps. Deceased had not been walking down the steps, or witness would have seen her. The child told witness that deceased (her grandmother) fell on her head, and then turned over. The rail which was broken was all right half-an-hour previous to this occurrence. Witness thought deceased was resting her foot on the rail. She made no statement to witness as to how the occurrence happened. - Mr Powell, surgeon, said he attended MRS TICKELL after the accident. She was suffering from a lacerated scalp and concussion of the brain. He thought the base of the skull was fractured and that there was internal haemorrhage. These injuries caused death and would be accounted for by a fall. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and added a recommendation that the steps should be effectually protected.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 20 June 1885
DEVONPORT - MR THOMAS LAKIN, who has been public librarian at Devonport for some time, was found drowned in the Hamoaze on Tuesday morning. An Inquest was held in the afternoon, and the evidence went to show that the mind of the deceased had been effected and a verdict of "Suicide whilst in an Unsound State of Mind" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 4 July 1885
BRIXHAM - Inquest. - An Inquest was held on Thursday evening, at the Shotover Inn, High St., Brixham, by Mr Sydney Hacker, as to the death of NELLIE ORDON MOORE, aged two years, daughter of THOMAS MOORE, sawyer. The child died on Thursday last. After hearing the evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and in a rider reprimanded the parents for not obtaining medical aid, knowing the child to be in a sickly condition.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 29 August 1885
BRIXHAM - Inquest. - The County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquest on Tuesday evening, touching the death of MARY MAY FARLEY, who died on the 24th instant during childbirth. The Jury returned a verdict of Death through Natural Causes, and reprimanded the midwife, Mrs Vinnicombe, for her tardiness in calling medical aid.

TORQUAY - A Child Suffocated In Torquay. - On Thursday evening Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Torquay Police Station into the circumstances attending the death of a child found dead in a house in Pimlico. - SUSAN DREW, wife of JAMES DREW, a hat cleaner, lodging at the house of a Mrs Martin, in Pimlico, made a statement to the effect that the deceased, JOHN DREW, was her child and was ten weeks old, being the last born of thirteen. On Wednesday evening it appeared in good health, and about 11 o'clock was fed with boiled bread and sugar. Witness had a married daughter named BASSETT living with her, who had a child ill. MRS BASSETT sent for witness to come to her house to assist in looking after the ailing child, and she went there, taking her own baby with her. She remained for the night and lay down on a bed in the room with her own child, and two other children of her daughter MRS BASSETT, who also occupied the room with her husband. The baby was at her right side when she went to sleep, and she observed nothing wrong with it. About four o'clock next morning, however, MRS BASSETT awoke her and called her attention to the child and she then found it dead and cold. The leg of one of MRS BASSETT'S children was across its head. The witness was quite confident that she did not overlay the child. She said, in answer to the Coroner, that she did not insure the lives of her children. - GEORGINA BASSETT, daughter of MRS DREW, and living at No. 8, Pimlico, said she had occasion to get out of bed about 4 o'clock on Thursday morning to attend to her own baby, when she noticed that the leg of one of her children was across deceased's head. She went to move it and found that her mother's baby was dead. - Mr T. Finch, surgeon, said he was called just before seven o'clock on Thursday morning to see the deceased. The child had been dead some hours and was quite cold. There were no marks on the body. In his opinion death was caused by suffocation. After hearing the evidence of the mother he thought it was possibly the case that one of Mrs Bassett's children had crawled over the deceased and somehow stopped its breath. It would take very little to suffocate a child so young. The child was clean and well kept. - In answer to a Juryman, the witness said that boiled bread and sugar were bad things to feed a baby on, and that while the child's stomach was loaded with food of that sort it would suffocate the easier. - The Jury, after some consideration, said the only verdict they could all agree upon was an open one, inasmuch as there was no clear evidence as to the cause of the child's death. - The Coroner said he would rather not take an open verdict if there were any possibility of the exact cause of death being got at, and therefore he would adjourn the Inquest until the next evening, in order that Mr Finch might, in the meanwhile, make a post mortem examination of the child. - At the adjourned Inquiry last night, Mr Finch said he had made a post mortem examination of the body, and found that the cause of death was suffocation. All the organs were healthy. In answer to a Juryman the witness said that the overcrowded state of the room had nothing to do with the child's death. There was nothing to lead to any suspicion that the death was other than accidental. The Jury found that deceased was Accidentally Suffocated.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Saturday 5 September 1885
DAWLISH - Dreadful Occurrence At Dawlish. Fall Of Cliff. Three Persons Killed And Three Injured. - On Saturday a frightful accident occurred at Dawlish, whereby a party of visitors, seven in number, was buried by the fall of a large quantity of rock, three persons being killed on the spot and three out of the remaining four being severely injured. The place where the accident occurred is close to the western end of the tunnel which leads from the railway embankment to the gentlemen's bathing-place. The path from this tunnel is partly overhung by the sandstone cliff, which has been scooped out at the base into a shallow cavern. A fall occurred on the shore side of the path a few months ago, several huge blocks coming down and smashing the masonry of the wall which supports the path, but no one was injured on that occasion. The slip on Saturday was on the seaward side of the wall, the material which fell coming away from the projecting part of the rock. A fall has been expected for a long time, and so well understood was the dangerous condition of the cliff that lodging-house keepers have almost invariably warned their visitors from venturing too near it. The Local Board were distinctly aware that something required to be done, for the protection of the public, and correspondence has passed between them and the Great Western Railway Company on the subject, but nothing has been done (beyond the erection some time ago of notice boards, which have since been removed), both parties declining the responsibility and refusing to undertake the cost. The accident occurred just before noon. The seven persons referred to were sitting upon the beach close to the projecting and overhanging piece of rock, and within a dozen feet of the further end of the bathers' tunnel. They were MISS ELIZABETH RADFORD, aged 41, companion to Lady Graves-Sawle, of Ashford House, Honiton, and MISS MATTHEWS, a lady in charge of the WATSON family, staying with them at 2, Portland-terrace. The five other members of the party were MISS ELIZABETH KEEN, aged about 34, nursery governess, who had under her charge a little girl named VIOLET MARY WATSON, aged 9, her brother, a lad about two years older, and a baby - the children of parents whose home is at Honiton, but who are now in India; and a MISS WATSON, their aunt. The WATSONS had been in Dawlish about a week and it had been their custom to spend a good deal of time on the beach. On Saturday morning, after the children had amused themselves for an hour paddling in the pools of water among the rocks and hunting for shells and specimens of seaweed, the party sat down, as already stated, near the base of the cliff. At a quarter to twelve a young man, who was strolling about at some distance from the cliff noticed a slight fall of rubble from the face of the rock near where the unfortunate people were grouped. He shouted to warn them of their danger, and the younger ones immediately ran to the open; but before they had gone more than a step or two an immense mass of rock came crashing down upon them, burying the whole seven, either totally or partially. Mr F. W. Short, of London, Mr George Bond, of Brook-street, and several others at once went to their assistance, and soon succeeded in extricating MISS MATTHEWS, MASTER WATSON, his aunt, and the baby. All except the infant were badly injured, the poor boy's legs being broken, while his sister and MISS MATTHEWS were sadly cut and bruised. The baby, strange to say, was scarcely hurt at all, a few slight scratches being the only perceptible injury it had sustained. The rest of the victims were buried under such heavy masses of rock that it was almost impossible to hope for their recovery alive. It is stated that one of MISS KEEN'S hands was seen to move and that she was heard calling faintly once or twice, but when the bodies were extricated, after a couple of hours' hard work, life was found to be extinct. Directly the accident became known scores of men hurried to the spot with pickaxes, shovels and crowbars, and under the direction of Mr J. S. Delbridge, surveyor to the Local Board, the work of getting out the bodies was carried on with the utmost expedition. Messengers were despatched for doctors, and within a short space of time nearly all the medical men in the town were on the scene. Among those in attendance were Dr F. M. Cann, Dr Lestock Cockburn, Mr Fortescue Webb, and Mr de Winter Baker. The dead bodies were placed for the time being in an empty house in Portland-place. They were frightfully mutilated, the features of the governess being crushed and battered out of all recognition. The bodies of MISS RADFORD and MISS VIOLET WATSON were both terribly knocked about. - Hundreds of people visited the scene of the accident during Sunday, the morning bathing train and the afternoon excursion being crowded.
INQUEST. - An Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MISS VIOLET MARY WATSON, aged 9 years; ELIZABETH KEEN, nurse, aged 34; and ELIZABETH RADFORD, lady's maid, 41 years, who met with their death on Saturday last by the fall of the portion of a cliff in the gentlemen's bathing cove, Dawlish, was held by Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, at the Assembly Rooms of Mr Ball's Royal Hotel, Dawlish, on Monday afternoon. A very large number of persons, besides the relatives of the deceased, were present to watch the proceedings. Most of the members of the Dawlish Local Board, including the chairman, Mr F. Lee, attended. Mr Friend, solicitor, of Exeter, watched the proceedings on behalf of the relatives of all three of the deceased persons; MR WATSON, barrister, of London, represented COLONEL WATSON, a relative of his; Mr J. S. Whidborne, clerk to the Local Board, attended in the interest of that body. - In opening the proceedings, the Coroner observed that the Jury had been summoned to investigate the circumstances of a sad occurrence. They had to ascertain, if possible, whether anyone was responsible for the death of the three persons who were killed on Saturday. - The bodies having been "viewed" and identified, and the Jurymen having stated that they did not wish to visit the scene of the disaster, as they were all acquainted with it, evidence was called. - Frederick W. Short, of 17 Bloomsbury-square, London, deposed that he was on a visit to Dawlish. On Saturday, about 1.30, he was in the gentlemen's bathing cove when he noticed a group of people sitting under the cliff, and shortly afterwards he heard a low rumbling sound, and looking in the direction of the ladies, saw a portion of the rock falling. The mass was very large, and it fell on the whole of the party. He did not notice any train passing at the time, but one might have passed without his observing it. As soon as he noticed the accident he ran over and pulled out Miss Matthews, who was partially embedded, and in doing so portions of her dress had to be left behind. A little boy named WATSON, about 9 years of age, was lying across MISS WATSON (his aunt) whose head and shoulders only were noticeable. The boy was not covered with earth. As soon as he had extricated Miss Matthews, two gentlemen came and assisted in getting MISS WATSON out. The lady was very much injured, and some time elapsed before she could be liberated. After she was taken out, he assisted her to her home. He had observed notice boards on former occasions cautioning the public against going too near the cliffs, but he did not notice any at that time. The tide was very high and nearly reached the edge of the cliff. The ladies were sitting down under the cliff and the children were running about. - By Mr Friend: It might have been twelve months or two years ago when he last saw the notice boards there. - ELIZABETH CAROLINE WATSON, the next witness, said she resided at Upper Winchester-road, Clapham, London. She accompanied the deceased persons to the cove, and noticed the cliff fall just after a train had passed. She was only a few yards off at the time, and her husband was also standing near. She saw a large piece of rock fall on the boy WATSON. Just after the accident another train passed, and then another small piece of rock fell from the cliff. Her husband assisted in extricating those embedded whilst she watched to give alarm in case any more of the cliff should fall. She had been staying at Dawlish since last Saturday week, and during that time had frequently visited the cove. Had looked for notices cautioning people, because she had heard there were some, but could find none. The weather was very rough at the time. - George Bond, boatman and fisherman, of Dawlish, said he saw the cliff fall. The giving-way commenced at the bottom and gradually went upwards. He saw a lady partially embedded, and he went to her assistance when she cried out "Oh." After getting her out he assisted in getting out others. Had this summer seen notice boards cautioning the public not to go too near the cliffs, but they had been destroyed by boys throwing stones at them. Noticed a train passed before and one just after the accident occurred. Remembered a cliff falling in 1880 - In answer to questions, the witness said the accident occurred above high-water mark. At spring tides the water would reach up to the foot of the cliff. One of the notice boards was knocked down when some cliff fell in the gentlemen's cove in March last. - P.C. Stapleton gave evidence as to the rescuing of the injured and the recovery of the deceased persons from the debris. He took no notice of the slip last March, as slips are frequently occurring. He would not have taken any notice of the present one but for the fatal consequences. - Robert King said he was superintendent of No. 2 Bathing Cove for seven years. He resigned in April 1884. Remembered seven years ago notices against the cliff in the cove to the effect that it was dangerous to sit under the cliffs, but there had not been any there for the last four years. At the entrance to Cow's Hole Cove Mr Friend had put one up at the beginning of this year. It was as dangerous to walk under as to sit under the cliff. (Slight applause.) After this they had built a wooden bridge to walk into the lion's mouth. (Renewed applause.) There was a great slip just as some one entered the bathing cove five or six years ago. Since then there had been one inside of the railway and another near, and forming one of the main props to the Cow's Hole Cavern. Since then again another had occurred, resulting in the knocking down of the wall built for the convenience of bathers. He did not believe it was the action of the sea that occasioned the slips, but rather the action of the water on the earth (which was nothing but rotten red sand stone), and the shaking produced by the passing of trains. He had repeatedly warned the members of the Local Board of the dangerous state of the cliffs, and they would ever remain so unless they were sloped away. (Applause). Had the Bathing Association held their opening breakfast a day or so later a short time ago, they would have run risk of meeting a similar fate to those poor people, for the debris fell on the very spot where the Committee sat. - The Rev. R. H. D. Barham was next called. He said there had been no fewer than three big cliff slips within the last six months. As soon as the slip took place near cow's Hole Tunnel a notice board was again put up, cautioning the public that it was dangerous to go under the cliff, but very shortly afterwards the Ratepayers Association actually constructed a wooden bridge leading people into the very danger the notices warned them of. He wrote to the Local Board, as the guardians of the public, pointing out the absurdity of the two things. - Dr Cann gave evidence to the effect that the girl WATSON died from suffocation, while ELIZABETH KEEN and ELIZABETH RADFORD, had sustained bodily injuries sufficient to cause death. - Mr W. S. Whidborne, clerk to the Dawlish Local Board, deposed that he did not think it would come within the power of the Local Board to stop the erection of the bridge. He spoke on the authority of the district auditor, who at the last audit said if the Board expended any money in the matter he would surcharge them with the amount laid out. The Board might, it was true, have laid a complaint before a higher authority against the erection of the bridge. He did not know what body of persons erected the bridge, but he understood that it was the Ratepayers' Association. The Board did not give their sanction to the bridge being erected, but said they would not oppose the scheme. - Joseph Delbridge, surveyor to the Dawlish Local Board, said he was in the habit of often visiting the place where the accident occurred. Four or five days since he was there, but did not observe any unusual indication of impending danger. The Local Board considered that they had no authority over the beach, nor any jurisdiction where the accident occurred. He understood that the place belonged either to the Railway Company or to the Woods and Forests Commissioners. - The Coroner having made a few remarks on the evidence, the Jury after three quarters of an hour's deliberation, returned a verdict of Accidental Death, accompanied with a recommendation to the Local Board to make inquiries with a view of ascertaining the owners of the cliff in question and to compel them to do what was necessary to prevent future accidents occurring, and pending such inquiry to erect notice boards warning people of the danger of the locality.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 October 1885
TORQUAY - The Fatal Fall From A Cliff At Babbacombe. Inquest. - On Monday an Inquest upon MR C. R. S. ADAMS, who resided and carried on business as a jeweller &c., at Fore-street, St. Marychurch, was held before Mr Sidney Hacker, the Coroner, at the Crown and Sceptre Inn, St. Marychurch. The deceased fell over a cliff on Babbacombe Downs on the previous Wednesday and sustained serious injuries from which he died two days afterwards. The Jury, with Mr Thomas Croft as foreman, after being sworn, proceeded to the residence of the deceased, to view the body, which had been removed there from the Torbay Infirmary. The following evidence was taken:- JOHN WATSON BOVEY said the deceased CHARLES RICHARD ADAMS was his son-in-law. Witness saw him the day previous to the accident when he believed he was in his usual health and spirits. He did not see him again till the Thursday in the Infirmary, where he found him quite conscious and in reply to witness the deceased said he was better. - Richard Henry Bird, quarryman, said that on Wednesday he was engaged in company with another man quarrying at Walls Hill. About four o'clock witness heard a slight fall of rubble, and looking up could see a man lying down and looking over into the pit. Witness called to him to go back or he would be falling over, when the person called out, "You can't heave up that stone; shall I come and help you up?" Witness called to him again to go back, and instantly the deceased came over head first, and in the fall alighted upon a ledge of rock about halfway down, and then bounded off and fell to the bottom, his hat remaining on the ledge of rock. In reply to the Coroner, witness said he believed the deceased was only chaffing in calling out what he did. Witness did not know what caused him to pitch over, but the wind was certainly very rough at the time. - John Turner, quarryman, said he heard deceased call out as described by the last witness, but so many persons come that way and stay about, that witness did not pay much attention. The next thing he saw was the deceased falling over. There are large breaches in the wall which was erected to prevent cattle from falling over. The deceased in falling struck twice before reaching the bottom. When he picked him up he appeared to be quite unconscious. The quarry was rented by Mr Drake. There had been a shooting competition going on at the Walls Hill range during the day. - James H. Wilcox, innkeeper, Babbacombe, said that on the day of the occurrence deceased called about a quarter to four and inquired whether the Dawlish team were down shooting, as he wanted to see one of them. Witness advised him to go to Walls Hill to find the party. After remaining a quarter of an hour he left and went in that direction. He had not taken any thing to drink at all in his house, and witness believed he was perfectly sober. - Harriett Tuckett, residing at the house of the deceased, said in reply to the Coroner, that nothing occurred at breakfast time that morning, and deceased lived quite happily at home. - James Heath, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said deceased was admitted to the Hospital on Wednesday about 4.30 suffering from concussion of the brain and serious abdominal injuries. Witness attended him till his death on Friday morning. The immediate cause of death was peritonitis. In reply to questions from witness, the deceased appeared to have quite forgotten how or when he fell over the cliff. - P.C. Thomas (Babbacombe), who took the deceased to the Infirmary, stated that he was quite unconscious whilst being conveyed there. - MARY E. ADAMS, the widow, who was assisted into the room and appeared to be almost helpless, and was evidently in a very delicate state of health, in reply to the Coroner stated that she saw her husband the night of the accident in the Infirmary, but he was too prostrate to speak to her. On the following day she asked him to explain to her how the accident happened when he replied "It slipped under me and I fell." She could not say whether he referred to the rubble as slipping or to his foot. - The Coroner having summed up the evidence, and addressed the Jury, the following verdict was returned, "That the deceased came by his death by Falling Over the Cliff at Walls Hill quarry, such fall being purely Accidental." At the close of the proceedings, Mr Bovey, the father-in-law of the deceased, asked permission to express on behalf of the widow, her warmest thanks to the House Surgeon, Matron and attendants at the hospital for the marked kindness they one and all had shown to her under the very painful circumstances. The Jury's fees were given to the widow and her children.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 December 1885
TORQUAY - Death From Poisoning In Torquay. Suicide Of A Herbalist. - Considerable sensation was created on Tuesday in the neighbourhood of Warberry Vale cottages on it becoming known that an elderly man named JAMES UPHAM had been discovered in a dying state in his bedroom, there being strong indications that he had taken poison, either intentionally or by accident. It appears that the old man had resided for years at No. 6, Warberry Vale Cottages, where he occupied two rooms, carrying on a small business as herbalist. Some eighteen months since he lost his wife, and since that time he has indulged pretty freely in an old habit of drinking to excess, which appears to have affected his mind considerably. The Inquest was held before Mr S. Hacker, the Coroner, on Thursday afternoon at the Police Station. - Mr Wm. Motton was the Foreman of the Jury, and the following evidence was taken:- Mary Anne Ching, residing in the same house as deceased, said that UPHAM had for seven years occupied rooms in their house, paying 3s. a week rent. There was now three months arrears due; deceased did but little business, and was mostly in his own rooms alone. About 12.30 on Tuesday last just as witness was going out she heard a groan, and fearing her child upstairs was ill she ran up and found that the noise proceeded from the bedroom of deceased. Running in, she found him lying on his back on the bed either groaning or vomiting. Taking hold of his wrist and seeing the state he was in, she called her husband to run for assistance. A neighbour and the doctor were there in the course of a few minutes. She noticed a strong smell in the room, and a tumbler (produced) that was in the window contained about a teaspoonful of dark liquid, which smelt exactly like the odour which filled the room. Deceased did not want for anything; there were provisions in his cupboard, and he had not left the house since Wednesday, when he said he was going to see a chemist. Some time since his parish pay, 2s. 6d. a week, was stopped, and that had troubled him very much. - William Ching, husband of the last witness, said he heard his wife call out, and went for a policeman, and for a nephew of deceased, who is footman at Stitchill House. The day previous to the occurrence he had spoken to deceased and asked him for some rent, and he replied that he was giving up housekeeping and was going to sell his furniture and pay all up. Deceased had his parish pay stopped because he "went boozing". - Mr Heath, surgeon at the Hospital, who was called to see deceased, said he found him in bed quite insensible. From the symptoms and appearance of deceased he believed it to be a case of poisoning. He had since examined the body, which was well-nourished; the stomach was very much corroded and there were traces of poison. In the opinion of the witness the cause of death was carbolic acid poisoning. The phial and tumbler produced both contained that acid in an impure state, and might very likely be used in the course of deceased's business as a horse and dog doctor. - Mr Tozer, relieving officer, was called by the request of the Jury, and said that in consequence of the irregular habits of the deceased, and his refusal to go into the "House" or to fetch his "pay" from the Town Hall, although well enough to fetch his beer, the Board stopped his weekly allowance some three months since. - BESSIE COLOMBO, daughter of deceased, residing at Okehampton, said she had not seen her father for 18 months, but wrote to him every week sending him a small sum to help him. She knew from what he wrote her that the stoppage of his "pay" had upset him very much; she had urged him to go to the Town Hall and fetch his money. He had always drunk pretty freely, but was quiet with it. Police-Sergt. Bright, who examined the rooms occupied by deceased, proved finding the glass and bottle containing the acid. The Coroner summed up, and the Jury after retiring for a short time found the following verdict: "That deceased came by his death by Poison, taken whilst in an Unsound State of Mind."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 December 1885
TORQUAY - Determined Suicide In Torquay. - Quite a sensation was caused in the town on Saturday last by a suicide of an unusually determined character. A man named JOHN SAMUEL BALSOM (55) a mason's labourer, residing at 45, Victoria Park, St. Marychurch-road, after trying first to hang himself and then to cut his throat, threw himself into the sea near Meadfoot Beach. He had suffered much from mental depression, and had been under medical care, but no one expected that he contemplated self-destruction. On the body being found on Sunday, it was removed to the mortuary at Torquay. - On Monday evening an Inquest was held at the Town Hall before Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner. Mr W. B. Smale was Foreman of the Jury. The first witness called was MARIA BALSOM, wife of the deceased. She said her husband had for some time been in low spirits and poor health, being subject to fits. He had been out of work for nearly two years, and the fact had preyed upon his mind. She with her boy had been compelled to support him. They had had parish relief, and Dr Wills had attended deceased for his health. Last week deceased was much worse than usual, but nothing serious was expected. He complained greatly of his head, and kept in bed all Friday, but got up at a quarter to two o'clock on Saturday morning. Becoming much worse all at once, he complained of pain on the top of his head, saying it was like someone tearing his hair off. He said, "I can't stay here." She replied, "Nonsense;" but he got out of bed, and half dressed himself. She wanted to prevent him from going out, telling him that it was too late, but he would go. She then called her son, WILLIAM JOHN HARROD, and told him to accompany deceased. Nothing was said that suggested that he was going to do himself any harm, but she did not like him to go out alone at such an hour. Soon afterwards they came back, the husband first. On going downstairs she found the deceased with a table-knife in his hand. She flew at him and took it away, the blade being in his mouth at the time. He went into the yard, and she ran to fetch assistance. He took the knife with him. Mr Lock came in at her request, and tried to pacify the deceased, but all to no purpose, for he would go out again. Mr Lock tried to prevent him, but could not prevail. He went out, and she had not seen him since. - In reply to the Coroner, the witness said deceased had been in a low state of mind for twelve months, but worse for the last month or so. - In reply to a Juryman, she said he had received parish relief for three weeks, and she had made application for it to be continued another three weeks. - WILLIAM JOHN HARROD, labourer, stated that it was on deceased complaining of hearing noises and having pains in the head, that the last witness asked him to get up. When going out the first time, deceased said he "wanted to see the doctor." He afterwards said it was too early for that, but went out, witness following. He walked as far as the Copse and then to Farrier's plantation, where, becoming annoyed at witness watching him, he tried to kick him. Deceased then took a rope from his pocket and tying one end to the bough of a tree, he endeavoured to hang himself, but he made the drop too long, and came to the ground. while he lay there, witness took the rope from him and put it in his pocket. Deceased then endeavoured to choke himself with his hands, and the witness was bitten in trying to stop him. He afterwards got up and ran away home. On arriving in the house, witness learned that deceased was in the back yard with a knife, and on making search witness found him in the closet trying to cut his throat. Witness took the knife away, and saw that deceased had inflicted a wound from which blood was flowing. Deceased again tried to choke himself with his hands, and afterwards seized the poker and endeavoured to put it down his throat. Mr Lock then came in and did all he could to coax the deceased, but it was no good. Going out again, all efforts to prevent him from doing so proving unavailing, deceased went through the copse and through Mr Bartlett's farm up to Kilmorie. Witness followed in company with a brother. They tracked him amongst the rocks and bushes, but all of a sudden they lost sight of him. They waited and listened, but neither saw nor heard anything. At a quarter past five o'clock, thinking deceased had made for home, they came away, it being still dark. On Saturday afternoon witness went out again to look for the deceased, but could not find him. - In reply to the Coroner the witness said that, although he saw two policemen when out with the deceased when he first went to the Copse, he did not seek help, as nothing wrong was expected. Deceased had never threatened to do himself any harm. After deceased attempted to hang himself, witness saw no one from whom he could get help. Even on Saturday afternoon it was not thought that deceased had done anything to himself. - In reply to the Foreman, the witness said that deceased was not violent. When begged to go home after trying to hang himself, he said he "he would have his revenge." There had been no quarrel. Witness did not speak to the deceased at all when he went to Kilmorie. Deceased was deaf. - Replying further to the Coroner, the witness said it "out of his conscious" to tell the police of deceased's disappearance; he was so worried that he did not think of doing such a thing. - John Lock, of 43 Victoria Park, stated that MRS BALSOM aroused him about three o'clock on Saturday morning. He found the deceased in the kitchen and asked what was the matter. Deceased said he was "bad in the head," and "none of the doctors could do him any good." He refused to allow witness to make him some tea, and would not listen to advice to go to bed. Witness told HARROD to watch him, and went to try and meet a constable. He ran as far as St. Marychurch, and on returning found the deceased and HARROD gone. It was very dark at the time. - George Cumming, of 9 Victoria Park, stated that on Sunday morning he went to Ilsham in search of the deceased. He looked all about the place until about one o'clock, round about Anstey's Cove, Kilmorie and Meadfoot. Whilst standing near Kilmorie, two boys drew his attention to the body of a man in the water about two or three feet outside two rocks and lying on his back. The water was about a foot and a half deep. Witness jumped down and got the body by the collar, and found it was the deceased. Witness secured help, and the body was removed. - Mr William Wills, surgeon, stated that he had attended the deceased for about a month on relieving officer's order. The complaint was fits, tending to derangement of the mind. Witness reported him to the Board as suffering from fits and very crazy. Witness saw nothing of suicidal mania, and would not have expected deceased to become a suicide. Witness judged that deceased had destroyed himself in a fit of insanity. When calling at the house of the deceased on Sunday, witness learned that he had not been seen for two days, and that he had no doubt as to what had become of him. - In summing up, the Coroner said he did not think he had ever had before him a more determined case of suicide. If help could have been got at the proper time, the man might have been put under restraint, but unfortunately there was no apprehension that suicidal symptoms would be developed. The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased Committed Suicide by Drowning himself while in a State of Unsound Mind.

Torquay and South Devon Advertiser - Thursday 24 December 1885
TORQUAY - Singular Discovery In Torquay. A Corpse Found In A Cellar. Inquest And Verdict. - A singular discovery was made on Saturday last in a villa situate in St. Marychurch-road and known as Springhill. Mr Memery, auctioneer and appraiser, was engaged in making an inventory of the goods in the house, and in a packing case in one corner of a cellar he found a lead coffin containing the remains of a child in an advanced state of decomposition. Information was given to the police and the Coroner informed of the discovery. Inquiry led to the conclusion that the contents of the coffin were the remains of a child of MRS R. G. SUTTON, the tenant of the house, but who was absent from home, in fact lecturing on phrenology and giving character delineations at Plymouth under the style of "MRS PROFESSOR SUTTON." - Yesterday morning an Inquest into the circumstances attending the death of the child was held at the Town Hall before Mr Sidney Hacker, District Coroner, Mr T. F. Graham being Foreman of the Jury. - In opening the proceedings, the Coroner said the body was found under very peculiar circumstances, and it was the duty of the Jury to investigate the matter and say whether the child came by its death properly or not. He ventured to think, judging from the information he had received, that the Jury would be satisfied with the explanation that would be given. - The first witness called was Mr Memery. He said he was last Saturday engaged with an assistant in going over Springhill for the purpose of making an inventory and valuation of the goods. A piano was on hire, and the object was to ascertain whether there were goods sufficient to pay for it. The witness continued:- The house was occupied by MRS SUTTON who rented it furnished of Mrs Reed. We had nearly finished when Mrs Reed appeared and asked if we had seen a large packing case that was brought in a few days ago. On our replying "No," she searched for it, and going to the cellar said she had found it. I said the case seemed to be empty, but Mrs Reed said she thought it contained something valuable. With my assistant I opened the chest and found inside a coffin wrapped in a coarse wrapper. We could see the lid with the glass hand-piece. I went and told an old lady, a MRS SUTTON, who was in the house at the time and she said the coffin must be an empty one. Examination showed that there was a child in the coffin, and I went and told the old lady so; she was in the house with two servants and two children. Mrs Reed, who was standing near, thereupon said, "I will not allow it to stay in the house; you must get it moved." I said, "We must not meddle with it. You had better call the police." The police were then fetched, and they took the coffin away. There was nothing else in that cellar. The lid of the case was nailed down. The body was in a wooden shell with a lead coffin over it. The lead coffin had been cut open and closed again. - In reply to Jurymen: The case was large enough for half-a-dozen such coffins. There was no smell emitted. - P.C. Bond stated that on Saturday afternoon about five o'clock, he was informed by Mr Memery's assistant that a coffin had been discovered. With P.S. Bastin he went to the house. The coffin was in a large coal-cellar, and in the case were some old rags and articles of clothing, as well as some straw. There were also two newspapers, the one of January and the other of April this year, and two wreaths of flowers which were quite dry. MRS SUTTON was not in the house, having gone away on Monday week. Witness conveyed the corpse from the house to the mortuary. - Mr J. B. Richardson, surgeon, said: I have made an examination of the body. The child was lying in an elm coffin or shell, encased in lead with a face glass. The lead had been cut open. The coffin lid was loose, having no signs of nails or screws. The body was clad in a calico chemise, and dead leaves were strewn upon it. The coffin also contained saw dust, and the ordinary fittings. It fitted the body accurately. On external examination, the body presented the appearance of a well-nourished, well-developed child in an advanced state of decomposition. So far as could be ascertained there were no signs of external violence. The height was three feet; but the sex I cannot swear to owing to the state of decomposition. My opinion is that it was a female, but it is impossible to swear. The hair was light-brown and long. The colour of the eyes could not be determined. There were ten teeth in each jaw. The age I consider about three years. The tongue and mouth were much decomposed, but showed no signs of an irritant poison. On examination of the cranial cavity, there was no sign of injury to the skull, and the brain was reduced to a mere pulp by decomposition. On examining the chest I found the larynx considerably decomposed, and I could form no opinion as to any condition there. The windpipe was in a healthy condition; the bronchial tubes showed signs of congestion; the left lung was healthy, but the lower lobe of the right lung was deeply congested. The gullet was healthy, also the heart and pericardium. The stomach appeared empty. The liver, spleen, and kidneys appeared healthy, also the various blood vessels. The bladder and parts adjacent were much decomposed. I should say the child had not been dead less than nine or ten months, and not more than two years. Where the air is excluded the process of decomposition is slow, and in this case the air was partially excluded. The internal organs were not so much decomposed as would have been expected from the advanced state of decomposition of the parts from which the air had not been entirely excluded. The congestion of the base of the right lung probably had something to do with the death of the child, although it was hardly enough of itself to cause it. I am unable to form any absolute opinion as to the cause of death, but whatever the actual cause, the child died from some acute disease. The well-nourished condition of the body shows that there was no wasting disease. There was no indication of death being from other than natural causes. - In reply to the Coroner: Unless such a body was kept entirely away from air, it must e an injurious thing to have in a house where people are living. - MRS RHODA GERALDINE SUTTON was next called. The Coroner told her she need not give evidence unless she wished; she need not criminate herself. MRS SUTTON said she wished to give evidence, and, having been sworn, she deposed: I am the wife of EDGAR CHARLES AUSTIN SUTTON, of Woodstock, Ontario, Canada West, farmer and printer, and professor of phrenology; but as he is expected in England, and should have arrived last week, I can hardly describe him as of Canada. The body lying in the mortuary is that of my son, CHARLES GERALD HERBERT SUTTON. He died on the 19th April at Bath, of bronchitis and diphtheria. He was aged 19 months and 9 days, and was a very fine child. We were lodging at 5 Dorchester-street, Bath. The death was registered at the time at Bath, and the body was buried on April 28th at Lansdown cemetery, 3 miles from Bath. I was under the impression that the child had been buried in a state of coma, and was out of my mind about it, and wished to have him exhumed. I was under the belief that he had not died, had not ceased to exist, and I could not rest until I saw him. I did not see him put in the coffin, having come home very ill, after catching diphtheria from him. Indeed, I knew nothing of the funeral until it was over, when I was informed that his appearance in the coffin was not that of a dead child - and that when he was put in he was limp and warm. I wanted the child up again, and on making inquiries was informed that the Home Secretary would give permission. I wrote and the reply was that the Chancellor of the Diocese, or the Bishop of Bath and Wells, would grant me a faculty. I also wrote to the Queen, and received a similar reply from Sir H. Ponsonby. After much trouble and going to great expense, I obtained the faculty on May 30th, and the child was disinterred on June 1st. - The Coroner: You got the faculty the month following the death. What was the good of it then? - Witness: Application was made for the faculty in the week the child died, but there was all that delay. I wished even then to see my child to see if he had struggled or recovered consciousness. - The witness continued her evidence: The child was in three coffins - one of polished oak, one of lead and an elm shell. He was taken to the house of a friend of mine at Bath, and I made up my mind that having got my child I would not part from him again. The outer lid was opened by the undertaker. The face of the child was mildewed, which it ought not to have been seeing that the body was in lead. The coffin was afterwards taken to Teignmouth and I had the outer coffin buried in St. Nicholas's Churchyard in accordance with the terms of the faculty. I took out the lead coffin and the shell, feeling unable to part with the child. The interment at Teignmouth took place a few days after I arrived there, the coffin being filled up with bricks by myself, in the presence of the servant girl named Clara Underhill. I sent word about the interment to Mr Wrenford, the clergyman, and almost at the last moment, I filled the coffin with bricks. We idolized the child; he suffered such a terrible deal before death. I screwed down the coffin that was buried. There was no burial service read, but a few words were said by the clergyman. I kept the shell at Teignmouth, no one knowing but the girl and myself, not even my mother in whose house I was then living. For some time the shell was not opened - not for some weeks at any rate. It was opened early one morning out in the garden. I cut the lead myself. Before it was opened the body was kept in a large cupboard in my own room, and we used every day to look at it and put flowers on the coffin. I used to go every day and stay for an hour or two with my child. The box in which the coffin was when found at Springhill was bought for the purpose. It was securely fastened down. - The Coroner: So you did not re-inter the body in accordance with the faculty? - The Witness: I thought re-interring the coffin was carrying out the conditions. - The Coroner: Your ideas of carrying out the faculty are rather peculiar. It refers to the body, not the coffin specially. Have you lost any other children by death? - The Witness: No. - The Coroner: Have you any other children? - The Witness: I think that it is immaterial to the evidence. - The Coroner: You don't wish to answer that question? - The Witness: I don't wish. - The witness further deposed that when she first came to Torquay she lived in Warren Road, and the box in which the coffin was stood outside the house for some time. She complained of Mrs Reed having directed attention to the box and had it opened. During a good part of the time she was under examination the witness was crying. - Clara Underhill, domestic servant at the house of MRS SEYMOUR, mother of MRS SUTTON, at Teignmouth, said she saw MRS SUTTON in the coach-house before the day fixed for the re-interment. Witness asked her what she was doing, and she replied: "I am going to take the poor little fellow out and fill the coffin up with bricks." Witness saw the child when living as well as when dead, and recognized the corpse as his remains. She helped MRS SUTTON to take the body upstairs and put it in a cupboard. Witness did not put any of the bricks into the oak coffin, but helped MRS SUTTON to carry it into the house when she had filled it. She was at MRS SUTTON'S when the child died. It was a tall child. A Juryman: Did anyone in the house know of what took place in the coach-house. The Witness: No one knew it but me and MRS SUTTON and God, sir. - In summing up the evidence, the Coroner said: Gentlemen of the Jury. You have the evidence before you, and I think you will hardly consider it satisfactory in a certain way as an explanation of the case. you will no doubt agree with me that the circumstances are very extraordinary and that a careful investigation is quite justified. You will all know that no one can as in this case keep a dead body in the cellar of a dwelling house without laying himself or herself open to an Inquiry as to how the body got there and how the deceased came by his or her death. Anyone doing such a thing is brought under suspicion which can only be allayed by proper Inquiry. You have heard the evidence of MRS SUTTON, which is the most important as giving an account of the death of the child. MRS SUTTON gave her evidence clearly, and I think you will take it that it has been corroborated by the other facts which have come before you. It will be for you to consider whether there is any doubt to be thrown upon that evidence. MRS SUTTON has told you that the remains lying in the mortuary are those of her child, who died from natural causes on April 19th, and was buried on the 28th of that month. Duly qualified medical men were in attendance, and had it not been for proper certificates the child could not have been buried. So we may take it that the child died from natural causes, and that all was correct so far. The child was buried in due course, and a short time after, for reasons that have been stated to you, MRS SUTTON desired to have it disinterred, and made application and obtained a faculty from the Bishop of Bath and Wells. That faculty orders that the child may be disinterred upon condition that it shall be re-interred at St. Nicholas in accordance with the application, and the faculty was granted on that condition. The body was disinterred and taken to Teignmouth and you have heard what happened there. From some sentimental reason, MRS SUTTON, after having arranged for the burial of the child, proceeds just before burial takes place, to take the child out of the oak coffin. She takes the child into the house, and fills the coffin with bricks in a very extraordinary way; and she allowed that coffin so filled with bricks to be buried by the Vicar of Shaldon, and the child was afterwards brought to Torquay. The main point in the Inquiry is the identification of the child, and if you are satisfied that the remains in the mortuary are those of CHARLES GERALD HERBERT SUTTON, which were disinterred, your duty would be discharged by your bringing in a verdict that the child died from natural causes. It would also be for you to consider whether under the circumstances you should not add some rider of censure or recommendation to the verdict, for the case seems to me to call for something besides a verdict of death from natural causes. So far as the law goes, I may say that there is no power compelling any person to bury a body in any particular way, as long as there is no infringement of the sanitary laws. By the Public Health Act no body is allowed to be kept in any dwelling-house if it is likely to be prejudicial to health. Dr Richardson has stated that the body in this case was in such a condition as to be prejudicial to the health of the inhabitants, and I shall therefore at once make an order for the burial of the body in pursuance of the powers given by the Public Health Act. Unless MRS SUTTON undertakes within two days to have the body buried, the order will be carried out by the relieving officer, and she will be charged with the expenses. - After a quarter of an hour's deliberation the Jury returned the following verdict: We are of opinion that the child in the mortuary is the son of MRS SUTTON and that it died from natural causes. We consider that MRS SUTTON gave her evidence in a very satisfactory manner. We are of opinion that her action has been very indiscreet, and would recommend her, should she be similarly situated at any future time, to act more in accordance with the general custom.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 January 1886
TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of A Child. - On Sunday morning last, WILLIAM HENRY ADAMS, aged two years and three months, died suddenly at his mother's house, 24, Market-street. An Inquest into the circumstances was held on Wednesday evening at the police station, before Mr Sidney Hacker. The mother, ANNIE ADAMS, said the child had always been weakly. On Saturday night it was taken unwell. Acting on the advice of a neighbour, she applied two poultices and gave the child some castor oil. Later on it began to breathe heavily. She gave it some brandy, and getting worse it did at 3.30 on Sunday morning. She thought it was too late at ten o'clock to send for a doctor. - Mrs E. Gay deposed to being present at the child's death. She was of opinion that the child had suffered from bronchitis, as it was always tight on the chest. She saw it shortly before its death, and, as far as she could tell, everything possible was done for it. - Mr Wills, surgeon, said he attended the child about ten months since, when it was suffering from consumption of the bowels. It was very delicate and badly fed. He had seen the child since its death, and it was much improved, and appeared well cared for and well nourished. It had apparently died from bronchitis, but he thought it was an error not to send for a doctor. What was done was proper, except the giving of the brandy. The child's former complaint and the delicacy of its constitution were the causes of its sudden death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," the Coroner remarking that any medical man would at any hour of the night have attended a dying child.

BARNSTAPLE - An Inquest was held at Barnstaple on Saturday concerning the sudden death on Christmas night, of a married woman named RIED. It was stated that deceased partook very heartily in the day of goose, plum pudding and nuts and the doctor affirmed that death was due to the effects of over-eating.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 January 1886
ST. MARYCHURCH - Inquest At St. Marychurch. - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of JANE FROST, at the Havelock Arms inn, St. Marychurch, on Saturday afternoon. From the evidence adduced, it appeared that the deceased fell downstairs at her house, and her head coming in contact with the bottom step, she sustained injuries from the effects of which she died. Dr Finch, who had been attending the deceased, gave evidence leading to the inference that the deceased fell while in a fit of giddiness. The Jury, of whom Mr Lee was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 February 1886
TORQUAY - Death From Blood Poisoning At Ellacombe. - On Monday evening at the Country House Hotel, Ellacombe, Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest touching the death of JOHN LAWRENCE (55), brewer's labourer, living at 2, Wellington-road, who expired on the previous day under very distressing circumstances. For some fifteen years the deceased had been in the employ of the Torquay Brewing Company. While at his work on Tuesday of last week he put forth his right hand to prevent a cask from falling, and in doing so injured the back of one of his fingers by knocking it against an iron hoop. The limb swelled, and blood poisoning supervened, from which the unfortunate man died. Mr Motton was Foreman of the Jury. - The widow of the deceased was the first witness. After stating that the small wound on the knuckle continued to become more painful every day, she said that on Saturday last, when it was greatly swollen, she poulticed it. On the following day, in the afternoon, Dr Haddow, assistant to Dr Gamble, incised the hand. The operation was performed in the front room, and when the doctor had left, the deceased wanted to be in his usual bedroom. For three nights he had had no sleep, owing to the pain, and after the operation he seemed a little lost, and wanted to get out of bed. Through his moving about the bandages became undone, and she wrapped a blanket round the arm. But she could not stop the bleeding, and he died at 4.45, about half an hour after the bandages came off. The place was "like a slaughter house" on account of the loss of blood. When the bleeding began, she sent for Dr Gamble. Dr Haddow came about 5.30, three-quarters of an hour after the deceased breathed his last. In reply to the Coroner, the witness said that the deceased pulled the bandages off; through weakness, owing to the loss of blood, he hardly knew what he was doing. He was a healthy man. Asked if the deceased was temperate in his habits, the witness said he was allowed three pints of beer a day, and he consumed that and sometimes perhaps a glass or so more. - John Stoneman, carpenter, St. Marychurch, a friend of the deceased, said he told him how it was that he hurt his hand. Trying to prevent a cask from falling, he caught his hand against an iron band, and knocked the skin off one of his knuckles. The wound was not more than a quarter of an inch in size. The deceased did not speak of any pain on the Tuesday, but on the Thursday the hand was swollen, and he complained of much pain. On Sunday the deceased showed the limb to the witness, and it was swollen very much, there being bladders over the hand and up the arm. In the afternoon Dr Haddow incised the back of the hand in two places and the arm in one place. They bled freely, and after the bleeding seemed spent the doctor bandaged hand and arm. Half an hour afterwards the deceased became delirious, threw his arms about, and partially fainted. When he had recovered, he was taken into his own bedroom. The deceased removed the bandages by pulling at them and throwing his arms about. The wife and daughter bound up hand and arm with towels and flannels, but they could not stop the bleeding. At this time deceased said to his daughter, "Hold me up; I am going to die." The witness then went for Dr Haddow, but found he was not at home. He went on to Dr Gamble, who said he could not go, but his assistant would call at 5.30. Witness said the case was a serious one, whereupon Dr Gamble repeated his assurance that Dr Haddow would be in attendance at 5.30. It was about 4.45 that witness was at Dr Gamble's, just at the time LAWRENCE is said to have died. - George Brown, a man employed with the deceased, gave evidence as to the manner in which the wound on the finger was caused, adding that it bled very little at the time. - Dr George Haddow, assistant to Dr Gamble, "club doctor" to the deceased, deposed that on Thursday night he was called to see the deceased. He found the hand very much swollen, and wanted to make an incision, but this the deceased would not consent to. The witness told the deceased to remain in bed until his visit on the following day. On going, however, on the Friday, the witness found that the deceased had gone to work. On the next day, the witness received a message requesting him to see the deceased again, and on going he found him delirious. The witness again pressed the deceased to let him open his hand, erysipelas having set in and blood poisoning being also indicated. The case was then, in the opinion of the witness, a hopeless one, as the heart was failing rapidly. But the deceased would not allow the hand to be touched, although the witness explained to him that his only chance lay in the hand being opened, and that chance was then not a great one. Returning to Dr Gamble, the witness informed him of the nature of the case, and Dr Gamble agreed that there was nothing to be done if the patient refused to allow an incision. The witness called again on Sunday afternoon, and the deceased then let him open the hand and arm, but it was too late. The bleeding after the operation was profuse. Witness did not bandage too tightly, because he wished to allow the poisonous matter to run out freely so that it might not become absorbed in the blood. The deceased was rambling at the time. Having waited half an hour, the witness left the house at ten minutes past four. He then went to see other patients, not returning to his residence until half-past five, when he was informed that he had been sent for to see the deceased again. On arriving at the house, he found him dead. Dr Gamble knew the man was dying when the messenger waited on him, and he thought that the statement that the case was serious meant that the patient was delirious. The witness was of opinion that death resulted from erysipelas and blood poisoning. The loss of blood might have accelerated death, but not much as the man was dying before the operation. Death could not be attributed to the loss of blood consequent upon the deceased taking off the bandages. The deceased had "taken a lot of beer in his day." It would have been better if the wound had bled more freely at the time it was sustained, as then there would have been less likelihood of matter being generated. - The Coroner briefly summed up the evidence, directing special attention to the fact that death did not result from loss of blood consequent upon the removal of the bandages by the deceased, but from blood poisoning which had so manifested itself on the day before death as t lead Dr Haddow to believe the man to be in a dying state. One of the Jurymen, Mr Cox, chairman of the branch of the club of which the deceased was a member, remarked that there could be no imputation as to want of attention on the part of Dr Gamble, as his attendance upon club patients left nothing to be desired. The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that Death resulted from Blood Poisoning.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 February 1886
PAIGNTON - Death By Poisoning At Paignton. - At an early hour on Monday morning, MR HENRY WIPPELL, aged 53, formerly a stationer and bookseller carrying on business on Victoria Parade, died at his residence, 3, Torbay Terrace, Paignton, from the effects of drinking carbolic acid. On Tuesday an Inquest into the circumstances of the death was held at the Gerston Hotel, before Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner. Mr G. S. Bridgman was Foreman of the Jury. The first witness examined was the widow, MRS EMMA MARIA WIPPELL. She said that for some time past her husband had lived at Paignton, where she had carried on a fancy business. On Sunday night the deceased went to bed about half-past nine, retiring earlier than usual, as he had complained during the afternoon of pains in the head. At a quarter to ten she went up to the deceased and asked him if he would have some coffee, but he refused, appearing to be in a distressed state. She went to bed about eleven o'clock, and shortly after midnight she was awoke by the deceased suddenly getting out of bed and going downstairs. He soon returned, holding in his hand a glass, the contents of which he drank as he came into the room. He then put the glass down on the drawers, jumped into bed, and said, "I've done it now." Witness asked him what he had taken, and he replied, "Some of your disinfectant stuff; some of Condy's fluid, I believe." She immediately aroused the governess, and went herself for a doctor, who directed her to give the deceased some olive oil. She did so, but he was unable to swallow it and death ensued about half-past one on Monday morning. The carbolic acid was taken from a bottle, and was purchased by her last summer for disinfectant purposes. She had suspected that her husband's mind had been affected for some time past. He had frequently been unreasonable and erratic in his actions. He had also been addicted to excessive drinking for several years past, and had suffered from delirium tremens to such an extent that it had been found necessary to watch him, and take charge of him for days together. On one occasion he threatened to jump over the pier. During the past few months he had become involved in pecuniary difficulties. He had taken very little food lately, and on Sunday afternoon he talked a good deal about his troubles, and appeared to be more than usually depressed. - Dr Alexander deposed that shortly before one o'clock on Monday morning, he was called by MRS WIPPELL, who expressed to him her fear that her husband had taken poison. He immediately went to 3, Torbay-terrace, where he found the deceased lying in an unconscious state and frothing at the mouth. An attempt was made to produce vomiting, but without success. The stomach pump was also applied, but ineffectually, owing to the deceased's gullet having become so contracted by the corrosive action of the fluid he had swallowed. The witness made a post mortem examination, and found nearly a quarter of a pint of carbolic acid in the stomach. - MR GEORGE WIPPELL, ironmonger, of Exeter, brother to the deceased, said the latter had been greatly troubled by his pecuniary affairs for some time past. He had also been occasionally given to heavy drinking, and witness felt quite sure, from what he had heard from time to time, that the deceased's mind was greatly affected through the excessive use of alcohol. - The Jury returned a verdict that the deceased died from the effects of carbolic acid poisoning by his own hands, he being at the time of Unsound Mind.

ST. MARYCHURCH - Sudden Death At Watcombe. - An Inquest was held on Tuesday evening, before Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, at the Palk Arms inn, St. Marychurch, touching the death of JAMES GAYLER, 67, who was found dead on Saturday at the bottom of a flight of steps leading from Watcombe to Maidencombe. Evidence of identification having been adduced, and to show that the deceased had complained of suffering from giddiness, a lad named George Tully was examined. He said he was on the road to Maidencombe on Saturday afternoon, when he saw the deceased lying on the ground dead. P.C. Ware deposed that the man lay with his head down the hill, and his feet towards the steps. There was a cut at the top of his head which had bled a little, and there was also a scratch on the right side of his face. Dr Finch gave evidence, indicating that death was from heart disease, and the Jury returned a verdict to that effect.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 March 1886
TORQUAY - Suicide In Torquay. - On Sunday morning the body of MARY ANN AGGETT, aged 59, wife of EDWARD AGGETT, cab-driver, 5 Princes-road, Ellacombe, was found on the Torre Abbey Sands by a seaman named Richard Middleton. The deceased, who had been in a low way for some time, appears to have left home on Saturday evening, and jumped over the sea wall and drowned herself. On Monday evening an Inquest was held at the Town Hall before Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner. Mr William Motton was Foreman of the Jury. The husband of the deceased deposed that he last saw his wife alive on Saturday morning when he left home about half-past seven. In the evening, finding that his wife did not come home, he went in search of her, but could not discover her whereabouts. In reply to the Coroner, the witness said that the deceased had worried a good deal, owing to one of her sons not being "just what he should be." Charles Tozer, who resides in the same house as the AGGETTS, said that on Saturday evening the deceased opened his door, and putting her head inside remarked that she was going to see CHARLIE, meaning her son, who was unwell. She then left the house. The witness knew that the deceased had suffered very much in her head, on one occasion she complained that her brain felt as if a man was stirring it up with a stick. - Thomas Medland, cabman, who assisted in removing the body from the rocks on to the slip, gave evidence as to the finding of the body, and P.C. Gidley testified as to the condition and position of the body. - Dr Richardson stated that he had made a superficial examination of the body. He found a compound fracture of the leg above the ankle, a large red mark, a bruise along the forehead, and other slight marks on the hand and wrist. The injuries were inflicted before death, but were not in themselves sufficient to cause death. His opinion was that the deceased came by her death from drowning. If she fell or jumped from the wall and broke her leg, she would probably fall forward causing the bruise on the forehead, and becoming insensible would be drowned whilst in that condition. He had known and attended the deceased for some years, and at one time she had shown unmistakable signs of insanity, but he thought that had quite passed away, and that she had recovered. The Coroner having reviewed the evidence, the Jury returned a verdict that the deceased committed Suicide whilst in a state of Unsound Mind.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 9 April 1886
TORQUAY - Inquest. - Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, opened an Inquest at the Torbay Hospital on Saturday, relative to the circumstances attending the death of SAMUEL STOCKER, 45, carman, of Ellacombe, who had died from injuries sustained in an accident on March 12th. The deceased was driving a horse and waggon down Market-street, when the horse shied and bolted, and in trying to get off the waggon, STOCKER got his legs entangled in the wheel and had one broken. He was taken to the Hospital, where amputation was found necessary and from the effects he died. The Inquest was adjourned till yesterday, when the Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the evidence. STOCKER has left a wife and nine children.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 April 1886
TORQUAY - Sad Boating Fatality. - A sad fatality occurred in Torbay on Monday afternoon. It appears that JOHN HENRY BANKHEAD LAVIS (14), son of MR WM. HENRY LAVIS, hairdresser, Strand, Torquay, with Henry Halliwell, (21) assistant to MR LAVIS, hired a boat, named the Freda, from Messrs. Browne Bros., Victoria Parade, for the purpose of having a row. They pulled into the bay, and were taken in the direction of Corbyn's Head, where, finding the sea dangerously strong, they made for the beach, but were driven towards Livermead, where the boat was capsized. There was a short struggle in the water, after which young LAVIS disappeared, Halliwell being soon afterwards rescued in an exhausted condition. - An Inquest was held on Wednesday morning at MR LAVIS'S residence, before Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, Mr W. Pridham being Foreman of the Jury. MR LAVIS identified the deceased, whom he last saw alive about two o'clock on Monday afternoon, when he said he was going out. MR LAVIS added that he did not know his son was going boating. He was not in the habit of doing so. - Robert Browne, boatman, of 3 Palk-street, Torquay, said that on the afternoon of Monday, the deceased, who was with Mr Halliwell, asked for a boat called the Violet. He told them that the Violet was in the loft, but they could have a stiffer boat called the Freda. The Freda was 19 feet long, with 4 feet beam; it was not an outrigged boat. He saw them leave the harbour. They started at a quarter past three. It was a safe boat, and had been used all the winter. There was a heavy swell at the time with breakers on the shore. The sea was safe except for the breakers. It was the rule for him, and his order to his men, to caution everybody against the breakers, whether visitors or townspeople. He could not say whether his man cautioned the deceased or not; witness was busy at the time with another lot of people. He heard his man cautioning everybody that went out. Witness was told afterwards that the boat was floating bottom upwards, and his brother went to secure it. The boat had no sail, but two oars and two paddles. There were scores of other boats in the bay that afternoon. People were cautioned against the west shore, because it was not safe there. - Theordore Browne, boatman, of 3 Rock Walk, and brother of the last witness, said he was standing at the Pier Head when he was told that one of their boats was upset in the surf. His brother was then coming back, having been down to warn a party off the surf. He jumped into the boat and pulled away with his brother to the West side of the bay. There they saw the Freda floating bottom upwards. They could see nothing else. His brother landed to make inquiries, and after waiting on the surf for two hours, he returned for the purpose of getting grappling irons. He then changed his wet clothes and afterwards, on reaching Livermead, saw Mr Manley who called out "here is the body." He helped to secure the body and communicate with the police. All the boats kept in the harbour were out that afternoon. The boat Violet the deceased asked for was only ten feet long, and the Freda which was let to him was nineteen feet. - Robert Prowse, cabdriver of Upton, said that whilst coming back from Paignton, he saw the boat capsize when between Livermead and Corbyn's Head, at about ten minutes to four. The boat was only fifteen yards from the shore, where there was a heavy surf. The man and lad seemed to be trying to protect themselves against the surf, and the boat was broadside on. If it had been otherwise he thought there might have been little danger. He jumped off his cab, and ran down to the beach, and caught one of the two by the hair as the wave was beginning to take him back again. Just then he saw the deceased sink, having been probably struck on the head by the boat. The deceased did not rise again after he first sank. - Frederick Manley, coal merchant of Vaughan Parade, said he went out to Livermead on Monday afternoon, to watch for the body, which he saw washed ashore at twenty minutes past seven. He helped to secure it, and it was afterwards taken to the deceased's place of residence. - Edward Harley, boatman, in the employ of Browne Bros., deposed to letting the Freda out on Monday afternoon last. It was a safe boat - one of the largest of Browne Bros. fleet - and had been in use for the past two years, summer and winter, with one gentleman. He cautioned everybody, including those to whom he let the Freda, against the west side of the bay. He could not particularly remember the Freda, but he was quite sure that he cautioned every boat that went out against going near the breakers. - Henry Halliwell, assistant to MR LAVIS, who was visited in his bedroom where his evidence was taken down, said he went out in a boat with the deceased on Monday afternoon. They were not cautioned at all, Mr Browne being busy at the time, and the man who let them have the boat never saying a word to them. If any caution was given, he did not hear it. They went out, and finding that the sea was washing very fiercely over the new pier they got near the east coast. They got parallel with the end of the pier opposite the Imperial Hotel, but they only saw one boat out east of them, and the sea was tossing it very badly; and seeing many boats move to the west they endeavoured to get near them. They turned the boat quietly to prevent her getting broadside on. Witness was rowing and deceased was steering. When the boat's head was turned towards the shore, he saw that it had turned MASTER LAVIS'S head and he was sick. He then tried to get back as soon as he could, and pulled with one oar only, but he found they were too far out to get into the harbour. Finding that he could not get back, although he pulled as hard as he could with one oar, he endeavoured to make for Torre Abbey Sands, with the intention of landing there. They made for the boating place at Torre Abbey Sands, near Corbyn's Head. Witness was pulling with one oar all the time, and deceased was steering, but could not do much, being very sick all the time. Notwithstanding his greatest efforts, the waves washed the boat to the west, and they soon found themselves on the Livermead side of Corbyn's Head. Finding it was impossible to get round the head he took out a second oar and made straight for the shore, pulling very hard with all his strength. When about twenty yards from the shore a tremendous wave swamped the boat and turned its head to the railway on Torre Abbey Sands, and another wave came almost at once and capsized the boat. He came up under the deceased, who exclaimed, "Oh God; Lord have mercy on me." He pushed the deceased towards the boat and saw him get on it. When some distance out, witness sank and did not see deceased any more. He struggled hard, and a heavy wave carried him on to the shore, where he was helped by several people. He asked "where is he?" and he heard someone say "he is gone," "don't tell him." He was afterwards conveyed home. They were not standing up in the boat at the time. No one ever warned him, or he should only be too ready to have attended to it. - The Coroner then summed up and the Jury, after a short deliberation, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The Foreman said he could not see there was anyone to blame, but he only regretted that the young men had not had more experience before going out. Both the Coroner and the Foreman commended the action of Mr Manley and the cabdriver, to the latter of whom the Jury gave their fees in recognition of his prompt and humane conduct. - Amongst the many expressions of deep sympathy with MR and MRS LAVIS have received, accompanied by very handsome wreaths, may be mentioned those of Dr Alabone (London), the Pupils of Torquay Public college, and Miss Mackenzie, Livermead. The funeral takes place this afternoon, Rev. W. Emery conducting the service.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 21 May 1886
TORQUAY - Sudden Death. - On Wednesday afternoon, ELIZABETH NOSWORTHY, 47, wife of THOMAS NOSWORTHY, mason, residing at 18 Daison-cottages, left her house and went into the residence of a neighbour named Jane Hurson. While there she declared that her leg had burst, and she died within six minutes. Dr Tyrrell was sent for, but the woman had expired before his arrival. An Inquest was held this morning, when a verdict of "Died from Natural Causes" was returned.

ST. MARYCHURCH - Concealment Of Birth At Babbacombe. - JEMIMA CANN, aged 20, domestic servant, employed at 6, Sydenham Terrace, Babbacombe, the residence of Mr Hatch, was on Saturday night last delivered of a male child, which she concealed by burying it in the back-yard. On Tuesday, being very ill, she was sent home. She was then attended by Dr Steele, to whom she divulged the fact that she had given birth to a child, which she had buried in the place mentioned. The police were communicated with, and the body was found on Wednesday, and removed to the house of P.S. Nott. - An Inquest was held last evening at the St. Marychurch Town Hall, before Mr S. Hacker, Coroner. Mr S. Hanbury was Foreman of the Jury. In opening the proceedings, the Coroner referred to the peculiar circumstances under which the body was discovered. He informed the Jury that their first duty would be to ascertain whether the child was born alive, because, if it was not, their duties at once ceased. If, however, it was born alive, they would have to ascertain how it came by its death. - Dr. W. S. Steele deposed that he was called on Wednesday morning by JOHN CANN, a fish hawker, to see his daughter, who was ill at his house, 1, Fore-street, Babbacombe. The father had told him his suspicions as to what was the matter, and after examination, witness told the young woman that he could come to no other conclusion than that she had recently been delivered of a child. She then said, "I think I had better confess; it is so. I have been confined." He then asked where the child was, and she said "I had it by me all night; you'll find it in the back yard of No. 6, Sydenham Terrace, under a tin." She also said, "I never heard it cry." Witness then went and fetched P.C. Richards, and with him went to the back yard of the house mentioned, where he saw a tin, which on being removed disclosed some recently-disturbed earth. About four inches under the surface they found a brown paper parcel tied with string. It was removed to an outhouse and opened, and found to contain the body of a child wrapped in a white calico cloth. Witness had made a post mortem examination that day at P.S. Nott's house. The body weighed 8lbs. and measured 18 inches in length. It was that of a fully-developed child; it bore no mark of violence, but the umbilical cord was only half an inch long, and was torn and not cut, and had not been tied. The body presented a pale and bloodless appearance. Examining the lungs he applied the water test, trying them separately and in small pieces, and ascertained that the process of respiration had been fully established. His opinion was that the child had been born alive, and had breathed, and had had an independent circulation. The empty condition of the heart had led him to believe that death had ensued from haemorrhage, in consequence of the umbilical cord not having been tied. He had seen the mother that day, and she was in a state of nervous excitement, though not seriously ill. - Mr W. Hatch, of 6, Sydenham Terrace, said that JEMIMA CANN had been in his service for the past six weeks. She complained of cold, and saw Dr Chilcott three or four times. She was well in appearance, and so far as could be seen, nothing was the matter with her. She was about all day on Saturday and Sunday, and on the latter day cooked the dinner. - Mrs Hatch, wife of the last witness, corroborated. On Saturday afternoon CANN was in her bedroom rather long, and went out to see the doctor at six o'clock, returning at eight. On Sunday morning, in response to inquiry, she said she was better, and witness noticed no difference in her condition. On Monday, CANN washed her own linen, and on Tuesday morning the laundress, Mrs Medland, came to the witness and told her that the sheets were covered with blood. Witness then told CANN that she was not in a fit state to work, and made her go home. She was the only servant in the house at the time. - Mrs Eliza Medland, laundress, of Babbacombe, said she had known CANN for some years. She taxed her on Monday week last with being enceinte, but the imputation was laughingly denied. On Monday last she noticed her altered condition, and JEMIMA said "I am all right now." She looked weak and frail. On examining the clothes received from Mrs Hatch, she noticed two sheets covered with blood, which fact she communicated to Mrs Hatch. - MRS CANN, mother of JEMIMA CANN, said she knew nothing whatever of her daughter's condition until Tuesday morning, when she was sent home by her mistress. On Wednesday morning, becoming alarmed, witness sent for Dr Steele, to whom she admitted having given birth to a child. She afterwards said she had dropped down faint as soon as the child was born, and had not done anything to it. She said that when she came round it was lying on the floor, and had not cried nor moved. She took it up and laid it by her. - ROSINA CANN, sister to JEMIMA, said her suspicions were first aroused on Wednesday early, and she communicated them to her mother, advising her to send for a doctor. - P.C. Richards deposed to accompanying Dr Steele to the back yard of 6, Sydenham Terrace, where the child was found buried. - P.S. Nott also gave evidence, and said he searched the bedroom of JEMIMA CANN, but could find no trace of any baby-linen. He saw her on Wednesday afternoon, and charged her with concealment of birth, as to which she declared "before God," that she never heard the child cry. She said she was confined soon after retiring to rest on Saturday night. In reply to the Coroner, Dr Steele said the young woman would not be well enough to appear for a week or ten days, and, in order to enable her to attend, the Inquest was adjourned for a fortnight. As soon as CANN is sufficiently recovered, she will be brought before the magistrates on a charge of concealment of birth.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 June 1886
ST MARYCHURCH - The Babbacombe Concealment Of Birth Case. Adjourned Inquest And Verdict. - The adjourned Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of the male child whose body was found on May 19th, in the back yard of the house No. 6, Sydenham-terrace, Babbacombe, was held yesterday afternoon at the St. Marychurch Town Hall, before Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner. Mr Sampson Hanbury was Foreman of the Jury. The Inquest had been adjourned from the 20th May in order to allow of the attendance of the mother (JEMIMA CANN) who was until lately in the employ of Mrs Hatch, as a domestic servant. Dr Steele had given it as his opinion that the child had been born alive, but that it died shortly after birth from haemorrhage, the result of inattention at the time. The evidence of the various witnesses was now read over in the presence of JEMIMA CANN. The Coroner briefly addressed the Jury who, after five minutes discussion, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 August 1886
NEWTON ABBOT - Sad Death Of A Kingskerswell Lad. - A heavy cloud has hung over the village of Kingskerswell during the past few days. A son of MR SAMUEL ANDREWS, an old and respected inhabitant, came home a few days since on short leave from H.M.S. "Impregnable." On Thursday evening last week he went into Newton to see some shipmates, and spent the night there. In the morning, with one of his shipmates, he went to the river Teign to bathe, but he had no sooner entered the water than he was seized by the cramp, and notwithstanding al the efforts of his mate to save him, he was drowned. The body was recovered and taken to the mortuary at Newton, where an Inquest was held and a verdict of "Accidental Drowning" returned. On Saturday the remains of the poor lad were brought to his father's home. The funeral took place on Monday. The coffin was carried by sailor lads, shipmates of the deceased. It was taken first into the Baptist Chapel, where a short service was held, and thence to the churchyard. The attendance of the public was very large. Rev. J. Thompson, resident Baptist minister, officiated.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 October 1886
TORQUAY - Horrible Discovery At Torre. A Widow Lady Found Dead. - On Saturday afternoon last, a shocking discovery was made in a house in Avenue-road, Torre. For the past few years the dwelling-house, No. 2, Avondale-villas, has been in the occupation of MRS MARY REA, a widow, aged about 70, who has lived in entire isolation, and held little or no intercourse with neighbours. She was of somewhat eccentric habits, and had been, known to go away from home for short periods without informing her few acquaintances of the fact; so that, when days passed from the 1st to the 16th of October without anything being seen of her, no great surprise was felt, and nothing like alarm was entertained by the residents in the locality. Further, while nothing was seen of MRS REA by her neighbours, there was a recollection in the minds of some that on the very day when she last showed herself, it was to make inquiry respecting the time, apparently with a view to catching the train for some distant place; and as the window blinds were down, her non-response to the ring of callers was readily explained by the assumption that she had gone on a journey. Among the callers was Mr A. H. Dymond, of Exeter, and his clerk, whose business was the collection of rent. Calls having been made on three successive Saturdays without answer, Mr Dymond became suspicious as to the cause of MRS REA'S non-appearance, and communicated with the police, who promptly took the matter in hand. On Saturday afternoon Detective Bond and Mr Joseph Chave, carpenter and builder, who lives close by, entered the house by means of a ladder, through an unfastened upstairs window; and in the kitchen they found MRS REA lying on the floor dead, and in such a decomposed state as to leave no doubt that she had been dead many days. Indeed, all things being taken into consideration, it seems clear that she breathed her last on the night of October 1st, shortly after having answered the door to receive some things from the errand boy of Mr J. S. Bridgman, grocer. Her bed was found to be unruffled, a newspaper pushed under the door on the morning of the 2nd instant was found to be untouched, and all the circumstances pointed to the conclusion that the aged lady expired while at supper on the night just specified, and, as medical examination has shown, from rupture of the heart, which was in a diseased state. So she lay dead in the house for fifteen days before being discovered.
Inquest And Verdict. - On Monday evening an Inquest was held at the Clarence Hotel, Torre, before Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner. Mr J. E. Edwards was Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness was Mr Joseph Chave, who lives at 4 Avondale-villas. Having given evidence of identification, he said he had known the deceased for five years. Since 1882 she had lived in the house in which she died. She had lived quite alone, never having a servant. The last time he saw her alive was on the last day of September. At times she had been away from the house, and himself and his wife thought that she had left home at the beginning of October, for on the 1st instant she asked Mrs Chave what was the time, as it was believed with a view to catching a train. Not hearing or seeing anything of the deceased, they thought she had gone away, and were daily expecting her to return. Being questioned by P.C. Bond on Saturday last, the witness said he thought something should be done to clear the matter up. He and P.C. Bond put up a ladder and got into the house through one of the upstairs windows, which was an inch or two open at the bottom sash. Nothing was found in the bedrooms, but the stench down over the stairs aroused suspicions. In the kitchen they found the deceased lying on the floor dead. In reply to a Juryman, the witness said that the deceased had frequently complained of being unwell, but she had never had medical advice. He had more than once heard her say, "Don't you be surprised if you one day find me dead." - Ernest Pidgeon, errand-boy in the employ of Mr J. S. Bridgman, said he saw the deceased on the night of Friday, the 1st instant, about eight o'clock. He went to her house with half a dozen of ale, and the deceased opened the door and took the ale. She remarked that the witness was rather late, but said no more. - P.C. Bond deposed that on Saturday last Mr Dymond, whom he took to be the owner of the house in which the deceased lived, called at the police station, and asked if some one could be sent to make inquiries about MRS MARY REA, as no one had seen her for some time. About a quarter-past five o'clock he went, saw Mr Chave, and then examined the doors and windows, after which he borrowed a ladder and with Mr Chave entered the house. In the front bedroom he found the bed-clothes a little turned back, but no one had been into the bed since it was made. Downstairs they examined all the rooms, and coming last to the kitchen they found the deceased. All the rooms were straight and everything except the one window through which they got, was locked on the inside. The deceased was lying on her left side, the head towards the window, and the face rather inclining towards the floor. She was near the table, and just behind her was a chair from which she seemed to have slipped. There was a plate and a knife and fork on the floor; the plate was broken, and had apparently been used at the meal which was spread on the table. There was on the table a glass partly full of beer, a dish with some meat on it, a lamp which had burnt out, and nearly a pound of butter. The deceased was perfectly dressed. Later on, the witness helped to search the place, and found a bag in a drawer with twenty-one sovereigns quite loose, and a purse containing one sovereign and some smaller coins. In a front room downstairs there was a chest with some plate in it, and there was also a watch and chain on the mantel-shelf; but everything was perfectly straight. There were several letters in the door, and the oldest date was the 2nd of the present month. In a letter of October 2nd, there was a Post Office order for £4 3s. 6d. In answer to the Foreman, the witness said that there were no stains of blood about; the deceased appeared to have died without a struggle. - Dr Richardson stated that on the 17th instant at three o'clock he went to the house, 2, Avondale-villas, and in the kitchen found the body of the deceased lying on the floor almost face downwards. The body presented the appearance of a plethoric female about sixty years of age. There were no signs of any struggle about the room. The body exhibited a considerable degree of decomposition, especially about the head, the position of which doubtless accounted for its condition. Opening the chest, he found that the covering of the heart was distended with blood in clots. The heart itself was large and fattily degenerated. There was a small rupture in the centre of the left cavity. The cause of death was rupture of the heart; and if an opinion might be hazarded as to the circumstances of the deceased's end, he inclined to the belief that, having knocked the plate off the table, she stooped to pick it up, and that that effort, after a heavy meal, induced the rupture. Death would be instantaneous. - MR JOHN WILLIAM REA, of 86 Regent-street, London, nephew of the late WILLIAM REA, husband of the deceased, stated that he had not seen her for four or five years. He thought she had no name besides MARY and that she was quite seventy years of age. She had no private income, but he had been allowing her a guinea a week, which had been sent monthly by his solicitors. The last remittance fell on the day of her death. He had not heard of any illness of the deceased, except that she was troubled with bronchitis. In a few words of summing-up, the Coroner pointed out that a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence would be one that the deceased died from rupture of the heart in a natural way. He added that he saw no ground of suspicion. A verdict to this effect was returned by the Jury without hesitation.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 November 1886
BUCKFASTLEIGH - MR SAMUEL CHURCHWARD, head of the well-known firm of woollen manufacturers at Buckfastleigh, went out rabbit shooting on Saturday on some land in his occupation. He did not return, and in the evening a search was made for him, with the result that his body was found lying near a hedge. The upper portion of his head was blown away, and his brains were scattered. It is surmised that in getting over the hedge his gun was accidentally discharged. An Inquest was held on Monday, when a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - MR CHARLES WINDEATT BOVEY, rate collector in St Andrew's Ward, Plymouth, committed suicide on Wednesday evening by taking prussic acid. At the Inquest in the evening a verdict of "Suicide in a Temporary fit of Insanity" was returned.

ST MARYCHURCH - Suicide At St. Marychurch. - A sad suicide has been enacted at St. Marychurch. On Sunday evening last MRS ELIZABETH WILLIAMS, aged 72, a widow, residing at Castle View, Teignmouth-road, cut her throat with a table knife, inflicting a wound from the effects of which she died on Tuesday morning. For some time past the deceased had been suffering from melancholia, the death of her husband about a year ago having greatly affected her. - An Inquiry into the circumstances attending MRS WILLIAMS'S death was held by Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, at the Havelock Arms Inn, St. Marychurch, on Wednesday morning. Mr J. Lee was chosen Foreman of the Jury. The first witness called was Elizabeth Elson, niece of the deceased, who resides at 1 Braddons Terrace, Torquay, but for the past few weeks has been living with her aunt at Castle View. The witness stated that on Sunday evening last, a little before eight o'clock, the deceased left the room, and after a short time the witness began to feel uneasy at her absence. Leaving the room in which she had been sitting the witness found the deceased standing at the back door, and the deceased told the witness to go indoors again, which she did. After a short time, however, the witness again went to the back door, and found that the deceased was still standing there. As it was very cold, the witness asked her aunt to go indoors, but she refused. When the witness went out a third time, the deceased had disappeared, and becoming alarmed, the witness went into the back garden, where she heard groans. The witness immediately called for assistance. She did not anticipate that her aunt had destroyed herself as she had never shown any symptoms of so doing. Deceased's manner was not different on Sunday from what it had been on other days, beyond the fact that she complained of a slight headache. witness knew of nothing that had recently happened to trouble her aunt, and she had not heard her complain. Two knives were used on Sunday, and one - a table knife - was identified by the witness as belonging to her aunt. Only one knife was used at tea-time, and when the tea-things were cleared away by the witness after tea, she did not notice the knife. - William Pearce, gardener, who lives in the under apartments of Castle View, deposed that on Sunday evening about eight o'clock, he heard Miss Elson calling for assistance, and on hearing groans proceeding from the bottom of the garden, he went there, and found the deceased on her knees with her throat cut. He got the deceased upon her feet, and with his assistance, she walked into the house. He remained with the deceased until medical assistance arrived. He thought that the deceased had been depressed and in low spirits for the past few weeks, as she did not speak to him as she had been accustomed to. - William James Elson, dairyman, nephew of the deceased, stated that he had just returned from feeding his cattle on Sunday evening, when on passing his aunt's house he noticed a light in the garden, and heard someone calling for assistance. He went into the garden, and there found his aunt with her throat cut, the wound bleeding profusely. He assisted Mr Pearce in removing the deceased from the garden to her house, and he afterwards fetched Dr Steele. Some time after, in company with Dr Steele, witness went into the garden to search for the knife, and found it stuck into the ground about six feet away from where the deceased was found. He did not know of any cause for the act, nor did he think that the deceased was depressed in spirits. - Dr Steele, of Babbacombe, said that he was called on Sunday evening about nine o'clock, and asked to go to Castle View, where he was told that MRS WILLIAMS had cut her throat. He found the deceased lying on the sofa with a deep wound in the throat, but the bleeding had ceased. On examination he found that the windpipe had been divided, and the gullet behind the windpipe was also divided. He believed the wounds to have been caused by at least two cuts, and it was probable that the end of the knife was afterwards inserted in the wound. He sewed the wounds as far as it was safe, but saw from the first that the woman could not survive. She appeared to be perfectly sensible, but could not speak, as the cut was below the organ of voice. The groans which the previous witnesses had referred to, could be accounted for by gurgling caused by blood running down the windpipe. He saw Mr Elson pick up the knife in the garden; it was very sharp and capable of inflicting the wounds in the throat, and causing death. - P.C. Hugo stationed at St. Marychurch, deposed that he went into the garden attached to Castle View, and saw marks of blood but no signs of violence. - Elizabeth Elson and William Pearce, were re-called, the former stating that her aunt died on Tuesday morning, at half-past four; while the last named deposed, in answer to the Coroner, that deceased's dress was not disarranged when she was found. - In summing up the Coroner said that the only point was in reference to the deceased's mind, which the witnesses, with the exception of Mr Pearce, had thought to be perfectly sound. - At this stage of the proceedings, a Juror drew the attention of the Coroner to the fact that Dr Finch was present and could probably throw some light on the matter in regard to the deceased's mind. - Dr Finch, of St Marychurch, was accordingly sworn, and stated that the deceased had been a patient of his for twenty years. Since her husband's death, which took place about twelve months since, the deceased had shown signs of intense nervousness. He had learnt that as she had felt very lonely, she was persuaded to live with her nephew in the Braddons, but was so restless and fidgety that she was compelled to go back to her own house to live. For the last three months she had shown signs of depression. On Saturday last about half-past seven, the deceased came to his house, and complained to him of severe pains in the head. She then related to him an occurrence which had befallen her on the previous day. She said that she had left her house with the intention of going to the butcher's, but without her knowledge she found that she had wandered to Maidencombe Beach. When she came to herself, she found that she was sitting by the sea, and that she was drenched with the water. She further told Dr Finch that she believed she must have swallowed a great quantity of salt water, as she felt a great pain in her stomach. Dr finch said he could not vouch for the truth of the deceased's story, but that was what she had related to him. After hearing that he told the deceased not to go out alone again under any circumstances, and said that he would visit her at her own house. Dr Finch went on to say that he should decidedly attribute the strange actions of the deceased to melancholia. Whilst she was telling him of what had occurred, she appeared to be perfectly rational, but for many months her mind had been far from sound. On Sunday evening he was called upon to go to the deceased, but was just on the point of visiting another patient, so he requested the messenger to go to his son, or to Dr Steele. He arrived at Castle View about twelve o'clock, and found the wounds in the deceased's throat to be such as Dr Steele had described. She could not speak, as the organ of the voice had been separated from the lungs. - The Coroner said that he had no idea that Dr Finch could throw so much light on the matter, and expressed himself very grateful for the medical testimony that he had given. He said that the task of the Jurymen was now very simple. - A verdict of "Suicide, whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity," was accordingly returned.

TEIGNMOUTH - An Inquest was held at Teignmouth on Tuesday touching the death of EMMA SANDERS, a married woman, aged 52, who died under circumstances which gave rise to rumours of negligence. Evidence was given by BESSIE BOLT, daughter of the deceased, who stated that she had attended to the wants of her mother, and had provided such nourishing food as was ordered by the doctor. - Mr Owen, the surgeon at the Infirmary, stated that he had been visiting the deceased, and that she had succumbed to an attack of bronchitis. - The Coroner did not consider there was any evidence pointing to negligence on the part of the deceased's friends, and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

BARNSTAPLE - A shocking state of things was revealed at an Inquest held at Barnstaple on Tuesday on the body of REBECCA HILL, a milliner. The evidence shewed that the deceased - who received 5s. a week from her husband, residing at Plymouth - had been of dreadfully intemperate habits, and had allowed her house and herself to get into a disgustingly filthy state. She was found dead in bed on Monday morning, dressed. There was nothing on the bed save a mattress, and the room was quite devoid of furniture. A quart whiskey bottle was found under the bed. A verdict to the effect that death was caused by a complication of ills brought on by intemperance was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 November 1886
SOUTH BRENT - An Inquest was held on Monday by Mr Hacker, at South Brent, on the body of MR STEPHEN GOODMAN, of Lutton, farmer, who died from the effect of a fall. Mr Gillard, surgeon, was called in, and by the order of the Coroner, made a post mortem examination. He found extensive valvular disease of the heart and fracture of the upper part of the spine. He was of opinion that death resulted from fracture of the cervical vertebra, causing pressure of the spinal cord, and considered that syncope caused the fall. A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical evidence.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 December 1886
DEVONPORT - An Inquest has been held at Devonport, concerning the death of First Class Staff-Sergeant RALPH JACKSON, of the Commissariat and Transport Corps, whose body was found floating in the Hamoaze on Sunday. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned", the whole of the evidence being opposed to the idea that the deceased committed suicide.

PLYMOUTH - An Inquest on the body of MAUD ISAAC, who had been suffocated in the Cobourg-street fire at Plymouth, was held on Friday last. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Suffocated," and added a rider that the bakehouse oven should not have been placed at the bottom of the house, and that better exits ought to have been provided for a house tenanted by so many people.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 December 1886
TORQUAY - Death of ELIZA NECK. - ELIZA NECK, one of the servants of the late Miss Keyse, at Babbacombe, and an important witness at the trial of John Lee, died suddenly at the Glen late on Sunday night. Since the time of the well-known tragedy, ELIZA NECK and her sister JANE NECK, have been living in the house, being maintained by gratuities received from curious strangers who visit the now celebrated spot. - An Inquest into the circumstances of the death was held on Tuesday evening before Mr S. Hacker at Gasking's Cary Arms inn. Mr J. Lee was chosen Foreman of the Jury, who "viewed the body" at the Glen. The Coroner observed that owing to the fact that the deceased died suddenly and had had no previous medical attendance, it was necessary to hold an Inquest, but the Jury would have little more to do than return a formal verdict. There were only two witnesses called. The first of them, JANE NECK (72) said that she was sister to the deceased, who was 74 years of age. They had lived in the Glen for the last fifty years, and since the murder of Miss Keyse they had remained in the house alone. A little before 10 o'clock on Sunday night, her sister went upstairs to her bedroom, and, when witness followed her a few moments afterwards, she was undressing. After deceased was partly undressed, the witness noticed that she was leaning against the bed, and shortly afterwards witness heard the deceased fall. She crossed the room, and tried to move her, as she was lying in a strained position, but the deceased screamed out "Don't." The witness sat down on a box beside her, and waited half an hour, when she discovered that the deceased was in what she thought was a sweet sleep. She spoke several times to her without obtaining an answer, and then, on trying to move her head, thought something must be the matter. So she went for a neighbour, Mrs Stiggins, who was waiting up for her husband, and then they made sure that life was extinct. Mr Gasking, landlord of the Cary Arms was told, and he went off for Dr Steele. In reply to questions from the Coroner, the witness said that deceased had eaten a fair supper, had seemed in excellent spirits, and was for her in very good health. Two years ago deceased had had what was supposed to be a slight seizure and Mr Chilcote had attended her, and also since then for rheumatism. They had had no doctor since Mr Chilcote's death. Dr W. S. Steele said that that afternoon he had made a post mortem examination. The liver was enlarged and the kidneys diseased, but there was no appearance in the stomach of anything likely to cause death. The heart was small, very weak and flabby, and there was much fatty degeneration. He had no doubt that the deceased had died of cardiac syncope, or fainting, brought on by strain. Deceased must have died without any pain. The Jury promptly returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 December 1886
EXETER - A Coroner's Jury at Exeter on Monday returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind" in the case of ELIZABETH HUTCHILL, who was found hanging by the neck dead in her kitchen on Saturday. Deceased was wife of a porter, was 57 years of age, and had been confined in the county asylum.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 31 December 1886
DUNKESWELL - An Inquest was held at Dunkeswell Abbey, near Honiton, on Tuesday, on the body of SARAH ANN CORRICK, aged 30, sister of the school-mistress of the place, who died on Christmas eve. Deceased was enceinte, and her husband seemed concerned at the fact. He, however, made no preparations for her confinement, nor did he inform the neighbours of his wife's condition. The Coroner strongly remarked on the husband's conduct, and said he was morally responsible for his wife's death. Verdict, "Death from Natural Causes."

BUDLEIGH SALTERTON - A Coroner's Jury at Budleigh Salterton on Monday returned a verdict of Suicide while Temporarily Insane in the case of a gentleman named ASTON, who was found shot in a plantation at Knowle Hill.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 January 1887
EXETER - On Tuesday afternoon an Inquest was held at Exeter on the body of WILLIAM PARRISH, late foreman shunter at St. David's, on the Great Western Railway. Deceased was 35 years of age, and lived in Toby's buildings, Lower North-street. On Saturday evening he was riding on a truck that was being shunted from the mileage line near the Exwick crossing. On passing the engine-house he fell. The driver pulled up, but the wheels of the trucks passed over his body and shockingly mutilated it. Death must have been instantaneous. Verdict, "Accidental Death." Deceased leaves a young widow and five children.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 21 January 1887
DEVONPORT - An Inquest was held on Monday evening at Devonport in reference to the death of the male child of a woman named GLOYN, who gave birth thereto in Devonport Park last Friday, and induced a grave-digger at Devonport to bury the same on Saturday morning. The medical testimony was to the effect that the child was stillborn. The Coroner condemned the action of the authorities in allowing an illiterate man to have charge of the grave-yard.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 February 1887
EXETER - On Saturday afternoon a young woman named EVELEIGH, an in-patient of the Devon and Exeter Hospital, was found dead in the courtyard behind the chapel. The deceased came from Budleigh Salterton, and was being treated for an injury to her foot. She must have fallen out of a window about forty feet above the court-yard. An Inquest has been held. It appears that inside the window there was a kind of bench where persons might kneel up and look into the green. The deceased might have been looking out, and, being seized with a fit, overbalanced and fallen out. The Jury, after a short deliberation, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and recommended that some protection should be put to the window to prevent a similar occurrence in future.

PLYMPTON - Police Sergeant HENRY COLES, stationed at Plympton, has died under singular circumstances. On the 9th January, he was roughly handled in trying to arrest Private Clensey, R.A., stationed at Effort Fort, who, with two companions, was causing a disturbance. For the assault on Sergeant COLES, Clensey had a month's imprisonment, three weeks for assaulting Samuel Jordan, and a week for drunkenness. One of his associates was also fined. Up to the 19th January Sergeant COLES was on duty, but complained of being unwell. He consulted Dr Stamp, who found a severe sprain in one arm, and the officer's general health far from good. Symptoms of blood poisoning afterwards shewed themselves, but no immediate danger was apprehended. On Saturday morning last a change for the worse took place, and Sergeant COLES died in the evening. Residents were greatly shocked at hearing the sad news, for the sergeant was highly esteemed for his genial manner, and for the thorough, yet unofficious way in which he discharged his onerous duties. An Inquest was opened on Monday and adjourned. The deceased had only been married three months.

STOKE GABRIEL - The village of Stoke Gabriel has been greatly excited by a strange affair that has recently been enacted. It appears that on Tuesday, January 18th, a woman named LEVER, aged 46, in the employ of the Rev. J. H. N. Nevill, vicar of the parish, as housekeeper (her husband also being employed by that gentleman as gardener) died, and on application being made to the district registrar of deaths, Mr Rossiter, of Paignton, for a burial certificate, it was refused on the ground that a medical certificate had not been first obtained. It appears that the deceased had been ill for some weeks, but that no medical man had seen her. A further application for a certificate was made to Mr Rossiter on Friday, January 28th, when, the registrar again declining to grant it, the clergyman decided upon interring the remains on the following day, without compliance with the legal requirements. He was promptly notified that his action would be altogether irregular, and told that an Inquest into the circumstances of the death would have to be held, but he insisted upon burying the corpse. The facts were in due course communicated to the Registrar-General, and to Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, who on Thursday last week visited the village for the purpose of holding an Inquest. The church gates were found to be locked, but in the presence of a large crowd of people, the Coroner got over the wall and had the gate opened, afterwards giving orders for the body to be exhumed. A post-mortem examination was subsequently made, and after formal evidence had been taken the Inquest was adjourned until the following day. - The Inquest was resumed on Saturday last, Admiral Dawkins being Foreman of the Jury. Mr T. C. Kellock, solicitor, of Totnes, attended on behalf of the vicar. Dr Lalande Hains and Dr Fraser, both of Totnes, the medical men who made the post mortem examination, were also present. The first witness was HENRY LEVER, husband of the deceased. He stated that he was present at his wife's death, which occurred about 7 a.m. on Tuesday, January 18th. A nurse was also in the room when she died. Mr Nevill was there occasionally, but not exactly at the time of death. He had been in the room an hour previously. Deceased died in a convulsive fit, and was insensible at the time. She was insensible some hours before, but not on the previous evening, when she said she did not think she should get over it. At two o'clock on the morning of her death, the deceased had a prolonged convulsive fit, accompanied by twitching of the limbs, and the convulsions continued more or less up to the hour of her death. She had been ill for years, and had many heavy attacks before they came to Stoke Gabriel, which would be five years ago next March. Her last illness commenced three months before her death, and he understood that she suffered from an abscess on the liver. They had been married many years, and lived on the best of terms. He took her out in a chair three times during her illness. She had eggs, new milk, oatmeal, oranges, and everything she fancied or asked for. She had no strong liquids. He believed she took a little intoxicating drink before taking to her bed, but he never saw her anything the worse for it. He did not think she was so near her death until she had the fits in the morning when she died, as before she had improved a great deal. She had no medical attendance, and although he considered her seriously ill, when she took to her bed, he did not call in a doctor because he thought she did not require his attendance, and that there was sufficient in the house. - The Coroner: What do you mean by sufficient? - Witness: She had medicine from different places. - Where did she get that? - Now it is come to the point, I suppose I must tell. - Of course you must tell me what you know without my having to ask you for everything. - Well, she had medicine from Mr Nevill. - An that's the reason you did not call in a doctor? - Yes, and because I thought the attendance she had was sufficient. - When she had these convulsive fits, and you thought she was going to die, why didn't you call in a doctor then? - It thought it was not necessary. She went off quicker than I thought she was going to. Witness added that Mr Nevill gave deceased her medicine up to the last. She was sick, and vomited two or three days before her death, but he did not know how long this occurred after her previous meal. The witness, continuing, said that the deceased did not complain of any pain, only of weariness. He did not know what she died of, and she never told him what she was suffering from. She did not waste much, except in her legs and arms and around the shoulders. In reply to Mr Studdy, a Juryman, the witness said that he was perfectly satisfied with the treatment his wife received at the hands of Mr Nevill, and that she could not possibly have been treated better or more kindly. In reply to Mr Kellock, the witness added that he remembered Dr Curry seeing the deceased two years ago, and also Dr Kingdon, of London, about the same time. Dr Kingdon was of opinion that she had confirmed liver disease, and was likely to "go off" at any moment. "Dr" Wallace, of London, also saw her two months ago. During her last illness she was attended by Mrs Bull and two nurses from Torquay. One came in December and stayed with the deceased until the day before her death, and the other was there at the time, so that she was never left. Sometimes the deceased was in dreadful agony, which she described as burning pains in her side. This, however, was not in her last illness, but twelve months ago. She never expressed a wish for any other attendance. - Ellen Bull, wife of a fisherman, and charwoman at the vicarage, gave evidence to the effect that the deceased was well looked after and that her death was sudden. - Alice Penzer, trained nurse from St. Raphael's Home, Torquay, said she was with the deceased at Mr Nevill's request nearly three weeks, from the 29th of December to the 17th of January. She found the deceased in bed very ill. She was supposed to be suffering from cancer of the liver. Witness took charge of her at night, and sometimes saw her during the day. She was sick during the last week, and had a convulsive fit, during which she became insensible, and the pupils of her eyes were dilated for ten minutes. There was occasionally vomit of a green colour, as though from the liver. Deceased had cramp in her legs, and her feet were swollen. When she had a convulsive fit it would commence with the drawing of her mouth and the twitching of her eyes, after which she would go off into a deep sleep. Witness administered medicine to her which she obtained from Mr Nevill. She did not know what the medicine was. Deceased gradually got much weaker. There was no doctor in attendance. - The Coroner: Did you not consider her so dangerously ill as to necessitate the sending for a doctor? - Witness: No, I did not. I was working under Mr Nevill, and he was working under Mr Wallace, of London. - Admiral Dawkins: When you saw these serious symptoms did you not suggest that it would be better to have the advice of a local medical man? - Witness: I did not think anything about it. When I am sent to a case I work under whom I am placed. I left it to Mr Nevill. Witness added that she had been a trained nurse five years, and had never had a similar case before; in all other instances a doctor had been seeing the patient. The deceased was taken out in the day without her approval but she was not the worse for it. Had she been there she should have protested against it. She was satisfied that the deceased had every attention and requirement. She left the day before the deceased's death, and she did not then consider that she was in a dying condition. - Isabel Paterson, trained nurse, also from St. Raphael's Home, Torquay, stated that she came to attend on the deceased on January 15th, the Saturday previously to her death. She thought the deceased very ill. She gave her medicine once on Sunday night, and Mr Nevill administered two does between 5.30 p.m. on Monday and 7 a.m. on the following morning, when she died. She had food every hour on Monday night, and took it. At 2 a.m. on Tuesday she vomited gruel she had taken an hour before, and she soon afterwards had convulsions. Witness was a trained nurse of twelve years experience. In answer to questions, the witness said that a doctor could have done no good in the case. - Elizabeth Jane Durant, a lady residing at Sharpham, near Totnes, gave evidence briefly to the effect that she saw the deceased on the 26th of December, and had been in communication with Mr Wallace about her. - Joseph Wallace, of 1, Oxford-mansions, Oxford-circus, London, next gave evidence. He described himself as a medical scientist. - The Coroner: Are you a qualified practitioner? - Witness: No, thank God. He proceeded to say that he was on a visit to a patient in Torquay on the 16th of November last, when Mr Nevill, who he knew was coming, waited upon him and drove him to Stoke Gabriel to see the deceased. Witness had been consulted about her case previously by Mr Nevill, and had been giving advice as to her treatment. When he saw her, on the 16th of Nov., she was in bed, very much prostrated, and with no power of movement. He expressed his opinion that deceased was seriously ill, and that there was no chance of her recovery, except by a miracle. With ordinary treatment she was likely to die in ten days, but with very careful nursing she might last for two months. He formed the conclusion that she was suffering from chronic disease of the liver, and also cancerous habit of the body generally. He saw her again the next day and prescribed for her. Mr Nevill was a pupil of his, and knew how to treat patients. Witness prescribed two of his own patent medicines, called No. 2 and No. 3, and also malt extract. He had been in communication with Mr Nevill as to the state of deceased every few days up to the day of her death. He was not surprised at her death, but rather that she lived so long. He did not send the medicines: Mr Nevill prepared them himself. - Lalande John Cary Hains, physician and surgeon, Totnes, was then called upon to state the result of his post mortem examination of the body, in which he was assisted by Dr Fraser. He said that he had had to send some portion of the organs to London for analysis. The witness said that he made the examination on Thursday, on the body being exhumed in the churchyard, ten days after death. As to the external signs, decomposition was well marked and rigor mortis was almost absent. Dr Hains gave a detailed account of his examination, but declined to say what was the cause of death, until he had been made acquainted with the results of the analysis of the internal organs. - Mr Rossiter, registrar of births and deaths, made a statement as to what he considered to be his instructions in regard to the circumstances under which he should grant a certificate for burial, and also as to what transpired between himself and Mr Nevill, when the latter called for a certificate. - The Inquest was adjourned until Monday next.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 February 1887
PLYMPTON - The Inquest touching the death of P.S. COLES, of Plympton, who died under circumstances reported last week, was concluded on Monday, the verdict of the Jury being that the deceased died from Blood-poisoning, the result of an injury to the arm, but that the evidence was insufficient to show hoe or by whom the injury was caused.

TEIGNMOUTH - On Monday morning the body of JAMES BROWNING, the fisherman who had been missing since Jan. 11th, was picked up near the pier at Teignmouth by William Soper, another fisherman. It will be remembered that the deceased left a public-house in the evening in order to proceed in his boat to Shaldon, but was not further heard of. The body was in an advanced state of decomposition. A Coroner's Jury has returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned."

STOKE GABRIEL - The Strange Affair At Stoke Gabriel. The Inquest Concluded: The Vicar Censured. - The Inquiry at Stoke Gabriel, into the circumstances attending the death of SELINA LEVER, late housekeeper to the vicar of the parish (Rev. J. H. N. Nevill) was concluded on Monday before Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner. The vicar was again in attendance, with his legal adviser, Mr T. C. Kellock, of Totnes. About fifty of the villagers were also present, and manifested much interest in the proceedings. - The Coroner reminded the Jury that the Inquest was adjourned from the previous Saturday week for the purpose of allowing an analysis to be made of the internal organs of the deceased. Dr Hains then said there was disease of one of the kidneys, but owing to the congested state of the organs and other appearances, he did not like to take upon himself to give an absolute opinion as to the cause of death. The Coroner further said that he had since received a communication from Dr winter Blyth, of London, the county analyst, to the effect that nothing had been found which would lead to the supposition that the deceased came to her death by poison or that she died anything except a natural death. Under these circumstances the Jury would be able to proceed by taking the completion of Dr Hains's evidence, and also that of the vicar - if he had anything to say. - Dr Hains had his evidence read over, and he was then asked by the Coroner whether, having regard to the fact that the analysis had not disclosed any suspicion of death by poison, he could give an opinion as to the cause of death? - Dr Hains replied that he could from the symptoms which had been described and the post mortem examination. He believed the cause of death to be chronic kidney or Bright's disease, followed by uraemic convulsions. A person suffering from this disease should be kept warm and given medicines that should act on the blood. Good, nourishing, light diet should also be furnished, consisting of milk, eggs, white fish, game, or white flesh, and, if the patient was known to have been addicted to excessive drinking, a little light wine should be given. To take such a patient out of doors was must injudicious, especially if the weather was cold. - The Coroner: Can you say whether improper treatment of the disease would be likely to accelerate or cause death? - Dr Hains: So far as this Inquest has gone, I have yet to learn what the treatment has been. - The Coroner: I am asking it as an abstract question. In a disease of this kind would improper treatment be likely to accelerate death. - Dr Hains: Of course it would. If a person has Bright's disease, and the treatment is not such as should be given for that disease, of course it would accelerate death. Witness added that he considered proper treatment in such a case would be inhalations of chloroform, hot baths, hot fomentations for the loins, and strong purgative medicines. - Dr Donald Alexander Fraser, Totnes, who assisted Dr Hains in the post mortem examination, corroborated his statement as to the cause of death. He considered the congestion of the liver to be due to the convulsions, and not to disease. He should have expected to find a different appearance of the organ if the deceased had had liver disease for two years. - At the conclusion of Dr Fraser's evidence the Coroner asked Mr Nevill whether he wished to give evidence. He did not compel him to do so. Mr Nevill replied that he was quite willing to give evidence, but he suggested that the next medical witness should first be called, as he would rather not appear "amongst the prophets" until afterwards. - Dr J. Currie, parish medical officer, of Totnes, said he had been asked to give evidence of what he knew of the deceased, which was two and a half years ago. He stated that he attended the deceased in April 1884, when she was suffering from a liver attack, and he prescribed for her. He then considered that she was not a healthy woman. He agreed with the other medical men as to the cause of death being kidney disease. The attack for which he treated the deceased, was probably caused by alcoholic influences. Ample cause of death had been shown, and he did not see how her life could have been prolonged. He considered that she was treated rightly so far as diet was concerned, and that nothing more could have been done for her. - Admiral Dawkins: Don't you consider it very severe treatment to put a patient on vegetable diet and stop all meat and alcohol if you knew that she had been in the habit of taking these things? - Dr Currie: As a matter of treatment I should stop alcohol, and, as far as meat goes, I don't consider that milk and eggs are vegetable diet. If, however, the patient could have taken it, I should have no objection to meat; but in Bright's disease the powers of digestion are so weak that the simpler the diet the better. - The Coroner asked the vicar whether he wished to give evidence. Mr Nevill replied that he did not wish to force his evidence on the Court, but he had no objection to giving it. - The Coroner, in reply to Mr Kellock, admitted that Mr Nevill had been summoned, but it was his duty to intimate to him that he could refuse to give evidence if he pleased. If he thought there were any insinuations, or anything of that sort, against him, he should not compel him to make a statement. Mr Kellock said Mr Nevill had nothing to keep back. - Mr Nevill then proceeded to state that he had known the deceased since 1876, and that she entered into his employ in March 1882, being then in a very delicate state of health. The witness produced a long written statement which he had prepared, giving a history of the case, but after he had read a portion of it the Coroner expressed a wish that Mr Nevill should give his evidence from memory. Mr Nevill seemed reluctant to comply, asking the Coroner, who had advised him to put the manuscript into his pocket, whether he wished to suppress it. Continuing, Mr Nevill said that in 1882 the deceased was suffering from kidney disease. She had taken brandy to stop sickness in her illness, but he did not think she took intoxicating drink habitually, and he had never seen her affected by it. After she was placed under Mr Wallace's treatment she got better, there being a great expulsion of drugs, of which she had taken gallons. Witness gave her medicine prepared according to Mr Wallace's direction. Had been treating her for two years previously under Mr Wallace for disease of the kidney. She had had numerous abscesses of the liver. Mr Wallace saw her on the 16th and 17th of November, and he said life was just flickering. - Had you been treating her for cancer of the liver? - No. - Did you diagnose the case yourself? I formed my own opinion, but I acted on what I was told. - In the medicines you gave did you act on your own opinion? Under Mr Wallace's instructions. - What medicines did you give her? Chiefly specifics numbered 2 and 3 and sometimes No. 1. - Where did you get them from? I prepared them according to Mr Wallace's instructions. - Did you prepare them? I prepared some, and some I got direct from Mr Wallace. - What were those medicines? - Specifics Nos. 1, 2, and 3. - If you prepared them, what was the preparation? - They were specifics. - Do you know what drugs they are composed of? - that's nothing to do with it. - Do you know what drugs you administered to the deceased? - I administered no drugs at all. - Whether drugs or herbs, do you know what they were? - I knew what I was doing. - Did you know what you were administering? - Specific medicines, called 1, 2, 3. - What were they composed of? - You had better ask Mr Wallace. - But I must ask you? - I don't know every ultimate analysis nor anybody else. - Mr Kellock: Who supplied the materials for them? - Mr Wallace. - Mr Kellock: They are patent medicines, are not they? - Yes: - The Coroner: And you mixed them? - I prepared them according to Mr Wallace's instructions. Continuing, the witness said that Mr Wallace saw the deceased on the 6th November and was of opinion that she was suffering from disease of the liver and cancerous habit of body. - Were you of the same opinion? - Yes. - Were you satisfied to leave her under the case of some one who had not seen her for two months? - I was more than contented, because I consider that under his treatment her life was greatly prolonged. The witness continued that he had studied chemistry himself for several years. Three weeks before the deceased's death he expected she would die. He did not consider it necessary to call in any medical man besides Mr Wallace. - The Coroner: Did it not occur to you that it was desirable that some other medical man should be called in, apart from one who was in London, and who had not seen her for two months? Mr Nevill replied that he agreed with the nurses that it was not necessary. He had seen many deaths from this form of disease, but in none had he seen life prolonged to such an extent. Two years ago he told the deceased's husband that Mr Wallace was not a qualified medical practitioner. From his own medical knowledge, he should have stopped the administering of chloroform and strong purgatives. After handing in to the Coroner medicines similar to those given to the deceased, Mr Nevill said when he called on the registrar for a certificate, he gave cirrhosis of the liver as the cause of death, this being the opinion of Dr Kingdon, of London, two years before. He considered that he was justified in burying the deceased, as he not only received a certificate, but signed it. In reply to the Coroner, however, witness admitted that after receiving the certificate, on the registrar expressing doubt as to whether he had done right, he immediately handed it back, and it was therefore not in his possession at the time of the burial. - Admiral Dawkins, whilst assuring Mr Nevill that he had not the slightest suspicion on the point, asked him to clear up the doubt that existed by stating what the medicines were composed of. - The Coroner, however, advised the Foreman not to press the question. - Mr Nevill concluded his evidence by stating, in reply to Mr Kellock, that the deceased never applied for anything she was not supplied with, and that every care and attention were shewn her. - Mr Joseph Wallace, of No. 1, Oxford Mansions, London, was recalled. he said he was not satisfied to accept the responsibility of the case, as attendants might give the patient intoxicants, but it would have been impossible for him to have come from London to attend it. As, however, the deceased had an organic disease which was incurable, it would have been no good to have called in any other medical man. He had confidence in Mr Nevill preparing the medicines under his instructions. He prescribed No. 2 for general cancerous condition of the body; No. 2 for periodic prostration; and No. 1 for restlessness and inability to sleep. - The Coroner: What are the ingredients of No. 1? - Witness: I decline to answer that question. My fee is £100 and my pupils are under a penalty of £10,000 not to divulge it until published. - The Coroner: Of the three medicines, how much would be sufficient to cause death? - Witness replied that he really could not say, adding that he gave homoeopathic doses. He caused some laughter by offering to take a drachm of No. 1 and a quantity of the other medicines in the court. - Mrs Bull, charwoman at the vicarage, was also re-called, and questioned by the Coroner as to the statement she made, after giving her evidence on the last occasion, to Mrs Soper and Mrs Kelland, that "if she had told all the truth, she could have said a great deal more." What she meant was that she took in "a little drop of drink" to the deceased unknown to anyone. She paid for three threepennyworths of port wine out of her own pocket and gave to the deceased. As when she originally gave her evidence, the witness said that the deceased had had no drink during her illness, she was severely censured by the Coroner. She further denied having said that the deceased was not supplied with proper nourishment. - HENRY LEVER, husband of the deceased, said his wife was 46 years of age, and that he was married to her 29 years ago, so that she was married when she was between 17 and 18 years old. He did not know, until her death, that Mr Wallace was not a qualified medical practitioner. - George Rossiter, district registrar at Paignton, explained the circumstances under which he issued a certificate of burial to Mr Nevill, who afterwards (by request) handed it back to him. He had no suspicion of poisoning, but he told the vicar that he should report the matter to the coroner, and he thought he was perfectly justified in doing so. - The Coroner, in summing up, pointed out that the principal question with which the Jury had to deal was whether the death of the deceased was natural or whether it was accelerated by actions or omissions of duty on the part of any responsible person or persons such as to render them criminally liable. - The Jury retied for consultation, and after an absence of an hour and a quarter they returned with a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." The Foreman added that the Jury were of opinion that blame attached to Mr Nevill for not calling in further medical aid, and that the Jury had also passed a vote of censure upon the nurses for not suggesting the calling in of medical aid. - Addressing Mr Nevill, the Coroner said that he fully concurred in the rider of censure. The Jury had not referred to a matter which it was his duty to allude to - why his order to have the body exhumed was not complied with. A gentleman in Mr Nevill's position - a clergyman of the Church of England - should not have obstructed the Coroner and Jury, but should have aided them, as he was bound to do by law. He hoped this case, and the scandal which it had caused, would be a lesson to Mr Nevill as to the way in which he performed his duty in the parish in future. The trained nurses were then addressed by the Coroner, who said he quite concurred with the vote of censure passed upon them by the Jury. - Mr Nevill, addressing the Coroner, said he had acted with a strict sense of duty, and he believed he was not mistaken in taking the course he had. He should do the same again under similar circumstances.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 February 1887
EXETER - A Coroner's Jury at Exeter on Tuesday Inquired into the circumstances attending the death of ALFRED BARRETT, single, aged 30, a native of Dartington, near Totnes. The evidence showed that deceased was formerly a steeplechase rider, but for the past six months had assisted Mr Heath, veterinary surgeon, 47 Southernhay, Exeter. He had suffered from concussion of the brain, the results of accidents on the racecourse, was rather deaf, and was absent-minded at times. On Sunday last he visited his brother at Newton Abbot. He was then indisposed. On Tuesday morning, about eleven o'clock, he partook of a cup of tea while in bed. Later on he was found in a condition which suggested that he had taken poison, and in a few minutes he expired. Death was proved to have been due to the taking of prussic acid. "Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity" was the verdict of the Jury.

EXETER - An Inquiry was held at Exeter on Friday last concerning the death of CHARLES GEORGE, a labourer, lately employed in Mr Sampson's brickyard, Newtown. The evidence showed that a large quantity of clay fell on the deceased and broke several of his ribs and his collar bones, besides inflicting other severe internal injuries. The thawing of the clay by the sun was said to have been the cause of the slip. Deceased was described as a sober, respectable man, aged 39, and married. Verdict, "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 March 1887
BRIXHAM - At Brixham, on Tuesday, at a Coroner's Inquest conducted by Mr Sidney Hacker, the Jury censured a MRS SHERIFF for having fed her two months' old baby upon biscuit, medical testimony being to the effect that it is well understood that such nourishment is unsuited for so young a child.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 March 1887
DARTMOUTH - On Saturday morning the fireman (Fredk. Roper) and one of the deck hands, named George Radford, employed on board the Railway steamer dolphin, at Dartmouth, saw a body rise to the surface of the water about a dozen yards out abreast of the Dartmouth pontoon. They immediately procured a boat and brought the body ashore, when it was handed over to the police and conveyed to the mortuary. Here, although the features were, owing to decomposition, totally unrecognizable, the clothes and watch were identified as those of MR WILLIAM CUTMORE BAKER, farmer, of East Down, near Blackawton, who disappeared under the following circumstances. On the 24th January (Monday) MR BAKER visited Dartmouth to see his wife off to London, and afterwards, in company with Mr Richard Stranger, of Dartmouth, went into the King's Arms Hotel. The latter gentleman left the hotel about half-past six by the front door, and directly afterwards MR BAKER went out at the side door, which abuts on a slipway leading to the edge of the river. He went down this slip, and was never seen again alive. The river had been dredged, but without success, and it is probable that the body caught in the moorings of the pontoon, near which it rose. The watch of the deceased had stopped at nearly half-past six o'clock. The Inquest was held on Saturday before Mr R. W. Prideaux, Borough Coroner. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Dead In The River," but as to how deceased came there, the evidence was insufficient to show. On the recommendation of the Foreman (Mr W. H. Sparks) the Jury asked the Coroner to call the attention of the proper authorities to the state of the public mortuary, and also to the immediate necessity of lighting the lower section of the Embankment from which deceased evidently fell into the water.

BUDLEIGH SALTERTON - A sad case of suicide has occurred in the neighbourhood of Budleigh Salterton. MR ALBERT FAIRWEATHER LUKE, solicitor, who had been many years in practice in Exeter, resided at Exmouth, with his wife and seven or eight children. On Thursday morning, last week, he did not go to Exeter, as was his wont, but expressed his intention of walking over the cliffs to Budleigh Salterton. He asked his wife to meet him in the evening, and, in pursuance of this arrangement, MRS LUKE proceeded in the afternoon some distance over the cliffs. Her husband, however, did not put in an appearance, and, a thick fog coming on, MRS LUKE returned home, having, however, no suspicion that anything was wrong. As MR LUKE had not returned at a late hour grave apprehensions were entertained, and information was given to the police, the coastguard being also apprised. Search was made next day along the cliffs and in woods in the direction of Budleigh Salterton, but it was fruitless. On Saturday bills were issued offering a reward of £5 for information concerning MR LUKE. About noon a lad named Rough, in the employ of Admiral May, residing in the neighbourhood, was searching a wood near Knowlehill, through which there is a short cut on the road to Salterton. Here he came upon the dead body of MR LUKE, which was lying on the ground not far from a quarry. A bottle was beside him. This had contained chloroform with which the deceased had poisoned himself. An alarm was given, and on assistance arriving the body was removed to the Rolle Arms Hotel, at Budleigh Salterton. A letter was found upon MR LUKE, giving certain directions to his son, and wishing his wife and children "good-bye." An Inquest was held on Monday, when a verdict was returned of "Death from Chloroform, taken by deceased while in an Unsound State of Mind." The Jury expressed their heartfelt sympathy with the widow and family and their friends.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 15 April 1887
PAIGNTON - Sad Drowning Case At Paignton. - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest at Paignton, on Saturday evening, touching the death of WILLIAM GEORGE HUXHAM, aged 5 years, who was drowned on Good Friday afternoon whilst attempting to walk round the Redcliffe Tower footpath, and who either fell off into the sea or was swept away by a wave, the sea at the time being high and very rough. The Jury inspected the place where the deceased was last seen, and were unanimous in the opinion that the footpath should be railed round, it being a very dangerous place for children. The principal witness was Susan Ann Battershill, eleven years of age. She said that on Friday afternoon she was playing on Preston Beach, near the Redcliffe footpath, in company with the deceased and several other children. When she last saw him he was on the footpath crying, and she told him not to go that way, but to go up the lane. He said he did not know the way up the lane, and continued to walk on the path. Shortly afterwards she saw him in the water, being washed in and out by the waves. She tried to pull him out, but could not on account of the splashing of the waves. GEORGE DENBOW HUXHAM, father of the deceased, stated that from what he heard he ran to Preston Beach on Friday afternoon. He did not see anything of his child until about a quarter to eight o'clock when he saw the body floating on the water close to the shore. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," and added the following rider:- "The Jury strongly recommend to the Local Board that a rail be erected round the Redcliffe footpath, for the protection of the public, as they consider it a most dangerous place, more especially for children."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 April 1887
TEIGNMOUTH - The Inquest on the body of ROBERT HINDOM, found on the beach near Labrador, as previously reported, was concluded on Thursday last week at Teignmouth, before Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, when Mr Kernick, of Dawlish, attended, and stated that he saw deceased near the Town Hall, Dawlish about a quarter past six on the evening of the day on which he left his home. Mrs Morrott, of Chapel-street, Teignmouth, deposed that she saw deceased on the Friday following his disappearance in a field near Maudlin-hill, on the Haldon-road. A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned.

NEWTON ABBOT - A verdict of Suicide while of Unsound Mind was returned on Monday by a Coroner's Jury who Inquired into the death of WM. HEYWARD, 74 years of age, of Sandygate, near Newton. The deceased, who had been ill for some time and suffered from delusions, cut his throat on Saturday night with a penknife.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 May 1887
ST MARYCHURCH - Fall Into A Lime-Kiln. - On Monday afternoon GEORGE BENTLEY, aged 25, residing at St. Marychurch, met with a dreadful accident at Lummaton Lime-kilns. He was standing on the edge of one of the kilns, which was full of burning stone, watching the progress of the fire, when he suddenly had a fit and fell in on his face and hands. Some of the quarrymen who were at work close by saw the occurrence, and he was immediately helped out of the kiln, but not before he was very severely burnt about the body and arms. He was conveyed to the Torbay Hospital, where he received every attention at the hands of the house surgeon, but on Wednesday afternoon he succumbed to his injuries. - Yesterday morning, at the Upton Vale Hotel, Mr S. Hacker conducted an Inquiry into the circumstances of BENTLEY'S death. - The first witness was MISS POLLIE BENTLEY, residing at Babbacombe, sister of the deceased. Having given evidence of identification, she said that the deceased was engaged as a painter at the Long Park Pottery Works. She saw him on Monday at the Hospital, and he told her that while he was standing on the edge of the kiln he had a fit and fell in. The witness added that the deceased had been subject to fits ever since his 16th year. - The second witness was William Glanville, lime burner, engaged at the Lummaton Lime-kiln. He deposed that he lived at St. Marychurch and the deceased lodged with him. On Monday the deceased came to the kiln, and leaving him standing by a low wall about four feet from the kiln, which was at the time filled with burning stones to within eighteen inches of the top, the witness went below to attend to the flue. The witness had not been absent more than five minutes when he heard some one call out that BENTLEY had fallen into the kiln. Without a moment's delay the witness went to the top of the kiln, and found that the deceased had got out again, and was standing up. His clothes were burnt, as were also his hands and face. Having procured a cab, the witness conveyed BENTLEY to the Hospital. In reply to the Coroner, the witness said that BENTLEY was sober at the time. - The next witness was Thomas Snell, a quarryman, living at St. Marychurch, and employed at Lummaton Quarry, near the Lime-kiln. He stated that he smelt something burning on Monday, and on looking at the kiln, he saw somebody struggling in the fire. Witness shouted to a lad, who ran to assist the deceased out of the kiln. Witness also went down, but when he arrived, the deceased had got out. - Charles Jervis, a lad, also employed at the Quarry, stated that on hearing Snell shout, he ran to the kiln, where he saw the deceased. Before witness could get to him, however, the deceased had managed to struggle out of the kiln. Witness had seen BENTLEY at the Quarry previously to the occurrence, but he had not spoken to him. - Mr G. T. Eales, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, stated that the deceased was admitted on the 2nd May about 1 p.m. On examining the deceased he found him to be suffering from severe burns on the face and neck, the whole of the right fore-arm, the bottom of the back, part of the abdomen, the right leg and foot, and part of the left leg. Witness attended him while in the Hospital, but on the Monday afternoon he had several fits and was in a state of collapse. He rallied a little on the Tuesday, but sank suddenly and died on Wednesday afternoon. Witness was of opinion that the deceased died from shock consequent upon sustaining the burns, and also from exhaustion from the fits. The burns were not deep, but extended over a large portion of the body. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned by the Jury.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 May 1887
TEIGNMOUTH - An Inquest was held before Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, at Teignmouth on Monday evening, concerning the death of EDWARD GEORGE HENRY CROYDON, aged 20, eldest son of MR GEORGE HENRY CROYDON, of Regent-street, printer, who died on Saturday last from inflammation of the brain, caused by an accident. Whilst returning from Torquay on Saturday, April 23rd, the horse attached to the dogcart in which MR CROYDON was riding, stumbled, and he was thrown out, pitching on his feet. This caused an injury to the spine which reached the base of the brain, which became inflamed. MR CROYDON did not feel any serious effects from the accident until several days after it had occurred, when the symptoms were such as to cause great anxiety to his friends. MR CROYDON was well known and highly respected, and much sympathy is on all hands extended to his relatives in their bereavement. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

EXETER - At the Exeter Police Court on Wednesday JANE BROWN, very respectably dressed, was charged, upon a Coroner's warrant, with the Wilful Murder of her male infant in January last by suffocating it. The body of the child was found in St. James's-road on the 3rd January, but at that time the mother was not known. Medical evidence at the Inquest showed that death was due to suffocation, and the Jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against some person then unknown. The police have since been making careful inquiry, and on Wednesday morning Inspector Short arrested the prisoner at 13 Richmond-road, where she was in service. Short told her that he had information which led him to believe that she was delivered of a child whilst at Mrs Vile's in Oxford-road. She exclaimed in reply, "Oh, what a lie! I will swear I have never had a child." Dr Bell said she had undoubtedly been delivered. The prisoner then began to cry, and said, "I did not put it in the road." She was remanded.

ST MARYCHURCH - Sudden Death At St. Marychurch. - On Sunday morning a woman named ELIZABETH SMALL, 53 years of age, who has been in the habit of accompanying her husband in hawking fish, died suddenly at her residence, Coombe Park, Teignmouth-road, St Marychurch. As no medical certificate could be obtained, an Inquiry into the circumstances of her death was held at the Havelock Arms inn, St. Marychurch, on Tuesday afternoon, before Mr Sidney Hacker, district Coroner. Mr James Lee being chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was CHARLES SMALL, husband of the deceased. He said he had lived with his wife at Coombe Park for thirty-three years. The deceased had, he said, been subject to fits for the last seven or eight years, but otherwise she enjoyed very good health. On Sunday morning just before seven o'clock, she went downstairs and lit the fire, and shortly afterwards witness also went downstairs. He went out into the garden for five minutes for the purpose of lacing up his boots, and when he returned to the kitchen he found the deceased lying on her face and hands. Thinking that she was in a fit, he placed her in a more comfortable position, and went to a neighbour's for assistance. He came back in less than five minutes, but the deceased was apparently dead by that time. Previously to going downstairs, she complained of being poorly, and requested the witness to help her to prepare the breakfast. In reply to the Coroner, the witness said that the deceased partook of supper at half-past ten on Saturday night, and retired to rest at eleven. To his knowledge, she had had nothing intoxicating to drink since Saturday dinner-time, when she had one glass of beer. - George Milford, labourer, residing at Coombe Park, said that on Sunday morning he was asked by the last witness to go to his house as his wife was in a fit. On reaching the house, he found the deceased lying on the cement floor, to all appearance quite dead. The witness told MR SMALL that he had better send for medical assistance, and he did so. - Mr Thomas Finch, surgeon, St Marychurch, said that he visited MR SMALL'S house on Sunday morning at half past eight o'clock, and found the deceased sitting in a chair, life being quite extinct. The features were placid and pale, and there were no marks of violence. From the evidence of the other witnesses, he should have thought that the deceased died from an epileptic fit, but as there was no distortion or discolouration of the features, he had come to the conclusion that she died through failure of the heart's action. There was nothing to show that the deceased had not died a natural death. The Jury accordingly returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 May 1887
ST. MARYCHURCH - Sudden Death At Barton. - Mr Sidney Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Schoolroom, Barton Village, on Monday morning, into the circumstances of the death of ANN TARR, a widow, 74 years of age, who was found in an insensible condition in the roadway at Barton, by Miriam Short, on Saturday evening. Before medical assistance could be obtained, the deceased expired. Dr Steele having pronounced death to have resulted from heart disease, the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

ST MARYCHURCH - Singular Death At St. Marychurch. Inquest and Verdict. - A man named WILLIAM ROWDON, aged 63 years, a tailor by trade, died under circumstances of a singular character on Friday evening last at his residence, 5 Regent's-terrace, Hele. He had for a few days been under the care of Dr Steele, who, however, refused to certify the cause of death. An Inquest into the circumstances attending ROWDON'S death was accordingly held, on Monday morning, at the Royal Standard inn, Hele, before Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner. Mr H. P. Jarman (Eastley and Jarman), solicitor to the Torquay Licensed Victuallers' Protection Association, watched the proceedings on behalf of Mr W. Eddles, landlord of the Crown and Sceptre inn, St. Marychurch, one of the witnesses in the Inquiry. - In the course of some opening remarks, the Coroner said that the deceased died from injury to the stomach, and that it was the duty of the Jury to Inquire into the circumstances under which that injury was inflicted. He pointed out that if the evidence should prove to be such as to show that the injury was inflicted by a second person, very serious questions might arise as to the responsibility of that person for the death of the deceased. - The first witness called was SARAH MILDRED STONEWILLOTT, a married daughter of the deceased, residing at Lawes Bridge. She stated that the deceased had a wife and four daughters; his wife lived by herself. The deceased, she said, expired at half-past five on Friday afternoon, and she was with him at the time. Just before his death, the deceased made a statement to the witness; he said that he knew he was dying, and he attributed his impending death to a kick in the stomach, inflicted by a man whom he named. He did not tell the witness how long ago the kick was inflicted. The deceased had been confined in the Exminster Lunatic Asylum, but had been out five weeks previously to his death. For the first three weeks after he was let out, he was in the habit of wandering about, and was excitable and made strange statements about his wife, but three days previously to his death, he was quiet and less excitable. - SARAH ROWDON, 5 Regent's Terrace, Hele, deposed that she was the wife of the deceased. Her husband had been in the asylum six months, and was let out for a month on trial. Since he had been out, he had not been right in his mind. He was taken ill on Thursday, the 5th inst., and at that time the witness was staying with her daughter at Babbacombe. On the Saturday following, she went home to her husband and found him very ill. He complained of a pain in his stomach, which he said was caused by a kick. The witness added that she saw two marks on the stomach of the deceased. - Dr William Stott Steele, of Babbacombe, stated that about a fortnight ago, the deceased came to him and told him that he had been to the asylum, and that he was on probation for a month. He requested the witness to grant him a certificate which he was required to forward to the asylum authorities, and although he was rather talkative, he appeared to be perfectly rational, and the witness therefore granted the certificate. On Saturday, the 7th inst., MRS POLLARD, a daughter of the deceased, came to the witness's house, and said that her father was in an excited state. The witness sent some medicine, and told MRS POLLARD that if her father was not better after taking it, she was to return, and the witness would go and see him. As he did not hear from MRS POLLARD on the Sunday, the witness concluded that the deceased was better, but the witness visited the deceased of his own accord on the following Monday, and found that he had been vomiting very much; but he did not then say anything about the injuries which had been inflicted quite recently. The witness visited the deceased again on Tuesday the 10th, and found him downstairs, and evidently much better. On the morning of the day of his death the witness visited the deceased again; he found him vomiting violently, and in a critical condition. It was not until then that the deceased told the witness that he had been kicked. Witness examined the deceased before his death, and found a small discoloured mark below the navel. Death took place on the Friday afternoon. On Saturday, the witness made a post mortem examination of the body and found the peritoneum and the bowels much inflamed, while the liver and other organs were tolerably healthy. He attributed death to peritonitis and inflammation of the bowels. The witness added that peritonitis would result from a violet blow, or from a bad cold. The mark which the witness observed before death, disappeared after the deceased expired. The bruise must have been produced by some external blow, and would result either from a blow from a blunt instrument or from a fall. The inflammation of the bowels might have been set up by other causes than a blow. Answering a question by P.S. Nott the witness said that he did hear the deceased complain of a blow on the head, and he could find no mark there. - ELIZABETH SUSAN POLLARD, daughter of the deceased, who resides at 2, St. Dennis's, St. Marychurch, said that either on Tuesday or Thursday week, she did not remember which day, the deceased visited her house and made a statement to her, and in consequence of that statement, she went to a Mrs Luxton's, St. Leonard's Terrace, Babbacombe, and asked her if her husband had got a hat which did not belong to him. Mrs Luxton produced a hat which the witness identified as belonging to the deceased, and she brought it away with her. The witness then left the house in company with Mrs Luxton and after they had proceeded a short distance they met the deceased, who, after having shaken hands with Mrs Luxton made the same statement to her, as he had previously made to the witness, which was to the effect that he had been kicked in the stomach by Mr Luxton. - William Eddles, landlord of the Crown and Sceptre inn, St. Marychurch, deposed that on the 2nd inst., about half-past four o'clock in the afternoon, the deceased and a man named Charles Luxton were amongst the company in the bar. Luxton said to the deceased, "Hullo, old man! you're out again, are you?" The witness thought that Luxton referred to the asylum. The deceased was offended at the remark, and "sparred up" to Luxton, but the witness having said that he would not allow any of that in his house, the two remained quiet for a little while. The witness left the bar for a few minutes, and when he returned he found Luxton and the deceased getting up from the floor. Both hats were on the floor, and witness picked up Luxton's in mistake, and placed it on the head of the deceased and sent him home. The witness had supplied the deceased with a bottle of ginger beer, as he did not drink intoxicating liquors. - By P.S. Nott: Witness did not hear the deceased say "Mr Eddles, I am in your house, and I claim your protection, as I don't want anything to do with that man Luxton," but he remembered himself saying to Luxton "Stop that, Charlie, or leave my house." - The witness added that he saw no blow struck, nor did he see either of the men kick. - Charles Saunders Bailey, poulterer, St. Marychurch, stated that he was in the bar of the Crown and Sceptre inn on the 2nd instant, and he heard a little "chaffing" between Luxton and the deceased. Luxton said "What's the good of saying anything to him, he's only a lunatic," whereupon the deceased retorted that someone had been "sowing carrot seeds" in Luxton's face, and that he "had been on his back, and someone with nailed boots on had walked on his face." The deceased made use of bad language, and challenged Luxton to fight or wrestle, at the same time taking off his coat. The deceased went nearer to Luxton, and eventually took hold of him, struck him, and kicked him. After a little tussle, both men fell, the deceased falling on the top of Luxton; they got up, and again fell on the floor, and then the witness helped to part them. Not a blow was struck by Luxton, but the deceased struck left and right, and kicked Luxton several times. - After a little pressing, the witness admitted that Luxton took hold of the deceased, and challenged him to "show toe," a term used in wrestling. - William Bovey, carpenter, 28 Fore-street, St. Marychurch, Thomas Guest, and Saunders Wilson, travellers, and George Innes, 11, Western-terrace, St. Marychurch, all gave evidence relating to the fracas in the bar of the Crown and Sceptre inn, which was corroborative of the statement made by the witness Bailey. - Charles Luxton, mason, residing at 1 St. Leonard's-terrace, Babbacombe, was then sworn. He admitted that, when the deceased came into the bar, he made use of the words mentioned by the witness Bailey, and he corroborated Bailey's evidence relating to the scuffle. The witness declared that he did not strike the deceased, nor did he kick him. - P.S. Nott stated that he had himself taken a deposition from the deceased, but no statement had been made in the presence of a magistrate; the reason for this was that there was little time from when he received information about the affair, to when the deceased expired. Arrangements were being made by the police for the attendance of a magistrate at the time of the death of the deceased. - The Coroner, in summing up, remarked that there was no actual evidence to connect the cause of death with external injury; and he pointed out that according to Dr Steele's statement peritonitis and inflammation of the bowels would result from a cold as well as from a blow. After a few minutes' deliberation, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." The Inquiry lasted over three hours.

ST MARYCHURCH - Fatal Accident At Plainmoor. Inquest. - On Wednesday afternoon a very sad accident occurred in the St. Marychurch-road, Plainmoor. WILLIAM BOVEY, 32 years of age, carpenter and joiner, Fore-street, St. Marychurch, was running in the road, having hold of the handle of a closed cab, which was being driven towards Torquay, seemingly to get inside the vehicle, when he suddenly fell, and the hind wheel of the cab passed over his chest, inflicting injuries which a few hours afterwards proved fatal. - Yesterday evening, at 28 Fore-street, St. Marychurch, the residence of MR J. W. BOVEY, father of the deceased, an Inquest was held before Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, as to the circumstances of the fatality. The Coroner, in the course of his opening remarks, drew attention to the fact that the deceased was one of the principal witnesses at the Inquest touching the death of William Rowdon held only three days previously at St. Marychurch. - MR JOHN WATSON BOVEY, commission agent, father of the deceased, gave formal evidence of identity. - George Cumming, mason, 9 Victoria Park, stated that on Wednesday at the time of the accident, about 2.30 p.m., he was on a ladder at work house painting. He saw a closed cab come up by the White Hart inn, and stop about half-an-hour. Two men then went to the cab, and got in, and ask the vehicle began to move the deceased came round the corner. The deceased ran after the conveyance and caught hold of the door, keeping up for about five or six yards. The witness saw him fall down flat on his back with his head under the body of the carriage, and his legs towards the path. The hind wheel passed over the deceased's chest. The witness called out several times to the driver to stop when he saw the deceased trying to reach the carriage, but he was some distance from the conveyance, which was coming towards him, and to all appearances the cabman did not hear his calls. He did not see the unfortunate man attempt to get into the carriage. When the accident occurred, the witness jumped down, partly picked up the deceased, and together with Mr G. P. Short, who was one of the occupants of the carriage, helped him to get into the conveyance, to which, with assistance, he was able to walk. - Elizabeth Hutchings, single-woman, Boston Fields, deposed that she was going to Victoria Park at the time of the sad occurrence. She noticed the cab standing beside the White Hart inn. When Mr Short and his companion (Mr W. Eddles, of the Crown and Sceptre inn) were seated inside the conveyance, she heard Mr Short say to the cabman "Drive on! drive on!" The cabman did not seem to go quickly, and Mr Short hurried him. She saw the deceased hold on to the door of the conveyance. Mr Short was holding the door to prevent him from getting in; he was sitting back to the horse facing the deceased. She was the other side of the carriage, but could see through the window. The deceased rolled as he fell. - In reply to questions put by Mr Short, the witness stated that she did not know if the window was up, but she could see through. She could not say what part of the door Mr Short was holding; on being pressed, she said that she could not swear that Mr Short was sitting with his back to the horse. - The witness Cumming was recalled, and, in reply to Mr Short, said that he saw that Mr Short and Mr Eddles were both sitting facing the horse, but the former gentleman was nearest the deceased. - Mr George Parker Short, veterinary surgeon, related what had happened up to the time of the accident. He and Mr Eddles and the deceased had been in company for a short time, and the deceased had ordered luncheon for himself at the Union Hotel, St. Marychurch-road. The witness and Mr Eddles parted with the deceased, and were driving back to Torquay, he being in a hurry as he had to keep an appointment. Looking casually out of the window he saw someone's hand on the carriage door, and he immediately called out to the driver to stop. Before the driver had time to pull up, the witness felt the conveyance go over something. He jumped out, and saw the deceased lying on his back on the ground. He said "Whatever induced you to do this?" to the deceased, who replied "I don't know." The deceased was able to walk with a little help, and he did not seem much hurt. The witness and Cumming placed the deceased in the cab, and he ordered the driver to take him home. As he was anxious, he waited for the return of the cabman, from whom he learnt that medical aid had not been sent for, nor had the cabman told the father of the accident. The witness then went to MR BOVEY'S house, and told him, and advised that if the deceased got worse, medical aid should be sent for. The deceased was a little excited, but was not intoxicated. The deceased had his hand on the handle of the carriage door, and in his opinion it was impossible for anyone on the other side of the cab to see that. He, as was his custom, was playing with the window strap. - William Wilson, cabman, South-street, Torquay, gave corroborative evidence. He did not hear Cumming shout at all, and had not been ordered to drive on regardless of the deceased, whom he did not know to be following. - Dr W. S. Steele was the last witness. He stated that on being fetched to the deceased he found him lying on the sofa, unconscious, deadly pale and moaning. He gave him some brandy, and with help put him to bed. He examined him, and found seven of the ribs broken. He applied hot water to the person of the deceased, who became conscious for a little time, but complained of no pain on being asked. The deceased soon again sank into a state of collapse. The witness left him, but returned shortly. He again left him after a little while, but hardly had he done so when he was fetched, and found the deceased dead, death having taken place at about 6 p.m. In his opinion death resulted from internal haemorrhage. There was no doubt that some internal organs were injured, either the liver ruptured or injury done to the lungs. The Coroner remarked that there were slight discrepancies in the evidence of Miss Hutchings and Mr Short, but no doubt the Jury would be able to see their way to a decision. After a short deliberation a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

The Inquiry at Hele into the circumstances of the death of the man WILLIAM ROWDON, ended in the only verdict warranted by the evidence, although it is unquestionable that the evidence fell short of fully accounting for the poor man's death. Peritonitis, it was pointed out, might have been set up by a blow, or have supervened upon a bad cold. There was not a scintilla of testimony as to the deceased having suffered from a cold, but there was testimony to the effect that he had consistently explained his illness by saying that he had been kicked in the stomach. Conclusive testimony was very much to be desired, but unfortunately it was not forthcoming.

ST. MARYCHURCH - Yesterday a second affair of a sad nature was investigated by a Coroner's Jury at St. Marychurch, and a verdict had to be found on evidence which was not altogether satisfactory. The two Inquests are related as to their details. The man ROWDON, before his death, alleged that he had been injured in the Crown and Sceptre inn, dept by Mr W. Eddles, in which he certainly had a "set to" with a man named Luxton; the young man BOVEY, the circumstances of whose death were yesterday Inquired into, was a witness of the fracas in the bar of the Crown and Sceptre inn, and it has now to be reported that at the very time poor Rowdon's remains were being interred in Torquay cemetery, BOVEY himself was crushed beneath the wheel of a carriage in which Mr Eddles was sitting, and in that crushing sustained injuries which quickly proved fatal.

TEIGNMOUTH - A distressing case of Suicide by hanging occurred on Monday morning at the Public Baths, Carlton-place, Teignmouth. MR F. CLEMENT and his wife have been the attendants at the baths since they were opened about four years since. On Monday morning MRS CLEMENT was up as usual busying herself about her work, and leaving her husband in bed. As he had not arrived downstairs by about half-past nine, she went up to call him, but not finding him in his bedroom, she looked about the building, and found him in one of the bathrooms, suspended by a rope attached to the ceiling. MRS CLEMENT immediately rushed into a neighbouring house and gave the alarm; the body was quickly cut down by Mr Pring, builder, of Exmouth, who was near at hand, and Drs. Johnson and Rudkin, whose residences are close by, were speedily in attendance. Life was, however, found to be extinct. No cause whatever can be assigned for the unfortunate occurrence, as during the whole of Sunday MR CLEMENT was in his usual good spirits. A Coroner's Jury on Tuesday found a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

HALWELL - A fatal accident which had befallen GEORGE BOND, a farm labourer, employed by Mr John Irish, of Pulson Farm, Halwell, formed the subject of a Coroner's Inquiry by Mr S. Hacker, on Monday. It appeared that the deceased, who was 52 years of age, in returning from Totnes fair on Thursday evening last week, mounted behind Mr R. Irish on a mare that was a very spirited one. Mr Irish, a practised steeplechaser, was unable to keep her in, and the deceased was thrown off, sustaining concussion of the brain from which he died on the following day. The deceased was sober at the time of the sad occurrence; and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The deceased has left a widow and several children.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 May 1887
TORQUAY - Sudden Death. A Lesson For Mothers. - An Inquest was held last evening at the Upton Vale Hotel, before Mr S. Hacker, touching the death of a child named SIDNEY LAVERS, who died suddenly on the previous day. Aged only three months, and the son of GEORGE LAVERS, tailor, Myrtle-place, Upton, the child was on Wednesday taken ill in its mother's arms, and within a few minutes it expired. MRS ELIZABETH ANN LAVERS sated that she was nursing the child and playing with it on Wednesday afternoon when suddenly it seemed to be taken unwell and died in the course of ten minutes, as she believed in a fit. The witness added that she had had nine children, of whom only five were now living. One of the other children she lost went off in a very similar manner. Dr Thistle, who was called in after the death of the child, also gave evidence. He said that from the appearance of the corpse, he judged that death resulted from convulsions. The Coroner, addressing the mother of the child, remarked upon the mistake that she had made in feeding so young a child with boiled bread and biscuits. He advised her to profit by the lesson conveyed in the doctor's evidence, and to tell her neighbours and acquaintances that young children should be fed on milk. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 June 1887
TORQUAY - Sad Fatality. - On Monday last about noon, at Galmpton, a little boy named HERBERT BROWN, aged six, who was going to a Sunday school treat, was knocked down by a runaway horse and waggon, and sustained such serious injuries that he was removed the same afternoon to the Torbay Hospital, where he died yesterday morning. This morning an Inquest was held at the Hospital, before Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner. The evidence having been heard, a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

CHARLETON - A Coroner's Jury at Charleton, near Kingsbridge, has returned a verdict of "Found Drowned" in the case of MISS GERTRUDE ELIZABETH MAYE, whose body was found in the sea at Prawle under mysterious circumstances on Saturday last. On the previous Thursday afternoon MISS MAYE went out for a walk, and as she did not return inquiries and search were made as to her whereabouts. On it becoming generally known in the village of Prawle that MISS MAYE undoubtedly went in that direction, the villagers volunteered their assistance in the search, and a large party explored the vicinity of the seashore and rocks, and the body of the young lady was found on Saturday evening on the sand, almost entirely covered with seaweed. It is thought to have been washed into the place where it was found, as one shoe was missing, as well as her hat, otherwise the body did not appear to have been knocked about. Amongst those who found her was a brother of the deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 June 1887
TORQUAY - Fatality At Petitor. A Young Woman Found Drowned. - Early yesterday morning the body of a young woman was found in two feet of water on Petitor Beach. It proved to be that of ADELINE CHUDLEY LEAR, 28, of 1 Austin's Place, Hele. The deceased was formerly a domestic servant, but latterly has kept an infants' school. On Wednesday afternoon about half-past four o'clock, she left her home, having kissed her widowed mother, and having said that she would not be late in coming home. As she went up the road she waved an adieu. She went to see a lady at Babbacombe, and appeared in good spirits. Nothing more was seen of her till two fishermen discovered the body yesterday morning on Petitor beach. - This morning an Inquest was held at the Royal Standard inn, Hele, before Mr D. A. Fraser, Deputy County Coroner. The first witness was ELEANOR LEAR, mother of the deceased. She stated that on going out on Wednesday, her daughter seemed to be in very good spirits; she had suffered from rheumatic fever several times, and her heart was affected. She was subject to giddiness. As her daughter had not returned at 10.30 p.m., she made inquiries, and afterwards gave information to the police. - William Taverner, fisherman, Babbacombe, deposed that yesterday morning about 7.30, he and a companion were rowing in a boat coming towards Babbacombe. He saw something on the Petitor beach, and called attention to the object. They rowed towards it, and found it to be the body of a woman resting on the ground, the waves only just covering it. There was nothing strange about the body, which they carried above high-water mark. There were kid gloves on the hands, which were not clenched. They reported their discovery to the police. - P.C. Richards, Babbacombe, stated that he examined the clothing of the deceased which was covered with sand, but not torn at all. He conveyed the body to the residence of the deceased's mother. - P.C. Thomas deposed that he had been and examined the spot where the body was found. There was hard-by a rock where people often sit reading, and from which a person might drop into the water. - Mr Thomas Finch, surgeon, St. Marychurch, deposed that he made a careful examination, but found no evidence whatever of the body having fallen from a height. There were slight abrasions on the face and on the head, which might have been caused by the washing of the sea. No bones were fractured, nor was there any laceration. Death in his opinion had not taken place before entering the water, but from drowning. - The verdict was one of "Found Drowned."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 June 1887
PLYMOUTH - A Coroner's Inquiry was opened at Plymouth on Wednesday evening concerning the death of the infant child of the wife of a seaman named STRATFORD. Medical evidence showed that the child died from the effects of some corrosive liquid, probably sulphuric acid, taken shortly after birth. The Inquest was adjourned for a fortnight.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 24 June 1887
TORQUAY - Suicide At Torquay. - On Wednesday, at half-past one o'clock in the afternoon, the body of a woman was discovered in the sea, just beneath Daddy Hole Plain. On being brought on shore it was identified as that of SOPHIA ANN FISHER, 23 years of age, wife of a coastguardsman stationed and residing on the Plain, who had, it seems, gone to the town in search of the deceased. The chief boatman (Mr Nevan) and a few coastguardsmen did all in their power to restore animation, but their endeavours proved ineffectual - Last evening, in the Watch-house of the Coastguard Station, Daddy Hole Plain, an Inquest was held by Mr Sidney Hacker, District Coroner, into the circumstances of the death of the deceased. - Mr J. M. Bovey was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - After the body had been viewed, the Coroner and the Jury inspected the place where the deceased had been found. The first witness called was FREDERICK JOHN FISHER, husband of the deceased. He deposed that the deceased had for the last six months complained of pains in her head, and for the past fortnight she had been exceedingly strange in her manner, and had wandered about the house apparently not knowing what she was doing. On Tuesday morning last she went out into the hot sun attired in a heavy ulster, and the witness remarked to a neighbour that there was something the matter with the deceased. On Monday she wrote to her parents, who live at Bath, and invited them down to see her. The last time he saw the deceased alive was on Wednesday about one o'clock, when she was lying on the bed to rest. The witness asked her to come down to dinner, but she refused. Seeing that she was more strange in her manner than she had usually been, he went and asked for leave, so that he might look after her. On returning he found that the deceased had left the house, and he went in search of her in the direction of the town. She had not made any remarks that led him to think that she was going to take her life. - On being questioned by the Coroner, the witness admitted that the deceased had said on the Tuesday that she had "found a spot," but he had taken no notice of the remark, as she had said many strange things lately. The deceased had not been attended by a medical man. The witness added that a brother of the deceased was at present confined in the Wells Asylum, and that her mother had been an inmate of an asylum. - Emma Howes, a neighbour, said that she had known the deceased since November, and since that time they had been very friendly. On Wednesday about half-past one o'clock, the witness saw the deceased standing at her doorway, attired as though she was going out. She asked the deceased if she was going away, and she replied that she was, and requested the witness to take care of the children. As the deceased had gone away in the same manner on the previous day, the witness did not suspect that she was going to put an end to her life. The witness added that she had been in the habit of visiting the deceased at her house, and during the last fortnight she had frequently complained of pains in her head. The deceased was reserved in her manner and of a quiet disposition until latterly; on Tuesday, however, the deceased shut the door in the face of a neighbour who had previously been on very intimate terms with her. - Alice Maude Newman, a little girl, deposed that on Wednesday, at 1.30, she saw the deceased walking very rapidly across the Plain in the direction of the cliffs. - Thomas Howes, coastguardsman, said that just before two o'clock on Wednesday, he was on duty near the edge of the cliffs, when he saw what he thought was the body of a little girl floating in the water about fifty yards from the shore, the tide being at quarter-flood. He immediately reported to his officer what he had seen, and then went down to the beach where he was joined by several of his fellow coastguardsmen and the chief boatman. The witness undressed and as there was a nasty easterly roll on, he had a line fastened around his waist, and then swam out and recovered the body. After the body was brought on shore, the usual methods for restoring animation were adopted, but without success. The witness further said that he had since examined the place near the spot where the deceased was found, and he had come to the conclusion that the deceased must have got into the water at the Quarry Point, as that was the only place near by where there was keep water. If she had attempted to throw herself off at any place but the Point she must have been badly marked by falling on the rocks. - Mr R. Pollard, surgeon, said that he was called upon on Wednesday, about 2.45, and from the information he received, he went to the beach underneath Daddy Hole Plain, where he found the coastguardsmen engaged in trying to restore animation, but on examining the deceased he found that life was extinct, and to all appearances death had resulted from drowning. The only marks about the body were two very slight abrasions, which might have been caused before or after death. In reply to the Coroner, the witness said that from the evidence that had been given, and from the fact that there was hereditary insanity in the family of the deceased, he should judge that she was insane. - A verdict of "Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity" was accordingly returned. The Jurors gave up their fees to the husband of the deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 July 1887
SHALDON - Mr Hacker held an Inquest at Shaldon on Saturday touching the death of THOMAS CHARLES BRYANT, who was drowned on Friday last while returning from Coombeinteignhead to Shaldon. The deceased was in the company of three young men named Poland, Searle and Meas, and had been to the Jubilee Celebration at Coombeinteignhead. On the way home larking was indulged in, and the boat was upset. A man named Westlake was near at hand, and, after a great deal of trouble, as his boat was loaded with passengers, he succeeded in rescuing the three lads who were with BRYANT, but the deceased was missing. E. BRYANT, father of the deceased, stated that his son was 18 years of age, and he last saw him alive on Friday evening, when he left Shaldon in a boat with another lad named Searle to go to Coombcellars. About half-past ten o'clock the witness was called up by some woman, who, asking if TOM was in, and being told that he was not, said "Then he's drowned." The witness dressed, and with another man, went up the river in search of his son, and about three o'clock they found the body lying on the mud near Archebrook. Searle, one of the deceased's companions, said they had a quart of beer among four of them at Coombe. On the way home, the deceased got up in the boat to take a flag from witness, and on his (deceased's) sitting down the boat overturned. The witness and the other two were saved by a passing boat, but BRYANT sank and witness did not see him again. William Westlake having given evidence, the Jury found a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," and most of them gave their fees to the parents of the deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 July 1887
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was concluded on Wednesday night at Plymouth on the body of a newly-born child supposed to have been poisoned. The mother admitted that she saw her own mother (MRS BUCHAN) pour a teaspoonful of corrosive down the child's throat and that it died soon after. A verdict of Wilful Murder was returned.

EXETER - At the Exeter Hospital on Friday last, Mr Hooper held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of SARAH ANN PATIENCE COLES, aged 42, wife of the landlord of the New Inn, Alphington. The husband stated that on the previous Tuesday his wife, who was upstairs, called to him for a glass of port wine. Before he could take it to her some customers entered, and he was serving them when he heard the deceased groaning. He ran upstairs, and caught her in his arms as she was falling. He asked her what was the matter, and she said "It isn't port wine - I thought it was," at the same time pointing to a bottle labelled "Saxum's Sanitary Fluid." He had never seen the bottle until that time, and he did not know it was on the premises. Deceased always carried the key of the cupboard where the port wine was kept. the deceased was of temperate habits; she had not been well lately. Mr Blomfield, house surgeon at the hospital, said the deceased died from failure of the heart's action, accelerated by acute inflammation of the stomach, which must have resulted from drinking the sanitary fluid. In his opinion it contained carbolic acid, although advertised as "non-poisonous". He did not think the deceased could have lived many weeks under any circumstances. The verdict of the Jury was that the deceased died from the effects of the fluid, taken in mistake.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 July 1887
BRIXHAM - About seven o'clock on Sunday morning last a little boy, seven years old, was found drowned in Brixham harbour near the eastern end of the fish market. His father, MR GEORGE JOHNS, ship-smith, sent him home from his workshop just before five o'clock on Saturday evening. Instead of doing as his father desired, he must have gone to the end of the fish market to play in the trawlers' boats that are kept moored at the spot on Saturdays. Some of the fishermen say that they drove him out of their boats about half-past five. It is supposed that he either returned to the boats or accidentally fell from the quay. An Inquest was held on Tuesday before Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner. A verdict of "Accidental Drowning" was returned, with a recommendation that the narrow footway adjoining the Fish Market, from which it is supposed the deceased fell, should be stopped up as it is highly dangerous.

DARTMOUTH - On Friday morning last JAMES TOZER, a retired shipwright, 64 years old, living alone in rooms in Newport-street, Dartmouth, was found dead on the kitchen floor. The evidence given at the Inquest showed that the last time the deceased was seen alive was on the afternoon of the previous Thursday, when he seemed in his usual health. About nine o'clock on Friday morning, not hearing him on the move as usual, a Mrs Chadder, who lives in the same house, went to his rooms, when she saw him lying on the floor. She called his sister, MRS DUMMONDS, and both went into his room and found that he was dead and probably had been so for many hours. The posture of the deceased was as though he had slipped from the chair to the floor, with his back against the window bench. His bed had not been slept in. There were slight bruises on the right side of the chest and face and on the right arm, such as would be caused by a fall. The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 August 1887
TIVERTON - Murder Near Tiverton. Desperate Struggle With Poachers. - A terrible murder was perpetrated by salmon poachers in the river Exe, near Tiverton, in the early hours of Saturday morning. The victim was ARCHIBALD REED, a water bailiff in the service of the Tiverton Fishing Association, and living at Water-lane. He had charge of the lower waters, extending from Tiverton to Bickleigh, and owing to the reduced volume of water running through the river he has been troubled by illegal netting of fish at night. He had been endeavouring by close watching to capture the poachers that have infested his district, and night after night he had patrolled the river's bank in the performance of his duty. On Friday afternoon he was called upon by Mr W. J. Llewellyn, a member of the Executive Committee of the Tiverton Fishing Association, with whom he had a conversation relative to the liming of the river that had been practised lately. He was authorised to get assistance in watching the stream, though he did not do so on Friday night. He had, it appears, received information that four men intended "working" the pools under Collipriest that night, and accordingly he left home about eleven o'clock, saying to his wife that in all probability he would return between six and seven in the morning. Nothing was heard of him until a quarter to six on Saturday morning. At that time Mr George Davey, gamekeeper to Mr Sidney Stern, was returning to his home in St Andrew-street, after night duty in Collipriest Woods, and whilst walking up Collipriest walk he saw a body in the water opposite. It was lying in a part of the river known as the "Rag," a few hundred yards below the spot at which the stream of Westexe Mill joins the Exe. Seeing that something was amiss - though not perhaps realising at the moment that a desperate crime had been committed, Davey communicated with P.C. Raymond who also lives in St. Andrew-street, and told him of the body being in the water. The two proceeded to the river together, and brought the body, which turned out to be that of REED to the bank. It presented a ghastly appearance, and on the bank there was every indication of a desperate struggle having taken place. A casual glance was sufficient to tell that poor REED had fought most bitterly for his life; and, judging from the ferocity with which he must have been assailed and the wounds he sustained, it is presumed that his assailants numbered more than one. It is certain that his life had been taken before the body was thrown into the river. The fatal injury was a gash across the throat, extending from ear to ear, and almost severing the head from the body. As may be expected, there are different theories as to the method of the foul crime. The most probable, perhaps, is that, which credits REED with having been watching from near the main road that skirts the field, and seeing men leave the bed of the river after having committed an offence, he approached them: that he was a bold and fearless man everyone who knows him testifies, and it is concluded that he at once made his presence known, and with the result that he was set upon and murdered. Whatever may have been the precise circumstances of the terrible affair, it is beyond question that there was a severe struggle, for REED'S stick was found broken and splintered and stained with blood as if the head of someone had been broken. It was evident, too, that the knife had been resorted to. Both hands of REED were cut and lacerated; and both thumbs were on the inside cut to the bone, from which it would seem that the knife had been seized by the blade and then wrested away by being drawn through the hand. Moreover, beneath an elm tree in the meadow bordering the river, and near the first seat on the Exeter-road, were found three deep pools of blood, a trail from which reached to the river. By the pools were found a lamb-foot knife, covered with blood, and hair, two pipes, and a neckerchief. Further towards the river a dead trout was discovered, and lying parallel to the trail of blood was a rope with a noose in it evidently belonging to a net of some kind. The trail seems to have been caused by the body having been dragged towards the river after the deed, as the deceased was found lying in the bed of the river on his face alongside the bank, with his head down stream. The water at the spot was at the time about three inches deep. A glance at the body was sickening: the wounds were confined to the head and hands. Below cuts on either side of the face the throat was hacked from ear to ear. The deceased's hands were covered with punctured and lacerated wounds, nearly all of them cut from the flesh to the bones. The body was as soon as possible conveyed to the deceased's house in Water-lane, where Dr Cullin examined it. The effect of the awful crime upon the deceased's wife was painful in the extreme; the poor woman was so overcome that she had to be removed by sympathising neighbours from the house. The antecedents of the unfortunate man show him to have been steady and reliable. He had been in the employ of the Association only for one season, having previously been a keeper with Mr W. L. Unwin, of Hayne. He was by trade a stonemason; and had for some years been in the Army. About 35 years of age he was a man of fine physique, being broadly built, and having a muscular development denoting considerable strength. He was of medium height, possessed a pleasing and genial countenance, the lower part of his face being concealed beneath a bushy brown moustache and beard. it was almost three years ago that he married MISS MARY ANN ELLIOTT, who up to that time had been for nineteen years in the service of Mr E. M. Winton. He leaves no family. Whoever the murderer or murderers might have been, they have eluded detection up to the present time. Mr George Davey, in the course of an interview with a representative of the press, stated "On Friday night I was in the Country House Inn drinking a pint of beer when the deceased entered, and I asked him to have a drink. He said, 'No, no, not now,' and added, 'Here, Georgie, I want to have a word with 'ee.' I went out with him into the skittle alley, and he said, 'I expect some trouble tonight; they are going to lime the river' I replied, 'Well, ARCHIE, I shall be glad to help you any time I can, if you only let me know.' The deceased then left. I myself had some bother some time ago with a gang of four of them, and chased them three miles down the river, but they got off. I told him of this, and deceased replied, 'yes, Georgie, I know all about it - the devils were liming the river.' On Monday an Inquest was opened and adjourned. The Tiverton Town Council has declared that no expense shall be spared to find the murderers. The Council has offered £100 reward and headed a subscription list for REED'S widow with £20. Private subscriptions are also being raised. The Tiverton Fishery Association has decided to offer a reward for the arrest of the murderers. REED'S remains were interred on Wednesday. The police have found that a piece of rope picked up where the murder was committed was obtained at a public-house, the landlady of which knows who took it from her premises.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 August 1887
TIVERTON - The adjourned Inquest touching the death of ARCHIBALD REED, recently murdered at Tiverton, was held on Monday, when a verdict of "Wilful Murder by some person or persons unknown" was returned. The evidence threw considerable light upon the fish poaching which takes place in the neighbourhood. No direct clue to the murderer has, however, yet been discovered. A man has been admitted to the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital suffering from a broken arm and various other injuries. He explained to those who questioned him that he had sustained these injuries through a fall while in a fit, but there were many discrepancies in his statements.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 August 1887
DEVONPORT - At Devonport on Tuesday an Inquest was held upon the body of ELIZABETH GLEEN, an in-patient of the Royal Albert Hospital, who died on the previous morning. The evidence showed that deceased took some morphia, which had been left in her ward, and the Jury returned a verdict that deceased committed Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 September 1887
TORQUAY - Fatal Street Accident. - On Wednesday morning in last week as AGNES AVERY, 62, widow, was crossing the road in Brunswick-square, Torre, she was knocked down by a pony belonging to Mr G. D. Bindon, butcher, 25 Higher Union-street, which was being ridden by the owner's son. The woman sustained serious injuries, and was removed to the hospital, where she expired on Saturday afternoon. - An Inquest into the circumstances was held before Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, on Monday evening in the hospital. MARY SCOTCHBROOK 14 Prospect Place, Upton, gave evidence of identification. The deceased was her mother, and had lived with her. - Arthur Ash, errand boy, stated that he witnessed the accident. The pony was coming from the direction of the railway station, and was being ridden at a sharp trot. The deceased was in the act of crossing the road, having at first halted and then gone on again, when the pony knocked her down. The animal tripped, and rolled over on its back, its rider being thrown. The boy who was on the pony had tried to pull up, and the witness expected that the deceased would have got out of the way before the pony came up. - Similar evidence having been given by William Hill, Albert-terrace and by William Best, carter, George Drew Bindon was called. He stated that the pony, which was being ridden by his son Frederick George at the time of the accident, could only go five miles an hour, and was "little bigger than a Newfoundland dog," being only 10 ¾ hands high. - Mr G. Y. Eales, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, deposed that when the deceased was admitted, she was suffering from a bruise on the left shoulder, and a fractured rib on the left side, as well as a punctured wound on the head. In his opinion the broken rib had perforated the lung. The deceased had suffered from chronic bronchitis, and that was the immediate cause of death, accelerated by the injury to the lung and shock to the system. The Coroner remarked on the habit of fast and furious driving prevalent in Torquay. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned by the Jury, of which Mr Matthew Wicks was Foreman.

PLYMOUTH - At an Inquest held by the Borough Coroner at the Plymouth Workhouse on Tuesday, a verdict of Manslaughter was returned against JULIA HERD, wife of a seaman in the navy, the evidence showing that she was very much addicted to drunkenness and had so neglected her child that it died from starvation. The woman was subsequently arrested.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 September 1887
TORQUAY - The Fatal Accident At Torre Station. Conflicting Testimony. - An Inquest was held on Friday afternoon last at the Country House inn, Ellacombe, before Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, touching the death of THOMAS JOHN SCOTT, aged 44, who was killed on Wednesday night at Torre Railway Station, by being run over by a train. Mr H. Harding was Foreman of the Jury. Mr E. Ward, from the office of Messrs. Whiteford and Bennett, Plymouth, solicitors to the Great Western Railway Company, watched the proceedings, and Mr John Northcott, district inspector, and Mr G. F. B. Pullen, station-master at Torre, were present. - Mr Wm. Motton, landlord of the Country House inn, was the first witness. He identified the body, saying that the deceased was his brother-in-law. He lived in Florence Villa, Petitor-road, St. Marychurch. He was formerly an inn-keeper, but had recently been following his trade as a joiner. He was 44 years old last birthday. - John Searle, letter carrier, St. Marychurch, stated that he was in the company of MR SCOTT at Newton on Wednesday evening. He met him on the railway station, and talked with him while waiting for the train; but they did not make the journey in the same carriage. It was the last ordinary train; on its arrival at Torre, the witness got out before the deceased, the train being perfectly still at the time. Just as he was moving to leave the station, the witness saw the train jerk, and the deceased fell down. He was standing on the sideboard of the carriage, the door being open. The deceased did not step on to the platform, but fell from the sideboard as the train moved backwards. The porters warned the people to keep their seats while the train, which had over-run its course, was being put back a little; but he did not hear any warning given until after the deceased had fallen under the train. The witness got out on the slope at the end of the station, and several other people did the same. The carriage in which the deceased was did not over-run the platform. He had his hand by the side of the carriage, but whether he had hold of anything the witness could not say. The deceased was standing against the end of the carriage, and fell down by the buffers straight on to the metals. As soon as he fell, the witness cried out and told the engine-driver, or stoker, he did not know which, to keep the train still, as there was a man underneath. He then went and looked under the carriage, and on the train being stopped saw the man removed from under it. In his opinion the cause of the deceased falling was the jerking of the train. - In answer to the Coroner, the witness said that the deceased was in good spirits - merry and jovial like everybody else - at Newton, and had nothing to drink on the station. The witness went down on the line and recognized the deceased, who said, "Oh, my God! Oh, my God!" He lived only a few minutes. - Mr F. T. Thistle, surgeon, stated that he saw the deceased at about a quarter past nine o'clock lying on the space between the two lines of rails. He was just living, his pulse being scarcely perceptible. He had sustained a compound fracture of the left thigh, and also of the right leg. The muscles and skin were all torn away from the left side, from the hip to the ankle. The deceased died about ten minutes afterwards, the immediate cause of death being shock consequent upon being run over. - Mrs Mary Sarahs, wife of John Sarahs, living in Swan-street, stated that she saw MR SCOTT get out of the train after it had stopped. She was in the same train, in the next carriage, going on to Torquay. The deceased stood on the platform for some time talking to someone in a carriage; his right arm was on the door, which was shut, but he had not got hold of the handle. She was sure he stood on the platform, not on the sideboard. As the train began to move backwards, he loosed his hold and fell. The deceased was talking to a female, standing sideways, with his back to the engine. The witness had previously told a friend that she was afraid that the man would fall over if he did not leave go the door; but he continued talking, and as the train moved quietly backwards he walked with it, still talking to the female in the carriage. Fearing that there would be an accident as the man's foot was so near to the edge, the witness called out to him. Twice she said, "I wish you would get away, and wait until the train stops," but she did not think the man heard her. At last, after walking a short distance with the train, he made a lurch, and fell over. There was no jerk, and she could not say what caused the fall. He slipped a long way before he came to the end of the carriage; falling into the opening between the first and second carriages - and not between the second and third. The witness was very explicit on this point. She also declared that she heard the porters call out twice, telling the people to stand clear and keep their seats. She felt no shock when the train shunted. The witness afterwards told the lady-friend of the deceased that it was very wrong of her to keep him talking so long. - George Mitchell, sick-berth steward, in the Royal Navy, stated that he travelled in the same compartment as the deceased on the evening in question; he entered after the witness was seated, and was alone. On the way the deceased was rather uproarious in his behaviour. He started singing, and although not in a smoking compartment, lighted his pipe and smoked. All of a sudden too, while the train was in motion, he started up and wanted to leave the carriage. Speaking the plain truth, the witness would say that the man was under the influence of liquor. The witness stopped him from getting out of the carriage, whereupon the deceased threatened to punch him in the face. The witness stood up in the carriage, with his hand on the hat-rail, as the train entered the station, so as to prevent the deceased from making another attempt at leaving while the train was in motion. The majority of the passengers in the carriage got out at Torre and the witness (who was going to Dartmouth) and a lady were left in alone. When the deceased got out, the witness said to him: "Old man, you had better be careful, or you will get into trouble." A few minutes later the witness heard that a man had fallen on the line, and looking out of the carriage, he recognized the man as the one who had just left his company. - In answer to questions, the witness said that he saw the deceased walk away from the carriage as if he was leaving the station. He was not aware that he talked to anyone. The carriage in which they travelled was the third or fourth from the engine. The train moved backwards very slowly; the witness noticed no jerk. The deceased first threatened to leave the carriage between Newton and Kingskerswell. He offered to purchase for £5 the red cross off the arm of the witness's jacket, and among other things said that he did not care whether he lived through the night. - John Thomas, guard of the train, stated that Newton Abbot was left at 8.57; it was the 8.30 train from Newton to Kingswear. Torre was reached at 9.12., and owing to the metals being a little slippery and the train being a very long one, the platform was overrun by the first two coaches. When the main body of the passengers were out, and the Torre luggage had been taken out of the van, the witness walked down beside the train, calling out "keep your seats," and "keep clear, while we put back." The engine was blowing off steam, and the witness had to go close up to the engine to give the order to put back the length of two coaches. Porters also called out to passengers to keep their seats and stand clear. Directly the train moved, the witness was told that a man was under the train, the third carriage from the engine; and going between the carriages, the witness put the man's legs in the middle of the line. Afterwards, with assistance, the witness removed the man to the space between the up and down lines. - In answer to questions, the witness said that he did not notice the deceased when he passed along the train; there were many people on the platform, and certainly the deceased was not at the time leaning on a carriage. When the witness was giving the order to the engine-driver to put back, he could not see the length of the train, as there was a curve in the course. There was, however, time for the man to go to the door while the witness went quite up to the engine to deliver the station-master's instructions for the train to be put back. There was no jerk when the train started back; such a thing as a jerk was impossible under the circumstances, for going backwards was going up hill, with the full weight of the train on the engine. - Henry Tuckett, district representative of the Western Morning News, who was in the front part of the train, deposed to having heard the guard and porters request passengers to keep their seats; the warning was so clear and effective that not one person got out of the compartment in which he was. As to the backward movement of the train, it was gradual and without any jerk. - Mrs Sarahs was recalled. In reply to the coroner, she said that she saw the deceased get out of the compartment in which the woman sat with whom he was afterwards in conversation. - In summing up the evidence, the Coroner pointed out the great difference between the evidence of Searle and that of the other witnesses, and told the Jury that if they could not reconcile the conflicting statements they would do well to give superior weight to the more reasonable and consistent version. Putting aside Mr Searle's evidence, he thought that there was coherency in what had been stated; Mrs Sarahs and Mr Mitchell not only gave their evidence well, but they agreed as to the fundamental facts. Having analysed the testimony, the Coroner said that there was ground for supposing that, having walked away from the train, as Mr Mitchell said he did, the deceased went to the carriage in which the woman was sitting, and entered into conversation with her. Indeed, the deceased may have got into the compartment in which the woman was sitting, and have got out when Mrs Sarahs was looking out of the window, and then have stood against the carriage door, as Mrs Sarahs had stated. The question was whether anyone was to blame in the matter of the injuries to which the deceased succumbed. - After some consideration, the Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, adding as a rider a recommendation that, in cases of long trains extra precautions should be taken by the officials of the Railway Company in order to prevent accidents occurring through passengers approaching too closely to the carriages just before the trains are put in motion. The Foreman explained that the Jury did not wish their recommendation to imply censure, as they were of opinion that the Company was in no way to blame in the matter of the fatal accident into which Inquiry had been made. - The Jury gave their fees for the benefit of the children of the deceased. The two brothers of the deceased who have been home on a visit from Australia, and who were with him in his last moments on the railway station, left Torquay for Plymouth just before the Inquest was held, in order to return to Australia, in pursuance of arrangements made prior to the unfortunate occurrence.

PRINCETOWN - On Wednesday at Princetown a Coroner's Jury Inquired into the cause of death of the young convict WILLIAM ROBERTS, which occurred on the 12th inst., whilst blasting operations were being carried on at the quarry. It was found that death was accidental but a rider was added recommending that a set or regulations be framed for the guidance of persons using explosives in quarries, and that such regulations should specify the tools to be used.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 November 1887
TORQUAY - Inquests In Torquay. - Two Inquests were held in the town by Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, on Tuesday. The first was at the Torbay Hospital into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN GILBERT HARVEY, 21, labourer, who, it will be remembered was buried in a fall of earth and clay at Messrs. Webber and Stedham's Brickworks, Newton-road, on Thursday, October 13th, when he received serious injuries. Mr Wm. Watson was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was SARAH ANN HARVEY, wife of the deceased, residing at 21 Victoria Park, St. Marychurch, who gave evidence of identification. - James Hocking, labourer at the Brickworks, living at St. Marychurch, deposed that on the afternoon of October 13th, he was, with deceased and another man, engaged in digging clay at the foot of a bank about ten or twelve feet high. Suddenly the deceased shouted "Look up," and then a great mass of sandy clay broke from the middle of the face of the bank. Deceased being in the centre was caught by the falling substance and buried, but witness and the other man, who were working at the sides, escaped. About two tons of clay fell, and witness thought the slip was caused by the rain which fell on the night previous to the occurrence. Witness helped to rescue the deceased, but after his head and shoulders had been cleared, the top portion of the bank fell, and again the deceased was buried. Eventually the deceased was got out, and conveyed in an insensible condition to the Torbay Hospital. - William Lock, who was labouring with the deceased at the time of the occurrence, gave similar evidence. - James Bellamy, foreman to Messrs. Webber and Stedham, residing at the works, said that he had since examined the place where the slip occurred, and found a bed of sandy clay in the centre of the bank, which ran in about ten or twelve feet. It was the sandy clay which fell first, and then the tough clay, being much weakened, fell afterwards. Witness inspected the headings of the pits twice a day, to ensure the safety of the men. On the day of the accident, he had twice visited the place where deceased was working, and on going there the second time witness saw no cracks at the top which would lead to the supposition that the clay was about to fall. - Mr George Young Eales, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said that the deceased was admitted to the institution about four o'clock on the afternoon of the 13th of October; he was bleeding from the right ear and the left nostril, and had a bruise above the left eye. Further examination showed that the deceased was suffering from a fracture of the base of the skull. After remaining insensible for nine days, the deceased came round, and last week he became quite clear and collected, and conversed with his friends. Last Friday, however, the deceased got worse, and on Monday he passed into a state of coma, and died in the evening. Witness was of opinion that the indirect cause of death was injury to the skull, but the immediate cause was coma. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

The second Inquest was held in the evening at Rowland's Clarence Hotel, Newton-road, for the purpose of Inquiring into the circumstances attending the death of VICTOR REGINALD SNOW, aged four months, who died at 3, Avenue Villas, Paignton-road, on Monday morning. Mr Thomas Taylor was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - CHARLES ALBERT SNOW, leather merchant, living at 65 Fleet-street, said he was the father of the deceased. He had been a weakly child from birth, but did not appear sufficiently ill to warrant a medical man being sent for. Witness had had nine children, of whom three only were living, most of them having died a few weeks after birth. For some time the deceased child had been put out to nurse with Mr and Mrs Webber, who live at 3 Avenue Villas, as there was not sufficient accommodation at his business premises in Fleet-street. On Monday morning Mr Webber informed witness of the death of the child. The deceased was not insured, in fact none of his children were. - Edward Webber, private lunacy attendant, 3 Avenue Villas, stated that the child was placed in charge of his wife about a fortnight after his birth. At that time the deceased appeared to breathe with difficulty, and there seemed to be something the matter with his throat. The child had been well fed and up to within the last fortnight, had slept in the same room as witness and his wife, but since that the child had slept in an adjoining room. He had been authorised by MR SNOW to get medical assistance whenever the child required it, but as he had seen no change in the child's health he did not trouble. The deceased had recently been vaccinated by the public vaccinator, as Dr Richardson was unable to do it at the time MRS SNOW required it to be done. Witness thought that the public vaccinator would know if the child was too weak to be operated upon. On Sunday night witness's wife went as usual into the room to give the child a bottle of milk, but on going to him on Monday morning she found the child dead. Witness then fetched Dr Richardson. - Mr J. B. Richardson, physician, said he had examined the child and found it to be well nourished; there were no marks on the body, and nothing whatever to show that the child died from anything but natural causes. In his opinion the child apparently died from inflammation of the lungs. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 November 1887
TORQUAY - Sad Fatality To A Torquay Innkeeper. - A melancholy accident which terminated fatally, happened to MR FREDERICK WILLIAM DAY, landlord of the Globe Hotel, Higher Union-street, on Friday evening last. It seems that MR DAY was riding a young horse along Fleet-street, and when he got to the Devon Arms, he saw a friend and called to him. He dismounted, and after a few minutes conversation he re-mounted, and rode off. When he had proceeded about five yards he was seen to fall from his horse, and his head coming in contact with the stone crossing, he was rendered quite unconscious. He was conveyed to his home, and lingered until Sunday evening, when he expired. MR DAY was 32 years of age, and leaves a widow and three children to mourn their loss. He was the only son of MR SAMUEL DAY, who for many years carried on the business of aerated water manufacturer in this town, and who has quite recently returned to England from Africa, after an absence of about seven years. - On Monday evening at the Torbay Inn, Torre, Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest touching the death of MR DAY. Mr G. M. Tripe was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was MR SAMUEL DAY, father of the deceased, who, after giving evidence of identification, said that deceased had been used to riding horses ever since he was ten years of age. Witness added that the animal deceased was riding at the time of the occurrence had been kept in a stable for three weeks, and it might have been rather fresh; it was somewhat young, but on the whole was a quiet animal. - Thomas dunning Cross, plumber and gasfitter, residing at 2 Westbourne-terrace, deposed that he was walking along Fleet-street about quarter to six o'clock on Friday evening last, when he saw the deceased, who called to him. Witness went over by the side of the horse that deceased was riding, and after a brief conversation, MR DAY dismounted in front of the Devon Arms, and the conversation was resumed in the bar of the Devon Arms, the horse being left in charge of a lad. The conversation, which related to some business matters, lasted for about six or seven minutes, and then witness and deceased left the public-house. Deceased went over to his horse, seized the reins, mounted and rode off, saying "All right; good night Tom." Witness saw the horse begin to plunge and after it had proceeded a few yards, he observed that deceased lurched on one side, and thinking there was something wrong, he tried to get up to him. Before he caught up to the animal, however, the deceased fell back over its quarters, and his head and right shoulder pitched on the road crossing, in front of the Torquay Horticultural Depot. Deceased was taken into the Devon Arms, where restoratives were applied, but as they had no effect, he was conveyed to his home in a cab. The deceased was perfectly sober, and while talking with witness he was as concise and as shrewd as ever he was. Witness did not notice whether the deceased had his feet in the stirrups when he rode off, or whether he wore spurs or carried a whip, and he saw nothing in the animal's path to frighten it. - Mr William Powell, surgeon, stated that he saw the deceased on Friday evening, between seven and eight o'clock, and found him suffering from concussion of the brain. There was a small abrasion on the right side of the back of the head, and he was quite insensible. On Sunday the deceased became completely comatose and in the evening he died. Witness attributed death to the injury to the base of the brain, caused by a fall. After a few remarks by the Coroner, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 2 December 1887
CHUDLEIGH - The body found in the river Teign at Chudleigh was identified at the adjourned Inquest as that of CHARLES WOOD, aged 41, commercial traveller, in the employ of Messrs. D. Sykes & Co., brewers, of Bristol. He was married and has left a widow and five children. Evidence was given that he was wrong in his accounts and had absented himself from his duties. A verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 December 1887
OKEHAMPTON - MR ARTHUR WELLINGTON, son of the postmaster at Okehampton, died at the railway station there on Tuesday immediately after depositing the mail bags in the 9.8 train. He had hurried up the hill to the station. At the Inquest subsequently held before Mr W. Burd, Dr Young stated that heart disease was the cause of death, and a verdict in accordance with this testimony was returned. Deceased was 22 years of age.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 January 1888
TORQUAY - Suicide In Torquay. The Duty Of Medical men. - On Christmas Day, THOMAS GILLARD, 69 years of age, a retired Inland Revenue Officer, was found at his residence, 1, Highbury Villas, Ellacombe, with his throat cut. Medical assistance was immediately sought, and MR GILLARD lingered, under the treatment of Drs. Gardner and Cook, until last Monday evening, when he expired from exhaustion. - Yesterday morning at twenty minutes past eight o'clock, Mr Sydney Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquest at the residence of the deceased. Mr T. F. Graham was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was MARY GILLARD, widow of the deceased, who, after giving evidence of identification, deposed that her husband had been an Inland Revenue Officer, but retired from the service about seven years ago, and had since lived at Torquay. For the past four years he had suffered from a disordered brain, and had not been outside the house for three years. On Christmas Day witness took the deceased his dinner as usual and left the room, as he would never eat before any one. Shortly afterwards she re-entered the room, and after a brief conversation, again left the room taking the dinner things with her. After she had been upstairs for two or three minutes, she heard the deceased groaning, and immediately ran downstairs and found him in his room, sitting on the floor with his throat bleeding, a knife lying by his side. The deceased never used a knife or fork, but witness thought she must by mistake have taken a knife in to him on the dinner tray. She did not remember having done so, but thought that such must have been the case. Witness called her brother and his wife, Mr and Mrs Edwards, who were staying in the house at the time, and Mr Edwards went for medical assistance. The deceased died about eight o'clock on Monday evening last. He had never before attempted to destroy himself, or threatened to do so, but any little matter was sufficient to worry him. Witness added that a week before Christmas, the servant who had been with her for seventeen years, left her through illness, and it seemed to greatly affect the deceased, as he had an idea that the work would fall upon her (witness). - Lucy Edwards, sister-in-law of MRS GILLARD, stated that on Christmas Day, she and her husband went to dine with MRS GILLARD. After dinner she heard MRS GILLARD descend the stairs very quickly and heard her call. On entering a room on the ground floor she found the deceased sitting on a cushion on the floor which he seemed to have put there for the purpose. His throat was bleeding and his back was leaning against the sofa. Witness could not conceive how he got possession of the knife, unless MRS GILLARD accidentally conveyed it to him on the dinner tray. Deceased had spoken to witness about the servant's departure, and remarked how lonely his wife would be. - Thomas Edwards, coachbuilder, 46 Union-street, stated that he fetched Dr cook. When he left the house he was not aware that the deceased had inflicted any injuries upon himself. - Mr P. H. Gardner, surgeon, deposed that about three o'clock on Christmas Day he received a message that he was wanted at 1, Highbury Villas, and on going there he found the deceased with a wound in his throat six inches long. The instrument used had severed the top of his windpipe and entered his gullet. The deceased had lost a great deal of blood, and was still bleeding when witness first saw him. The wound might have been self-inflicted, and the knife produced [a small but very sharp table knife] would have been sufficient to have caused the injuries. Three days after the occurrence the deceased told witness that the injuries were self-inflicted, and that he was sorry for what he had done. The deceased further said that at the time he felt that he was bound to jump out of the window or do something, and added that for the past two years he had experienced an inclination to do himself some harm. In reply to the Coroner, witness said that no communication was made to the police until January 3rd. - The Coroner remarked that it would have been wise of Mr Gardner if he had given information to the police immediately after he had become acquainted with the occurrence, and moreover it was his duty to have done so. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide, whilst in a state of Unsound Mind." - The Coroner called Mr Edwards, and pointed out that he had been very imprudent in not giving information to the police until eight days after the occurrence. It was the duty of the friends of the deceased to have immediately communicated with the authorities, and equally the duty of the medical man who had charge of the deceased. Their action had been a breach of duty, and it might have been a breach of law.

PLYMOUTH - At an Inquest held on Monday evening by the Plymouth Coroner on a publican named NEAL, who committed suicide by taking laudanum, it transpired that laudanum was sold in the neighbourhood without being labelled, and it was intimated that the police would take action in the matter

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 January 1888
BRIXHAM - A Brixham Trawler Run Down. Loss Of Four Lives. - Intelligence was received at Brixham on Friday of the loss of the fishing smack Nimble and four hands. The Rescue, at six o'clock in the morning was on the fishing ground, the Start light bearing N.W. by N., distant fourteen miles, when the crew observed the masthead light of another trawler, the only one near them. Directly afterwards the light disappeared, and a steamer was on the spot blowing her whistle. The head of the Rescue was at once put towards the steamer, and on nearing her the captain requested the skipper of the Rescue to lower his boat and search for the crew of a fishing smack which he had run down. The request was at once complied with, and the steamer, lying dead and blowing off steam, launched her second boat, she having already one rowing about the scene of the collision. About this time a faint cry was heard on the water, and the boats pulled with all their might in that direction. They then discovered the boy of the fishing smack clinging to a portion of the wreckage. He was picked up by the steamer's boat, and taken on board the steamer in a very exhausted condition. He was speedily stripped and every effort was made to restore him, with eventual success. The captain refused to let the boy go on board the fishing smack Rescue, considering that his critical condition could be better alleviated on board his vessel, where more comforts were available. After searching about for a long time and seeing nothing remaining of the ill-fated fishing smack, or of her crew, the boats were hoisted on board, and the steamer proceeded up Channel. She was the screw steamship Swansea, of London, bound to London with cattle. On the news being received at Brixham there was great distress upon the quay, where many persons had congregated anxious to hear if there was any hope for the four missing hands, all of whom were much respected in the town. They were WILLIAM SHEARS, skipper, age 24; HARRY MYLES, second hand, 23; WILLIAM HOCKING, third hand, 18; and CHARLES MUNDAY, fourth hand, 17. SHEARS leaves a wife and one child, and was for three years skipper of the fishing smack Sea Belle, this being his first voyage in the Nimble. MYLES who was with SHEARS the whole of the time in the Sea Belle, joined the Nimble with him. He buried his young wife three weeks since, and leaves a child an orphan. The other two men were unmarried, and were both sons of fishermen of the town. The Nimble was owned by Mr John Bovey of Bolton-street, Brixham, and was insured in the Brixham Fishing Smack Insurance Society for £550. The skipper of the Rescue says that the captain of the Swansea did every thing in his power to save the crew of the Nimble, having two boats pulling about in all directions in search of them. The body of WILLIAM SHEARS, the skipper, was afterwards recovered and brought to Brixham where an Inquest was opened on Monday morning. G. Parnell, skipper of the Telegram, deposed to picking up the body and bringing it to Brixham. The witness stated that he distinctly remembered that the morning of the collision was very clear, the moon having risen about midnight. Thomas Gardiner stated that he was cook on board the ketch Nimble. They went to sea from Brixham on Thursday and fished, heaving up their trawl on Friday morning about half-past five. WILLIAM HOCKING, third hand, then took charge of the vessel. The crew went below and witness went to get the breakfast. While doing so HOCKING called the skipper to "jump on deck." All hands responded, the witness being in the cabin ladder when the steamboat struck the trawler. He immediately jumped overboard being a good swimmer, and kept himself afloat by clinging to wreckage for a quarter of an hour, when he was picked up by a boat from the steamer. He felt someone touch him in the water and thought it was the skipper. The steamboat went right through the trawler, the former going, as the master afterwards told him, 12 knots an hour. The 'Nimble' had a bright light burning at the mast head. The Coroner adjourned the Inquest until Monday next.

ST MARYCHURCH - Shocking Fatality At Babbacombe. The Inquest. - A sad occurrence happened at Babbacombe on Tuesday evening, which resulted in the death of MR SAMUEL DARE, 53, chief boatman in charge at the Babbacombe Coastguard Station, through his falling over a cliff to a distance of about 80ft. into a quarry beneath. It appears that the deceased left the station in company with a fellow coastguardsman, for the purpose of going his rounds which extended over Walls Hill. The night was exceedingly dark, and a thick fog hung over the common, so that it was with great difficulty that the two men found their way. The deceased took the lead, and after going through a gap in the wall which marks the boundary between the two manors, the other man suddenly missed his companion, and discovered by looking over the wall that he was in close proximity to the large quarries. After calling once or twice he heard groans and then knew that the deceased had fallen over the cliff. Assistance was procured and the unfortunate man was conveyed to his home, where he expired from the terrible injuries he had received about twelve hours after the occurrence. - The Inquest was held by Mr Sidney Hacker, District Coroner, at the Royal Hotel, Babbacombe, on Thursday morning at nine o'clock. Previous to that hour, however, the Coroner, accompanied by members of the Jury, visited the spot where the sad occurrence happened. The Inquiry was attended by Mr J. T. Nevin, commanding officer of coastguards of the district, and Mr W. D. Bowden, Surveyor to the St. Marychurch Local Board. Mr Alfred Harris was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was JANE DARE, daughter of the deceased, who gave evidence of identification. She said that she lived with her father at the Coastguard Station, Babbacombe. On Tuesday evening about a quarter to seven o'clock, the deceased left home with Mr Webber, another coastguardsman, for the purpose of going his rounds which extended to Hope's Nose. He was brought home unconscious about thirty minutes afterwards, and died the next morning at four o'clock. - John Webber, coastguardsman, stationed at Babbacombe, deposed that on Tuesday night himself and the deceased left the station for the purpose of going through their western guards, which extended over Walls Hill. When they had got on to the second hill they made for the wall on the opposite side, knowing there was a gap in it. The night was exceedingly dark, there was a thick fog hanging over the common at the time, and they could not see ten yards ahead. As witness came to the wall, he observed a gap which he took for the one that he always passed through when on that round. The deceased was on the right of witness, and being nearest to the gap he took the lead, witness following him about two yards behind. After going through the gap deceased suddenly disappeared, and he could not imagine what had become of him. Witness called twice and then went over to the gap and felt over the wall with his stick. Finding that his stick touched nothing on the other side, he called again, and then heard a groan, which appeared to proceed from some distance down the cliff, and then he knew that he was near the quarries. Taking the lamps in the road for a guide witness went around and descended to the road and proceeded to the quarries in company with two men whom he had acquainted with what had happened. By feeling about witness found the deceased lying at the bottom of the quarry quite unconscious, but faintly groaning. The deceased must have fallen at least 60ft. without coming in contact with any rock and then fallen another 20ft. Witness despatched the two men for assistance and remained with the deceased until it arrived. The deceased was subsequently taken to his home in a cab. When found he was lying on his left side on a piece of sloping ground. The gap where the deceased went through was, in the opinion of witness, about 100 yards to the left of the gap which it was usual for him to go through. There was no road within 50 yards of the track which they took. - James Hayter, coachman, 12 Haredown-terrace, Babbacombe, deposed that on the night in question he was passing the Walls Hill Quarries when he heard a noise as if something was falling from the cliffs. He waited for a moment and saw the last witness descend into the road. Webber told him of what had occurred, and they went together and discovered the deceased at the foot of the quarry. The dark night and thick fog made it impossible for witness to see the sheds in the quarry. - Mr W. T. Boreham, physician of Torquay, stated that he was called to the residence of the deceased on Tuesday night and found him in bed, suffering from severe scalp wounds, a broken arm, a bad cut on the right leg, and a fracture of the base of the skull. The deceased was unconscious, and could only be roused with difficulty. The nature of the wounds indicated that the deceased pitched on his head, and it is wonderful that he had not dislocated his neck and been killed on the spot. The direct cause of death was the fracture of the skull, as the other wounds would not have been sufficient to have caused death. - Mr W. D. Bowden, surveyor to the St. Marychurch Local Board, said that the common on Walls Hill on the Babbacombe side was a public recreation ground and was under the jurisdiction of the Local Board as that body rented it from Mr Cary. The wall and the quarries belonged to Lord Haldon, and the wall separated the two manors. There were no bye-laws to regulate the public. About four or five years ago the Board had taken steps to get the gaps in the wall repaired, but the stones had again been torn down. Witness had no doubt but that the Local Board would take advantage of the new Quarry Fencing Act which came into force on the 1st of January, and compel the owner to put up proper fences. - William Henry Drake deposed that his father was the lessee of the quarry where the accident occurred. Witness was not acquainted with the working of the quarry, but simply attended the Inquiry on behalf of his father, who was ill. - The Coroner requested the witness to tell his father that the quarry must be enclosed, in compliance with the Quarry Fencing Act, 1887, and also to inform him that he had been acting illegally since the beginning of the year, which was excusable in consequence of his having been ill during that time. - The Coroner then addressed the Jury, and remarked that from the evidence that had been forthcoming he had no doubt they would be able to conclude as to how the deceased came by his death. It did not appear to him that the owner of the quarry would have been legally responsible for the occurrence previous to January 1st, as the quarry was, as had been shown in the evidence, more than twenty-five yards from the roadway, and thus there was no actual breach of the law. A law came in force at the beginning of the year which read as follows:- "Where any quarry is dangerous to the public, or is in an open or unenclosed land within fifty yards of a highway or place of public resort, dedicated to the public, and is not separated therefrom by a secure and sufficient fence, it shall be reasonably fenced for the prevention of accidents and unless so kept shall be deemed to be a nuisance liable to be dealt with summarily in a manner by the Public Health Act, 1875." Mr Drake had been allowed to act contrary to law since the Act came in force, but his inability to attend to business through illness during the time would probably be a valid excuse for his non-compliance with the Act. - The Jury retired for a few minutes, and returned with the following verdict: "The Jury is of opinion that the deceased came to his death through the injuries received from accidentally falling into the quarry, having missed his path through the darkness and thickness of the fog. They recommend that the Coroner calls the attention of the Local Board to the dangerous state of the place, and to point out the desirability of their enforcing the erection of suitable fences without delay."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 January 1888
DARTMOUTH - Suicide Of A Police Sergeant At Dartmouth. - A very painful sensation was caused at Dartmouth on Sunday, upon its becoming known that Police-Sergeant ALLIN, who had been stationed there for three years, and was much respected and esteemed, had that morning committed suicide by taking poison. On Saturday Captain Yardley (superintendent of the division) visited the deceased and gave him information that for some alleged neglect of duty he would be reduced to the rank of constable and transferred to Ilfracombe where he had previously been stationed. Later in the day the police-sergeant when leaving the constables of the town wished them good evening and told them of what had occurred. He was then in good health, although greatly depressed in spirits. On the following morning about seven o'clock his landlady (Mrs Fogwell) heard a strange knocking which seemed to proceed from his room, and she asked her husband to go and see what was the matter. He did so and found the sergeant throwing about his arms and appearing as though in very great agony. Dr A. K. Crossfield was sent for, but the unfortunate man expired about an hour afterwards. He was conscious for some time after the doctor arrived, but nothing could be done to save him. On a table near at hand was a paper which had contained strychnine, with which the deceased must have poisoned himself, while in a glass close by were the dregs of some liquor in which the poison had evidently been mixed. The police were at once communicated with and the sad news wired to Captain Yardley and the deceased's sister. - An Inquest was held on Monday before Mr R. W. Prideaux, Borough Coroner, and the evidence showed that the alleged neglect of duty was a complaint made as to the deceased not having taken out a warrant against a man who was suspected of incendiarism, and who had in the meantime left the town. It was, however, stated that on the day when the fire occurred, the deceased was engaged upon a long case at the police court. ALLIN had been in the force upwards of twenty years and it was admitted by Captain Yardley that there had never previously been any complaint made against him. Deceased's landlady stated that when ALLIN received information of his being disrated and removed to Ilfracombe, he said "I am sold like a bullock at Smithfield, and how can I go back where I came from with the stripes taken off my arm." - The Jury returned a verdict of Suicide by Strychnine Poisoning whilst of Unsound Mind; and they attributed the deceased's state of mind to the unjust treatment received at the hands of his superior officers, relative to his conduct on the occasion of the fire at Dr. Davison's house, and particularly in sending deceased back to Ilfracombe, where he was formerly in charge, which the Jury considered to be arbitrary, cruel and unjust, and they endorsed the statement of the Coroner as to the deceased's exemplary character and efficiency.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 February 1888
DENBURY - P.C. BEER, 24 years of age, of Denbury, a small village between two and three miles from Newton, was on Friday afternoon shot dead. Deceased, after having his dinner, went into the back kitchen of his house, saying he intended to go into the garden to try to get a shot at a bird. His wife taking their little child with her, went upstairs. Hearing shortly afterwards the report of a gun she came down, and on going into the back kitchen found her husband there shot dead, his face being dreadfully disfigured by shot wounds. By his side was a discharged gun. Deceased was at one time stationed at Torquay, whence he went to Moreton, and from there was sent to Denbury. At the Inquest a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

TORQUAY - Sad Fatality In Torquay. - An Inquest was held by Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, at the Town Hall, on Monday evening, on the body of ELIZABETH BOW, aged 78, who died at 3 Alma-terrace, Braddons-hill, on Sunday, from the effect of injuries sustained through burns received on the 15th inst. - PHILLIP BOW, a retired farmer, and a cripple, husband of the deceased, whose evidence was taken at the house, deposed that on Sunday, the 15th inst., he was sitting with the deceased in front of the fire. The deceased's apron accidentally caught fire, and witness, being a cripple, was unable to go to her assistance, but called for help. - ELIZABETH PARR, daughter of the deceased, said that the deceased and her husband occupied two rooms in her house. On the evening of the 15th, witness gave the deceased her supper, and having placed her near the fire, went downstairs. After ten minutes had elapsed, she heard a noise as if something had fallen, and someone was calling for help. She went upstairs and found the deceased sitting on the floor near the fireplace with her apron on fire, and her dress smouldering. witness and her husband extinguished the fire, and the latter went for medical assistance. Deceased lingered until Sunday, when she expired. She had not been in her right mind for some years, and her conduct was such as to necessitate Dr Powell being called in about eighteen months ago. - William Charles Parr, gardener, husband of the last witness, adduced similar testimony. - Mr William Powell, physician, stated that he was called to the residence of the deceased on the 15th instant, and found her very much burnt on the left arm and side. Witness gave directions as to her treatment, and subsequently saw her from time to time. The injuries were not such as would cause death to a strong person. The deceased died from shock to the system. Witness saw the deceased about eighteen months ago, and discovered that she was suffering from mania, but she showed no suicidal tendency, and had since become imbecile. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 February 1888
LONDON - Suicide Of A Late Torquay Printer. - On Wednesday an Inquest was held in London on the body of HENRY G. S. AGNEW, aged 39, a compositor in the employ of Messrs. Cassell & Co., the well-known publishers, who committed suicide by shooting himself. Previously to his going to London, deceased was for several years employed in the printing office of the Torquay Times, and was much esteemed by his fellow workmen, and by all who knew him. - The widow, who identified the body, said two years ago her husband was attacked by some men, who tried to rob him as he was going home late at night. He was badly hurt about the head, and several of his teeth knocked out. Since then he had complained of pains in the head, and they had affected his reason. There was nothing to lead him to take his life. - Edwin Shinner, reader at Messrs. Cassell's establishment, deposed that about five o'clock on Friday afternoon he found the door of the lavatory secured from the inside and on its being forced open the deceased was discovered in a dying state on the floor, and bleeding profusely from a wound in the head. He had a revolver by his side, and had evidently shot himself with the weapon. - Edward Hinde, a compositor, deposed to finding a letter in the lavatory, in the deceased's handwriting, as follows: "Dear Mr Shinner - Please excuse my leaving without the usual fortnight's notice; but I have received a peremptory summons to go to heaven to set the title-page of the Book of Life. - Yours H.G.S. AGNEW." - Mr Lyndon, house surgeon, deposed that deceased lingered until half-past eleven at night, when he expired. The Jury returned a verdict of Suicide while suffering from Temporary Insanity.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 24 February 1888
EXETER - Sudden Death. - An Inquest was held at Exeter Workhouse on Monday respecting the death of JOHN BOWDEN. The evidence shewed that the deceased was admitted into the institution on Saturday and died a few hours afterwards. He was stated to be a stableman aged 38, and a native of a village near Torquay. The deceased was given a warm bath on entering the house, as is customary, and it was stated that in passing from the bath into the receiving ward the deceased had to go into the open air. Dr Woodman said deceased complained of a pain in the chest whilst in the bath, and added that passing from the bath into the air was dangerous, and might give a cold. The Jury condemned this arrangement and recommended the guardians to effect an improvement.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 March 1888
TORQUAY - Singular Fatal Accident In Torquay. Refusal To Permit A Post Mortem Examination. - Last week we reported the death of MR CHARLES ABRAMS, of Hollydale, Teignmouth Road, who was found dead in a water butt into which it was supposed he had accidentally fallen, and from which being paralysed, he was unable to extricate himself. The Inquest was opened on Friday evening before Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner. - MRS ABRAMS, the widow, stated that her late husband was formerly editor and proprietor of the London Courier, and that for the last three years he had suffered from paralysis of the left side, so that he was only able to get about with difficulty. He also suffered a good deal from headache. During Thursday morning witness and deceased had been sitting together in the dining room, and just before one o'clock he went out for the purpose of going into the garden. She expected him in to dinner at half-past one and as he did not come she went to look for him. Just before two o'clock she found him in one corner of the garden with his head in a cask of water, which was partially sunk into the ground. Being very fond of flowers, the deceased had had the cask put there for the purpose of watering the plants, and he was in the habit of dipping water out of the cask with a can. He walked with a stick, which was found on the pathway near the cask. Deceased frequently slipped and fell, through weakness, owing to the paralysis. - Florence Short, domestic servant, stated that on being called by her mistress she went to the garden and found the deceased with his head, arms and shoulders in the cask. His knees were touching the ground, as though he had fallen over. The water-can and two flower pots, containing hyacinths, were by the side of the cask, and the deceased's hat was behind it. - Thomas Wollacott, gardener, who also came to the spot just afterwards, said the deceased's knees were on the ground. The cask was three parts full and the water covered the deceased down to the middle of his back. Witness had some difficulty in getting the deceased out, as his shoulders filled the mouth of the cask. The deceased often used to fall, and when he did so he called for help, as he could not get up alone. Deceased was cheerful when he last saw him alive on the previous day. - Mr Karkeek, surgeon, deposed to having been called to the deceased, whom he considered had been dead about one hour. The body had the appearance of a person who had been drowned, but he would not vouch for this. Having received the Coroner's warrant he went to the house with another doctor to assist him, for the purpose of making a post mortem examination. He was however refused admission, and, as the message given him by the servant was that the examination would not be allowed, he had to go away. Mr Karkeek added that he sent the servant in to her mistress three times with urgent and kindly messages, but he was not permitted to see her. - MRS ABRAMS recalled, in reply to the Coroner, said she understood from Dr Huxley, who had been her husband's medical attendant, that there was no necessity for a post-mortem examination. - The Coroner replied that Dr Huxley could know nothing as to that. The Jury had to decide whether the deceased came to his death accidentally by drowning, by natural causes, or in any other way, or in a violent manner, and in order to come to a decision they wanted the best evidence they could have. Therefore when MRS ABRAMS refused to allow his order to be obeyed, she put herself in a wrong position, and the Jury had to ask for an explanation. - Mr Beadson, brother to MRS ABRAMS, who accompanied her into the room, assured the Coroner that she had not wilfully disobeyed his orders, and that what had happened was owing to her not understanding them. - The Coroner asked MRS ABRAMS if she had any particular reason for her refusal, and she replied that she thought there was no necessity for the post mortem examination, as Dr Huxley had seen the body on the previous night. Ever since they had resided in Torquay Dr Huxley had been attending him. - The Coroner, addressing the Jury, said they had evidence before them, and he left it for them to say whether they would be able to satisfy themselves from it as to the manner in which the deceased came to his death, or whether they would like to have the Inquest adjourned for a day or two to allow Mr Karkeek to make the examination and give them his report. - The Jury consulted in private for about ten minutes, when the Foreman announced that they attributed MRS ABRAM'S refusal to ignorance and her relying on her own medical attendant. their unanimous verdict was that the deceased was found Drowned in the cask, but that, as to how he came there, there was not sufficient evidence to show. - The Coroner: Well then, not having sufficient evidence, hadn't you better have more? - It is no good bringing in an open verdict when you can have other evidence if you like. I should not advise you to return such a verdict as it leaves the case open to any construction. It would be much better to have all the evidence you can and I therefore think it would be better to adjourn the Inquest. - The Foreman: We were almost unanimous on a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned." - The Coroner decided to adjourn the Inquest until Tuesday evening, at the Torbay Inn, Torre, and he directed Mr Karkeek to make the post mortem examination. He added that he thought there would be no difficulty now, but if there was he must apply to the sergeant of the police, who would see that the order was carried out. The body could be removed to the mortuary for the examination if it was not allowed to be performed in the house. The Inquest was accordingly adjourned. - The adjourned Inquiry was held at Giles's Torbay Inn, on Tuesday evening. - Mr P. Q. Karkeek deposed that he had made a post mortem examination of the body of the deceased. There were no external signs of injury or violence of any kind. The lungs were such as he would expect to find in a case of drowning; the heart was healthy. On the right side of the brain he found a softened spot indicative of a previous attack of apoplexy, and in the vicinity of that witness found a small fresh clot. Witness inferred from those that the deceased was seized with a slight apoplectic stroke whilst standing near the tub, and consequent on the giddiness and unconsciousness which would ensue, he accidentally fell into the tub, and thus perished from drowning. - After questions had been asked of Thomas Wollacott, gardener, Florence Short, servant, and MRS ABRAMS, widow of the deceased, in regard to matters of detail, the Coroner, in addressing the Jury, remarked that they would be able to come to a conclusion better than at the first Inquiry owing to the additional evidence they had heard. After commenting upon the medical evidence, the Coroner observed that it showed the importance of having a proper examination. After a brief consultation the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 April 1888
TORQUAY - Sudden Death In Torbay. - Whilst SAMUEL PECKINS, a fisherman forty-six years of age, and a widower, was out fishing in Torbay on Good Friday, he suddenly expired. Deceased was second coxswain in the Torquay lifeboat; and his family of four children are left unprovided for. - An Inquest was held at the Torbay Hospital on Saturday afternoon by Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner. Mr J. C. Watson was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - ELIZABETH PECKINS, sister of deceased, said she kept house for him at 3 Bedford-row, Stentiford's-hill. During the past ten years she had never known him have a day's illness, but within the last fortnight he had complained of a cold. Deceased had four children living. - Richard Bishop, fisherman, deposed to going out oyster-catching with deceased in the latter's boat (Dorcas) about seven o'clock on Good Friday morning. They went to Babbacombe Bay, the wind blowing hard, and had two or three dredges down. Deceased asked witness to warm some tea, which he drank, and ate some bread and cheese with a dozen oysters, which was a usual thing for him to do. After that the dredges were hauled up, this being very hard work for both of them. Sail was then set and they hugged close to the shore on account of the wind. When off Hope's Nose he saw deceased fall forward and clasp his body with his arms. Witness jumped abaft and put the tiller hard starboard to prevent their getting on the flat rock. In about five minutes, during which time he saw deceased gasp twice, they cleared the Thatcher rock, and witness trimmed the boat to attend deceased. He got deceased's head on his lap and called "SAM, SAM," as he thought he had a fit and might come round. Deceased made no answer, and although quite warm, he was certain that he was dead, as his eyes, which were open, began to close. He continued on to the Torquay Harbour, which he reached in about an hour's time. Deceased was a sober, industrious man, and there was no drink aboard. Theodore Brown, boatman, also gave evidence and Albert Lisle, assistant house-surgeon at the Torbay Infirmary, deposed that deceased was brought to the hospital about 4 p.m. on Good Friday. He was dead when admitted and a post mortem examination showed the heart to be severely diseased, which would account for his sudden death. The disease was of long standing, and the end might have been brought on by exertion following a meal. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 April 1888
TORQUAY - Sudden Death. - On Monday at the Torbay Inn, Torre, Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest touching the death of a child named HAROLD CHOWN, 6 months of age, whose parents reside at Chester Place, Torre, and who was found dead on Sunday morning. The child had been in fairly good health up to Wednesday night, when it became unwell, and died on Sunday morning. Dr Thistle attributed death to inflammation and congestion of the lungs and a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 April 1888
TORQUAY - Sudden Death In Torquay. - On Friday evening last, a gardener named JOHN THORNE, 77, who had been residing at 4 St. Michael's-terrace, Market-street, with his wife and daughter, expired suddenly, and his death was the subject of an Enquiry held at the Police-station early on Monday morning, before Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner. Mr Wm. Mutton being chosen Foreman of the Jury. The evidence showed that the deceased went to work as usual on Friday, at Waltham House, Chelston. On returning home in the evening he complained to his wife that he felt very tired and that his back ached. Deceased had his tea and went to bed shortly after nine o'clock, his wife, who had been sitting up sewing, following him about two hours later. As the deceased did not, as was his custom, speak to his wife upon her entering the bedroom, she allowed the light to fall upon his face and then discovered that he was pale, and upon placing her hand upon his forehead she found that it was cold. MRS THORNE then called Mrs Raymont, who resides in the same house, and the latter's husband went for Mr P. H. Gardiner, surgeon, Abbey Road, who arrived about half-past eleven o'clock, and found that life was extinct. The bed clothes were not disarranged and there were no signs of a struggle. The daughter of the deceased, aged seven years, was found to be sleeping soundly when MRS THORNE entered the bedroom. According to the medical evidence there was nothing to indicate that death occurred from anything but natural causes, and the Jury returned a verdict to that effect.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 April 1888
TORQUAY - Fatal Boat Accident. Two Young Ladies Drowned. - A painful interest was excited in Torquay on Thursday evening on its becoming known that a boat had been capsized in Torbay, and that of its four occupants two had been drowned. It appeared that in the course of the afternoon Mr Albert Hill, son of a lodging-house keeper of Glenfinnan, Belgrave-road, who was accompanied by three young women, hired a boat for a row, and it was resolved to cross the bay to Paignton. The strong easterly wind which prevailed at the time caused rather a heavy swell, but in the hands of properly qualified boatmen no difficulty would have been experienced on this score. The party comprised besides young Hill, his sister Nellie Hill; NELLIE MUGFORD, 21 years of age, of 14 Bath Terrace, Torre, and ALICE KEY aged 30, maid to Miss Bagshaw, at present lodging at Glenfinnan. On approaching Paignton Pier, an attempt was made to land, but unhappily the boat was upset in the heavy surf which was setting in upon the shore, and all the occupants were thrown into the water. Major Harlowe Turner, J.P., who witnessed the disaster, immediately raised an alarm and several boats promptly put out to the rescue, and succeeded, in a comparatively short space of time in bringing all four to land. Albert Hill, who is a member of the Leander Rowing club, of Torquay, behaved well in the water and succeeded for a long time in supporting his sister and her companion. MUGFORD and KEY were, however, unconscious when landed, and, notwithstanding the persistent efforts of Drs. Alexander, Vickers, Mudge and Goodridge, they could not be restored. The two Hills were conscious, the brother quickly recovering, while the sister was put to bed and is now rapidly progressing. P.C. Pope was promptly on the spot and in the evening communicated with the Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, at Newton. - A Paignton correspondent writes:- The water was as smooth as a millpond at starting, but as the young man rowed towards Paignton it became much rougher - far too rough for so small a boat with four persons in it and rowed by an amateur. Whether the boat was capsized by the somewhat heavy roll near the shore with an eat wind blowing, or whether they were intending to land at Paignton Pier, cannot at present be ascertained, but just about five o'clock shrieks from that direction called the attention of persons on the Esplanade to the boat, which had capsized and four persons were seen struggling in the water, just at the end of the Promenade Pier. As quickly as possible three fishermen's boats put off from the harbour, which is about a quarter of a mile distant and was quickly followed by the coastguard's boat. It was, however, fully a quarter of an hour before the boats could reach the scene of the accident. All four of the party clung for some time to the boat, but before assistance came two of them - MISS MUGFORD and MISS KEY - lost their grasp and sank. Mr Hill and his sister retained their hold and were rescued by the boatmen, but the other two were taken out of the water dead. Word had been sent to all the medical men of the neighbourhood on the first alarm being given, and almost as soon as the boats landed Drs. Vickers, Alexander, Mudge and Goodridge were on the spot. It was soon ascertained that the MISSES KEY and MUGFORD were quite dead, and although every means of resuscitation was tried, it was in vain. The bodies were removed to the mortuary to await the Inquest. The two survivors were much exhausted but quite sensible, and they were removed to cottages near the harbour and put to bed. They were too overcome with grief to be able to give any intelligible account of the cause of the accident. - Another correspondent says the sea was so rough that it was exceedingly dangerous for so small a boat with four persons in it to attempt to cross the bay, and that an experienced boatman would have turned back. To the bravery displayed by young Hill, and the promptitude with which assistance was rendered, are due the fact that two of the party survived the disaster. We shall publish a second edition this afternoon, containing a full report of the Inquest.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 May 1888
TORQUAY - The Alleged Attempted Burglary. Death Of The Injured Man. - As reported in our last week's issue, an attempt was supposed to have been made to break into Devonia, Vane-hill, the residence of Mrs W. H. Taylor, on Wednesday night, the 2nd instant, and it will be remembered that the police found a man named JOHN BADCOCK lying in one of the paths, with severe injuries to his head. He was assisted to the Torbay Hospital, where he lingered until Saturday morning, when he expired. - An Inquest was held at the Hospital on Saturday evening, by Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner. Mr W. B. Smale was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and P.S. Bright represented the police. - Anna Brown, wife of William Brown, boatman, 2 Marine Cottages, Rock Walk Steps, was the first witness called, and she deposed that the deceased was her step-brother, and he was forty-eight years of age. Deceased was formerly an officer's servant in the 9th Lancers and since he had been discharged, through an accident, had been wandering about the country earning a livelihood by rendering assistance in stables. Witness last saw deceased about eight days previous, and he told her that he had just walked from London. She ass surprised at seeing him as four years ago it was reported he was dead. Deceased told her that he was going to Teignmouth, as he thought it probable that he might get something to do in connection with the Yeomanry. Witness added that deceased had been reckless from his youth, and that drink had been his ruin. - Edith Mary Tritton, governess, at Devonia, stated that on Wednesday night she had retired to rest when she heard noises outside her bedroom window. Then she heard a noise as if a window was being opened, and saw a man advancing towards her bedroom window from some bushes. Witness's room was on the ground floor, and there was no blind to the window, therefore she could see quite distinctly. Mrs Taylor's two children were sleeping in the same room, and witness took them upstairs and awakened the rest of the inmates. Just as witness got to the top of the stairs, she heard the back-door being pushed very violently, with such force, in fact, that had it not been for the bolt it must have been broken in. Witness then opened an upstair window, and rang a bell, being under the impression that someone was attempting to break into the house. At the first sound of the bell she heard two men swear, and saw them disappear towards the dining and drawing-room windows. Assistance soon came and a man was afterwards found in one of the walks. Blood had been found on the scullery window-sill. - P.C. Way stated that on the 2nd inst. about 11.20 p.m., he was on the Strand in company with P.C. Richards, when he heard a bell and a whistle. On going to the house referred to, witness made a search of the grounds, and in a dark narrow path leading to the back door found a man's shoe, and six feet further down discovered the deceased in a sitting posture with a small stick in his hand. BADCOCK had apparently walked over the embankment about six or seven feet high, and in falling struck his head against some rockery-work on the opposite side of the path. Witness said "What do you do here?" and deceased answered, "Who is it?" Witness replied, "A policeman," whereupon deceased said "I'm not here then," adding that he supposed that he should have bread for life. Deceased was greatly injured about the head and witness assisted him to walk to the Hospital. No tools or house-breaking implements were found upon deceased. - Mr George Young Eales, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said that the deceased was admitted to the institution about half-past twelve o'clock on Thursday, the 3rd inst. On examination witness found deceased suffering from a lacerated wound on the back of the head, half-an-inch in length and extending down to the bone. There were other small wounds and bruises. On admission to the Hospital, deceased was in a semi-conscious state, and witness was therefore of opinion that he was suffering from concussion of the brain. The following (Thursday) morning deceased regained consciousness, and was perfectly rational, but in the evening he became irritable, and gradually passed into a state of profound insensibility, expiring that (Saturday) morning. In witness's opinion, death resulted from concussion of the brain, and judging from the wound, deceased must have pitched on his head. Deceased was very reticent on being questioned as to why he was at Devonia, and how he received the injuries. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - The Very Rev. Canon WOOLLETT, D.D., Vicar-General of Plymouth Cathedral, was found dead yesterday in the Bishop's House. At the Inquest the Jury found that death arose from Natural Causes. Canon WOOLLETT'S age was 70.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 June 1888
TORQUAY - Inquest. - A Coroner's Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" in the case of a lad named FRANK MORRIS HANNAFORD, aged nine years and the son of a quarryman living at 20 Daison Cottages. The lad had received no medical assistance for the past three months, and the medical evidence showed that he died from consumption.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 June 1888
PLYMOUTH - At Plymouth on Monday evening a middle-aged woman named GRACE STEPHENS, the wife of a gardener, was returning along a wooden bridge to the window of her room, when the structure gave way, and she fell about forty feet to the courtlage below, sustaining such injuries that she died almost immediately. An inspection of the bridge showed that the wood was rotten. At the Inquest the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death", but censured the landlord for neglecting to keep it in repair.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 15 June 1888
PLYMOUTH - A verdict of Manslaughter against some person or persons unknown was returned at an Inquest held at Plymouth on Monday evening in regard to the death of a little boy named WILLIAM ALFRED DELAFIELD. The evidence showed that the boy had been stripped of his clothes and apparently pushed over an embrasure of the citadel ramparts into the road below, a depth of twenty-four feet. Suspicion attaches to a girl who was observed to enter the citadel gates with a child, and immediately after the accident was seen running down the road leading from the citadel to the town.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 June 1888
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Ellacombe. - An Inquest was held at the Police-station at half-past eight o'clock on Monday morning, by Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, touching the death of AGNES EDDY, 87 years of age, widow of JOHN EDDY, a coastguardsman, who suddenly expired on Friday evening last, at her residence, No. 2, Bethel Cottages, Ellacombe. Mr Samuel Wyatt was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner having explained that the Inquiry was rendered necessary by reason of the deceased not having been attended by a medical man for upwards of twelve months. - MRS LANDER, daughter of the deceased, who with her husband, live at 2, Bethel Cottages, and in whose care the deceased was, deposed that her mother had been failing for some years past, but had been able to get about the house up to within two or three days of her demise. On Friday deceased did not go down stairs but sat in a chair in her room. She had her meals as usual, which were given to her by witness, having her tea at half-past five o'clock. An hour later witness went upstairs and found the deceased almost insensible, being unable to speak. Witness called in a neighbour, and shortly afterwards her mother expired. - Sarah Hole, the neighbour called by the previous witness, gave corroborative evidence. - Dr Richardson said he had examined the body of the deceased, and there was nothing to indicate that death resulted from other than natural causes. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 July 1888
PAIGNTON - Sad Fatality At Paignton. - Yesterday morning as MISS ETHEL ALEXANDRINA HILL, of Mount Dallas, was bathing on the Sands at Paignton, she is believed to have been suddenly seized with syncope, arising from weak action of the heart, and when rescued from the water was found to be dead. - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest on the body last evening at the Gerston Hotel. - WILFRID ST. MAUR HILL, of Merryfield, near Torpoint, Devonport, said the deceased was his sister. She was called ETHEL ALEXANDRINA HILL, and lived with her mother at Mount Dallas, Paignton. He saw her entering the water at a quarter to nine and afterwards on the beach dead, but did not know it was his sister till Dr Alexander told him. The tide was exceptionally low and deceased could not swim. She had not bathed before this year, but talked of doing so only that morning when early at church. She had been in ill-health lately, and complained of pains near her heart, fainting occasionally. It was not known that she was going to bathe that morning, for the deceased had had no breakfast, though she had her usual cup of tea in bed. - Henry James Buckingham deposed t attending to the machine from which deceased bathed. riding on horseback, he took the machine to the water, a distance of one hundred yards, and saw her enter the water. After pulling up another machine, on looking round after five minutes' interval, he saw something in the water, which he found to be deceased, floating face downwards, with her head and body immersed in less than three feet of water. - Sarah Ann Potter, bathing attendant, corroborated, and said it was the first time deceased had bathed. - George Cooksley, shipwright of Churston, saw deceased bathe. She entered the water, and went about three or four yards, and after an interval of a few minutes she fell forward with her hands as if she was going to swim. She continued floating till rescued. - Chas. Perryman, carpenter of Brixham, whilst working on Paignton Green, saw deceased bathe. She went out forty feet, had a dip, rose again, and then brushed her hair back. The water reached her waist. She then fell backwards as if floating, as he had seen others. After an interval of seven minutes she was rescued by Buckingham. Dr Alexander said he was summoned to attend deceased, and though he and Dr Vickers tried artificial respiration their efforts were unsuccessful. His impression from the appearance of the body, &c., was that death was due to the failure of the heart's action and not drowning. There was nothing more dangerous for persons with feeble heart than to bathe before breakfast, and that had been the cause of several cases of mortality. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes", in accordance with the medical evidence, was returned by the Jury, of whom Captain Twynam was Foreman.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 August 1888
EXETER - Painful Suicide. - CAPTAIN HODGE, of Exeter, late of the 12th Lancers, had with Mr John Soltau been fishing at Dartmoor, and both gentlemen were lodging at the Saracen's Head Inn, kept by Mrs Smith, at Two Bridges, near Princetown. On Saturday night CAPTAIN HODGE retired to rest, and then appeared t be very cheerful. On Sunday morning he was found dead in his bedroom, having shot himself. At the Inquest on Monday, Mr Soltau said deceased was restless, and had stated to witness that he was miserable and did not care what became of him, that when he had money he did not know the value of it, and now he did he had none. Deceased left behind him two letters, one addressed to his wife and the second to another lady. The Coroner handed the letters to the Jury to be read by them in private. A verdict of Temporary Insanity was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 September 1888
TORQUAY - Inquest At Upton. - Dr Fraser, of Totnes, Deputy Coroner for the district, held an Inquest on Wednesday morning, at the Upton Vale Hotel, Upton, to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM HENRY BOWDEN, an infant, twelve months old, the son of GEORGE BOWDEN, formerly a working jeweller, and now a fish dealer, of Meadowside Cottages, Upton. Mr George Alsop was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MARY BOWDEN, mother of the deceased child, (and who was much affected), said he had always been very delicate. he had convulsive fits, and bronchitis six weeks ago, at the time of teething. Dr Cook then attended the child, and he got better. She described how deceased was taken ill on Sunday and that on Monday evening she sent for Dr Cook and Dr Thistle, but that the child died before either came. Dr Frederick Thomas Thistle said the immediate cause of death was convulsions. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 21 September 1888
ST MARYCHURCH. - Sudden Death At St. Marychurch. - A young man, named SAMUEL JONES, twenty-eight, who had been suffering from lingering consumption. He came out of Newton Abbot Union on Saturday, and fell down suddenly before the fire on Tuesday afternoon, whilst staying at Bowden-cottages, St. Marychurch. An Inquest was held at the Palk Arms public house by Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, at half-past eight o'clock yesterday morning to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of SAMUEL JONES. Mr John Waymouth was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner in opening the proceedings, said that the deceased came by his death under sudden circumstances and it was necessary that the Jury should be satisfied as to the exact cause of his demise. - ANNIE JONES, who resides at 1, Cambridge-terrace, St. Marychurch, said that the deceased, who was her brother, was a single man, twenty-eight years of age. He was formerly a footman, but had been ill for years, suffering from consumption. At the wish of herself and her sister-in-law, he left the Newton Abbot Union on Saturday, and went to live with Mrs Clements of Bowden Cottages, who was going to take charge of him, his brothers having undertaken to contribute towards his maintenance. On Tuesday last witness was called to Mrs Clements's house where she found her brother lying on the floor quite dead. - Mrs Harriet Clements, living at Bowden Cottages, said she had arranged to take charge of the deceased, and he had lived at her house since Saturday, when he came from Newton about eight o'clock. He went out for a walk on Monday, but on Tuesday morning he appeared to be ill, and she assisted to dress him. He came downstairs, but did not eat his breakfast which had been prepared. He asked for some water to bathe his eye, and told witness that he thought he should either have a fit, or was going to die. He then slipped down, and having asked for his brother, JOHN, who was in Wales, he expired. - Mr Thomas Finch, surgeon, deposed to having been called to see the deceased on Tuesday, and on going to the house of the last witness, he found him lying on the floor quite dead, having apparently died from exhaustion caused by the disease from which he was suffering, he being in the last stage of consumption. - Mr Robert H. Cawse, master of the Newton Abbot Workhouse, said the deceased was first admitted to the Union on June 5th, 1885, but since then he has left and re-entered on several occasions. He had been in the infirmary all the time. The reason for the deceased leaving on the last occasion was in consequence of a letter having been received from his sister applying for his discharge, and asking for out relief. He left on Saturday last at five o'clock and appeared as well then as he had been for twelve months. Without retiring the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

ST MARYCHURCH - The Cliff Accident At Babbacombe. - The Inquest on MAJOR DURELL BLAKE, who was killed through falling over the cliffs at Babbacombe on Thursday of last week, was held at the Roughwood Hotel on Friday afternoon, by Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, of Totnes. - The first witness called was Dr Ramsay who identified the deceased as MAJOR THOMAS DURELL POWELL BLAKE, fifty-three years of age, single gentleman, who had been living with him for fifteen months. He came there for his health, which had improved since his stay. Deceased was suffering from a mental derangement which had affected his bodily health, but he had never shown signs of suicidal or homicidal tendencies. He was very cheerful at breakfast and was looking forward with great pleasure to an excursion on the moors. He went out alone for a walk as usual, about twenty minutes to eleven. His favourite walks were Babbacombe Downs, Ilsham, and the New Cut. Deceased had been a major in the West Kent Regiment, and had been abroad a great deal, but had never had a sunstroke or complained of giddiness. - Elijah Hearn, chief officer of the coastguard station at Babbacombe, who was the last person to converse with deceased, gave evidence as to the condition of the deceased while talking to him a few minutes before the accident. - Francis Eales, quarryman, said he was working with three others in the Long Quarry, when his attention was called to the top of the cliffs through the falling of some small stones. He saw something falling just about twenty feet from the top, and after descending another sixty feet, it struck a ledge, and then fell to the base. Deceased pitched head foremost, and on witness going to him life was found to be extinct. - William Eales, quarryman, son of the last witness, gave similar evidence to that adduced by his father. After the accident witness went to the top of the cliffs, and found the deceased's stick, which was lying with the handle towards the edge of the quarry, which had the appearance as if someone had slipped. - P.C. Symmons, stationed at Babbacombe, deposed to having found the body of deceased in the quarry and to having had it conveyed to the Roughwood Hotel. Witness had since visited the top of the cliffs, and measured the distance from the rails to the edge of the cliff, and found the widest part 7ft. 6in., and the narrowest part 6ft. 3in. There were two wires, the highest being 4ft. 2in., and the lowest 8in. from the ground. The lower one was broken at some parts. - Mr S. H. Craig, surgeon, taking charge of the practice of Dr Steele, said he examined the body of the deceased and found two cuts on the head, one more than two inches long, and the other a little more than an inch long. The left thigh was fractured to pieces, and the joint of the third finger on the left hand was also fractured. The right eye was blackened but there were no other apparent injuries. - The Coroner having briefly summed up, the Jury, after a brief consultation, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death;" but were of opinion that the quarry was not sufficiently fenced at the spot where the deceased fell over.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 September 1888
TORQUAY - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MABEL MARY, an infant, aged three months, daughter of JOHN HATHERLEY, cowkeeper and jobbing gardener, of Cary Cottage. Dr Thistle gave it as his opinion that the cause of death was convulsions, produced by feeding the child with gruel, to which it had not been accustomed. The Coroner commented on the danger of giving infants of tender age unsuitable food, and the Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 2 November 1888
DEVONPORT - Fatal Accident on H.M.S. Lion. - In Consequence of the stormy state of the weather at Devonport on Sunday, signals were made from the flagship Royal Adelaide for all vessels in harbour to strike their masts and yards. In carrying out this order on board the Lion, training ship for boys, MR WILLIAM MATSON, first-class petty officer, went aloft, and while crossing he slipped and fell into the sea, striking heavily against the woodwork as he fell. Two boys belonging to the ship, named John Pepperell and Thomas Hindley, jumped after him and kept him afloat until a boat put off and conveyed him on board, when it was found that besides having sustained a severe fracture of the skull one of MR MATSON'S legs was nearly severed from his body. He did about two hours afterwards, and at an Inquest subsequently held at the Royal Navy Hospital a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. The Jury highly extolled the bravery of the two boys and the Coroner promised to make a representation of their conduct to Lord John Hay, the naval commander-in-chief at Devonport.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 9 November 1888
TORQUAY - Sudden Deaths. - Two cases of sudden death were the subject of Inquiry by Mr Hacker, County Coroner, yesterday. The deceased were MRS SARAH BROWN, aged 78, widow, living at Meadfoot-lane, and SARAH JANE WAY, aged 34, single woman, living at Torre, who being subject to fits was discovered dead in bed.

ST MARYCHURCH - The Discovery Of A Body In Babbacombe Bay. Inquest and Verdict. - An Inquest on the body of a man who was found in Babbacombe Bay under circumstances reported in last week's Torquay Times, was held at the Royal Hotel, Babbacombe, on Friday afternoon, by Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner. Mr F. Matthews was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner, in opening the proceedings, said he understood that the body had been identified as that of a man who had been missed from Paignton since the previous Friday, but did not think that sufficient evidence would be forthcoming to enable the Jury to arrive at an opinion as to how the deceased came by his death, as the police had not had time to get witnesses. Therefore it was possible that the Inquiry would have to be adjourned. - The first witness called was P.C. George Pope, of Paignton, who gave evidence of identification. He said the deceased was JOHN AMERY, 65, a market gardener, who formerly kept a greengrocer's shop in Torbay-terrace, Paignton, but who had lived in lodgings in Winner-street since his wife's death, which took place about five months ago. Two nights previous to his being missed he left his lodgings in Winner-street, and stopped at the Railway Hotel. Witness received information that the deceased was missing on October 26th, and on November 1st, upon hearing that a body had been found at Babbacombe, he went to Oddicombe Beach, and identified it as that of JOHN AMERY. Deceased had a nephew, who is weak-minded, and was allowed so much a week from some relatives in London for taking charge of him. - Charles Morrish, farmer, Blagdon, near Paignton, said he was a third or fourth cousin to the deceased, and saw him last alive on Oct. 24th, at the Commercial Hotel, Paignton. Previous to that deceased had told witness's wife that if he was missing at any time to tell witness to write to Clayhidon, on the borders of Somerset, which was deceased's home. Since his wife's death, he had been very strange in his manner, and had given way to drink. At one time he was very well to do, but lately had been in low circumstances, but did not want for anything, as money was often sent to him from London for taking charge of his nephew. Witness had heard that quite recently, deceased had received £5 note from his brother, and believed that he had been drinking on the strength of it. - Jonathan Thomas, fisherman, deposed to having found the body of the deceased on the previous day while out fishing. It was floating on its back, with the ebb tide, towards the Big Rock, and when first seen was about two miles off Maidencombe Cove. Witness secured the body and towed it in to Oddicombe Beach and gave it in charge of the coastguard. The body was quite naked with the exception of a pair of stockings and a wristband of a woollen shirt on the left arm. - P.C. Elliott deposed to having had the body conveyed from the beach to the place where it then was. A search had been made along the coast but no clothing had been found. - P.C. Pope was recalled, and in answer to the Foreman of the Jury, said that he had seen in the paper that a boat had been found at Livermead and knew that there was one missing from Paignton. - The Coroner instructed the witness to make further inquiries about the boat and ascertain whether it was connected with the circumstances of the deceased's death. - Dr Richardson said he had that afternoon examined the body of the deceased and found that the head showed signs of decomposition, and the scalp was wanting in places. There were bruises on the front of the body and on the legs. He should think that the body had been in the water over six days and under ten. From the external examination he had made he attributed death to drowning as there were no external injuries sufficient to cause death. The body was well nourished. - The Coroner said from the evidence that had been given, the Jury would hardly be able to arrive at an opinion as to how the deceased came by his death, and therefore he proposed to adjourn the Inquest until Thursday afternoon. - The adjourned Inquest was accordingly held yesterday afternoon. - The first witness called was Mrs Sherwell, widow, 17 Winner-street, Paignton, who said she had known the deceased for over seven years. He came to lodge with her in the latter part of June, and remained with her up to Tuesday before the Friday when he was missed. He left on Tuesday in pursuance of a fortnight's notice she had given him to leave. She did not see him after that. Witness knew of nothing to account for his death, although he certainly had been dejected since the sudden death of his wife. When deceased left witness's house, he owed her £1 5s., but that had since been paid by his nephew. - Joseph Lavers, landlord of the Railway Hotel, Paignton, said deceased came to his house on Tuesday, Oct. 23rd, and lodged there the night and the two following nights, leaving with his nephew on Friday morning between eight and nine o'clock without paying for his lodgings. Witness did not see him after that. The nephew returned in the afternoon and inquired for his uncle, saying he had been for a walk and missed him. - George Millman, keeper of the New Pier Inn, Paignton, said he had known deceased since 18878. Saw him on Friday, October 26th, when he came to witness's house about quarter past twelve. There was no one with him. Deceased had his pint of beer, and after remaining about twenty-five minutes, went out. Deceased was perfectly sober, and talked quite rational, but he looked very unwell and his eyes had a peculiar appearance. - P.C. Pope was recalled and deposed that on November 3rd he went to Roundham Head to search for the clothing, and found a portion of it on the rocks beneath some stones. The coat had the right arm sleeve turned inside out and was found below high water mark. The trousers of the deceased were found some little distance from the coat. Witness also found a linen under-coat belonging to the deceased which also had the right arm sleeve turned inside out. The waistcoat, one boot, the shirt, and the hat of the deceased were not discovered. - By a Juryman: Deceased could have been very easily cut off by the tide, if he had gone round by the cliffs. - The witness Millman, recalled, said he believed it was high tide at eleven o'clock on the Friday morning on the day deceased left witness's house, and therefore he could not have been hemmed in by the tide during daylight. - Jane Morrish, wife of Chas. Morrish, a farmer, of Blagdon, said that three weeks after the death of the deceased's wife, there was a sale of his goods. Witness was present and saw that he was very strange in his manner. He told her that if anything occurred to him and he was missing they were to write to a Mrs Ayres, at Clayhidon. At that time he was very much affected over his wife's death. - Dr Richardson deposed that he made a post mortem examination of the body of the deceased on November 3rd, and found the nasal bones broken, as was also the neck. The brain was in a normal condition, and the internal organs, with the exception of the stomach, were generally healthy. There was a pint and a half of fluid in the stomach, which he considered was sea water. Witness attributed death to drowning, owing to the fluid in the stomach, and the distended condition of the lungs. He thought it possible that the neck and the nasal bones might have been broken by the action of the sea after death had taken place. At the same time it was possible for a person to jump from a cliff into shallow water, and break his neck and nasal bones, and then die from a combination of drowning and the injuries caused by the fall. - Mr John Taylor, chemist of Lucius-street, deposed to having made an analysis of a portion of the stomach and found nothing to account for death by poisoning. - After the Coroner had briefly summed up the evidence, the Jury retired, and after a short consultation, returned with a verdict of "Found Drowned," but by what means there was not sufficient evidence to show.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 November 1888
TORQUAY - Inquest. - Last evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Police Station into the circumstances attending the death of GERTRUDE LEWIS HARVEY, aged three months, the illegitimate daughter of GERTRUDE ANN HARVEY, a young woman residing at 2, Devonshire-terrace, Ellacombe. The mother stated that on Tuesday night she took the child to bed, and on rising the next morning she found it dead by her side. There were no signs of convulsions. Dr Powell stated that he saw the dead body of the child on Wednesday morning and from appearances he came to the conclusion that it had had a fit, which had caused its death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 December 1888
TORQUAY - Inquest. - The Coroner, Mr Hacker, held an Inquiry at the Half Moon Hotel, Lower Union-street, on Saturday evening, respecting the cause of death of the illegitimate child, twenty-four days' old, of SUSAN EASTERBROOK, of Pimlico. The child was found dead. Dr Cook, who made a post mortem examination, said the body was fairly well nourished. The child died, apparently partially through suffocation and partially in consequence of wind in the stomach having forced the lungs out of place. Verdict, "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 December 1888
KINGSKERSWELL - Fatal Accident To DR SYMONS Of Kingskerswell. - Quite a melancholy gloom was cast over the Christmas festival at Kingskerswell by a fatal accident which befell DR SYMONS, who was thrown from his trap on Friday evening last and received such serious injuries that death resulted the following morning. Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held the Inquest on the body on Monday morning at deceased's residence, Pen-y-Craig, the Vicar, the Rev. A. H. Walker, being the Foreman of the Jury. Major Lewis Edward Bearne, residing at Edginswell, identified the body as that of his brother-in-law, who was thirty-two years of age, and unmarried. Deceased was unconscious from Friday evening till five the next morning, when he died. - Edward William Luxton, page in deceased's service, said that about half-past three on Friday afternoon he was with his master, who was driving home from Coombe in a two-wheel dog-cart. The horse, a young one, which deceased had not driven long, bolted on the top of the hill. He did not know why the horse was frightened, but just after it started DR SYMONS told him to throw away the umbrella he was carrying as it was swaying and would frighten the horse more. He did so, and deceased tried all he could to pull up, but the horse galloped down the hill till near the bottom, when a shaft broken, and the swaying trap over-turned, deceased falling over witness, who was not much hurt. DR SYMONS was bleeding, and his head was bathed. - William Tuppin, of Penn Inn Gardens, near Newton, stated that just after the storm he saw a horse and trap coming down Milber Down hill at a very rapid pace - about twenty-five miles an hour. He ran out in the road and found deceased and the previous witness on the ground and the trap overturned. DR SYMONS' head was bleeding terribly. He told his boy to go for a doctor, but deceased said he did not think it was necessary, adding, "I shall be all right; it is only a few flesh wounds," and inquired whether his page was hurt. - Mr H. A. Davis, surgeon, of Newton, said he found deceased sitting in a chair quite conscious. There were two scalp wounds on his head, but they were not serious. He got the deceased home as quickly as possible, and on the way DR SYMONS told him that the horse was frightened by the flapping of the umbrella, which he told the boy to throw away, but he was unable to pull up. Deceased walked into his consulting room and went to bed. Milk was given him, but he became sick, and soon afterwards urgent symptoms of compression of the brain began to manifest themselves. Dr Ley, of Newton, was sent for, and Drs. Scott and Chamberlain were also in attendance, doing everything they could for deceased. It was, however, of no avail, for he died of compression of the brain, due to internal haemorrhage, the result of the fall on his head. Witness left at midnight, deceased being then in a hopeless condition. Beside the scalp wounds, there was an extensive fracture of the skull, but this was not obvious till a portion of the skull had been removed to relieve the brain from the haemorrhage. The Coroner having summed up, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 January 1889
SOUTH TAWTON - Wife Murder At South Tawton. Attempted Suicide Of The Murderer. - A shocking case of wife murder and attempted suicide took place on Saturday last at South Tawton. The man, named ARSCOTT, has been working as hind for Mr Heard, of Jacobstowe, and he lived at a place called Taw Mill Farm. For a week or so his conduct has been so strange that the wife was afraid to stay in the house with him, and on Friday night went to sleep at her daughter's house near by. She returned on Saturday morning to get some food, when a disturbance took place. ARSCOTT seized a razor and in the presence of some children attempted to murder her. He wounded her, and she ran out of the house across the yard in her anxiety to escape, falling down three times. ARSCOTT, on coming up to her the third time, threw her down, and then murdered her. The children had meantime gone off to get help from the nearest neighbours. ARSCOTT after the crime returned to the house. Three or four neighbours soon came on the scene and attended to the woman, but were afraid to enter the house. A messenger was sent to North Tawton for the police and a doctor, and on the police arriving, nearly two hours after the murder, it was found that ARSCOTT had cut his throat. Jealousy is said to be the motive of the crime. The deceased woman had had fourteen children, eleven of whom are living. On New Year's Day there was a family party at the mill, when forty of the prisoner's children and grandchildren were present. At the Inquest on Monday a verdict of "Wilful Murder" was returned against the husband, who, however, died from his injuries on Wednesday.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 February 1889
ST MARYCHURCH - Sudden Death At St. Marychurch. - A sudden death occurred at St. Marychurch on Monday which subsequently formed the subject of a Coroner's Inquiry. JOHN HILL, 63, tailor, was found dead in his bed at his lodgings, 3 Park Place, St Marychurch, about one o'clock in the afternoon, by Mark Webber, of Paignton who had come to the house on a visit to the persons with whom the deceased was lodging. Dr Finch was immediately called in and pronounced life extinct, and not being able to grant the usual certificate stating the cause of death, the police were informed of the matter and the Coroner was communicated with. An Inquest was accordingly held at the Havelock Arms on Tuesday morning by Mr Sidney Hacker, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," the evidence of Dr Finch being to that effect.

TORQUAY - The Suicide Of A Lady At Wellswood. - On Friday last, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry at Montcoffer, Kent's-road, Wellswood, concerning the death of MISS SYBELLA CATHERINE PECKHAM, 56 years of age, who died on the previous Wednesday evening from self inflicted injuries, as reported in last week's Torquay Times. Mr John Crocker was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and Mr G. H. Hext watched the proceedings on behalf of the relatives and friends of the deceased. - The first witness called was MISS MARY SYBELLA PECKHAM of Perry Hill Lodge, Worbeston, Guildford, who identified the body as that of her sister. She was fifty-six years of age, and resided with witness at Guildford. Deceased came to Torquay in October last, witness arriving on the 27th December. Miss Keighley rented the house, and she boarded at the house with her sister, who was in a very weak state of health, having suffered from bronchitis for seven years. On Sunday last deceased came downstairs at noon into the dining room, having had her breakfast in bed. They each read in a book, and after a little while laid them aside. They conversed as usual, and said that as it rained they could not go out, and must walk around the room, which they did. The table was laid for lunch, and witness, after examining some pictures, turned round from the sideboard and saw deceased with a large table knife in her hand in the act of cutting her throat. She caught hold of her by the right hand, but by that time she had made two cuts as "quick as lightning." She took the knife away, and having thrown it on the floor called for assistance. Deceased had suffered from sleeplessness during the past few days. There was nothing on her mind except her weakness, her only suffering being physical disorder, pain in the head, and sleeplessness. She was not under restraint, and was so weak from physical causes that she might have fallen. - Corroborative testimony having been adduced by Emma Lang, housemaid, in the employ of Miss Keighley. - Dr Gordon Cumming was called, and deposed that he had attended deceased for three winters for chronic lung disease. She was worse this winter, and about a month ago he was called to attend her after an epileptic attack. She complained of pain in the top of her head, and did so constantly, and of sleeplessness up to Sunday week last. The attacks he had mentioned produced profound melancholia, and she was never the same after. She was not maniacal, and was so emaciated and weak that nothing was feared. After the wound in her throat she could not speak, and wrote on the slate asking for forgiveness, and saying that no one could ever know or understand what her depression and suffering had been. - Rose Jeffery, nurse, was also called, but before giving her evidence, the following rather unusual incident occurred:- Mr R. Smerdon, a Juryman, expressed the opinion that Dr Boreham as the first to arrive on the scene should be called, and he repeated his opinion subsequently and in so decided a manner that the Coroner observed: "I prefer to arrange the evidence as I think, and it is for you to consider it when it is put before you." The Coroner further observed that that was all the evidence he intended to call. If the majority of the Jury wished for further evidence it could of course be added. The practice was to call one medical man only, unless there was any doubt or obscurity, and then two or three could be called. In the present case he should not saddle the county with the extra expense, without an expression of opinion from the Jury. - The Foreman then said he thought that Dr Boreham should be called, and on putting it to the Jury, there was a unanimous answer in the affirmative. - Dr W. T. Boreham was then sworn, and deposed to having been called to deceased, and stitching up the wounds. He considered the epileptic fit deceased had a month ago was an indication that she would be likely to do injury to herself and commit suicide. - The Coroner having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict that the deceased committed Suicide whilst in a Temporary State of Insanity. The Jury gave their fees to the Torbay Hospital.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 March 1889
TORQUAY - JAMES ROOK, cab driver, aged 50, of Lower Union-street, Torquay, was found dead in his bed on Tuesday morning. An Inquest was held at the Half Moon Hotel, yesterday morning by Mr S. Hacker, and from the evidence of the chief witness, ELIZABETH ROOK, daughter of the deceased, it was shown that he came home on Friday evening last and complained of being unwell, and on Saturday and Sunday he remained indoors. On Monday evening Mr Thistle, surgeon, was sent for, but was not able to come until the next morning, by which time the deceased had expired. After the medical evidence had been given, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 March 1889
TORQUAY - Death From Chloral At Ellacombe. - An Inquest will be held at the Police Station this afternoon, touching the death of THOMAS CARTER TOMPKINS, sixty years of age, a retired auctioneer, who was found dead at his lodgings, 17 Carleton terrace, Ellacombe, about seven o'clock on Wednesday evening. Deceased, who formerly lived at Saltburn-by-the-Sea, had been in Torquay only a few months. Of late he had suffered from sleeplessness, and to get a remedy went on Monday evening to Mr Bathe's branch shop in Union-street, and asked for sixpennyworth of chloral, which a friend had advised him to take. The managing assistant in charge (a fully qualified chemist) who had known MR TOMPKINS for a considerable time, refused at first to supply it, but ultimately allowed him to have some in a graduated bottle containing a few small doses, with label stating the dose, which he was cautioned not to exceed. He took a rather large dose the same night, as, owing to the bottle being left in the kitchen during Tuesday, it was seen that more than the prescribed quantity had been taken. Deceased took the bottle to bed with him on Tuesday night, and, either by accident or design, he took the whole of the remainder of the chloral. He called at Mr Bathe's shop on Tuesday, stating that the dose taken on the previous night had helped him to sleep, and appeared grateful for the relief afforded. He was again cautioned not to exceed the proper dose. Between nine and ten o'clock on Wednesday morning, the landlady, Mrs Warne, sent her boy up to the deceased's room with a cup of tea. The boy imagined the deceased was still asleep, as he made no answer when spoken to. As the deceased had been in the habit of lying in bed three or four days at a time, Mrs Warne did not go up to his room until seven o'clock in the evening, when she found him dead. Mr Cave, assistant house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, was sent for, and he gave it as his opinion that life had been extinct at least twelve hours. Deceased has two sons in good circumstances, one being a schoolmaster in the North of England. The circumstances of the case were reported to the police, and the District coroner was immediately communicated with, and the result was that a post mortem examination was ordered to be made. The conclusions arrived at will be stated at the Inquiry which, as previously mentioned will be held this (Friday) afternoon.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 March 1889
TORQUAY - Strange Suicide At Ellacombe. - The death of a retired auctioneer named THOMAS CARTER TOMKINS, aged 56 (which we reported in last week's Torquay Times) formed the subject of an Inquiry before Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, and a Jury, of which Mr H. Terry was chosen Foreman, held at the Police-station on Friday afternoon. - EUGENE CARTER TOMKINS, son of the deceased, station-master on the N.E.R. at Middleton St. George, Durham, gave evidence of identification. He said the deceased was 56 years of age, and was formerly an auctioneer and carried on the business of a plumber and glazier at Saltburn-by-the-Sea, which place he left in Sept., 1879, and went first to Farningham Royal, Buckinghamshire, and from thence to Torquay. Witness had not seen him for three years and he had no correspondence with any members of his family for some time. He had refused to support his wife and she had been obliged to go into service and was now living as housekeeper to the vicar of Ealing. - Jane Warne, living at 17 Carleton-terrace, Ellacombe, said the deceased came to lodge at her house a fortnight before Christmas and had since then occupied a bedroom in the front of the house. He did no work, and always said he had some money coming to him. He used to board out, and he paid no rent for his room. She thought he was accustomed to consume a great deal of spirit. On Monday night deceased had with him a bottle of medicine, of which, before going to bed, he took a dose, a little over one-eighth of the whole quantity. On Tuesday he went out, and came home at twenty minutes past eleven at night, saying he felt much better. He talked cheerfully until midnight, when he went to bed. The next morning witness sent her son up to the deceased's bedroom with a cup of tea, and as the deceased did not come down during the day, she went to his room about six o'clock in the evening and knocked at the door. Getting no reply, she and her husband entered the room, and found the deceased lying dead in bed. There were several bottles, including the one which had contained the medicine (chloral), and one labelled "Laudanum," and another "French Brandy," on the table at the bottom of the bed. On Tuesday night, deceased had told witness that he expected an important letter the next morning, but no letter had arrived. Witness knew that he had lived at Mrs Harris's house in Union-street, as he had told her that he had been obliged to leave, and seemed to grieve about it a great deal. He had also told her that he was going to marry Mrs Harris. - William John Rawling, assistant to Mr Bathe, chemist, at his branch shop in Lower Union-street, said the deceased came to him on Monday, and asked for some chloral to induce sleep. Witness made up a preparation, consisting of an ounce of syrup of chloral, which contained eighty grains. He instructed the deceased to take the eighth part at bedtime. He did not label the bottle "poison." - The Coroner reminded witness that he was required to do so under the Pharmacy Act. - Witness added that on the following day the deceased called and said he felt much better after taking the first dose. A strong man could have taken the whole of the contents of the bottle without death ensuing, but a man with disease about him (like the deceased) would probably succumb from the effects of it. Witness did not tell deceased that the preparation was poisonous, nor did he label it poison, because he did not think he was required to do so by the Act, the chloral being made up with other ingredients in the form of a medicine. - The Coroner said the Act of Parliament was especially for safeguarding the public, who were not supposed to know what was poison and what was not. - Mr Frank Evans Cave, one of the house surgeons of the Torbay Hospital, said he was called on Wednesday evening to see the deceased and he deposed to the results of a post mortem examination. Death, he said, was caused by the chloral indirectly, although there was extensive heart and lung disease sufficient in itself to account for death. - P.C. Coles deposed to finding a number of cards and letters on the table in the deceased's bedroom. On the back of one of his business cards he had written the following:- "I have parted with everything I value. I am sick, weary, in pain, and disheartened. At least, I die a classic death; and this rock is a grand tombstone. T. C. TOMKINS." - Another letter addressed to Mrs J. Harris, 64 Union-street, was as follows:- " Dearest Jennie. - My love for you has been my ruin. Your unkindness has been my death - yes, has killed me, and my death is at your door. See me buried! The £10 funeral money from the Oddfellows' Lodge is payable only to you. My love has lasted to the end. Good-bye. TOM. My riches now consist not in the greatness of my possessions, but in the fewness of my wants." - Two other letters to Mrs Harris were also found. On one there was a copy of some verses, and on another the deceased used affectionate expressions of regard towards her. The Coroner read another letter, this one addressed to Mrs Warne and running:- "I am deeply grateful for the many acts of kindness you have shown me. I owe 39s. for rent and a trifle for sundry cups of tea. Mrs Harris will receive £10 for my burial, and will pay all up. I am weary and very ill." - The deceased's will was found in a box underneath the bed. - MR E. C. TOMKINS, son of the deceased, was recalled, and identified the writing as that of his father, but observed that he thought it a pity that the ravings of a madman should be allowed to scandalise a respectable family. - Mrs Jane Harris, widow, confectioner, of 64 Lower Union-street, said she had known the deceased many years, and that she last saw him fourteen weeks ago. The deceased came to Torquay some time before last August and stayed at her house on a visit, which was originally intended for a week only, but which lasted six months. As the deceased was of drinking habits, and his conduct was otherwise disagreeable, she requested him to leave several times, and eventually she turned him out of the house a fortnight before last Christmas. She denied having since been in correspondence with the deceased, but said she had received one note from him, which she returned. - Mrs Warne, recalled, said the letter addressed to her and read by the Coroner, she found in the deceased's bed about a fortnight ago. For weeks previously deceased had said he was a dying man adding that if anything happened to him Mrs Harris would pay her what he owed. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the points for the Jury to consider were whether the deceased came to his death by an overdose of chloral, the evidence showing that he took 72 grains at once, and if so whether it was taken accidentally or for the purpose of committing suicide. - The Jury found that the deceased Committed Suicide by taking chloral in a fit of Temporary Insanity. In a rider they drew attention to the violation of the law by the omission of the chemist's assistant to label the bottle of chloral "poison." The Coroner said the police would take notice of the rider, and, if they thought it necessary to take steps, they would no doubt do so, now that the matter had been made public.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 April 1889
TORQUAY - Another Suicide At Ellacombe. - A sad affair took place at Torquay on Friday evening last, when JOSEPH BISHOP, son of CAPTAIN BISHOP, threw himself out of his bedroom window and was picked up dead. The deceased, who resided with his sister at Church-road, Ellacombe, was assistant-master at Torre National Schools, and had been in declining health for a very long period, partly from consumption and partly from over-study, and his sufferings had been so great that they had materially affected his brain. On Friday evening his father, CAPTAIN BISHOP, of the Nina, a schooner belonging to Mr Manley, coal merchant, came home from sea and visited his son, and, being very tired, went downstairs with his daughter, who had been in constant and devoted attendance on her brother, for the purpose of getting a cup of tea. They had not been in the room more than a few minutes, when the neighbours next door heard a scream, followed by a dull thud, which was also heard by CAPTAIN BISHOP, who immediately rushed out and found his son beneath the window dead. He immediately picked him up and conveyed the body to the bedroom, and medical assistance was sent for, but, of course, life was extinct. The deceased was terribly injured about the head. It is supposed that the poor fellow, in a sudden paroxysm of pain, got to the window and threw himself out, though he was so weak that he was almost helpless. An Inquest was held at the Torquay Police Station on Saturday afternoon when the Jury hearing the evidence, returned a verdict of "Suicide during a state of Insanity." Much sympathy is expressed for CAPTAIN BISHOP, who is well known and highly respected.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 April 1889
NEWTON ABBOT - Sad Death Of A Torquay Woman. - An Inquest was held on Tuesday on the body of MARY ANN ROPER, 66, widow, who died in No. 10 Court, Wolborough-street, Newton, suddenly, on Sunday afternoon. The deceased was in receipt of out-relief, and lived at Newton several weeks. Last week a pedlar and his wife named Jones, in No. 10 Court, took her in for charity. She was taken ill during the week, and late on Saturday night Jones went to the Relieving Officer. The officer found the woman lying upon a heap of straw, with a few rags to cover her. He called in the Medical officer who ordered her stimulants, but she died the following day. The cause of death was broncho-pneumonia. The Coroner in summing up, commented on the absence of a lamp in the court, and observed that it tended to increase debauchery and crime. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 May 1889
TORQUAY - Death While Under An Anaesthetic. Inquest At The Hospital. - An Inquest was held by Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, at the Torbay Hospital, yesterday morning, respecting the death of EDWIN ROWLAND, 65 years of age, driver of the Queen's Hotel omnibus, who died in the institution on Monday afternoon, while undergoing an operation. Mr R. Crocker was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner, in opening the proceedings, said the Jury were summoned to investigate the circumstance attending the death of a person who had died whilst under the influence of an anaesthetic previous to undergoing an operation. It was necessary for an Inquest to be held in the interest of that public institution (the Hospital), and of the staff connected with it, as well as of the public at large. - The first witness called was Ann Walling, wife of James Walling, cab driver, residing at 1 Woodfield Cottages, Lower Woodfield-road, Torwood, who identified the body of the deceased as that of her sister's husband, who previous to his death was a 'bus driver and lived in Rock-road. He was taken ill on Friday night, and a messenger was despatched to the Hospital for a doctor, and medicine was sent. On Monday morning he was conveyed to the Hospital for the purpose of undergoing an operation, which the doctors said was the deceased's only chance of recovery. Deceased, who wished the operation to be performed, was a married man with a grown up family. - Mr George Young Eales, house surgeon at the Hospital, said he was called to see the deceased on Saturday night, and found him suffering from obscure and vague pains in the groin and in the bowels, from which he had suffered for eight years. On Sunday witness and Dr Powell saw the deceased, and pronounced it to be a case of strangulated rupture, and he was asked to go into the hospital and undergo an operation, which he consented to do. He was admitted at mid-day on Monday, and arrangements were immediately made for the operation. Before the anaesthetic, consisting of ether, was administered, deceased was feeble and in a state of collapse. The ether was properly administered by Mr Cave, junior house surgeon, and just as Mr Finch was about to perform the operation, the deceased was seized with a fit of vomiting, and died in about a minute afterwards. - The Coroner: Do you know whether the deceased was suffering from heart disease? - Witness: I knew he had a weak heart, as I had attended him before. - The Coroner: When a patient is suffering from disease of the heart, does that constitute more danger in giving an anaesthetic? Witness: There are some cases in which it would be more dangerous than others. The main reason in this case why we administered ether was because the deceased was in such a state of collapse that it would have been dangerous to give him chloroform. In his case it was more beneficial to give ether than otherwise. - The Coroner: What do you think was the cause of death? - Witness: The immediate cause was syncope, or sudden failure of the heart's action. - The Coroner: You do not think he died from the effects of the ether? - Witness: No, I don't think so. - Dr J. B. Richardson deposed that he had made a post mortem examination of the body of the deceased. There were no signs of violence except the marks of an operation in the right groin. On examining the abdomen, he found that the deceased had strangulated hernia or rupture. The organs of the body were generally healthy, the heart being fairly so for a man of his age. Witness added that like the last witness he came to the conclusion that syncope was the cause of death and not ether. He was of opinion that it was quite a case for an operation. Without retiring for consultation, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 July 1889
DARTMOUTH - Sad Accident At Dartmouth. - MR JOHN BENT, a young man 23 years of age, son of the late chief constable of Exeter, met with a lamentable death in Dartmouth Harbour on Monday morning. He was on board a small yacht the Seabreeze, with Mr Bradbeer, of Exeter, owner of the vessel, and was hoisting the foresail, when he was seized with a fit and fell overboard. He instantly sank, and Mr Bradbeer tried in vain to rescue him. The body was recovered three hours later, and an Inquest was held on Tuesday. Dr R. W. Soper said deceased probably had a fit as his teeth were clenched, and that accounted for his not rising. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 July 1889
TORQUAY - Inquest At Torquay. Singular Case. - An Inquiry was held by Mr Coroner Hacker on Saturday into the circumstances attending the death of EMMA MARTIN, the wife of a plasterer living at Spring-steps, Pimlico. The deceased met with an accident on Whit-Monday falling down some steps and injuring her head. The wound was dressed at the Torbay Hospital; and, though requested to attend gain the next morning, she did not come for eight days, and then the woman was in a very bad state, apparently from neglect, death resulting from inflammation to the brain arising from the wound. The Inquest was held at the Half Moon Hotel, Mr J. E. Bovey being Foreman of the Jury. - EDWIN MARTIN, plasterer, residing at No. 12, Spring Steps, stated that deceased was his wife. She was 54 years of age, and had suffered from bronchitis for twelve months. He saw her at two o'clock on Whit-Monday last, when he left her all right, and at six o'clock when he returned he found her in bed with her head bandaged, she having fallen over the steps. She had not been in her right senses since, and died at twenty minutes to four that morning: that was all he knew about it. - Jane Rook, middle-aged, deposed that she was a neighbour living opposite to the deceased. About four o'clock in the afternoon of June 10th she heard a slipping on the steps outside, and on going out saw deceased lying down head foremost, blood flowing down the steps. With help she got her to her own house, and bathed her head. She was insensible at the time, and was taken to the hospital in a cab. She had seen the deceased every day since, but she was only sensible immediately before she died. - Frank Evans Cave, house surgeon, at the Torbay Hospital, said deceased was brought to the surgery on White-Monday, with an incised wound in the forehead. He dressed it, and told her to come again next morning, but she never turned up till the Tuesday week, eight days after, when he found the wound in a bad state, suppurating, and the stitches loose. She was quite sensible when brought in, although seeming a bit dazed, but her daughter was with her each time. He thought when he sent her out, that the wound would heal without any trouble, but it was in a very bad state when she came eight days after. She did not seem to like the idea of coming into the hospital, so he did not press it, but he told his colleague, who visited deceased, if he thought fit to make her come in. He then heard she was too ill to be moved. She had received medical attendance from Mr Palmer (locum tenens at the hospital) and Mr Cook, the parish doctor. He last saw her on Wednesday, when she was in a very bad state. She answered his questions perfectly sensibly. She was suffering not from brain fever exactly, but brain symptoms, due to absorption of matter from the wound. She had two big sores in her back, the result of lying in bed in one position, as she was very thin. There was no fracture, but a simple flesh wound in the forehead. When she came eight days after, however, it had gone down, and exposed the bone. The cause of death was inflammation of the brain due to the wound. When he first saw the wound it was not serious, but he did not know she had driven to the hospital in a cab, and thought she had walked. They were not supposed to attend accidents outside. - In answer to the Foreman, witness said he considered the deceased was sensible when he spoke to her. He asked her how she did it, and she said she fell over the steps. She came to the hospital three times and her daughter with her. - Do you think if she came to you when you wished, death might have been prevented? - I think so, but we cannot always tell how wounds will go, even in the infirmary; when I saw her eight days after, the wound was in a foul state. - Mr H. Terry (a Juryman): Do you think neglect of the wound induced death? - I think so. - Mr W. B. Smale (another Juryman) suggested that the daughter should be called, and the Coroner ordered her attendance. - At the suggestion of Mr Smale, Mrs Rook was re-called, and said she asked deceased repeatedly to go up to the Hospital, and she kept saying "I'll go tomorrow." She went at last of her own accord, because she was getting so weak. - Were you aware of her dangerous condition? - I thought so because she lost a lot of blood. Continuing, witness said she did not think the wound was dressed during the eight days, because the institution nurse, who came afterwards, asked the daughter how she could neglect her mother. Deceased made no statement as to the accident because she was insensible, but as she found her umbrella under deceased when she fell, she thought she missed a step in going down. - ELLEN MARTIN, recalled, said she asked her mother how it happened, and she said she must have overbalanced herself. - The Coroner, in summing up, said there was no doubt deceased came to her death from an accident and injuries received. But during their investigation a rather peculiar set of circumstances had cropped up. At first it appeared to be a rather serious case. The wound was a simple one, from which no one would have supposed death would ensue. There was no fracture or serious injury, and, from the doctor's evidence, if the wound had been dressed with ordinary care she would probably not have died. It was for the Jury to consider whether there was any gross carelessness or neglect by the person upon whom the law throws the duty of looking after her. That person is the husband, whose duty it was to see the wife was properly attended to. They had heard MR MARTIN and his daughter, and it was for them to consider whether the evidence showed gross carelessness or neglect on their part, or whether it was to be explained by ignorance. - The husband was recalled and stated that his wife had not been out of bed but once since the accident. - The Coroner cautioned the witness against making contradictory statements, and asked him if deceased was insensible how was it you paid no attention to the state of the wound? - You know what she was suffering from. Witness: Yes; well, because she said she would not go to the dispensary when she got to her senses. - The Coroner: Why did you not get medical advice directly? - Oh; I don't know. - Why did you wait till after the eight days? - Because I didn't think it was required. I didn't know. She was off and on, if not altogether insensible. - did you take any trouble at all, or cared whether your wife lived or died? - Yes, sir. I begged her to have the doctor. - What do you mean "you begged her": You could have had a doctor couldn't you? - Yes, but I did not think it was so serious. - If it had been a day or a couple of days it would be different, but eight days is more serious. - Well, as soon as I found her so bad I got a dispensary ticket; I had no club doctor. - The witness replied to some questions put to him by Mr H. Terry, and Mr Smale, two of the Jurymen, and in answer to the Coroner, MARTIN said his wife's life was not insured, and he would only get £4 from the Plasterers' Society by her deceased. - ELLEN MARTIN, about 19 years of age, daughter of deceased, said she found her mother in a chair in her own house, after the accident. With her cousin, she took her to the hospital, where her wound was dressed. Her mother did not speak at all, but she was not with her mother whilst the wound was attended to. They had to lift her out of the cab, and when they got home they put her to bed. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," adding a rider "That the Jury consider the husband and daughter are deserving of censure for not bestowing proper attention to the deceased on receiving medical directions concerning her." - The Coroner, in calling MARTIN'S attention to the rider, said he quite endorsed their opinion. He thought he showed want of attention and interest in not inquiring more after his wife during the eight days. With his wife lying ill he should certainly have inquired about her.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 2 August 1889
LONDON - Suicide Of A Torquay Man In London. - Colour-Sergeant and Staff Clerk JOSEPH RAFFERTY, of the Corps of Military Staff Clerks, formerly of No. 1 Hesketh Cottages, Ellacombe, Torquay, committed suicide on Monday evening at Turnham Green, London. At about eight o'clock deceased, who was sitting on a seat on Turnham Green, was seen to take a six chambered revolver from his pocket, and fire two shots, one in the air, and the other at his head. The bullet entered the head through the right temple, traversing the brain to the back of the skull, where it lodged, extensively fracturing the skull. RAFFERTY was conveyed in an insensible condition to the West London Hospital, at Hammersmith, where he died on the following morning. On Wednesday afternoon an Inquest was held on the body. The following articles were found on RAFFERTY'S person: a gold watch and chain, several letters, his discharge from the army, half-a-sovereign, 3s. 6d. in silver and 4 ½d. in coppers. Deceased, who suffered from consumption, was discharged from the army on October 11th, 1887, in consequence of his having been found medically unfit for further service. He had served Her Majesty eight years and sixty-seven days, and during that time had received the Egyptian medal, 1885, and the Suakim clasp. His character was stated to be exemplary, and he was in possession of a second-class certificate of education. The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that RAFFERTY shot himself whilst in an Unsound State of Mind.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 9 August 1889
TORQUAY - The Torre Stabbing Case. Townsend Exonerated From Blame. - In last weeks Torquay Times we reported the painful circumstances attending the melancholy death of CHARLES EDWIN GARD, a cab driver, from the effects of a punctured wound in the region of the heart, unquestionably inflicted by William Townsend, the driver of an omnibus plying to Torre railway-station, and the case then assumed a somewhat serious aspect, but a full investigation before the Coroner satisfactorily established the fact that the wound was accidentally inflicted, whilst the two men were larking together. - The Inquest. - On the body of the deceased man was held at the Torbay Hospital on Friday evening and the eagerness with which a special edition of the Torquay Times, issued directly after the conclusion of the Inquiry, was brought up showed the great interest the case had excited in the town, both men being well known. Mr Sidney Hacker, the Coroner for the district, held the Inquiry, and the Foreman of the Jury was Mr Thomas Taylor, of Higher Union Street. Mr Carter appeared for Townsend. - The Coroner, addressing the Jury, said they had been called together to investigate the circumstances attending the death of CHARLES GARD, lying dead in that hospital, who came to his death in a violent manner on the previous day, and it would be the duty of the Jury to Inquire carefully as to who was responsible for his death, and generally as to the circumstances surrounding it. There would be, he expected, a good deal of evidence necessary for the Jury to take, and as that might be a serious case - it was a serious case - he should ask them to give their very best attention to the evidence. There was no doubt that after having heard the witnesses, they would be able to give their verdict without adjourning. - MRS ROSETTA GARD, who seemed to be considerably affected, was then sworn. She said that she lived at 10 Parkfield-road, Higher Upton. She had identified the body as that of her husband, CHARLES EDWIN GARD; he was thirty-six years of age, and lived with her at the address given, his calling being that of a cabdriver. The last time she saw him alive was at half-past ten, on Thursday morning; he called in, on his way to Hele, where he was to take up a party. She was fetched by Mr Inch later in the day, when her husband was being taken into the Hospital on a stretcher. She was anxious to learn whether the deceased was sufficiently conscious as to recognise her. He was not sensible. (At this point William Townsend was brought into the room by a police constable, and was accommodated with a seat.) Witness resuming, said that she was not present when her husband expired. She was told to come again in an hour after first seeing him, and upon her arrival he had just passed away. She asked who was the cause of her husband's death, when Townsend who was in a wagonette outside the Hospital, said "I did it, but not intentionally." - Being asked by the Coroner if she knew whether they were on friendly terms, she said that her husband and Townsend stood side by side in Torre Station yard. - Alfred Way, a clerk, residing at Pensylvania-terrace, was then called. He was on his rounds soliciting orders for his firm, Charles Garton & Co., when he called at the Clarence, and taking a stool just inside the bar he sat down whilst he awaited Mr Rowland, the landlord. Mr Townsend was there eating bread and cheese. He believed that there was no other person at that time in the bar. The time was about 11.30. Soon after Gardner, a railway man, entered the Tavern, followed quickly by GARD and Kinch. They then began a conversation with Mr Rowland, joking about the Conservative Fete of the day before. Townsend and GARD were the most jocular of the party, GARD being about a yard from Townsend. What GARD said to Townsend he could not tell, but suddenly GARD stepped up to Townsend and caught hold of his whiskers, Townsend turned round, faced GARD, who gave him a gentle pat with his hand. GARD then put himself into a boxing attitude and pretended to spar with Townsend, giving him at last a blow, which knocked his hat aside. Townsend was still sitting at the time. GARD then walked to the mantel piece to take a sip at his beer, and seeing that Townsend had a knife in his hand, said "Why you've priced me, you must be a fool to play with a knife in your hand," or words to that effect. As soon as this had been said, Townsend shut the knife up, remarking "Bother the knife, I wish I never carried a knife." He shut it up and put it in his pocket. GARD then went to the mantelpiece again, and after leaning upon it for a moment, turned suddenly pale. Witness noticed the knife in Townsend's hand when the latter was eating his lunch, but did not notice it during the sparring of the two men. Townsend was sitting upon a stool during the whole time, whilst GARD continued standing. Upon returning to the mantel piece, GARD unbuttoned his waistcoat and putting his hand inside, discovered that he was bleeding. Mr Rowland then exclaimed, "CHARLIE, you had better go into the next room, I will soon put that right," upon which GARD went into the bagatelle room, followed by Kinch, in whose arms he subsequently fainted. Mr Rowland laid him upon the table, unbuttoned his shirt and vest, and discovered the wound. Fetching some lint and bandages, Mr Rowland did his best to stop the flow of blood. Witness also assisted and ripping the deceased's waistcoat open he saw that blood was pouring in such quantities from GARD'S breast, just below the nipple, that he could not see the incision for the blood. Mr Rowland observing that he hoped he had done right in thus attending to the wound, had Dr Thistle and Dr Cave immediately sent for; Townsend was meanwhile in great distress of mind, asking GARD repeatedly as to whether he (deceased) thought that he had intentionally stabbed him. GARD, who was in a state of semi-consciousness, said "No, Will." The doctor arriving, fancied at first that GARD was dead, but the latter, reviving momentarily, he was placed in a Pickford's waggon and brought to the Hospital, witness amongst others accompanying in the van. On the road, the deceased seemed to feel the approach of death, requesting to be laid on his right side, and frequently asking "Why should I die like this?" During the journey, Mr Rowland put his hand upon deceased's forehead, and asked him if he thought Townsend had deliberately stabbed him, to which GARD distinctly answered, "No, Rowland." He was taken from the waggon at the Hospital door, put upon a stretcher, and taken in immediately. Witness had known both men for a considerable time; he could not tell whether they were acquainted with each other, although he had previously seen them in each other's company. The witness heard nothing which he had not communicated to the Coroner. He had heard no angry words pass between Townsend and deceased, in fact their chaff was of the cheerfullest kind. Townsend shut up the knife immediately upon discovery that he had wounded Gard, and gave it up upon the constable's arrival. Townsend never removed from his seat until GARD'S injuries were known. By the Foreman: They were so close to one another that he could not tell how the wound was inflicted; everything was so sudden that no one saw how the accident happened. They were sparring for a few seconds before GARD felt that he had been pricked by the knife; in fact he walked from the mantelpiece twice before he put his hand to his breast and felt blood. Witness had no doubt as to the wound being accidental. - By Mr Carter: Townsend was very much distressed when he realised what he had done. He was not allowed to accompany GARD in the Pickford's van, being told to look after his horse. He did not observe MRS GARD meet and speak to Townsend. - John Palmer, of 13 Goschen-terrace, Chelston, a painter, deposed to seeing GARD and Townsend at the bar of the Clarence Hotel. There were several others there whose names he did not know. GARD and Townsend were sky-larking. Soon after he heard GARD say "You've stuck that knife into me." Saw GARD'S waistcoat unbuttoned, and blood upon his shirt. He saw the knife in Townsend's hand, also noticed him close the blade and put the knife into his pocket. He then went away to his dinner, not staying to see or hear anything further. He took no particular notice of their sky-larking, and certainly heard no angry words between Townsend and the deceased. GARD commenced the chaffing, and Townsend retained his seat during the whole of the horseplay. By the Foreman: He did not hear any reply from Townsend when GARD exclaimed that he had been struck. - Henry Kinch, a cab-driver of Hoxton-road, Ellacombe, stated that he and GARD went into the Clarence together for a glass of stout. The time was about 11.40. Three or four were in the bar, Mr Wade, James Gillard, James Gardner, and several others. Townsend was also there, having his lunch. GARD and Townsend began larking, GARD pulling Townsend's whiskers and knocking off his hat. The latter had a knife in his hand. Townsend said something to GARD, but witness couldn't tell what the observation was. GARD then advanced to give Townsend another slap in the face when the latter put his right hand up, GARD leant forward and came in contact with the hand in which Townsend held the knife. Witness did not see the weapon in Townsend's hand at the time. The motions of the two men were too quick. Townsend put his hand up when GARD approached him with a similar remark to "Get away CHARLEY." He saw GARD then go to the mantel-piece and afterwards observe, "You must have been a fool to have a knife in your hand, you priced me that time." He did not hear Townsend reply to that - GARD then discovered that he had been stabbed; and walked into the bagatelle room, upon the advice of Mr Rowland, who was not present at the occurrence, coming into the bar immediately after. As GARD leant upon the bagatelle table, he fainted and fell into witness's arms. He saw the wound, it was close to the left nipple. - By the Foreman: He did not see the knife in Townsend's hand when the latter put himself into a position to keep GARD off. GARD advanced quickly towards Townsend and so met the hand that Townsend had lifted. - By Mr Carter: He heard no words of an angry nature between the two men. - By a Juryman: Townsend seemed very much upset as soon as it was known that GARD was injured. - James Gillard, of Lawes Bridge, no occupation, said that he was asked by Mr Motton to have a glass of ale in the Clarence. It was about five-and-twenty minutes to twelve. He was at the bar before Townsend's arrival. He saw Townsend come into the hotel, GARD also followed shortly after. He observed Townsend, who was sitting at the counter, with his right arm resting upon the counter ledge - the knife being in his right hand. He was a witness of the chaffing, and as far as he could see GARD, in attempting to slap Townsend's face, ran against the knife. He did not observe Townsend move his right arm. He did not actually observe the contact between the deceased and Townsend's right arm. He heard GARD say that he had been "pricked" - what the exact expression was he could not say. The rest of his evidence was practically the same as that of the other witnesses. - All the witnesses considered that both men were perfectly sober. - James Gardner, living at 13 Goschen Terrace, a porter, tendered evidence that fairly bore out the testimony previous given. - Mr William Henry Rowland, landlord of the Clarence Hotel, stated that deceased came in after Townsend was there. There was no sky-larking before he left the bar. When he came again into the bar, GARD was holding his side and saying "You've priced me, I don't like this. You've pricked me rather sharp, too." He put his hand inside his waistcoat and said he was bleeding. Witness said: "Never mind CHARLIE I will stop that; come in the other room." GARD went into the bagatelle room, but before he could get to a seat, he fainted. He put some lint on the wound, and sent for a doctor. Townsend said, "Good God, what have I done?" Witness replied, "You have done it and don't leave the room." Witness came with GARD to the Hospital. In the waggon he said, "Rowland what have I done to die like this." Witness replied, "You are not going to die; we are near the dispensary." - By the Foreman: There was no ill-feeling. They were perfectly good friends. GARD, when asked if he blamed Townsend, said "No." - Police Constable William Anthony Greek deposed to going to the Clarence Hotel and seeing GARD lying on his back on the table with a wound just below the left breast. Townsend was holding the deceased's head, and Mr Rowland was bathing his face with vinegar. Witness asked how it happened and Mr Rowland pointing to Townsend said "This is the unfortunate man" and Townsend said "Yes I did it but not intentionally." Witness asked the deceased several times how it was done but could get no answer, at last he said to him "Was it done in play" and GARD nodded his head. (The knife was produced and was an ordinary pocket knife with two blades one about three inches long. The coat, waistcoat, shirt and flannel of the deceased were also produced, and the cuts in them where the knife passed through, pointed out). The witness deposed to afterwards apprehending the prisoner, and he was perfectly sober. - Mr Cave, house surgeon of Torbay Hospital said deceased had a small incised wound in the breast. On removal to the Hospital he gave him stimulants and he rallied so that he slept for an hour. On waking he became restless, and died in about ten minutes. He had made a post mortem examination, and found that the wound must have been inflicted by a very sharp knife. It pierced the upper border of the fourth rib, going right through the cartilage. The wound was horizontal. The depth of the wound was ¾ of an inch, and penetrated into the right ventricle of the heart. The cause of death was haemorrhage which filled the pericardium and stopped the action of the heart. If the wound had been the sixth of an inch lower, the rib would have stopped it. - By a Juryman: With a sharp knife it would not have required much force. It might have been done without the deceased knowing it. - Harriet Peck, nurse at Torbay Hospital, stated that deceased told her "it was sky larking." - The Coroner, in summing up the case to the Jury, said the question which they would have to consider was, whether, having regard to the evidence, they considered it a case of homicide by misadventure, or homicide amounting to manslaughter. Certainly, a man had been killed, and the law looked upon the sacrifice of human life with the greatest seriousness. Explaining the law, as it is distinguished between excusable homicide and manslaughter, the Coroner remarked that if a man performing a lawful act, unintentionally killed a man, that was excusable homicide, but if he was performing an unlawful act, though there was intention to kill, then that was manslaughter. - The Jury, after about a quarter of an hour's deliberation, returned a verdict of "Homicide by Misadventure," and they complimented Mr Rowland on the prompt action he took throughout the occurrence, and expressed sympathy with the widow and the children of the deceased in their sad bereavement. They handed the fees, which they received for attendance as Jurors, to the widow.

DITTISHAM - Bathing Fatality On The Dart. Two Young Artists Drowned. - On Saturday Mr Sidney Hacker, the County Coroner, held an Inquest at Dittisham, on the bodies of ERNEST WILSON, 24, and HAROLD WILSON, 18, two young artists who had been staying at Dittisham, and who were drowned whilst bathing on the river Dart. Deceased went to bathe, and their boat, after they had landed, drifted. One of them, in trying to regain the boat, began to sink, and his brother perceiving his danger, went to his assistance, and both were drowned. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned whilst Bathing," and passed a vote of sympathy with the father of the deceased, who was present. - MR THOMAS WILSON, of Wanstead, Essex (father of the deceased), in thanking the Jury, said they had a very lovely river, but at the same time it was a very treacherous one. Most of them (the Jury) were fathers , and no doubt it was too late for them to learn to swim, but he (MR WILSON) would impress upon them the necessity of insisting upon their boys learning to swim. It was a chance for life, and very often a chance to save the life of another who might happen to be in danger. He would also ask them to caution visitors, who, like his poor boys, did not know the place, for in a few yards they might be perfectly safe, and in the next yard might be gone. MR WILSON spoke with a very strong emotion and many of the Jury were moved to tears. Immediately after the Inquest the bodies were placed in coffins and ferried across the river, where a hearse was waiting to take them to the train at Churston Station for conveyance to Wanstead for interment.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 August 1889
TORQUAY - A Young Man Drowned In Torbay. - A sad fatality occurred in the bay early on Monday morning. Shortly after seven o'clock a gentleman named Cox was walking on Corbyn Head when he observed a body floating in the water at a short distance from the shore. He immediately descended to the beach, where a man named Hatton was attending to some boats; and pointing to where the corpse was floating, directed the man to bring it ashore. Hatton put off in a boat and when about fifty feet from the headland, he came upon the body of a young man named REGINALD KEY, naked, and floating face downwards in the water. Putting a rope around the corpse, Hatton towed it ashore, when deeming that a spark of life might yet remain in the apparently lifeless body, he and Mr Cox endeavoured to restore animation, but without avail. Meanwhile Mr Westcott, builder, who happened to be driving past, immediately summoned Dr Richardson and Mr Shears, proprietor of the bathing machines in Corbyn's Cove, brought Dr Winwood Smith from Chelston. The two medical men made every effort to produce a sign of life in the deceased, but to no purpose. Close to the scene of the occurrence the clothes of the deceased were found upon the beach. Evidently deceased had been bathing, and being subject to epileptic fits, had doubtless been seized by one whilst in the water, and so had perished. The body was removed to the father's residence to await the Inquest which was held at the Clarence Hotel, on Tuesday morning, before Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner. - MR JOSEPH HENRY KEY, residing at Ellerton, Cleveland-road, Torre, the father of the deceased, said that the last time he saw his son was on Sunday evening, when he appeared to be in his usual health. He had been subject to epileptic fits since he was eleven years of age, and had been forbidden to bathe by himself. He was twenty-six years old. On Monday morning, his mother went into his bedroom and found that he had disappeared. He had taken a towel, had let himself out of the house and had doubtless gone down to the sea to bathe. The next that witness saw of his son was when his body had been recovered from the water. - Mr Charles William Cox, a retired General of the Madras Army, stated that he was out walking on Monday morning, and at about quarter-past seven he had reached the end of Corbyn's Head, when looking over the sea he saw the body of the deceased in the water. He at once hurried down to the bathing cove and told the boatman of what he had seen. He saw some clothes on the beach and a dog close by. When first he discovered the body it was floating at about thirty yards from the shore. He directed the boatman where to look for the corpse, and upon it being brought to land he endeavoured to restore animation, although life was apparently extinct. - William Hatton, who attends to the bathing machines in Corbyn Cove, and who lives at 36 Fore-street, Ellacombe, said that he was upon the beach when Mr Cox told him that a corpse was floating in the sea. He pulled to the spot indicated, and recovering the body, brought it ashore, where he did what he could to restore animation, but without success. When he turned the body over upon the beach, he identified it as that of a young man whom he had known to be a frequenter of the Cove. - Dr Winwood Smith, surgeon, of Chelston, deposed that he was called at about a quarter to eight, to the beach at Corbyn Cove, where he found the body of the deceased. All efforts to restore vitality were unavailing. Assisted by Dr Richardson, he used artificial means for more than half-an-hour to resuscitate deceased. His opinion was that death had ensued before his arrival, drowning being the immediate cause of death. The Coroner having reviewed the case, the opinion of the Jury was that the deceased had Accidentally come by his Death by Drowning.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 August 1889
TORQUAY - Sad Case Of Sudden Death In Torquay. - A singularly painful instance of the uncertainty of human life occurred on Saturday. A blacksmith named GEORGE WEST, 35 years of age, entered Brocken's hairdressing shop in Market-street, at one o'clock, for the purpose of being shaved preparatory to attending his wife's funeral the same afternoon. He had, however, no sooner taken his seat on a chair than he fell forward and expired. Medical aid was summoned, but life was extinct before Dr Cook's locum tenens arrived. P.S. Dodd was soon on the spot and had the body conveyed to the man's home, but a few yards distant, at 24 Lower Union-street, where his wife's corpse awaited burial. A remarkable incident was the fact that but a week previous, to the very day, and almost the very hour BEST'S wife, who was also the same age as himself, dropped down whilst at the wash-tub, in the Sanitary Steam Laundry, and was conveyed home in an exhausted condition. She had not complained to her employers, but her companions noticed her scanty food and wasting condition daily, and the poor woman died on Monday week. She was hard-working and industrious, and trudged often to the Torbay Hospital with some delicacies for her husband, who was till recently under treatment for a bad leg, when she wanted necessaries herself. He was often laid up with his leg complaint, and tried recently to change his occupation. Heart disease or apoplexy is the cause of his sudden death. At the Inquest a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

PAIGNTON - Fatal Accident At Paignton. - AMOS MAUNDER, five years of age, the son of a pork butcher of Paignton, died from the injuries he sustained through falling upon his head when sliding down the handrail of the bridge which crosses the railway at Paignton Station. Dr Alexander said the cause of death was compression of the brain, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly. They also added a rider making a representative to the railway company of the unsafe condition of the bridge while open to boys to slide down the handrail, and urged that some means should be adopted to render this impossible.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 September 1889
LONDON - The London Strike. A Torquay Man Killed In The London Docks. - JAMES CLARE, who had been a gentleman's servant, and belonged to Torquay, was employed at the East India Docks as one of the men taken on in the place of those on strike, and met with his death on Friday last by falling into the hold of the Donald Currie steamer, Dunrobin Castle. An Inquest was held at Poplar Town Hall, on Tuesday evening, when the following evidence was taken:- JOHN CLARE, living at Lota, Torquay, stated that deceased was his son. He was a butler till two months ago. Witness saw his son in Torquay in good health in June. On the 21st August he saw his wife, who told him that her husband had shipped as steward on the Dunrobin Castle and was not expected back till next year. Last Saturday he received a telegram saying that his son was lying dead in Poplar Hospital. - John Lowers, a fireman on board the Dunrobin Castle, stated that deceased was with a stevedore gang occupied in stowing cargo. At about eleven o'clock on Friday night witness was standing near the main hatchway, when deceased came out of the cabin dressed and with bed clothes on his arm. The port-side hatches were off at the time. Deceased stumbled and witness warned him to be careful, deceased replied, "I think so, too." He stumbled again, however, and then fell sideways. Witness thought that his foot must have caught the edge of the hatchway, but was not near enough to see. There was no light over the hatchway, but there was a light in the cabin near. JOHN CLARE, re-examined, said his son had no experience of work aboard ship. He was a butler and had never been on board a gentleman's yacht to his knowledge. - John Nicol said he was second mate in Sir Donald Currie's service, but not attached to the Dunrobin Castle. Hearing there had been an accident he went to Poplar Hospital and found the deceased there unconscious. He died about twenty minutes after twelve. There was a light from a cabin on the vessel where the accident happened. - William Gilders, a constable in the service of the East India Docks, was called to the ship, and found deceased lying in the hold dangerously hurt. He obtained an ambulance and conveyed the man to the Poplar Hospital. There was a light coming from a cabin on the vessel. There was nothing to indicate that the man had been drinking. - Mr John Preston, house surgeon at the Poplar Hospital, said that the deceased was brought in on Friday night, at about 11.30, in a state of coma. He never regained consciousness, and died at about 12.20, death resulting from collapse. He had sustained dreadful injuries. - A Juryman said there ought to have been a proper light over the hatchways, or they should have been closed. These men, who knew nothing about the work, ought not to be brought up to London to labour on ships unless proper precautions were taken. - John Nicol, re-called, said he did not know where the man was engaged. All the men at work slept on board. CLARE had been engaged by Sir Donald Currie, and not by the Dock Company. It was not the rule to close the main hatches after dark. - A Juryman said they ought to know more about the case. Here was a man fresh from the country engaged to load a ship, and there ought to have been a light over the hatchway. There must have been negligence somewhere. - The Coroner said there was no need to make a mystery about it. They all knew there had been a strike, and the Dock Company engaged any men they could get. This man had entered upon what (to him) was a dangerous occupation. Not knowing anything about a ship, he had fallen, and it was clear that was how he came to his death. - JOHN CLARE, answering further questions, said his son had last been employed at Croft Castle, Torquay. - John Nicol, re-called, said it was not customary on Donald Currie's ships to put the hatches on. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider to the effect that the practice of keeping the hatches off when there were inexperienced persons about the ship was very reprehensible. A Juryman remarked that the case was only one of three or four which had occurred lately of men having no experience of ships, perhaps never having been on a vessel in their lives before, being engaged to unload, and being killed by accidents that would never have befallen capable men.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 September 1889
APPLEDORE - Death From Swallowing A Needle. - An Inquest was held on Monday at Appledore, respecting the death of JOHN EDWARDS, who died under singular circumstances. The evidence showed that the deceased was drinking from a glass which was not generally used, when he swallowed a needle. There were two in the glass, but he felt them in his mouth and took one of them out, saying to his wife that he had swallowed the other. He consulted Dr Pratt and did not go to work for some days. On Wednesday last he became worse, and was frequently visited by the doctor, who found him suffering from great pain, from the presence of the needle in his stomach. On Saturday, owing to this cause, he vomited violently, thereby breaking a blood vessel, death ensuing a few minutes afterwards in the presence of the medical man. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The deceased was fifty-one years of age. He leaves a widow and several children.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 September 1889
PLYMPTON - Sad Suicide At Plympton. - The adjourned Inquest upon the body of MR ARTHUR CLOUTTE, who was head master of the Plympton Grammar School, and who put an end to himself upon the Great Western Railway on Tuesday week last, was concluded on Monday. The distressing occurrence had occasioned the greatest interest in the town. Mr C. T. Bewes of the firm of Messrs. Bewes, Hellard and Bewes, Stonehouse, stated that on the morning of his death, MR CLOUTTE had called at the office, and saying that he was very much pressed for money by a creditor, asked witness whether he would advance from £180 to £200. Mr Bewes replied that he could give no definite reply until he had consulted a relative, and promised that an answer should be forwarded by the next day's post. MR CLOUTTE, appealing for an immediate decision, left the solicitor's premises evidently disappointed upon finding his application not complied with. Subsequently he was seen by the station master of Plympton, and by another witness , both of whom considered the deceased to have been a very strange and depressed in his manner; and ultimately he was observed to be walking on the railway line at about a mile from Plympton, by the driver of the 11.47 p.m. train from Newton. This witness said that he blew his whistle, but the deceased took not the slightest notice. A bend in the embankment shut out the view for a moment, and he did not see deceased again until he was struck by the train. He immediately applied the brake, and, with the guard and several others, went back to the spot, where they found the body lying between the metals. After a lengthy conference, the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the unhappy man had destroyed himself whilst Temporarily Insane, and a vote of condolence with the widow and family was passed.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 October 1889
EXETER - At Exeter on Tuesday an Inquest was held on the body of the wife of CAPTAIN DACIE. MRS DACIE, whilst in bed, had a lamp burning on the table by her side; the table capsized, and the lamp fell to the floor, and as she got out to pick it up her dress ignited, and she was severely burnt about the upper portions of her body, death resulting from the shock. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 15 November 1889
TORQUAY - Sad Suicide In Pimlico. Disgraceful Indifference To A Dying Daughter And Sweetheart. - A Coroner's Jury investigated on Tuesday a case which teemed with mystery and painfulness. The death of a girl in a court in Pimlico has brought to light such heartlessness as one would sooner expect to exist anywhere than in our midst. - Last Sunday afternoon a child knocked hastily at the door of Dr Gardner, of 1 Matlock Terrace, bringing a message to the effect that a girl was ill in Myrtle Row. the doctor proceeded to the part of Pimlico indicated, and arriving at No. 3 in the row, was shown into a room where a young woman was lying in bed, in evident pain. It was then at about three o'clock. The patient seemed weak, but displayed no symptoms of disease. There was a rapid action of the heart, however, and at times she was hysterical. Not feeling entirely satisfied with the theory as to the cause of illness, as volunteered to him by those in the house, Dr Gardner enquired of the girl as to whether she had "taken anything," to which she murmured "no;" but in her hysteria said something about her "young man" having frightened her, by threatening to "Jack-the-Ripper" her. The doctor prescribed for the suffering girl, and shortly left. He heard no more of his mysterious case until the following morning, when someone told him the girl was dead. Not having suspected such serious consequences from the symptoms shown, having fancied that pericardial effusions might have been her complaint, judging by what the girl's relatives had said - he at once sought the mother, and questioned her as to her daughter having taken poison. MRS HALL denied all knowledge of such a possibility, and thus the matter remained in obscurity and doubt. The deathless spirit of enquiry, however, hovered over the body of the girl, and never-silent rumour soon began to wag its tongue, until suspicious whispers reached the police. Detective Bond then set to work, with the result that certain revelations pointed to the fact that the young woman had by no means met with a natural death. A post mortem examination and an Inquest were forthwith ordered, and on Tuesday evening last a Coroner's Jury met in the Market Street Police Court to Enquire into the circumstances surrounding the death of ANNIE MARIA HALL, aged nineteen. Mr S. Hacker, the County Coroner, directed the Jury, of whom Mr George Drake was elected Foreman. - The first witness was ELIZABETH HALL, the mother of the deceased. She is a middle aged, short, and stoutish woman, and towards the close of the examination appeared to be considerably overcome at the turn things had taken. She repeatedly expressed her determination to tell the truth, and in consequence her evidence was vague, reluctant and contradictory in various respects. She stated that her daughter had been employed in a laundry. She was first taken ill on the evening of Wednesday week, and died at a quarter-past six on the following (last) Monday morning. At first MRS HALL protested that she could give no account of her daughter's decease, but eventually remembered that she had been subject to bilious attacks, and that when giddy she had been known to fall. This happened on the Wednesday referred to, when she fell down stairs, after which she was put to bed; her mother prescribing a dose of senna. During the next day (Thursday) and until Sunday morning, the young woman was alternately better and unwell; she displayed but little desire for food or drink, and occasionally complained of a pain in the breast. A few liver pills from Mr Davies, of Union Street; a seidlitz powder, and senna-dosing, seem to have been the only medicine given to the girl. On Sunday afternoon, however, the mother was constrained to seek professional assistance. Dr Cooke was sent for, then Dr finch; but neither appearing, Dr Gardner was fetched, and was soon in attendance. On Sunday night the deceased was delirious; expiring at last at the hour previously stated. - MRS HALL was then cross-examined, and it was elicited that on the Monday night previous to the Wednesday referred to as being the first occasion of the girl's illness, an alarming occurrence had transpired to the deceased. MRS HALL had been summoned from the Devon Arms, and hastening home, she found her daughter in a faint, and surrounded by MR HALL, Mrs Heath, Henry Pym, "the young man," and several others. "Whatever have you done, ANNIE," the witness asked; and a bottle of rat poison being discovered, it was made away with amongst the family coal ashes, as was also a glass from which the deceased is supposed to have drunk the phosphorus. Further examination revealed the fact that quarrels had frequently arisen between her sweetheart and the deceased; and that on Wednesday when she fell down stairs he had not taken the trouble to pick the poor girl up. - From the evidence of Mrs Ann Elizabeth Heath, an uninterested, but the most intelligent witness in the case, it seemed that whilst passing through "the court" of Myrtle Row, on the Monday night stated, she was beckoned into No. 3 by Mrs Pym. there she found the deceased lying under a tap in the yard, fainting and evidently poisoned. She was assisted into the kitchen; the girl's father and sweetheart were called out of bed; MRS HALL was fetched from the public house, and the phosphorus which was glistening on the lips of the deceased, was wiped off, no one enquiring as to how it could have got there. The witness admitted having then gone home, and confessed to not making many further enquiries as to the condition of the languishing girl. - WILLIAM HALL, a fisherman, and the father of the deceased, likewise appeared to have little concern in the investigation. He is a short, thick-set man, and leaned against the steps of the witness box, as though it were an effort to stand and throw light upon the sad death of his daughter. His evidence was hesitatory and occasionally contradictory. From it, however, it was learnt that there was "a disturbance" at 3 Myrtle Row, on Monday week; he was awoke from his sleep, and reaching the kitchen he saw his daughter, evidently poisoned, but he "didn't take much notice of the affair, in fact." He took no steps to obtain medical assistance; he saw the poison bottle, and handed it to his wife; but did not think of looking at the label. He had seen "rows" between the deceased and Pym, but had never known blows to accompany them. The doctor was not told of the phosphorus when he called; and, "to tell the truth," the witness "didn't think she had taken the stuff, because she said she hadn't". The girl had been insured in the Prudential Society; but no books were forthcoming to show for what length of time, or for what amount. - Henry Pym, a short young fellow of about 26, was the next to be examined. He was alternately reticent and communicative; at one time evidently saying a great deal less than he could, and at another volunteering a great deal more than he intended. He had lodged with his mother, at MRS HALL'S, until the last few days. He and the deceased had been keeping company for about twelve months. He remembered Monday week. He had than a few words with his mother "about the grub", but none with ANNIE. However, he recollected being aroused at some hour in the night; he ran downstairs; saw his sweetheart prostrate on the floor, and found that she had "taken something" which glistened on her mouth. He picked her up, with the aid of his mother; wiped the phosphorus from the girl's lips "because so many people were coming in," and snatching a bottle from her pocket, or receiving it from her hands - both of which explanations he tendered to the Coroner - he went "straight to bed, as it wasn't anything to do with him." As she gave the bottle to him, she groaned "here it is Harry," but little else. Next morning he reproached her for her rash act. He never persuaded her to take poison, as "in fact he wouldn't know how to poison himself." His theory was that she took the phosphorus because she was "flurried - jealous about other girls, like," and because she had previously threatened to do so. In fact, on the evening (Monday) of the occurrence, his mother had whispered to him in confidence - "Harry, I'll bet you a shilling that she'll take some stuff," and the girl herself had even told him that she would put an end to her life. He denied having struck the deceased, when outside the Devon Arms, about a fortnight before. - Detective Bond deposed that he visited No. 3 Myrtle Row on Monday last, when MRS HALL at first denied the truth of the suspicions that her daughter had poisoned herself, but when cautioned as to what she said, she confessed to finding and destroying both a bottle and a glass which had contained phosphorus. She had thrown them in the ashes. As to Mrs Pym, said Detective Bond, she was half demented over the affair, and refused to attend the Inquest, imagining that a warrant was out for her apprehension, and being quite irreconcilable to any contrary assurances. - Dr Gardner, referring to the post mortem examination, which he had made together with Dr Watson, of the Torbay Hospital, gave it as his conviction that death had been due to phosphorus poisoning; internal haemorrhage of all the organs, with the exception of the brain; acute fatty degeneration of the heart, liver and kidneys, and general inflammation, conclusively pointing to the use of an irritant ingredient. There was no doubt as to the cause of death. The body even smelt of phosphorus after death, notwithstanding that a week had elapsed since the alleged swallowing of the rat poison, and that the girl during her illness had been purged with senna and pills. Half a grain of pure phosphorus was sufficient to destroy life, although a person might linger from one to eight days before expiring. The deceased displayed no signs of pregnancy. - The Coroner then summed up, commenting severely upon the heartlessness of the witnesses, who had not only attempted to conceal the fact that Monday's and not the occurrence of Wednesday week had been the cause of her death, and also upon the offence of not immediately summoning a doctor when it was known that the deceased had taken poison, and that from Monday to Monday they had seen her suffering, and yet had kept secret the true state of affairs, until the ill-fated girl at length died, presumably from a natural cause, but in reality from her act of a week before. In fact, said the Coroner, such inhumanity and wilful negligence were almost tantamount to manslaughter; therefore, the father, mother and the heartless sweetheart should be most severely censured. They had even heard the girl threaten to destroy herself, and yet had not exercised the slightest supervision of her. - The Jury retired, and in a few minutes returned with the verdict that ANNIE HALL had poisoned herself whilst Temporarily Insane; adding a rider to the effect that the three persons just mentioned had been guilty of the grossest indifference and neglect of the condition of the deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 December 1889
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident. - An Inquest was held at the Avenue Inn, Torre, relative to the death of ELLEN MABEL AGGETT, aged nine, and daughter of Dr Richardson's coachman. Deceased fell over some steps leading from the house to the yard in Croft Road about nine weeks ago, sustaining severe internal injuries to which she succumbed on Tuesday morning.

TORQUAY - Sudden Death. - A lady's maid named MARY ANN LANE, aged fifty-seven, died suddenly on Saturday morning. A Coroner's Inquest was held and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 December 1889
TORQUAY - Sad Case Of Drowning In Torquay. - On Monday evening Mr S. Hacker held an enquiry at the Half Moon Hotel into the death of a child named GEORGE WILLIAM SANDERS, 2 years old, the son of SAMUEL JOHN SANDERS, a ship's carpenter living at Pimlico. Mr John Dodge was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and after the body had been viewed, the following evidence was adduced. The first witness called was the father of the deceased, who identified the body as that of his son. He last saw the child alive between twelve and one o'clock on Saturday. When witness left work at four o'clock he went down to the new pier, having left some tools on a yacht there. On returning witness met his eldest son, ALBERT JAMES, and ascertained that the deceased was missing. Witness and his wife searched till one o'clock on Sunday morning, but did not find the child. Early on Sunday morning witness and a man got into a boat and eventually found the body of the deceased just inside the outer arm of the new pier. MRS LOUISA SANDERS, the mother of the deceased, said she sent the deceased and GEORGE out on Saturday to play in the street. She never saw deceased again till he was brought home dead on Sunday. The children had been known to go on the pier, but they had been there without permission. The brother, ALBERT JAMES SANDERS, was then called, and said that he found the deceased against Mr Pratt's, the watchmaker's, alone, and he took him with him to the quay. Mr Nicholls let witness and the deceased and his sister on to the pier. They all came off the pier, and went back to the quay, where they played with some paper. FLORRIE went home, and after a bit the deceased left witness, and he looked all over the place, but could not find his brother. George Doutch, a waterman, said that on Saturday afternoon, he went on to the new pier, and in passing a goods shed, he saw the deceased on a crate containing some waste paper. The crate was about eight feet from the edge of the quay. Witness asked the little boy his name and he said "GEORGIE SANDERS." Witness saw that it was a dangerous place, and so he lifted the child down. The little girl was there and witness told her to take care of the child. Witness went down the pier, being gone about ten minutes. During that time the child must have been drowned. Richard Harley said he was a fisherman, and on Sunday morning he met the father of the deceased, who said he had lost his child. In response to his request he got his boat and grappling irons, and was going to begin when looking across he saw something which attracted his attention, and rowing over he found the body in the elbow of the new pier, the body being almost covered with weeds, the hands and wrists only being above water. He concluded that the child fell overboard at the goods shed when the tide was low. Dr Richardson gave evidence as to examining the body of the child, and the symptoms were those of death by drowning. There were slight bruises on the body, probably caused by coming in contact with the rock. The learned Coroner briefly summed up, and the Jury immediately returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 December 1889
DEVONPORT - Sudden Death Of A Naval Lieutenant. - Yesterday morning LIEUTENANT FRANCIS PETER CAREY, belonging to the Indus, reserve ship at Keyham, was found dead in his cabin. Later in the day Mr Vaughan, Devonport Borough Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances of death. Captain Stewart Falls, R.M.L.I., said deceased was his personal friend. He saw him on Tuesday, when deceased told him that the death of his brother, which took place about three weeks ago, had cut him up very much. The Jury found a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." The deceased was a relative of the officer who accompanied the late Prince Imperial of France in his ill-starred journey to South Africa. LIEUTENANT FRANCIS CAREY was about forty years of age, and a native of Torquay.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 January 1890
EXETER - On Saturday the Exeter Coroner held an Inquest on the body of RHODA ANN EDDLES, aged 17, an apprentice for six months to Miss Goldsworthy, of 2 Sidwell Street, Exeter, who was found dead in bed on Saturday morning by her mistress. The body was identified by the mother, ELIZA JANE EDDLES, of 4 Pettitor Road, St. Marychurch, who said she last saw deceased alive on Monday. Mr Steele Perkins, as the result of an examination of the body, considered that death resulted from syncope. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 24 January 1890
ST MARYCHURCH - The Suicide At St Marychurch. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at the Havelock Arms, St. Marychurch, on the body of THOMAS BREWER, whose death was reported in our last issue. From the evidence of the wife of the deceased it appeared that he had been very depressed of late, but had said or done nothing to make her believe that he was going to commit the rash act. William John Jeffrey, a coachbuilder, said he believed that illness and the loss of his place had driven the deceased out of his mind. John Searle gave evidence as to the finding of the body, and P.S. Richard Osborne, stated that on receiving information of the occurrence, he hastened to the churchyard. Deceased had then been cut down, but the portion of the stout rope (tied with a running noose) was still around his neck. The remainder of the rope was thrice twisted around the substantial bough with a knot at the end to further prevent its slipping. Deceased wore a sleeve waistcoat, but his boots were not laced, and there was no money or anything else upon him. Mr Steele, surgeon, said that some time since, when he knew BREWER, he was a quiet, harmless man, but, understanding that Dr Ramsey had attended to him since, he saw that gentleman, who informed him that he suffered from disease of the brain, had fits, and had had ugly falls, so that he (Dr Ramsay) was not altogether surprised at what had occurred, for the man's disease was likely at any time to assume a suicidal or homicidal tendency. A verdict to the effect that the deceased Committed Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 February 1890
Sudden Death At The Western Hospital. - On Tuesday evening the Coroner for the division (S. Hacker, Esq.) held an Inquest at the Western Hospital on the body of DRUSILLA EGGBEER, 49 years of age, who, up to the time of her death, was employed as cook at the Hospital, and whose painfully sudden death on Sunday morning created quite a sensation at the Hospital. Mr John Elson was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the body having been viewed the following evidence was adduced:- ALFRED WILLIAM EGGBEER, 1 Clifton-road stables, identified the deceased as his mother, who was widow, 409 years of age. Deceased had been employed at the Western Hospital as cook, for six weeks. Last saw her alive six months ago. Deceased suffered from liver complaint, but otherwise enjoyed good health, and had the appearance of being a strong woman. Witness was called to the Hospital on Sunday morning, and found his mother dead. - Annie Bartlett, kitchenmaid at the Western Hospital, said the deceased had been at the Hospital about two months, and since last Wednesday week she had complained of a bad leg, but was able to get about her work. On Sunday morning, witness heard the deceased come downstairs about a quarter to eight. Witness slept in the same room as the deceased, and she slept all right on Saturday night, though she had complained of her leg paining her. On the Sunday morning witness was in the passage outside the kitchen when she heard the deceased fall and on going into the kitchen she saw the deceased had fallen in the corner on the top of the coal box. Witness held her head away from the cupboard and called for assistance. Deceased was quiet till somebody came, when she began to make a noise in her throat. The nurse brought brandy but the deceased refused to take it. She muttered some words which witness could not understand, and died almost immediately after. - Caroline Milton said she was a nurse at the Hospital. She was told on Sunday morning that the deceased was fainting, and witness immediately went to her. She offered her a little water but she said "No," and whilst witness sent for some brandy, deceased said three times "Nurse you know," and put her hand on her left side, as if in pain. Deceased was too far gone, and died immediately afterwards. Deceased had often complained of a swelling in the leg, but did not consider herself bad enough to see a doctor. Witness thought the swelling might have got up to her bowels and so caused death. - Mrs Ann Bass, the matron of the Hospital, said she was called on Sunday morning to see the deceased, but she was then quite dead. She had never complained to witness about herself. On Friday evening she had a little sweet nitre, and the next morning she said she was much better, and declined to see the doctor. - Mr Reginald Pollard said he was a surgeon practising in Torquay. He did not see the deceased till after death, and there were no marks which would suggest that death was caused by anything but natural causes. He thought death was caused by a clot of blood in the inflamed vein being separated and carried up into one of the large arteries, and so blocked one of the pulmonary arteries, thus causing death. If deceased had obtained medical advice she would have been confined to her bed for weeks. - The Matron was recalled and in reply to a question by a Juryman, said she did not hear that the deceased had a bad leg at the time of her engagement. - The Coroner summed up and considered that the medical evidence sufficiently proved what had been the cause of death. He thought it a pity that the woman had not consulted a doctor. A verdict was returned that deceased died from Natural Causes.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 March 1890
DEVONPORT - Suicide Of An Officer. - CAPTAIN MACKENZIE, of the North Staffordshire Regiment, quartered at Devonport, shot himself at the Raglan Barracks on Saturday morning. He had only recently been promoted, and was to have left for Hythe on Saturday for a course of musketry instruction, prior to joining a foreign battalion in South Africa. On Friday night he was entertained at a farewell dinner by his brother officers, and remained in the mess room until after midnight. Not long after, there was a discharge of firearms, and on some of the officers proceeding to CAPTAIN MACKENZIE'S quarters he was found dead, shot through the head. At the Inquest held on Saturday, a verdict of Temporary Insanity was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 April 1890
ST. MARYCHURCH - Suicide Of A Young Man At St. Marychurch. - Mr S. Hacker, the Coroner for the division, held an Inquest at the Town Hall, St. Marychurch on Tuesday evening, on the body of SYDNEY HENRY BROWN, 19, a chemist's assistant at St. Marychurch, who was found dead on Sunday afternoon, with a bottle of prussic acid lying near him. Mr J. Damerell was chosen Foreman of the Jury, which was composed of Messrs. W. Short, A. E. Short, J. H. Pope, H. Pearce, J. Endacott, J. Wood, W. Martin, W. J. Thomas, J. Shapcott, Christopher Pearce, T. B. Summers and C. Willis. - The Jury having viewed the body, the first witness called was MR T. SEARLE BROWN, Bolton Hotel, Brixham, father of the deceased, who identified the body as that of his son. Deceased was 19 in Sept. last, and was assistant to Mr L. W. Bridgman, of St. Marychurch, with whom he had been six months. Last saw the deceased a fortnight ago at home where he spent the day. He was then in good health. They generally had a letter at home every Sunday, except when he was very busy, such being the case on Sunday. Deceased had been studying hard for some time to pass the preliminary examination of the Pharmaceutical Society, the examination being fixed for that day (Tuesday). He had arranged to meet the deceased on Easter Monday and go boating, but received no reply. A question was asked if the deceased was engaged to be married, or had been keeping company with any young lady, and the father replied in the negative. - Mr L. W. Bridgman, chemist of Fore Street, St. Marychurch, said deceased was in his employ, and had been so for nearly six months. He lived in the house. Deceased was not qualified, but was studying for the examination. The last time he saw deceased alive was at 2.30 on Sunday afternoon, when witness told him he could go out, and he replied "Thank you sir." No more notice was taken, as it was thought he had gone upstairs to dress. They did not hear any noise, and witness's wife remarked that she had not heard the deceased go out, but witness said he might have gone out at the back. He was not missed till tea time at five o'clock, and at half-past five witness went to his store, and while he was there, his wife asked him if he had been in the top store. He said "No," and she asked him to go up, and when he got to the top of the stairs, he saw deceased lying on the floor. Deceased was lying on his right side, with his head against the wall and almost straight. Witness took him up, and tried to rouse him, and called his wife. When she came, he told her to send for Dr Steele at once, and the doctor was there in a few minutes. Deceased was quite unconscious, and was dressed just as he was when he left the room early in the afternoon. He had not his hat with him. The bottle containing prussic acid produced was found on the table. The poison was double the usual strength. The stopper was in the bottle, which contained one ounce and about two drachms had been taken. Witness put the cap on the bottle himself. The bottle, and another diluted one, was in a cupboard in an out of the way place, two bottles being kept in use. At dinner time on Sunday, deceased was cheerful, and joined in the conversation. When deceased talked about the examination he always did so in a joking manner, and it did not seem to weigh upon his mind at all. Deceased studied with Mr Terry and the Rev. C. G. Waters. Deceased went to the early service on Sunday morning, and also at the usual morning service. There was nothing to take the deceased to the store on Sunday afternoon, that witness was aware of. Witness's opinion was that he had not felt confident about passing the examination, and that might have weighed on his mind, though he had shown no symptoms of it. His general conduct had been most exemplary. In reply to a question by the father of the deceased, the witness said that he would not have had time to walk across the room before he was dead. - Dr Stott Steel said he was sent for on Sunday afternoon, to go to Mr Bridgman's,. He went to the top store, and there saw the last witness supporting the body of the deceased. That was at a quarter to six. Witness examined the body, and found that death had taken place fully an hour or two previously, the hands being quite cold. There were slight bruises on the forehead, apparently caused by the deceased's fall. They were superficial bruises, and not likely to cause death. The hands were clenched, the face livid, and foam was coming out of his mouth. There was a slight odour of prussic acid in the room, but he could not detect any of the poison in the mouth of the deceased. He subsequently made a post mortem examination, and on opening the stomach, he found all the organs healthy, but the stomach was red and congested. There was a quantity of undigested food in the body, which led him to suppose that death ensued soon after eating. There was a scent of prussic acid in the body, and on making an analysis of portions of the stomach, he found undeniable traces of the poison. The smallest quantity of prussic acid which had destroyed the life of an adult was 20 drops, and in the present case 120 drops had been taken from the bottle. In his opinion the deceased had died from taking prussic acid. Death would be caused from within 2 minutes to 10 minutes of taking the dose, though insensibility might come much sooner. It would be quite possible for deceased to have taken the dose and put the stopper in the bottle afterwards. Sergeant Osborne searched the body of the deceased, and in the pocket he found the piece of paper produced on which was written the words "God be merciful to me a sinner." The paper was handed to the father of the deceased, who identified the writing as that of his son. Sergeant Osborne continued his evidence, and detailed the position of the body. - Mr Henry Terry, Hartop Road, St. Marychurch, said he was a schoolmaster, and had known the deceased from October last, since when he had been giving him lessons in English and arithmetic. From his acquaintance with the deceased, witness said he was not a quick, sharp scholar, but was making rapid strides. Deceased was much depressed about his examination, and was nervous and sensitive. He worked very hard at his studies, and took advantage of the time at his disposal, as he did a considerable amount of work. During the past week his manner had been much the same, though he had expressed himself as being unable to do anything at the examination. Witness thought during the past fortnight the examination had weighed somewhat on his mind. He was also one of those who would feel very acutely on being "plucked." - Mr Bridgman corroborated the statement of the last witness, that the deceased was very nervous. He also worked hard at his books. The Coroner summed up, and said there could be no doubt as to the cause of death, and it was simply a question of how the dose was administered. The Jury retired to consider their verdict, and on returning they gave a verdict that the deceased committed Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 2 May 1890
TORQUAY - Sad Fatality At Torquay. - The Coroner for the Division (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquest at the Torbay Infirmary, on Monday evening, on the body of FREDERICK JAMES HURVID, 10 years old, who succumbed to injuries received by being run over by the Queen's Hotel 'bus, on the Victoria Parade, on Friday evening. Mr William Stedham was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the body having been viewed, the following evidence was adduced:- HENRY HURVID, 31 Ellacombe Church-road, labourer, said the deceased was his son, who was 10 years old last month. Last saw the deceased alive on Friday morning, and deceased was dead before witness could get to the Hospital. The deceased was a little hard of hearing. He had been to school, and had had his tea, and was sent to the Imperial Hotel in the evening. - Mr Arthur Watson, assistant house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said the boy was admitted to the Hospital in a dying state, and expired 15 minutes after admission. They did all they could, but without avail. A post mortem examination was made the next day when it was found that the liver was ruptured, and there was also a rupture of the ninth rib on the left side. The cause of death was rupture of the liver and internal haemorrhage. There were no external bruises with the exception of a slight one on the lower part of the abdomen. The rupture was caused by a heavy body passing over the abdomen. - Thomas McCabe, 15 Park Street, Torquay, 'bus driver at the Queen's Hotel, said on Friday evening he was returning to the Hotel from Sea Lawn about 5.30, and when about half way along the Victoria Parade he met a cart, after which a boy was running. A dog ran out across the road towards the cart and barked. Witness turned his head to look at the dog, and just as his horses' heads got level with the tail of the cart, the boy rushed from behind the cart right under the horses' heads. Witness had no time to pull up, though he did his best to do so. As soon as one of the horses found the boy underneath it made a jump forward. Witness put the brake on and tried to pull the horses up, but could not do so. The near side wheel went over the boy, and witness felt the jar as it passed over the body. The 'bus was going at a slow trot. Witness jumped off as soon as he could pull up, and went back to see what he could do, but the boy had been picked up, and as he saw that he could be of no assistance, he went back to his horses. - The Foreman: do you think the boy ran out to escape from the dog? - Witness: Yes. - In answer to questions put by Jurymen, the witness said he did his best to pull the horses up. He could not say which horse knocked the boy down, but they went very slowly over him. - Samuel Melhuish, 2 Chestnut Cottages, Hele, said he was a fish hawker and was driving his cart along the Victoria Parade on Friday evening, when he met the Queen's Hotel 'bus. Just as he passed the 'bus he heard someone scream, and on looking back he saw two wheels of the 'bus go over the body of the boy. Witness pulled up, and got the boy in his arms, and then drove him to the hospital. There was a little bit of string hanging on the cart, and the boy had hold of it. The 'bus was going at a slow pace - just the regular way they travel, and they didn't travel very fast as a rule. When he was going up to the hospital the boy asked witness to go back and look for his can and money. - By the Jury: The 'bus was stopped as soon as it was possible to do it. When the boy got up, witness thought he was going to run away. The 'bus driver did not treat the matter with indifference, but did all he could to avoid the accident, and to help afterwards. It was probably the fact the second wheel that passed slowly over the boy that caused the injury. On the way to the Hospital, he saw blood coming from the boy's mouth, and knew it was a bad job. - Mr Theodore Brown, boatman, who was standing on the Quay at the time of the accident, saw the horses knock the boy down. Immediately the horse struck the boy, witness called out loud enough to be heard at St. Marychurch, but he didn't know whether the driver had seen the boy before then or not. The 'bus was going about four miles an hour. - A Juryman: Do you think there was time to pull up? - Witness: I thought the driver was rather slow in pulling up, and that the second wheel had no right to have gone over the boy. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said the driver was doing his best to pull up. - The Coroner briefly summed up, and said that the only question for them was as to whether the driver of the 'bus was going in a proper manner, or whether there was negligence in any way. After hearing the evidence he thought they could come to no other conclusion than that the driver did his best to avoid the accident, and that it was not his fault. - The Jury immediately returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and said that there was no blame attributable to anyone.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 May 1890
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident To A Torquay Boy. - The Coroner for the Division ( S. Hacker, Esq.), held an Inquest at the Torbay Infirmary, on Monday evening, on the body of EDMUND THOMAS BAKER, aged nine years, who succumbed to injuries received on Saturday evening, through a builder's trestle falling upon him. - Mr Thomas Taylor was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the body having been viewed, the following evidence was taken. - EDMUND BAKER said he lived at 12 Vale Cottages, Torquay, and was a groom and coachman. He identified the body of the deceased as that of his son. He saw the deceased between five and six o'clock on Saturday at the Infirmary. The deceased was unconscious, and died the same evening. He considered it neglect on the builder's part to leave things about. He went over to the scene of the accident, where deceased had no business to be, although children had free access there. Mr Tripe said it was a piece of waste land adjoining the road. - George Bond, labourer, Upton, said that he saw the boy on top of the trestle, from his garden. The trestle was on the ground in front of the building, and he saw the boy climb up and then fall. There were other children there at the time. The trestle was an ordinary one, about six feet high. There were no men about, as they had left work. Another boy besides the deceased was on the trestle, but he was not hurt. The trestle was "laying down" the hill, and when the boy got as far as the cross-bar, over it went, and the trestle fell on his forehead. Witness picked the boy up, and put him in a cart, and he was taken to the Infirmary. Blood was coming from the mouth and nose, and there was a bruise on his forehead. When witness picked the boy up, he "neither breathed, nor looked, nor nothing." - By the Jury: The trestle did not touch the other boy. - Mr Frank E. Cave, house surgeon at the Infirmary, said the child was admitted at 4.30 on Saturday afternoon, and appeared to have a fracture of the base of the skull. The boy never recovered consciousness, and died at ten o'clock from fracture of the base of the skull. There was a cut over the eyebrow. The force of the blow must have come from the side. The trestle was a very heavy one, and the force on the stone caused another fracture. The head was evidently caught between the earth and the trestle. The skull was cracked across. - P.C. Goddard said he inspected the scene of accident directly afterwards. It was on a piece of building land adjoining the road at the end of Prospect Place, where Mr Pike was going to erect buildings. The trestle weighed about a hundredweight, and was about eight feet high. The ground was on the slope. The trestles were clear of the road altogether. - The Coroner summed up and said the only question was whether the injuries were in any way due or contributed to by any person's omission or neglect. It was very clear that death was caused by the trestle falling on the boy. The children had no business there at all. There was no law to compel a builder to fence round a building plot to keep out the children, but it was the duty of parents to see that their children did not play in such places. The Jury unanimously returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 May 1890
TORQUAY - Inquest On An Infant. - On Tuesday morning the Coroner for the Division (S. Hacker, Esq.), held an Inquest at the Torbay Inn Assembly Room, on the body of FREDERICK BAKER, aged four and a half months, the illegitimate child of ROSINA BAKER, laundress, of 4 Brunswick Terrace, Torre. Mr W. Shopland was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the following evidence was taken:- Mr Frederick Thistle, surgeon, practising in Torquay, said he had attended the child two months ago, and that was the only time he had ever seen it alive. On Saturday morning he was called in about ten o'clock, and found that the child had been dead several hours. He examined the child superficially, but there was nothing unnatural in the external appearance of the body, which was that of a fairly nourished child about the average size. It was fairly clean and appeared well cared for. In the afternoon he made a post mortem examination, and found nothing unnatural in any of the organs of the body with the exception of the head. The brain contained a large excess of fluid, which he believed to have been the immediate cause of the convulsions from which the child had suffered. He believed the cause of death was convulsions, caused by water on the brain, which had probably existed since the birth of the child. No treatment during life would have had any effect on it. - ROSINA BAKER said the deceased was her child, and had been in good health up to Friday night, when about 12 o'clock at night, it had two fits. It had been fed some hours previously with boiled bread and sugar, which was its usual food. The child had boiled bread twice a day, and milk also twice a day. The child made a good supper. She had not insured the child's life. It died about half-an-hour after the first fit. The Foreman thought it was an improper thing to feed the child on boiled food. The Coroner said it was wrong food altogether, but that had not anything to do with the cause of death. - Bessie Lester, who lived in the same house, said she had the child in her arms on Friday afternoon, and it was then quite lively. At 12 o'clock she was called, and when she went down she found the child in a fit, and after another fit the child died on her lap. There was no time to send for the doctor before the child died. - The Coroner summed up, and said there did not appear to be anything in the case to be remarked upon. The Jury returned a verdict that the child died from Natural Causes.

TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of A Child. The Relatives Censured. - The Coroner for the Division (S. Hacker, Esq.), held an Inquest at the Castle Hotel on Tuesday evening, on the body of ALICE MAUD MARY GOODING, the illegitimate child of JANE BLACKBURN, a widow, living in Temperance Place. Mr William Addams was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the body having been viewed, the following evidence was taken:- JANE BLACKBURN, Temperance Place, Torquay, said her maiden name was GOODING, and she was the widow of ALBERT BLACKBURN, who died three or four years ago, and the deceased was her child. The child was 12 months old, and was not insured. The deceased had been living at Topsham up to five weeks ago, when it came to Torquay, and up to that time it had been in charge of witness's mother, MARY ANN GOODING. The child was cutting her teeth when she was brought to Torquay, and she didn't know that the child had been ill up to Saturday. Witness was away at work all day, and whilst she was away her mother had charge of the deceased and witness's two other children. The child was taken ill last Sunday week, and she took it to the chemist, who gave her some medicine, and the deceased seemed a little better, and went on all right till Saturday. Witness came home on Saturday afternoon, and found the child in its grandmother's arms. The child seemed ill, and she went to a neighbour's and also went to five doctors, but they were all out. She saw that the child was seriously ill. The child was living when she came back, but was dead before she returned from going for a doctor. Witness found the money for the child's support herself. - In reply to a Juryman, witness said that the child had been fed on corn-flour during the week preceding its death. It had previously been fed on boiled bread, but had refused to eat it recently. - Mr Thomas Dixon Cook, said he was a surgeon practising in Torquay. About 7.15 on the 17th inst., the mother of the deceased came up to him and said the child had suddenly died. Witness went down and examined the body, which was clean and had died within the hour. There were no marks of violence upon it, but it looked quite a sickly child. On examining the stomach he found it full of wind, distended perfectly tight, like a drum. The right hand was clenched as if it had had a convulsion. The eyes were turned upwards very far back. The child could not live with so much wind, and a convulsion was produced by the wind, which was the cause of indigestion. The child was teething, which would make it go off much easier. His impression was that the feeding had been wrong, and the appearance of the body suggested that the child had not been properly fed. Children did not thrive well on cornflour, and a child at that age ought to have been able to take a small quantity of bread and milk, but it would not do well on any quantity of cornflour. The cause of death was undoubtedly convulsion. He suspected its digestion had been bad for some time, though it might not have shown any symptoms. - MRS MARY ANN GOODING said she lived at Temperance Place with her daughter, and had had charge of the child since its birth. She had fed it on bread, biscuits and milk. It was a weakly child since its birth, and had convulsions more or less ever since its birth. She never told her daughter anything about the convulsions. She had no doctor for the child, but she had been to Mr Ellis, the druggist, at Topsham. The child had been properly cared for by witness, and when it hadn't convulsions it ate heartily. - The Coroner - Why didn't you have medical attendance for the child at Topsham when it was suffering in this way? Supposing the child had died whilst the mother was down here, do you suppose you would have been doing your duty by letting it die without having medical attendance? - Witness - I went to the druggist, and had medicine for the child, and it got better. - The Corner: How is it you didn't send for a doctor when you were told in the morning that the child was dying? - Witness: I had no one to go, and I couldn't go myself. I have no breath to go anywhere. - The Coroner: Did Mrs Maddeford tell you she thought the child was dying? - Witness: She told me I had better send for a doctor when the mother came home. I couldn't go myself. - The Coroner: You knew the child was seriously ill at ten o'clock in the morning? - Witness: I knew it was ill, but I couldn't go. - The Coroner: Had you no neighbour who would go? - Witness: No one but Mrs Maddeford. I know nothing about the neighbours, and am not mixed up with them at all. - The Coroner: Why didn't you ask a neighbour to go and tell her the child was in a dying state? - Witness: The neighbours are a very curious lot. they don't speak as you go in and out. If you say "good morning" they don't answer you. Continuing her evidence, witness said the deceased had convulsions on Saturday about half-past one. She had been feeding the child the same as at Topsham, and it generally kept it down. The child had half a tea cup full about half an hour before it died. It was in the cradle when it had the convulsion. The mother went for Mrs Maddeford, who took the child out of the cradle and held it till it died. They did nothing for the child, and didn't have a doctor, because she was a stranger and didn't know anything about the place. If she had been at home she should have had a doctor. - Mrs Maddeford said the mother came to her and asked her to come and see her baby. She went over and found it in a "convulsh." She took it in her arms, and it died off at once. She had never seen a child die so quick before. It went off without a cry or a groan and never "shivered nor shaked." She saw the child about ten o'clock in the morning, and saw it was dying, and when the mother came home she told her, and she went for a doctor. The child had been weakly. She told the grandmother she had better have a doctor, and as soon as the mother came home, she went for one. The grandmother was asthmatical, and witness could not run after doctors. - The Coroner summed up and said there could be no doubt as to the cause of death, but the question for the Jury to decide was whether the child had received proper attention, and among other things, proper medical attendance. It appeared that the child had had no medical attendance since its birth, and they had heard the reasons given for medical attendance not having been procured. The child had been ill ever since last Saturday week, and early on the morning of the day of its death, the child was noticed to be in a dying state by Mrs Maddeford, who informed the grandmother of the fact. Under those circumstances, it seemed to him, that it was the duty of the grandmother to have immediately provided medical attendance. They had heard her explanation, and it was for them to say whether they were satisfied with it. The Jury could have no other opinion than that the child died from natural causes, namely convulsions; but if they thought it was their duty to say anything about the child not having been provided with medical attendance, they could do so. - After consultation, the Foreman of the Jury said they returned a verdict that the deceased died from Natural Causes, and they considered that the mother and grandmother should e censured for not sending for a doctor, when it was known that the child was so seriously ill. The Coroner severely censured the mother and grandmother, who did not seem at all conscious of the seriousness of the circumstances surrounding the death of the child.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 June 1890
BRIXHAM - Coroners' Delays. - Dr A. Fraser, Deputy County Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Bolton Hotel, Brixham, on Monday, concerning a child, aged two months, of ALBERT ROSE, a fisherman. The child was found dead in bed by its mother's side and Mr A. G. Hayward, surgeon, stated that it died from suffocation. He added that the room in which the father, mother and three children lived was far too small for so many persons, and that not more than two persons ought to live in a room of that size. The Deputy Coroner strongly condemned the practice of mothers sleeping with very young children, and remarked that numerous cases of suffocation arising from this practice came under his notice. Mr Edward Lockyer, a member of the Local Board, complained of the long interval that had elapsed - five days - between the death of the child and the holding of the Inquest. He thought there had been neglect of duty on the part of the Coroner. Dr Fraser explained that he was telegraphed for to Inquire into this particular case, and that the intervention of Sunday had necessarily caused a delay of one day. He assured them that Mr Hacker, the Coroner, was always most anxious that prompt attention should be given to all cases requiring that Inquests should be held. Mr T. S. Brown, Foreman of the Jury, said he felt that there had not been that promptitude which they had a right to expect. Some time ago his son committed suicide at Torquay, and the body was allowed to lie in a cellar on some old bottles, with vermin, perhaps, creeping over it, from the Sunday evening until the following Tuesday evening, and he was not allowed to move it or put it into a coffin. He understood that the Coroner was in the town on the Monday attending the races, but the Inquest was not held until the next evening. Mr J. Dickers, while sympathising with Mr Brown, thought his remarks were out of place, and the Deputy Coroner reminded the Jury that they were now assembled for a specific purpose, and could not properly discuss extraneous matters. He was unable to explain why it was that sanction was withheld, in the case referred to by Mr Brown, to put the body in a coffin, but it sometimes happened that private information came to the knowledge of the Coroner which made it necessary in his opinion, that the body should not be moved. He was sure that Mr Hacker was always most solicitous in the performance of his duties not to wound the feelings of the relatives of deceased persons. The incident was here brought to a close and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

BARNSTAPLE - Strange Suicide Of A Girl. - ALICE MAUD WILLIAMS, a girl of about sixteen, and residing with her parents at Lake, near Barnstaple, was on Monday morning found drowned in a large pond just behind her father's house. It appeared that the deceased, who was apprenticed to the dressmaking at Messrs. Hortop and Peters, Barnstaple, remained in bed longer than usual on the previous morning, and consequently some unpleasantness ensued between herself and her mother. During the afternoon the girl was seen in a field behind the house weeping. She remained at home in the evening, and seemed free from trouble. About twenty minutes to ten MR and MRS WILLIAMS and their son retired to rest, leaving the unfortunate girl downstairs to prepare fuel for the morning's fire. Shortly afterwards she was heard to leave the house, and as she did not return her brother and father searched the garden and neighbouring fields. Her brother, fearing she had gone to the pond immediately made his way thither, and twice ran round the pond calling his sister's name, but he received no reply,. He then procured a light, and again searched in the neighbourhood of the pond. Nothing, however, of the missing girl was discovered. After further endeavours the family retired to rest. At half-past four the brother made another search, and this time observed near the edge of the water, a foot-print corresponding with that of his sister. The police were informed of the matter, a boat and grappling irons were fetched from Barnstaple, and about eleven o'clock the body of the girl was discovered in about twenty feet of water. At the Inquest the father said the girl was late in rising on Sunday morning, and was scolded by her mother. She was also disappointed because her mother did not buy her a pair of new shoes. The girl cried a little, but there was nothing in her manner to indicate that she intended to commit suicide. The girl was quiet and well behaved; it was not true that she had been accustomed to stay out late at night. Other evidence having been given, the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst suffering from Temporary Insanity." The Jury gave their fees to the parents. Rev. C. J. Down, rector of the parish, attended the Inquiry.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 July 1890
TORQUAY - Sudden Death In Torquay. - On Monday afternoon an Inquest was held at the Upton Vale Inn, before Mr S. Hacker, on the body of SAMUEL CORNETT, stable-man, of Ebenezer-cottages. The Coroner asked the Jury to give the evidence particular attention, as there were rumours of the deceased having been engaged in a scuffle prior to death, which took place on Sunday morning. Deceased, it seemed, did run after his son (SAMUEL ERNEST) to drive him off to work, but never got within many yards of him. After that he reclined on the sofa and died from heart disease, that organ, according to medical testimony, being affected. Father and son were on good terms, and it was denied by all the witnesses that there was anything in the rumour. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was immediately returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 August 1890
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident At The Local Board Buildings. - On Tuesday afternoon Mr Sidney Hacker, the Coroner for the Division, held an Inquest at the Police Station on the body of FLORENCE ANNE GILLARD, aged 4 ½ who lived with her grandparents at No. 18 Local Board Buildings, Market Street,. Mr Thomas George Stedham was elected Foreman of the Jury. - MRS STEPHANA DAVIS, said she was the wife of JOSEPH DAVIS, a labourer in the employ of the Torquay Local Board. The deceased was the illegitimate child of her daughter, MARY ANN GILLARD, who was in service at Launceston. On Monday evening witness was in the kitchen when she heard the children sing out that FLORRIE was killed. Witness lived on the fourth storey, and she went out into the passage, and met Mr Vanstone coming up with the child in his arms. Just before the child fell over she was in the kitchen with witness. The child breathed about half an hour after the accident, but was unconscious all the time. The child's arms were broken, and the right side of her head was completely smashed in, and she must have fallen on the scraper, as there was a gash in her arm. Dr Powell came, but the child was dead before his arrival. The child was quite alone on the landing at the time of the accident, the other children being below. - The Coroner: Have you told your daughter of the death of the child? - Witness: No, not yet. - The Coroner: Would it not be better for you to write to her, rather than let her see it for the first time in the newspapers? - Witness: Yes, but I have not had time to write. If she sees it in the newspapers, all well and good. - The Coroner: It would have been kinder for you to have written to her. - Continuing her evidence, the witness said the box on the landing was brought there for firewood, and there were also other boxes on the landing. She expected the child drew the box up to the railing, and stood on it to look down over at the children below. The child was insured in the Royal Liver Society for £1 10s. and witness paid the premium of a penny per week. The child's mother did not contribute anything towards its support. - Mrs Sybilla Beer, wife of William Beer, an employee of the Local Board, said she lived next door to the last witness. On Monday evening she was standing at her door, and saw the child on the box, and she said, "FLORRIE, my dear, come off the box, or else you will fall and hurt yourself." The child partly got off the box, and witness went indoors. A few minutes afterwards she heard people running, and on going outside, met Mr Vanstone coming up with the child in his arms. She thought the child must have pulled the box from under the wall up to the railings, and then leaned out too far. - Mr William Henry Vanstone said he lived at No. 1, Local Board Buildings, which is on the ground flat. On Monday evening he went up to the higher entrance to see that the doors were closed, and had just passed when he heard the scraper fall, and at the same time MRS DAVIS'S little boy cried out "MY FLORRIE." On turning round he saw the child under the scraper. The child must have struck the scraper in her fall, and it turned over on top of her. He assisted in getting the child out, and took her upstairs. The child was unconscious, and was bleeding at the head. He immediately sent for a doctor. He had not noticed the child on the landing before she fell. The child fell thirty-five feet, and the railing was 3ft. 6in. high. - By Mr Hele (a Juryman): I have never known an accident at the buildings before. - By the Coroner: There are no regulations as to occupiers leaving things about the balconies. - In reply to Mr Elliott, another Juryman, witness said that there were a good many children about the buildings, and answering the Foreman, he said he had often seen children trying to climb up the railings, but he had never seen one right on top. - The Coroner summed up, and said there could be no doubt that the child died from injuries sustained by the frightful fall of 35 feet. The only point about the case appeared to be the question as to whether this place was dangerous to the general public or not. The railing round the balconies appeared to him to be of a reasonable and safe height, but it was for the Jury to say whether an accident would have been caused had not the boxes and other articles been left about. It was no use making a recommendation that the fence should be heightened just because a child fell over it, because if the fence had been a foot higher, the child could have fallen over just as easily. If the child had fallen over without climbing on the box, it would have been a different matter. It was a careless thing to leave boxes about on the balconies, as they could not prevent the children going there, and they would climb about, wherever they might be. It would be for the Jury to make any recommendation they thought proper as to persons in charge of flats, or occupiers leaving boxes and other articles about the balconies. - Mr Elliott asked whether they should make a recommendation to the Local Board, or to the occupiers themselves. - Mr Vanstone, in reply to the Coroner, said the tenants would have to comply with any rule or regulation the Local Board might make. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider to the effect that the Local Board should be recommended to take some steps to prevent things being left about on the balconies, so that there might be no danger in the future of similar accidents occurring. - The Coroner said he would forward the recommendation of the Jury to the Local Board, and the Enquiry terminated.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 September 1890
PAIGNTON - Serious Accident At Paignton. Two Men Killed. - On Tuesday morning a sad accident occurred at Paignton, whereby two men in the employ of the Paignton Local Board, named RICHARD EMMETT, 63, and WILLIAM PARNELL, 43, lost their lives. It appears that EMMETT and PARNELL were scavenging with a horse and cart, and they turned into Mill Lane, intending to stop at the first dust heap. A cart laden with stone was coming down the lane at the same time, the road being of sufficient width for both vehicles to pass. Whilst the men, however, were in the act of descending from their cart the horse bolted, and ran towards the stone-laden cart, colliding with it, and causing the death of both men. EMMETT had his legs dangling below the shafts, on which his hands and body were resting whilst he was in the act of alighting, and the poor fellow being pinned between the wheels of the two conveyances was crushed to death. The other man, PARNELL, was just above him, and stooping by the horse's back preparatory to jumping on to the ground. In this perilous position he could neither jump off nor get back into the cart, and in the collision he was fearfully knocked about. His collar bone and several ribs were broken, and the projecting rail of the stone-laden cart entered his neck to a depth of two or three inches. He was not killed outright, as was his companion, EMMETT, but he bled profusely, and received such a severe shock and injuries that he died within an hour. Drs. Alexander and Mudge were soon on the scene, but could do nothing. PARNELL leaves a widow and eight children. - The Inquest. - The Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of the unfortunate men was held at the Town Hall in the evening by Mr Coroner Hacker. Mr J. M. Langler was elected Foreman of the Jury. - SUSAN EMMETT, of No. 3 Mill Cottages, identified the body of RICHARD EMMETT as that of her father. He was 62 years of age, and was a labourer in the employ of the Local Board. She last saw him alive early in the morning, and about eight o'clock she heard that there had been an accident. She ran to the door just in time to see a horse and cart pass the house at a rapid pace. There was no one in the cart, and she subsequently heard that the horse was killed, and her father injured. - Mudge Austin, ostler, of Paignton, stated that about eight o'clock that morning he was proceeding down Mill-lane leading a horse with a load of stone. He saw EMMETT and PARNELL come in from the other end of the lane in charge of a dust cart. PARNELL was driving and EMMETT was sitting on the other side of the cart. Some distance down they stopped to take up some dust. Both men were in the act of dismounting when the animal attached to their cart bolted without any apparent cause and came against the shaft of his (witness's) cart. Both men were thrown from the shafts with great violence, PARNELL striking against the rail of witness's cart, and EMMETT against the wheel. The horse and cart went on at a terrific pace, and he did not see anything more of it. Witness immediately went to the men and found that EMMETT was dead and PARNELL seriously injured. - ROBERT PARNELL, labourer, of Goodrington, identified the body lying at No. 2 Mill Cottages as that of his brother, WILLIAM PARNELL. He was 48 years of age, and was employed by the Local Board. - John Densham, carpenter, of Polsham Road, stated that he saw the cart proceeding down the lane at a walk. It stopped some little distance down, and both men were in the act of getting off when the horse suddenly bolted. One of EMMETT'S legs got inside the shaft and the other was out, and as he could not clear himself he hung on to the breeching, whilst PARNELL was thrown along the rail. The horse went away at the rate of ten or twelve miles an hour, and when it came into collision with the stone cart PARNELL was struck by the rail across the throat and knocked off, and EMMETT came into contact with the wheel. EMMETT was dead when picked up, and PARNELL, who was still alive, was taken to the Local Board buildings and medical assistance sent for. - Richard Free, labourer, and Thomas Mitchell gave similar evidence. - Dr Alexander stated that he was called to Mill Cottages about 8.15 a.m. On reaching there he found that EMMETT was dead. On examining PARNELL he found that his case was hopeless. He appeared to have received a tremendous blow on the upper part of the chest, the lungs were bruised and the upper ribs fractured, and there was a frightful wound on the neck. He died in about an hour. EMMETT bore no external marks of injury, but he thought death was due to shock. - Mr W. J. Wyatt, surveyor to the Local Board, stated that the horse was purchased in February last and was worked regularly. He had never heard any complaint about the animal. - The Coroner said whilst the case was an extremely sad one, there were no circumstances in connection with it which attached blame to any one. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and gave their fees to the fund being raised for the widows and orphans of the deceased.
[Details of meeting later held by the Local Board to discuss relief of the families of the deceased].

TORQUAY - Death From Lock Jaw At Torquay. - On Wednesday morning, the Coroner for the division (S. Hacker, Esq.), held an Inquest at the Torbay Infirmary, relative to the death of JAMES TUCKER, who died in that institution early on Tuesday morning from lock-jaw, the result of an accident sustained when riding a tricycle, about a fortnight before. Mr C. Bentley was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the body having been viewed, the following evidence was taken. - WILLIAM TUCKER, Queen Street, Torquay, plasterer, said he was brother to the deceased, who lived at Cockington, and was a stonemason. He was 39 years old. Last saw his brother alive at the Hospital on Monday evening, and he was quite conscious then. He said "Bless that old tricycle, BILL; this is what it has done." The accident occurred on August 28th. - Henry Belworthy, 1 Ellacombe Terrace, said he went to the deceased on Thursday week last, and asked him to go to Kerswell with him, with a stone. He said he would, and they got a trolley, with a man and a boy, and went, deceased coming behind on his tricycle. On the return journey, when between Kerswell and the Half-way House, deceased went on in front, and was turning round to see if they were following, when his machine turned completely over, and pitched him into the hedge. The deceased was a bit shaken, and his thumb was cut. At the Half Way House they got some liniment and bandaged his thumb, and deceased then rode home on the trolley. On arriving at the Dispensary the witness tried to persuade the deceased to go in, and have his hand seen to, but he said he would go home, and he afterwards had it attended to by a chemist. Witness saw the deceased the following morning, and he said his thumb was very bad, and he had had no rest all night. Witness advised the deceased to go and see Dr Gardner, and he did so. On Saturday morning deceased was crying, and said the doctor had ordered him to the Hospital. - The Coroner: What upset him, do you think? - Witness: He said "the old thing does not act." The tricycle was out of order. - Mr T. Shopland, one of the Jury, asked whether the deceased had wounded his hand in any other way since the accident. - The witness replied that the deceased had not complained to him about it. - P.C. Pratt stated that it had been rumoured that deceased struck his hand with a hammer, but on enquiries being made he had been unable to ascertain that such was the case. - Dr Gardner said he saw the deceased on the day following the accident, and on examining his thumb, he found it was swollen and inflamed. There were two small wounds on it, and the skin looked as if it was split. He directed him to foment the wound with hot water and to poultice it. He did not complain of any other injury. A week afterwards deceased came again, and his thumb was then in much the same state. he told him to go on with the hot water and poultice, and to come up the next day. On the following day the doctor noticed symptoms of lock-jaw, and deceased complained of pain in his jaw and back. The doctor told him that he thought he would not be likely to get better at home, but that he might do so at the hospital. He wrote to Dr Cave and the deceased went to the Hospital the same day. He had no doubt that death was caused by lock-jaw, the result of the primary injury. - In reply to a Juror, Dr Gardner said there was nothing at all to account for the lockjaw. Some people were subject to it, and others were not. Lock-jaw could be caused without a wound. - Dr Cave, house surgeon at the Hospital, said the deceased was admitted on Saturday evening, and was immediately put to bed. He had all the symptoms of lock-jaw. He could speak through his teeth, and was perfectly sensible. The symptoms increased on Sunday and Monday and early on Tuesday morning he died of suffocation in a spasm. The nurse was with him for the whole 48 hours and never left him. - In reply to the Foreman, Dr Cave said he agreed with the opinion expressed by Dr Gardner, that the lock-jaw was the result of the injury to the thumb. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 September 1890
TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of An Infant. - Mr Sidney Hacker, the Coroner for the Division, held an Inquest at the Police Court on Tuesday morning on the body of ERNEST WALTER PYM, aged nine months, the infant child of ROBERT PYM, a fisherman, residing at Stentiford's Hill. Mr R. Trelease was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner said that the Inquiry was held because the child, the circumstances attending whose death they were to investigate, died in a very sudden and unusual manner, and it would be for the Jury after hearing the evidence to say whether it was due to accident or any other cause, or was simply a case of sudden death. - ROBERT PYM, the father of the deceased child, said in answer to the Coroner, that its birth had been duly registered, and that it was not insured. It had not suffered from any illness since it was born. The deceased slept in the same bed as himself and his wife, and was quite well on their going to bed on Saturday night. On Sunday morning his wife called to him and said the child was gone, and asked him to go and call some one. He could not account for the child's death. They had eight children all living and healthy. - EMMA PYM, the mother, said she nursed the child, and that it was healthy. There was nothing the matter with the child, and she went to sleep with it upon her arm. She awoke about five o'clock in the morning, and gave it the breast. She dropped off to sleep again, and waking about half-past seven, found the child was dead. She said to her husband, "Oh BOB, the baby is gone." It was not covered with the clothes. She had no idea what caused its death. - Dr Richardson stated that he examined the body of the deceased child and found that it was well nourished. There were no external marks of violence. The right side of the face was somewhat discoloured, probably from pressure. From what he observed he should say that the child probably died from suffocation. - In answer to the Coroner, Dr Richardson said that the death was probably caused by being over-lain, adding that any little pressure in a child of that age might cause death. The Coroner having directed the attention of the Jury to the evidence which had been given, they returned a verdict of "Accidentally Suffocated."

PLYMOUTH - An ordinary seaman named WILLIAM JAMES WILLIAMS was scraping the mast of H.M.S. Lapwing, lying in Keyham Yard, when he slipped and fell, dislocating his neck. An Inquest was held in the evening and a verdict of "Accidental Death" returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 October 1890
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Accident At Football. - An accident, having a fatal termination, occurred on Saturday afternoon, in the football field, at Beaconfield, near Plymouth. During half-time, EDWARD DOIDGE, one of the players, a plasterer's apprentice, seventeen years of age, sat on the ball, and another player, named Hockin, tried to take it from him. While stooping low, with his head near the ground, trying to get a good grip of the other man's legs, with a view to throwing him over, DOIDGE slipped and fell, his head being doubled in under his chest and Hockin fell upon him. DOIDGE was picked up paralysed, and taken in a cab to his home, and almost immediately afterwards conveyed to the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital. Although paralysed, and in a perfectly hopeless condition, he was conscious almost to the last, and was able to converse with Mr Nash, the house surgeon, and to narrate to him how the accident had occurred. Death took place at 7.45 the following morning. At the Inquest Mr Nash stated that he had examined deceased's spine and found that the fourth vertebrae of the neck was dislocated, and he therefore considered that death was due to asphyxia. The Jury returned a verdict according to the medical testimony, and exonerated Hocking from all blame.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 24 October 1890
TORQUAY - Suicide Of A Visitor. - Considerable sensation was caused in Torquay on Sunday morning when it became known that a man had been found in a garden at the rear of Upton Church Schools with his head nearly severed from his body, an open razor, covered with blood, which was lying near, pointing almost conclusively to the fact that it was a case of suicide. The body was afterwards identified as that of MR GEORGE HENRY HEBBES, a corn merchant, of Burnham, Berkshire. The unfortunate man only came to Torquay with his uncle, MR GEORGE HEBBES, on Saturday evening, being ordered here by his medical adviser, in the hope that cheerful and beautiful surroundings would remove the depression and state of melancholy, which had been more or less continuous since the painfully sudden death of his wife, who was found dead by his side about two months ago. The deceased and his uncle had taken rooms at No. 9 Cary Parade, and about half-past eight on Saturday evening, they went for a stroll round the town, deceased eventually getting away from his uncle whilst the latter was making some purchases in Mr Lewis's shop. An all night search ensued, and the police were informed of the matter, but nothing more was seen of the unfortunate man, till he was found dead on Sunday morning by P.C. Hockridge. The deceased leaves five children, who have thus become orphans in the short space of two months. - The Deputy Coroner for the Division (Dr Fraser) held an Inquest at the Torbay Infirmary, on Monday morning. Mr W. C. Bubb was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the body having been viewed, the following evidence was adduced. - P.C. Hockridge said that on Sunday morning, about 6.50 a.m. he was going from Lymington-road to Higher Union-street, and on coming through Upton Valley, he saw a man lying down in Mr Phillips's nursery, on his back. He went over the bank and saw that the man's throat was cut, and he was dead and stiff. There was no blood running from the wound. Witness called at the hospital, and fetched the stretcher, and conveyed the body to the hospital. The left hand was clenched, and the right partly open. About four feet away from the body, the razor produced, was found covered with blood. There was no mark of struggling or violence about. A piece of paper was found on the body, it appearing to be some kind of account, and two half sovereigns, and sixpence in coppers. A flask and pipe and matches were also found on him. On the way to the Hospital, the uncle of the deceased came up behind, and the constable then found that the deceased was the man who had been missed the previous night. - MR GEORGE HEBBES, an independent gentleman, living at Oxford, said that on Saturday he came down from Maidenhead with the deceased who was his nephew, arriving at Torquay soon after five o'clock. He obtained lodgings at No. 9 Cary Parade. The deceased had been ill for about two months, and lost his wife on August 23rd., who was found dead by his side, and since then he had been in a depressed state. Witness saw the deceased on Tuesday last. He was then in a very low state, and said he thought he should drop down dead. He was very nervous. He was fairly cheerful on the journey down, and smoked several pipes of tobacco. Witness did not know that he had a razor in his possession. He had been ordered away for his health by his medical man, who recommended Torquay, and said that he should have cheerful society. After tea on Saturday witness suggested that they should go for a walk and look round the place, and deceased went with witness. They walked to the top of Union Street, and listened to the Salvation Army. Deceased was a Churchman. Suddenly deceased said, "I want to find a corner," and went into an opening. Witness went to look for him, and presently he came towards him some distance down the garden. They then walked towards their lodgings, and when they came to Mr Lewis's shop, witness went in to get some cheese, and asked deceased to go in also, but he refused and said, "You know what to get." Witness was in the shop about five minutes, and when he came out deceased was gone. He walked up and down the streets several times and went back to the garden to see if he was there, but he could not find him. He also went to the lodgings but he was not there. Witness spoke to a policeman, and afterwards went towards the railway station, but could not find him, and he walked about till one o'clock in the morning, when he returned to his lodgings and sat up there. Just before seven on the Sunday morning, witness and the landlord went out to look for him again. As they were going towards the nursery where he was found, they saw deceased being carried to the hospital. Deceased had previously complained of suffering from fearful pains in his head from temple to temple and he said he did not think he should ever get any better. - By the Foreman: He was found in the same field as he went in on the Saturday night, but in another place. Continuing his evidence, witness said that just before he got to Torquay, deceased asked him to take care of his money, and gave him two £5 notes and £9 in gold, and said he would keep a sovereign. - The Deputy Coroner, in summing up, said the case was a very simple one, and there was no doubt as to how the deceased came by his death. The only question for the Jury to decide was as to the state of his mind at the time of the committal of the rash act. The evidence of the uncle and the fact that the deceased had been ordered to Torquay on account of his depressed and melancholy condition, went to prove that his mind was not normal. He had complained of severe pains in the head, and was taciturn and quiet on the journey down. it was curious that the deceased should have gone previously to the place, as it looked as if he had been seeking for a suitable spot to commit the act. The Jury, after a brief deliberation, returned a verdict that the deceased committed Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 31 October 1890
TORQUAY - Inquest. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest this morning at the Queen's Hotel, on the body of JEREMIAH SALTER, 64, a carter, who was found lying in Market Street on Tuesday, and who died on Wednesday. Evidence was given by HANNAH SALTER, niece, Sergt. Bright, P.C. Coles, and Dr Pollard, the latter stating death was caused by a rupture of a blood vessel in the head, caused by paralysis. A verdict was returned to that effect by the Jury, of which Mr T. Westley was the Foreman.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 December 1890
TORQUAY - Death From Burning At Torquay. Inquest This Morning. - Yesterday a little girl named SALLY MARTIN, the four year old daughter of a fisherman, living at 24 Melville Street, Torquay, succumbed to injuries received from burning. Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquest at the Hospital this morning, and from the evidence it seemed that the elder sister of the deceased went out of the house to empty the kettle, and when she returned the child was in a blaze, apparently having set fire to herself with a newspaper. A man named Charles Hutchings promptly wrapped the child in his apron, subduing the flames, and the sufferer was taken to the hospital, where it died yesterday from the effects of the burns. Dr Cave having given evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 2 January 1891
TORQUAY - Shocking Death Of A Recluse. Isolated For Twenty Years. - Mr S. Hacker (Coroner), held an Inquest at the Castle Hotel, Torquay, on Monday evening on the body of ELIZABETH WHARRAM, who was found dead at her home, Fern Villas, St Luke's Road, on Saturday, Mr Charles Buswell was the Foreman of the Jury. - JOHN ANTHONY BALSAM, 3 Portland Place, identified the body as that of his sister-in-law. Deceased had lived at the Ferns, which was witness's property, for more than thirty years; he allowed her to live there rent free. She was a maiden lady, and had lived alone since the death of her mother more than twenty years ago, being supported by a relative in London, who allowed her £5 a quarter. He had not seen her for more than four years. She would see no one, and had not been out of the house for many years. When he last went to see her, she peeped through a window and would not come to the door to him. There was very little furniture in the house except what was in the attic, where the body was now lying, and the house had been in the same state for twenty years. Her food was always taken to the house. He had several times asked her to come and live with him, but she declined to do so. On Saturday, Mrs Perkins, who lived in the next house to the one occupied by the deceased, told him that the shutters of the house had not been opened for several days, and she was afraid there was something the matter. Witness then got two men, and with their assistance broke open the door. In the attic they found deceased lying across the bed dead, and only partially dressed. There was plenty of food in the house. A doctor was immediately sent for. Witness had not searched the house, as he thought he ought to leave that to deceased's brother, who lived away from Torquay. He noticed half-a-crown and several coppers in the attic. He had no reason to suppose that she had met with her death otherwise than from natural causes. Judging by the appearance of her hands he thought she must have suffered from rheumatism. She was from 63 to 69 years of age. - Edward Cornhill, Rosery Cottages, said he was in the employ of Mrs Smale, baker, Union-street, and was in the habit of calling at the deceased's house. He usually knocked at the door, and placed the bread on a shelf inside a window which she opened. He last called at the house last Tuesday, when the deceased, after remarking that the weather was cold, took the bread, and told him to bring more on the following Saturday. When he went there on Saturday he got no reply, and, upon calling later, he found that the house had been forced. - Ellen Taylor, St. Michael's Terrace, said she had known the deceased many years, and was in the habit of going to the house every Saturday to get her anything she wanted, but she had never been in the house; deceased always spoke through the window. Last Saturday week witness's boy went to the house, and deceased then told him she was not well. She went herself last Saturday and finding that the shutters had not been opened she informed Mr Balsam. - Arthur Southcott, in the employ of Mr Balsam, deposed to going with his master to deceased's house and finding her lying across the bed. - Mr P. Q. Karkeek deposed to being fetched to the house, and finding deceased lying on the bed stark naked with the exception of a night dress gathered round her neck. The bedding was in a dirty condition. With Dr Stabb he made a post mortem examination of the body. There was no marks of violence. The body was fairly nourished, but very dirty. The hands were drawn up by rheumatic affection of old standing. There was no evidence of her having taken poison. He concluded that deceased died about 36 hours previous to his seeing her. In the heart he found blood clots, which had evidently been formed during life. His impression was that while in bed deceased must have felt a sense of distress from these clots, and that she threw the clothes off and tried to get out of bed, but that it was too much for her. She must have lain exposed in a fainting condition, and he came to the conclusion that she died from cold, consequent upon clot formation in the heart. The house was horribly dirty, not having been cleaned for a long time - ages ago. The sheets and blankets were of the dirtiest and foulest description; in fact, everything in the place was dirty. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 January 1891
TORQUAY - Mothers Beware. - On Monday morning the Coroner for the division, S. Hacker, Esq., held an Inquest on the body of the three days old child of JOHN RICE, a labourer living in Temperance Street. From the evidence it appeared that the mother had not suckled the child, but had fed it with biscuits, and Dr Cave, the house surgeon at the Hospital, who made a post mortem examination of the body, strongly condemned the practice of some parents, who habitually gave biscuits and similar food to infants. The immediate cause of death was convulsions, and the Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 January 1891
TORQUAY - Singular Fatality To A Child At Torre. - Yesterday morning, Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at the Rising Sun, Torre, on the body of ETHEL MAUD LAVERS. Mr F. Lucas was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the following evidence was adduced:- THOMAS LAVERS, carriage proprietor, 1 Lime Tree Cottages, Torre, identified the body of the deceased as that of his daughter, ETHEL MAUD LAVERS, who was a year and ten months old. The child died on Tuesday evening at six o'clock. The child's life was not insured. Witness said he was in the house about one o'clock on the same day, when he heard the child crying, and asked his wife what it was about, and she said the child had fallen from the chair. There didn't seem to be anything the matter with the child, and it was quite well when he saw it earlier in the morning. The child had a good dinner, but when witness came back at five o'clock it was in agonies of pain, and seemed to be in a fit, dying about an hour afterwards. A doctor had seen the child before that. The child had not been a healthy one all through. - MRS ELIZA LAVERS, the mother of the deceased, said the child was sitting in the kitchen on a little chair, and she afterwards put the little chair on a big one, and put the chair up to the table. She went to take up the dinner, and as she turned away, the child fell, but she could not tell how. She picked her up, and she seemed all right. The reason she placed the small chair on the large one was because the child could not block the table with it. The large chair was plenty wide enough. The child must have fallen out of the chair sideways, and the little chair was still on the large chair. Deceased could not walk as she had always been weak. It was a stone floor on which the child fell. Just after two o'clock, witness gave the child a piece of chocolate, and she thought the child made a queer noise in its throat when it bit the chocolate. MRS LAVERS, the husband's mother was there, and they saw that there was something the matter with the child, and its eyes were fixed, and she went for Dr Thistle, who ordered a hot bath. The child died about six o'clock. - By the Foreman - The little chair was not fastened to the big one. - Dr Thistle said he saw deceased about three o'clock on Tuesday afternoon, and he at once saw that it was convulsed on the left side of the body, the right side not being affected at all. He was told of the fall, but on examination he could find no external injury. His impression was that there must have been some injury to the brain from the nature of the convulsions; the immediate cause of death was convulsions, the primary cause being the injuries to the head. A fall such as described would be sufficient to cause convulsions. The Coroner briefly summed up and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - Death From A Fall. A Boxing Night Fatality. - On Friday evening, the Coroner for the Division (S. Hacker, Esq.), held an Inquest at the Torbay Hospital, on the body of WILLIAM GILL, 53, a cab-driver, who died in that Institution on Thursday from injuries sustained through falling from his cab, on Boxing Night. Mr H. Bellworthy was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the body having been viewed, the following evidence was taken: - MARY ANN GILL, living at 4 Ellacombe Terrace, identified the body of the deceased as that of her husband. She saw him at half-past seven on the morning of Boxing Day, and he was then quite well and strong. She did not see him again till the following Sunday, when she saw him in the Hospital. He was then quite conscious, and called her by name several times. Deceased said he did not know anything about the accident, or how it happened. - Martin Medland, 28 Lower Wellesley road, a cab driver, said that GILL was on the Wellswood Stand on the evening of Boxing Day, and he was also there, walking up and down to keep warm. There were about a dozen cabs on the stand, and witness's cab was just in front of GILL'S. He saw GILL just about to get on the box of his cab and witness then turned to walk back again when he heard the horse's feet move and, something went bump on the ground. He immediately turned round and saw GILL lying in the road. The horse attached to GILL'S cab was half off the stand, and the off wheel of his carriage had struck the near wheel of witness's carriage. Witness stopped GILL'S horse, and called to some of the men who came up at once. He did not hear GILL strike the horse, but possibly the horse thought it was time to go to the stables, as the horses generally knew when it was getting near seven o'clock which was the time they usually went off the stand. There was no "larking" going on, neither was there anything to frighten the horse. The men picked GILL up and carried him into the shelter. GILL would not have had time to get properly on to the box before he fell. Deceased had been on the stand since half-past four, and witness did not think he had been having more drink than usual; he was quite fit to do his work. - John Hodges, 15 Wellswood Place, cab proprietor, said the deceased was in his employ at the time of the accident. He was in the shelter when GILL fell, and he ran to pick him up. GILL was lying on his back. He heard the horse move, and the fall immediately followed. He never heard anything like it; it was a very severe bump. GILL was unconscious, and witness went for Dr Boreham. Deceased was taken to the Hospital at once. Deceased had been driving the horse for a long while. He seemed to have pitched fair on his head and the sudden jerk of the collision must have thrown him off. Witness thought GILL must have got up without taking the reins. The whip was in the socket. He had been speaking to GILL in the afternoon, and thought he had been drinking, but he was not the worse for liquor. Had he been so witness would have ordered him off the stand. GILL was different than he usually was owing to drink. - Dr Cave, house surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased was brought in about half-past six on Boxing night. He was quite unconscious. He had no wounds on the head, but there was haemorrhage from the ear and nose, and showed all the symptoms of having sustained a fracture of the skull. There were no marks to show where he had fallen, but witness presumed he had fallen on his head. His hat saved the scalp from being wounded. Deceased was unconscious for 36 hours and partially conscious for 24 hours more, gradually regaining consciousness from 48 to 72 hours. He did not give any account as to how the accident happened. He never picked up from beginning to end, and gradually and quietly sunk, dying on Thursday night. Witness made a post mortem examination and found a small fracture across the base of the skull, but that was not sufficient to kill him. There was an extensive laceration of the brain under the frontal bone which caused death, and deceased must have suffered excruciating pain then. The Corner briefly summed up, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

EXETER - MR GILBERT, an Exeter tradesman, early on Saturday morning committed suicide whilst drunk, and at the Inquest his widow stated that he drank about a quart of brandy a day.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 February 1891
TORQUAY - A Fatal Fall Downstairs. - Mr Sidney Hacker (Coroner) held an Inquest at the Torbay Hospital on Saturday evening on the body of JANE MARTIN, 78 years of age, of 3 Arab Row, Stentiford's Hill, the wife of JOHN MARTIN, a stone cutter. Mr Miriam was Foreman of the Jury. - Susan Milford, of 4 Queen Street, identified the body as that of her mother. At four o'clock on the afternoon of Saturday, the 17th ult., she was fetched to her mother's room. She there saw her mother sitting in a chair with her leg broken. She was immediately brought to the hospital in a cab. - Dr F. E. Cave, house surgeon, said that the deceased was brought to the institute, both bones of her right leg were broken, and she also had a fractured rib and a scalp wound. She had already lost a good deal of blood, and it was sometime before witness could stop the bleeding. She also had bronchitis, and never picked up from the beginning. He knew from the first that it would prove a fatal case, owing to the woman's age and to the fact that she would have to keep her bed. She died at a quarter to nine on Friday night. Before her death deceased told him she fell down stairs. Death was due to congestion of both lungs, consequent upon the injuries. - Mary Jane Vinney, who lived in rooms at the same house as deceased, said that on the afternoon of the 17th inst., deceased passed her room door to fetch a bucket of water. While deceased was coming up the stairs again, witness heard a bucket fall, and upon going to the top of the stairs witness saw deceased lying on her back at the foot of the stairs, with one of her legs under her. There was nothing on the stairs to cause her to fall. Witness got deceased up stairs into her room, and sent for further help. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 February 1891
TORQUAY - A Mother Loses Her First-Born. Caution to Mothers And Jurors. - On Wednesday morning an Inquest was held at the Hesketh Arms, by Dr Fraser, the Deputy Coroner for the Division, on the body of GEORGE FRANCIS MUDGE, aged ten weeks, the son of JOHN RUSSELL MUDGE, coachman, living at 5 Park Hill Cottages, which was found dead in bed y the side of its father and mother. The time fixed for the Inquest was one o'clock, but at seven minutes past that hour, Messrs. Pridham and J. Dramm were not present. The Deputy Coroner commented on the inconvenience caused by the late arrival of Jurors, and said that he had power to fine defaulters in this respect 40s. He had only done so on one previous occasion, and it had had a very salutary effect on the neighbourhood. It was a peculiar coincidence that both the Jurors who were late were watchmakers, and the Coroner remarked that they, above all others, should be punctual. Mr Pridham directly afterwards arrived and apologised for being late. Mr Kramm's name was called three times outside the Court, and as he did not answer, another Juror was sworn in his stead. Mr Kramm arrived just as the ceremony of swearing was concluded, and the Coroner told him to wait till the Inquest was over, when he would speak to him. - JOHN RUSSELL MUDGE, the father of the deceased, identified the body as that of his son, aged 10 weeks. The child had had the thrush, but had otherwise been in good health. The child slept in the same bed as witness and his wife, and lay on the outside on the mother's side. On Sunday evening they went to bed about ten o'clock. The child was a little hoarse in its throat on Sunday night. Shortly after one o'clock his wife woke witness up and asked him to light the lamp, which he did. He heard the baby crying, and the mother nursed it, and he went to sleep. About 20 past seven witness woke again; and as he was getting out of bed, his wife said "Look at the baby," and he said the baby was all right, but his wife said "Look how black it is under the eyes." Witness looked at it, and seeing it looked queer, he felt it saying, "There's something wrong, its either dead, or dying." His wife got out of bed in a very frightened state, and witness dressed and went for MRS MUDGE, a relative, and also for the doctor, when he got back MRS MUDGE was in the house, and she said the baby was dead. Witness then went to his work at No. 1, Hesketh Mews. The child had never had any convulsions. - EVA LUCY MUDGE, wife of the last witness, corroborated the evidence of her husband as to the child's health. She gave the child a little biscuit, and also a little boiled bread. The deceased was her first child, and she had never had any experience of children. She gave the child bread and biscuit, because she didn't think the milk satisfied the child. Her friends advised her to give the child the bread and biscuit. The child used to be sick before it had the bread and biscuit, but not since. The baby seemed much better after she took it to the doctor, up till Sunday, when it was a little hoarse, and she kept it wrapped up all day. On Sunday night she went to sleep with the child on her arm, and at three o'clock she saw that the baby was very quiet. It was tucked in so that it would roll towards her and not out of the bed. She fell into a sound sleep and woke at seven, when she called her husband's attention to the baby, and she thought it was dying because it felt so cold and had black rings under its eyes. The face was turned towards her. Witness was frightened and waited downstairs till MRS MUDGE came, and she then said it was dead. - Dr George Young Eales said that he attended the child some weeks ago, and it was suffering from indigestion, and also a good deal of constipation. He prescribed for it, and the child became better. On Monday morning he was called to the house, and he found the child lying on the left side in bed, the forearms of the child were semi-flexed, and the hands strongly clenched, with the thumbs bent in. There were no marks of violence on the body. The body was marked on the left side, the lips were blue, and there were marks under the eyes. He thought the immediate cause of death was convulsions. - In reply to Jurors, the witness said the body was well nourished. The convulsions might have been caused by indigestion, probably brought on by the biscuit. He never advised that bread and biscuit should be given to children, but it was remarkable how some children thrived on it. - The Deputy Coroner summed up, and the Jury returned a verdict that deceased died a Natural Death, the Foreman remarking that the father and mother had given the child every possible care and attention. - Mr Pridham, one of the Jury, drew attention to the fact that a large number of children had died from being mistakenly fed on biscuits.

PAIGNTON - Strange Suicide At Paignton. - MR FREDERICK SAUNDERS, who for the past twelve months had been lodging at the Temperance Hotel, Torbay-terrace, Paignton, was on Tuesday morning found to have taken his life under rather extraordinary circumstances. Deceased, who was seventy-four years of age, was somewhat short of stature, rather lame, and walked by the aid of a couple of sticks. He went to bed at eight o'clock on Monday evening, and during the night nothing occurred to excite suspicion. At nine o'clock on Tuesday morning, Mrs Pope, the landlady, took his breakfast up to the bedroom, but found more difficulty than usual in opening the door. However, she succeeded in doing this, and then, on looking for the cause of the obstruction, was horrified to find her lodger suspended by the neck to the door. Deceased had hanged himself by means of his silk handkerchief. Mr Goodridge, surgeon, who was called in, declared life to have been extinct for some hours. At the Inquest which was held before Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, on Wednesday, the REV. F. G. SAUNDERS, curate of St. Saviour's, Brixton, London, nephew of the deceased, stated that his uncle was an artist and had lived for some years in America, afterwards in London, and he came to Paignton about two years ago. He was a great sufferer from a chronic disease, and had fits of depression. Dr Collins said deceased consulted him last October, and he was suffering from a painful internal complaint which caused great nervous depression. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 April 1891
TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of An Infant. - On Monday morning, Mr Sidney Hacker, the Coroner for the District, held an Inquest on the body of WILLIAM ARTHUR HENRY NORMAN, the son of FREDERIC WILLIAM NORMAN, hairdresser, of 23 Cavern Road. Mr W. Kerswill was Foreman of the Jury. - FREDERIC WILLIAM NORMAN sated that deceased was 3 ½ months old and had been in perfect health from his birth. He was quite well at a quarter to ten o'clock on Friday night, when his wife took the child to bed with them. At ten minutes to five the following morning his wife awoke him and said she thought the baby was dead. He got up and went for Dr Stabb, who came at once, and on his arrival pronounced the child dead. - Mr William Wilking Stabb stated that when he saw the child it had been dead not less than an hour, and probably not more than two hours. He had made a post mortem examination. Deceased was a remarkably well nourished child, and the organs were all healthy. There was a slight internal rupture which had probably been caused by a fit of coughing or crying, that had caused convulsions from which the child died. The Coroner having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that Death was due to Natural Causes.

NEWTON ABBOT - Shocking Accident At Newton. A Man And Woman Killed. - On Monday evening, when Newton Abbot Railway Station was crowded with persons returning from Torquay Races, a man-of-war's man and a young woman by whom he was accompanied, and both of whom had come from Plymouth for a day's excursion, were killed by falling between the carriages of a moving train, and being run over. The first portion of the Zulu had been dispatched to Plymouth, and the remaining two coaches were standing on the rails waiting for an engine and additional coaches to be taken on to Torquay. Most of those on the platform being excursionists were not allowed to travel by the Zulu, but had to wait for the excursion train. When the coaches to complete the Torquay train were being backed into the station, a false cry was raised by the excited crowd of "Here's the Plymouth train," and immediately a rush was made for seats on that side of the platform. A sailor, named BULLEN, belonging to H.M.S. Defiance, torpedo schoolship, near Saltash, who was in company with a woman named MARGARET ASH, residing at 20 Rendle-street, Plymouth, attempted to seize the handle of a door of a carriage before it stopped. The crush, however, was so great that he was twisted away from his hold of the handle and fell on to the line. The woman holding on to BULLEN fell with him on to the rails, and both were run over by the advancing carriages. The stationmaster (Mr H. Maggs) who was busily engaged in attending to the requirements of the extra traffic, immediately ordered the driver to remain still, and summoning assistance, the two unfortunate excursionists were extricated from underneath the train and taken out at the side away from the crowd on the platform. By Mr Maggs' orders BULLEN and ASH were conveyed to an adjacent room. BULLEN, however, had been killed instantaneously, and ASH was found to have sustained terrible injuries. Dr Danvers was immediately summoned, and the dying woman was taken to the Newton Hospital in a dying state, expiring a few minutes after admission. Dr Edgar Haydon, who was quickly in attendance at the Hospital, found that ASH had received comminuted compound fractures of both legs. Her left foot was hanging from her ankle, and her right leg was crushed up to the thigh, and her right shoulder and breast crushed also. - An Inquest was held on Tuesday by Mr Coroner Hacker. Mr C. E. Compton, divisional superintendent, watched the proceedings on behalf of the Great Western Railway Company. The body of BULLEN was identified by his sister, ELIZABETH BULLEN, of No. 1, Crescent-terrace, Torquay. She said her brother was twenty-one years of age, and the last she saw of him was at Torquay at 6.30 the previous evening, when he left for Newton by train. During the afternoon he had been in company with MARGARET ASH. He was sober when he left Torquay, and was accompanied by one of his messmates. - Frederick Drew, able seaman on board H.M.S. Defiance, said he knew both the deceased persons. MARGARET ASH was twenty years of age, and did not live with her parents, who resided outside Plymouth. They came up from Torquay together by the 7.24 train the previous evening, and were standing on the Newton platform waiting for the Plymouth train to start, when he saw the female deceased fall off the platform, and he called the attention of the guard to the occurrence. - The witness was closely questioned as to the exact circumstances of the occurrence, but could give no further information, and the Coroner said he was afraid he remembered very little about it. - John Murrin, platform inspector, stated that the three o'clock train from Paddington, on arriving at Newton was divided, a portion going on to Plymouth, and the remainder being backed to make up the 7.51 train to Kingswear. He was informed that someone had fallen under the train, and on a search being made the bodies of the deceased persons were discovered beneath the last carriage but one. The bodies were placed upon the ambulance and taken to the porters' room. When the empty carriages were backed, the passengers made a rush to get in, and although there were ten or a dozen station officials on duty they were unable to keep them back. Police Sergeant Tucker expressed the opinion that the deceased persons must have fallen between the moving and the stationary coaches, and that four wheels passed over them. The station officials, including Mr Maggs, the stationmaster, were doing their best to keep the people back. Witness assisted in getting the bodies out. BULLEN was quite dead, but the female was alive and conscious and kept saying "Lord, have mercy on my soul." - Inspector Murrin, recalled, said the platform at the time contained the passengers of several trains from Torquay. - Dr Danvers said he was called to the station, and saw the bodies in the porters' room. The man was perfectly dead, but the woman was living and he ordered her removal to the Cottage Hospital, where Drs. Haydon and Nisbet also attended her, but she died half an hour after being admitted. After describing the injuries, which were of a horrible nature, Dr Danvers said in his opinion the position of the waiting-room in the centre of the platform and just at the foot of the stairs was dangerous in view of a congestion of passenger traffic, as people coming over the footway had no space to spread out, the platform on either side of the waiting-room being no more than seven or nine feet in width. - Attention was also called by a Juryman to the bad lighting of the station near the foot of the stairs, opposite where the accident occurred. The Coroner briefly summed up, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," expressing the opinion that no blame whatever attached to the station officials. They wished, however, to call the attention of the company to the remarks made by Dr Danvers and thought it would be advisable to remove the refreshment rooms from the centre of the platform, to give more accommodation to passenger traffic, and that more light was needed at the foot of the stairs. - Mr Compton said he had been in charge of this section of the Great Western Railway for 25 years, and this was the first occurrence of the kind they had had. He promised to place the representations of the Jury before the general manager of the company.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 April 1891
TORQUAY - Suicide Through Religious Mania At Torquay. A Woman Throws Herself Over Daddy Hole Cliff. - Mr Sydney Hacker, the Coroner for the Division, held an Inquest at the Torbay Hospital, on Monday afternoon, on the body of SUSAN PERROW, aged 47, who was found lying on the rocks below Daddy Hole, on Sunday morning, and who succumbed to her injuries at the Hospital the same day. Mr William Fowler was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was CHARLOTTE PERROW, the sister of the deceased, who stated that she lived at 9 Prince's Road West, Ellacombe, but had been living at Hesketh Road, since January 3rd as a caretaker. She identified the deceased as her sister, whose full name was SUSANNA MARY JANE PERROW, a single woman. Deceased lived with witness and kept herself by going out as a waitress, cook or caretaker, and by doing needlework. Her sister had been suffering from pains in the head, and she had not been able to go out to her usual work since November. She repeatedly complained of pains in her head, and had had medical advice. On Sunday morning deceased got up and left witness asleep in bed. On Saturday she had gone about the house doing light work, and her sister-in-law, ANNIE PERROW, had also been there assisting to clean the house. On Saturday the deceased seemed very depressed, and it was all on religion. She had been rather queer for the past month, though it was not enough to alarm them. They went to bed about twelve on Saturday, and deceased seemed as though she dreaded the family coming home, as they had arranged to stay on as servants until their own got suited to the work, and deceased did not think that she was fit for it. Deceased said "ANNIE has often advised me to go out for a walk, I will try it, and see if it will do me good." Witness awoke at 20 minutes to 9 on Sunday morning, and that was the first she knew that deceased was not there. The deceased had got up at 20 minutes to six that morning and had opened the windows, but when she found it was so early, she went back to bed again. Witness went down stairs and called all over the house for deceased, but getting no answer, she went into the garden, and not finding her there she went to her brother, who advised her to go to the Police station and give particulars, which she did. On the Saturday night the deceased had said that she wanted to go to Totnes to see her aunt. Her brother went down to the beach, and when witness returned from the Police Station she followed, and she met her brother, who said deceased had been found. Witness afterwards saw her sister at the Hospital, and she was able to recognise her. In reply to further questions by the Coroner and Jurymen, witness said that deceased once told her that she would never take her own life, and that she would not have that sin to answer for. At that time they were talking about people who had taken their own life. The deceased had strange fits come on her at times, and she would talk about religion. She was a good living woman, but lately it seemed as if she thought her salvation was not sure, and the thought seemed to depress her a great deal. On the Saturday night she said she was too great a sinner for God to pardon her. About 25 years ago, deceased was queer in the head, and was deranged through family trouble. When she went out on Sunday morning, the deceased was dressed in her usual afternoon dress, and had her bonnet on and everything. - ANNIE PERROW, sister-in-law of the deceased, said she had not heard deceased threaten to take her life. She sometimes talked in a very strange way, and on Saturday she said she never would be saved, and that the Almighty would never forgive her. - Richard Pym, Pimlico, a fisherman, said that on Sunday morning about half past eight, he was rowing along the shore, and on looking ashore he saw something on a rock, and on getting nearer he saw an arm lifted up. Witness could not land there, and he pulled in round the corner, went up Daddy Hole hill, and told the coastguard that there was a woman over the cliff. They found the deceased on a flat rock, under the highest part of Daddy Hole. Several of the coastguards went down and helped to get her up. She was then alive, and moaning in pain. There was a handkerchief about half way up the cliff, hanging to a bush. - Thomas Lobb, coastguard commissioned boatman, stationed at Daddy Hole, said he proceeded to the spot indicated by Pym, and discovered the body of the woman. Her glove was found on top of the cliff outside the railing just above where she was found. Deceased must have got through the railing but there was nothing beside the glove to show where she got through. Deceased was quite conscious when witness found her, and gave him her name when he asked for it, but she made no reply when he asked her how she came there. She was lying on a flat rock on her back, with her feet to seaward, and the scalp was turned back over her head. The cliff was about 270 feet high at that spot. - Mr Arthur Watson, house surgeon at the Hospital, said the deceased was admitted about ten o'clock on Sunday morning in a semi-unconscious condition, suffering from extensive lacerated wounds of the scalp, concussion of the brain, and other injuries. She was attended to, and rallied a little after admission, but towards evening she became worse and died soon after eleven. The left ankle was dislocated and there were a great many contusions on the legs, and a severe wound on the inner side of the elbow. Deceased died from shock to the system, resulting from concussion of the brain. There was no fracture of the skull, the scalp being turned completely back. witness thought deceased must have fallen in a slanting direction, from the appearance of the head. - PHILIP HENRY PERROW, brother of deceased, said that the deceased was sometimes a little queer, but she had never threatened or attempted to take her life. She was a little bit out of her mind about 25 years ago, but that was caused by her confirmation and the clergyman pressing her to receive the sacrament. Sergeant Bond, in reply to a question, said no one could fall over the cliff at Daddy Hole without wilfully getting over the fence. The Coroner summed up and pointed out the improbability of the occurrence being the result of an accident. The evidence went to show that deceased had been unsound in her mind for some time. The Jury consulted in private for some time, and eventually returned a verdict that deceased committed Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 June 1891
TORQUAY - Death of LADY CAROLINE HUNTLEY. - LADY CAROLINE HUNTLEY, of Heathcourt, Barton Road, died on Thursday last at the advanced age of eighty after a few weeks illness, but as her illness was preceded by a fall her medical attendant declined to certify as to the cause of death, and an Inquest was held on Saturday evening by Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, the Foreman of the Jury being Mr Thomas Taylor. - The Coroner said he understood that a few weeks before her death she had the misfortune to fall over a footstool and strain her side, and in consequence of this accident it became necessary to summon a Coroner's Jury. It would be their duty to take evidence, whether or not the accident referred to had contributed in any way to her death. - Miss Clara Maria Drury was the first witness and she deposed that the deceased was the widow of SIR HENRY HUNTLEY, Knt. She was witness's sister and they lived at Heathcourt with their brother. She died on Thursday, June 11th, having been taken ill on Sunday, the 24th May, when she fell over a footstool in the drawing room. Previous to the latter date, she had enjoyed very good health. She was occasionally troubled with pains in her head, but these were not very severe. On the 24th of May they had an early dinner, after which witness went upstairs and LADY CAROLINE went into the drawing room. When she came downstairs, some considerable time afterwards, she found her lying on the floor of the drawing room, and she said she had had a bad accident. The words she used were, "Come, Clara, come in; I have had a dreadful accident, and I cannot move. I was going to the table and fell over a stool. I could not get to the bell to ring for the servants, and I screamed several times but could make no one hear." Dr Powell, who was her regular attendant was sent for, and looked after her during the whole of her illness. She was confined to her bed five days, after which she spent part of each day in a chair. She complained of suffering great pain in her left side - the side on which she fell. She was able to take a little nourishment but not much. She attributed no blame to anyone for the accident because no one was in the room at the time. On the day of the accident she had been in very good health, and had attended church in the morning. - Susan Short, parlourmaid at Heathcourt, stated that on the Sunday on which the accident occurred she waited at the dinner table, and LADY CAROLINE appeared to be in her usual good health. In the afternoon witness was called to the drawing room by Miss Clara Drury, and assisted LADY CAROLINE to the sofa. Witness attended LADY CAROLINE up to the time of her death, but she had made no other statement with regard to the accident than that she fell over a footstool. - Mary Ann Searle, nurse, also gave evidence. - Dr William Powell said he had been attending LADY CAROLINE HUNTLEY a long time previous to the accident, but as she generally enjoyed good health he had not been called in for over a year. He was sent for on the 24th of May, and found LADY CAROLINE lying on a sofa in the drawing room. She was suffering from an injury to the left leg, the limb being a good deal bruised. Otherwise, excepting the shock from the accident, she was unhurt. She appeared to be going on very favourably until the day of her death, which occurred very suddenly. The cause of death in his opinion, was the show degeneration of the substance of the heart, and the sudden failing of the heart's action. - The Coroner: Do you think she was a sufferer from heart disease? - Dr Powell: There were no distinct signs of such a disease, but people sometimes suffer from it without showing any signs. The fall on May 24th no doubt shook her a little, but it is difficult to say whether it hastened her end or not. It is really doubtful whether the injury she received from the fall had anything to do with her death. The heart was not injured by the fall, and I am of opinion that she got over the accident before the final collapse. - The Coroner, in summing up the evidence, observed that as the deceased lady had been in comparatively good health previous to the accident on May 24th, and as she died shortly afterwards, it became necessary to consider whether she came to her death in consequence of the accident, or from natural causes. He had to point out that, in the case of the law, a person who died after an occurrence which in any way contributed to his or her death, or hastened the death, however little, died in consequence of that occurrence, in that case it would be an accidental death. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Torquay. The Inquest. - Mr S. Hacker (District Coroner) held an Inquest at the Torbay Hospital on Wednesday evening on the body of JOSEPH CHAVE, 76, carpenter of Madrepore Cottages. Mr J. C. Watson was Foreman of the Jury. - WILLIAM HENRY CHAVE, carpenter, of 10 Warberry Vale Cottages, Ellacombe, identified the body as that of his father. Deceased had not worked for some years, but had been maintained by his three sons. He last saw his father alive at five o'clock on Monday evening in the workshops of Mr Watson, builder, of Union Street. Last week deceased was "laid up" several days with rheumatic, and on Monday he complained that he was not very well and that he was very weak. Deceased had not had an illness for forty years with the exception of an occasional attack of rheumatism. - William John Hicks, engineer, Exeter Villa, said at about seven o'clock on Tuesday evening, he was walking down Market-street, when he was overtaken by deceased, who was walking in the middle of the road. When deceased had walked a short distance he fell backwards, and his head struck the ground. Witness ran to him, lifted him up and loosened his collar, and deceased breathed heavily twice, and died. - Mr Arthur Watson, house surgeon at the hospital, said deceased was admitted at 7.15 on Tuesday night and when witness saw him immediately afterwards, he was quite dead. Witness had that day made a post mortem examination, and found that deceased had severe valvular heart disease and pericarditis. The heart disease was of long standing, but the pericarditis was only of two or three days standing. Death was due to heart disease and sudden failure of the heart's action. Deceased had a slight scalp wound, but there was no fracture of the skull. He must have felt very ill for some days, and ought to have been under medical care. The body was very well nourished indeed, and there were no appearances of want. - Harriet Perry of Madrepore Cottages, said deceased had lodged with her for five months. A fortnight ago he complained that his foot was bad, and last week complained of pain in the head, and said he would get some pills, but did not do so. Deceased had not been in want of anything. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

DARTMOUTH - Suicide Of A Chemist's Wife At Dartmouth. - At Dartmouth on Monday, Mr P. R. Hockin, Deputy Coroner, investigated the circumstances attending the death of ELIZABETH HANNAH HADFIELD, wife of MR H. M. HADFIELD, chemist, of Dartmouth. Deceased, who was 28 years of age, was subject to fits of excitement and on Saturday had been in a great rage without any apparent cause. Between three and four o'clock in the afternoon Mrs Sarah Davey and a shop-boy saw her drink something from a glass in a room behind the shop. Neither, however, acquainted MR HADFIELD with the fact, as he was upstairs at the time. At about half-past four he, hearing vomiting sounds proceeding from a closet, went there and found his wife unconscious. He went down and asked the boy if she had taken anything. The boy pointed to a large bottle of chloroform, out of which, he said, she had poured something and drank. Dr Davson was sent for, and used every means to revive MRS HADFIELD, but she died in about two hours. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 June 1891
TORQUAY - Death Of A Cab Proprietor At Wellswood. - The inhabitants of Wellswood were startled early yesterday morning when it became known that MR WALTER H. GRIST, a well known and deservedly respected cab proprietor, residing at No. 20, Wellswood Place, had been suddenly cut off in the prime of life. The late MR GRIST was connected with the well known family of that name, relatives of his living at Torquay, Babbacombe and Chelston. The deceased had been suffering for a great number of years from heart disease, but nevertheless his painfully sudden death caused a shock to the inhabitants of Wellswood. It would appear that the residence of the deceased was liable to become flooded when there was any very heavy rain, and the hard downpour of Wednesday night, caused a flood, and it was whilst attending to this during the early hours of Thursday morning, that he dropped dead. - The Inquest was held by Mr Sydney Hacker, the Coroner for the Division, at Holy Trinity Schools last evening, Mr R. Smerdon being chosen Foreman of the Jury. The following evidence was adduced:- MR ALFRED E. GRIST, cab proprietor, said he was a brother of the deceased, who was 39 years of age. Witness last saw the deceased alive between six and seven on Wednesday evening, when he drove off the Wellswood cab stand, and he then appeared to be in his usual health. Witness had heard that his brother had something wrong with his heart, and he had seen him in a fainting fit. About half-past three yesterday morning witness was called, and when he got to the house he found that his brother was dead, and he thought the deceased came to his death by natural causes. - MRS SARAH GRIST, widow of the deceased, gave her evidence in an extremely hysterical state, and was evidently suffering from deep emotion. She had supper with her husband at ten o'clock on Wednesday night. They went to bed at a quarter to eleven. At three o'clock in the morning the rain came on, and he said he would go down and pull the sinks up to let the rain water run off. Witness went down with him and helped to get the water out. Deceased was in the yard dipping the water up for about a quarter of an hour. He asked witness to go back to bed, and as he said to her "I will bring you up a cup of tea," he dropped down. Witness raised him up and called for Mr Davey, but deceased never spoke or made a sign. When he was in the room he breathed once or twice and then died. He did not live three minutes from the time he fell. He had always suffered from heart disease, and he was told 12 months ago that he would never be better. He had never been laid up, but was kept from excitement and he used to have fainting fits almost without provocation. Nothing had happened recently to make him worse, and the only thing he had complained of was headache. He appeared to be in extra good spirits on Wednesday evening. - Sydney Froude, 18 Wellswood-place, said he was in his yard about three o'clock in the morning, when he heard MRS GRIST call for help, and on going in, he found the deceased lying in his wife's arms. Witness's mother went for the doctor, and Mr Patch and witness helped to carry the deceased into the sitting-room. MR GRIST was dead when witness got there,. - Dr Boreham said he was called yesterday morning between three and half-past to see the deceased, and he went at once. He was quite dead. There were no signs of violence on the body, and witness formed the opinion that he had died from heart disease, as all the symptoms of it were apparent. It was quite consistent with death from heart disease that deceased felt well right up to the time of death. It was brought on by exertion and undue excitement. - The Coroner summed up, and the Jury immediately returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased died from Natural Causes. The greatest sympathy was expressed for the relatives of the deceased in their sad bereavement. The flat at the Wellswood stand was floating at half mast throughout the day as a mark of respect for the memory of the deceased, who was always much respected by those who knew him.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 July 1891
DARTMOUTH - Fatal Accident To A Torquay Architect. - A very sad accident, which terminated fatally on Monday evening, befell MR REGINALD COLEBROOK READE, M.A., Diocesan architect of Torquay, on Sunday afternoon. MR READE and Mr Robinson, went to Dartmouth for a walk, and in Compass Cove, about four miles distant from that borough, they had a bathe. They had considerable difficulty in getting down from the cliff to the shore. There was some conversation as to whether they could not find an easier way to get up, but Mr Robinson - and he thought MR READE also - saw the danger of trying any other way up the cliff on account of its slipperiness and steepness. Mr Robinson finished bathing first, and ascended the cliff by the way they came, leaving MR READE below. MR READE had made some mention of making a sketch, and Mr Robinson therefore waited for some time with no anxiety, thinking he was sketching. After a couple of hours had elapsed, he called out, and receiving no reply descended the cliff again, and there found his friend lying on the rocks in a terribly bruised condition. He was unconscious, but moaned piteously. Seeing the impossibility of moving MR READE unaided, Mr Robinson went to a neighbouring farm, and after some unavoidable delay a boat was brought round to the cove and MR READE was conveyed with all despatch to Dartmouth Cottage Hospital, where Dr Soper had everything in readiness for the reception of the patient. An examination showed that MR READE'S right leg was broken, and that he had several very severe wounds on the head. There was from the first small hope of recovery, but the unfortunate gentleman lingered on in an unconscious condition until shortly after five o'clock on Tuesday afternoon, when he expired. It is the opinion of Mr Robinson that his friend attempted to get up the cliff at a part where there was no undergrowth, but where the cliff was very steep and dangerous. He evidently fell back on to the beach. From an examination of MR READE'S sketch book it was seen that he had made no sketch, and had probably, therefore, been lying on the rocks an hour and a half before Mr Robinson found him. Deceased, who had resided at Torquay for several years, was a man of much culture, and had high artistic abilities. On several occasions he lectured before the members of the Torquay Natural History Society, the Upton Church Mutual Improvement and other societies. He held the appointment of surveyor of ecclesiastical dilapidations in the Diocese of Exeter for the Archdeaconry of Totnes. He was the author of "A Mexican Mystery," a book which rapidly passed through several editions and also of the "Wreck of a World." He was an active member of the Torquay Chess Club, instituted last autumn at Iredale's Reading Rooms, and he played in the matches against the Paignton Club. He was the secretary and a trustee of St. John's National School in Braddon Street. - On Tuesday, Mr R. Prideaux, Borough coroner of Dartmouth, held an Inquest at the Cottage Hospital. - The REV. R. READE, St Mary's Vicarage, Harrington-square, London, brother of the deceased, gave the latter's age as thirty-seven. - Mr C. Robinson, C.E., of Richmond Lodge, Torquay, deposed that on Sunday about 3 p.m., he went to Willow Cove, on the coast about three miles from Dartmouth, in company with the deceased. They had to climb down the cliffs to get to the cove, and while witness went out bathing, deceased tried to get around into Coombe Cove. He found the deceased lying on a rock, having evidently fallen on the way up. Witness put deceased in a safe position and then went to Little Dartmouth Farm, from which place a man was despatched for a doctor, while Miss Borrowman, and two men returned to the cove with Mr Robinson. Miss Borrowman was most assiduous in her attention to the sufferer, who was quite unconscious, and who mumbled incoherently. A boat arrived from Dartmouth in about an hour and took the deceased to the Cottage Hospital. - Dr R. W. Soper said he immediately went and examined the deceased at the Cottage Hospital, and found that he had sustained a compound fracture of the right leg; there was haemorrhage from the right eye, and there were also several scalp wounds, one of which at the back of the head was four inches long. In reply to a Juryman, the doctor said the wounds were not at all likely to have been caused by a blow, but by a fall. - A verdict to the effect that deceased died from the effects of an Accidental Fall over the Cliffs was returned. The REV. R. READE expressed his deepest gratitude to Miss Borrowman for her kind assistance to his brother, and the Coroner also added a few words of thanks, remarking that the manner in which Miss Borrowman had acted was most praiseworthy. Miss Borrowman said she did not require any thanks for merely doing what she considered to be her duty. The funeral will take place today (Friday), the first part of the service being read at St. Barnabas Church, Dartmouth, at 1.15 p.m., and the interment will take place at Dittisham Church at 3.15 p.m.

ST. MARYCHURCH - Sudden Death At Babbacombe. - Mr Sydney Hacker held an Inquest at the Globe Inn, Babbacombe, on Wednesday morning, on the body of THOMAS FAWN, who was recently appointed caretaker of the Babbacombe Downs by the St. Marychurch Local Board, and who died very suddenly on Monday night. Mr J. Nutt was Foreman of the Jury, and the following evidence was taken. - MARY FAWN, No. 7 Fore-street, Babbacombe, said the deceased was her husband, THOMAS FAWN, who was 40 years of age, and was a general labourer and caretaker of the Babbacombe Downs, in the employ of the St. Marychurch Local Board. Deceased had the influenza last year, but since then he had been in ordinary health, and witness was not aware that he was suffering from any disease. He was on the Downs on Sunday, but complained of the state of his bowels; he, however, ate and slept well on Sunday. Deceased went to work about half-past six on Monday morning, and witness took his breakfast out on the Hill, about half-past nine. Deceased made a good dinner and tea on Monday, and went to bed about half-past ten, without having any supper, and he then appeared to be all right. He was asleep when witness went to bed, but he was breathing then. Witness got into bed, and after being there some time she heard the deceased breathing heavily, and asked him if he was bad, but he made no answer. Witness went round to the side of the bed, and saw that he was nearly gone, and as she lifted his head, he drew one breath, and then died. Witness called her daughter-in-law, Mrs Mabin, who came in at once. Witness could not account for the sudden death, and she had no reason to suspect that his death was anything but a natural one. He had never complained of shortness of breath, but he used to have a lump in his chest when he was working hard. - Mr J. H. Pope, a member of the St. Marychurch Local Board, said that on Monday night he was on Babbacombe Down about 9 o'clock, and spoke to the deceased who was looking after the Downs. He appeared to be in his usual health and in very good spirits, and talked on general topics about ten minutes. - Mr Thomas Finch, surgeon, said he was called to the deceased's house a little after 12 on Monday night. He went at once and found the deceased dead in bed. Witness made a post mortem examination, and found there were no signs of death from anything else but natural causes. The organs were generally healthy with the exception of the heart which was extensively diseased, the disease being of long standing. Deceased died of fatty degeneration of the heart. The Coroner summed up and the Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 24 July 1891
TORQUAY - Death In A Travelling Show. - As was briefly reported in our Special Edition of Saturday, an Inquest was held at the Country House Inn, on Friday evening, before Mr Sidney Hacker (the Coroner for the District) on the body of an infant, named BETSY ELLEN SABIN, daughter of THOMAS SABIN, a showman employed in Messrs. Bostock's menagerie, which was exhibiting on Ellacombe Green last week. Mr T. H. Gilley was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - ELLEN SABIN stated that she was the mother of the child. She resided at Drayton, Oxfordshire, and the child was now two months old. On Thursday evening about 11.30, she went to bed as usual, and about half-past three on Friday morning, she fed the child, and then went off to sleep again. When she woke up at twenty minutes to six she found that the child was cold. She called her husband's attention to it, and he informed the police. - Dr Richardson stated that he had made a post mortem examination and found that the child was very well nourished. The infant's face was very pale and froth was issuing from the mouth, the tongue hanging between the gums. There were no marks of violence whatever, and he came to the conclusion that the child met its death by suffocation. - THOMAS SABIN, the father of the child, stated that he was awakened by his wife about six o'clock on Friday morning. He got out of bed at once and found that the child was dead. The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the infant died from Suffocation, caused by overlaying.

PAIGNTON - Found Dead In A Field. - An Inquest was held at Paignton on Monday on the body of an itinerant flower-seller, a middle-aged woman. Deceased was brought before the Paignton magistrates on Friday, charged with vagrancy and sleeping out, but was discharged. She then gave the name of PLETTS, and her age at 44. She was last seen alive on Friday evening, when she called at the house of Mr T. B. Philp, at Brimhill, and asked for a drink of water, which the servant gave her; she was then looking and complained of being ill. At 10.30 on Sunday morning Mr Philp found her lying dead in a field near his house. The body was much decomposed, and was removed to the mortuary. Two witnesses from 7 Madrepore Road, Torquay, proved that deceased had lodged there for the last four or five years. They said she was a widow named HARRIET DONOVAN, but that she had latterly lived with a man named Healy, and gone by his name. She had been ill for a fortnight, and had obtained a doctor's order from the relieving officer last Monday, and she left there on Wednesday morning for Paignton. The Coroner said the parish order was obtained in the name of PLETTS. Dr Alexander, who had made a post mortem examination, said the woman died from intense congestion of the liver, acting on a weak heart. That caused syncope, which would be assisted by the chill of sleeping out. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 31 July 1891
ST MARYCHURCH - Sudden Death At St. Marychurch. - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner for the District, held an Inquiry at the Town Hall, St. Marychurch, on Monday afternoon, into the death of EMILY PACK, wife of WILLIAM PACK, landlord of the Fortune of War Inn, St Marychurch road. Mr James Lee was appointed Foreman of the Jury. - WILLIAM PACK identified the body as that of his wife, who, he said, was 44 years of age. She had not been suffering from any illness, and on Saturday night was in her usual health. She had nothing to eat after tea on Saturday. They sat down to the breakfast table together on Sunday morning, but deceased said she had had a drop of brandy and would not have any breakfast. Deceased had the brandy in the bedroom where a bottle was always kept in case of illness, and she had only had a drop of brandy out of the full bottle. He hid the bottle because he knew that when the cork was out she would go on drinking. He had never seen her drink much himself, but she would do it on the sly. She would go out day after day, sometimes every morning for a week, then be very good again for two or three weeks, and afterwards break out again. For years he doubted whether she took drink, believing she was a little wrong in the head; but he now knew she had been going on drinking for years. While he was walking in the yard on Sunday morning deceased came out with an empty glass and said "I have found out the randy and have drank some of it, and I am going to drink brandy now." Witness then went to the bottle and found that more of the brandy had been taken. When he went upstairs deceased was leaning against a barrel speaking to the servant and singing. She was not incapable, but was quite able to speak. When he came downstairs, deceased was kneeling in the passage, with her head on the barrel, and thinking she was asleep, he did not touch her. A quarter of an hour later, as he could not hear her breathing, he went to her, and laid her on her back, believing that she was in a fit, but he found she was dead. She had had fits occasionally for three or four years, and had been attended by Dr Steele. he did not think she was in a fit when he first saw her on the ground. When he moved her, he noticed that breathing had ceased, although the body was warm. He called the servant, and bathed deceased on the face, as he always did when she had fits. Deceased had a bad fit about a month ago. Asked by the Coroner how deceased received the bruises and contusions on her face, witness said that on Wednesday night she fell down on a bottle and caused one of the marks, but he did not notice the other till Sunday. The mark on the nose was caused by the face resting on the barrel. He heard her breathing while she was on the barrel. When he found that deceased did not revive, he sent for Mrs Anneer, a neighbour. - P.S. Osborne produced the bottle, which was about half full of brandy. - Dr F. Rogers, who is now residing at St. Marychurch in charge of Dr Steele's practice, said at 12 o'clock on Sunday he was fetched to the Fortune of War Inn, where he found deceased lying on the floor of the passage. Her dress had been opened and her shoes removed. The mouth was partly open, there was no foam, nor was the tongue bitten. There was a mark on the side of the nose produced by the pressure on the barrel, the skin being in no way injured. There was a slight injury to the lobe of the left ear, with a little congealed blood, but there was no blood inside the ear. There was also a slight bruise behind the left ear, and a mark on the lip was two or three days old. Up to that time the discolouration of the face was very slight. Witness sent for P.S. Osborne, and when that officer arrived they examined the body and found no sign of injury. He that morning made a post mortem examination of the body, and found that the brain was perfectly healthy, as also were the lungs. The cavities of the heart were empty, but the muscular tissue was exceedingly fatty. The stomach contained no food, and there was no irritation of the stomach. The intestines and liver were also healthy. The mark on the ear could not have been caused by extreme violence, and none of the marks on the face were more than superficial. That behind the ear was trifling, but was produced during life, and the other marks were post mortem. The only other mark that could have been produced during life was a small one on the left arm. Death was due to fatty degeneration of the heart, which was of some standing. There were no signs of deceased having had a fit on Sunday. If she had had a fit, the mouth would have been closed, there would have been saliva in the mouth, and there would probably have been some injury to the tongue. The immediate cause of death was syncope. A large quantity of alcohol would produce death in a person in the condition of deceased. He would have said that deceased was more of a beer drinker than a spirit drinker. There was no reason to believe that deceased died from anything but natural causes. - Bertha Plaice, niece of the deceased, and servant at the Fortune of War, corroborated the evidence of the first witness. Deceased appeared to have been drinking on Sunday morning and she was "very aggravating." Witness added that Dr Steele said deceased "would come to her death by these fits." - Sarah Anneer, a neighbour, also corroborated, and said she had never heard rows between deceased and her husband. The Coroner, in summing up, said there was no evidence inconsistent with death from natural causes. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 August 1891
ST MARYCHURCH - Sudden Deaths At Torquay. - On Friday evening ARTHUR SMITH, 52 years of age, a potter, living at Broad Park Terrace, St. Marychurch, was sitting quietly in the bar of the Commercial Hotel, St. Marychurch, when he suddenly fell forward. Mr Davy and others went to his assistance, and it was at once seen that SMITH was in a critical condition. Dr J. F. Boyes, locum tenens for Dr Steele, was directly in attendance, and pronounced the man dead. Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest on the body on Saturday and Dr Boyes evidence went to show that death was due to sudden failure of the heart's action, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

TORQUAY - The same evening Mr Hacker held another Inquiry at the Torbay Inn, Torre, into the circumstances attending the death of ELIZA CHALMERS, 79, wife of the REV. T. S. CHALMERS, retired Nonconformist minister, of Rowley, Vansittart-road. MRS CHALMERS on Wednesday July 15th, went upstairs for her afternoon's nap, and a quarter of an hour afterwards her husband, acting on an impulse, entered the bedroom to find that deceased had fallen down between the bed and the window and was unable to rise. He assisted her to bed and bathed her face, for she had sustained two slight cuts, but it was not until the following day, when Dr W. Powell had been summoned, that it was discovered she had also fractured her arm. It was believed that MRS CHALMERS in getting into bed was seized with paralysis in one leg, and thus the fall. Medical testimony showed that death was due to heart disease, accelerated by the shock, and the Jury brought in a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 August 1891
DARTMOUTH - Boat Accident At Dartmouth. Two Young Men Drowned. - Two young men named CHARLES DENNING, 30, and SYDNEY HAWKING, 28, were out sailing about seven on Sunday morning in a centre keel boat belonging to the former. When near Kingswear, just off Waleshead Creek, a sudden squall struck the boat and she capsized in an instant. A steam launch belonging to Messrs. Casey and several boats were quickly on the spot, but nothing was seen of the unfortunate young men, neither of whom was able to swim. The boat was seen with the mast just above water, the harbour not being very deep at this point, and with some trouble she was raised and got in shore. It was then found that the mainsail had been split with the force of the squall, and that the sail was fastened by a couple turns of the rope to the cleat. Evidently they were not able to let it go in time. Both young men belonged to H.M.S. Britannia, DENNING being a cadet's servant and HAWKING warrant officers' cook; while they also both belonged to local religious societies, and to the Good Templar and Rechabite Orders. DENNING was married and leaves a young wife and two children, while the other was about to be married shortly. The bodies were recovered later in the day. The reason for their being out in the boat on Sunday was that HAWKING having a parcel to take over to Kingswear, his friend offered to take him across in the boat, with the above melancholy result. An Inquest was held on Monday and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 21 August 1891
TORQUAY - Playing With Matches. A Child Burnt To Death. - Dr Fraser (Deputy Coroner) held an Inquest at the Torbay Hospital on Tuesday on the body of EDWIN CHARLES WELLS, a little boy four years old, the son of ROBERT HENRY WILLS, a London postman, visiting Torquay and staying at No. 18 Bronshill Crescent, who was accidentally burnt to death on Saturday evening. Mr Charles Buswell was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - ROBERT HENRY WILLS said he was the father of the deceased and was staying with his sister at 18 Bronshill Crescent for his holidays. He identified the body as that of his son, EDWIN CHARLES WILLS. The deceased had always been in delicate health. On Saturday he had a bath and was put to bed. The deceased always slept in a room by himself. After he was in bed witness went out for an hour, leaving his sister in the house to look after the child. When he came home he found that the child was very badly burnt, and in the bed was a box of matches. The child must have got out of bed and obtained them. - CHARLOTTE WILLS, an aunt of the child stated that it was the first time she had ever stayed in the house alone and when she was in the washing house she heard the child screaming. Deceased had not been left ten minutes. She called out to him and said "Don't scream so, CHARLIE," and not hearing him again, she went up and found him in a mass of flames. She did her best to extinguish the flames by pouring a bucket of water over the child. On going down stairs she sent someone for some oil, and to tell her aunt. When the aunt came, she rolled the child up in some blankets, and he was taken to the hospital. Dr Andrews was sent for, and he found that the child was very much burnt about the legs, and round the body. - Dr Watson, house surgeon, at the hospital, said the child had superficial burns on both of its legs, chest and on the left arm, and expired just before one on Sunday morning. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 September 1891
PAIGNTON - Rather than face the magistrates upon a charge of which he alleged he was innocent, MR JOSEPH EDWARD WREYFORD, upholsterer and cabinet maker, of Winner-street, committed suicide on Sunday morning. At the Inquest on Monday, the widow of the deceased said her husband was fifty-nine years of age and seemed to sleep all right on Saturday night. He got up about half-past six, and before going downstairs, kissed her, but said nothing. Deceased was in trouble, having been summoned for an affiliation case to have been heard at Brixham on Wednesday, and he said he was innocent and could not bear the thought of it. He was afterwards found hanging from a beam in the cellar. The Jury found that the deceased Committed Suicide whilst suffering from Temporary Insanity.

TORQUAY - Fatal Result Of Stone Throwing. - Mr Sidney Hacker, the Coroner for the Division, held an Enquiry at Torbay Hospital, on Tuesday afternoon, into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM COWELL, a child seven years of age who had died in that institution, on Sunday evening, from injuries caused by his brother having thrown a stone which struck him on the head. Mr R. L. Butland was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - JOHN COWELL, a labourer, at present living in Pimlico, stated that deceased was his child. He was seven years of age and he died in that hospital, where he had been a week. Some time ago he sustained a blow on the head, and he told witness that it was caused by his brother aged ten, who was throwing a stone at a chestnut tree, and it struck him. - SARAH COWELL, the wife of the last witness, stated that it was a month ago, when they were living at Taunton, that deceased came home with his forehead cut. It was bleeding and she put a piece of sticking plaster on it. The next day his head was swollen, and she took him to the hospital at Taunton. It was dressed there twice, and she afterwards poulticed it. They left Taunton and came to Torquay and she took the child to that hospital. - Mr Reginald Stevens, assistant house surgeon at Torbay Hospital, said deceased was brought there on the 27th of August. He had caries of the frontal bone and an external abscess on the forehead. - Mr Arthur Watson, house surgeon, gave corroborative evidence, and attributed the death to inflammation of the brain. - The father said that when the child left his place he could eat his food and was doing very well, but the second day he came into the hospital, he was put under chloroform and his forehead opened. - The Coroner said that showed that the medical men were doing all they could for him. - The Father: He was put under chloroform five times, sir. - The Foreman of the Jury remarked that after the evidence there was no ground at all for any blame of the medical officers of that institution. The Coroner in summing up said there could be doubt that death resulted from the injury caused by the blow received from the stone thrown by his brother, a child ten years of age. Unfortunately the father had formed the opinion that the child had not received every attention, but it appeared to him that the medical men of that hospital had done all they could for the child. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, and the Foreman said he thought the boy who threw the stone should be cautioned. With respect to the officials of that institution, they were entirely free from any blame. If they administered chloroform five times, it was in their effort to save the life of the child. - The Coroner admonished the deceased's brother who threw the stone, remarking that he would feel it more in after life that he had been the cause of the death of his brother. If he had been a little older he might have been punished severely, and he hoped it would be a caution to him in the future not to throw stones. Upon the proposition of Mr Butland (the Foreman) the Jury gave their fees to the parents of the children, who appeared to be in very poor circumstances.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 September 1891
ERMINGTON - A Torquay Man Found Drowned. - WILLIAM HENRY HUXHAM, aged 41, a butcher in the employ of Mr Codner, of Torwood Street, Torquay, was found dead in the river Erme, near Modbury, on Friday. From the evidence at the Inquest, it would appear that HUXHAM had gone for a few days holiday, but had not returned when he should have done. - At the Inquest held by Mr R. R. Rodd, junr., at Ermington, on Saturday, the following evidence was adduced: WILLIAM HENRY HUXHAM, a retired butcher, Richmond Street, Plymouth, stated that deceased was his son, aged 41 years, and was a butcher in the employment of Mr Codner, Torquay. He last saw deceased at the Royal Agricultural Show in 1890. On Monday, September 7th, witness received a telegram from Mr Codner stating that deceased had not returned as expected. This was followed on the 10th by a letter stating that deceased had left on the Monday week previous for a few days' holiday, and should have returned on the Friday following. Having received a letter on the Sunday addressed to deceased, he (Mr Codner) thought it right to communicate with witness. He (MR HUXHAM) had received a letter from deceased six weeks ago, but nothing was said about a visit to Plymouth. - EDWIN HUXHAM, butcher, Ivybridge, uncle of deceased, said his nephew came to his house on Monday, 31st ult., remained to tea, and left about half-past eight with the intention of visiting his father at Plymouth. Deceased had been drinking but not very heavily. William Scobell, gamekeeper to Mr Mildmay, deposed to finding the body while fishing for peel on Friday. Dr Randle, of Ivybridge, said the wounds on the head of deceased were probably received after death. The skull was not fractured, and the wounds were not sufficient to account for death. In his opinion the body had been in the water for a week. The Jury, of whom Mr E. Luscombe was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 November 1891
TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of An Infant. - On Monday morning an Inquest was held at the Torbay Inn, on the body of FLORENCE ANNIE SLEE, eight week old, the daughter of GEORGE and KATE SLEE, of No. 1, Back of Brunswick Terrace. It appeared that when the mother woke up on Sunday morning she found the child dead beside her. She sent for Dr Thistle, who came immediately. It was stated by the mother that the deceased child had been vaccinated on the previous Thursday, at the Primitive Methodist Schoolroom, by Dr Cook, the public vaccinator, but she did not know whether death was due to that. - Dr Thistle on being questioned on the point, said he did not think that death was directly due to vaccination, although that might have contributed to the cause, as the child had a cold. He considered that death was caused by bronchitis and inward convulsions, and the bronchitis might have been the result of taking the child out to be vaccinated. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 November 1891
TORQUAY - Shocking Death Of An Infant. - ISABEL ELLEN TINKHAM, aged two years and eleven months, the daughter of MR TINKHAM, boot and shoe dealer, of Chelston, was burnt to death on Friday. About half-past seven in the morning the deceased was downstairs in her nightdress, standing before the kitchen fire, waiting to be dressed by the servant who was engaged in the same room in dressing another child. In reaching after a piece of cord which was hanging from the chimney-piece, the nightdress of the child caught fire, and she was almost instantly enveloped in flames. The servant first tried to extinguish them, but being unable to do so, she ran for assistance, and a man engaged in the shop came, and put the fire out. The child, however, had been terribly burnt, and Dr Winwood Smith, who arrived a few minutes after the occurrence, could offer no hope of her recovery. At half-past four o'clock the same afternoon, the child died, after much suffering. On Saturday, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Chelston Coffee Tavern, when a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 December 1891
COFFINSWELL - Distressing Suicide. - A very sad case of Suicide occurred at the parsonage at Coffinswell, on Wednesday, when MISS ANNE CONSTANCE SMITH, aged 30, sister to the wife of the Rev. H. E. Dunn, curate-in-charge of Coffinswell, was found suspended by a silk handkerchief from a bracket in her bedroom. The deceased who had been staying with her relatives since August, had suffered from fits of great depression at various times for years past, and she had previously made attempts upon her life. She was the daughter of MR CHARLES SMITH, brewer, Chichester, Sussex, and was formerly in training as a nurse at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital at Plymouth. At the Inquest, a verdict was returned of "Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 December 1891
CANADA - Sad Suicide Of A Torquay Gentleman. Romantic Story From Canada. - Great sympathy is felt by all classes with MR SAMPSON HANBURY, by reason of the sad intelligence brought home by the last Canadian mail. His son, MR HENRY HANBURY, having married an actress against the wishes of his family, went with his wife and a considerable sum of money supplied him by his friends to Canada two and a half years ago. He arrived in Toronto in June, 1889, with a capital of about £4,000 and in the following November rented a farm in the vicinity of Oshawa from Mr Farewell. He took his wife with him, and together they tried to make ends meet, but soon found that they were in no manner qualified to manage a farm, and after 13 months diligent labour they secured a release and moved back to Toronto, and spent some time last summer at Niagara. The capital with which the young couple started was soon gone and they were forced to live on the husband's allowance from his father, or run into debt. The jewellery of both was pawned, and matters looking black, MR HANBURY, got an engagement with a liveryman as collector, in the hope of being able to retrench. He held the position for a time, but about the middle of November he was arrested on the charge of having misappropriated a small amount of money. This trifling sum was subsequently paid by his wife; but, nevertheless, the husband was committed to take his trial at the Quarter Sessions. He was admitted to bail, and one evening, soon after his appearance before the magistrates, he remained at home with his wife, and busied himself until midnight in writing letters to his various relatives, as events afterwards shewed, and then retired to bed. On the following morning he rose early, and appeared in good health, was cheerful, had a good breakfast, and then went out. After calling at various places of business, he proceeded to a storeroom he had rented in King-street - a different part of Toronto to that in which he lived. A Mr Lucas, from whom he rented the room, had occasion to visit it, and found it locked. He knocked, and HANBURY opened the door, cigarette in hand. He seemed to be quite cheerful, and spoke on different subjects with Mr Lucas, who thought he had locked the door simply to make a change in clothing. Mr Lucas then went downstairs to his business office. An hour later MRS HANBURY called, and asked Mr Lucas if he knew where her husband was. He said that he had seen him up in the room an hour before, but thought that he must have gone. MRS HANBURY departed, and continued her search until late in the evening, when, tired and careworn, she went home, but found that her husband was still absent. On the following morning she again started out to find him. At four o'clock she decided, after having looked everywhere else, that he was still in his room in King-street, and again she visited Mr Lucas, who ran up to the room and found the door locked. He became alarmed and got out of a window, ran along the roof, and looked through the King-street window. He saw MR HANBURY lying face down upon a canvas camp bed. On breaking the lock on the door, deceased was found in the position described, with a two ounce bottle, labelled laudanum, and a four ounce bottle, labelled chloral, beside him. The laudanum bottle was empty, and the chloral bottle was about one-third full. After the discovery, naturally information was sought as to whether the deceased was insane or not. Enquiries elicited the fact that in June last, while driving a dogcart, MR HANBURY was thrown from the cart violently and fell upon his head. He was confined to his bed for nearly a month, and since then he had been acting most peculiarly. - Upon discovery of the body, the police, the Coroner, and a physician were summoned. Deceased's pockets were searched and four letters bearing the HANBURY crest, were found. One was addressed to Mr Bowes, Q.C., the second to an undertaker and the third and fourth to his wife and sister respectively. In the first deceased intimated that the address of his father was Bishopstowe, Torquay, Devonshire; also, that he considered it better to do away with himself than to bring further disgrace on those he loved, through deeds he had done unwittingly or otherwise. He also commended his wife to the care of his friends. The undertaker he asked to save his wife any trouble by taking charge of the body, &c. The letter to his wife was full of expressions of devotedness, and while it could be seen that he was taking the step deliberately he was evidently filled with remorse and fear that subsequent to his death she might be uncared for. His sister and her husband, who are in Australia, he implored o be kind to his wife, and begged them to pray for him. - Another account giving further particulars says:- Since deceased left his home in England two years ago last June, his career had been one of continued mishap and thrilling adventure. At the age of twenty-nine he fell in love with an attractive concert-hall singer in London, whose stage name was FLORRIE DEVANEY. So deeply enamoured of her did he become that they were soon engaged and married quietly and privately. When the fact was made known to young HANBURY'S parents their displeasure was manifested, and it was arranged that he should leave England for Canada the following Spring. He made arrangements through Ford, Rathbun and Co., to go to Ontario and learn farming. When MR HANBURY and his wife reached New York they had £4,000 minus the sum they had paid for passage over. After remaining in New York a few weeks they went on to Toronto. From that day until Monday, the 23rd November, the young man who took his life in so sensational a way could be seen about King or Yonge streets almost any time, wearing a gentleman's jockey suit of the very latest cut. He usually carried a riding whip and was accompanied by his wife. He spent money freely, lived at one of the most prominent hotels in the city, and his face was well-known to the theatre-going public. His wife was much admired by those who were acquainted with her, and her skill in handling a four-in-hand is said to be remarkable. The couple afterwards decided to settle down to the realities of life, and purchased a farm in Ontario County, near Oshawa, paying therefore about 7,000 dollars. MR HANBURY engaged for a time in stock raising, but most of his time was spent in the city. Stock farming in Canada, of which he had heard so much in England, appeared to be a delightful life, but the fortune that he brought away from home was fast dwindling away, and before he and his bride had been twelve months on their farm it was heavily encumbered. Early this year he disposed of the property, but how much he realised is unknown. They went from Oshawa when the boating season opened to Niagara-on-the-Lake, and lived a life of apparent happiness at the Queen's Hotel, paying weekly visits to Toronto. Some four months ago, they settled down in the latter city, going to board at the Arlington, MR HANBURY'S interest in horse racing and other equine sports having increased rather than subsided through the diminution of his fortune. He had besides this, however, a monthly allowance from home of 63.50 dollars per month, but with this the couple found it impossible to keep up the pace. Eight weeks previous to the sad occurrence, they moved into apartments at 28 Grange-avenue, where deceased penned the fore-going letters, and with marvellous deliberation planned his own destruction.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 January 1892
TORQUAY - The Drowning Fatality At Torquay. - On Christmas Eve, the Coroner for the Division, Mr S. Hacker, held an Inquest at the Torbay Hospital on the body of JOHN SOPER, a native of Plymouth, who was drowned in the Torquay Harbour. Mr John Taylor was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the Coroner commented severely on the absence of Samuel Pope, who had been summoned on the Jury, but who did not put in an appearance. - William Cundy was the first witness called, and he said he was the master of the schooner Dashing Wave, of Fowey, and the deceased, who was 31, was the mate of the vessel. The schooner was in the outer harbour moored to the buoys, and on Tuesday evening deceased went ashore in the boat, with a seaman, and that was the last time witness saw him alive. He was in good health and was a temperate man. - Thomas Crapp, a seaman on the Dashing Wave, said on the Tuesday he went ashore with deceased to get some "baccy," and they stopped ashore till after eleven, when they walked to the South pier with two young women. They stood talking for some time, and deceased went to cast loose the painter of the boat, when he tripped and fell into the water. He was not the worse for drink. Witness ran down to the boat, and looked about for deceased, who could not swim, but he did not see him, and he thought deceased could not have risen to the surface after he struck the water. There had been no larking on the pier. - Clara Perkins, a married woman living at Stentiford's Hill, corroborated the main facts given by the last witness, and said that the deceased was not drunk, as he had been drinking lemonade whilst in her company. He was a perfect stranger to her. - P.C. Goddard gave evidence as to hearing cries from the South Pier, and on going there, hearing there was a man in the water he went for assistance, and Wm. McKenna, a coastguard, came with the grappling irons and they got the body up. The man was quite dead, and must have been in the water about 20 minutes. Mr Arthur Watson, house surgeon at the Hospital, said the man was dead when admitted and there was evidence of death having been caused by drowning. The Coroner briefly summed up the evidence and the Jury immediately returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

PAIGNTON - Suicide At Paignton. Extraordinary Case. - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest at Paignton, on the body of MRS LOUISE BERTHA STANDLEY, wife of MR GEORGE STANDLEY, retired engineer, living at Paignton. The evidence disclosed that the deceased, who was forty-one years of age, had for some time been subject to delusions and for the last six or seven weeks had been quite insane. She was also in weak bodily health and kept her bed, and her husband devoted his whole attention to her. On Monday morning she was rather more cheerful than usual, and had been for four days growing stronger. Her husband made her a cup of tea at a quarter to eight, and went down stairs, leaving her in bed. He returned in ten minutes, and then found his wife burnt to death, and the bedclothes on fire. She was lying on the ground, with every particle of her night clothes burnt off her, covered with burns and in some places charred. A paraffin lamp, which was half full and intact when the husband left the room, was found on the drawers with the top taken off, and the wick pulled out and quite empty, and from oil stains on the carpet beneath, it was evident that the unhappy woman had poured its contents upon herself, saturated her clothing, and then set fire to herself with a match. MR STANDLEY instantly called for help, and Robert Baker, a neighbour, entered, and found the house filled with dense smoke, and he proved that the woman was dead and the lamp emptied as described. The bed was on fire, and he helped to put it out. Doctor Alexander, who had attended the deceased for six or seven weeks past, attributed the immediate cause of death to suffocation from the smoke and fumes, but said the severe burns on the body would have been sufficient to cause death. He also stated that she was undoubtedly insane, though he had never seen any suicidal tendency. He had suggested her removal to an asylum, but the husband objected, first on the ground of her very weak state, fearing removal would kill her; also because he gave his whole time and attention to her. The Jury, of whom Mr N. Braund was Foreman, returned a verdict that deceased committed Suicide while in a state of Insanity.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 January 1892
TORQUAY - Suicide Of A Torquay visitor. - As briefly reported in our last issue a MR WILLIAM WALKER, a retired manufacturer of Egremont, Cheshire, committed Suicide by cutting his throat at his lodgings, Rorke's Drift, St Mark's Place, in the early hours of Friday morning. On Saturday afternoon, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquest at the Hesketh Arms, Meadfoot Lane. Mr Halls was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the body having been viewed, the following evidence was taken:- MRS KATE WALKER said she lived at Egremont, Cheshire, and the deceased was her husband, though she had not seen the deceased since his death. The Coroner - That is not evidence of identification, MRS WALKER. - Witness: I know that he is my husband from the place he was staying in, and by the letters. The Coroner: I am afraid that won't do. You must go and view the body. The widow then went to Rorke's Drift for the purpose of viewing the body. - Mrs Sybella Lear said she lived at Rorke's Drift, St Mark's Place. The deceased was MR WM. L. WALKER, who came to lodge with her about 10 weeks ago. He was a stranger to her previously to that. Deceased had one bedroom paying 5s. a week, as he said he could not afford more. She last saw him alive on Tuesday morning. He never had any meals in the house. On Tuesday morning about nine, she saw him in the passage, but there was no conversation. Witness was bad with bronchitis and had to keep her bed, but she heard him talking in the passage about 11.30 on Thursday night. There was no disturbance of any kind. Someone came home with the deceased, and witness went out to wish the young men a "Happy New Year" and she went back to bed. Mr Langfield and Mr Male, fellow lodgers, came home with the deceased. The following morning witness did not hear the deceased about, so she asked Mr Male to see if he was dressing, and when he went into the room, he found the deceased on the floor. Witness went upstairs and saw the deceased lying on the floor on the right-hand side of the bed between the bed and the window. Deceased used to get up in the morning and go out, and come home in the evening and go to bed. He told her that he had three daughters and a son. She did not think he had been suffering from bad health, and used to be out all day long. Deceased always shaved himself, but she never saw his razor. She did not know that the bottle of laudanum produced was in the house. Witness always made the bed and cleaned the room, and no one else ever did it. - George Lee said that on Thursday evening he was in Gibbons' Hotel between 10 and 11 o'clock and heard the deceased say "I do not care what becomes of myself, I shall commit suicide, and then I am out of the world." Deceased spoke in a mumbling tone, but witness understood that that was what he said to a gentleman named Warrington. Some gentlemen were waiting for the deceased at the door, and one said "I wish you would come home with me." Witness did not think the deceased had been drinking heavily, but he appeared to want something to eat. He had something in a bottle, but witness could not say what. Deceased was a perfect stranger to witness. - John Langfield said he lodged at Rorke's Drift, and he was a printer. He had known the deceased since he had been in Torquay, and had been a fellow lodger with him. Witness last saw deceased alive on Thursday night when he saw him in the bar at the Criterion, and he had some liquor - gin. Witness got up to go about a quarter to eleven, and waited for the deceased. Witness walked up with the deceased, who was all right then, but when he got nearly home his legs appeared to be shaky. When they got home witness and a Mr McCann, Mr Male and Mr Smith carried him upstairs. - The Foreman: Was the deceased drunk? - I should say not. He was weak in the knees. - Continuing, witness said they partially undressed the deceased, and put him into bed, covering him up. Deceased had on his trousers and shirt, and witness blew the light out,. - The Coroner: The Jury want to know all about it. Was he drunk or not? - He didn't appear to be. I had not seen him for some days. - The Foreman: You must have been in a position to judge whether he was drunk? - He was not drunk. - The Coroner: Weak knees would not prevent him undressing himself. - We thought it best to put him to bed at once. There was nothing in his state to show that he had been drinking. - Was he ill? - He didn't appear to be so. - Did he speak after you got him home? - He said "Take my coat off." - Witness continued his evidence, and said he went to bed at 12 o'clock. He didn't hear anything in the deceased's room when he went to bed, but early in the morning he heard something fall, like a heavy chair, the sound apparently coming from the deceased's room, as it woke witness up. Everything was quiet afterwards, and witness went to sleep again. Witness had never heard the deceased say he would do any harm to himself. Witness never saw him during the day. - By the Foreman: Deceased was addicted to drink to a great extent. - Did he take any drugs or anything beside ordinary drink? - I have never known him to do so. - Sinclair William Male said he lodged at Rorke's Drift, and was a sorting clerk at the telegraph office at Lerwick, Shetland; and had been at Rorke's Drift three years. He had only seen the deceased occasionally. On Thursday night Langfield came in and asked witness and Smith to give him a hand up with the deceased. They did so. Witness thought deceased's state was caused by drink and a want of food. He knew that the deceased was an intemperate man. On this occasion he considered that deceased was helpless through drink. Langfield was perfectly sober. They took deceased up to the bedroom and helped him to bed. Deceased mumbled a little during the process. Witness and the others went down to the kitchen and stayed there for some time. In the morning Mrs Lear said someone had better go up and see if MR WALKER was all right, because she said she did not hear him cough in the morning. witness went up and knocked at the door, and as he got no answer he went in, and saw the deceased lying by the side of the bed on his face. He appeared to have fallen, as the bed clothes were partly over him. Witness turned down the clothes and saw that he was naked from the waist up. He was cold, and witness went downstairs and told Mrs Lear that he thought the man was dead, and when he went up a second time with Mrs Lear he saw the blood. He then went for a policeman and found one at the Station. Witness at first attributed the death to the bursting of a blood vessel. He saw no razor anywhere. Witness occasionally talked to the deceased who always spoke reasonably, and if it was a case of suicide the deceased must have been mad. - P.C. Hockridge said that on Friday morning at 9.30 he received information of a sudden death at Rorke's Drift, and on proceeding there he saw the deceased lying on his left side in a pool of blood quite dead. On lifting out the drawers the blood-covered razor produced was found close to the head of the deceased. Witness saw that the throat was cut. In the deceased's coat pocket were some letters, one of which was from his daughter, stating that she had sent on a portion of his money, but would not send the rest until she had heard from him. The bottle of laudanum from Messrs. Guyer and Shapley's was also in the pocket of the coat. A small flask of Scotch whiskey was also in the coat pocket. Detective Coles said that on Friday about 11.30 a.m. he visited Rorke's Drift and went to the bedroom where he found the deceased lying as described by last witness. In the trouser pocket was a purse containing 15s. With the assistance of Sergt. Bond the body was turned on its back, and underneath was the waistcoat smeared with blood. there was a watch chain but no watch, and two knives. The deceased's shirt was under his feet. The chamber utensil was half full of blood, and it appeared to have been pushed under the bed by the falling body. There was nothing in the appearance of the room to cause suspicion of any foul play. In the drawers were 33 empty spirit bottles. - MRS WALKER then gave her evidence. She identified the deceased as her husband who was 62 last August. He was a seal plush manufacturer, but had not been in business for years. He lived at Birkenhead, Bournemouth, Ryde and other places, as he had been rambling about for many years. He originally came from Yorkshire. Witness had not seen the deceased for nine years, and his children allowed him a certain income. His daughter had not heard from him for three weeks. She considered that the deceased was not the man to commit suicide when in his proper senses, but he had been in the habit of taking laudanum and whiskey for 17 years, and that was the reason why his family could not live with him. - Dr Richardson said he went to Rorke's Drift on Friday, and found the deceased on the floor on his back. He appeared to be well developed, and there was a large amount of blood on the bolster, around the bed and in the chamber. There was a wound over the trachea, four inches in length, and there were three distinct cuts in the windpipe, showing that three attempts had been made to cut it. None of the larger vessels were severed, and witness thought he must have been some considerable time before he bled to death. He considered death was caused by his own hand, because by the direction of the wound it was from left to right. The man was in a weak and feeble state otherwise he would have made a clean cut. - The Coroner summed up, and the Jury immediately returned a verdict that deceased had Committed Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 15 January 1892
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Torquay. - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner for the Division, held an Inquest at Risdon's Exeter Hotel, on Tuesday evening, on the body of WILLIAM BENNETT, a porter, who died suddenly on Tuesday morning, at No. 5, Madrepore-road, Torquay. The deceased had recently come out of Newton union, where he had been told that he was suffering from an incurable disease. - Mr William Jordan, Queen-street, was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the following evidence was taken:- Elizabeth Bradford said she lived at No. 5, Madrepore-road, where the deceased person, WILLIAM BENNETT, was lying. Witness had known the deceased over 20 years, and he was 45 years of age she believed. Deceased was not married, and used to be a porter at a poulterer's, but had not done anything for some time, having been in the Union for 15 months. Deceased had been ill, suffering from shortness of breath and fits, which incapacitated him from work. Deceased came out of the Union about a month ago, and had been lodging with witness, though he had paid but very little. Witness had given him food, as she knew he was ill. He was going into the Union again, but had delayed doing so from time to time. He didn't apply for parish relief as he did not intend to stop out of the Union for so long. A man who was in the house shared some food with the deceased. He did not die of starvation as he had plenty to eat and could have had more if he had wanted it. Deceased told witness that the doctor in the Union had said that nothing could be done for him; he suffered from asthma, but had not taken to his bed. On Monday the deceased was about and down by the fire as usual. Witness had three lodgers besides the deceased. On Monday deceased had a good tea and seemed much as usual as he had been all the week. The last thing witness did for the deceased was to put a linseed poultice on his chest. He did not go to a doctor because he said the Union doctor had said that nothing could be done for him. Deceased went to bed about seven, and that was the last witness saw of him alive. On Tuesday morning witness's daughter went to deceased and found him on the floor, apparently in a fit, and she then called witness who went upstairs and put deceased into bed. She then sent for Dr Cook, but in the meantime deceased appeared to breathe once, and then died. He had been found on the floor once before during the past month. He was lying close by the bed, the bed clothes being on the bed; he was lying on his side. Deceased had two relations at Newton, but he said they could not do anything for him. - Alice Weeks, the married daughter of the last witness, said that when she went up on Tuesday morning with a cup of tea, she found the deceased on the floor. On the previous night he seemed to be very ill, but no doctor was sent for, as he said the Union doctor had said that he was incurable. - Elizabeth Hayslan, a widow, a licensed hawker, lodging at 5 Madrepore Road, said she heard the deceased coughing and she gave him a cup of tea, when he became easy. That was at ten o'clock on Monday night. About one o'clock the next morning she heard that he was bad, and she went downstairs and saw that he was ill. She offered to go for a doctor, but he would not let her, and she went back again. The next morning Mrs Bradford told her he was dead. Deceased had a fit about three weeks ago. He was very ill, but would not have any doctor. - P.C. Rowse stated that on Tuesday morning he went to the house and saw the deceased dead in bed. There was nothing on his clothing, and nothing about the room to lead him to suppose that the deceased had come by his death suspiciously. - Sergeant Bond said the deceased got a little money by begging, and going errands. - Dr Cook stated that he saw the deceased at the lodging house; he examined the body and found no marks of violence upon it, and there was nothing to point to death other than from natural causes. There were symptoms of kidney disease shown by oedema and the flesh was soft and weak as in an invalid. Kidney disease had been long standing and added to that there had been asthma, pneumonia having probably set in on the Monday. Witness thought that the deceased had a fit of convulsions caused by uremic poisoning. Death was caused by old standing Bright's disease, the secondary cause being congestion of the lungs. - The Coroner summed up and said the evidence of Mrs Bradford appeared to be very satisfactory, and the way she had treated the deceased rebounded very much to her credit and humanity. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 February 1892
DARTMOUTH - Mysterious Drowning Case. - The report of the death through drowning of MR JOHN WAYMOUTH BODLEY, landlord of the King's Arms Hotel, Dartmouth, was received with feelings of regret by many in Torquay, to whom the deceased was known. At the Inquest on the body evidence was given to the effect that deceased retired for the night on Saturday as usual, but rose again at 12.30, about which hour he was seen standing at his side door by a boatman named Richards, who deposed that BODLEY was in the habit of coming down occasionally at night to let in passengers from the midnight train. Richards added that he passed the deceased, but had not gone far when he heard some men crying out "A man in the water." witness immediately returned and found two men taking deceased out of the river. Dr Soper, in answer to Mr W. P. Roberts, who represented the relatives, said it would have been quite possible for the shock of falling overboard to have prevented the deceased from making any effort to save himself. Syncope might have set in. The Coroner, in summing up, pointed out that there was no evidence as to how the deceased came into the water, and thought it a most extraordinary occurrence. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned, with nothing to show how deceased came into the water," and asked the Coroner to forward to the proper authorities a commendation of the action of P.C. Rouncefell, whose efforts to restore animation were unflagging.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 February 1892
DEVONPORT - A Soldier's Sad End. - SERGEANT-MAJOR ARMSTRONG, attached to the Devon Artillery, at Devonport, committed suicide on Tuesday by blowing out his brains with a rifle. Deceased had for some time lived apart from his wife. From a conversation which he had with a comrade and from letters found on him, it was ascertained that deceased had suffered in his head since eighteen months ago, when he had an attack of influenza, and that he had made up his mind to take his life. It was also stated that he had become entangled with another woman, and that he had said she had been his ruin as he had hers. At the Inquest the Jury returned a verdict that deceased committed Suicide whilst in a fit of Temporary Insanity.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 March 1892
TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of A St. Marychurch Man. The Inquest. - A painful sensation was caused at the Torre Railway Station early on Tuesday morning, by the sudden death of MR HENRY TAMLYN GILDING, an old and esteemed servant of the firm of Messrs. Blackler and son, of the Royal Marble works, St Marychurch. MR GILDING was in the act of taking a ticket for Exeter, when he fell to the ground without any warning and whilst being removed to the Hospital, expired. - Mr Sydney Hacker, the Coroner for the Division, held an Inquest into the circumstances attending the death of the deceased, at the Torbay Hospital, on Tuesday evening. Mr W. W. Sanders was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and after the body had been viewed, the following evidence was taken:- Emmeline Richards, Fore-street, St. Marychurch, wife of Thomas Richards, a corn dealer, said she had seen the deceased, whom she identified as HENRY TAMLYN GILDING. She had known him for 30 years and he lived at 17 Fore-street, St. Marychurch, being a marble mason by trade. Witness last saw him alive on Saturday. Deceased had been very ill with influenza, and had only been back to work about a fortnight. - SUSAN GILDING said the deceased was her husband, who was 65 last birthday. He left home about seven in the morning, and appeared to be better than he had been lately. She was aware that his heart was weak. He had some work to do at Exeter for Mr Blackler and was going by the quarter to eight train. A little boy, his grand child, went to the station with him, and her husband must have hurried too fast, causing death from failure of the heart. - Mr Arthur Watson, house surgeon at the Hospital, said the deceased was admitted about 8 o'clock in the morning. He was quite dead, but had only been dead a short time. Witness made an examination and found that there was an acute form of heart disease, as well as congestion of the lungs and kidneys, and this probably accelerated the disease of the heart. Death was caused by sudden syncope or failure of the heart's action. With such a disease death might ensue without any premonitory symptoms, and pain would not necessarily be caused to the deceased. - John Parish, 22 Sanford Road, Cockington, said he was booking clerk at Torre Station. On Tuesday morning witness's attention was called by a lady to the fact that someone had fallen down. Witness went out of the office, and picked up GILDING, who had partly fallen. Witness assisted him to a seat and undid his vest, collar and necktie. Porter Woodward came in and assisted. GILDING was breathing very heavily. - GEORGE ROBERT GILDING, 11 years old, grandson of the deceased, said he lived at 17 Fore Street, St Marychurch. Witness went to the Station and his grandfather asked him to carry his bag over to the other side while he took his ticket. He did so, and whilst there a lady came across to the other side, and saw the deceased on the seat. They had walked to the Station very fast, and deceased said he was in a perspiration, but he seemed to be well and did not complain of any pain. - Silas Woodward, a porter at Torre Station, said he saw the deceased on a seat by the booking office door, and he was the first to go into the office. After five minutes, during which witness had been attending to other duties, he came back and saw the deceased being supported by the booking clerk. A policeman assisted, and water was procured, but it didn't seem to revive him. They got the deceased into the 'bus and took him to the Hospital, but he died shortly after they got him in the 'bus. - In reply to questions, Mr Watson said death might have ensued in bed without any exertion whatever,. The disease of the heart was evidently of very old standing. The Coroner briefly summed up and the Jury returned a verdict that deceased met with his death from Natural Causes. - The deceased was well known and respected at St. Marychurch, where the greatest sympathy is felt for the widow in her painfully sudden and therefore doubly sad bereavement.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 March 1892
PAIGNTON - WILLIAM HILL, a stable lad in the employ of Mr Washington Singer, was thrown from a pony and killed at Paignton on Monday. At the Inquest it was stated that the pony was a steady, quiet animal and was constantly used as a hack and it slipped on the asphalt at the corner of the Esplanade, and threw the boy, afterwards rolling over him. Death ensued in half-an-hour from fracture of the skull.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 April 1892
TORQUAY - Terrible Fall Over A Cliff. - A Torquay man named WILLIAM CARNALL yesterday succumbed to fearful injuries sustained from falling over the cliff at the Gas Works, between Torquay and Paignton. CARNALL, who was in the employ of Mr Bess, farmer, was "scarifying" a field, which adjoins the cliff, when on turning on the edge of the cliff, man and horse went over on to the rocks below. The cliff at this point is 100ft. high. CARNALL was working with a man named Parish, and they were just stopping work for dinner, and had turned the horses round, when one stepped on CARNALL'S foot and in a moment both man and horse were over the cliff. The horse was suspended by the traces, and was gradually pulling the other horse over the cliff when Parish cut the traces and the animal fell on the rocks below. Assistance was promptly obtained, and the man proceeded to the rocks below, where CARNALL was found lying in an unconscious state and fearfully injured. He was taken to the Torbay Hospital, where he was at once attended by the Medical Staff, and it was found that in addition to severe internal injuries, five ribs, one leg and thigh were broken. The unfortunate man gradually sank, and death ensued from his terrible injuries about four o'clock. We understand the deceased leaves a widow and four children. An Inquest will probably be held today.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 April 1892
TORQUAY - The Fatal Fall From The Cliffs. The Inquest. - The Coroner for the Division, Mr S. Hacker, held an Inquest at the Torbay Hospital on Saturday morning, on the body of WILLIAM HENRY CARNALL, aged 38, a carter, who, as we reported in our last issue, succumbed to fearful injuries sustained through falling over the cliff on Thursday. Mr R. Watson was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the body having been viewed the following evidence was taken:- EMMA CARNALL, widow of the deceased, living at 14 Higher Union-lane, Torquay, gave evidence, identifying the body of her husband, whom she saw after the accident, at the temporary hospital at Lauriston Hall. He was unconscious up to the time of his death. - John Parish, labourer, of 2 Daison Cottages, Upton, said he was working for Mr Bess with the deceased in an allotment field, at the spot mentioned, scarifying a piece of ground with two horses. Deceased was leading the front horse, and witness the other at the time the accident happened. Whilst close to the edge of the cliff, witness saw deceased pull his foot away, which he believed the horse had stepped on, with a jerk, and over-balancing himself he fell over and the horse with him. They were quite six feet from the edge of the cliff. Deceased was nearest the edge at the time, and as he fell he pulled the horse with him. The deceased went over ten minutes before the horse, as he let go the horse after he was over. He fell straight down, and at that time the horse was hanging over the cliff, the other horse holding him by the chains. Witness, seeing that the second horse was being gradually drawn out over, cut some leather straps, and then the first horse, which had been hanging over nearly a quarter of an hour, went down. Two other men were in the field at the time, and they all did their best to prevent the horse going over, but it was impossible. The field was a private one, there being no public path through it. - The Coroner said if it had been otherwise, and there was a public right there, and it was a dangerous place, the question would arise as to whether it ought not to be protected, but under the circumstances this question did not arise. The Coroner further observed that the accident was a remarkable one. - Witness added that there were a few inches on the side of the cliff, but nothing that deceased could save himself by, and he must have fallen sheer down 90 feet on to the rocks, where he was afterwards found, being subsequently removed in a cab to the temporary hospital at Lauriston Hall, Torquay, where he died just before four o'clock, he having received terrible injuries to his head and other parts, and bleeding very much. - Several Jurymen remarked that it was very dangerous to drive tandem at such an exposed spot. - Richard White and Emanuel Lightfoot, market gardeners, who were at work in the field at the same time, and George Northway, who helped to take up the deceased, also gave evidence as to assisting in getting the injured man up. - Dr Watson stated that when the deceased was brought to the Hospital, he was suffering from a fracture of the right thigh; there were six ribs broken on the right side, and he had several scalp wounds and a severe shock to the system. Witness considered his case hopeless from the first, and the man died three hours after his admission from the shock to the system, he having never regained consciousness. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," it being remarked that after this sad accident no doubt a fence would be put up at the spot. The Coroner advised the renters of the field to put up a fence for their own protection if for nothing else.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 15 April 1892
PAIGNTON - Another Cliff Accident At Paignton. - An Inquest was held at Paignton on Tuesday evening respecting the death of WILLIAM POUND, aged five years, drowned by falling over a cliff. He went out to play between five and six o'clock with John Edgar Baker, aged 9 ½. They went by Roundham Head, where the cliffs are some 60 or 70 feet above the sea. Baker returned home about six o'clock and went quickly to bed, and soon afterwards POUND was missed. Baker denied knowing anything of him. Search by the parents and the police was continued until very late, but without success. On Tuesday morning the body was seen floating among some rocks at the foot of one of the cliffs. On being questioned again, Baker said he was playing with the deceased and suddenly missed him, but did not see him fall. In answer to the Coroner he said they were playing round a furze bush on the edge of the cliff. While he was on one side of it he heard a plash and a call, but the deceased was out of his sight then. He went round and looked down into the sea, but could not see anything of his companion. He became frightened and went home. Pressed as to why he did not tell anybody, he said he was too frightened. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" calling the attention of the Local Board to the danger of the spot and asking them to fence it.

TEIGNMOUTH - At an Inquest held at Teignmouth, respecting the death of SAMUEL TIDBALL, his brother WALTER stated that deceased had been in a desponding state for a month past through influenza, and the loss of his wife. A verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was returned.

TORQUAY - Inquest At Hele. A Juror's Mistake. - The Coroner for the Division, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquest at the Hele National Schools on Saturday morning on the body of ELIZABETH KATE DUNN, the infant daughter of JOHN and SUSAN DUNN. - At the time announced for the Enquiry, only twelve Jurymen were present, the thirteenth, William Ellis, a farm bailiff, not having put in an appearance. After allowing ten minutes' grace the Coroner said he could not keep twelve business men waiting for one who did not attend when summoned to do so. It became his duty to proceed with the Enquiry, and he should fine Ellis 10s. - Mr Walter Coram was elected Foreman of the Jury. The Coroner said the case which came before them was that of the death of a child aged about a year and a half, which was found dead in its cradle on Wednesday evening. According to the information he had received the child was in its usual health almost immediately preceding its death, and some explanation was needed as to the reason of the child's sudden death in this way. - On returning to the schoolroom after viewing the body, Sergeant Osborne said the Juryman Ellis was at the house of the parents of the deceased when the Jury got there. The Coroner said he could not admit Ellis as a Juryman now, but would speak to him after the Inquest. - JOHN DUNN, a jobbing gardener, living at 13 Orchard Cottages, Hele, said he was the father of the deceased, who was one year and eight months old. The child, which was not insured, had been poorly for about a week, but only slightly. Witness understood that it was teething, and since the child had been ill it had not had medical attendance. - The Coroner: How was it you didn't have a doctor if it was ill? - Witness: It was not supposed to be ill enough for that. - Did anyone suggest that a doctor should e called in? - No. - What was the child suffering from. How did it seem to be ill? - It was quite cheerful the night it died, and I gave it a cup half full of milk. The child must have died quickly after. I thought it was asleep. - How has it shown its illness during the past few days? - It has seemed a bit sleepy and tight on the chest. We put a linseed meal poultice on it. - Did you notice that it was distressed? - It was not distressed at all. It never moved or struggled after I put it in the cradle. - Continuing his evidence the witness said the child died on Wednesday evening about seven o'clock. He was there himself at the time, and the little boy WILLIAM also. The child had had about half a pint of milk during the day, some bread and butter, and a little potato. It had not refused its food anything to speak of. He had the child on his lap about a quarter past six the same evening it died, and it did not seem to be in a dangerous state at all. The child was not able to walk, and it had always been ailing from something or other. The little boy called attention to the child and said it had a nasty cough. Witness thought the child looked a little strange as it didn't quiver, and when he touched it he understood something was wrong as it was getting cold. The child did not move after he put it in the cradle and did not cry. The mother was out at work at the time the child died, and he sent for her and Dr Steele. - The Coroner: If the child was ill the proper thing to have done was to have called in a doctor. - Witness: If that is so we shall always be having to call in a doctor, and it won't run to it. - SUSAN DUNN was next called, and she said she was the mother of the deceased. She saw that the child was poorly a few days ago, but it was nothing serious. She gave it a teething powder which she obtained from the chemists and it seemed better on Wednesday morning. When witness went to work the child waved her little hands to her as she always did. Witness went out as a charwoman, and did some washing also. She did not see the child again until after its death. She had had ten children, and never lost any of them until this one. The last two children, however, had never thrived. She saw nothing to be alarmed at in the condition of the child. It had tightness of breathing, but she did not look upon that as much, as the little boy had cut his teeth when he had bronchitis. - The Coroner: You must have thought it pretty bad to have put on a poultice. - Witness: It seemed to have some difficulty in breathing, so I thought I would put on a poultice. - Dr Steele said he saw the child after death. He had attended it before, but not during its last illness. It was a somewhat delicate child. He made a post mortem examination, and found no marks of bruises or fractures or anything unusual. He found that the child had suffered from bronchitis and congestion of the lungs, and what he saw was quite sufficient to account for the death of the child. He examined the stomach and was of opinion that the child was fairly well nourished. There was no inflammation, such as would have been the case had any irritant poison been given to the child. There was no appearance of starvation, and the food seemed to have been digested. - The Coroner: Would the symptoms be such as to alarm the parents? - Witness: They may not have been, but a medical man, had he seen the child, would at once have seen that the symptoms were alarming. - WILLIAM DUNN, aged 13, said he was the brother of the deceased, and he looked after the baby every day when the mother was out at work. He didn't think the child was ill anything to speak of, but it had been a bit poorly for some days before. His mother took the baby out on Tuesday. He thought the child had a bad cough, and he told his father so. - The Coroner (to the mother): How was it you took the child out on Tuesday? - Because it didn't seem ill at all, not ill enough at any rate to be kept in. - The Coroner: If it had bronchitis and tightness of breath it was a most dangerous thing to take it out in the East wind. - The Mother: She didn't seem ill, and when I came home from work I took her out for a little time. It was about half-past one. - The Coroner summed up the evidence and said the question for the Jury to decide was as to whether there was any reason for supposing that death was caused by anything else than natural causes, and if the Jury were satisfied that the child did die from natural causes, they would have to consider whether there was any neglect shown in not calling in medical assistance. When a child was ill, it became the duty of the parents to obtain medical advice. They had had the mother and father before them, and it was for the Jury to say whether they were satisfied with the explanation given. - The room was cleared whilst the Jury considered their verdict, and on return, the Foreman said the Jury returned a verdict that the child died from bronchitis and congestion of the lungs. - The man Ellis was then called before the Coroner, who addressing him, said - You were summoned to appear on this Inquest; we waited for you for ten minutes, and as you did not come it became my duty to inflict a fine of 10s. on you. - Ellis: I was informed that the Inquest was to be at the house, and I went up there. Some person in the street told me so. I was here at half-past eleven, and the people outside told me it was at the house. The Coroner: If there really was a mistake made, I will remit the fine and accept the excuse. Ellis: Thank you sir.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 April 1892
TORQUAY - Last Evening an Inquest was held at the Union Hotel, Plainmoor, on the body of an old man named SEELEY, aged 86, who fell down dead on Wednesday evening. The Jury returned a verdict of death from Natural Causes. The deceased was a well-known character in the district, and was a familiar object to pedestrians up and down the St. Marychurch Road.

TORQUAY - A Septuagenarian's Suicide. - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner for the Division, held an Inquest at the Torbay Inn, Torre Square, on Saturday, on the body of WILLIAM SHORT, 74, a retired coachman, who was found hanging in his bedroom on the previous day. The following evidence was taken:- EMMA FLORENCE WHITE, who lives at 3 Bath Terrace, said she was the wife of Frederick White, commission agent, and she was the daughter of the deceased, who was 74 years of age. He lived in the same house with witness and was a retired coachman. Deceased occupied two rooms as a lodger, and had several relations and friends about. She last saw him alive on Good Friday morning about half-past ten. He was in bed all day on Thursday, and had suffered from suppressed gout in the stomach for some years. He had been worse the past few days; he was in bed on Thursday till four o'clock, when he got up and went out, and on his return he said he was very bad and went to bed. Witness took him up some tea on Friday morning and he said the pain was more than he could bear. He had had a doctor about a month ago, but he had refused to see one recently as none of them could do him any good. He could eat his food but it always caused him great pain afterwards. About eleven o'clock witness sent her little boy upstairs to see if his grandfather would have some beef tea, and the boy came downstairs and said his grandfather was hanging to the door by a rope. Witness went up, and saw the deceased on his knees, with a rope round his neck His face was not black and his eyes were closed. He had never threatened to do any harm to himself, and witness did not know that he had anything on his mind. People said the deceased was going to be married, but not much had been said about it. Deceased spoke of it once, when he said he did not know what he should do about it, but he should please himself. His wife had been dead seven years. - Frederick White, husband of the last witness, said he last saw the deceased in bed on Wednesday when he was in great pain. Witness advised him to have a doctor, but he refused. On Friday he heard his wife screaming and he went upstairs and found the deceased hanging to a nail behind the door. He was on his knees, and witness pulled the nail out when deceased fell on the floor. Witness slackened the rope. The body was warm. He then went for a doctor. Witness should have thought that the deceased would have been the last man to commit suicide as he was generally in good spirits. He had suffered from the complaint for many years. - A Juryman said he could corroborate that statement, as deceased suffered from a chronic complaint. - Witness said he believed it was true that the deceased was to be married, and when he spoke to him about it three months ago, he said he should please himself. - Dr Stabb said he was called to see the deceased on Friday, and he went to the house at once. Deceased was quite dead, and there was a livid mark round the neck where the rope had been. Deceased died from asphyxia, produced by strangulation. The neck was not broken. From the position, death would have ensued in about three minutes. A man would suffer severe pain from suppressed gout, and would be greatly depressed if it was in an acute form. - Frederick White, recalled, said, in reply to the Coroner, that the nail on which the rope was hung was nearly at the top of the door. It looked as if deceased tied the cord on to the nail and then dropped on his knees. - William Holland, owner of 3 Bath Terrace, said he saw the deceased on Thursday afternoon out of doors. He didn't speak to him. He never heard him threaten to do any harm to himself. There were no quarrels between anyone in the house. Deceased had lived there about ten years. - The Coroner summed up and the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst suffering from Temporary Depression."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 May 1892
TORQUAY - Strange Suicide At Torquay. - Mr Sidney Hacker, the Coroner for the Division, held an Inquest at the Queen's Hotel, on Wednesday evening, on the body of JOSEPH BROWN, coachman, in the employ of Mrs Schuster, Belton Lodge, Torquay, who was found hanging in the stables of the lodge. Mr John Hosking was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner stated that by his orders the body had been removed to the lodgings of the deceased, and as a doctor had seen the deceased it would not be necessary for the Jury to make any close examination of the body. The Rev. G. H. Statham, the Rev. R. D. Cook, St Mark's, and Mr Schuster were present. - THOMAS BROWN, 2 Meadfoot Lane, general dealer, said the deceased was his brother, JOSEPH PINKER BROWN, who was in his 40th year. He was coachman in the employ of Mrs Schuster, Belton Lodge, and lodged with witness. Deceased was unmarried and had been coachman to Mrs Schuster for 17 or 18 years. Witness last saw his brother alive on Monday night, when he slept with him as usual. He had breakfast at home on the Monday morning, and came home between nine and ten o'clock and went to bed unknown to witness. Witness was deaf and did not hear him come in. Deceased had been rather low-spirited for two or three days. He got up on Tuesday morning and went to Belton Lodge, between five and six. He didn't say anything, but that was nothing at all unusual. Witness heard about one o'clock that his brother had hanged himself, and his sister went up to the stables. About three years ago deceased found his mother dead and it preyed upon him for some time. Last week they buried his mother's only sister, and that might have called up in the mind of the deceased recollections of his mother, as he had been very much quieter since then. He was comfortable in his situation and equal to his duties. He was comfortably off and not in want at all Witness had never heard him threaten to commit suicide. There was not any insanity in the family, though he had heard that his grandfather was rather queer in the head at times. Witness had no reason for expecting anything was wrong. - Henry Gould, footman at Belton Lodge, said he did not see deceased alive on Tuesday morning. Witness went to look for him about 20 past one, because he had not been for orders as usual, and the butler thought there was something wrong with the horses perhaps. The stable door was fastened, and on looking through the window, he saw the horses had not been dressed, and he then saw the deceased hanging to a beam at the other end of the stable. His feet were off the ground, and he was hanging his full weight. Witness called for help and the gardener came, got in at the window, and cut deceased down, afterwards lettering witness in at the stable door. A doctor was immediately sent for. Witness last saw deceased alive on Monday evening, driving from the front door to the stables. - John Wilson, the gardener at Belton Lodge, said he was called by the last witness, and got in through the stable window. BROWN was hanging to a staple fixed to a beam, by pillar reins taken from the stalls. He cut him down and saw that the man was dead, quite cold and stiff. Witness thought he heard someone go into the stables about half-past five that morning, and it was probably the deceased. BROWN appeared to have stood on a truss of hay and stepped off, his feet being about six inches from the ground. Deceased apparently got two trusses of hay to stand on to reach the beam, and then pushed one off. The stable door was fastened on the inside with a hoof pin, the key of the door hanging on a nail by the side. Witness had not noticed anything different in the deceased lately, and he had known him since 1877. - Dr G. W. H. Cumming said he saw the deceased at the stable about half-past one. He had a pillar chain still round his neck. He was quite rigid, the hands were clenched and the tongue protruded, and there were all the signs of death by strangulation. There was a deep indentation on the neck where the rope, which was in a running noose, had been. He had evidently been dead six or eight hours, at least. There did not seem to be any dislocation of the neck, and there were no signs of a struggle. - Detective Coles stated that about a quarter past two on Tuesday afternoon he was called to Belton Lodge stables where he found the deceased lying as described by the last witness. He searched the body but there was no writing found on him, neither was there anything at the lodgings or stable which would bear upon the Inquiry. - MARIA BROWN said she was the sister of the deceased, and lived at Meadfoot Lane with him and her other brother for seventeen years. Deceased had complained at times of feeling unwell, but he had not complained of pains in the head. He had been rather quiet for the last few days. He was not a teetotaller, but he was not in the habit of taking much drink. - THOMAS BROWN, recalled, said deceased was the worse for drink about three months ago, but he had been quiet since. He did not drink continually, and had been quiet and steady for some months. - MARIA BROWN, continuing her evidence, said the deceased seemed to feel his aunt's death. They were all living on friendly terms, and she never thought he had any intention of committing suicide. - The Rev. R. D. Cooke, curate of St. Mark's, Torwood, said about three years ago, the deceased was living with his mother, and found her dead. He was terribly upset, and was in convulsions of grief for several days, and for a long time afterwards he was in a very quiet state. It had a wonderful effect on him at the time. Witness had known the deceased intimately for three years, but he did not appear to have been different lately. - A Juryman: Had he any notice to leave his place. - Mr Schuster: No. My mother had the highest opinion of him, and he was perfectly happy. Only the afternoon before, a friend told him of someone who had hanged himself, and he said, "What a silly thing to do." - The Jury returned a verdict of Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane.

TORQUAY - Fatality At Knight's Corner. - That dangerous part of Tor, known as Knight's Corner, was the scene of a sad accident on Monday morning, an old pensioner named EPHRAIM PLEECE, in the employ of the Torquay Local Board, being knocked down by a runaway horse and trap, and succumbing to the injuries received within a few hours of the unfortunate occurrence. Knight's Corner has always been a dangerous one, and the fact that its improvement has been contemplated by the Local Board will be some satisfaction to all, and the hope has been expressed that the alteration will be facilitated as much as possible. The facts of the occurrence came out at the Inquest, a report of which is appended. PLEECE was an Army pensioner, having served in the Royal Artillery, and he went through the Crimea and the Indian Mutiny, being wounded in the hand which caused two fingers to grow together, the consequence being that he was invalided out of the service, receiving a shilling a day as pension. Deceased had been in the employ of the Local Board for several years as a road sweeper, and as his fatal injuries were received whilst he was on duty, his next of kin will be entitled to a full year's pay, from the Ocean Guarantee Society, with whom all the employees of the Torquay Local Board are insured. It is stated that a sister of the deceased was killed close to the same spot about four years ago - a somewhat remarkable coincidence. PLEECE had been twice married; his second wife dying about a year ago, her deceased being a great shock to PLEECE, who is stated to have never recovered from it. - The Inquest. - The Inquest was held at the Torbay Hospital on Tuesday evening, Mr R. Crocker being chosen Foreman of the Jury. Mr H. A. Garrett, the Town Surveyor, represented the Torquay Local Board. - Mrs Mary White stated that she lived at Brunswick Terrace, Tor, and was wife of James White, labourer. The deceased was her brother, EPHRAIM PLEECE, 60 years of age. He was a labourer in the employ of the Torquay Local Board. Deceased was a widower, and there was no one dependent on him. Witness saw her brother after the accident in the Hospital; he was bleeding and was attended to by the doctors. He could not speak, but put out his hand, and took hold of hers. - Mr Arthur Watson, house surgeon, of Torbay Hospital, stated that deceased was admitted about 20 past 11 on Monday morning, suffering from severe scalp wounds, and bleeding from the left ear. At first it did not seem that his injuries were so serious, but it was evident subsequently that there must have been severe internal injuries. Deceased gradually sank, and died about a quarter to four in the afternoon. The base of the skull was fractured, and there were internal injuries. Deceased was quite sensible, and wanted to be taken home, but they persuaded him to remain in the Hospital. There were four scalp wounds. - Mr R. Compton Bishop, Montrose, Torquay, solicitor's articled clerk, said on Monday morning about 11 he was on a bicycle near the Torbay Inn, when he saw a friend and dismounted to speak to him. He sounded the cycle horn on his machine to call another friend, and just then Mr J. S. Waymouth came out of the Torbay Inn and shouted to him to "stop the horse." He then saw a horse attached to a low trap, just walking out of the yard of the Torbay Inn, but as soon as it got to the crossing, it started off at full gallop down the road towards Upton. There were three traps coming up the road on the right hand side, and the trap struck the barrow which was being used by the deceased. He did not notice the trap in the yard, until he had his attention called to it by Mr Waymouth. - A Juror: You have no idea what made the horse start. - Witness: It started slowly enough at first. If Mr Waymouth had not made the remark he did, I should not have noticed that it was off at all. - The Coroner: did your horn frighten the animal? - Witness: It might have done, but I don't think so, as the horse had started walking and then broke into a gallop. - The Coroner: What do you think made it gallop? - Witness: My opinion is that when the horse started walking and felt that it was not being guided, and it came to the stone crossing, the rattle of the trap set it off. - Henry Perryman, 7 Church Lane, labourer, said when he was at the bottom of the Teignmouth Road he saw the horse galloping down. Deceased was standing half way between the two corners with a barrow. The horse was coming down the road as hard as he could gallop, and he went right over the deceased, who was standing with his back towards the horse. Witness shouted as loud as he could but it was all done so quickly that there was no time to get out of the way, and horse, trap, man and barrow all went down together. The horse struggled to its feet and darted up the road again, overturning witness's cart. witness could not stop the horse, which went past like the wind. - Mr John Staines Waymouth, St. Marychurch, said that on Monday he drove to Torquay with Mr George Parker Short, and when they came to Tor they were going to wait for Mr Short's son. Whilst waiting they put the pony and trap in the yard of the Torbay Inn, and they went into the bar. The pony was not tied up, and there was no one in charge of it, it being close to the door where the witness was standing. Witness saw the pony move and he went to the door, and just as he got on the threshold, he heard a cycle "hooter" blown, whereupon the pony pricked up his ears and went off at a stretch gallop at once. Witness shouted "stop the pony" and followed it out of the yard, and saw it go down towards the Teignmouth road, passing one or two carts and grazing their wheels. He did not see the man and the barrow, but the pony went into something and turned a complete somersault, coming up on his legs again. Witness ran down and helped up a young woman who had been thrown out of the last witness's trap, and then he saw the deceased lying in the road. The man was taken to the Hospital and after they had got the pony free witness and Mr Short drove to the Hospital to see after the man. - The Coroner: How is it that you left the pony without anyone in charge of it? Why did you not have the ostler? You were inside the house, so you cannot say the pony was in your charge. - Witness: We thought the pony was all right. It would not have started if the noise had not occurred. - The Coroner: In an open yard of that sort, there are always liable to be noises from the open street. - Mr Bishop: As the "hooter" has been mentioned in the evidence of the last witness I should like to call attention to the point that the horse moved before Mr Waymouth came out of the Inn, and as he came out, he heard the "hooter." - Mr Waymouth: It had scarcely moved when I came out, and the "hooter" frightened him. - The Coroner: What caused the pony to move in the first place? - Witness: I don't know sir. - The Coroner: You say it was the "hooter" which frightened the animal. - Witness: There is no doubt about it. - Mr G. Parker Short, of Westhill. St. Marychurch, chairman of the St. Marychurch Local Board, said he drove his friend Mr Waymouth to Torquay on Monday, and witness arranged to pick up his son at Mr F. U. Webb's at Tor, but as his son was not there to time he put the pony and trap in the yard at the Torbay Inn, and went just inside the bar. He had hardly turned his back before something startled the pony, and it went off. There was someone playing an accordion, but whether that frightened the pony he could not say. There were some people passing at the end of the yard, and they could have easily stopped the pony, but they did not attempt to. - The Coroner: You cannot expect everyone to stop a runaway pony. - Witness, continuing, said it was either the accordion or the "hooter" which frightened the pony. It was not galloping before the "hooter" sounded, but it went quicker afterwards. - The Coroner: there is a distinct line of demarcation between a pony moving away and bolting. - Witness: The pony was running away in the yard. I cannot recollect everything as I was panic stricken at the moment. Something must have caused the pony to start, because I have left it for half an hour at a time before this. - The Coroner: You will get into trouble if you do that. - Witness: I don't leave it in the public road. I have had the pony about eight months, and am not aware that he has run away with anyone before I had him. - The Coroner: It is never safe to leave a pony unattended. This is a maxim you cannot contradict. - Witness: When a thing has happened, you know how to prevent it,. - Mr Ferrett (a Juryman): Was the horse moving before the hooter was blown" - Witness: I cannot say; it was all about the same time. It was a pure accident. - James Wellsman, ostler at the Torbay Inn, said he was in the inside yard when the pony started, and he ran down after it. He did not see the man knocked over. - Mr Henry Gardener, Higher Union Street, was called at the request of Mr Bishop, and he stated that when the horse started at first, it did so at a walk. Mr Bishop blew his horn and the horse began to gallop. The horn was blown before the horse stated,. - The Coroner: We should like to know what frightened the horse. Was it the horn, or the accordion, or what was it? - Witness: I really cannot say; I didn't hear the accordion. The horn was blown before the pony started at all. - The Coroner: then probably the pony started because the horn was blown, and that being so it was the horn being blown that made the pony start. - Witness: I endeavoured to stop the pony, but saw that I could not do so without endangering my own life. The pony was going too fast. - Mr Bishop: The horn was sounded first, but I did not see the pony start at all. A Juryman: That does not agree with Mr Waymouth's evidence. - Mr Waymouth: The pony moved, and I came out. As I got to the door, the hooter sounded, and the pony started off at a gallop. - Mr Ward (a Juryman): That was the echo you heard then. - The Coroner summed up and said the verdict could hardly be anything else but that the deceased came by his death from injuries received through being knocked down by a horse and trap. They had heard the description of how it was done, and he supposed they would come to the conclusion that it was an accidental occurrence. The horse, unfortunately, had been left outside the Torbay Inn without anyone in charge, but as Mr Short said everyone could be wise after the event. It was always a somewhat dangerous practice to leave a horse or any other four footed animal, unattended, especially in a town where there were so many noises going on. Whether it was the bicycle horn which stated the pony in the first instance, they could not say, but it was evident that the "hooter" put the finishing touch on the pony's flight. Of course Mr Bishop had the right to sound his horn in Torquay, so they would say nothing about that. If Mr Short had left the pony in the open street outside an inn in a public thoroughfare, unattended, there would have been reason to blame him for his action, but in this case the pony was in a private yard, so they could not reflect upon his conduct, though it was possibly a little imprudent. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Foreman stating that several of the Jurymen had expressed the opinion, that the accident might not have occurred if Knight's Coroner had been improved some years ago, as was strongly advocated. The Coroner: Perhaps when you get your Mayor and corporation, that will be one of the first things they will attend to.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 May 1892
TORQUAY - Suicide At Torquay. A Victim To Anxiety. - A particularly sad case of suicide was investigated by Mr Coroner Hacker at the Chelston Coffee House Tavern on Wednesday evening, when Enquiry was made into the circumstances attending the death of JAMES WEBBER, a ganger in the employ of the G.W.R. Co., who was found drowned on the sands at Hollacombe Beach on Tuesday. Mr Hill was Foreman of the Jury, and the following evidence was adduced:- ELLEN JESSIE WEBBER, 12 Rosery Cottages, said the deceased was her husband, JAMES WEBBER, 34 years of age, a ganger platelayer on the Great Western Railway. Deceased went to work on Tuesday morning, but she had not seen him since Monday night, when everything appeared comfortable, though he seemed low and complained that the narrow gauging had given a lot of trouble to his head. He said he had a "pressure" on his head through the work being heavy. He said he should be glad when the narrow gauging was over. She did not know whether there was any extra work, but he said this narrow gauging was a lot more "bustling," and there was more head work attached to it. He seemed to be always thinking, and when witness spoke to him he said the work required study. He ate his supper as usual on Monday night, and went to bed between ten and half-past. He did not come home to dinner and witness was anxiously waiting and looking, when a young man came in and told her that there had been an accident, and her husband was subsequently brought home dead. He didn't say anything on Monday night which would be an intimation that he intended to do anything to himself. There were three children, aged 10, 6 and 9 months. He was a good husband, and a thorough good father to his children, and they had always been very comfortable. Witness did not know what to think about his death, and she had no reason to suspect that anyone was implicated in it. - Alfred Underhill, labourer on the G.W.R., said he lodged with the deceased, and had been there about eight months. Witness was under the deceased at work. They left the house on Tuesday morning about a quarter to six and went to work together. They had breakfast in the yard about half-past eight, and then they went to work again. Deceased said very little at breakfast time, but he wondered whether everything would be right when the narrow gauging commenced on Friday. Deceased was responsible for two and a quarter miles of the line. He told witness and the other men what to do, and that was the last he saw of him, until he was told he was dead. Witness rather thought deceased's death was accidental, but could not give any reason for such a supposition. Witness had never seen anything of insanity, but he had often said he was afraid his work would not come right, and that he had a lot of men coming there and had not enough tools for them. Witness heard of the death and went to tell the wife. - Martin Damerall, 8 Goschen Terrace, Chelston, a railway packer, said he and deceased went to work together, witness being second man of the same gang. After breakfast deceased went into the hut with some papers, and that was the last witness saw of him alive. About 11 o'clock a message came down for a ganger, and witness went to the hut for deceased, but he was not in. Witness then went down to the Gas Works, and when there he was told that there was a dead man on the sands, and when he went down there, he saw that it was WEBBER. Where WEBBER was at work at the Gas House points was a quarter of a mile from where the body was found. Deceased would have had to go down the bank some distance to get to the shore. - John Mutter, foreman porter at Torquay Station, said he last saw deceased alive at about ten o'clock, when he came out of the hut. Witness wanted a tape and deceased handed him one, saying he need not bring it back as he would have it when he came to the station. WEBBER then went down the line towards the Gas House. He had not been so free in his talk lately, and would not take much notice of any conversation unless he was spoken to. Witness thought WEBBER was busy about his work, and seemed always to be studying. Mr Coles, the Inspector, was the next responsible man over deceased. - John French, 2 Daison Cottages, Upton, a carter, said he was passing up the road between the Gas Works and Livermead about 11 o'clock, when he saw the deceased walking up the line towards the Gas House. He was walking with his head hanging down and his hands in his pockets. About two o'clock when the tide was low, witness went to the beach to draw sand, when he saw WEBBER'S dead body lying there. To get where he was found deceased would have to get down over the line and go round the cliffs a little. - John Martin, 7 Regent Terrace, Hele, a carter, said he was going after sand about a quarter to two and saw the dead body lying on Hollacombe Beach. His head was between two rocks, and the body was face downwards. It was below high water mark, but the tide was going out then. His hat was in behind the rocks. Witness sent for assistance to the Gas Works. The body appeared to have been in the water, as the clothes were wet, and there was seaweed on his head. If deceased had been walking along the rocks he could have fallen over. - P.C. Clinnick said he went to Hollacombe Beach where he found deceased lying on the sand on his face and hands with his head towards the water. The clothes were saturated with water and there was seaweed on his head. Witness searched the body and found some money and a watch which had stopped at 20 past 12. There was no writing on him which would throw any light on the Inquiry. - P.C. Goodman said he had a message from Torquay and went to Hollacombe Beach and took the body to the house on a stretcher. The distance from the line to where the body was, was 96 feet. There was a path down to the beach which was used by men to fetch seaweed occasionally. WEBBER would not pass close by there on his way to the Gas House. There were no papers at the house which would throw any light upon his death. - Dr D. Thistle said he had examined the body that afternoon. There was a slight bruise on the nose and right cheek, but with that exception, there were no external bruises or marks. There were no bones broken, and the bruises seemed to have been caused after death, they were quite superficial, such as would be caused without much force. The appearances all pointed to death by drowning, and the bruises might have been caused by the body being washed about the rocks. If there had been any fall, witness would have expected to have seen some bruises, larger than those which were on the body. From what witness had heard, deceased had been a good deal worried about his work. - Mr Coles, an inspector of the line, said he walked over the ground with deceased on Saturday. His work was in a forward state, and had given every satisfaction. WEBBER had not shown any anxiety about his work to witness. He saw clearly what he had to do, and had done most of it. Deceased was always a very quiet man, and was trustworthy and gave every satisfaction. - The Coroner summed up, and laid stress upon the importance of the medical testimony. A great deal of evidence had been adduced, but it did not seem to throw any great light upon the way in which deceased came to his death. The pressure in the head referred to by one of the witnesses might have been an hallucination or not, but it was evident that he had been different of late, and this had been accounted for by increased anxiety in connection with his work. The Coroner pointed out that had there been a fall from any height there would have been more marks on the body. - The Jury retired to consider the verdict, and after an absence of some time, they returned a verdict to the effect that deceased had committed Suicide whilst suffering from Temporary Insanity.

TORQUAY - A Septuagenarian Found Dead. A Mortuary Needed. - Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquest at the Torbay Hospital on Tuesday evening on the body of GEORGE JOSHUA DODD, aged 74, a mason living at Ellacombe. Mr T. J. Short was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the following evidence was taken:- THOMAS DODD, 3 St. Edmund's Terrace, Plainmoor, labourer, said the deceased was his father, GEORGE JOSHUA DODD, aged 74, a mason. He lived at 6 Hoxton Road, Ellacombe. Deceased's wife died about 12 months ago. witness last saw his father alive about a month ago. He was not on good terms with him. He did not know anything about his father, who had been like a stranger to him for the last 20 years. When witness saw him last he appeared to be in very good health. - John Turncliff, 6 Hoxton-road, Ellacombe, said the deceased lodged at that house. On Monday morning DODD got up about a quarter past five, lit his fire and had some tea, after which he went out. Witness did not speak to the old man, who went out just before six. He appeared to be all right then. Deceased had not done any work for six or seven months, and Mr Greenfield helped him a good deal. He had plenty of "grub" but witness did not know where he had got it. The old man had been ill, and one Sunday witness fetched Dr Cook to him. He had a fit about three weeks ago and fell down, and had two fits subsequently the same day. - Joseph Beale, Lower Lodge, Cockington, labourer, said he was going to work about 10 minutes to 7 on Monday morning, when he saw deceased leaning against the wall in the Cockington-road, he said, "good morning," and witness replied. About ten minutes afterwards DODD passed witness, and he did not see him again. Witness did not know what he was doing there. He believed he had a little basket on his back. - James Henry Symmons, Marldon, said as he was going from Marldon to Chelston, he saw DOOD lying across the roadway quite dead. There was no one about at the time. witness thought the man was in a fit, and he lifted him across the road and opened his coat, when he saw that he was dead. He was cold but not stiff. witness ran for two men from the fruit farm, and then went for P.C. Goodman. - P.C. Goodman, stationed at Cockington, said the last witness came to him and reported that a man had been found dead at Cockington. He went to Bewhay Road and saw the deceased lying in the road. He was dead, and on him was threepence in copper, a knife, a bag, and pipe and tobacco. Witness obtained a conveyance and had the body taken to the mortuary at the Hospital. The Coroner: Cockington being such a rising place it should provide itself with a mortuary. - Mr Arthur Watson, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he examined the body of the deceased. The body was well nourished and had a good deal of fat in the sub-cutaneous tissue. He had old disease of the kidneys and valvular disease of the heart. He attributed death to the sudden stoppage of the heart's action. Death would have ensued without any previous warning. There were signs of old pleurisy but that had nothing to do with the death. - Mr Basil E. Greenfield said the old man had been taken care of, but had been very ill a fortnight ago. They wanted him to go into the House, but he said he would creep on till the summer. - The Coroner, in the course of his summing up, said it seemed that there was no public mortuary at Cockington, and it had been necessary for the parish constable of Cockington to procure a conveyance and bring the body all the way to the mortuary at the Hospital in Torquay. He did not think that this state of things was altogether satisfactory and the authorities at Cockington should provide a mortuary, for cases such as this might arise with a rapidly growing population; and there was also the liability to find cases of drowning in the parish. He did not know whether the Jury would add any rider to their verdict, or leave the matter as it was, but probably the authorities would see that these remarks had been made, and would see the necessity for providing a mortuary for Cockington. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, but added no rider with respect to the mortuary.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 June 1892
TORQUAY - Suicide At Torquay. - On Wednesday evening an Inquest was held at the Police Court by Mr Sydney Hacker concerning the death of WILLIAM DOUGLAS, a publican, of the "Bunch of Grapes" Inn, Pimlico, who was found hanging behind his door on Tuesday. Mr H. Terry was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MRS LOUISA DOUGLAS was the first witness called and said the deceased was her husband. He was 41 years of age and by trade a house-painter. He was the landlord of the Bunch of Grapes Inn. She said deceased had been suffering from heart disease nearly his whole life-time. He had been suffering a great deal of pain lately and had frequently complained, and on Tuesday morning said he did not think he had much longer to live. Deceased was at home in the morning and went out after dinner, which he ate all right, to a house in Temperance Street. He then came home about six o'clock, and was lying upon a sofa in the kitchen suffering much pain, and witness had to hold him to steady him. He did not have any tea, and she left him sitting by the fireside. There had been no unpleasantness between deceased and witness or anyone. Deceased went upstairs at about 6.30. She went up to the bedroom at about 8 o'clock but was afraid to go in as she could not open the door, there being something behind it. She called to her husband but go no answer. Deceased had never hinted at committed suicide. She waited till her son came home at 10 o'clock and they then went up together and found deceased hanging behind the door. The son went down and called some men, one of whom went and cut him down. His face was turned towards the door and his feet were touching the ground, his knees being bent. He was hanging by the cord of his dressing gown. There was a letter found on the bookshelf which was in the deceased's handwriting. In it he said he had been driven to do away with himself by the awful pain he had been suffering and hoped to be soon out of his misery. Witness said she had always been on good terms with deceased and was his second wife, having been married to him four years. Deceased had shown no symptoms of mental derangement. - The next witness was WILLIAM DOUGLAS, son of the deceased, apprenticed to Mr Harding, of Market-street. He last saw his father at 6.30 on Tuesday evening, and asked him if he should stay with him, but his father declined, saying he could go out for an hour or two. Witness went out, and returned about 10 o'clock, and on going up with his mother, and pushing the door open, they entered and getting a light, found deceased as already described. He then fetched a young man, who cut him down, and he afterwards called in the police. - Frederick George Pellow, living at Queen-street, was the next witness. He said he was a labourer by trade. On Tuesday evening he was in the bar, when the boy came down and said, "Has anybody a knife, he's hanged himself." Witness went upstairs, the room was in darkness, and feeling behind the door, he felt a man hanging, and then when a light was procured, he cut him down. He put deceased on the bed, and his hands were quite cold, but over his heart his body was still warm. - James Wood was next called. He was an indoor servant, and saw deceased at 10.30 at the Bunch of Grapes Inn, and was with him during the day. Deceased complained frequently of his pain, and said that if it was not better shortly he should soon be dead. Witness did not interpret it as meaning he would commit suicide, but that the pains would kill him. - Dr George Andrews was then called and said he saw deceased at quarter to 11, and he had been dead about two hours. He found a deep impression around the neck, but there was no other mark on the body. Deceased died of strangulation. Witness had attended him for two months, and he suffered from heart disease as well as kidney disease. He was always suffering pain more or less. He was of an excitable state of mind, and the disease might possibly have affected it; but there were no actual signs of any mental disease. The Coroner, in summing up, said that he had felt it his duty to investigate more closely in this case than he generally did, as there had been a number of suicides in Torquay recently. The Jury in their verdict, found that the deceased committed Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 24 June 1892
TORQUAY - Inquests At Torquay. A Child Run Over And Killed. - On Monday evening Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquiry at the Clarence Hotel, Tor, into the circumstances attending the death of CYRIL WILLIAM SMALE, aged one year and seven months, the infant son of MR FRED C. SMALE of 1 Knowlsley Cottages. Mr Wyatt was chosen Foreman of the Jury and the following evidence was taken:- Eliza Priest said that she lived with her husband at Altona, which is just opposite MR SMALE'S residence. They were having lunch, when she looked up and thought she saw the boy's head under the wheel of a waggon. She rushed out in time to see a man pick the child up. She had seen the little fellow open the gate himself before, and she thought he must have wanted to run across the road, but was knocked down. There were two waggons which were going at a walking pace towards Newton. Witness took the child from the man and carried it to its mother. The boy seemed to know his mother, but was evidently in dreadful pain, and its cries were heartrending. - Arthur Fletcher, Prince's Street, Paignton, a carter, in the employ of the Torbay Brewing and Cider Company, said, on Saturday morning he and another carter were going with a waggon and a cart, both being one horse vehicles. Witness had charge of the cart, which was behind the waggon. The load in the cart was about eighteen hundred-weight, and that in the waggon about a ton. Bond was walking by the side of his waggon, and witness was riding on the top of the cart. They were going at the rate of about two miles an hour, as it was a heavy load. Witness felt a lurch, and on looking round he saw a child lying in the road. Bond ran back and picked it up. Neither of them saw the child, until it was lying in the road. witness jumped off the cart and ran back, and then the last witness and MRS SMALE came and took the child. Witness was riding on top of the casks, and the near wheel went over the deceased. - Mr Arthur Watson, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said the child was admitted a few minutes past 11 o'clock on Saturday morning. It was suffering from fracture of the pelvis, and must have received internal injuries as well. The child died a few minutes before two o'clock the same day. There was no injury to the head, but there was a long contusion over the lower part of the abdomen which was probably caused by one of the wheels. There was a contusion on the left shoulder, but that was probably caused by the child falling against the cart. - William Thomas Bond, Cary Court, Paignton, carter, in the employ of the Torbay Brewing and Cider Co., stated that he was in charge of the waggon on Saturday as stated by a previous witness, and was walking by the side of the horse, which was going at a slow walk. He was on the near side, and did not see the child until he heard a sound, and on looking round he saw it lying across the road. He picked the child up and gave it to Mrs Priest. - The Coroner said it was a very unfortunate case, but there did not appear to be any circumstances which would suggest that there had been any fault or carelessness on the part of anyone. It was rather mysterious what the child was doing there, but it was probable that it wanted to run across the road to its father, who was in the gardens opposite. The only hypothesis was that the child ran between the two carts, and was knocked down, and run over by the hinder one. Mr J. T. Nundy, managing director of the Torbay Brewing and Cider Co., expressed the deep regret of the Directors at the occurrence, and said they wished to express their sympathy and condolence with the bereaved parents. - The Coroner: Allow me to join with you in that expression of condolence. - MR W. B. SMALE, on behalf of the parents, said they knew that there had been no neglect on the part of anyone. The child was not old enough to know the danger. The Coroner said the drivers appeared to have been going at a walking pace, and no blame was attributable to them. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - The Drowning Fatality At The Pier. - Immediately following the first Inquest, another one was held concerning the death of JOHN DESBOROUGH, an engineer, who was drowned in the Harbour, off the New Pier works on Sunday morning. The same Jury as served in the previous Inquiry was empanelled in this one. - Richard Fryer said he was the father-in-law of the deceased and lived at 21 North Street, Stroud, and was a licensed victualler. The deceased was 36 years of age, and was an engine driver, living at 7 Camden Road, Ellacombe. The deceased had been down at Torquay on the Pier works for about a month. He left a wife and four children, the wife having only been confined last Friday. - William Robert Walters, of 1 Anglesea Terrace, Tor, said he was on the bridge at Rock Walk on Sunday morning, exactly opposite the Pier, when he heard a splash, and on looking round, he saw a man in the water, struggling about. He raised an alarm, and some men on the pier works, ran out. He should think the man was in the water about eight or ten minutes, and he saw him walking down the pier towards the shore a second or two before he heard the splash. There was no one else near the man at the time. - John Atkins, 3 Exeter Villas, Torquay, crane driver at the Pier works, said he heard the last witness give the alarm, and he ran out as fast as he could go. He and others threw a life buoy to DESBOROUGH, but he did not move. The man was floating in an upright position, and witness could see the top of his head. It was about 13 feet from the top of the wall to the water. There was nothing in the water for him to strike against, and there was nothing projecting from the works which he could have struck. Deceased had been at work washing out the boiler of his engine; they were obliged to do that on Sundays because the engine was always at work on other days. They threw the life buoy a second time, and it pitched over the head of the deceased, and they gradually pulled him in, but when witness got down to the water's edge to take hold of him he sunk. A boatman came up just then, and threw out a small anchor, which caught deceased between the legs and brought him to the surface. They pulled him into the boat and rowed round to the South Pier. - The Coroner: Could you not get him ashore quicker than that? What was the idea of taking him all round there? - Witness: I don't know; I was not in the boat. In reply to further questions witness said he had never heard the deceased complain that he suffered from fits of ailments of any sort. There was nothing on the pier for him to trip against. It was nearly high water at the time, there being about 11 or 12 feet of water where deceased fell. - William Connett, 13 Lower Ellacombe Church-road, engine fitter at the Pier Works, said he was in the fitter's shop at the works when he heard a cry of "man overboard" from Rock Walk. He ran out and repeated the cry. Witness and others then ran to the spot where the man was, and threw the lifebuoy towards him, but he did not move or make any sign. Deceased had been in witness's shop immediately before going down to his engine, and he seemed all right then. The wall was 16 feet wide, and there was nothing for him to trip over. DESBOROUGH was about seven yards away from the wall. When he saw that the deceased did not take hold of the buoy, he ran for a rope with the intention of putting it round his own waist and jumping over, as he could not swim. He had to go about 50 yards for the rope and when he came back Atkins was over the wall on a short ladder. Witness then put the rope round Atkins and told him to jump off, but just as he was about to do so DESBOROUGH sank. A boatman afterwards got the body up with an anchor, and they rowed round he South Pier. Deceased had stated that since he had been in Torquay he had felt drowsy and his head had swum at times; he attributed this to the change of climate. - John Holden, a fisherman, said that on Sunday morning he was rowing out from the old Harbour, when he heard a cry, and on looking round he saw a boat rowing away from the spot, and that made him think that there was nothing much the matter. The cry was repeated, and he rowed to the pier and asked what was up. The man said the deceased had just gone down, and witness replied "If he is gone down he is dead by this time." He threw out his anchor, and brought the deceased up to the surface. His hands were not in his pockets, but they were clenched in front of him. Witness added that he might have been on the spot a minute or two sooner, if he had not been put off by the other boat. Dr Pollard said he saw DESBOROUGH on the South Pier and there were then no signs of life. The coast guard were practising artificial respiration on him for some time, but he never showed any signs of life. Witness used the ordinary methods of restoring suspended animation, but his efforts were unavailing. He had since examined the body and found that death was undoubtedly caused by drowning. There were no signs of heart disease or apoplexy, and there were no marks of injuries of any kind. - Sergeant Bond said he went to the Pier on Sunday morning and saw Dr Pollard and Coastguardsman Jennings trying all they could to restore suspended animation, but without success. He searched the body and found £12 12s. 8d. in gold, silver and bronze, on it, but there was nothing to throw any light on the occurrence. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 July 1892
ST MARYCHURCH - A Fatal Jump From A Trap. Sad Death Of A Visitor. - As related in our last issue, a serious accident befell MISS POOLE, a visitor at the Royal Hotel, Babbacombe, and it is now with regret that we have to announce that the unfortunate lady never recovered consciousness from the time of the accident, but gradually sank and passed away shortly after two o'clock on Sunday afternoon. MISS POOLE had been at Babbacombe about two months, and was a regular attendant at All Saints', Babbacombe, during that time. MISS POOLE was of a somewhat retiring disposition, but always created a favourable impression upon those with whom she was brought in contact, and her sad death will be regretted by many at Babbacombe. - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of the deceased lady at the Royal Hotel, Babbacombe, on Monday evening. Mr W. D. Bowden was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Mr Irwin Bevan stated that he lived at Wimbledon, and the deceased was his aunt SARAH MADDOX ANGEL POOLE, aged 67. She had no fixed address, and at the time of her death was living at the Royal Hotel, Babbacombe, where she had been for two months. Witness saw the deceased on Friday, and she was then unconscious. - Miss Elizabeth Buttress, a visitor at Woodland Terrace, Babbacombe, said MISS POOLE was a friend of hers. On Thursday MISS POOLE called for her in Cribbett's pony chaise about eleven o'clock, and they drove to Compton Castle, after which MISS POOLE wished to go on to Berry Pomeroy. They missed the right turning and got to Pomeroy Woods. In going down the hill, which was rather steep, the brake broke and MISS POOLE became frightened, and the pony started through some part of the carriage pressing on it. The pony broke into a gallop and MISS POOLE jumped out directly she saw the brake hanging loose. At that time the driver was in the trap holding the reins. Witness did not see how the deceased fell as the pony went on at an increased pace. The pony ran away down the hill, the carriage swaying from side to side. The boy jumped out to get to the pony's head, but fell, and witness was left alone in the carriage. At the foot of the hill the witness was thrown out with the carriage over her. The boy came up quickly lifted up the carriage and witness crawled out, the pony standing perfectly still beside the shattered carriage. Witness went back up the hill and found MISS POOLE lying on the roadside "a heap of injuries", where she had jumped out. She was quite unconscious and bleeding from the mouth, ear and eye. Witness lifted up her head and told the boy to go for assistance. Dr Alexander came by in his trap just then, and he immediately attended to MISS POOLE. The boy had been to Mr Whitehead's who came with a carriage and pair, but on the doctor's advice a spring cart was obtained from a farm and the deceased was placed in it. Deceased never recovered consciousness to the time of her death. Witness had been in the carriage many times before, and it had always been all right then, and they had had the same driver, young Cribbett. The deceased was brought from Paignton to Babbacombe in an omnibus. Every possible attention was paid to her. - Charles James Cribbett stated that he had been driving the pony carriage for three years, and was in the employment of his father. On the Thursday he took up MISS POOLE at the Royal Hotel and then went round for Miss Buttress, after which they went to Compton Castle, and then they went on towards Berry Pomeroy Castle. As they got half way down a steep hill he heard something give way and all the force of the carriage came on to the pony's hind legs, and it commenced to kick. The block of the brake broke off, and witness found it in the road afterwards. The ironwork was not broken at all, but the wooden block came out of the shoe of the brake. The block was nutted right through and witness supposed that it was shaken out. Witness got out to lighten the load before MISS POOLE jumped out. He got out to get to the pony's head, but before he could get to its head the pony started off. He held on to the reins until he was knocked off his feet, and when he got up he saw that MISS POOLE was out of the trap, which was right on ahead. He ran after the trap, and saw it turn over at the bottom of the hill. The pony stood quite still immediately. He lifted up the carriage and Miss Buttress crept from underneath. The pony was cut a little behind by the springs but had not fallen. He got on the pony's back and galloped for assistance. He went to a house and a gentleman sent down a carriage and pair and restoratives. Meanwhile Dr Alexander had come up and attended to MISS POOLE. His father had had the pony about 18 months, and it had never kicked or run away before. The shoe was not broken at all, and the block was picked up in the road afterwards. - Dr Thomas Finch, senr., said that on Thursday evening he was called in by Dr Alexander, who was at the Royal Hotel. he went to the hotel, where he saw MISS POOLE, who was in a comatose condition. There was a bruise over the right temple, the eye was closed, and there were abrasions about the face; there was also a slight fracture of the right wrist, but the serious mischief was to the brain. There was a superficial wound, but no fracture of the skull. There was evidence of a severe blow over the right temple above the eye. MISS POOLE was in a state of perfect coma, and suffered from compression of the brain, evidently caused by a serious effusion of blood upon the brain. On the previous day, he saw the deceased with Dr Alexander, just after mid-day, and about 2.30 he was sent for, as there was seen to be a change, but before he got to the hotel, she was dead. Everything was done that was possible, and he and Dr Alexander were perfectly agreed that the case from the first was hopeless. - Mr Cribbett said he was the owner of the pony and trap. He had the trap from Mr Grist, at the Riding School. The brake was in a proper working condition, and the only explanation he could give was that the block had shrunk through the weather. It was a frequent occurrence for a block to come out, and leather was put on to make it tight. In this block there was a screw through the centre. It was a very rough lane where the accident occurred. The pony was about 13 hands, and was as quiet a one as could be found. Witness saw the trap after the accident and saw that the ironwork of the brake was not broken at all. - By Mr F. R. Evans (a Juror): The brake on this carriage has never broken before to my knowledge. It was the best thing the boy could have done to get out under the circumstance, as he would have more power over the animal. - The Coroner: I should be of opinion that it would be more risk for the driver to get out than if he had sat still. The Coroner then summed up, and said there could be no doubt the unfortunate occurrence was an accident. There was no reason to impute any blame to the driver or the owner of the carriage. - The Foreman said they could not examine the trap and therefore had to take the evidence for it. He knew the boy to be a very careful driver and he had ridden in the same trap and with the same pony. His wife too had driven in the trap, and was very pleased with the driver and the trap. - Mr Fred Matthews said he used the pony and trap a great many times every week, and the boy had driven. He considered him to be a careful and competent driver. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 August 1892
KINGSBRIDGE - At an Inquest held on Saturday at Kingsbridge a verdict of "Accidental Alcoholic Poisoning" was returned in respect to the demise of a boy named OWEN HANNAFORD. The deceased on the previous day drank half pint of brandy, which was left in a bottle in his grandmother's bedroom.

TORQUAY - Strange Suicide In Torquay. Unfounded Rumours. - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner for the District, held an Inquest on Monday at Risdon's Exeter Hotel, on the body of THOMAS HARDING ELLIOTT, 58 years of age, who committed suicide on Saturday. The Inquiry excited considerable interest by reason of certain uncharitable and wholly unfounded rumours which had been put in circulation to the effect that deceased had been driven to take his life by reason of his being in a state of starvation, whereas the medical evidence showed that the body was well nourished, and it was also proved that the deceased's brother, MR R. H. ELLIOTT, of Union-street, had acted towards him in a most humane and kind manner, wholly maintaining him for a period of three years and a half, and always making him welcome and providing him with food whenever he came to his house. Deceased had been in service as a butler for upwards of thirty years, but for the last seven or eight years had only been occasionally employed in sundry odd jobs. The rumour as to the starvation no doubt arose from certain written statements left by the deceased, but which were evidently the product of a disordered mind, for all the evidence negatived any supposition that the deceased had ever suffered from want of food. - The Jury, by whom Mr John Jones was chosen as their Foreman, proceeded to the deceased's lodgings at No. 6 Braddon Road, East Fleet-street, to view the body, after which the following evidence was taken:- RICHARD HENRY ELLIOTT, living at Lower Union-street, and carrying on business there as a harness maker, said deceased was his brother, and was 58 years of age last birthday. For about 30 years he had been a gentleman's servant. Witness had kept him for three years and a half. He saw him last on Friday, when he spent the whole of the afternoon with witness. He had been in the habit of coming to witness's house very frequently, and he had plenty of food there. He hoped the representatives of the press would take notice of what he was saying, as there was a rumour that deceased was in a state of starvation. He came to witness's house whenever he pleased. During the three years and a half that witness wholly supported him, he lived with witness. Since then he would come four or five times a week and have food. Witness's house was quite free to him. He had food at witness's house on Friday, and left between five and six o'clock. Witness saw nothing to throw any light upon what subsequently happened. He appeared in very good health, and made no complaint, except of the heat. He was the last man witness would have suspected of doing such a thing, but he was more or less of a melancholy disposition. On Saturday evening Mr Fragall, the man deceased lodged with, came to witness and said, "For God's sake come down, your brother has hanged himself." He went immediately and found deceased lying on the bed in his room. The writing on the card produced by the constable was, he believed, his brother's writing. The Coroner read what was written upon the card as follows:- "I am starving and have nothing to live for, so I thought I should be better out of the way." Two scraps of paper were also handed in upon which was written "My dear brother, I can't bear this misery any longer. Friendless and miserable. Good bye all. I am eaten up with bugs and fleas, and starving." "My dear brother, I can't live in this misery. I see nothing but starvation before me. I am disgraced. Love to all. Your miserable brother, THOMAS ELLIOTT." I am ashamed to be seen walking about the streets. I don't seem to have a friend in the world. This watch and chain belong to LIZZIE" (A sister.) - MR ELLIOTT stated that upon one occasion is wife obtained very comfortable lodgings for him where there was a woman to attend to his wants, but deceased replied "I am not doing much and I think I would rather stay where I am." Witness told him he would pay for the lodgings until he got something to do. That was about three months ago. - The Coroner: Can you tell us what he refers to in saying that he was disgraced? - Witness: I rather think he must be referring to a circumstance which occurred about three weeks ago, when he was locked up on suspicion of stealing an umbrella, but it was proved beyond all doubt that he picked it up in the street. He referred to it on two or three occasions. - The Coroner: Did he make any reference to his miserable condition on the Friday he was with you? - Witness: None whatever. He paid witness nothing for the time he lived with him. Deceased was a widower, his wife having died about eight years ago. He had got rid of hundreds of pounds during that period. He had been in first-class situations, and had saved money. He was not a drinking man. he was not aware of anything wrong in his mind. - George Fragall, with whom deceased lodged, said they lived together and alone at No. 6 Braddons Road East. He last saw deceased alive on Saturday morning when they had breakfast together. he had bread and beef for his breakfast and certainly was not starving, as the doctor would tell them. He went out on Saturday leaving deceased at home. He had many times said he should get rid of himself as he had no money and no friends. Witness told him that he had a friend in him and reminded him of the scores of dinners he had given him. He was a man who did not seem thankful for anything done for him. - The Coroner: You say he was not destitute nor starving. - Witness: No; a man that ate four half-quartern loaves of bread a week, beside what he had given him, could not be starving. The witness described how he came home at five o'clock and saw deceased on the stairs. He thought he was standing there and told him to go on upstairs. He then noticed that his feet were off the stairs and he was taken aback, and ran into the next house for help. - P.C. William Coles having deposed to seeing deceased at the door of the house at noon on Saturday. - Joseph White, hairdresser, deposed to being called by Fragall and going into the house, and finding deceased hanging from the banisters. Witness cut the body down. - P.C. George Weeks said he was called in. He searched the body but found nothing on it. The writings which had been produced he found in a chest of drawers. He also produced a silver watch and chain, and 3s. 4d. which were found in deceased's room. - Mr Percy Fowler, surgeon, locum tenens for Dr Pollard, said he was called about twenty minutes past five o'clock. Deceased had, in his opinion, been dead about four hours. The appearances were consistent with death by hanging. The body was well nourished and did not look like that of a man who had died of starvation. - In answer to the witness Fragall, Mr Fowler said he saw no indications that deceased had suffered from vermin. - The Coroner having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that deceased committed Suicide, and was at the time suffering from Temporary Insanity. The Coroner said that it was evident that MR ELLIOTT had acted in a very kind way to deceased: had in fact done all for him that a brother could do.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 September 1892
ST. MARYCHURCH - Suicide At Maidencombe. Distressing Circumstances. The Need Of a Public Mortuary. - Whilst rowing past Maidencombe Beach on Wednesday, Alfred Stiggings, a fisherman, of Babbacombe, discovered the body of an elderly man floating in the water about ten yards from the shore. Having secured the body he towed it to Babbacombe, and after giving information to the authorities, he was requested to remove the body to Oddicombe, as a suitable place to which to convey it was not obtainable at Babbacombe. On being brought ashore the deceased was identified as JOHN THOMAS MILDON, aged 61, who was a butler by occupation, and who, being out of employment, had up to the previous Monday, lived with his wife at the residence of his daughter, No. 5 Elmtree Terrace, Torre. The fact that through being out of employment, deceased was dependent upon his daughter, seemed to have preyed on his mind, and to have brought on fits of melancholia, but not having threatened or hinted at self-destruction, the news that his body had been found, caused a terrible shock to the feelings of his relatives. On Monday deceased left his daughter's house with the expressed intention of seeking work, but it would seem that he sought to drown his feelings by resorting to intoxicants, and before evening he fell into the hands of the police and spent the night in the cells at the police station. The next morning he was liberated on bail and was to have appeared before the justices yesterday. He left with not a penny in his possession, and was not afterwards seen again alive. A letter which he left behind, published in the report of the Inquest, and the fact that some of his clothes were found on Maidencombe Beach led to the conclusion that whilst in a state of temporary insanity, the deceased (who had evidently seen better days) resolved upon self-destruction and acted upon that resolution. - The Inquest. - An Inquiry into the circumstances attending the case was held by Dr Fraser (Deputy Coroner) at the St. Marychurch Town Hall last evening. The following Jury was sworn: Messrs. F. Matthews (Foreman), J. Lee, W. P. Moxhay, T. Lear, W. Martin, J. Langford, B. Bayless, L. Packham, W. Terry, T. Waymouth, J. Phillips, T. C. Matthews and S. Angel. The Jury having viewed the body, the evidence was proceeded with. - JANE MILDON, widow of the deceased, was the first witness called. She stated that the deceased was 61 years of age, and had been a butler all his life. He had not been doing anything for three months. He suffered a good deal from melancholia. He had been trying hard to get employment but had failed, and this seemed to prey upon his mind. He was not addicted to intemperate habits, but occasionally took a little spirit. On these occasions he became very melancholy and regretted having taken intoxicants. On Monday witness was staying with her daughter at 5 Elmtree Terrace, Torre. The last occasion on which she saw the deceased was on Monday, at twelve o'clock. He appeared depressed and said he was going in search of a situation. She expected him back to dinner, but he did not arrive. Deceased had told her that he had seen an advertisement in the paper respecting a situation at Plymouth, and that he should go there, but did not say he was going that day. Later in the day witness went to the deceased's bedroom and found a letter, bearing no date nor signature, on the dressing table. The letter was as follows: - 'My Dearest JANE, - I think it very much the best for me to go myself to Plymouth and see after this place, and feeling that you would make objections, I have simply taken myself off. But do not feel uneasy about me, for if I get anything I will write to you in a week's time. As Plymouth is a place of many wants, I may pick up something, at least, dear, let us hope for the best. I feel I cannot live any longer on you, and as for dear NELLIE, I cannot live on her, nor can I take the meat from the dear children. I feel it useless to say good-bye, as I know you will make so many objections. I will write in a week, so now good-bye. If we meet no more on earth may we meet in a better land. Love and kisses.' - Continuing, witness said that on the same evening she had heard that her husband had been locked up. She sent her son-in-law to the police-station for the purpose of trying to induce him to come home, but the deceased did not come. The next day her son-in-law again went to the police-station, but the deceased had taken his departure. She heard no more of her husband until Wednesday dinner-time, when she heard he had been found dead. - P.S. Bond, stationed at Torquay, deposed that on Tuesday morning he went on duty at 8 o'clock when he saw the deceased in the cells at the police station. Witness asked whether he would prefer to appear before the justices that morning or go out on bail and appear on Thursday. He had been arrested on a charge of being drunk and incapable, but was then sober. Deceased said he should prefer to go out on bail, and his request was acceded to. Deceased had brandy with him when arrested, and wanted it back on leaving the station, but witness advised him to take a cup of tea instead, and refused to allow him the brandy. - P.C. Fraser, stationed at St. Marychurch, stated that on Monday evening about 5.30, he saw the deceased lying on the footpath between Babbacombe Downs and Oddicombe Beach. Witness asked him his name, but got no reply, and seeing that he was incapable, got assistance and took him to the police station. Near where deceased was lying there was a full sized bottle, half full of brandy, together with a tumbler. On being searched, 1s. 9d. and a few biscuits were found on the deceased. - By a Juror: Witness had received information that deceased was lying in the path. - Alfred George Stiggings, fisherman, residing at Babbacombe, stated that on Wednesday he was passing Maidencombe Beach when he saw something floating on the water and rowing towards it found it was the body of a man. He took the body in tow and conveyed it to Babbacombe. On getting deceased ashore he saw two marks on the face and saw that deceased had no coat or waistcoat. The body was bent, and the hands were clenched. Witness found the body ten yards from the shore, and towed it two miles and a half. After arriving at Babbacombe, witness took the body to Oddicombe. - P.S. Osborne, stationed at St. Marychurch, deposed that on Wednesday morning he proceeded to Babbacombe Beach, where he saw a body floating some distance off the beach. It was in charge of the last witness. Witness went to the Cary Arms to see if there was a convenient place in which to put the body, but as there was not, he instructed Stiggings to take the body to Oddicombe Beach, where it was more convenient to land it. The landlord of the Royal Hotel refused to take the body in, and by the permission of the Surveyor to the Local Board (Mr Bowden) witness had the body conveyed to where the Jury had viewed it. Nothing was found on the body. There were two wounds on the deceased's face, and there was sand in the deceased's clenched hands. - P.C. Hunt, stationed at St. Marychurch, stated that on Wednesday he searched the beach from Oddicombe to Maidencombe. At the latter place he found a coat, hat, collar, waistcoat, tie, and braces (identified as the deceased's) on some rocks, from ten to twelve feet from the water. - Dr Steele, practising at St. Marychurch, said he had held a post mortem examination on the body of the deceased that afternoon. There was a mark on the chin, and above the left eye and right ear. There was no fracture or dislocation, nor any signs of external violence whatever. The lungs were considerably congested, but the other organs were generally healthy. There was no food in the stomach. Witness had come to the conclusion that the deceased had died as the result of drowning. From the fact of the gravel being in the deceased's hands, it would appear that the deceased had entered the water alive. - The Deputy Coroner, in summing up, commented somewhat severely on the fact that the authorities had found so much difficulty in obtaining a suitable place in which to deposit the body after it had been brought ashore. He said it only showed the necessity for all public bodies to have proper mortuaries in their respective districts. They had heard from the evidence that a hotel-keeper had refused to allow the body to be kept on his premises. Now an innkeeper was perfectly within his right to make such a refusal, and consequently greater was the need for a public mortuary in the district. The matter was frequently cropping up, and as public bodies had, under the Public Health Act of 1885 the power to establish mortuaries, he had felt it his duty, after what had transpired in the present case, to bring the matter to the notice of the proper authorities. In many cases it was necessary that a post mortem examination should be held, and therefore in order that the examination might be conducted properly, it was necessary that the building in which the body was placed should be of a suitable character. As a medical man he could say that very serious inconvenience was experienced when a medical man had to hold a post mortem examination in an unsuitable building. He hoped that the local authority would have the matter righted. - P.S. Osborne informed Dr Fraser that he had been obliged to keep the body in the full gaze of passers-by for the space of half an hour, while search was being made for a suitable place in which to put the body. - The Foreman (Mr Matthews), did not think Mr Nutt to blame for the action he had taken, seeing what had previously taken place on the occasion of a body being taken to the Royal Hotel. - The Deputy Coroner replied that he was not censuring the proprietor of the Royal Hotel, but merely calling the attention of the Local Board to the necessity which existed for a public mortuary in the district. There had been serious delay in the present case, and even when a place was found in which to deposit the body, it was not of a suitable character, especially seeing that a post mortem examination had to be made, and that light, ventilation, and an efficient water supply were required. - Dr Steele concurred in Dr Fraser's remarks with reference to the room in which the body had been placed. - Without retiring the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity." - A Juror asked whether a rider could not be added, pointing out the necessity for a mortuary. - The Deputy Coroner replied that if the Jury expressed in writing an opinion that a mortuary was required, and the document was signed by the Foreman, he (Dr Fraser) would take the necessary steps to get the matter laid before the proper authorities. - The Foreman remarked that the Sanitary Committee of the Local Board would meet on the following Monday, when, if the Jury wished it, he would bring the matter up and thus save further trouble. The Deputy Coroner said it was singularly fortunate that the Foreman of the Jury happened to be a member of the Local Board, for having heard the evidence he would be able to press the matter on the attention of his fellow members. It was eventually decided to allow the Jury's expression of opinion to be laid before the Board through the medium of the Deputy Coroner.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 October 1892
TORQUAY - The Fatality To A Carter. - On Friday afternoon, at Wood's Pavilion Hotel, the County coroner (Mr Sidney Hacker) held an Inquiry into the circumstance of the death of JOHN PINN, who on the previous Wednesday succumbed to injuries received in an accident, in which he was run over by a coal cart. Mr R. L. Butland was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - HARRIETT PINN, widow of the deceased, stated that she lived in Lower Union Lane. Deceased was 53 years of age, and was a carter in the employ of Messrs. Whiteway and Ball, coal merchants. Deceased left for his work at quarter to six on Saturday morning, and she did not see him again until she went to the Hospital in the afternoon. On recovering consciousness deceased asked who had charge of his horse, and referring to the accident said that on looking over his right shoulder he saw something dragging, and the wheel of the wagon passed over him. This was all he said with regard to the accident. - James Short, gardener, residing in Lower Union Lane, deposed that on Saturday afternoon he was coming down Stentiford's Hill and saw the deceased leading a horse attached to a wagon loaded with coal. He was standing on the near side of the horse. On reaching the Local Board's quarry, one of the wheels stuck in the road and the wagon came to a sudden standstill. The horse made a plunge forward, through something in the wagon giving way, and in a moment the horse and wagon disappeared round the corner, the deceased still holding on to the horse's head. On proceeding further down the hill, witness saw the horse down and the deceased lying in the road under the wall. The wagon had struck the dead wall and was on its side. - William Martin, fisherman, deposed to having seen the horse bolt just after passing the Local Board quarry. The deceased held on to the horse's head and was carried a distance of twenty yards when he fell. The wheels of the wagon passed over deceased's body. - Edward George Pellow, labourer, Queen-street, said he saw the horse fall down, and the wagon separate into two parts. There was a shoe and a safety chain attached to the wagon. - Mr Charles Billson, junior house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, deposed that the deceased was brought to that institution on Saturday afternoon. He had fractured a rib on the right side and sustained serious internal injuries. On Wednesday deceased got worse, and after a consultation it was decided to perform an operation. Six hours after the operation, deceased succumbed. - P.C. Hockridge deposed to have examined the wagon after the accident, and found that a wooden key had been substituted for a steel key. The perch bolt had evidently been jerked from its socket as soon as the horse started. This would have the effect of raising the shafts and of lifting the harness. - Mr William Ball, of Walmer House, stated that the deceased was a steady man, and had been in the firm's employ for many years. He had had charge of the same horse for eighteen months. The Coroner, in summing up, pointed out the great risk drivers incurred in driving down such a fearfully steep hill, which as far as he could gather was almost unfit for traffic. The Jury, without retiring, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 October 1892
TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of An Infant. - An Inquest was held by Mr Sydney Hacker at the Police Court on Monday afternoon, touching the death of MARY ALICE, the infant daughter of JOHN HENRY and SARAH GANT, who had died suddenly on the previous Saturday. The following Jury was empanelled:- H. Wooley (Foreman), E. Tozer, E. Blackler, W. Fowler, G. Cload, R. Blatchford, W. H. Mayne, S. Wood, J. Robins, R. Drake, J. Brown, H. Thompson, and C. Bond. The Coroner explained to the Jury that the case they had to deal with was one of sudden death of a little child about three weeks old, who had expired on the previous Saturday. The child had been apparently in good health from the time of its birth up to Saturday, and there was no explanation up to the present of how it came to its sudden death. - SARAH GANT, mother of the deceased child, residing with her husband, a labourer, at 14 Hilldrop Terrace, Ellacombe, deposed that the child was three weeks old. There had been nothing the matter with it until Friday midnight, when, because of its crying and convulsions, she gave it some essence of peppermint. As it refused to take food, and remained very quiet, she sent for a doctor, but before medical assistance came the child died in its father's arms. - Mr Thomas Finch, surgeon, of Babbacombe, deposed that he was called to see the deceased child on Saturday morning, just before ten o'clock, and not thinking the case serious, he reached the house about half-past eleven, and found that the child was dead. He examined the child and found no external marks whatever. The infant had died as the result of exhaustion consequent upon a severe attack of indigestion on the previous day. This was quite sufficient to account for death. The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 November 1892
TORQUAY - The Fatal Quarry Accident. Coroner's Inquiry. - At Mr Wood's Pavilion Hotel on Saturday afternoon, the County Coroner (Mr Sidney Hacker) held an Inquiry into the circumstances of the death of RICHARD QUICK, aged 46, a quarryman, who, as reported in last week's Torquay Times, expired from injuries received on the previous day, through falling off a plank whilst at work at the Local Board quarry in Queen Street. After Mr R. F. Yeo had been chosen as Foreman, the Jury viewed the body, and then visited the spot at which the fatality occurred, accompanied by the Surveyor (Mr H. A. Garrett), who had prepared a rough sketch of the quarry for the guidance of the Coroner and the Jury. - On returning, the first witness called was P.C. Mogridge, who deposed to having been on duty in Market Street when the occurrence happened. He rendered assistance in having the deceased conveyed to the Torbay Hospital. He was of opinion that the deceased expired before leaving the quarry. - Mr Arthur Watson, house surgeon, Torbay Hospital, deposed that QUICK was quite dead on being brought to the hospital. The cause of death was fracture of the base of the skull. There were two serious scalp wounds, and it appeared as if the deceased had pitched on his head. - William Blackmore, quarryman, residing at Victoria Park, stated that he was working in the quarry with QUICK on Friday morning. They started work at seven o'clock, but the stone-crusher was not set in motion until half-past eight. He (witness) was in charge of the crusher, and the deceased and another man were conveying stones from the quarry to the machine. The first barrow-load was driven across the plank by Aaron Leaman, who returned safely. QUICK then drove his barrow across, and having emptied it, started on the return journey. Whilst deceased was re-crossing the plank, he (witness) heard a rustling sound, and on looking round he saw QUICK in the act of falling, and his barrow following him. QUICK was wearing an oilskin coat at the time, as it was raining heavily. There was a strong wind blowing through the quarry, and he was of opinion that the deceased was caught by a sudden gust, which caused him to lose his equilibrium. The plank was not slippery, nor was it defective in any way. It had been in the same position for four or five years, and thousands of tons of stuff had been driven across it. As a matter of fact there were two planks together, but only one was used in crossing. - A Juror: Has it never struck you that the absence of a guard or hand rail, made the plank dangerous? - Witness: No, the plank was not dangerous. - A Juror: Have the men ever suggested the desirability of having a rail placed alongside the plank? - Witness: Not that I know of. They had no fear. - A Juror: Did the deceased make any reference to the plank on the morning of the accident? - Witness: In a joking manner he alluded to the strong wind that was blowing and said he was rather light to go across. - A Juror: He had a little fear, then, after all? - Witness: He had no fear. He was only joking. - A Juror: Has not QUICK been unwell lately? - Witness: He has been suffering from a cold for the past week. It was not very serious. - The Coroner: Are the two planks well secured at each end? - Witness: Yes, they are well secured. - A Juror: Has any accident occurred previously? - Witness: Not to my knowledge. - A Juror: Don't you think it would have been safer if the two planks had been secured in the middle with a bolt as well as at the ends? Supposing one plank was an inch lower than the other in the middle a man would be liable to trip. - Witness: We have to shift the planks sometimes, and if they were bound together they would be too heavy. I see no danger as they are at present. - A Juror: You don't see the danger unfortunately until an accident happens. - The Coroner: In your opinion is it a perfectly safe plank for a man to use? - Witness: Yes, that's my opinion. - Aaron Leaman, labourer, in the employ of the Local Board, deposed that he was the first man to "run the plank" on the morning of the fatal occurrence. He did not find the wind occasion him any inconvenience as he was crossing or re-crossing, although he was wearing an oil skin coat like the deceased's. The plank was not slippery when he drove across. - The Coroner: What do you think of the planks; do you think they are firm enough to be safe? - Witness: Yes, I think they are safe enough. - The Coroner: You have no objection to crossing then? - Witness: None whatever. - The Coroner: Supposing there was one plank instead of two? - Witness: It would not be safe then. - A Juror: Did it ever strike you that a guard would be desirable? - Witness: No, I am not regularly employed at the quarry, and only go there off and on. - A Juror: Didn't the deceased refer to the plank as being dangerous because of the wind that was blowing on the morning of the occurrence. Wasn't something said about putting a brick in his pocket? - Witness: No another man said that by way of a joke. - Mr H. A. Garrett, surveyor to the Local Board, stated that the deceased was one of the best quarrymen in the Board's employ. The previous week he had been slung out over a cliff and hung suspended at a height of 80 feet, and he never had any fear. The planks from which he had fallen were securely fastened at each end, were 2ft. 4in in width, 4in. thick and 22ft. long. They were in the same position now as when he first came to Torquay, two years ago. Personally he did not see any danger in walking the planks, and had himself crossed them hundreds of times. The opinion he had formed was that the deceased had been struck by a sudden gust of wind and had lost his balance and fallen. The distance he fell was 44ft. - The Coroner: Have you considered whether any precaution can be taken to prevent a recurrence of an accident of this kind? - Witness: Yes, I have considered the matter. - The Coroner: Have you settled upon any plan? - Witness: Not yet, but all work has been stopped in the quarry, and there will be no renewal until matters have been re-arranged. - The Coroner, in summing up, remarked that the evidence pointed to the fact that there was danger at the place at which the deceased had met his death, although it would seem that the danger was not anticipated. - The Jury retired, and after a brief consultation, returned with a verdict of "Accidental Death," and the following rider: "Whilst we do not think the Local Board were altogether neglectful in the case, we yet recommend that in future in this particular place and in all others over which they have jurisdiction, the Board should provide for the safety of their employees, and that proper precautions should be taken in the Queen Street Quarry before work is resumed." - The Coroner: Mr Garrett is here, and he will doubtless see that the recommendation is carried out. He tells us that work has already been stopped in the quarry. - A Juror: The Jury would like the recommendation officially recorded. - The Coroner: Very well, I will take it as a rider. - The Foreman added that the Jury had decided to give their fees to the widow of the deceased. [Details of funeral followed.]

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 November 1892
ST MARYCHURCH - Death From Suffocation. Inquest At St. Marychurch. - At the St. Marychurch Town Hall on Monday, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner and a Jury (of which Mr J. H. Pope was Foreman), held an Inquiry into the circumstances of the death of FREDK. GEORGE GOODYEAR, the infant son of GEORGE GOODYEAR, a painter, residing at 3 Balaclava Cottages, Plainmoor, the child, who was ten weeks old, having been found dead in the bed occupied by the father and mother, on Sunday morning. - The evidence was to the effect that the mother nursed the child at half-past twelve on Sunday morning, and then fell off to sleep, leaving the child on her right side. On awaking at half-past eight, she found the child dead, with its face buried in the pillow. She called to her sister, who occupied an adjoining room, and Mrs Macey, a neighbour, and Dr Steele was sent for. The doctor finding that the child had the appearance of having been healthy and well-nourished, communicated with P.S. Osborne, who in turn communicated with the County Coroner. A post mortem examination was ordered to be made, and from this Dr Steele gave it as his opinion that the child had died as the result of suffocation. - The Jury returned a verdict that the deceased had Accidentally come by its death from Suffocation, through having been Overlaid. - The Coroner remarked that similar cases were of such common occurrence that he felt it was his duty to point out to parents the desirability and necessity for children of tender age being placed to sleep in cradles or cots, near the bed occupied by the parents, instead of being allowed to sleep in the bed occupied by their parents.

TORRE - Fatal Accident At Torre. - On Monday evening, an accident, which was subsequently attended with a fatal result, occurred at Lythwood Hall, Old Mill-road, Torre, the residence of MR and MRS JAMES COBLEY, who with their younger daughter, were the sole occupants of the house. It would seem that in the evening, MRS COBLEY requested a man named Redwood - who had been engaged in the house during the day, hanging pictures - to proceed to the lower part of the house, for the purpose of turning on the gas at the meter. It is presumed that she was doubtful in her mind as to whether Redwood would be able to find the meter, and that she left the kitchen for the purpose of informing him. On descending the back stairs leading to the cellar in which the meter was situated, MRS COBLEY appears to have become giddy or to have missed her footing and to have fallen down the whole flight of fifteen or sixteen stairs. At any rate, Redwood found her in an insensible condition at the foot of the stairs a moment afterwards. Medical assistance was obtained and it was found that MRS COBLEY had sustained a fracture of the skull. She never rallied, and the following morning expired. The deceased, who was 59 years of age, is survived by her husband and a large family. - The Inquest. - An Inquest was held by Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, at the residence of the deceased, yesterday afternoon. The following Jury were empanelled: Messrs. G. M. Tripe (Foreman), C. Wallis, F. Hore, W. H. Rowland, F. Pratt, G. Perring, G. Evans, J. Taylor, F. Willis, G. Wotton, J. Coombes, R. Brown, and T. Winsborrow, P.S. Bond, and P.C. Goddard were present at the Inquiry on behalf of the police. - JAMES COBLEY, husband of the deceased, of no occupation, stated that his wife was 59 years of age. His daughter was the only other occupant of the house. On the day of the occurrence he left the house soon after breakfast and did not return until six in the evening. On entering the house he found a man named Redwood carrying the deceased up the stairs. He spoke to his wife, but as she was unconscious, he sent for the doctor. The following morning the deceased expired. - Richard James Redwood, town porter, of 8 South-street, deposed that on Monday he was in the house, hanging pictures. Soon after five he was asked to go down and turn the gas on at the meter. He closed the glass door at the top of the stairs after him, and as he was in the act of turning on the gas, he heard a noise on the stairs, and on going out found MRS COBLEY lying at the foot of the flight. He picked up the deceased and carried her to the kitchen, MR COBLEY entering the house at the time. Subsequently he assisted in carrying MRS COBLEY to her bedroom. There was some blood on deceased's head. The stairs were steep and dark, and the hand-rail commenced five stairs down. - LILLIAN COBLEY, daughter of the deceased, stated that she was in the kitchen with her mother, when Mr Redwood went to turn on the gas. Deceased left the kitchen saying she was going to close the front door, and immediately afterwards witness heard a noise of someone falling. On going out she saw Mr Redwood carrying her mother up the stairs. She presumed that her mother instead of closing the front door, had descended the stairs for the purpose of telling Mr Redwood how to turn on the gas. - JESSIE LOTT, another daughter of the deceased, of 9 Union Street, deposed to having been fetched to the house by her younger sister. She nursed her mother throughout the night. Deceased did not recover consciousness and died the following morning. - Mr Percy Herbert Gardiner, surgeon, stated that he was called to the house on Monday evening, and arrived ten minutes after receiving the message. Deceased was then walking about the room in a delirious condition, referring to the man hanging the pictures. There was an effusion of blood on the surface of the brain, and a bruise on the left hand. There were no limbs broken. There was a little blood on the hair, but it was from a contusion rather than a wound. The cause of death was he thought, a fracture of the skull and an effusion of blood on the surface of the brain. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 November 1892
PETERTAVY - The Tavistock Murder. - A verdict of Wilful Murder was returned on Saturday by the Coroner's Jury, at Petertavy, against WILLIAM WILLIAMS, charged with shooting Emma Doidge and William Rowe, on Sunday week last. WILLIAMS, who is still under treatment at the Tavistock Hospital, was committed to Exeter Assizes.

SOUTH MOLTON - Fatal Fire At A Workhouse. - The inhabitants of Southmolton were alarmed on Saturday morning, at seven o'clock, by a fire at the Workhouse. The inmates had just got out of bed, and the nurse (Mrs Jane Rowe) having dressed, was about to remove a paraffin lamp which stood on the dressing table, when the lamp parted in two in her hand, and fell to the floor, and the burning oil ran rapidly over the carpet and set the whole room on fire. The room was situated in the midst of the sick ward over which was the infirm ward. The master and other officials were on the spot at once, and did all they could to extinguish the fire without success. All the old, sick and infirm inmates, except one old woman, were got out with much difficulty, but unfortunately one inmate aged eighty-one years, named MARY FUKE, was not got out and was burnt to death, and after the fire was extinguished some of the men belonging to the fire brigade got out the charred remains of the poor woman. Another inmate, named ELIZA GREENSLADE, who was in infirm health, afterwards died from shock to the system. At the Inquest the Jury condemned the use of oil in so large an institution, advised that water buckets and hand grenades should be placed in convenient places, and heartily commended the bravery of P.C. Wotton.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 December 1892
ST MARYCHURCH - Inquests At St. Marychurch. - On Monday evening in the Parish Room of the St. Marychurch Town Hall, two Inquests were held by Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, the following Jury serving on both:- Messrs. R. Duder (Foreman), T. Barstow. A. Chappel, C. Condy, G. Endacott, T. Lear, W. Martin, W. Moxhay, C. Oxford, G. Pearce, E. Staddon, W. Terry, J. Vanstone, and S. Wilcocks. The police were represented by P.S. Osborne and P.C. Cole. - The Coroner, in opening the Inquiry, stated that there were two cases for the consideration of the Jury. The first was that of a boy, named WILLIAM KILMINSTER, who had died two or three days ago, death being apparently attributable to something other than a natural cause. He seemed to have suffered violence some time ago, and death was apparently to be traced to the occurrence which then took place. The second case was that of an infant, whose dead body was found under very unusual and peculiar circumstances and it would be the duty of the Jury to investigate the case very carefully, the principal matter for them to ascertain being whether or not the child was born alive.
Fatal Results Of A Fall. - The first case Inquired into was that of WILLIAM KILMINSTER, aged 10, the son of STEPHEN GEORGE and HARRIET KILMINSTER, who died on the previous Friday, apparently from the effects of a fall from a tree three months since. - HARRIET KILMINSTER, mother of the deceased,. stated that she resided at 3 Homer Terrace, Plainmoor. Her husband, who was a seaman in the Navy, was abroad at the present time. The deceased, who was ten years old, died on the 16th inst. He had been ill a fortnight and three days, and during that time had been attended by Dr Andrew. Some time ago - in September last - the boy had fallen from a tree. He was sent in the morning to Babbacombe with some eggs, and she did not see him again until the next morning, when he was an inmate of the Torbay Hospital, suffering from a broken leg. At the end of a week he was removed to the hospital at Babbacombe, as the Torbay Hospital was so full. In October he was brought to his home, and he then told her that a boy had thrown his basket into a tree, and that he had gone up to fetch it, when the branch broke, and he was precipitated to the ground. He had not complained of any pain in his head. When nearly able to walk she sent him to school, but he frequently came home sick. She put him to bed after the last attack, and sent for Dr Andrew, who had attended him up to the time of his death. - By P.S. Osborne. She did not know the name of the boy who had thrown the deceased's basket into the tree. The boy had not been beaten at school. - Dr Andrew deposed that he had attended the deceased for a fortnight. After a few days symptoms of inflammation of the brain developed, and from this he died. The fall might have caused the inflammation of the brain, especially seeing that there was a great deal of blood on the surface of the brain. All the organs were healthy with the exception of the blood. The skull was not fractured. - Annie Preston, residing at Sunnylands, St. Marychurch, said that she saw the deceased throw a basket into a chestnut tree outside that house. There were no other boys with him. He threw up the basket twice, and the second time it remained on the tree. On going out to the back door she saw that the deceased had climbed into the tree. She called to him to come down, but he did not do so. She went into the house and presently she heard a crash as if something had fallen through the tree. On going out she saw the deceased lying on the ground, with his leg broken. - William Lavis, a lad, deposed to having taken the deceased home after he fell from the tree. The Coroner having briefly summed up the evidence, the Jury found that the deceased died from Inflammation of the Brain, the result of injuries received through an Accidental Fall from a tree.

A Peculiar Case. Strange Conduct Of A Mother. - An Inquiry was then held into the circumstances of the death of the illegitimate child of ELIZA SHORT, who for some time has been living with a man named John Wood, a labourer employed on the railway, who resides with his mother at Grove Cottage, Plainmoor. The dead body of the child had been found at the rear of the house at six o'clock that morning. - Mary Wood, widow, said she resided at Grove Cottages. That morning, her son John had asked her to go to his intended wife, ELIZA SHORT, as she was very ill. The girl had lived in the house for several months, her son having contributed towards her maintenance. Witness found the girl in the backyard, and discovered that she had been delivered of a child. witness left the girl, and went for the police. - The Coroner: Why did you fetch the police? Would it not have been better if you had sent for a doctor? - Witness replied that she was so frightened she did not know what to do. - The Coroner: Why did you send for the police; did you think some crime had been committed? - Witness: No sir, but I heard of a similar case at Newton, and thought it best to send for the police. Proceeding, she said that three doctors were called upon, but two were not at home. Questioned as to why she did not recover the child from the position in which she found it, the witness said she did not think she was in duty bound to touch it. She believed it was dead when she saw it, at any rate she did not see it move. - The Coroner: It did not matter to you whether it was alive or dead. Presuming it was alive you left it there to die. - Witness replied that she was too frightened to do anything after what had happened. - The Coroner: You were not too frightened to send for the police. - Further questioned, Mrs Wood stated that she was aware of the girl's condition, and said she was not on good terms with SHORT for that reason. She (witness) was the mother of ten children. - The Coroner: You admit that you are the mother of ten children, and yet you did not attempt to ascertain whether this child was dead or alive. What was the reason you did not touch it; were you anxious that it should not live? - Witness: Certainly not; I should have been very glad if it had lived. - The Coroner: But if you admit conduct such as you were guilty of, it raises a suspicion that you were anxious to keep the child from living. That is the natural conclusion ordinary people would have about it. - Witness replied that she did not think that she was duty bound to touch the child until the police arrived. - Dr Steele stated that he was called to Grove Cottages between seven and eight o'clock that morning. He found the body of the child as described by last witness. From an examination made subsequently he was of opinion that the child had never breathed, but he would not go so far as to say that the child had not been born alive. The child was large enough and mature enough to have lived. It might have been suffocated before it had time to breathe. - The Coroner: It could not have had a separate existence if it did not breathe. That is the conclusion from a legal point of view. - Dr Steele replied that the lungs were not inflated in the least, and there were no signs whatever that the child had breathed. At the same time it was possible that the child had lived an instant after it was born. There were no marks of violence on the body. - The Coroner, in summing up, said that he did not anticipate that the Jury would find much difficulty in coming to a satisfactory decision. Even if the child had been born alive, it would, under the peculiar circumstances, have merely been a case of accidental death. There was no evidence of concealment or crime, but if the Jury thought there was ground for suspicion, they could have further investigation. Mrs Wood had, undoubtedly, acted with gross ignorance. - After a brief consultation, the Jury found that the child was still-born, and desired the Coroner to severely censure Mrs Wood for her conduct in the case, in leaving both the child and its mother while she went for the police. The Coroner, addressing Mrs Wood, said that though there was actually no legal duty devolving on her in such a case, yet as the mother of ten children and living in the house with the young woman, who was to be her son's wife, it was naturally to be expected that she would have adopted a different course of conduct to that which she had adopted.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 January 1893
TORQUAY - Strange Suicide In Torquay. - On Saturday morning a most mysterious case of suicide was reported to the local police authorities. It appears that after lunch Mr F. A. Miller, of Ashfield, Barton Road, was strolling round the grounds attached to his residence, when he casually placed his hand to the hot water pipes which heat the hot-houses, and finding them cold, he proceeded in search of the gardener, WILLIAM HENRY CALLICOTT. On passing the stable (used as a wood house) he saw the door ajar, and looking in was horrified to find CALLICOTT suspended from a hook by a thin rope, his feet being about a foot and a half from the ground. Although it was apparent that life was extinct, Mr Miller promptly cut the body down and sent for Dr Powell, a telephone message being also sent to the police station. Dr Powell having certified that life was extinct, P.C.'s Hill and Mogridge had the body conveyed to the mortuary to await the Coroner's Inquiry. The deceased was 34 years of age, and leaves a widow and one child, with whom he resided at 11 Vale Terrace, Upton. He has been in the employ of Mr Miller for over three years, and was a most painstaking and industrious servant. No family or financial troubles can be assigned as the cause of the rash act, the only reason adduced being that he was a great sufferer from heart disease, and on Saturday morning complained of pains in his head. He proceeded to his work as usual, however, and returned to his house to breakfast. After the meal he kissed his child goodbye, as was his custom, and was not afterwards seen alive by his friends. No hint was dropped nor memorandum left behind to account for the strange act, and as there was no family quarrel nor any disagreement between the deceased and his employer, the affair is wrapped in mystery. Deceased, with his wife, had been invited by his employer to the servants' party at Ashfield, but on Mr Miller ascertaining that CALLICOTT'S little girl was not very well, he gave him a sum of money and told him to spend Christmas at home with his friends, and he then seemed quite pleased. Even on Saturday morning CALLICOTT met a fellow gardener, and said he had spent a jolly Christmas or something to that effect, and on returning to Ashfield after breakfast, he wished the parlour maid "good morning" as usual. Consequently the news that he had taken his life came as a great shock. - The Inquest. - An Inquest was held by Mr Sidney Hacker on Tuesday afternoon, at wood's Pavilion Hotel. The following Jury were empanelled:- Messrs. J. C. Watson (Foreman), J. Robins, J. Riggs, J. Redmore, W. J. Peters, J. Risdon, G. Maddock, G. Browse, F. Haarer, G. Bartlett, N. Gerry, G. Bailey, and J. T. Kingwill. P.S. Osborne and P.C. Hill appeared on behalf of the police authorities. - MARIA CALLICOTT, wife of the deceased, gave evidence of identification. Her husband was 34 years of age, and was a gardener by occupation. He was in the employ of Mr F. A. Miller at Ashfield, where he had been for three years. During the past week deceased had been very unwell, suffering from palpitation of the heart. He had frequently complained of the pain he suffered from his heart and also of pains in the head. She had asked him to go to a doctor, and had even offered to fetch a doctor, but deceased would not hear of it. On Saturday morning he complained of cold but went away as usual to his work, after kissing the child goodbye. His manner was not at all strange, or else she would have noticed it. He had not slept for the week owing to the pain he was suffering. - The Coroner: Didn't he seek medical relief? - Witness: No, I don't think he knew he was so bad as he really was. The Coroner: I'm surprised that he did not get medical assistance. Couldn't you induce him to see a doctor? - Witness: No, I could not. Continuing, witness said her husband had nothing on his mind, was in no trouble, they had not had an angry word, and he was on good terms with his relatives. He had not left any note behind. There was no reason to suspect that he had met with his death, except by his own hand. - John Kivell, gardener, stated that on Saturday morning he saw the deceased come out of the drive on his way home to breakfast He appeared quieter than usual. - Ettie Froude, parlour maid at Ashfield, deposed that soon after nine o'clock on Saturday morning deceased was in the potting shed, and she wished him good morning as usual. - Mr F. A. Miller, of Ashfield, Barton Road, said the deceased had been in his employ as gardener for over three years. On coming out from luncheon on Saturday afternoon, he found that the hot-water pipes were cold. He then went to look for the deceased, and on going into the stable used as a wood-house, he discovered his dead body hanging from a stable-hook. Witness was very much startled, but he pulled out his knife and cut the body down. The deceased's neck was in a running noose, the feet being off the ground. The theory was that deceased had mounted a saw-horse and swung himself off. Medical assistance was sent for. Deceased was always reticent, but was a faithful, industrious and diligent servant, and there had never been a disagreement with him or any member of his household as far as he knew. - Dr Powell deposed that he arrived at Ashfield shortly before three o'clock. He found the body of the deceased lying on the stable floor. Life was extinct, the man having been dead for three or four hours. There were no marks on the hands as would have been the case if there had been a struggle. Death had resulted from strangulation; the neck was not broken. Violent pains in the head would not necessarily indicate disease of the brain. - P.C. Hill stated that in compliance with a telephone message received at the police station, he proceeded to Ashfield, where he found the body of the deceased. There was no memoranda on the body or in the out-house likely to throw any light on the affair. The body was conveyed to the mortuary. - The Coroner, in summing up, said it was a most extraordinary case, as there was not the slightest suggestion of reason or grounds for what had happened. From the evidence, it seemed that no other person was connected with the matter, and the Jury could only come to the conclusion that by some sudden impulse, due to disease or otherwise, the deceased was induced to take his life. There did not appear to be any evidence whatever that the deceased's mind was unhinged, beyond the fact that he had suffered from pains in the head, and also pains arising from his heart. No threat or even hint had been made by the deceased to his wife, or any of his friends which might have led them to suppose that he intended to take his life. It was a most remarkable case. After a brief consultation, the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide as the result of Temporary Insanity."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 February 1893
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident At Upton. A Word To The Authorities. - A sad accident occurred at Upton on Thursday of last week. A chimney sweep, named JOHN COLLINGS, went to No. 9, Parkfield Road, the residence of Mrs Radmore, for the purpose of remedying a defect in the flue in one of the upstair apartments. He commenced the work and having occasion to fetch some mortar, he picked up his pail and went towards the stairs. When about to descend, he seems to have missed his footing, and to have fallen from the top to the bottom, his head striking the stone floor. He was picked up in an unconscious state, and conveyed in a small cart to the Temporary Hospital at Lauriston Hall, where he was attended to by the house surgeon, Mr A. Watson. In spite of all that medical skill could do, the injured man never regained consciousness, and death ensued early on Saturday morning. Deceased, who attained his sixty-first birthday on the day that the accident occurred, lived with his wife and niece at Pettiford Cottages, Upton. - The Inquest. - An Inquiry into the circumstances of the case was held by the Deputy Coroner (Dr Fraser), at wood's Pavilion Hotel on Monday afternoon, the following Jury being empanelled:- Messrs. J. C. Watson (Foreman), W. Kingwill, S. Robins, W. H. Rowland, R. Perring, E. Maryon, C. Bowden, H. Goodyear, F. Pratt, E. Jarrett, A. Sanders, W. Fooks, and T. Prison. P.S. Luckraft and P.C. Wills were present on behalf of the police authorities. - William Hurrell, No. 8 Pettiford Terrace, Upton, gave evidence of identification. The deceased had always enjoyed good health. He (witness) last saw him alive on Thursday, January 26th, when he appeared in his usual health. - Elizabeth Radmore, No. 9 Parkfield-road, Upton, said she had known the deceased for many years. In the forenoon of the previous Thursday deceased came to alter the damper at her house. He commended the work, and on rising to his feet he fell against her. She thought that he had taken a little drink and she told him to come and do the work another day. He went to the top of the stairs carrying a bucket on one arm, and in another instant he fell over the stairs, his head pitching on the stone floor at the foot of the flight. He was unconscious, and blood was flowing from a wound on his head. Assistance was procured, and deceased was taken to the Hospital. Deceased was a sober man as far as she knew. - Mr Arthur Watson, house surgeon, at the Torbay Hospital, deposed that on Thursday at 11.45 a.m., the deceased was brought to the Hospital in an unconscious state. He was bleeding from the nose and from a small scalp wound on the left side of the head. He never regained consciousness and died early on Saturday morning. The cause of death was fracture of the skull. There were no traces to show that the deceased had been drinking. - Alfred Thomas Wright, farmer, 19 Daison Cottages, Upton, stated that he found the deceased lying at the foot of the stairs. There was a portion of a zinc pail under his left side. He considered the deceased led a sober life. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 February 1893
TORQUAY - Strange Death Of A Visitor. Drowned In His Bath. - On Saturday morning, MR JOHN FREDERICK LEWIS JETTER, who for a week previous had been staying with his wife and daughter, at Sealawn, Beacon Hill, for the benefit of his health, met with his death under most peculiar circumstances. MRS and MISS JETTER left the deceased gentleman in his room about half-past eleven and went out. On returning shortly after twelve, MR JETTER, who was partially paralysed in his lower limbs, was nowhere to be found. As he had previously remarked on the convenience of having the bath-room so near to his own room, the bathroom door was tried and found to be locked. MRS JETTER called, but as no answer was forthcoming, the door was forced open, and MR JETTER was found lying in the bath face downwards, his head being covered in about nine inches of water. The bath sponge was floating on the surface, the deceased gentleman's clothes were tidily folded and placed on a chair, and his bath rowels were spread out in readiness. Dr Gordon Stables, who was staying in the same house, was summoned, and artificial means of restoring animation resorted to, but it was evident that life had been extinct for several minutes before deceased was discovered. MR JETTER was an engineer by profession, and for the past ten years has been living at Bridgetown near Totnes. He was extremely feeble, and rarely moved without assistance, and curiously enough it was the first time he had used the bath, which was deeper than an ordinary bath. Dr Boreham being unable to give the usual certificate, the police were informed of the strange affair, and P.S. Luckraft laid the facts before the County Coroner, who ordered an Inquiry to be held. - The Inquest. - Was accordingly held at Sealawn on Monday evening by Mr Sidney Hacker, the Jury empanelled being Messrs. T. Harrison (Foreman), H. Lear, W. S. Thomas, G. Macmillan, H. Swayne, J. F. Jenkins, J. H. Mounstephen, R. Blatchford, T. Easterbrook, C. Parrott and E. Robinson. P.S. Osborne and P.C. Boutfield were present on behalf of the police authorities. - FLORENCE MARY JETTER, daughter of the deceased, was the first witness called. She stated that her father was 59 years of age. He was an engineer by profession. He belonged to Totnes where he had lived for ten years. He was on a visit to Torquay, and was staying at Sealawn with his wife and daughter. He had been an invalid for many years and had improved in health since he had been in Torquay. He was subject to paralysis and was very feeble, but could walk down the stairs alone. witness and her mother went out on Saturday about half-past eleven, leaving the deceased in bed. Prior to this, MRS JETTER, made him his lunch and on being asked whether he would get up, he replied that he would at twelve o'clock - his usual time. Witness and MRS JETTER then went out, and returned shortly after twelve. She (witness) proceeded to her father's room to see if he wanted his hot water but found the room empty. She then went to the bath room and found the door locked. She called but there was no answer and Mr Tucker, the proprietor of the house, was summoned. He got a ladder and looked in through the window and then the door was broken open. Deceased was found dead in his bath. It was the first time the deceased had used the bath. At home he was accustomed to use a hip bath. She believed her father had come to his death through falling into the bath. In his own house he had once slipped into his bath and been considerably bruised. - Robert Tucker, proprietor of Sealawn, said the deceased had been living at his house for a week, with his wife and daughter. He had not been out during his stay. A man slept in his room at night. About half-past twelve on Saturday MRS JETTER sent for him and told him that she could get no answer from her husband, who was in the bathroom. On breaking open the bathroom door he found the deceased lying face downwards in the bath, his head being in the narrow part of the bath. The depth of the water was about nine inches - just sufficient to cover the deceased's head. With assistance, he (witness) got the deceased out of the bath, and called Dr Gordon Stables, (who was stopping in the house.) Life was extinct, and all efforts to restore animation proved futile. Dr Boreham was also sent for. - The Coroner: It struck him as being very strange that one so feeble should have taken a bath without saying a word to anyone. The fact of the deceased having taken his sponge and towels showed that he intended having a bath. - Dr Boreham, who affirmed instead of taking the usual oath, deposed that on Saturday he was called to Sealawn and found the deceased lying on the bed to which he had been removed from the bathroom. Life was extinct and he had come to the conclusion that death had resulted from drowning. Acting under instructions from the Coroner, he had since made a post mortem examination, and found water in the lungs and stomach which showed that the deceased had not had a fit, and proved conclusively that death was due to suffocation by drowning. There were no marks on the body. Witness added that in his opinion deceased had fallen into the bath, which was very deep. Deceased had suffered from a weak heart, apparently, but there was no reason to believe that death had resulted from syncope. - The Coroner: How do you account for the deceased not raising his head, seeing that there were only nine inches of water in the bath? - Witness: I can't account for it at all. I think there must have been more water than that. - Dr H. A. Perkins said he had known the deceased for three or four years, and had visited him as recently as Friday. He was paralysed in his lower extremities, and his gait was very uncertain and unsteady. There was muscular feebleness in his arms, which, however, were not paralysed. If placed on the ground he could not raise himself without assistance. His view of the case was that the deceased's arms were pinned by the narrow part of the bath, and that he could not raise himself while in the bath. The peculiar formation of the bath led him to make this supposition. He had attended MR JETTER for a fainting fit in April 1892 and knowing that he suffered from a weak heart, was paralysed in his legs, and that his arms were very feeble, he did not see how the deceased could have raised his head. The shock caused by the fall into the bath might have rendered the deceased powerless to use his arms. paralysis had resulted from a shock on deceased witnessing a volcanic eruption in New Zealand. The Coroner having briefly summed up the evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The Jury gave their fees to the Torbay Hospital.

TORQUAY - EMILY MAY, the infant daughter of MR JOHN MILLS, of 3 Sherwood Terrace, Chelston, died suddenly on Sunday morning. The child had been a little out of sorts for a few days, but nothing serious was anticipated until MRS MILLS found it very cold and was so much alarmed that Dr Black was sent for. Before his arrival, however, the child died. Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest at the Chelston Coffee Tavern, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 February 1893
TORQUAY - On Saturday morning WILLIAM LAMBLE WAKEHAM aged 70, a mason, was found dead in his bed at Cotford Terrace, Upton. He had been failing for some days previous, but no medical advice was sought, and he was found by his daughter dead in bed. A doctor was sent for, who, on arrival, pronounced life to have been extinct some hours. An Inquest was held on Monday afternoon at the Upton Vale Hotel, at which Dr Thistle deposed that death had been due to peritonitis. The Jury, of which Mr W. H. Rowland was the Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

PLYMOUTH - A Fishbuyer named CHARLES BADCOCK, died rather suddenly on Monday at Plymouth and a Jury, after hearing evidence at an Inquest held in the Guildhall, came to the conclusion that he died from syncope, indirectly caused by eating gurnards.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 March 1893
ST MARYCHURCH - Suicide At St. Marychurch. The Inquest. - In last week's Torquay Times we recorded the attempt made upon her life by MRS ELLEN ALLAN, living at No. 5 Cambridge Terrace, St. Marychurch, on the 18th ult. The poor woman lingered until Monday last when she succumbed to her injuries. Mr Sidney Hacker, the Coroner for the Division, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending her death at the Palk Arms on Wednesday evening. - The following were sworn upon the Jury, viz. Mr Wm. Taylor, Foreman, Messrs. S. Hale, J. Searle, J. Pring, W. J. Jeffery, W. Tickle, S. Waymouth, W. Moxhay, J. W. Jeffery, F. Smith, W. Babbage and J. Lang. - The Coroner said the death, the circumstances of which they were called together to Inquire into, occurred on Monday, and was apparently the result of injuries received by the deceased person. How those injuries were received, whether self-inflicted or caused in any other way it would be for them to ascertain, and satisfy themselves upon after hearing the evidence which would be brought before them. - The Jury having viewed the body at the deceased's late residence, the following evidence was taken:- ALICE ALLAN, deposed that she lived in service at Redcliff, Petitor Road. The deceased was her mother, and was the wife of RICHARD EDE ALLAN, who was a house painter. She was 51 years of age. No one lived with her father and mother, who occupied the whole of the house. She had a brother and sister, but like herself they were out. Her mother had been rather low for six months. She had been under Dr Finch, and at his request witness returned home at night and slept with her mother from Tuesday to Friday, the 17th of February. She left home at seven o'clock on Saturday morning, when her mother seemed better. She told her that she should be home in the evening to see her, and deceased simply said, "Very well." Did not notice anything particular in her manner, but Dr Finch said she was suffering from weakness of the nerves. Her father was away at Swansea on a job. A neighbour's little girl fetched witness about eleven o'clock on Saturday morning, the 18th. She had been with her night and day since, but she had made no reference to what she had done neither to witness nor anyone else. Never heard her mother make any threat to do away with herself. Had she any suspicion she would not have left her. Whilst witness was sleeping with her mother she expressed a wish to die. There was nothing in her manner to lead witness to suppose that she was wrong in her mind. She was able to be about her work up till Friday night. - RICHARD EDE ALLAN, son of deceased, in the service of Mr Waymouth, baker, said he was called about ten o'clock on the morning of the 18th, by one of the neighbour's children. He tried the front door and found it locked. He borrowed a key from a neighbour and with that unlocked the door. He went upstairs and saw his mother in bed, and noticed the blood. He ran down and told the neighbours. There was never any unpleasantness between his father and mother. - Mary Ann Smale, living at No. 1 Cambridge Terrace, said she was the wife of George Kentisbeer Smale, builder. On the morning of the 18th of February she heard a commotion outside in consequence of RICHARD having said his mother was all over blood. She went to the house and on going into the bedroom saw that deceased had cut her throat. Witness sent for a doctor and the police. - Dr Thomas Finch said he had seen deceased on the Tuesday previous to the occurrence. She was not ill, only depressed. Mrs Bloor, a neighbour, told witness that she was a little wandering the previous day, and he advised that someone should be with her, not that he apprehended any danger, but to cheer her up lest the depression should grow upon her. He was called on Saturday morning and found that she had cut her throat. It was a deep gash. He attended her afterwards, and she died from exhaustion. Her death was no doubt attributable to the injury. She wandered in her mind a good deal after the injury. He was told that she had been greatly affected by the death of a sister six months previously. - RICHARD EDE ALLAN, the husband of deceased, said he had been away from home a month previous to the occurrence. He arranged with his employer, Mr J. C. Parker, to pay his wife 10s. a week, which he did. She had only herself to keep out of that sum. He paid the rent and taxes. About ten years ago his wife left the house saying to her elder daughter "You'll never see me again. I am going to drown myself." She was away three or four days and witness found her with some relations at Combe. She was very low and depressed at times and weak in her mind. She had been much better since coming to St. Marychurch from Newton Abbot until the death of her sister, which preyed upon her mind. The razor produced was witness's and was kept in a box in his bedroom. Two sisters of deceased had been similarly affected. - P.S. George Bond stated that he was called about ten o'clock on Saturday, February 18th. The razor was handed him by Dr Finch, who had picked it up on the floor of the bedroom. He remained there about two hours. Deceased was conscious, for witness said to someone present that she might get over it, and deceased raised her hand and said "I don't want to. I wish to die." - The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that deceased Committed Suicide, being at the time Temporarily Insane."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 March 1893
TORQUAY - An Inquest was held at Mr wood's Pavilion Hotel, last evening by Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, relative to the death of REGINALD JAMES NORTON, son of CAROLINE NORTON, widow, living at 3 Warren-hill. After hearing the evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 April 1893
TORQUAY - A Fatal Fall Downstairs. - On Monday morning Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Police Court, Market Street, on the body of ELIZABETH ROGERS, 82 years of age, who lived with her daughter, MRS MARY ANN WETHERELL, at No. 39 Higher Ellacombe Church terrace, and who died through falling downstairs. It appeared from the evidence of Mrs Wetherell that deceased had been a little wandering in her mind, and on the afternoon of Thursday, March 30th, she went upstairs, and witness found her undressing as if going to bed. She told her to dress herself and come down to tea. Shortly afterwards she heard a noise, and going to see the cause of it, found her mother lying on her back at the bottom of the stairs. Mrs Collihole, a neighbour, who was called in, said deceased only breathed twice after she saw her. Dr Cook said he was summoned to the house. He found deceased at the bottom of the stairs quite dead, and she had apparently been dead about five minutes. He had examined the body of deceased and found no sign of fracture of the neck or any other part of the body. He attributed death to the shock resulting from the fall. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

TORQUAY - Fatal Street Accident. The Salvation Army And Their Band. - At Wood's Pavilion Hotel on Tuesday evening an Inquiry was held into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM FROST, a jobbing gardener, aged about seventy, who was knocked down by a trap and subsequently died. Mr Coroner Hacker conducted the Inquiry, and Capt. Thomas F. Graham was the Foreman of the Jury, which comprised the following:- Messrs. A. Lee, J. Crocker, G. West, Wm. Easterbrook, W. Hersey, J. Lovell, T. Winsborough, R. Brown, G. Wotton, W. H. Snell, T. Field, and James Taylor. - The Coroner, in addressing the Jury, said they had to investigate the cause of death of an aged man named WM. FROST. The particulars given him were to the effect that the deceased was walking in procession with the Salvation Army on the evening of Easter Monday, when he was knocked down by a passing horse and trap in Union Street. It was for them to state whether in their opinion the fatality was caused accidentally or through negligence. - JAMES FROST, of Coombe Park, St. Marychurch, gardener, deposed that the body was that of his father, who was about seventy years of age. On Monday evening he saw him in the Salvation Army Barracks, just as they were going for a march. The deceased at that time was well in health. He next saw him at the Torbay Hospital, where he called to witness "to reach him up." His father died on the Tuesday, without making any statement. - Mr Arthur Watson, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital said deceased was admitted to the hospital at 7.35 p.m. on Easter Monday. The ribs and shoulder blade on the left side were smashed, there was a contusion over both eyes, and the system was much shaken. Deceased was not unconscious, but was suffering severe pain. He examined the body after death and found that seven ribs were fractured, an immense contusion on the back, and that the lungs had been penetrated by the broken ribs. Death was due to shock to the system caused by the injuries sustained. - Sergeant W. Parr said he was on duty at the Market Corner in company with P.C. Prowse on Easter Monday. He saw John Lane, the accused, driving up Union-street with a grey cob in a spring trap. There were four people in the vehicle. When Lane passed him he was driving at a moderate pace, and before he got far the Salvation Army came out of Temperance-street with a band playing. Witness noticed that as the accused was nearing the Army, the horse increased in pace, but kept in the centre of the road. The Army were going from Temperance Street to the opposite side of the road at the time, but they made no opening. The horse dashed into the people, and knocked two or three down. There was no space through which Lane could drive. Witness came up to the scene and took the name of Lane, who said "The horse was frightened at the band, and I could not hold it." The accused was not driving at a furious rate, nor was he whipping the horse. He could not say whether the horse was frightened or whether the accused tried to check its pace. The streets were crowded by people who were returning from the races. - By the Foreman: The band had reached the other side of the road, but there was a procession following. - By the Coroner: He believed that the Army, if they had stopped, would have prevented the fatality. There was no reason for them to have crossed the road at the time. - Mr James Dodridge Beer, of 24 Union Street, picture frame maker, said that at the time of the occurrence he was sitting at the upper front window of his residence watching the people. He heard the Salvation Army band playing and looked out to see them pass. He then noticed a horse galloping up with a trap, and the driver holding a rein in each hand and without a whip. Most of the Salvationists were looking up the street watching vehicles coming from the races. He was of opinion that if the band had not been playing they would have heard the horse and trap coming towards them. The horse dashed into the crowd while galloping, and he saw some one knocked down, and the wheel of the trap go over someone's body. He could not say whether LANE was careless in driving. - By a Juror: He would not say whether the band caused the horse to gallop. - By the Coroner: He could not recognise Lane. There was no whip in his hand and he should think Lane was pulling the horse up. - Sergeant Parr said there were seven other witnesses to be examined. - The Coroner thought it desirable under those circumstances to adjourn. This the Jury decided to do until Thursday. - John Lane, of Buckfastleigh, has been arrested on a magistrate's warrant for causing the death of deceased. - The Inquest was resumed yesterday afternoon by the Coroner (Mr Sidney Hacker). The case was conducted by Sergt. Parr for the Police, Mr L. Carter represented the accused, John Lane of Buckfastleigh, while Mr O. S. Bartlett appeared for the Salvation Army. - Sergeant Parr said that in accordance with the request of the Foreman he measured the distance from the corner of Market-street to Temperance-street, and found it was 66 yards. He had ascertained that the accused came out of the Half Moon Hotel. - Walter Henry Windybank of 9 Vale Terrace, Upton, an officer of the Salvation Army, said on Monday evening, about 7 o'clock, he was with the Army when they left their barracks in Temperance Street. While the procession was crossing the road, he saw a trap coming towards them, but he believed that the man would draw up his horse. He had only been looking at the procession for a few moments when the trap galloped past him. If the man had been driving at a reasonable pace they would have cleared the way, for there were only two rows of soldiers to cross the street. He did not notice the man in the trap, and therefore, could not say whether he was urging the horse or endeavouring to stop it. He saw several persons knocked down. The band was playing until the accident occurred. - By a Juror: If he thought the horse had bolted, he would have made an opening in the ranks and allowed it to pass. He had always been given to understand that when their procession was crossing the road, the drivers would pull up. - George Simmons, employed at the Conservative club, Union Street, said he saw the horse and trap going up the street while standing on the balcony of the club. The horse was coming at a moderate pace until it reached the band, which was playing, after that it broke into a gallop. The man had a rein in each hand, and to his mind he was endeavouring to stop the horse. - By a Juror: He really thought the man had lost control over the horse, and that it was started by the band. - Charlotte Effer, of 16 South Street, Torre, said she was marching with the Army in front of the deceased. When she was turning the corner she looked round and saw a horse and trap coming up the road galloping. The animal had passed the band and she made a rush on the other side of the street. She saw the deceased under the trap, and noticed that Lane had a rein in each hand, and was holding the horse's head rather high. - Edward Effer, husband of the last witness gave similar evidence. - Amos Peek, 2 Bridge Road, Torre, said he was of opinion that if the horse had gone straight up the street the accident would have been averted. The horse was galloping before it reached the Army. - Sergeant Parr was recalled, and said the accused gave his name and address. To all appearance he was sober, and in a proper condition to drive a horse. - Charles Clarke, of Chelston, butcher, deposed that Lane was not making any great effort to stop the horse. - Samson Boswell of Higher Union Lane, a china riveter, said he was walking with the procession. He told Lane that he had almost killed two men, and he replied that he could not stop the horse. - John Best, ostler at the Half Moon Hotel, said Mr Lane left the yard shortly after seven perfectly sober. He knew the horse to be a quiet one. - Edward Featherstone, of 12 Clifton Terrace, was called, but his evidence was not material. - John Lane, market gardener, of Buckfastleigh, said that on Easter Monday he drove to Torquay with his wife and two other persons. He went to the race course, returning to the Half Moon Hotel between six and seven o'clock. He went to a coffee tavern and had some tea, and then left for home. At Market Corner the horse broke away, and at the same time the band of the Salvation Army came by. He saw that an accident was inevitable, and called out to the people to clear the way. Nobody seemed to take any notice of his shouting. Thought the pony was frightened by the band, for it was shaking, and he could not have cleared the Army, as he was steering and holding the pony in at the same time. - Theresa Pepperell, wife of George Pepperell, said that the pony was going at a trot, and Mr Lane did all he could to hold the pony in. - George Foster and George Shute were net examined but their evidence brought out no new point,. - George Pepperell said the horse increased its speed through being frightened by the Army band. - Henry Willcox, coachman, said Lane was doing all he could to hold the horse in. - The Coroner summed up the evidence. - The Jury retired for 15 minutes and then returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The funeral of the deceased will take place at four on Saturday afternoon at Torquay Cemetery, leaving Daison Cottage at half-past three, and a memorial service will be held at the Fort, Temperance Street, on Sunday evening.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 April 1893
ST MARYCHURCH - Bathing Fatality At Babbacombe. No Mortuary. - Considerable excitement was caused at Babbacombe on Sunday, upon its becoming known that a young man named HENRY JOSLAND, 17 years of age, residing at St. Marychurch, had been drowned that morning. The deceased went with a companion to Oddicombe Beach for the purpose of bathing, and at the time there was a rough sea on. JOSLAND swam out about a hundred and fifty yards from the beach, and was just returning, when suddenly he threw up his hands. His companion, Frank Vosper, suspecting he was in danger, made an attempt to rescue him, but without success. The deceased, it is believed, was seized with cramp, for he sank within a few seconds, and was seen no more. Vosper lost no time in making the occurrence known, and several persons went to the beach endeavouring to find the body, but it was impossible to launch a boat with safety owing to the heavy sea caused by the easterly wind. The unfortunate lad was an apprentice at Mr Harding's foundry in Market Street. - The Inquest. - The body of the deceased was recovered on Wednesday morning, and conveyed to St. Marychurch Town Hall. An Inquest was held there yesterday by Mr Coroner Sydney Hacker, the Jury empanelled being - Messrs. James Lee (Foreman), W. B. Moxhay, S. T. Davey, S. Greenslade, N. Tuckett, Wm. Brayley, J. Lee, J. Lang, C. Willis, R. T. Willis, G. Shinner, G. Endacott, and Wm. Martin. - SAMUEL JOSLAND, labourer of 13 Bearwell Cottages, West Hill, identified the body as that of his son. He was seventeen years of age, and was an apprentice to the fitting at Mr Harding's establishment in Market Street, Torquay. Witness saw him on Sunday morning at breakfast. On the preceding evening, when he told his mother he was going to bathe, she tried to persuade him not to. When his son left home on Sunday he had not the slightest idea that he was going bathing, or otherwise he would have done his best to have prevented him. He had always been in good health, and had on many occasions bathed from the same beach. - Francis Joseph Vosper, painter, of St. Marychurch, said that by arrangement he went bathing with the deceased on Sunday, at Oddicombe Beach. There was no one else with them. While walking to the beach witness said he would not go swimming because it was too rough, but the deceased said he would. Witness first entered the water and stood in the wash caused by the waves. The deceased then went into the water, and remarked how warm it was for the time of the year. Witness said "For God's sake don't you go out, for you will never come in," but he took no notice of this caution. Deceased swam about one hundred yards before he turned back, and just as he reached the breakers he shouted something. Witness then went to get a rope, but on returning he could find no trace of the deceased. He did all he could to save JOSLAND, but the weather was too rough for him to have swam out. - George Fuge, fisherman, of Babbacombe, said he went to Oddicombe beach on Wednesday morning with the view to finding the body. After standing on the beach for some time he noticed a huge wave coming in, and when that broke he saw the knee of the deceased appear above the water. he then went to the spot, and with the assistance of a man named Kelly, brought the body ashore. He did not believe that the body had moved two or three yards from the spot where the deceased sank. The place was very dangerous in rough weather, through there being a sand bank, and a cluster of rocks. He was of opinion that deceased was turned over by a wave and knocked his head upon the beach. The place where the deceased went bathing from was the most dangerous on the beach. - E. Hearn, officer in the Coastguards, stationed at Babbacombe, deposed that the weather was very rough, and that the place where deceased bathed from was the most dangerous on the beach. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the case was one of accidental drowning. He drew attention to there being no public mortuary in the parish, but he understood that the Local Board were taking steps to provide one. He would mention that in case a mortuary was erected, it should be placed in the most central position. - The Jury, without the least deliberation, returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning." - The Foreman asked the Coroner to communicate with the clerk of the Local Board on the question of the mortuary, with the view to getting one erected as soon as possible. - Mr Lee said the members of the Young Men's Christian Association had subscribed £1 17s. 6d. up to the present towards a tombstone. He asked the Jury to contribute their fees to the same object, and this was accordingly done. The funeral of the deceased will take place at three o'clock on Saturday, when the coffin will be borne by members of the Y.M.C.A., and we understand that the amount subscribed by the members has been increased to £5.

LONDON - Romantic Suicide In London. - FREDERICK PEARCE, 29, son of MR T. PEARCE, of the Great Western Railway Locomotive Department, Newton Abbot, and who served his apprenticeship in the engine fitting shops there, committed Suicide in London on Saturday last. He had recently been living at 107 Hull Place, Edgware Road, and at the Inquest on Thursday the following evidence was given:- Ellen Barnes, of 52 Great Dover-street, Borough, said that she had been engaged to deceased about three years. On Good Friday evening they were out together, and quarrelled. As they were passing the steps on the Surrey side of London Bridge, he exclaimed, "If you don't have me, no one else shall." He seized hold of her, and tried to throw her over the bridge. She managed to escape from his grasp, and seeing her uncle on an omnibus, she went home with him. The following evening she was called by the servant, and found deceased lying in the passage in an unconscious state. He expired shortly afterwards. - By the Coroner: They had not been good friends for some time, and the engagement was broken off on the Friday night He had been out of employ since Christmas. On previous occasions when they had quarrelled, he had threatened to commit suicide. - Martha Hildebrant, a servant in the employ of Mrs Barnes said last Saturday night she opened the front door, and deceased, who was sitting on the step, fell into the passage. He was carried inside and a medical man sent for. A constable in deceased's coat pocket found a bottle about half full of carbolic acid. - Dr J. Alexander, of 45 Trinity Square, stated that deceased expired about ten minutes after witness's arrival, the cause of death being carbolic acid poisoning. - The following is an extract from a letter found in the young man's box:- "What has driven me to this is because she has been not only to me, but to other people as well, as deceitful as ever. And now, because I am out of work, I am treated with contempt. She was dependent on me ever since she left Hamilton Terrace, and she cannot deny it, and now that she has a good home she does not want me. If I cannot have her for my wife nobody else shall, for tomorrow, which is Saturday, the tide will be turned. She studies those she is with more than the one she promised to be a wife to. No doubt she thinks she will only have to suffer imprisonment, but no, it is death for her and for me." The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Mentally Deranged."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 April 1893
KINGSWEAR - The Suicide Of A Torquay Boy. The Inquest. - Mr Sidney Hacker, the County Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Royal Dart Hotel, Kingswear, on Friday on the body of PERCY WILLIAM SHINNER, aged 16, whose death, apparently from his own hand, was recorded in our last week's issue. - WILLIAM SHINNER, railway signalman, Torquay, deceased's father, said he had been in a despondent mood for about six weeks, but when he left home on Wednesday he was cheerful. Miss Kate Rowe, whilst rowing in Dartmouth Harbour, near Kingswear quay, saw deceased in the water. When he saw the boat approaching, he swam ashore and staggered up the beach. Henry Cox said he saw deceased come up from the slipway. In the street he fell against the wall and was vomiting the whole time. A bargeman sent for a doctor and he went for brandy, with which he bathed the lad's temples. They laid the deceased on the ground and he died almost immediately. When the lad fell against the wall a knife dropped from his hand. - George Casey, thinking it was a case of drowning, told two men to work deceased's arms, to get as much water as they could out of his stomach. After they had finished, he noticed a large red spot coming through the shirt, and on opening the waistcoat found a small wound. - Mr Walter Kendall, surgeon, found three slight knife marks on the throat, and a very shallow punctured wound in the breast. - By the Coroner: He did not think death was caused by any of the wounds. He attributed death to failure of the heart, caused by partial suffocation. - The Inquest was adjourned until Tuesday, Mr Kendall in the meantime to make a post mortem examination. - The father of the deceased stated that the knife produced was given to his son as a birthday present. - At the adjourned Inquest on Tuesday, Mr Kendall stated that he had made the post mortem examination as directed, and found that the wound had completely penetrated the walls of the chest, entered the bag containing the heart, and passed the walls of the left ventricle. The wound appeared to increase in size as it penetrated farther. The knife produced would have caused such a wound. It must have penetrated at least an inch and a half. There was no cut on the clothing of the deceased, and he must have bared his chest to have inflicted the wound. In his opinion he died from the wound in the heart. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane." - The funeral took place at Torquay on Saturday. The Rev. H. W. Majendie, vicar of Torre, officiating. Torre Sunday School and Band of Hope, of which deceased was a member, was represented by Messrs. C. Knowling and R. Ryder.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 May 1893
TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of A Torquay Visitor. - A visitor from Pontypridd, Wales, named MRS PHOEBE FORREST, aged sixty-two years, did very suddenly on Friday evening last. She was returning to 3 Bridge Road, Tor, in company with her landlady, Mrs Neck, and when about thirty yards from her lodgings, she suddenly fell into the road. Dr Pitt Palmer was speedily summoned, but he could render no assistance, for deceased had succumbed from an affection of the heart. The deceased had been apparently well for some time, with the exception that her heart occasionally distressed her. An Inquest was held on Saturday by Mr Coroner Sydney Hacker at the Rising Sun Inn. Evidence bearing out the above statement was given by Mrs Pearman, of Bridge Road, Mr and Mrs Damerell of Bath Cottages; and Mr S. Jeffery, formerly lessee of the Royal Public Hall, who rendered assistance. Dr Palmer deposed that the symptoms were those of heart disease, and he, therefore, was of opinion that death was due to that affection. The husband of the deceased, who was also on a visit to Torquay, said his wife had suffered from heart disease for years. The Foreman, Mr Salter, recorded the verdict of the Jury as "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 9 June 1893
ST MARYCHURCH - The Bathing Fatality At Oddicombe Beach. The Inquest. Life Lines And A Mortuary Required. - At the Globe Inn, Babbacombe, on Friday last, an Inquest was conducted by Dr Fraser, the Deputy Coroner, respecting the unfortunate death of MR WALTER CLAYTON, retired artist. The Jury was constituted as follows:- Messrs. F. Matthews, Foreman; F. Pearce, R. C. Beer, H. Bowden, J. H. Bond, J. Thomas, T. Roffey, C. H. Deider, W. Terry, H. Lloyd, W. Martin, C. W. Manning, and G. Blackmore. - It will be remembered that deceased went to bathe with his son at Oddicombe beach and suddenly sank. He was taken out of the water within a quarter of an hour and an attempt made to restore animation. It was the opinion of Dr Steele that deceased expired in the water from the effects of heart disease. - Henry Thomas, boatman, of Babbacombe, said he knew the deceased as a visitor. He believed that deceased came to Babbacombe in March, and that he lodged at 1 Haredown Terrace. Deceased used to go bathing every morning, but he could not swim very well. There was no regular place for gentlemen to bathe, but they made it a custom to go to Little Oddicombe beach. About noon deceased said he was going bathing, and this he did with his son. Just before one o'clock, the son came to him and said "Father has been bathing, and I cannot find him anywhere. He must be drowned." Witness then launched a boat, and with the assistance of Hart and Hutchings rowed to the spot where the deceased sank. They quickly discovered the body, put it in the boat, and tried every means to restore animation. He believed the gentleman was dead when they placed him in the boat, for they could not see the slightest movement in the body. - The Coroner said if the place was not dangerous how did people get drowned. - Witness replied that an hour before low water, and an hour after, there would be a ledge which people could walk out to and then suddenly go out of their depth,. The fall he referred to in the beach was about one foot, but it varied according to the wind and tide. When the deceased was bathing it was low tide. - The Coroner: Is there any notice board on the beach warning people of this danger? - Witness: No, but the boatmen generally caution the bathers. - By a Juror: Deceased frequently bathed from the spot where he was drowned. He did not think the spot was very dangerous, but he thought a notice might be fixed notifying that an hour before low tide, and an hour after, the ledge could be reached by those who could not swim. He did not think that a life boat if placed there by the local authority would be of much service. It would be advisable to place life lines so that bathers could catch hold of them. The body was found in eight feet of water. - By the Coroner: There are certainly some risks on the beach, but that is the case with many beaches. There was a lad drowned on the same beach about two months ago, but his case was in no way similar to the present one. - William Henry Hart, boat builder, of Babbacombe, said the deceased asked a gentleman on that morning whether the water was cold. He received an answer that it was better in the water than out, and consequently he went to bathe. About half an hour afterwards the son came to him and said he had lost his father. Witness went into a boat and rendered all the assistance he possibly could. He did not believe the beach to be generally dangerous, but there were risks to be encountered by those who could not swim, about an hour before low water, and an hour after the tide had begun to flow in. - Dr William Steele, practising at St. Marychurch, said that when he first saw deceased, he considered him dead. He, however, continued the artificial means of respiration for three quarters of an hour, but got no response. It was extremely difficult to form an opinion as to the cause of death, but he believed that deceased died from suffocation. If he had died from heart disease the face would have been pale, but such was not the case. He thought it would be desirable, although he was not a bather, to place life lines at the most convenient places. - JANNET CLAYTON, residing at 1 Haredown Terrace, said that her husband had been an artist, but lately he had been living on his means. He was fifty-nine years of age, but did not always enjoy good health. He suffered particularly from his heart, for a doctor told her that he might succumb at any moment with the least excitement. She believed he had bathed about half a dozen times, but always with his son. She regretted that she did not ask the doctor whether bathing would interfere with his heart. She would not have been surprised if he had died suddenly, because if ever he walked rather quickly up a hill he would be greatly affected in the heart. - The Deputy Coroner observed that it was very risky for one suffering from heart disease to go into cold water. - In summing up the evidence, Dr Fraser drew attention to the gradual incline, the sudden fall of the beach, and the dangers to be encountered by those who could not swim. He thought it imperative that the local authority should provide life lines which had been suggested and also should place a board cautioning bathers of the risk about low tide, or a little after. He knew as a medical practitioner that one suffering from acute heart disease would succumb with but the least excitement, and, therefore, it was not wise for the deceased to have bathed in such a condition as he was in. Although there was very strong evidence that deceased suffered from acute heart disease, yet the medical gentleman who saw him almost immediately after death, saw from the symptoms that he died from suffocation. Under those circumstances their verdict would be that of accidental drowning. He desired again to point out the fact that there was no mortuary in the district. for such an important and rapidly growing place, a mortuary should be provided, and although he wrote some time ago at the request of the Jury, yet he understood no steps had been taken in the matter. He certainly felt he was right in expressing his opinion, for it was apparent to him that the local governing authority had placed it on the shelf. He hoped before he held another Inquest in the St. Marychurch district, that he could congratulate them upon having a mortuary. The Jury immediately came to the conclusion that death was due to Accidental Drowning, and they added a rider to the effect that life lines should be placed on the beach by the responsible authority.

PRINCETOWN - Death Of A Convict At Dartmoor Prison. - An Inquest was held at Dartmoor Prison on Saturday afternoon by Mr J. D. Prickman, Coroner, upon the body of a convict named ELIJAH MARTIN, who died on Thursday morning. Captain Synge, Deputy Governor of the prison, stated that MARTIN was a native of Liverpool, and was convicted at Reading Quarter Sessions on the 17th October, 1889, for felony - stealing eleven pairs of braces - and was sentenced to five years' penal servitude, there being five previous convictions against him. Deceased bore a bad prison character. Dr W. S. Frew, medical officer of the prison, stated that his attention was called to the convict on Thursday morning, and he gave him every attention, but deceased died about 11.45 the same morning. The Jury, of whom Mr J. Crocker was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from acute Mephitis."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 June 1893
ST MARYCHURCH - Shocking Case Of Neglect At St. Marychurch. The Relieving Officer And His Duties. - An Inquest was held at the York Hotel, St. Marychurch Road, yesterday by Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, on the body of MARY LODGERS, aged 80 years, who was found dead in her bed, at 36 Victoria Park, Plainmoor, on Wednesday afternoon. Mr W. Kerswill was elected Foreman of the Jury, the other members being:- Messrs. C. Wylie, J. Lemon, W. Langworthy, R. Scholes, G. Hosking, J. Shute, G. Nevin, W. Pook, S. Wood, J. Heale, and S. Cole. Mr E. Tozer, a Juryman, who did not appear, was called three times by P.C. Mogridge. The Coroner asked if Mr Tozer had been summoned in the usual way. - P.C. Mogridge: Yes, sir. The Coroner: Then I shall have to fine Mr Tozer. We cannot wait any longer for him. - Mrs Kate Dennis, who resided at the above address with the deceased, said she had known MARY RODGERS some seventeen years. She did not know her age. The deceased had not been married, and had lived in Torquay all her life. She had lived with Mrs Barnes in Swan Street, before witness knew her. She had no relation living. Deceased had been lodging with witness eight or nine months. Witness received 5s. 6d. per week to look after her, 3s. of this coming from the parish, and 2s. 6d. from Mrs Barnes, contributed by a lady. Deceased had not been ill, but had occasionally vomited. No doctor had been called to her. Dr Cook attended her, but not since she came to reside with witness. There were three rooms to the house, in which lived deceased, witness, witness's husband and three children, and a little boy. Deceased was in a dirty condition. - The Coroner: That was because she was not properly kept clean. - Witness: Yes, sir. - Continuing, witness said she found deceased dead in bed on Wednesday afternoon at half-past twelve. She was kept in bed from Saturday to Wednesday, because witness was washing her clothes. On Tuesday witness gave her a cup of tea and something to eat. She had also a quantity of bread and milk. Deceased never complained of illness, but her foot was swollen. When found deceased was lying on her right side. Witness did not inform the police of her death, but sent for a doctor. - The Coroner: Has the relieving officer paid her any visits? - Witness: No, sir. He pays the money to Mrs Heywood, who brings it to me. - By a Juryman: Witness had received no gifts lately of soap. On the Thursday morning, deceased asked for a cup of tea and a piece of bread and butter. - The Coroner: How do you account for her being in the condition she is? nothing but skin and bone? - Witness: I cannot help that, sir, she could have had something to eat; it was in the house. - The Coroner: When did you wash her? - Witness: Oh, every day, sir. - The Coroner: It seems to me that she has not been cleaned for a considerable time. - Dr G. Andrew, of Torquay, said he saw the deceased on Wednesday afternoon, and found her in a most disgusting state, lying on a little couch. There was a piece of cloth over the body. The skin over the chest was clack, looking as if it had not been washed for years, and she was very thin and covered with vermin. A woman present said her hair had been cut off, so witness could not see it. He was unable to make a thorough post mortem examination, because there was not room in the house. - The Coroner: She should have been removed then. - Witness said there was no mortuary near. - The Coroner said that was not the first, second, or third time he had called attention to the want of a mortuary in St. Marychurch. It was a shame there was none, and he trusted a move would quickly be made in the matter. - Witness, continuing, said there was scarcely any food in the stomach, only a little of what appeared to be gruel. She appeared to be over 73 years, the age stated on her coffin. - A Juryman remarked that the deceased must have been over 80 years of age. He had known her family, who were noted for their dirty habits. - Witness said the organs were in a fairly healthy condition, considering the advanced age of the deceased. In witness's opinion the cause of death was old age and neglect. witness had been unable to examine the head because of the state of the room. - The Coroner said the body should have been removed to the mortuary at Torquay. - A Juryman: With proper nourishment she might have been alive now? - Witness: She might, although it is probable she died from failure of the heart's action. Witness was of opinion that the deceased must have died at ten o'clock. - Mrs Elizabeth Northcott said about three weeks ago she saw the deceased in a filthy condition. Deceased said she would not go to the Workhouse. During Wednesday Mrs Dennis sent to witness for sixpence to buy brandy with as deceased was dying. The whole of the four houses were in a thoroughly dirty condition, and, in witness's opinion they ought to be pulled down. - Mrs Charlotte Hodge, living next door to 36 Victoria Road, said she heard the deceased ask for some food last Thursday night, but Mrs Dennis replied that she had had sufficient. About a month ago, deceased wanted a crust, but the little girl refused to give it her. Witness heard them use a bucket in the bedroom, and heard Mrs Dennis slap the old woman. - A Juryman said that Mrs Dennis was not a proper person to have charge of the woman. - Dr Andrew said there were no marks of ill-treatment or violence on the body. - P.C. Hill said Mrs Dennis stated that she saw the deceased last alive at half-past twelve o'clock, when she gave her some tea and bread and butter. Mrs Dennis had been drinking on Wednesday morning. - Dr Andrew - Mrs Dennis was quite tipsy when I reached the house. - Mrs E. M. Barnes, of 7 George Street, Torquay, said deceased lived in her father-in-law's tenements for over forty years, previous to residing with Mrs Dennis. She was always a dirty woman. She had never been married. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the evidence disclosed a most disgraceful state of things, such a condition as he thought could hardly have existed in the town of Torquay. It also raised the question of paying outdoor relief without anyone seeing that it was given to a deserving person, or properly applied for the use of the recipient. It appeared that the Guardians allowed the deceased 3s. a week, and this amount was given to Mrs Dennis, but there was no one to see whether Mrs Dennis expended the amount on brandy or on food for MARY RODGERS. Had proper supervision been taken, he rather thought this state of things would not have existed. It also appeared that the relieving officer, Mr Tozer, had not often visited the woman. - P.C. Mogridge said he had been informed by Mr Tozer that he had visited the deceased, and she was then very dirty. He had tried to get her to go into the workhouse, but it had been impossible. - The Coroner said it would have been much better if the woman had gone into the house. There was very little doubt that Mrs Dennis was not a proper person to have charge of anyone, but, he thought, with the evidence before them the Jury could not say that deceased had been starved, although she had certainly not been properly cared for. Mrs Dennis had been drinking on the morning when MARY RODGERS died, and the probability was she did not know when death took place. This might have been due, and in all probability was due to natural causes, and the only course the Jury could adopt was to return a verdict to that effect. They might add a rider, and he would forward it to the proper authorities. - A Juryman thought that Mrs Dennis should be censured. - The Coroner said it would be very little use. He had received a letter from Dr Cook, stating that he had formerly visited MARY RODGERS, a semi-imbecile, once a quarter, but she had removed from his district, and he had not been made aware of her return by the Guardians. The Coroner asked if it was not Mr Tozer's duty to inform the Guardians of the fact? - P.C. Mogridge: Yes, sir. - The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes, adding "That the Coroner draw the attention of the Guardians to the Improper Administration of Relief in this case." Mr Kerswill said he would draw the attention of the Corporation to the state of the dwellings. The Jury handed their fees to the Foreman on behalf of the Torbay Hospital. Mr Tozer, the absent Juryman, asked the Coroner to remit his fine. He had no watch at the time, and had never been to an Inquest before. The Coroner granted this, but cautioned Mr Tozer not to commit the offence again, as his name was now entered on his black list.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 June 1893
EXETER - Fast road riding has many accidents to answer for, and the death of MR E. HEALE, of Exeter, last Saturday, called for some strong remarks from the Coroner at the Inquest. HEALE was descending Baker's Hill, near Poscombe Bridge, on the 10th instant, late at night, when he met with an accident, and was found in an unconscious condition. There was little doubt that the unfortunate man was a hard rider, and as Mr Coroner Gould said deceased's death must have been brought about by his own folly in riding at a fast pace down such a hill late at night. He considered it was a practice that was highly dangerous, and added that in the case of a horse and carriage, such fast riding would not be allowed for a moment.

ST MARYCHURCH - Sad Occurrence At St. Marychurch. - The funeral took place at St. Marychurch Cemetery on Monday afternoon of MR HARRY HOPNER MEYER, who died on the previous Thursday at his residence Eaglescliffe, St. Marychurch. MR MEYER had been ailing for some months previous to his demise, but the end came rather suddenly, the cause being haemorrhage. MR MEYER had been connected with the Hele Terra-cotta Works for some years, first as traveller and afterwards as manager, and was greatly respected by a wide circle of friends. He was a good musician, and a poet of some ability, several of his shorter poems having been set to music. MR MEYER was a widower, and leaves a family of three daughters and a son. His mother, who is upwards of eighty years of age, is still alive. The funeral on Monday afternoon was attended by the employees at the Hele Terra Cotta Works and at the Watcombe Terra Cotta Works, the service being conducted by the Rev. R. F. Fleming, curate. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Mr W. W. Lear. - An elder sister of MR MEYER, who had journeyed from West Hartlepool to be present at her brother's funeral, was taken suddenly ill on Tuesday, and expired before medical assistance arrived. The deceased, MRS CLARA OTTEN, like her brother, leaves a family of four children. - An Inquest was held at the Town Hall, St. Marychurch, yesterday morning by Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, into the cause of death of CLARA WOOLMER OTTEN, who died at Eaglescliffe, on the previous Tuesday. Mr J. Lee was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - FREDERICK GEORGE OTTEN, station master on the North Eastern Railway, near West Hartlepool, identified the deceased as his wife, CLARA WOOLMER OTTEN, aged 54 years, and said she came to Torquay to attend the funeral of her brother, the previous week. Deceased had never needed the attendance of a doctor, and on Tuesday morning she was in her usual health. - She was walking in the garden five minutes before her death. Witness left his wife and was away four or five minutes. He returned to Eaglescliffe, and saw the deceased in the breakfast room. Before he could speak to her he heard a kind of gurgling, as if in her throat, and he turned to see his wife falling. Witness caught her in his arms. Before the arrival of a doctor, within five minutes, his wife was dead. - Ellen Beatrice Osborne, living at Bromley, Kent, a widow, and sister of the deceased, said at half-past three, on Thursday, her sister came into the room, and saying "It is very hot," fell back dead. Her brother's death had caused the deceased much pain. - Dr W. S. Steele, of St. Marychurch, said he saw the deceased lying on the sofa dead. He had no doubt that she died immediately, the cause being failure of the heart's action, brought on by fatigue through her journey from Durham, and the trouble of her brother's death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 June 1893
TORQUAY - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Police Court on Monday morning, into the cause of death of SUSAN HILL, aged 39 years, the wife of a painter residing at Baker's Cottages, Lower Union Lane, Torquay. Deceased's husband stated that his wife had complained on the Saturday of feeling ill, but was able to get up on Sunday morning to prepare breakfast. She appeared to faint, and fell to the ground, dying in a few minutes. Dr Cook stated he was called to the house on Sunday morning. Deceased had been suffering from general debility, and had been discharged from a club on that account. He had examined the body, and in his opinion death had been caused through failure of the heart's action. The Jury, of which Mr Pook was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 July 1893
PAIGNTON - An Excursionist Drowned. - On Saturday, RALPH HITCHINGS, aged 55, foreman in the candle department of Messrs. Christopher Thomas and Brothers, soap manufacturers, Bristol, came to Torquay with the rest of the workmen in the employ of the firm, upon a day's excursion, and in the afternoon deceased went with others, including his mother, to Paignton in a brake. Shortly afterwards, with several companions, he went to bathe, and it was not until he had drifted just opposite the ladies' bathing machine that it was observed something was wrong. Then an alarm was raised, and the attendant, Buckingham, rode into the water on his horse, and recovered the body in about 3 ½ feet of water. Fortunately Drs. Vickers and Alexander were on the spot immediately and artificial respiration was attempted. This was relinquished after about fifteen minutes' unsuccessful exertions, and the body was removed to the mortuary. Deceased suffered from heart disease and it was thought that the sudden plunge into the sea caused the heart's action to cease. The Coroner, Mr Sydney Hacker, held an Inquiry on Monday at Paignton Town Hall, and Dr Vickers gave it as his opinion that death was not due to drowning, but to either a fit or a faint. He believed it was caused by failure of the heart's action. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Failure of the Heart."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 July 1893
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident At St. Marychurch. - The death occurred at the Torbay Hospital, on Wednesday night, of FREDERICK EDWARD DEAR, who was admitted some weeks ago, suffering from the effects of a kick from a horse. DEAR was in the employment of Mr Elson, of St. Marychurch, and was grooming a horse in the stable, when the animal suddenly kicked him in the back. He was admitted to the Torbay Hospital on June 19th, but, in spite of the care bestowed upon him, he expired on Wednesday, the immediate cause of death resulting from an abscess. The Coroner was communicated with, and an Inquest will be held today. DEAR resided with his widowed mother at 19 Lower Ellacombe Road, St Marychurch.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 August 1893
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident At St. Marychurch. Death From The Kick Of A Horse. - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Enquiry on Friday last, at Wood's Pavilion Hotel, into the death of FREDERIC EDWIN DEAR, aged 20 years, a cab driver, residing at 21 Ellacombe Church Road. Mr W. Watson was Foreman of the Jury. - ALBERT DEAR, a fitter, identified the deceased as his brother, aged twenty years. Previous to the accident, on June 19th, deceased had been for two months in the employment of Mr Ellicott, a cab owner, and on the morning of the above day he was brought home in a trap. He said a horse had kicked him in the left side, while he was harnessing it. - The Coroner: Did he give any reason for the horse kicking him? - Witness: He said it might have been worried by the flies. The deceased died on Wednesday at about seven o'clock. He had been with horses for about two and a half years. - By the Jury: He had never complained of the horse being vicious. - William Ellicott, cab proprietor, of St Marychurch, said the deceased had been working for him two months. He was not a strong lad, and had been suffering from a pain in his back. On the morning of June 19th, witness told deceased to harness the horse, but soon afterwards on going into the stable DEAR told him that the horse had kicked him. He was standing up with his hands to his side. Deceased had been trying to put the collar on with the harness attached, when the horse suddenly turned around and kicked him. Witness had never known the horse to kick before. - The Coroner: Is it the usual practice to put the harness and the collar on together? - Witness: Yes, sir. It saves a great deal of time, especially when we are wanted in a hurry, but it would be advisable sometimes to put the collar on alone. - The Coroner: It would be advisable. - Witness said he had had the horse four years, and most of the time he had driven it himself. It was quiet, and not vicious. - John Walker, a cab driver of 2 Springfield Cottages, St. Marychurch, said the horse was not a vicious one. It was the usual practice to put the collar and the hames on together, and this was done for quickness. - Mr Arthur Watson, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said the deceased was admitted on the 19th June, in a state of collapse, suffering from a rupture of the left kidney. He seemed to get much better, but a fortnight ago an abscess formed on the injured kidney, and this was the cause of death. - The Coroner briefly summed up, and said there would be always a certain amount of risk incurred in putting the collar and the hames on to a horse attached. It would, perhaps, be well for Mr Ellicott and others to consider whether it would not be better for them to lose a little time than to run a slight risk in the matter. Mr Ellicott said he had always been in the habit of putting the articles on together for sixteen or seventeen years, and had never known of an accident before. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - Mysterious Death From Poisoning At Tor. A Case For Inquiry. - An Inquiry was held by Mr Coroner Hacker at the Torbay Inn on Tuesday morning into the circumstances attending the sudden death of FREDERICK HUMPHREY RABBAGE, aged 36 years, of 2 Church Street, Tor. Mr Graham was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - RICHARD RABBAGE, father of the deceased, a railway porter, residing at 2 Church Street, Tor, identified the body. His son had suffered from asthma for some time, but had been better during the last few weeks. He was a single man and worked for Mr Edwards, a corn merchant. On Sunday the deceased had his dinner and tea at home, but at night he complained of being thirsty, and had a bottle of lemonade. He drank this, and witness soon afterwards went to bed. Deceased sat up in a chair all night down stairs. - The Coroner: Did he not go to bed? - Witness: No, sir. - The Coroner: How was that? - Witness: I do not know. He has been in the habit of staying up all night. - The Coroner: I do not understand it. Why did he stay up all night? - Witness said it was his usual practice to stay up, although he had not done so for three weeks. He had suffered severely from asthma, but had got over that. Witness understood he would go out at about half-past five on Monday morning, and did not see him again. When witness came down in the morning he had gone to his work. - The Coroner: Had you any poisons about the house? - Witness: No. - The Coroner: Just think. Were there no drugs at all on the mantelpiece, or anywhere? - Witness: Not that I am aware of. - The Coroner: Had you any reason to think he would commit suicide? - Witness: No, I had not. witness heard afterwards that his son had died in the Tor Abbey Inn. - Mr John Ferris, surgeon, of Torquay, said he was called to the Tor Abbey Inn on Monday morning, at seven o'clock, and there saw the deceased lying dead in the bar. He made a post mortem examination the same afternoon, and found there were no external marks of violence. The stomach was acutely inflamed, as if from some irritant poison, and the intestines were also in a similar condition. They had every appearance of being poisoned by arsenic. The stomach was quite empty. There was nothing to account for death in any way, although the liver was enlarged, and the lungs and chest had the appearance of a man who had suffered from chronic asthma. The lips had a white-washed appearance, which was generally common in these cases. In witness's opinion death was due to an irritant poison. - The Coroner: You cannot say, at present, the quantity? - Witness: No I cannot. he had preserved the stomach and the intestines. The poison must have been taken some hours previously. He had called in Dr Pitt Palmer to assist him at the examination. - John Pearse, a plasterer, of 2 Tor Church Road, said he saw the deceased about half-past six o'clock on Monday morning, outside the "Rising Sun," and a few minutes after he followed witness into the bar of the Tor Abbey Inn. Deceased sat down and called for a small bottle of stout. He took it from the counter and raised he bottle to his lips, but laid it down again without tasting. Witness remarked "You are not looking up to much this morning," and deceased replied "I do not feel well." A few seconds later deceased made a noise, and witness saw him falling from the bench, and went to his assistance. He fell to the ground, however, and while there he had what appeared to be a convulsion. Mr Luscombe, the landlord, sent for Dr Ferris, but the man died before he arrived. - William Luscombe, landlord of the Tor Abbey Inn, said the deceased occasionally visited his house. On Monday morning he came in at about half-past six o'clock and called for a bottle of stout. He took the bottle, and went and sat down, but immediately afterwards he fell off the bench, dying within five minutes. Witness understood the deceased had been to work that morning, but his employer, Mr Edwards, had advised him to go and get a drop of brandy. Witness believed the man was about the street sometime before his house was opened. - Henry Moore, a fruiterer, of Upton, corroborated. - The Coroner said he scarcely thought the case would have proved of such importance when he came there that morning, but they would have to go thoroughly into the cause of his death. The Jury would have to find out whether the poison was administered to him, or if it was taken accidentally, or whether he took it himself for the purpose of destroying his life; and it would assist the police if they had an adjournment. In the meantime he would have an analysis made of the contents of the stomach. The case at present looked like a mystery, and they would have to clear it up. He adjourned the Inquiry for a week.

TORQUAY - Burnt To Death At Upton. Two Courageous Women. - On Friday last, an Inquest was held at Wood's Pavilion Hotel, by Mr Coroner Hacker, into the circumstances attending the death of EMMA LOUISA WILLCOCKS. Mr W. Watson was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Mary Jane Ferrice, the wife of William Ferrice, a labourer, residing at 3 Myrtle Place, Upton, said the deceased was her sister, an orphan, aged twelve years. She was the daughter of THOMAS WILLCOCKS, a labourer, who formerly lived at Chudleigh. On Wednesday, the 26th ult,, witness left home at twenty minutes to six in the evening, for the purpose of returning to her work, and then told the deceased to go and light the fire. Soon after six o'clock, witness was informed that the child was on fire, and on getting home found her out at the back of the house, in the care of Mrs Williams and Mrs Hook, two neighbours, who had been able to put out the flames. The girl was standing as well as she could, and told witness not to trouble about it. A cab was sent for, and the child was taken to the hospital. - Lucy Williams, the wife of John William Williams, a sailor, residing at 2 Myrtle Place, whose hands were bandaged, said a few minutes after six o'clock she heard the child screaming, and at once jumped over the wall, which separated her back premises from those of Mrs Ferrice. The girl had just come out of the back door, and was standing in the yard, her clothing being in flames. Witness tried to put out the flames by clasping the child in her arms, and by throwing water on her. Mrs Hook, her mother, came to her assistance, and witness hearing the other children screaming, at once went into the house. They were, however, safe, and there was nothing burning in the house. Mrs Hook had succeeded in putting the flames out, but the child was burnt about the body. - Mrs Ferrice, recalled, said the deceased must have been turning with her back to the fire, and her skirts caught. There was no oil about, nor any signs of it being used. The girl was bright, and always willing to help. There were two other children in the room at the time, but neither of them knew how the deceased caught her clothes on fire. - Mrs Hook, the mother of the last witness, deposed to taking the child in her arms, and by this means subduing the flames. - Dr Watson said the deceased was admitted to the Hospital suffering from extensive burns on the back of the legs, thighs and body, and also on the arms. The child was sensible, but she was of course suffering from shock, the result of the burns. She died on Thursday night soon after seven o'clock. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," the Foreman saying they wished to express their sympathy with the two women who had sustained injuries by courageously going to the assistance of the deceased. - The funeral of EMMA LOUISE WILLCOCKS took place at the Torquay Cemetery on Monday afternoon. The children of the Bible class connected with the Congregational Mission, Upton, of which the girl was a member, attended, accompanied by the superintendent of the school, Mr J. A. Tucker, and they carried beautiful wreaths and flowers. A great deal of sympathy was shown to the relatives of the deceased.

MARLDON - While SIDNEY BROWN, aged 9, was playing with some children at Marldon, on Monday, in an outhouse belonging to his father, he fell to the ground from a beam on to which he had climbed, striking his head as he fell. The boy was able, however, to walk home, appearing none the worse for his mishap, and was put to bed. The next morning it was found that he was unconscious, and Dr Alexander and Dr Atkins, of Paignton, were sent for. They performed an operation upon him, that being considered the only means by which his life could be saved. The boy, however, died on Tuesday at midnight, from fracture of the skull. Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest on Thursday afternoon at Lovelane Farm, Marldon, the residence of the deceased's father, when the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 August 1893
TORQUAY - A Lamentable Accident At Torquay. - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquiry at the Queens Hotel, Torquay, on Saturday, into the cause of death of SARAH YEA, aged 64 years, of 1 Park Lane. Mr J. M. Bovey was Foreman of the Jury. - Sergeant Osborne said the husband of deceased was unable to attend the Inquest as he was ill in bed. When going to the assistance of his wife, he had fallen and broken his thigh. - The Coroner: It is a most unfortunate occurrence, but we may be able to come to a decision without his evidence. - Alice Hingston, the wife of John Hingston, a sailor, said the deceased was her mother and the wife of JAMES YEA, a fisherman. Witness lived with her parents at 1 Park Lane. On Saturday, the 22nd July, witness left home at a quarter past nine in the evening, her mother being then seated on the sofa, and her father in an arm chair. She was informed shortly after ten o'clock that her parents had met with an accident, and, on returning home, she found her father seated in a chair. He told witness that he had heard his wife fall on leaving the room, and gone to help her to get up when he also had fallen down the steps and broken his thigh. Her mother was unconscious and Dr Eales was sent for. It appeared that her mother had fallen when leaving the room and broken her arm. After being put to bed, she seemed to get worse every day, and died on Friday morning soon after nine o'clock. - Charlotte Brown, the wife of William Brown, a painter, of Park Lane, said she was in the house shortly before ten o'clock, and saw the deceased seated on the sofa. Both deceased and her husband were then quite well. - Mary Lear, the wife of William Lear, a fisherman, residing at 22 Melville-road, said that in consequence of cries for help, she entered the deceased's house at ten minutes past ten on the night of July 22nd, along with Mr and Mrs Dear. They found MR YEA had managed to get up, but the deceased was lying on the floor of the washhouse with her arm under her. They removed her to the sofa, and ultimately took MR and MRS YEA to bed. - Mr Percy Herbert Gardner, surgeon, and locum tenens for Dr Eales, said he had attended the deceased during the previous week. She was in a serious condition, and was only semi-conscious. She was suffering from congestion of the lungs, caused by lying on her back. The deceased expired on Friday morning, and he attributed death to congestion of the lungs, the result of the accident. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and handed their fees to the relatives of the deceased.

TORQUAY - The Poisoning Case At Tor. - Result Of The Analysis. - The adjourned Inquest into the mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of FREDERIC HUMPHREY RABBAGE, who died from poisoning, as reported last week, was held on Tuesday afternoon before Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner. - At the opening of the Inquest, it was proved that deceased, who was 34 years of age and unmarried, went early on Monday morning, the 31st ult., to the Tor Abbey Hotel and called for a glass of stout, but before he had drunk any portion of it he fell back and died, and a post mortem examination by Dr Ferris and Dr Pitt Palmer disclosed the fact that death had been caused by an irritant poison, and the Inquest was adjourned that an analysis of the contents of the stomach might be made. - The following additional evidence was adduced at the adjourned Inquiry:- P.S. Osborne deposed that after the opening of the Inquest he went to the house of the deceased's parents, with whom he lived, and there found on a shelf of the dresser a bottle (produced). Deceased's mother stated that she found on the table the morning of the occurrence a cup containing liquid. Both the bottle and the cap were handed to Mr Taylor, chemist, for analysis. - Councillor John Taylor, analytical chemist, of Luicius Street, stated that he had received from Dr Ferris a sealed glass jar. It contained the contents of deceased's stomach. The fluid of the stomach and intestines was found strongly acid. A drop of each was evaporated and placed under the microscope. They revealed clear prismatic crystals, which he took to be oxalic acid. A quantitative analysis revealed the presence of one grain. Approximately, therefore, the contents of the jar contained fifty-five grains of acid. No traces of poison were found in the cup. A drop of liquid found in the small bottle on the dresser, when evaporated and examined beneath the microscope, contained crystals the same as those found in the stomach. - Dr Pitt-Palmer agreed with Dr Ferris and Mr Taylor that death was due to oxalic acid. He saw that deceased had for years suffered from pleurisy, asthma and bronchitis, which rendered it necessary for him to sit up at night, as was his practice. He would also suffer from indigestion. "His condition," said Dr Pitt-Palmer, "must have been a wretched one, and he was a martyr to pain and distress." Three drachms of oxalic acid caused death in an hour. That was the smallest fatal dose known. The probability was that the deceased took the poison about an hour before his death. - John Edwin Edwards, hay and corn merchant, Belgrave Road, stated that deceased was employed by him as a labourer for about six months. He attended his work as usual on the Sunday, when he complained of a little neuralgia. Deceased was never very well. He was at work about six o'clock on Monday morning, when he stated that he was "shaking all over." - Dr Ferris considered that deceased drank freely, though he could not be said to be a drunkard. - Sidney Mitchell, a youth residing in Laburnum Street, and engaged by Mr Edwards, saw deceased about 5.15 on the morning of the occurrence. He complained of not "being up to much." - JANE RABBAGE, mother of the deceased, having been examined as to deceased's doings on the Sunday. RICHARD RABBAGE, deceased's father, stated that he received the bottle which had been declared to contain poison from a cab driver, who gave it him as embrocation to rub a bruise on his hand. He emptied the bottle. The Coroner, in summing up., said that that case afforded an admirable instance of the necessity for Inquests. If an Inquiry had not been ordered death would have been attributed to heart disease, or apoplexy, whereas it was due to a deadly poison. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Poisoning, but as to how the poison was administered there is no evidence to show."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 September 1893
TORQUAY - Sad Suicide At Upton. Thirty Years of Suffering. - Early on Sunday morning, WILLIAM JORDAN, a pianoforte tuner, aged fifty years, residing at 21 Vale Terrace, Upton, committed suicide by cutting his throat with a razor. Deceased had been a great sufferer from fistula, for the last thirty years, and had been admitted to the Torbay Hospital for treatment. He applied for his discharge a week ago, although the House Surgeon advised him to stay, as there were signs of the treatment he was undergoing being successful. He returned to his lodgings, and was in great agony until the time of his death. During this period, his landlady, Mrs Collings, with whom he had resided for upwards of fourteen years, did everything possible to alleviate his suffering, and was with him until two o'clock on Sunday morning. She then retired to rest, but an hour later was wakened by a noise, and on going into the adjoining bedroom with her husband, they found JORDAN lying on the floor with his throat cut. Medical assistance was summoned, but the deceased expired ten minutes after Dr Thistle arrived. - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest at the Torbay Inn, on Monday. Mr J. Edwards was chosen Foreman of the Jury, the other Jurymen being:- Messrs. G. Wood, Samuel Lane, R. Beer, J. Westacott, W. Binham, A. Andrews, W. Pugsley, F. Pratt, O. Hancock, H. goodyear, A. Lee, and C. Gardner. - James Godfrey Collings, a gardener, residing at 21 Vale Terrace, Upton, said the deceased was a pianoforte tuner, and had lodged with witness for fifteen years, having a bedroom and sitting room. He had never heard JORDAN say whether he was married. He had been ill for some considerable time, and was admitted to the hospital seven weeks ago, being discharged on Wednesday last uncured. Witness saw the deceased every morning and evening, but he was often low-spirited. One or two friends called to see him, amongst them being Mr Rogers, of Torre, who came, he was informed, on Saturday morning. Deceased went to bed in the afternoon, for he could neither sit nor walk, and was suffering great pain. Witness sat with him in the bedroom until one o'clock on Sunday morning, but he made no threats to take his life, and then he went to bed. About three o'clock his wife heard the deceased groan and woke witness. They went into the bedroom, and found the lamp burning as it had been left, and nothing disturbed. JORDAN was lying on the floor with his head towards the foot of the bed, bleeding from a wound in the throat. Witness at once went for Dr Thistle and JORDAN was living when he arrived, but he never spoke. A razor was found on the dressing table near the window, with blood stains upon it. - Emma Collins, the wife of the last witness, said she remained with the deceased until two o'clock on Sunday morning and then went to bed. She had been reading to him. He was groaning and evidently in great pain, but he said he did not want anything. An hour later she heard a loud noise as if JORDAN had fallen, and she called her husband. Together they went into the room and found him in the position named. Previous to his death, JORDAN occasionally had said "Oh, missis, I can't bear this pain any longer." witness had never heard him say that he was married, nor had he any relatives. He never received any letters, except those relating to business. She had examined the deceased's effects, and found that he had about £47 in one bank and £60 in Lloyd's Bank. He had left a will which she had handed to Mr Clode, Solicitor, and in it the money was left to witness. This will was made about eleven years ago. - The Coroner: Did he say anything to you about it? - Witness: He did at the time, but never since. He told me where the bank book and the will were placed in his box. He had also informed witness that he was born at Dale-street, Liverpool, and that his relatives were all dead. - Dr Thistle, of the Torbay Hospital, said he was called to the deceased on Sunday morning, shortly before four o'clock, and found him lying on the floor with a wound in the right side of his throat, two inches long, which had severed the jugular vein. He was placed on the bed, but died ten minutes afterwards. - The Coroner: Rather an unusual way for him to cut his throat? - Witness: Yes; they generally cut them from the left side. - The Coroner: Do you think it was a self inflicted wound? - Witness: Oh, yes. Dr Thistle added that JORDAN was admitted to the hospital six weeks ago, and underwent an operation for fistula, but he was not getting on very well. He got depressed at times, and wanted to leave, but the House Surgeon and witness advised him to stay, as there were signs of a cure being effected, but he left. He suffered a good deal of pain at times, and the disease was rather difficult to cure, being one of thirty yeas standing, but he was convinced that if JORDAN had only remained in the hospital they would have cured him in time. - Mr James Edward Moon said deceased had been in the employment of his firm for the last three years, since they took the business, as a pianoforte tuner. He was an upright, straightforward servant, and a man they trusted and respected very highly. He was often depressed and two years ago he would say that life was not worth living. Witness recommended him to go to the Hospital to be treated, and he felt very much better when he came out. He also made him sign the pledge and he believed he had kept it ever since. - The Coroner: He did drink then? - Mr Moon: At first he did, when we took the business, but he grew better afterwards. Continuing, Mr Moon said some months ago JORDAN got worse again, and suffered great pain. He was under the impression that the Torquay doctors could do him no good, and witness offered him three months holiday for the purpose of entering a London hospital and being treated by a specialist. Witness told him he would be no loser if he did so, but he would not do that. Before he entered the hospital a second time he was in a terrible state, and was then often depressed. Two years ago JORDAN told him in confidence that he had a wife living in London, but that she had made life a "hell upon earth for him." This was on account of another man. He had had letters addressed to him in a woman's hand-writing, but that was two years ago. He was a good workman and earned handsome wages. He had also often spoken of Mrs Collings's kindness to him, and she was a woman who had done a great deal for him. - The Coroner: There was nothing extraordinary in leaving Mrs Collings the money? - Mr Moon: No. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 15 September 1893
TORQUAY - Shocking Accident At Torquay. A Man Falls Fifty Feet. - On Wednesday afternoon, WILLIAM DAVEY, a labourer, in the employment of Mr Whiddon, of Babbacombe, was painting No. 1, Vale Terrace, Upton, and was upon a ladder 50 feet from the pavement, when the top of the ladder broke off, and DAVEY fell to the ground. He was seen by some bystanders, but was found to be quite dead. He resided at 3 Marchwood Terrace, Upton, and leaves a wife and child. - Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquest at Mr Wood's Pavilion Hotel on the body of WILLIAM JAMES DAVEY, on Thursday morning. The Jury were Messrs. C. Bond, W. Snelling, T. Priston, C. Richards, J. Robins, W. Ferrett, W. Binham, W. Lee, W. Frost, J. C. Watson, G. Tucker, H. Hawking and J. J. Shrubb. Mr Watson was chosen Foreman. - Mr B. Greenfield represented the deceased's widow, who, he said, had been left destitute. - Mr W. Lee, a Juryman, did not put in an appearance. - After waiting ten minutes the Coroner said he must obey the law. It was not right that one man should waste the time of thirteen others and Mr Lee would be fined 10s. - RICHARD JOHN DAVEY, of 3 St. Mary's Cottages, Plainmoor, a labourer, said the deceased, WILLIAM JAMES DAVEY, a general labourer, aged 22 years, was his son. He lived at 3 Marchwood Terrace, Upton, and was a married man with one child. - Thomas Whiddon, of Fore Street, Babbacombe, a painter, said the deceased commenced work for him on Wednesday morning. He was asked if he could go up a ladder and he said he was quite used to it. He was instructed to paint a shoot at the back of Mr Bond's house in Upton Vale Terrace. The ladders were in Mr Thuell's yard, and they borrowed the large one from him. They lashed one of witness's ladders to the large one and it was hoisted up with a rope, but was not against the shoot at all. - By the Foreman: The ladder bent with the weight of the man upon it. He warned the deceased not to stretch out so far when he was painting. - By the Coroner: they used the same ladder for painting the Baptist Chapel. - Continuing, witness said he had had the ladder for ten years, when he bought it new. - The Foreman: My opinion is that this ladder was not strong enough. - Witness said the deceased was working on the ladder from half-past eight until half-past two, and they kept on shifting it. He shifted the ladder at about the latter time, and in a few minutes heard a crash, and looking up saw the poor fellow falling. He came straight down, and fell close to the bottom of the ladder on his head. The ladder snapped at the fifth rung from the top, at about the place the deceased was standing. - The Coroner: Is the wood rotten where it broke? - Witness: I consider the ladder was sound. - By Mr Greenfield: Witness overhauled the ladder last winter. The iron stays were put on the top rung of the ladder two years ago. - Mr Greenfield: Was not your attention called to the condition of the ladder two years ago, and, in consequence, was it not strengthened? - Witness: It was done then, but I knew nothing about it till it was brought back by the telegraph man, who borrowed it. - Mr P. Q. Karkeek, surgeon, of Torquay, said he was called to the deceased and found him lying at the foot of the ladder, bleeding from the mouth, nose and ears. In his opinion he struck the ground with his head, and fractured his skull and probably broke his neck. Death was instantaneous. - Albert Whiddon, son of a previous witness, said he went into one of the top rooms and held the deceased in position by a rope passed round his body. After dinner DAVEY said he did not feel very well, but he went on with his work. At the third shift the ladder broke and witness slipped back into the room. He saw deceased fall. - The Coroner said the Jury had to ascertain whether the ladder was sufficiently strong or not, and whether there was anyone to blame. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," but considered that there was not sufficient care exercised in the selection and placing of the ladder for the work. At the request of Mr Greenfield, the police took charge of the broken ladder. - The deceased was a playing member of the Torquay Athletic Football Club, and the Committee have decided to cancel the practice arranged for tomorrow afternoon. The members of the club intend to be present at the funeral of the deceased on Saturday, and the committee are desirous that every member should make it convenient to attend. DAVEY was an old player at Rugby football. He was formerly a member of the Torquay Junior Club, now the Town team, and on the Juniors joining the Wanderers, DAVEY accepted a place in the B. Team of the Athletic Club. He played in every match - twenty-eight - last season, and had also taken part in the practice games. He was greatly respected by the members of the Club.

TORQUAY - Bathing Fatality On Torre Abbey Sands. - Yesterday morning, TERRANCE WILLIAM SHANNON, a lodging house keeper, residing at 5 Matlock Terrace, was bathing off the Torre Abbey Sands, when he was noticed to stop swimming and lie on his face. The attention of Sidney Smith, who was passing at the time, was called to the occurrence, and he at once waded out to the deceased. He succeeded in reaching him, and he was brought ashore, but although attempts were made to restore animation, SHANNON never recovered. - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquiry the same morning, at the Pavilion Hotel. - HARRIET SHANNON, of 5 Matlock Terrace, said the deceased was her husband, TERRANCE WILLIAM SHANNON, 59 years of age, a butler. He had been living at home for the last five years. Witness said deceased went about his work as usual that morning, and left the house at about half-past seven for the purpose of having a bathe. He could swim, and was in his usual health. - Sidney Smith of 12 Florence Terrace, a hair-dresser, said at about eight o'clock that morning he was walking along the sea wall towards Shedden Hill, and was informed that a man was drowning. He saw some one floating face downwards on the water at the bottom of Tor Abbey Road, and taking off his coat and waistcoat, witness waded out to the deceased. he was out of his depth and was at least in about six feet of water. Deceased was brought ashore, and they tried to restore animation but in vain. - Walter Goint, a telegraph boy, said he saw the deceased swimming about in the water, but there was no one else about. All at once he turned over on his face, and kept perfectly still. - Dr Bentley, locum tenens for Dr Richardson, said the deceased was quite dead when he arrived. He had been informed that steps had been taken to restore animation, previous to his arrival. There were no marks of violence on the body, and in witness's opinion the deceased was seized with apoplexy, while in the water. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 October 1893
TORQUAY - The Inquest. - At the Torbay Inn on Tuesday evening Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquiry into the cause of death of Mr W. F. SPLATT, Esq., J.P.. Mr C. H. Middleton was chosen Foreman of the Jury, which consisted of Messrs. W. H. Rowland, W. Turner, W. Frost, E. Lee, J. Crocker, H. Crocker, H. Gardner, E. Holman, H. Goodyear, O. Hancock, A. W. Abbot, F. Pratt, and W. S. Owen. - The Coroner said the Jury were summoned to Inquire into the cause of death of the chief magistrate of the Borough, who, he was informed, had been found dead in bed that morning, after being in his usual health the night previous. He did not think there would be any difficulty in returning a verdict, especially after hearing the evidence of the medical attendant. After viewing the body, the first witness called was Frederick Race Godfrey, a visitor at The elms, since the previous Friday, formerly a sheep farmer of Australia, who said he had known MR SPLATT for the last forty years, and his age was eighty-two. Some years ago MR SPLATT was a large sheep farmer and merchant in Melbourne, Australia, but had since been the first Mayor of this Borough. MR SPLATT was in his usual health and capital spirits on Monday evening. At MR SPLATT'S request witness delayed his departure from The Elms, and went to the Theatre in his company on Monday evening to see "The Mikado". They arrived at The elms at a quarter to eleven from the Theatre, and MR SPLATT had a small whiskey and water. A little after eleven o'clock when the ladies had left the room, witness said he should retire to rest, and MR SPLATT turned out the lamp and also went upstairs. He was in good spirits, and said he had enjoyed "The Mikado" very much. At a quarter to eight on Tuesday morning, witness heard someone knocking at his door, and heard MRS SPLATT inform him that they could not awaken her husband. Witness at once went out and tried MR SPLATT'S door, but it was locked. There was a window in the bedroom opening out upon the verandah and the gardener brought a ladder. He had a chisel and went up the ladder and tried to open the window, but the chisel was not strong enough and he went in search of other instruments. Ultimately he opened the window, and entered the room. The gardener beckoned to witness saying "I think he is gone." Witness went up the ladder and when he got into the room the gardener had opened the door and admitted one of the maid servants into the room. MR SPLATT was lying in bed on his side with his hand under his head. The room and the bed were in perfect order, and nothing had been disturbed. The pillow, however, was at the foot of the bed and MR SPLATT was lying on the bolster. Witness understood that he had discarded the use of a pillow. Witness placed his hand on the deceased's head and hand, and found that it was quite cold. In the meantime Dr Richardson had been telephoned for, and he arrived soon afterwards. - The Coroner: There was nothing to suggest that it was an unnatural death? - Witness: Nothing whatever. - The Coroner: did he appear to be in his usual health? - Witness: Yes, sir; but he looked paler than he did many years ago. He was a hale and hearty man. - Fanny Drake a housemaid at The elms, said that on Tuesday morning she went to call MR SPLATT as usual at a quarter to eight. She tried his bedroom door, and found it locked; and then knocked twice but got no answer. - the Coroner: Was it MR SPLATT'S custom to lock his door at night? - Witness replied that it was, but MR SPLATT usually got up in the morning, unlocked his door, and drew up the blind. Witness ascertained that the blind had not been drawn up, and that the room was in darkness. She then informed MRS SPLATT that she had been knocking at the deceased's door for ten minutes, and could not get an answer. MRS SPLATT called Mr Godfrey, and an entrance was obtained, but witness did not go into the room. - The Coroner: Was there any light in the room? - Witness: MR SPLATT always took a candle with him upstairs, and it was found in the morning, where he probably had blown it out. - The Coroner: Were his clothes arranged? - Witness: Yes, his clothes were folded up as usual on a little table in his room. - The Coroner: Did he take his dinner? - Witness: Yes, but I believe he ate very little. - Mr Godfrey recalled, said he dined with MR SPLATT on Monday night at a quarter to seven, and he had soup, fish and chicken. The deceased ate heartily. - The Coroner: You had the same? - Mr Godfrey: Yes. - John Stacey, the gardener at The Elms, said on Tuesday morning about eight o'clock the lady's maid informed him that they could not get an answer from MR SPLATT. Witness procured a chisel and ladder, and attempted to break open the window, but had to procure another instrument. He got into the room through the window, and at once opened the door. MR SPLATT was lying on his right side, with his face towards the window, and his hand under his head. By the general appearance witness thought that MR SPLATT was dead. By the time witness had opened the door Mr Godfrey had entered the window. There were two candlesticks on the mantlepiece. The deceased was talking to witness about three o'clock on Monday afternoon and was then in good spirits, telling witness to write out an order list of the things that were wanted. Witness did so, and left the list for MR SPLATT to send away on Tuesday morning. - Dr Richardson, of Torquay, said he saw MR SPLATT a little before eight o'clock on Monday evening, when he called upon him concerning public business of the town. MR SPLATT then told witness that he was felling well. Witness had been attending the deceased for some time as he had been suffering from a pain in the right shoulder. On Monday night, however, MR SPLATT seemed very well, and ran down the steps to his carriage quite like a young man. In consequence of a message he received, witness went to The Elms, on Tuesday morning about half-past eight, and found MR SPLATT in bed lying on his right side. Rigor mortis had set in, and witness came to the conclusion that MR SPLATT had been dead a good many hours. The room and the deceased appeared to be in an ordinary condition, and there was nothing to suggest that there was an unnatural cause of death. - The Coroner: What was the opinion you formed? - Witness: That he died from apoplexy. From his examinations witness was of opinion that the deceased's heart was good, but on account of his age, the vessels were weak. One of the vessels of the brain most probably gave way, and death was instantaneous. - The Coroner: He might be in his usual health and a vessel might give way? - Witness: Yes; that occurs to men in the best of health. The fit of apoplexy was caused by a blood vessel to the brain giving way. - The Coroner: You have previously attended him? - Witness: Yes, I have attended him a good many years. - The Coroner said that was all the evidence there was to bring before them, and he did not think it was a case which would give the Jury any great trouble. There was no doubt that the deceased came to his death through natural causes, and if the Jury were agreed they could bring in a verdict to that effect. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes, apoplexy." - The Coroner said it would naturally suggest itself to the minds of the Jury, that they should pass a vote of condolence with the widow of the deceased in her sudden bereavement. He had only to say that it was an ideal way of dying; to attain the age of 82 years; to keep their faculties, powers and health; to be useful and live their life to the last, and then leave like the flame of a candle. He could wish for no better fate for any of his friends. Mr Rowlands seconded the vote of condolence, and it was agreed to, and the proceedings of the Court then terminated. [Long detailed account of Mr Splatt's life, work and funeral - includes a picture.]

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 October 1893
TORQUAY - An Inquest was held at Hele on Saturday last by Mr Sidney Hacker (District Coroner) on the body of MARY JANE MALE, aged 56 years, the wife of ALFRED MALE, a general dealer, of Hele. The deceased had been preparing breakfast in the kitchen when she suddenly fell down, and expired in a few minutes. The cause of death was failure of the heart's action, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 November 1893
TORQUAY - An Inquiry was held at the Police Station last night, by Mr Coroner Hacker, into the circumstances attending the death of ELIZABETH CLARKE, a widow residing at 33 Ellacombe Church Road. The deceased, who was 75 years of age, had been ailing for some time, and, on Friday last, she accidentally fell out of bed. MRS CLARKE was attended by Dr cook, but she died on Tuesday. Dr Cook stated that MRS CLARKE expired from the shock to the system, by accidentally falling from bed. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 December 1893
TORQUAY - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest on Saturday touching the death of JANE HARDINGHAM, 73, of Orchard Cottages, Ellacombe. Three weeks ago, whilst out walking, she was seized with giddiness and fell, hurting her head. She was taken home and attended by Dr Cook, apparently recovered. She was able to go out, but a few days ago was again seized with apoplexy, the result of the blow to her head which she had previously sustained. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 January 1894
TORQUAY - Sad Death Of A Torquay Girl. A Father Censured. Can Doctors Chose Their Patients? - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquiry at the Torbay Hospital on Monday, into the circumstances attending the death of ELIZABETH ETHELREDA RUTH HOPKINS, 21, a single woman residing with her father, Charles Hopkins, bill poster and Town crier, at Myrtle Cottage, Stentiford's Hill. Mr Joshua H. Edwards was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner said the deceased died on Friday afternoon. She had been ill during the morning, and some little time prior to her death, which took place rather suddenly. No doubt after hearing the medical evidence the Jury would be satisfied as to the cause of death, and the only question which arose was whether there had not been some neglect on the part of the deceased's friends in not seeing some efficient medical attendant. - The first witness called was CHARLES HOPKINS, bill poster and Town Crier, who stated that he lived at Myrtle Cottage, Stentiford's Hill. The deceased was his daughter, who had acted as his housekeeper since his wife's death. She was a single woman. No one else lived in the house but an adopted child, aged seven years. Deceased had not been ill lately. On Thursday night she ate a hearty supper prior to going to bed at about 11 p.m. At about two o'clock on Friday morning she was taken with sickness. Witness went to her, and she complained of pains in her head and ears. Witness made her a cup of tea which she asked for, but she declined to have a doctor called in, believing it would pass off again. At daylight, he sent for a Mrs Taylor, but before that deceased had lost her speech. She did not become unconscious. Mrs Taylor saw his daughter, and said she was very ill, but she could not stop long, as she had to go to work. She promised to return to the house on leaving work. She came back again at dinner time, and meanwhile witness constantly attended on her. She had not spoken up to this time, but she took several cups of tea. - The Coroner: You did not think it necessary to get a doctor. - Witness: No Sir. Had I known as much as I do now I should have called in a medical man. - The Coroner: You knew she was lying there too ill to speak; was not that enough for you? - Witness: She has before now been in hysterics for four hours at a time. - The Coroner: It was for an hour or two, you might not think it serious; but your daughter had been lying there speechless from early in the morning to midday. - Continuing, witness said Mrs Taylor came back at the dinner hour, and, after seeing his daughter, said she thought a doctor should be sent for. Witness sent his son off at once for Dr Cook, the parish doctor, who refused to come, saying witness's son was drunk or something of that sort. His son then went to Dr Gardner and three other medical men, all of whom were away from home, or had other cases to attend to. Witness went to eh house of Dr Karkeek, but he was out and after waiting for an hour he (witness) saw Mr Davies, chemist, who, on hearing the particulars of the case, advised him to call Dr Pollard. Witness went to Dr Pollard's house but he was also out. He, however, left a message, but the doctor arrived at his house an hour and a half after his daughter was dead. He was first informed of his daughter's death by William Hammons, a young man who was keeping company with her. - The Coroner: And your daughter was lying there, no one knowing what was the matter with her, speechless, and without medical attendance all Thursday night and all Friday, until she died at 4 o'clock in the afternoon? You say you did what you could to obtain medical assistance for her at 2 o'clock in the afternoon. The Jury will want to know how it was you did not get medical attendance during the morning. From your own account she must have been in a very serious condition, and such a condition as ought to have alarmed any prudent man. Will you tell us why you did not call in a medical man before? - Witness: I proposed sending for a doctor several times to her, but she said no, she did not want a doctor, it would pass off again. - The Coroner: That was before she lost her speech. Did you not think when she became speechless her condition was serious. - Witness: I was not aware she had lost her speech until Mrs Taylor told me. - The Coroner: That was at eight o'clock in the morning. Why did you not then call in medical advice, because you must have known then that she was seriously ill. - Witness: I had not the slightest idea. - The Coroner: How can you say that? - Witness: I do say it, and say it respectfully to you and all these gentlemen. I thought she had merely turned sulky with me, as she sometimes would, and not that she had lost her speech. - The Coroner: You are the responsible person, and if you have a helpless woman in your house in a serious condition of health it is your duty to see she has proper medical attendance. The responsibility rests on you to see that a dying woman is properly cared for. - Witness: I can assure you that I did all that I possibly could in my ignorance of the actual state she was in. Had I known I would have obtained assistance and was quite ready to pay for it. I am not quite so inhuman as you suggest, sir. - The Coroner: It is a serious matter allowing a woman to die after lying seriously ill without medical advice for nearly twenty-four hours. Your explanation is that you were ignorant of her being in this serious condition. - Witness: As ignorant as you, sir, comparatively speaking. - The Coroner; How can you expect a Jury of intelligent men to believe that, when you say you knew at eight o'clock in the morning she was speechless? It does not seem reasonable. - THOMAS HENRY HOPKINS stated that he lived at No. 3 Happaway row, and was now employed at the Public Hall as a scene shifter. He first heard of his sister's illness on Friday, at about 2.50 p.m. She was then upstairs in bed with his father by her side. She was then unconscious and foaming at the mouth. He thought she was very ill and said he would fetch a doctor. He first went to Dr Cook, whose house he reached at 3 o'clock. He told the doctor the circumstances of the case, and he said "You had better go away or I shall give you in charge; you are drunk." - The Coroner: Were you drunk? - Witness: Certainly not. He refused to come. - Witness continuing, said he then went to Dr Karkeek, who was away from home. Dr Gardner was starting to attend to another case, and Dr Eales was not at home. He then went to the Police Station and saw Supt. Barbor, who said he could do nothing in it. Witness then returned home and found that his sister was dead. It was then about 4.15. He went back to the Police Station, reported the matter, and returned home with P.S. Osborne, who instructed him to go for a doctor. He went to Dr Karkeek's house, but he was not at home. He, however, secured the services of Dr Billson at the Hospital. - By a Juror: Dr Cook had attended members of the family before. - The Coroner: Did he give any reason for not coming? - Witness: He simply said I was drunk, and he would give me in charge if I did not leave. - Hannah Taylor, a laundry woman, residing at Stentiford's Hill, stated that she was called from her work at nine o'clock to see RUTH HOPKINS. On going into the bedroom she found her speechless, and had the appearance of being in a fit. Witness did not stay more than five minutes, but told deceased's father that she would return during the dinner hour. She thought the girl was very ill, but she did not say anything to MR HOPKINS about sending for a doctor. - The Coroner: Was she unconscious? Witness: Yes. She did not recognise me. - Proceeding, witness said she returned to the house at 2 p.m., and, after seeing the girl, who was just the same as when she left in the morning, she told her father that he ought to send for a doctor. Her brother arrived about this time and went for a doctor. Deceased's sister also came in and sent her father off for a doctor, but before either returned the girl was dead. - In answer to the coroner, witness said she did not know that deceased was enciente. - Mr Ferrett, one of the Jurymen, at this stage in the Inquiry, said a serious charge had been made against Dr Cook. Would it not be advisable to send for him, in order that he might give an explanation of the circumstances which caused him to refuse to attend the woman? - The Coroner said a doctor was exactly the same as a tradesman, or any other commercial man. He was not obliged to attend anyone, even if he was called. He had the right to refuse to attend anyone. A doctor was not a slave. Dr Cook was perfectly within his right. If, however, a doctor said he would attend a person, and then did not fulfil his promise, there was a great breach of duty. Because a man was a doctor, he was not bound to answer everyone's beck and call. - Mr Ferrett said he knew this, but he only thought Dr Cook should be given an opportunity of explaining matters. No doubt there was some reason for his refusal. - The Coroner: No doctor would refuse to attend without a reason, because he would be simply throwing money away. - A Juror: Dr Cook is held in high esteem by the poorer classes. - The Coroner to P.S. Osborne: You may run down to Dr Cook and tell him this Inquest is being held, and if he wishes to make a statement, he may do so. We don't want to force him to come, however. - Elizabeth Dennis, wife of Charles Dennis, a porter said deceased was her sister, but she had not seen her for six months prior to last Friday when she was called by her father about 3.15 p.m. She went upstairs and found her sister lying in an unconscious condition, and foaming at the mouth. She rendered all the assistance she could, but at 3.45 her sister died. - Mr Charles Billson, assistance house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he was called to the case by THOMAS HOPKINS, at about 5.15. He reached the house at 5.30, and went upstairs with P.S. Osborne, and saw the woman, who was then dead. He had made a post mortem examination, and found that there had been three haemorrhages on the brain; two of which on the top would account for speechlessness, and one at the base had probably caused death. Her lungs were very much congested, and one of the kidneys was diseased. She was in labour at the time. - By the Foreman: He did not think medical assistance at any time would have saved her life, although the child might have been safely delivered. The blood vessels were in a very unusual condition for one of her age. - Detective Coles stated that he was called by THOMAS HOPKINS at 4.45 and went, with P.S. Osborne, to Myrtle Cottage. The woman was then dead. THOMAS HOPKINS was not the worse for drink when he called at the Police Station, although he smelt of liquor. - Dr cook, at this point, arrived, and the Coroner read over to him the evidence given by THOMAS HOPKINS, adding that he had told the Jury that a doctor was not obliged to attend any person. At the same time, if a doctor knew a person was in a dying state they generally expected that ordinary feelings of humanity would prompt him to attend if he possibly could. - Dr cook said during the whole of the day he had been extremely busy, and had been called to several cases which were described as urgent, and on his arrival, they proved to be anything but urgent. He was knocked up at 4 o'clock in the morning for a serious case, and when he arrived it proved to be a bad cold. He was sent for to attend a woman who was bleeding to death, and on his arrival she was eating her dinner. Another case was that of a woman with broken ribs, and when he got to the house he found a woman of the same name as that given him, who was quite well. When THOMAS HOPKINS came to his house he was drunk, and was not capable of making a proper statement regarding the case, and, from what he said, he (the Doctor) did not believe it to be an urgent matter. HOPKINS wanted to fight, and thrust his fist into his face, and he (Dr Cook) said he would not stand it and ordered him out. If he had known what the case really was, he should have attended to it at once, and have let his other cases wait. - THOMAS HOPKINS: Can I ask you a question? - A Juryman: Certainly not. Dr cook is not a witness, he came here voluntarily. - The Coroner: What do you want to say? - HOPKINS: Did I stagger or show any signs of drunkenness? - Dr Cook: You put your fist in my face and I ordered you out. - The Coroner: If a doctor only dislikes the look of a man he can refuse to attend anyone at his request. - In summing up the Coroner said they had devoted a deal of time to the Inquiry. It was a case that required carefully looking into, and it did not disclose a satisfactory state of things. The deceased died from haemorrhage of the brain or a bursting of the blood vessels. A child was to be born, and she had made no preparations for it. - William Hammond, boots at Jordan's Hotel, intervened, and said he had kept company with the deceased, and every preparation had been made for the birth of the child. They were to have been married on the 31st December, but deceased did not wish her father to know that the wedding was to take place. At 10.45 on Thursday night the deceased was with him, and she did not then complain of being ill. - The Coroner, continuing his summing up, said there was no doubt as to the cause of death, but the question for the Jury to look at carefully was, how was it that the deceased was allowed to lie in such a serious condition as it appeared from the evidence that she was in all Thursday night and Friday morning, until three o'clock on Friday afternoon, before anyone attempted to obtain medical assistance. It was not until three o'clock on Friday afternoon that her father who, as the master of the house was the responsible person, attempted to secure medical aid. That was only three-quarters of an hour before she died. It seemed to him peculiar that in Torquay, where there was such a large number of doctors, that at that time in the afternoon so many should be either engaged, or away from home. It was an unfortunate circumstance. But if a doctor had come very quickly, he would hardly have arrived before the death of the girl. It was not much use waiting for the last moments of a person, before sending for a doctor. The question was, why was not medical assistance obtained earlier in the day? It seemed to him that any ordinary man, who was the master of the house, would have taken the trouble to have had medical advice at the earliest possible moment, especially when the person who was ill was his own daughter. It did not follow that if a doctor had seen her he would have been able to save her life. They could not tell. It was a question whether the Jury would visit the father with any censure. The only explanation he gave was that he was ignorant of her condition but they could not blind themselves to the fact that the poor girl was lying there from the early hours of Friday morning until Friday afternoon speechless and a man of any common sense must have known that she was in a very serious condition. - The Jury, after a brief consultation, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and added a rider censuring the father, CHARLES HOPKINS, for his neglect in not obtaining medical assistance earlier in the day. - The Coroner, addressing CHARLES HOPKINS, said: The Jury have censured you for your neglect in not having obtained medical assistance for your daughter who was lying in a dying state from early on Friday morning until after three in the afternoon. I agree with the Jury that you are deserving of severe censure for such neglect. - HOPKINS: It was not neglect, but an error of judgment. I have never neglected any of my children. The proceedings then concluded.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 January 1894
ST. MARYCHURCH - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Palk Arms Hotel, St. Marychurch, on Wednesday evening, into the circumstances attending the death of the five weeks' old son of HENRY CHARLES BICKNELL, of the Albert Inn, St. Marychurch. Mr T. Waymouth was chosen Foreman of the Jury. The child went to bed with its parents on the previous night, and on getting up on Wednesday morning the mother found that it was dead. Dr Finch, junr., said he had made a post mortem examination, and the only thing he discovered was a slight congestion of the left lung, which might have caused convulsions. Certainly the child was not suffocated. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 January 1894
ST MARYCHURCH - On Friday last Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquiry at the Union Hotel, St. Marychurch, touching the death of the fifteen-months old son of FREDERICK ROWDEN, labourer, residing at No. 4 Victoria Park. Mr Pike was Foreman of the Jury. On the previous Sunday the child was being nursed before the fire by its mother, when by some means a kettle of water was overturned, and some of the contents fell on the child's body and legs. Dr Andrew was called in at once, and under his care the child improved, but on Thursday a relapse took place and it died on Friday morning at four o'clock. Dr Andrew stated that death was due to shock to the system, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

COCKINGTON - Inquest At Chelston. Death Accelerated By Exposure. - An Inquest was held at Chelston Coffee Tavern, on Saturday evening, by Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, on the body of a man, named DAVID MENSOR, aged about 60, residing at Elm Bank, Old Mill Road. Evidence of identification was given by Robert James Denbow, a naval pensioner, residing at Ashley, next door to deceased. Witness explained that early on the previous Tuesday morning, before daybreak, the water pipes at Elm Bank burst, owing to the thaw following the severe weather, and the water entered his premises. During the night, deceased got up to try and find the main, with a view to stopping the water. He was unable to find the stop-cock, however. Witness, when he got up on Tuesday, turned the water off, and from inquiries found that MENSOR was very ill from the exposure during the night. As the day proceeded he became worse, but a doctor was not sent for until Thursday, when Dr Winwood Smith was called in. He found deceased at about 6 o'clock in the evening dangerously ill, prescribed for him, and left, returning at about 10 o'clock. Deceased, however, died between eight and nine. The matter was reported to the police, who communicated with the Coroner. A post mortem examination was ordered, and was conducted by Drs. Smith and Powell. They found evidence of acute pneumonia and diseased liver. This was sufficient to cause death, which, however, was accelerated by the exposure of the previous Tuesday morning. Deceased's relatives had been communicated with, and Mrs Cooper, wife of a retired tradesman, of Nottingham, said deceased was her brother, his proper name, however, was not MENSOR, but DODD. He had some independent means. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," in accordance with the medical testimony.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 2 March 1894
TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of A Torquay Hotel Proprietor. Inquest. - At Gibbons' Commercial Hotel, Torwood-street, on Saturday last, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry concerning the sudden death of JEAN PAUL PETER DEUSSEN, who for the past eighteen months has been proprietor of the hotel at which the Inquest was held. - Mr Ffinch, solicitor, watched the case on behalf of the widow. - ANNIE DEUSSEN, wife of the deceased, stated that on the previous Thursday he drove to Totnes with Mr F. U. Webb, returning to the hotel at 7.30 p.m., and dining with Mr Ffinch. About two hours after closing time she went upstairs for about five minutes, and on returning heard the sound of heavy breathing in a closet, to which it afterwards appeared her husband had gone to turn the gas off at the meter. She went there, and found deceased in a sitting posture, gasping for breath, and speechless. Witness immediately obtained some brandy, of which he partook a little, and then roused the servants and sent for Dr Huxley. The doctor arrived in a very few minutes, but before he came her husband had expired. From his childhood deceased had suffered from asthma, and was stated to be also suffering from fatty degeneration of the heart. - The Coroner: Has anything occurred to trouble your husband? - Witness: He had that day received a writ from Mr Jones, of Exeter, for brandy supplied. - The Coroner: You need not tell us this if you do not wish it. We don't wish to inquire into your husband's business affairs. - Witness: I wish it to be known. My husband said that, had the disgrace come upon him for goods actually supplied, he would not have cared, but that the brandy had never left Mr Jones's place. - Dr Huxley stated that upon his arrival he found that life was extinct, but the body was quite warm. Acting under the Coroner's instructions he had made a post mortem examination, and there were no symptoms of fatty degeneration, but the arteries leading from the heart were very much dilated, and this was the cause of death. - Sergt. Clark stated that he was on duty outside that hotel on Friday morning, and was called in by MRS DEUSSEN, and found deceased in the condition described by the other witnesses. The Jury, without hesitation, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 March 1894
BRIXHAM - Three Torquay Men Drowned. - We were able in the later edition of last week's Torquay Times to give a very brief account of the boating accident on the other side of the bay by which, on Thursday night last, three Torquay men lost their lives. During Friday afternoon and evening fuller details of the sad occurrence came to hand, from which it appeared that the men drowned were WILLIAM TROTT, gardener, aged 25, of Ellacombe, married with two little children; HARRY PRESTON, gardener, 21, single; JAMES WAY, 24, sailor. TROTT and PRESTON were the second and third gardeners respectively at Kilmorie, the seat of Mr J. Taylor, situated at the Meadfoot entrance to the Bishop's Walk and WAY, who was invalided from H.M.S. Bellona some months ago, the son of the head gardener. Mr J. Taylor and his family being abroad, instructions were sent home for the cleaning of the sails of the boat which belonged to Mr Taylor's son, and was kept on the beach at Meadfoot, close by Kilmorie. The head gardener's son, who belonged to the Royal Navy, undertook the cleaning of the sails, and on Thursday suggested a trip across the bay to dry them. About half-past three he set out with the two under gardeners, having failed in his attempt to persuade the two servants at Kilmorie and his father to accompany him. The intention of the party was to sail straight across the bay to Brixham, get some fish, and return at once. MR WAY, sen., watched the boat through a glass until it reached Brixham, and saw the occupants wave back to him. At Brixham, the three men remained several hours and about eight o'clock they set out to return home. After leaving the pier head they were seen to be rowing the boat in a zigzag fashion, the bow being sometimes pointed in the direction of Berry Head, and sometimes towards Torquay. Fearing an accident, two fishermen, named Hudder and Boon, put off in another boat, overtook them, and endeavoured to persuade them to return, offering to tow them into the harbour. Their efforts were unsuccessful, and the fishermen returned. They could hardly have landed, however, before cries for help were heard by the coastguard and others on the Berry Head-road. A boat was promptly launched from the Coastguard station, and another from the breakwater, and about a hundred yards out the boat from Kilmorie was found floating on her keel but full of water. Search was made for the missing men, but without success, notwithstanding there was bright moonlight and the sea was practically calm. As the evening advanced and the boat did not return, the relatives of the three men became very anxious. Throughout the night MR and MRS WAY paced up and down the sea road along Meadfoot beach looking out for the boat; and it was not until about ten o'clock on Friday morning that they heard of what had happened. PRESTON'S father, a bootmaker at St. Marychurch, went over to Kilmorie about midnight, and TROTT'S wife sat up until morning, expecting her husband's return. Neither MRS TROTT nor PRESTON'S father knew of the boating trip. - The sad accident caused considerable excitement in Torquay and St. Marychurch, where the men were well-known. One of the bodies, that of WILLIAM TROTT, was recovered on Saturday, and at the Bolton Hotel, Brixham, on Monday night, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquiry. - Mr Lockyer was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was ROBERT TROTT, a gardener, residing at Princess Road, Ellacombe, who said deceased was his son, aged 25, a gardener and married. - JAMES WAY, head gardener at Kilmorie, said he saw deceased and two others leave in a boat last Thursday afternoon to go to Brixham for fish. They intended to return the same evening. The boat had not been used for six months. His son was one of those who went, and being a sailor, knew how to handle it. He watched them all the way to Brixham. The boat had three small sails. - John Cross, coastguard, Brixham, said whilst on duty at the station at ten minutes to eight on 15th instant, he heard cries for help coming from the sea. He called another coastguard, and they ran to Mr Jackson's shipbuilding yard and launched a boat. - Asked why he did not launch the boat belonging to the coastguard, witness said she could not be launched at low tide on account of the rocky foreshore. Had a boat been available at the station the three lives might have been saved, even had there been a small boat that could have been carried by hand to the water's edge. - Continuing, he said about 500 yards from the shore he found a boat upright full of water. There was no one in her. Two masts were standing and the jib was set. The boat had apparently been sailing. They searched for a long time, but could see none of the missing men. Having towed the boat ashore, they obtained drags, and tried to recover the bodies till eleven o'clock. - Alfred Kemp, a fisherman, deposed to finding the body on Saturday at noon, 150 yards off the Breakwater. - James Boon said he saw the three men row into the harbour. He made fast their boat, and the men went up into the town. He did not see them again until seven o'clock, when he called them out of a public-house. One of the men appeared to be the worse for drink, but he did not see them take any. They got into the boat and pulled out of the harbour. They were pulling the boat in a zig-zag fashion, and he and another fisherman pulled after them and begged them to return and remain until the following morning. They refused, saying if they did not get home that night they would the following morning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and requested the Coroner to recommend the Board of Trade to construct a slip-way at the coastguard station for facilitating the launching of a boat in case of accident, as it had been clearly shown in evidence that, had a boat been available, the lives of the three men might have been saved. The Jury gave their fees to the widow of the deceased. - TROTT, who was a member of the Torquay Engineer Volunteers, will be buried with military honours this (Thursday) afternoon, at the Torquay Cemetery.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 April 1894
NEWTON ABBOT - Newton Abbot Workhouse. - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Newton Abbot Workhouse, on Monday on the body of MARY JANE BADGE. Mr R. H. Cawse, the master, said deceased was 35 years of age, was formerly a domestic servant, and belonged to Torquay. She was admitted to the Workhouse on May 27th last year, apparently suffering from softening of the brain. About the beginning of last February she began to lose control of herself, and was placed in the infectious ward. - The Coroner: With the infectious cases? - The Master: No; there were none there then. - The Coroner: When infectious cases come in, what do you do with these people? - The Master: Turn them out. About the beginning of March he was told that the deceased had fallen out of bed in the night and had cut her head. Witness went to her and saw that her hair had been cut off and sticking-plaster placed on the wound. He asked her how she was and she said "pretty well." Nothing further was said. On March 14th deceased had erysipelas, and kept getting worse until her death. She had a brother, but no one had ever called to see her. There had been no infectious disease in the ward since deceased had been there. - The Coroner: I thought there had been. - The Master: That is for the doctor to say. - Mr Pope: When was the last case of infectious disease in the ward? - The Master: About Christmas, but the rooms were disinfected afterwards. - Mary Ann Franks, an old and infirm inmate, and Susan Brimblecombe, another inmate who had charge of the deceased, were examined, but their evidence was not material. - Dr Nesbit, Deputy Medical Officer, described deceased as a woman of weak intellect. The wound was a trivial one. When he saw it, about a fortnight after its occurrence, it had nearly healed. She was then suffering from erysipelas of the head and face, and was very bad. Death was brought about by exhaustion, due to a huge bed sore, and an abscess in the head, produced by erysipelas. He did not think the bed sore was due to improper nursing. The witness spoke as to deceased having been in the infectious ward, and to a woman who was supposed to have puerperal fever being brought there from Dawlish. - Nurse Hawkridge's evidence shewed that the erysipelas occurred after the admission of the case from Dawlish. - Dr Nisbet, replying to further questions, said an isolation hospital was badly wanted at the Workhouse. If an outbreak of fever occurred now they could not cope with it. The accommodation was not only limited, it was inadequate. - the Coroner, summing up, said the Inquiry had disclosed a dangerous state of things, and probably the Jury would make some recommendation. The evil spot was that there was no place for suspected cases in which they could wait until the doctor saw them. The Jury considered the matter in private, and found "That the deceased came to her death from erysipelas, following on a wound in the head received in an Accidental Fall out of bed. " The following rider was added:- "In consequence of the evidence produced at this Inquiry, the Jury strongly recommend to the Guardians the immediate provision of an isolated building for the reception and treatment of doubtful and infectious cases."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 April 1894
TORQUAY - Suicide Of A Torquay Chemist's Assistant. The Inquest. A Total Absence of Motive. - Such a considerable time has elapsed since any fatality of a sensational character has occurred in Torquay, that quite a gloom was cast over the borough on Tuesday when it became known that a young man, well-known, and greatly respected by all who knew him, had committed suicide by taking prussic acid. JOHN HENRY MOSS, 22, was employed by Councillor John Taylor, J.P., at the Belgrave Pharmacy, 15 Lucius-street, having entered his service in August 1892. He came from Whitehaven, Cumberland, where his father carried on an extensive wholesale stationery and printing business. A total abstainer, of lively disposition, and a prominent worker in the Wesleyan Methodist cause, he was highly respected and esteemed, and the news of his violent death came with painful suddenness to those who were acquainted with him. On Monday night he was in good health and the best of spirits, and retired to bed after having a chat with his employer respecting a meeting which had been held the same evening. Rising soon after six o'clock on Tuesday morning he lit the kitchen fire. - Mrs Taylor being temporarily without a servant - and afterwards joined in a frolic with one of his employer's little daughters, seemingly being in the best of humours. Subsequently he went to his room, and just before eight one of the children went upstairs to make the necessary arrangements for airing his bed and found him lying across the bed dead. Councillor Taylor was called from his private laboratory, and on entering the room immediately discovered the cause of death from the strong smell of prussic acid which pervaded the room, and the additional evidence of a stock bottle containing the liquid, which was on the washstand. A tumbler which had evidently contained the poison was also close at hand. Life was quite extinct, but Alderman Dr Richardson was called in and the police communicated with. A careful search of the premises by P.S. Parr was made, but no evidence as to the cause which led deceased to commit the rash act could be found. The young fellow was studying for an examination, and his devotion to his books might have caused a temporary aberration of the mind, but beyond this probability there appears to be no cause whatever for his taking his life. Councillor Taylor communicated at once with the deceased's relations and the Police sent notice of the fatality to the Coroner. - The Inquest. - Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquiry into the case at the Avenue Hotel on Wednesday evening. - Mr J. H. Edwards was elected Foreman of the Jury, which consisted of the following:- Messrs. J. Sanders, T. Holding, R. Nicholson, F. W. Pratt, J. Salter, J. Tucker, W. Wotton, W. H. Snell, R. Brown, T. Winsborough, J. Lovell, and C. Clarke. - The first witness called was - WILLIAM HENRY MOSS, wholesale stationer, of 1 High Street, Whitehaven, Cumberland, who stated that the deceased was his fourth son. He was 22 years of age, and was a chemist's assistant, had gone through his apprenticeship and was preparing for his qualifying examination. He had been in Torquay a little over eighteen months. Witness last saw him alive in August last, when he came home to Whitehaven on a holiday. From his boyhood, he was a very hearty, bright, and merry fellow. At school he was first and foremost in athletics, and was in every sense a smart lad, and the last he should have thought who would have done anything rash. The only idea ( witness) had was that he had been brooding over his studies, and, being depressed and down in health, he did the act in a gloomy moment. He was led to believe this by a letter he received some time since, when deceased mentioned some trouble. More recent letters, however, were as bright and cheery as ever, and there was nothing to point to trouble in them. - In reply to the Foreman, witness said he did not know whether his son was engaged, but he thought if such had been the case he would have told him as he was very candid. - Councillor J. Taylor, J.P., chemist of No. 15 Lucius Street, said the deceased had lived with him as an assistant for nearly two years. He had not passed the qualifying examination. He was treated as one of the family, and was an intelligent, capable young man, who had never made a mistake. The last time witness saw him alive was on Monday night. They had supper together at about 10 o'clock. After family prayers at 10.45 they went to bed, going up the stairs together. The conversation which took place at supper was with respect to a magic lantern entertainment which had taken place the same evening, and deceased was jocular and jovial. On the following morning deceased got up at about 6 o'clock - his usual hour - and at 7 o'clock was romping in the passage with the children. Subsequent to that, witness found, by the open door, that he had been in the shop dusting, and had gone from there upstairs to put on clean linen. At about five minutes to eight his wife came rushing to his private laboratory in the garden, asking him to come up and see HARRY, as he was generally called, who had been found lying on the bed by the children, looking queer, and there was a small about the room like poison. Witness went up to the room alone, and found deceased lying diagonally across the bed on his back. His eyes were glazed, and the pulse was quite still, but the body was warm. Witness tried to restore him to life, but without success. His (witness's) nose had told him previously what had happened, and on looking round he saw a large blue bottle and glass (produced) on the washstand. The door was latched, but not locked and a very strong smell of prussic acid pervaded the room. A little more than an ounce of acid remained in the bottle which was usually kept in the cupboard in the shop. there were twenty or thirty drops of acid in the glass, which smelt very strongly. Immediately he saw that life was extinct he telephoned to Dr Richardson, who came up. The only solution of the mystery that he could suggest was that deceased had been brooding over his examinations. He was by no means of a desponding nature, but there were certain expressions he made use of which led witness to believe that he was at times anxious. About five weeks ago deceased had an attack of facial neuralgia, and that was the trouble he complained of in the letter to his father. He had no love troubles as far as he (witness) knew, nor had he any monetary troubles as he received £33 a year and lived in the house. He (witness) could throw no further light on the question. He wished he could, as the matter had been a great grief to him, for he had treated deceased as his own son and his wife had treated him as her own child. He should fancy that deceased had taken two ounces of the acid, but he could not say how much the bottle contained. Deceased was as steady, industrious, and straightforward a young fellow as he had ever met. - In answer to the Foreman, witness said deceased had every prospect of passing his examination. - Replying to the Coroner, Councillor Taylor said deceased might have read four or five hours a day, and had out-door exercise frequently. The dose of poison he took was enough to kill half-a-dozen people. - MR MOSS recalled said there had never been insanity in his family. - Mary Janet Taylor, 12, daughter of Councillor J. Taylor, stated that she got up at six o'clock on Tuesday morning, and deceased came down half-an-hour later, lit the fire and swept the passage, and afterwards went into the shop. He came out subsequently, and said he was going upstairs to change his coat, and would then attend to her gold-fish. He, however, returned to the back of the shop before doing so. He had nothing in his hand the first time he left the shop, but she did not see him the second time, as she was in the dining-room. Her sister had been romping with deceased previously. He did not come down stairs and just before eight witness went up to take the clothes off the bed, and found him lying across the bed. There was a strong smell of poison in the room. She immediately went down and told her mother. - In reply to Mr Nicholson, Mr Taylor said everything in the shop was accessible to the deceased. - Dr Richardson said on the 17th, at about 8.30 a.m., he arrived at 15 Lucius Street, and was shown into the bedroom. He first noticed a strong smell of prussic acid. Deceased was lying on his back on the bed, with his head near the wall, and his right leg projecting over the edge of the bed. The mouth was open, the eyes were glassy, and the surface of the body was cold. He had an apron on, but no collar or tie. The bottle was on the washstand, together with a glass containing a small quantity of fluid which smelt of the acid. Deceased had evidently taken the draught, taken one step back, and fallen across the bed. A dose of prussic acid on an empty stomach would cause almost instantaneous death, but with a full stomach it might have taken minutes to kill. Forty-three drops of the liquid had been known to kill, although larger doses had been taken. The acid paralysed the action of the heart. At 6 o'clock he made a post mortem examination. The body was then livid. On opening the stomach there was a strong smell of acid. The heart was sound but contained a quantity of dark coloured blood. The kidneys and spleen were congested as the result of the poison. The stomach contained very little, but the contents smelt very strongly of acid. There was no doubt that deceased died from a large dose of prussic acid, which he (witness) was satisfied was self administered. He had known deceased for a long time. On the previous night he made up several prescriptions for him. He was a very reliable young man and was a good chemist. - P.S. Parr said on receiving a message from Mr Taylor, he went to this house and in the bedroom saw deceased in the position described by the previous witness. He found the bottle and glass on the washstand, and in his pocket a small book containing notes on chemistry. There was also a purse containing £2 9s. 10d., a pen-knife, and a bunch of keys. There was a savings bank deposit book in one of the drawers. - The Coroner in summing up said in the number of cases of suicide which came before him it was very rarely that he found one as obscure as that under consideration. There appeared to be a total absence of motive. There was no doubt that deceased died from the effects of poison, and they were almost forced to arrive at the conclusion that he took the bottle containing the poison from the shop to his bedroom, and there committed the rash act. They could hardly imagine that when he was playing with the children he contemplated taking the poison. Probably it was one of those cases of something suddenly going wrong with the brain, although, as a rule, there were some premonitory symptoms in such cases. The matter was involved in mystery as regarded the motive. - The Jury, after some consideration, returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane." - Several of the Jurymen stated that they met deceased on Monday night and he was then in the best of spirits. He was the last person whom they would have thought would have taken his own life.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 May 1894
TORQUAY - The Fatal Accident At Hele. Coroner's Inquiry. - At the Royal Standard Hotel, Hele, on Friday, the Deputy Coroner, Dr Fraser, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN BAILEY RENDLE, the eleven-year-old son of WILLIAM RENDLE, plasterer, of No. 4, Lummaton Place, Hele. - Mr w. Coran was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was Edward Norris, a lad residing at No. 2, Sunnydale Cottages, Hele. He stated that on Wednesday, 9th, he and the deceased and several other boys were on the refuse heap at Windmill Hill, at about 7.30 p.m. A number of boys were in the habit of going there to collect cinders, and this was the purpose for which they went that evening. He did not go to the refuse tip to get cinders, but merely to play and watch the others collecting. There were as many as two dozen boys there at one time. He did not recollect having seen any notices warning people not to go there, but he was aware that he was trespassing by visiting the spot. He believed there had been notices put up, but they had been removed. After they had been on the heap some time he heard some of the rubbish fall, but he did not know RENDLE was underneath it. He saw deceased's brother come up and go away again, and soon after MR RENDLE came up to look for his son. Witness told him he had been there. A few moments after he (witness) went down to the village but returned to the hill again soon after eight. Just as he arrived, he saw three men taking the body away. - In reply to Mr Walling (one of the Jurymen) witness said he saw him pass with his cart. Deceased was digging down the ashes with part of an old pair of tongs. He did not see anyone disturb the refuse above where he was digging. - William Stuckey, a lad living at Orchard Cottages, said he went to the refuse tip at about 7 p.m. and remained there until 8.30 p.m. He was engaged in picking up cinders. He went there as many as four times a week. It was the practice of boys to go there. He thought he had a perfect right to take the cinders. At one time there was a notice board warning people not to go on the heap, but he thought it had been shifted. - A Juror: There is a notice board against the entrance gate. - Witness, continuing, said he saw JOHN RENDLE there picking up cinders at the bottom of the heap, which was about 15 feet high. - A Juror: There are two cuttings. Where the lad stood, the heap is about 9 feet high. - Witness went on to say he heard a great noise, but did not see the refuse fall. He immediately went down to the bottom; but could not see RENDLE. He also shouted his name, but as he received no answer he thought he was underneath the rubbish. - In reply to the Deputy Coroner, witness said they took the cinders home to burn. They were not sent for them by their parents, but collected them for pleasure. When it was found that deceased was not on the hill he with some other boys started to rake away the fallen refuse with old pieces of iron. They came across a tin which they thought deceased had been collecting his cinders in, and then witness ran down to the Royal Standard Hotel for assistance. Some men came back with him, and after shovelling away the cinders they found the body, which was carried down to the village. - A Juror: How many times have you been ordered away from the hill? - Witness: A good many. - The Juror: Who has ordered you off? - Witness: Mr Short. - Mr Short (who was on the Jury.) - You said just now, you thought you had a right to go there. I have ordered you off many times. Can't you remember a notice board at the back of this house? - Witness: Not that I can recollect. - Mr Short: Then you ought to recollect one of the four notice boards which have been put up during the past 12 months. - P.C. Bastone: Have not I warned you? - Witness: Yes, sir. - Mr Walling: Haven't you run away on many occasions saying "Shorty's coming?" - Witness: Not me. - WILLIAM RENDLE, plasterer, said he was the father of the deceased. He last saw his son alive at about 6 p.m., on Wednesday 9th. He knew he was n the habit of going up to the refuse tip for the purpose of collecting cinders. - The Deputy Coroner: Didn't you know that this was wrong? - Witness: I have heard reports, but I know many who go there through a little favour. - Mr Short: By whose favour? - Witness: I am not supposed t tell. - Mr Short: Have you ever seen a notice board? - Witness: I have never noticed any such thing. - Mr Short: I have ordered you off myself. - Witness: That was for breaking a fence. - Mr short: And yet you encourage your children to go there? - Witness: You said you did not mind grown-up people going there, but that you objected to children disturbing your cattle. - Mr Short: There are two notice boards up. - Mr Delbridge (another Juryman): The Torquay Corporation have put notice boards up. - The Deputy Coroner: It is quite established that notice boards are affixed in the vicinity warning people that they have no right there. - Witness continuing said deceased went to Dr Steel's at St Marychurch at about 6.30 p.m., and returned home and had his tea at 7 o'clock. Some time after he received a message that the boy was buried. He hurried up the hill where he saw a number of boys and asked them if there was any truth in the report. They pointed to the refuse that had fallen and said deceased was under it. Witness started digging at once, but as he could not make much progress he ran down and obtained assistance. Several men returned to the hill with him, and after shovelling for some time they found the body under three or four feet of ashes. - A Juryman: How much stuff fell? - Witness: About nine cartloads. - Mr Short: It was not more than two cartloads. - Anthony Huxtable, carpenter, of Myrtle Cottages, said he was asked at about 8.45 p.m. to go up to the hill and render assistance. He went home, got a spade, and went to the refuse tip as quickly as he could. After he had been digging two or three minutes he found the body. He helped to convey it down to the village. The body was under about 18 inches of refuse, but he did not know how much had been removed before he arrived. He unbuttoned the boy's collar, and took off his necktie, but there were no signs of life. He thought two or three cartloads of refuse fell. - Dr Stott Steele said he arrived at the house in which the body was lying at about 9 o'clock. The boy was quite dead. His face was a good deal scratched and bruised and other parts of the body were bruised, but there were no bones broken. From what he learnt he had no doubt that the boy died from suffocation. The poor little fellow had tried to extricate himself from where he fell, and the scratches and bruises were caused in this way. Seeing that the boy was at his house a little after seven, and that at about nine o'clock he saw him dead, the whole thing must have taken place in two hours. - The Deputy Coroner, in summing up, said the boys must have known that they were doing wrong by going up on this refuse pit, for it had been conclusively proved that notice boards had been fixed in the immediate vicinity. The boys had no earthly right there, and must have known that they were trespassing. No doubt if twenty notices were put up the boys would go there just the same, but the blame was removed from the owners of the land and the authorities concerned. Every reasonable care seemed to have been taken to keep people off, and the police had also warned these boys. If these warnings had been listened to this fatality would not have occurred. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 May 1894
TORQUAY - Suicide Of A Torquay Lodging House Keeper. The Inquest. - At Villino, Meadfoot-road, on Tuesday, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MATTHEW ASPLAND, 71, lodging-house keeper, of Villino, Meadfoot-road, who was found in a summer house on his premises on Sunday evening, quite dead, with his throat cut. - The Jury consisted of Messrs. A. Iredale (Foreman), E. Seeley, J. Mounstephen, J. Douglas, D. Ardley, W. Norman, J. Tozer, G. Addison, F. Hall, W. Nicholls, S. Dare, W. Hill and J. Furze. - ANN ASPLAND, wife of the deceased, said her husband was 71 years of age on the 6th January last. He was formerly steward at the Torbay Yacht club, but recently he had lived in that house as a lodging-house keeper. He had been in a poor state of health since January last, when he had a bad fall. Dr Quick had been attending him. He had lately been considerably troubled at the thought that he was going to leave that house and was frequently greatly depressed. He had had no family or pecuniary trouble. She never thought deceased would do any violence to himself. The depression he suffered from prevented his going any distance from home. During all day on Sunday he wandered about the house, and in the afternoon walked out into the garden. When he awoke on Sunday morning, at an earlier hour than usual, he said he had suffered great pain during the night. He, however, ate his meals, and after tea went to his bedroom to lie down, asking before he went if Mr Bathe, his son-in-law, was coming. She told him he was. When Mr Bathe came some time after, she sent her daughter (Mrs Bathe) to her father's room to fetch him. She returned and said he was not there, and witness then went to the summer house, thinking her husband might have gone there to smoke. On reaching the summer-house she saw deceased lying on the floor in a pool of blood. Thinking that he had broken a blood vessel, she called her daughter. She recognised deceased's handwriting on the paper, which she understood was found in his pocket. The writing was as follows: "Sunday evening, I have taken my own life, M. ASPLAND." The note was written in ink, but she did not know where it was written. The table knife produced would have been taken from the pantry. The only cause for the deed was that deceased was troubled at the idea of leaving that house in which he had lived for 20 years. He recognised that it was not paying, and was afraid, if they remained there, they should not be able to meet their liabilities. - Emma Bathe, wife of Mr W. Bathe, chemist, of 10 Abbey Road, stated that the deceased was her father, and she visited him every evening. On Sunday she saw him during the afternoon and evening. After tea he appeared more cheerful, and, as was usual, he went away to lie on his bed, saying it would rest his back. This was about 6 o'clock. About half-an-hour later her husband came, and she ran upstairs to fetch her father. He was not in his room, and on telling her mother she went out to look for deceased. Her mother had not been away many minutes before witness heard her cry out, and on going in the direction of the sound, saw her standing outside the summer house. Her father was lying on his face on the floor of the summer house in a pool of blood. He was quite dead. She thought at the time he had broken a blood vessel. A man named Howe, who had come to see one of the servants, was at the door at the time, and she called to him for assistance. He came to the summer house, and on lifting the body saw the knife, and told witness what had happened. Deceased had suffered great depression, and had complained of intense pain in his head, but he had never shown any tendency to take his life. - Thomas Howe, tin plate worker, of 8 Park Mill Cottages, stated that on Sunday at about 6.50 he came to Villino to see one of the servants. He had only been at the door two or three minutes when MRS ASPLAND came running down from the summer house and said MR ASPLAND had broken a blood vessel. He accompanied Mrs Bathe to the summer house where he saw the deceased lying on his face on the floor. Witness endeavoured to lift the body, and saw a deep cut in the throat. On the seat of the summer house was deceased's collar and tie, and a bloodstained knife. He told Mrs Bathe what had happened, and she sent for medical assistance. - Dr J. Quick, of Pentreve, Meadfoot-road, stated that at about 7 o'clock he was called out of church to see MR ASPLAND, who, it was stated, had broken a blood vessel. He went to the summer house and found deceased lying on the floor. His collar and tie were on the seat, together with a knife. On turning the body over witness saw a ghastly wound in the throat, which had separated all the arteries, and must have required a very large amount of force. Death was due to the haemorrhage caused by the division of the blood vessels of the neck. He had attended the deceased, who had for some time suffered from a disordered nervous system, due to mental trouble. - P.C. Payne said he visited the summer house about 7.45 where he found the deceased lying dead. On the right hand side of the seat was a knife, and on the left deceased's collar and tie. In the pocket of a sleeved waistcoat, witness found the note produced. With assistance, he carried the body into the house. The wound was a very terrible one, and extended into the vertebra. - The Jury returned a verdict of Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 June 1894
TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of A Market Gardener. The Inquest. - At the Torbay Inn, Torre, on Tuesday, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest into the circumstances attending the death of a market gardener, named RICHARD NOSWORTHY, 79 years of age, residing at No. 2, Southlands, Tor Hill, who died suddenly on the previous day. - Mr A. W. Abbott was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was Mary Day Washington, who stated that she lived at No. 2, Southlands, Tor Hill, and had known the deceased for about a year, having lived in the same house with her sister, who married his son. Although Dr Watson had attended deceased constantly, he had continued his work. He had been told that his heart was affected, and that if he persisted in working so hard he would go off suddenly one day. Just before he started off for Labrador for strawberries in his cart, to which was attached a new horse which he was driving for the first time, he complained of pains but said they would pass off when he got into the open air. She endeavoured to persuade him not to go but he persisted. He suffered at times from epileptic fits and occasionally had two or three in the course of an hour. - Frederick Walter French, who works at Labrador Gardens, stated that deceased came to the gardens on the previous day and purchased a quantity of strawberries. He complained of pains in his heart and was unable to walk up the cliff. He had to ride up on a donkey and when he reached the top he could not dismount. Witness and Mr Bryant helped him off and placed him in his cart. Witness started to drive him home. Some little distance on the road deceased said he did not believe he should reach home alive. Those were his last words, for shortly after he appeared to sleep right away. Deceased had some spirit at Labrador, but he said it was too weak. - Samuel Charles Bryant, hawker, of Shaldon, said he saw the deceased at Labrador; he was very ill. He took a little of the spirit which was in a bottle in his pocket, and witness with the help of French assisted him into his cart. - Dr Watson said he had attended deceased for three years for valvular disease of the heart, and last saw him on April 30th. Witness had frequently warned him to be careful, but he was very obstinate. Deceased also suffered from epilepsy, but in his opinion he died from heart disease. - P.C. Hatherley said he met French driving the dead body of the deceased near Watcombe Park. He conveyed the remains to No. 2, Southlands, Torre. There was a small bottle of spirits and a considerable sum of money in deceased's pockets. The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 July 1894
NEWTON ABBOT - The Late Matron Of Newton Workhouse. Sudden Death And Inquest. - MISS ANN MANCE, late matron of Newton Abbot Workhouse, was found dead in bed yesterday morning, and an Inquest was held upon the body last evening by Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner. - Martha Cook, of 27 Prospect Terrace, said deceased was her sister, was 56 years of age, had never married, and had lived with her since Midsummer. She always had a cough, and was asthmatical. At 5.30 a.m. on Wednesday, witness's husband took deceased up a cup of hot water to drink as usual. At five minutes to eight, a little girl, who had been in the habit of coming in the morning to clean the parlour, came and went up to the deceased's bedroom to fetch the parlour key. She told witness deceased was asleep, and after returning to the room later said she was still asleep. Witness then went up to the bedroom and asked deceased why she slept so long. Receiving no reply, she felt her and found she was still warm, but dead. A post mortem examination showed that the lungs were diseased, and the heart loaded with fat, the valves of the latter having undergone degeneration. The stomach was practically empty, but there were no signs of irritation. All the organs were more or less fat, and the legs were much swollen. A verdict of Death from Heart Disease was returned.

TORQUAY - At the Shiphay Schoolroom on Monday, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Enquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN HOLE, 66, market gardener, a resident in the village. Evidence was given showing that the deceased was taken suddenly ill at 1 p.m. on the 13th and died on the following morning at 4.30. A medical man was not sent for until the last moment and on his arrival HOLE was dead. Dr Cook stated that he was called about 4 a.m., but on arriving at Shiphay he was too late to be of any assistance, perhaps if he had been called on the previous night he might have been able to save the man's life. Death he attributed to rupture. The Coroner remarked on the delay in sending for a medical man, and the Jury, of which Mr W. H. Kitson, J.P., was the Foreman, returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 July 1894
TORQUAY - A Torquay Watercress Vendor's Sudden Death. The Inquest. - At the Torbay Hospital, on Monday evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MARY CLANCEY, 52, watercress vendor, of Spring Place, Pimlico, who was found dead in her house on Sunday morning. Mr W. Davy was chosen Foreman of the Jury. The Coroner having briefly opened the Inquiry, THOMAS CLANCEY, groom, was called, and said the deceased was his mother. She was a widow, her husband who was a shoemaker, of Plymouth, having died 18 or 19 years ago. She got a living by selling watercress and mushrooms. She had been living in Spring Place about three months, having come down from Bristol. He had not seen his mother for ten years prior to about a week ago, as he had been living at Plymouth. He had for the past week occupied a room in the same house with deceased, and the only other resident was Mrs Rook, the landlady. On Sunday morning, at about 5 a.m., he came into the kitchen and found his mother lying on the floor. Previous to this he had been trying to earn a shilling or two taking sailors out on board the men-of-war vessels in the bay. Deceased was lying with her head resting on a pillow. He thought she was breathing, and felt sure she had laid down in that manner in order that she might rise early and go into the country gathering watercress. Witness had something to eat and then went to bed. He had a little drop of beer in him, and did not pay particular attention to his mother. - The Coroner: You were the worse for drink. - Witness: No, I was not. - The Coroner: You had sufficient beer to prevent you from taking notice. You were what would be termed "muzzy". - Witness: Yes, sir. Just before going to bed he saw the landlady and gave her a shilling to hand to his mother in the morning, and told her to call him at 8 o'clock. About 8.30 Mrs rook came to his door and said "Get up, TOMMY, your mother is dead." He turned out, and on going into the kitchen found his mother in exactly the same position as he left her. The body was quite cold. His mother had never complained to him of bad health. She had been able to get about well, and earned enough to support herself. She had found him in food and paid the rent. - The Coroner: She must have earned a good deal to do that. When did she have her last meal? - Witness replied about 5.30 or six o'clock on Saturday evening. In deceased's pocket was found 3d. in coppers. His mother was brought up in Torquay, but for nearly ten years she had lived in Bristol. - In answer to a Juryman, witness said the kitchen had a stone floor. His mother was not a heavy drinker. The last time he saw her alive was at 10.30, when she told him not to be in late that night. - Jane Rook, widow, of Spring Place, said deceased had lodged with her for between 3 and 4 months. She paid 1s. 6d. a week for lodgings. Her son had been in the house a week. Deceased used to go out gathering watercress, and she lived on what she earned. Witness remained up talking with deceased until 1 a.m. on Sunday morning. When she (witness) went to bed she left deceased up, she having signified her intention of waiting for TOMMY. As deceased's son came up the stairs, he told her his mother was asleep, and handed her a shilling to give deceased in the morning. witness came down at about 8.45, and on pulling up the blind found deceased lying on the floor on her right side. She was quite dead, there was a cushion under her head, which had evidently been taken from a chair. Deceased had her tea at about six o'clock on Saturday evening, and a glass of ale about shutting-up time. The body was not quite cold. Witness sent for a policeman and a doctor. Deceased had complained of spasms. - The Coroner: Did she have the necessaries of life, and enough to support herself? - Witness: Yes, I think so, sir. - Mr T. D. Cook, surgeon, stated that on Sunday, at about ten o'clock, he was sent for to see the deceased. he went to Spring Steps at about 10.30, and saw deceased lying as she had been found, on her right side on the floor, with her head on a pillow. He considered she had been dead about six or seven hours. She had been vomiting. He had since made a post mortem examination and had arrived at the conclusion that deceased had suffered from chronic dyspepsia. There were no signs of unnatural irritation. The lungs and heart were healthy, but there was a slight watery effusion on the brain. There was a slight mark round the neck, but it was entirely superficial and appeared to have been caused by a tight collar to the dress,. The only thing that he could attribute death to was sudden failure of the heart's action caused by the spasms brought about by chronic indigestion. He was quite satisfied that deceased died in a natural way. Deceased was fairly nourished, but the muscular system was very weak. - The Coroner said further evidence appeared to be unnecessary, as the medical testimony quite accounted for the woman's death. Whether deceased was dead when her son came home was a question, as he was not in a condition to know. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 August 1894
TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of A Visitor To Torquay. - At the Yacht Hotel, Victoria Parade, on Wednesday, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry touching the death of MR WALTER EDMONDBURY GODFREY, J.P., 72, a native of Romsey, Hampshire, who has been on a visit to Torquay, staying at No. 7, Beacon Terrace. Deceased died very suddenly on Tuesday morning at nine o'clock. Mr Henry Lear, of Fleet Street, was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was MRS MARY GODFREY, who gave her address as "The Hundred", Romsey, Hampshire. She stated that deceased was her husband and was a silk merchant. He left his home for Torquay in her company on the previous Wednesday, having taken lodgings at 7 Beacon Terrace. Since he had been in Torquay he had enjoyed very good health. He had suffered from no organic disease but had been attended by the doctor for flatulency. On Monday he went up and down the river Dart, and on returning to Torquay went to bed and had a fairly good night. On Tuesday morning he came down at 8.30 and commenced breakfast. In the midst she, the witness, had occasion to get up from the table to ring for a knife, and when she turned round she saw her husband falling from his chair on to the floor. He made no exclamation of any sort, and appeared to be quite dead when the proprietor of the house (Mr Grute) came in and lifted him on to the couch. - Mr George Wm. H. Cumming, surgeon, stated that he was sent for at 9.20 to see deceased. When he arrived at Beacon Terrace, he was quite dead. There was a slight wound on the right temple, evidently caused by a fall on the floor. Witness had made a post mortem examination and found the body well nourished. All the organs, with the exception of the heart, were well nourished. The heart was flabby, and decidedly degenerated. He attributed death to syncope caused by the weak condition of the heart. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 August 1894
NORTHLEW - Sudden Death Of A Torquinian At Northlew. - At Milcombe Down Farm, Northlew, on Monday evening, Mr Coroner Prickman held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the sudden death of MARY ANN BROOKING, aged 20, daughter of MR WILLIAM WESTLAKE BROOKING, of 13 East Street, Torre, Torquay, who died on Sunday. It appeared from the evidence of MR BROOKING, father of the deceased, that his daughter had been unwell for some six months past, and had been attended by Dr Stabb, of Torquay. She left home on Friday last on a visit to Northlew, and did not then seem worse. - Mr John Davies, chemist, of Torquay, said he was engaged to the deceased, and on Saturday night he sat up with her as she complained that her breathing was difficult. About 3.30 am. she became much worse and a doctor was sent for, but the deceased died before he arrived. - Dr Glinn, of Hatherleigh, stated that he was called to Northlew, at 5.30 on Sunday morning. On his arrival he found deceased had been dead a short time. He examined the body but found nothing to show that the death was an unnatural one. In his opinion the cause of death was inflammation of the lungs supervening consumption. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony, and expressed their sympathy with the father of the deceased in his sad bereavement.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 21 September 1894
ST MARYCHURCH - A Body Washed Ashore At Watcombe. The Inquest. - Whilst some boys were blackberrying on the cliffs at Watcombe on Tuesday they noticed something on the beach, close to the water's edge, which, on examination, proved to be the decomposed body of a lad. They immediately rushed off and informed the nearest policeman, who, with the assistance of another constable, and some other men, had the body removed, with considerable difficulty, up to the top of the cliffs, where it was placed in Mr Peak's stable, and subsequently in St. Marychurch mortuary. All the flesh had been completely torn off the face, but a little brown hair remained on the back of the head. Except a shred round the neck, the shirt had disappeared, but there was a linen collar, size 14, and a black satin necktie with blue squares. The body also had on a pair of dark tweed trousers, with blue stripes down the side, and on one foot there was a sock with the letter E marked on it in blue cotton. - At the Town Hall, St. Marychurch, on Wednesday evening, Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the discovery of the body. - Mr Adams was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the other members of the Jury were Messrs. J. Vanstone, W. P. Moxhay, E. S. Edgcombe, C. Pearce, J. Brooks, J. Damerel, C. Willis, R. Willis, F. Godfrey, C. Lawrence, J. Easterbrook and N. T. Dyer. - The Coroner said that since that morning he understood that the body had been identified as that of a person named MONK, who was drowned on December 6th, by the capsizing of a boat off Dawlish. One of the persons in the boat, named Gritton, had been found drowned previous to the Inquest held at Dawlish on December 8th. - JOHN CHARLES MONK, fisherman, of Dawlish, who was the first witness, said he identified the body as that of his son, GEORGE FREDERICK MONK. He explained that he could not identify it by the features, but by the clothes and the size and height. There was no mark on the body by which he could identify it. He could swear to the trousers, braces, collar and scarf. He had no doubt about the body being his son. Deceased was fifteen. He had been marker and boots at an hotel for a few months. - The Coroner: Did he know anything about boating? - Witness: Oh, yes, and he was a good swimmer. - Witness, continuing, said his son (at the time of his death) was servant to Mr Gritton. - Coroner: When was the last time you saw him? - Witness: On the evening before the morning. He told deceased that Mr Gritton wanted him at half-past eight in the morning. Deceased left home in the morning, but witness did not see him. Witness knew nothing about the accident. he did not believe that anyone knew anything about it, because he did not believe anyone saw it. Deceased had on a pair of Blucher boots, when he left home, and he believed he must have taken them off before swimming. He thought he must have got on to the boat when it capsized and taken them off. - Henry Hunt, a boy, living at 1 Pettiwell Cottages, St. Marychurch, said he was an errand boy at a gentleman's house, and was twelve years old. He was picking blackberries on Watcombe Cliffs on Tuesday morning, when he looked over and saw something on the beach, which he thought was a donkey. He found it was a human body and it was wet, with seaweed on it, as if it had been cast up by the sea. He went up to a house near and was told to go for a policeman, which he did. - P.C. Henry Chudleigh, of St. Marychurch, said at half-past two on Tuesday, from information received from two boys, he went to Watcombe Beach where he found the body, under the care of a gardener, who had fastened a rope round the leg in order to prevent its being washed away. He found the body on its hands, with the back upwards. He asked the gardener how long he had been there and he said about half-an-hour. With the assistance of P.C. Bawden and four men, named Moas, Gowman, Labdon and Sharland, he took the body to the top, whence it was conveyed in Mr Sharland's cart to the mortuary at St. Marychurch, where they arrived at about eight o'clock. - The Coroner then read over the evidence given by the witnesses at the Inquest on December 8th, from which it appeared that Mr Frederick William Gritton and the deceased, GEORGE FREDERICK MONKS, went out in a small craft from Dawlish, on December 6th last. The boat was soon afterwards found bottom upwards and the body of Mr Gritton was also found. That of MONKS was not found until Tuesday, when the body was washed ashore at Watcombe, and was identified by MR MONKS as that of his son. If the Jury thought from the evidence of the witnesses at the last Inquest that the deceased came by his death through the capsizing of a boat, they would bring in a verdict to that effect. If they thought otherwise the Inquest could be adjourned, but he did not think they would find that necessary. - The Jury immediately returned the verdict, "Accidental Death through the capsizing of a boat." - The Coroner said he had to congratulate the parish upon the mortuary. It was the first time he had held an Inquest there since it had been built. Mr Adams said, as a member of the Board, he hoped the Coroner was satisfied with the mortuary. The Coroner: I am very pleased with it.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 September 1894
TORQUAY - Sudden Death In Babbacombe Road. - MR JOHN MEDLAND THORN, engraver, of 42 Abbey Road, whilst walking along Babbacombe Road, on Monday morning, suddenly fell. On its being found that he was insensible, he was conveyed in a cart to Torbay Hospital, but before that institution was reached he died. - The County Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, held an Inquiry, at the Torbay Hospital, on Tuesday evening, into the circumstances attending MR THORN'S death. - The Jurymen were Messrs. George, H. Anderson, G. P. Short, W. J. Nosworthy, R. Smith, W. Wakeham, J. Smerdon, C. H. Middleton, J. Taylor, W. Jones, W. Hearn, H. Woolley, and J. Heale. Mr Anderson did not appear at the opening of the Inquest, but towards the close he hurried in to apologise, saying that he had mistaken the time of the Inquest, believing it to be 6.30 instead of 5.30. The Coroner considered the error unintentional and therefore did not impose a fine. Mr Wakeham was elected Foreman. - FRANK THORN, aged 15, son of the deceased, was the first witness. He said that his father, JOHN MEDLAND THORN, was aged 53, and was a copper-plate engraver. Nothing had been the matter with the deceased lately. He had been in his usual health. He left home on Monday morning at about 10.30. He had tea and toast for breakfast. During the meal he put his hand to his left side, but said nothing to witness. On leaving home deceased said he was going to Mr Wheeler's in Lisburne Square. - Bessie Harris, a young woman, said she was walking up Babbacombe Road, at about eleven o'clock on Monday morning, in front of deceased. She heard a groan, and, looking round, saw deceased fall. She then went back to him and he was lying on his side. A gentleman came up, and a man who was washing the road came over and held up his head while they put him on a chair. Deceased did not speak, and he was insensible. - George Parnell, who was driving down the road, met the deceased and saw him fall. He struck his head. Deceased was put in witness's cart and taken to the hospital, and he died on the way. - Mr Arthur Watson, surgeon, said he admitted the deceased at 11.20 a.m. He was then dead. he had a slight abrasion over the nose and side of the face. At the post mortem examination he found signs of old pleurisy. He had signs of old disease of the pericardium. The lungs were slightly congested, but he thought that was due to the disease of the heart. He attributed death to heart disease. Deceased had some marks over the heart, which he thought were due to his being treated for heart disease some years ago. - The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Failure of the Heart's Action, and thoughtfully handed over their fees to FRANK THORN, who was the youngest son of deceased, and lived with him.

PRINCETOWN - Death Of A Dartmoor Convict. - Mr J. D. Prickman, County Coroner, held an Inquiry at Dartmoor Prison, on Monday, into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN WILKINSON, aged 33. Mr C. Hughesdon, Governor's Clerk, produced the records, which showed that WILKINSON, a native of Middleton, Yorkshire, was tried and convicted at Leeds Assizes, May 6th, 1893, on three indictments for larceny, and sentenced to penal servitude. He had previously been in prison for terms of 9 months, 15 months, 6 weeks, 18 months, 1 month, 12 months and 9 months respectively for various offences. His conduct whilst at Dartmoor had been good. His friends had been communicated with, but none had replied. - Dr W. S. Frew, medical officer, stated that when WILKINSON was received at Dartmoor in January last he was in fairly good health, but subject to bronchitis. He was of rather weak intellect and only 4ft. 10 ¾ in. in height. He was put to light labour. On the 5th inst. he was admitted into the infirmary, as he complained of pains in his side. The usual remedies were supplied. His high temperature did not diminish, and in spite of every care and attention he died on Thursday. A post mortem examination showed that death was due to pneumonia. Infirmary Nurse H. J. Hawkins said deceased was allowed anything he wished to have and he made no complaints. Convict Owen Gallagher, orderly in the infirmary, said deceased received all that was shewn on his diet sheet, which had been inspected by the Jury. No other convicts wished to give evidence. The Jury brought in a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 October 1894
ST. MARYCHURCH - Inquest At St. Marychurch. - At St. Marychurch on Tuesday evening Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry respecting the death of ELIZA GILLARD, aged 79, who died on Sunday. Some little time ago deceased fell and cut her head and up to the time of her death had suffered severe illness as the consequence. Dr Steele attributed death to rupture of a blood vessel on the brain, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - Suicide Of A Torquay Cabman. The Inquest. - At the Torbay Hospital last evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM HENRY FROST, aged 21 years, who was found hanged in his stable at Berachah Road, Ellacombe, early on Wednesday morning. Mr W. G. Wood was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was LOUIE FROST, who stated that she lived at 20 Sandhill Road, Ellacombe. Deceased, who was her brother, was 21 years of age last April. By occupation he was a cab driver. The last time she saw him alive was at 10.30 on Tuesday morning. She heard of her brother's death between 7 and 8 on Wednesday morning from Mrs Melhuish, a neighbour. She knew of no reason why her brother should take his life. He had no money troubles, as he was well supplied by his mother. Deceased was not a teetotaller, but he did not drink to excess. Nine months ago he fell from a trap and hurt his head. He was an inpatient at the Hospital for some little time and since then he had complained of pains in his head. the writing (produced) was not in her brother's hand. - The Coroner: The words on this paper written in pencil are "Oh, God," and "Goodbye." Where was it found? - P.C. Mogridge - On a corn-bin in the stable. - The Coroner to witness: Is this your brother's writing? - Witness: No; he writes a smaller hand. - The Coroner: What did you usually call your brother? - Witness: Usually, WILL. - The Coroner: I find what I presume is a signature here, and it is very much like "WILL." - The Foreman: It is certainly "WILL." - The Coroner: This is very unsatisfactory. It leaves a suspicion as if something was wrong, and as if some one else was concerned. - The Foreman: A person in a very nervous condition may write a totally different hand from what is usual in his ordinary condition. - Moses Ware, cabdriver, of Rock Road, stated that he saw the deceased in Fleet Street at about 11.20 on Tuesday night. He was driving towards home and witness accompanied him some little distance. He said nothing of any importance, but a day or two previously deceased had told him (witness) that he was going to Australia on Thursday. He said he had a berth on board a ship. Just before they parted on Tuesday night deceased asked him to go to his house and sleep with him, but he refused. - By a Juror: Did you drink with deceased? - Witness: Yes; we had a drink that evening. - A Juror: Did you see a bottle of beer in his possessions? - Witness: No. - A Juror: Was he intoxicated? - Witness: No, he was as sober as any man in this room. - Witness said he had seen the writing produced. It was shown him by deceased. At the time he saw it there were no pencil marks upon it. - Hermon Melhuish, cab proprietor, 3 Berachah Road, Ellacombe, said deceased stabled in his stable. On Wednesday morning he went to the stable at about 7.20 and found that the door was locked on the inside. The key remained in the door and witness was compelled to go through a window at the back. The stable was almost dark and he nearly ran against the body of the deceased, who was suspended from where the harness hung. Witness threw open the doors, and called assistance and the body was immediately cut down. Deceased had not complained of anything, but since he had met with an accident witness had noticed a change in the deceased. The rope with which deceased was suspended was a piece which was used for tying hay. - Joseph Baker, carter, Highbury Cottages, said he cut the body down. It was quite cold and stiff. - P.C. Mogridge stated that he found the writing, produced, on the corn bin, with a pencil at the side. Deceased had taken his collar and tie off. In his pocket were three pence and a half-penny. - Dr cook said when he saw the deceased after he was cut down he had been dead from six to twelve hours. There were no marks of violence on the body, but there was a deep mark round the neck as if a rope had been tied. Death was undoubtedly due to strangulation. Blows on the head might have deranged the brain. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 October 1894
TORQUAY - Sad Fatality To A Corporation Workman. Drowned In The Main Sewer. Narrow Escape Of His Comrades. Six Hours In The Darkness. - Early on Saturday morning a rumour gained currency in the Borough that four of the corporation employees had been drowned whilst at work in the main sewer between Kilmorie and Hope's Nose. Happily, the report proved to be exaggerated, for instead of four only one man, JOHN CALLICOTT, 61, mason, of Bronshill Crescent, Lower Bronshill Road, lost his life, although three others had extremely narrow escapes. - [Long description of why and how the works were being carried out.]
The Inquest. - A Corporation Workman Commended For Bravery. - The Deputy Coroner (Dr Fraser) held an Inquiry at the Torbay Hospital on Monday into the circumstances attending CALLICOTT'S death. Mr W. G. Wood was chosen Foreman of the Jury. The Coroner, in opening the Inquiry, said it appeared to be of those unfortunate cases in which a man had met his death whilst engaged in the execution of his duty. He was given to understand that, at a previous Inquest held at that institution, it was decided that when a body was in the mortuary means should be given the Jury of viewing it without having to go into the open air, round to the back of the building. Did the Constable present (P.C. Harris) know anything of the matter? - P.C. Harris said he knew nothing of the decision arrived at, as he was not present at the Inquest. - The Foreman said there was no need whatever why the Jury should go outside the building to get to the mortuary. - The Coroner: Certainly not. The mortuary belongs to the town, and the Hospital authorities ought to allow the Jury to go through the building to it. There can be no possible objection to their doing so, but perhaps the Coroner has put the question to the authorities, and received a satisfactory answer, which I know nothing of. Since I was here last the mortuary has been considerably altered, but I understand this is a town mortuary, and it has nothing to do with the hospital. - The Foreman said he believed the police authorities kept the key. - The Coroner said this being the case there was no necessity for a body to be taken into the hospital. - P.C. Harris said he believed CALLICOTT'S body was taken into the hospital. - The Coroner said he would speak to the house surgeon on the matter, for he saw no earthly reason why the body should have been taken into the hospital. - The first witness called was GEORGE CALLICOTT, son of the deceased, who stated that he resided at 3 Bronshill Crescent, Lower Bronshill Road. Deceased was his father. He was 61 years of age. Witness last saw him alive on Friday 19th at 8.10 p.m. He was a mason in the employ of the Corporation. - The Foreman: You never heard your father complain of going down the sewer? - Witness: No. He did not particularly care about the work as he was getting up in years; but he never made any serious complaint. - John Beazley, mason, of 5 Princes-road West, Ellacombe, said he had known deceased since he was a child. Witness was at work with him in the main sewer near Kilmorie. They went into the sewer at about 10 p.m. on Friday night, and were engaged in turning a brick arch over the sewer. About 2.40 a.m. on Saturday an alarm was sent in by the signalman outside warning them that there was danger. They had to walk 500 yards along the sewer to the outlet. Deceased was walking behind witness. About 100 yards from the outlet they met the water. He (witness) struggled on against it until he reached the dam near the entrance to the sewer. He clung to a barrow made fast there and a man named Fred Elliott, flung a rope to him, and he was dragged through the water and pulled out thoroughly exhausted. The other men had turned back to a staging which was erected for safety in case of emergency. Unfortunately they had to remain there for six or seven hours, until a relief party was organised, and they were taken up through the shaft. When he found that deceased was not behind him he concluded that he had turned back with the other men. When the relief party came he was missing. - Mr Goddard (a Juror): When you came out did you return to the Corporation building in Market Street? - Witness: Yes; about 7 o'clock. - Mr Goddard: did you give any alarm? - Witness: No, but I sent a man named Smith there about seven o'clock. - Mr Goddard: But you came out of the sewer at 3 o'clock. - Witness: Yes. - Mr Goddard: Could not an alarm have been given sooner? If an alarm of fire had been given the men would have turned out, and would they not have been willing to go out to the sewer if they thought lives were in danger? - Witness: It would not have been a bit of good, the men could not have been reached before. - Mr Goddard: From 3 to 7, Mr Coroner. The matter is the talk of the town, and it is considered to be neglect. Witness saved his own life, and surely he could have sent a message to the Corporation buildings by means of the telephone, which is attached to several houses in that neighbourhood. - The Coroner: How is it you did not give the alarm? - Witness: As soon as I came to myself, I despatched a messenger to the Corporation buildings. - Mr Goddard: If Mr Vanstone had been told, he would have known where to find the men. - Witness: We were in hopes the water would recede and then we should have been able to find them ourselves. - The Coroner: How far apart are these entrances and exits? - Witness: Two-thirds of a mile. - The Coroner: How many platforms are there? - Witness: Only one. - The Coroner: How long is the sewer? - Witness: About a mile. - Mr Risdon (a Juror): I suppose you thought you, who knew the sewer, could render as much assistance as anybody? - Witness: Yes. - The Foreman: did you think Friday night a suitable night to go in? - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner: This was an ordinary rush of water, and not the bursting of a dam? - Witness: It was due to the excessive rain. An ordinary steady downpour of rain would not have affected us in the least. - The Coroner: You did not attach blame to anyone? - Witness: Certainly not, sir. - Mr Risdon: Deceased was an elderly man, and may have slipped and fallen? - Witness: I fancy he was washed off his feet and sank at once,. - The Foreman: Are there any horizontal chains on either side of the sewer? - Witness: No. - The Foreman: Don't you think they would be useful. In case a man was swept away he might cling on to them. - Witness: I think every precaution is taken. The rain of Saturday morning was exceptionally heavy. - The Coroner: Don't you think chains would be an advantage? - Witness: No; with the force of water there was on Saturday they would be absolutely useless. A man hanging on would have his arms pulled out. - Frederick Elliott, labourer, of Victoria Park, said he had known deceased for five or six years. He had been working in the sewer several times. Witness went into the sewer about 8.30 on Friday night, and was busily engaged until midnight, when he came out and had supper. After being out for half-an-hour he returned. About 2.45 the water began to run a bit faster, and he went up the sewer and signalled with his lamp, and shouted t the other men to come out. Witness returned to the entrance and by the time he reached there the water had overflowed the dams. Then came a sudden rush which caught the men further up the sewer before they had time to come back. This was due to the heavy rain on the hills, as it was not raining at that time at Meadfoot. Witness mounted a landing stage and waited. Beazley was the first to come up. He was struggling through the water, and was once or twice nearly carried away. Witness threw him a rope which he caught and was pulled up. As he passed up the ladder witness heard him say CALLICOTT was about a dozen yards behind, but witness could not see him. As a portion of the landing on which he stood was washing away, witness had to get out. - Mr Goddard: Did you raise any alarm? - Witness: No, I remained there, but Beazley and Smith went away. - The Foreman: What did you do until the rescue party came? - Witness: I ran about between Meadfoot and Hope's Nose in the hopes of seeing the men. - The Coroner: You think if 20 men had been there they could have done nothing, for there was only one place at which the imprisoned men could get out? - Witness: If there had been 100 men they could have done nothing. The shaft is 220 feet deep. - Mr Goddard: But you could do nothing without help, and is it not likely that the Corporation workmen, who knew every inch of the sewer, would have been able to have rendered service? - Witness: I arrived at the conclusion that they must be either in the shaft or drowned. - Mr C. Hill (a Juror): Their only chance was to reach the shaft? - Witness: Yes; and about 6.30 I went to the shaft and shouted down. I received an answer, and then I was sure. When I found they were there I went back and told the other men. - Mr Goddard: But they were hanging on in the water all this time? - that is what I want to get out. - Witness: No; they were not in the water. They were safely on the platform. - Mr Fowler (Juror): Could they have got out at the Hope's Nose end? - Witness: If the tide would have allowed them; but it was not low enough that night. - John Cox, labourer, in the employ of the Corporation, said he was stationed at the top of the entrance of the sewer on Friday night. He had to hand down materials. There was very little rain at Meadfoot. Between 11 and 12 he was told the water was rising, and he warned the men out of the sewer. There were eight men engaged in the sewer, and they all came out, had supper, and returned to their work. Between 1.30 and 2 a.m. it commenced to rain again, but not much. The water, however, began to rise somewhat swiftly. He signalled the men out by striking the iron ladder and he also sent Elliot up the sewer to tell the men to come out. In the interval the water rose two feet. Beazley came out, but he was under the impression that CALLICOTT had gone back to the staging or No. 2 shaft. - By Mr Hill (a Juror): It would have been quite possible for the deceased to have crossed over the staging and got to No. 2 shaft. - By the Coroner: The men were working 500 yards from the man-hole at which they had entered. - Mr Hill: Who was in charge? - Witness: Mr Mugford. - By Mr Dashper: The sewer was straight, and the lamp could be seen 500 yards away. - William Mugford, foreman of the party, said he went into the sewer at a quarter to 10, and took every precaution by opening the valves and putting the dams in to turn the water out of the outlets. The party was engaged in repairing an arch. There was not an inch of water at the bottom of the sewer at that time as it had all been turned off. After being at work about an hour an alarm was given that the water was gradually rising. When they reached the entrance the water had risen two inches. They had their supper and before re-entering the sewer he asked the opinions of the men as to the weather. CALLICOTT was one who replied that it was not going to rain as the moon was shining brightly. He instructed the men to be quick about their work. They did so, but between 2 and 3 another alarm came. Beazley had the last brick in his hand, with which to key the arch. He put it in and witness sent all the men off towards the entrance of the arch, remaining behind for a few seconds to make sure the work was all right. He then followed the others. After going 350 yards he met the water, which came rushing along with great force. Milton could not get along, so witness caught hold of his arm and helped him. Potter, who was wheeling a barrow, caught hold of witness as if he was never going to leave go. The water was above witness's waist, and Potter, who was a shorter man, was submerged to his armpits. Seeing that they could make no progress against the inrush he advised all to turn back and make for No. 2 shaft. he had only a small piece of candle about 2 inches long, the others having lost theirs, but they all managed to get through the staging of the arch. He advised the men to walk with their arms stretched out above their heads, and after walking some distance they came across the chains which were below the platform. They hauled themselves up and there remained until the rescue party came. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said there was no ladder in the shaft, which was 220 feet deep, with an open grating at the top, which was walled in to the height of six feet. The shaft was simply used for ventilation, and was about five feet in diameter. He did not think it would be of advantage to have a ladder up the shaft, for no man could climb it if he was wet and exhausted. Even a man who was strong in his breath would find it out by the time he reached the top of an upright ladder 220 feet high. He did not think any improvement could be made in the means provided for the safety of the men in the sewer. They got back to the shaft about 3.10 a.m., and remained there until about 10 a.m. - The Coroner: Were you not surprised that someone did not come to shout down the shaft before? - Witness: Certainly we were. - The Coroner: Those who had got out must have known? - Witness: Yes, but I think they were so frightened at the thought that we were drowned, that they completely lost their heads. - Mr Hodge (a Juror): Could assistance have been rendered you? - Witness: Yes, if anyone had had sufficient presence of mind. If anyone could have lowered me a candle, I should have known what to do. We were in the dark for six hours. - Mr Hodge: But a witness has said that no assistance could have been rendered you, even if it had been known you were there? - Witness: They could not have got us out. - The Foreman: How long were you at the bottom of the shaft after Elliott shouted down to you? - Witness: I think that was about 7.30. - The Foreman: Then you were there nearly four hours after that? - Witness: Yes. - Mr Goddard: If it had been reported at the Corporation buildings, could not a rescue party have been organised before? - Witness: I should have gone there at once, if I had got out. - Mr Goddard: Would not a telephone fixed in the sewer be of service for signalling? - Witness: I don't think so. We may go on for 20 years and such an occurrence may not take place again. If some kind of telephone was put down No. 2 shaft so that we could communicate with anyone at the top, it might be an advantage. - The Coroner: A tube would do for that. - The Foreman: Don't you think if horizontal chains were placed along the sides of the sewer they would be of service in times of flood? - Witness: No, there is too great a force of water, and where the great danger is, is in getting over the dam. Beazley got as far as the dam, but could get no further, the water rushes over just like a weir. - Mr Risdon: Could not a better form of signalling be devised - a bell or a whistle for instance? It appears to me that if a man has to run up the sewer with a lamp, there must be valuable time wasted. - Witness: No; I don't think so. Every precaution was taken. I put in two extra dams and gave the signallers instructions that when the water rose within 15 or 18 inches from the top of them to give an alarm to those who were at work further up the sewer. - The Foreman: There is no other outlet, then, beyond the man-hole at Kilmorie and the shaft? - Witness: No; not unless it is very low tide. The distance between the manhole and the shaft is two-thirds of a mile. - Mr H. A Garrett (Borough Surveyor), who produced detailed plans of the sewer, manhole and shaft, stated that he received the alarm at his house by telephone about 7.20 a.m. on Saturday morning that the men who were in the sewer had not been seen or heard of since they went in, and it was feared that a calamity had happened - what should be done? - This message came from the Market Street Office. He ordered a man to get the shear legs, and tackle in a cart and proceed to Kilmorie. By the time he reached Market Street the gear was ready, and he proceeded to Kilmorie as speedily as possible. The man there said he believed the men were in No. 2 shaft. witness proceeded there, climbed the six feet wall and shouted down. Mugford replied and witness sent down candles, matches, food, and brandy. William Raymond, volunteered to go down. He did so, and after some length of time he signalled "heave up." He came up alone and said CALLICOTT was missing. The other men would not come up until they had found their mate. there was no flow of water in the sewer at this time, and witness therefore instructed the men to walk through to Kilmorie, to which place he proceeded. Potter was the first to come out followed by Milton, both of whom were in an exhausted condition. CALLICOTT'S body was next brought out. He had tea made for the men, and large fires built up. The sewer was 7 feet in diameter, and CALLICOTT'S body was found entangled in the staging erected for the repairs. About three years ago he strongly recommended the Local Board to make some provision for the men's safety, and it was at his suggestion that the platform and staging were placed there. Only on the Wednesday previous to the accident he had gone through the sewer with Mugford to see that all arrangements for the safety of the men were in good order. - The Foreman: don't you think that chains along the sides of the sewer would be a good thing? - Witness: I don't think they would be of much use for life-saving purposes. - The Foreman: CALLICOTT, who was 60 years of age, was probably not as active as the others, and could not keep on his feet so well? - The Borough Surveyor said he had CALLICOTT'S body placed in a trap and conveyed to the mortuary. - Mr Hill: Don't you think it strange that no alarm was given before? - Mr Garrett: I must admit that I was surprised, but no explanation was given me. - Mr Hill: The other men might have perished. - Mr Garrett: They were in a position which it is almost impossible to realize. - Mr Goddard: don't you think if the alarm had been given before there might have been a chance of saving CALLICOTT'S life? - Mr Garrett: No; I think he fell into the water on his back and was drowned before even he could shout out; otherwise Mugford would have seen or heard him. Mugford acted with great courage, and undoubtedly the others would have been drowned if he had not exhibited great presence of mind. - Mr A. Watson, house surgeon at the hospital said at 10.50 the body of deceased was brought to the accident ward. He was quite dead and appeared to have been drowned. There were no marks of violence on the body. Deceased's watch stopped at 2.25 a.m. - The Coroner: In case a body is found is it taken into the hospital, or direct to the mortuary? - Witness: If a man falls dead in the street, his body is usually brought into the hospital first. - The Coroner: I am given to understand that a letter was written by Mr Hacker, pointing out that the Jury should be allowed to go through the building to the mortuary, instead of going outside. Do you know anything of it? - Witness: No, I have not heard of any such letter. - The Coroner: I will make inquiries respecting the matter from Mr Hacker. - In summing up, the Coroner said the occurrence was a very sad one, and the question arose as to whether something could not be done to render the sewer more safe than at present. From the evidence they had had, it did not appear as if much could be done, except by making another outlet. There was not in his mind any doubt that CALLICOTT was drowned in a very few minutes, and that even if 20 people had been called to the spot, they could not have got into the sewer. There certainly appeared to have been great delay in raising an alarm, but the men who got safely out appeared to have been panic-stricken, and utterly at a loss as to what was best to be done. He must say that he thought very great praise was due to Mugford for the courageous way in which he conducted himself, and the assistance he rendered to his fellow workmen who were with him in the sewer. He seemed to have possessed wonderful presence of mind, and when he found that it was impossible to go against the stream, he wisely turned round and went with it. CALLICOTT'S death appeared to him to have been purely accidental. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," the Foreman remarking that probably the Borough Surveyor would devise some scheme for the greater safety of the men, probably in the shape of another outlet. They had confidence, if he could do so, he would recommend it strongly to the Council. They wished also to heartily commend Mugford for the great bravery he had displayed. - Mr Risdon also thought very great credit was due to the Borough Surveyor for erecting the platform in the sewer, and for the prompt way in which he organised the rescue party, after he received the alarm. - The Coroner subsequently called Mugford before him and said the Jury desired him (the Coroner) to thank him on their behalf for the great bravery he showed under the trying circumstances in which he was placed. There was not the least doubt that, had it not been for his presence of mind, the other unfortunate men would have lost their lives. He quite endorsed in every way what the Jury had said. - Mugford said he was thankful that he had the strength to be of assistance to his fellow workmen. If he had not, he was positive they would have been drowned. CALLICOTT asked for no help, and he thought he must have been knocked off his legs and drowned before he could call out for assistance.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 9 November 1894
ST MARYCHURCH - Inquest At St. Marychurch. - On Friday last an Inquest was held by Mr Sidney Hacker at the Wesleyan Schoolroom, Plainmoor, on the body of the three days old child of MR LANE, labourer, of Plainmoor. Medical evidence showed that the child died from Natural Causes and the Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the testimony.

TORQUAY - Inquest. - At No. 5, Clifton Terrace, on Monday evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM BROWN, 74, a retired mariner, who was found dead in bed on Sunday. The evidence of Dr Crowdy was to the effect that deceased died from heart disease, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - Fatal Fall From A Roof. - At the Torbay Hospital on Wednesday evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN BLACKLER, mason, of Abbey Road, who fell from the roof of Sunnybank, Lymington Road, on Monday morning, and sustained fatal injuries. - WILLIAM HENRY BLACKLER, plasterer, of Torre, said deceased was his father, and was 56 years old. He was a mason by trade, and left a widow. Witness and deceased went to Sunnybank together on Monday morning to repair the leaks. Witness left the deceased in the yard at about 8.30 and had not been away long when he heard of the accident. He went to the Hospital immediately but was not allowed to see his father. The ladder by which deceased ascended to the roof was made secure with a brick at the foot. - Mr Arthur Watson, House Surgeon, at the Torbay Hospital, said the deceased was brought to the institution at 9.10. He was quite conscious but suffering from the effects of the shock. On examination, he found that deceased had fractured his spine and that his lower extremities were paralysed; further, that several ribs on the left side were broken and internal organs ruptured. He died on Tuesday morning from shock caused by the injuries. - John Langworthy, mason, of Torre, said he saw deceased repairing the roof close to the ridge-row. Witness turned his head round, and just as he was about to look back again he heard a heavy fall. He ran back and found BLACKLER lying on the lawn. He immediately sent for assistance. - William Widdicombe, labourer, of Upton Church Road, stated that he assisted in carrying deceased to the Hospital. Councillor J. Angel said his father was the owner of the house. He particularly cautioned deceased not to do the work whilst the weather was wet. He had known BLACKLER for 25 years as a steady, hardworking, trustworthy man. The Coroner said very frequently men who were used to doing dangerous acts were more careless than those who were not used to it. It appeared to him that deceased had no ladders by him, and intended to do the work without taking the usual precautions for safety. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 November 1894
TORQUAY - Child Drowned At Chelston. - On Tuesday a very sad fatality occurred at Chelston. WILLIAM JOHN MARLES, aged 4, the son of MR WILLIAM MARLES, carpenter, of Goschen Terrace, whilst playing with another lad near the stream running through the Devon Rosery, at about 2 o'clock, fell into the water, which, owing to the previous day's heavy rain, was much higher than usual. The little fellow could not stand against the rush of the water and was rapidly carried down the stream into the mouth of the culvert, which runs through the Recreation Ground, and clean through to the outlet at Corbyn Sands, where he was found in an unconscious condition by a gardener named Wilson. He was at once conveyed to the Torbay Hospital, by P.C. Whitfield, but before reaching that institution he died. - The Inquest. - At the Torbay Hospital last evening Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM JOHN MARLES, the four year old son of WILLIAM THOMAS MARLES, a carpenter of 12 Goschen Terrace, Chelston, who was drowned in a stream running through the Devon Rosery on Tuesday. - The body was identified by the father, who stated that he considered the place at which the boys were playing was public ground. - Mr Morris, who had been chosen Foreman of the Jury, said the grounds were not public, they were simply open to visitors. - The Coroner having ascertained that Mr Morris was a member of the firm of Curtis, Sanford and Co., said he thought it would be better for him to retire from the Jury. He also informed P.C. Whitefield that in future he must not summon interested parties. Mr Narrcott was then elected Foreman. - The father further stated that the place was dangerous and ought to be seen to. There was a grating over the culvert, which belonged to Mr Mallock, and Messrs. Curtis, Sanford and Co., never ought to have removed it. - Edmund Netherway, 5, said he went with WILLIE MARLES to the Rosery to play, although he knew they had no right there. They went in to see the eater,. WILLIE MARLES stooped down to wash his hoop and fell into the stream. He (witness) went outside and told a big boy, who told him to run up and tell MRS MARLES, which he did. - William Wills, gardener, Paignton, said on hearing of the accident, he searched the open part of the stream, but could see nothing of the boy. He then went to the beach where the culvert emptied itself, and there saw the child. On going to the body he saw no signs of life, although several standing by thought there was a spark of life left. The body was taken to the hospital by P.C. Whitfield. - Mr William Morris said the stream ran through the back part of the nursery. It was usually from four to six inches deep, but during this week it had, owing to the rain, been from a foot to eighteen inches deep. A grating was kept at the mouth of the culvert which was taken up in times of flood to prevent the stream overflowing. There was no public path through the nursery and children were not allowed in to play. They were being constantly warned off. - The Coroner suggested that the entrance gate should be shut. - Mr Morris said the members of the Company wished him to tender their sincere sympathy to the parents of the child, and to say they would do anything that might be suggested to prevent a recurrence of such an accident. - Mr Wrinch, assistant house surgeon at the hospital, said the child was dead when brought t the hospital. Its hands and head were cut and bruised. Death was, however, due to drowning. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 November 1894
TORQUAY - Shocking Fatality At Upton. A Woman Burnt To Death. A Witness Censured. - At the Torbay Inn, on Tuesday evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, and a Jury of which Mr William Oliver acted as Foreman, Inquired into the circumstances attending the death of MARY ANN MOORE, aged 46, wife of HENRY MOORE, fruit hawker, of No. 2, Pleasant Place, Upton. - HENRY MOORE, the first witness called, identified the body as that of his wife. They had been married about twenty-seven years, and lived in three rooms at No. 2, Pleasant Place, the other portion of the house being occupied by a Mr and Mrs Webber. His wife was in the habit of fetching coals from the cellar with a shovel, and she usually carried a lamp. - The Coroner: What made her carry a lamp? Would not a candle have done as well? - Witness: I have often had something to say about it, but women will have their own way, you know. Replying to further questions, witness stated that his wife "wandered in her sight," and required glasses. She had no spectacles of her own, however, but often borrowed his. As far as he knew, she came by her death accidentally, and he had nothing more to say about the matter. - The Coroner: Was not the deceased mixed up in a row on Saturday night? - No, she was not. Mrs Webber struck me with a fire-shovel. - What was the row about? - that I can't say. We must know. Was there any ill-feeling between your wife and the Webbers? - I don't know I don't want to get anybody into trouble. For some time witness refused to answer further questions, and both the Coroner and the Jury became impatient. At length the Coroner said, sharply, "You must answer. You are here for the purpose; and the sooner you do so the better. How did this row begin?" - Witness: I was upstairs. I heard Mrs Webber abusing my wife, and I dressed and went down. (here the witness paused, and asked if he was bound to relate what happened. At the suggestion of a Juryman, the female witnesses were requested to leave the Court, and then the witness described the nature of the disturbance and the obscene language used.) Mr Webber, it seems, challenged him to fight, but he was not struck by him. Mrs Webber, however, gave him a "funny old knock." - What was the cause of the row? - Oh! a little drop of "tiddley." - Mr Rowland (Juryman) - By that you mean that Mrs Webber and your wife had been drinking together? - Yes; Mrs Webber did all she could to get my wife in a fuddle. - The Coroner: Do you believe that Mr Webber had any grudge against your wife? - No, I don't believe the man had. It's his wife. When she's in drink, she's a beast. She has many a time struck me with a poker or a brush. - Was MRS MOORE in the habit of getting intoxicated? - She could take her little drop as well as the rest. I think, added the witness, that Mr Webber might have saved her, if he had smothered the flames. There was plenty of stuff about to do it with. - Thomas Webber, labourer, stated that, after the row on Saturday night, neither he nor his wife spoke to the deceased, but there was no ill-feeling between him and MRS MOORE. His ill-feeling was against MR MOORE. He was in the cellar chopping sticks, when he heard the deceased fall down the stairs. He jumped up and tried to save her. When he first saw her she was nearly at the bottom of the stairs, and her clothes were already on fire. She fell head first. He endeavoured to extinguish the flames by throwing an old sack upon the burning woman, but finding that he could not do so, he ran upstairs and gave an alarm. The deceased did not speak or scream. She must have been insensible. - The Coroner: Then you left her there burning? - Her clothes were smoking. When I returned they were in flames again. - Were you burnt at all? - No. - A Juryman: You were nervous at the fire? - I was really. What could I do by myself? - There were plenty of things hanging about. Why didn't you wrap her in these? - I tried my best with the bag. - Inspector Phillips: You have told the Jury that you first saw the woman falling downstairs. Didn't you tell them at the house that when you first saw her she was lying upon the floor? - Yes. - Then which statement is right? - Well, I don't know. - The Coroner: Surely you can remember where you first saw her? - What I have told you is quite right. - Inspector Phillips: Then the other story was not true? - No answer. - Didn't you tell me last night, about half an hour after the occurrence, that you first saw her as she came to the turn in the stairs? - Yes. - And that the lamp fell out of her hand and smashed at the bottom? - Yes. - Then how could you have seen her on fire in the stairs? - No answer. - When I suggested to you that you might have smothered the flames with a piece of carpet that was near, didn't you say that you never thought of it? - I threw a bag over her. - The Inspector: there were no remains of a bag near the woman. - A Juryman: Could you not have thrown water upon a woman quicker than you could obtain assistance? - Yes, but I didn't think about it. - How long did it take you to call a neighbour? - About five minutes. - And the woman was burning all the time? - Yes. - Why did you run away? Had you never seen a fire before? - Not many; but I did not run away. - The Coroner: You are not at all clear in your description of what you saw. Whether it is confusion, or what it is, I do not know. - Witness: I have told you what happened as well as I can. - The Coroner: You have told us all sorts of things. Were you down in the cellar at all? sharply. - I was, sir. - Didn't that woman go down first, and you followed her? - No, sir. - The Inspector: You are sure of that? - I am, sir. - The Coroner: You didn't have any words with her yesterday? - No, sir. - Dr Thistle stated that he was called at about half-past six o'clock. Upon his arrival the woman had been dead some little time. Her clothes were completely burnt off her arms and chest, which were badly scorched. Her lips were livid, and her face blackened with smoke. There was a small wound at the back of the head, apparently caused by the fall, but death was due to suffocation. - Henry Hole, coachman, a neighbour, was called by Mr Webber, and immediately ran into the house. He saw the woman lying at the bottom of the stairs in flames. He threw water over her and quickly extinguished the fire. When the body was moved, a broken lamp was found beneath it. - P.C. Burrow and John Macdonald, the latter of whom last saw the deceased alive at half-past four on the day in question, when she was perfectly sober, also gave evidence. - In summing up, the Coroner remarked that the Inquiry had occupied longer than it might have done, but for the unpleasantness which occurred on SAturday night between Webber and the deceased. It was, of course, right they should investigate the matter, especially as the deceased was found dead in the house when no other person than Webber was present. It was for the Jury to judge whether they thought that Webber had been speaking the truth, and whether or not he had given his evidence fairly. They must, of course, make every allowance. He seemed to be a man possessed of very little presence of mind, and no doubt he was much confused at the time. It was for the Jury to judge whether his demeanour had been such as to give rise to any suspicion, or whether he had really endeavoured to tell the truth. One would have expected that he would have endeavoured to extinguish the flames instead of leaving the woman to go for assistance. He advised the Jury not to pay much attention to the evidence of the husband, whose manner, to say the least of it, had been most unusual. Whether or not he was in a proper condition to give evidence, he could not say. - Mr Rowland - I may say that he has always a peculiar manner with him. - The room was then cleared in order that the Jury might hold a private consultation. This lasted for about a quarter of an hour, during which time the Coroner, who had left the room, was sent for. It was then announced that the Jury desired to hear the evidence of Mrs Webber, who was accordingly called. She was, however, unable to throw any light upon the actual occurrence, being absent from home at the time, and she was not questioned with regard to Saturday night's quarrel. - The Jury thereupon returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," but a rider expressed the opinion that Webber ought to have done more than he did to save the woman's life. They thought that there had been neglect upon his part, but did not wish to censure him severely. - The Coroner: I quite agree with the Jury. You (addressing Webber) seem to have lost your head altogether. Instead of doing what we should suppose that any ordinary man would have done, you ran away and left the woman burning. Such conduct we should expect from a child, rather than from a man. The Inquiry lasted nearly two hours and a half.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 December 1894
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Victoria Park. - SUSAN CROCKER, 83, a widow residing at Victoria Park, died very suddenly on Saturday. She was sitting before the fire in the kitchen at about 4.30 p.m., quite alone, when she was suddenly seized with illness, and died before she could summon assistance. - Mrs Frederick, a neighbour, entered the house some few minutes after the occurrence, and found the deceased with her face on the fire, terribly burnt. Dr Andrew was called in, but life was extinct. An Inquest was held on Monday evening, at the Wesleyan Schoolroom, before Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner. The medical testimony was to the effect that deceased died from heart disease, the burns on the face having been caused after death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 December 1894
KINGSWEAR - Found Dead In A Railway Carriage. - At Kingswear Railway Station, about ten o'clock on Monday morning, a porter, named Tolchard, discovered a dead man on the floor of a third-class carriage. The carriage on Saturday was attached to the football excursion train to Weston-super-Mare. Mr Abrahams, station-master, promptly sent for medical assistance, and Dr Kendall arriving, said the man had been dead many hours. On the body the police constable found several receipts and other papers, which left no doubt that deceased was EDWARD GLOSSOP, stationer, Newton Abbot. The return portion of an excursion ticket from Weston-super-Mare to Newton Abbot was also found. On the body being removed from the carriage, it was seen that deceased had apparently been seized with a fit. The features were discoloured, and a few bruises on the face shoed that it had come in contact apparently with the side of the seat. - From inquiry made at Newton Abbot, it transpired that deceased took advantage of the excursion to Weston on Saturday to visit an uncle there. On the return journey he was spoken to on the Taunton platform by Mr Prowse, a Newton Post-office official. Nothing more was heard of him until the discovery of his body at Kingswear. MR GLOSSOP was 47 years of age, and for very many years in the employ of W. H. Smith and Son. Before coming to Newton he was in charge of their bookstall at Bristol, and on leaving he was presented with a cheque for £100. Deceased, who had been in a low state of health for some time, purchased the stationery business of Mr G. H. Hearder about two years ago. At an Inquest held on Tuesday, a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 December 1894
TORQUAY - Sudden Death On Stentiford's Hill. The Inquest. - At the Town Hall, on Monday evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of AGNES LANGDON, 68. wife of SAMUEL LANGDON, of No. 2, Stentiford's Hill. Mr Peter Bond was Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was ELIZABETH LANGDON, daughter of the deceased, who stated that her mother was 68 years of age. Her father was unable to work but both parents lived on what they received from the parish. She lived at home with the old people and her brother. All the family slept in the same bedroom. Her parents received 5s. from the parish. Two shillings weekly were paid for the two rooms they occupied, but this sum was paid by her brother. Her mother was out scrubbing for a neighbour on Saturday afternoon. She returned home to tea just before six o'clock and after the meal, went into Braddon Street for some paraffin oil. Shortly after witness heard something fall heavily in the passage. She went out and found a young man named Symonds holding her mother up. Her brother was also there. She appeared to be quite dead but a doctor was sent for. When he arrived he pronounced life to be extinct and the body was removed to the bedroom. - Richard Symonds, labourer, who lodges at No. 2, Stentiford's Hill, said at about 6.20 on Saturday evening, whilst on the way to his room, he heard something fall heavily in the passage. On going in the direction of the sound he saw MRS LANGDON lying on her face and hands. He lifted her up, and as he did so she groaned and seemed to faint away. A doctor was sent for, but by the time he arrived MRS LANGDON was dead. - Mr Thomas Dixon Cook, surgeon, stated that at about 6.30 deceased's son came to him, and said he thought his mother had dropped dead. He proceeded to the house, and found MRS LANGDON sitting in a chair in the passage. She was quite dead. He had since made a post mortem examination, and found all the organs healthy. The pericardium or sac containing the heart, was, however, inflamed and thickened, and a blood vessel on it had burst and filled up the chamber, causing the working of the heart to cease through want of room. Any little extra exertion, or a cold, would have caused the bursting of the blood vessel. The death was a perfectly natural one. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of A Lady At Torquay. - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of MRS CAROLINE ANN BERRETT, who was found dead in bed at 6, Wellswood Park. The Inquest was held at St. Matthias' National School, Ilsham, on Wednesday evening. Rev. W. Sealy was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness was Capt. William Kirk Ness, retired captain, P. and O. Service, of Wimbledon, who said deceased was his mother-in-law. She was 71 years of age on the 30th of last month. She was the widow of the REV. THEOPHILUS BERRETT, M.A., Clerk in Holy Orders, and formerly widow of WILLIAM FRANCIS SOLTAU, M.D., of Plymouth. She had independent means, and resided alternately at Wimbledon, Brighton and Torquay. She came to Torquay in October on a visit to Miss Hill, an old friend, with whom she intended to reside the winter. Deceased suffered from a weak heart and cataract, but the family were forbidden to tell her. Otherwise she was in good health, and apparently was not adversely affected. She had two sisters at Reading and a brother in the Bank of England at Blackheath, besides three daughters. She was most temperate in her habits. - Emily Hodge, maid to Miss Hill, who resides at 6 Wellswood Park, said she knocked at deceased's door at 9.35 on Monday morning, as she had not called for any hot water. She last saw deceased on Sunday evening, after church. MRS BERRETT retired to rest at ten, and witness called on her after to know if she wanted anything, but she did not. For supper deceased had some soup and chicken, and whiskey and water. Next morning witness was informed that deceased had not rung for her breakfast, and on entering the bedroom, witness saw her lying in bed on her right side, as if she was still asleep. She called Mrs Mayne, the landlady, and Dr Odell was sent for. - Lizzie Stone, parlour maid at 6 Wellswood Park, said she waited on deceased at supper on Sunday night. She had a good supper, the same as usual. Witness took her water in the next morning at 7.15, and drew up the blind. She did not look at deceased, and noticed nothing unusual. - Dr William Odell, F.R.C.S., stated that he was telephoned for at 9.55 to see a lady in a fit. He came within ten minutes, and at a glance saw deceased was dead. She looked as if she was fast asleep. He had made a post mortem examination, and found the immediate cause of death to be fatty degeneration of the heart. Her liver was enormously enlarged and there was a slight congestion of the kidneys. She was very stout, and apparently died in her sleep. She had been dead several hours when he saw her. From a medical point of view he was not surprised at her death, but rather that she had lived so long, looking at the condition of the liver and heart. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes," in accordance with the medical evidence. At the suggestion of Mr John Chapman, one of the Jury, the fees of the Jury were given to the Torbay Hospital.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 January 1895
TORQUAY - The Fatal Fire At Hele. Inquest. - At the Hele Schoolroom on Friday afternoon, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of the oil dealer, DYMOND, who died on Thursday in last week, from the effects of injuries he received on the occasion of the recent disastrous fire at Hele. Mr G. Chard was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was MR G. DYMOND, dairyman, of 1 Braddons Street, Torquay, who stated that the deceased was his father, and was 73 years of age. He was an oil dealer and lived at 8 Woodside Cottages, with his wife. Witness, on account of illness, had not seen his father for two or three months before the day following the fire, when he found him lying unconscious in bed. Excepting for very brief intervals, he remained in this condition up to the time of his death. - Emma Delbridge, who resides at Hele Cross Cottages, which are situated within a few yards of the scene of the fire, said it was deceased's practice to visit the stores nearly every night between seven and eight o'clock. He always carried a lamp. On the night of the fire she did not see him, but about eight o'clock she saw a brilliant light in his store which was followed by flames. She saw that an oil drum was on fire and that the oil on the floor was also ignited. Deceased who was endeavouring to remove a waggon asked her to run for help, which she did, calling on Mr Clarke, and telling her father who was too unwell to go, that the building was on fire. - In reply to a question from the Coroner, MR G. DYMOND said he had heard of several who had seen his father go into the store with a lighted lantern. He went there almost every night to attend to his horse. - Mr Delbridge said he was the actual tenant of the premises, which he sub-let to the deceased. He rented the building from the ground landlord, but he had no written agreement. - In answer to the Coroner, Mr Delbridge said the place was not insured. - The Coroner said of course Mr Delbridge would not insure the premises unless he had a written agreement with his landlord. - Mr W. D. Bowden, Town Surveyor, said Mr John Lane, of Torquay, one of the trustees of the Shinner Estate, had written him that the place was not insured. - The Coroner: Then the loss by the fire falls on the Shinner Estate? - Mr Delbridge: No, on me. The Coroner: How? - Mr Delbridge: Mr Lane tells me that it will. - The Coroner: How can you be responsible? You have no lease, you are only a yearly tenant. - Mr Delbridge: Mr Lane tells me I am responsible because I rented the whole place and sub-let. - The Coroner: If you did not sign a covenant, and unless there are circumstances unknown to me, you are not responsible. - William Clark, gardener, Hele Cross Cottages, deposed to calling deceased's grandson, to endeavour to get the fire under. - John Edmunds, labourer, 13 Woodside Cottages, Hele, said when he reached the scene of the fire he saw deceased in the stable trying to get out his horse. The whole place was in flames and witness and deceased's grandsons endeavoured to induce him to leave the building but he refused. His coat was on fire. Eventually he (witness) and the grandson, managed to pull deceased out. They extinguished the fire on his clothes and he was taken home. Deceased's hands were much burnt but he (witness) had no idea it was so severe. MR DYMOND said he was sure he could get out the horse "Tommy" but witness said it was useless to try, he (deceased) would be burnt to death. - P.C. Bastow said after the fire he visited deceased's house, and found that his burns had been dressed. He said he did not know how the fire happened. All he knew was that he was taking the droppings of oil from the cans, and throwing them into a bowl. He did not know whether a drop might not have splashed over the lamp. Deceased said he used an ordinary stable lamp. Witness subsequently found an ordinary benzoline lamp lying between the horse's feet. - MR G. DYMOND said this was probably one of those the boys were in the habit of collecting for old brass, but the Coroner said it was unlikely that it would be found between the horse's feet. - In reply to the Coroner, P.C. Bastow said he did not find the remains of a "hurricane" lamp. - Isaac Williams, fish dealer, Hele, who rented the sable next to that occupied by deceased, said when he reached the scene of the fire, the building was one mass of flame. His horse had broken loose and left the stable but it was so badly burnt that it had to be destroyed next day. - Witness, in reply to the Coroner and a Juryman, said deceased used a "hurricane" lantern generally, but occasionally a small benzoline lamp. He had seen MR DYMOND smoking in the store and had told him it was dangerous. He replied that he was very careful. - P.C. Bastow said he questioned deceased as to whether he was smoking and he said he had no pipe with him. - Dr Steele said he saw deceased at 9 o'clock on the night of the fire. His hands, face and scalp were badly burnt, the latter being positively charred. Deceased's condition became worse day by day, and he died on Thursday morning from shock caused by the burns. He received every care from his friends and a professional nurse. - The question of insurance again coming up P.C. Bastow stated that Mr John Lane had said he should hold Delbridge responsible for the re-erection of the building. - Mr Coram (a Juror) asked if the law did not require a place to be properly constructed and licensed for the store of benzoline? - Mr Bowden said deceased held a license to store petroleum which he did not actually require. Deceased had assured him that he did not store benzoline and he had never seen any in the store. - P.C. Bastow said MRS DYMOND had remarked that it was lucky there was no benzoline in the building at the time of the fire, but that if it had happened the next day there would have been two casks, which were then at the station. - Mr Bowden said he certainly should not have licensed the stores, if he had known benzoline was to be kept there. - Miss Delbridge, in reply to a Juryman, said she had purchased benzoline from the deceased, but not at the store. - The Coroner briefly summed up, and said if a hurricane lamp had been used, there would have been little danger, but deceased seemed to have used an ordinary benzoline lamp, such as would be very dangerous in case oil was spilled. One of the Jury thought greater precautions should be taken in the matter of licensing by the local authority. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 15 February 1895
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Ellacombe. - At Motton's Country House Hotel, on Wednesday night, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquiry relative to the death of ANN CATER, 70, spinster, of No. 5 Elstow Terrace, who was found dead in bed early the same morning. Mr C. Lethbridge was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness was Jane Beer, widow, who said deceased was her sister. She had resided with witness for eight years, and was possessed of small private means. She had been ailing for some little time, and on Friday last became worse and took to her bed. She did not like the idea of having a doctor, although she had a very bad cough. - The Coroner: But you are the head of the house and the responsible person, and you should have called in medical advice. - Witness: I have begged her to see a doctor but she always said she should be better in a day or two. - Deceased had taken very little nourishment lately. On Sunday night she was a little better, but on going to her room just after seven that morning witness found her sister lying across the bed quite dead. She had apparently got out of bed and had expired suddenly in the endeavour to return. - Dr Cook said he was called to see deceased at about 9 o'clock. She had apparently been dead four or five hours. He had made a post mortem examination of the body and found that the lungs and liver were greatly congested. The congestion was of recent date. To that he considered death was due. - William Beer, nephew of the deceased, said his mother had frequently suggested a doctor being sent for, but his aunt was so eccentric that she would not hear of it. - Jane Blackmore, a widow, living in the same house, said time after time she had impressed on the deceased the necessity of seeing a doctor, but she was so self-willed that she would not have one. The Jury returned a verdict f "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 March 1895
ST MARYCHURCH - Death From Burns. Inquest At Babbacombe. - The County Coroner (Mr Sidney Hacker) held an Inquiry at the royal Hotel, Babbacombe, on Wednesday evening into the circumstances attending the death of MRS FOXLOW, of Milo, All Saints' Road, who was accidentally burnt on February 15th, through her clothes igniting whilst she was sitting in front of the fire. Mr A. E. Crossman was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - ANNA FOXLOW, the first witness, daughter of the deceased, said her mother, FANNIE FOXLOW, was fifty-one years of age last birthday, and was the wife of ANTHONY SAMUEL FOXLOW, commercial traveller. Deceased had lived with her husband, witness and two other daughters at Milo. Witness left the house on the 15th ult. at 9 a.m., and the deceased was then in the sitting-room with her husband. She was quite well and able to get about. Between 5 p.m. and 5.30 Mr Folland came to witness and told her that her mother had met with an accident, and witness went home. Deceased said she was in great pain, but did not say how the accident occurred. Directly witness got home she sent for Dr Cunningham. Deceased had received burns on the left leg and on the stomach. Witness's father came home at about 11 p.m. Mrs Folland, a neighbour, took the nursing and deceased got better for the first few days, but she died on Tuesday morning at 1.30. - ELSIE FOXLOW, eleven years of age, said she had dinner with her mother, father and sister, on the 15th, and deceased was all right then. After dinner witness went to school, accompanied by her father, and left her mother in the house alone. Witness came home from school at about 4.30 p.m., and found her mother burning. Deceased was lying on her back on the hearth-rug, and the room was full of smoke, part of deceased's clothes being burnt. Her mother was crying out and witness went for Mrs Folland, who came over directly to her mother. - Mary Folland said the last witness came over for her at about quarter to five, saying her mother was burning to death. Witness found the left leg burnt. She put the fire out, and dressed the wounds with oil as well as she could and put deceased to bed. Witness's husband then went for the doctor. he wanted to go for the doctor before, but deceased said she should soon be better. Deceased said she did not know she was burning until she found her clothes on fire. Witness had known deceased for years, and she enjoyed good health as far as she knew, although she had not looked well lately. Deceased said nothing about having a fit. Witness nursed her until her death. - Dr Charles Lennox Cunningham, of Lower Bronshill-road, stated that on the 15th ult., at about 5.45 p.m., Mr Folland came to him and informed him of the accident. He went, and found deceased in bed and noticed a great wound on the leg, from the ankle to the thigh, another on the abdomen and a few small wounds on the hands. He found deceased in a condition which surprised him, as people generally did not know what to do in such an accident. The wounds were dressed with oil and wadding. He noticed that the pupil of deceased's eye was dilated, from which he inferred that she had had an apoplectic seizure. The flesh was so terribly burnt that he did not think she could have had much sensibility when the burns took place, and she was also found on her back, which further led him to believe she had had a fit. He had been in constant attendance on her since the accident, and she recovered from the effects of the burns, but pneumonia supervened, internal haemorrhage followed, and then gangrene set in, from which she died. The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Burns, Accidentally received.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 March 1895
TORQUAY - Inquest. - In Upton Parish Room on Friday evening Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, investigated the circumstances attending the death of an unmarried woman, named BETTY FRANCES GODFREY, aged 58, living in Steps Cottage, Warren Road, who was found dead in bed on Thursday morning. The evidence showed that deceased had sufficient means wherewith to provide for herself, but that about six weeks ago she suffered from abscesses. She would not, however, allow medical advice to be called in. A post mortem examination by Dr Richardson proved that death was due to embolism of the heart and a verdict to this effect was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 March 1895
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Torre. - Mr Sidney Hacker (County Coroner) held an Inquiry at the Torbay Inn, on Tuesday afternoon, relative to the death of CAROLINE HARRIET MILMAN, a widow, of Church Lane, Torre, who died suddenly on Monday morning. Mr John Davy was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - ALFRED MILMAN, the first witness, of 25 Church Lane, Torre, said he was a portmanteau maker, and that deceased was his mother, aged 45. Deceased lived with witness, his wife and two children. She had always complained of weakness of the heart, but had seemed to be better lately. She had been told by a doctor about 18 months or two years ago that she had something the matter with her heart, but she was able to do work. She was out on Sunday evening. Witness went into her bedroom on Monday at about 8.30 a.m., and she was dressed ready to come down. Nothing occurred to agitate her, and he left to go to work. - MARY MILMAN, wife of the previous witness, said she left home at 9.5 a.m. Deceased was then washing herself before going to work. She had had no breakfast, except a cup of tea and a biscuit or two. They received a letter that morning, saying that deceased's brother-in-law was lying dead at Exeter, and witness read it to deceased. The latter said nothing, except that she should like to go to the funeral. Witness went to work, and was fetched almost directly. She found deceased on the floor in the kitchen, and she thought she was dead. Deceased had had rheumatic fever four times and the doctor had told her that it had affected her heart. - Emma Radmore, a married woman, of 8 Church Lane, said she went to see the young MRS MILMAN at about 9.15 a.m. Deceased opened the door, told her that her daughter-in-law had gone, and asked her to come in. She went in, and, as deceased was telling her that her brother-in-law at Exeter was dead, she fell forward. Witness thought she was faint, and laid her on the floor, putting a pillow under her head. She sent for assistance, and for Dr Thistle. - Mr Frederick Thomas Thistle, surgeon, said he was called at about 9.30 on the previous morning, and found that the deceased had died just before he arrived. He attributed death to syncope from failure of the heart's action. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 April 1895
TORQUAY - Fatal Fall From Steps. The Duties Of Jurymen. - At the Torbay Hospital on Monday, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM SHARMAN, 57, coachman, of 27 Victoria Parade, who died at the Institution from injuries resulting from a fall which he had on Saturday last. Mr R. Pickard was Foreman of the Jury. - SIDNEY DAVIS SHARMAN, gentleman's servant, residing in London, identified the body as that of his father, who was 57 years of age. He had been a coachman in the employ of the Rev. Preb. Boyle, of Rockwood, for 17 years, but at the time of the accident he was out of employ. Soon after the occurrence he (witness) was telegraphed for, but on arriving in Torquay and visiting the hospital, he found his father quite unconscious and he remained so until his death early that (Monday) morning. - William George Wood, landlord of the Old Market Inn, Torwood Street, stated that he employed the deceased every Saturday to wash down the front of the Inn and clean the windows. On Saturday 30th March, SHARMAN commenced work about 7 o'clock, witness assisting him. After the washing was completed, deceased said he would go on drying the windows with a cloth. Witness went inside and whilst washing a jug he saw SHARMAN fall from the steps on which he was standing. As far as witness could see through the window deceased was standing about four feet from the ground, and he fell with his head on the doorstep. Witness ran out picked deceased up brought him into the bar and administered brandy, afterwards sending for Dr Pollard. Noticing subsequently that deceased's right arm was broken he sent for a cab and had SHARMAN conveyed t the Hospital. Deceased was in the habit of cleaning the windows and the only way in which he (witness) could account for the accident was that SHARMAN suddenly became giddy and fell. - Mr Arthur Watson, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, stated that deceased was admitted to the Institution soon after nine o'clock on Saturday. He was then partly conscious. He was suffering from a fracture of the right arm, was bleeding from the left ear, and was suffering from shock. From the symptoms witness considered he was suffering from fracture of the base of the skull. He had several fits and died on Monday morning at 3.30. Death, he thought, was due to the fracture. Deceased gave him no clue as to the cause of the fall. - George Hore, fruiterer, Torwood Street, deposed that whilst cleaning his window on the morning of the 30th he saw deceased fall from the steps very suddenly, and the steps fell after him. No one was near the steps at the time. - George Anthony Shepherd, carver and gilder, 15 Braddons-street, stated that whilst at the Old Market Inn he saw the deceased on the steps cleaning the windows. After he (witness) had been in the bar some minutes the landlord said, "Look, SHARMAN has fallen." On turning round he saw deceased falling from the steps. - The Coroner said there appeared to be nothing to account for the fall. - Mr R. Easterbrook, one of the Jury, said he wondered it had not happened before, because the deceased was a big "boozer." - Mr Howe, (another Juryman) - That is a very objectionable remark of yours. - Mr Easterbrook: I don't think there is anything objectionable about it. We are here as a Jury and we have a right to express our opinions. - Mr Densham (a Juror): I think it is rather out of order, coming, as it does, from Mr Easterbrook, who is a teetotaler. - The Coroner: No, it is not out of order. You are Jurymen and you sit here as judges. - Mr Hore: But Mr Wood should have been asked questions as to the condition of the man on that particular morning. I have known the deceased for ten years. I know he drinks, but I have never seen him drunk. I am a publican myself and that is why I spoke of Mr Easterbrook's remark as objectionable. - The Coroner: You did not express the opinion that deceased was the worse for drink that morning. I understood you to say you knew the deceased and that he had been a big drinker. - Mr Easterbrook: I said he had been a big boozer. - Mr Hore: Well, you should not have said it. - The Coroner: But that very fact might account for his fall. - Mr Wood, re-called, and, in answer to questions by the Coroner, said deceased had nothing to drink that morning. He was a man who usually had two or three pints a day, but he had never seen him drunk in his life. - The Foreman of the Jury: Mr Easterbrook, might, I think, have drawn it a little milder. - Mr Easterbrook: I don't stifle my conscience. - Mr Pickard: But you might have been a little more charitable. - Mr Hore: Yes, I think so, too. I spoke as a publican. - The Coroner: I think it is right that I should point out that gentlemen serving on Coroner's Juries have perfect freedom. No man should be frightened or hold back anything than he really thinks. If any gentleman thought that a person had been of drinking habits he was quite right to say so, as it might be an explanation of ill-health which would lead to giddiness. It would be a very bad thing for the public generally if gentlemen of the Jury thought they were obliged to be creditable instead of speaking out the truth plainly. It was their duty to look at all matters from the point of view of the bare truth, and to leave the question of charity outside. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of A Child. - At the police station on Monday evening, Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquest on the body of VIOLET TRIBBLE, the 15 months old daughter of RICHARD TRIBBLE, painter, of Sandhill Road, Ellacombe, who was found dead in bed on Sunday morning. Mr W. G. Ockford was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MATILDA TRIBBLE, mother of the child, stated that its birth was registered and it was not insured. The little one was taken poorly on the previous Thursday. She attributed this to teething. It rallied and ate its food - bread and milk - heartily on Saturday night, when it went to bed with her. About 5 o'clock on Sunday morning she woke up and found the child was dead. A neighbour was called in, and Dr Andrews was sent for at once. - Dr George Andrews stated that he was called to see the child by the father, at 6.30 on Sunday morning. The little one appeared to have been dead two or three hours, but was still warm. The mother told him the child had been ailing. As the result of his examination he had found that there was inflammation of the left lung, and slight congestion of the brain. The child was well nourished, and appeared to have been carefully attended to. He attributed death to a convulsion following inflammation of the lungs and teething. - The Coroner: Surely there would have been symptoms? - Witness: Yes, there would be fever and a slight cough. The state of the lung was not sufficient to kill. It was not very serious. - The Coroner: There is nothing inconsistent in the evidence of the mother as to the child taking its food? - Witness: No, not in the least. - The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 April 1895
TORQUAY - Inquest. - At the Country House Hotel, Ellacombe, on Saturday, an Inquiry was held by Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, into the circumstances attending the death of EMMA BUTTON, 47, spinster, who died at the residence of her sister, at 15 Highbury Road, on the previous day. Medical evidence showed that death was due to natural causes and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 May 1895
TORQUAY - Inquest. - At the York Hotel on Monday evening Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of ARTHUR HAROLD NEWLAND, aged four months, the son of WALTER NEWLAND, a yachtsman, residing at 18 Victoria Park, Plainmoor. Mr J. H. Pope was Foreman of the Jury. The father said the child had had a slight cold, and was tight on the chest, but on Friday it appeared to be better, and was put to bed about ten o'clock. When witness woke up about 2.45 a.m. to give another child drink, deceased looked very white and still, and he could not hear him breathing. He called his wife, and at once sent for a doctor. Mr G. M. Winter, surgeon, attributed death to syncope. The Coroner said it was a bad practice for parents to allow their children to sleep with them. A verdict of death from "Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 May 1895
TORQUAY - Sad Death Of A Child. The Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room last evening the County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM FRANK WORTH, aged four, the son of MR WILLIAM WORTH, bookseller, of Rossbank, Thurlow Road, who died on Wednesday from scalds received on Saturday last. - Mr John Glanfield was chosen Foreman of the Jury and asked the Coroner if it was absolutely necessary that the Jury should view the body. The Coroner replied that as the law at present stood that course could not be dispensed with. - The first witness called was MRS SELINA HELEN GERTRUDE WORTH, mother of the deceased, who stated that on Saturday evening, between 7 and 8 o'clock, she was upstairs putting her baby to bed. She had left her son in the garden but she heard him run into the kitchen and a moment or two after heard screams. Rushing down stairs she discovered that the little fellow had been scalded on the right foot and leg. She took him up to bed and dressed his injuries with cotton wool and oil, afterwards sending for Dr Powell. The boy died on Wednesday morning. - Mary Dale, servant, deposed that on Saturday evening she was preparing to give the deceased his bath. She drew a can of hot water from the kettle and placed it at the bottom of the stairs whilst she went into the garden to pick up some toys. Deceased went with her. On returning he ran before her, and forgetting the can was there fell over it, spilling some of the water over his right leg. She picked up the little fellow, took his things off at once and called his mother, who put him to bed after dressing the scalds. - Dr Powell said he saw the child on Sunday morning. He had a scald on the lower part of the right leg which had been properly treated and was going on well. On Monday blood poisoning supervened, and the boy died early on Wednesday morning in convulsions. Deceased was most carefully attended to. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and passed a vote of condolence with the parents.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 31 May 1895
ST. MARYCHURCH - Mysterious Drowning Case At Babbacombe. The Inquest. - At the Royal Hotel, Babbacombe, on Monday, Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JULIA TERRY WYATT, aged 21, daughter of a gardener, of 6 Haredown Terrace, Babbacombe, whose body was found floating in the sea on Sunday afternoon between Anstey's Cove and Black Head Point. The Jury consisted of Messrs. James Lee, Foreman, C. Cresswell, J. Lee, S. Flynn, W. E. Jones, T. H. Harris, J. Haynes, R. Davey, S. Newcombe, A. Davey, C. Bresley, W. Phillips, and T. Jury. - The first witness was SARAH GRACE WYATT, mother of the deceased, who said she had been living at home for five months. Previous to that she had been in service at Northcourt, Erith Road, Torquay, where she had been for four years. Her health whilst at home had been fairly good. On one or two occasions she had had colds, and Dr Steele saw her on the 1st January. She was of a very happy disposition, and on Sunday morning, when she left home at 7.30, she appeared in her usual state. That was rather an early hour for her to get up, as she had not been accustomed to take walks at that time. Witness and her father had both spoken to her about going out more. - The Deputy Coroner: Did not this strike you as rather strange, that she should have got up on this particular morning and gone out for a walk for the first time? - Witness: No; she was as happy as usual, and not an unkind word was spoken to her. - The Deputy Coroner: I didn't suggest there was. - Witness continuing, said deceased was somewhat weak, but she was in no wise depressed. She did not intend to return to service again. There were three other children at home. Her daughter not having returned at nine o'clock, witness sent one of the other children to look for her. She went as far as Wellswood, but returned at 9.30 without having seen her. Witness then went out on the hill, but failed to see any trace of deceased. She returned home at 11 o'clock, and her husband went out and continued the search, without avail, until noon. Information was then given to the Sergeant of Police. - The Foreman: Had deceased been in the habit of going out with anyone or having company? - Witness: No; quite alone, unless she went out with me. - JAMES WYATT, father of the deceased, said during the time his daughter had been out of service she had been fairly well. She had been quite happy and contented, and had never received an angry word from her mother or himself. He took deceased a cup of tea to bed on Sunday morning, and previous to going out she had some cake. Her spirits were then of the best, and he saw no signs of depression. A lady, who had thought deceased was not looking well, had given her a bottle of quinine, a week or two previously. She never cared much about going out of doors, but it did not strike him as peculiar that she should wish to go out early on Sunday morning. He commenced his search for his daughter at eleven o'clock, but as he could find no trace of her he gave information to the police, and sent a man round the shore with a boat as he thought she might have fallen over the cliffs. - The Coroner: Did deceased take the quinine? - Witness: No. She did not think it would do her any good. - Alfred George Stiggings, boatman, Babbacombe, deposed that on Sunday he received information from a man named Leech that WYATT'S daughter was missing, and in company they went round the hills at about three o'clock, but could find no trace of her. They then went to Anstey's Cove, and worked along the shore to Black Head. Above one of the small coves they found a hat and jacket, which were recognised by Leech. On looking out over the cliff they saw a body in the water, about five or six feet from the shore. He managed to pull the body in with his walking stick. They allowed the body - which was that of deceased - to remain on the rocks whilst they went back to Babbacombe for a boat and conveyed it to Anstey's Cove. He noticed a small bruise on the forehead. - The Foreman: How high is the place where you found the hat and jacket from the water? - Witness: About forty feet. There is a public path running through the field. - A Juror: Could she have jumped direct into the water from the place where the hat was found? - Witness: No; she must have gone down over the rocks even at high water. - James Leech, gardener, said he heard that JULIA WYATT was missing at about 12.30 on Sunday morning. He inquired at WYATT'S house if the rumour were true, and on hearing that it was a fact he promised to go round the hills and look for her. Stiggings accompanied him. He corroborated all that had been said by the former witness, and added that the jacket was neatly folded, and the hat placed upon it. there were no signs of a struggle. - P.S. Osborne said he assisted in taking the body from the boat and carrying it to No. 6 Haredown Terrace. He received the hat and jacket from the last witness, and searched the pockets of the latter carefully, but found only a pocket-handkerchief and pair of gloves. He afterwards went to the spot where the body was found. It sloped at such an angle that it was impossible for anyone to fall. There was not the slightest trace of a struggle. The public path was 200 yards away, and a small fence divided it from the field through which the path ran. - William Stott Steele, surgeon, said he was sent for at 6.30, on Sunday, and on proceeding to 6 Haredown Terrace, saw the body of the deceased, whom he had treated early in the year. He found bruises on the forehead and chin, and the ears were slightly scratched. He was of opinion she had been dead for some hours, as the body was quite cold. Death was undoubtedly due to drowning. Judging from the evidence, he should say the young girl walked directly into the water. - The Coroner, in summing up, said it was plain that for some time past the deceased had been suffering from something, but what it was he had failed to discover. The parents said she was subject to colds, but that was very vague. Still she had been suffering, as people had remarked on her appearance, and had given her quinine. Then again they had the fact that she did not intend to go to service again for some time, which showed that something was wrong. It appeared to him to be somewhat strange that a young girl who was not accustomed to go for early walks should have got up at so early an hour on that particular Sunday morning. There was nothing whatever to show that deceased was not in her right mind, nor was there evidence of insanity in the family. The reason which prompted the young girl to go into the water as she appeared to have done was to him somewhat of a mystery. - The Jury retired, and, on coming back, returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," the Foreman remarking that there was nothing in the testimony given to show why the poor girl should take her own life.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 June 1895
WOOLFARDISWORTHY - Fatal Pony Race Accident. - On Thursday of last week pony races were held at Woolfardisworthy. In one race four started, and the leader fell and brought down another pony, which was ridden by RICHARD DOUGLAS HARDING, aged 15, the son of a farmer in the parish. The poor lad fell under, was picked up in an unconscious condition, and was carried to Mr Hall's farm close by. Dr Rouse of Bideford, found that HARDING'S neck was broken high up, but in spite of so serious an injury the lad lingered until Sunday. At an Inquest held by Mr Bromham a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and the Jury expressed sympathy with the parents.

TORQUAY - Fatal Fall In Fleet Street. The Dangers Of Window Cleaning. A Recommendation By The Jury. - In Upton Parish Room on Monday, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry touching the death of ALLAN CAMERON, aged 35, tin plate worker of no fixed abode, who fell from a window at the Athenaeum in Fleet Street, on Saturday evening, and died almost immediately after from the injuries he received. Mr W. Cockram was elected Foreman of the Jury. - WILLIAM CAMERON, fisherman, 2 Alma Terrace, gave evidence of identification. Deceased was his uncle and during the past few weeks had been living at Newton Abbot. He was a single man and travelled about doing work on his own account. Witness had not seen him for over a month. He had a brother and sister living in Torquay. - William Hore, Clifton Cottage, Warren Road, said he was caretaker of the Athenaeum, Fleet Street. He had known deceased for several years. On Saturday evening he had engaged a man to clean the windows, but he did not turn up. CAMERON was passing at the time and appeared to be in great distress. He appealed to witness for assistance and said he had only a penny in his pocket. He (witness) said that was a bad job on Saturday night. He then offered to give deceased the job to clean the windows if he liked to undertake it. CAMERON said "That is just my chip." He took off his coat, turned up his shirt sleeves, and said he would start at once. Before he commenced, witness asked him if he had been used to work at a considerable height, and he replied, "Yes, I was brought up to the plumbing business." He instructed CAMERON to clean the outside whilst he did the inside. They had not long started when he (witness) had occasion to point out to deceased who was standing on the ledge outside, some dirt on the window. He stooped to get a better view, and at the same time he (witness) turned round to pick up a duster. When he faced the window he saw CAMERON disappearing with his head downward. Within five minutes of the time he engaged deceased he was dead. - The Coroner: What was the condition of the deceased? Did he appear to be destitute? - Witness: Yes, I should say he was suffering from hunger. He said he had had very little work to do for some weeks. - The Coroner: Had he been drinking? - Witness: I did not think so. He appeared to be sober and anxious to do the work. - The Coroner: How is it you don't adopt the plan followed in all towns, as far as I know of, of having a kind of platform to hang on to the windows so that a man can sit and clean them in safety. - Witness: I have thought of that many times. - The Coroner: It is done elsewhere in Torquay, is it not? - Witness: I have never seen it. - The Coroner: Do you know that window cleaning is responsible for many deaths yearly? This staging or platform which I have spoken of is a well-known article in regular use in most towns. Has it never occurred to you or the Athenaeum authorities to get some such arrangement? - Witness: I have often dreaded the window cleaning, but the man who usually does it is a painter and takes no notice of working at a height. - The Coroner: The number of deaths which at one time took place in London created a regular scandal. Servants were killed by the score until the matter was brought to the public notice and the platform more generally used. In a town like Torquay with lofty buildings, surely it ought to be called into service in window cleaning, and I cannot fancy but what it is. - The Foreman assured the Coroner he had never seen any such arrangement in use. - The Coroner to witness: Who are you responsible to? - Witness: To Miss Hickey, of Newton Abbot, who conducts her classes at the Athenaeum. - The Coroner: You had better bring the matter to her notice, so that steps may be taken to prevent another such occurrence. - Witness: I know she will do everything that is necessary and right. - Robert Prose, of 12 George-street, town porter, stated that he was standing opposite the Athenaeum, on Saturday evening, at about ten minutes past six, and saw deceased engaged at the window. He had the rubber in his right hand. A heated conversation was taking place between two cabmen opposite, and deceased turned to see what was passing, and, as he did so, fell. - The Coroner: What caused him to fall? - Witness: He was only standing on a ledge about 15 inches wide, and, as the window as closed, he had nothing to catch hold of. - The Coroner: There is probably a slight ledge, which can just be gripped with the tips of the fingers. - Mr Hore: Yes, there is. - Mr Stonelake (a Juryman): In such a place as that they might have swivel windows, which could be cleaned from the inside. - The Coroner: Yes, that is a very good idea. - Witness said the distance CAMERON fell was from 20 to 25 feet, and he pitched on his head on a granite crossing, leading to the Torquay Brewery. He assisted in putting the injured man into a cab, and he was driven away to the Hospital. - Mr E. P. Wrinch, assistant House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said deceased was brought to the Institution at about 6.15. He was quite dead and the body which was warm was covered with blood. The skull was terribly fractured in two places and death which was due to the fractures must have been almost instantaneous. - The Coroner in summing up, said it would appear from the evidence of Mr Hore that deceased whilst cleaning the window stood on a ledge a little over a foot wide. The window was shut and there was little or nothing for him to hold on to. Considering the number of deaths which were occurring or which used to occur from window cleaning - he was glad to say the number had recently diminished in consequence of the extra precautions taken in most places - it was a very serious matter that the public safety should be more carefully guarded. He felt it was only right for him to point out that in most towns of recent years window cleaning had been carried on, not on the system of putting a man outside to take his chance of life or death by standing on a narrow ledge with nothing to hold on to, but by giving him a safe seat on a kind of platform which was fixed to the window. This was one way of removing the danger. In some places, as suggested by one of the Jury, windows were so constructed as to work on a pivot and could be thus cleaned on both sides by a person standing in the room. This, however, was a matter of the construction of the window and could not be done in all cases. It did, however, seem to him that precautions could be taken in every case by the adoption of the platform he had suggested and he saw no reason why some such arrangement could not have been used at the Athenaeum. It was a matter of great importance and one which should be brought prominently before the notice of householders, proprietors and caretakers of large and lofty buildings, having windows which must of course be cleaned. They as residents in the town of course knew that practice. If no such precautions as he mentioned were taken, all he could say was that it was little less than courting death to allow a person to stand on a narrow ledge without anything to hold on to. Window cleaning was responsible for a large number of deaths every year and he thought it their duty as a Jury to make some recommendation which would do something towards putting a stop to a very dangerous practice. - The Foreman said he knew the Athenaeum windows well, and he was compelled to say that he thought there must have been carelessness on the part of the deceased, for the ledges were wider than those of any other building in the town. - Mr Kingwill (a Juror): Instead of looking after his work he was paying attention to the conversation of some cabmen on the opposite side of the road. - Mr Hill (a Juror): There may have been a contributory negligence, but that does not affect the general practice. - Mr Walters (a Juror): Very little would be required to make all windows safe. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, and added a rider to the effect that in future window cleaning at the Athenaeum and other large and lofty establishments should be carried out with greater precautions for the safety of those engaged in the work.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 July 1895
BRIXHAM - A Student Drowned Near Brixham. - LOUIS ZIGRANG, a native of Luxembourg, one of the students of St. Mary's College, Paignton, was drowned whilst bathing at Elbury Cove, near Brixham on Saturday afternoon. Five students were bathing, all of whom could swim except ZIGRANG, who paddled about near the shore, whilst his companions swam off to the other end of the cove. Mr P. Almy and Mr F. Jones of Brixham, who were sitting on the opposite bank and noticed the swimmers make for the shore, run across the beach and hurriedly dash into the water again and swim off to the assistance of ZIGRANG, who had got beyond his depth. Two of them succeeded in reaching the poor fellow before he sank, but they apparently not being good swimmers were unable to manage him and he sank. Mr H. B. Perryman, of Brixham, who came along at the time swam off and tried to five to the bottom repeatedly, but could not get deep enough. Mr P. Almy also failed in a similar attempt. A boat was then fetched from Broadsands and the body caught by means of a grapnel. Every effort was made to restore animation for upwards of an hour, but as he had been thirty minutes under water the case was hopeless. At the spot where the deceased met his death, the beach is very steep, for although he was not more than 20 yards off he sank in fully 14 feet of water. The body was conveyed to the Churston Railway Hotel where an Inquest was held on Monday, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 July 1895
TORQUAY - Boating disaster In Torbay. Three Men Drowned. The Inquest. - On Saturday evening at Upton Parish Room, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM NANSON GOODFELLOW, tea planter, of 4 Adelphi Road, Paignton, and WILLIAM PASCOE, porter, of the same town, who were drowned in Torbay on Friday. Details of the deplorable occurrence will be found in the evidence which follows. - Mr H. Lear was chosen Foreman of the Jury. Mr J. Risdon, one of the Jurymen, complained at being so frequently summoned as a Juror. The Coroner said the summoning of Jurymen was a matter which the police had to deal with, but it was a duty which had to be performed. - Inspector Egan said recently Mr Risdon had several times been excused. The first witness called was: JOHN FERGUSON GOODFELLOW, of 9 Motland Street, Belgrave Square, London, who said he was a merchant. One of the bodies in the mortuary was that of his brother WILLIAM NANSON GOODFELLOW. He was 47 years of age, and had been a tea planter in India. He had recently been on a visit to his father at Paignton. Witness saw him just before he went to Paignton. He was a single man. - William Rowe, labourer, No. 1 St. Michael's Place, Paignton, identified the body of WILLIAM PASCOE, who was his brother-in-law. He was 42 years of age, and had been a sailor for many years, but recently had been acting as a porter for Mr Waycott. he was married, but had no family. Witness last saw him the evening before the accident, when he was in good health. He said nothing about going out in a boat with MR GOODFELLOW. - Robert Waycott, house furnisher, of Paignton, said on the previous evening a gentleman came to him and asked him if he had a boat for sale. Witness replied in the affirmative. The gentleman whom he had since learnt was MR GOODFELLOW, asked if he could see it, and witness sent for PASCOE. He had a chat with MR GOODFELLOW, and told him the boat he had for sale was an open dinghey of a quarter rating, built by Philp, of Dartmouth. She had a centre-keel, and had been used for racing. He showed MR GOODFELLOW her racing sail, which was in the store, and deceased admired the manner in which it was made. It was a balance lug, made by Lapthorn, and contained 110 feet of canvas. Witness had to attend a valuation, and in his absence PASCOE returned to his (witness's) manager and asked for the racing sail, as MR GOODFELLOW wanted to try it. His manager told him he had better not take it, as the day was not a very suitable one, and he had not go his (Mr Waycott's) consent. He, however, took the sail, and witness subsequently heard that the boat was to be tried. - William Beavis, manager in the employ of Mr Waycott, said PASCOE returned for the sail after the interview between MR GOODFELLOW and Mr Waycott. He (witness) advised him not to take it without his employer's consent. PASCOE said he would see Mr Waycott and went away to dinner. he must have returned and taken the racing sail. He (PASCOE) had been out in the boat before. - George Ellis, master mariner, said he saw a man named Price and PASCOE carrying the mast and sail in the direction of the harbour. Price was in MR GOODFELLOW'S employ as a boatman. He followed them and saw them joined by a gentleman. They entered the boat and went out of the harbour. The boat was called Lassie. - The Foreman: Did you warn them not to go out as it was very squally? - Witness: No, it is not my place to warn people such as they. He saw the mast put up, but the sail was not hoisted. It was then about three o'clock, and a gusty wind was blowing from the north-north-west. He saw Price in the morning, and was asked which was the best way to go to try the boat, and witness replied, "Beat to windward, and you will have a fair wind home." - Thomas Henry Lear, baker, 1, The Woodlands, Warren Road, stated that hearing that the Plymouth Belle was coming into the harbour he went on to the roof of his father's house, and taking a long field glass with him scanned the surface of the bay. He saw the boat running down before the wind near Churston. She was travelling at a great pace and was well out in mid-bay. He saw two men on board. After watching for a few seconds a puff of wind seemed to strike her, and she heeled over and the sail lay on the water. As she filled, the sail came up again and the hull went under. The course of the boat had been varied somewhat just before. It appeared to him as if the helm was put down, but the sail instead of shaking filled out and remained firm. That led him to believe the sheet was made fast. He thought he could discern two people in the water, but the nearest craft was a stone barge from 150 to 200 yards away. On coming downstairs he hurried his brother off to the coastguard house at the Haldon Pier instructing him to tell the engineer of the Paignton steam launch of the accident, if he could not find the coastguard. Just after, on looking out into the bay, he saw boats hurrying away in the direction, and the Paignton steam launch steaming in the same direction. - William Brown, boat-owner, said on receiving information from Mr Lear's brother he summoned some men to go to the rescue. They promptly put off in the "Plover". In the meantime Mr Samuel Tucker had put off from the Haldon Pier, and reached the spot first. Witness noticed that the boat was under water. She was hauled up and he saw that she had a large racing sail with two reefs in it. The main sheet was not fastened and the reefs were made in a sailorlike manner. The sail was, however, hoisted rather high and he thought that one of the causes of the accident, as it would make the boat top-heavy if a sudden gust of wind came. Tucker found one of the bodies and the Paignton steam launch picked up the other. - John Lear, master of the steam launch Ethel, said he left Torquay at 4 o'clock. On his way to Paignton, off Livermead Head, he saw a small white sail standing up out of the water 200 yards out of his course. He thought at first it was a model, but could see no one attending to it. Subsequently he saw the reflection of the sail under water, and recognised at once that an accident had occurred. He made for the spot at once with full steam, and when about 30 yards away he saw the body of MR GOODFELLOW, which, with the assistance of the passengers, was got on board. Life was not then extinct, for the pulse and heart were still beating. He laid the body on its right side, and adopted the Sylvester method of restoring animation. Finding all his efforts failed he ordered the engineer to proceed to Torquay as fast as possible. He reached the pier in seven minutes and two doctors came on board. He thought the body was got on board the launch in about half a minute. - Samuel Tucker said he returned to Torquay from Brixham at about 4 o'clock on Friday, and on reaching the harbour found that an accident had occurred. He hoisted his sail again and went out to the place in the bay where he saw a small white sail standing up in the water. When about 200 yards off he saw a body, which he took aboard, and endeavoured to restore animation, but without success. The body was that of PASCOE, and he appeared to have had a heavy blow over the eye from the boom. A heavy gusty wind was blowing, and it was no fit time for such a boat to be out. - Percy Herbert Gardner, surgeon, stated that at about 4.15 he went with Dr Last-Smith to the Harbour, and saw PASCOE'S body brought ashore. Witness did what he could towards resuscitation, but there were no signs of life. Artificial respiration was tried without effect. Death was due to suffocation from drowning. There was very little chance of restoring animation after a body had been in the water for half-an-hour. - Charles Henry Wade, surgeon, said he was on the Haldon Pier, when the launch bringing the body of MR GOODFELLOW came into the harbour. He went down and rendered assistance to those on board, who were endeavouring to restore animation by artificial respiration. Some good had already been done, for air was entering and leaving one of the lungs. The heart, however, was quite still. The endeavour to resuscitate was continued for forty minutes, but without avail. Death was due to drowning. - Michael Holmes, Chief Officer of Coastguards, said he saw the bodies picked up through his telescope, and immediately sent for medical assistance. They were at work for fifty minutes endeavouring to restore life. It was a very gusty afternoon, and no boat with racing sails should have been out. - The Coroner in summing up said everything was done which could possibly be done, and everybody had acted with that promptitude which was so necessary when such accidents happened. The occurrence was not due as was often the case to the sheet being fastened, but it seemed that the sail was very high up the mast, and that most likely caused the accident, although the sail was not one which should have been used on such a squally afternoon. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," the Foreman remarking that all those who rendered assistance deserved the greatest thanks for their promptitude and perseverance. The Coroner endorsed the remarks of the Foreman of the Jury, and said MR GOODFELLOW, to whom the circumstances were very distressing, wished also to thank those who had rendered such prompt assistance. A dog which was in the boat swam fully two miles and was found on the rocks near Meadfoot alive and none the worse for its long swim.

TORQUAY - Suicide Of A Torquay Clerk. Inquest. - At the Torre Parish room on Saturday evening, Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquest on the body of GEORGE MARCUS LEE, 42, clerk, of 12 Bath Terrace, who died the same afternoon from the effects of a wound in his throat. Mr H. Lear was Foreman of the Jury. - ANNIE VIOLET LEE, wife of the deceased, gave evidence of identification. She lived at Reading, but her husband had formerly resided at Andover. He came to Torquay about twelve months ago for the benefit of his health. She had been married about 14 years, and for ten years her husband had suffered from consumption. He had done nothing during the whole of that time. She came to Torquay on the previous Sunday morning, and found deceased very ill. She had supported him, sending him money every month, and his mother, who was seventy-five years of age, attended to his wants. She was sitting with her husband during Friday until about eight o'clock, when she went away for a few minutes to get some stout which deceased had asked for. When she returned she found the bed saturated with blood. She thought he had been coughing severely and called the nurse at once. Deceased told the nurse what he had done. Her husband knew that he could not live very long. Witness saw a razor in a drawer the same morning. - Catherine Gregg, of the Nurses' Institute, Abbey-road, said she had been with the deceased for five nights. She was sent for at the Institute at about 8 o'clock, and on arriving at Bath Terrace she found deceased on the bed in a pool of blood. She asked him if he had had haemorrhage, and he replied, "No; I have been trying to cut my throat." She subsequently found that there was a deep wound in his neck, about three inches long. On being asked why he had done it, he said his head had been so bad that he felt as if he "had a train in it." She sent for Dr Thistle. Deceased had said he should be glad when the end came. - Frederick Thomas Thistle, surgeon, said he had attended deceased for four weeks. He had been suffering from advanced consumption and heart disease, and had been steadily getting worse. His illness would cause depression, but he had never hinted that he would take his life. On going to the house on Friday night he found deceased had a wound on the left side of the neck. None of the important arteries were cut, and it would not have been fatal to a healthy man. The loss of blood accelerated death, which would have taken place under any circumstances in a week or ten days. Death was due to loss of blood, caused by the wound, which was self-inflicted. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind," and expressed their sympathy with the widow.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 August 1895
TORQUAY - Death From A Fall. Inquest. - At the Torbay Inn, on Monday, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances connected with the death of MARION PIDGEON, 71, widow of 3 Lucius Street, Torquay, who died on Thursday, August 15th. Mr Lovell was Foreman of the Jury. - Mary Davey, in service at Ilex Lodge, Dawlish, gave evidence of identification. Deceased was her aunt, and was the widow of the late HENRY PIDGEON, who was a commercial traveller. In February last she came to Torquay from Bristol, where she was cook in a clergyman's family. Deceased had been in Lucius Street for three months. Ever since she had been in Torquay she had been under the doctor's care. Deceased was fetched from Bristol by Mrs Rendell, with whom she previously lodged, and she received monetary help from her former master. She attributed her illness to a fall she had had in the kitchen at Bristol. She caught her foot in some oil cloth, fell, and injured her thigh. Witness was with her at her death, which took place on Thursday evening. - Catherine Welsh, domestic servant at Huntley, Bishopsteignton, said she was in service with the deceased at the Rev. Mr Cole's, Bristol. Whilst reaching down a cover on the 29th of December last, she caught her foot in some oil cloth, and fell heavily. Dr fox was sent for and advised that deceased should be taken to the infirmary, where she remained for six weeks, after which she was removed to Torquay. Witness nursed her for nearly three months. - Elizabeth Keast said she had nursed deceased for the last three months and had heard her say she accidentally fell and injured her thigh. - Dr Black said he first attended deceased in Church Street. She stated she had broken her leg, and had spent six weeks in the Infirmary at Bristol, during which time she had congestion of the lungs. He thought that at the time the thigh was fractured deceased had sustained some serious internal injuries. She died from exhaustion, due to the fractured thigh and internal injuries. Every care and attention was given to the deceased. It was very difficult in cases of fracture high up in the thigh to get a union of the bone in aged people. - The Coroner said there appeared to be some little error somewhere in connection with the case. Was it Dr Black's practice to give certificates in cases of death from anything but natural causes? - Dr Black: I think so. - The Coroner: It is not a usual practice, because it is useless and an absolute nullity. You can certify in that case if a man gets his head broken. It is useless, and leads to trouble. - Dr Black said that looking at the length of time which had passed since deceased left the Infirmary, and that her death was really due to the internal injury, and not to the fracture, he gave the certificate. - The Coroner: But death was not due to natural causes, and the Registrar General has forbidden certificates being given in any other cases. Besides, it causes some little friction. - Dr Black: Seeing that the accident occurred so long ago I thought I was doing right. The Coroner: But it was not nine months. Dr Black: What is the time allowed? - The Coroner: A year and a day, and if you will kindly report any such cases in the future it will save some little friction. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - Sad Death Of A Child. Drinking From A Teapot. Inquest. - At the Upton Congregational Mission Hall on Tuesday evening, Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest on the body of EMILY LOUISE HOCKINGS, the one year and seven months old child of WILLIAM HOCKINGS, of Jubilee Terrace, Lower Upton, who died early the same morning, as the result of drinking from a teapot of boiling tea. Mr Oliver was Foreman of the Jury. - ANNIE HOCKINGS, mother of the child, said it was insured in the Prudential Office when it was three months old for £3 for which she paid a penny a week. The little one had always been healthy. On Monday, at about 12.30 she and her husband had had dinner, and she was preparing a cup of tea. The child was standing on an arm chair at the table. She (witness) got up, filled the teapot from the boiling kettle, and placed it on the table, and turned round to get some cups and saucers. Her husband suddenly said, "Look at the child," and on hurrying to it she found that its head was drooping and tea was running from its mouth. She took the child, and her husband first gave it cold tea and then honey. There were blisters on its mouth but it could not cry. Her husband ran off for her mother and they took the child to the hospital, but as they wanted her to leave it she declined, and went on to Dr Thistle. - The Coroner: It would have been looked after well there, wouldn't it? - Witness: I wished to look after it myself at home. Dr Thistle told me what to do and I brought it home. - The Coroner: It would have been far better to have had it treated at once instead of bringing it all back here. - Witness, continuing, said the child died at about four o'clock on the following morning. The Coroner: You could have seen the child at the hospital. - Witness: I did not think it right to leave it there. - The Coroner: It would be a great misfortune if people got the idea that patients were not treated properly at the hospital. - Witness: If the child had been older I might have left it. - The Coroner: You thought it would pine for you? - Witness: I thought if the child had to die it might as well die at home as at the hospital. - WILLIAM HOCKINGS, carter, said he was giving the canary a piece of sugar, and on turning round he saw that the child had drunk from the teapot. He gave it milk and then honey, and subsequently went off to Dr Thistle. He was not at home, and on returning, his wife and mother-in-law went to the hospital. Everything happened in a few seconds. - Dr Thistle said when the child was brought to his house at 1.30 its tongue and cheeks were blistered and throat inflamed. He gave the mother directions what to do, and saw the child soon after three and again at six. At the latter time the symptoms were serious. The child died from suffocation, caused by the swelling of the windpipe. The child was too young to apply artificial respiration. The mother told him she had taken the child to the hospital, but declined to leave it. The child suffered nothing from the delay. A trained nurse had attended it, and every care had been taken. - The Coroner said the hospital was the right place to take cases of accident, and it was through ignorance that there was a prejudice on the part of parents against leaving their children there. - The Foreman said it was a felling which was very prevalent amongst parents. - The Coroner: It is a pity that such should be the case. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 September 1895
COCKINGTON - Shocking Accident At Cockington. A Man Crushed To Death. - On Monday evening as Messrs. Hancock's well-known roundabouts, which are such a familiar feature of the Devonshire regattas, were being transported from Dartmouth to Shaldon, an accident occurred, by which a man occasionally employed by Messrs. Hancock fell beneath the wheels of a heavily laden truck and was crushed to death. A powerful traction engine, being driven by an experienced and intelligent engine driver, named Walter Taylor, was drawing three trucks, and the deceased, MATTHEW FREE, an itinerant vendor of water-cresses, known in Torquay by the soubriquet of "Liverpool Jack," but occasionally employed by the showmen attending the regattas, was walking in front as flagman. It is the custom of Messrs. Hancock's men to relieve each other of this duty, and when near Cockington Lane deceased was relieved by a man named Vennor. Sitting upon the bank by the roadside until the traction engine had passed, he then attempted to get upon the coupling irons between two of the vans, where the men were accustomed to ride, but fell and was crushed to death by the wheels of one of the wagons going over him. The body was removed to the Torbay Hospital, where on Wednesday evening the Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquest, and the following evidence was taken:- Alfred Mellacamp deposed that he lived at Charlotte Street, Morristown, Devonport, and was a saw hammerer. He had seen the body of the deceased whom he had known for eight or nine years and his name was MATTHEW FREE, though he was called Liverpool Jack. Had written two letters for him to Birkenhead. He was a good scholar but of a morning after a drop of drink, his hand was all of a shake. He was a "wanderer" and witness fell in with him through travelling round to saw mills. He hawked water cress, nuts, blackberries, &c. That he believed was how he got his living, but had heard that recently he had been working for Mr Hancock. Did not think that deceased was married, but he had told him that he had a mother living in Birkenhead. He thought that he was about 30 years of age, but he looked more through being a bit "dilapidated." The last time he saw him was at Tavistock about February. Deceased told witness that he was an army reserve man. - Walter Matthews, living at Tayaton, near Gloucester, said he was an engine driver, and was in the employ of Messrs. Hancock, the roundabout proprietors. He drove a traction engine which drew the vans containing the roundabouts. On Monday he was coming from Dartmouth to Shaldon, and the engine was drawing three waggons. A nephew of Mr Hancock, named Barrett, was steersman, and there were two other men who walked alongside to see to the brakes and to assist with the traffic. There was also a man in front with the flag. Deceased had been working with them for a week or so fetching water at night for the engines that drove the roundabout and the dynamo for the electric light. On Monday deceased had been relieving the other man with the flagging from Paignton. The men generally relieved each other in flagging very two miles. When near Cockington Lane deceased was relieved by a man named Denny, The engine was going about 2 ½ miles an hour. The Act of Parliament pace was four miles an hour. When relieved, deceased, who had been about forty yards ahead, sat down on the bank and witness on the engine passed him. In about two minutes he heard someone calling out for him to stop. He pulled up in three or four yards. Witness got off the engine and saw deceased on the road lying upon his face, and he was dead. Witness surmised that he attempted to get on the coupling bar, a triangular iron, to ride, and fell off under the wheel. The men rode there sometimes, but they had not much time to ride. There was no regulation against it. Stopped the engine and waited until the ambulance came, and assisted in placing the body upon it. - William Pidgeon, 103 Ellacombe Church Road, a boy, said he had been bathing, and went to look at the traction engine pass. he saw what he thought was a bundle of old clothes fall between the second and third trucks, and the front wheel of the latter truck went over it. He afterwards saw it was a man. The men who were with the trucks called to the engine driver to stop. - Charles Southwood, aged 13, who was with last witness, said he saw deceased with his hands on the coupling bar, and attempting to spring up, but his hands slipped, and he fell, and the front wheel went over him. - Isaac Vennor, living at Tiverton, employed by Messrs. Hancock as a labourer, said he relieved the deceased in flagging about seven o'clock. Deceased had had a drop of beer. He wasn't any the worse for it, but he had had sufficient. He could walk straight. had not relieved him five minutes when the accident occurred. Witness was accustomed to ride on the coupling bars. There were no orders against it. - Mr Arthur Watson, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said the deceased was admitted about 8 o'clock on Monday evening. He was found to be dead. His arms were terribly lacerated and crushed, and the lower jaw and neck were fractured. Death was probably due to broken neck, and would be instantaneous. - Richard Barrett, the steersman of the engine, living at Exeter, said the men were accustomed to ride on the coupling irons. - Miss Hancock, sister of the Messrs. Hancock, informed the Coroner and Jury that the deceased had been employed by her the previous week, and received a guinea as wages. He had been advanced 3s. to buy a shirt, and of the balance he asked her to take charge of 6s. 6d., remarking that if she did not he should spend it in drink. He also gave half-a-crown to another person to keep for him, but that he obtained again on Monday morning, and as only 9d. was found upon him he had probably spent the remainder in drink during the day. The men were not supposed to ride upon the coupling irons, but they did. They had never had an accident before, though they had had one engine four years, and another two years. She refused to employ deceased at Paignton because he had been drinking. - The Coroner, in summing up the evidence, referred to the dangerous practice of the men riding upon the coupling irons, and of their getting up whilst the engine was in motion. It was a most reprehensible practice. There were certain regulations as to the working of traction engines framed by the County Council, but he was not aware of one safe-guarding the lives of the people employed upon and in connection with them, but those who employed the men should enforce some regulations. - The Jury, after a brief deliberation, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 September 1895
TEIGNMOUTH - A Torquay Man Drowned At Teignmouth. - CHARLES W. TRUMAN, painter, of Rosery Cottages, Chelston, Torquay, was missing from his home on Sunday last, and information was given to the police and inquiries as to his whereabouts set on foot. On Monday whilst walking along the sea wall at Teignmouth, Mr Herbert Gresham, a visitor, saw the body of a man floating in shallow water, and after dragging it above high water mark, sent for assistance. On the arrival of the police, the body was conveyed to the public mortuary, and when searched a bank book was found in one of the pockets of the clothing bearing the address of TRUMAN at Chelston. The sum of 192. 6d was also found. Deceased was seen a short time previously walking along the sea wall, and the fact that the body was quite warm would go to show that it had not been long in the water. Deceased was in the employ of Messrs. J. C. and W. Watson, builders and house decorators, of Lower Union Street, Torquay, and he also acted as check-taker to the upper and dress circles at the Theatre. He was a man well advanced in years. - The Inquest. An Adjournment. - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Teignmouth on Tuesday evening relative to the death of CHARLES WILLIAM TRUMAN, of Torquay. - Mr William Watson, builder, of Torquay, said deceased lived at 28 Rosery Cottages, Chelston, Torquay, and was a journeyman painter and grainer. He had worked for witness and his brother for over 20 years. He was about 65 years of age. Deceased was a married man, but had no young family. He knocked off work on Saturday last at noon, and that was the last time witness saw him. Deceased was a very steady, industrious workman, and they had great confidence in him. He was most systematic, and a man not often to be met with as a workman. Deceased's wife came to the workshop three times on Monday to inquire about her husband as she had not seen him since Sunday night. Witness was surprised that MRS TRUMAN had not attended the Inquest as she was quite capable of attending. - The Coroner: It looks as if she wished to keep back something. - A Juror: I think it most important she should attend. - Mr Watson, continuing, said he had good reason to believe circumstances which had occurred at deceased's home would have been far from pleasant. Deceased had said nothing to him to lead him to suppose he would take his own life. - Herbert Gresham Wright, a visitor to Teignmouth, said on Monday evening he saw the deceased sitting on the seat on the Breakwater between Teignmouth and Dawlish, and when witness walked towards the seat, deceased rose up and staggered away. He was very drunk and unable to control himself. Witness looked at his watch and saw it was about twenty minutes to seven. Deceased walked towards Hole Head, and about twenty minutes afterwards a lady called his attention to a dark object floating in the water close to the ship on the Dawlish side of the Breakwater. Witness went down, saw it was deceased, and he pulled him ashore. He was dead. - Mary Townsend, of Promenade House, saw deceased pass her house at a quarter to six. He was either ill or drunk, as he nearly fell off the sea wall. Philip Bailey deposed that he had known the deceased for a great many years. They met on Monday afternoon and had a drop of beer together at the Dawlish Inn. Deceased was quite sober and appeared in the best of spirits. Witness left deceased at half-past five, and he was not drunk then. - P.C. Martin said on the body was a Savings Bank book with a credit of £7, a gold watch and chain and spade guinea, and 19s. 7 ½d. - The Coroner considered it was most important they should have the evidence of the wife, and he adjourned the Inquest until Tuesday next.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 September 1895
TEIGNMOUTH - The Fatality At Teignmouth. Adjourned Inquest - The Widow's Evidence. - The adjourned Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of CHARLES WILLIAM TRUMAN, painter and grainer, of 28 Rosery Cottages, Chelston, Torquay, whose body was found in the water near the Breakwater, Teignmouth, on Monday, Sept. 9th, took place at the queen's Hotel, Teignmouth, on Tuesday evening. - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, who conducted the Inquiry said it was adjourned from the previous Tuesday for the purpose of enabling the Jury to hear the evidence of the widow of the deceased. A summons had been issued for her attendance, and MRS TRUMAN was present and would no doubt tell the Jury what she knew, and enable them to arrive at a satisfactory conclusion. - Prior to MRS TRUMAN being call, a nephew of the deceased named Smith said Mr Watson had told him that he had made a mistake in giving his evidence when he said MRS TRUMAN called at his house three times. She only went there once on Monday night after eight o'clock, and then she was really too ill to be out. - The Coroner said MRS TRUMAN could tell the Jury about it when she was called. - MRS TRUMAN, who appeared to be in great distress and was on two or three occasions during the time she was giving evidence on the point of fainting, said her husband was 63 years of age, and for years had been in the employ of Messrs. Watson of Union Street, Torquay. He resided at 28 Rosery Cottages, and had one daughter, who lived at Plymouth. - The Coroner: Has there been anything the matter with him lately? - Witness: Nothing that I know of, with the exception that he has been suffering from very bad feet, and hardly knew how to walk. He complained greatly during the time I was ill, and when I got round I knitted him a pair of new stockings. Otherwise he has been in his usual good health. Witness proceeding with her evidence under difficulties, said her husband used to go to work every day. On the morning of Saturday, 7th September, he went to his employment, and on returning home cleaned the windows for her. He remained at home until the evening, and then went to the theatre, where he had acted as ticket collector for several years. Deceased came home at his usual time shortly after 11 o'clock, and as he seldom had supper went straight to bed. She had no conversation with him. - The Coroner: Had he any unpleasantness with you? - Witness: No, not a word. - The Coroner: Nothing happened in the way of trouble? - Witness: No. - The Coroner: did anything happen during the night? - Witness replied in the negative, and said her husband got up on Sunday morning at about 9 o'clock and cleaned his boots. About mid-day he fetched his dinner beer. In the afternoon he sat in his armchair, had his pipe and paper, and took a short sleep. During the evening some of her relatives came in and sat down with her in the front room, but deceased remained by himself in the kitchen. He remained at home until 7.45 when he took a bottle and started for his supper beer. He did not say where he was going as he was aware she knew. Her husband seldom mixed with her relatives. He went out just before eight o'clock, and she had not seen him since. She looked after him when he left the house and saw that he had his bottle in his pocket. He had on his Sunday clothes at the time. - The Coroner: You say you have not seen him since. He did not come back home, then? - Witness: No. - The Coroner: Did you expect him home? - Witness: Of course I did. I laid the supper as I always do, and when I saw it was ten o'clock and he did not arrive I thought he must have met somebody on the way and stopped talking. At 10.30 I went to the top of the road to see if the public house was shut, but I could see nothing of him. then I asked two policemen if they had seen anything of my husband. I could not make it out, but I did not think there was anything amiss. At 11.30 I went to Melville-street, thinking that he might have gone there to see Mr Gillson, but I found the house locked up and could not get any tidings. I remained out until three in the morning, and then I thought something must have happened, for during the whole of 35 years of married life he had not remained away from home at night without I have been with him. At 3.45 I again went to P.C. Goodman and failing to learn anything gavel that constable my husband's description, as I felt sure something had happened. - The Coroner: Had anything occurred to cause him to stay away from home? - Witness: I don't know what had happened. I cannot explain it. - The Coroner: Had anything taken place at home? - Had any troubles arisen? - Witness: No. - The Coroner: Had he any words with you? - Witness: Nothing at all. The only thing I can remember was that he asked me whatever I had cooked so much breakfast for. - The Coroner: Can you give the Jury any explanation of his being at Teignmouth? - Witness: It is a mystery. - The Coroner: Was he in the habit of coming to Teignmouth? - Witness: Many years ago he used frequently to come up here, but he always returned the same night. Of late years I have never even heard him mention Teignmouth. - The Coroner: You had no idea he was going to Teignmouth? - Witness: No idea whatever. - The Coroner: You know he had friends here? - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner: did he tell anyone he was going to Teignmouth? - Witness: I don't know. The Coroner: How do you account for his leaving his home suddenly? - Witness: He would frequently, when I had my relatives in, go off for his supper beer and say nothing. - The Coroner: Go for his beer, yes; but how do you account for his going to Teignmouth without saying anything? - Witness: I don't know at all. - The Coroner: He was not in any pecuniary difficulty? - Witness: No; he had every comfort this world could give him. - The Coroner: Do you know he had money in the savings bank? - Witness: Yes; I put it there myself. Mr Watson said at the last Inquiry that I went to his house on Monday morning. I did not do so. - MRS TRUMAN explained that at 3.45 a.m. on Monday, on returning home, she sat in her front room and waited to hear her husband's footsteps. She heard footsteps approaching, and on going out saw P.C. Goodman. She spoke to him about her husband and he advised her to go in as she was looking very ill. She did not see Mr Watson until between 8 and 8.30 on the Monday night, when she was going to the Police Station to give information there. When she returned home a telegram had arrived from Teignmouth. It stated that if CHARLES WILLIAM TRUMAN was missing from home, his friends must c communicate with the Teignmouth Police at once. She went to Torquay Railway Station at 11 o'clock, but found she was too late to telegraph a reply. On Tuesday morning she expected another communication from Teignmouth, but none arrived, and she knew nothing of what had happened until the neighbours came round and began to sympathise with her in her trouble. It came so suddenly that it was almost a death-blow to her. - Witness here completely broke down, but on reviving, the Coroner said the case was a very sad one, but his duty was to see if he could arrive at an explanation of the affair. - Witness: I cannot explain it; it is a mystery. My husband was in his usual health, and was not affected in his head, or anything of that sort. - The Coroner: Was he in the habit of breaking out now and then, and taking a little extra drink? - Witness: If he did, it was at night, and not in the day time. - The Coroner: Did he at any time? - Witness: He did occasionally since he has been at the theatre. - The Coroner: He occasionally had a drinking bout? - Witness: No. - The Coroner: Did he occasionally get intoxicated? - Witness: Sometimes. - The Coroner: Often? - Witness: Not very often. - The Coroner: When he was intoxicated, did he always come home? - Witness: Yes. He had his beer that night at the Rising Sun. - The nephew, interposing - And he had his bottle refilled. - The Coroner: What train did he come to Teignmouth by? - The Nephew: I don't think he came by train. - The Coroner: We have no evidence that he was seen until the afternoon. - The Nephew: A Mr Godfrey told me he saw him at 8.30 a.m. and asked him what he was doing at Teignmouth. The reply he gave was that he was on a holiday. - MRS TRUMAN again becoming faint, the Coroner asked her to bear with him a little longer as he had only two or three more questions to ask. Where did she suppose her husband passed the night? - Witness had no idea, and repeated that deceased was a man who was very fond of his home. - The Coroner: Has he ever threatened to do any harm to himself? - Witness: Never. He always laughed at those who attempted such a thing. - The Coroner: Have you ascertained if he has left any letter behind for you? - Witness: Someone said he had, but I have searched everywhere and can find none. - The Nephew: I have searched the house through and have found nothing to throw any light upon the matter. - The Coroner: There is one other question I must ask you if you will attend to me. How is it you did not come to the Inquest last Tuesday when the constable told you to do so? - Witness said she was misled by Mr Watson. The blow came on her very suddenly when she was ill with a weak heart, and when she saw Mr Watson she told him he could identify the body and asked him to act for her. She told the constable this, but if she had known she was required she would have been present if it had cost her her last shilling. - The Coroner: You must have misunderstood the constable. He told you when the Inquest was to be held, and informed you that you must attend. - Witness: That is quite true, but I instructed Mr Watson to represent me. I knew nothing about the law. - The Coroner: There is one law you must always obey, and it is the summons of the police. - Witness: I would have come if I had known. - The Coroner: Can you say whether your husband committed suicide, or whether his death was accidental? - Witness: I will never believe he committed suicide, for he had no reason to do so. - The Coroner: How is it he had his savings bank book in his possession? - Witness: He always carried it about with him. - The Coroner: What, in his work? - Witness: Yes, even in his work. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the Jury having heard the whole of the evidence would no doubt be able to arrive at a conclusion. There was a certain amount of mystery attached to the case, which had not been satisfactorily cleared up, but as far as the evidence went it was clear what happened. Deceased was at work on Saturday, Sept. 7th, and everything was going on as usual. He went home after work, passed the afternoon at home, and in the evening went to the theatre to collect the tickets, returning to his house at about 11 o'clock. On Sunday morning nothing out of the ordinary occurred, and as far as his widow appeared to know nothing of an unpleasant nature happened during the day. They had evidence that deceased was a man of a somewhat retiring disposition, as he did not mix with his wife's friends and relatives. In the evening he went out about 7.45, as his wife considered to fetch his supper beer, and from that time he was not seen at his home again. He did not mention a word as to where he was going when he went out, and it did not appear clear that he did go t Teignmouth that night. Where he went, and what he did, was a matter of conjecture. Mr Watson had said deceased was an industrious, steady man, but Mr Watson was evidently speaking of him in his work. His wife had told them that day that he occasionally drank heavily at night and came home intoxicated. They might conjecture that that happened on the Sunday night, and that might account for his not returning home. Even then it was a mystery why he went to Teignmouth. It might be suggested that he wanted a change after his drinking bout. At any rate the next they heard of deceased was that he was at Teignmouth, and that he was seen at 8.30 in the morning, presumably having arrived by train. He then seemed in good spirits. Mr Bailey saw him in the afternoon and at 5.30 near the Dawlish Inn, and he was then quite sober. Mr Bailey was an elderly man, and after his experience of life should know when a man was intoxicated or sober. About a quarter of an hour afterwards he was seen by Miss Townsend, and she stated that he was rolling and rambling about in an intoxicated state. He could see no possible reason for Miss Townsend saying anything which was not true. Of course there might be some mistakes as to time. Shortly after Mr Wright saw him and in his evidence stated that the deceased was unmistakably drunk. Mr Wright was a medical student and presumably he knew what a man was like when he was drunk. Within a very short time Mr Wright again saw TRUMAN floating in the water. They knew the place where the deceased was found, and would be able to satisfy themselves as to the probabilities of the case. Deceased, if drunk, might have accidentally fallen over the wall into the water, or he might have gone there to commit suicide. The probabilities of his having fallen into the water were very remote, for the body was found 15ft. out, and the water was not up to the bottom of the wall, so that if he had fallen off he would have fallen on dry sand. - Mr Hartnoll (a Juror) called attention to the medical evidence given before the Coroner in the case of a Mr Cole, which, after careful inquiry, was to the effect that the body of a man who fell into the water and was drowned would sink, whereas a person who died from the effects of a fall and whose body then got into the water, would float. - The Coroner: Yes, immediately gases begin to generate a body floats. - Mr Hartnoll: This was a question of minutes, and yet TRUMAN'S body was floating. - The Coroner recalled Mr Wright, who, in reply to questions, said the body was in 3 ½ feet of water and was floating. - Continuing his summing up the Coroner said the gentlemen of the Jury must weigh the pros and cons of the case. If they felt unable to give a reply to the questions of suicide or accident they could return an open verdict, although open verdicts were never satisfactory. It would be far better if the Jury could conscientiously satisfy their minds and arrive at a decision one way or the other. - The Jury retired for some little time, and on returning expressed the opinion that deceased whilst intoxicated walked into the water, fell and was drowned. Their verdict was one of "Accidental Death." - The funeral of deceased took place at the Teignmouth Cemetery on Saturday last, the chief mourners being MRS TRUMAN, her son-in-law, and her daughter. Mr Gillson, secretary of the Torquay Theatre Co., attended and the staff of the Theatre sent a very handsome floral anchor. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Messrs. J. C. and W. Watson, of Torquay, in whose employ deceased had been for 28 years.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 October 1895
TORQUAY - Death From Lock-Jaw. The Inquest. - Mr Sidney Hacker, (County Coroner) held an Inquiry in Upton Parish Room, on Tuesday evening, into the circumstances attending the death of SAMUEL TOZER, mason and plasterer, of All Saints'-road, Babbacombe, who was recently treated at the Torbay Hospital for lock-jaw, and who died on Monday afternoon. - Mr A. W. Abbott was elected Foreman of the Jury. - ANN TOZER, widow of the deceased, said her husband was fifty-one years of age, and a mason. On Saturday fortnight he stepped on a nail, and it ran into his foot. Previous to that he was in good health, and left home at 5.45 a.m. He returned at about 12.30 p.m., and he told her that he had run a nail into his foot, by stepping on a board, that he pulled it out, and that his foot began to swell. He had his dinner, and then went to bed, and she bathed his foot. It was a small wound under his big toe, and, as far as she could tell, it had not bled. On the Sunday she applied poultices, and she continued to do so throughout the week. The next Sunday he felt better and got up, but at night he did not feel so well, and his throat began to pain him. On Monday he seemed worse, and she suggested his seeing a doctor, but he said he would get a dispensary note. On the Wednesday he went to see the doctor at the hospital, and he said he had better stay. On Monday, at 2.40 p.m., he died. - Richard Windsor, carpenter's apprentice, of Warberry Road West, said deceased told him on the Saturday that his foot was beginning to swell, but he did not tell him the cause. - Mr Watson, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said that deceased came to the hospital on Wednesday, 18th ult., and told him that he jumped on a plank on the previous Saturday week and ran a nail into his foot. He said his mouth was painful and he found that his jaw was stiff. There was a small scar on the bottom of his foot. They treated him and he became worse, but towards the end of the next week the spasms ceased, although he was very exhausted. He was able to take food, but died on Monday from exhaustion, following upon lock-jaw. Witness was of opinion that there must have been some poison, probably rust, on the nail upon which deceased stepped. If deceased had been treated before, witness thought it would have made no difference. - The Coroner said it was a very sad and peculiar case, but it seemed quite clear that deceased died from lock-jaw, caused by stepping on a nail which was evidently poisoned. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Lock-jaw."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 October 1895
TORQUAY - The Fatality At Livermead. The Inquest. - In Upton Parish Schoolroom, on Saturday, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of HARRY EDMUND ACKRELL, 26, mason's labourer, of Paignton, who was found on the railway near Livermead early the previous morning, frightfully injured about the face, and who died at the Torbay Hospital early on the afternoon of the same day. The most painful part of the Inquiry was the giving of evidence by Sarah Jane Satchwell, the young woman who was to have been married to deceased on that very day. She was greatly distressed, and before giving evidence pleaded with her friends for permission to see the body, which was in the mortuary at the Torbay Hospital close by the Upton Parish Room, in which the Inquiry was held. - The first witness called was MABEL ACKRELL, sister of the deceased, who said her brother was in the habit of getting intoxicated. He was a mason's labourer, 26 years old. Witness saw Sarah Jane Satchwell on Thursday night, after deceased had left her, but she made no complaint. - Miss Satchwell said she lived with her mother at Brunswick Square, Torquay, and had been keeping company with the deceased for several years. She saw him every week. Deceased lodged at Paignton. Witness went there on Thursday evening hoping to see him, but he was out. Returning by train, deceased met her at Torquay station, and they went for a walk through the Avenues and round to Torre. There was "nothing much" the matter with him. He had had a glass or two but "nothing much out of the way." - The Coroner: You were engaged? - Witness: We were to have been married today. - At the mention of the marriage, the witness was overwhelmed with grief. - Proceeding, she said deceased left her near her home at 10.45 on Thursday night. He said he was going to walk to Paignton. Though he had had drink, he was quite capable of taking care of himself, and promised to meet her again on Friday evening at 6.45. Arrangements had been made for the wedding, and during their walk on Thursday night the marriage was the one subject of conversation. They had no unpleasantness during the evening. She thought she was the first young woman deceased every met with. No one had tried to prevent the marriage, and, as far as she knew, deceased had not been keeping company with any other young women. He seemed cheerful when they parted, and she had no reason to suspect foul play. Deceased had told her that he walked across the line on the way home. - William Bond, a platelayer, deposed finding deceased by the side of the rails near Livermead on Friday morning. By the bloody finger marks on the rails and on the ironwork of the bridge over the road near Livermead, it appeared as though deceased had crawled a distance of seventeen feet. There was a pool of blood on the bridge where he had apparently been knocked down. With assistance from P.C. Goodman and others deceased was removed to the Torbay Hospital. - Mr Watson, house surgeon, at the Infirmary, said deceased's clothes were saturated with blood, and very wet. He was cold and collapsed, and, after a restless interval, died early in the afternoon the same day. There was a large lacerated wound on the left side of the face. The upper jaw was broken right across, the base of the eyeball was broken, and the fracture extended right into the brain. He thought the wounds were caused by one severe blow, probably from a blunt projection. - Inspector Hockaday, G.W.R. thought the rough projection on the bridge caused the wound. - Mr R. W. Masters, stationmaster, Torquay, said there was blood on the bridge, as though someone had been thrown violently against it. Deceased was probably knocked by a train against the bridge. - Dr Watson did not think the wound was caused in that way, and said there was no mark of a blow on deceased's back. The Coroner said there would have been such a mark if the train had struck him against the bridge. Mr Masters suggested that perhaps the footboard of one of the carriages struck the deceased. P.C. Goodman stated that no bloodstains had been found on the engines of the two trains which passed the spot on Thursday night. Mr Masters though deceased climbed up at the bridge where he was found, but that would not be deceased's nearest way home, and there was no path along the railway. P.C. Goodman also pointed out that deceased would have had to pass through a dark tunnel and that the road was nearer for him. The Coroner, summing up, said there was nothing tangible to indicate how deceased came by his death. There was not a tittle of evidence to support the theory of suicide. The verdict returned was that deceased was accidentally killed by being knocked down on the railway.

[NOTE: No newspapers in the archive for the year 1896]

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 January 1897
NEWTON ABBOT - Fatal Accident At Newton. - A sad fatality occurred at Newton Abbot on Wednesday of last week. Two sons of MR J. POUND, a barrister residing at Wolborough Lodge, were playing with a toy gun, when the elder got upon a chair, and took down his father's gun, which was hanging over the mantelpiece, and presented it at his younger brother, QUINTUS, and pulled the trigger, with the result that the gun went off. The boy fell, and it was found that he had been shot. Dr Haydon was immediately sent for, but all his efforts were of no avail. The boy lingered till Thursday morning, when he died. The Inquest was held in the evening and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

ST MARYCHURCH - Strange Affair At St. Marychurch. A Liking For Dirty Surroundings. Sanitary Inspector And Coroner. - At the St. Marychurch Town Hall on Tuesday, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of CAROLINE MARY JANE DYER, 57, spinster, of No. 2 Moor View, Plainmoor, who was found dead in bed on the 27th December. Mr Amos Hugo was elected Foreman of the Jury, which included Mr J. H. Pope, Sanitary Inspector. - Prior to the taking of evidence, the Coroner asked Mr Pope if he was not the owner of the house in which deceased lived. - Mr Pope replied in the affirmative, whereupon the Coroner said it would be better if he was not on the Jury, and therefore he would remove his name from the list. - William Lynch, an old gentleman, residing at Moor View, gave evidence of identification, and said he had known deceased for over 20 years. Witness subsequently said he had known MISS DYER from the time when she was in short petticoats. - The Coroner: Then she must be about 30 years of age. - Witness: Oh, no, she is over 50. - The Coroner: How do you make out that, if you have only known her 20 years. - Witness: I have not made any calculations. It is so difficult to find out a woman's age. - The Coroner: but you have lived with her for many years? - Witness: Not matrimonially nor in the way of cohabitation. - The Coroner: I don't suggest that. Have you lived in the same house with her? - Witness: Yes, for many years. I have been very kind to her and women have come in to clean up the place. - Questioned as to deceased's health, witness said about Christmas Day she got very bad in her speech and the day after he found she had tumbled out of bed and was dead. - The Coroner: What was the day? - Witness: Two days after Christmas I think. - The Coroner: Don't you keep any account of time? - Witness: I don't take any particular notice. - The Coroner: Did it happen yesterday morning? - Witness: Yes it was. I entered the room and she had half tumbled out of bed. I slept in a room close by, but I did not hear any noise in the night. I went out after I found her and told some respectable person. - Selina Crook, 16 Union Terrace, Plainmoor, said she lived opposite deceased, whom she had known about five years. She lived at Moor View with Mr Lynch as his housekeeper. No one else lived in the house. She last saw deceased alive on Christmas Day. Witness had done all the cooking, and the washing was fetched by a laundress. To her knowledge MISS DYER had not been outside the doors for two years. - The Coroner: What were her habits? - Witness: Very dirty. - The Coroner: How do you judge that? - Witness: She did not keep herself clean or do any cleaning in the house. - The Coroner: What state was the house in? - Witness: A very dirty state. - The Coroner: Did she ever go out? - Witness: No; and when I told her she ought to she would tell me to mind my own business. - The Coroner: Used she to drink? - Witness: I never saw her the worse for drink. - Continuing, witness said Mr Lynch sent her a turkey and plum pudding to cook for his and his housekeeper's dinner, and asked that some brandy sauce might be prepared for the latter. MISS DYER came to the door about 12.30 and shouted across to her and asked how the dinner was getting on and when she was coming across. She told her she would send the dinner across when it was ready, but could not spare the time for a visit then. As far as she knew, Mr Lynch and his housekeeper lived very comfortably. She never heard any quarrels, and everything they had was of the best. She saw nothing of MISS DYER or Mr Lynch on Saturday, but about eight o'clock on Sunday she was called by Mr Lynch, who said "CARRIE is dead; will you come over." Accompanied by her son she went to Moor View. She did not go upstairs when Mr Lynch assured her MISS DYER was dead, but her son went to the bedroom and subsequently fetched the police. - Henry Crook, son of the last witness, said he used to see MISS DYER once or twice a week. She was always dirty. He last saw her alive on Christmas morning. On Sunday, Mr Lynch came across and said "Will someone come over, CARRIE is dead." He (witness) went across with his mother, and, on going upstairs, saw the woman in a nude condition, lying with her legs nearly on the floor, and her body on an old mattress, which rested on an iron bedstead. There were no clothes on the bed beyond some old rags, which were around deceased's shoulders. There were a quantity of dirty rags about, and the floor, upon which there was no carpet, was covered with filth. The house generally was dirty. Mr Lynch said "CARRIE is dead, and she makes a very pleasant corpse, don't say anything bad about her." Further than this he could get no sense out of Mr Lynch. - The Foreman: Did you see any wearing apparel about? - Witness: She never used to wear anything much. She would put an old overcoat around her legs or anything she could pick up. - Ann Cann, mother of Mrs Crook, said she went into the bedroom and saw MISS DYER lying as her grandson had described. She carried across the turkey and plum pudding on the Christmas Day. MISS DYER was then sitting by the fire, covered over with the same old rags as were found in the bedroom. She ate some of the dinner. Mr Lynch and deceased had lived in filth for years, and when she told him to send for Mr Pope to clean the place he said, "I am master of my own house, and I shall do what I like." Mr Pope thought he had a good tenant, and would not interfere. Witness frequently washed up a lot of dirty dishes when she went across with any cooking. - P.C. Chudley said he went to 2 Moor View Terrace, about 9.15 on Sunday morning. He found the body on the bed with but a slight covering around the chest. It was almost impossible to describe the room. Everything was in a rotten condition. The bed tie was falling to pieces and the floor was wet and filthy. The stench was almost unbearable, and he did not think the windows could have been opened for a month. He ordered the body to be removed to the mortuary. Witness looked into Mr Lynch's bedroom, which was little better than the other. A partially burnt candle was found under deceased's body. - Dr Steele said he attended deceased for extensive disease of the liver and weakness of the heart in 1894. The condition of the house was not then so bad, but he complained of it once or twice. He made a post mortem examination of the body on Monday, and attributed death to failure of the heart's action, brought about by the diseased condition of the liver. He was inclined to think the woman took a good deal of beer, but the condition of the liver was not due to alcohol. - Jane Warne said she had washed and cleaned for Mr Lynch for several years. She was at the house about ten days before MISS DYER'S death and cleaned the old man's rooms and the stairs. MISS DYER would not allow her to clean her room. - The Coroner: Why? - Witness: It was too dirty. - Mr J. H. Pope, Sanitary Inspector, for the St. Marychurch district, said he had known deceased about 50 years. Her father was a builder living in Church Street, Torre, and she was about 57 years of age. Her only relatives were some cousins at Torre. Deceased had only been living in his house with Mr Lynch for about four years. The rent was paid nearly every quarter by Mr Lynch, and he (witness) went to the house to fetch it. - The Coroner: You knew the condition this house was in? - Witness: No, I did not. Twelve months ago I was told the condition of MISS DYER'S room, and went there, and found that Dr Steele was attending her. I asked the doctor whether it would be desirable to get her removed, and he replied that he thought she would get all right again. The first time I heard of the dirty condition of the house again was yesterday. Twelve months ago I had the paper in the kitchen stripped off, and the ceiling whitened. Upstairs I knew nothing of. Four years ago the house was in a very good state, and it ought not to be in the condition it is now. - The Coroner: It does seem strange, and more especially so because of your official position of Sanitary Inspector. It is your duty to find out things of this sort. - Mr Pope: No, not quite that. I cannot enter people's houses without giving proper notice. - The Coroner: You say you did not know of the filthy state of the house, and yet you went there to receive your rent. - Mr Pope: I received a notice from the Medical officer (Dr Karkeek) this morning, and I have been to the house and thoroughly overhauled it. - The Coroner: It strikes me as rather curious that you as landlord, going to the house to receive rent once a quarter, did not have your suspicions aroused that there was something wrong in the condition of the place. - Mr Pope: Not at all. The room I went into was done up 12 months ago. I did notice yesterday that some candle grease had been dropped upon the stairs, but that appeared to have been done quite recently. - The Coroner: You did not as landlord think it right to look through the house occasionally? - Mr Pope: Unless there is an agreement, one cannot do that, except by giving notice. - The Coroner: Under the usual agreement a landlord can inspect his own house. - Mr Pope: At convenient times. - Mrs Crook: Not three months ago I called Mr Pope's attention to the dirty state of the place and asked him to look into it. I told him it was in too dirty a condition for anyone to live in and my neighbours also called his attention to it. - The Coroner: Your evidence Mr Pope is to the effect that you did not know of this, and yet a person who is on her oath says she actually called your attention to it three months ago. - Mr Pope: Yes, to the dirty condition of MISS DYER, but not to the state of the house. At that time I saw the deceased who was sitting by the fireside with a shawl around her shoulders. I cannot listen to everybody's tales. When I went there I saw a lot of bottles, a barrel of beer, and some empty glasses, and I have no doubt the drink was supplied by Mrs Crook. - Mrs Crook: I have not supplied Mr Lynch with any beer for twelve months. - The Coroner: I suppose something will be done now Mr Pope? - Mr Pope: I have already destroyed all the bedding, and covered the floors with Sanitas. The Coroner: It appears to me that the house constituted a nuisance. Do you consider Mr Lynch in a fit state to remain there by himself? - Mr Pope: No. - The Coroner: I suppose you will report to the District Council on this case? - Mr Pope: Yes. - The Coroner: How does Mr Lynch live? - Mr Pope: His solicitors at Bristol send him £105 a year, and he also receives money from his brother. His income is about £150 a year. I think the best thing to do would be to communicate with his solicitors. - The Coroner said there was no doubt that that Inquiry had brought to light a dangerous nuisance in the middle of St. Marychurch town, a nuisance which according to his evidence, was unknown to the landlord and Sanitary Inspector. They might hope, now that Inquiry had been held, that the matter would be remedied, and the nuisance removed. That Inquiry having let in a little light, the District Council would no doubt look further into the condition of the house, and he thought it would be safe to leave all further action to that body. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 January 1897
DEVONPORT - The Inquest touching the death of JESSIE MAY OLVER, a domestic servant, aged 23, at Devonport, was concluded on Tuesday night, and a verdict of "Wilful Murder" was returned against Edwin Alfred Cormack (whose medical diploma was declared to be spurious) and his wife, Kate.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 February 1897
DARTMOUTH - A Colonel's Suicide. - Lieutenant-Colonel GIBBS, hon. secretary to the Royal Dart Yacht Club, shot himself through the head with a revolver in his study at his residence, Kingswear, Dartmouth, on Saturday evening. Death was instantaneous. A few weeks ago the deceased officer underwent a painful operation, and during the past week suffered intensely from mental depression. Lieutenant-Colonel GIBBS was widely known in yachting circles, and was greatly respected in the district. At the Inquest the Jury returned a verdict that deceased committed Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 March 1897
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Torquay. The Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Tuesday evening, the Deputy Coroner (Mr H. Michelmore) held an Inquest on the body of MISS DORA BUCHAN, 48 , who died suddenly on the arrival of the 4.30 train at Torquay Station on the previous day. Mr S. Hawkins was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MARGARET BUCHAN, of 14 Albion Street, Hyde Park, London, said the deceased was her sister. On the previous day she travelled from London in company with her by the train which arrived at Torquay at 4.30. Deceased was fairly well at the commencement of the journey, but was taken ill when near Bristol. Witness, however, did not think it was serious until they reached Torquay. Deceased had suffered from an affection of the heart for several years. - In reply to a Juryman, witness said the deceased had undergone an operation about three years ago, but she had quite recovered from the effects of it. - Mr R. Metters, station-master, deposed that on the arrival of the 4.30 train, he was called by a gentleman in one of the compartments, who said there was a lady in the corridor who seemed to require assistance. The lady was the last witness. On being asked what she wanted, she pointed to the lavatory. On going there, he discovered what he first thought to be a bundle, but on examining it he found it to be the body of a lady. He thought at the time she was dead. The deceased appeared as if she had fallen forward with her head upon her breast. On learning that the deceased was going to the Torbay Hotel, he had her put into a cab, but on thinking it was not wise to have her driven away, he sent for Dr Pitt Palmer, who arrived in about five or six minutes, and pronounced life to be extinct. Dr W. Pitt Palmer stated that when he arrived at the station he found deceased in a cab. The body was quite warm, but life was extinct. She had not been dead more than a few minutes. He had made a post mortem examination, and found that there were no external marks of violence. The body was well nourished, and all the organs were in a comparatively healthy state, with the exception of the heart, which was in a fatty condition, and the valves diseased. He attributed death to failure of the heart's action. - The Deputy Coroner said from the medical evidence before them they could only come to the conclusion that death was due to heart disease, as there were no external marks of violence. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." The Rev. E. Lombe, who was present, said he considered it only respectful to the Jury that he should state, in order to authenticate the case, that the deceased and her sister were well-known to him, and were about to pay a visit to his house at Torquay for the sake of the former's health. Not thinking that the deceased was well enough to travel, he had invited them for a week later, but, as he thought unadvisedly, they had chosen to come earlier and stay during the interim at the Torbay Hotel.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 March 1897
TORQUAY - Death At A Dance. The Inquest. - At the Upton Schoolroom on Friday afternoon, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry respecting the death of JOHN HENRY JENKINS, 28, hairdresser, of 12 Prince's Road, Ellacombe, who died suddenly the previous evening at a Cinderella dance at the Albert Hall, Union Street. - FREDERICK JENKINS, brother of the deceased, stated that he was in business with him at Ellacombe. During the past three years his brother had suffered from no ailment, but on the previous Monday he complained of a slight pain in his shoulder. On Thursday evening he had tea as usual and then went out with the intention of taking his young lady to a dance at the Albert Hall. That was the last occasion upon which witness saw his brother alive. - Emily Treeby, who lives in Highbury Road, deposed that she had been keeping company with the deceased for some time. On the evening of the dance he selected her as his partner, and they had gone about twice around the room, when her sweetheart suddenly fell to the ground. Several of those in the room came to his assistance and he was removed to the hall below. - Dr Cook said he was called from the Constitutional Club to the hall in the neighbouring building where he found deceased sitting on a chair. At first he thought the young man was merely suffering from a fainting fit, but he quickly discovered that his condition was much more serious. He had him laid on his back and applied restoratives, but he died in about three minutes. On the following day he made a post mortem examination and found that deceased was suffering from valvular disease of the heart and that congestion had set in as the result of gastric catarrh, which was a complaint prevalent in Torquay just now. The actual cause of death was syncope, resulting from gastric catarrh in conjunction with disease of the heart. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 April 1897
TORQUAY - Inquests In Torquay. Sudden Death In The Street. - At the Upton School on Monday evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of RACHAEL DENUNZI, 47, pedlar, of No. 4 Brunswick Terrace, Torre, who died suddenly in Union Street, on Monday. Councillor R. Crocker was elected Foreman of the Jury. - JOHN DENUNZI, hawker, who now resides at George Inn Passage, Kingsbridge, identified the body as that of his wife, who turned him out of her house at No. 4 Brunswick Terrace, Torre, about seven months ago. He last saw deceased on 21st April on the race course, when she came to him and asked him if he was going to return to live with her. He told her he did not intend to do so, but had made up his mind to go on to Paignton. His wife had not complained of ill health whilst he was with her, but he heard from neighbours that she had told them that she was unwell about a week ago. He (witness) was an Italian and his wife an Irishwoman. - Mary Lowden, married woman, who also lives at No. 4, Brunswick Terrace, said deceased lived alone in one room. On Monday morning she came to witness about 8 o'clock to borrow 6d. She told deceased she had not got the money, and later on she went out with a bundle under her arm. As she passed witness saw that she was holding her side, and heard her say "Oh! dear." The woman was a very heavy drinker, and a day or two before, when she was offered tea by a neighbour, she said she had eaten nothing for a fortnight. - Sarah Drew, assistant at Mr Couch's, Union Street, stated that deceased came to the shop and stated that she was in want of food. She was in a great state of distress, and said she had been in bed ill for a week and had had nothing to eat. Witness told her she should have something; she drank a cup of tea, but would take nothing to eat. She wanted an advance on a dress, but witness declined to make any. Deceased refused to go without money, and an advance of 2s. 6d. was made her on the dress. The woman's hands were cold and clammy and she was certainly very ill. - Aaron Sanders, fruiterer, Union Street, stated that he found the woman lying on the footpath opposite the Hospital about 8.45 on Monday morning. She appeared to be in a fit. With assistance he conveyed the woman to the hospital. - Dr Watson, house surgeon at the hospital, stated that the woman was brought in about 8.50, quite insensible and dying. She only lived a few minutes. There were no external marks, but there was disease of the various internal organs. There was every sign of excessive drinking. Death was due to failure of the heart's action. The body was well nourished. - P.C. Champion stated that he found 2s. 4 ½d., a pawn ticket and a key in the deceased's pocket. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Heart Disease."

ST MARYCHURCH - Suicide At St. Marychurch. - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest at the Palk's Arms Hotel, St. Marychurch, on Monday evening, respecting the death of MARY HARRIS, 64, of No. 6 Trumland Crescent, whose dead body was found hanging from the balusters at her residence on Saturday evening. Mr J. Lee was elected Foreman of the Jury. - Ernest Oldrey, wheelwright, who lives at 6 Trumland Crescent, gave evidence of identification. He was deceased's son-in-law. She was separated from her husband, who left her over forty years ago. On Friday, deceased complained of pains in her head, otherwise she was in her usual health. About 7 o'clock on Saturday witness went out, and, on returning at 9.30, he found the front door locked. he then went around to the back, and found the door there barred. Eventually he succeeded in getting into the front window, and upon lighting a match, he discovered his mother-in-law hanging from the hand-rail. The rope, a clothes line, was under her chin and her feet were about three inches from the bottom stair. Both hands were grasping the rope. He cut the body down after having called for assistance. Prior to his going out deceased told him she was going across the way to a Mrs Gillard's. Deceased had been under the doctor's treatment for six or seven months. In the first place she had a severe attack of influenza. On the 6th March she was found in the water at Petitor, and was rescued, but she said she had no knowledge of how she got there. Nothing had been done to put deceased under restraint, but he had called in the doctor again as she was very low spirited. He had looked after deceased to the best of his ability, and attributed her being in the water at Petitor to an accident. No proceedings were taken against her for attempted suicide. - P.S. Adams stated that proceedings were not taken, because Dr Steele stated that the woman had suffered from influenza and might fall down at any time. P.C. Chudley, who arrived at the house at 9.55, gave similar evidence. - Harriet Wakeham, who lives on the opposite side of the road, stated that she saw the deceased standing at the window of her sitting room about 7.30 on Saturday evening. At 8 o'clock she again noticed her pulling up her blind. - Dr Finch stated that he saw the body of the deceased about 10.30. She appeared to have been dead for about two hours. There was a deep impression of a rope under the chin and on both hands. Death was due to strangulation. He had previously attended deceased for approaching softening of the brain. There was nothing to suggest suicidal mania in her actions. She was able to do her work, but was very depressed. It was not a case to be sent to the asylum. The verdict of the Jury was "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 21 May 1897
TORQUAY - Fatal Lamp Accident At Torre. The Inquest. - At the Torbay Inn on Monday afternoon Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of DR DAVID TUCKER, aged 78 years, of 13 Bath Terrace, who died on Saturday from injuries received in a fire which took place on the night of the 10th instant. Councillor R. Crocker was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was ROBERT JAMES TUCKER, commission agent, of The Poplars, Paynton, Cheshire, who said the deceased was his uncle. He was a doctor of medicine of Edinburgh College, and had lived at 13 Bath Terrace for several years. Deceased was a bachelor and occupied rooms alone. Witness had not seen him for two years, but they had regularly corresponded. When the accident happened Mrs Bowden, his landlady, communicated with him. - Catherine Jane Bowden, widow, of 13 Bath Terrace, said she let apartments. Deceased had been with her at Teignmouth and Torquay since 1885. He was a very active man for his age, although recently he had suffered from a spinal complaint. On Monday, 10th May, between 9.15 and 9.30 p.m. she went to the house of a neighbour, leaving deceased writing at a table in his sitting room. He said as soon as he had finished his writing he would go to bed. She had not been out for many minutes when she was fetched by someone who told her DR TUCKER'S rooms were on fire. When she returned she saw a lady and gentleman assisting deceased downstairs. His room was full of smoke. She hurried off to fetch water to assist others in putting out the fire. She subsequently saw the doctor in the sitting room. He was perfectly conscious and begged her not to allow him to be taken to the hospital, as someone present had suggested. His hands and face were burnt severely. She sent for Dr Cash, who came and dressed the wounds, and soon after Dr Pitt Palmer, who had constantly attended deceased since he had been in Torquay, arrived, and took charge of the case. She also obtained the services of a trained nurse. DR TUCKER spoke about the fire on the following day. he said he had been using a galvanic battery on the table, and he thought the vibration had caused the lamp to overturn and ignite the curtains. He had used the battery for a numbness in his hands. He had only had it a fortnight. - Mrs Emma Evans, a lodger at 13 Bath Terrace, said she never saw deceased until the night of the fire. She was in the dining room about 9.20 p.m., when she heard someone call to her to bring water. She went up with a jug thinking someone was faint. She found deceased's room full of smoke. She got him to come out, and assisted him downstairs and then went off after some water. When she returned, the old gentleman had gone up and entered the room again. In the meantime she had sent someone to fetch Mrs Bowden and called in a gentleman who was passing, with whom she went to deceased's room and helped him out again. he went back once more after that, and when he was taken out he had a tin box in his possession. She saw that his clothes were singed a great deal. - Councillor R. Pickard stated that whilst calling at a house in Bath Terrace on the night of the 10th, he saw smoke and a very bright light in the window of a house just above. He saw a lady standing at the door, and asked her if she knew there was a fire in the house. She replied that she did not, and then rushed upstairs, remarking that there was an old gentleman over 80 years of age in the room. He followed her upstairs and was met by the old gentleman on the landing. With the help of a lady, he took the old gentleman downstairs, and went off to call the fire engine. When he returned again the old gentleman had gone into the room once more, and he was not got out again until the hose began to play into the window. From what he could learn from him he had a box of valuables in the room, which he was intent on getting out. On the first occasion witness brought him down, his whiskers were slightly singed but that was all. - Dr W. Pitt Palmer said he saw deceased about 10 p.m. He was in bed, suffering from burns on both hands, his face and head. Witness attended him and he also had an Institute nurse with him constantly. He improved a good deal until Wednesday when acute bronchitis set in, and he died on Saturday from shock resulting from the burns. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 May 1897
TORQUAY - Shooting Gallery Fatality. Inquest and Verdict. A Standing Public Danger. - At the Upton Parish Room on Wednesday evening Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ALFRED CROCKER, 22, shooting gallery attendant, who died at the Hospital on Tuesday morning, from a bullet wound in the neck, received on SAturday night in a field at the top of Bronshill Road, Ellacombe. Mr G. R. Stone was elected Foreman of the Jury, and Superintendent Roberts watched the case on behalf of the Police. - The Coroner, in opening the Inquiry, said the case which it became the duty of the Jury to investigate was that of the death of a man whose body was lying in the mortuary at the Torbay Hospital. It appeared that the deceased was in a shooting gallery on Saturday, when he received a bullet wound from which he died on Tuesday morning. It was necessary for the Jury to carefully investigate the case and to find out if possible as to how the man was killed, who shot him, and under what circumstances he was shot, and whether his death was brought about and contributed to by the negligence or misconduct of any person, and whether, if there was misconduct of that sort, it amounted to such culpable misconduct as to render the person responsible for it liable criminally and for the man's death. - After the Jury had viewed the body, and returned, the Coroner ordered all witnesses from the room. - The first witness was JOHN CROCKER, father of the deceased, a travelling hawker of brushes, &c. He identified the body as that of his son, who was 22 years of age, and went about the country hawking. Deceased was unmarried and travelled with a Mr Ware. Witness knew nothing of the accident until the previous day, when he heard that his son had been shot. - William A Bishop, wood-turner, No. 2 Marguerite Villas, Ellacombe, deposed that he was returning from Babbacombe, on Saturday evening, about 7.15, when his attention was called to the shooting gallery in a field near all Saints' Road. He and a friend named King went into the field to have half-a-dozen shots. Before he reached the gallery, he saw someone take up a gun with the object of shooting. The attendant was at the man's right hand side. Those were the only two immediately in front of the gallery. Witness saw the man fire the first shot at an egg which was held in the air by a small stream of water. At that time he did not know who the man was, but when he left he gave witness his name which was Mr Boyce, St. Marychurch. Before the first shot was fired the attendant called another man to go inside to replace eggs which were broken. The deceased came and went in under the canvas. Boyce had one shot and was handed a second gun by the outside attendant, and with the second shot he broke an egg. In five shots Boyce broke two eggs; then he had several misses. After about the seventh or eighth shot, whilst witness was standing some little distance back from the front of the booth, he saw the man CROCKER drop down. Boyce at that time had the gun in his hand and appeared just previously to have been waiting to fire. Witness did not notice any report, as there was a steam organ close by, which drowned the noise. Boyce had not taken aim when deceased fell; he had the gun in his right hand, but not at his shoulder. CROCKER, who was a man about 5ft. 9 in. high, fell close to the left side of the booth and his head was not a foot from the railing. The guns rested on a kind of rack and the outside attendant loaded them and handed them to Boyce. The attendant stood on the left hand side of Boyce. When CROCKER fell the attendant outside also had a gun in his hand, which witness thought he was re-loading. When CROCKER fell the man outside dropped the gun in his hand and rushed inside. Boyce was not taking long over his shots. Witness had no idea which gun shot CROCKER. Boyce held on his gun after the accident, but the attendant dropped his on the rack and went inside. When the doctor arrived, the proprietor of the gallery came. The doctor asked a question respecting the bullet, and the proprietor took the gun from Boyce's hand, and showed the doctor the sort of cartridge used. Witness heard his friend (King) tell Boyce to hold on to his gun, as it was not discharged, and he did so until the proprietor came and took it from his hand. He did not know whether the proprietor took the cartridge which he shoed to the doctor from Boyce's gun. The wound in CROCKER'S neck was about an inch below the bottom of the right ear. - Replying to Superintendent Roberts, witness said deceased was standing with his back about two feet six inches from the canvas side of the booth. He did not see him walk across the line of fire. The outside attendant was engaged in loading a gun, but he did not know whether he had put a cartridge in. Boyce was a very good shot. Witness saw the attendant on one occasion put an egg on the water with his hand, instead of using the usual poke and net. The outside attendant told him not to do it again, as it was not the proper way. Subsequent to that he used the pole and net. - By the Foreman: There was no protection for the deceased. - By Mr Lane: The outside attendant and the deceased were standing in almost a direct line, but Boyce was standing further to the right of the booth. - By the Coroner: No eggs were then broken, so that it was not necessary for CROCKER to replace them. - Charles King, printer's machinist, gave corroborative evidence, adding that he heard deceased sing out "Oh," and fall. Boyce had a loaded gun in his hand, and was bringing it to his shoulder when deceased fell. As soon as he saw CROCKER fall he lowered his gun. The attendant was at that time engaged in re-loading. Witness could not say which gun wounded deceased. He was standing close to Boyce, and he did not believe it was his gun, because the muzzle was pointing straight at the eggs, and CROCKER was a considerable distance to the left of Boyce. The egg which Boyce was firing at was on the right side of the booth. When the man fell, witness told Boyce to hold on to his rifle, as he (witness) thought it was loaded. He did so, but the proprietor of the booth subsequently took it from his hands. As far as he (witness) knew, no one examined the rifle. The deceased was standing quite still when he was shot. The egg which Boyce was going to fire at was intact. - Dr Watson, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased was brought to the Institution about 8 o'clock on Saturday, but he did not see him until the next evening. He was attended at first by Dr Thistle. When witness examined him he found that he had a small circular wound on the right side of the neck, about one inch from the lower lobe of the ear, and some little distance behind it. The wound passed straight into the neck for a distance of 2 to 2 ½ inches. There was no sign of burning around the wound. Deceased was suffering from paralysis of the right arm and leg and partial paralysis of the left arm and leg. He was quite conscious. Witness asked him how the accident happened, and he replied, "A stranger shot me; it was no one connected with the booth." The man died on Tuesday morning from injury to the spine and paralysis of the organs of respiration. As the result of a post mortem examination he found that the wound was a straight one through the muscles of the neck to the spine which was shattered at the second vertebra and had caused pressure on the spinal cord. To this was due the paralysis. - The Coroner: It really broke his neck. - Witness: Yes; but death was due to the injury to the organs of respiration. - The Coroner: Was the wound a perfectly horizontal one? - Dr Watson: Yes. - The Coroner: Then the shot must have been fired from the same level as the man's neck? - Dr Watson: Yes. - By Superintendent Roberts: About two seconds would elapse between the time a man was shot and his fall. The bullet had not been found. - Joseph Millman, labourer, Cockington, stated that he went to the shooting gallery with Boyce soon after six o'clock. Boyce had a dozen shots, and then waited for some time when he commenced shooting again. He had fired four or five shots, when the young man fell. Boyce had a loaded gun in his hand, but he had not aimed, although the gun was pointing at the egg. He was positive Boyce's gun did not shoot CROCKER, for he subsequently saw the charge extracted by the son of the proprietor of the gallery. Boyce held the gun for some time, and when Ware demanded it, Boyce told him to examine it. He then extracted a full cartridge. He was sure it was not an empty cartridge case. - One of the rifles was produced, and Inspector Bond said the magazine rifle was also used. - The Coroner: The same kind as was used in the case of the man who was killed at Brixham. They will kill a man at 100 yards. - Witness further stated that Boyce demanded to have the charge drawn from the gun in his presence. Witness was close by, and would swear Boyce's gun was not fired. - Thomas Ware, manager of Ware's shooting gallery, stated that he saw nothing whatever of the accident. CROCKER had been in his father's employ since Good Friday and had been engaged as attendant. Witness, upon first hearing of the accident, went to the shooting gallery, and took a gun from the hands of a gentleman who had been shooting. - The Coroner: Didn't he hold on to the gun and refuse to give it up? - Witness: No. - The Coroner: did you examine the gun? - Witness: Yes, and I extracted the empty cartridge case. - The Coroner: You do not know the man? - Witness: No. - The man Boyce was called in and witness declined to swear to him, saying it was a time of great excitement. - The Coroner: Being so excited are you sure that the man who had the gun did not refuse to let you have it, and are you sure you didn't extract a full cartridge? - Witness: I did not. The only full cartridge I had was one I took up from the filling box to show the doctor. - The Coroner: Did you show the empty cartridge to Boyce? - Witness: No, I did not. - The Coroner: And why did you not, when the man was under the suspicion of having shot a man? - Witness: I was too much excited. - The Coroner: Did you keep the cartridge? - Witness: No, it flew out of the gun. These guns are self-extractors. - The Coroner: You did not take it out with your fingers? - Witness: No, it fell. - The Coroner: And yet you say you know it was an empty cartridge. - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner: You merely judged it to be empty as it fell? - Witness: No, an empty cartridge falls of its own accord, but a full one is tight and will jamb. - The Coroner: And yet you mean to swear - Witness: I can speak to any gentleman in this country. - The Foreman: I think you should be a little more respectful. - Witness: I don't like anyone to be too obstinate. - The Coroner: Was there anyone present when you extracted the cartridge? - Witness: Yes, but they were strangers to me. - Millman was recalled, but Ware said he did not recollect his being present. - By the Foreman: He did not examine any other gun but that in the hands of the stranger. - Florence Ware, sister-in-law of the last witness, said she saw Boyce shooting from her van. She walked towards the gallery to receive the money, and when she reached the corner, Boyce fired his seventh shot. Just before he pulled the trigger, CROCKER stepped out from his place by the side of the booth and endeavoured to place an egg on the water with his hand. At the same moment she heard the report of Boyce's gun, and CROCKER dropped. She saw the blood coming from his neck and fainted. - The Coroner: Was this man Boyce a good shot. - Witness: Yes; he knocked off three out of five eggs at least. - The Coroner: Were you at the gallery at all? - Witness: Yes; I came down from my van to take the money from the attendant. - The Coroner: Didn't you tell the police you knew nothing whatever about this? - Witness: No. - The Coroner: You had better be careful. Do you wish us to believe what you have stated? - Witness: You must please your own mind about that, but, so help me God, I am telling the truth. - The Coroner: You are not aware that the man was lying, after he was shot, close to the left hand side of the booth. - William H. Satterford, pensioner, said just before the man CROCKER fell, Boyce had the gun in his hand, but he was not aiming, nor did his gun point in Crocker's direction. When deceased fell, he was quite out of the line of fire, and all the eggs were intact. Witness could not tell from which gun the fatal shot proceeded. He heard from Millman that Boyce had lately left the Army. - William John Boyce was called, and the Coroner told him he was not bound to give evidence or make any statement without he felt inclined to do so. - Boyce: I would rather not, if I am not compelled to do so. - John Thomas Ripley, the outside attendant, expressed a desire to make a statement. He said Boyce had 1s. worth of shots and then went away. He returned and had several shots when CROCKER came forward and put in an egg with his hand. Witness cautioned him, but soon after he repeated what he had previously done. Mrs Ware shouted to him, "Get out of the way, or you will get shot." With the same CROCKER dropped. Witness was on the left hand side of the saloon extracting an empty cartridge from a gun. Deceased staggered back before he fell. Boyce was taking aim at one of the eggs at the time of the occurrence and CROCKER was endeavouring to replace one which he had knocked off at the previous shot. Witness always waited for a customer to fire his shot before loading the second gun. - Boyce subsequently apologised to the Coroner, and said he had previously misunderstood his meaning. He now wished to make a statement. Deceased put the egg in on the right hand side of the booth and returned to the left hand side. Witness was firing at the egg on the right, but before he could aim or place the rifle near his shoulder CROCKER fell. The muzzle of the gun he (witness) had was at that time pointing in the air. Witness returned the gun to Mr Ware in a loaded condition. He took out the cartridge. - The Coroner: Was that a good cartridge? - Witness: Yes, sir. - The Coroner: Did you examine it? - Witness: No. - A Juror: Did you tell Ware the gun was loaded? - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner: What did he say: did he deny it? - Witness: No sir. - The Coroner: How far is this from the highway? - Inspector Bond: Five or six yards. - The Coroner: It is contrary to the Towns and Police Clauses Act. - Superintendent Roberts: I think that says who "wantonly" uses fire arms. - The Coroner: Are these people licensed? - Inspector Bond: Yes. This shooting takes place on the highway at fairs and regattas. - The Coroner: Have the people who fire these guns licenses for fire-arms? - Superintendent Roberts: It is not necessary. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the evidence was very contradictory and unsatisfactory. The main point for the Jury to satisfy their minds upon was whether the evidence pointed to the fact of there being culpable negligence in the use of the gun, in consequence of which the deceased was killed. If there had been gross negligence it was very material to know who fired the shot, but if there was no evidence of negligence it would not be absolutely necessary to do so. All the independent evidence was on one side, and pointed to the fact that the shot from Boyce's gun did not kill CROCKER. He (the Coroner) would like to mention as a matter of public interest that that was the fourth Inquest he had held during quite a short period upon persons who had been killed by bullets discharged from guns in shooting booths. He felt strongly that the way these booths were allowed to be managed was a standing danger to the public. They saw every day these booths pitched down in some public place in which crowds collected, and they saw the attendants waving their loaded guns about and asking passers by to take a shot. At Brixham a man was shot dead in the crowd. He felt very strongly that the shooting galleries should be much more strictly regulated in the interests of the safety of the public. It appeared to him to be distinctly illegal for these booths to be allowed on the public highway, or within 50 feet of it, as the Highway Act, and the Towns and Police Clauses Act, made it an offence to wantonly discharge fire-arms within that distance of the highway. It seemed to him that the authorities could put a stop to the dangerous practice. When it was known that there had been four deaths within a short period he thought it was time to do something and make some representation to the proper quarters. If rifles were to be discharged by all sorts of persons in crowded thoroughfares, accidents would happen. Whether there was sufficient power or not under the existing law to include these booths was a question, but he thought if the Chief Constable gave instructions to the police to take steps in the matter, something might be done. - The Jury retired, and on returning gave as their verdict, that deceased met his death by a rifle shot Accidentally Fired, but there was no evidence to show by whom. they also found that the independent testimony clearly proved that the shot was not fired by Boyce. As a rider they asked the Coroner to make a representation to the proper quarters as to the loose way these shooting booths were conducted on public holidays and other occasions. - The Inquiry lasted four hours and a quarter.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 June 1897
TORQUAY - Fatal Fall At Ellacombe. The Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room, last evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry respecting the death of GRACE PRIDHAM, 73, widow, of 18 Waterloo Road, who died on Wednesday. Mr W. Blackler was elected Foreman of the Jury. - FREDERICK PRIDHAM, French polisher, identified the body as that of his mother, who had lived with him for the past ten months. An accident happened to her on the 28th of May, but prior to that deceased had been somewhat strange in her manner, although she showed no signs whatever of a suicidal tendency. About 2.30 a.m. on the 28th of May, he was aroused from his bed by a policeman who told him that there was a woman lying injured in his back yard. He went into the yard and found his mother lying there in her night-dress. Her bedroom window which was about 3ft. from the floor was open, but the back door was bolted. Deceased's bed had been slept in. He sent for a doctor at once. His mother had told him how that she found herself in the yard, but she did not know how she got there. - P.C. Podger said his attention was attracted to the yard at the back of Waterloo Road, by the rattling of a bucket. He went in and found deceased lying in her nightdress, quite helpless. He asked her how she came there, and she said, "I have fallen from the wall." On looking up he saw that there was an open window, about 14 feet above, but a person falling from it would have her fall broken by a zinc roof. Witness called up MR PRIDHAM, and helped him carry the woman to her bedroom, where he noticed that the chair was standing close to the open window. Subsequently he fetched a doctor. - MRS PRIDHAM corroborated her husband's statement. - Dr Cook said he had attended deceased for senile decay and mental weakness. She had no suicidal tendency. About three o'clock on the morning of the 28th May, he was called to see deceased, who he found suffering from shock and concussion of the brain and several wounds. She pulled round under his care until last Sunday. On Tuesday apoplexy set in and she died on Wednesday morning. Death was due to shock to the system, followed by apoplexy. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and gave their fees towards the burial of deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 June 1897
ST MARYCHURCH - Inquest At St. Marychurch. - At the Palk Arms Hotel, St. Marychurch, on Thursday morning, an Inquiry was held by the County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, into the circumstances attending the death of THOMAS WEBBER, 83, retired farmer, of Trumland Terrace, who died on the previous day. On Friday last, deceased was walking in his garden when he stumbled and fell, striking his head against a stone which bordered the path. The injury he sustained was thought by his friends to be slight, but he subsequently became very ill and died on Wednesday from concussion of the brain. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - At the Upton School last evening, Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MARTHA CAROLINE AUSTIN, 70, of Sandhill-road, Ellacombe, who died at the Torbay Hospital. Dr Andrews had been attending MRS AUSTIN for some time, and advised her to go to the Torbay Hospital and undergo an operation. She and her friends consented, and on going to the institution a consultation was held between the medical staff, with the result that it was decided to administer an anaesthetic, consisting of alcohol, chloroform, and ether, which was considered to be safest. Just before it was administered, however, MRS AUSTIN died and the doctors attributed her death to exhaustion, she having been in a very weak condition before entering the hospital. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 July 1897
TORQUAY - The Fatality At The electric Light Works. The Inquest. - On Friday afternoon the County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN MADDICK, carter, who was killed on the previous morning at the electric light station near the Bath Saloon. The Jury met at the cellars, and after viewing the scene of the occurrence, went to the Upton Parish Room to hear the evidence. - George Treleaven, labourer, 21, Church Lane, the first witness called, identified the body as that of his brother-in-law. He was 27 years of age, and left a widow and three children. - Samuel Blatchford, 1, Jubilee Terrace, Upton, stated that he was a builder and that deceased was in his employ as a carter. He was drawing "deads" from the cellar to a tip at Upton. Witness held a contract under the Town Council to remove the first floor and beams from No. 10 cellar. When the accident occurred the floor and four beams had been removed. The beams were of oak, fastened together in pairs, and were about 10ft. from the ground. Seven men were engaged in removing the fifth beam on the morning of the occurrence. Witness arrived at the cellar at 9.30, when the men had got one end of the beam clear and the other end nearly so. One end was resting on the floor and the other upon the recess in the wall. Between two iron girders supporting the roof was a stout piece of timber, to which the beam being lowered was attached with a rope and chain working through a block. The rope, be believed, was six times round, and the chain doubled. Witness warned the men to be careful in slewing around the free end. when the beam was entirely free it swung round, and suspended by the rope and chain balanced longitudinally. It hung there about a second or two when the rope gave way, snapping in two or three places. The beam dropped, but at the time witness did not see deceased standing in the cellar, nor did he know that he was there. Deceased had no right in the building. He had strict orders to clear off until the beam was down. When witness saw deceased last he was outside. Hearing a cry that there was a man under the beam all lent a hand to free him. Witness ran for a cab and went with deceased to the Hospital. He was insensible, and his injuries appeared to be on the left side. Witness knew what rope was being used for the work. It was two inches in circumference, and it was known as a scaffold rope. It was supposed to be capable of suspending a ton weight singly. It had been in use about two years. Witness gave no instructions about doubling the rope. That was left to the Foreman, whom he considered to be thoroughly trustworthy. Deceased could not have entered the building to help lower the beam. - By a Juror: He considered the rope quite strong enough to lower the beam if placed six times round it. The weight of the beam was about 25 cwt., and the rope three times round ought to have carried it. It was not an universal practice to use chains for heavy weights. - Dr Watson, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, stated that deceased was admitted a few minutes before ten o'clock on the 8th inst. He was suffering from severe injuries, the most serious of which was a fracture at the base of the skull. There was also a compound fracture of the left arm from which the skin was torn, and the right leg was broken. He died at 12.30 from the injuries described. - Edward Lee, mason, said he was engaged in helping to lower the beam. He was not aware that he was in charge of the work, but he gave orders and they were obeyed. Before freeing the beam they raised it to see if the rope and chain were all right. The rope was tested the same morning, and was wound six times round the beam. The same rope doubled the same number of times had been used for the other beams. Witness considered that a rope was quite as safe as a chain. There was no flaw where the rope gave way. When deceased arrived with his horse and cart, he was told by Mr Blatchford's son to keep outside, because they were about to lower the beam. Witness also told him to leave, and saw him go immediately after the beam was swung round. To have got underneath deceased must have re-entered at once. The rope broke in five or six places at the same moment. He did not think it was rotten. - Mr H. Andrews, carpenter at the theatre, and one of the Jury, was asked by the Coroner if he thought there was anything the matter with the rope. He replied that it was very good both at the heart and outside. there might have been a turn or two slack, which threw the extra strain upon the other portion. To get them all to bear alike, it would be necessary to get on the top of the beam and knock them level with a mallet. - Lee, continuing, said that the man who was lowering the beam was standing on it. He fell and was injured. It was not so dangerous to stand on the beam as it was to stand under it. - John Babbage, the man who was lowering the beam, said he got off the other beams before they swung, but with the fifth it slipped out before he had orders to clear. - Percival Storey, the representative of Mr Trentham, consulting engineer of the works, said he heard deceased ordered to remain outside. He just have gone straight in as the beam was falling. He considered the tackle used quite trustworthy. With a swing a rope was safer that a chain. - The Coroner remarked that it was a matter of public interest, and if anyone had any evidence to give it would be accepted. - Ernest Blatchford, son of the contractor, stated that he ordered deceased to keep out of the cellar. - Mr G. Pratt, a Juror, was not satisfied that the rope was strong enough for the purpose and Henry Toop, surveyor, was called to give expert evidence upon the point. He stated that the proof strain of the rope produced was 84 cwt. on the swing. He would not have hesitated to swing three tons on the rope six times round. He attributed the accident to the twisting of the rope through the swinging of the beam. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed the opinion that no blame was attached to anyone. They gave their fees to the window, who is left with three children, the eldest of whom is only four years old. - The funeral took place on Monday, at the Cemetery, and was attended by Alderman Kerswill, Chairman of the electric Lighting Committee of the Town Council, and Mr Storey, the representative of the Electrical Engineer, Mr Trentham. Mr Blatchford bore the funeral expenses.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 July 1897
TORQUAY - Suicide At Torre. A Young Lady Hangs Herself. - At the Clarence Hotel, last evening, the Deputy Coroner, Mr Michelmore, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of KATE BOUSFIELD, 26, a single young lady, who was living with her parents and sister at No. 9 Bay View Terrace, Crown Hill, Torre and was found hanging to the balustrade about noon on Wednesday by her mother and sister, who had gone out shopping about two hours previously, leaving her alone in the house. - Alderman Mortimer was elected Foreman of the Jury. - ALICE BOUSFIELD, sister of the deceased, stated that she last saw her sister alive about 10 o'clock on the previous evening. Witness, her mother, father and sister came from Bermuda, West Indies; her sister was ill with a kind of jaundice. On arrival in Torquay deceased became very depressed and took an idea into her head that they were very poor, which was not the case. On Wednesday morning she was rather brighter than usual. About ten o'clock witness and her mother went out, leaving deceased in the house alone. They returned about twelve o'clock and knocked at the front door, which was locked, but could make no one hear. Witness remained at the front door whilst her mother walked round to the back, and passing through the passage, opened the front door to witness and let her in. She heard her mother calling "KATE" as she passed through the hall, and immediately arrived at the conclusion that something had happened. She had only taken a step or two inside the door when she saw her sister hanging from the balustrade above. Thinking that she had fallen over and been caught around the neck by accident, witness raised her sister's feet, but she did not discover that she was hanging by a rope until her mother, by undoing the rope, let the body fall on to the stairs. Witness screamed for help after trying to revive her sister with water, but as no one came she eventually ran into the street and called in a man who was at work in the street. She sent for a doctor, who arrived about a quarter of an hour after witness entered the house. She had heard deceased wish herself dead, but she had never threatened to destroy herself. The illness from which her sister had suffered lasted for about a month. - Dr Howse stated that he was called to 9 Bay View Terrace at ten minutes past twelve. He saw the body of the young woman, who had apparently been dead for two hours, death being due to asphyxia, caused by hanging. - In reply to Mr Staten (a Juror) witness said heat apoplexy and such like diseases in tropical climates frequently had an effect on the mind. Detective Gregory stated that when he arrived at Bay View Terrace the body was in the front room. She had a black mark on her neck. The rope was still hanging to the stair rail. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane." Through their Foreman, the Jury expressed their sympathy with the relatives of the deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 August 1897
ROSEASH - Distressing Accident. - An Inquest was held on Saturday on the body of ERNEST EDWIN COCKRAM, son of a farmer at Roseash, who was accidentally shot by his brother. Deceased, with his father and brother, was a member of West Somerset Yeomanry, and they were practising shooting at a private target when deceased, who was believed to be on another part of the farm, got in the line of fire, and was hit. The Jury found that the occurrence was accidental, but condemned the use of private targets.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 August 1897
Sad Bathing Fatality. Three Lives Lost. - MR THOMAS ROBERTS, head master of Compton School, (and brother of MR ROBERTS, head master of Upton National School, Torquay,) his son, a boy of 13, and another lad, were drowned on Monday afternoon under most distressing circumstances. MR ROBERTS had gone with his family to Bantham to spend the vacation. They were accompanied by Mrs Duff, widow, and son of the late Mr Hugh Duff, accountant, Plymouth, and were spending a very quiet and pleasant holiday. On Monday they had a visit from Mrs George Duncan, who lives in the neighbourhood of St Jude's, Plymouth, and who was spending the holidays at Bigbury. MRS DUNCAN was accompanied by her son, a boy about thirteen years of age. The party arranged to have dinner on the cliffs, and while it was being prepared the children went to bathe. At the time the water was perfectly smooth, and there was no reason to apprehend danger. In a few minutes, however, rollers began to break on the shore. The attention of MR ROBERTS was called to the fact that his son was in danger. He at once ran down to the sands, and without taking off his clothes commenced to walk towards the lad. MRS ROBERTS also rushed into the water calling her husband to come back. He, however, continued to struggle towards the lad, and was within a few feet of him when both disappeared. The under current, which was very strong, carried MRS ROBERTS off her feet, and it was with great difficulty that she struggled back to the land. In the meantime the two other boys, JAMES DUNCAN and Hugh Duff, were in difficulties. Duff was able to swim, but DUNCAN could not, and he clung to his companion's back with a tenacity which threatened to drown them both. Indeed, both had sunk when some ladies on the beach succeeded in clutching Duff and dragging him in. DUNCAN had then loosened his hold and disappeared. The body of MR ROBERTS was recovered in about ten minutes. It was much bruised about the chest, apparently through contact with the rocks. Artificial respiration was tried for about two hours, but without avail. The body of DUNCAN was also quickly found, but that of HERBERT ROBERTS was not recovered until late in the afternoon, when it was washed by the tide into the River Avon near the village. Other bathers at the time had a difficulty in reaching the shore. Amongst them was Miss Nicholls, a visitor. She is an expert swimmer, but the backwash was so strong that she was in some danger. Mr Martin, an ex-coast-guardsman, assisted in rescuing her, and in throwing her a lifebuoy was himself carried off his feet, and struggled ashore with difficulty. - The Inquest was held on Wednesday and the Jury returned a verdict that THOMAS ROBERTS was Accidentally Drowned whilst attempting to save the lives of his son and JAMES DUNCAN; and that HERBERT ROBERTS and JAMES DUNCAN were Accidentally Drowned whilst bathing. They added a recommendation that notice boards be placed on the Ham, stating that it was sometimes dangerous to bathe there, and that life lines be placed within easy reach.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 September 1897
TORQUAY - Sudden Death In Warren Road. The Inquest. A Remarkable Witness. - At Upton Parish Room on Friday evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of HANNAH PETHEBRIDGE, a married woman, living apart from her husband at Steps Cottage, the residence of her brother, FRANCIS GODFREY, a naval pensioner, in Warren Road, who died on the previous day somewhat suddenly. - Francis Godfrey was the first witness called, and although he gave some remarkable answers to questions put him, he and witnesses who followed showed that he had acted very kindly and generously to deceased. When called upon by the Coroner to swear that he would tell "the truth," the whole truth and nothing but the truth, he asked the Coroner if he thought he was going to tell lies. - Who is the person lying dead? asked the coroner; Your sister is she not? - I couldn't swear to that sir, replied the witness, but I have always appreciated her as such. - What was her age? - I'm 59, and she was two years younger. - No older? - don't you think that old enough sir. - She looks older. - that's her own fault, sir; I'm only 59. - Well you ought to know your own age. - I should be an intelligent man if I did not. If anybody knew better they would be wise, upon my word. - She was a married woman? - Well I couldn't swear to that sir. - But her name was GODFREY and now its PETHEBRIDGE. - Oh, yes, but many people take other names as a matter of convenience. - But I suppose she was married? - At any rate we will take it that she was. - There's a man (pointing to MR PETHEBRIDGE) who says he's her husband. You'll hear his pedigree directly. - Who did your sister live with? - By herself. - Not with you? - How could she? She was one and I another. She had an apartment below and I had one above. I used t run errands for her. A few days ago she found fault with her room and I accommodated her with a room above. - When did she die? - Ah! that's another query. I was not there when she died altogether. - I don't want to lose patience with you, but you must answer the questions. - You raise a very difficult point, sir. - Who looked after her? - I tried to do what I could for her. - Had she any friends? - Not to my knowledge. - Any relations besides you? - They didn't come and see her anyhow. I used to get her what she wanted. - How did she live? - Had a little money hadn't she? - Now, sir, I don't want to go into money affairs. That was a thing she wouldn't tell me. - Had she means? - I couldn't tell you. I used to give her what I could spare. - Did she receive parish pay? - She didn't tell me so, sir. - You would know if she did. You lived with her. She slept in your room. - Good gracious, no sir. In the next room. - How do you live? - The Old Lady (the Queen) sends me money every quarter. I served twenty years in the navy for her. - Did your sister get any money from her husband? - Couldn't tell you, that's another mysterious affair. - Had she enough to buy food? - I gave her £3 last quarter. - You used to find her money? - Certainly. She was a sister of mine. - then she had not wanted for anything recently? - I don't know sir; I was not with the good lady. - didn't you see her every day? - How could I when she was hidden away in her little tenement? - did you know that she was ill? - Well, sir, she had been ill all my lifetime. - Do you know when she took to her bed? - She was in bed nearly all her time. - What was the matter with her? - Can't tell you. She used to say she had a spitting cough, and I used to say, "Well, here's some liquorice for 'he." - Did you know she was dying? - How could I, I'm not a doctor. - People, other than doctors, can tell when their sisters are dying. - They must be intelligent beings and no mistake! - Did you know that she was seriously ill? - I thought she was, and ran for a doctor, but could not find one. That was yesterday afternoon. I asked her to go to the Infirmary but she refused. - Can you explain to the Jury why you did not call in a doctor three days before? - I asked her to have a doctor and she said "No." You understand that, mister. It was no good for me to go to a doctor, she would not let him in. I could not do anything without her orders, I asked her to have a doctor on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. - You'll swear that? - Yes, do you think I'd say so if it was not true. I wanted her to go to the cemetery - no, not the cemetery - the infirmary, but she would not. Her words to me were, "The doctor troubles one's brain very much; I don't want him." - When did she eat her last meal? - Oh, good night, sir, now you are asking me a question! I was not watching her all the time. - But if she was in your room you could not help seeing what she did? - Well, she'd eat a little bit and then drink a little bit. I used to make broth for her. I boiled a good basinful for her and what could I do more? - Was she in bed when she died? - Yes, but her legs were just out over. - A Juryman: Was she attended by a nurse? - No, she would have nobody but me. - The Coroner: What did you do when you found that she was dead? - I don't know whether tears came into my eyes, sir, I did not think she would go off so quickly. - Did you tell anybody? - I went down and got a policeman, I also went to get a doctor but he was not at home. Dr Lombe was in, but he would not come, he said he was out of practice. - The Coroner: It was no good going for a doctor if she was dead. - That's what I thought afterwards. - Was she undressed? - She did not tell me. I don't think she had had her clothes off for twelve months. In fact I had never seen her with her clothes off. - Was she alone in her bedroom? - Yes. When she wanted anything she used to sing out, "Uncle" - she called me uncle - and I used to go in. When the old lady was very bad I ran for Mrs Dennis to look after her while I fetched the doctor, but the doctors were all gone out of practice. My sister said "What can a doctor do for me?" - Elizabeth Dennis, a neighbour, said that the last witness requested her to see deceased on the previous Saturday. She was not seriously ill then, but witness asked her to have a doctor. She refused. On the previous afternoon she was again called by Mr Godfrey, and she looked after deceased while he went for a doctor. She called for "Frank" and "Sam" just before she died. She occupied a large room, had plenty to eat, and appeared to be quite comfortable. The brother and sister lived on very friendly terms. She would not allow anybody but her brother to do things for her. - Dr Eales stated that the immediate cause of death was syncope, but deceased was very consumptive and extremely emaciated. - SAMUEL GERMON PETHEBRIDGE, seaman, stated that he married deceased twenty-seven years ago. They separated five years since, but he saw her three weeks before she died. She had money left her by her grandfather. The Jury found that Death was due to Natural Causes.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 September 1897
INSTOW - Fatality To A Torquay Waiter. - Mr J. F. Bromham, Coroner, Inquired on Monday into the death of RICHARD KING, 47, waiter at the Marine Hotel, Instow. KING was found dead at the bottom of a staircase at his lodgings on Sunday. Mr E. Nicholls, proprietor of the hotel, said he was called to the house where deceased lodged, and found him fully dressed at the foot of the staircase. There were pieces of candlestick lying about. He fetched Dr Mahood, who expressed his opinion that death had taken place some hours. The stair was somewhat steep, and had a bend. Deceased, who had a wife and family at Torquay, was steady and well conducted, and there had been no unpleasantness. John Ridge, with whom deceased lodged, deposed that witness and his wife went to bed before KING came in. About six o'clock on Sunday morning he went to call deceased, and finding the bed had not been used went downstairs. He found a box of matches before coming to the bend, and afterwards saw KING lying on the stone floor of the kitchen. He was dead. During the week he was with them deceased had not been the worse for liquor. Dr Mahood (Appledore) after a post mortem examination, said there was an extensive fracture of the skull, with a large effusion of blood on the surface of the brain sufficient to account for a speedy death. Even if medical aid had been immediately given KING'S life could not have been saved. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. Deceased only left Torquay a short time ago, after being out of employment for a considerable period. He resided in the Tor Church Road, and leaves a wife and one child, who are totally unprovided for, both at the present time being in delicate health.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 October 1897
TORQUAY - Fatal Trap Accident At Torre. The Inquest. - At the Clarence Hotel on Monday, Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ANNA MABEL SYMONS, 24, wife of JOHN SYMONS, tailor, of Victoria Street, Paignton, and daughter of Mr R. Harris, builder, of Paignton, who met with her death on Saturday in a carriage accident in the Avenue Road. - Mr T. Beckett was Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness was Richard Harris, builder, of 11 Adelphi Villas, Paignton, who said the deceased was his daughter. On Saturday morning he took his wife, the deceased and her infant daughter for a carriage drive to Hexter and Humpherson's brickworks, near Kingsteignton, in a four-wheeled pony carriage, to which was attached a pony about 14 hands high. On the return journey they had tea at Newton Abbot, starting for Paignton late in the afternoon. At Kingskerswell he picked up a young fellow named Motts, whom he was acquainted with. Just after passing Torre Station and opposite the Clarence Hotel, the horse, which was trotting at a rate of from four to five miles an hour, shied and bolted down the road at a fast trot. He had the animal well in hand, but could not pull it up. Just below the entrance to Torre Park Road, and near Kildare, his daughter became very much frightened, and without giving the slightest warning of her intention, jumped from the trap with her baby in her arms. Deceased was sitting with her back to the pony, and as she jumped out she screamed. Witness's wife shouted out, "She is killed," and fearing that she too would jump from the trap, he managed to pull the pony in alongside the hedge of Torre Park Nursery. His wife jumped out on one side and Motts on the other. Whilst they were getting out he held the reins, and as soon as they were in the street the pony started off again. In endeavouring to pull it up the reins broke and witness, who hung on to one rein for some time, jumped out and was pulled along for some distance before leaving go. If all in the vehicle had kept their seats he felt persuaded no accident would have happened. His daughter was of a very nervous temperament. he had had the pony 12 or 14 years and it had never bolted before. His opinion was that the animal endeavoured to turn into the Clarence stable yard, and when he pulled it around the fore part of the carriage touched its leg and startled it. On returning to the spot where his daughter jumped out he found her lying in the road quite insensible. With assistance, he conveyed her to Kildare, the residence of Mr Evans, close by, and sent off for a medical man. - Thomas Howell, Rose Cottage, Higher Bronshill Road, said he saw the deceased fall from the trap. He ran to her assistance, and waited with her until her father came back. - Mrs Bessie Inch, who resides at the Clarence Hotel stables, said she arrived on the scene of the accident just as deceased was picked up. She was quite insensible. Upon the arrival of the doctor, he ordered that MRS SYMONS should be taken into the house of Mr Evans. Witness attended to her up to the time of her death. - Dr Howse said when he first saw deceased, she was lying in the road in a comatose condition, suffering from concussion of the brain. He ordered her removal to the house near by, where she died about an hour and half afterwards from compression of the brain as the result of the blow she received. - George Fey, cabinet maker, 1 Park Vale, Avenue Road, said he saw the vehicle pass his window at a great pace. He noticed that there were four people and a child in the conveyance, but the driver seemed to have control. Just after he heard a scream, and on going into the street saw deceased and her child lying in the road some few yards down. - Mr Harris, recalled, said the child was not hurt in the least, and he attributed his daughter's severe injury to the fact that she had her arms tied by the child, and could not break her fall. - P.C. Bradford said he saw the pony attached to the trap near Corbyn Head. It was going at a gallop. He managed to get to the horse's head and stop it just as it was about to collide with a miller's waggon. - The Coroner, in summing up, said it was always a risky thing to drive a four-wheeled trap, containing a number of people downhill without a brake. The conduct of the constable in stopping the horse was very plucky indeed, considering the pace it was going at, and he undoubtedly by his promptitude prevented other accidents. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and the Foreman said they wished to commend P.C. Bradford for the plucky way in which he stopped the runaway horse, at the risk of his own life. He (the Foreman) was close by at the time, and he considered that the constable's prompt act prevented other serious accidents, as there was a deal of traffic in the road at the time. The Coroner said he would forward a report of the constable's plucky action to the Superintendent of Police, through whom, no doubt, it would reach the Chief Constable.

TORQUAY - The Berry Head Fatality. - On Monday Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, resumed the Inquiry relative to the death of GEORGE H. MILLMAN, drowned from the fishing ketch Louis, which went ashore at Berry Head on September 1st. - Samuel dyer and George Dyer, the second and third hands of the Louie, deposed that when the Louie went ashore a boatman named Adams, who was near in a small boat, in which were two gentlemen, did not do all that he might have done to save the boy, and that if he had pulled out to them he could have saved them. - John Mugford, second hand of the Leo, said he saw the Louie go ashore, and launched the small boat and tried to save the crew, but it was blowing so hard that two hands in his boat could not pull against the wind and sea. He would not for any money have gone out so far into the sea as Adams had done in his small boat. He was sure Adams did all he could to save the deceased. - Thomas Adams, fisherman, said the boat he was in with the two gentlemen was only 10 feet long, three feet beam, and about 14 or 16 inches deep. He tried all he knew to reach the poor fellows in the water, but the wind blew his paddles out of the rowlocks four times, and blew his boat back like a bladder. He did not get within fifty yards of the Louie, although he repeatedly tried to do so. - Mr T. E. Studdy said he was in the boat, and was landed with his friend by Adams to lighten the boat, so that Adams might go out to the rescue. Adams ran great risk in what he did in such a wind and sea. Major Hardon, the other gentleman in the boat, corroborated. - The Jury returned the following verdict:- "That GEORGE H. MILMAN was Accidentally Drowned by the stranding of the smack Louie at Berry Head on September 2st, 1897, and that the Jury exonerates Thomas Adams from all blame, he having used his utmost endeavours to render assistance, and would also express their admiration of the action of the crews of the trawlers Leo and Tommy Dodd." (Applause).

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 December 1897
TORQUAY - On Tuesday GEO. BASKWELL, labourer in the employ of Mr S. Hawkins, builder of Cockington, complained to his fellow workmen of feeling ill whilst employed at Sherrington House. A few minutes after he expired. Deceased was a widower, and was 60 years of age. Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest on the body at the Chelston Coffee Tavern on Wednesday evening, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 January 1898
TORQUAY - Inquest At Tor. A Juryman's Absence. - Mr Sidney Hacker, (Coroner), held an Inquest in Tor Parish Room, on Saturday, relative to the death of a nine weeks old female child of a bootmaker named WILLIAM HENRY SHEPHERD, of 3 Parkfield Cottages, Upton. The mother, BEATRICE ANNIE, went to bed on Friday night and at one o'clock on Saturday morning the little one was all right when she nursed it. Four hours later she was frightened to find it dead. Witness thought it had had a fit. - Dr Thistle considered death due to a convulsion and the Jury, of whom Mr Lawrence was Foreman, returned a verdict accordingly.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 January 1898
TORQUAY - Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Tuesday evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JAMES BRIDGETT, labourer, of No. 1, Higher Terrace Mews, who died suddenly on Sunday. Martha Legg, wife of Edwin Legg, boatman, identified the body as that of her father, who was 74 years of age. Deceased had lodged with her since last August, and had during that time been attended for lumbago. On Monday in last week he complained of shortness of breath, and she sent for Dr Pollard, who gave him a prescription. He, however, gradually got worse, and died on Sunday. Dr Pollard stated that he had made a post mortem examination, and found that death was due to pneumonia, pleurisy and inflammation of the lungs. The Coroner commented upon the fact that although deceased was in receipt of out-relief no parish doctor was called in. The Jury, of whom Mr W. Adams was the Foreman, returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 February 1898
TORQUAY - Sad Death Of MR G. L. POLLARD. The Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room, on Monday evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MR GEORGE LANG POLLARD, aged 55, late manager of the Torquay branch office of the Plymouth Breweries Company, 44 Fleet Street, who was found shot through the head in a lavatory on Saturday last at midday, and died at the Torbay Hospital, where he was removed, about an hour and a quarter afterwards. Mr Samuel D. Wyatt was elected Foreman of the Jury, and Mr G. T. Keppel appeared to represent the family of the deceased. - GEORGE GUSCOTTE POLLARD, son of the deceased, said he was a clerk in the employ of the Plymouth Breweries Company. The body lying at the mortuary was that of his father, who acted as manager of the Torquay Branch of the Plymouth Breweries. Witness was at the offices with his father on Saturday morning. Deceased started his ordinary work about 8.15. The auditor was in the office about 12.15, to audit the accounts to the end of the year. The Plymouth Breweries Company had acquired the Torquay Brewery Company's property about twelve months and this was the second audit, the first taking place in June last. About 12.30 the auditor called witness inside in reference to something in the books. He remained with him about half an hour, and was then directed to go and tell his father to bring in one of the account books. Witness went to his father's private office, and found him at the desk writing. He delivered his message, and his father replied, "All right I will be there in one minute." Before deceased could go to the auditor's room, the auditor came out into the general office, and his father came from his room, passed him and the auditor, returned again, and instead of going into his own office passed out at a side door, in the direction of the w.c. Within a very short time, less than a minute, witness and others in the office heard a noise. He rushed out to see what it was, but coming to the conclusion that it was something which had fallen in the brewery, he returned to his desk. The noise was such a strange one that it troubled him, and knowing that there was a revolver in an open drawer in his father's office he went there and found that it was missing. Running at once to the w.c., he saw his father lying on the floor. The door was fastened but not locked. His head and shoulders were resting against the post f the door, and he appeared to have fallen backwards. Witness ran off for a cab, and subsequently called the auditor and some men from the yard, who placed him in a cab in which he was conveyed to the Torbay Hospital. Witness saw the wound in the forehead, and also noticed that his father was not dead, for he was breathing heavily. Witness went to the hospital in the cab, but his father was quite unconscious. The pistol produced was the one kept at the office, and had been in his father's possession for many years. It had been in the drawer in his private office for fully twelve months. A little over a week ago, Mr Pullen, a junior clerk in the office, drew his attention to the fact that the revolver was loaded. On Friday last he mentioned the fact to his father that it was dangerous to leave a loaded revolver in an open drawer in that way. Deceased said it was, and added that he would draw the cartridges. His father used to keep the revolver in a drawer in his bedroom until about twelve months ago, when he took it out, and finding it was very rusty, sent it to a gunsmith to be cleaned. On its being returned he placed it in the office drawer. There were no cartridges kept there, but witness had since discovered a box of cartridges in another drawer, which was kept locked. He could give no reason for his father doing such a thing. He had no domestic or business troubles, and right up to the last moment he appeared to be bright and cheerful. His health was perfect; he had not seen a doctor for years. Not long before the occurrence he had lunch - a couple of sandwiches and a glass of ale. Nothing whatever had been found amongst deceased's papers to throw any light upon the matter. The change in the business had rather lessened than increased his father's work. The transfer occurred about twelve months ago, and he had quite fallen in with the new methods. Deceased must have had the pistol about his person before he went into the auditor's room, as he did not return to his office where it was kept prior to going to the w.c. The only solution to the mystery which he could suggest was whether his father, in attempting to draw the cartridges, met with an accident. - By a Juror: Has your father ever attempted to, or suggested that he would, take his life? - Witness: No; he laughed at suicide, and used to say he considered it most cowardly. - By Mr Keppel: His father expressed surprise at finding the revolver loaded when he (witness) spoke to him, and he thought it very probable that he put it in his pocket to draw the charge. - Dr Watson, house surgeon at the Hospital, stated that deceased was brought to the Institution about 1.15. He was quite insensible, suffering from a bullet wound in the right temple from which blood was oozing. He was obviously dying, and expired at 2.25. Death was due to effusion of blood on the brain. The bullet had not passed through the head, but had remained imbedded on the left side where it had fractured the skull. On making a post mortem examination he found that the skin around the wound was discoloured and burned which showed that the pistol had been discharged close to the head. The weapon must have been raised to an almost horizontal position when discharged. - By Mr Keppel: If a man had slipped and fallen with the pistol in his hand he might have caused the wound. - George William Tomlinson Burr, clerk in the employ of Messrs. Hibbert, Bull and Co., accountants and auditors, said he had been engaged in going through the books of the Torquay branch of the Plymouth Breweries Company. He had not completed the work, but so far as he had gone the books were correct. He had not, however, been able to make a sufficient examination to say positively that the accounts were accurate. Another week's work would be necessary before he could say that. Witness corroborated the evidence as to the occurrence given by the first witness. He was about to initiate MR POLLARD into a new system of cash book-keeping, similar to that adopted at Plymouth, and had sent his son to call him for that purpose. - George Herbert Pullen, clerk, said he saw the loaded pistol in the drawer about a month ago, and drew the attention of MR POLLARD, junr., to it. He said he would speak to his father about it. - Charles Hoskings, cooper, said he helped take the body to the cab. The revolver was found lying at MR POLLARD'S feet. - THOMAS HENRY POLLARD, bank clerk, Dorchester, eldest son of the deceased, said his father lent him the revolver some years ago. It was a very old-fashioned weapon and very awkward to manage. Whilst endeavouring to withdraw the cartridge on one occasion it went off and the bullet grazed his head. - Mr Samuel Vosper, managing director of the Plymouth Breweries co., said there had been three audits since the transfer of the Torquay business and everything had been found correct, although the system of book-keeping was different. Witness paid weekly visits to Torquay and always found money matters accurate. During that particular week deceased paid over £1,000 into the bank. Before the transfer MR POLLARD was under notice to leave, but he was re-engaged by the Company, his salary being the same with much less work to do. - Detective Pratt said he took charge of the revolver, which was a five chambered one. Four chambers were loaded, and in one there was an empty cartridge case. From the condition of the oil with which the cartridges were coated he thought the revolver had been loaded for some time. There was nothing on the body to throw any light upon the matter. - The Coroner in summing up, said the question for the Jury to decide was whether death was the result of an accidental or self inflicted wound. The position and condition of the wound had to be fully considered. It had been suggested that MR POLLARD might have tripped in a patent door fastener and fallen upon the pistol. That was within the bounds of possibility, but it was strange that deceased should have taken the pistol to the w.c. to unload it on what was the busiest and shortest day of the week, and just after he had been called by the auditor. In the past, deceased's accounts had been absolutely correct, and Mr Vosper had stated that he had paid large sums of money into the bank that week. Apparently deceased was in good health and his mind seemed to be sound. The Jury might deem it satisfactory before giving a verdict to hear the result of the audit, and if that was so it would be necessary to adjourn the Inquiry. - The Jury considered this advisable, and the Coroner ordered an adjournment of the Inquiry for a fortnight. - The funeral of MR POLLARD took place on Wednesday, at the Torquay Cemetery. The chief mourners were MESSRS. S. H. POLLARD, G. G. POLLARD and N. P. POLLARD, sons of the deceased and Mr W. Hodge, nephew. Employees at the Torquay Brewery acted as bearers. The Rev. P. W. Hemans officiated, and the arrangements in connection with the funeral were carried out by Mr G. H. Halls.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 February 1898
TORQUAY - The Death Of MR G. L. POLLARD. Adjourned Inquest. - The Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MR G. L. POLLARD, late manager of the Torquay Branch of the Plymouth Brewery, was resumed at the Upton Parish Room, by Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, on Monday evening. - Mr S. Vosper, managing director of the Plymouth Brewery Company, stated that the audit of the accounts had been completed. Everything was satisfactory and all the accounts as standing in the books were quite correct. On checking the cash deceased ought to have had in hand, there was a deficiency of £146 2s. 11d. There should have been £173 9s. 10d. in the cash box, but there was only £27 6s. 11d. The items making up this deficit were entered in the books. Witness had since found that deceased was in the habit of keeping his private cash with the money of the Company in the safe at the office. From the old directors he had discovered that MR POLLARD sometimes drew his salary three months ahead. To the end of last year the business of the Company was conducted upon the old system, but changes were being made at the time of the death of MR POLLARD. There was no concealment whatever in the books, every item had been entered as received in the cash book. Witness last checked the cash on the 22nd Nov., when there was £1 2s. 1d. in excess of what there should have been. At the time of MR POLLARD'S death he (witness) was not aware that he kept his private cash with that belonging to the Brewery. Deceased would know that he would have to make up the deficiency, but witness did not think it sufficient to lead him to take his life. The book sent for on the particular day would not have revealed the deficiency. He could have replaced the money and the Company would have known nothing about it. Certainly such a small deficiency would not lead a man to destroy his life. - The Coroner: That depends on the man. Some men have done it for very much less than that. Was deceased in any pecuniary difficulty? - Witness: I think not. According to his wife's statement he owed little or nothing. - The Coroner said it was for the Jury to say whether this deficiency provided the motive which impelled the deceased to take his life. - The Jury retired, and after being absent for over half an hour, the Foreman (Mr Wyatt) came back and said the Jury could not agree. - The Coroner: Then you will have to be bound over to appear at the assizes. - The Foreman returned to his fellow Jurors with the Coroner's message, but it produced no immediate result. After waiting another quarter of an hour, Mr Hacker sent a note to the Jury informing them that he could only wait ten minutes longer. Mr Wyatt came back and asked another question, the reply which came from the Coroner being "You bring in any verdict you like." - Eventually the Jury returned a verdict that deceased killed himself by shooting himself with a pistol.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 March 1898
TORQUAY - Burning Fatality At Babbacombe. The Inquest. Complaints Against A Doctor. - At the Upton Parish Room on Saturday, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner,. held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ADA JANE CLARK, aged four years, daughter of ADOLPHUS JOHN CLARK, coachman residing at Fore Street, Babbacombe, who died on the previous day at the Torbay Hospital, where she was removed on February 27th in consequence of her condition as the result of being severely burned on February 14th. Mr J. C. Hosking was elected Foreman of the Jury. - ADOLPHUS J. CLARK, father of the deceased, stated that on the 14th ult. he got up about 7 a.m. and lighted the fire in the kitchen. He was followed downstairs by his little daughter, whom he left sitting in a chair by the table close to a lighted candle, whilst he went to the back of the house. On his return he found her screaming and in flames. He put out the fire, but the little clothing the child had on was nearly destroyed, and her body was badly burnt. As soon as possible she was wrapped in sheets and taken to Dr Winter, who dressed the burns and arranged for the district nurse to call and attend to the child daily. The doctor called next day and asked to be sent for immediately if the child got worse. He was accordingly sent for on Thursday 24th, but did not do anything and they heard no more of him until the 26th, when he advised them to send the child to the Torbay Hospital. - The Coroner: Why did he not advise that in the first instance? - Witness: I don't know. - The Coroner: You appear to complain that Dr Winter did not take more trouble with the child? - Witness: Yes, I think he should have come and seen the child stripped sooner than he did, and not neglect to see it for twelve days like he did. - The Coroner: Dr Winter was attending the child for twelve days and if you were not satisfied with what he was doing you could have taken it to the hospital or to some other medical man. - Witness: He did not tell me how the child was going on and he did not ask me anything about it. - ELIZABETH CLARK, mother of deceased, said she first took the child to the Rosehill Nursery Hospital at Babbacombe, but they would not take it in as they had the fever there. She then took it to Dr Winter, who examined it and told her to put it to bed. He said she was to speak to the parish nurse, who would attend to the child. She did so, and the nurse came daily and dressed the burns. By the nurse's advice, Dr Winter was sent for on the Thursday, as the child became feverish. He did not examine the burns from the Monday until the following Sunday week, when the nurse told her she was going away. She wrote to the Vicar (the Rev. J. Hewitt), who wrote to Dr Winter and he came on Sunday and said the child had better be taken to the Torbay Hospital. The child could not eat or sleep. Amid tears witness added that she did not see the little one whilst it was at the Hospital, as she understood she was not to. - Dr Watson (House Surgeon at the Hospital) said when admitted the child was suffering badly from burns about the left side of the body. They were not extensive, but deep and dangerous and the child was sick, restless, and sleepless. It was nursed most carefully, but died on Friday afternoon. As to the statement of the mother that she was not to see the child there must have been some misapprehension, because he never gave any orders to that effect. Indeed, he would have been pleased for her to see the child, but he thought the father said something about the child not being disturbed. - The Father: I thought she would be best quiet. - In reply to questions, Dr Watsons aid the child was unable to retain food; they could only give it milk and brandy. Its condition when admitted was such that it required careful medical treatment, but he could not say that it had been starved at all. - In reply to inquiries, Inspector Bond said Dr Pitt Palmer resided within a hundred yards of CLARK'S house, and Dr Finch lived but half the distance to Dr Winter's house. - A Juryman asked why Dr Winter and the nurse were not present. - The Coroner replied that they had had sufficient evidence of death, and the nurse was at present away. - Mr A. Bown (a Juror): Why is Dr Winter not here? - The Coroner: That is his business. You have the doctor's evidence of the treatment during the last five days, and that is sufficient. - Mr Bown: I think Dr Winter should be here. (Hear, hear.) - Inspector Bond: We never summon more than one medical man without an order from the Coroner. - The Coroner: If there are any allegations against Dr Winter, he could have been here if he thought it necessary to meet them. He might have been here if he had known of these allegations. When a medical man takes charge of a case you must leave it in his hands. - Mr Bown: When a medical man takes charge of a case he should carry it out properly. I don't think he has in this case. - The Coroner: You must assume that he has. If it was a parish doctor then in the interest of the public you can inquire whether he does his work properly, and it would be the duty of the Jury to inquire into the matter. In this case it is a private contract between doctor and patient, and I don't think it will do any good to go into the matter. - Mr Bown: My opinion is that Dr Winter did not do his duty. (Hear, hear). - Mr Petherick (another Juror): that is my view also. - The Coroner: If you wish to make any reflection upon the doctor it is only fair that he should be here. It is not fair to censure him and it is not English to condemn anyone unheard. I shall be quite willing to adjourn the Inquest if you wish to hear what Dr Winter has to say. After considering the matter, the Foreman said it was the unanimous wish of the Jury that the Inquest should be adjourned for Dr Winter's attendance. - The Coroner: Yes, and we had better have the nurse as well; I will issue summonses for both. The Inquest is adjourned until Tuesday at 5.30.
Adjourned Inquest. Dr Winter Exonerated. - The Inquiry was resumed at the Upton Schools on Tuesday evening. The Coroner briefly stated the reason for the adjournment and called George M. Winter, surgeon, practising at St. Marychurch, who said he attended the child on Monday, 14th February. It was brought to him early in the morning, wrapped in shawls, by the mother. The burns on the body were very considerable, extending over the abdomen, chest and neck. After examining the child he got suitable dressings and applied to the wounds. He expressed the opinion to the mother that the case was a suitable one for the hospital, as the child would be a long time getting better, but she replied that she did not want her child to go there. He gave MRS CLARK directions as to the treatment of the child, and also told her she had better see the parish nurse who would call and dress the wounds every day. On the following day, February 15th he called at CLARK'S house, and seeing that the child had not recovered from the shock he ordered it medicine, which the father fetched from his surgery. On the 16th February, the father came to him and said the child could not sleep, and he gave him a powder. On Thursday, 17th, he saw the child again, and saw that it was improving. He did not examine the burns, as one of the most important points in treating burns was not to expose them to the air. If they were not going on properly there would be constitutional symptoms. The trained nurse dressed the burns every day. He saw deceased again Feb. 20th, and he considered it better. The mother said it was feverish at night, but in such cases there was usually an up-and-down temperature. He told the mother as the nurse was attending each day he did not consider it necessary to call as the wounds would take a long time to heal. If, however, the symptoms changed, he was immediately to be sent for. On the 24th February a fresh supply of ointment was sent for, and he was then told that the child was about the same. On Saturday 26th he called at the house, and was informed that the nurse was going away for the benefit of her health for a few days. He told the mother that if he thought on the following day the child could not be properly cared for without a nurse she had better send it to the hospital. The mother was greatly averse to this. On Sunday 27th, he dressed the burns himself, and at that time h thought the wounds were healthy. That the treatment was good was proved by the fact that with such extensive burns the child lived three weeks. - Mr Petherick (a Juror): We heard that the child was given milk, bread and biscuit. Did you give directions as to diet, for we heard from the Hospital doctor that it should have had milk and brandy. - Witness: I told her exactly what to give the child. I suggested milk with an egg in it. Continuing, Dr Winter said he told the mother she could not go on dressing the wound as the nurse had, and therefore she must send it to the Hospital. Even then she did not like it. The child was, he understood, removed to the hospital, and he heard nothing more of the matter until inspector Bond came to him, and told him there had been complaints respecting his treatment of the deceased. - The Coroner: There is a long lapse of six days during which you did not see the child. Did you consider it was not necessary? - Witness: Yes, it had a qualified nurse to look after it. If I had called every day my bill would have been a large one, and poor people cannot afford to pay. - The Coroner: Did they send you a communication to come? - Witness: No. - A Juror: Did you say you could not call at the house every ten minutes? - Witness: Certainly not. - The Coroner: You gave this child all the care and attention needful? - Witness: Certainly I did. - A Juror: don't you think the hospital would have been the best place for the child in the first instance? - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner informed MRS CLARK that if she desired to ask Dr Winter a question she could do so. - MRS CLARK said what Dr Winter had stated was quite correct. She sent to the Doctor for something to stop the child's sickness, but the powder he sent failed to do so. - Kate Hill, District Nurse at Babbacombe, said she was instructed to take charge of the case by Dr Winter, on the 15th February. She dressed the child's wounds daily, and applied ointment which she received from the doctor. She did not know what the child was fed on, but on one occasion she saw the mother endeavouring to give it an egg beaten up. ?She dressed the wounds daily until the 26th, when she thought the child was doing well. If it had been otherwise she would have considered it her duty to have communicated with the doctor. - A Juror: Didn't you say the doctor ought to have called more frequently? - Witness: No. On the third day I asked if the doctor had been there and received a reply in the affirmative. I suggested that the child should be taken to the Hospital and I told the mother to give the child plenty of warm milk. - The Foreman to MRS CLARK - Did you take the dressings from those wounds and show them to people in Babbacombe. If you did it was a most dangerous thing to do? - MRS CLARK: Certainly not. - The Foreman: And you were perfectly satisfied with the nurse? - MRS CLARK: Yes. - Nurse Hill recalled, said it would have been practically impossible for MRS CLARK to remove the bandages and replace them again. - A Juror: Don't you think it was very stupid of you not to take the child to the Hospital in the first place? - MRS CLARK: No one told me to take it to the Hospital. - The Coroner: What. Didn't Dr Winter tell you in the first place to do so? - MRS CLARK: No, he told me to take the child home and put it to bed. He said they would not take it in at the Hospital. - The Coroner: Dr Winter has told us that he advised you to take the child to the Hospital in the first place. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and completely exonerated Dr Winter and the nurse from all blame. Dr Winter expressed his thanks for being given the opportunity to attend, and give his version of the matter, as the statements, if allowed to go unchallenged, would have a very damaging effect.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 April 1898
TORQUAY - Sudden Death. - On Friday, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ELIZABETH PENWILL, aged 74, living at 17 Braddons Street. Deceased, who was a single woman of independent means, lodged with her nephew, Mr George Andrews, a grocer. She was given her tea on Thursday evening as usual, and shortly after partaking of it sank back in her chair and expired. Six doctors were sent for to attend to the case before one could be found at home. Ultimately, Dr Eales arrived. After making a post mortem examination, he attributed death to a disease of the heart valves and an enlarged heart. The Jury, of which Mr E. T. Blackler was the Foreman, returned a verdict of "Natural Causes," and gave their fees, 13s. to the Torbay Hospital.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 May 1898
NEWTON ABBOT - Accident At Newton Abbot. Railway Porter Killed. - Just before seven o'clock on Friday evening, ROBERT HENRY SCOTT, 23, porter, employed in the parcel office at Newton Railway Station, went to the tail lamp of the 7.15 train to Exeter, which was waiting at the north siding, to light his pipe, and had just done so when the engine backed into the carriages to couple them, with the result that SCOTT was severely crushed in the abdomen between the buffer and the dead end. Several porters went to his assistance, and Dr Scott, who was called in, advised his removal to the Cottage Hospital, where he was attended to by Dr Grimbly. From the first, however, his case was regarded as hopeless, and the poor fellow died at 10.30 in great agony, having been conscious throughout. :Deceased was very steady, and universally liked. He had only been at Newton a short time, having been removed from Plymouth, of which he was a native, and where his parents still reside. SCOTT had formerly been in the army, having been invalided out after a fall from his horse. - At the Inquest on Monday, Thomas John Wills, foreman of shunters, said the tail lamp of the train had been opened, and in his (witness's) opinion deceased opened the lamp to light his pipe at the moment the engine backed the other coaches. He had never known anyone to try and light his pipe in that way before. Mr Williams, stationmaster at Newton, said the deceased asked for something to relieve the pain, and added, "Let me die. Let me go to my heavenly Father. He must want me, or He wouldn't allow this to have happened." The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 May 1898
TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of The Harbour Master. Inquest. - At the Wesley Church Schoolroom, on Saturday afternoon, Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of CAPTAIN PEPPRELL, 59, the Torquay Harbour-Master, who died suddenly on the previous day, whilst engaged in his official duties on board Mr Johnson's steam yacht, White Heather. - Mr J. D. Beer was elected Foreman of the Jury, and there were also present Alderman E. P. Bovey, Chairman of the Harbour Committee of the Town Council, and the Rev. H. Arnaud Scott, pastor of Wesley Church, where deceased attended. - The first witness called was Frank Easterbrook, watch-maker, of Rose Vale, Cockington, who stated that deceased was his father-in-law, and was 59 years of age. He last saw him alive about 1 p.m. on Friday, when he chatted with him in the harbour office on the Beacon Quay. Deceased was then apparently better than he had been for some time. He was in higher spirits than usual, and did not complain. It could not be said, however, that he was in good health. He had suffered from his heart for three or four years past, and he was frequently subject to palpitation. His wife and the family knew of his condition. When next he saw deceased it was on board the White Heather, where he was lying dead on a stretcher. - Dr Frank Thomas, surgeon on board the White Heather, stated that the vessel was chartered by Mr Johnson, from its owner, Mr Lee. Shortly after 4 o'clock on Friday afternoon, deceased boarded the White Heather in Torbay in order to direct the passage of the vessel into the harbour. Witness whilst standing on the deck underneath the bridge upon which the Harbour Master was giving directions, heard a noise, and on looking up he saw that deceased had fallen on to the floor of the bridge, and that his load was hanging over between the rails. He immediately ran up the ladder to the bridge upon which he found deceased lying unconscious. Witness felt one or two faint pulses for a few seconds, and then death took place - probably in three or four seconds after he reached deceased. There was nothing in the Harbour Master's duties to induce excitement. He had been standing on the bridge talking to the captain and giving orders. The White Heather was a large vessel and deceased might, of course, have experienced an unusual amount of responsibility in directing her safe passage into the harbour. He did not, however, appear to be excited, but was bright and cheerful. Death was not caused by any external or unusual force. He attributed it either to heart disease or cerebral haemorrhage. Deceased was probably unconscious before he fell. - Dr Horton said he had medically attended deceased, who had long suffered from disease of the heart. He last saw him on April 28th, when he appeared to be better than he had been for some time. He saw, however, that deceased was far from being well. He consequently gave him a certificate to the effect that he was unfit for any occupation involving either physical or mental strain. Practically, deceased was unfit to discharge his ordinary duties. - The Coroner: You thought that it might cause sudden death? - Dr Horton: Yes; he had been told that before. - The Coroner: He was in such a condition that he might die suddenly at any time? - Dr Horton: Yes; anyone in that condition might die at any moment. - Continuing his evidence, Dr Horton stated that on April 28th deceased visited him to ask whether he really ought to continue his work. Witness replied that he did not think it was advisable for him to do so. That was the reason why he gave deceased the certificate in order that he might show it to his superiors. He agreed with Dr Thomas that death was due either to heart disease or apoplexy. His opinion was, however, that death occurred too quickly for apoplexy to be the cause and that the deceased died from heart disease. - Mr W. Smerdon (a Juror): Do you know whether deceased showed the certificate to his superiors? - Dr Horton: I do not know. - Mr G. P. Easterbrook, jeweller, Fleet Street, stated that he chatted with deceased, who was his uncle, at the door of his (witness's) shop on April 28th. He was then on his way to Dr Horton. On his return deceased called to tell him that Dr Horton had said that unless he avoided all mental and physical strain he would not give him a month to live. It was well-known to the family that deceased suffered from heart disease. - Alderman Bovey informed the Coroner that the terms of Dr Horton's certificate had not been made known to the Harbour Committee in any way. - The Coroner: Was the certificate found on deceased's person? - Inspector Bond: Yes. - Mr G. P. Easterbrook said that deceased had been worried of late by the fact that the Harbour Committee had taken the boy from his office. He was thus caused additional work. The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 June 1898
TORQUAY - Inquest. - The Deputy Coroner (Mr Kellock) held an Inquest on Saturday, relative to the death of WILLIAM SMITH, 55, mason, of 6 Brunswick-Terrace, Torre, who died suddenly on Thursday. Mr R. Nicholson was elected Foreman of the Jury. The widow stated that she last saw her husband alive at 8.390 on Thursday morning, when he left home to go into the town. He made no complaint of feeling ill. John Hyne, saddler, said whilst riding a bicycle in the Lymington Road, about 7.20, deceased approached him and just after they had spoken SMITH suddenly fell. Witness went to him and held his head up. A man named Avery who was passing came to his assistance and they conveyed deceased to the Torbay Hospital. Dr Watson, House Surgeon at the Hospital, stated that when SMITH was admitted to the Institution he was quite dead. he had made a post mortem examination and found traces of long standing heart, liver and kidney disease. Death was due to failure of the heart's action. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 June 1898
NEWTON ABBOT - A Torquay Mother's Neglect. Inquest At Newton Workhouse. - At the Newton Abbot Workhouse on Friday, the County Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, investigated the circumstances attending the death of MARIE LOUISE JAMES, aged twelve months, the daughter of HENRY JAMES, carman, of No. 4 Mill-leat Cottages, Pimlico, Torquay, who died on the preceding day. - The proceedings were watched by Inspector Brown on behalf of the N.S.P.C.C. and Superintendent Roberts was present on behalf of the Police. Mr A. B. Segar was elected Foreman of the Jury. - In December last, MRS JAMES, the mother of the child, was sent to prison for neglecting it, and on the 16th of May, the little one, being again in a dangerous condition, Inspector Brown applied to the Torquay Magistrates for an order enabling him to remove it to the workhouse. This order was granted, but although every care was bestowed on the child at the workhouse it gradually pined away and expired on Thursday in last week. JAMES, the father of the child, is an industrious, sober, hard working fellow, and has been for several years in the employ of Messrs. Shapley and Sons, grocers of Torquay, who gave him an excellent character. In consequence of the publicity given to these cruelty proceedings, however, he has lost his situation. - Evidence of identification was given by HENRY JAMES, carman, of 4 Mill Leat Cottages, Pimlico, Torquay, who said the child was his. On December 9th his wife was sent to prison for six weeks by the Torquay magistrates for neglecting the child. Whilst she was away the child was taken care of by a Mrs Skinner, living in the same house. - Inspector Brown of the N.S.P.C.C. stated that he saw the child on December 10th, when it weighed 10lbs with a frock and skirt on. JAMES'S four children were then in charge of Mrs Skinner, who was paid 13s. a week by MR JAMES to provide food for himself and children. The child was in an emaciated condition; it had just been cleaned. He continued visiting until January 20th, supplying 20 bottles of albuminised milk, on which the child improved, gaining 3 ½ lbs. The mother did not return for two weeks after coming out of prison. For a month or five weeks the child was kept clean and apparently it was in good health and thriving. Then it seemed to go back, and on May 13th, noticing half a dose of medicine on the mantlepiece, he questioned the mother and was told that it was for the child. On the following evening there was a full bottle. The child was in the kitchen alone, no one else being in the house. In about five minutes the mother came in. She had been drinking, but was not drunk. The child was rarely as clean as it might be, and nearly always lying in the cradle. On one occasion vermin were on its face. He repeatedly told MRS JAMES that she was not looking properly after the child. He also spoke to the father, who said he was helpless. The medicine should have been taken three times a day. One Saturday night there was a full bottle. At eight o'clock next morning seven doses were gone. MRS JAMES said she wanted one on the child's neck. The child had no specific disease except the sore on the head. When he weighed the child on May 16th, it weighed 9 ¾ lbs. Thereupon he procured a doctor's certificate and removed the child to Newton Workhouse. He visited the house frequently, generally finding the mother out. This he accounted for by the fact that she was in the habit of going to a neighbour's drinking and seeing him come she would make her appearance a few minutes later. - Detective Gregory deposed visiting the house on December 6th, about 9.30 p.m., finding three children huddled together under a table, and the deceased child upstairs lying on a wet bed, with little clothes on. When touched the child seemed too weak to cry. He visited several public houses, but failing to find the woman went for Dr Cook and Superintendent Roberts. On returning they saw MRS JAMES in the kitchen, in darkness. The child was removed and on being weighed turned the scale at 10lbs. On December 9th MRS JAMES was sent to prison for six weeks with hard labour. Nurse Pettit, of the Newton Workhouse, was called to prove that on the child's admission on May 16th, its head was a mass of sores, and its neck and arms covered with rash. - Elizabeth Skinner, wife of a fisherman, said she knew nothing of the child before it was in her charge. She lived in the same house. Four adults and five children occupied four rooms. Elizabeth Sweetland supplied the milk for the baby and it was paid for by the Rev. H. M. Downton and a district visitor. - Dr Culross, medical officer of the workhouse, informed the Jury that he examined the child on its admission, and found it in a very emaciated and serious condition. There was no organic disease. The child weighed 9 ¾ lbs, but if in normal health it should have weighed about 19lb. The doctor described it as a ghastly object. It died the preceding day, and from a post mortem examination he found that the body weighed 8lb 1oz. It was generally bloodless. There was a large ulcer surrounding the lower-jaw, which had extended to the lower lip during the child's stay in the workhouse. The lip became swollen and hard. All the internal organs were free from disease, but the liver was unusually large. The baneful effects of alcohol might have been transmitted to the child, and if so the damage done to its constitution was such that no amount of care would bring it into a thoroughly healthy condition. The immediate cause of death was failure of the heart's action, the result of the anaemic condition of the child from inherited debility. The child's anaemic condition might have been due to neglect and insanitary surroundings, but she could not have grown into a healthy child. - The Coroner: did want of care cause the child to die? - Witness: It would have lived longer if it had had more care. - The Coroner: That is equal to saying that neglect hastened its death? - Witness: The child inherited a rotten constitution from the mother in consequence of her consumption of alcohol. - Dr Cook, poor law medical officer for Torquay, gave confirmatory evidence. He considered, however, that had the child been better cared for, its life might have been extensively prolonged, but he could not state with any confidence that the child would ever have grown to be a healthy woman. - Elizabeth Rice, of 21 Spring Steps, Pimlico, Torquay, said the child was born on May 27th, 1897. Strong and healthy at birth, it continued so for six months, and then suddenly it seemed to get bad and go back until the mother went to prison. During the time it was in charge of Mrs Skinner it materially improved. - At this stage the Coroner announced the adjournment of the Inquiry until Tuesday at two o'clock. The Foreman and others of the Jury desired to proceed with a view to concluding the evidence that evening, but the Coroner said that was impossible. - The Inquest was resumed on :Tuesday when the following evidence was taken:- Inspector John James Brown, N.S.P.C.C., recalled, stated that the milk found upon the mother's premises was, in his opinion, scald milk and not raw, as stated in the evidence. Whilst the mother was in prison at Exeter the child improved in health and weight, but no sooner did the mother return than the child got weaker and more emaciated. Detective William Gregory, said he had seen the prisoner drunk several times. When he examined the house he found only one crust of dry bread, while both the mother and father were absent. - Alice Pettit, nurse at the Workhouse, said the head of the child was in a very bad condition, but whether this was due to neglect she could not say. - Dr Culross, medical officer of the Workhouse, stated that whilst in the house the child improved slightly, though, in his opinion, it was a sickly one. The loss of weight from 13lbs to 9 ¾ lbs. whilst it was in the mother's charge, was, he thought, due to neglect. Difficulties of nutrition, want of vitality, failure to respond to treatment might be other causes, which probably had their origin in the mother's drinking habits. Death was probably accelerated by neglect. - HENRY JAMES, the father, was then recalled, and stated that there were three other children, aged seven, five and three years. Deceased was not insured. During the past fortnight he had been out of work He generally started at 7 a.m. and never left before 9 p.m. He also worked on Sundays at times and was rarely at home. He was summoned in December last with his wife for neglecting the child, but was dismissed, his wife going to prison. When his wife came home from Exeter, he looked after the child whilst he was at home, and on noticing that the child was looking ill and getting very weak, he ordered his wife to take her to Dr Cook. The child was given milk and biscuits. He was in receipt of 18s. per week, and allowed his wife 13s. per week for the living, and paid the rent, 3s. 3d. per week. He was of opinion that his wife could very well have purchased milk, etc., for the child out of her allowance. - Mrs Mary Thomas, wife of a police constable, stated that the child was brought to her early in December last. She kept it for three days, and its condition was very thin and dirty. there was a sore on the back of the child's head. When she gave it food it took it ravenously. - Alfred Isaacs, a labourer, living at Upton, in reply to a query from the Coroner, stated that he could not attend at the former hearing on account of his being without money. - The Coroner: How much do you get per week? - Witness: Twelve shillings. - The Coroner (severely):L When you are summoned to one of her Majesty's courts, it is your business to come the best way you can. If you haven't the money you must walk over. You have laid yourself open to be sent to prison, and I have a good mind to do it. You could have asked your master for the money. - Witness then stated that he sold a quantity of skimmed milk to MRS JAMES at various times, but otherwise he knew nothing of the case. - MARY ANN JAMES, the mother of deceased, here volunteered a statement to the effect that she owned to neglecting the child when before the magistrates, and had been punished for it. Since she had been out of prison she had done her best for the child, but though she had given it milk, etc., it never seemed satisfied. - The Coroner then reviewed the whole of the evidence, and dealt at length with the statements of Inspector Brown, who had charge of the case on behalf of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children. No doubt the Jury would remember the evidence tendered by the medical men, who stated that in their opinion death was accelerated by neglect; whilst the house doctor, who received it from Torquay, and who had made a post mortem examination, had stated that there was no disease of any kind, and nothing, with the exception of that previously referred to, to cause death. They (the Jury) had to decide whether the treatment melted out to the child had anything to do with its death; if so, then there would be very little difficulty in finding a verdict. - The Jury then retired, and after being absent an hour and a quarter returned with a verdict that the child died from "Natural Causes," hastened by culpable neglect on the part of the mother. The Coroner immediately issued a warrant for the arrest of MRS JAMES (the mother) and later in the evening she was conveyed to the county gaol.
[This inquest was followed by the details of Mrs James's appearance at the Magistrates Court.]

TORQUAY - Death From Exposure. Three Nights On The Fish Quay. - At the Upton Parish room on Monday Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, investigated the circumstances attending the death of THOMAS LATHROP, aged 65, boatman, of Perrott's Buildings, Pimlico, who died somewhat suddenly on Sunday evening. Mr R. Easterbrook was elected Foreman of the Jury. - EMMA LATHROP, the widow, gave evidence of identification and stated that she lived with her husband and five children at Perrott's Buildings. Deceased had not been in very good health, but he did not complain until two or three days ago. On Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday he slept in a cart under an open shed upon the Fish Quay. - The Coroner: What led him to do that? - Witness: I don't know. On Whit-Monday, when he went out, I said "Now TOM see if you can get something to do," and he replied "There will be alterations before long." - The Coroner: You had a row with him? - Witness: No; I thought he meant that he was likely to get work. I had no words with him. Finding that he did not come home on the Monday night, I sent the children out to look for him, and they found him in the cart on the Fish Quay. There was no reason for his sleeping out. - The Coroner: There must have been some reason. A man would not sleep in a cart when he had a bed and a home. - Witness: He was a very peculiar and close man. - The Coroner: Did he pay for the house keeping? - Witness: He gave me very little money. - The Coroner: Did you go to him on the quay? - Witness: Yes, I went to him on Wednesday night and asked him to come home, and he replied "Never mind me; I am all right." - Witness, proceeding with her evidence, said she was sent for to come to her husband on Thursday night at about 11.30. On arriving at the Fish Quay she found him leaning against a wall, unable to walk,. She managed to get him home in a cart and put him to bed. On the following morning he was too weak to get up. - The Coroner: What caused him to be weak? He was previously a strong man. - Witness: I think it was the exposure. It rained and blew a great deal on the Wednesday night. Continuing, witness said she gave her husband what she had in the house, and that was not much. He had bread and milk with some rum in it, and he said he hoped to be able to get up next day. On Saturday he again remained in bed. He remarked that he felt very weak and could not get up. She suggested getting a doctor, but deceased said "Don't do that. I shall be better again soon." - The Coroner: Why didn't you send for a doctor? - Witness: I wish I had, I have regretted it since. On Saturday he complained for the first time of a pain in his left side but did not make much fuss about it. - The Coroner: He lay there all the Saturday dying and you did not fetch a doctor. When did he die? - Witness: On Sunday, between 8 and 9 in the evening. - The Coroner: And you allowed him to remain there in a dying state without calling in a medical man? - Witness: I did not know he was so bad. She first noticed a change come over her husband about six o'clock on Sunday evening, and then sent her child for Dr Cook, but he was not at home. - The Coroner: Then no one saw him; no nurse, doctor, or anyone? - Witness: I did not think he was so bad. The doctor came after his death. - The Coroner: Did he take any nourishment on Sunday? - Witness: No. - The Coroner: Was not that an additional sign that he was very ill? - Witness: So long as he had drink he needed little to eat, and I gave him as much milk as I could afford. He was perfectly conscious up to the time of his death, and asked for milk, which he drank at 8.30, just before he died. - Dr Cook said he knew deceased well, but had not attended him. He was sent for on Sunday, about 9.30, and went to LATHROP'S house. The man was then dead. He learnt from the widow that deceased had been sleeping in the open air, and that he refused to have a medical man. On making a post mortem examination, he found that the body was frightfully emaciated. The right lung shewed recent inflammation, and there was pleurisy of the right side. These combined caused death, and exactly fitted in with the story of the man's exposure. - The Coroner: How do you account for the emaciation? - Witness: The only conclusion I can come to is that the man had been short of food. - The Coroner (to the widow): Has your husband been in work? - MRS LATHROP: No, he has not been strong enough. - The Coroner: Have you had parish relief? - Witness: No. I asked for it once, and they offered me an order to come into the house. - Dr Cook: I understand that deceased was in the Workhouse for six weeks. - The Coroner: The symptoms would not be such as to alarm the wife? - Dr Cook: No. - Jane Webb, wife of Emmanuel Webb, stated that she last saw deceased alive on Whit-Monday, just as he was leaving his home. She knew that he was brought home on the following Thursday, but she heard nothing to lead her to believe he was ill. On Sunday evening, MRS LATHROP called her, and said she believed her husband was dying. Witness went into the room, and saw that MR LATHROP was dead. MRS LATHROP told her that her husband declined to have a doctor. - P.C. burrow deposed to seeing deceased sitting on a seat near the harbour on Thursday afternoon in last week. - The Foreman (to the widow): Don't you think it was very cruel to allow your husband to stay on the Quay in this way? - The Widow: I could not get him home. - Mr Easterbrook: You could have called a policeman. - Inspector Brown, N.S.P.C.C., said he went to the house on Whit-Tuesday, and asked MRS LATHROP where her husband was. She told him he had been out all night, and added "I am on the look out for another husband; I expect he is drowned." - He (witness) asked the woman why she did not go into the workhouse, and she replied, "I won't go into the workhouse for anybody." There was not a scrap of food in the house, and the woman and children were practically starving. He had paid two weeks' rent for her. - The Widow: What I said was only in fun, and I did not think you would bring it up here. My husband told me he went down there to sleep in order to be on the spot when the fishing boats went out. - The Coroner: Why did you not tell us that before? That appears to be a reasonable explanation for the man sleeping out. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 July 1898
TOPSHAM - Torquay Man Missing. Body Discovered At Topsham. - EDWARD GALE, about 50, retired coachbuilder, formerly carrying on business in South Street, Torre, and who for some years past has been residing at Mr Pope's Carpenter Arms, South Street, is missing. On the night of June 22nd, GALE got up about midnight partially dressed himself and left the house. He has not been heard of since. He is about 5ft. 2in. in height, stoutly built, wore light trousers and vest, and indoor coat. He had no collar or tie on. No cause can be assigned for his absence. GALE never previously left the house without saying where he was going. A good deal of mystery surrounds his disappearance and considerable anxiety is felt regarding his whereabouts. - Information was received yesterday which leaves little ground for doubt that the body of the man found in the canal at Topsham, near Exeter, on the 24th June, was that of GALE. The Torquay police had circulated the missing man's description throughout Devonshire, and yesterday they received a communication from the Topsham police that the man's body upon whom a Coroner's Inquest was held on the 25th June, answered in every detail to it. A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned by the Jury, and the remains were interred at Topsham a day or two after the Inquest. Friends of GALE have gone to Topsham to make inquiries respecting the matter.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 15 July 1898
TEIGNMOUTH - An Inquest was held at Teignmouth on Saturday on the body of GEORGE ALBERT FREDERICK MITCHELL, aged twenty-four years, blacksmith, living at New Swindon, who lost his life at Labrador on Friday, while bathing. A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 July 1898
ST MARYCHURCH - Determined Suicide. The Inquest. - The body of the young man found at Hope's Nose, Babbacombe, as recorded in our last issue, proved to be that of JOSEPH HENRY LAIRD, son of the late MR JOSEPH LAIRD, who many years ago conducted a chemist's business in Torquay. Upon the death of his father, ten years since, the youth was adopted by his aunt, MISS LAIRD, of 2 Park View, Avenue Road, Torquay, who apprenticed him to Mr R. Pickard, outfitter, of Union Street. He was excessively shy and reserved and somewhat eccentric in his manner. He made no friendships, but delighted in the study of scientific works, taking long and lonely walks and in studying the ways of spiders, a number of which he kept in confinement at his home. At the end of May his apprenticeship with Mr Pickard expired, and although an offer was made to him to remain until he had suited himself with another situation, he declined, and went to his aunt, for whom he appeared to have a great affection. Some little time since he entered into negotiations for a situation at Newton Abbot, but the prospect of having to leave his aunt seemed to make him despondent, and he was several times heard to exclaim, "I wish I was dead." On Thursday morning in last week he was missed from his home, and in the evening his body was found lying on the sand close to Hope's Nose. That the act was premeditated is evident by the circumstance that prior to leaving his aunt's residence the deceased donned his oldest clothes, placed his gold watch and chain in a drawer and arranged his books, and that it was of a determined character is clear by the facts the deceased had connected his head, right leg and left arm by a stout cord, and that in the three pockets of his coat were placed pieces of lead weighing 22 ½ lbs. Two pieces of this lead the deceased used as dumb bells for exercise. - The Inquest took place at the St. Marychurch Town Hall on Friday evening, being conducted by Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner. Mr J. H. Pope was Foreman of the Jury. - MARGARET LAIRD, spinster, residing at 2 Park View, Avenue Road, Torquay, deposed that the body of the deceased was that of her nephew, JOSEPH HENRY LAIRD. He was the son of her half-brother, MR JOSEPH LAIRD, who formerly conducted the business of a chemist at Torquay, and who died nine and a half years ago. She then adopted the deceased, who had since resided with her. He was 21 years of age. She gave him a home and boarded him. He was engaged as an apprentice to Mr Pickard, outfitter, Union Street, Torquay, until the end of May, when his time expired and he left. He had not worked since, and, though he was negotiating for a situation at Newton, he had been very low spirited and despondent. The fact of the matter was that the deceased was exceedingly shy and reserved and dreaded having to leave her to live among strangers. Deceased ate very little since he left Mr Pickard's and he told her that he did not care whether he ate anything at all. He partook of dinner with her on Wednesday, and in the afternoon he left for a walk. He was away about three hours. She presumed that he had walked to Newton and back. Deceased stayed at home for the remainder of the evening, and about ten o'clock she bade him "Good night" and left him up reading. When she rose on Thursday morning she at once saw that the deceased's bed had not been occupied. Both the door of his bedroom and the front door were a little ajar. Judging by the candles, she thought the deceased must have remained in the house until about midnight. He once stayed out all night some years ago. His principal reading consisted of scientific works, but of late he read books of mystery. He was a great reader. When she found that the deceased had not slept in the house, she made investigations. She found that he had placed his books together, and left his gold watch and chain in a drawer in his bedroom, and left his best and every-day clothes which had been discarded. She believed he did that in order that the other clothes should not be wasted. He must have done it after she retired to bed. - The Coroner: Has you any reason to suspect that anything was wrong - that he had committed suicide? - Witness: Not the slightest, except that when despondent he said a few times, "I wish I was dead." - The Coroner: When was that? - Witness: Lately, since he had been home. Deceased was very happy at Mr Pickard's, but he was greatly troubled at the prospect of leaving. She did not think he meant what he said, but that it was only his shyness and the thought of going amongst strangers that led him to say it. With tears in her eyes she added, "Poor boy; I did love him. He did not care to live for anybody or anything except me, and he often said that he loved only one person in the world, and that was me." Continuing, witness stated that the deceased had neither friends nor companions. Though she felt sure that he had a little money - a few pounds, perhaps - she had not been able to discover it. - At this point P.S. Adams produced the cord with which the deceased was bound. - Witness at once recognised it as her cord. She noticed on Thursday morning that the bag in which it was kept had been disturbed, and that the cord had been cut. She then half suspected that something was wrong, and went into an empty house, the key of which she kept, to see if the deceased had hung himself. - P.S. Adams then produced the lead which was found in the deceased's coat pockets. - "Have you seen that before?" asked the Coroner. - Witness: Yes, many times. The deceased used the lead for dumb bells. As he was going out on Wednesday afternoon I saw that he had wrapped two pieces of the lead in a newspaper to take with him, and I asked him what he was going to do with them. He replied "I am going to take them to strengthen my arms." I did not notice that he had the lead when he returned in the evening. - The Coroner: Was he in the habit of taking walks with lead in his hands? - Witness: I never saw him do it before, but he was a very peculiar boy. - John Bishop, fisherman, living at No. 1, Perrott's Buildings, Pimlico, stated that with others he was returning between seven and eight o'clock on Thursday evening, from Babbacombe, where they had been fishing, when they saw something lying on Hope's Beach. They rowed towards it, to find that it was a body, lying on the sand about two feet from the water's edge. The body, which had apparently been in the water, had on a shirt, coat and socks. Above the left eye there was a wound, which appeared to be bleeding. Without landing, they rowed to Babbacombe, and reported the find to the coastguard. - The Foreman: How did you know that the man was dead? - Witness: By his appearance. There was not the slightest movement. - The Coroner: don't you consider that it was your duty to see whether he was really dead or not? - Witness: Not when he was on land. If it had been in the water, we should have taken him in tow. - The Coroner: Your first duty, as a human being, was to make sure that the man was dead. (Hear, hear). If you found that he was dead, and there could not be any doubt about it, then you could communicate with the police. That is the proper course to pursue. There is, I am afraid, a great deal of ignorance in this matter. - Witness: But if we had removed the body we might have been suspected of taking the money which the lady (MISS LAIRD) says is missing. - The Coroner: No, no. Your duty was to see if the man was in need of assistance. It is clear that he was dead. At the same time it is well to dispel ignorance and to let the public know what is their duty in such matters. - Witness: If the body had been in the water we should have taken it in tow, but as it was on land we thought that we had no business to touch it until we had communicated with the police. - P.S. Adams stated that he received information of the discovery of the body at 8.20 on Thursday evening. With others, conveying an ambulance, he proceeded to Hope's Beach in a boat. The deceased was lying on the sand about three feet above the water. Blood was flowing freely from a wound above the left eye. In the breast pockets of the deceased's coat were two pieces of lead wrapped in newspaper, whilst a piece of lead was in each of the side pockets of the coat. In all, there were 22 ½ lbs. of lead in the pockets. Cord was tied loosely around the neck, taken down the front of the body to the right thigh, around which it was tied tightly, and then upwards to the left wrist, which rested in a loop. The body was quite cold and stiff. Deceased's boots, trousers, tie and collar were found about fifteen or sixteen feet higher up the beach. They had been in the water. The cap and waistcoat had not been found. - Dr winter said he saw the body in the mortuary at the St. Marychurch Town Hall about eleven o'clock the same night. The deceased's neck bore a slight abrasion, caused by the working of the cord, and over the left eye there was a superficial wound, which might have been caused by the body striking a rock either immediately before or upon the point of death. He had also made a post mortem examination of the body, which did not present any signs of old disease. He did not think that deceased had been dead for more than twelve hours. He considered, in fact, that deceased was alive at noon on Thursday. - The Coroner briefly reviewed the evidence and commented upon the salient facts, and, without any hesitation, the Jury returned a verdict that "Deceased committed Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 July 1898
ST MARYCHURCH - THIRZA MINGO'S Death. Alleged Manslaughter. The Inquest Adjourned. - At the St. Marychurch Town Hall, on Wednesday evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry respecting the death of THIRZA MINGO, 52, wife of JOHN MINGO, rag and bone collector, of 4 Gray's Cottages, Babbacombe, who was found dead in her kitchen early on Wednesday morning, with a severe bruise on her head. - Mr H. Hunt was elected Foreman of the Jury. - Mr Basil Greenfield appeared for the man HOLDING, son-in-law of the deceased, who was charged before the magistrates on Wednesday morning with the manslaughter of MRS MINGO and Superintendent Roberts watched the case on behalf of the Police. - The first witness called was JOHN MINGO, husband of deceased, who gave evidence of identification. He said he lived at 4 Gray's Cottages with his wife and two sons, JOHN and SAMUEL MINGO, and he had a daughter named MARY ANN, who was married, and lived at Ellacombe. On the evening of Monday, 25th, he was in the wood house at the back of his cottage cutting up wood. His son-in-law, JOSEPH HOLDING and his daughter, MARY ANN HOLDING, were with him. About eight o'clock his wife came to him with the intention of getting some money for beer, as was her habit every evening. On seeing her daughter she said, "You are able to come over here and do for your father, but you cannot come over and wash up my dishes and my house for me." His daughter replied, "I often do so, mother, but I must come and help father as well." His son-in-law and daughter made it a practice to come and help him bundling wood. On hearing what his wife had said to his daughter, he (witness) told her to be quiet, whereupon she took up a large piece of wood and threatened to strike him with it. His wife was intoxicated, and he wrested the piece of wood from her, as he felt that she would do some damage with it. She was staggering about, hardly able to walk but she could speak plainly. It was her rule to come to him in that condition and ask him for money for beer and in order to keep peace and quietness he gave her money. He did not know where she obtained her drink. As a rule she would get half drunk and then, for fear publicans would not serve her with more, she would give children half-pennies and pennies to fetch more for her. "I have been married to her for 32 years, and it has been the same all the while," said the witness. After he took the wood from her she picked up a large stone which he also took away. Deceased then obtained a large piece of mortar which had fallen from the ceiling, but when about to throw it at him his daughter took deceased up bodily and carried her to a green plot outside. He saw nothing of his wife until half-an-hour after, when he found her lying in the back road, outside the wood-house, on her back. There were a number of people standing around her. He asked his son-in-law to assist him in carrying her home, as he was afraid the police would take her into custody. They picked her up, but she did not speak or struggle. He did not know whether she was insensible or not, nor did he examine her to see if there were any wounds. They deposited her on the kitchen floor, and his daughter placed two or three old coats for a pillow under her head. HOLDING left the woodhouse shortly after his (witness's) wife and witness next saw him standing close by his wife, where she lay in the road. Witness had no knowledge what took place outside, although he heard a disturbance. His wife was always getting into rows and fighting, but he did not lower himself to the extent of mixing himself up in these rows. Soon after deceased was laid on the floor, she commenced vomiting. His son-in-law and daughter were present at this time. After this he let his wife alone, and sat in the armchair all the night. HOLDING and his wife left the house between 9 and 10 o'clock for their own home. Soon after, his sons, JOHN and SAMUEL came home. The latter went to bed, but JOHN remained in the kitchen with him. His wife at this time was dead asleep, but about a quarter of an hour after she uttered one of her favourite oaths. After this she remained quiet. It was deceased's rule to sleep off her drunkenness by about 3.30, when she would awake and call to him to undress her and put her to bed. This he had done many times. About 5.30 some men called his boys to go fishing. Whilst JOHN was at his breakfast, he cast his eyes on his mother, left his breakfast, and went to her and put his hands on her face. He immediately said "Father, mother is dead." Witness replied "Nonsense. She is not dead." - The Coroner: Had not you looked at her? - Witness: No. I had not the patience to look at her. She was continually drunk. I have had too much of it in my time. After hearing what his son said he went to his wife and felt one side of her face which was cold but the opposite side was warm. He listened to hear if she was breathing but could hear no sound. His son came over again and undid his mother's dress and felt if her heart was beating. He could feel no movement and said "Father, she is stone dead." Witness made certain that there was no breathing and then sent one son after the doctor, and the other for the police. When Dr finch arrived he said she had been dead for two or three hours. Up to this time he had not noticed any wound, but as the body was being moved, his daughter called his attention to a wound behind the ear and a cut on one of her fingers. - The Coroner: Did you see any one else joining in the disturbance outside the wood-house? - Witness: Yes. There were men and women "yapping" one across the other, but I could not distinguish the voices. - A Juror: How long did HOLDING leave the woodhouse before you? - Witness: About ten minutes or a quarter of an hour. - The Foreman: After your wife uttered the oath did you hear her breathing? - Witness: No. - Mr Greenfield: Has your wife been frequently brought home in this state and laid on the floor? - Witness: Yes. - Mr Greenfield: I believe you have summoned your wife for assaulting you, and have been obliged to get police protection? - Witness: Yes, and she was sent to prison for three months for the assault. - Mr Greenfield: I believe you left your wife severely alone when she was intoxicated as you feared what she might do to you? - Witness: Yes. - Superintendent Roberts: Will you swear that you were not outside when your wife fell down in the road? - Witness: Yes. - Supt. Roberts: In the kitchen you sat about six feet from where your wife was lying? - Witness: Yes. - Supt. Roberts: I believe your wife was sent to prison for assaulting you about 13 or 14 years ago? - Witness: Yes. - Mr Thomas Finch, surgeon, Babbacombe, stated that he was called to Gray's Cottages at 5.30 a.m. on Tuesday. He saw the deceased lying on the floor in the kitchen. The father, one of the sons and a policeman were in the room. He examined the body and found that deceased had been dead two or three hours. She had been sick, and there had been blood running from the right ear. He saw no more external marks with the exception of a bruise on the right side of the head. MINGO made a statement almost precisely similar to that which he had made at the Inquest. On Wednesday afternoon he made a post mortem examination of the body, which was well nourished. There was a mark of an old injury on the left cheek bone. On the right side of the head behind, a little above the ear, there was a large bruise. There was also a slight graze on the right hand and traces of an old dislocation of the left shoulder. These were the only external marks. On examining the brain he found it covered with large blood clots extending over nearly the whole surface and comprising it. On the right side of the head there was a fracture of the skull underneath, and corresponding with the bruise. This extended through the base of the skull going through the petrus portion of the temporal bone. This accounted for the bleeding from the ear, and showed that the blow deceased had received had been a very violent one. The heart was in a diseased state, but the cause of death was undoubtedly fracture of the base of the skull. The skin over the bruise was not broken. Falling heavily on a large, smooth stone, like that produced, might have caused the bruise. A person in a drunk condition would fall heavily. Deceased had one of her arms in a sling, and this would prevent her from trying to save herself. - The Coroner: How long would a person remain sensible after such a blow? - Witness: Persons have been known to get up and walk home after such an injury. Deceased would probably be sensible for two or three hours. - A Juror: Could her life have been saved if a medical man had been called in the same night? - Witness: No; it was an absolutely fatal wound. - A Juror: How do you account for the fact that there were no bruises on the shoulder or hip? - Witness: If the blow had been inflicted by the fist it would have knocked the woman clean off her legs, and she would have had bruises or cuts elsewhere, but I think she must have fallen back at full length. - The Coroner: If she was pushed down with violence it would have caused the present injury alone? - Witness: Yes. - By Mr Greenfield: The breathing would be heavy after the injury and gradually quieten down. At this stage the Coroner said there was a great deal of evidence to be taken, and therefore he should adjourn the Inquest until Saturday next at 3.30 p.m.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 August 1898
ST MARYCHURCH - The Death Of THIRZA MINGO. Adjourned Inquest. Accidental Death. - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, resumed the Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of THIRZA MINGO, 52, wife of JOHN MINGO, marine store dealer of Babbacombe, at the Town Hall, St Marychurch, on Saturday afternoon. Mr B. Greenfield represented JOSEPH HOLDING, deceased's son-in-law ( who has appeared before the magistrates charged with the manslaughter of MRS MINGO) and the husband, JOHN MINGO, recalled, stated, in reply to a question by the Coroner, that he did not go out of the woodhouse when he heard the disturbance outside. He did not go out until some time after his daughter had put deceased outside and he then found his wife lying in the road. He saw nothing of the fighting or stone throwing. - The Coroner: Do I understand you to swear that you did not see your wife fall down? - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner: And do you swear that when you went out of the woodhouse the disturbance had ceased? - Witness: Yes. The Coroner: Is it not a fact that you made a statement to the police that you were outside and saw your wife thrown or pushed down? - Witness: Yes, I made that statement to Inspector Bond in Market Street. He asked me if I saw Holding hit my wife, and I replied "Yes," but it was a mistake. I was so worried that I misunderstood Mr Bond. I meant to tell him what I had been told. The Coroner: The Jury will not accept that statement you know. You are a man with your full senses aren't you? - Witness: No. My wife assaulted me some years ago, and I have not been as I should be since she gave me that severe blow on the head. - The Coroner: The Jury think you are possessed of your full senses. You said you were present and saw your wife knocked down. Will you now swear that you did not see that? - Witness: Yes, I was not present when the disturbance took place. I merely told Mr Bond what I had been told. - The Coroner: That is a very unsatisfactory explanation. - Inspector Bond: Did you not come back to the police station two hours after you had made the statement to me and say you were not answerable for what you had said? - Witness: Yes, because I saw the error I had made. - JOHN MINGO, junr., said he came home at 10.30 and found his mother beastly drunk lying on the floor of the kitchen. His brother SAMUEL was at home and in bed before him. His father was sitting in the arm chair by the fireside. He (witness) was about to wake his mother up, when his father said "Let her alone, she is drunk and can't stand." He heard deceased breathing. His mother had been in the habit of getting drunk nearly every day and when she came home it was her custom to lie down on the kitchen floor. If anyone attempted to arouse her she would get up and take a knife or poker and throw at him or his father and smash up the furniture. He saw no wounds or blood. Witness spent the night on a stool in the kitchen. He was afraid to go to bed as his mother would just as soon come upstairs with a weapon an strike him as look. About 5.30 he went to his mother and placed his hand on her face which was quite cold. He could not hear her breathing or feel her heart beating. Thinking her dead he sent his brother for the doctor and went for the police himself. He heard of a disturbance which had occurred earlier in the evening from a man named Cann. - By Mr Greenfield: He had received cuts on his hand from his mother in trying to protect his sister, MRS HOLDING. - James Godfrey, labourer, Homefield Cottage, Babbacombe, stated that on the night of July 25th, about 8.30, whilst walking near MR MINGO'S wood store, he heard quarrelling going on. He recognised MRS MINGO'S voice. She was using very bad language. He saw deceased's daughter (MRS HOLDING) put her mother outside. MRS MINGO picked up a large stone to throw at her daughter, but MRS HOLDING caught her arm, and took the stone away. JOSEPH HOLDING then came out of the store, and just as he appeared MRS HOLDING caught hold of deceased, and led her towards her home. She, however, let her go after walking a few yards, and was returning to her husband, when MRS MINGO picked up a stone, quite as big as that produced, and flung it at her daughter, striking her in the back. MRS HOLDING staggered to the wall to keep herself from falling. MR HOLDING came up and said to deceased, "Mother, why don't you go home," at the same time placing his hands on her, apparently to lead her. MRS MINGO, just as her son-in-law placed his hands upon her, suddenly fell backwards. He would swear that HOLDING neither struck nor pushed deceased, nor did he approach her in anger. MRS MINGO was very drunk. He did not notice whether her head struck against anything, but there were a number of large stones about in the road. Deceased was picked up by MRS HOLDING and her husband about twenty minutes after she had fallen. MINGO came out after his wife was on the ground. - The Coroner: Why did you and HOLDING let this woman lie on the ground for twenty minutes? - Witness: She was drunk. - The Coroner: That is your reason is it? did you hear a man named Evans ask HOLDING not to touch his mother-in-law? - Witness: No. - William Cann, fish dealer, Fore Street, Babbacombe, said he was in the yard at the back of his house at the time of the disturbance. He came out in the lane and saw deceased with a piece of wood in her hand to throw at her husband. Her daughter took it away and put her mother out in the lane. MRS MINGO picked up two stones to throw at MRS HOLDING but both were taken from her. She, however, managed to get a stone weighing two or three pounds which she threw at her daughter, striking her in the middle of the back. HOLDING then went up to deceased and raised his hand, but whether he struck her or pushed her he did not know. At any rate she fell. There was no violence in HOLDING'S action. - The Coroner: But it takes something to make a woman fall? - Witness: Not when she is "tiddley." - The Coroner: We want to know for the good of the neighbourhood if anyone was responsible for her death. - Witness: I have told you all I know. - The Coroner: Was MR MINGO there? - Witness: No, he did not come out till afterwards to carry her away. - The Coroner: didn't you show the superintendent of police where MINGO stood? - Witness: No, I told him where MRS MINGO fell. MR MINGO was inside near the woodhouse and could not see his wife fall. Witness saw blood on the ground after deceased was taken indoors. - By Mr Greenfield: It appeared to him that HOLDING raised his arm to protect his wife from deceased. - Harry Evans, labourer, 3 Gray's Cottages, said he was standing at his back door at about 8.30, when he heard MRS MINGO say to Mrs Lewis, "I am going up to my old man and try to knock 2d. out of him for some beer." Subsequently he saw MRS HOLDING putting her mother out into the street. On getting her outside, the daughter was about to go in again, when deceased picked up a huge stone to throw at her. He warned MRS HOLDING, and she managed to catch her mother's arm, and the stone fell to the ground. HOLDING came out and witness said to him, "JOE, don't touch her." He was led to say this, as he thought the man would start to protect his wife. As it was, HOLDING went towards deceased, put his left hand against her breast, and his right hand on her head, and she fell backwards. - The Coroner: Was there any violence? - Witness: No; but there would have been if I had not been there. There was not a soul in the lane but me and the dog. There was no blow but there might have been a push. - Thomas Rowlands, painter, Babbacombe, said he saw deceased throw a large stone at her daughter. HOLDING interfered, and appeared to him to push deceased away, and she was so drunk that she fell. He had seen MRS MINGO fall on many occasions when drunk. On this particular occasion she was staggering about. - The Coroner explained that what the Jury had to satisfy themselves upon was whether deceased was violently struck or pushed, and as a result fall, and sustained injuries which caused her death. If HOLDING did so strike or push her he was responsible for her death. The eye witnesses of the occurrence generally agreed that there was no violence, although their evidence disagreed somewhat in minor details. - The Jury, after a few minutes'' deliberation, returned a verdict that deceased, whilst under the influence of drink, Accidentally Fell and Fractured her Skull. They attached no blame to anyone. - At the Police Court on Tuesday, JOSEPH HOLDING, labourer, surrendered to bail in answer to a charge of the manslaughter of THIRZA MINGO, wife of a marine store dealer, of Babbacombe. Inspector Bond stated that at the Inquest a verdict of Accidental Death was returned by the Jury, and therefore he would ask that HOLDING be discharged. The Bench granted the request.

CHUDLEIGH - Suspicious Case At Chudleigh. Woman Dies Of Lead Poisoning. - Mr Coroner Hacker and a Jury met this week for the third time at the Townhall, Chudleigh, to try to ascertain who administered or supplied certain drugs alleged to have caused the death of MARY ANN LAMBELL, on July 13th. Deceased was the wife of a labourer, was 32 years of age, had been married six years, and was the mother of three children. On Saturday, July 9th she was apparently in good health, but at five o'clock next morning her husband found her very ill. She rapidly became worse, her limbs grew benumbed and paralysed, and she was unable to move. Violent sickness followed and on Wednesday, just before her death, her temperature went up to 109 degrees. - Dr Patch, who was called in, said death was due to some irritant. - Dr C. E. Bean, public analyst at Plymouth, said the appearance of the stomach and the symptoms described by Dr Patch were typical of acute lead poisoning. - A neighbour stated that deceased's sister had told her she had taken something which was given her by a woman in Chudleigh. It was also alleged that William Stow, a traveller, residing at Newton Abbot, had supplied deceased with drugs, but he said he had sold her only vaseline. - Summing up, the Coroner said it was a well known fact that lead was sometimes administered by criminally-disposed persons. The most important thing the Jury had to do was to ascertain who administered the poison. Unfortunately there was no evidence to guide them. It was suggested that through her sister she knew where to procure the necessary drugs. If discovered the person would be severely punished. - The Jury returned a verdict that deceased died of Lead Poisoning, but that there was no evidence to show who administered the poison.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 August 1898
TORQUAY - Death Of A Visitor To Torquay. Inquest. - At the St. Luke's School, on Monday, Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, Inquired into the circumstances attending the death of HESTER FENWICK, aged 77, a visitor to Torquay, who had been staying at No. 10 Portland Place, and died on Friday last from injuries sustained by a fall. Mrs Isabel Charlotte Bigge, widow, residing at Florence Villa, Warren-road, stated that deceased, who was a spinster of independent means, and lived alone with her maid, was her sister. On July 26th, she went to Moretonhampstead to spend the day with deceased, who although she had no bodily ailment, was not very strong. Witness, the deceased, her maid, and witness's friend started out for a walk, and on the way deceased sat down on a rug which had been placed on a boulder, to rest. Witness and the others went to the top of the hill to view the surrounding country, and when they returned in about twenty minutes they found deceased lying on her back on the ground. She had left the place where she had been sitting, and witness at once concluded that she had fallen down, as she had previously observed her waving her sunshade. They lifted her up, but she said she could not stand, and was afraid she had broken some bone. Deceased was removed with assistance and medical aid was summoned. On the Thursday following the doctor advised her removal to Torquay. Deceased, who was not unconscious, died on Friday, 5th instant, at Portland Place. There were three horses in the field where deceased was left, but she did not complain of having been frightened by the animals. Deceased told her that she slipped on the loose stones on the path. - Sarah Hannah Leaman, deceased's maid, said she was with her mistress at Moretonhampstead on July 26th. What Mrs Bigge had said explained what happened. Deceased was able to walk without assistance, and after the accident she told witness she slipped on the stones and could not rise. - Dr Gardner, Five Ways, Torquay, stated that he was sent for to see deceased on the previous Monday. - Mrs Bigge, recalled, stated that medical assistance was not obtained in Torquay before as the deceased seemed to be progressing well. Dr Gardner said he examined deceased's hip, and arrived at the conclusion that there was an impacted fracture of the thigh bone. Deceased had a weak heart. Before death there was congestion of the lungs which induced syncope, from which she died. Even if he had been in attendance upon deceased for three or four days before he did not think it would have altered the course of events in the least. - The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that Death resulted from an Accident.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 August 1898
LAUNCESTON - At Launceston on Friday, MR RICHARD HURDON, a resident of Crediton, was knocked down by a L. and S.W. Railway train and killed. He was crossing the line at the station, and failed to hear the approach of the train. The Coroner's Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 2 September 1898
TORQUAY - Domestic Servant's Sudden Death. The Inquest. - At the Upton Schools, last evening, the Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MARY JANE ENDACOTT, aged 27, cook at "Etruria," Kent's Road, who was found dead in her bed, early on Wednesday morning. Mr R. Nicholson was elected Foreman of the Jury. - In the absence, through sickness of deceased's mother, who resides at North Bovey, George Stanbury, farmer at Ashburton, identified the body as that of his niece, who, previous to going in service, had been brought up by him. She had, he said, been always considered a healthy girl, and he had never heard her speak of any heart trouble. - Elizabeth Stanbury, wife of the last witness, corroborated her husband's evidence, and stated that when she saw the deceased about three weeks ago, she appeared to be in good health. - Dr George Todd said he was called to "Etruria" between six and half-past on Wednesday morning, where he saw the deceased who was lying in bed in a natural position. The body was quite warm, life having expired some few minutes previously. There were no marks of violence on the body or any visible signs of the cause of death, but on examination he found the mitral valve of the heart diseased and the lungs congested. The other organs of the body were in a normal condition, but the blood was very poor. He had no hesitation in saying that death was due to heart disease. - Mabel Smith, housemaid in the employ of Mrs Hall Brown, next gave evidence. She slept in the same bed as deceased, and retired to rest as usual on Tuesday night. On Wednesday morning, however, she found deceased in a sort of cold stupor, and at once called her mistress, who sent for a doctor. Witness had never known deceased suffer from her heart. She ate hearty meals on Tuesday and seemed quite well. The Jury, without hesitation, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," in accordance with the medical evidence.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 9 September 1898
TORQUAY - Sad Death At Wellswood. The Inquest. - At the Torwood Schools last evening, Mr G. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ELIZA WYATT, 30, wife of a butler, in the employ of General Saunders-Knox-Gore, J.P., and residing at No. 3 Rockside, Wellswood, who died after confinement on Tuesday morning. Mr R. Smerdon was elected Foreman of the Jury. - MRS D. WYATT, of Liskeard, Cornwall, deceased's mother-in-law, gave evidence of identification. She was with her daughter-in-law at the birth of the child, about 3.30 on Tuesday morning. Dr Todd arrived about a quarter of an hour afterwards, and left again about 4.45. Witness remained with deceased for two hours; when she left her she was quite comfortable. Hearing a noise in the room a few minutes afterwards, she rushed up and found her daughter-in-law in an unconscious state lying on the floor. With the assistance of the nurse she lifted deceased into bed, but she never recovered consciousness. Death ensued soon after nine o'clock. In reply to the Foreman, witness stated that no one was left in the room with deceased as she said she was very comfortable. The nurse, Mrs Dale, had left the house for a short time. She remained away about twenty minutes, and a messenger was sent for her after the accident had happened. Mrs Dale was engaged as nurse for the occasion. - Mrs Annie Dale, wife of Mr S. Dale, cab proprietor, said she did not engage herself as nurse. She only arranged to be present at the time of the confinement with Dr Todd. The last witness was to be the nurse. Deceased asked her to be present because of her experience and said she would pay her for it. There was no arrangement as to the sum which was to be paid. - The Coroner: If you were not engaged as nurse, what were you? - Witness: I don't know, but I was there in case the doctor should not arrive in time. - The Coroner: Then you were the mid-wife? - Witness: Yes. She went to the deceased at 3.30, and remained with her until 7.15, leaving the mother-in-law in charge as nurse. She had discharged her duties, and deceased was comfortable. She, however, promised to return in two hours to see that she was all right. Witness was summoned at 8.30 and on going to MRS WYATT'S bedroom, found her lying on the floor. She called to the mother-in-law, who was downstairs, and with her assistance, and that of a Mrs King, lifted deceased into bed. She noticed that she had a blow on the forehead. Witness immediately sent for a doctor. MRS WYATT was quite unconscious the whole of the time. - By the Coroner: She did not tell the former witness that she was going to run home for a few minutes nor was she engaged as a nurse. If she had been she would have remained with deceased. - Mrs King, living in the same house as deceased, said MRS WYATT'S husband was away from home at the time of the confinement. At 8.30 whilst witness and deceased's mother-in-law were seated in the kitchen they heard a noise from the room above. Thinking that she had signalled that she required something witness ran upstairs and on opening the door found deceased lying on the floor. She called MRS WYATT, who was downstairs, and she came up. In the meantime witness's daughter had gone for Mrs Dale. When witness left deceased she placed a walking stick on her bed and told her if she required anything to knock against the wall with it. On discovering deceased on the floor the stick was under her head. - Dr Todd said he was called just before four o'clock, but on his arrival everything had been done in a most satisfactory manner by Mrs Dale. In fact, he asked why he had been called. For safety sake he remained about an hour and a half, and then returned home. He was called again shortly before nine o'clock, and on arrival at the house found deceased lying in an unconscious condition on the bed. She was gasping for breath and in a very critical condition. There were signs of a blow on the forehead, but no discolouration of the skin. He remained with deceased until her death, which he attributed to embolism of the pulmonary artery, a somewhat rare occurrence. Dr Todd explained that the custom of engaging midwife and nurse, as in that case, was common amongst people of deceased's position in life in Torquay. - The Coroner: Do you consider that it was right or safe, that this woman should be left alone as we have it in evidence in this case? - Witness: No, but in this case if I had been asked, I should have said there was no risk. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" and attached no blame to anyone. the Inquiry lasted over two and a half hours.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 September 1898
HIGHWEEK - MRS BURGESS, aged 77, of Highweek, Newton Abbot, was trussing a fowl on August 20th when she cut her hand. No notice was taken of it, but blood poisoning set in, and proved fatal on Wednesday last. At the Inquest on Friday the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Blood Poisoning."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 21 October 1898
TORQUAY - Inquest. - At the Wesley Church Schools, last evening, the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. Kellock, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MARY JANE STONE, 72, wife of a gardener named WILLIAM STONE, residing at Lisburne Terrace, who died suddenly on Wednesday morning. Evidence was given to the effect that deceased woke up in a fit early on Wednesday morning, and expired before medical assistance could arrive. Dr Todd attributed death to the bursting of a blood vessel after long-standing consumption, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 October 1898
TORQUAY - Sudden Death In Torquay. The Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Rooms on Tuesday evening, the Deputy Coroner, (Mr G. Kellock) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the sudden demise the previous morning of CLARA ELIZABETH FARR, parlourmaid, at Cliff Point House, Warren road. Mr John Taylor, of Madeira Place, was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was MARY FARR, wife of RICHARD FARR, 12 Marlborough Terrace, Lymington Road, who identified the body as that of her daughter, aged 37, who had been in the employ of Mr Hinchelwood, at Cliff Point House, as parlourmaid. The deceased had, to her knowledge, enjoyed good health up to about three weeks ago, when she complained of a pain in her back, and thinking it was lumbago, she went to see Dr Thistle, who told her it was a chill. - Emily Miller, cook, said she had known the deceased for twelve months. She had, despite occasional shortness of breath, been in fairly good health up to a few weeks ago, when she went to see Dr Thistle about a pain in her back; and during the last day or two had complained of pains in the chest. On Monday morning she rose and went about her work as usual. Shortly after ten o'clock she went to answer, as she thought, a knock at the back door, but came back to inform witness, who was in the linen room booking the clothes, that it was no one, but that a cape had fallen off a peg behind the door. Presently, witness heard the deceased, who was standing in the linen room doorway, groan heavily, and looking up saw her falling along the passage. She immediately got brandy and gave her, and bathed her face with water, but all to no purpose. Thinking it was a fainting fit, she ran out into the road, and was fortunate in catching Dr Crowdy, who came in at once, but found that life was extinct. - Dr Thistle stated that on October 3rd, deceased came to him and complained of pains in her back, and he treated her for muscular rheumatism; he did not examine her then as she appeared to be in pretty good health. He had made a post mortem examination that afternoon, and could find no marks or bruises on the body. All the organs were healthy with the exception of the heart, which was dilated and degenerated, and one of the valves diseased; death undoubtedly being due to syncope. The disease had he said been of long standing, but would have shown no symptoms other than shortness of breath. The Deputy Coroner having briefly summed up, the Jury, in accordance with the doctor's evidence, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and expressed their sympathy with the bereaved relatives.

TOTNES - Strange Death Of A Torquay Man. - At Totnes on Tuesday afternoon, an Inquest was held by Mr G. T. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, relative to the death of W. MASON, aged 60, of Queen-street, Torquay, town porter, who was found in a ditch on Shadrack Farm, Berry Pomeroy, on Friday morning, and conveyed t the Totnes Union Workhouse, where he died on Friday night, never having regained consciousness. - W. H. MASON, son of the deceased, and also a town porter at Torquay, said he left with his father at two o'clock on Thursday morning to pick mushrooms. About nine o'clock his father sat down to rest, while witness went into the field. He was away about half an hour, and when he came back his father was gone. He went quite out of his way to get to Shadrack Farm. - Dr L. Harris said at the base of the skull was a large clot of blood and haemorrhage sufficient to account for death. A fall or sudden jerk would cause the haemorrhage, as the blood vessels were thin. - Elizabeth Rowden, of Shadrack, Berry Pomeroy, deposed to seeing deceased walk up the road. He then had no hat on. - William Evans, of Shadrack Farm, spoke to hearing groans coming from the ditch, and to finding deceased lying on his back. He was cold, wet and insensible. he gave him whisky, covered him with bags, and laid him on some hay. In the meadow was an oak tree, and the roots went right across into the other meadow, forming a bridge over the ditch. He should think deceased tried to cross by it and fell in. P.C. Wright, Berry Pomeroy, expressed the same opinion. The ditch was four feet deep and had an inch and a half of water in it. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 November 1898
TORQUAY - Death Through Improper Feeding. - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday evening the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. Kellock, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of the child of ROBERT WALSH, rag and bone collector, of Pimlico, which was found dead in its bed on Saturday morning. The mother stated that the child was only five weeks old, and she had been feeding it on "finger" biscuits soaked in hot water. She did not, however, give it any food on Saturday morning. She left it alive and well at 7.30 a.m., but when she returned at 8.30 it was dead. Dr Cooke, who made a post mortem examination, attributed death to convulsions, caused by improper feeding. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with this testimony, and the Deputy Coroner spoke somewhat strongly to the mother for giving so young a child such unsuitable food.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 November 1898
TORQUAY - A Torquay Pedlar's Death. How Tramps Live. - At the Upton Parish Room yesterday afternoon the County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of SUSAN DREW, 52, licensed pedlar, who resided at Mrs Thompson's common lodging house, 14 George Street, and was found dead in bed on Tuesday. - Mrs Georgina Bassett, wife of a scissor grinder, residing in Queen Street, said deceased was her mother. She was the wife of JAMES DREW, hatter, of Plymouth, but had been separated from her husband for years and had travelled the country as a pedlar. Witness had no knowledge that her mother was in Torquay. She had not seen her for six weeks. - William Mahoney, hawker, 14 George Street, said he had known deceased for many years. She had been staying at Mrs Thompson's lodging house for three or four weeks. On Monday deceased came home from Paignton about 4.30 p.m. He saw that she had had a drop of drink, and said to her "Well, have you had another day of it?" She went for three-halfpenny worth of beer for him, and whilst he was spreading out some mushrooms on the floor MRS DREW sat by his side smoking her pipe. During the evening, three or four quarts of beer went into the kitchen and were divided between the five women there. Witness and another man were in the public house close by. When he returned to the kitchen he sat down with the rest and drinking went on until eleven o'clock. He fetched three additional quarts of beer. MRS DREW was half on before anything was fetched. On one occasion when he returned he found that deceased and a Mrs Ricketts, had been having a squabble, but he and his wife separated them, and MRS DREW sat down and continued smoking her short black pipe. The last thing he saw of MRS DREW was about 12.30 when she took her supper of hot meat and potatoes and went to bed. Deceased was very drunk, in fact all the occupants of the house were, with the exception of his wife. After MRS DREW had gone to bed she had a row with Susan Richards. Between 9.30 and 10 on the following morning he turned out and finding that MRS DREW was not up he called at her door "Going to get up old woman." He then sent for a pint of cider and as the other woman would have none of it, he opened deceased's door with the intention of asking her to have a drop. He found her huddled up in her clothes on the bed with her pipe still in her hand. She was groaning horribly. He sent off for Dr Cook and remained with deceased, who could not speak. There was blood on the pillow. Dr Cook was not home, nor was Dr Pollard. Dr Cook came about 2 o'clock. MRS DREW was a very quarrelsome woman when in drink, but when sober she was as nice a woman as could be met. On that particular evening she gave Mrs Ricketts a black eye. About a week previously they had had a nice drop of beer together, and on the following morning deceased had a cut on the side of her mouth. - The Coroner: didn't the woman complain to somebody that you had knocked one of her teeth out? - Witness: Not that I know of. I may have pulled the bottle rather roughly away from her, or pushed it against her tooth. She went to the hospital and Dr Watson put some sticking plaster on it. - The Coroner: Are you aware that she complained to the police? - Witness: She told me the next morning that I did the cut with the bottle, but she went for some cider for me and her son, and I put away three or four quarts. We like a drop of cider after having had a lot of beer the night before. - The Coroner: What time did this woman die? - Witness: About 5 o'clock on Tuesday evening. - Dr Cook stated that he saw the woman at 2 o'clock on Tuesday. She was lying on the bed fully dressed, and blood was flowing from a small cut of some days' standing on the side of her mouth. She was quite unconscious. About five o'clock he called again, and found that the woman was dead. On making a post mortem examination he found that the liver was greatly diseased. There were signs of extensive apoplexy in the brain and slight marks of violence on the right side of the face. Death, in his opinion, was due to apoplexy, probably caused by her drunken bout. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." The Coroner commented upon the drinking and rowdy doings which appeared to take place at this common lodging-house in George Street.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 2 December 1898
TORQUAY - Death From Lockjaw. Inquest. - At Wood's Pavilion Hotel yesterday afternoon the County Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JAMES HENRY BOWDEN HEWINGS, 19, labourer, of Maidencombe, who died at the Torbay Hospital on Wednesday. Mr Mogridge was elected Foreman of the Jury. ELLEN HEWINGS, wife of HENRY HEWINGS, labourer, of Maidencombe, said deceased was her son. He was a general labourer in the employ of Mr Coysh, of Maidencombe. On Saturday week he was engaged in unloading barrels of cider, when one fell and crushed his hand so badly that he had to be taken to the Torbay Hospital in a trap. She did not know how the accident happened, but she fancied her son's foot slipped and he fell with the cask. - Thomas Worth, a lad, said he saw deceased slip and fall, whilst carrying the barrel on his shoulder up three steps. - Alfred J. Coysh, deceased's employer, said the casks were iron-bound, and contained 10 ½ gallons. Each cask weighed about a hundred weight. He thought deceased must have fallen through taking too long a stride up the steps. - Dr Watson said when deceased was brought to the Hospital his hand was in a very bad state and very dirty through handling the cider casks. Witness kept him in the institution. He went on well until the following Saturday, when he noticed symptoms of tetanus. Mortification set in, in the hand, which was amputated, but this did not stay the disease, and the young fellow died on Wednesday. The Jury returned a verdict that deceased died from Tetanus, the result of a wound in the hand, Accidentally received.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 December 1898
TORQUAY - The Fatality At Preston. - Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry at Preston on Friday last, relative to the death of WILLIAM REED, aged 29, a mechanic in the employ of Mr R. F. Yeo, of Torquay, the contractor for the seawall on the estate of Mr P. E. Singer. About one o'clock on Thursday week an engine and crane, at which deceased was working, toppled over, and the boiler fell on REED, killing him instantly. Mr R. L. Yeo, son of the contractor and superintendent of the works, said deceased was engaged as wheelwright and smith, and for about six weeks had been engine driver at his own special request. The engine crane was fixed where it stood two months ago, and the deceased superintended that work. The engine was bolted on to uprights fixed in cast-iron sockets, and stayed vertically by timber guys, bolted to the ballast timbers by iron stays. One of these bolts snapped, and caused the accident, but he could not account for it, as there was no flaw in the iron bolt, an inch and a half thick. It might be that the swing of the crane, which was raising about a ton weight at a time, caused a jerk and the snap. - The Jury questioned the witness very minutely as to the construction and fixing of the crane. John Hoare, who was assisting at the crane when it collapsed, said he was himself in danger. He had never heard any complaints as to the machinery, and knew nothing of any defects. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 January 1899
ST MARYCHURCH - Sudden Death At St. Marychurch. - At the Palk Arms Assembly Rooms on Wednesday evening Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, Inquired into the circumstances attending the sudden death of ROBERT MARTIN, Naval pensioner, in the Hartop Road, on Tuesday. Messrs. E. J. Vine and W. Wills gave evidence as to seeing deceased seated on a doorstep, looking very ill. They were not at his side many seconds before he died. Dr Steele junr., attributed death to syncope and the Jury entered a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 January 1899
KINGSTEIGNTON - Baby Farming In Devon. - An Enquiry was held at Kingsteignton on Tuesday concerning the death of HAROLD W. S. TOLLEY, aged 15 months, an illegitimate child, residing with his grandmother, SARAH TOLLEY, at Preston. The child was delicate at birth, but had been well up to Friday, when he became restless and feverish, and died in convulsions on Sunday. Dr MacLeroy said the deceased was a ricketty child, but had apparently been well cared for. Congestion of the brain was the cause of death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." MRS TOLLEY having stated that she had charge of another child, aged three years, the Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) pointed out that it was illegal for any person to have charge of more than one child, not her own, and as much publicity as possible should be given to the alteration of the law in this respect.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 February 1899
COCKINGTON - Accidentally Suffocated. - At the Chelston Assembly room last evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of GILBERT CHARLES BEST, the two months old son of WILLIAM HENRY BEST, gardener of 16 Goschen Terrace, Cockington. Evidence was given which showed that on the night of the 31st of January, the child went to bed with its parents and slept between the two. About midnight the mother awoke and found the little one dead, with the blanket wrapped around its face. On the following morning Dr Winwood Smith was called in, and upon his reporting the case to the Coroner, a post mortem examination was ordered, and the body showed marked symptoms of suffocation. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Suffocation." During the Inquiry, it was stated that the child was not insured.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 February 1899
MORETONHAMPSTEAD - Father Censured For Cruelty. - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest at Moretonhampstead on Tuesday as to the cause of the death of EMILY BUNCLARK, aged four years, who died on Sunday. - The mother, EMMA FRENCH, stated that the child had been attended by a doctor, and by his advice put to bed and hot flannels applied to her. In the night the child screamed with pain, and on Friday night, about twelve o'clock her husband came to the bedside and said to her, "If you keep on holloaing and swearing like that I will give you the strap," and he put it over her outside the clothes. It struck witness, but she did not think it hit the child much, as it was through the clothes. It must have been on the head of the child, as it was on witness's face. On Sunday morning the child died at seven o'clock. Mr George E. Middlemist, surgeon, having given evidence, the Jury found "That deceased came to her death in a Natural Way, but they also wish that JOHN FRENCH, be severely censured for his unmanly and inhuman conduct in strapping the child whilst in a dying condition." - The Coroner called up FRENCH and censured him, at the same time telling him that no doubt he would have to answer for his inhuman conduct before another Court.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 March 1899
MORETONHAMPSTEAD - John French, of Moretonhampstead, was charged with ill-treating EMILY BUNCLARK his step-daughter. Mr Hockin, of Dartmouth, prosecuted for N.S.P.C.C. The wife of defendant and the girl's brother, WILLIAM repeated the evidence given by them at the Inquest held recently on EMILY BUNCLARK, and fully reported at the time. The little girl suddenly developed an obscure disease, and after suffering much pain for three or four days she died. One night shortly before she died the defendant was in bed and could not sleep for the child's groans. He called out for her to stop groaning, and because she could not he got out of bed and beat her with a strap he wore round his body. The defendant admitted striking the child with the strap, but did not think he caused the marks the doctor spoke of at the Inquest. Dr G. E. Middlemist said whilst the blows had nothing to do with the cause of death, they must have given deceased unnecessary pain when dying. The Bench committed French to prison for 21 days hard labour.

TORQUAY - A Torquay Painter's Suicide. The Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Saturday afternoon, the County Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of THOMAS SEARLE, aged 43, painter, of Pettiford Lane, Upton, who was found hanging at the Chapel Hill pleasure ground early the same morning. - Ellen Jordan, wife of William Jordan, baker, Queen Street, sister of the deceased, identified the body. The last time she saw deceased was the previous Sunday evening at the Market Street corner, when she walked a short distance with him. He then appeared pretty much the same as usual although she noticed that he seemed worried. He did not speak of any troubles, and as far as she knew there was nothing to trouble about. A few years back deceased had a severe attack of influenza and had never been the same man since. Recently he had been out of work and that seemed to trouble him, although there was no reason for it, as he was in comfortable circumstances. Deceased must have had some sudden delusion; he was inclined to gloominess. Twelve years ago deceased fell a distance of 30 feet from a ladder and was severely injured. He had suffered from that fall recently. The letter produced was in her brother's handwriting. The Coroner then read the following letter which was found on deceased addressed to Mrs Jordan:
My dear Nellie, - I fell so bad that I have got no work. I think I shall go mad. My poor wife and children and poor mother. I pray that God will look after them, for I have tried my best and I have had the best of wives; God bless her; and, dear Nellie, in my box you will find a bank book. It is ..... As the money is entered in my name, I want Bill (his brother-in-law) to see that my wife's name is transferred in place of mine so that she can draw it. See that she gets it all right. God bless you and I hope God will forgive me. - From your loving and unhappy brother, THOMAS SEARLE. - ELIZABETH SEARLE, wife of the deceased, said her husband had never suggested or threatened to do any harm to himself. He seemed to be low spirited at having no work, but he did not speak much about it. During the previous week, her husband complained of having pains in his head. There was nothing for deceased to fear on account of work. The Post Office Savings Bank Book produced belonged to her husband. - The Coroner remarked that the book showed a balance of about £80. - MRS SEARLE, continuing, said on Friday evening about 7.30, her husband left the house for St. Marychurch with some clothes from the laundry, which he fastened on a kit by means of a rope. He was then in his ordinary state of mind. - Thomas Andrews, Corporation gardener, said he was walking round the Chapel Hill on Saturday morning about 9 o'clock, when he saw a body hanging from the hand rail of the rustic bridge. He at once ran to the Observatory and told Mr Chandler that a man had hung himself in the grounds. Mr Chandler cut the body down while witness and another man supported the body from below. Deceased had evidently tied the rope to trail and then had climbed over the bridge and leaped. - P.C. burrows went up to Chapel Hill when he heard of the suicide. He saw deceased lying underneath a Union Jack, and a rope was tied tightly round his neck in a slip-knot. The letter which had been read was found in SEARLE'S breast pocket. - A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Inquest At Barton. - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry at Barton, on Saturday, concerning the death of MRS ELIZA WAYMOUTH GREGORY, 45, wife of MR GREGORY, a gentleman of independent means, residing at Orchard Lodge, Barton, which took place suddenly on the previous day. The husband stated that his wife made no complaint respecting her health until the previous Thursday, when she stated that she felt chilly. At night she retired to rest earlier than usual and he gave her some magnesia in milk. She was very restless during the night, but he got up in the following morning, about 7 o'clock, and made her some tea. On returning to the room he found his wife lying across the bed unconscious, apparently dead. Medical assistance was at once summoned but was of no avail. Dr Finch attributed death to acute congestion of the lungs acting on a weak heart, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." Deceased leaves a family of eight children, the youngest aged two years and four months. Great sympathy has been expressed with MR GREGORY in his bereavement.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 March 1899
NEWTON ABBOT - Suicide At Newton Abbot. - MR JOSEPH MARDEN GRIBBLE, a builder, of Newton Abbot, 53 years of age, on Sunday walked to Chudleigh and preached twice there. His wife drove to Chudleigh Bridge in the evening and returned with him. After supper he read to her. On Monday morning a Mr Ferris found him hanging, quite dead, in a loft at the rear of his premises. At the Inquest it was shown that although he had been in financial difficulties for many years, MR GRIBBLE'S position lately had very much improved. Recently he engaged an artisan, and he was worried by a fear that he would not be able to find him full employment. In a drawer was found the following note in deceased's handwriting:- "I don't know how I was such a fool as to let the man leave his work. Don't be too hard on me." A verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was returned. MR GRIBBLE was a hardworking tradesman and a local preacher, and the manner of his death is deeply regretted.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 April 1899
TORQUAY - A Fatal Fall. - Mr Coroner S. Hacker held an Inquest in St. Mark's School, on Thursday in last week, relative to the death of MARY SYLVIA PILLING MOULD, aged 75, wife of the REV. J. G. MOULD, of Roseland, Meadfoot Road. It transpired from the evidence, that she was found dead at the foot of some stairs by a servant, named Laura Tremlett, at 11.45 on the previous day. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, in accordance with medical evidence, which showed that death had resulted from shock caused by a fall.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 2 June 1899
TORQUAY - Sudden Death In Torquay. Result Of A Hearty Meal. - Mr Coroner S. Hacker held an Inquest on Monday afternoon, at the Masonic Temple, Madeira Place, relative to the death of GEORGE TICKELL, aged 43, of No. 8 Carlton Terrace, Bronshill Road, who was found dead in bed on the morning of the 27th ult. Mr R. Hodge was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Sarah Jane Damerell, identified the body as that of her brother, who was a haulier, and lived with her and her husband. He was a bachelor. On Friday he went to bed in his usual health about midnight. Her son slept with deceased, and he went to work early, without noting anything wrong. At about 10 o'clock, she sent up her three year old daughter to ask if TICKELL wanted a cup of tea, and she came down and said her uncle was awake, but would not speak. Witness then ran up and saw he was dead. She sent for a doctor. Before going to bed he, as usual, ate a hearty meal of mutton, pudding and vegetables, in lieu of dinner. He had never complained of any pain, and had never had a day's illness in his life. - The Coroner said that the son who slept with the deceased should have been called as a witness. - Dr H. P. V. Wiggin said he was called to see deceased on Saturday morning and found him lying on his back. He had been dead for several hours, probably since 3 a.m. The post mortem examination proved that all the organs were healthy. The intestines were very distended through overloading with food, and the heart showed some signs of weakness. The food was quite undigested. He thought death was due to pressure on the heart which caused sudden failure and syncope, due to over-distension of the stomach,. A verdict was entered accordingly.

TORQUAY - Sad Fatality In Union Street. Inquest. - At the Upton Schools on Wednesday the County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MRS MARTHA MARY ROWELL, 58, wife of MR G. A. ROWELL, draper, of 98 Union Street, who died after a fall in Higher Union Street on Monday afternoon. Mr Jones was elected Foreman of the Jury. - SIDNEY GEORGE ROWELL, son of the deceased, gave evidence of identification. His mother had not been really well for years. Occasionally she had been able to get out of doors but during the past few weeks she had suffered considerably in her head. On Monday morning deceased went out for a walk just before twelve o'clock. She told him she was going to Torre. She had not been gone long when a message arrived at the shop that she had fallen down in the street. His father went to her first, as he had been summoned to attend an Inquest at two o'clock the same afternoon, and he (witness) went soon after. When he saw her she was in the house of Mrs Hill, a friend, and was quite unconscious. She died without being able to speak. - Mrs Hill, 238 Union Street, stated that the deceased called on her about 12 o'clock on Monday to ask her to go to the Baptist Sunday School treat at Watcombe. Witness asked her how she was, and she replied "Not very well." Witness urged the deceased to come inside, but she said she could not stay, as she was going further. As she was moving away saying "Good-bye" she suddenly fell backward on the footpath, her head striking the kerb. She did not trip over anything, but seemed to be suddenly seized with a fit. Two or three gentlemen, who were passing, assisted in bringing the deceased into her house, and Dr Powell, Dr Thistle and Dr Horton subsequently called. Deceased, who never recovered consciousness, was removed to a couch, where she expired at 2.30. There was a large wound at the back of the deceased's head where she struck the kerb. - Dr Horton said he was called to see MRS ROWELL about 1 o'clock, and on reaching Mrs Hill's found her sitting on a chair in the shop quite unconscious. There was a wound bleeding freely on the back of the left side of the head. It was evident that she had some serious brain injury. The unconsciousness seemed to deepen, and she died at 2.30. On making a post mortem examination, he found that the skull was fractured, and an effusion of blood on the brain had caused death. There was a recent rupture of a blood vessel on the bridge of the brain, which led him to believe that an apoplectic fit caused the fall. The Jury returned a verdict that deceased came to her death by Accidentally falling and fracturing her skull whilst in an Apoplectic Fit.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 9 June 1899
ST MARYCHURCH - Strange Death At Marychurch. Unwholesome Sausages. - At the Palk Arms Hotel, St. Marychurch, on Monday evening, Mr G. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry respecting the death of GEORGE HOSKINGS CLEAR, 71, carpenter and undertaker, of 4 Albert Place, St Marychurch, who died under somewhat strange circumstances after three days' illness, on Sunday at 1.45 a.m. Mr H. Hunt was elected Foreman of the Jury. - MARY ELIZABETH CLEAR, daughter-in-law of the deceased, and wife of JOHN TROOD CLEAR, labourer, gave evidence of identification, and stated that her father-in-law lived with her husband and herself. He was taken ill on Wednesday afternoon of last week, and told her that he had eaten some sausages which had not agreed with him. Deceased provided and cooked his own food. On the Thursday morning he got up and went to the chemist for medicine. During the day he was sick on each occasion he took anything to eat. On Friday he remained in bed, and Dr Steele came to see him, and prescribed for him. The sickness stopped on Saturday, but deceased complained of pains in his head, and a feeling of great weakness. On Saturday night her husband and herself sat up by him. He breathed very heavily for a time, and about 1.30 a.m. on Sunday morning he said "I want to go to sleep." His breathing then became very low, and he appeared to pass right away in his sleep, death taking place about 1.45 a.m. She did not think her father-in-law was dangerously ill when the doctor called on Saturday night. He was quite conscious and comfortable after the pain and sickness left him. - By a Juror: She did not think there was any danger, as deceased took some gruel. - The Coroner: Where wee the sausages bought? - Witness: At Torquay, but I cannot say at what shop. - The Foreman: When were they bought? - Witness: On Tuesday morning. - The Foreman: There has been a rumour that they were bought some time before, is that true? - Witness: No, he bought them at Torquay on the Tuesday morning. - Dr Steele said deceased came to his house on the Thursday between 2 and 3 in the afternoon. He was looking so ill that witness scarcely recognised him. Deceased said he had been made ill by eating sausages, but he did not say where he had purchased them. Witness thought he had eaten them that day, but it must have been before. Medicine was given him for diarrhoea. On the following morning witness called at the house and saw deceased, who he thought was better, although he still complained of pain and sickness. On the Saturday he was no worse, but on Sunday he (witness) received intelligence that CLEAR was dead. Witness's impression on Saturday was that deceased would rally and recover, but he recognised that the case was a serious one from the first. About 8 a.m. on Sunday he saw the body, and that (Monday) morning he, with the assistance of his son, had made a post mortem examination. There were no external marks, and the body was fairly nourished. Decomposition had commenced, a fact due to the weather and the disease. The stomach was in a violent state of irritation or inflammation. The intestines were in a like condition. This was quite sufficient to account for death without going further with the examination. Death was due to eating sausages which were in an unwholesome condition. It was well known now that putrefied or putrefying meat gave rise to certain animal poisons, known scientifically as ptomaine or toxine. Deceased's death was due to ptomaine poisoning, and the poison was generated by the putrefaction of the sausages. - The Coroner: A healthy man may throw it off? - The Coroner: It was a very dangerous thing. - The Coroner: This is rather an important thing for the safety of the public. Could not a person detect the condition of such sausages? - Witness: It might not be possible to do so. They might have been good when he purchased them and putrefaction might soon set in, in this weather. - By the Foreman: He told his son and daughter-in-law what to do, but he did not give them instructions to call him if the symptoms changed. If he had been called he could have done nothing more. The inflammation was so great that the man's constitution could not stand it. The utmost was done to get rid of the poison, symptoms of which both he and his son recognised on the Friday. Every day he lived added to his chance, as the poison would gradually work out of the system. Deceased's death was rather a surprise to him. - P.C. Chudley said he had made inquiries and had been unable to learn where deceased obtained the sausages. - MRS CLEAR, recalled, said there were two or three sausages left, and she threw them away as they smelt badly. - The Coroner: You ought not to have done that; it was a great mistake. - Witness: I did not think I was doing any harm. - The Foreman: Can they by any means be recovered? - Witness: No, I threw them to the fowls. - The Coroner: You made a great mistake. What kind of sausages were they? - Witness: They were beef sausages from a butcher's shop. I know he obtained them at Torquay, but at what shop I do not know. - The Coroner said the case was a very serious and sad one. There was no doubt that deceased had died from eating unwholesome food, but whether the sausages were unwholesome when he bought them, or whether they became unwholesome after he had purchased them, they were unable to determine. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death by Misadventure" through eating unwholesome sausages, which caused ptomaine poisoning. They thought the vendors of sausages should be most careful as to their condition during hot weather.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 July 1899
NEWTON ABBOT - Fatality At Newton Abbot Station. - At Newton Abbot Railway Station on Friday afternoon, JOHN BURT, a trimmer in the carriage department of the Great Western Railway works, was knocked down and killed by "the Cornishman" express. The train was passing through the station at about 20 miles an hour, just as BURT was crossing the line at the end of the platform west of the station. BURT was stepping over the line as the train dashed up. The engine knocked him clear back off the line. Mr H. E. Williams, stationmaster, and others ran to his assistance and found BURT seriously injured about the head. The ambulance stretcher was sent for to take the man to the hospital, and on the way he died. BURT was about 60 years of age. At the Inquest held on Saturday, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and a majority agreed upon the following rider, "That at the time the deceased was following the lawful commands of his foreman."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 July 1899
PAIGNTON - Sudden Death. - MISS MARY HOWLETT NORTH, a maiden lady, aged 70, living at 8 Christ Church Terrace, Paignton, died suddenly on Friday morning. Mr and Mrs Pollard, a young couple, occupy part of the house, Mrs Pollard waiting upon the old lady. The latter retired to bed in her usual health on Thursday night, but early next morning Mrs Pollard was awakened by knocking on the wall of her bedroom, which adjoined MISS NORTH'S, and, entering, she found her vomiting. She rapidly became worse, and Dr Ward was sent for, but within half an hour she died, just before the doctor arrived. Dr Ward found that death resulted from long standing heart disease, and at the Inquest the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 July 1899
TORQUAY - Clergyman's Sudden Death. Probably Caused By Thunder. - At the Torwood School on Saturday evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of the REV. FREDERICK CHARLES GUISE, an elderly clergyman, formerly rector of Longthorp, Gloucestershire, who was found dead in his bed at Meadhill House, Torquay, on Saturday morning. Mr H. Beer was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was Sarah Reeves, cook in the employ of the deceased, who stated that MR GUISE had resided in Torquay for about three years. His wife died about two years ago. Deceased had no relatives living with him, and the only intimate friend he had was Mr Clark, of The Cote, who was at present away from home. Therefore there was no one who could say exactly how old deceased was. Witness thought he was 75 or 76. His relatives, residing in Shropshire, had been communicated with, and would arrive in Torquay on Monday. Deceased went to bed, apparently in his usual health, about 10.15 on Friday night. Next morning when he was called he made no answer, and she found that the door was locked. Fearing something was wrong, Dr Pollard was sent for, and on his arrival advised the breaking open of the door. This was done, and deceased was found dead and cold lying across the bed. - Dr R. Pollard stated that deceased had apparently been sitting upon the edge of the bed and had fallen back in a faint and died. He (deceased) was very much afraid of thunder and the thunder during the early hours of Saturday morning might have frightened him, and the fright acting upon a weak heart might have caused his death. A post mortem examination had revealed fatty degeneration of the heart, and deceased was in danger of dropping down dead at any moment. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 August 1899
ST MARYCHURCH - Fatal Fall At St. Marychurch. Dangerous Staircase. - At the St. Marychurch Town Hall on Saturday, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN EASTERBROOK, fisherman, aged 61 of 8 Victoria Park, St. Marychurch, who died on Friday as the result of a fall on the previous Tuesday. Mr J. Lee was elected Foreman of the Jury. - CHARLOTTE MARY EASTERBROOK identified the body as that of her husband. She stated that Mrs Le Grys occupied a part of the house in which she and her family lived. Her husband was in excellent health and had been mackerel fishing lately. On Tuesday, the 25th, he returned home from sea at about two o'clock, and she left him in the house whilst she went out to work and did not see him afterwards until Mrs Le Grys sent for her between 4 and 4.30. On reaching home she saw her husband lying in the passage on his back in a pool of blood. He was quite unconscious. She went to fetch Mr Cumming, a plasterer, to help raise him. Deceased was then taken to the kitchen and placed on a chair and a doctor sent for. Deceased had a bad wound on one side of the skull. He was not intoxicated when she saw him at two o'clock. He certainly had had a little drink, but nothing to speak of. He lived until Friday morning, but did not speak a word, and never regained consciousness. He was attended to "as well as any gentleman could be." - Maria Le Grys, widow, of 8 Victoria Park, stated that on Tuesday she returned home at about 4 o'clock. As she entered the house deceased was going upstairs. She went into the kitchen. All at once she heard a thud and a fall. Deceased must have fallen first to the middle of the stairs and then to the bottom. She heard no further noise, but went out and saw deceased lying at the foot of the stairs with his head towards the wall and his feet towards the stairs. She felt his pulse and his heart and then perceived the blood on the floor beneath his head. She fetched his wife and afterwards went for Dr Steele. - The Coroner: When you saw him go upstairs could you tell whether he had drink or not? - Witness: I could not see. There were no signs. - The Coroner: What caused him to fall, then? People don't fall down stairs unless there is some reason for it. - Witness: He must have slipped. It is a frightful staircase. There ought to be a handrail. It is not safe for anyone to go up or down. I have nearly fallen myself. - A Juror: There is hardly room for a handrail. There might be room for a hand rope. - Witness: the landlords are very sharp looking after rents, but they don't look after their tenants. - Geo. Cumming, 13 St. Giles's Terrace, said he assisted MRS EASTERBROOK in raising her husband up, and carrying him to the kitchen. He found the deceased lying at the bottom of the stairs. Witness gave him brandy, but he could not swallow it. - Dr W. H. Steele said he was called to Victoria Park and when he arrived there and examined deceased, he found a large wound on the side of the head. He could not discover any fracture of the skull. Deceased was in a partially conscious condition. Witness saw him several times on subsequent days. He was evidently dying at ten o'clock on Thursday, his unconsciousness becoming more and more profound. The immediate cause of death was laceration of the brain. - The Foreman said it had been suggested to him that the Jury should add to the verdict a rider, directing the attention of the landlord to the condition of the stairs. There was a fatality on similar stairs in the same row of houses some weeks ago. It would, perhaps, be well to mention the matter to the District Council, which might see its way to interfere. - The Coroner pointed out that the Court had no power to enforce a rider. If the stairs were dangerous, people need not live in the house. If they were so dangerous as to constitute a danger to residents, it would be a case for the officers of the District council. They might direct the attention of the Council to the matter, but the landlord could snap his fingers at any rider. - The Foreman: I have been up and down many of those stairs, and I don't see that they could condemn them as dangerous. The stairs certainly require a little caution. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 August 1899
NEWTON ABBOT - Fatal Accident To A Torquay Sailor. Inquest. - At the Newton Abbot Hospital on Friday evening, Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquiry respecting the death of HENRY LEONARD DREW, 24, able seaman of H.M.S. Pallas, home on leave, and staying with his father, JAMES DREW, jeweller of No. 2 Fairlie Cottages, Upton. Deceased left his father's house about six o'clock on Wednesday evening and was found by a driver of an up goods train on Thursday morning when the train was passing near Aller, lying between the rails of the Torquay down line in a shockingly mutilated condition. Mr W. White was chosen Foreman of the Jury and Inspector Tonkin was present on behalf of the G.W.R. Company. - JAMES DREW, of No. 2, Fairlie Cottages, Upton, Torquay, gave evidence of identification, and stated that his son was home on six weeks' leave, and ought to have returned to barracks at Plymouth on Wednesday. He had slept at home all the six weeks. He had tea at six o'clock on Wednesday, and left home stating he was going to Newton. He did not return that night, but before going he said "I may stay at Newton all night, and not come home till the morning." In the morning witness received a telegram that something had happened and went to the Newton Abbot Hospital where he found his son in one of the wards. Deceased was quite unconscious and did not know who witness was. Witness saw him again later, but he was still unconscious. Witness had taken the clothes that deceased wore to his house at Torquay. - A piece of cloth was here produced by P.S. Creech, it having been taken off an engine, and the Coroner stated that deceased's clothes must be brought to the adjourned Inquiry. The father deposed that he knew nothing further, except that deceased had 5s. 8d. on him when found. In answer to the Foreman, witness stated that deceased was quite satisfied with the service. - The Inquiry was adjourned until 5 o'clock on Monday evening. - Upon the resumption of the Inquiry, the following evidence was taken:- Harry Jones of 29 Penrose-street, Plymouth, goods guard on the G.W.R., stated that he was working the 2.45 goods train on Thursday morning last from Plymouth to Newton. As they came within sight of Newton Station the driver pulled up, and drew his attention to a man lying in the four foot way on the Torquay down branch. It was 4.30 then. They both ran back to him, and saw that he was unconscious, and they put him on a plank. His head was towards Newton, and his feet towards Torquay, where he was lying. They took him to Newton Abbot Station. He had a large wound on his head, over the left eye, and his foot was damaged. - By the Foreman: He spoke to deceased when he found him, but deceased only muttered something about his cap. - Harry Lewis, 15 The Avenue, Newton, lamp cleaner, Great Western Railway, stated that deceased was brought into the station by last witness at twenty minutes to five. He was conveyed in an ambulance to the hospital. - James Davey, 56 The Avenue, Newton Abbot, driver on the Great Western Railway, stated that he drove the 10.10 train from Newton Abbot to Kingswear on Wednesday night last. He noticed nothing on the line, and saw nobody. It was very dark, and he could not say whether he went over deceased or not. He had heard that a bit of material was found on the engine after it returned to Newton Abbot from Kingswear at 1.37. When witness returned to Newton he noticed nothing on the line. - Edwin Chandler, 40 Beaumont Road, Newton Abbot, engine driver on the Great Western Railway, stated that he examined the engine of the 10.10 train, after it came back from Kingswear. He found a piece of serge on the cylinder rod underneath the engine. It was wedged in. There were no marks on the engine nor no signs of blood. - JAMES DREW (the father) produced the clothes worn by deceased, and the piece of cloth found on the engine was compared with the clothes, and corresponded with them. - Louisa King, matron at the Hospital, stated that deceased was brought there on Thursday morning living, but unconscious. There was a great deal of haemorrhage. There was 5s. 8d. in money on deceased and a box of matches, his watch being around his neck, attached by a piece of white cord. There was no railway ticket on him. - Dr Malcolm Margrave stated that he saw deceased at the hospital at half-past five on Thursday morning, and he was conscious then, and gave his name and address, and asked whether he was at Torquay or Newton, but could not give any account of the accident. The doctor described the injuries and stated that the head had been badly cut. Deceased died from shock. He thought the injuries were consistent with deceased falling from a carriage. - Thomas Tonkin, inspector of the G.W.R., stated that on Wednesday night there were trains arriving at Newton at 8.24 and 9.22, and down trains at 8.56 and 10.10. The deceased had been dragged about twenty-one yards. This could easily be traced by looking at the ballast. There was a mark on the ballast outside the rail close to the spot where deceased was found. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Shock, occasioned by Wounds," but added there was no evidence to show how they were inflicted.

TORQUAY - Sad Fatality Near Torre Station. A Gentleman Killed. - At about 12.30 on Wednesday, an extremely painful fatal trap accident took place very close to Torre Railway Station. MR C. HEAWOOD, of the Brake, Teignmouth Road, had been to the Station, and after awaiting the arrival of the newspaper train, had secured his London papers and started out to return to his home. He was walking slowly along on the right-hand side of the road, near the Clarence Hotel, carrying his umbrella in one hand to keep off the scorching rays of the sun, and his newspapers in the other, when a pony, attached to a light butcher's trap, came down over St. Michael's Hill at a tremendous place and MR HEAWOOD was struck either by the horse's head or one of the shafts of the trap and hurled with terrific force against the Clarence Hotel boundary wall, against which the pony also plunged with a crash, immediately falling dead with a broken neck, and smashing both shafts of the trap off short. MR HEAWOOD, who lay motionless on the ground where he fell, was seen by those who were quickly on the spot to have sustained serious injuries to his head and a very severe cut over one eye,. A cab was called for from the station yard, but the drivers there seemed to have no inclination to obey the summons, and consequently a man named Head, in the employ of the Great Western Railway Co., fetched the station ambulance stretcher, upon which the injured gentleman, who was still faintly breathing, was placed. A small pony phaeton was passing at the time and on this the stretcher was placed and conveyed to the Torbay Hospital, but there is little doubt that MR HEAWOOD had expired before his arrival at the Institution. The house surgeon (Mr Searle) however made an examination and found that terrible injuries had been inflicted to the head. It was subsequently ascertained that the pony and trap belonged to Messrs. Eastman and Co., butchers, Union Street. It was in charge of a lad named George Tandy, who lodges at No. 12, Florence Terrace, Warren Road. He had been on his rounds with meat and having to call at Tor Mount had fastened the pony to the front gate with the reins. It is presumed that the animal was either frightened or stung by some insect and by a sudden jerk succeeded in detaching its head from the gate, and bolted off down the hill. Being unable, owing to the impetus given it by the weight of the trap, to turn the corner at the bottom, it dashed straight across the road into the wall. The pony had the reputation of being a very quiet one. MR HEAWOOD, who was well known amongst the philanthropic and charitable people of Torquay, was a bachelor, living with his two sisters. He was a member of the Committee of the Torquay Errand Boys' Association and was a generous supporter of several other institutions in the Borough.
The Inquest. Leaving Horses Unattended - A Dangerous Practice. - The Inquest was held at the Upton Parish Room last evening. Mr F. J. Carter watched the case for Eastman and Co. Ltd., and Mr Easterbrook, Madeira Place, was Foreman of the Jury. - JAMES HEAWOOD, of Wedmore, Somersetshire, stated that deceased was his brother. He was 65 years of age and a bachelor. Although not actually a robust man he was quite active and able to see and hear well. - John Arthur Inch, cab driver, 12 Braddons Hill, stated that about 12.30 he was driving away from Torre Station when he saw deceased walking in the middle of the road towards Torre, with an umbrella in his hand. On arriving at the bottom of St. Michael's Hill witness saw a runaway horse attached to a trap coming down the hill at a great pace. He gave his horse a couple of cuts with the whip and just got clear of it. He sung out at the top of his voice to the gentleman "Look out," but there were several waggons rumbling along near the station, and he could not have heard. Witness looked around and saw either the horse's head or the shafts of the cart strike deceased on the left side and thrust him with great force against the wall of the Clarence Hotel. The blow knocked the gentleman to the right about four feet and the horse plunged into the wall and broke its neck. There was no one in the butcher's trap, and the reins were dangling on the ground. He helped pick deceased up, but he had no signs of life. His head and face were bleeding. - William Henry Head, carter, in the employ of Farrant and Co., stated that whilst in the bar of the Clarence Hotel, he heard a crash, and on going into the road, he saw a cob lying against the wall, dead, and a gentleman lying between the trap and the wall. He was doubled up and lying on his left side. His head had several nasty wounds on it. The gentleman was alive at that time for he groaned. Witness procured the ambulance stretcher, and had deceased conveyed to the hospital, but he expired before he arrived there. - Ethel Jones, 11, who lives with her parents at Tor Mount, stated that whilst standing in the drive she saw a horse attached to a butcher's cart run down St. Michael's Road. She ran up the drive and told the butcher lad, who was just leaving Tor Mount. She had previously seen the butcher arrive and leave his trap. He did not tie the horse up. - Martha Jones, cook at Tor Mount, Barton Road, stated that Eastman's man arrived at the house soon after 12 o'clock. He handed in the meat and went away at once. - P.S. Callard stated that on Thursday morning at 9.30 he went to Tor Mount and measured the distance from the front gate to the back entrance to the house and found it to be 80 yards. A person would be able to see a vehicle at the front gate for a distance of 15 yards up the drive. - Mr G. P. Searle, House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, stated that deceased was quite dead when he was brought to the hospital. His skull was severely injured and several ribs were broken on the left side. Death was due to fracture of the base of the skull. - Willoughby E. Reed, Torquay manager for Messrs. Eastman, stated that the cob belonged to him. He sent George Tandy, in the employ of the firm, to Tor Mount, with some meat. He took the cob and trap. The animal, which had been in his possession for six months, was a very quiet one. The cob had a web halter on with which to tie it up. The lad had instructions to tie the horse up when he left it to go into a long drive. - Arthur George Tandy, in the employ of Messrs. Eastman, said he was sent with the cob and trap to Tor Mount with some beef. He had been previously told to tie up the pony when he had to go up long drives. He went to the front gate of Tor Mount, pulled the pony in, and put the reins around a nail of the gate before entering the grounds. There was a halter on the cob, but no place near the gate to fasten it to. As he came down the drive a little girl told him his horse had run away down St. Michael's Road. he followed but failed to overtake it. When he arrived at the bottom of the road the accident had happened. - In reply to the Coroner witness said he was unaware that he was acting illegally by leaving his horse untied outside a house. - The Coroner said he regarded the case as a serious one, for if runaway horses became common on the hills of Torquay, there would soon be a long death roll. Unless a horse was most securely tied or left in charge of someone, it was out of control when a driver went up the long drive of a villa. The only really safe course was to send a small boy with the man delivering the goods to take charge of the horse whilst he was absent. It was most important that this rule should be followed in a place like Torquay with so many villas with long drives, and if it was not followed the moral responsibility rested on the persons who sent lads out. The case was not very far removed from manslaughter and if further cases occurred it would be for the Jury to consider whether they would not consider it as such. The accident was brought about by gross neglect and carelessness. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The majority of the Jury added the following recommendation:- "That all vehicles delivering goods be attended by a boy, in addition to the driver, for the safety of the public, and also that the boy Tandy be cautioned." - The Coroner called the lad Tandy, and said in future he must not leave a horse out of his control. If his employers did not arrange for someone to look after the horse, it would be his duty to refuse to go out with it. - The Jury also passed a vote of condolence with the relatives of MR HEAWOOD; and Mr Carter on behalf of Messrs. Eastman, expressed great regret at the occurrence.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 September 1899
ST MARYCHURCH - Death Whilst Bathing At Oddicombe. Inquest. - At the St. Marychurch Parish Room last evening Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry respecting the death of HERBERT WADDINGTON, 25, of Zion, New Eccles Road, Salford, a visitor who had been staying at Helston House, Rathmore Road, Cockington, and met with his death whilst bathing at Oddicombe Beach on Wednesday afternoon. - Mr W. Terry was appointed Foreman of the Jury. - Charles C. Winpenny, clerk, of 6 Spring Street, Fulford Road, York, said he understood deceased's name was HERBERT WADDINGTON. That was the name entered in the visitors' book at Helston House, where deceased had been staying since last Saturday week. Witness had been staying there since Monday last, but had up to Wednesday morning only occasionally spoken to MR WADDINGTON, whose profession or age he did not know. About 10.20 on Wednesday morning witness and his wife, whilst on the way to Babbacombe, met deceased, with whom they decided to go on to the beach. After remaining there a few minutes, MR WADDINGTON and himself decided to have a bathe, and proceeded to Oddicombe Beach for that purpose. Deceased went into the water first, and another friend, Mr Hurlock, who they had met, followed. A minute or two after he (witness) had got into the water he saw deceased throw his arms back. He was then about 10 yards from the shore and witness thought he was making an attempt to float. He did not shout or call out but seemed to sink at once and did not rise to the surface again. Witness endeavoured to get a towel to throw to Mr Hurlock who was nearest deceased thinking that he would be able to throw it to MR WADDINGTON but he could not get it in time. Dr Lucas was bathing close by and he dived for deceased and at the second attempt brought him to the surface. Under Dr Lucas's direction artificial respiration was tried for an hour and a half but without success. The beach shelved away very suddenly and he considered it a highly dangerous place for bathers who could not swim. Deceased had bathed at Torquay early the same morning. - The Foreman said there was a rope and lifebuoy close to where deceased was bathing. - Witness stated that the lifebuoy was fully 50 yards away. - Mr Hugo (a Juror) said several people had been drowned at the same point. - Dr Stanley A. Lucas, House Surgeon at St. Thomas's Hospital, London, now staying at Babbacombe, stated that he had been bathing at Oddicombe Beach, and had just come out of the water when he heard a shout, and on going down to the water's edge, was told that there was a man in the water. He swam to the spot, dived, and found the body lying on the bottom. He made two attempts to bring the body up, but failed, but in his third endeavour he received assistance, and succeeded in bringing the body ashore. Artificial respiration was tried for a long time, but there were no signs of life. He considered death to be due to heart failure, and not to drowning, and he formed this opinion because deceased did not struggle or call for help. The beach shelved away somewhat suddenly at that point and was unsafe for non-swimmers who had not been warned of it. A lifebuoy and rope were kept near by for use in case of accident. - Sidney Hurlock, a visitor from Wakefield, said deceased did not utter a sound or make any struggle. He regarded the beach as decidedly dangerous to non-swimmers. P.C. Partridge said he found a match-box on which was engraved "H. WADDINGTON" in the deceased's pocket. This was a recognised bathing place for men and boys, but the beach did shelve somewhat suddenly. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 September 1899
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Ellacombe. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Wednesday evening, the Deputy Coroner, Mr g. Kellock, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of HARRIET TRACE, 73, widow, of No. 7 Pembroke Terrace, Ellacombe, who was found dead on Monday evening. - Mary Jane Marten, wife of Elisha Marten, gardener, Fairwarp Buckfield, Sussex, identified the body as that of her mother, who resided in part of the house at No. 7 Pembroke Terrace, Ellacombe. Witness had not seen her for the past two years. - Jane Warne, widow, 7 Pembroke Terrace, said she last saw deceased alive on Saturday evening, when she was in her usual health. On Monday, witness went to her room with a Mrs Martin. They found the door open and Mrs Martin entered. On her return to witness, she said MRS TRACE was dead. - Mrs Harriet Martin, widow, who resides in the same house, said she accompanied the last witness to deceased's rooms on Monday evening, to see whether she was ill or not, as they had not seen her for a day or two. She found the door slightly ajar, and called, but getting no answer, she entered and found deceased in bed, dead and cold. A messenger was at once despatched for a doctor. - Dr Cook said when he saw the body on Monday, deceased must have been dead fully twelve hours. A post mortem examination revealed the fact that the heart was much diseased. Death was due to failure of the heart's action. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 15 September 1899
TORQUAY - Suicide Of A Torquay Tradesman. The Inquest. - At the Queen's Hotel, on Monday afternoon, Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest on the body of MR HENRY GRANT, fruiterer, &c., 15 Victoria Parade, who was found hanging in an outhouse at the back of his premises on Sunday. Mr Robert Tucker was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - JOSEPH GRANT, St. Marychurch Road, poulterer, identified the body as that of HENRY EDWIN GRANT, 44, his brother and partner. Deceased was a married man with no family. He left deceased on Saturday night at ten o'clock, when he seemed in good spirits. He had, during the last fortnight, complained of violent pains in the head and had been very quiet lately. About two years ago he had a very serious carbuncle. On Saturday, although he complained of his head, he did his work all right. He was a cyclist and wore a very small cap which witness thought was not sufficient covering for his head. All his books were posted and put in their places in readiness for Monday. His life was most happy, and he had no trouble. He was easily upset by trouble. - SARAH GRANT, wife of the deceased, said her husband was in his usual health on Saturday, but stayed in bed on Sunday until 2.30, having his dinner in bed. He had been very quiet lately, and could get little or no sleep during the night for the last week or so. He was in his room until three o'clock and he then went down to shave and dress. About twenty minutes past four she went down but could not find him. She went outside the house, where he often smoked and saw him hanging in the loft, the door being wide open. She pulled him down. Apparently he had walked straight to the loft. She called to Mr Manley, who poured some brandy down deceased's throat. Deceased had for years at intervals complained of pains in his head. - Harry Manley, 16 Victoria Parade, said he heard MRS GRANT calling him, and on going to her house he found the deceased lying on the floor of the loft. His hands were quite cold. He was fully dressed. He had noticed that during the last week or two deceased had been very quiet. - Dr Reginald Pollard said he was called at about 4.30 by Mr Manley and found the deceased on the loft floor quite dead. There was the mark of a rope around his neck, with the mark of the knot under his chin. Death was probably due partly to suffocation and partly to congestive apoplexy caused by the rope. The deceased had a very severe carbuncle some time ago, but had quite recovered from that. He was lying on a piece of rope about six feet long, with a running noose at one end. The pains in his head would be due to some brain trouble. He (witness) had never known so many persons depressed; he put it down to the weather. - P.C. Gordon produced the rope. - MRS GRANT recalled said the rope was attached to a beam at the top of the loft, and the deceased was hanging close to a pair of high steps. She pulled at the body and then at the rope, and it slipped off the beam. There was a large quantity of similar rope in the loft. - Mr Compton Bishop said he saw the deceased on Saturday evening, when he said that if the pains in his head did not stop he would go mad. - The Jury returned a verdict of Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane. - Mr Tucker, on behalf of the Jury, expressed their sympathy with the widow and brother in their sad bereavement. The Coroner joined in the vote, and MR JOSEPH GRANT returned thanks. The Foreman proposed that the fees should be handed to the Torbay Hospital. Mr J. Douglas thought it would be better to give the money to the widow of the unfortunate cook of the Coath. The latter was agreed to. - The funeral took place on Wednesday and was attended by many relatives and friends and members of the Torre Cycling Club, to which deceased belonged. The officiating clergyman was the Rev. H. W. Majendie, president of that Club. [Details of the funeral and mourners followed.]

TORQUAY - Death of MRS F. U. WEBB. A Fatal Fall. - At the Torre Parish Room on Monday Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry respecting the death of MRS ANN SHORT WEBB, wife of MR F. U. WEBB of Lansdowne Mews. Torre. Mr James Taylor was elected Foreman of the Jury. - MR FRANK UNDERWOOD WEBB, livery stable keeper, Lansdowne Mews, gave evidence of identification. For the past two years his wife had been a great invalid. She was unable to walk much, but went out driving a good deal. On the 4th inst. deceased was out driving and in the evening went to the Theatre. On the 5th witness was away from home the whole of the day, but on reaching his house in the evening he was told by some lady friends staying with his wife that she had had a fall. He was advised not to see her as it might disturb her. No doctor was considered to be necessary at that time. On the Wednesday he saw his wife, and she told him that she had had a fall, which had given her great pain in the leg she had injured in July, in getting out of a cab whilst on a visit to some friends at Nottingham. Deceased said she would remain in bed and rest her leg, and she stated her intention to do that on Thursday. On Friday deceased became delirious and Dr Cash was sent for. She died early on Saturday morning. - Miss Florence Graham, 33 Upper Bedford Place, Russell Square, London, stated that she had been staying with MRS WEBB since the 26th of August. About 10 o'clock on the 4th inst., whilst witness was helping to prepare the supper she saw deceased suddenly fall. Just prior to the fall she said "Oh! my leg." She fell flat on her face. Witness helped her up and assisted her to bed. She fell heavily, and might have struck her head. On the following morning deceased said her head was sore, and added that she had tried to get up but her leg had given way again. Deceased had previously fallen. - Dr Alfred Midgley Cash stated that he was called to see MRS WEBB on Friday. When he arrived at the house he found her in a delirious condition. She had abrasions on her head and nose and on the legs. Everything possible had been done for her, but he advised that a professional nurse be obtained. On the following morning when he called she was dead. He attended deceased in the Spring for influenza and bronchial asthma. and previously, in 1897, for acute inflammation in the leg. Her condition was attributable all the way through to chronic alcoholic poisoning. Largely, he thought, that accounted for her condition on Friday. She was really suffering from delirium tremens, and any little thing out of the way would bring this on. There was no doubt that the fall decidedly aggravated her condition. Death was due to advanced alcoholic poisoning and delirium tremens brought on by the shock of the fall. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Delirium Tremens brought on by an Accidental Fall."

TORQUAY - The Mysterious Drowning Case. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Friday afternoon the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. Kellock, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM HILL, aged 40, of 14 Jennings Street, Penzance, cook on the s.s. Coath, who was found drowned in the harbour on the previous Wednesday. Mr James C. Hewitt was elected Foreman of the Jury. - As the body had not been medically examined the house surgeon at the hospital, Dr Searle, was sent for and requested to make an examination. - John Uren, Torcarne, Cornwall, identified the body as that of his sister's husband, whom he had not seen for two months. - George Peckings, labourer, of Spring Place, Torquay, stated that on Tuesday evening about 10.40 he entered the Crown Inn, Swan Street, and saw the deceased in company with five other members of the ship's crew. Afterwards the company in the bar left the inn, HILL and his shipmates, who all seemed on friendly terms, going towards the Quay, and witness with others going towards Torre. Witness subsequently saw deceased coming down Fleet Street and as he passed he wished witness good night. He mentioned that he was going aboard then and would see witness on Sunday evening. He had no marks on his face. - P.C. Parsons stated that on the 5th inst., Tuesday, he was on his beat on the Beacon Quay, about 11.28 p.m. when he saw a man answering to the description of the deceased walk from the Quay along a gangway and board the ship. He stopped near the funnel and spoke to someone below. About a quarter of an hour afterwards, witness was again near the vessel and heard high words and the sounds of a scuffle taking place in the galley, he thought he heard one man say "Let me go, let me go, I'll punch the b's head," another voice said, "Don't Bill, take and be quiet Bill." Further high words were used, the man who was attempting to quiet the other being probably an officer as the angry man called him "sir," when in his calmer moments. The noise abated and witness continued on his beat. When next he passed the ship all the lights were out and all was quiet. - Joseph William Earl Spurr, agent for the Little Western Steamship Company, said when he returned to his office at ten on Wednesday morning he received a message through a man named Jones from the captain of the Coath, which had sailed just before, to the effect that the cook was missing, and asking Spurr to pay HILL'S fare to London to join his ship there if he should turn up. This message was explained by the supposition that the man had been "on the drink" the previous evening. Witness accordingly sent two men to search for HILL in the town, and acting on a sort of instinct he sent Jones in a boat to search the water where the vessel had been lying. At about eleven o'clock Jones picked up a cap similar to that worn by deceased, with the name of a Penzance outfitter on the inside. The coastguard then joined in the search, but they were unsuccessful until nearly six in the evening, when the assistance of the corporation diver was obtained and he quickly found the body. The deceased was a sober, quiet man. - Hugh Jones, foreman of labourers in the employ of the Steamship Company, said that when at work about 7.40 on Wednesday morning the steward of the ship came to him and told him that the cook was not on board and asked him to try to find him before the captain heard of it. He accordingly sent a man to likely places for him to be found in the town, and telephoned to the police to ascertain if a man answering HILL'S description had been locked up during the night. Nothing resulting from the enquiries, he informed the captain of the facts and he gave the message to the agent. - Wm. Melhuish, carpenter and corporation diver, deposed to finding the body lying six feet under the staging of the quay, just opposite where the aft gangway of the vessel had been. - Dr. Geo. Percy Searle, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he had made an external examination of the body, and had found on the right side of the back of the head a clean cut about 2 ½ inches long, and also two or three smaller bruises lower down on the head. There was also a severe contusion of the left eye and eyeball. It was quite possible that the wounds on the back of the head were caused by falling upon some hard substance or being struck by some blunt instrument. The injury to the eye was such as was often got in a street brawl. The injuries were not of a sufficiently severe character to cause death of themselves, but would probably cause unconsciousness. - The Inquest was adjourned until Monday at 2.15 p.m. in order that the members of the crew of the Coath might attend and give evidence. - The Inquiry was resumed by Mr Kellock on Monday, when Superintendent Roberts attended to watch the case on behalf of the police. - Jacob Hodge, captain of the Coath, stated that he lived at Penzance. He last saw deceased alive at 8.30 on the night of the 5th in the bar of St. James's Restaurant. Next morning he was told that the cook was not on board. He left instructions for the man to be sent on. That was not unusual. He could not keep his ship waiting for a man to turn up. He was due to leave at 8 o'clock. Deceased had been with him thirteen years and this was the first time he had been absent. James Chard, the fireman, was on duty from 8 till 12. He did not know who was on from 12 until 4. He inquired on Saturday night but could not find out. They never troubled to see that all men were on board. There were 23 passengers on the ship. About 10 o'clock Mr Downes and Mr Biggs, two of the passengers, stated that they heard a nasty knock against the side of the ship about 12.30 and a splash in the water. He did not know where Messrs. Downes and Biggs were. They left the ship at London. - By Superintendent Roberts: The man on watch might not have heard the splash. - Alfred Merrifield, chief engineer, said he did not see deceased after 9.45 on the night of the 5th. He heard a disturbance on the ship that night, but deceased was not on board at the time. The disturbance was between William Keame a seaman and William Downing, the second engineer, about two strings of onions. Witness parted them and sent them to their quarters. This occurred about 11.45. The row took place on the deck, and he (witness) was present all the time. He was in his berth about 10.45, Chard should have been in the stoke-hole at that time if anyone was. He had come on deck again, before the row began about 12 o'clock. - The Coroner: Are you confident deceased was not on board at that time? - Witness: Yes, perfectly confident. - The Coroner: Why are you so confident? - Witness: From what I have gathered from other men. - The Coroner: But what do you know yourself? - Witness: I never saw the man. - William Downes, the second engineer, said he last saw deceased at about 10.30 outside St. James's Restaurant. At 11.45 that night witness had a disturbance with a seaman named Keame. He would call the Chief Engineer "sir." The disturbance occurred close to the cabin on the second deck. He thought Honeychurch was on watch at that time. Witness caught hold of the strings of onions which were brought on deck, and Keame collared him. A scuffle took place, and he (witness) pulled Keame's pipe out of his mouth and afterwards went to his berth and locked himself in. Merrifield went below and put out the electric light whilst the disturbance was in progress. - P.C. Parsons evidence was read over, describing the scuffle and words he heard on the ship at about 11.45. - Witness said the constable's evidence was correct. The words repeated by the constable were used in the dispute between Keame and witness. About six weeks ago he had a few words with deceased over some boots, but it was nothing to speak of. - William M. Keame, seaman on the Coath, said he last saw deceased about 11 o'clock at the door of the Crown Inn, in Swan Street. He was far from being intoxicated. About 11.30 witness went aboard the ship carrying a couple of strings of onions. The second engineer tried to snatch a couple of the onions off and that vexed witness, and he pushed the second engineer down. Downes, when he got up, snatched the pipe out of witness's mouth, saying "I don't wear the same class of clothes you wear." Witness replied that he wore as good clothes as Downes, and paid as much for them. He might have sworn a good deal more than was necessary, but he was sorry for it the next morning. The electric light was put out just before the disturbance. He had never quarrelled with deceased, who he had known for 25 years, neither did he know of any member of the crew who had quarrelled with deceased. - By Supt. Roberts: It was just commencing to rain when the disturbance took place. - William John Stevens, seaman, said he last saw the deceased alone about 11.10. Witness was in his company from 9.30 up to that hour. After leaving the Crown Inn he accompanied the deceased up Swan Street as far as the steps leading into Fleet Street. HILL stopped to light his pipe, and witness and a man named Holland who was with him told the deceased they were going aboard and left him. That was the last time he saw HILL. At four o'clock next morning witness knew that deceased was not on board. - James Chard, fireman, said he was on watch on the night in question at 11.30 in the stokehole. He saw the deceased on the upper deck at 9.30. That was the last time he saw him. Honeychurch told him at 11.30 that there was a row aft, but he did not leave the stokehole. - Alfred Honeychurch, fireman, stated that the last time he saw deceased was outside the Crown in Swan Street, at 11 o'clock. He was on the deck of the ship when the row took place, but saw nothing of it. Witness wore a peaked cap at the time. He went on watch at midnight, but he heard no noise on the water. - The Captain, recalled, said he had made all the investigation possible. His impression was that deceased was hurrying to get out of the heavy thunderstorm which took place that night and took a false step on the plank and fell overboard. - Augustus Uren, steward, said during the time he had been on the ship HILL had never been away from his duty. As soon as he discovered that he was not on board on the morning of the 6th he acquainted the stevedore, Hugh Jones, and asked him to make inquiries of the police. - Dr Searle said he had made a post mortem examination of the body, and was of opinion that death was due to drowning. The bruises on the body wee caused either before or immediately after death. - P.C. Burrows stated that deceased's watch was stopped at 10.58. - Mr Sermon (a Juror) said the mainspring of the watch was broken. - The Deputy Coroner in summing up said there was a deal of mystery about deceased's death. There was no doubt that HILL received two severe blows, one in the face and the other on the back of the head, but how he sustained them no one appeared to know. The ship's crew cleared up the matter of the disturbance in which HILL clearly took no part. He (the Deputy Coroner) wished to compliment P.C. Parsons on his evidence regarding what he heard passing on the ship., evidence which had been borne out by several members of the crew. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned" and gave their fees to the widow. - The steamship Coath arrived at Penzance on Tuesday, bringing the body of the ship's cook, WILLIAM HILL, who met his death under mysterious circumstances at Torquay, as reported above. Considerable interest had been taken in the affair in Penzance, where the deceased was well-known and the funeral in the afternoon was largely attended. It is expected that a fund will be opened there for the widow and nine children.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 September 1899
TORQUAY - Inquest On A Torquay Woman. An Epileptic Fit. - At the Masonic Temple, Madeira Place, on Saturday, Mr S. Hacker, held an Inquiry respecting the death of MARY HANNAH INGRAM, 66, wife of JOHN JAMES INGRAM, carpenter of 14 Madeira Hill. Mr Crocker was elected Foreman of the Jury. JOHN JAMES INGRAM, the husband, gave evidence of identification, and stated that up to within the past few days his wife had been in bad health. She had for two years been subject to fits of giddiness and on two or three occasions she had fallen downstairs. During the past few days she was able to go out a little and on Friday she was sufficiently well to go out for a few household necessities. She returned soon after eight o'clock and whilst witness was writing a letter his wife came to the door and pushed it part way open. She did not enter and witness went on with his writing. He suddenly heard a fall and on going out found his wife lying in the road. She had apparently fallen from the steps leading to the house. With assistance she was taken into the sitting room, but she only muttered a few words to the effect that she would like to be left alone. Witness sent for a doctor, and on his departure remained with deceased the whole of the night. She did not say anything, but whether she was unconscious or not he did not know. Death ensued about 5 o'clock on Saturday morning. - Sarah Rooke, No. 18 Madeira Cottages, said she heard deceased fall, and on going to MR INGRAM'S door, saw him leaning over his wife who was lying in the road with her feet towards the steps. Witness's husband helped MR INGRAM carry deceased into the house. - Dr F. T. Thistle stated that he was called to see deceased about 9.15. He had previously attended her for epileptic fits. He found her lying on the bed quite unconscious. There were no outward injuries. His opinion was that she had had an epileptic fit, which had been the cause of the fall. She never recovered consciousness and when he visited the house again at 6 a.m. on Saturday, she had been dead for an hour. Death was due to epilepsy. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 October 1899
PAIGNTON - Fatal Fall At Paignton. - An Inquest was held on Tuesday concerning the death of FREDERICK REMINGTON, formerly a clergyman. It was shown that deceased got out of bed, and falling against a sharp corner of the door sustained fatal injuries. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 November 1899
ST MARYCHURCH - Inquest. - On Wednesday afternoon at the Police Court, Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest on the body of the infant male child of MR ARTHUR TOZER, of 2 St. Edmund's Terrace, St. Marychurch. Mr Bartlett was elected Foreman of the Jury. It transpired that the child was born at quarter to four on Monday night, and died two hours afterwards. A post mortem examination showed that the child's lungs were undeveloped. A verdict of Death from Natural Causes through inanition at birth was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 24 November 1899
KINGSKERSWELL - Death Of A Nurse Child. - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest at Kingskerswell on Saturday evening last touching the death of VIOLET MAY MOORE, four and a half months old. Mr Crocker was chosen Foreman of the Jury. Inspector John James Brown, N.S.P.C.C. of Torquay, was present. - MARY ELIZABETH MOORE, the mother, a spinster, living at 24 Princess-street, Babbacombe, with her grandmother, said the deceased was born on the 6th July at Newton Workhouse, but about a month ago the child was removed. Witness left the baby with Mrs Lord at Kingskerswell, and arranged to pay her 3s. 6d. per week. The money was paid as arranged up to the 6th November. The child was well when it left the workhouse, witness herself having nursed it, and up to the time of being left with Mrs Lord, who was her (witness's) aunt. Mrs Lord had no children of her own, but was keeping one, the age of which witness did not know. The child was fed from the bottle. Her mother had insured the child's life, but sometimes witness paid the money. On the Tuesday when she last saw it, the child appeared particularly well. Until telegraphed for, witness did not know deceased was ill. She took it to Dr Macdonald, who told her that the child had been starved. Witness replied that the child had been taken great care of. Dr Macdonald declined to undertake the case on the Saturday night and she took the child to Dr Hunt, who told Mrs Lord to go to Dr Culross. On the following Sunday, after the child had been taken to Dr Culross, it appeared better. - Dr Thomas Ross Macdonald, surgeon, Kingskerswell, stated that the child was bought to him on the 7th October last. It was fearfully emaciated. He looked at its legs, which in size were just like one of his (witness's) fingers. He asked why the child had not been brought to him before. The child appeared to him to be dying. - Ethel Hammett, Kingskerswell, wife of Frederick Charles Hemmett, a labourer, said there was nothing wrong with the child, which was delicate. She had helped to nurse it. - Dr Culross, medical officer of the Newton Abbot Workhouse, said he first saw the child soon after birth on the 6th July in the infirmary of the workhouse. It was attended to by the superintendent nurse. Three days after it had a convulsion. At birth it weighed 6 ¼ lbs. This was a pound less than the average weight. It was a small, delicate child. There was nothing the matter with it except the convulsions. On the 2nd October the infant was brought to his surgery by Mrs Lord and Mrs Hammett. They said it was pining away. He found that the child was in a very bad emaciated condition. It had eczema on the body and thighs. It was evidently seriously ill. He did not hear anything further about the child until he learnt of its death the previous day. - Jane Lord, wife of Andrew Lord, of Kingskerswell, a labourer, said she undertook the charge of the child at 3s. 6d. a week. It was a very tiny baby. She did not care about taking it, it was so small. The child did not take so much milk as it ought. She thought the child was getting better, and that was the reason she did not take it to the doctor. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned, the Jury finding that there was no negligence on the part of Mrs Lord.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 January 1900
TORQUAY - Suicide At Hele. Inquest. - At the Hele schoolroom on Wednesday evening Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of SIMON SNELL, 73, labourer, of 4 Woodside Cottages, who was found dead in bed with his throat cut on Tuesday morning. Mr Henry Honslow was elected Foreman of the Jury. - ELIZABETH SNELL, the widow, gave evidence of identification. She stated that her husband had not been fit for work for some time. He had been in receipt of parish relief and had received some help from his son. Two months ago deceased was ill with dropsy, but some medicine he had from Dr Steele set him right for a time. He then commenced to complain of pains in his head. This continued up to the time of his death. At times he seemed very depressed. Between six and seven o'clock on Monday evening the pains appeared to be very acute. he went to bed about 7.30. On Tuesday morning about 8.30 she went to his room and he asked her not to go out to work that day as when she came back he might be dead. She promised not to do so, and as she left the room deceased called her back to shut the door. - The Coroner: Did he say anything about cutting his throat? - Witness: Not then. About a month ago he said, "I wish I was dead. I think I shall cut my throat and get out of it." - The Coroner: You told the constable something about your husband threatening to cut his throat on Tuesday morning. You must not conceal anything from the Jury. - P.C. Harris: You told me your husband said, "Don't go out today, for when you come back you will find me with my throat cut." - Witness: I will give in, but I cannot really remember what he did say. - Continuing her evidence, MRS SNELL said she went downstairs and made her husband a cup of tea, and when she returned she found him lying with his head hanging out over the bed. On seeing blood she called for her niece, who lives next door. P.C. Harris was also fetched. The pocket knife produced was her husband's. It was kept on the mantelpiece in the bedroom. She attributed her husband's action to his ill health, which made him very weak and miserable. - Ellen Horswell, deceased's niece, who resides next door, said he had been a great sufferer from asthma and dropsy. She was called in by MRS SNELL on Tuesday morning and found her uncle lying with his head and body on the floor and his legs on the bed. There was a great quantity of blood about the floor. She sent a message for a police constable. - P.C. Harris stated that he went to the house at 9.45 and found the body as described by the last witness. There was a wound in the throat and on a box by the side of the bed was an open blood-stained pocket knife. - Dr W. H. Steele said there was a wound in the throat extending from the left to the right side, and a smaller but deeper wound on the right side, which had severed the man's artery. Death was due to loss of blood. The Jury returned a verdict that deceased Committed Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 January 1900
TORQUAY - Torquay Pensioner's Fatal Fall. Inquest. - At the Country House Hotel on Tuesday Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of THOMAS PROWSE, 65, army pensioner and labourer, of 5 Sandhill Road, Ellacombe, who died on Sunday evening after an illness of a week, following a fall at the Alpine Inn, Higher Braddons. - GEORGE PROWSE, labourer, 9 Sandhill road, Ellacombe, stated that he was deceased's son. His father was married, but was separated from his wife, and lived in lodgings at No. 5 Sandhill Road. Witness last saw him alive on Tuesday the 16th, when he was called into the house and found his father in bed. He was unable to speak distinctly, and had two women looking after him. Deceased died on Sunday evening. - William Vanstone, landlord of the Alpine Inn, Higher Braddons Street, stated that deceased was a frequent visitor to his house. On the 15th, about 8 p.m. he entered the tap room and remained there about half an hour drinking. He had two half-pints of beer, and then went to the back of the premises. Going down the steps which led to the back yard he fell. Witness heard the noise, and on looking down the steps saw PROWSE lying at the bottom. There were twelve steps, which were not particularly steep. Deceased was lying on his back and was unconscious. With help, witness placed his head on a pillow and when he came round he got up on his legs, walked up the steps into the tap room, and sat down for half an hour. During this time witness gave him some brandy. He was accompanied home by a man named Pearce. Deceased did not say how he felt, but complained of having knocked his arm. Deceased was perfectly sober. - James Pearce, carter, of Pensylvania Road, stated that he was in the tap room of the Alpine Inn, and heard PROWSE fall over the stairs. He assisted the landlord in raising him up and subsequently walked home with him. Deceased complained of having struck his head and left arm. He was quite sober. - Harriett Setters, No. 5 Sandhill Road, said deceased lodged with her. He left home at 7.30 on the evening of the 15th, remarking that he was going to the Alpine Inn for some tools. He returned home at 10.30 and said he had had a fall. He complained of pains in the head, and witness called in two neighbours to look after deceased. During the night he was in great pain. On the following morning witness went for Dr Cook, but although every care was bestowed on deceased, he died on Sunday evening at 6.30. - Dr Cook said he saw deceased on the morning of the 16th. Witness asked him questions which he answered with intelligence. He had a bruise on the head and another on his left shoulder, but he did not appear to be in a serious condition. Witness fully expected him to recover. On the 17th he became very much worse and ultimately died of shock on Sunday evening. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 9 February 1900
BATH - Suicide Of A Marychurch Man. - On Monday evening WILLIAM PURCELL, 48, butler, of Barton, St Marychurch, committed suicide at the London Dining Rooms, Upper Borough Walls, Bath. PURCELL, who was married, left St Marychurch on Thursday in last week to enter a situation at Tetbury, Gloucestershire, but although he went to the house he does not appear to have remained, for on Saturday he took a room at the Dining House at Bath, and on Monday the proprietor, Mr Cottrell, discovering that his door was locked and that he could not get any response to continued knocking, called in the police, who forced the door and found PURCELL lying on the floor with his head almost severed from his body, and an open knife and razor close by. The body was conveyed to the Walcot Mortuary to await an Inquest. At the Inquest on Wednesday, it was stated that deceased left a letter addressed to his wife, which contained allusions to "those mean people." He wrote that he could stand it no longer, adding "I have been faithful to you all, &c. - WILL." Another long letter found made reference to former employers, and complained of their treatment. He also said he was in his right mind and his act was not due to insanity. The widow said her husband had been out of a situation since September, and was rather depressed at times. He left for a place at Tetbury on Thursday, and she had a letter from him saying he had arrived safely; the next she heard was that he was dead. Her husband was in his last situation several years, and she believed was treated properly. Several servants left when he did. The Coroner remarked that people had a right to discharge servants if they chose. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst temporarily Insane."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 2 March 1900
ST MARYCHURCH - Sad Death Of A Child At Babbacombe. Doctor Called In Too Late. - The circumstances relating to the death of a child named FREDERICK CHARLES REGINALD HEYSETT, aged eleven months, who died on Saturday, were investigated by the County Coroner, Mr Sydney Hacker at the Royal Hotel, Babbacombe, on Monday. - The father of the child, FREDERICK CHARLES HEYSETT, painter of No. 32 Princes Street, Babbacombe, stated that it had been healthy since birth. On Wednesday it seemed to be unwell and his wife ascribed its illness to teething. The next day it was better, but on Friday it grew worse and died at 5.30 p.m. on Saturday. - MRS HEYSETT said the child was healthy but small. It had been suffering from a cold but she did not fetch the doctor as there was nothing much the matter. It began to vomit on Wednesday, and had convulsions on Saturday, when she sent for the doctor, because the child turned dark in such a funny way. - The Coroner: didn't the child swallow something it ought not to have,. - Witness said not Her eldest child gave it a thimble to play with on the previous Thursday and it put it in its mouth but he did not swallow it. - Dr Pitt Palmer said he had made a post mortem examination and found all the organs healthy with the exception of the lungs, which had patches of inflammation on them, the result of bronchitis. If the child had had medical attendance its life could have been saved,. He was called to attend it on Saturday, but the child died before he got there. There was no truth in the story that it swallowed something. - Mrs R. Rooks, a neighbour, said MRS HEYSETT brought the child to her house on Friday. It was then very ill and witness advised her to send for the doctor. MRS HEYSETT replied "How can I send for the doctor when my husband has been out of work so long." - MRS HEYSETT, recalled said she did not send for the doctor on Friday, because she did not see any necessity for it. She thought the child was poorly from teething. Her husband was out of work, and she could not afford it. - The Coroner: If you can't afford to pay for a doctor you should call in the parish doctor. If you do not do that you become liable. - In summing up, the Coroner remarked that there did not seem to be any great negligence. When the parents saw the child get worse they sent for the doctor. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 March 1900
LONDON - WILLIAM RADMORE WILSON, a betting man of Plymouth, committed suicide in London last month, and at the adjourned Inquest on Saturday, it was proved that Mrs Hensley of Plymouth, with whom he had been living, sent him telegrams that she had taken her life, and these appear to have distressed him.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 April 1900
ST MARYCHURCH - An Eccentric Pensioner. Found Dead At Babbacombe. - A naval pensioner named JOHN HENRY BINMORE, aged 72, who has been living alone at Redden Hill Road, Babbacombe, not having been seen by his neighbours since last Saturday, the attention of the police was called to his disappearance on Tuesday, and during the evening P.S. Ridge and P.C. Partridge visited the house and looked through the kitchen window by the aid of their lanterns. They then saw BINMORE lying on the floor fully dressed, and on entering the house found he was dead. - On Wednesday evening Mr Hacker held an Inquest at St. Marychurch Town Hall. - The first witness was a brother, aged about 80, who, however, could say very little beyond the deceased had lived alone for a number of years. - John Hubert Meers, an ironmonger, of Paignton, a nephew of deceased, said BINMORE was 74 years of age. He was married, but had not lived with his wife for more than thirty years, and they had no knowledge of whether she was dead or alive. Deceased had property at St. Marychurch, Dartmouth and Paignton, but witness thought it was mortgaged. - The Coroner: Why did he live alone? - Witness: It has grown on him. He has been served bad one way and another. His wife went off, and that preyed upon him. He was invalided out of the navy after the Crimean war. - Walter Percy Reddicliffe, who lives near, last saw deceased on Saturday at his bedroom window. He seemed all right. Deceased was accustomed to kick up a row at night in his house. - The Coroner: What sort of row? - Witness: Singing and dancing. I never saw anyone go into the house. - E. C. Woodford, butcher, living next door, said he last heard deceased on Wednesday. He then heard him in his garden praying, when he was doubled up apparently in pain. Deceased had previously told witness he was unwell. He did his own washing, made his own clothes, and did everything for himself, refusing all assistance. He always seemed eccentric, but as far as witness could see, he lived comfortably. At any rate, he was in no want of food. Witness was only in the house three times. It was "all of a rummage" inside. At times deceased would make out that he had his wife there, and would then shout and carry on in a curious manner. They had heard this sort of thing many times. Hearing nothing of deceased, witness had his suspicions aroused, and seeing that two chicken had died from want of food, he called in the police. - Dr Pitt Palmer said deceased had been dead about three days when found. Death was due to heart disease. A verdict was returned accordingly.

KINGSWEAR - The Kingswear Fatality. - At the Royal Dart Hotel, Kingswear, on Thursday in last week, the County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ALBERT NORRISH, of St. Marychurch, torpedo instructor of H.M.S. Thrasher, who was killed on the railway line on the previous evening. George Vincent, stoker, said he and deceased landed at the level crossing and were walking alongside the line with their heads down against a storm of wind and rain, when they suddenly heard an engine whistle. The engine caught deceased and he was dragged under the train and instantly killed. He was positive that deceased did not jump on the metals by mistake. They were in the path at the time. Evidence, however, was given by the driver and stoker of the train that the whistle was blown three times before reaching the deceased and his companions. Deceased jumped to the right first, but afterwards made as though to cross the line, and was caught by the engine. Similar evidence was given by two independent witnesses who saw the accident. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated the driver from blame.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 May 1900
PLYMOUTH - Brakeless Bicycles. - At an Inquest at Plymouth on Monday on ERNEST HIGGS, fatally injured on Sunday while riding a bicycle down a steep hill at Egg Buckland, the Jury expressed itself in favour of Parliament making the riding of brakeless bicycles a penal offence.

TORQUAY - Torquay Drowning Case. The Strange Disappearance. - The Inquest on the body of MARY GRACE CAMERON, wife of the chef at the Osborne Hotel, found in Torbay, under circumstances reported in last week's Torquay Times, was held on last Friday evening at the Upton Schools before Mr G. T. Kellock, Deputy Coroner. Mr W. Oliver was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - GEO. CAMERON, cook at the Osborne Hotel, and residing at 2 Park Place, identified the body of the deceased as that of his wife. He last saw her alive at 7.30 on the morning of Wednesday, March 28th. He went to work, leaving his wife in bed with the children. In the evening, about 6.30, he received by telephone, a message to the effect that his wife was missing. He at once informed the police, and a search was made. He could give no reason whatever for her disappearance. - In answer to the Foreman of the Jury as to whether deceased had been ill at all. The Witness stated that she had a little delusion about Christmas time. - What was the delusion? - She talked about all sorts of funny things, and cried. I sent for a doctor. - The Coroner: Was anything disturbing her mind? - Nothing whatever. - Did she leave a letter? - Nothing. The house was in perfect order. - WILLIAM CAMERON, father of the last witness, residing in Union Street, deposed that he was passing his son's house about one o'clock in the afternoon of Wednesday, March 28th. He called to see his daughter-in-law, who was rocking a cradle containing the youngest child, eleven months old. The baby was crying. After having had a glass of beer and a little bread and cheese, he offered to take the other child, two years old, for a walk for half-an-hour, in order that deceased might have a better chance of pacifying the baby. He stayed in the house about twenty minutes and then left with the child. After being absent for about three-quarters of an hour, he returned. Deceased had then disappeared, leaving the eldest child, about five and the baby alone in the house. Thinking that she might have gone to see a neighbour, he waited in the house for some time, and then as she failed to return he sent for another daughter-in-law, and the police were informed. - The Coroner: Did you notice anything at all the matter with deceased? - Witness: Not that day, but a few weeks before when I saw her she put both her hands to her head and said "The pains in my head, father, are dreadful." - Sydney Chas. Lightfoot, market gardener, living at 2 Queen Street, deposed to the recovery of the body from the bay at Livermead. - Dr Geo. Todd stated that he had attended deceased occasionally for five or six years. The first time that there was anything really amiss with her was on December 29th last, when she suffered from hysteria. Deceased was a hard-working woman, who "took things very much to heart," bothered a great deal about her children, and rarely went out. He had made a post mortem examination of the body, which was, however, so much decomposed that it was absolutely impossible to certify what the cause of death was. The face and the scalp were completely gone. No bones were broken. The body had evidently been in the water for some time. - Deceased's husband, recalled, stated that he was generally absent from home from 8 a.m. to 9 or 9.30 p.m. His wife was alone with the children during the whole of that time. She had not, however, complained of loneliness and seemed to be happy and contented. After her hysterical attack, however, the doctor advised him, if possible, to find another house, where she would be brighter. - The Coroner summed up and the Jury returned as their verdict that deceased was Found Dead on the sea-shore, but there was no evidence to show how death was caused.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 May 1900
ST MARYCHURCH - Marychurch Cook's Sad End. The Inquest. - At the St. Marychurch Townhall on Monday evening Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of EMILY LINTERN, 26, domestic servant, whose dead body was found on Oddicombe Beach early the same morning. Mr W. Oliver was elected Foreman of the Jury. - JOHN LINTERN, living at 4 Clifton Place, Hartop Road, St. Marychurch, identified the body as that of his daughter. She was 26 years of age and was a single woman. She had been in service as cook with Mrs Hankey, of Meadfoot House, Torquay, but left on the 25th of April. He did not know why she left; she did not refer to it. She complained of pains in her head. The last time he saw her was on Monday, April 30th, when deceased had tea with him, and afterwards went out to post a letter at 6.30. She appeared to be low spirited at the time. She did not return home, and on the following day he gave information to the police. He had no idea what caused her absence. - The Coroner: Had she been in trouble? - Witness: No, she only complained of a bad headache. - The Coroner: You did not know why she left her place? - Witness: Only what people have told about since. - The Coroner: Have you heard from Mrs Hankey? - Witness: No. - The Coroner: And she did not appear to you to be in trouble? - Witness: Only low spirited. - The Coroner: And you knew nothing of what had happened? - Witness: No, I did not. - Did you search for her anywhere? - Yes, all around the coast. - Did you go to Oddicombe Beach? - Yes, several times. - Can you account for this in any way? - No. - The five days she was home she did not say anything? - Not a syllable, beyond complaining of pains in her head. - Has she ever threatened to do any harm to herself? - No, never. - Had she anything in her pockets when she left home? - Nothing that I know of. - JESSIE LINTERN, school mistress, and sister of deceased, stated that she saw her on the 24th April, when she said she was coming home on the following day for her (witness's) birthday. They slept together but deceased did not give any reason for leaving her place. She did not confide in her (witness) at all. Deceased was very miserable and low-spirited and complained of pains in her head. - Can you tell the Jury anything to throw any light on this? - I can tell them nothing. - You don't know what she was miserable and low-spirited about? - No. - Did you ask her? - Yes, but she did not tell me. - Did she leave anything behind her? - Nothing beyond a list of small sums of money owing her. - Where was that left? - On my bed. - And nothing else? - Only a note saying "Good bye". - did you keep that? - No. I thought, as she was not well, she had gone away for a few days, and we should hear from her. - When did you find that? - On May 1st. We did not go to bed on the night of the 30th April. - Did she say anything to suggest that she contemplated taking her life? - Nothing. - You saw there was some trouble hanging over her? - Yes; I thought so, as she was so ill. - A Juror: Do you know to whom she addressed the letter she wrote? - No. - The Foreman: You and your sister were always on friendly terms; she was not jealous of your position at all? - Oh, no. - MRS LINTERN said her daughter did not confide in her, although she told her if she was in any trouble she should tell her what it was. Ever since deceased was 10 years of age and went to the eye infirmary she had at intervals suffered in her head. Witness had no idea why she left her place nor did she know who she addressed the letter to she wrote on the 30th. - William Terry, assistant overseer, said he resided at 6 Clifton Place, Hartop Road. On 30th April about 8.55 whilst on his way to the Conservative Club deceased passed him near the Town Hall walking towards Babbacombe. He had with a boatman made a search of the cliffs from Watcombe to Long Quarry, but could find no trace of deceased. He did this as there were stories of groans being heard under the cliffs, and he thought as deceased was near sighted she might have walked over. - Coastguardsman P. G. Parkhurst, stationed at Babbacombe, stated that he saw something in the surf on Oddicombe Beach between 12 and 1 a.m. on Monday, and on going there with a companion he succeeded, with the assistance of a grapnel, in getting the body ashore. - In reply to the Foreman, witness said there was not a place on Babbacombe Down from which a person could fall direct into the sea. - John Ford, hairdresser, Princes Street, Babbacombe, stated that on the 30th April, about 10 p.m., he was on Babbacombe Downs when he heard two shouts from below, followed by a low moan from the direction of Petitor. At the time he did not regard the shouts as coming from anyone in distress. - Dr Geo. M. Winter, said he had examined the body and thought the marks on the face and hands had occurred since death. Appearances pointed to death from drowning. He thought the body had been in the water quite a fortnight. If deceased had fallen from a height into the water there would have been indications on the body. - Detective Gregory stated that on the 25th April he was called to Meadfoot House. - The Coroner: The day deceased came home. - Witness: Yes. Miss Hankey complained to him of certain things missing and deceased was called into the room and asked if she knew anything about them. Deceased said "No." Miss Hankey said she would like to look at her box and deceased said "You are very welcome to do so." Witness accompanied Miss Hankey and deceased to the latter's room, and she turned out her box in which were discovered seven small things which Miss Hankey identified as her property. Deceased admitted having taken them and said she was very sorry. She did not know what tempted her to do it, but she begged her forgiveness. Miss Hankey said she would not prosecute, but she told deceased she must leave her service at once and gave her half-an-hour in which to pack up her things and go. - The Coroner said the evidence indicated that deceased's action whilst in service preyed upon her mind and the fact that she left a note wishing her sister good-bye pointed to premeditation of self-destruction. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 June 1900
BIDEFORD - Fall Over The Lundy Cliffs. - FRANCIS TAYLOR, aged 21, the valet of Mr P. Napier Miles, banker, of Bristol, who has taken the old lighthouse on Lundy Island as a summer residence, was missed on Friday evening, and it was not until Sunday afternoon that his body was discovered at the foot of a cliff, 150 feet high. It is believed that whilst collecting sea birds' eggs he missed his footing and fell. Death must have been instantaneous. The Inquest was held at Bideford, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 June 1900
ST MARYCHURCH - Child's Fatal Fall. - On Friday evening at the Roughwood Hotel, the Deputy Coroner (Mr G. Kellock) held an Inquest relative to the death of the nine months old son of GEORGE H. PARKHOUSE, coachman, living at Victoria Terrace, Babbacombe. Mr E. Hearn was elected Foreman of the Jury. MRS PARKHOUSE stated that on the previous Tuesday morning, at seven o'clock, whilst she was in the act of raising the bedroom window blind, the child fell out of bed. It was a little faint, and the same afternoon it had a fit. She sent for Dr Steele, and he arrived just as the child was recovering. On Thursday the baby had another fit and died almost instantaneously. Dr Steele gave it as his opinion that death resulted from shock, caused by the fall. The immediate cause of death, however, was a convulsion of short duration. Verdict, "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 31 August 1900
TORQUAY - Sudden Death. - At the Upton Parish Room on Saturday evening Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry touching the death of GEORGE LOWTON, 32, carter in the employ of Messrs. Pomeroy, Watts, Cross and Co., coal merchants, who died suddenly in the Torre Railway Station yard at 8.15 a.m. on Saturday morning. Evidence of identification was given by SUSAN LOWTON, deceased's wife, living at Tor Square Cottages. She stated that her husband had been in a very delicate state of health for twelve months. During the last week he had spat blood but had continued to work. He was an ex-army man. Arthur Hole, clerk in the employ of Messrs. Pomeroy, Watts, Cross and Co., and Thomas Pugh gave evidence as to deceased being taken ill at Torre Station and Dr Druitt, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, stated that death was due to aneurism. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 September 1900
MARLDON - Suicide At Marldon. - WILLIAM SHEPHERD, a farm labourer living at Marldon, 52 years of age, committed suicide by hanging himself last Friday night. He came home drunk, as it appeared he was in the habit of doing, and he was so quarrelsome that his wife and two sons left him in the house and went out and took lodgings for the night in the neighbourhood. The next morning the body was found on the ground in the porch of the cottage with a broken rope tied round his neck, the other end of the rope being tied to a beam above. An Inquest was held by the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. T. Kellock, when the sons described the finding of the father's body, quite dead and cold, and they and the mother spoke of the drunkenness of the deceased on the previous evening, and his extremely quarrelsome behaviour, which drove them out. Dr Ward proved that death was due to strangulation. The verdict was "Suicide by Hanging while Temporarily Insane."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 September 1900
TORQUAY - Fatal Dose Of Laudanum. - Mr G. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Tor Parish Room on Friday afternoon into the circumstances attending the death of MRS STARK, wife of MR P. STARK, of Lamberhurst, Cleveland Road, who died the same morning. The evidence showed that on the previous day deceased sent her servant to Messrs. Badham and Sloman's chemist shop, in Higher Union Street, to buy some laudanum to ease the toothache, from which she had suffered severely for some time. Soon after the domestic returned, MRS STARK requested her to fetch more laudanum as she had upset the bottle containing that which she had first purchased. Subsequently, MRS STARK was found in an unconscious state. A medical man was summoned, but in spite of his efforts she never recovered consciousness, and death ensued in the evening. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 21 September 1900
TORQUAY - Death From A Fall. Inquest. - At the St. John's schoolroom on Monday, Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JENNY GUILLON, aged 85, of 3 St. John's Place, who died on Friday last, after an illness following a fall on the 28th June. - Mr J. Smerdon was elected Foreman of the Jury. The Coroner, in opening the Inquiry, explained the delay in holding it was due to the fact that a certificate was given by the medical man called in. That was a mistake. When a person died from a natural cause a certificate should not be given, for the law required that an Inquest should be held. It would be much more convenient if a medical man instead of certifying in a case of violent death, would give information to the police. Of course, a medical man, if he thought fit, might in a case of murder, say John Brown's throat was cut by John Snook, but it would be of no use whatever. An Inquest would of necessity have t be held. In that case it had led to delay, and delay frequently meant pain to the friends of the deceased. - The Rev. Frederick Wilkinson, Inspector of Schools, residing at Hasbro, stated that he had known the deceased for 30 or 40 years. She was a native of Switzerland, and was in the service of his wife's family as maid for 50 years. Since her retirement from work his wife and himself had looked after her. On the 28th of June she had had a fall, and had since been confined to her bed. She died on Friday morning. During her illness she had received the greatest possible care and attention, especially from her landlady, Mrs Hunter. - Miss Annie Mabel Woodhouse, who resides at No. 3, St. John's Place, said on the 28th of June, MISS GUILLON tripped over a small step at the back of the premises and fell. She was immediately taken to bed and a doctor was called in. Since the accident deceased had received every possible attention. - Dr Pollard stated that he did not attend the deceased in the first instance. Her injury was a fracture of the neck of one of the thigh bones. This in a person of her age was a very difficult matter to deal with. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

NEWTON ABBOT - Kingsteignton Farmer Killed. - An Inquest was held at Newton Abbot on Tuesday on SAMUEL FRY, 39, farmer, of Preston, Kingsteignton. Deceased was driving a wagon containing a load of manure when the two horses drawing the vehicle were startled by a pipe at Hexter and Humperson's work blowing off steam and bolted. Deceased's brother-in-law jumped from the shaft and ran to stop them, when, hearing a groan, he looked round and saw deceased on the ground. The wheels had passed over him inflicting fearful injuries. He was taken to the Cottage Hospital. Charles Robert Sharp, a foreman at Hexter and Humpherson's, said he had been at the works for six years, and never before heard of an accident being caused by the report occasioned by the exhaust steam, which occurred from 150 to 200 times an hour, and went on every day. The pipe was from 150 to 200 yards from the road, and he did not think the noise could be lessened. - Dr Haydon said deceased had two lacerated wounds on the scalp, and probably the skull was fractured. He also had an extensive and very severe wound about 15 inches long down the side of the thigh and leg. Several ribs were broken, and there were other injuries. Haemorrhage set in and peritonitis followed, and deceased never rallied. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 September 1900
TORQUAY. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday morning, the County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquest, relative to the death of ELIZABETH BROWN, 49, a married woman, residing at 35 Pensylvania Road, Ellacombe, who died on Saturday morning, after a very short illness. The evidence of Mrs Ellen Stanton, who stated that she had lived with deceased for 20 years, was to the effect that MRS BROWN had always suffered a great deal from severe headaches. On Wednesday in last week, she was so ill that Mrs Stanton advised her to go to bed, and call in a doctor, but she replied that she was better working about. On Friday morning at eight o'clock, Mrs Stanton went to deceased's room, and found her in bed. She said the pains in her head were terrible. She, however, declined to let witness send for a doctor, although she was a member of a sick club. Mrs Stanton left her, but was subsequently fetched by MRS BROWN'S niece, who told her that he aunt was taken very ill. On visiting her she was apparently asleep. Dr Horton was sent for. In the afternoon, deceased became unconscious, and remained so up to her death. Dr Horton attributed death to tuberculosis meningitis, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - An Upton Fatality. - At St. James's School, Upton, yesterday afternoon, an Inquest was held on the body of WILLIAM NORTHMORE, army pensioner, of Everdon, Upton, who was found lying in an insensible condition in the yard at the rear of his house on Wednesday, and died shortly afterwards. The evidence of CHARLES NORTHMORE, deceased's son, showed that he had been ill for a fortnight and unable to go to work. On Sunday last, whilst in his bedroom, he knocked his head against a chest of drawers, and had since been very strange in his manner, talking to himself, the clock and other articles of furniture in the room. On Tuesday soon after going to bed witness heard a fall in the yard and subsequently found his father lying there in an insensible condition. Dr Winter, who was called in, said death was due to shock from the fall, following meningitis, brought on no doubt by the bow on the head. Meningitis had brought on delirium, and deceased must have leaped out of the window. The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Shock through jumping from a window whilst in delirium.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 November 1900
TORQUAY - Sad Fatality To A Torquay Tradesman. - It is with regret that we record the death of MR G. T. PRATT, watchmaker and jeweller of 13 Fleet Street, which occurred on Monday evening under the most lamentable circumstances. MR PRATT closed his establishment at eight o'clock, and with his wife, strolled in Union Street and Fleet Street for a short time, returning to his home about 8.30. Deceased told his wife that, as he was wont to do, he would take short walk around the harbour, and asked her to accompany him. MRS PRATT'S reply was that she could not conveniently do so, and she left MR PRATT to continue his walk alone. Opposite the Torquay Bank deceased met Mr T. Soper and after having a conversation with him left him at his residence, No. 10 Victoria Parade, and proceeded in the direction of the Haldon Pier. At the South Pier, Messrs. Whiteway and Ball's steam collier "Torquay," was unloading. Always particularly interested in anything in the way of shipping, MR PRATT shortened his walk and went to the South Pier and must have boarded the steamer, for a coal lumper named Lightfoot saw him on the deck and asked him the time. From this moment MR PRATT disappeared. Being a man of very regular habits his prolonged absence from home was a cause of great anxiety to his friends. As early as 10.30 his sons went in search of him, their idea being that he had gone to St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church - at which he was a prominent worker, and had been choir master for over 27 years - and by some means got locked in. This idea, however, proved to be incorrect. The search was continued until midnight, and again taken up on Tuesday by the members of the family and the police but without result until late at night, when MR PRATT'S body was found in the water close to the South Pier. A large gash on the forehead and abrasions on the hands showed that he must have fallen either from the side of the vessel or the pier into the water. His watch had stopped at 8.47 and as at that hour there was only 3ft. of water at the quay side, had he not been rendered unconscious he could have easily waded ashore. The lamentable occurrence cast quite a gloom over the neighbourhood of Fleet Street - MR PRATT being very highly respected - and great sympathy is felt for MRS PRATT and the family. Deceased had arranged with his wife to go on a pleasure trip to London today (Friday). The funeral takes place tomorrow, and will be preceded by a service at St. Andrew's Church at 3 o'clock. - The Inquest. - The Inquest was held at the Upton Parish Room on Wednesday evening, by Mr G. T. Kellock, Deputy Coroner. Mr Shopland was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was HERBERT GEORGE PRATT, son of deceased, who stated that he was a shop-fitter and resided at 13 Fleet Street. The body lying in the mortuary was that of his father, GEORGE THOMAS PRATT, who was 50 years of age last January, and carried on the business of a jeweller and watchmaker at 13 Fleet Street. Witness last saw him alive at 7.30 on Monday evening, when he was in the best of spirits. Witness went to a band practice and on his return at 10 o'clock, he was surprised to find that his father was not at home, as he was a man of very regular habits. At 10.30 his brother and himself went out to look for him, believing that he had gone to the Presbyterian Church, in the Torwood Gardens, and by some means got locked in. They failed to learn anything about him, and gave up searching at midnight. There was no circumstance whatever which would lead his father to do away with himself. - The Foreman: Was he worried in business? - Witness: No. - The Foreman: Had he been unwell, and was he undergoing an operation shortly? - Witness: No, not until the beginning of next year, and he did not look upon it with any fear. - Thomas Soper, watchmaker, stated that he met deceased about 8.45 at the Bank end of the tar path, by the harbour. He frequently met MR PRATT, and being in the same trade had conversations with him. Deceased appeared to be in the best of spirits. Witness left him at his (witness's) residence, 10 Victoria Parade, and MR PRATT walked towards the Haldon Pier where witness had frequently accompanied him on previous evenings. - John Lightfoot, lumper, stated that he was at work on Messrs. Whiteway and Ball's steamer "Torquay," which was lying against the South Pier on Monday evening. He saw deceased board the vessel and look over her as many people did. Witness asked MR PRATT the time and he took his watch out of his pocket and replied "Quarter to nine." Witness saw nothing of deceased after that. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said there was usually a plank from the side of the steamer to the quay, but most people stepped from the pier on to the steamer's bulwarks. It was a dark night, but there were lamps about. He heard no splash in the water or other noise. Deceased had visited the steamer before - The Foreman: Did he seem in his usual spirits? - Witness: Yes. - The Foreman: I suppose there was a considerable amount of noise? - Witness: Yes, when the winches were going. - By a Juror: There was sufficient space for a person to fall between the steamer and the quay? - Witness: yes, and with the engines going and the carts loading, it would have been impossible to hear anything. - Mr Brown, boat owner, 2 Marine Cottage, stated that a few minutes before 11, on Tuesday night, he recovered the body about 12ft. from the side of the South Pier. It was lying just where the bow of the steamship "Torquay" had rested, and was in three feet of water. The body was conveyed to the mortuary. - In reply to the Foreman, witness said his impression was that deceased fell from the side of the ship as he was going ashore, or slipped as he stepped on to the pier from the steamer. - Dr A. Midgley Cash said he was well acquainted with deceased, and had attended him for a short time recently. He had been suffering from an illness during which he had lost a great deal of blood, and that would have a tendency to make him extremely giddy and faint at times. Otherwise, he was in good health and good spirits. Witness met him on Sunday and he was very cheerful, and talked about coming to see him (witness) in a few days. He had examined the body since death and found signs of death by drowning. There were also injuries to the face, head, and hands. The marks on the hands were such as would be caused by a man endeavouring to recover himself - abrasions and scratches. The bruise on the face and head were, he thought, caused before death. There was a clot of blood on the brain, but death was undoubtedly due to drowning, as shown by the condition of the lungs. - The Foreman: He might have been stunned before entering the water? - Witness: That is so. - By a Juror: The blow was sufficient to render him insensible? - Witness: Yes. - P.C. Fishwick stated that deceased's watch had stopped at 8.47. - The Deputy Coroner pointed out that the doctor's evidence as to the deceased's tendency to become faint was important. He had to get from the pier to the steamer and back again, and from the evidence it appeared that it was quite possible for a person to fall into the water between the ship and the pier side. One question had not been asked and he would put it to deceased's son. Was deceased able to swim? - MR H. G. PRATT replied that his father was an expert swimmer. Had he not been unconscious he would have been able to wade ashore as at 8.45 there was only three feet of water where the steamer was lying. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed their sympathy and condolence with MRS PRATT and the family in their sad bereavement.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 January 1901
TORQUAY - Fatal Public House Quarrel. Inquest. Justifiable Homicide. - At the Upton Parish Room, on Saturday afternoon, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN CLARKE, 32, labourer of 3 Brunswick Terrace, Tor, who died at the Torbay Hospital on Friday evening, from internal injuries alleged to have been received in a brawl with a man named William Rendell at the Railway Hotel, Tor, on the previous Monday. - Alderman Callard was elected Foreman of the Jury, which consisted of Messrs. J. Taylor, R. Crocker, W. Watson, R. Hodge, H. Smale, Gilbert, Oliver, O'Connor, Mann, Fowler, H. Terry, Binham, and T. Short. Mr E. Hutchings watched the case on behalf of Mr J. Davey, landlord of the Railway Hotel, Tor, and Superintendent Roberts was also present. - The Coroner said the Jury would have to Inquire into the circumstances under which deceased received the injuries from which he died, and decide whether it was a case of manslaughter of one of justifiable homicide. - The first witness called was WILLIAM HENRY CLARKE, brother of the deceased, who stated that he lived at 64 Hoxton Road, Ellacombe, and was a carman. He identified the body lying in the mortuary as that of his brother, who was 32 years of age, and worked as a general labourer. He lived with his mother at 3 Brunswick Terrace, Tor. Witness saw his brother in the hospital, and asked him how he accounted for his injuries. He replied "I got into a squabble and received a blow from a man named Rendle." Witness asked him if it was a kick, and he replied "No, it was a blow in the stomach." Witness visited the Hospital subsequently, but did not refer to the subject again. As far as he was aware deceased was a healthy able-bodied man. - Arthur Edward Druitt, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, stated that the deceased was admitted to the Institution on the 14th inst., about 9 p.m. He was slightly faint and in a great deal of pain in the abdomen. In fact he was so ill that he was detained in the hospital. He had obviously suffered a serious internal injury. There were several abrasions on the face, and a small bruise on the left side of the abdomen. An examination was made, and it was found that he had received a very severe internal hurt. Deceased was sober when admitted to the hospital. Witness asked him about the injury, and he said he was in drink at the time he received it. He had had a fight with another man in the bar of the Railway Hotel. The fight was quite in earnest, and during its progress he received a blow from his opponent's fist in the abdomen, having previously been hurt on the face. CLARKE died at 6 p.m. on the 18th inst. Witness had made a post mortem examination, and had found that the bladder was ruptured. This rupture gave rise to peritonitis, which led to the exhaustion that caused death. The rupture was not beneath the bruise on the abdomen, but it must have been caused by a blow, as there was no disease or anything of the sort to account for it. The blow must have been a very heavy one to have produced such a result. The other organs were fairly healthy and normal. Deceased was a well-built, strong man. - Mr Oliver: Wold a sudden twist cause the rupture - such a twist as may occur in a fight? - Witness: No, I don't think it would. - John Avery, labourer, 17 Park Field Road, Upton, stated that on the 14th instant, he went to the Railway Hotel, Laburnum Street, Tor, shortly after 4 p.m. On entering the bar he saw the landlord, Mr J. Davey, a fisherman named Bond, the deceased man CLARKE and William Rendle. CLARKE bought two pennyworth of fish from Bond and only tendered him three halfpence for it, saying "I suppose we may as well spend that in beer." The fisherman consented and CLARKE ordered the beer, which he (CLARKE) proceeded to share with Rendle. Someone knocked over the beer. The fisherman asked CLARKE for the other halfpenny, and he replied that he had no more money. Deceased asked Rendle to lend him a halfpenny, but he declined. CLARKE then said "You b----, you have been with me all day, come outside and I will knock your supper up." Rendle made use of no bad language, nor would he go outside. CLARKE then attacked Rendle, running at him with his head down, endeavouring to catch him by the legs, and give him the "flying mare." Rendle was, however, too quick and got in a blow which sent CLARKE to the floor. - The Coroner: You mean that CLARKE butted at him with his head? - Witness: Yes, he tried to do Rendle a serious injury, and received one himself I am sorry to say. - And Rendle struck him? - yes, or he would have been thrown. - Did he kick him? - No, there was nothing foul whatever. - Where did he strike him? - I should say in the face. I don't see how he could reach far enough to strike him anywhere else. - He gave more than one blow I suppose? - I don't know that he did. - You were there and saw it, and we want the truth. Do you mean to say that he only struck one blow, and that was in the face? - I only saw one blow. Rendle did not want to strike him at all. I could not say where the blow fell. - As soon as he was on the floor what did Rendle do? - He washed off the blood from the deceased's face with a wet handkerchief, and said I am sorry this should have happened. Witness continuing said Mr Davey and himself picked the deceased up, and took him to the smoking room, and sat him on a chair. - The Coroner: Was the deceased drunk? - You can't cal a man drunk unless he cannot light his pipe. He had been drinking but was not incapable. I saw him walk away home, and there was nothing much amiss with him. - What about Rendle? - He was much about the same. You can't call a man drunk unless he falls down. - Unless he is incapable of taking care of himself? - Both men could walk home without assistance. - Did CLARKE say anything whilst sitting in the chair? - Yes, he said "I give in to you Rendle, you are too strong for me." - Rendle did not fall on top of him then? - No, Rendle fell first. - You did not tell me that. How did Rendle come down? - CLARKE pulled him down. - When? - Did he fall after the blow he had given? - No, they both went to the ground together. - Did they fight on the ground? - No, there was no struggle at all. - And Rendle got up first? - Yes, I think he did. - Was there any more quarrelling in the house? - No, Rendle went away about five minutes before CLARKE. He was told by the landlord that he was not wanted there and had better clear out. Rendle left by the side door and CLARKE by the front door. CLARKE was also told to get out but he at first refused to do so. Both men went off unassisted. - Have you seen these men having rows before in this house? - No, never. - I understand you to say there was not much of a fight? - No fight at all. - Just this one blow and down he went? - Yes. - Then how did all the scratches on his face come about? - I don't know, I thought the one blow did it. - Mr W. Watson: What was your condition - you seem to have seen something and seen nothing. What do you mean by it? - I beg your pardon. - Were you so drunk that you did not know what occurred? You have said that you left work at a quarter past one, and this was between 4 and 5? - I made a scaffolding after quarter past one. - Do you think we as common sense men are going to believe that this man was marked in that way by one blow. Ours is not a pleasant duty by any means, but we have to know the facts and the truth, and we believe you are keeping something back? - I am telling the truth. - Were you so drunk that you do not remember, or were you sober? - I was not drunk at all. - Some of us know you. Perhaps you were not drunk to the extent you term drunkenness? - I was sober. My position will not allow me to get drunk. I was sober. - Mr Watson: Then why did you not say so before. - In reply to Mr H. Terry, Dr Druitt said it would have been quite possible for CLARKE to walk home unaided. - Mr O'Connor Mann said he believed there were several persons whom deceased spoke to on the way home and in the hospital; would it not be well to call them, for he might have told them whether he considered the fight a fair one or not. - The Coroner said the evidence would not be legal evidence unless deceased knew he was on the point of death. Such evidence might be taken, but it had not the weight of strictly legal evidence. - Henry H. Bond, fisherman, 8 Pimlico, said he went to the Railway Inn between four and five. He had been there only a few minutes when CLARKE entered, followed by Rendle. CLARKE bought from him (witness) two pennyworth of fish, but only had three halfpence in his possession. He therefore asked Rendle to lend him a halfpenny, and the landlord was asked for paper into which to divide the fish between the two. He (witness) never received the two pence. The three halfpence that CLARKE had was spent in beer, which CLARKE himself consumed. Witness, however, had three halfpence worth of beer afterwards. The row commenced over the halfpenny for the fish. Rendle refused to give CLARKE what he asked for, saying "I have no money," whereupon deceased rushed at him with his head down. Rendle received him with a blow with his fist and both men fell to the ground. They had a bit of a scuffle on the floor, and then the landlord came out and parted them. He was almost certain that Rendle fell first. Deceased did not complain of any pain when picked up. - John Davey, landlord of the Railway Inn, Tor, said he had known CLARKE and Rendle for years. They had visited his house, and on account of having created a disturbance he had had to refuse to serve them. On the afternoon of the 14th inst., about 4.15 he left the bar, and ran to his private residence for a few seconds. When he returned he found Rendle and CLARKE in the bar. They had purchased fish from Bond and asked him for paper to wrap it in. Seeing their condition he declined to give them any, and told them they had better go where they had been the rest of the day. He then went behind the counter when he heard CLARKE ask Rendle for a halfpenny, adding "Certainly you can give me that, you have half the fish." Rendle replied "I can't, I have none." Deceased made use of some foul language, and Bond, interfering, said "Never mind the halfpenny." CLARKE then ordered three-half-penny worth of beer for Bond, but he (CLARKE) took the cup and went across to Rendle on whose trousers he spilled some of it. CLARKE then had a second lot which Bond drank. Deceased then said to Rendle, "You are no man, come outside and I will show you you are not." Rendle replied, "Not likely; I don't want to pay 7s. 6d." They were still arguing when witness was called to the jug and bottle department. He served a woman and then heard a scuffle. As he returned to the bar he saw Rendle give CLARKE two blows one of which seemed to him to be on the face and the second on the body. both men then fell, Rendle under. Avery and himself raised CLARKE up and sat him on the chair in the smoking room. He (witness) called Rendle's attention to blood on CLARKE'S face and he went and got a wet handkerchief with which he wiped it. Witness then told him that he and his mate had created the row and he (Rendle) had better see CLARKE home. Rendle promised to do so, but did not keep his promise. CLARKE asked for someone to see him home, but as witness could not find anyone he told deceased to pull himself together and he walked off without assistance. Witness said he had been charged with locking the men in a room. That was untrue. He had been at the house for 15 years and he had always done his utmost to keep it orderly. Neither CLARKE or Rendle had any beer whatever in his house. When the men first entered CLARKE said the Rendle "Who has kept you in beer all the day?" Rendle replied "And where did you get the money?" - In reply to Mr Hutchings, witness said he had on former occasions ordered the men out of his house. He had put CLARKE out twice. Rendle did not appear to regard the quarrel as a serious one. - JANE CLARKE, mother of deceased, said her son came home alone on the evening of the 14th instant, about five o'clock. He complained of being very ill, and witness asked him what was the matter. He replied "Bill Rendle has knocked me, and I know mother that I am dying." He was in great agony and could not stand still. She got him to bed, but he had not been there long when a friend named George Richards came in and persuaded him to go with him to the Hospital. - William Rendle was called by the Coroner, and informed that he could make a statement if he liked, but he was not obliged to do so. Whatever he said could be used as evidence against him. - Rendle expressed a desire to make a statement. He was sworn and said he lived at 5 Brunswick Terrace, Tor, and was a labourer. On Monday 14th between 4 and 5 p.m. CLARKE and himself went to Davey's public house and CLARKE ordered two three-half-penny-worths of beer. CLARKE pulled out a chamois leather bag and put down 6d. Bond then entered and CLARKE went outside with him and bought 2d worth of fish. On re-entering CLARKE asked Bond if he would have some beer, and ordered threehalfpennyworth which he did not pay for, and which he (Rendle) and CLARKE shared. Deceased ordered a second mug of beer which he did not pay for. Witness suggested that he should pay, and then CLARKE challenged him to go outside and fight. He (witness) refused as he did not wish to be fined 7s. 6d. CLARKE then jumped at him striking him in the chest. In self-defence witness struck him in the face. They both fell to the ground, he (witness) under. Avery took CLARKE off and said "Why didn't you hit him?" Someone said "You should double him up." He replied "I don't want to, he is a friend of mine." On getting on his feet deceased rushed at him again and he pushed him away. CLARKE then came at him with his head down, and seeing that he was dangerous, witness let out with his fist to stop him. Suddenly CLARKE stood upright and the blow caught him in the stomach and he fell, deceased remarking "You are too heavy for me, Bill, I will give in." They shook hands and he seated CLARKE on a chair. - In reply to Mr H. Terry, witness said he pushed defendant away several times with his hands before striking the blow. - Mr Smale: Who said "Why don't you hit him, some men would have doubled him up before now?" - Witness: the landlord and Avery. - The Coroner, in summing up, said there was no doubt that the blow which caused CLARKE'S death was the blow in the stomach. Rendle's statement differed in details from those of the other witnesses present and from it, it would appear that the man CLARKE rushed at him several times before he struck the blow which resulted fatally. There was no doubt that Rendle killed CLARKE and therefore committed homicide, which the law regarded as murder or manslaughter unless there was something in the circumstances to show that it was excusable. It was made excusable when the man who inflicted the injury did it in self defence. If a man was obliged for the purpose of defending his life to give a blow which resulted in the death of another and if he did not use an unnecessary deadly weapon his conduct was excusable. It must however be shown that there was no other possible means of escaping from an assailant. The Jury in that case had to decide whether Rendle was guilty of manslaughter or whether there were circumstances which justified him in taking measures for his own preservation. If so and he was not able soon enough to get out of his assailant's way it would be a case of excusable homicide. - The Jury returned a verdict that deceased came by his death by a blow struck by Rendle in self defence - Excusable Homicide.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 February 1901
TORQUAY - Fatal Fall Over Stairs. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday afternoon, the County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquiry respecting the death of JOHN DANIEL STEER, 63, carpenter, of No. 1, Rock Road, who was found lying dead inside the door of his house on Saturday evening. - Mr R. Hodge was elected Foreman of the Jury. - SUSAN STEER, widow of the deceased, stated that she lived at No 1 Rock Road. She left home on the previous Monday morning, at 8 o'clock, to take a situation as a servant for a week. Her husband gave his consent. When she left him he was in his ordinary health. He had occasionally complained of a slight pain at the back of his head, but he had never regarded it as anything serious. She had promised to return at 7 o'clock on the 26th of January, and she was at the door at the stroke of that hour. Previous to leaving, she made the necessary arrangements for her husband's food, etc. On returning home on Saturday she endeavoured to open the door, but discovered that she could not do so, as there was some obstruction inside. She shouted her husband's name, and obtaining no reply went for assistance, and one of the windows being forced, an entry was gained in that way. The first thing she heard was a voice say "He is dead." The door was eventually opened, and on entering she found her husband's dead body lying on the stairs. It had been removed there by the men she called to her assistance, so that she might enter. There was a pool of blood inside the door, but there were no marks on the body, the blood having come from deceased's nose. Her husband was fully dressed, as if he was going out or coming in, and the keys of the door were in his pocket. There was nothing to show how deceased came by his death. A portion of the food she had left had been consumed, but that gave her no clue as to when the fatality happened. The rooms she and her husband occupied were on the first floor, which was reached by a flight of fourteen steep stairs; but there was no sign, either on the stairs or on his body, that deceased had fallen. - William Endacott, landlord of the Prince of Wales Inn, Union Street, stated that he saw deceased on the previous Tuesday, at 10 p.m. He came into his house about 8, and left about 10. Deceased had three glasses of ale during that time and when he left the house, he was quite sober. He had no company. - Arthur E. Druitt, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he had made a post mortem examination of the body, and found a slight abrasion under the chin, a small scratch on the nose, and bruises on the right shoulder. There was a good deal of swelling and bleeding beneath the scalp, but the skull was not fractured, nor was there any haemorrhage of the brain. Deceased had certainly received a very heavy blow on the top of the head, and he attributed death to concussion of the brain. The fall of such a heavy man down a flight of stairs would cause the injury, and deceased probably lived only an hour or two after. The probability was that death did not occur until Thursday or Friday, and deceased would on the fall have immediately become unconscious and been unable to shout for assistance. - William Bagwell, cabman, Higher Terrace Mews, said he obtained a ladder and went into the house first. He found deceased lying at the bottom of the stairs doubled up as if he had fallen. - The Foreman said there had appeared in the papers something about a letter written by MRS STEER to her husband. Perhaps she would explain it. - MRS STEER was recalled and stated that she wrote a note to her husband on Thursday telling him she was coming home. She gave it to her nephew to drop in, and this note was found on the floor of the passage unopened. The body had been moved, but the letter was stained in blood. - The Coroner said this went to support the doctor's view that the deceased died on Thursday. Probably he fell upon the letter. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 March 1901
TORQUAY - A Fatal Fall At Cockington. Inquest. - An Inquiry was held at the Upton School Room on Wednesday morning, by Mr S. Hacker, in the circumstances connected with the death of ANNIE STEVENS, an elderly person, who died at the Torbay Hospital on the previous day. Mr R. Crocker was elected Foreman of the Jury. - JOHN STEVENS, a retired police constable, identified the deceased as his wife, aged 75, who lived with her daughter at 15 Goshen Terrace, Cockington. He did not live with deceased, but visited her on the Sunday after the accident. - Ethel Raymond, a nurse in the Ford workhouse Infirmary, Devonport, said she was with the deceased, her grandmother, when the accident occurred on January 25th. MRS STEVENS, in walking across the kitchen tripped in a mat and fell. When helped up, the deceased did not seem to be in much pain, but two days afterwards she complained of severe pains in her left leg, and a doctor was summoned, who said the leg was broken. Deceased was removed to the Torbay Hospital. - Emma Raymond, grand-daughter of deceased, said that MRS STEVENS could walk about for the first two days after her fall. - Dr A. E. Druitt, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said when deceased was admitted on the 28th January, it was found that her left thigh was broken, and as the bones were in a semi-set condition, he was not able to set the limb as well as if the bones had just been broken. She gradually sank and died. - The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, caused by a fall on the 25th January.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 March 1901
TORQUAY - Inquest. - At the Upton Schoolroom on Tuesday evening, Mr Deputy Coroner Kellock held an Inquest on HAROLD CHAPMAN, aged 14 months, who was found dead on Monday morning. FRANK HENRY CHAPMAN, 33 Ellacombe Church Road, said deceased was his child, whom he put to bed on the Sunday evening, when he seemed in perfectly good health. ALBERT CHAPMAN, aged nine, said he slept with the deceased, and on the Monday morning, saw that he was black in the face, and called his parents, who found that he was dead. Dr Horton attributed death to suffocation, probably during a fit. The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Accidental Suffocation.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 15 March 1901
ST MARYCHURCH - Burning Fatality At St. Marychurch. Inquest. - At the Roman Catholic Priory, St. Marychurch, on Wednesday evening, the County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquiry, respecting the death of MISS HELEN MOORE, 77, a boarder at the Guest House attached to the Priory, who received serious burns on February 15th and died on Monday evening. Mr T. Blackler was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The Right Rev. Charles Graham, Roman Catholic Bishop of Plymouth, said he had known deceased's family for over 42 years. She was a sister of the late GENERAL MOORE, of the Royal Marines, and had been living at the Priory as a lady boarder for about two years. For many years she resided at 15 Durnford Street, Stonehouse, Plymouth. He had no idea of deceased's father's name. She had means of her own upon which she lived. Her cousin, Dr Roach, of Norwood, said deceased was 77 years of age. He knew nothing of the occurrence which caused deceased's death, but on the previous Wednesday he had an interview with her. She said there was a service at the church on the evening of the accident, and on returning she found the fire in her room rather low, and whilst kneeling down to arouse it, she fell, and there was nothing near her by which she could raise herself. From his calculations she must have remained half or three-quarters of an hour before anyone came to her. In the meantime the fire must have burnt up. This statement appeared strange as deceased's back was the only part burnt. - Jessie Cox, house parlourmaid at the Prior, said she used to wait upon MISS MOORE. On Friday the 13th February, about 5.20 p.m. she saw deceased return from church and go to her sitting-room. About half-an-hour after she heard a child shout out that MISS MOORE was burning. Witness ran to deceased's room. The door was open and two or three children belonging to the boarding school were in the room. MISS MOORE was lying on her back in front of the fire. The room being half full of smoke, things could not be plainly seen. She could, however, see that deceased had been burnt, and immediately ran downstairs and rang the bell for the Mother Sub Prioress. On her arrival, she told her that MISS MOORE had been burnt and then went off for Dr Winter. On entering MISS MOORE'S room she saw that the body was lying only a few inches from the fire place and that smoke was coming from it. The rug was not burning. Shortly before the accident deceased had a slight illness and was attended by Dr Winter. As far as she knew, deceased had never suffered from fits. - Winifred Foreshaw, aged 12, a boarder at the Priory School, and whose home is at Liverpool, stated that she was outside her room on the evening in question and smelling smoke she went down stairs. On looking into MISS MOORE'S room she saw deceased lying on the floor on her back. There was a red-hot cinder on her and smoke was coming from the body. The room was full of smoke. Witness ran up stairs and told the other boarders, all of whom came down. They placed a blanket over the body which put out the fire. After this had been done witness left. - Dr Winter said he was called to see MISS MOORE on Friday, the 15th February and he hurried to the Priory where he found the deceased lying on her couch in the sitting room attended by the Mother Sub Prioress. The burning had been put out and the deceased was suffering a good deal from shock. He did what he could for the shock, and went back home for dressings. Deceased had on her indoor clothing and a loose cape. The latter was burnt badly in the middle of the back, and the fire had evidently spread from the cape through the corsets and underclothing to the skin. He thought the fire must have been smouldering for a considerable time. This had caused the smoke. There was no flame. The whole of the skin was burnt off the surface of the back, its full length and width. He thought the deceased must have fainted. When he saw her she was in a semi-conscious condition. Deceased was in the hands of trained nurses and he attended her up to the time of her death. She entirely recovered from the shock but died from exhaustion, the result of the burns, on Monday. It was a terrible burn the deepest part reaching down to the muscles. He questioned deceased as to how the accident happened and she replied "I went to look after the fire but I remember nothing further." That made him think she had fainted. Whilst in that condition he thought it likely a cinder had come from the fire and pitched on deceased's cape. She could not have fallen in the fire for the body lay at least three feet from the fireplace. - Sister Mary Raphael (Marion Whitcombe) stated that she was called by the boarders and told that MISS MOORE was on fire. On going to the room she found deceased on the floor covered with a blanket which the children had placed on her. Her clothing was smouldering. Witness endeavoured to get her garments off, but she struggled so that she was unable to do so until the Mother Sub Prioress arrived. Then she was placed on the couch, where she remained until the doctor came. Although conscious, deceased would have it to be that she was not burnt. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - Inquest. - At the Victoria Park Wesleyan Chapel on Monday evening, Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest on the infant child of EMMANUEL WHITE, a labourer, residing at Victoria Park. The child had been ailing for some time, and was found dead in bed. Dr Winter said death was due to syncope, following pneumonia. The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 March 1901
TORQUAY - Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room, on Monday afternoon, Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest on SUSAN COLLIER, an infant, who died on Saturday night. Mr Thomas G. Edwards was elected Foreman of the Jury. The mother stated that the child, who was 14 months of age, had been suffering from bronchitis. At noon on Sunday, she appeared to have a fit, and shortly after died. Dr T. D. Cook said the child was not properly developed and death was due to convulsion, following a cold. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 April 1901
TORQUAY - Sad Story Of Neglect. Inquest In Torquay. A Son's Indifference. - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest into the circumstances attending the death of MARIA DUNN, aged 73, a married woman, living at No. 1 Happaway Row, Stentiford's Hill, who was found dead early on Saturday morning. Mr G. Northcott was elected Foreman of the Jury. - EDWARD WALTER AUGUSTUS MANLEY, 47, porter, of No 1, Happaway Row, Stentiford's Hill, stated that deceased was his mother. He had lived with her in a two-roomed tenement. They occupied the same bedroom. Her husband was MR WILLIAM DUNN, optician, of Queen Street, Newton Abbot, from whom she had been separated for twenty-five years. Deceased was formerly married to an engineer and brass founder, of Barnstaple, named WEBBER. Witness was born before his mother's first marriage. His mother's maiden name was WHITE. Witness had been doing odd jobs, but had not earned sufficient to maintain his mother and himself. Deceased received money for cleaning the General Post Office, in Torwood Street, up to the latter end of January. She had 15s. per week for doing this work, and on leaving she had £4 in the Rowland Hill grant. - The Coroner: And you lived on her! - Witness: No. Our little savings clubbed together kept us. - The Coroner: But you don't earn much at portering? - Witness: Sometimes I do. Some weeks it has been £1, and others only a few shillings. - The Coroner: Why did you not go to the parish and get relief? - She had no occasion for it. I was earning a bit and then there was this grant. - The Coroner: What do you do with your earnings. Did you give any part of them to her? - Certainly I did, I shared them with her. - The Coroner: But we hear she has been destitute. Has she had sufficient of the necessaries of life? Have you found her with bread and butter and meat? - Of course I have. - Howe is it then if she has been ill since January, you have let her lie in bed without a doctor? - She always had a strong objection to seeing the doctor. - And you are a man of 47, and you have a certain amount of responsibility. You lived with her alone, and it was your duty to see she did not lie there and die without medical attendance. Why did you allow her to lie there and die like a dog without seeing anyone? - When it came to the last I did go for a doctor. - Yes, after three months you got a doctor, and when he came your mother was dead. Why didn't you get a doctor three month ago? - She would not hear of it. - But you are not a child. You are 47 years old. What are you talking about. The Jury will not accept statements of that sort from a responsible man. Did anyone at all see her beside you? - One or two neighbours would come in sometimes. - But she had none to look after her, no nurse to take care of her. Is there not a parish doctor in Torquay? Why did you not go and get assistance? - I have heard there is a parish nurse. - Why did you not get her if you could not pay for a nurse otherwise, so that your mother should not be allowed to lie there and die like a dog without any attention from anybody. You did not do anything for her I suppose? - I did what I could. - But you are an ignorant fellow and could not do anything for her. Did you give her anything to make her better? - Certainly I did. - Did you see she had enough food? - As far as my means would allow. - Your duty, if you had not enough means, was to go to the parish and get proper relief, so that she should not like there and die like a dog without attention. You are not a fool, you are a man of 47; you have responsibility. - the disease she suffered from was so variable; sometimes she was worse and sometimes she was better. - What was the disease? - Asthma, I believe. She was very short of breath. - She left the Post Office in February, did she take to her bed at once? - Not for several weeks. Sometimes she was in bed and sometimes out. - What were you doing all this time? - I had to be about seeing what I could do. - And you never got anyone to look after your mother? - The neighbours came in. - Did you ever clean any dirt up in the house? - Of course I did. - How is it the place was in such a state of filth and not fit for a human being to live in? - The place was a bit dirty I admit, but the chimney smokes like a furnace. - Where are your mother's clothes? - Down in the house somewhere. - But they are not there; the house has been searched and there are no clothes there. What did she die in? - What she was wearing, a flannel petticoat, a dress and a chemise. - And when did she get worse? - About a fortnight ago. - Did she take to her bed then altogether? - No, last Friday night I sat up all night with her, and after 12 o'clock I went for the doctor. - Had you any money in the house? - No, not a farthing until Saturday - And she had to lie there without anything to do her good? - She had something to eat and drink; she had what she required. I could not get the doctor before I had seen the relieving officer, and when the doctor came she was dead. - Did she die in bed? - No, sitting in an easy chair. - How was it she died in the chair? - Because she thought she would be better sitting up. - What had she on her? - The articles of clothes I have named, and a thick shawl around her shoulders. - Did she take food right up to the last? - She had a fair appetite. - And what about drink. Did she drink spirits? - No, the only intoxicant she had was at night. She would sometimes drink two or three glasses of ale with her supper, but she was never an excessive drinker. - By your own account your mother has been lying there very ill for a fortnight, and yet you have taken no trouble to get a doctor. You say she would not have one? - Yes. - That is nonsense and you know it. Were you afraid she would smack you if you got a doctor against her wishes? - Hardly. - Why did you not get one? - I did not like to go against her wishes. - You knew she was seriously ill. It is very disgraceful on the part of a son. The question is whether the law can punish you for it. Whether it can or not, I think your action has been very disgraceful. - Charlotte Furneaux stated that she resided next door to deceased whom she had known for fifteen years, and had always been very friendly with. Witness knew the circumstances under which MRS DUNN lived. Soon after Christmas she left her work at the post-office and came home ill. Deceased was a very strange woman and did not like anyone to enter her house. Witness saw deceased at the door the previous Sunday week and she then complained of being ill. Witness told her she had better have the doctor, but she replied "I don't want any doctor." On Friday last she heard deceased in the house. Witness was called in by MANLEY soon after midnight on Friday and found MRS DUNN seated in a chair before the fire. She appeared to have lost her power of speech and witness sent MANLEY off for Dr Cook. Before he started MRS DUNN recovered her speech and had a cup of tea. Witness went in several times during the early hours of Saturday morning and found deceased in the same condition of speechlessness. About 7.30 a.m. a change came over deceased, and witness sent for another neighbour, who had not been in the room long before MRS DUNN died. There was bread, butter and groceries in the house. Witness repeatedly advised deceased to call in a doctor, but she invariably replied "I am not bad enough to have a doctor." The house was dirty it was true, but there was food and fire there. - Mr Wm. G. A. Tucker, chief clerk at the Torquay Post Office, said deceased received 14s. a week from the postal authorities up to the first week in February. Hearing that deceased was destitute, witness took her case up and obtained a grant of £4 for her from the Rowland Hill Fund. She was not to have the money on account of the son, who he (witness) considered a very lazy man, but an arrangement was made that the groceries and food she required should be sent to her. The Inspector went with provisions once and said he would not go again as the place was so dirty. The Inspector told the son he ought to get a doctor, but he replied that his mother would not hear of it. - Dr Dixon Cook stated that on Saturday morning a man handed in a message that a woman was ill at Stentiford's Hill, but before his housekeeper could get any details the man had bolted. Later he went to the house and found the deceased lying dead on the floor. The body was very dirty and so was the house. He had never seen a place so filthy. The son was there, but he was so begrimed with dirt that witness thought he was a foreigner. On making a post mortem examination, he found all the organs diseased. The woman's skull was the thickest he had ever met with, and the brain was of a very low type. There were signs of long standing meningitis, which would account for her eccentricity, and the heart was diseased. Death was due to syncope. - P.S. Gallop stated that he went to the house at 9.30 a.m. and found deceased sitting dead in a chair covered with an old shawl. The remainder of the body was naked. He went upstairs and saw a bed and couch. On the latter deceased had been accustomed to sleep without any bedclothes. The place was in a horribly filthy condition, deceased's hands looking as if she had just blackleaded a grate. He begged some clothes to cover the body with. - The Coroner said the only point which arose was why deceased was allowed to die without medical attendance. That was contrary to the law of England, and the Jury naturally wanted an explanation. The son had explained by saying MRS DUNN would not have a doctor. Mrs Furneaux confirmed this statement. The son appeared to be a very weak-minded sort of a chap who would do just what his mother told him without considering his responsibility in the least. - The Foreman thought the Medical Officer of Health ought to have seen to the condition of the house. - The Coroner: One would have expected better sanitary conditions in a town like Torquay. - The Foreman: I think we ought to censure the sanitary officials for not looking into such things. - The Coroner: If you feel inclined you can add a rider to your verdict. - MR DUNN, the husband, was called and stated he separated from his wife 26 years ago, and from that time to the present they had never communicated with each other. He had, however, made inquiries and had known where she was living and what her occupation was. - The Foreman: Have you made inquiries to find out whether she was destitute or not? - MR DUNN: I learnt that she was receiving 15s. per week at the Post Office and that her son was earning money. The circumstances were such that I never intended interfering with her. The Jury returned a verdict of Natural Causes.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 May 1901
TORQUAY - Burning Fatality In Torquay. Playing With Matches. - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday evening, the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. Kellock, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM ERNEST TUCKER, aged 8 months, the son of FREDERICK TUCKER, tinman, of 12 Melville Street, who died at the Hospital from burns received on Saturday. - MRS TUCKER, the child's mother gave evidence of identification, and said she last saw the child just after 11 o'clock on Saturday morning. It was then asleep in its cradle in the kitchen. There was no fire in the room. Witness left the baby in charge of her daughter aged 13, and went to the wash-house at the back to do some work. Another little boy two and a half years old was also in the kitchen. About 11.30 her daughter VIOLET came running out to her with the baby in her arms. The little one was not screaming but she found that it had something the matter with its head - she could hardly say what,. She called a neighbour, who took the baby from her and subsequently she found that the cradle pillow and the window curtains had been burnt. She discovered three broken matches close to the head of the cradle. At 11.45 the child was taken to the hospital. It died at 10.30 the same evening. - VIOLET LILY TUCKER, 13, said after the baby was put off to sleep she went outside the door to play. She had not been there many minutes when she heard her younger sister scream, and on going to her she discovered that the cradle pillow was on fire. She took up the baby and carried it to her mother in the wash-house. Her younger sister was four years old. Witness had never seen her playing with matches, but she had seen her brother, who was 2 ½ years old and was in the room at the time, do so. She threw the burning pillow into the grate. Afterwards she found three matches on the floor. - MRS TUCKER, recalled, said she kept the matches on the mantlepiece, but the little boy could get at them with the aid of a chair. She had previously seen him ignite matches, and had taken them away from him. - Elizabeth Coleman, 17 Melville Street, said when she took the baby from Mrs. Tucker, she saw that it had been very badly burned. She wrapped it in a blanket and took it to the Hospital. The injuries were to its head and face; none of its clothing was burnt. - Dr J. C. Long, house surgeon at the Hospital, said the child was extensively burnt about the head and face, and was in a state of collapse when brought to the Institution about 11.45. The clothes around the neck were slightly scorched. There was also a burn on the left hand. Death was due to shock. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 May 1901
DARTMOUTH - Fatal Swing Boat Accident. - An Inquest was held at Dartmouth on Monday on the body of JOHN SMITH, a blue-jacket, belonging to the Britannia, who fell from a swing-boat on Friday night at the New Ground, and died twenty hours afterwards without recovering consciousness. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and censured the proprietor of the swings for not taking more stringent measures to stop the boats when people disobeyed the orders.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 31 May 1901
TORQUAY - Torquay Boy's Fatal Fall. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish room, on Monday evening, Mr Coroner S. Hacker held an Inquest on a boy who had died in the Torbay Hospital on the previous day. Mr John Dodge was elected Foreman of the Jury. RICHARD HADDY, 6 Meadfoot Lane, said deceased was his son, and was nine years old. His name was WALTER FRANCIS HADDY. Witness knew he was ill on Monday last week and the following day, but understood it was a bilious attack. On Friday evening on coming home from work he found the boy very ill and went for Dr Pollard who ordered his removal to the hospital for treatment. - DINAH ALLEN, the boy's grandmother, living at the same address, said deceased came in to her from play on Monday evening in last week crying and said he felt very bad and lay down. He did not say he had fallen. He was taken very sick that evening, but the next day he seemed quite well again. She, however, kept him indoors and gave him an aperient. On Wednesday he appeared to be recovered. At midday he pointed to a boy in the street and said, "That's the boy that tripped me up on Monday." That was the first time she heard that he had fallen. She did not know the boy, but thought he was about twelve years old. On that day and Thursday deceased complained of pains in his head, but made no fuss about it. On Friday evening he came in crying and said he felt very ill. He vomited violently and she put him to bed. A short time afterwards deceased became convulsive and then unconscious, in which state he remained until he died on Sunday morning. Claude Richards, 165 Union Street, hairdresser's assistant, said on Monday evening he was standing at the door of his shop in Torwood Street, and saw HADDY and a boy named Landon playing "touch." Landon was chasing deceased, and when the boys were close together HADDY tripped and fell, striking his head on the edge of the pavement. He was not close enough to see whether deceased tripped in Landon's foot or in the path, which was very uneven at that place, but there was no undue roughness on Landon's part, and the fall was quite an accident. Deceased said he felt very giddy, but with the exception of a small spot of blood above one ear, there was no visible injury. About five minutes afterwards he saw HADDY sitting on a short pillar near the Rotunda. He was looking very pale, and ill, and witness told him to go into Mrs Landon's house, which he did. - Mrs Landon, who was sitting at a window and saw the fall, gave corroborative evidence. It was quite an accident, and she should not have thought that the fall was severe enough to cause death. - Willie Landon, 12, also gavel evidence. - Dr Pollard said when he was called in to the child he found him unconscious. He ordered his removal to the hospital to see whether an operation would benefit his condition, but he saw the boy was dying and he could do nothing. At the post mortem he discovered extensive haemorrhage above the ear, which caused compression of the brain and death. There was also a slight fracture of the base of the skull. It was unusual for a fall like that to cause a fracture of the skull of a child, but the bone was not very thick. It was very curious that the severe haemorrhage did not start until several days after the accident. He supposed that at the fall at blood vessel inside the skull was ruptured, and either vomiting or playing on Friday accelerated the bleeding. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 June 1901
COCKINGTON - Sad Death Of MRS BRIDGMAN. The Inquest. - At Lyndhurst, Park road, Chelston, on Friday, the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. Kellock, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MRS ELIZA BRIDGMAN, aged 41, wife of MR G. SOUDON BRIDGMAN, C.C., retired architect of Courtlands, Paignton, the painful details of whose end we reported in our last issue. Mr B. Singleton was elected Foreman of the Jury. - MR G. S. BRIDGMAN, a retired architect, residing at Courtlands, Paignton, said deceased was his wife, ELIZA, aged 41. He last saw her in that room. Deceased came to the Lyndhurst Home by her most earnest desire about five weeks ago from Cross Parks, Edginswell, where she had been staying. Dr Black, the proprietor of the home was deceased's brother. On the 20th December last year she was confined of a still born child and suffered a great shock. She became very nervous and low, and appeared to him to be in an extreme stage of nervousness. For some time she had expressed a desire to go to the home to be near her brother. He feared that she would go over the border into insanity, so extremely low-spirited would she be at times. He had been laid up himself for some time and had been unable to go out. She had written no letters to him, but sent messages every day by her brother. She was the last person he would have suspected of doing harm to herself. She was so fond of life and all living things that she would not allow a fly to be killed. = Dr George Black, Greta Villa, Chelston, said he kept Lyndhurst as a vegetarian home for patients and those desiring rest and quiet. There was no one separately in charge of deceased, as there was over some other patients, as she did not seem to require close watching. Miss B. Webber was the manager of the Home. Deceased was his sister, and when her father died some years ago she made his house her home. She came to Lyndhurst to have rest after a serious illness. He saw her every day and took her for a drive. On Wednesday they drove as usual, and deceased seemed in her customary spirits. He bade her good-bye at 1.30 p.m. She asked if he would be back that night, and he answered that he could not. That was the last time he saw her alive. She was suffering from nervous depression and insomnia, and was at the Home to get complete quiet and rest and that she might go with him for daily drives. He had feared that she might lose her reason, but saw no signs that she required some one to be always with her. She could get about the house, and there was always some one there. The life she led at that Home was the best for her, as she needed complete rest and quiet. She was quite contented there and had never expressed any desire to return to her home or go elsewhere. She was decidedly better there than she had been at Edginswell, where she had been unable to get out of bed. She had not changed her diet, having been a vegetarian for over five years. Her mental condition, as far as he could judge, had improved during her stay at the Home. She had copied out some pages from a book on the previous Sunday. The insomnia was also much better than at Cross Parks. The only medicine she had lately taken was a drug largely used by homoeopaths to remove a feeling of depression. He had often given it to other patients. He had been attending deceased from the birth of the child. He was called on Thursday morning at 6.30, by the coachman. He found his sister lying on the floor quite dead. He sent for Dr Cash, and then went to Paignton to inform MR BRIDGMAN. A short time ago he wanted deceased to go with some relatives to another similar home of his at Belstone, Okehampton, as he thought the bracing air there might do her good. She said she did not want to go away from him and therefore stopped. - Mr Spurr: What would be the effect of the drug she took? - Witness: It is a drug which has the effect of removing the feeling of depression. It is used a great deal for that and also for rheumatism. It acts on the brain and nervous system. it does not excite the brain in any way. Deceased suffered from palpitation of the heart, but only as the result of nervousness. - Miss Bessie Webber, cook and housekeeper, said she managed the Home for Dr Black. Deceased had been there for about five weeks. She was very quiet and depressed at times, but was quite contented and expressed no wish to go away. On Wednesday she went for her drive as usual and during the day witness saw nothing amiss. Deceased went to bed at the usual time and at 8.50 she took her a hot-water bottle. they wished one another good-night. She seemed not at all depressed, in fact was brighter that evening than usual. - Edwin Bright, a medical attendant employed by Dr Black to look after a patient, said he had known deceased for some time. She seemed bright and cheerful. He saw nothing wrong in her mental powers. On Wednesday night he was sitting up with his patient and on Thursday morning about 5.55 he went into a room under deceased's bedroom and saw something outside the window. He went outside and saw deceased hanging out of her window in her nightdress. He called for assistance and on going into the building found that she was hanging by a sheet tied to the bedpost. He untied the sheet and lowered the body to the coachman Snow. Deceased's feet were five or six feet from the ground. The body was cold. - By the Foreman: he heard no noise during the night. - Charles Snow, coachman, said the last witness called him. He corroborated Bright's statement. He heard no noise in the night. On Wednesday he drove MRS BRIDGMAN who, when Dr Black was with his patients, talked most pleasantly with him. - Dr A. Midgley Cash said he had previously attended deceased, but had not spoken to her lately. On Thursday morning he was called by the coachman and found deceased lying on her back with the sheet loosely around her neck. There were depressions on each side of the neck. The face was pallid, the body cold, but supple. There were scratches and slight abrasions on the backs of both hands. Death was due to strangulation. - P.C. Payne said he had searched the bedroom on Thursday morning but he had found no letters. - MR BRIDGMAN recalled, said he was married to deceased on March 20th last year. In an interview he had lately had with her she had seemed very depressed, and on one or two occasions when for health's sake he had tried to persuade her to go for a walk, she had told him that it was no use, she had not much longer to live. He had told Dr black of her words. She came to the Home at her express desire. She was the last person in the world he would have expected to do such an act. He would rather have had her at home, but at her request, agreed to her stopping there. - The Jury returned a verdict of Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane, and expressed their sympathy with MR BRIDGMAN in his sad bereavement. - Under the circumstances it was deemed advisable that the interment should take place as soon as convenient. To avoid Sunday it was fixed for Saturday afternoon, at the Cemetery, Paignton, and representatives of the two families were present. Many floral wreaths and flowers were sent. The Paignton Liberal Association forwarded a beautiful tribute, which measured quite 30 inches across. Nearly one hundred sympathising friends from far and near sent letters and cards of condolence to MR G. S. BRIDGMAN and family.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 June 1901
TORQUAY - Suicide Of A Laundress. The Inquest. - At Tor Parish Room on Tuesday afternoon, Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MARY ANN KENDALL, of 13 South Street, tor, who was found hanging in a half-covered yard at the rear of her house on the previous morning. - Sarah Cottrell of 14 Wesley Avenue, Plymouth, wife of a bricklayer, said deceased was her sister, named MARY ANN KENDALL, aged 67. Deceased was married, but for the last thirty years had been living apart from her husband, who when she last heard of him, he was at Bristol. She was not sure that he was now alive. Deceased was a laundress, but since Christmas had felt too unwell to do any work, and had intended to let out apartments in the house in South Street. Deceased, witness and their brother had a life interest in several properties in South Street, Church Lane and Queen Street. Deceased received both her own and also witness's shares and would therefore have about 14s. or 15s. a week, besides living rent free in that house. Deceased had received the rents of the property and managed them for the last ten years. The three children had been left the property by their mother. They had only a life interest, but their children, to whom the property would pass, would have the absolute control. They wished to raise a small sum of money on the property by mortgaging and all were agreeable, including deceased. She had no trouble about it at all. Deceased was very low spirited, and would sometimes state that she did not feel well. - Elizabeth Holding, 21 Church Lane, said she went on Monday morning at 9.45 a.m., to deceased to pay her, her rent. Deceased signed the receipt book and said "You had better keep the book; one never knows what may happen." She often said this. She seemed in her usual health, and asked witness that as she had lodgers coming in shortly if she would help her to move some furniture. Witness said she would go home first and come down again. She left the house about 10.15. About half an hour afterwards she heard someone cry out "My good woman, what have you done," and "Help." running down to the back of deceased's house she saw deceased with a rope around her neck, in Drew's arms. Witness's husband cut down the body. Life was quite extinct. - George Drew, 14 Wesley Avenue, Plymouth, said the first witness was his mother. He had come to Torquay on business about three weeks ago, and deceased asked him to stop there during his stay in the town, which he did. His aunt was often low-spirited, especially so when she heard of the suicide at Chelston. She then said "That poor woman is happier now she is in heaven." He never knew what made her unhappy. Her brother came to see her sometimes, and did so on Sunday, but what occurred he could not say. She also said to him (witness), that she could not "saddle horses" with her son in London. On Monday morning she seemed brighter than usual, as she had let the rooms. She said he must help her move some furniture, which he promised to do. He went out on business, and returning about 10.45 he happened to go into the kitchen and found deceased hanging outside the window in a half-covered shed. He rushed out, took her weight off the rope and called for help. He sent for the police and a doctor. He could find no letter of explanation. - Dr Cook said all the symptoms pointed to death self-inflicted by strangulation. - The Coroner said it was strange that deceased appeared to have not the slightest reason, or even a supposed reason for her act. A verdict of Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane was returned.

TORQUAY - A Yachtsman Drowned. The Inquest. - At the Upton School Room on Wednesday evening, Mr Coroner S. Hacker held an Inquest on a young yachtsman, named HOCKIN, who was drowned at Livermead on Tuesday. Mr Alexander Brown was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - ALBERT HOCKIN, 24 Northumberland Place, Teignmouth, yacht and boat proprietor, said deceased was his son, THOMAS JOHN HOCKIN, aged 19 years. From his cradle he had been brought u to the sea and in May last was engaged by Captain Griffin on his yacht the Witch. He could swim. - Frederick William Cox, seaman, of Teignmouth, said he and deceased formed the crew of the Witch, and lived aboard. The yacht went out for daily cruises and returned at night to her moorings near the Princess Pier. On the morning of Tuesday he and deceased sailed the boat over to Livermead from instructions to wait for Capt. and Mrs Griffin. They went within 200 yards of the shore and dropped the anchor. About 10.20 witness left the yacht in the dinghey to fetch his master and wife from the shore. Deceased was then sitting in the cock-pit. The sea was calm, but the wind squally. On rowing back to the yacht with Captain and Mrs Griffin and two children, when about 50 yards from the yacht, Mrs Griffin said "Look at that man swimming near the yacht." Her husband answered that it was most likely a bather swimming around. Mrs Griffin said his head was very low, and steered the dinghey towards the spot. Witness rowed as fast as he was able, but when about thirty yards from the place the man disappeared without a cry. They rowed about for over an hour, but could see no signs of the man. They picked up the cap of deceased near the yacht, and that made them think that it was HOCKIN whom they had seen. He was present when deceased's body was found near the spot by a party of men hired by Captain Griffin. - By a Juryman: The boom was made fast, but would slightly swing - enough, in his opinion, to pitch a man overboard if he was not wary. The reef pennant was also loose. - The Foreman: Have you and deceased always been good friends? - Always. - Every had any quarrel? - No. - In answer to questions, witness stated that the anchor was down, and that possibly when deceased fell overboard, he might have struck the chain. - Captain Griffin, retired commander R.N., said deceased entered his employ on May 6th. The statement of the last witness was correct. When more than 50 yards from the yacht his wife said there was someone swimming near it. He said it was probably a bather swimming around the yacht. She remarked how low his head was in the water. He said that to gain a high speed swimmers often kept their heads very low. just afterwards his wife again said how low the head of the man was in the water, and he then directed the dinghey towards the man. He could see the man-s hand come above the water as if making a gentle side-stroke. Suddenly he disappeared. Witness divested himself of some of his clothes so as to be ready to jump overboard. He was a good swimmer and a fair diver, and his wife held an ambulance certificate, so that if a sign of deceased's whereabouts had been given everything could have been done for his rescue. There was not a bubble. Although they rowed about for a long time they could see nothing, and in the evening he hired some men to dredge the neighbourhood of the spot. A servant looking out of a telescope in a sitting room of his house, saw the deceased sitting across the bowsprit, leaning over, apparently tying something. The boat was then about half way over to the yacht. The boom was fastened, and deceased being a yachtsman, would not get in its way. The reef pennant, which was loose, was simply a loose rope. - By the Foreman: The two sailors were on perfectly good terms, and deceased was very contented and happy on the vessel. - He thought the blow on deceased's face was caused by something smaller than the main boom. He couldn't account for the accident in any way. He should like to say that deceased was a very good and capable man and his death was a great loss to him. - Dr J. E. Long, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said deceased was brought to the hospital about eight o'clock on the previous evening. He had been dead some hours. The only marks of violence were on the head. There were two slight scalp wounds and a severe bruise on the nose, caused by something striking the face sideways with some violence. The wound on the neck was only the mark of the collar made in the struggle. Death was due to drowning. - The Foreman: Could a man's fist make a similar mark to the wound on deceased's face? - Yes. - Do you attribute his death to anything of that kind? - The Coroner: that is not a fair question to ask the doctor. He must not do your duty. - Mr Hacker in summing up said there should be no difficulty in the matter. Often capable men were careless and probably deceased was. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. - MR HOCKIN: My son never fell overboard unless he was shoved. He was much too smart. - The Coroner: do you as his next of kin suggest any foul play, or have you any evidence or suspicion? - MR HOCKIN: I know nothing about it at all.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 July 1901
TORQUAY - Suicide At Tor. Inquest. - At the Tor Parish Room on Saturday afternoon, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ALFRED HAMLYN, 34, carter, of Bexley Stables, Bridge Road, Tor, who was found hanging at the rear of his residence on Friday afternoon. Mr C. Gardner was elected Foreman of the Jury. - JESSIE HAMLYN, wife of deceased, gave evidence of identification. S he stated that her husband was in the employ of his mother, who carried on a haulier's business, and lived in the same house. He received £1 a week wages when in work, but things had been a trifle slack lately. Deceased was up about 6 a.m. on Friday, but there was nothing to do. He, however, went out soon after 6 o'clock to see if he could get something to do, and witness went to her mother's house. Deceased appeared to be in good spirits. He had a cup of tea before leaving the house and they parted good friends. Her husband said he did not know whether he would be back to dinner, but he consented to her going to her mother's house, from whence she was fetched by her sister-in-law at 4 o'clock. When she reached home she was told that her husband was dead, but she did not see the body. She could give no reason whatever for her husband's act. He was in good health, had never threatened to take his life, and had never complained of any trouble. He provided sufficient money for housekeeping, and as far as she knew was not in debt. They lived happily together, and had been married for eight years. - EMMA HAMLYN, mother of deceased, stated that she had lived with her son since her husband had died, and employed him as a carter. She saw her son about six o'clock on Friday morning. He was going to the stable to feed the horses. Between twelve and one o'clock he came in again. She heard him go into the kitchen, where he remained for half an hour to an hour. Witness thought he was asleep. She called him once, but he did not answer. Soon after one o'clock she saw him go out. As he passed she asked him where he had been, but he did not answer. Shortly after she heard someone calling him from the yard, and a conversation followed between the person calling and her son. She did not know who the person was. About two o'clock she went across the yard to the fowl-house and found deceased hanging. She held up the body and called for assistance. Mr Luscombe came and the body was cut down. Witness thought deceased looked very strange when he came out of his room. He was staring and did not answer her when she spoke to him. Deceased had not spoken to her about it, but she thought he had been troubling because he had not had much work. He had not, however, shown that he was in trouble. The business was going back, and this might have caused deceased some worry. One of deceased's younger brothers had been in the Exminster Asylum for over two years. The member of the family who was in the asylum had suffered from sunstroke in India. - MAUD HAMLYN, sister of deceased, stated that on hearing her mother scream she fetched Mr Luscombe, and upon his arrival ran for a knife with which she cut down the body, whilst Mr Luscombe held it. - John Luscombe, butcher, Bexley Terrace, stated that he was called by the last witness, and arriving at the fowl house he found deceased hanging by a rope fastened to a beam. Deceased must have climbed up the wall and placed his head in a running noose and swung off. His feet were eighteen inches above the ground. Doctors Cash and Arnold were in attendance within ten minutes, but found life extinct. - Dr A. Midgley Cash said he found deceased's body lying on some boxes in the yard. There was a deep mark of a rope around his neck. Witness thought he detected a slight flutter of the heart, and with Dr Arnold's assistance he applied artificial respiration, but without effect. Death was due to strangulation. - P.C. Hurvid stated that he found in deceased's pockets a knife and two purses, one containing two bills, one of which was unpaid and the other partly paid. - The Coroner said the fact that the deceased had a brother in the lunatic asylum showed that there was some mental taint in the family, although deceased had in no way shown it. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

TIVERTON - A Mail Carrier's Death. - Tiverton mail-cart not having arrived at Dulverton at the usual time on Monday morning, a messenger was despatched. At Grant's Farm, Exbridge, the mails were found quite safe, but the shaft of the cart was broken, and the horse grazed, and FRED LEAT, the driver, was dead, with his throat cut. Deceased left Tiverton at about 4 a.m. and Bampton about an hour later, and seemed in his usual health and spirits. He was greatly liked by all on the road, and deep sympathy is felt with his young wife and two children, who live at Dulverton. He had often expressed his belief that some accident would happen to him, and it is probable that fear of being late with the mails through his accident unhinged his mind. LEAT was never a good driver, and on several occasions let his horse down. At the Inquest the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 July 1901
DARTMOUTH - Fatality On The Racer. - On Monday afternoon, in Dartmouth Harbour, as the Racer, tender to the training-ship Britannia, was mooring after returning from a party of cadets, a fatality happened in the stokehold. A stoker, named WILLIAM BRUCE, a native of Scotland, single, was below by himself, when the steam-pipe gave out and the hold was filled with the rush of escaping steam. The first sign to those on deck was the issuing of steam from the hold and engine-room. Officers and men at once went down, to find BRUCE lying dead, and terribly scalded about the face and hands. He was picked up in the bilges, having gone down there apparently to escape from the steam. At the Inquest a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

TORQUAY - Sad Suicide At Ellacombe. Extraordinary Delusions. - At the Upton Parish room on Monday evening, Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest on SARAH ANN REED, aged 65, a spinster, living in Cavern Road, Ellacombe, who was found dead in her bedroom on Sunday afternoon. Mr W. Adams was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Caroline Field, 30 Cavern Road, widow, was about to give evidence of identification, when she stated that she had not seen the body in the mortuary. She was sent there by the Coroner to do so. On her return she said deceased was her sister. She had been consumptive for 20 years, and lately it had affected her mind. During the last four years she had been very low spirited. On Saturday morning she went out alone - a most unusual thing. In the evening she sat in a chair doing nothing. At eight the next morning witness took her up her breakfast as usual. She did not eat much. At 10.20 witness went out, leaving deceased in bed. On returning about one o'clock she called her sister, and receiving no answer went upstairs to her. She saw the bed empty, and going around it saw deceased lying at full length as if she had got out and fallen. The basin was on the bed with vomit in it. She called for her neighbour, Mrs Terry, who came in. Under the bolster, Mrs Terry found a paper which had contained oxalic acid. They used that in the house for cleaning purposes ... [large portion of text missing]... wicked woman, while she was in reality the reverse. She said she was lost, and had no hope of forgiveness. For all those years she had not known peace for her supposed sins, but was constantly tormented by them. She often used similar language to that contained in the letter. When witness would try to comfort her and remonstrate with her, deceased would answer, "It must come out like a stream of water. I must say it - it will come out." She had never suggested or hinted at doing any harm to herself. - Hannah Terry, wife of J. J. Terry, said she lived next door to deceased. On Sunday she was called in by the last witness. Deceased was lying by the bed quite dead. Seeing that her mouth was very white and scalded looking, she had suspicions and sent for the doctor and a constable. She found under the bolster a packet labelled "Poison", which had contained oxalic acid. There was no glass that had been used in the room. The glass containing her tooth-brush was perfectly dry. She knew that deceased had the delusion that she was an extremely wicked woman, and had heard her at times make use of very wrong expressions after the manner of her letter. When spoke to about them she said she was obliged to say them. - Dr T. D. Cook said he saw the deceased about four months ago, to ascertain whether she ought to be sent to an asylum. As there was no dangerous or suicidal tendency, she would not be admitted, but he left word that if she became worse, he was to be sent for. On Sunday he went to the house, and from the state of deceased's mouth, and the colour of the vomit, he at once thought that death was due to poisoning by oxalic acid. He examined the vomit, and found it contained a large quantity of oxalic crystals At the post mortem examination, he found the stomach and gullet had been intensely burned by the acid. The deceased must have taken a full ounce of the acid, which, on a weak person as she was, would cause death in about five minutes. The mouth was more burned even than the stomach, and this, together with the fact that no glass had been found containing acid, pointed to the fact that deceased must have taken the powder in a dry state - a highly painful proceeding, much more so than if the powder had been dissolved in a glass of water. The organs of her body were all diseased. Her lungs were very weak, and deceased was in a delicate condition. There were signs of softening of the brain, which would account for deceased's behaviour of late. Death was undoubtedly due to shock caused by the taking of oxalic acid. - Thomas Henry Ness, chemist, of 49 Market Street, said he was not aware that he ever sold anything to deceased, and certainly had never sold any poison to her. The packet had been sold to someone during the last few weeks. Unless he was in the shop no poisons were sold, as he lived in such a mixed neighbourhood. He sold large quantities of poisons for various uses. Oxalic acid was used for cleaning hats and brass. He had sold an ounce of the acid to a person during the week, but not to deceased. It was to an elderly lady, but short, while deceased, whom he knew by sight, was very tall. - A verdict of Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane was returned.

ST MARYCHURCH - Sad Death At St. Marychurch. Verdict of Suicide. - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry on Saturday evening into the circumstances attending the death of MR HENRY HUNT, 56, baker and confectioner, of Park Place, St. Marychurch. Deceased being a well-known tradesman in the district, the St. Marychurch Town Hall, where the Inquest was held, was attended by many parishioners. - Mr G. K. Searle was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MRS HUNT said her husband had had a stroke of paralysis in March last, since when he had suffered greatly, and had been medically treated by Dr Steele, and had also been an out-patient of the National Hospital, London. He had been to London twice, and returned home the second time about a fortnight ago. He did not appear to be better; in fact she considered that he was even more depressed than before he had gone away. He suffered a great deal of pain, and would often sit for a long time with his head resting on his hands without speaking. Since the stroke he had taken no active part in the business, so witness did not think he could have been worried financially. On Thursday afternoon, about 3 o'clock, deceased left home to pay Mr Adams an account, he signing all cheques although not being actually in the business. As her husband did not return she became anxious, and made enquiries, but could find nothing of his movements since he had left Mr Adams' shop. After further inquiries she communicated with the police. The next day the body was found. She had never heard her husband threaten to do any harm to himself, but had known him say that he was weary of the pain that afflicted him. - The clothes found on the beach having been fetched witness identified them as belonging to deceased. He had occasionally bathed in the sea, but not since his seizure. - A receipted bill for £13 by Mr Adams, found in deceased's pocket, was also produced. - William Netherway, groom, said on Thursday afternoon his attention was called to deceased by Mr James Lee, who said, "There goes poor old HUNT." Deceased was proceeding towards Petitor, walking slowly, with his hands behind his back. - William Terry, Assistant Overseer, stated that he had had an intimate acquaintance with deceased for over 20 years. Formerly MR HUNT was a very level-headed man, but since he had had the stroke, he had been very different - somewhat weak-minded - and lately had become very depressed and low spirited. Witness saw him a few days before his death, when he was very peculiar and remarked "If I can't get rid of this pain in my head and have more sleep I shall be tempted to put an end to it and make a hole in the water." After leaving witness MR HUNT came back and said, "Good-bye, Brother Terry," both being foresters. It was this conversation that prompted witness to search the coast when he heard that deceased was missing. He, with others, searched until midnight and started again early on Friday morning. They found the body in the afternoon. - George Greenslade, shoemaker, said he went on Thursday evening for a bathe on Petitor Beach, but did not do so as the water was too rough. Entangled in some seaweed he found a pair of drawers. He thought nothing of the occurrence, but took them home and put them on the clothes line. He heard on Friday morning that MR HUNT was missing, but it was stated that he was last seen at Tor Station, and therefore he attached no importance to the finding of the drawers. On hearing that the clothes had been found on Petitor, he at once communicated with the police. - By Mr Godbeer - Witness had no idea at all that deceased had been seen going towards Petitor until after his clothes were found. - John Russell, of independent means, said he went to bathe at Petitor on Friday afternoon, and discovered the clothes produced between some rocks in an unfrequented part of the beach. A search party was at once organised. - John William Jeffery, monumental mason, said he found the body on Friday afternoon amongst some large rocks. The deceased was lying face downwards near high-water mark. The body was nude. With the help of others he removed deceased to St. Marychurch. - Dr W. S. Steele said he had examined the body of deceased. There were no marks of violence by falling or otherwise. The only superficial marks on the body were post mortem and due to the body being thrown on the rocks by the waves. About four months ago deceased had a paralytic seizure of his right side, but he was recovering very satisfactorily. He and Dr Odell were both satisfied with his progress,. He was very depressed and low spirited, but he was the last person he would have expected to commit suicide. It was quite possible he went to Petitor to bathe and was unable t stand the water. Witness had never known a person about to commit suicide undress. The Coroner summed up at some length, and after a short deliberation the Jury returned a verdict of Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 August 1901
TORQUAY - Death From Scalds At Victoria Park. The Inquest. - At the Upton Schools on Saturday evening the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. F. Kellock, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of EMILY ELLEN SOUTHCOTT HARVEY, aged two years, the daughter of JOHN HARVEY, painter, of 15 Victoria Park, St. Marychurch Road. - MARY ANN HARVEY, mother of the deceased, stated that on the previous Wednesday she went out to work as usual in the morning, leaving her baby in charge of her mother - the child's grandmother (Mrs Sharland). When she came home to dinner at one o'clock Mrs Sharland was getting the dinner ready and just straining off some cabbage into a large bowl or basin which stood on the floor. Witness told her mother she would finish the operation and Mrs Sharland went outside. Witness turned around to get a dish from the table and immediately after heard a scream. On looking round she saw the baby, which she thought was safely in the cradle, sitting in the bowl of hot water on the floor. She took her out as quickly as possible and applied linseed oil, and as soon as she could she wrapped the child in a sheet and carried her to the Torbay Hospital. There were two other children - boys aged five and seven years - in the room, but they were sitting at the table at the time and did not see how the accident happened. Witness had not the slightest idea how the child got into the water. - Elizabeth Sharland, grandmother of deceased, said she did not anticipate any harm from placing the bowl on the floor, because the child was in the cradle, and she thought her asleep. The baby was able to get in and out of the cradle by herself. She thought the child must have fallen back into the water whilst trying to walk. - Mr J. C. Long, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said the child was suffering from extensive scalds on both legs, the back, and abdomen, when she was brought to the institution. She became worse and on Friday was in a state of semi-coma. She died the same evening. It was impossible to save her life. Death was due to shock, the result of the scalds. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 September 1901
ST MARYCHURCH - Inquest At St. Marychurch. - Yesterday afternoon Mr S. Hacker, the County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Town Hall, St Marychurch, on the body of ANN MARIA HAMLYN, 68, the wife of J. T. HAMLYN, shipping agent, of Trinidad, West Indies, who has been staying at 4 St. Denis Terrace, St. Marychurch. MRS HAMLYN was suddenly taken ill at 12.30 on Thursday evening and Doctor Winter was called in but his services were of no avail, death ensuing during the early hours of the morning. The Jury after hearing the evidence of Dr Winter returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 September 1901
MANATON - Manaton Carriage Accident. Adjourned Inquest And Verdict. - On Friday evening at Manaton, the County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, concluded his Inquiry into the cause of the death of the late MR EDWARD BARLOW HUSSEY, a gentleman of independent means, of Beanland Gardens, Tor, Torquay, who died on the 30th of August, as the result of a carriage accident near Manaton. - It will be remembered that the late MR HUSSEY had been spending his holidays with Mrs Henry Dixon (his daughter), her three children, and their nurse, Nellie Hall, and Mrs Stone (his sister), at Southcott Farm, and that the party was being conveyed to Bovey station. When, in a narrow part of the lane between Southcott and Deal Farms, one of the horses shied and taking a sudden plunge to the side, sent the wheels of the vehicle against the bank with such force as to unseat the driver, a man named Dodd, who fell heavily to the ground. The horses, with the reins hanging loosely round their legs, bolted down a steep incline, at the foot of which the waggonette dashed violently into the stone bridge erected over the Becky stream. The vehicle, smashed to pieces, fell into the stream. MR HUSSEY was conveyed back in a semi-conscious state to Southcott, where a few days afterwards he succumbed to pneumonia, resulting from shock and the injuries he had sustained. Others of the party were also seriously injured, but three of the children of Mrs Dixon had miraculous escapes. Mrs Dixon and her nursemaid are happily now quite out of danger, and are making steady progress. The injuries which Mrs Stone sustained were hardly so serious as they were at first thought, and she, too, is going on satisfactorily, whilst Dodd, the driver, has also completely recovered. - The Coroner, in resuming the Inquiry, remarked that the Inquest was adjourned a fortnight ago for the purpose of going further into the case by taking additional evidence. On the former occasion there was no evidence from any person present at the time of the unfortunate occurrence, and it was therefore thought desirable that the driver, who, if blame lay with anybody, was responsible for the accident, should be called before the Jury to give his own account of the occurrence. - George Martin Dodd, the driver, was then called. He stated that on August 27th he went out from Bovey Tracey to fetch the deceased and friends and drive them to Bovey Station. They were staying at Southcott Farm. He left Bovey about two o'clock, driving a pair of horses and a big wagonette. He had driven the horses many times before, but had never had an accident with them. They were steady animals. He left the farm about three o'clock. Deceased sat on the box with witness, and there were three ladies and two children in the body of the trap. On the way down deceased said to him, "Driver, I think we will go past Leighon and Deal Farm instead of round by Manaton, to save time." They went that way. This road was much rougher and narrower than the other, with a steep "pinch" just before they got to the farm. He did not know whether the road was much used for driving. Just after they branched off from the road from Southcott Farm, where deceased had been staying, the off horse shied and knocked the near horse clean off her legs against the hedge. - The Coroner: Did it fall? - Witness: It had no chance to fall, the road is so narrow. It was knocked against the hedge. He was only trotting at about four miles an hour. - The Coroner: Four miles an hour would hardly be trotting. - Witness: Well, that was about the pace. He did not know what the horse shied at. He saw nothing in the hedge or anywhere else. - The Rev. J. C. B. Sanders: How far was that from the main road? - Witness: Only a short distance. he was knocked off the box of the vehicle. He hung on to the reins until he felt something catch his foot. Then he let go. - The Coroner: Was it the wheel? - Witness: I could not tell exactly what it was. - The Coroner: You were left behind then? - Yes, on my face and hands, until I picked myself up. The wagonette went on, but it was not going very fast when last I saw it. The horses were still trotting then. I got up and went on as fast as he could after them. By the time I got up they were out of sight. - The Coroner: Were you injured? - I was severely bruised, and had inflammation of the hip. One of my ribs was also nearly broken. I went on until I came to Deal Farm, where I found the wagonette upside down in the water. The children had crawled out from under the vehicle when I arrived, but the others were all underneath. Some people came up and I helped as well as I could to get the people out. - The Coroner: It must have been a big jerk to throw you out like that? - Witness: It was a jerk, sir. - You could not have been sitting very tight? - When you get a jerk like that you can't sit very tight. It is not as though you were braced in. - Mr Beer, of Bovey Tracey, stated that he had had the horses for eight or nine years. They were always very steady. He was never more astonished in his life than when he heard they had met with an accident. Witness usually drove that way. It was not much more dangerous than the other road. It was a bit narrower; that was all. At the farm there was a very steep bit, but with a good brake anyone could get down all right. If the horses had escaped the bridge, he thought they would have got home safe. He had driven the horses many miles, but had never known them to shy. - The Coroner: There is no accounting for some accidents. - The Coroner, summing up the evidence, said the shying of the horse caused the accident. What caused the horse to shy appeared to be a mystery. It was very unusual for old horses like this, which were not shiers, to suddenly develop the vice. - The Foreman of the Jury (the Rector) said the verdict would be that the death was due to pneumonia resulting from immersion, no blame attaching to anyone. - The Coroner: That is, "Accidental Death," the pneumonia being consequent on the accident and injuries. - The Foreman: Yes.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 November 1901
TORQUAY - A Pimlico Child's Death. Unfortunate Combination Of Circumstances. - At the Upton Parish room on Tuesday afternoon Mr Coroner S. Hacker, held an Inquest on the body of the sixteen months old illegitimate child of ELIZABETH PAUL, which died at 9 Pimlico, on Sunday evening. - On the list of Jurymen being read over Mr Thomas Short was absent. His name was called outside, and after waiting ten minutes the Coroner said he would be fined 10s. for non-attendance. Mr W. Shopland was elected Foreman of the Jury, who were about to be sworn when Mr Short arrived. On being told that he had been fined he explained that he had been called away on important business and could not return before. - Mr Hacker said as the Jury had not been sworn he would remit the fine. - ELIZABETH PAUL, 9 Pimlico, laundress, a single woman, identified the child as her son, GEORGE WILLIAM, aged 16 months. Whilst she was at work the father's mother, with whom witness lived, took care of the baby. The child had been very healthy until Sunday morning about eleven o'clock, when he repeatedly vomited. Witness went to the house of Mr Edwards, Relieving Officer, for a note for a doctor, but he was out. She left a message. At about three she again went up, and Mrs Edwards gave her a sealed envelope to take to the doctor, which she did. Dr Cook was out, but she handed in the note, and also left a message for the doctor to call as soon as he came in, but she did not think of leaving her address as she understood it was inside the envelope. When she returned the child seemed very low, but no worse. She nurses the child all the evening, expecting the doctor down. At eight o'clock the baby changed for the worse, and she again went to Dr cook. The housekeeper said the doctor had been waiting in from six until eight, but there being no address he did not know where to go, and had then gone to Cockington. Witness left her address, and returned to the house. The baby died just as she got in. The doctor did not come until the morning. - The Coroner: When you found the Relieving Officer out you might have gone to Dr Cook at once. - Witness: I didn't think of it. - A Juryman: It was a pity the address was not on the order. - Dr cook said on coming in, about 4 o'clock, he found the note from Mrs Edwards asking him to call to see the baby, but it gave no address. He waited in as long as he could, expecting the mother to return, but about eight he received an urgent call to Cockington, and on his return a message was awaiting him that the child was dead. At the post mortem examination he found the brain, bowels and stomach were congested, caused by severe cold, which would have accounted for the sickness and quick death. It was doubtful if he would have been able to relieve the child had he attended at the start. - Mr C. D. Edwards, relieving officer, said he was absent from town on Sunday. His wife gave a note, not the usual order, to the mother to take to Dr Cook. She told the girl that if the doctor was not in when she called she was to call at his house again. She did not ask the mother's address. - The Coroner said it appeared that the child had been well taken care of. There had been an unfortunate combination of circumstances. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 November 1901
TORQUAY - Sad Fatality At Belgrave Church. Suffocated In The Stokehole. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday evening, the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ALBERT FRANK PEARSE, 23, gardener, of 2 Stanley Place, who was found dead in the stoke-hole beneath the Belgrave Congregational Church on Saturday at 11.30 p.m. Mr Robert Watson was elected Foreman of the Jury. - Mr E. Hutchings, solicitor, watched the case on behalf of the widow, and the deacons of the Church (Messrs. J. Smerdon, Cocks, and E. Sermon) were also present. - The first witness called was the widow, FLORENCE PEARSE, who gave evidence of identification and stated that her husband was caretaker and cleaner of Belgrave congregational Church. He attended to the heating apparatus and lighted the fire each Saturday evening, letting it out again after the evening service on Sunday. On Saturday last her husband lighted the fire about six o'clock and then came home to tea. He complained that the fire was very troublesome. It was smoky and would not draw. He had complained once before. Deceased remarked that the flues could not have been properly swept and added that he would have a different man to do them next time. He had taken out a bucketful of soot from the flues. During Saturday evening he went to the Church three times. Once he said the fire was not going at all as he would like it and he would have to go again. The last time he went was between 10 and 11 o'clock. Her husband had been in perfectly good health and had never suffered from fits. As her husband did not return she thought there was something the matter, so she went to the Church about eleven o'clock to look for him. She went into the Church first and called, but receiving no answer she went to the stoke-hole. The door was open, and on going down the steps she found her husband's body lying on the bottom step. There was an electric light in the stoke-hole. Her husband was in a kneeling position on his face and hands. His head was bare and she had previously seen his hard felt hat on the floor behind the Church door. She raised the body up and saw that his face was black with soot and smoke. She saw no blood. Witness shouted to him but there was no response; he was either unconscious or dead. She laid the body down again and ran for assistance. Several people came in from the street and brought the body up. When she entered the stoke-hole she did not notice any smoke or smell any fumes. - JOHN PEARSE, plasterer, Fore Street, Ellacombe, said he was a cousin of the deceased. About three or four minutes past eleven on Saturday night he was passing the Belgrave Church when he heard a woman screaming. He went across the road and saw the woman outside the church. As he approached she said "He's down there." Witness went down the stoke hole steps and at the foot saw the deceased's body. It was in a doubled up position. Witness turned the body over, and recognised it as that of his cousin. One side of the face was covered with the black dust of the stoke hole. There was no signs of life. There was no smoke in the stoke hole, but the gaseous fumes were very strong. In fact the smell clung to his clothes right up to the following morning. It appeared to him as if one of the flues had been suddenly opened and the fumes allowed to spread. Witness helped to convey the body up the steps and when Dr Eales arrived he pronounced life to be extinct. - Alfred Millman, trunk maker, 25 Church Lane, Tor, said he went into the stoke hole with the last witness and noticed the fumes which caught him in the throat. He had not got rid of it by the following morning. He did not notice whether the damper in the steps was open or shut. - Frederick Hawkins, labourer, 6 Hilton Road, Newton Abbot, said he had taken deceased's place when he was away. He had used the damper. When it was pulled out a good draught was caused. He had never pushed the damper right home. to do so would undoubtedly send the smoke and fumes out. He always found the fire burn well and never had any trouble with it. - In reply to Mr Hutchings, witness said the damper was 6ft. 6in. above the floor of the stoke hole, and he had experienced difficulty in reaching it. The fuel used was small coal at first, and subsequently coke. - Councillor J. Smerdon, builder and contractor, stated that the stoke hole had been built for 30 years. He was well acquainted with the construction of the heating apparatus, and knew exactly how it was worked. When the damper was pulled out there was full draught, unless the flue was obstructed in any way. This would, of course, cause fumes and smoke to come out, and the same thing would follow if the damper was completely shut. The door under the damper was for cleaning the flues. It was only intended for cleaning purposes. If the damper was shut or choked and the flue door was opened the whole of the fumes would come out there and would be overpowering. They would consist of carbonic acid gas. - The Coroner: The same as choke damp, which, if a person gets full blast of it, will kill at once. It is not a very volatile gas, which goes up and away. It is a very heavy gas. Supposing deceased had found the fire was not burning and opened that door, having the damper shut or partly shut, with the flue choked, the full blast of the fumes would come out? - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner: His head would not be on a level with the door, but this heavy carbonic acid gas would be likely to sink and come in contact with his face. Don't you think that likely? - Witness: No, I don't; not with my experience. The gas would ascend to the door at the top of the steps and escape. - By the Foreman: When were the flues swept? - Witness: On the 23rd May, and the fire was used for the first time last Sunday week. On that day on entering the church witness smelt the fumes, and spoke to deceased about it. He said he did not quite understand the damper but it should not occur again. Deceased had been caretaker for about six months but he had previously helped his wife's grandfather. he had been there quite long enough to understand the heating arrangements. Witness had never heard any complaint against the condition of the flues. - The Coroner: Why did he have so much trouble with the fires? - Because perhaps the longitudinal flues were getting choked. - Dr G. Y. Eales said he was called to see deceased about 11.39. Witness found him in the lobby of Belgrave Church quite dead. The body was still warm. On the left cheekbone there was a slight bruise and a scratch on the bridge of the nose. There was a slight layer of dust all over the face and hands, but on the right side of the face there was a quantity of coal dust. He had since made a post mortem examination, and found there were no signs of external injury with the exception of a slight abrasion on the right leg. If deceased had fallen from the top of the stairs to the bottom he would have expected to find bruises; in fact, there was nothing in the post mortem to indicate that death was due to a fall. All the organs were free from organic disease. There was a general engorgement of the veins throughout the body, and especially those of the brain and lungs. From these signs, and the lividity of the lips and protrusion of the tongue, he was led to the opinion that death was due to suffocation. It was extremely rare for a man to die in a first fit, but if deceased had been suffocated by carbonic acid gas he would expect to find the signs he had noted. He did not think there was any severe fall. Suffocation by carbonic acid gas would draw the limbs up. A severe blast of carbonic acid gas would kill a man. It paralysed the brain centres, and one inhalation would mean death. He had had some experience of choke damp which was really carbonic acid, in colliery districts, and a man who went into choke damp would suddenly drop, and before he could be taken into the air he would be dead. Ten percent of this gas in the air would kill instantly, and five per cent, in a few minutes. - In reply to Mr Hutchings, witness said carbonic acid gas could be produced from coal, charcoal or coke. If carbonic acid gas came out through the flue door it would rapidly fill the stoke hole. If a chimney was not used for a long time there was invariably an excess of carbonic acid gas in it and if the chimney was choked it must come out somewhere. - The Coroner in summing up, said bearing in mind the evidence of JOHN PEARSE and Millman and that of Dr Eales, it looked very much as if deceased was suffocated by some noxious gas which was allowed to escape in his endeavour to get the fire to burn satisfactorily. As the Jury had seen for themselves when they visited the stoke hole, there were signs that the flue had been opened, for there was burned paper inside the door from which they might almost assume that deceased had tried to warm up the flue. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death by Suffocation by Fumes emanating from the Flue."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 December 1901
TORQUAY - Torquay Cook's Sudden Death. - An Inquest was on Friday afternoon presided over by Mr Coroner S. Hacker, in the Upton Parish Room, concerning the death of MARY JANE RUNDLE, cook at Morven, Asheldon Road, who died suddenly on the previous day. - Mr R. Easterbrook was elected Foreman of the Jury. - CATHERINE RUNDLE, parlourmaid at Morven, said deceased, who was her sister, was 43 years old. She was not often ill but complained of indigestion sometimes. She ate a hearty dinner at half-past one on Thursday, and about 2.30 remarked that she did not feel very well, but sat down and read a leaflet to witness. At about ten minutes past three she suddenly stopped and the other parlourmaid who had just come into the room, exclaimed "What's the matter, MARY?" Witness looked around and saw that deceased had turned very pale and would have fallen from her chair had not witness caught her in her arms. Deceased died almost immediately. - Agnes Baker, parlourmaid, corroborated. - Mr Crowdy, surgeon, said he saw deceased about an hour after death, and at a post mortem examination found that the stomach was much distended. The heart showed signs of degenerative changes. Deceased had suffered from peritonitis of the stomach some 15 years ago, and this would contract that organ to some extent. Death was due to syncope caused by the pressure of the distended stomach on the weak heart. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 January 1902
EXMOUTH - Invalid's Strange Death. - The Exmouth Coroner investigated an extraordinary case of death on Monday. MR EDWARD R. EVANS, a gentleman from Worcester, had been staying in the town for the benefit of his health. He was a great sufferer from gout, but was making excellent progress until Saturday week last. On that day he was lighting a cigar, and the cotton wool which enveloped his hands, caught fire, inflicting such severe burns, and causing such a shock to the system, that he died on Saturday last. "Accidental Death" was the verdict.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 January 1902
TORQUAY - Suicide At Ellacombe. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Friday afternoon, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JOSEPH PETHERBRIDGE, 52, of Ellacombe Church Road, who was found hanging quite dead from the bedpost in his bedroom on the previous afternoon. Mr Easterbrook was Foreman of the Jury. - CHARLOTTE PETHERBRIDGE, 25, Ellacombe Church Road, said deceased, her husband, was 52 years old. He was formerly a sailor, but of late had not been to sea. He had not been able to work for fifteen months as he was suffering from a disease in his legs. Of late he had been very low and despondent. On Thursday his breakfast was taken to him and he sat out in a chair. he did not eat any dinner. She saw him at 3.20. He had been crying and grieving all the day, and also in the night. At twenty minutes to four she went to his room and found him kneeling down at the foot of the bed. A rope was around his neck. It was tied to the rail at the foot of the bed. He was quite dead. The rope he had worn around his waist on the previous day for a boy to help him up stairs was used. He had suffered great pain for a long time, but had never threatened to do harm to himself. Dr Eales said he had known deceased for many years as an upright and respectable man. He had suffered from a chronic nervous disease which commenced from the knees and rendered his legs useless. Lately he had also suffered from dyspeptic troubles caused by the same disease. This disease ended almost always fatally and often resulted in melancholia. Death resulted from strangulation. - Rosina Ella Symons, a sister of MRS PETHERBRIDGE, living at 6 Ellacombe Church Road, said deceased often stated that he was a great trouble to everyone, and could do nothing himself. A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 24 January 1902
TORQUAY - Fatality To A Torquay Butcher. The Inquest. - At the St. Marychurch Town Hall on Tuesday afternoon, the County Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, held an Inquest on the body of ALFRED J. HOARE LOUD, butcher, of Teign House, Lymington Road, who was thrown from a horse and killed on the previous afternoon. Councillor W. H. Grant was elected Foreman of the Jury. - MRS ELLEN LEAMAN, a widow, living at 2 Upton Hill, Torquay, said deceased was her son by a former marriage. He was about 36 years of age, and single. - Mrs Mary Grace Bolt, housekeeper to deceased, said he left home to go to Shiphay on business, saying that he would be back soon. The horse he rode was very fractious sometimes, but witness did not think there had been any accident with it before. - Frank Searle, 2 Belgrave Place, a saddler, said he met MR LOUD at about a quarter past one, midday, on the previous day. Deceased was at Edwards' Hotel, Belgrave Road, when witness went in, and they chatted for a moment. He was quite rational, and was not at all the worse for drink, but he would not say he was perfectly sober. - The Coroner: What distinction do you make between not being the worse for drink and being perfectly sober? - Witness said he would not say that deceased had not had something to drink but he was not upset at all by liquor. - James Bigglestone, 7 Union Terrace, St. Marychurch Road, an accountant and commission agent, said he heard the clatter of a horse at about 1.35 .m., and looking around he saw the animal galloping. Deceased was riding it. The horse passed him at a great rate. He exclaimed to a friend, "By Jove; he's off!" The man had no control over the horse. He had hold of the reins and was drawing the animal to one side. The horse slipped suddenly, and in recovering itself sprang up, and the man was thrown from the saddle on to his head. The horse fell clear after the man was on the ground. Witness went to him and turned him on his side. He was bleeding profusely from a wound in his head. He was quite dead. When the horse was passing witness it was travelling very fast. - Henry Richard Codrington Butler, Sandhurst, St. Marychurch Road, dentist, said he was riding his bicycle up the road and passed the horse galloping. It was not under control, but the rider was making efforts to gain control over it. Witness heard the horse fall, and on dismounting and looking around saw the rider on the ground motionless, and the horse standing beside him. He had expected the horse would fall, owing to the slippery state of the road. Deceased had blood flowing from his nostrils, and witness thought it was a hopeless case, but mounted his machine and went for a doctor. - Dr Winter said he was riding up the St. Marychurch Road, and several persons told him that he was wanted. Deceased was then - at about two o'clock - quite dead, at the mortuary. He had evidently fallen on the left side of his head, all the bones on that side being smashed in. Blood had come from the nostrils and ears, and the severe fracture probably caused instantaneous death. - THOMAS LOUD, a cousin of deceased, living at Solomon's Post, Maidencombe, said he had known the horse for twelve months - since deceased bought it. The animal was a thoroughbred one, which had won a couple of races at Newton Abbot under the name of Golden Arrow. The horse was constantly in use for riding by deceased or the boys. It had no vice, was not nervous, but spirity, and after a rest of two or three days or after having corn it became very lively. Witness's daughter had driven the horse by herself. Deceased was a fairly good rider and was constantly on horseback. - P.C. Hills aid when he reached deceased he was quite dead. He directed his removal to the mortuary. He had been unable to ascertain what caused the horse to bolt in the first instance. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the Jury could have no difficulty in arriving at their verdict. He was glad that no person's carelessness or wrongdoing had been the cause of the death. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed sympathy with the family at their sad bereavement.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 31 January 1902
TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of A Torquay Coachman. - Mr Coroner S. Hacker on Tuesday evening held an Inquest at the Upton Parish Room, on the body of HENRY WILLIAM BUNCH, aged 47, living at Stadacona Stables, who had been found that morning dead in his bed. Mr J. Redmore was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MRS FANNY BUNCH, the widow, said her husband was coachman to Sir Penrose Julyan. He had been attending to his duties and had driven out on the previous day. He had been in pretty good health lately, but had not been feeling quite right and this he put down to the fact that he had been vaccinated on the Monday previous. On coming home from his drive he was not well so she made him some soup. He said he felt pains all down his back and he thought he had caught a chill. He went to bed at about eight and she gave him some whisky and water which sent him into a bath of perspiration. He said he would be all right again in the morning and she gave him no physic. She left him at about eleven to sleep in another room. She heard a slight cough in the night and would have heard if deceased had got out of bed or called. On her son going down in the morning he found his father dead and called to her. On going in she found deceased lying as if asleep quite dead and nearly cold. He had never been seriously ill and neither he nor she knew that his heart was weak. - HENRY RICHARD BUNCH, son, carpenter, said he went into his father's room to see the time by his watch and saw him lying as if asleep. He called to him to tell him the time, and pulling back the clothes from his face, repeated the question. He then saw that his father was dead. There was no sign of any struggle having taken place. - Dr F. E. Cave said he was called to see deceased at about 7 o'clock that morning. He had been dead some hours. At the post mortem examination he found that both lungs were inflamed as were also the kidneys and liver. The lungs appeared to have been affected by bronchitis some time ago. The disease in each organ was chronic. Deceased died from syncope caused by the dilation of the heart, from the disease of the organs. A Juryman: Would the effect of vaccination account for the deceased feeling ill? - The Doctor: He would have got over the worst of the effects in a week. It might have upset him a little, but would not account for his feeling so ill. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 February 1902
TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of A Child. The Inquest. - The County Coroner, Mr S. Hacker on Tuesday afternoon, at the Upton Parish Room, held an Inquest on the body of the infant child of MR W. WATTS of 2 Dunmere Road, who was found dead in its cradle on the previous morning. Mr W. Farley was elected Foreman. - MRS E. M. WATTS, the mother, said the deceased child was named GLADYS MARY and was born 23rd of May last year. It was not insured. When the child was four months old she suffered from indigestion and she called in Dr Winter. She was a strong, healthy child, but on Wednesday last week she appeared to be poorly. Witness put it down to her teething. She was better on Friday and took her food well and up to Sunday was bright and playful until 10.30 .m., when witness put her in the cradle and rocked her to sleep. Witness woke up at a quarter to five on Monday morning, and found her dead, lying as if asleep. There was no sign of convulsions. Her husband then went for a doctor. She did not notice any symptoms of a cold. - Mrs A. W. Hayman, 5 Dunmere road, said she had frequently seen the baby. She also thought she was suffering from the effects of teething. - Dr H. P. V. Horton said he was called to the house on the previous morning about five o'clock. The child was lying in the cradle quite dead. The hands were clutched. There was evidence of congestion and catarrhal inflammation of one lung and evidence of congestion of the brain. The child was well nourished and the organs were healthy. The probability was that the bronchitis and other disease had caused feverishness which had brought death through the convulsion. The inflammation on the lung was quite recent and the congestion was probably the effect of the convulsion. The child had most probably had a cough and noisy breathing from the state of the lungs, but it must have been very slight, convulsions often resulting from very slight feverishness. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 21 February 1902
TORQUAY - An Infant's Death. - At the Upton Parish Room on Tuesday afternoon, Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest on the body of the five weeks old child of MR JOHN HUFFADINE, carpenter of 1 Carlton Terrace, Bronshill Road, Ellacombe. Mr C. Heard was appointed Foreman of the Jury. - Evidence, given by the mother and Dr Wiggin, showed that the child appeared well until about nine o'clock on Sunday morning, when it was taken ill. It became worse and the doctor was sent for, and he found the child in a dying condition. He employed artificial respiration and other means of restoration, but to no avail, the infant dying at about one o'clock. At the post mortem examination the child was found to be in a healthy condition with the exception that the intestines were inflamed; this had caused the convulsion from which it died. "Death from Natural Causes" was the verdict of the Jury.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 February 1902
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident At Tor. Inquest. - On Saturday evening at the Tor Parish Room, Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest on the body of CHARLOTTE SHANHAM, Lansdowne Villas, Vansittart Road, a widow, aged 83, who died from the effects of a fall down stairs. Mr Watson was chosen Foreman of the Jury. Mrs Ryder, living with deceased, said they were sitting together in a room on the evening of Sunday 16th, and MRS SHANHAM left to go upstairs. Witness heard a fall and helped deceased up from the foot of the stairs where she had fallen on her face. Deceased was quite conscious and said she had tripped and fallen down two stairs, knocking her head. She was, however, quite well, and afterwards partook of supper. The next morning she felt poorly and Dr Pollard was called in. Deceased died on Friday. Dr Pollard said deceased came to her death through shock, caused by the fall and aggravated by her advanced age. The verdict was "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 March 1902
TORQUAY - Fatal Fall In Teignmouth Road. Inquest. - On Monday at the Upton Parish Room the Deputy Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MARY LOVELL AGGETT, 74, a widow, of 25 Melville Street, who was found in an insensible condition at the bottom of the steps leading to The Brake, Teignmouth Road, on Saturday afternoon, and who subsequently died at the Hospital. - Miss Martha Hester Heawood, residing at The Brake, Teignmouth Road, said she had known the deceased for sixteen years. Witness resided in the neighbourhood she visited as a district visitor. Although she had known the deceased such a long time she did not know whether she was married or single. There was always a certain amount of mystery about that. She was, however, regarded as a widow. On Saturday deceased came to her house to ask for help. She stated that she had a ticket for admission to the Newton Abbot Workhouse, which would enable her to go there on the following Tuesday, but she had nothing to live on in the meantime. Five minutes after the witness had said good-bye to the deceased there was a ring at the door bell, and a lad named Sidney Miller said he had found MRS AGGETT lying at the bottom of the steps. Witness went to the spot and found the deceased in an insensible condition. As soon as was possible she was removed to the Torbay Hospital. - Sidney Miller, a baker's boy, stated that about 5.15 when about to enter the back door of The Brake, he found the deceased lying at the bottom of the steps. She appeared to have fallen backwards. Her head was at the bottom of the steps. She was insensible. Witness called Miss Heawood and then ran to the Police Station and reported the occurrence. - Mr J. E. Long, House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, stated that the deceased was brought to the Institution about six o'clock in an unconscious state and suffering from severe shock. She had a large scalp wound on the left side of the head, and was bleeding from the nose, mouth, and ears. She never recovered consciousness and died at six o'clock on Sunday morning. Death was due to a fracture of the base of the skull. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - Sudden Death On H.M.S. Camperdown. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday, the Deputy Coroner (Mr G. Kellock) held an Inquiry respecting the death of HENRY BARR, a second-class petty officer, on H.M.S. Camperdown, who died suddenly on returning from boat service on Saturday afternoon. - David Lewis, first class P.O. on the Camperdown, gave evidence of identification, but said he did not know deceased's Christian name. On Saturday afternoon, about five o'clock, witness went out in charge of a whaler and boat's crew with orders to pull around the battle squadron. Deceased was pulling stroke oar. On returning, witness dismissed the crew and reported them. Then he came across the deck to speak to witness and fell down dead within three yards of him. - Replying to questions, witness said they had a stiff pull round the fleet. Their boat was first and they tried to keep first. - Lieut. W. Sweeney said deceased was 30 years of age. His home was at Islington and he had been in the service about twelve years. Deceased reported the boat's crew to him on Saturday afternoon. He appeared excited but not distressed. Directly afterwards deceased fell on the deck. - Mr C. McKinley, fleet surgeon, said he was called to deceased who gave two or three gasps and died. He had made a post mortem examination and found that the heart was badly diseased. That would cause death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 April 1902
TORQUAY - Sad Case Of Suicide. - At the Upton Parish Room on Tuesday Mr Coroner Hacker presided over an Inquest on the body of ALFRED JOHN VALLEY, single, aged 28, the son of MR J. VALLEY, confectioner, who was found hanging in a loft in his father's stable in Upton Church Road on the previous afternoon. Mr R. Crocker was elected Foreman of the Jury. - JOSEPH VALLEY, 49 Union Street, said the deceased was his son, who had for the last four years been living with his brothers, and lately
at 234 Union Street. He was a confectioner. In the winter he had been laid up but was rapidly recovering, although still weak. He saw him on the previous morning in the store in Upton Church Road, about half-past ten, and he said he felt better. Witness left him in the store alone. He did not know that the deceased had any trouble, and he had money at the time of his death. He had never heard him make any threat to do harm to himself. There was a letter found on him after his death from a young woman received that morning, but there was nothing in it that could have had any effect on the deceased. - JOSEPH VALLEY, junior, confectioner, living at 234 Union Street, said the deceased was his youngest brother. He had since Christmas lived with him, and had done a little work to pass away the time as he was a little depressed. He had been ill on and off for two or three years, caused in the first instance by an attack of influenza followed by pleurisy and inflammation of the lungs. Soon after Christmas he was again attacked by influenza and lung trouble, and was obliged to keep his bed for a fortnight, being attended by witness's wife. He then got a little better. During the last week he had been depressed and the doctor told witness that if deceased could be persuaded to do a little work it would be better for him. Witness tried to rouse him from his depression but he was always sitting over the fire, and could not be persuaded to move, and never spoke unless spoken to. He had on no occasion threatened to take his life. If he had done so witness would have prevented him from carrying out his threat. Witness did not think there was anything troubling his brother with the exception of his illness. He had money, and if he had none he could easily have had it. He was keeping company with a young lady with whom he thought he was on very good terms, at least he had not made mention of any trouble. On the previous day deceased came downstairs about 7.30, and later sat down to breakfast which he seemed to enjoy. A letter was handed to him from the young lady referred o, but he did not read it until witness had left the premises. He seemed in his usual spirits, and about nine o'clock witness and deceased left together for the stable where they worked together. At about 11.45 witness left his brother in the stable where he was going to clean some harness. When witness returned to his house for dinner at one o'clock his brother had not arrived, and he called to a boy whom he knew would be passing the stable, and asked him to tell deceased that dinner was ready. About a quarter of an hour after that the boy came back and said he could not make anyone hear. Witness asked him to go back again as his brother was sure to be on the premises. A few minutes afterwards the boy came running back and said he had seen deceased standing on the stairs and had shouted to him but received no answer. Witness then ran over to the stable and entered with a man named Buckley. Deceased was hanging by a rope fastened to the handrail of the stairs, leading from the stable to the loft above. He obtained a knife, and while Buckley lifted the body he cut the rope and sent for a doctor. In his opinion deceased had fastened the rope and then swung off one of the stairs, his while weight being on the rope and his feet about two inches from one of the steps, There was no signs of a struggle, and with the exception of his cap, which was on the floor near the body, deceased was clothed as he was when witness left him. There was plenty of rope in the loft as all the packing boxes were sent there. Witness had carefully looked over the loft and at home for any note or message left by deceased to throw any light on the matter, but had found none. He did not think deceased had contemplated doing himself any injury for long. - William Emmett, the boy who was told by the last witness to call his brother, and Horace George Buckley, 6 Windsor Terrace, who went in with JOSEPH VALLEY, also gave evidence. - Dr F. T. Thistle said when he arrived at the stable, deceased was lying on his back. The body was getting cold, and death had probably ensued more than an hour previously. Death was due to strangulation. Influenza often produced melancholia, which was an affliction of the brain, that frequently led to suicide. - The Coroner said from the letter found on the deceased from the person he was keeping company with, it appeared that she was not very comfortable in her situation, but whether that had any effect on his mind, he could not say. He thought there could be little doubt that deceased did kill himself, and although it did not follow that if a man committed suicide, he was insane, if there was in their opinion evidence of insanity they were to state so. - Mr Hayman, a Juryman, could not see how they could say that deceased was insane on the evidence. - Mr Blatchford agreed. - The Coroner said it was for them to decide whether he was responsible for his actions when he committed the deed. - Dr Thistle reminded the Jury that he had said that melancholia was a disease of the mind, and therefore one of the forms of insanity. - Mr Blatchford said if a man did his work well, and was perfectly rational up to within a short time before his death, he could not see how he could be said to be insane at his death. He thought it a wilful act. There might have been depression. - The Coroner: Depression is nothing, if the mind of deceased is not affected. - Mr Shopland said in nine cases out of ten suicide was the outcome of insanity. - The Coroner suggested that the Jury should retire, which they did for some time. On returning, the Foreman reported that twelve of their number had agreed that deceased hanged himself whilst Temporarily Insane. The thirteenth had not voted.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 May 1902
TIVERTON - Sad Fatality At Tiverton. A Daughter's Mistake. - MR ROBERT DAVY, an elderly gentleman, residing at Tiverton, died on Tuesday from poisoning. His daughter, it is stated, made him some porridge, and afterwards found she had cooked oatmeal mixed with arsenic, used for poisoning beetles. Emetics were promptly administered, but death shortly ensued. It appears that the mixture was made up two years ago, and was kept in a tin in a cupboard. In the latter was also a quantity of pure oatmeal, and the mistake made by MISS DAVEY is stated to have occurred through the packet having been misplaced. The deceased remarked that the porridge was not to his liking, and another daughter asked whence the oatmeal had been taken, and on being informed exclaimed "Oh you have poisoned father". A doctor was immediately called but MR DAVEY, who was nearly seventy, died the same afternoon. The daughters, who were much attached to their father are naturally much distressed. It is stated that they proposed to have had some porridge with their father, but altered their minds, although both daughters actually tasted the porridge, and detecting a bitterness remarked that probably not enough sugar had been added. The Inquest was held on Wednesday and a verdict of "Death by Misadventure" returned.

TORQUAY - The Drowning Fatalities In Torquay. Inquests. - At the Upton Parish Room on Friday afternoon, Mr Coroner S. Hacker held an Inquiry into the circumstances connected with the death of EMMA BABBAGE, 33, daughter of MR T. H. BABBAGE, saddler whose body was found by a fisherman off the Princess Pier on Thursday morning. Mr Chas. Hill was elected Foreman of the Jury. - WILLIAM HENRY PALMER BABBAGE, 4 Haredown Terrace, Babbacombe, by trade a saddler, identified deceased as his sister, a single woman, living with her father at 4 Lisburn Square, Babbacombe Road. He last saw her alive at her home at 7.30 on Wednesday evening. She was in the sitting room writing letters. He left her there when he went to his home. On going to the shop in Lisburn Square at 8.30 the following morning his mother told him that his sister had not been home all night, and that his brother had been searching up to three o'clock that morning, but had been unable to find her. he went back to the shop and was going to search himself when his apprentice told him that the body of a young woman had been found in the water, and witness at once inquired where the mortuary was and on going there identified his sister. On Wednesday evening she seemed very pleasant and did not seem in any trouble whatever. She had not had any illness, was of a very lively disposition, and was never in low spirits. By trade she was a milliner, but had not lately followed that occupation, but had helped her father with the books. He could form no opinion how her death occurred. He could not understand it and could suggest no explanation. She had no love or other troubles that he knew of. - In answer to the Coroner, witness stated that he believed that the deceased was writing letters to her cousin, a Mrs Lethbridge, of Kingsbridge, who had asked her to come and stay with her. Deceased had said that she was going to write and say that she would postpone her visit until her father, who was in ill health, was able to accompany her. - Mrs Mary Ann Griffin, 5 Lisburn Crescent, said on Wednesday evening, about twenty minutes past eight, deceased and her sister came along past her house, and both stopped. Deceased put a packet into her hand and asked her if it would go for a penny as it contained only two photographs. They stopped chatting for about ten minutes, and then deceased left to go to the post, and she said she was going to the town afterwards. her sister spent the evening with witness. She did not hear anything more until midday the next day, when she was very surprised to hear what had occurred. Deceased was most bright and cheerful and few had a more happy home. She had always thought her one of the most happy of girls, and witness could suggest no reason for her doing harm to herself. - John Dart, 15 Park Street, Torquay, said he was going out to his moored nets close to the Princess Pier, on Thursday morning, about four o'clock, and saw the deceased floating on her back about ten yards off the Pier. He obtained help and drew the body to the Haldon Pier. - The Foreman asked why witness did not take the body in tow at once, instead of waiting for assistance. The body might have disappeared. - Witness said if he had thought there had been any life in the body he would have pulled it in. - In answer to further questions witness said it was quite possible for the woman to have entered the water at Tor Abbey Sands and have drifted into the Princess Pier. - EDITH BABBAGE, sister of the deceased, said her sister was always happy, and was very cheerful on Wednesday evening. She asked witness to go out with her which she did. She produced a letter written by a Mrs Lethbridge in answer to one of deceased's. Witness went to bed early that night, leaving the gas burning for deceased, and knew nothing of her being missing until midday the next day. Deceased was not delicate, but was very subject to fainting fits. She had had one on the previous Saturday. Deceased was not in the habit of going on the pier. - Asked if she could explain the occurrence in any way, witness said she was sure it was done accidentally. Deceased was not likely to have been boating. She had looked everywhere for any letter. Deceased had on no occasion threatened to do harm to herself. - Maude Beer, Happaway Road, said she was passing Livermead on Wednesday evening about ten o'clock. She heard a gurgling noise coming from the water and saw something which she and two young men took to be a dog. The object was splashing about, and was quite 100 yards away. They went on to the slipway and being convinced it was a big dog, they left the spot. - The Foreman: That is a funny thing, that you all went away. - The Coroner: It might have been a dog. this is not reliable evidence. - Mrs Millman, Abbey Place, said she received a letter from deceased at about seven o'clock on Wednesday evening, stating that she would come down on Friday or Saturday, as she could not possibly come before. She had been expecting her to call that evening. - Dr Long, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said at the post mortem examination he found no external marks of violence. Internally there were the general signs of asphyxia, possibly caused by drowning. The organs were normal, but deceased was enceinte. - P.C. Boaden proved taking the body to the mortuary. Deceased was fully dressed, even her hat and gloves being on. There was no jewellery except a small brooch on deceased, who had only a penny in her small watch pocket. - In answer to further questions, MISS E. BABBAGE said although she did not notice her sister wearing a bracelet that evening she usually wore a valuable gold one which could not have slipped off. She always wore a small gold ring on her finger. She had searched everywhere at home and could not find either the bracelet or the ring, although deceased's watch and chain, which she did not often wear, were in her jewel box. - The constable, continuing, said the gloves were still on, although the ring had not been seen. - The Coroner, in summing up, said if there had been robbery, the clothes would have been torn, etc. The theory of accident was untenable, as although a person might walk into the water from the quays if it were dark, the lights there prevented such an occurrence. If everyone had said all they knew, and they must accept it as sworn evidence, there was no certain explanation. Her condition was not evidence on the point, and it had been repeatedly stated that deceased was quite bright and cheerful. An open verdict was to be deprecated, because it left the matter unsettled and was unsatisfactory for this reason, but if they had no evidence they could not come to a conclusion, and they must not jump at conclusions. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

TORQUAY - Following this Inquest was one on the body of THOMAS CHESTERFIELD, 51, carpenter, of 3 Melville House, who was found in the sea near Daddy Hole about midday on Thursday. - William George Billinghurst, 3 Melville House, Coburg Place, chief petty officer, R.N., gave evidence of identification. He last saw deceased on Sunday evening. - FREDERICK WILLIAM CHESTERFIELD, 3 Melville House, carpenter, son of the deceased, said on Wednesday evening when he came home from work at 5.30 he found that his father had not been home to dinner. At about 8 o'clock witness gave notice to the police, and later searched all along the coast and near Dean Prior where deceased had been at work. At one o'clock on the following afternoon he found his father in the crevice in the rocks known as Thunder Hole, an old disused quarry. He was floating with his head and hands out of the water. Witness ran to get a boat, while his brother caught hold of deceased's coat and kept him floating until the boat arrived. Deceased was dressed in his working clothes, but his hat was found half way up the steep cliff just above where deceased was lying. His trousers were torn, and from this and the sever wounds on the back of his head and his forehead, he thought he had fallen from the cliff above. His father often went across the path above where his body was found to go to work. - HARRIET CHESTERFIELD, widow of deceased, said her husband came home at half-past twelve and wanted dinner. It wasn't ready, and he said he was going to the bank to see a gentleman, and would be back again in twenty minutes. He did not return, and she had not seen him since. She had since heard that he did not go there. She had seen it in a paper that deceased was annoyed because dinner wasn't ready, but that was false. He usually came home at one o'clock to dinner, and that day arrived half an hour before he was expected. She saw the letter which he received from the bank. There was nothing in it of any importance. She could only suggest that he became light headed and fell over the rocks. - James Clinnick, Lymington Terrace, Upton, gardener, said at about one o'clock on Wednesday, he was looking out over the sea from a pathway leading to Daddy Hole quarry, when deceased passed behind him. Witness said to him "Where are you working then, TOM?" CHESTERFIELD answered "Up top." Witness saw deceased jump over the railings further on and disappear. Deceased, when working in the neighbourhood, was often in that part for a walk and a chat in the dinner hour. Witness was rather surprised that deceased answered so shortly, as it was unusual for him. - A Juryman said there was a report some time ago that there was gold in the quarry, and it was very usual for working-men to stroll around the place in the dinner time. - Clinnick, continuing, said a person could not have fallen to the spot where deceased was found from the top of the cliff, and he did not think the blows on the head were caused by a fall, but by the continual beating of the body against the rocks. - A Juryman: How would the legs of his trousers become torn? - I can't say. The place where the hat was found is not above high water in my opinion. - Billinghurst, recalled, said deceased could have fallen down to where he was found from the top of the rock. - Dr J. C. Long, House surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said the wounds on the scalp were inflicted after death. If he had fallen 20 feet he would have expected a fractured skull. Death was due to drowning. A gouty man of that age could possibly have had an attack of syncope. - P.C. Boaden said he found a rule and keys in deceased's pocket, but there was no letter. The widow, recalled, said the letter from the bank was asking for the payment of 26s. for the rent of his shop. - The Coroner said the circumstances of the case were rather obscure. The deceased came home to dinner before his usual time, and going out again said he would be home in twenty minutes, and that he was going to the bank. Instead of doing that he went in an opposite direction to Daddy Hole, climbed the fence and scrambled down the cliffs. It was very curious. There was nothing to support the theory that death was accidental as far as he could see, but there was not the slightest direct evidence of suicide, and the Jury would have a difficult case to decide. It was very unusual to have two cases, in Torquay at any rate, with so little evidence to show how death had occurred. - The Jury came to the unanimous decision that an Open Verdict was the only one possible. The Foreman said there was no reason for suicide, and the case was even more mysterious than the former one.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 May 1902
ST MARYCHURCH - Sudden Death At St. Marychurch. Inquest. - At the Victoria Park School, on Wednesday evening, the Deputy County Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock)_ held an Inquest on the body of ROSE WINNE, an elderly woman, lodging at No. 2, Grafton terrace, who was found dead in her bed on Tuesday evening. - Charles Dear, joiner, of 2 Grafton Terrace, stated that deceased had lodged with him for ten years. He did not know her correct age but she was between 50 and 60 years old. She had recently enjoyed good health as far as he knew. On Tuesday evening about 9.45 he was called by his wife to deceased's room, and found her lying in bed quite dead. - Edith Dear, wife of the last witness, said deceased did not get up on Tuesday She complained of having a sore throat. Witness took her some tea just before 7 o'clock, and deceased told her not to come up again until just before bed time. About 9.45 she went to the bedroom again, and found her lodger lying dead on the bed. - Dr W. H. Steele said he had made a post mortem examination and found that the deceased was suffering from fatty degeneration of the heart. He thought she must have been suddenly taken faint, and died before she could summon assistance. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - Suicide Of A Widow At Tor. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Wednesday evening, Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ELIZABETH PEARSE, 56, widow, of 5 East street, Tor, who was found hanging in her kitchen early the same morning, Mr F. W. Hore was elected Foreman of the Jury. - ELSIE PEARCE, daughter of deceased, gave evidence of identification, and stated that she last saw her mother alive at 5.45 a.m., when she took her a cup of tea, prior to going for a walk. On returning to the house about 7.50 she was horrified to discover her mother's body hanging from the kitchen door. She called in Mr George Fey to her assistance. Deceased had recently been depressed and had complained of pains in her head. The letter produced was in her mother's hand-writing. Her mother had also been greatly troubled by sleeplessness. - POLLIE PEARCE, also a daughter of deceased, said her mother had suffered in her head for years, but the pains had been more severe during the past two or three months. She last saw her mother alive about 7.15 when she looked into witness's bedroom and told her that she had better lie on a little longer. On witness's sister returning from her walk the body was found suspended from a rope attached to a hatpeg. - Mr George Fey, carpenter, Park View, Avenue Road, stated that he was called by the first witness and on entering the kitchen he saw a body hanging from behind the door. Without an instant's delay he cut the body down. A chair stood close to the door. Whilst standing upon this deceased must have placed her head in the loop - there was no running noose - and then pushed the chair away. - Dr Thistle said he had known deceased for several years, and had recently attended her for mental depression and pains in the head. He was called to East Street that evening, and arrived at the house a few minutes after the body was cut down. There was a defined mark in the neck and death was undoubtedly due to strangulation. - The Jury returned a verdict of Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane, and the Coroner thanked Mr Fey for his prompt action in the matter.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 June 1902
TEIGNMOUTH - Fatal Fire At Teignmouth. Mother And Daughter Suffocated. Gallant Rescue. - A fire broke out in the early hours of Tuesday morning in Northumberland Street, Teignmouth, by which two ladies - a mother and daughter - lost their lives, and a domestic servant had a narrow escape from a similar fate. Just before one o'clock P.C. Moore was near the London Hotel, in company with a lamplighter, when he heard shouts. He found the cries proceeded from Northumberland House, occupied by MRS LANGLEY (an old lady) and her daughter. The premises were on fire, and a servant girl was at an upper window shouting frantically for help. The Fire Brigade (Mr Drake, captain), soon turned out with the hose and fire-escape and they found that by that time the fire had got a firm hold of the lower part of the house. - The screaming servant at the third storey window was only prevented with great difficulty from leaping into the street. The escape was reared against the house, and Samuel Coombes (son of one of the fishermen), and a fireman named Stanthorpe, ascended to the window, where they succeeded in rescuing the girl. On reaching the ground she gave the startling information that there were still two people in the house - MRS and MISS LANGLEY - who occupied one bedroom on the floor below that of the girl. - Coombes and Stanthorpe pluckily ascended the escape, and at great risk to their own lives entered the room and brought the two ladies out. The house was then full of fire and smoke, and the two rescuers were nearly overcome. MRS LANGLEY groaned twice while being taken down the ladder, and on reaching the ground both ladies appeared to be quite dead. They were in their night dresses. Dr Heyward afterwards came and pronounced life to be extinct, and the bodies were removed to the mortuary to await an Inquest. The name of the girl was Annie Dore, and she entered the service of MRS LANGLEY from the Newton Union. - While the rescues were being effected from the window, P.C. Moore made a gallant attempt to ascend by the staircase, but was driven back by the fire and smoke and had to make good his escape into the street again. - The fire appears to have originated in the back part of the premises, which were almost totally destroyed. The two unfortunate ladies were discovered lying on the floor beside the bed, clad only in their nightdresses, the fumes having apparently rendered them incapable of dressing or of making any effort to escape. The room occupied by the servant girl was shut off from the staircase leading to the lower rooms, and to this fact she probably owes her life. The premises were largely composed of lath and plaster, and burnt rapidly. The whole of the under part was gutted, and the damage is considerable. Miss Bassett, of Gloucester road, Teignmouth, owns the property, which is said to be insured. - The occurrence caused a painful sensation in Teignmouth, where the deceased ladies were well known and highly respected. - An Inquest was held the same evening before Mr Kellock, and after hearing the evidence of several witnesses, the Jury found that the deceased ladies met their death by suffocation, and that the cause was Accidental, pointing to a defective oil stove lamp. The Jury, in consideration of the witness Dore being an orphan and of the plucky manner in which she acted at the fire, gave their fees, with a contribution from Dr Hayward and the witnesses. The money (£2) is to be placed to her credit in the Post Office Savings Bank.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 June 1902
TORQUAY - Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room, on Friday evening, Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of SAMUEL JOHN WHITE, 59, wood carver, 5 Mount Hermon Road, who died suddenly on the Wednesday evening. Deceased's daughter, MISS ELSIE WHITE, stated that her father, who had not been well on the Wednesday, was proceeding upstairs to bed at night, when he suddenly became ill, and when she went to his assistance, fell into her arms and died in a few minutes. Dr Wiggin deposed to holding a post mortem examination. He found deceased had not only a diseased heart but also a diseased liver. The disease of the heart was quite sufficient to have caused sudden death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 June 1902
APPLEDORE - Sudden Death Of COL. BINGHAM. - COL. BINGHAM, of Cliff Cottage, Appledore, whose wife, it will be remembered, was committed for trial last week upon a charge of stealing jewellery from a friend, whom she was visiting, died suddenly on Monday afternoon as he was entering his house. At an Inquest held on Wednesday the following evidence was given:- Mrs Mary Frances Alice Lowther, sister of the deceased, stated that her brother was formerly a lieut. colonel in the 3rd Dorset Militia, but had been retired for some years. He was 57 years of age last week and came to Appledore at the end of last October. She had never heard that he was subject to heart trouble, but last week he wrote her, stating that he felt very ill, but kept it from his wife. The Coroner: We know he has had a great deal of trouble lately. - Witness: No doubt that had some effect on him. - Thomas Cole, ferryman, stated that deceased came out of Instow Station on Monday after leaving the 2.30 train, and at the gate asked him to take three parcels he was carrying, as he was feeling very ill. Deceased leant over the gate for support a minute and then they proceeded towards the boat. Near the hotel deceased sat down for about a minute, but refused to let witness get brandy, stating that he had had some at Barnstaple, and would try to get home as quickly as possible. He again rested halfway down the sands. Deceased looked very ill and stated that he had a bad pain in his breast. - Witness rowed him to West Appledore, and accompanied him to his house. In covering the 50 yards deceased rested about a second on the lifeboat slip. Near the door of his residence deceased fell. His wife ran out, poured brandy into his mouth, and called him by name. Deceased, however, made no answer. Witness was sent for the doctor by MRS BINGHAM. - Dr W. A. Valentine said he had made a post-mortem examination and found disease of the great vessel leading from the heart and of the coronary arteries. Death was due to angina pectoris. The Coroner: I suppose any great anxiety to a man who suffered from a thing of that sort would --- Witness: Very likely kill him. - The Foreman of the Jury asked if the disease of the artery was sufficient to cause death without anything else. - Witness said it was quite sufficient. A Verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 July 1902
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Tor. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Friday morning Mr Coroner S. Hacker held an Inquest on the body of ROBERT TUCKER, aged 79, of 9 Bath Terrace, Tor, who was found dead in his chair on Wednesday evening. Mr W. Binham was elected Foreman of the Jury. - ALBERT TUCKER, carriage proprietor, Belgrave Crescent, son of the deceased, gave evidence of identification. His father, who had formerly been a gardener, lived with his daughter in Bath Terrace. He was a non-smoker and drank but little and never had a doctor. Witness saw deceased on Wednesday morning and the latter told him that he intended to cut some grass that afternoon, but witness advised him not to do so this hot weather. It appeared, however, that deceased did cut the grass and probably was overcome by the heat. - ELIZABETH TUCKER, daughter of deceased, and who kept house for him, said she left her father in the morning in his usual good health and on coming home at 8.30 found him sitting in his chair with his arms folded and legs crossed as if asleep. She spoke to him and then noticed that he was dead. - Dr F. T. thistle said at nine o'clock, when he was called in, deceased had been dead about an hour. At the post mortem examination all the organs were found to be healthy with the exception of the heart which was affected with senile degeneration. Death was due to syncope brought on by exertion. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 July 1902
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Ellacombe. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday afternoon, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of SAMUEL DAVIS, 58, traveller in the employ of Messrs. Shapley and Sons, grocers, of the Strand, who died suddenly at his residence No 5 Summerfield Terrace, Ellacombe, on Saturday. Mr J. A. Ward was elected Foreman of the Jury. - MRS ELLEN DAVIS, the widow, gave evidence of identification and stated that her husband had been suffering from suppressed gout and weak heart for the last year or two. On Friday last he received notice to leave from his employers and was greatly upset. He complained of the condition of his heart and could not eat. He remarked that he would never get over it. At 8.30 he went to bed still greatly distressed and at 10.15 she took him some water. Deceased was much excited when he came home, but he made no threat to do himself any harm. On Saturday morning at 6.15 she went to her husband's room and found that he was dead. He was lying quite naturally on the bed and his body was not very cold. The glass of water which she had taken to him was partially consumed and by it stood a small bottle of acetic acid which deceased used for warts and corns. - Mrs J. E. Shapley, widow, of 14 Hoxton Road, said she was called by the last witness about 7 a.m. on Saturday morning. She said she had trouble at home; her husband had died in the night. Witness found deceased lying on his left side in a perfectly natural position. She ran to the house of Dr Horton and finding that he was away telephoned for Dr Wiggin. Witness noticed the glass of water and a small bottle of acetic acid. Deceased held a handkerchief in his hand, but there was no smell of acetic acid on it, nor was there any smell of the acid coming from the body. - Dr Wiggin stated that he reached the deceased's house at 8.30. He was lying in bed in a very natural position and the bedding was quite undisturbed. Death must have taken place three or four hours previously. Witness saw the small bottle which would contain about three teaspoonfuls of acetic acid. It had about 20 drops. He had made a post mortem examination and found that deceased had not taken any of the acid or he would have burnt his lips, mouth and throat. Many of the organs showed evidence of disease, the heart was enlarged and showed signs of fatty degeneration. The disease was of long standing. There were signs of tuberculosis in the lungs, the kidneys were diseased and the liver congested. The cause of death was syncope due to heart disease. A mental trouble would very probably through the nervous system affect the action of the heart. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes." Deceased had been in the employ of Messrs. Shapley and Sons for 23 years, and he was at one time the popular Hon. Secretary of the Ellacombe Mutual Improvement Society.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 July 1902
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident On A Collier. A Hidden Defect. - At the Upton Parish Room on Wednesday evening Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of WILLIAM BLYDE, able seaman of H.M.S. Rainbow, who died at the Torbay Hospital on Tuesday morning from injuries received through a fall from the rigging of a collier from which the Rainbow was coaling on the previous evening. Mr R. Hodge was Foreman of the Jury. GEORGE BLYDE, P.O., of H.M.S. Impregnable, gave evidence of identification. Deceased was his brother and was 28 years of age. His home was at Liverpool, where his father lived. His mother was dead. - Lieut Brien Money, of H.M.S. Rainbow, said he witnessed the occurrence which caused BLYDE'S death. He was in charge of No. 3 hold of the collier from which the Rainbow was coaling. After coaling they were unrigging the derrick of the collier preparatory to the latter leaving the side of the Rainbow. Witness was on the deck of the collier. BLYDE and another man were sent aloft to unshackle the chain topping lift of the derrick in order to lower the derrick down on deck, to unrig it and also to unshackle the iron leading block. To enable them to unshackle the chain topping lift there was a light purchase. Receiving some information about the winches witness moved away to give an order. He had not returned to his former position more than a second or so when he heard a shout and BLYDE fell from the rigging of the collier to the deck almost at witness's feet. He had only heard from evidence given at the inquiry on board what caused the accident. The upper part of the purchase was hooked to a lug secured horizontally to the iron mast of the collier, by five-eighth rivets at each end. The lug carried away, and the block fell on deceased's head, and knocked him clean off the mast. BLYDE fell about 35 feet. The lug should stand the strain of tons, but there were only four men pulling upon it. The lug was produced and several Jurymen remarked that it was very defective. - Witness, continuing, said he thought deceased's head must have struck the port drum of the winch. The Medical officer of the Prince George was sent for, and subsequently BLYDE was removed to the Torbay Hospital. The collier was in the employ of the Admiralty. She had her own crew, but the coaling was done by the naval seamen. He imagined the colliers were surveyed, but he knew nothing about the contracts. As far as he knew the owners of the colliers were responsible for the condition of their ships. - Dr A. Lyons, house surgeon at the hospital, said deceased was admitted on Monday evening about 8 p.m. He was quite unconscious and had compound fractures of the right side and base of the skull and the right arm. He was operated upon without success and death ensued on the following morning from fracture of the base of the skull. - Charles Marks, able seaman, said he was aloft on the collier with BLYDE. Witness was in the port and deceased in the starboard rigging. They went up to unshackle the chain topping lift. When the weight of the derrick was taken upon the purchase, the lug carried away and the block fell upon BLYDE'S head. - The Coroner: The two rivets in the lug are small and they look rotten. - A Juryman: They are only wrought iron, and they should be steel. - Witness, continuing, said the four men below had stopped hauling. The block was only just above deceased's head, but its fall was sufficient to knock him clean off the rigging. He fell about 35 feet on to the port side of the deck. - Lieutenant A. Powlett said the block would only weight about 15lbs. The force of the blow would be considerable owing to the sudden release of the chain from the derrick, which weighed about half a ton. - John Henry Dalrymple, chief engineer of H.M.S. Rainbow, said he did not know who was responsible for the colliers. He had examined the condition of the defective lug and was of opinion that one rivet had corroded right through. The rivets were of wrought iron; now it was more usual to make them of mild steel, which was much stronger. In its condition the lug was perfectly unsafe and would stand no strain at all. The second rivet was bad, it was made of defective material. If the rivets had been perfect and made of wrought iron, they would stand eight tons. It would not be usual, however, to place a strain of more than two tons upon them. The rivets of such a lug should have been an inch in diameter. Looking at the lug on the mast, it would be assumed that it would hold tons, and that the rivets would be in proportion to its size. Anyone inspecting the collier, would think that the lug would bear a very heavy weight. It would take a very long time to test all the rivets. It would be difficult to say what the age of the lug was. Ships built by contract were often scamped. - Captain T. J. Greet, said the colliers were chartered by the Admiralty, and they were examined simply as to their suitability as coaling ships. This was his idea, although he could not swear to it. The crews of the warships ran all the risk of defective gear, for they did the coaling. If colliers were badly reported on by the ships they would not be taken again. No one could say the lug was bad unless he tapped it with a hammer. The collier was, he believed, called the Castleford of Cardiff. She was a big boat, carrying 2,500 tons. He did not know the owners. - The Coroner said one could not help thinking that this accident never ought to have happened. The rivets in the lug were not only small but worthless. He did not think the Jury could do anything, but he presumed the occurrence would bear its own punishment. A full report would go to the Admiralty and the owner of the collier would be put on the black list, or, at all events, it was not likely that he would be trusted again or his ship chartered. Capt. Greet said there had been an inquiry on board the Rainbow, a report of which would be forwarded to the Admiralty. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 August 1902
TORQUAY - Suicide Of A Domestic Servant. A Sad Story. - At the Upton Parish room on Friday, Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of FRANCES MARY ROBERTS, aged 17, a domestic servant, whose parents reside at Highweek, Newton Abbot. The girl's body was found floating in the bay on the previous day, and was at once connected with the Daddy Hole Plain mystery of the 20th of July, on which date several articles of female wearing apparel, a gold watch, a silver brooch and an umbrella were discovered on a seat situated beneath the cliffs near Meadfoot. The connection between the two proved to be correct, as the evidence at the Inquest showed. - Mr William Brown was elected Foreman of the Jury. - WILLIAM HENRY ROBERTS, clay cutter, of Highweek, Newton Abbot, identified the body as that of his daughter. The only means of identification was a broken front tooth. She had broken it while biting a crust, and he had the tooth at home. He also identified the clothing which had been found at Daddy Hole Plain as belonging to his daughter. She was 17 years of age and went into service at Gibbon's Hotel, Torwood Street, at the end of March. She was at home at Highweek during what was to be Coronation week in June, leaving to return to Torquay on June 28th. He last saw her alive on June 27th. They had had trouble with deceased before she left home for service. she would go for "a tripe" without leave. - The Coroner: When you corrected her did she ever threaten to end her life? - Witness: No. - The Coroner: Be careful. Have you never heard that she threatened to do away with herself? - No. - Deceased's Mother: She did once - when she was 12 years old. - The Coroner (to witness): didn't your wife tell you of that? - No. - ELIZABETH ROBERTS, mother, said when deceased was 12 years old, she took some of her grandfather's money and spent it, and when witness corrected her she threatened to drown herself. A month ago she (witness) received a note informing her that her daughter had left the service at the hotel on Monday July 7th. Witness visited Torquay on the following Thursday, and on going to the hotel the landlady told her that she had paid off deceased because she had men in the house. Deceased had taken her clothes in a box to the house of "the boots" at the hotel. On the same night witness saw her daughter at Hancock's place on Stentiford's Hill. She was in a swinging boat with a sailor. Witness asked her to go home with her but she replied "I am not coming tonight." Witness subsequently visited Torquay but could learn nothing of deceased's whereabouts. Hearing that some female clothing had been found at Torquay on the 20th July, she again came down from Newton on the 23rd and identified the garments as those of her daughter. - Thomas Lear, fisherman of Ellacombe, said that between 10 and 11 a.m. on the previous day he was fishing with another man when a yachtsman shouted to him that there was a body floating in the water. They rowed to the spot indicated, about 400 yards from the Haldon Pier, and recovered the body. - David Arthur, yachtsman, who first saw the body, stated that he told Lear where to find it. - Jessie Cooper, a young woman staying at Gill's lodging house, Pimlico, who stated that her home was at Brixham, said she had known deceased for three weeks. On Friday 18th she slept with her. On the previous Tuesday deceased went to Exeter with a friend, a mechanic, and did not return until Thursday. On the morning of Saturday the 19th, witness and deceased started to go to the Steam Laundry to seek work. On the way, witness left deceased, and although the latter had promised to call for her at four o'clock she did not do so, and witness did not see her again. - The Foreman: If you are out of a situation and your home is at Brixham, why don't you go there? - Witness: I am waiting to get another place. - The Coroner: You won't get a place quicker away from home. People don't take servants from common lodging houses. - A Juror: I should advise you to go home. Let deceased's fate be a warning to you. - Mr Heale, Fleet street, one of the Jury, offered to pay witness's fare to Brixham if she would return to her parents, and witness expressed her willingness to do so. - Dr A. Lyons, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he had made a post mortem examination of the body, which was in a decomposed condition. He was satisfied that death was due to drowning. - Mr F. Crickett, R.N., Chief Officer of Coastguards, said as the result of information he received from a gentleman, he found a woman's hat, dress, umbrella, and a pair of shoes on a seat beneath Daddy Hole Plain, about 12 yards from the road leading to Meadfoot. The sea could be reached from the spot in about two minutes. Finding the hat rather heavy he examined it and found a watch and chain and a silver brooch in the lining. The watch stopped at 3.5 a.m. on the Monday. - Mr F. J. Gibbs, landlord of Gibbons's Commercial Hotel, Torwood Street, said deceased was employed as domestic when he took over the hotel at the end of May. He dismissed her on July 7th for misconduct - staying out late at night. He wrote the same night to deceased's mother to say that she had left. - Beatrice Webber, of 4 Madrepore Court, said she first made deceased's acquaintance on the 15th July. On the following Friday she accompanied deceased and a private in the Devon Regiment, named Healey, to Newton. The soldier bought the watch for deceased. They returned at 5 o'clock and at 11 p.m. witness saw deceased again. She cried bitterly because Healey had returned to his regiment. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the case was a painful one, but it was evident that the girl who had been a trouble to her parents had been "going the racket" and had got into bad company. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

TORQUAY - Death Of A Naval Stoker. Inquest. - On Saturday at the Upton Parish Room, the County Coroner, Mr Sydney Hacker, held an Inquest on the body of JAMES COSTELLO, stoker on H.M.S. Majestic, who died at the Torbay Hospital the same morning. Deceased was admitted to the Institution on the 23rd July suffering from a dangerous wound on the head alleged to have been inflicted by a fall from a bicycle in Torwood Street. He remained in a partially conscious condition for some days and then developed pneumonia from which he died. - William Taylor, first-class stoker on the Majestic, at present an in-patient at the Hospital, stated that after leaving Torbay his ship went to Berehaven. He identified COSTELLO, who was in the Hospital at the time he (witness) was admitted. They were in the same ward together. Deceased told him that his parents lived in Scotland. COSTELLO'S kit was sent to the Hospital after his admission, but nothing had been seen of his service papers which were usually left with the Doctor. It was hardly likely that the Majestic would call at Torbay on her way to Spithead. The Majestic was under orders to proceed to the Mediterranean after the Naval Review. - Dr A. Lyons, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said on the evening of July 23rd deceased was brought to the hospital by some other seamen. Witness was informed that he had fallen from a bicycle. He was suffering from a wound in the head accompanied by concussion. Deceased told witness his name and added that he was 32 years of age, and that he came from Glasgow. COSTELLO developed pneumonia which caused his death. Witness concluded from an examination of deceased that he was addicted to heavy drinking. The coroner adjourned the Inquest until the 19th inst., in order that further evidence might be obtained.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 August 1902
TORQUAY - A Fatal Bicycle Accident. Adjourned Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Tuesday afternoon the adjourned Inquest relative to the death of JAMES COSTELLO, stoker of H.M.S. Majestic, took place. Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, conducted the Inquiry, which it will be remembered was adjourned for the production of further evidence as to the bicycle accident, which took place at the time the fleet was lying in Torbay and led to COSTELLO'S death. - The evidence of William Taylor, first-class stoker of H.M.S. Majestic and Dr Lyons, House Surgeon at the Hospital, was read over. - Michael Driscoll, 1st class stoker on board the Majestic, said he knew deceased as a shipmate. On July 23rd he came ashore with him, and they went and hired bicycles. The visited Newton and returned to the Railway Hotel, Torquay about 6 o'clock. Subsequently finding no one in charge of the cycle shop, they went for a ride round the town. Deceased had only had three glasses of beer all the afternoon and he was sober when they started off for their spin. Coming down Babbacombe Road, near the Post Office, COSTELLO fell, but witness did not know of the occurrence until a passer by told him to pull up and assist his chum. Witness found deceased lying in the roadway, unconscious and bleeding from the head. He procured a cab and had him removed to the Torbay Hospital. Next day deceased had recovered consciousness and told witness that he lost control of the machine. - Martin Medwyn, cabman, said he was on the Post Office rank on July 23rd. He heard a rattle, and on turning, saw deceased lying in the roadway evidently hurt. Witness drove him to the Torbay Hospital. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

NEWTON ABBOT - Sudden Death At Newton Station. A Visitor To Torquay. - At the Newton Abbot Town Hall on Wednesday evening Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, Inquired into the circumstances attending the death of LAURA HOOK JAMES, a married woman, of Bristol, who died suddenly at Newton Abbot Railway Station on Tuesday afternoon, whilst travelling from Torquay to Bristol. - JOHN JAMES, 22 Birth Road, Southville, Bristol, master mariner, identified the body as that of his wife, who was aged forty-five. A fortnight ago she left home to go to St. Marychurch for the benefit of her health and stayed with some relations. He came down with her. His wife had suffered from her heart for years, but she had not had an attack for eighteen months. The last time he saw her was on Friday week, when he returned to Bristol, leaving her better than she had been for a long time. He expected to meet her on the station at Bristol at 3.30 on Tuesday afternoon, but she did not come. A porter told him a lady had been taken ill on Newton platform, so he came down and found that it was his wife when he saw her dead. - Charlotte Cleave, of 10 Park road, St Marychurch, wife of John Cleave, deposed that deceased was her cousin, and had been staying at her house. She seemed to be apparently improved in health, and witness saw her into the train at Torre Station a little after twelve o'clock. - Richard Thomas Keen, the guard in charge of the 11.55 train to Kingswear, stated that the front guard, named Michelmore, called his attention to deceased on the platform at Newton Station, where she was sitting on a trolley, apparently faint. She asked Michelmore for some brandy, which he went to fetch. Witness got some water. The 1.1 express came in, and a passenger gave her some brandy. She could sip but little. Witness asked her where she was going, and she told him Bristol. She was unable to say anything more, but fell back unconscious. A doctor was sent for, but she died almost immediately. He previously noticed that the woman appeared to be in pain by the way in which she held herself. Dr Hunt attributed death to heart disease. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes.

Fatal Wagonette Accident. - On Monday HARRIET GERRY, 30, wife of a chief stoker of the Royal Navy, and the six year old son of a naval stoker named WYATT, succumbed to injuries sustained through the overturning of a wagonette at Liscawnhill, a few miles from Torpoint, near Devonport, on Saturday night. Twelve people were seriously hurt in the accident. At the Inquest evidence was given showing that the accident was due to the breaking of the trace pin at the top of the hill, and that the wagonette, in which twelve persons were riding, overpowered the horse. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and recommended the periodical inspection of passenger-carrying vehicles, and a limitation of the number of passengers to be carried.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 August 1902
PAIGNTON - Sudden Death At Paignton. - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest at Paignton on Saturday on the body of WALTER EDWARD JENNINGS, brewer's waggoner, aged fifty-one. On Friday he told his wife he had swooned in the cart, but came round, and while describing the occurrence in the evening he fell dead. Dr Adams said death was due to heart disease, and a verdict was returned accordingly. Deceased's wife said JENNINGS had apparently enjoyed good health up to his death.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 September 1902
DARTMOUTH - Fatal Accident At Dartmouth. Sad Death Of A Torquay Man. - A very sad fatality took place near Dartmouth on Tuesday evening. Recently a well has been sunk in some fields near Townstal Churchyard, where some houses are to be erected. A man named HELLIER, foreman of carpenters, in the employ of Mr Goss, of Torquay, went up to examine the well, accompanied by a man named Hamblyn. At HELLIER'S own request, he was lowered down the well in the bucket attached to a winch by Hamlyn. He called out to Hamblyn to pull him up, which he accordingly commenced to do. After getting him part way up, the handle of the winch suddenly came off, and the bucket, with HELLIER in it, fell with a rush to the bottom of the well, in which were about 15 feet of water. Information was at once sent to the police, and P.S. Hockridge and P.C. Ford were soon on the spot. By the aid of a "creep" the body of the unfortunate man was eventually recovered, and conveyed to the mortuary. - Mr P. R. Hockin, Deputy Coroner, held the Inquest at Dartmouth yesterday. - William Hamlin, labourer, Kingswear, said on Tuesday evening he went with deceased to Townstal to examine a well. Deceased got into the bucket and was lowered down the well to the surface of the water, which was about 15 feet deep. There was a winch for lowering the bucket. Deceased said he was all right, and called to be pulled up. Witness hauled up a little way, when deceased cried "Halt." Just then the handle of the winch came off, and the bucket fell to the bottom of the well. The nut fastening the handle was not tight enough, but did not come off, only slackened. Before deceased went down he tightened the nut with his fingers. Witness tried to hook deceased with the hook which was at the end of the rope but the hook would not sink. After trying for some time, he went for assistance. - Mr H. C. Goss, builder, Torquay, said he had given no instructions to deceased to go down the well. His orders were that no one should descend the well without having two men at the winch. - P.S. Hockridge and P.C. Ford gave evidence as to recovering the body by aid of grappling irons. Dr A. K. Crossfield said death was due to drowning. There was a scalp wound, but that was only sufficient to stun deceased. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and recommended that a brake be fixed to the windlass, and exonerated Mr Goss and Hamlin from all blame. Deceased, who was 37 years of age was well known in Torquay, and was much respected by his employer and his fellow workmen.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 September 1902
TORQUAY - Sudden Death In Torquay. - An Inquest was held at the Upton Parish Room, Torquay, on Tuesday evening by the Deputy Coroner (Mr G. Kellock) relative to the death of MRS EMMA MARTYN, aged 55, of Woodleigh, Hatfield Road, Ellacombe, who was found dead at her home on Monday morning. The husband, WILLIAM SAUNDERS MARTYN, a carpenter, last saw her alive at 9.50 a.m. on Monday last when she appeared to be in her usual health. About 11.40 he returned home and found deceased in the front room with her hands folded across her breast. She looked as if she had laid down to rest and expired. Some weeks back she broke a blood vessel, and received medical attention. Dr Wiggin stated that as a result of a post mortem examination he ascertained that death was due to syncope arising from congestion of the liver. The Jury, of whom Mr George Drake was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 September 1902
TORQUAY - Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Saturday evening the Deputy County Coroner, Mr G. F. Kellock, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ANN CAROLINE PERRIAM, aged 76, a widow residing t 26 Queen Street, who died somewhat suddenly on the previous day. WILLIAM PERRIAM, deceased's son, gave evidence of identification and said his mother had not been in good health for the past twelve months. Dr Lyons, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said he had made a post mortem examination and found that death was due to the bursting of a diseased pulmonary artery, a rather uncommon occurrence. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 September 1902
TORQUAY - The Fatality In Paignton Road. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Friday, Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of GEORGE ALBERT CHURCHWARD, 22, of Mill Lane, Paignton, driver, in the employ of Starkey, Knight and Ford, brewers, who died from injuries received through the wheels of his dray passing over him on the previous evening. Mr W. Farley was Foreman of the Jury. - Mr John Lewis Rossiter, tailor, of Torquay, stated that he was cycling from Paignton on Thursday evening and as he passed down Breakneck Hill he saw one of Messrs. Starkey, Knight and Ford's waggons coming towards him. He passed the waggon, which deceased was driving, just opposite the entrance gates of Torbay Hall. The horses attached to the vehicle were trotting at a rate of from six to eight miles an hour. There was a slight decline in the road. He had ridden about forty yards past the waggon when he heard a crash like bottles falling. Witness turned in his saddle and saw deceased lying in the road on his stomach. He cycled back to the spot as quickly as he could, whilst another man who was passing left his horse and cart and went to deceased's assistance. Witness reached deceased first, and placed him in a sitting position. He appeared to be in a semi-conscious condition and to realise that someone was with him. He groaned but could not speak. A gardener at Torbay Hall fetched some water and gave to deceased. When witness first saw CHURCHWARD he was riding with his feet resting on the shafts of the waggon. The horses were certainly going faster than was usual. - In reply to Mr Preston (a Juryman), witness said it was quite natural that deceased should be driving a little beyond the normal speed in order to breast the hill in front of him. Witness cycled off for a doctor, but one happened to be passing and saw deceased in his (witness's) absence. He found a bottle in the road near deceased. - Mr A. W. Danie, a director of the Company employing deceased, said their drivers were not allowed to drive horses beyond a walk. The horses deceased had charge of were quiet animals. CHURCHWARD was late and should have been back to the brewery before. - Dr F. Frampton, of Paignton, said he was driving past the spot just after the accident occurred. He found deceased perfectly unconscious and too far gone to take the brandy he procured. Witness went to the Torbay Hospital, and when deceased was admitted he was perfectly dead. A post mortem examination showed that there were terrible internal injuries, which were probably caused by the wagon passing over deceased's abdomen. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and the Deputy Coroner and the Jury thanked Mr Rossiter and Dr Frampton for the kindly assistance they rendered. - Deceased, who was a member of the Artillery volunteers, was buried with full military honours on Monday. At the funeral there was an unusually large attendance. - The vicar (Rev. Dr. Ross) conducted the service in the parish church, where a procession was formed for the cemetery. It was headed by the band, playing the Dead March, a good muster of volunteers, commanded by Capt. Maddock, with Lieut. Aldous, Sergt. Instructor Pratley, and Sergt. Pidsley, and a firing party in charge of Sergt. Maj. Matthews. At the cemetery, where a great crowd had congregated, three volleys were fired over the grave. There was an exceedingly large number of wreaths and crosses sent. Messrs. Starkey, Knight and Ford, in whose employ the deceased was as carter, defrayed the whole of the funeral expenses. All the employees of the firm were present, including Mr T. H. Veale, the local manager, and Mr J. P. Jewell, traveller.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 24 October 1902
TORQUAY - The Fatal Accident In Market Street. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Saturday afternoon Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN HIGGINGS, carter, of Temperance Place, who died at the Torbay Hospital two days previously from injuries sustained though falling from a cart in Market Street on the 10th inst. - RICHARD HIGGINGS, labourer, of 18 Camden Road, Ellacombe, identified the body as that of his brother who was 47 years of age, and had been in the employ of Messrs. Webber and Stedham of Market Street. - John Harvey, 1 Victoria Road, Ellacombe, haulier, stated that on the 10th inst. he was standing near Messrs. Webber and Stedham's yard in Market Street, when he saw HIGGINGS, who was in charge of a horse attached to a two wheeled cart, drive out. As he turned into the street the horse began to trot. the driver, who had the reins in his hand, looked round, and at the same moment the horse suddenly bolted. HIGGINGS lost his seat and the reins escaped from his grasp. He got over the front of the cart on to the shafts as if endeavouring to reach the horses' head and appeared to slip and fall into the road. The near wheel passed over his stomach. Deceased however, got up and looked round to see what had become of the horse and cart. He was given some brandy and afterwards assisted into his employers' yard. - William J. Duckham, carpenter, 107 Ellacombe Church Road, stated that after the accident HIGGINS complained to him about pains in his arm, but did not think himself badly hurt. He explained that the horse bolted whilst he was endeavouring to disentangle the reins. As he could not get the reins straight he jumped out of the cart. Acting on instructions from Messrs. Webber and Stedham's manager, witness got a cab and took deceased to the hospital. The horse HIGGINS was driving was a quiet animal, and accustomed to the work. - William Henry Prideaux, manager for Messrs. Webber and Stedham gave similar evidence. - Dr A. Lyons, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said when HIGGINS was brought to the Institution, he did not appear to be seriously injured, but a more detailed examination revealed the fact, that he had sustained severe internal injury. He gradually got worse and died on Thursday night. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 31 October 1902
TAUNTON - Taunton Train Tragedy. - Shortly before the time fixed for holding the Inquest on the body of the man SMALL of Kingsteignton, who threw himself from a train near Taunton, the wife died, and the Inquiry was held upon both bodies. The evidence showed that the man was demented and that the wife in endeavouring to prevent the husband's rash act fell out of the carriage. A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" in the case of the man and "Misadventure as the Wife's Death" was returned. The funeral took place at Kingsteignton on Saturday afternoon. The mourners included MR and MRS CARNALL, the parents of the deceased woman, and MR J. SMALL, father of the husband. Brothers and sisters and other relatives also attended, the family being a large one. The coffin bore the names - JAMES SMALL, aged 38, and RHODA SMALL, aged 35 - as well as the dates of their deaths. Both were buried in one grave, Rev. P. Jackson, rural dean, officiating. The Church was crowded for the service and a large number of beautiful wreaths were placed on the coffins.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 November 1902
TORQUAY - Killed By A Falling Weight. Strange Fatality In Temperance Street. - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday afternoon, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of PHILIP DANIEL, 52, labourer, of Goodrington, Paignton, who died at the Torbay Hospital, on Sunday, as the result of injuries to his head, received from a falling weight, whilst unloading a waggon load of barley at the malt-house of the Plymouth and Torquay Brewery Co. in Temperance Street, on the 10th October. - Mr W. Allams was elected Foreman of the Jury. Me E. Hutchings, solicitor, watched the case on behalf of the Brewery Co. and Mr I Carter in the interests of the widow. Prior to taking the evidence, the Jury went to the malthouse, and viewed the hoist and the spot where the accident occurred. - GEORGE DANIEL, carriage proprietor of Curledge Street, Paignton, identified the body as that of his brother who was in the employ of Mr Jeffrey, farmer, of Goodrington. He was married and left a widow and two children. Witness saw deceased at the Hospital three times after the accident happened. On each occasion he was conscious, but he did not refer to the accident, except to say it was a terrible crush. He said he was comfortable in the Institution. For thirty years deceased had off and on been in the habit of taking barley to the Malt House in Temperance Street. Witness himself used to take barley there from the same farm. - Dr Alexander Lyons, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said DANIEL came to the Hospital about 11.15 a.m. on the 10th October. He had a scalp wound which had laid bare the bone. Deceased said he had received the injury through a 56lb. weight falling about 30 feet upon the top of his head. He was treated as an out-patient for four or five days as the wound was not regarded as serious, there being no concussion. Had the weight fallen direct it would have killed the man out right. Its fall must have been broken or it must have struck deceased sideways. At the end of four or five days he advised deceased to come into the hospital as he was far from well. The wound was not healing and on further examination a small crack was found in the skull under the wound. This had not been noticed at the first examination. On the 14th or 15th of October DANIEL became an in-patient and as his temperature was high it was thought necessary to conduct an operation. With one of the Honorary Surgeons witness conducted the operation and lifted the piece of bone which was found to be inflamed. There was no pressure on the brain. It gradually became worse. Blood poisoning and pneumonia set in and DANIEL died on Sunday. Deceased was seen by Dr Horton, Honorary Physician, and Mr Arnold, Honorary Surgeon, and he thought Mr Gardner, a Honorary Surgeon, also saw him. - By a Juror: It was impossible to say whether the discovery of the crack on the skull in the first instance would have prolonged the man's life. - The Coroner: It was overlooked, and if it had not been he would have been made an in-patient at once, I suppose? - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner: Would it be a matter of difficulty to see the crack? - Almost impossible; I don't think anyone would see it, it was so slight, but afterwards when the bone became quite bare and there was no bleeding it was possible to see it. I examined for a fracture in the first instance, but could find none. - The Coroner: There would be a great difference in the treatment of a scalp wound and a fracture of this kind? - Yes. - The Coroner: And your first diagnosis was wrong? - Yes. - Continuing his evidence, Dr Lyon said death was due to blood poisoning and pneumonia following a fractured skull. - In reply to Mr Carter, witness said death was certainly due to the blow on the head and the resulting condition. - Mr Hutchings asked if the crack had been discovered and deceased had been treated as an in-patient, whether the subsequent blood poisoning might not have been prevented? - That is impossible to say. - Mr Hutchings: Would not a man walking about with a fractured skull be more liable to contract blood poisoning than with perfect rest? - Walking about has nothing to do with it. There might have been less chance of blood poisoning setting in if he had been dealt with as an in-patient. - John Maddock, foreman on the farm of Mr Jeffrey of Goodrington, said deceased was in his master's employ, and he accompanied him to the malthouse with a load of barley on the 10th October Deceased drove a waggon, and he drove a cart. Witness had unloaded barley frequently there before with the same men and the same gear. On this occasion deceased pulled up two loads of barley from the second floor, before the load which he had driven was removed from the waggon. He then came down to unload his own waggon, and witness went up to take his place at the winch. As witness was pulling up the second sack, the weight fell and struck the man. He did not feel the running chain catch in anything, but it must have caught in a trap-door above, and released the 56lb. weight. Deceased was in a stooping position, but the blow, although a severe one, did not knock him down. It caused him to stagger a bit. DANIEL had a hat on, and the weight cut a hole clean through it. Witness inquired where the weight came from but was not told. The laps fell down as soon as a sack passed through. He asked deceased if he should get a cab, and take him to the Hospital. He replied that he felt sufficiently well to walk, and went to the Institution alone. - In reply to Mr Carter, witness said the hoist was directly over deceased as he was unloading the waggon. - In reply to a Juror, witness said the only thing they could get out of the employees of the brewery was that the weight was too close. - William James Cornish, waggoner, Goodrington, said he was in charge of one of the loads of barley. Witness had unloaded his own waggon, and was standing by, when he heard deceased say, "Oh, my head!" and saw blood issuing from a wound on DANIEL'S head. The barely was taken in at the second floor, and the hoist was above that. When he unloaded his barley the trap doors above were closed. Witness saw the 56lb. weight on the waggon which deceased was unloading. DANIEL did not fall and was able to ask witness whether the wound was a severe one. - Jacob Langwasser, 11 Somerville Terrace, Torquay, said he was a labourer in the employ of the Plymouth and Torquay Brewery Company. On the 10th he was instructed to fit up the pulley with ropes and chains to take in barley. He lowered the chains through the square hole in the trap doors, and then went down to the second floor. He saw no weight near the trap doors, but there was one on the weighing machine about four feet away. He had never seen a weight placed on the trap doors nor did he know what the object would be in placing one there. Witness saw DANIEL coming down from the hoist about ten minutes before the accident occurred. What object he had in going up there he (witness) did not know. After the accident Mr Maddock asked him where the 56lb. weight came from and he replied that he did not know. - Mr Carter: Do you suggest that deceased left his work to go upstairs? - I don't know. - The man in the waggon would know wouldn't he? - Yes, but it is no distance away. - What is to prevent these trap doors from continually opening and closing, when barley is being taken in on the second floor, unless a heavy weight is placed on them? - Nothing, but I would not work there if I knew there was a 56lb. weight over my head. I have never seen any weights there. - Have you not seen the trap doors opening and shutting when barley has been taken in? - Yes. - Has it not been the rule to put this weight right in the middle of these two doors? - Not to my knowledge. We were all working under them. - A Juror: Oh, no you were not, you were six feet away. - Mr Carter: Would not the chain, and the sack of barley at the end sway about if the trap doors were open? - Yes. - Are you sure no weight is put on these trap doors? - I have fixed up the hoist many times, and I have never seen any weight on the doors. - You know it is one of the weights belonging to the weighing machine; can you suggest how it came through that hole? - No I can't. - Is it not the case that if the weight was placed on the middle of the traps they are so constructed that if they opened it would fall through instead of falling back over into the loft? - I have been there seven weeks and I have never seen any weight. - Mr Maddock recalled, said the weight fell just as a sack of barley was landed on the second floor. - Robert Roberts said he was engaged in working back the barley, and saw nothing of the accident. He had been at the Brewery for six years and had never known a weight to be placed on the trap doors. They were allowed to sway about as they pleased when waggons were being unloaded. - Mr James Lee, manager of the brewing and malting department of the Plymouth and Torquay Brewery, and the season having been a very wet one the barley was taken in at the second floor instead of the top floor, in order that it might be placed on the kiln and dried. In unloading the trap doors were only opened when sacks were being hoisted from the back or front of a waggon. No steps had been taken to prevent the tap doors from opening, He had never seen any weights placed on the trap doors, as they only opened once or twice in the course of a load. He had never heard of a weight being placed on the doors, and if anyone did it, it was contrary to orders. If anyone had placed a weight there it must have been the maltster (Roberts) or the man sent to assist him (Langwasser). Over 3,000 sacks a year were taken in by this hoist. On the day in question witness was at Exeter. - Mr Skinner (a Juror): It is evident that this weight fell on this man's head; can you tell how it came there, because we are not getting on at all? - Witness: I cannot say. I have never seen a weight there. - The Coroner said a great deal of evidence had been taken, but it was still a mystery how the weight got into such a position as to fall on deceased's head. There was no question that the trap doors must frequently be opened when barley was being taken in, and there would be no disadvantage about that if there was nothing on them. There was no evidence as to who placed the weight there but there was evidence that deceased was seen to come down from the hoist. It was only a matter of conjecture, but it might be that the noise of these trap doors continually closing would frighten the horses attached to the waggons unloading outside. It would have been satisfactory to discover who placed the weight there in order that a warning might have been administered and accidents prevented in the future, but as they were unable to do that the only verdict for them to return was one of "Accidental Death." This the Jury did after a few minutes'' consideration.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 November 1902
SIDMOUTH - A Torquay Porter Found Drowned. A Sad Case. - About three weeks ago, WILLIAM EDWIN BELL, porter, of Lower Union Lane, disappeared from Torquay and on Saturday last his body, in an almost nude and very much decomposed state, was found on the beach at Sidmouth. At the Inquest on the body, on Monday, it was identified by deceased's brother, and the Coroner's Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned." - The circumstances surrounding BELL'S death are somewhat of a mystery. He was in the employ of Mr Hancock, furniture dealer, upholsterer, &c., of Torwood Street, and some time before his disappearance Mr Hancock discovered that pieces of carpet, linoleum, and other goods were disappearing from his stock. This leakage aroused his suspicions, but it was not until he discovered that wholesale robbery was being committed that he took any steps to discover who the guilty person was. He then placed the matter in the hands of the police, and from inquiries they made it was ascertained that a large amount of carpet, linoleum, etc., had been removed from the premises, and much of it sold to persons in good circumstances in the Borough. BELL, it was found, was the person from whom the goods had been purchased, but on Mr Hancock being informed, he took a very merciful view of the case and said he had no wish to prosecute. In the meantime, BELL had been given a week's notice to quit Mr Hancock's employ. On the Thursday before the Saturday on which his week's notice expired, a friend told him that Detective Northey had been making inquiries about him, and on the following morning BELL disappeared. The police were informed that he had been seen at an early hour walking in the direction of Hope's Nose, and from what has transpired it would appear that there is some truth in this story, the impression being that fearing arrest he visited a little frequented part of the district and either fell or threw himself into the water. The body was identified by deceased's brother-in-law by a wide belt he wore, and which was made for him by a brother, who is a harness maker. BELL leaves a widow and one child.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 November 1902
TORQUAY - Torquay Child Suffocated. Inquest. - On Friday afternoon at Ranmore, Lower Woodfield road, an Inquest was held by the County Coroner, Mr Sydney Hacker, on the body of ERNEST GEORGE HAYES, aged five weeks. Deceased was the son of JOHN F. HAYES, who, with his wife, act as caretakers of Ranmore. - JOHN FRED HAYES, general labourer and father of deceased, said on Wednesday the child appeared somewhat poorly, and as it was a cold night he thought it might be warmer in bed with its mother. Previously to this it had always slept in a cradle by the side of his wife's bed. On Thursday morning he got up at seven and after waking his wife, as was his custom, asked her to see how the child was. Deceased was lying on the opposite side of the bed and when examined was found to be dead. - EVA HAYES, mother of deceased, said on Wednesday morning the child vomited its milk and in the afternoon refused to take it at all. She then fed it with a spoon. It then took the food readily and did not vomit. Her husband advised her to take the child in bed with her, which she did. At 3 a.m. the child cried and she took it out by the fire and gave it some milk from a bottle. It seemed much better then. She replaced it in bed and after seeing it asleep went to sleep herself. When her husband woke her in the morning the child was lying on its back and the clothes partly covered its face. The teat from the feeding bottle had fallen from its mouth and it was to all appearances asleep. When she found it was dead she immediately sent for Dr Todd. - Dr Todd said he knew nothing of the child previously to this, but it was naturally a weakly infant from birth. When he examined it the fingers had just begun to stiffen and both hands were clenched giving the appearance of a convulsion before death. The clothes covered its face and its eyes had the appearance of having being unwell for some time. On making a post mortem examination he found all parts were healthy except the right lung which was probably congested from the effort to obtain air. He thought the child had died from suffocation. By one of the Jury: He thought the convulsion was due to suffocation. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death from Suffocation."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 December 1902
TORQUAY - Death Under An Operation. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Friday morning the County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of SARAH PHILLIPS, widow, aged 69 years, of 94 Belgrave Road, who died at the Torbay Hospital the previous day whilst undergoing an operation. Mr J. Jones was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner, in opening the Inquiry remarked that the case to be considered was one of those unfortunate cases of very rare occurrence of the death of a person whilst undergoing an operation. The law required that in such cases an Inquest should be held not only for the sake of the relatives and in the interest of the public, but also in the interest of the doctors, so that they might have an opportunity of showing that the usual precautions were taken and proper professional practice followed. - JANE PHILLIPS, daughter of deceased, gave evidence of identification. Her mother only complained of feeling ill on the previous Tuesday. Dr Thistle attended her and advised her to go into the Hospital and undergo an operation. She went into the Institution on the Wednesday and the operation took place on the following day. Deceased had never complained of any weakness of the heart. - Dr F. W. Thistle stated that he was called to deceased at 1 a.m. on Wednesday and found her suffering from internal obstruction. He sent for a nurse and gave directions as to her treatment. At a subsequent visit he found the symptoms more pronounced and believing that the only means of saving her life was by an operation he ordered her removal to the Torbay Hospital for that purpose. The operation was commenced at 1 p.m. on Thursday. Dr Arnold performed the operation and was assisted by Dr Lyons. Witness administered the anaesthetic in the early stages and Dr Mackenzie took the task from him. The matron (Miss Fortescue) and several nurses were also present. Deceased took the anaesthetic, a mixture of alcohol, ether and chloroform, remarkably well. She was previously examined and no heart weakness was found. Witness left the hospital whilst the operation was proceeding. He had made a post mortem examination and found the actual cause of death was suffocation. Deceased could not have lived more than 24 hours unless an operation had been performed. Dr H. V. Mackenzie and Dr Arnold also gave evidence. - The Coroner said statistics showed that a very small proportion of those who underwent operations died in the course of them. In that case as in a great many other cases the patient must have died unless an operation was performed. It was necessary to run small risks in order to save life. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Suffocation," but expressed their view that the operation was being legally and properly performed.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 December 1902
TORQUAY - Torquay Child Burnt To Death. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Friday, the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. F. Kellock, held an Inquiry touching the death of LESLIE FREDERICK GEORGE COOMBES, aged 9 months, the son of FREDERICK GEORGE COOMBES, cab proprietor of 23 Megla Terrace, Ellacombe, who died at the Torbay Hospital on Wednesday evening, from burns. Mr C. Hill was Foreman of the Jury. ESTHER COOMBES, mother of deceased, stated that on Wednesday night, she went out between 8.15 and 8.30 to get something for supper. She left the baby lying sound asleep in the cradle in the kitchen. The cradle stood at the end of the table four or five feet from the fireplace. there was a lamp on the table. She was absent about twenty-five minutes. When she returned she found the room full of smoke. The child was still in the cradle. Its clothes were smouldering and the head of the cradle was burnt. No-one had entered the room. When she went out she locked the door, but left the key in it. On seeing what had occurred, she tore the smouldering clothes from the child, took it up, and ran with it to the Torbay Hospital. When she entered the room she could see nothing of the lamp for smoke. She thought that the child must have pulled itself up in the cradle by catching hold of the tablecloth, which it could easily have reached, and in this way pulled the cloth off, and overturned the lamp which in falling exploded. The tablecloth was burnt and so were the contents of the cradle. The child was gasping for breath. People lived upstairs, but they were unable to hear what had occurred, as the doors were shut. The lamp was a white reading lamp. - FREDERICK GEORGE COOMBES, father of the deceased child, said he met his wife and went home with her. On entering the kitchen he found it in darkness and full of smoke. He first opened the window, and then took the baby from the cradle and handed it to his wife who went to the Hospital. He turned his attention to the fire. The clothes in the cradle were burning and two table clothes and a basket of clothes under the table were alight. He did not think the child was hurt when he handed it to his wife. Subsequently he found the remains of the lamp about five feet away from the cradle. It was smashed to atoms. The remains of the tablecloth were still on the table. From the appearance of the room, he was convinced there had been a flare up. His impression was that the child overturned the lamp by pulling at the tablecloth and that the lamp after igniting the tablecloth fell on the floor. It was just likely that pieces of the burning tablecloth fell in the cradle. - In reply to questions by the Coroner, MRS COOMBES stated that she filled the lamp with ordinary paraffin oil the same afternoon. The wick was rather short. - Dr Lyons, House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, stated that the child was brought to the Institution about 9.30 on Wednesday evening. It was suffering severely from shock due to burns on its abdomen, arms and legs, and died about twenty minutes after admission. It was a hopeless case from the first. Death was due to shock to the system. - The Deputy Coroner said the case was a very sad one. It was extremely dangerous to leave young children within reach of lamps or fire. It was for the Jury to say whether the mother had not done wrong in leaving the child under such circumstances. The Foreman (Mr Hill) said it certainly was dangerous to leave children, but some people were so situated that they were at times compelled to do so. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 December 1902
EXETER - At an Exeter Inquest on Monday, on HARRIETT MORTIMORE, 59, the Jury found that the deceased had died from starvation, and returned a verdict of Manslaughter against the husband, an accountant, who was arrested.

TORQUAY - Torquay Child's Death. Coroner's Advice To Parents. - At Upton Parish Room on Friday morning Mr Sydney Hacker, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ALBERT EDWARD COYDE, the infant son of JOHN COYDE, carter of Lime Grove Terrace, Belgrave Road. The child was found dead by its mother's side early on Thursday morning. Mr Tabor was elected Foreman of the Jury. - EDITH COYDE stated that the child in respect of which that Inquiry was being held, was her tenth, but she had lost five through teething. The Coroner remarked that that was a large proportion to lose. - Witness said they were five fine children. With regard t the child in question, nothing had been the matter with it with the exception of a cold from which it had suffered for a few days. It took its food at 11.30 on the night previous to its death, and she did not deem it necessary to call in medical advice. At midnight the child, which slept at her side, was sleeping peacefully, but at 7 o'clock, when she awoke, she was horrified to find it dead. All her children's lives were insured. - Dr A. E. Howse said he was called in after death, and he had made a post mortem examination. The child was well nourished, but the left lung showed signs of acute pneumonia. Death was caused by heart failure due to pneumonia, from which the child must have been suffering for at least two days. The mother might not have noticed that the child was seriously ill. - The mother was recalled, and, in answer to the Coroner, stated that she had given the child ipecacuanha wine for its cough. - The Coroner: you have had warnings by the deaths of others. - Witness: But they have died of bronchitis and teething. - The Coroner: I don't think you are careful enough over your children. - Witness: I've five healthy children now. - The father said the night before its death the child appeared to be lively He was aware it had a cold, but he did not consider it sufficiently ill to call in a doctor. - The Coroner said it appeared from the evidence that the parents were quite ignorant of the serious illness of their child. The mother evidently thought that she was entitled to praise for having reared five out of ten children, but it seemed to him that five deaths out of ten was a very large proportion to lose. Infant children wanted very careful attention, and he hoped MRS COYDE would in future give it to her offspring. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 2 January 1903
TORQUAY - Suicide Of A Torquay Visitor. Inquest. - At Gibbons' Hotel, Torwood Street, yesterday morning, Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ALBERT BOUSFIELD, 63, a gentleman of independent means, who was staying at No. 1, Park Place, and was found hanging in his bedroom on Wednesday evening. - WILLIAM BOUSFIELD, barrister of 20 Hyde Park Gate, London, gave evidence of identification, and said deceased was his cousin. He had no profession being possessed of means from his late father's estate. Deceased was a widower, his wife having died in October 1902, since when he had moved about from place to place. Witness was on a visit to Torquay for Christmas and met his cousin quite accidentally in the street. Witness subsequently visited him. He spoke of no great trouble, but said he had suffered from neuralgia in the head. He also referred to his deceased wife and remarked that recently he had had to change nurses. Deceased laid his future plans before witness and on parting thanked him almost profusely for visiting him. - Mrs Ann Cooper, lodging house keeper, 1 Park Place, said whilst she remained with deceased in the absence of the nurse he made no reference to any trouble beyond pains in his head. He frequently made reference to his wife's death. - Nurse Eliza Sims, of South Eaton Nursing Institution, Paignton, stated that she had been with deceased since the 26th December. He said he was suffering from gout, but he was able to get about the house. On Saturday morning he complained of faintness and giddiness and wished to see Dr Huxley. Deceased drove to Dr Huxley's house and the doctor subsequently called. On Sunday he was much better, and went for a walk in the morning. Witness always accompanied him on his drives and walks. On Monday deceased complained of a slight pain at the back of his head, but on Tuesday it appeared to have left him, and he saw a relative MR WILLIAM BOUSFIELD, with whom he said he had had a very pleasant chat. Deceased seemed depressed when he went for his usual drive. He said life was not worth living and he spoke of some trouble, but did not mention the nature of it. During the afternoon he was very restless and paced the room a good deal. Witness left him for a couple of hours in the evening, and the landlady kept him company. He went to bed at 9.30 and witness read to him until 10 o'clock. Witness, who slept in the room above, heard nothing of deceased during the night. On Wednesday morning about 8.15 she took him a cup of tea, but finding that the door was locked and that she could get no answer to her knocking she sent for Dr Huxley, who ordered her to have the door broken open. In the meantime she went for MR W. BOUSFIELD who was staying at the Torbay Hotel. All the time she was with deceased he seemed worried, but he never threatened to take his life. - Dr Huxley said he first saw MR BOUSFIELD about a year ago when he was staying in Torquay. About six weeks ago he met deceased in the street and he asked him (witness) to come and see him at The Birklands. He was suffering from gouty indigestion. Witness subsequently saw him again at No. 1 Park Place. On Saturday deceased came to him and said he was feeling giddy and faint. Witness prescribed for him for a bilious attack. He was a nervous and restless man, but witness did not think there was anything mentally wrong. On Wednesday morning witness was called to Park Place. After some delay deceased's bedroom door was broken open and witness found him hanging from the bedpost by a rope with his legs on the floor. The body was quite cold, and death must have ensued some hours before. Strangulation was the cause of death. - MR C. BOUSFIELD, of South Milton, said he received a telegram from deceased on Wednesday morning asking him to come and spend a day in Torquay. The telegram was handed in at 9.50 on the previous night. He replied saying it was not convenient, as he was going to Yorkshire, and an hour after he received a wire informing him of his cousin's death. Witness saw deceased about a fortnight before when he seemed to be ill and depressed. P.C. Fishwick said the rope used appeared to be one which had been taken from a travelling trunk. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

TORQUAY - Torquay Child's Death. Inquest. - On Tuesday afternoon at the Upton Parish Room, the County Coroner, Mr Sydney Hacker, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of HARRIET ELLEN RADMORE, infant daughter of JOHN and OLIVE RADMORE of Ellacombe church Road, Torquay. - Mr Lear was elected Foreman of the Jury. JOHN RADMORE, father of deceased, and a general labourer, said the child was about two months old. It was a healthy child. She was insured, but had not been vaccinated. When he went to bed the child was all right. He awoke at 3 a.m. and it was then sleeping. At 6 a.m. however, his wife awoke him and told him it was dead. He called his aunt (Mrs Pratt) who resided in the same house. Dr Thistle said he was called in after death at 6.30 a.m. and the child was then quite cold and rigid, and had apparently been dead about three hours. He made a post mortem examination on that afternoon, and found it was a very poorly nourished child, and weighed only 6 lbs. There were no signs of suffocation. He thought the child had probably had a fit, as the brain was a little congested. It was probably weakly from birth. OLIVE RADMORE, mother of deceased, said she suckled the deceased before retiring to rest, and also during the night. About 6 a.m. the other child commenced crying, she was in the act of getting out to attend to it, when she put her hand on deceased and found it cold. She then called her husband. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 January 1903
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At The Hospital. House Surgeon And Registrar. - At the Upton Parish Room on Tuesday, the Deputy Coroner, (Mr g. Kellock) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MR L. FOLLAND, 56, builder, of 5 Buckland Terrace, who died suddenly at the Torbay Hospital on Monday morning. - MABEL FOLLAND, deceased's daughter, gave evidence of identification, and stated that on January 16th her father met with an accident by which he broke one of his legs. He was bought home first and subsequently conveyed to the Hospital. Witness saw deceased in that Institution on Friday last, and that was the last time she saw him alive. Deceased told her that the steps gave away, and that caused the accident. Witness added that deceased had always enjoyed good health. - Sarah Parker, wife of Joseph Parker of 3 Alexandra Terrace, Tor, deposed that deceased was at work at her house on the date mentioned by the last witness, putting up a door. Deceased was on a pair of steps belonging to witness doing some nailing work, when the steps gave way, and deceased fell and broke his leg. The cause of the accident was through the breaking of the webbing. - Dr Alexander Lyons, House Surgeon of Torbay Hospital, said on January 18th deceased was admitted to that Institution suffering from a broken leg. Deceased was attended to and got on quite well until Monday morning, when one of the nurses asked witness to come and see him as he was in a fainting condition. Witness applied the usual remedy and brought him round, staying speaking to him for some little time afterwards. Deceased said he felt all right and then witness returned to bed again. He had not been there half an hour before he was again called to attend deceased for a similar thing. In spite of what was done deceased succumbed. Death in his opinion was due to heart failure and the broken leg he was suffering from had nothing whatever to do with his demise. Deceased might have had a little shock at the time of the accident, but he did not suffer from anything of the kind in the hospital. It was impossible to say what caused the heart failure, but, in his opinion, deceased must have had a diseased heart for some time past, and he might have died at any time. - MISS FOLLAND, recalled, said her father never complained of a weak heart, neither before or after the occurrence referred to. He told witness he was very comfortable in the hospital. - The Jury, of whom Mr C. Hill, was foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 February 1903
BOVEY TRACEY - Death of MR W. R. HOLE, J.P. - The death of MR WILLIAM ROBERT HOLE, J.P., of Parke, Bovey Tracey, the beautifully wooded grounds of whose residence adjoin Bovey Tracey station and attract the attention of railway travellers, is announced. Deceased was 71 years of age, and on December 11th a pony which he was riding fell and threw him. From the injuries then sustained he never fully recovered and pneumonia supervening he expired about midnight on Saturday. An Inquest was held on Monday, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 March 1903
TORQUAY - Torquay Woman Found Dead. A Late Juryman. - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday morning the Deputy Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MISS RUTH BAKER, 71, who kept a servants' registry office at Braddon's Hill West, and who was found dead on Saturday. - Mrs Johnston of Chelston, stated that she had been on friendly terms with deceased and last saw her alive on Thursday in last week. Mr Bond, art master of Brighton, identified the body as that of his aunt. - P.C. Parnell stated that the neighbours in the vicinity thinking it strange that the shop had not been opened and that they had not seen anything of MISS BAKER, informed him and on Saturday afternoon at 3.30 he entered the house by a back window and found deceased in the lavatory quite dead. Dr Horton said he had made a post mortem examination and attributed death to heart disease. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes." - Mr T. Prison, who was summoned on the Jury, did not arrive until some time after the proceedings had commenced. When asked by the Deputy Coroner for an explanation he replied that the Inquest had quite slipped his memory. - The Deputy Coroner: You want a little memory powder. It is in my power to fine you £10 but as I know you have served on several juries lately I will let you off with a caution, but don't forget the memory powder.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 April 1903
TORQUAY - Inquest. - At the Upton Vale Hotel on Saturday evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry relative to the death of MRS BAKER, of 15 Daison Cottages, who expired suddenly on the previous day. The medical evidence showed that death was due to heart disease, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 April 1903
TORQUAY - A Warning To Parents. - At the Upton Parish Room yesterday, the Deputy County Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock) held an Inquest on the body of FLORENCE MABEL SETTERS, the eight weeks old daughter of FREDERIC and FLORENCE SETTERS, of Rose Dale Cottages, Warren Road. The evidence of the mother was that she took the child to bed with her at eleven o'clock on Tuesday night and when she awoke at eight o'clock on Wednesday morning she found it by her side quite dead. In reply to the Coroner, MRS SETTERS said two children slept in the same bed with her husband and herself. Deceased was sleeping on the outside of the bed. FREDERIC SETTERS, who also gave evidence, said his wife always had the youngest child in bed with her. Dr Cook attributed death to suffocation. There was no doubt that the child had been overlaid, as there was a distinct flatness on one side of its head. The Deputy Coroner cautioned the parents as to the danger there was in allowing young children to sleep with them, and expressed the hope that not only they but other parents in the neighbourhood would take warning from what had occurred in that case. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Suffocation by Overlaying, which was Accidental."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 June 1903
TORQUAY - Torquay Woman's Death. Inquest. - On Thursday afternoon at the Upton Parish Room, Mr Sydney Hacker (County Coroner) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of FANNY WOOD, 72, widow of 14 Hoxton Road, Ellacombe, who was found dead in her room on Wednesday by Mr Basil Greenfield. Mr Robins was elected Foreman of the Jury. - Mr B. Greenfield, solicitor, identified the body, and said he had known deceased for about three months. He understood she was a widow and supported herself until he obtained for her a ticket for parish relief. She was a cook and occupied one room on the ground floor. He last saw her alive about a week ago. On Wednesday he went to see deceased, to give her a message, about 12 o'clock. He knocked at the door and receiving no answer he surmised that she was out. Scribbling the message on a piece of paper he opened the door to place it inside when he saw deceased lying face downwards on the floor. She had a poker and fire brush in her right hand. Having called the lodger in he left him in charge of the room and went in search of the police. - Mr Charles D. Edwards, relieving officer, Thurlow Park, said he knew the deceased as FRANCES WOOD. He had never seen her sign her name. He had known her for six years. Until the last time she came to him for relief she had always given her age as 64. On that occasion, however, she said she had a certificate to prove that she was 72. She had been in receipt of parish relief for eight or nine weeks. There was nothing the matter with her health that he knew of. - John Turncliffe, Hoxton Road, Ellacombe, said he lodged in the same house as deceased. He used to see her every day. He last saw her alive on Tuesday evening about 5.30. There was apparently nothing the matter with her then. On Wednesday, about 12 o'clock Mr Greenfield called him. He went down and found deceased lying on the floor, and being unable to rouse her, concluded she was dead. The fire was out and there was nothing disturbed. - Mr Thomas D. Cook, surgeon, said he was sent for by the police to view the body about 1 p.m. He saw deceased in her room. The body was cold and stiff. Deceased had apparently been dead fifteen or sixteen hours. There was a slight cut on her forehead just above the eye, which he attributed to the fall. He made a post mortem examination, and found the brain in a state of serious apoplexy. He considered death was due to apoplexy which was hastened by the fall. William Fowler said he knew deceased, who had lived in the same house with him for some time. Her husband had been a waiter in Torquay. Thomas Henry Ness, chemist, of Market Street, said he saw deceased on Monday evening. She was greatly distressed, and said her foot was much inflamed. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - Suicide Of A Torquay 'Bus Driver. The Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Tuesday morning, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JAMES FRASER, 60, 'bus driver of Hillside House, Babbacombe, who was found hanging in the stable at Grafton Mews on Sunday morning. Mr C. Hill was the Foreman of the Jury. - HANNAH FRASER, the widow, stated that she resided at Hillside House, Babbacombe. She identified the body as that of her husband, who was a 'bus driver in the employ of Mr John Grist. He drove the omnibus which plies between Torquay and Babbacombe. Deceased only slept at home on Sunday nights. The remainder of the week he slept at No. 1, Athenaeum Place, Braddon Street. His work was so far away from his home that he was compelled to do this. The 'bus passed Hillside House and she was able to send out her husband's meals. She last saw deceased on Saturday evening. He told her he was worried. He had met with an accident which had resulted in several small pieces being knocked off the 'bus. Deceased took the pieces from his pocket and they were so very small that she told him there was no occasion to worry, it was such a trifling matter. Her husband had suffered a good deal from gout, and during the past two or three weeks he had been quiet and dull. He had been in no monetary difficulties as he kept nearly all his wages. Witness kept the house going with her laundry business. Deceased had never hinted at doing away with himself. He was the father of eight children, all of whom were over sixteen years of age. On Sunday morning she received an intimation of what had happened from a gentleman who called at the house. - Frederick Mudge, 3 Braddon Street, said he was the conductor of the Babbacombe 'bus. On Saturday he was with FRASER on the 'bus when he had a mishap. One of Farrant's horses was standing across the road and deceased pulled in to get out of the way. The 'bus came into contact with the wall and was damaged. FRASER worried about it, and said he would try to get it repaired before he finished for the day; if he did not he would get the "sack," and witness would have a new master the following week. Deceased took the 'bus home to Grafton Mews at 7.30., and after cleaning up, went into Mrs Grist to pay in his money and receive his wages. When he came out he appeared very strange, and said to witness, "You are going to have the sack next week." There was a peculiar look in his eyes. After receiving his wages about 8.30 Witness left the stables. On Sunday morning at 8.30 witness went to the stable again, and found deceased had been there. his coat and waistcoat were on the peg, but no work had been done. Witness thinking that deceased had gone to another stable went to look for him. Failing to find him, he went into the yard, and looked up into the loft. He there saw part of deceased's face and the expression upon it led him to believe something was wrong. Witness started to go up the loft stairs, but feeling very nervous he returned and fetched a man named Aggett, who entered the loft and cut the body down. - George Aggett, cab driver, 1 Athenaeum Place, Braddon Street, said he was in the employ of Mr J. Grist. He had known deceased for many years. They had lodged together for six years. For over a month FRASER had been strange in his manner. Only recently he was stopped for a week on account of this. He talked to himself and complained of pains in the head. On Saturday about 9 p.m. he saw deceased who said he was very bad and intended to go home and go to bed. On Sunday morning witness was called by Mudge and on going into the loft he found FRASER in a sitting position suspended by the neck from a rope, which had been thrown over a beam. He was dead and cold. Witness summoned Dr Pollard and a police constable. - Richard Henry Washer, St. John's View, Warren Road, said at 7 o'clock on Sunday morning he heard deceased moving about in the stable and he shouted out "Good morning FRASER" and deceased replied "Good morning Washer. " He did not actually see deceased. - Mr John Grist, carriage proprietor, Grafton mews, said he saw nothing of deceased on Saturday. His wife paid the wages. FRASER mentioned the accident to the 'bus to her and she said "Don't worry about that the master won't be cross." About a month ago he noticed that deceased was strange in his manner and attributed it to drink. Witness therefore stopped him for a week. Deceased was not a heavy drinker, but occasionally he would take his "medicine" pretty freely. This was, however, of very rare occurrence. - The lad Mudge recalled said just prior to FRASER being suspended for a week he had been drinking heavily, but since then he had kept away from liquor fairly well. He had, however, some drink on Saturday morning just after the accident. - Dr R. Pollard said death was due to strangulation. P.C. Webb said the rope was twice around the neck. When he arrived the body was still warm. He tried artificial respiration but without success. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 July 1903
TORQUAY - Torquay Child's Sad Death. Fall Into A Lime Pit. - On Saturday afternoon at the Upton Parish Room, Mr Sydney Hacker, (County Coroner) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of SYDNEY EDWARD HORSWELL, aged 2 ½ years, who fell into a pit of boiling lime, on Thursday 9th inst. - GEORGE HORSWELL, 3 Park Hill Cottages, Vane Hill, father of the deceased, stated that on Thursday evening, he was fetched from his club, and told that his child had fallen into a pit of lime. When he arrived home friends had charge of the child, and had wrapped it in cotton wool. The child was taken to the Hospital, and died on Friday afternoon. - JESSIE HORSWELL, the mother, said the child left her house with its sister, aged 8, to play at 8.45. She thought they were going to the front of the house, where they usually played. A few minutes afterwards, she went out to look for them, and met the little girl running up the hill screaming. She said the little boy had fallen into a bath of water. Witness ran down and found deceased in Mrs Crocker's house. She was washing the lime from it. It was only burnt about the arms and legs, but where its clothes covered it, it was untouched. She wrapped it in a blanket, and removed it to her own house, from whence it was taken to the hospital. The child had been used to playing with Mrs Crocker's children. - MABEL HORSWELL, the eight year old sister of deceased, said her brother did not see where he was going when he fell into the lime-pit. She took him by the hand before the accident, and tried to get him home, but he broke loose and ran away. - William Crocker, builder of No. 1 Meadfoot Villas, said the lime-pit was on the site of a block of three houses he was building. The lime had not yet got cold, but it was very far from boiling. He was sitting at his kitchen window but he did not hear or see anyone near the pit until there was a splash and he saw something in the lime. He immediately rushed to the spot and took the child, which he at first thought to be one of his own, out of the pit, and removed it to the bath in his house where he proceeded to wash it. It was not until he had removed a considerable portion of the lime that he discovered the child to be MRS HORSWELL'S. - Dr P. H. Gardener said he saw the child between 12.30 and 1 o'clock on the previous day. It was then practically dying from collapse due to the shock and burns. - The Coroner said he could not attach any blame to Mr Crocker whose duty was not to keep children out, but he thought the parents should not have allowed the child to go out without some competent person to look after it. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 21 August 1903
ST. MARYCHURCH - Fatal Fall At St. Marychurch. The Inquest. - On Monday evening, at the Palk Arms Hotel, St. Marychurch, the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. F. Kellock, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ROSIE CROSS, 52, wife of a labourer residing at Coombe Cottage, Coombe Pafford, who died on Sunday from injuries sustained through falling over a flight of stairs on the previous day. - ALFRED CROSS, husband of the deceased, gave evidence of identification, and said the accident happened whilst he was away from home. He returned to his house at 9 a.m. on Saturday and found his wife sitting on the bedroom floor in an unconscious state. Mrs Wrackley, who lodged in the house, informed him what had occurred, and he immediately went for a doctor. His wife died early on Sunday morning. She never recovered consciousness and he was therefore unable to learn how the accident happened. - Lydia Wrackley stated that whilst she was in bed about 7 a.m. on Saturday she heard MRS CROSS leave her bedroom and descend two stairs. Then she appeared to fall. Witness got out of bed and went to the bottom of the stairs, where she found deceased in a sitting position. Blood was flowing from her mouth. She was, however, quite sensible, and said "I believe I have killed myself." With difficulty witness took MRS CROSS to her bedroom, and laid her on the bed and when her husband came home about 9 o'clock she told him what had occurred and he went for Dr Steele. MRS CROSS died between 3 and 4 o'clock on Sunday morning. - Dr Hugh Steele stated that when he arrived at Coombe cottage at 9.45 on Saturday morning, MRS CROSS was lying on the bed in an unconscious state. The only external sign of injury he saw was a small quantity of blood flowing from the mouth. From deceased's symptoms, however, he arrived at the conclusion that she had sustained a fracture of the base of the skull. She died early on Sunday morning. The husband, recalled, said his wife was in a sitting position on the bedroom floor when he arrived home on Saturday. He called Mrs Wrackley, who assisted him in getting her into bed. - Mrs Wrackley, in answer to questions from the Deputy Coroner, said after she had placed deceased on the bed she went downstairs with the object of making a cup of tea. She placed the kettle n the fire and went upstairs again to dress. Whilst dressing, MR CROSS came home. If he found his wife sitting on the floor she must have got out of bed herself. - Dr Steele said a person with a fractured skull would not of necessity become unconscious at once. It was quite possible that MRS CROSS got out of bed and suddenly became unconscious from the effect of the haemorrhage of the brain which had been in progress for some little time. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," several of the Jurors commenting upon the dangerous character of the staircase.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 August 1903
PAIGNTON - Fatal Fall Over Paignton Cliffs. - Mr Deputy Coroner Kellock held an Inquest at Paignton on Saturday on ELLEN IDA ALLEN, a single lady, 33 years of age, who was killed on Friday by a fall from the cliffs at Goodrington. - The REV. WILLOUGHBY C. ALLEN, a brother, who identified the body, said his sister lived at Cheltenham, but had resided in Paignton nearly twelve months for her health, being an invalid. - George Ferrier, a youth, said he was bathing at Goodrington when he saw something falling like a flash, apparently from the cliff above, and heard a splash in the water near the edge of the rocks, and making his way to the place, saw the body. He heard two groans, and held deceased's head out of the water, until others came rushing up and they lifted her out of the water on to the shore. - Miss Grey, of South Eden, a home for invalids, said deceased had been staying with her more as a boarder than patient, and at one o'clock on Friday left for a walk, apparently quite well. - Mr L. H. Bennett, surgeon, her medical attendant, proved seeing her about one on Friday, when she merely complained of a slight headache, and he advised her to take a walk on the front. He was not attending her for any medical complaint. Within two hours he was called by telephone to an accident at Goodrington, and was shocked to find it was MISS ALLEN. Her skull and right thigh were fractured and many of her ribs broken. P.S. Gerry said he made every inquiry, but could not find anyone who had seen her on the top of the cliff. P.C. Christopher said the rock from which she fell was off the public path, but the hedge was broken down and people would get through and often did. He found nothing on the cliff top and no signs of any struggle. It was 120 feet from there to where she fell, but it was probable she first fell on a rock, and glanced from that to the place where found, which was not perpendicular from the top, After five minutes' consultation in private, the Jury returned an Open Verdict.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 September 1903
TORQUAY - Two Sudden Deaths In Torquay. The Inquests. - At the Upton Parish room on Monday morning the County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, Inquired into the circumstances connected with two sudden deaths. - The first Inquest was on the body of HENRY FERRIS aged 70, a stonemason of 44 Ellacombe Church Road, who died suddenly on Saturday evening. - MRS ELIZABETH FERRIS, the widow, gave evidence of identification and stated that her husband had to give up work about four years ago on account of his health. He had suffered a bad rupture and had recently complained of pains in the chest and around the heart. These pains were particularly acute after walking. On Saturday deceased went for a drive with Mr Parsons, his landlord, and returned about six o'clock. He then went to the back premises and as he did not return to have his tea witness went into the yard to call him and receiving no answer she went into the lavatory and found her husband in a kneeling position quite dead. Her husband passed no remark about feeling ill, and only about five minutes elapsed between his return home and his death. - Dr Wiggin stated that he had made a post mortem examination and found a small cut over the left eyebrow and bruises on the nose and one ear, all caused no doubt by the fall. The heart was seriously diseased by fatty degeneration. Death was attributable to syncope, due to heart disease. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

The second Inquiry was into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM WIGLEY, 72, retired solicitor's clerk, of 6 Marcombe road, Chelston, who died suddenly on Sunday. MRS ANNIE WIGLEY, the widow, stated that her husband had been for many years in the employ of a Hereford firm of solicitors. In February last he came to Torquay for the benefit of his health. He had suffered from bronchial catarrh. The change greatly benefitted him. On Sunday he went to church and appeared to be in good health. In the evening he went for a walk and on returning complained of shortness of breath. He went to bed at about six o'clock and she went down to make a poultice. Whilst so engaged she heard a fall and on running upstairs she found her husband lying on the floor. She believed he was quite dead. Dr Winwood Smith said he was called in at 6.45, and found that death had recently occurred. A post mortem examination showed that death was due to valvular disease of the heart. There was also aneurism. Verdict - "Natural Causes."

NEWTON ABBOT - Sad Hunting Fatality At Newton. LIEUT. MACKAY HERIOT KILLED. - LIEUT, O. MACKAY HERIOT, of the Indian Staff Corps, son of Major General MACKAY HERIOT, was killed whilst hunting with the Haldon Harriers on Monday. His horse bolted with him near Little Haldon and Mr F. Hellier of Haccombe, Barton, subsequently found the young officer lying in the road with a terribly injured head. Dr Walker, of Chudleigh, was summoned but before his arrival the young lieutenant had expired. Deceased had been on sick leave for twelve months, but had recently greatly improved in health. On Saturday he officiated in a competition in which the Torquay and Newton Engineer Volunteers took part and was present later at a complimentary dinner to the teams. Deceased was only 23 years of age and had seen considerable service in South Africa. - At the Inquest on Tuesday the evidence showed that the cob which the young officer was riding was hard mouthed and given to "pulling" and that deceased appeared to become almost exhausted in trying to control it. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and expressed their great sympathy with Major General and Mrs MACKAY HERIOT and family. The young officer's mother and sister are well known in Torquay being frequent visitors to the Borough.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 September 1903
NEWTON ABBOT - Sudden Death Of A Torquinian At Newton. - A very painful sudden death of a resident of Torquay took place at Newton on Wednesday afternoon. MR BLACKLER, plumber etc., of Lymington Road, accompanied by his wife and daughter set out from their home early in the afternoon to drive to Ashburton. On reaching Highweek Road, Newton Abbot, MR BLACKLER complained of feeling ill. As his symptoms were serious the drive to Ashburton was abandoned. Before MR BLACKLER could be removed from the trap to the Seven Stars Hotel, however, he died. Deceased, who was about 49 years of age, was well known in Torquay. He was for many years in the employ of the late Mr T. Taylor, of Tor, and recently started business for himself. He had acted for a considerable period as one of the vergers at St. Luke's church. He leaves a widow and four grown up children. - At the Inquest held by Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, at the Newton Town Hall yesterday, the medical evidence showed that deceased was suffering from a weak heart and that death was due to syncope. Dr Nesbit said deceased had evidently eaten a hearty meal before starting for Ashburton and the fact that the food had not been properly masticated and remained in the stomach in a partially digested state had set up an irritation which was largely responsible for his death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 November 1903
TORQUAY - Torquay Child's Death. Warning To Young Mothers. Coroner's Strong Remarks. - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Upton Parish Room on Tuesday, into the circumstances attending the death of the infant child of EDWARD GREEN, decorator, of 4 Laurel Cottages, Upton. - MRS ELIZA GREEN, the mother, stated that the child was three weeks old. It was a female child, named EDNA MACNAMARA GREEN. It had not been insured, although she had taken steps to insure it, and the necessary papers would have been down in a fortnight. Her mother child, aged one year and nine months, was insured. The child was healthy at birth, and had thriven since. On Friday night the baby was quite well when she took it to bed with her. She held the child in her arms. Contrary to her usual practice, she did not give the baby food during the night; in fact, witness did not awake until 7.30 on Saturday morning, when she found the child quite dead. She was positive she had not overlain the child, as both witness and the baby were in exactly the same position in the morning as when they went to sleep the previous night. - Dr Winter said he attended MRS GREEN at the birth of the child. The baby was strong and healthy, and made satisfactory progress. He saw the dead body of the child on Saturday morning at 9 a.m. It had then been dead five or six hours. There was a general discoloration of the face and head, but no signs of convulsion. He had no doubt whatever that the child had died from suffocation; every sign pointed to it. He did not think the bed clothing would cause suffocation, but it was probably caused by the child turning and burying its head in its mother's body. - The Coroner: Do you find the practice still goes on of mothers taking their children to bed with them? - Dr Winter: Yes, the practice is fairly general. - Is it so general since so much has been said about it, and it has been pointed out that children should sleep in cradles beside their parent's bed? - I don't notice many more cradles now. - There are I suppose a certain number of intelligent people who do use cradles? - Yes, there are many who do. - Is it not the strong opinion of the medical profession that the only safe way of bringing up a child is to let it sleep in a cradle away from its parents? - Dr Winter: Yes, there is no doubt whatever about that. - There is certainly no safety in a child sleeping with its parents? - No, there is always a risk. - Especially when the two parents are in the bed? - Yes. - In summing up, the Coroner said that was one of the many cases of that sort which were constantly coming before him. The loss of fine, healthy children through suffocation was tremendous, taking the whole country through. The remedy was only a question of education and knowledge. if young parents knew the great risk that was run they would not do it, for according to statistics, the risks were tremendous. Of course, they knew that the old midwives said "Dear little thing it is much better in bed with its mother." That was the old style mid-wife's story. No doubt the children were comfortable in bed with their mothers, but the risk was alarming and there was no sentiment about it. Parents ought to have cradles for their children to sleep in by their bedsides. People did not want to lose their children and yet they ran these risks. - Mr Wyle (a Juror): Would you like to wake up in the night and have to rock the cradle? I have had some but I don't think you have been a father. - The Coroner said the danger had been repeatedly pointed out by the medical profession. There was nothing in that case to point to any particular carelessness on the part of the parents. They had simply done as others did. - Mr Wyle: And I should do it tomorrow. Doctors do not know everything; they are not infallible. - The Coroner: I am sorry to hear a Juryman make such remarks. Between 1,000 and 1,500 children are lost by this means in England every twelve months. That is a serious and appalling thing to contemplate, and shows the great risk there is. Any man with judgment and common sense would seriously consider that fact. It is a risk which ought to be carefully looked at, and he did not think it wise for any man to say he would do it tomorrow. - Mr Wylie: You don't think any man or woman would go to bed with the intention of turning over on their child? - The Coroner: You have missed the point entirely. It is not a question of intention at all. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 November 1903
TORQUAY - Fatal Slip From The Footpath. Tor Gentleman's Death. - At the Tor National School, on Tuesday evening, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ARTHUR R. PARKE JERVIS, aged 46, a gentleman of independent means, who resided at Rowley, Vansittart Road, Tor, who died on Sunday from the result of an accident which occurred in Vansittart Road, early on the morning of the 11th instant. - WILLIAM ROBERT PARKER JERVIS, a Staffordshire gentleman, identified the body as that of his younger brother, who was married, and left a widow and one child by a former marriage. - William Avery, painter, of 19 Parkfield Cottages, Upton, stated that on the morning of Wednesday, 11th, he was at the house of a Mr Pecking, in Church Street. Deceased was also there. They had gone to the house to have a drink and a little supper. Witness had previously seen deceased in the bar of the Avenue Hotel, Belgrave Road, on the Tuesday about three o'clock. He ordered drink and asked witness to have a glass with him. They played bagatelle for most of the evening, and left the hotel at 11 p.m. Mr Peckings and Mr Shobrook accompanied deceased and witness. MR JERVIS was quite sober. At the suggestion of deceased they went to Mr Pecking's house to supper. No member of the party was the worse for liquor. Deceased took a bottle of whiskey with him. After supper and drinks - at about 2 a.m. on the Wednesday morning - MR JERVIS said it was time to leave and asked witness and Shobrook to accompany him. Witness went with deceased, but Shobrook said he would come on behind. Vansittart Road was very dark and when some little distance from his house MR JERVIS slipped out over the kerb and fell. He was not unsteady on account of the drink he had taken. The bottle of whiskey had to be divided between four. - The Coroner: You had a fair go each. - Witness said that was not much. He attributed deceased's fall to the darkness. The lamps were all put out at midnight. The kerb was rather high. Deceased had complained to him of suffering from a weak ankle. On falling MR JERVIS said he thought ht head hurt himself. He could not rise, and witness went in search of Shobrook, who came to his assistance. Deceased said he thought he had broken his leg near the ankle, and on witness feeling he found that was so. A man named Sampson and P.C. Boaden came along, and the latter sent him to Tor Station for the ambulance. When he returned again he found that MR JERVIS had been raised up and taken to his home. Witness bound up deceased's leg before the constable arrived. - In reply to Inspector Dymond, witness said it was not true that when deceased fell he fell on him. - Sidney Shobrook, painter, No 1, Rosery Cottages, Chelston, gave similar evidence respecting the supper party at Pecking's house. Avery and deceased left together, the latter catching hold of the former's arm. They were both quite sober. Deceased suffered from a weakness in his right leg, and always liked someone to accompany him home. When partly home witness was stopped by Avery who told him that MR JERVIS had had a fall. Witness accompanied him to Vansittart Road, and saw deceased, who said he had had an accident and had broken his leg. Witness went for assistance. - P.C. Boaden stated that at 2.30 a.m. he heard a groaning and went in the direction of the sound where he found the deceased lying in the road with Avery standing by his side. Sampson had followed the witness and on finding that deceased's leg was broken, Avery was sent for the ambulance. In the meantime, with the assistance of Sampson, witness assisted MR JERVIS to his home. On the way he said he had slipped down. All the men had been drinking whiskey, but were able t take care of themselves. - Dr Arnold said he saw deceased at 4 a.m. on the 11th inst., and found that he was suffering from a compound fracture of the leg. Both bones had come through the skin. The injury might have been caused by a slip from the kerb. Blood poisoning supervened and the leg was amputated at the thigh on the advice of Dr P. Swain, of Plymouth, on Sunday afternoon. Deceased, however, sank and died from heart failure at 9.30 the same evening. - The Coroner commented upon the fact that Torquay did not have lights after midnight and those who went out after that hour had to run risks of falling. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 December 1903
TORQUAY - Sudden Death In The Road. - At the Upton Parish Room on Wednesday morning the Deputy County Coroner, Mr G. Kellock held an Inquest on the body of THOMAS GOODING, who died suddenly whilst at work as a turn-cock for the Corporation, late on Monday night. TOM GOODING, deceased's son, stated that he last saw his father alive at his home in Temperance Place, on Monday. He was then quite well, in fact he had never had a day's illness. - Walter Bishop, water inspector, said deceased was in his company on Monday at midnight making tests for leakages in the Old Torwood Road. Witness had occasion to examine a service about 40 yards from deceased and as the latter did not answer when he called him he went back and found GOODING lying in the road quite dead. Deceased had had no straining work; all he had to do was to look at his watch and check time. Witness went for Dr Gough. In reply to the Foreman of the Jury (Mr C. Hill) witness said deceased was warmly dressed and he did not complain of being unwell. Dr Gough said he found GOODING lying in the drive leading to Torwood Mount. He was quite dead. Witness had made a post mortem examination, and came to the conclusion that death was due to syncope. Deceased's heart was badly diseased. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 January 1904
TORQUAY - Fatality At Torre Railway Station. Riding On The Footboard. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Wednesday evening the Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN CROSSMAN HARRIS, marble mason, aged 22, who whilst on a Christmas visit to his parents in Laburnum Street, Torre, sustained fatal injuries by falling underneath the train which left Torre Station at 10.37 on Monday night. The G.W.R. Co., were represented by Chief Inspector Scantlebury, Plymouth; Inspector Tonkin, Newton Abbot; Inspector Flewellyn, Locomotive Department, Newton Abbot; and Mr Smale, Torre Station Master. - The first witness called was ROBERT HARRIS, carpenter, of 15 Laburnum Street, father of deceased, who stated that his son had been on a short visit to Torquay and was to have returned to London, where he had been at work, on Thursday morning. He stayed at Laburnum Street. On Monday evening he went to see some friends at St. Marychurch, returned home and had some tea and then went out. This was the last witness saw of him alive. Later in the evening, about 11 o'clock, an account was brought to him of his son's death. - Charles W. Shallott, a driver in the Army Service Corps, stated that deceased was a bit of a chum of his. He met him at Torre on Monday evening about 10.15 and deceased accompanied him to Torre Station to see his (witness's) brother and two friends off by the 10.37 up train. Just before the train started deceased shook hands with witness's brother and the other two young fellows who had entered their compartment. After that HARRIS walked up the platform whilst he (witness) stopped talking to his brother with whom he shook hands before the train started. As he left the carriage and the train steamed out he heard a young woman shout "My God, there is a man underneath the train." Witness looked down and saw a man's hat between the train and the platform. The train was then moving. Witness stooped down and caught hold of the body but someone pulled him back from behind and he had to loose his hold of the deceased. As he did so something caught the body and whirled it around like a top. He shouted and several other people shouted with the idea of stopping the train, but it went on. - Mr Shopland (a Juror): there is a report in the town to the effect that you have said that you could have saved the man if you had not been pulled back? - Witness replied that he believed he could have pulled the man up if no one had interfered with him. - The Coroner: You may have been pulled in yourself. - Witness: I may have, but I should have had a good try to pull him out. He felt that he could have lifted deceased up when the opening between two carriages came along. Deceased was terribly mangled about the legs and was quite dead when witness went to him after the train had passed. - Montey Cobley, draper, 30 Union Street, stated that he was at the station to see some friends off. After leaving them and when the train was on the move he saw the deceased standing on the footboard and moving with the train. He was catching hold of one of the big brass handles on the side of the compartment. On getting level with witness he endeavoured to step off the footboard. One arm went up and he wheeled round and disappeared in the opening between two carriages. He heard someone shout "There is a man on the line" and a number of women started screaming, but the train was not stopped. He only saw one porter on the platform. Four carriages passed after deceased had fallen. After the train had passed witness jumped down on the line and with assistance lifted the body on to the platform. The man was quite dead. The porter was further towards the engine and could not have seen the accident. The guard had entered the van as the train was well on the move. - In reply to Mr Shopland, witness stated that the train went straight out of the station after the accident, although the guard must have heard the screams of the women, some of whom were in hysterics. - The Coroner said everything appeared clear, but the fact that the train was not stopped. - Albert Wellington, the guard of the train, who resides at Newton Abbot, stated that the platform was crowded, there being about 160 people there. There were two extra eight-wheel carriages on. He went through the train, cleared the doors and closed them, and when the porter said all was right he blew his whistle and gave the signal to start. He entered his van and crossed to the opposite door to see the time by the station clock on the down platform as he had no watch with him. He entered the time in his pocket book. As the train was moving off he heard shouts on the platform, but as there were sailors in the train he took little notice of it. If the porter on the line had shouted to him to stop he could have applied the vacuum brake and pulled up the train in a comparatively short distance. At the signal box he looked out and considered everything right. Had he seen or mistrusted anything he would not have waited for an order, he would have stopped the train immediately. - Inspector Scantlebury said about this time of the year, when sailors were travelling they made a great noise in the train and on the platform. - Edward Thomas Bartlett, porter on duty on the night in question, said he saw nothing of the occurrence until after the train was gone. He heard no exceptional noise. He went up and down the platform three times and when the train started he was at the rear of it, but there were several people obstructing his view on the platform. After the train had gone out he heard of the accident. - Dr Thistle said deceased's both feet were nearly severed from the body, there was a large lacerated wound on the right thigh, the bone of which was fractured, and there were probably internal injuries. Death was due to shock and would be almost instantaneous. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," attaching no blame to the railway officials.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 January 1904
TORQUAY - A Consumptive's Suicide. A Distressing Story. - At St. Barnabas Home, Higher Lincombe Road, on Tuesday, the County Coroner (Mr Sidney Hacker) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM ROBERT THOMAS, aged 25, a patient at the Home, who was found with is throat cut on Saturday night. - Mrs Susan Ellen McGregor, 101 Canterbury road, Kilburn, stated that she was the wife of Daniel McGregor, gas and hot water fitter, and sister of deceased. Before entering the St. Barnabas Home, her brother was a blacksmith at the Torquay Gas Works. He had been suffering from consumption for about seven years, but he had only been an inmate of the home for a month. Witness last saw him alive on Saturday night at 8 o'clock. She travelled all night on Friday as she had received a message from the matron that her brother was very ill. She stayed with him the whole of Saturday. He then said he thought he was dying and bade her "Good-bye." When she left him at 8 o'clock the Nurse and Matron were in the ward in which there were other beds. She came to the Home again to see him on Sunday, although she did not expect he would be alive When she saw him she did not think he had the slightest idea of taking his life; he appeared to be perfectly happy and resigned, although he admitted that he had suffered intense pain. When witness arrived at the Home on Sunday about noon she was informed of her brother's death. - Nurse Tucker said deceased was an inmate of the Home for about two months. She had had charge of him at night during the past three weeks. Five other men and a boy occupied the same ward as THOMAS. For the week previous to his death, deceased had been much worse. At ten o'clock on Saturday night, she visited deceased, whose bed was screened, and found him apparently dying. The Matron (Miss Peacock) was sitting with him. At 11 o'clock the Matron left, and witness took her seat. Deceased then spoke to her, but subsequently dropped off to sleep again. About midnight the matron returned with tea for deceased. At 12.30 the matron left, and she stayed with THOMAS until 1.30 when she left to attend to another patient. On her return deceased woke up, and said his pain had been very bad, but he was very happy. She had to comfort him as best as she could, and fetched him a glass of lemonade. Later when deceased appeared to be sleeping she went to another room to make up the fire, but was called back to the ward by loud knocking. The noise was made by a patient named Birkenshaw, who said "Oh, Nurse go to THOMAS." She looked behind the screen and saw a quantity of blood on the bed. Thinking that her patient had been suffering from haemorrhage she called the Matron, who on lifting up the bedclothes found an open razor and case. She knew that most of the men patients had razors, and there was nothing unusual in his keeping it in the drawer of the washstand, which stood at the side of the bed. From the time she left THOMAS to the time he died could not have been more than four or five minutes. Deceased had never threatened to take his life or shown any suicidal tendency. - Dr W. W. Stabb said he was Medical Officer of St. Barnabas Home for Incurables, and deceased was admitted in October. On Saturday afternoon he was in a dying condition, and witness told his friends he could not live more than 24 hours. At 9 o'clock he saw the body. There was a wound on the right side of the throat five inches long, but none of the important arteries had been severed. The wound would not have been sufficient to cause death in a healthy man, but deceased was extremely weak, and death was attributable to the haemorrhage from the wound. He had never known a case in which a man so ill had committed suicide. - The Matron (Miss Catherine Peacock) said deceased had never shown the slightest suicidal tendency. Deceased notwithstanding that he was in a dying condition must have got out of bed to get the razor. - Arthur Ernest Lloyd, 95 Doncaster Road, Leicester, and a patient at the Home, said he heard deceased get out of bed and open the drawer of his locker. This was followed by a trickling noise. Witness called to another patient to see if THOMAS was all right and on being asked deceased replied "Yes." A minute or two after deceased was asked if he would like to see the nurse and he replied "I should think I would, I am dying." The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane." They attached no blame to the staff of the Institution.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 February 1904
DARTMOUTH - An Aged Widow's Death. Fell Over A Child. - At an Inquest at Dartmouth on Monday on a widow, named FRANCES SYMONS, aged eighty, the evidence showed that she was in the kitchen with a little child of 2 ½ years, when she was heard to fall, and was found groaning, with her right thigh fractured. From disconnected statements she made, it was assumed that in trying to save the child from falling in the fire, she fell heavily herself. A verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 March 1904
NEWTON ABBOT - Barton Man Killed At Newton Abbot. Inquest. - At the Newton Hospital on Friday the County Coroner (Mr Sidney Hacker) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM SEARLE, 73, general dealer, of Barton, St. Marychurch, who died at the Institution on the previous day from injuries received through being thrown out of his trap. Mr E. Windeatt (Totnes) watched the proceedings on behalf of Messrs. Hexter, Humpherson and Co., Ltd. - HENRY SEARLE, marble mason, of Barton, gave evidence of identification. - William Ford, 2 Osbourne Street, Newton Abbot, stated that he was driving a light locomotive belonging to Messrs. Hexter, Humpherson and Co., towards the Aller Sandpits on the Torquay road. Its weight was 3 tons 19 cwt. The truck formed part of the engine, and there were no other trucks attached. He left the works at 12.30 and was going to the Aller pits for sand. About 300 yards on the Newton side of the pits deceased passed witness's locomotive, but witness had not previously noticed him approaching. The locomotive was travelling at a pace not exceeding four miles an hour, which was about the usual pace. The next he saw of deceased was when he was abreast of witness. The trap was then half overturned, the wheel being upon the hedge. Deceased was driving in the same direction as witness, and endeavoured to pass on the proper side of the road. Deceased had 12 feet clear in which to pass. Witness's engine was within a couple of feet of the hedge, it being his custom to drive as much as possible on the left side of the road. When the wheel of the trap was on the bank the deceased was thrown out within eight or ten feet of the engine, the trap going on about 25ft. before finally overturning. Witness immediately reversed his engine, otherwise it would have gone over deceased. It did not reach within five or six feet of him. The engine did not emit smoke as it consumed coke. Steam escaped from it, but it would not be visible on a bright day. Once before the same day deceased passed witness near Penn Inn, and in doing it had to drive over a drain. Witness shouted "Mind what you are doing or you will turn over." The reins were a sort of cocoa-nut matting, traced. They were broken within a few inches of the bridle, but witness could not say whether that was done before the trap passed the engine or whether it broke when the vehicle turned over. The same stuff was used for tying the trap to another vehicle when it was conveyed home. Witness always looked back to see if anyone was approaching, but he did not do so on this occasion on account of the bend in the road. Several traps passed him on the same road, and he stopped for some of them. He saw them coming, and the drivers held up their hands as a signal for him to stop. He had been an engine driver ever since 1881, and had never previously had an accident. He had driven this particular engine for five or six months. - Mr Wareham: Do you consider that the pony ran away or that deceased had lost control over it because the rein was broken? - Witness: I consider that he had lost control through the rein breaking. - The Coroner: You could not have any reason for supposing that, as naturally the harness would be broken by the tap overturning. - Edmund Charles Woodford, Babbacombe, a butcher, who came on the scene just after the accident occurred, stated that the trap was about ten yards in front of the engine turned completely upside down. The pony was entangled in the harness. The deceased was lying directly across the road between the trap and the engine. If the latter had gone on it would have cleared the old man's head by about a foot. - Henry Searle Clay stated that he met deceased at Barton Cross and held the pony whilst he got into the trap. The harness was good, and the reins were of leather. Dr MacPhail stated that deceased died from concussion of the brain. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and attached no blame to the driver of the locomotive.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 March 1904
TORQUAY - Inquest. - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry on Monday, respecting the sudden death of JOHN BOND, 62, carter, of Laburnum cottages, tor. FREDERICK BOND, son, gave evidence of identification, and said his father had suffered from shortness of breath for some time, and frequently remained in bed two days a week. On Saturday about 6.30 a.m. his mother asked deceased if he would have some tea. He replied in the affirmative, but during the time she was downstairs preparing the tea, his father expired. Dr Edgelow had attended his father, but not during the past two months. Dr cook stated that he had made a post mortem examination, and attributed death to chronic asthma and enteritis. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes".

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 April 1904
TUNBRIDGE WELLS - Suicide Of A Torquay Lady. - A sensational and determined suicide occurred at Tunbridge Wells, on Sunday afternoon. MISS JESSIE BOTTERILL, a middle-aged lady, staying at 3, Madeira Park, instead of joining her friends at lunch, locked herself in her bedroom, partially undressed, climbed on to a cupboard and from thence to the casement window from which she flung herself into a brick-paved yard 35 feet below. Death was instantaneous, her skull being badly fractured. MISS BOTTERILL, who formerly lived in Torquay, had suffered from repeated attacks of influenza, and at the Inquest on Monday the Jury returned a verdict of Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 April 1904
CHELSTON - Sad Motor 'Bus Fatality. The Inquest. - The sincerest sympathy of the inhabitants of Torquay will be extended to MR J. and MRS YOUNG in the lamentable bereavement they have suffered during the past week by the death of their son, MASTER JAMES CLAUDE YOUNG, a bright lad, only eleven years of age, under such distressing and painful circumstances. A thorough English boy in every respect, MASTER YOUNG, whilst home from college for the Easter holiday, had made the acquaintance of the drivers and conductors of the motor 'busses which many times a day drew up close to his home at Normanhurst, and had manifested a keen interest in the novel mechanism of the conveyances. he was a favourite with the men and when the cars were at a standstill had been allowed to enter them. On the afternoon of the sad accident he had done this and it was whilst the 'bus was backing with a view to turning for its journey to Torquay that the fatality occurred which called forth the deepest sympathy of friends and acquaintances throughout the Borough. The facts of the sad occurrence are given in detail in the appended report of The Inquest, which was held at the Chelston Assembly Room last evening by the Deputy Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock). Mr E. Hutchings was present on behalf of the Motor Omnibus Company. - MR JAMES YOUNG, father of deceased, stated that he was in the garden at the rear of his house between 2 and 3 o'clock on the 19th inst., when his son came to him with a bucket for water for the motor 'bus. Shortly after someone came running up the drive to say the water was not wanted. The boy rushed off to the motor 'bus with which he was infatuated and shortly afterwards he was brought in, in a dying condition. He was placed on the couch in the dining room and lived for ten minutes or a quarter of an hour. His son had been on friendly terms with the conductor and the driver, to whom he attached no blame whatever. - Frederick E. C. Gardener said he was the driver of the motor 'bus. On the 2.10 trip to Chelston, he examined the water tank whilst the bus was standing outside Normanhurst, and directed the conductor to get water from MR YOUNG'S house. After the conductor had gone witness found that he could get water from a watercart, which was taking some from a hydrant. Deceased who was standing close by, asked if he should tell the conductor the water was not required, and witness replied that he might do so. After taking the water, he (witness) looked round to see that all was right and saw the boy standing at the rear of the 'bus with the conductor. He shouted to him to sit down and told the passengers to take their seats. Looking round shortly after he saw that the lad had moved and thought he had got off the 'bus. He called a second time and then reversed his engine and started. After the conveyance had gone 15 or 20 yards the conductor cried out "Stop, stop!" and witness applied the foot break and reverse lever, but he could not bring up before he felt a lurch. On looking round after the 'bus was brought up he saw deceased run for five or six yards. He was crying. Suddenly he fell on his face. Witness spoke to him and asked him if the car had run over him but he did not reply. witness took up the lad in his arms and with the assistance of two men who were passing carried him to his home. He had known deceased to often get on the car and collect the used tickets from the floor of the conveyance. - William Back, 15, conductor, said he had known the deceased ever since he had been in the employ of the Company. Witness went to Normanhurst for water on the afternoon of the 19th inst., and on returning found the car was standing at the hydrant, some distance from MR YOUNG'S gate, taking water. When the tank was full the driver looked round and said to the passengers "Take your seats, please." Deceased was at that time standing on the step at the back of the car, where he remained whilst the 'bus was backing. As witness was looking out at the back of the car, he head a scream and the shout "Stop, stop." Looking into the road he saw the deceased in front of the wheel of the 'bus, and at once called to the driver to stop, but he could not pull up before the wheel had passed over the boy. Witness thought deceased must have jumped off the step the wrong way, but he did not see him leave the conveyance. He heard the scream before the wheel passed over deceased. - Albert Campion, gardener, St. Marychurch, said he saw the car take in water and heard the driver tell the passengers to take their seats on two occasions. Deceased was standing on the step at the rear of the 'bus when it started and the driver called to him to sit down. When the 'bus had gone twelve or fifteen yards the boy stepped off the car and over-balanced himself and one of the wheels passed over him. As he left the car he put out his hand and fell forward. The 'bus was going very slowly at the time and was stopped almost immediately after the wheel had passed over the lad, who got up and ran five or six yards, afterwards falling in the middle of the road. - Frank Homeyard, gardener, Chelston, said he was a passenger on the car and confirmed the testimony of previous witnesses. Deceased stepped off the 'bus in an opposite direction to that which it was going. The conveyance passed over him before there was time for the driver to stop it. - Dr Howse, who arrived at Normanhurst shortly after the accident, said death was due to injuries to the brain. The mark of the wheel of the 'bus could be plainly seen on deceased's face. - The Deputy Coroner said the question for the Jury to consider was whether either driver or conductor did anything which they ought not to have done, or failed to do that which they should have done. The boy had no right on the car, and it was a matter for the Jury to consider whether he ought to have been allowed there. They had it in evidence that the driver called upon him to sit down. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated the driver and conductor. They also expressed their deep sympathy with MR and MRS YOUNG. The Coroner said the evidence given had been very straightforward. - Mr Hutchings on behalf of the Directors of the Company, expressed their deep regret to MR and MRS YOUNG and family at this terrible occurrence. The directors personally felt greatly grieved at the unfortunate accident. The Foreman (Mr Mayne), said the Jury thought older conductors should be employed. The Coroner said that was a matter of opinion. The Jury had added no rider to their verdict. The Jury decided t devote their fees to the purchase of a wreath. Mr Hutchings said no conductor was employed under 15 years of age, and each was duly licensed. He would, however, convey the Jury's recommendation to the Company.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 April 1904
ST MARYCHURCH - Fatal Stone Throwing At Babbacombe. Inquest. Warning From the Deputy Coroner. - At the St. Marychurch Town Hall on Saturday the Deputy County Coroner, Mr G. F. Kellock, held an Inquiry into the death of HERBERT JOHN PENNY, aged 12, the son of JAMES PENNY, labourer, residing at Furrough Cross, who died early on Wednesday morning from peritonitis. Mr R. D. Scholes was elected Foreman of the Jury. - JAMES PENNY, the father, stated that his son was taken ill on Friday 15th. He complained of a pain in his side, and was very sick. Deceased stated that on the previous Wednesday he was at play with some other boys, one of whom, named Robertson, threw a stone which struck him in the side. The stone was not thrown with the intention of doing him any injury. The boy gradually became worse and died early on Thursday morning. - George Henry Luxton, 8, who was not sworn, said he was out with PENNY on the evening of the 15th. They went down near the Oddicombe beach. Whilst there three boys named Robertson, Ridge and Perring, commenced throwing stones at them, from the pathway above. Two stones were thrown together and one struck PENNY. There had been no quarrel; they were all playing together. - William Perring, 12, said he was with the other boys in Beach Road. After playing together for some time, PENNY and Luxton started for home by one of the zig-zag paths. Witness and the remainder of the boys kept to the road. Some distance up the hill, PENNY threw a stone, and witness and the boys with him, who were at a considerable height above, threw stones back. One of the stones struck PENNY, who laid on the bank. They started to go down, but deceased got up and commenced to laugh, and they thought he was at play. Witness and Robertson threw stones together, and it was one of these which hit PENNY. No stones were thrown after deceased was it. - In reply to the Foreman (Mr R. D. Scholes), witness said no angry words passed between them. - Mr Bendle: But you meant to hit him when you threw the stone? - Yes, but not to hurt him. It was only in play. - The father re-called, stated that on Thursday the boy went to school in the day, and in the evening took a basket of clothes to Torquay. On returning, he complained of a pain in his side. On Friday morning, his son went with his milk round, and on returning home said his side was worse. Witness advised him to go to bed, but his mother said if he went to school he would be better when he came home. The lad went to school. - Albert Ridge, 13, deposed to seeing PENNY throw the first stone. When he was hit he laid down on the bank by the side of the path, but he did not cry out or seem to be in pain. Witness went away before deceased got up. He did not leave the spot because he was frightened. - In reply to a Juror, witness said he saw PENNY on the following day at school and he did not complain. The stone which struck PENNY was a small one, and was not thrown in anger. He did not know who threw the stone which hit deceased. - Reginald John Robertson, 13, said he threw a stone at the same time as Perring and he could not say which of the two struck PENNY. He only threw one stone for fun. He had no intention of hitting deceased, but intended the stone to drop in the bushes and frighten him. - In reply to a Juror witness said he would not have thrown a stone at the deceased if he had not thrown one at him. There had been no quarrel between them. He was told by the other boys that one of the stones had struck PENNY, who he saw laying down on the bank. Witness did not say anything about the occurrence at the time. On the afternoon of the 17th, PENNY told witness he felt sick and ill, and that one of them had hit him in the stomach with a stone. Witness did not tell anyone about this. He wished to keep it quiet because he did not know whether it was the stone he threw or the stone which Perring threw had struck him. He had never had any quarrel with the deceased, nor had any of the other boys. - Dr Winter said he was called to see deceased on Saturday, the 18th. He was in bed, and had all the symptoms of peritonitis. He said he and other boys had been playing on the previous Wednesday evening, and whilst at play he had been struck over the abdomen by a good sized stone, which he said was thrown by Robertson. They had been larking together and it was quite accidental. Robertson and he had been good friends. Directly the stone struck him, it "winded" him. He tried to go on, but felt a bad pain in the stomach and a faintness and lay down. On Wednesday night he told his mother he was in pain in his stomach, but did not state the cause. She, regarding it as biliousness, gave him a dose of senna. On the following day he told her the cause of the pain. Death was due to peritonitis which was caused by the blow from the stone which set up haemorrhage. The peritonitis was aggravated by the boy going about on the following two days. He would have had much more chance of recovery if he had gone to bed at once, but it was impossible to say that he would have got over it even then. - The Coroner: Carrying about a basket of clothes would be about the worst thing possible. - Dr Winter: Yes, but the boy did not tell his mother what had really occurred. - The Coroner said the story was a very plain one. They knew what boys were. One threw a stone and the others followed suit. It was all very well to say the stones were thrown into the bushes, but they had all been boys and knew what this meant. The witnesses were strong lusty boys, and threw the stones from twenty yards above. Luxton gave a very fair, distinct, and clear story. Both he and Robertston admitted they threw stones together. It was really a very serious case. What these boys regarded as play had resulted in the death of one of their school-fellows. One of them had practically killed him. It was an awful thing, and it ought to go out as a warning, not only to the boys but to parents and schoolmasters, to enlighten children on the danger of this kind of play. The case was an exceedingly sad one. It was difficult to find words to express the sadness and trouble it had brought, not only upon this boy's parents but upon the whole place. Then he would like to point to the great danger of concealing an occurrence of that sort. PENNY had told Robertson that he felt sick and ill; but, foolishly, Robertson has tried to hush it up. He must have known that a formerly strong and lusty lad had something seriously wrong when he complained of feeling sick and ill, and if it had only been known what had happened deceased would not have been carrying baskets of clothes and cans of milk whilst he was bleeding inside, but might have been taken to the Hospital and where he would have had every care and attention and as good a chance as possible of recovery. The attempt to hush the matter up was the second sad feature of the case. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death Through Misadventure," and cautioned the public generally on the fearful danger of stone throwing. - The Coroner, addressing the boys, said that was a very sad and serious matter, and he could see by their faces that they felt it to be so. He wanted them to take it as a terrible warning, and he did not think they would ever do it again. If ever they saw other boys throwing stones he wanted them to try and stop them and tell them of their own experiences of the result of such very dangerous play. They had been very lucky to escape being placed on their trial. Stone throwing was not play; it was nothing less than battle. When they knew that a boy was seriously hurt - and in that case he had told one of them that he was sick and ill - they should have gone to his mother and made a clean breast of it. He wanted them to take that as a lesson in life, and never to forget it. He was sure they would not.

TORQUAY - Torquay Painter's Death. Fall From A Ladder. - At Upton Parish Room on Saturday, the Deputy County Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock) held an Inquiry relative to the death of HARRY BIDWELL, painter, of 11 Madrepore Road, who died on the previous evening as the result of a fall at Kirkthorpe, Chelston. Mr R. Crocker was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Thomas Kelland, coach-painter, of Warren Hill, stated that deceased was his brother-in-law. He was a widower, and had left one child, a little girl. - Albert Plimsoll, labourer, of 3 Kingsley Cottages, said he was in the Rousdon Road on Friday, and saw BIDWELL, who was on a ladder painting, fall a distance of 20ft. In falling the ladder struck a wall and was broken, and deceased fell between the two pars to the ground. There was no one at the foot of the ladder at the time of the occurrence. Witness went to the man's assistance and found he was unconscious. As soon as he regained consciousness he was removed in a cab to the Torbay Hospital. The ladder did not appear to be secured in any way. BIDWELL and the ladder were caught by a puff of wind. - Clara Gerrey, 228 Lymington Road, wife of George Gerrey, a cab driver, stated that on Friday she was at work at Kirkthrop. She heard a rustle, and on going out she found BIDWELL lying in the garden, flat on his back. She alarmed some workmen in an adjoining yard. - Archibald Tilley, painter, 18 Braddon Street, who was at work with BIDWELL, said after the accident, when the man came to, he asked witness what had happened. Witness explained what had occurred and told him she had sent for a cab to take him to the hospital. Deceased said he was not bad enough to be taken to the hospital. He did not speak again until they got into the Avenue, where he wanted to know the time of day, and again asked what was the matter and who would pay for the cab. Witness replied that they had plenty of money and would see to that. At the Hospital the man walked from the cab into the surgery. - James Parr Ireland, Walnut Road, Chelston, deceased's employer, stated that there was no flaw in the ladder. Deceased was not single handed and could have had assistance had he required it. - Hugh Kirbell Lacey, House Surgeon at the Hospital, stated that deceased was admitted to that institution at half-past twelve on Friday afternoon, suffering from a scalp wound; he was then perfectly sensible. A little before two o'clock he commenced vomiting, and soon afterwards became unconscious. Witness sent for the surgeon on duty, who decided to operate on the man for compression of the brain. The operation was arranged as soon as possible, and a large clot of blood was found between the scalp and the membrane of the brain. Death ensued at ten minutes past six the same evening as a result of the injuries. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and attached no blame to anyone.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 May 1904
TORQUAY - Fatality At A Torquay Foundry. Coroner And Press comments On Delayed Inquests. - At Upton Parish Room yesterday afternoon the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of GEORGE ERNEST VAIL, 35, engine fitter, of No. 6 Happaway Road, who died at the Hospital on Wednesday from injuries received through the fall of a cylinder at Mr T. L. Harding's foundry, in Market Street, on Wednesday evening. Mr J. Kenny represented Mr Harding, and Mr E. Hutchings appeared for the widow. - The Coroner, in opening the Inquiry, said that the building in which the accident occurred came under the provisions of the Factory Act, and therefore it would be necessary for him to adjourn that Inquiry in order t give the Factory Inspector an opportunity of attending if he wished. In consequence of what had appeared recently in the local Press, he wished to say it was not advisable to hold Inquests the day immediately after the death of the deceased, because if that was done no notice of the Inquiry was received by the public. Inquiries held immediately after the death would be more or less held in a corner before the public had any opportunity of knowing anything about them, and evidence which might be very material would sometimes be wanting. It was highly necessary that full knowledge of Inquests should be possessed by the public, so that it might not be thought that they were to be hurriedly held to prevent those who were interested from having an opportunity of being present. He made these remarks for the benefit of the Jury and more especially for the benefit of the public and those gentlemen who wrote for the local press because if their paragraphs were incorrect they misled the public. - GEORGE VAIL, father of deceased, said he was a joiner, and lived at Finglewood House, Higher Wellesley Road. His son was an engine fitter in the employ of Mr T. L. Harding, with whom he had been for 20 years. Deceased left a widow, and six children. - Mr John S. Burton, locum tenens for Dr Lacy, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said deceased was admitted to the Institution at 4.30 on Wednesday. Witness saw him at 5.20. He was semi-conscious, and apparently suffering from severe internal injuries. He considered deceased's spine was broken, and that he had ruptured some internal organ. The Inquiry was adjourned until Monday at 3 p.m., for the attendance of the Factory Inspector.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 May 1904
PLYMOUTH - Sudden Death. - An Inquest has been held at Plymouth respecting the death of BEATRICE MARIA ARBIN, aged twenty-two, belonging to Torquay. JAMES ARBIN, a naval pensioner, residing at 1 Park Terrace, Torquay, said that his daughter (deceased) had been on a visit to Plymouth since Easter Monday. She always seemed in good health, and had never complained of her heart. Mary Jane Damerell, whom deceased had been visiting, stated that deceased went to bed apparently in her usual health and spirits, but the following morning was found dead in bed. Dr Crossing said deceased had heart disease of some standing. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

TORQUAY - The Torquay Foundry Fatality. Adjourned Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday afternoon, the County Coroner (Mr Sidney Hacker) resumed the Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of GEORGE ERNEST VAIL, 35, an engine fitter in the employ of Mr T. L. Harding, ironfounder, of Market Street, who died at the Torbay Hospital on Wednesday week from injuries received through the fall of a cylinder at the foundry, shortly before his admission to the Institution. Mr J. Kenny appeared for Mr T. L. Harding, Mr E. Hutchings represented the widow, and Mr Shuter, H.M. Inspector of Factories, attended on behalf of the Home Office. - Dr Burton, acting house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, recalled, stated that he was still of opinion that deceased's spine was fractured, but that injury, although it would have eventually caused death, would not have had such a speedy fatal result. Death was due to internal injuries. - A Juror asked how it was that the man was not seen by a doctor before 5.20, seeing that he was admitted at 4.30? - Dr Burton said he was not at the Hospital at the time VAIL was admitted. - The Juror: I think it is a long time to leave a man - nearly an hour. - The Coroner: He was put to bed and attended by the staff in the meantime? - Witness: Yes. - Mr Wickett (another Juror): If you had been there you could have done little for him? - Witness: That is so. - The Coroner: Everything seems in order. - Charles Henry Snell, engine fitter, of 3 Laurel Cottages, Ellacombe, stated that he was in the employ of Mr T. L. Harding. On the afternoon of the accident witness, with VAIL and a man named Henley, was engaged in fixing up a boiler tube. VAIL was in charge of the job, the foreman being away. Mr F. Harding, son of the proprietor of the foundry, was also present, looking on. The tube was outside the foundry in a passage and was slung up by chain blocks to a large plank laid horizontally across the walls of the quarry. The labourers were about to put a concrete bed n the bottom of the tube. VAIL was showing Henley, the labourer, what to do. There were no supports to the tube. It had been supported by wooden blocks, but these had been knocked away earlier in the day, just before the tube was slung up. The chain block was attached to a double rope around the flange at the top of the tube. He thought the rope was put on the day before, but he did not know by whom. VAIL found the rope on the tube when he commenced work upon it on Wednesday. Witness and Henley were standing at the side of the tube, and VAIL had gone in under it to show Henley what to do. The tube was raised about 4ft. from the ground. Witness raised the tube quite unaided by pulling on the chain block. He did this on the instructions of VAIL. Almost immediately VAIL had gone in under the tube it feel down sideways on the bottom flange and canted over against the wall. Deceased was knocked down and, as far as witness could see, was struck by the tube on the back and legs. The fall of the tube was caused by the rope around the top flange, by which it was attached to the chain block, breaking. The rope was against the flange at the top of the tube, and that might have helped to cut it. He believed the tube weighed about 10cwt. An alarm was given immediately the accident occurred, and all hands at the foundry assisted in raising the tube with bars and releasing deceased. He was quite conscious and asked witness to put his arm around him. - In reply to the Foreman, witness said the rope had the full weight of the tube. - By Mr Shuter: As far as he knew there was no padding between the rope and flange of the tube to keep the latter from cutting the rope. - The Foreman: Was there anything said about the safety of the rope? - Witness: Yes. Earlier in the afternoon I heard Mr T. L. Harding say "VAIL, you ought to put on a safety chain around the top of the flange." Deceased replied "The rope is all right." - By Mr E. Hutchings: Mr Coombes was the foreman in charge of the work the day previous to the accident. In his absence deceased acted as foreman. He did not see the rope put on, nor did he know where it was obtained. He did not know the quality of the rope or whether it had been used before. A chain was generally used for hoisting boilers. Deceased was stooping at the time of the accident. There were plenty of chains close at hand which could have been easily put around the cylinder when Mr Harding spoke about it. - By Mr Kenny: He did not hear Mr F. Harding say anything about putting supports under the tube before commencing work upon it. The weight of the cylinder was on four strands of the rope. - Thomas Coombes, works manager at Mr T. L. Harding's foundry, stated that he was at Totnes on the day of the accident. When he left at 11 a.m. the bottom flange of the tube was resting on the wall and the outside on wooden blocks. VAIL and Snell were then fitting an air belt on the cylinder. At the top flange it was attached to a rope which was suspending from a three ton chain. The rope was padded with old sacking. - The Coroner: How do you account for that having disappeared? - Witness: I can only account for it by the rope having slipped and been readjusted. He estimated the weight of the tube at 9cwt. 3 qrs. The rope well protected by sacking would have been strong enough to lift the cylinder, but the margin of safety was so small that had he been present, and had it been absolutely necessary to raise the tube, he would have had a safety chain put on. He would, however, have directed that the iron pillars be put in. This would have done away with the necessity of lifting the boiler at all. VAIL was a thoroughly competent man, and in his (witness's) absence had charge of the job. The rope had certainly been cut through by the flange. He considered it would be very risky to trust in the rope alone. A safety chain should have been used. The rope was put on the boiler the previous Friday, and was used because it gave warning before it parted, whereas a chain snapped suddenly. Personally he never intended the tube to be raised by the rope. Deceased instead of devoting his attention to the air belt had started other work. - In reply to Mr Shuter, witness said he was a member of the Institute of Mechanical Engineers, and was aware of the breaking strains of ropes and so on. He gave instructions for padding the flange, and saw the padding put on. The breaking strain of the rope produced would be 30 cwt., and a fair working strain would be one-fifth. The maximum load would be 6 cwt. single and 12 cwt. double. his theory was that in the absence of bags around the flange the rope was cut in one place, and the sudden drop of the boiler parted it in another place. That was the reason of the rope having the appearance of being clean cut in one place and frayed away in another. - In reply to Mr Hutchings witness said a safety chain could easily have been fixed. The tube had been previously raised by the rope with the assistance of several men. - By Mr Kenny: There would have been no necessity to place any strain upon the rope if the iron supports had been put in place one by one. - James Henley, labourer, of No. 1 Warberry Road West, said deceased was showing him where he wanted the concrete bed. The tube was slung up and VAIL stooped down and went under it. The cylinder suddenly fell on deceased. Witness ran for a cab. - Mr Frank Harding, son of Mr T. L. Harding, said he had a conversation with VAIL about ten minutes before the accident. The tube was then slung up, and he told deceased that on no account was he to go underneath it. He also told him to put in the pillars. Deceased showed him the bolts which had been fitted previously. Shortly after witness returned to the spot and saw VAIL walk under the boiler. He had not been there for a minute when the tube fell. Some little time previously he had cautioned deceased about swinging the tube. - In reply to Mr Hutchings, witness said he was not superintending the work. - Mr T. L. Harding said deceased had been in his employ about 20 years as an engine fitter. On the day of the accident he saw VAIL about 3.30. The bottom of the tube was then resting on the platform and the other end against the wall. VAIL was on the top of the cylinder, and said whilst he had been altering the gear the end had fallen over. He made very light of it. As witness left he said to VAIL "Before you lift the tube place a safety chain around it." If he had heard any reply he would have insisted upon this precaution being taken. VAIL was a thoroughly competent man, but he had no sense of fear and would sometimes do things which were a little too daring. - Mr S. Shuter, H.M. Inspector of Factories, said he had visited the foundry, and found the weight of the tube 10 ¼ cwt. The arrangement of having a rope of small diameter twice around was a bad one as compared with having a large rope once around. The breaking strain of the rope produced was 30 cwt., and a reasonable working strain was 5 cwt. With the rope double, its working strain would be 10 cwt., and it was very risky to work it at its maximum. His theory was that there was a slight flaw in the manufacture of the rope. No boiler should be lifted without padding around cutting parts. Reference had been made to the use of chains, but strong ropes were preferable to chains. That was not a case such as the fencing of machinery. Messrs. Harding did all that was possible in that respect; but he considered that a little more careful thought might have obviated the accident. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said the rope should not have been given a greater strain than 7 cwt. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated Mr Harding from all blame.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 May 1904
TORQUAY - Fatal Fall At Cockington. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday morning Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of GEORGE MORGAN, 71, labourer on the Mallock estate, who died at the hospital on Saturday morning from injuries received through a fall from a ladder on April 27th. - Bertha Drury, of 2 Lauriston Place, identified the body as that of her uncle, who was a single man and had lived with his sister and witness. Deceased was able bodied but of weak intellect. On the day of the accident her uncle went to work at 6.30 and about noon witness heard that he had met with an accident and had been taken to the hospital. About 3 o'clock she was allowed to see him. He was then in great pain and told her he had fallen from a ladder. She visited him every day for a week and he seemed to be getting better. On Friday last he looked very pale and suffered considerable pain. He was out of bed, and the nurse attending him did not think he was any worse. He, however, died about 7 a.m. on the following day. - William Brooks, thatcher, residing at Cockington Village, said he was with deceased when the accident happened. Witness was thatching a cottage on the estate and MORGAN was acting as his labourer. Witness was standing on a ladder resting against the roof engaged in thatching the ridge. He told deceased to bring him a pail of water to the foot of the ladder, but he brought it part way up. Witness started down the ladder to meet MORGAN, but before he had gone far he heard a shout and noticed that deceased had fallen when he was about six feet from the ground. Witness hastened to his assistance, but Dymond one of the keepers who resided in the house which was being thatched, reached MORGAN first. Deceased was quite conscious and said he was in pain. Mr Meaby was called and he summoned a doctor who ordered deceased to be taken to the hospital. The ladder could not slip as its foot was against a bank. Deceased was not a very active man, and was not used to working at any height. - In reply to Mr L. Staton (a Juror) witness said the roof was a fairly steep one. - John Dymond, gamekeeper, said he heard deceased fall, and on going to the foot of the ladder found him lying on his back. he was conscious and said he had hurt himself. - Dr Burton, acting house surgeon, said the deceased was under his charge from May 1st. He was suffering from a fractured rib and shock, but was improving rapidly. On Friday he was walking about the ward. On the following morning after deceased had dressed and had breakfast he was attacked with faintness, and only escaped falling to the ground by the prompt action of another patient. When witness arrived he was seated in a chair, and only lived for a few moments. Death was due to heart failure, and was in his opinion hastened by the shock caused by the accident. - Mr Meaby, the Cockington Estate Agent, said deceased had worked on the estate all his life. The Coroner said it was rather an arduous task for a man of MORGAN'S age to carry water up a ladder, but Brooks in his evidence said he instructed deceased to place the pail of water at the foot of the ladder. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room, on Friday, the County Coroner, (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquest on the body of NICHOLAS FIZGERALD, 60, sandwich man, who died suddenly in Pimlico on Wednesday evening. Mrs Parry, the keeper of a lodging-house in Madrepore Road, gave evidence of identification, and said deceased had lodged with her for many years. When she last saw him on Wednesday, he appeared to be in his usual health. Mr J. Fewings, verger at the Church of the Assumption, stated that he had known FITZGERALD for over 20 years. A youth, named quick, deposed to seeing deceased walking in Market Street, on the evening of the 11th instant. He suddenly staggered and fell. Witness went to his assistance, and with the help of a passer-by, carried FITZGERALD into Pimlico, where he was seated on a chair. He had only been placed on the chair a few seconds, when he expired. Dr Burton, Acting House Surgeon at the Hospital, said death was due to syncope, caused by fatty degeneration of the heart. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes." The funeral took place on Saturday, the expense connected with it being borne by the roman Catholics attending the Church of the Assumption.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - 10 June 1904
TORQUAY - Fatal Fall At The Harbour. Inquest. Absent Juryman Fined £5. - At the Upton Parish rooms on Wednesday evening the Deputy County Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of RICHARD THOMAS JENNINGS HARRIS, 48, labourer of No. 2 Clifton Place, Braddons Hill, who died at the Torbay Hospital on Tuesday afternoon from injuries received through a fall at the Harbour on Sunday last. - Deceased's daughter, MARGARET HENLEY, who is the wife of a labourer, gave evidence of identification. Witness said she understood that shortly before the accident her father had some words with a man named Pym. - John Royce employed at the Torquay and Plymouth Brewery, and living at 21 Spring Steps, said he was on the Fish Quay at the time of the accident on Sunday afternoon. Deceased fell over the Quay as witness was going down the steps to enter a boat. There was no one near HARRIS when he fell. Pym was just returning with a party in his boat from H.M.S. Royal Sovereign. Deceased fell upon the stone platform half-way down the steps and rolled into the sea. - Arthur Back, a coal lumper of No. 3 Perrott's buildings stated that just previous to the occurrence he saw HARRIS securing the painter of his boat to an iron ring on the Quay. Witness was preparing to take a party out to the Royal Sovereign, but hearing a splash he looked round and saw HARRIS in the water. He must have fallen a distance of 16ft. Witness thought the mooring rings were much too close to the edge of the Quay. With assistance witness got deceased on to the Quay and afterwards went with him to the Hospital. - P.S. Gollop said there was no disturbance on the Quay prior to the accident. The ring to which deceased had moored his boat was within six inches of the edge of the Quay. It was therefore rather dangerous. - Mr Lacey, house surgeon at the Hospital, stated that when HARRIS was admitted he had a fractured skull and other injuries to the head. He died on Tuesday from the fracture. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and gave their fees to the widow. The Coroner complimented Royce and Back on the prompt assistance they gave.

TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of A Torquay Woman. The Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday evening, Mr Sidney Hacker (County Coroner) held an Inquiry touching the death of ANN HELMORE, aged 69, wife of JAMES HELMORE, labourer, of No. 9 Lower Union Lane, who was found lying unconscious in her kitchen on Sunday morning, and died the same evening. - The husband stated that he had been married 50 years, and was the father of 19 children. His wife had been ailing for the last three years, but she had never given up work. About one o'clock on Sunday morning deceased complained of feeling unwell and he made her a cup of tea and took to her. He suggested that he should fetch a doctor, but she would not allow him to do so, remarking that she would be all right again in a few minutes. Soon after his wife went to sleep. He knew nothing more until about 6 o'clock, when she brought him a cup of tea as usual and returned to the kitchen to do her housework. Shortly after he heard a fall and a muffled sort of scream, and on going down found his wife lying on the ground with her head on the fender. There was a large wound on her head. She was quite unconscious. Dr Eales was called in and a nurse summoned, but his wife died at 9 o'clock the same evening. His wife had suffered from heart trouble. - GEORGE HELMORE, son, gave similar evidence. - Maria Course, a neighbour who was called in, said deceased twice recovered consciousness and told her she became giddy and fell. - Dr G. Eales stated that he saw deceased about 7 a.m. She was unconscious and had a very severe bruise on the right eye and a lacerated wound at the external angle of the eye. There was also a slight cut on the lobe of the right ear. He had her put to bed as she was too ill to be removed to the Hospital and sent for a nurse, who looked in two or three times during the day. About 11 o'clock she became conscious, but could not explain how she fell. Death took place about 9 p.m. and he attributed it to heart disease. This was borne out by a post mortem examination which showed extensive valvular disease of the heart. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 June 1904
KINGSBRIGE - Murder At Kingsbridge. Suicide Of The Murderer. - A shocking double tragedy occurred at Warcombe Farm, about a mile and a half from Kingsbridge on Saturday evening. The tenant of the farm, MR HERBERT BAKER, had in his employ a youth of sulky and morose disposition, and it is stated he had not been getting on very satisfactorily with his master recently. On Friday, it is alleged, the youth attempted to strike MR BAKER with an iron bar while the latter was engaged in shearing sheep. In consequence of this MR BAKER insisted on the youth leaving his employ on the following evening, and accordingly the young man packed his box and removed it from the farmhouse. - During the evening, while MR BAKER, accompanied by the six year old son of a neighbour, named Perrott, was proceeding towards the entrance to one of the fields, a man named Edward Friend, who was clipping a horse in the buildings of the adjoining premises, heard two shots fired. Friend at first thought someone was shooting rabbits, but shortly afterwards Mrs Cumming, MR BAKER'S sister, who kept house for her brother, came to Friend and informed him that the little boy Perriott had told her that MR BAKER had been shot. Friend immediately proceeded to the gate of the field, where he discovered the dead body of MR BAKER. Deceased had sustained terrible gunshot wounds in the right shoulder and the left side of his face was shot away. Friend obtained a hurdle and while assisting in the removal of the body to the farmhouse he heard two other gun shots. He rode into Kingsbridge and having obtained medical and police assistance, the man pointed out the direction from where he heard the last shots, and on search being made the youth was discovered lying dead under the hedge, one side of his head and face having been blown completely away. At his feet was a double-barrelled gun belonging to MR BAKER, of which the lad had evidently possessed himself while in his hand was a stick, with which he had apparently worked the trigger. At the Inquest CORNER'S father said his son was bitten by a viper nine years ago on the very day he committed the crime, and every year that day came round his son was affected in a strange manner. The Jury returned a verdict of "Murder and Felo-de-se."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 July 1904
PLYMOUTH - Torquay Butler's Death. - On Saturday last the body of a man about 55 years of age was picked up in Stonehouse Pool, and on the following day was identified as that of JOSEPH CLIFT, a butler, who for about seven weeks had been lodging at Plymouth and had been out of work for three months. His last situation was at Torquay. - At the Inquest on Monday, James Thomas, a naval armourer, of Ford, said that he was a nephew of deceased, whose last place of service was Argyle Hall, Torquay. Deceased told him that he left Torquay on account of the death of his employer, and that he came to the Three Towns in search of employment. Witness last saw deceased alive about a fortnight ago, when he was very cheerful and apparently in good health. He stated that he would like to remain in the district if he could secure a situation. Since witness last saw him deceased visited his house and asked his (witness's) wife to lend him 2s. 6d., stating that he was expecting a letter containing money. Witness's wife gave him 5s. - Deceased's landlady at Plymouth gave him a good character. He was of temperate habits, was generally in bed by 10.30 p.m., and was cheerful and apparently well. A detective stated that in deceased's room were several letters referring to situations, as well as a number of characters, all very good, one of eleven years' standing. There was no money in the room. A doctor stated that death was due to drowning. - The Coroner said that the circumstances pointed to suicide. Deceased was out of employment and owing rent. Money he expected did not arrive. It was very sad that at his time of life, having lost his employment through the death of his employer, deceased could not secure another situation; but it was so nowadays. If a man at fifty years of age lost his situation he found it difficult to obtain another. It was possible that, while taking a walk along the water side, deceased fell into the water. The safe verdict would be that deceased was found drowned. - Verdict, "Found Drowned." - Mr Thomas undertook to bear the expenses of his uncle's funeral.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 15 July 1904
TORQUAY - Sudden Death. - At the Upton Parish Room, on Tuesday morning, the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of HENRY HOBBS, 55, carpenter, of 4 Elstow Terrace, Hatfield Road, who died suddenly at an early hour on Monday morning. Mr H. Searle was Foreman of the Jury. The evidence showed that up to the time of retiring to rest on Sunday evening MR HOBBS was in good health, having attended chapel twice during the day. Soon after getting into bed he complained to his wife of shortness of breath, and as he became worse, MRS HOBBS sent Mr Jones, a neighbour, for Dr Wiggin. Before, however, the medical man arrived, MR HOBBS had expired. A post mortem examination elicited the fact that deceased's heart was diseased, and that the food he had taken during the day was undigested. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

DAWLISH - The Mysterious Death At Dawlish. - At Dawlish Vestry Hall, on Monday, the adjourned Inquiry into the death of FANNY ELIZABETH ANDREW, late domestic servant at No. 7 Barton Villas, Dawlish, was resumed. The cause of adjournment on the previous occasion was the non-attendance of a certain witness, Frederick Mitchell, of Newton Abbot (where he is known as Thomas Venning.) - The Coroner announced that this witness, whose intimate relations with deceased made it seem necessary that he should attend, had bolted the very night he was served with a notice to attend the Inquest. The only course before them, therefore, was to adjourn the proceedings in order that the police might endeavour to secure the witness. At present there was no evidence to incriminate this man. - Mr S. Shapter, a Juryman, thought there was nothing to hinder them giving a verdict. - The Coroner disagreed. They had to find out if any person was responsible. There were circumstances that might lead to the formation of suspicion, and it seemed to him that they would have only half done their duty if they came to a verdict at this stage. Alice Warren, widow, stewardess at the railway station, Dawlish, and the matron of the Cottage Hospital, were called. But the evidence of neither was of weight. The Inquest was adjourned to 11.15 a.m. on Monday, August 8th.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 July 1904
THURLESTONE - MR LOOMIS'S Fate. Was It Murder? - The body of MR F. KENT LOOMIS, the American diplomatist, who disappeared so mysteriously from the Kaiser Wilhelm II, on June 20, has been washed ashore at Thurlestone, a South Devon hamlet, not far from Salcombe. It was noticed floating among the breakers at six o'clock on Saturday morning by a longshoreman named Snowden. The flowing tide brought it within his reach, and he succeeded in grasping the clothes and drawing it ashore. The coastguard and the police were told of the discovery and they took the body to a neighbouring farm, where it was placed in one of the buildings. The body which shows signs of a prolonged immersion, is that of a man about 5ft. 7ins. in height, and moderately stout. It is dressed in a blue serge suit and a light grey overcoat and the underclothing is of fine quality. In the pockets were found a gold watch and chain, a number of English and American coins and notes, several private papers and a card with the inscription, "F. KENT LOOMIS." On one of the fingers was a ring inside which was engraved the name "Mildred." - Body Identified. - Mr Stephens, the American Consul at Plymouth, was at once communicated with. He went to Thurlestone, and after examining the body and the papers, he definitely pronounced it to be that of MR LOOMIS. The watch which had not run down had stopped at six o'clock. MR LOOMIS was last seen by some of the ship's officers on the deck of the Kaiser Wilhelm II, at 12.30 a.m. on June 20. The liner cast anchor at Plymouth at 2 a.m. Although the discovery of the body has dispelled the mystery of MR LOOMIS' disappearance, it has developed a fresh mystery in its place. - How did MR LOOMIS come by his death? Behind the right ear is an abrased wound about the size of half a crown, which has the appearance of having been caused before death. Many of the people who have seen the body declare that it points to foul play. One American who examined the wound closely thinks that it might have been caused by an American "black jack" - a cylinder of lead thinly encased in leather. A blow from this would render a man unconscious, and once in the water there could be no escape for the victim. - On the other hand, it is suggested that the wound may have been caused by MR LOOMIS striking something in his fall from the deck. - The Doctor's Theory. - The Coroner's Inquest was held in the Thurlestone Hotel on Monday. Dr William Henry Webb, of Kingsbridge, said there was a contused wound below and behind the right ear, indicated by an extravasation of blood in the scalp, and a rupture of the covering of the brain in that situation. There was also a general bruise involving the scalp and integuments of the brain on the left side above the ear, which were both in his opinion, caused before death. He could not minutely examine the other parts of the body owing to the decomposition; in his opinion the hits which caused the wounds were sufficient to account for death. - Have you formed any idea as to how death was caused? - No. He may have been drowned after the blow. I should say as a matter of theory that the blow on the right side of the head must have stunned him. That is perfectly plain. - The wound on the right side is more serious? - Yes. - It is not a sharp wound, not made by a sharp instrument? - No; it was a contused wound or bruise. - The result of a blow? - Such a wound as might be made by falling and striking against something, or by something striking the head. - Had he fallen and struck something, that wound might have been made? - It is quite possible. There is nothing to show medically or surgically, how the wound was inflicted. - It is possible a man falling overboard from a liner might injure himself in that place? - There is no reason why he should not. It would be possible to fall to strike something very hard, causing the chief wound, and then by a rebound to cause the bruise on the other side. - There is no evidence pointing to a suspicion that the deceased was attacked deliberately by any malefactor? - I can only say that he received a blow before he died which, in my opinion, was enough to account for his death. How the blow came about I am not prepared to say. - In a long summing up, the Coroner laid stress on the value of the ring in identification, especially considered in conjunction with other articles found on the body. There was not the slightest evidence before them that the deceased jumped into the water, nor that he was put into it by foul play. In those circumstances he thought the only thing they could do would be to bring in an open verdict. - Without leaving the room, the Jury unanimously decided that the body was that of MR FREDERICK KENT LOOMIS, and that it was washed up, dead, on the shore of Bigbury Bay, near Thurlestone; also, that there was no evidence to show how he met his death.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 July 1904
NEWTON ABBOT - Death At Newton Workhouse. A Torquay Inmate. Inquest. - An Inquest was held on Tuesday evening at the Newton Abbot Workhouse touching the death of EMMA BOWDEN, of Torquay. The evidence showed that on Monday deceased was having her dinner with the other inmates when she apparently had an apoplectic fit, and died almost immediately. Another imbecile stated that she saw the deceased put her hand to her mouth, and asserted that she was choked. - Dr Serase, however, stated that there were no indications of this. The nurses took proper measures for treating a choking person, and found no obstruction in the throat. Deceased had been suffering from heart disease, for which he had been treating her, and he was confident that she died from failure of the heart. - The Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) closely questioned the attendants on the point, and some of them fainted. He, however, could gain no corroboration of the imbecile's statement that deceased was choked by her food, and he adjourned the Inquest in order that a post mortem examination might be made. - At the resumed Inquiry on Wednesday morning, Dr Serase stated that he had made a post mortem examination. He found no marks of violence. The heart was diseased and fatty. He examined the throat, windpipe and food-pipe, and found no obstruction whatever. He was certain that deceased died from heart failure. - The Coroner: Are you clear that there is nothing in the suggestion made by one witness that deceased was choked? - Witness: Quite clear. - The Coroner: Would death from heart failure be consistent with the appearance of choking? - It would be quite an ordinary circumstance for a person having sudden heart failure to think that she was choking. - The Coroner: You are quite clear that she did not die from an obstruction in the throat? - Witness: I am quite clear in my mind. She died of syncope due to heart disease. - The Coroner: Would this sense of choking by a symptom of heart disease? - Witness: Quite. - The Coroner: One of the witnesses, an imbecile stated that deceased put her fingers down her throat. - Witness: She might not know what it was. She was sitting at a meal, and it might have occurred to her that she had something in her throat. - Mr Roberts (a Juryman): Is it a fit thing to put an ordinary inmate in the imbeciles' ward? - Witness: That is a question that is coming up. At present we are rather congested on the female side. We put her in this ward in order to keep her under observation. - The Coroner: It is rather unusual. - Witness: We were not obliged to put this woman in the ward, but she was not so well able to take care of herself in the infirm wards as some of the old women. We did not want her to keep her bed, or she would have become bed-ridden. When asked if she would like to go down to the imbecile ward she said she would. - The Coroner: From the point of view of hospital regulations and treatment, I suppose it would not be altogether desirable to send persons into an imbecile ward unless they are proved to be imbeciles? - Witness: Oh, yes. We could keep them in the imbecile ward under treatment. - The Coroner: Is that the practice? - Witness: Yes. If it is notified to the doctor that there is some suspicion as to a patient's mind, he would put her in the imbecile ward for observation. - The Coroner: That was the case here? - Witness: Yes. We had reason to suppose so. It was started by her friends who made a suggestion that she was out of her mind. - The Coroner: And you sent her to the female imbecile ward until you could make up your mind on the point? - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner: Without explanation it strikes one as peculiar to find a person who is not an imbecile in an imbecile ward. - Mr Booker: The attendants there would be more capable of deciding than the nurses in the other wards? - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner: Where did you conduct your post mortem? - Witness: In the Workhouse Mortuary. - The Coroner: Was there sufficient convenience there? - Witness: Yes; everything except instruments, which I provide. - The Coroner: You have nothing to complain of? - Witness: No. - The Coroner: The reason I ask is because I debated in my mind whether I should not order the removal of the body to the public mortuary. - Witness: If I were asked, as a matter of preference, I should prefer the Union Mortuary. - The Jury returned a verdict that Death was due to Syncope.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 August 1904
TORQUAY - Child Killed At Upton. Inquest. - At Upton Parish Room on Wednesday morning, the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquest on the body of a child, WILLIAM KELLY, age 2 years, the son of MR and MRS KELLY, residing at 4 Westbourne Crescent, Upton, who was run over by a Corporation dust cart on the preceding afternoon. - FLORENCE KELLY, the mother, stated that she had left the child with her mother, residing at 177 Lymington Road, while she went to her laundry work. There was no one at her own house to take charge of the child. She took it there at eight o'clock in the morning and did not see it again until about eleven o'clock, when she was fetched and went to the Hospital. - William George Bamsey, butcher, living at 187 Lymington Road, stated that he was in his shop when he heard the cart pass, and on looking out, saw the child under the wheels. The cart was loaded with refuse. The driver stopped the cart directly he felt the child was under the wheels, but the vehicle had passed over the child. There was no one else in sight, and he (witness) rushed out and with the help of the driver, picked up the child. It was dead, but a milk cart which passed a few minutes later took it to the hospital. - John Evans, the driver of the cart, in the employ of the Corporation, said he was going up the Lymington Road to the Refuse Destructor with a full cart. On turning the corner he had to walk on the near side of the cart. His horse was walking. He heard the cart bump and the child scream. He ran around to the offside of the cart, and picked the child up. He had been unable to see it before. It was dead when he picked it up. The accident took place about thirty or forty yards from the child's grandmother's house. - Dr Arnold, surgeon, attached to the Hospital, said he was called to the Hospital and saw the dead child. He examined it and found an extensive wound at the back of the head. It had bled considerably and the skull was fractured. Death must have been instantaneous. - Edith Brooking, aged 14, aunt to the child, said her younger sister had taken the child out with her, but they returned, and she (witness) took the baby inside the garden and shut the gate. It had opened the gate and wandered up the road. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated the driver of the refuse cart from all blame.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 August 1904
TORQUAY - Inquest. - At the Belgrave Hotel yesterday afternoon, the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquest on the body of JACQUETTA MIDDLETON ELLICOMB, aged 80 years, of 8 Abbey Crescent, who died on the previous day. It was stated by Mrs Crees, domestic servant, that deceased tripped in her dress and fell over three stairs and sustained an abrasion on her knee. Dr Stabb who had attended MISS ELLICOMB, stated that the injury to the knee had resulted in blood poisoning from which she died. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

SOMERSET - An Exeter Man Killed. Blown To Pieces In A Railway tunnel. - A young man named ROBERT SMITH, aged 22, whose home is at Exeter, has been killed in the tunnel which is being constructed between Somerton and Langport in connection with the Great Western Railway between Castle Cary and Langport. SMITH was one of four men working at the top heading of the tunnel, and they had laid three charges of dynamite for blasting purposes. The men ignited the fuses and retired some distance to await the discharge of the explosive. Hearing two of the charges explode, they waited nearly half an hour in the expectation of hearing the report of the third charge. As, however, there was no report, they came to the conclusion that two of the charges had exploded simultaneously, giving a single report. The man in charge entered the heading, and finding everything apparently all right, returned and gave orders for the resumption of work. SMITH then entered and immediately afterwards the charge exploded, blowing him to pieces. The unfortunate man was to have been married on Sunday. An Inquest was held on Monday afternoon.

EXETER - The Exeter Drowning Case. - An Inquest was held at Countess Weir on Monday on ELIZABETH MARY VOWLER, aged 50, wife of MR B. J. VOWLER, of Pinhoe Road, Exeter, who was found drowned in the Exe on Sunday. MR VOWLER said he missed his wife from home at 7.30 on Sunday morning. She left no communication. She had been suffering from depression and insomnia since Christmas, when she lost her youngest child. She had been medically attended. - Wm. Baker, brass finisher, of Exminster, said he found the body of deceased in the river just below the Countess Weir about 3.20 on Sunday. Dr Miller said the body presented the usual appearance of death from drowning. In his opinion deceased had been dead about two hours when taken out of the water. The Jury found that "Deceased committed Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

SIDMOUTH - Fatal Motor Accident. - An Inquest was held at Sidmouth on Monday, on BENJAMIN CHRISTIAN, bank manager at St. Ives, Hunts, who died from injuries received while riding on his motor bicycle on Sunday, through colliding with a milk cart. A witness stated that deceased turned the corner at which the accident occurred at the rate of sixteen or seventeen miles an hour. Medical and other evidence, however, disputed the theory that he was going at more than ordinary pace. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 August 1904
TORQUAY - Fatality On H.M.S. Drake. - On Friday last at the Upton Parish Room the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquest on the body of SAMUEL SMITH, aged 33 years, ship's corporal of H.M.S. Drake, who died in the Torbay Hospital on the previous day. - EMMELINE SMITH, Portsmouth, identified the body as that of her husband, and said she saw him last at Teddington, where he stayed four days. He was in good health then, but subsequently he wrote to her that he had sustained a slight accident. - Henry Wren, chief stoker, H.M.S. Drake, stated that it was SMITH'S duty to see the boys have a bath every week. On August 13th he came on deck from the bath and was running fairly fast along the deck, when someone called him. He turned his head and so could not see where he was going. He collided with an iron stanchion and putting his hand to his side said that he had hurt himself. He, however, walked unaided forward. - George Cooke, chief stoker, H.M.S. Drake, said he was on deck with the last witness when the accident happened. he corroborated the evidence given by Wren. - James Arthur Thompson, surgeon on board H.M.S. Drake said that about 5.30 on Saturday last he was called to the sick bay and found SMITH there. He examined him and found no signs of any injury, but treated him for shock. He remained in bed on Sunday and Monday and seemed better, but on Tuesday morning at 4 o'clock he was called to the sick bay and found deceased worse. He gave him a stimulant and left someone to watch him. About 9.30 a.m. he came ashore and arranged for deceased to be taken to the Hospital as he considered his condition serious. - Dr Hugh Kirnell Lacey, House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he admitted the deceased at 10.15 a.m. on Tuesday and found no signs of physical injury. He saw him several times during the day, but could not see any external injuries He complained of pain, and died at midday on Wednesday. He had made a post mortem examination, and found an internal rupture. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - The funeral took place at 4.30 p.m. and was conducted with full naval honours. The band of the Drake attended and the service was conducted by the Chaplain of the warship.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 2 September 1904
TOTNES - Sudden Death At Totnes. A Visitor To Torquay Regatta. - On Monday at the Totnes Guildhall, the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of RICHARD DOWN, of Lower Street, Plymouth. George Yeoman, general dealer, of Totnes, said he saw the deceased come off the steamer from Dartmouth about three o'clock Saturday when he appeared sober and in his usual health. - After John English, of the Town Arms, and William Seaford, the Town Council foreman, had given evidence to the effect that deceased appeared drunk, Ellen Cook, deceased's daughter, said she last saw deceased, who was a widower, on Sunday week, before he went to the Torquay and Dartmouth regattas. He then appeared in his usual health, but complained of shortness of breath. He was in poor circumstances and she did not think he could have had much food lately. - P.C. Disney said he saw deceased in a hopeless condition outside the Post-office. He appeared to be under the influence of drink, and in reply to witness said, "Drive away the youngsters." He rambled up the street to the Devon and Cornwall Bank where witness and P.C. Stoneman took charge of him to convey him to the police station, before reaching which he collapsed and they carried him to the office, where he died immediately. - P.C. Stoneman said deceased had £1 2s. 9 ½d. on him. - Mrs Cook said deceased had applied to the Plymouth Guardians, who refused out-relief, but offered a house order, which he declined. - Dr H. S. Johnson, who said the man was dead when he reached the police station, stated that the cause of death was syncope. The body was poorly nourished. The heart was small, and the liver twice the ordinary size, while the heart, lungs and other organs were so diseased that it was a wonder that he lived so long. There was no sign of drink in his stomach. - The Coroner said the police acted perfectly correct in this matter, and a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned. The Jury and witnesses gave their fees to Mrs Cook.

SHALDON - At the Inquest at Shaldon on MRS WARR, who died as the result of a boating accident on the River Teign, on Saturday, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the crew of the steamer being exonerated.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 September 1904
TORQUAY - On Saturday last, MR HENRY BUTLER CLARKE, an Oxford Don, and a well known professor of languages, committed suicide in a dramatic manner by shooting himself in a public conveyance at Babbacombe. Deceased had been suffering from insomnia, due to overwork in connection with a book he was writing on Spanish History, and he had come to Torquay on a visit to his father, the REV. H. CLARKE, of The Cote, to recuperate. But his mind evidently became suddenly deranged and he took his life. At the Inquest the Jury returned a verdict of Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane.
Suicide In A Cab. Oxford Don Shoots Himself At Babbacombe. The Inquest. - On Saturday last considerable excitement was created in Torquay about midday by the report that a gentleman had shot himself in a public conveyance near Babbacombe, and that the body had been conveyed first to the Police Station and then to the Public Mortuary at the rear of the Torbay Hospital. The report proved only too true. Inquiries revealed the fact that deceased was MR HENRY BUTLER CLARKE, Fellow of St. John's College, Oxford, a well known professor of languages, and son of the REV. HENRY CLARKE, of The Cote, near Meadfoot. About 10 o'clock he hired a cab from a man named Hurd at Meadfoot Cross, was driven to the shop of Mr Mountstephen, gunsmith, of Fleet Street, where he purchased a double-barrelled gun and 50 cartridges, and on re-entering the cab with his purchasers instructed the driver to take him to Wall's Hill in order that he might try the qualities of the gun. Between St. Matthias' Church and Bishopstowe, and whilst one of the motor 'buses was passing the carriage, MR CLARKE must have shot himself, taking advantage of the passing motor 'bus to drown the sound of the gun. On arrival at the lane which leads to Wall's Hill, the driver found his fare in one corner of the conveyance, apparently dead, with blood flowing from a wound in his mouth. The body was conveyed to the Police Station, where, on the opposite side of the seat on which deceased had sat in the cab, was found a slip of paper, with the words in his handwriting, "Take me to the Police Station." - The Deputy Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock), held an Inquiry at the Upton Parish Rooms, on Monday, into the circumstances attending MR CLARKE'S death. Mr T. H. Easterbrook was Foreman of the Jury. - Mrs Leucolene Ellen Macdonald, who is now staying with her mother-in-law, Lady Macdonald at Mount Vernon, identified the body as that of her brother, HENRY BUTLER CLARKE. He was 40 years of age and a fellow of St. John's College, Oxford. He had been on a visit to his father since the 23rd of August. Witness last saw him alive on Saturday morning at 10 o'clock. He had slept late and on rising said he had had a good night. After having breakfast he looked into his father's room and said he was going into the town to get a shave; could he order anything and bring back with him. There was nothing peculiar in his manner, although he was looking ill. He had been under medical care for some little time. - Alfred John Mountstephen, son of Mr J. H. Mountstephen, gun-smith, of Fleet Street, stated that on Saturday last about 11 o'clock, deceased came to the shop and asked to see a gun as he had been offered a day's rabbit shooting. Witness asked him about what price the gun was to be, and whether it should be hammerless. Deceased said yes, and added that he wished to give about £10. Witness took a £10 10s. hammerless gun from the window and deceased examined the gun, trying both triggers. Witness advised him not to let down both triggers with the gun empty as he might injure it. MR CLARKE asked if the barrels were English made, and witness pointed to the Birmingham stamp. Upon this deceased said he would take the gun and asked for 50 cartridges. Witness took out a package of Empire cartridges, but MR CLARKE said he would prefer E.C. cartridges. When witness was about to tie them up in a parcel deceased took out a handful and placed in his pocket. He then took out two £5 Bank of England notes and some silver and asked witness if there would be any discount. Witness told him he should have the gun for £10 5s., which sum was paid and witness gave a receipt. Deceased did not appear in any way strange in his manner, but treated the matter in a business-like way. - Henry Hurd, cabman in the employ of Mr Christopher Inch, said deceased engaged him at Meadfoot Cross about 10.40 to drive to Mr Mountstephen's shop. He said "Being a trifle damp you might close the carriage." After making his purchase the gun was sent out from the shop and placed in the carriage and deceased resumed his seat a few moments afterwards and told witness to take him to Walls Hill where they do the firing. Between St. Matthias' Church and Bishopstowe a motor 'bus came along and as witness's horse did not care about these vehicles, he (witness) had to pay particular attention to his driving. As the motor 'bus passed he heard a slight noise, but did not attribute it to deceased. A little further on, at the bottom of the road leading to Wall's Hill, witness drew up, dismounted and went to the door of the cab with the intention of assisting his fare to alight. He found the windows closed, but on opening them saw blood flowing on the floor of the cab and deceased seated in the corner with a wound in his head. Witness went off for the nearest doctor and reported the case at the Babbacombe police constable's house. being unable to find a doctor he drove direct to the Torquay Police Station. He did not notice any paper in the cab. The man appeared to be quite dead. - P.C. Webb said deceased was brought to the Police Station at 11.25. He was seated in one corner of the cab and blood was oozing from his mouth. The gun was just inside the door, the muzzle almost touching his head. His right shoe was off. A paper containing the following words was pinned on the cushion in front of deceased, "Take me to the Police Station." This was written in ink. The gun had been loaded in both barrels but only the right barrel had been discharged. There were two full cartridges in his pocket and also some letters of a private nature. - Mr H. Lacey, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said the body of deceased was brought to the Hospital at 11.30. There was a wound in the roof of the mouth and another behind the left ear. There was no scorch or indication as if the gun had been placed in the mouth. The body was still warm. - Recalled, Mr Mountstephen said deceased did not write anything in his shop. - P.C. Webb said there was no pen in deceased's possession. - Dr Hamilton Cumming said he had been attending deceased for the past fortnight. He was overworked and was suffering from nervous exhaustion. He slept badly, ate badly, and was restless. The last time witness saw him was on Wednesday 6th. He was depressed and did not take that pleasure in life or of going out into society which he had done. He was in that condition when he would be prone to sudden impulse. On Wednesday deceased sent him a letter asking him for his account. Deceased was engaged in writing a book and asked witness when he would be able to return to the South of France and continue his work. Witness replied that he would be able to go on with it shortly, but he must be very careful to do only a bit at a time. Deceased replied "I shall be able to take plenty of exercise because when I get back quail shooting will have begun." When he saw deceased the previous Wednesday the idea of taking his life was certainly not in his mind. - Mr Macdonald, deceased's brother-in-law, said he was the cleverest man he had ever met in his life. He was a great linguist and lecturer and translator of Spanish at Oxford. He was engaged on a book on some Spanish subject for the University, and he was living just on the borders of Spain up to the time he came to Torquay. Some little time ago he broke down and was in a terrible way because he was unable to go back and finish his work. He suffered greatly from insomnia and complained of terrible nightmares. He was a very reticent individual and the one object of his life seemed to be to save his father from any possible suffering or worry. Witness walked out with him on two occasions on the Friday previous to his death. He then appeared to be very worried at the thought that he was unable to finish his literary work. He was a man who never courted publicity, although he was so learned. Everything had been arranged as to his return to France and he (witness) could not understand deceased taking his life in such a public way. He would lecture in the most learned fashion on a variety of subjects and yet would hear people talking the most awful twaddle without interfering. Deceased was a man he respected more than anyone he knew in the world. - The Coroner said the case was a very sad one and he felt that the sympathy of the Court would go out to the relatives in their bereavement. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane," and passed a vote of deepest sympathy with the relatives. - MR HENRY BUTLER CLARKE was fellow of St. John's College, Oxford, late Taylorian, teacher of Spanish in the University of Oxford, corresponding member of the Madrid Academy and kindred societies, and author of several works on Spanish literature. At the time of his death he was engage don a book on modern Spanish history. - The funeral took place at the cemetery on Tuesday and was very quietly conducted. Only relatives with representatives of St. John's College attended, and by request there were no flowers. The service was conducted by the Rev. W. H. Hutton of Burford, Oxfordshire, an old college friend of deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 September 1904
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Ellacombe. Inquest. - On Monday at the Upton Parish Room the Deputy County Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ANNIE KATE ASH, 37, who resided at 54 Victoria road, Ellacombe. - Mr W. J. Wood was elected Foreman of the Jury. - WILLIAM ASH, fishmonger's porter, stated that on Monday evening he returned home about 10.30 and was mounting the stairs to go to bed. He was carrying a baby and on hearing it cry, his wife ran up stairs to him to see what was the matter. When she reached him she fell into his arms fainting. He then sent for a doctor. - Mrs Wheeler stated that she resided in the same house as deceased, and said she was called on the previous evening to see her, as she seemed ill. She also stayed with her until the doctor arrived. - Doctor Wiggin stated that he attended deceased during her lifetime and knew her to have heart disease, but had not seen her for a year. He was called on the previous evening and on reaching the house found her dead. He made a post mortem examination and found all her organs healthy, except the heart, which was very much diseased. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - The Fatal Van Accident. Inquest. - Nineteen Hours Alive With A Broken Neck. - At the Upton Parish Rooms on Friday evening, the Deputy Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM BUCKPITT, 45, cabman in the employ of Mr John Grist, livery stable keeper, who met his death on the afternoon of September 14th, through being thrown from a van in Upton Church Hill. Mr R. Hobson was elected Foreman of the Jury. - MRS HELEN BUCKPITT, the widow, gave evidence of identification, and stated that she saw her husband at the Torbay Hospital on the evening of the accident. He was quite conscious and asked her if the horse which he was driving was stopped after bolting. She told him the animal was killed. She was also present at the Hospital on the following morning when her husband died. He was then unconscious. - Alexander G. Beer, carter, stated that on the afternoon of the 14th he was driving a three-wheeled kit down Upton Church Hill. It was loaded with boxes of mineral waters. Witness was driving on the left-hand side of the road, almost in the gutter, and saw the horse and van, driven by deceased, close behind him. The van overtook him, and in passing one of its front wheels became entangled in one of the wheels of his kit. The horse appeared to swerve with the result that the kit partially overturned and one of the cases of mineral waters was scattered under the horse's feet. this caused the animal to become restive and after kicking out, it started off down the hill. Witness left his kit and sprang at the horse's head. He held on for some moments but was eventually thrown into the gutter. On recovering himself he saw that deceased was being dragged along under the front wheel of the van. Near Upton School gate he extricated himself and after a lapse of a few seconds he was picked up in an unconscious condition and carried to the Hospital. Witness's opinion was that the deceased could not see him from the position in which he was sitting in the covered van. If BUCKPITT had pulled up immediately the wheels of the two vehicles became interlocked the accident would have been averted. The rattle and smashing of the bottles caused the horse to bolt. - Thomas Blackhall, coachman, said he witnessed the accident from the seat of his carriage whilst it was standing outside the Hospital. The kit passed him with the van close behind it. BUCKPITT'S horse appeared to stumble and deceased endeavoured to pull it up. Whilst so doing it caught one of its feet in the kit, and knocked off one of the boxes of mineral waters. The horse at once became restive and swerving towards the kit, its hind feet became entangled in it. The animal dashed off down the hill and the kit, which had become mixed up with the van, was carried along with it. Beer went to the horse's head, but could not hold it long Near Upton Church BUCKPITT seemed to dive out of the van. He was either forced out by the luggage which it contained falling forward, or he jumped out, pitching on his head in the gutter. It was a pure accident. Both the driver of the kit and deceased were on their right side, and but for the horse tripping and the mineral waters being overturned, there would have been no accident, as BUCKPITT had almost pulled up to allow Beer to free his barrow. - John Ambrose Cullum, decorator, said he picked deceased up, and helped to take him to the Hospital. Mr H. Lacey, house surgeon at the Hospital, stated that when deceased was admitted to the hospital, he was quite unconscious. His neck was broken, his head badly injured, and there were cuts all over his body. He lived until 10 o'clock the following morning - nearly 19 hours - and was quite conscious until within an hour and a half of his death. - The Deputy Coroner asked if it was not remarkable for a man to live so long with a broken neck. - Mr Lacey said that it all depended upon where the neck was broken. If close to the skull death was instantaneous, but if lower down a man might live for a considerable time. - Mr J. Grist said deceased was a very quiet man and bore an extremely good character. The horse he was driving was a general favourite and there was a brake on the van. The Deputy Coroner said the case was a very sad one and there would be great sympathy with the widow and children. - The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, and expressed their sympathy with MRS BUCKPITT and her children and gave her their fees.

TEIGNMOUTH - Fatal Fight At Shaldon. Disgraceful Scenes At The Regatta. Torquay Witnesses. - The adjourned Inquiry relative to the death of SID IDER, a travelling hawker, said to be a native of Torquay, was held on Monday, at the Teignmouth Town Hall. Deceased, it will be remembered, attended the Shaldon Regatta, where he participated in a brawl. The next morning he was found dead in bed at his lodgings. The Inquiry had been adjourned so that more satisfactory evidence could be obtained. The hall was again crowded. - Mr G. F. Kellock, the Deputy County Coroner, having reviewed the evidence given at the opening of the Inquiry, said he did not propose to recall any of the former witnesses until they had heard fresh evidence. - William Alford, fish hawker, of Torquay, said he was at Shaldon Regatta on Friday, September 9th. He was standing by a pea stall, when George Silmon fell against it. The owner, a man named Curry, invited Silmon to fight. While the argument was going on a man named Blackmore took off his coat and knocked Silmon down. - The Coroner: You are quite sure? - Witness: Yes; I am speaking on oath. He saw another man, whom he could no swear to, rush at the deceased and strike him. A fight began, and a lot of people gathered around. Witness was unable to see further events. He later saw deceased, who had blood coming out of his left eye. The other man was taken towards the Wesleyan Chapel. Deceased's clothes were covered in dust. - The Coroner: You wouldn't know this man if you saw him again? - No. - Witness further alleged that he heard nothing which led to the blow. It was not really safe to say anything that evening. - It was like that, was it? - It was a bit hot while it lasted. - John Bassett, another fish-hawker, of Torquay, said he was also at Shaldon on the 9th, when he saw Silmon fall against a pea-stall and upset it. He next saw a man (the witness pointed to Blackmore) go for Silmon and also Curry. The owner of the pea-stall challenged Silmon to fight. Another man went for deceased and knocked him down. - The Coroner: would you know the other man? - No. - Continuing, witness said the man and deceased had a fight. He, however, did not see the fight, owing to the crowd that had assembled. - The Coroner: Are you quite sure you could not recognise the man who knocked deceased down? - Quite sure, sir. - Frederick Wills, Grocers' assistant, of Shaldon, said he saw two men fighting, one of whom was deceased, who was taken away by a constable, while Shapter was taken away by some friends. - P.C. Hammett, of Bishopsteignton, said he saw Shapter and deceased holding each other by the collars of their coats. He stopped them fighting and Shapter went away. He followed deceased, who wanted to go back and fight again. Witness, however, prevented him doing so. Witness saw no blows struck, but he noticed deceased had a mark on the left eye. - Dr W. K. Bell, of Shaldon, said when he saw deceased he had been dead a short time. With Dr Hayward he had made a post mortem examination. He found a superficial cut on the left upper eyelid. After having removed the vault of the skull he found a large blood clot about three inches long and two inches broad situated in the temple. On the inner plate of the skull corresponding to about the centre of the blood clot there was a fracture of the bone. Death was due to haemorrhage, the result of internal fracture of the left side of the skull. There was no corresponding external mark, but it was possible for a blow to internally fracture the skull without leaving any external mark. The fracture might have been caused by a blow from the fist, or it might have been the result of a fall. - Dr A. E. Hayward corroborated. The fracture of the inner plate of the skull caused a rupture of the blood vessel, which resulted in death. - John Shapter was next called and cautioned by the Coroner. He elected to be sworn. He stated that he was a boatman and lived in French Street, Teignmouth. He was at Shaldon Regatta, and was by the pea stall waiting to be served. Whilst he was there the stall was smashed in. He told the man who did it that he ought to be ashamed of himself. He (witness) was then knocked against a chip potato van. He turned round to see who had pushed him and he noticed a man, whom he believed was the deceased, in a fighting attitude. He went towards this man, but was pulled back. Stepping back he fell over something, and by the time he had got up the police had arrived. - Witness, in reply to the Coroner, called Matthew Robert Howard, a fitter, of Stokeinteignhead. Howard stated that he saw nothing of the fight. But just afterwards he saw Shapter with his hat off and blood running down his nose He caught hold of Shapter and they both fell. - Henry Robert Ashton, a carrier, also called by Shapter, stated that he saw IDER in a fighting attitude. Shapter was trying to get hold of him, but was pulled back. He saw no blows struck, in fact there were no chance of any as there were too many people between the two men. - The Coroner, in summing up, commented on the manner in which the evidence had to be dragged from most of the witnesses, whom, he was sorry to say, had given anything they had to say most stubbornly. The Jury returned a verdict that deceased died from injuries received at Shaldon Regatta, but there was no evidence to show how the injuries were received. A rider added, "Some of the evidence was most unsatisfactorily given."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 September 1904
PAIGNTON - The Recent Boating Fatality. Inquest At Paignton. Disregarded Advice. - The Inquest on the bodies of the young fishermen, MEMERY and CRIDLAND, who were drowned with JAMES MCLEAN in the boating accident in Torbay on the evening of the 18th September were held at Paignton on Saturday evening by the Deputy County Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock). - GEORGE MEMERY, fisherman, Brixham, identified by his clothing his son, GEORGE, aged 16. Deceased was cook on board the trawler, Annie. - George Holland, fisherman, Brixham, stated that after dinner on the Sunday he lent MCLEAN and CRIDLAND his boat Ida for an hour. she was provided with mizzen, mainsail and jib, and two paddles. He had since seen the wrecked boat on Paignton beach. The sea was not so bad during the early part of Sunday afternoon, but it came on worse. When the deceased hired the boat he told them not to go outside the breakwater, and were not to keep her out more than an hour. He made no charge, but the youths gave him 2s. They said nothing about going to Torquay. He did not know they had gone there until late in the afternoon, when he said they would never come back in the boat. - A Juryman remarked to witness that, if it was not proper weather for deceased to go outside the breakwater, the weather must have been such that he ought not to have allowed the boat to go out at all. Why did he ask deceased not to go outside the breakwater? - Witness: Because they were to be back again in an hour. - John T. Sheppard, coastguardsman, Torquay, said on the previous Sunday evening, he was called by yachtsmen and fishermen to try and stop the three young men from returning to Brixham in the boat. CRIDLAND was in the boat sailing about the mouth of the harbour, waiting for MCLEAN and MEMERY. The latter came running down the pier and called to CRIDLAND to bring the boat alongside. Witness said it was a wrong thing for them to venture across the bay in such a rough sea and strong wind. He made MCLEAN and MEMERY give him their names. MCLEAN said he had brought the boat across and intended taking her back. They were very defiant and got into the boat and shoved off at twenty minutes to seven. After they had left witness telephoned to Paignton and Brixham coastguard stations, requesting the coastguardmen on duty to look out for the boat. The deceased steered W.S.W. towards Paignton, and the last time he saw the boat before darkness set in she was off Paignton Pavilion Pier, in rough and breaking seas. The wind was south-east and squally, with a force of from five to seven knots. - The Foreman (Mr H. Morris): Were either of the young men under the influence of drink? - No; they were quite sober, and seemed to be able to manage the boat. - A Juryman: Would you have been exceeding your duty in preventing the young men from going away in the boat? - I had no authority to prevent them. - Asked if the deceased were steering for Paignton harbour, witness said they were steering as close to the wind as they could to fetch Brixham, that being the proper course. - The Coroner: Did anyone on Haldon Pier offer in your hearing to take charge of the boat? - Samuel tucker volunteered to do so and to take the boat over to Brixham for them when the weather had moderated. He made the offer to prevent them from going. - Were similar remarks advising them not to go made by other persons on the pier? - Yes; there were others besides myself who persuaded them not to go. - William H. Patterson, Paignton, said the body of MEMERY was first seen floating in the sea from Roundham Head cliff and the ten men who volunteered went out in a boat and brought it into the harbour. - Albert S. J. Lock, smack owner, Brixham, stated that EDWARD CRIDLAND, was his apprentice and belonged to Exeter, and was about 18 years of age. He took him from the Workhouse. Deceased on Sunday did not say where he was going. If he had expressed his intention of going to Torquay he would not have let him go. Deceased had been in the same boat before and got into a scrape. He was a chum of MEMERY'S. The boat was safe in proper weather. On the Sunday afternoon the wind and sea would be worse at Torquay than at Brixham, as the latter place was sheltered by Berry Head and the breakwater. - George Holland repeated his evidence, and added that the boat was 17 feet long and contained 8 cwt. of ballast, an anchor, anchor rope, fishing gear and his oilskin and sou'-wester. - John T. Sheppard, coastguardsman, said he considered the boat seaworthy. - Joseph W. Pearce, licensed boatman, Paignton, proved recovering the body of deceased that morning at Savage Hole, off Roundham Head. - The Coroner, reviewing the evidence, said the coastguardman Sheppard had given a very fair description of the whole occurrence. These young men were strongly persuaded not to attempt the return journey. In spite of that, however, they went and the result was that they were drowned. A more reckless act could never have been thought of. There was the coastguardman, with a life-long experience, specially engaged to look after the coast and to warn people of danger, and his remarks were cast aside and disregarded by these reckless boys. The man Tucker also offered to take charge of the boat for them. The youths chose to brave the storm and did so at the cost of their lives. It was a very sad story and it ought to act as a warning to the public how dangerous it was to go to sea in a small boat in rough weather, especially after being warned by such an experienced man as the coastguard. To all appearances deceased were drowned by the foundering of the boat, and their death was due to misadventure. - After some consultation, the Foreman announced the verdict of the Jury as "Death by Misadventure," and added that they recommended that for the public safety a light should be placed at the entrance to Paignton harbour, as it was thought that the deceased were steering for the harbour when they found themselves in difficulties. The Jury also thought there should be some law allowing coastguardmen to prevent men from going to sea under such circumstances. - The Coroner suggested that would be interfering with the liberty of the subject. The Foreman thought it would be giving no more authority than a man should use in preventing another from cutting his throat by taking the knife from him, inasmuch as in this case the young men were courting death. With regard to the suggestion that a light should be fixed at the harbour, it was stated that there was formerly a gas lamp there, but the light was discontinued because the fishermen and boatmen refused to bear the expense, considering it was quite sufficient for them to pay the harbour dues. It was also said that a similar recommendation was made at an Inquest a few years since, but never adopted. - The Coroner promised to convey the recommendation to the harbour Company, and spoke in highly commendatory terms of the conduct of the ten men who volunteered to go out in a boat and recover the body of MEMERY. The Jury gave their fees to MEMERY'S father, with an expression of deep sympathy.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 October 1904
TORQUAY - Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room last evening the Deputy Coroner (Mr G. F Kellock) held an Inquest on the body of MARIA SCOURCE, 56, wife of WILLIAM SCOURCE, fish hawker, who died suddenly on Tuesday. The husband stated that he came home about 3 p.m. and found his wife lying dead in the kitchen. She had suffered from heart disease and asthma. Dr Thistle said he had attended deceased at intervals for heart disease, to which he attributed death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 November 1904
TORQUAY - Sudden Death. - An Inquest was held at the Upton Parish Rooms, Torquay, on Tuesday, on the body of ELIZABETH SMITH, a widow. of 7 Queen Street. The evidence showed that she visited Mrs Southwood at 52 Abbey Road, on Monday night, about six o'clock, and had only just entered the house, when she cried out, "Oh my head," and instantly fell dead. Dr Cook stated that death was due to apoplexy, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 November 1904
TORQUAY - Cab Proprietor's Sudden Death. - At the Upton Parish Room on Wednesday morning, the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquest on the body of MATTHEW WILLIAM BURNELL LUSCOMBE, aged 51, cab proprietor, of No. 1 Gloucester Place, Rock Road, who died suddenly on Tuesday. WILLIAM JOHN LUSCOMBE, son of deceased, gave evidence of identification. He last saw his father alive on Friday last, when he saw him on his cab in Fleet street, and passed the time of day with him. His father enjoyed good health. Mrs Weeks, widow, of 6 St. Edmund's Terrace, said she had been staying with deceased and his wife. Deceased when he came home on Monday night, was troubled with a cough, but was in good spirits. About 8.30 on Tuesday morning, witness was called by MRS LUSCOMBE, and on going into the bedroom, found that MR LUSCOMBE was quite dead. He appeared to have died in his sleep. Dr thistle said the cause of death was apoplexy. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 2 December 1904
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Vane Hill. Coroner's Inquest. - An Inquiry was held on Monday in the Upton Parish Room, by the County Coroner, (Mr S. Hacker) touching the death of MARY ANN INCH, aged 66 years, wife of a cab proprietor residing at Vane Hill Road. - CHRISTOPHER INCH, husband of the deceased, said that his wife, who was his fourth, had always enjoyed good health. On Friday night she went to bed, and soon after he followed her and found her lying on the bed. She had been drinking, and was quite helpless. He left her to recover and got into bed. His wife had been in the habit of taking a glass or two of whisky for some years. He got up in the morning and found her in exactly the same position. He went downstairs and brought her up a cup of tea but was unable to get any answers to his remarks. He then sent for Dr Powell and called in a neighbour. - Elizabeth Landen, living at 8 St. Mark's Place, said she saw deceased on Friday afternoon and the latter was a little the worse for drink. She was called in on Saturday morning by MR INCH and found his wife lying across the bed. She was quite dead. - Dr Powell stated that he made a post mortem examination of deceased and found that several of the internal organs were diseased, but there was no evidence of any recent illness. The heart was very much diseased and death was due to syncope resulting from excessive use of alcohol. There was no food in the stomach. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 January 1905
TORQUAY - Visitor's Fatal Fall. - At the Avenue Hotel on Wednesday evening, the Deputy County Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock) held an Inquiry respecting the death of MISS ELIZABETH JANE OSWALD, 74, who died on the previous day at 33 Belgrave Road. Catherine Rose Hibbert Ware, deceased's cousin, said MISS OSWALD was on a visit to Torquay from Edinburgh. On the 1st inst. about 3.15 .m., deceased fell down the stairs, and was subsequently attended by Dr Thistle. Maud Mary Knight said she was with deceased up to the time of her death, but she made no reference to the cause of the accident. Dr Thistle said MISS OSWALD fractured her right thigh bone which he set, and she went on well for a week. Then bronchitis and other complications set in, and she gradually lost strength, and died of heart failure accelerated by shock. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 February 1905
TORQUAY - Two Sudden Deaths. Inquests. - At the Upton Parish Room on Wednesday evening, the Deputy County Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock), held two Inquests on the bodies of persons who died suddenly on Monday. - The first was that of ROSA EMMA NOBLE, 27, cook, of Elfordleigh, Belgrave Crescent. GEORGE NOBLE, an attendant at the Western Counties Asylum, Starcross, gave evidence of identification. Deceased was his sister, but he had not seen her for a long time and knew nothing respecting her death. Albert Edward Franks, boots at Elfordleigh, said he last saw MISS NOBLE alive about 4.30 on Monday afternoon. S he was then engaged on her duties as cook and appeared to him to be in her usual health. As she did not appear at tea with the rest of the servants, witness and two of the domestics went in search of her, and found her lying apparently dead, on the floor of the lavatory. With assistance witness carried deceased to her bedroom and then fetched Dr Arnold. MISS NOBLE had had a slight cough but had not had medical attendance. - Dr Arnold said he was called by the last witness, and on arrival at Elfordleigh he found deceased lying n a bed quite dead. There were no marks of violence, but a post mortem examination revealed an effusion of blood covering the right half of the brain. The case was one of apoplexy, and was uncommon in one of deceased's age. It was possible if she had been discovered at once that she might have recovered. - The mother was called and said her daughter had never been subject to fits or giddiness. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

The second case was that of ELIZABETH JANE HAMMETT, 54, wife of PETER HAMMETT, cab driver of 12 Park Street. The husband stated that he left his wife at one p.m. on Monday after dining with her. He returned home at 7.15 and found her sitting in her chair in the kitchen quite dead. He immediately summoned a doctor. Mr A. E. Carver, surgeon, stated that he was fetched by the last witness and on arrival at the house found MRS HAMMETT sitting in a chair. She was dead. A post mortem examination revealed the fact that the heart was considerably enlarged and the valves diseased. Death was due to heart disease of long standing. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 24 February 1905
BRIXHAM - Inquest At Market Hall. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr G. F. Kellock, held an Inquest on the body of ETHEL FURZE, aged 2 months. The mother stated that the child had a severe cold, but gradually became worse,. She sent for a doctor, but before he arrived the child was dead. Dr Quick said he first heard of the child's illness at midnight on his arrival home. He did not go then as he had not been called a second time. When called again the child had died before his arrival. He attributed death to bronchitis. The child was well nourished and cared for. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 March 1905
TORQUAY - Sudden Death. - On Wednesday morning, a stevedore, named SAMUEL LAWRENCE, a man well-known by those who frequent the Quays, was found dead in his bed. It appears that he received a chill caused by exposure whilst in the lifeboat on Sunday. He worked up to 11 .m. on Tuesday evening and did not seem in pain. On Wednesday morning Mr Robert Peake, of Park Lane, found him dead in his bed. Drs. Graham and McGachen were immediately sent for and pronounced life extinct. LAWRENCE is a married man and the news of his death has caused great surprise among his many acquaintances. At the Inquest held at the Upton Parish Room yesterday by the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker), the Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 31 March 1905
TORQUAY - Torquay Woman's Death. Epileptic Fit And Suffocation. - At the Police Court on Wednesday evening Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JESSIE LIGHTFOOT, 33, single, of 35 Queen Street, who was found dead in bed early the same morning. - MRS MYRA LIGHTFOOT, wife of EMANUEL LIGHTFOOT, coal dealer, and mother of the deceased, said her daughter was in service when a girl. Sixteen years ago she came home suffering from epileptic fits. The fits were of frequent occurrence until recently when they decreased in number and she had only had three during the present year. On Tuesday evening deceased returned home about 9.30, had supper and went to bed. She slept alone in a room next to that occupied by witness. Nothing was heard during the night, but on entering the room witness found her daughter lying on her face and hands on the bed quite dead. Her face was buried in pillow but there were no signs of a struggle. - The Coroner remarked that it was always safer that an epileptic should have someone sleeping in the same room with her. - Dr Thistle said deceased had been a patient of his for some years. He had attended her for epilepsy, and the fits were not so frequent as they used to be. He visited Queen Street that morning at 7.30 and saw deceased's body, and he arrived at the conclusion that she had a fit, turned on her face and died of suffocation. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the doctor's evidence.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 March 1905
ST MARYCHURCH - Inquest at St. Marychurch. - The County Coroner on Tuesday, held an Inquiry in the St. Marychurch Town Hall, into the death of the infant daughter of parents named FEDRICKS. HARRY FEDRICK, of 21 Princes Street, Babbacombe, the father, gave evidence that the child was born on Sunday evening, and died on Monday at 12.30 a.m. He was alone with his wife when the child died. Dr Thomas finch said that the child, although unhealthy looking was of average size. He was of opinion that it had never thoroughly established its breathing, and that inanition of birth was the cause of death. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 May 1905
PAIGNTON - Motor Car Fatality On Paignton Road. MR WINTER-WOOD, Senr., Killed. - An extremely sad motor car accident took place on the Paignton Road on Saturday afternoon, but which MR WINTER WOOD, senr., for many years a valued contributor to the columns of the Torquay Times, met his death. It appears that the members of a Cycling Club were on the way to Kingsbridge, and had reached the bottom of the Broken Cliff Hill - better known locally as Breakneck Hill, when they observed a water cart approaching them. As they came abreast of the vehicle a motor car in which were seated MR WINTER WOOD, senr., and his son, came down the hill. MR WINTER WOOD, junr., was driving, and in order to avoid a collision with the cart, he turned the motor sharply into the hedge, and in so doing knocked over one of the cyclists, whose machine was severely damaged. The impact with the hedge threw MR WINTER WOOD, senr., from the car, and he was subsequently picked up in an unconscious state and conveyed to his home at Paignton, where a doctor, summoned by some of the cyclists, was already in attendance. Everything possible was done but without avail, and MR WINTER WOOD, who has well over 80 years of age, succumbed to his injuries. Deceased was well known as a writer of poetry and a year or two since published a book of poems. Many of his pieces have appeared from time to time in the Torquay Times under the signature of "Vanguard". Although a great age MR WINTER WOOD had a very bright and cheerful individuality, and was highly respected by a host of friends. - The deceased was born at Harestown, a typical old Devonshire residence, in the parish of Brixton, near Plymouth, which property he sold in 1868, the Manor of Hareston having been in the possession of MR WINTER WOOD'S family from the reign of Edward III. For many years the deceased gentleman lived at Hareston and entered into outdoor sports with enthusiasm, afterwards becoming Master of the Wheatland Foxhounds (Shropshire). Educated first at Plympton Grammar School, he was then placed under the care of the Rev. Samuel Rowe, vicar of Stonehouse, and finally at King's College. In 1847 he married ELIZA, youngest daughter of MR EDWARDE SOLE, solicitor, of Devonport, by whom he leaves three children, two sons and one daughter, Mrs Baird, wife of Deputy-Inspector-General W. J. Baird, M.D., R.N. As a writer of lyrics and songs, under the pseudonym of "Vanguard" (many having been set to music), he has been well known. He published a three-volume novel, "Mabeldean," and two volumes of poems. From early childhood to within practically the day of his death, he was devoted to chess, and since the establishment of Plymouth Chess Club, nearly twenty years ago, he had been its president. He was also vice-president of the Devon County Chess Association, and member of several chess clubs. For many years MR WINTER WOOD and his family resided abroad, travelling through much of the Continent, returning to Plymouth in 1887, where he lived until about year ago, spending the remainder of his days at Paignton. - The Inquest. - Mr Coroner Hacker on Tuesday held an Inquest at Paignton, touching the death of MR T. WINTER WOOD. - Deceased's son, MR E. J. WINTER WOOD, stated that while driving his father down Livermead Hill, he was unable to pass a water-cart in the middle of the road, and stopped the car against the hedge. There was a very slight jerk, although he did not personally feet it, and deceased slipped out of the car into the road on his shoulder. - A cyclist named John M. Parnell, of Ellacombe, spoke to the driver of the water-cart refusing to move or stop the water, and said the car was going very slowly. - Dr Sykes stated that deceased was brought home unconscious. The right side was absolutely paralysed. But there were no wounds or bruises on the head or body, except a very slight bruise on the shoulder. Death was due to apoplexy , how far accelerated by the accident he could not say. - The Coroner said the only point to determine was the actual cause of death, there being no question of bad driving or wrongful conduct. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 May 1905
HATHERLEIGH - North Devon Tragedy. Lady Artist Murdered. Suicide Of The Supposed Murderer In The Prison Cell. - The quiet little North Devon town of Hatherleigh has been thrown into a condition of horror-stricken excitement by a tragedy which occurred there on Monday evening. Although at first it was regarded as merely a sad fatal accident, the development which occurred on Wednesday left little room for doubt that a terrible murder had been committed and that the murderer had put an end to his life rather than face the consequences of his ghastly deed. - MISS IDA MARY BRETON, a lady artist, had been staying for the past month with her uncle, MR A. ISBELL, of Claremont Villa, and on Monday evening about 6 p.m. she left the house with the intention of going across Strawbridge to some meadows by the river for the purpose of sketching for some pictures which she was engaged in painting. She did not return when expected, and MR ISBELL, in company with Mr H. M. Veale, went in search of her. Mr Veale had seen the missing lady earlier in the evening sketching. Walking ahead of Mr Isbell, he discovered, about a hundred yards up the river bank, the body of MISS BRETON lying full length on the grass, face downwards, near the easel and picture upon which she had been engaged. He called Mr Isbell, who, when he reached the body, turned it over and came to the conclusion that life was extinct, as although the face was still warm, there was no discernable breathing or breathing of the pulse. Mr Veale returned to the town and fetched Dr Atkins, who examined the body before it was moved. At the Inquest on Tuesday he stated that he found a wound on the lower let jaw, which he considered was caused by a blow, probably an upward one from some blunt instrument. Loss of blood had caused death. Sergeant Hill also gave evidence at the Inquest, and said that he had made a careful examination of the river bank and bed. On the former he found an impression apparently caused by someone sitting down, whilst in front, on the river bed, there was the appearance of someone having jumped down and forced the gravel riverwards, with his or her heels. Traces of blood led up to the spot where the body was found. The theory adduced by the sergeant was that deceased had been attacked by a bullock. But the Jury were by no means convinced of the certainty of this, and, as no further evidence was forthcoming, they returned an open verdict as follows:- "That deceased met with injuries to the head on May 15th, that occasioned haemorrhage, from which she died, but that there was no evidence to show how such injuries were received." - In addition to the bullock theory, varying opinions were expressed on Tuesday evening as to the manner in which the unfortunate lady artist met with the terrible injuries that caused her death. Needless to say, village gossip was busy, and as rumour after rumour was circulated a feeling of dissatisfaction and uneasiness became manifest. There was talk of a man having been seen coming away from the scene of the tragedy just previous to the discovery of the body, and an ugly suspicion was aroused. - About ten o'clock on Wednesday morning Sergeant Hill accompanied by a constable, went to Hannaborough Quarries and asked JOHN WARE, aged 25, who was working there, to go with them to the police station at Hatherleigh, and answer some questions which would be put to him as to his whereabouts on the previous evening, when the body of MISS BRETON was discovered. It is stated that when accosted by the sergeant, WARE betrayed no signs of surprise or indignation, but left his work and accompanied the police without demur. At the station various questions were put to the suspected man, and the answers given were not at all satisfactory. Pending further inquiries by the police he was detained in custody and lodged in one of the cells. Somewhere about midday the constable in charge at the station went into the cell and found WARE stretched on the floor in a pool of blood which had flowed from his head. He was apparently dead. The constable immediately sent for Dr Atkins, and in the meantime tried artificial respiration, but without success. Dr Atkins arrived within a very short time, but could only pronounce life extinct. As to the direct cause of death it is impossible to state definitely, as the doctor has made no official examination as yet, and the police authorities are discreetly silent on the point. But we are able to state that deceased had knotted his pocket-handkerchief around his throat and undoubtedly attempted to strangle himself, probably effectively. But there were other injuries which would have been sufficient to cause death. In falling he had struck the floor of the cell with the back of his head, fracturing the skull and breaking a blood vessel, resulting in profuse haemorrhage. The body remains at the police station. Mr J. D. Prickman, District Coroner, was communicated with and an Inquest will be held today. - Without wishing to speak ill of WARE, it is only the bare truth to say that the dead man bears a very unsavoury reputation in the village of which he is a native. As a boy he gave considerable trouble at school, and subsequently he became something of a rolling-stone, returning to Hatherleigh at varying intervals. Up to Wednesday he had been in the village about three weeks, and was lodging with a Mrs Davis, of Buddle Lane, and in the same house as his brother, who is a pensioner from the army, and has been residing at Hatherleigh for some considerable time past. The most significant incident in his career in view of subsequent events is that he only recently completed a sentence of nine months' imprisonment for committing a criminal assault at Doddiscombeleigh. - Although only a visitor to Hatherleigh, MISS BRETON, was much liked by the visitors, who express great sorrow at her untimely death. In each of the past three years during which her uncle, Mr Isbell, has lived at Hatherleigh, she has visited him, spending most of her time in sketching, of which she was very fond. She was 33 years of age, and had been an orphan for some years, her home being at Southampton. Whilst at Hatherleigh she was accustomed to set out alone on sketching expeditions, her particular forte being the painting of animals. That she was an artist of no mean talents is shown by the two sketches, although only trifling, on which she was engaged at the time of her death, and which were found, as were also the easel and camp stool, on the bank of the river, and some distance from the spot where the body was discovered. A striking feature in one is three cleverly drawn cows standing in the marshes and drinking from the river.

TORQUAY - Paignton Woman Drowned At Torquay. Plucky Attempt At Rescue By A Railway Porter. The Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday evening, the Deputy County Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MARY ANN JAGO, 70, widow, of Primley Road, Paignton, whose body was found in the sea off the Torbay Road soon after midnight on Saturday. Mr E. Churchward was appointed Foreman of the Jury. - ALFRED JAGO, son of the deceased, and clerk at Messrs. T. L. Harding's Market Street Iron Foundry, gave evidence of identification, and stated that he last saw his mother alive at 8 o'clock on Saturday night, when she seemed to be dazed and worried. About three years ago her husband died and she took it very much to heart. Deceased had been well provided for, and there had been no quarrel or anything of that sort. When he returned to his home at Paignton, at 0.45, he found that his mother was missing, and he spent the greater part of the night searching for her. He did not acquaint the police with the fact that his mother was absent from home. In reply to the Foreman, witness said his mother's mind was not affected, although she had been told by the doctor that her heart was very weak. - Answering Mr Davis, a Juror, witness said he was out all night looking for his mother. - ANNIE JAGO, daughter, said she had observed nothing wrong with her mother's mind. She felt the loss of her husband very severely, and had certainly been failing in health of late. She last saw deceased at 8.30 on Saturday evening. She said she was going out and asked witness if she wanted anything. There had been no quarrel or disagreement. Her mother had a very comfortable home. By Inspector Jeffery: As far as she remembered her mother was fully dressed at 8.30. She could not account for the fact that when her mother's body was found, there was no underlinen. - The Coroner: Can you help in any way to clear the matter up? - Witness: No. It came as a very great surprise to us. - Charles Leach, porter at Torquay Railway Station, stated that about 12.10 a.m. on Sunday morning whilst outside the Station, he heard someone groaning. Not knowing where the sounds came from, Porter Emmett and himself walked towards the sea wall. Whilst on the way, the groaning continued. Near Abbey Crescent they arrived at the conclusion that the groans were from the water side. Pulling up for a moment or two, they saw an object in the sea, and he said to his mate: "It is a woman in the water." Witness tried to get to the sea by climbing down over the wall, but failed. He then went to the steps, and giving his comrade his coat and watch jumped into the sea and swam to the woman, who was considerably out of her depth, but was floating on the surface. He caught hold of her and brought her back some way when she grasped him, and they both sank. He managed to shake her off, and coming to the surface he grasped deceased's cape and towed her along by it some way. The garment came off. "That is all I know," said witness. "The body disappeared, and I had done all I could, in fact I was thoroughly done up." - The Deputy Coroner: Those groans you heard at the station could not have come from this woman who was so far away. - Witness: I don't know, but she was making the same noise when I swam out to her. - The Foreman: Sound would travel a long distance on the sea at that time of the night. - Frederick Emmett, porter, corroborated the previous witness's evidence. The sound they heard was more like a shriek than a groan. The night was very still and quiet, and sound would travel a long way. The sounds were those of a person in distress. He saw Leach swim out to the woman, and also saw both go under. When Leach came in to the steps he was quite exhausted, and witness had to go into the water to pull him out. On seeing that his comrade was all right, witness summoned a constable. Later on, with Mr Easterbrook, of the Central Hotel, he recovered the body, which was floating about 30 yards from the shore. - Mr E. Easterbrook, proprietor of the Central Hotel, said he overheard a conversation which the last witness was having over the telephone. He went to the sea front, and after seeing Leach, witness fetched a boat and put off, and recovered the body. - Henry John Elson, boots at Cumper's Hotel, stated that on Saturday night about 10.35 he saw deceased in the shelter on the Torbay Road. She was engaged in burning a lot of bills and papers. As the flames were getting near the woodwork he went to her and pointed out the danger. She replied "All right, master; it was lighted before I came here." - Inspector Jeffery produced the charred paper, a ring, and a portion of a wallet. - MISS JAGO said she could not identify the ring. She had never seen it before. - The Coroner: Had deceased any money troubles? - MISS JAGO: I think she had, but she was very reserved over her affairs. - The Coroner: It seems to me that this is a portion of a County Court summons. - The witness Elson sated that the deceased stamped the fire out and left the shelter about six minutes to 11, going in the direction of Torquay Station across the Terrace Gardens. Subsequently he visited the shelter, picked up some of the charred papers, the metal framework of a purse, and a ring which he preserved and handed over to a constable. - The Coroner: A very right thing to do. - In reply to Inspector Jeffery, witness said he did not think deceased was burning any of her clothing as there would have been more smoke. - Mr F. G. Goble, acting house surgeon at the hospital, said death was due to drowning. - In reply to the Coroner, Leach said from the time he first heard the groans to the time he got to the woman, was not more than 10 minutes. When he got to the woman she groaned once or twice, but did not speak. - The Coroner said the case was a very peculiar one, as there was no evidence to show how the deceased got into the water. She might have been endeavouring to throw certain papers, which she had failed to destroy by fire, into the water and fallen in. They were all very deeply sorry Leach was not successful in his very praiseworthy act, for very few men would in the dead of night jump into the sea and go to the rescue of a person. He deserved the greatest commendation, and he and the Jury regretted that Leach could not bring the woman ashore alive. He, however, had done his best. They often heard people telling about going to the rescue of a drowning person, and he had repeatedly asked them if they had ever tried it. It was a most difficult thing to accomplish. In that case the woman did a most fatal thing: she clutched and clung to her would-be rescuer, and he could do no other than go down with her. Unfortunately her cape came off, or he would probably have been able to bring her ashore. Still he did his best, and he was sorry he had no power to reward him for his plucky attempt. He, however, had the power to award 5s. to Emmett for the recovery of the body. The Jury, through the Foreman, expressed their admiration of Leach's plucky conduct, and returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 9 June 1905
TORQUAY - Torquay Stonecutter's Death. The Inquest Adjourned. - The County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry in the Upton Parish Room on Saturday, into the circumstances attending the death of a stone-cutter named JOHN BULLEY. - MRS ANN BULLEY (The widow) identified the body as that of her husband. - Dr Hugh Lacey, House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, gave evidence to the effect that on Easter Tuesday last, deceased was brought to the Hospital by some men who had picked him up in Sunbury Hill. He was found to be suffering from fractured ribs and a broken collar bone. Pneumonia supervened as a result, and he died on Saturday. In answer to questions put by him (witness), deceased had stated that he was seventy-five years of age, and that his injuries had been sustained by his accidentally falling, when alone. - The Coroner announced that the Inquest would be adjourned until the 13th inst., to enable the police to obtain further information and to arrange for the attendance of other witnesses.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 June 1905
TORQUAY - Torquay Stonecutter's Death. The Adjourned Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Church on Tuesday evening, the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) resumed the Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MR JOHN BULLEY, 75, a stone cutter. At the previous Inquiry on the 3rd inst., the evidence was to the effect that BULLEY, who was said to be a widower, called upon a Mrs Dalling at Brunswick Terrace, Tor, on the morning of Easter Monday, on which day he had left Newton Workhouse. About six o'clock BULLEY was found in Lymington Road suffering from fractured ribs and a broken collar bone. He was taken to the Torbay Hospital, where he informed Dr Lacey, the house surgeon, that he had had a fall in Sunbury Hill. During the day he went to the races and he had been walking about all the night. Pneumonia supervened and that caused his death on the 3rd. - Inspector Jeffery stated that on Tuesday evening he had been in communication with the Devonport Police, and had ascertained that BULLEY had a sister living at Devonport. She had not seen her brother for the last three years, and she could not afford to attend the Inquest. - Henry Higgins, labourer, of 4 Springfield Road, Plainmoor, stated that deceased was his uncle. When he saw BULLEY at the Hospital he was too weak to say much about the accident. All he could say was that he had had a fall. - Chas. Gillard, stone-cutter, of 6 Trumland's Terrace, St. Marychurch, said he had known deceased from boyhood. On Easter Monday he saw BULLEY at the Havelock Arms at 8.30. He did not then appear to be the worse for drink. - Frederick Thomas Annear, mason of 1 St. Giles' Terrace, Plainmoor, stated that between 5 and 5.30 in the morning of Easter Tuesday he was on his way to work, descending Thurlow Hill, where he heard someone crying "Help." On reaching the bottom of the hill he turned round and saw BULLEY lying in the rockery in Lymington Road. Witness raised up deceased, who complained that his arm was sore. Seeing some blood on BULLEY'S face, witness took off deceased's hat, and saw that he had a scar on his head. BULLEY was unable to tell him what had happened. All he said was that he was very ill. Witness assisted him to the Torbay Hospital. - Frederick William Scott, Master of Newton Workhouse, said that the last time BULLEY was admitted to the Union was on December 28th, 1903,. He was placed in the ward for old and infirm men, and availed himself of the old inmates' privilege of taking two days' leave of absence from the Workhouse every week. On April 22nd last BULLEY expressed a wish to leave the House altogether, and on the 24th his request was granted, and he left the Workhouse about 9 a.m. The man had been in very good health, considering his age. In the House he was very well behaved, but when he went out he oftener than not returned the worse for drink, in consequence of which his leave had been stopped and his allowance of tobacco reduced. BULLEY had never complained of the treatment he received in the House. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 July 1905
NEWTON ABBOT - Newton Man's Death. Defects Of The Railway Station. - At the adjourned Inquest held at Newton Abbot on Monday on WILLIAM H. CAUSELEY, who a fortnight since fell unconscious at Newton Station, after travelling from London, and died shortly afterwards, Joseph Turner, of Brentford, stated that on May 21st deceased fell from his bicycle at Norwood Green, apparently in a fit. - Hermon Webber, of Southall, stated that deceased was unconscious for two or three days after the accident, and on recovery said he felt dizzy and fell off. - Mrs Minnie Higgins, of Heston, said on the Saturday morning that he started on the journey he did not seem so well and she asked him not to go until the following Monday, or to allow her to accompany him. He would not consent to this. - The Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) said the extra exertion of carrying a portmanteau up the stairs at Newton railway station proved too much for the deceased. The Jury might well take advantage of the opportunity to recommend the Great Western Railway Company to improve the station, or commence the building of a new one they proposed to construct. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider that they considered that the effort of crossing the bridge at the station with the portmanteau hastened the death of the deceased, and they thought greater facilities should be provided for crossing from one platform to the other.

TORQUAY - Child's Death At Melville Street. - An Inquest on the body of VIOLET SOPHIA JANE, the infant daughter of FREDERICK VINCENT, labourer, of 10 Melville Street, was held by the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) in the Upton Parish Room on Saturday. The father stated that the child had been healthy up to the day previous to its death. On Saturday morning he awoke about 5 o'clock, and the child was apparently dead, although its eyes were open. The child had been fed on boiled biscuit. The medical evidence showed that the child died of convulsions due to acute indigestion. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned, and the Coroner warned parents against giving very young children boiled biscuits.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 July 1905
NEWTON ABBOT - Sudden Death Of MRS E. PIKE. - We regret to announce the sudden death of MRS PIKE, wife of Councillor E. PIKE, which took place on Tuesday evening. MRS PIKE started out on a drive to Newton Abbot with Mr and Mrs Riggs, for the purpose of attending a temperance meeting, and when some little distance beyond Kingskerswell, the horse attached to the trap stumbled. Mr Riggs succeeded in pulling the horse up without damage and MRS PIKE, who had alighted, walked on the road for some little distance, and then again took her place in the conveyance. She had not been seated long, when she quite suddenly expired. MRS PIKE had been a sufferer from an affection of the heart for some time, and had been under the care of Dr Horton. It is thought that the shock of the slight accident caused heart failure and death. The sympathy of Torquinians generally will go out to Councillor PIKE in his bereavement. The Inquest was held at Newton Abbot on Wednesday evening by the Deputy County Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock). William Narracott, of Chelston, Torquay, brother, gave evidence of identification. Richard Henry Riggs said he drove deceased and his (witness's) wife from Torquay, it being his intention to go to Newton Abbot. After the accident, MRS PIKE got into the trap without assistance. But he immediately noticed that she looked faint, and was lying in the arms of his wife. An occupant of one of the cottages came out and bathed her head in water, and she was lifted out and taken into the house. He believed she was dead at that time. Dr Martin, of Newton, said he had made a post mortem examination, and found the heart extensively diseased, the form being such that sudden death was the usual thing. The fall of the pony had, no doubt, accelerated death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 21 July 1905
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Torquay. The Inquest. - At the Bath Saloon on Saturday evening, the County Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MISS MARY ANN JONES, lodging house keeper, of Beacon Terrace, Torquay. - JOHN JONES, proprietor of the Castle Hotel, said deceased was his sister. In consequence of not having seen her for some little time he went to her house about three o'clock that morning. P.C. Ridge and P.C. Lake accompanied him. They effected an entry through one of the windows, and found deceased in her bedroom. She was in night attire and was lying beside her bed. She was apparently dead. - Dr Powell stated that he had made a post mortem examination, with the result that he attributed death to the bursting of a blood vessel in the stomach. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

BRIXHAM - Brixham Woman's Death. - Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquest at Brixham on Monday on the body of MARY WOODLEY. - JOHN WOODLEY, father of the deceased, said she had kept house for him since his wife's death 28 years ago. She had been poorly lately, but was quite capable of doing everything in the house. She took supper with him and his married daughter and her husband on Friday night, and went to bed in good spirits. At 4 o'clock on Saturday morning he woke up and saw her asleep in her bed. He went to sleep again and waking at half past five found she was gone. He called to his married daughter below and asked if MARY was there, and on being told she was not, he dressed and with Mr Rowett, his son-in-law, went in search of her to Berry Head and other parts without success. She was at all times happy and friendly with everyone. He could assign no reason for her taking her life. - Julia Rowett, sister of deceased, said she had no trouble to her knowledge and appeared at all times quite sane. - Leonard Perrett deposed to find the body floating off Fishcombe on Saturday evening. - Dr G. B. Elliott said about ten years ago deceased went out of her mind, but got quite well again. About two months ago he again attended her. She seemed depressed and suffered at times from melancholia. One day she was bright and cheerful and another day depressed. At one time she said she was not responsible for what she did, and he made arrangements for putting her away, but she got well again. It was one of those cases in which it was somewhat difficult to certify. The cause of death was drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 July 1905
ASHBURTON - Fatality At Paignton Water Works. Inquest At Ashburton. - At the Golden Lion Hotel on Saturday evening Mr S. Hacker (District Coroner) held an Inquest on the body of JAMES ROWDEN, who died at the Cottage Hospital the previous evening. George Harvey, mason, of Berry Pomeroy, identified the body. - Charles H. Campion, of Ashburton, stated that on Friday morning deceased and himself had placed a stone on the wall which the clerk of the works condemned. The proceeded to remove it by placing a chain laterally around it. When the stone was about 12 feet high it slipped and struck deceased on the back of the head and hip. - John H. Bennett, foreman mason at the works, stated that he saw the chain placed around the stone, which he considered safely done. When the stone was about 12 feet high the signal was given to turn the crane, and the gear was reversed. This caused a sudden jerk, and the stone fell out, caught deceased on the hip and threw him to the ground. He shouted twice to deceased to get out of the way. The stone weighed about 9cwt. - Dr W. Ranson stated that he examined deceased and found a wound in the head, a large bruise in the small of the back, and a compound fracture of the left leg, and the left foot crushed. The leg was amputated, but the man died shortly after from shock, haemorrhage and exhaustion from previous loss of blood. - In reply to the Foreman, William C. Harding stated that every precaution was used. During the past two years twelve stones had slipped, but no accident had occurred. Dr Ranson said it was very creditable to Mr Best for the way in which he had rendered first aid. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 August 1905
PAIGNTON - Paignton Drowning Fatality. The Inquest. - On Saturday afternoon a sad drowning fatality occurred in Torbay, off Paignton. Three Preston (Paignton) men, named Arthur Beckett, JAMES PERRING, and Horace Seldon, left Paignton during the afternoon in a rowing boat for the purpose of fishing. When some 300 yards off Preston Arch, the large number of people on Paignton sands were alarmed by cries for help, and observed that the boat had capsized and that the occupants were struggling in the water. - Beckett and Seldon were rescued, but it was some time before the body of PERRING was recovered. Dr Sykes made every effort to restore animation, but was unsuccessful. The Inquest on the body of PERRING was held on Monday by Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner). - JAMES HENRY PERRING, father of the deceased, JAMES PERRING, of 2 Manor Cottages, Preston, gave evidence of identification, and said his son was twenty years of age and a general labourer. He last saw him alive on Saturday morning, when witness went off to his work at Torquay. His son had a small punt, and he was in the habit of boating. Deceased had been in the Navy and was a swimmer. - Horace Seldon, painter of 1 Manor Cottages, Preston, stated that on Saturday morning he went out into a boat with deceased and a man named Beckett. They took some bread and cheese and cider with them, and rowed towards the Pier for the purpose of getting mussels. The sea became choppy, and they took the boat ashore and went for a drink. On returning they decided not to go out again. Witness pulled the boat towards the Redcliffe Hotel, and left it on the beach, afterwards rejoining Beckett and the deceased in the bar at the Esplanade Hotel, where they had some more drink, remaining there for threequarters of an hour. Afterwards they all three boarded the punt for the purpose of rowing out to fetch a dabbing line, which they had let some time previously off Preston Sands. Beckett had the oars and deceased was in the stern of the boat. When off Redcliffe Rocks the boat heeled over as deceased was putting his hand over the side of the craft to catch the line. As the craft caught the waves broadside it capsized and they were all immersed. Witness proceeded to swim ashore, but had not gone far when Beckett shouted "Come back, Horace, PERRING is drowned." He went back, but could see nothing of the deceased. - The Coroner: You were all very merry, I suppose, having had several drinks? - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner: Anything more than merry? - Witness: We were not intoxicated. - Arthur Beckett, labourer, of 1 Copsley Terrace, Paignton, said whilst he was rowing out to the dabbing line the boat gave a lurch, and on looking round he saw the craft was filling with water. The lurching of the boat, he thought, was due to deceased and Seldon grabbing at the line at the same moment. Witness and PERRING seized the boat, but the craft turned over, and they lost their hold. He (Beckett) pushed an oar to PERRING, but he was gone too far, and almost immediately after that he disappeared. Witness shouted to Seldon for help He had had a few drinks, but was perfectly sober at the time of the accident. Witness hung on to the boat until he was rescued and taken ashore. - William Henry Patterson, boatman, of Paignton, said he was on the quay when a messenger on horseback rode up and said some men were in the water off the Redcliffe Hotel. He went off in a boat with other men, and they were towed to the scene by the King Edward. Beckett was then hanging on to the boat, which was bottom upwards. They brought him ashore, and afterwards returned to the spot. They found deceased lying face downwards on the sand in about 12ft on water. - A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned. Amongst those who assisted in the rescue of the two other men were Messrs. Endacott, Cornhill, Crocker and Sewart, junr.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 August 1905
TORQUAY - Suicide Of A Torquay Painter. Inquest Yesterday. - Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) yesterday afternoon held an Inquiry at the Upton Parish Room into the death of HENRY LOVING, a painter of Pimlico, who was found dead with his throat cut on the previous day in a quarry at Cockington. Alan Hester, painter, Bronshill Road, identified the body as that of HENRY LEWIS LOVING, his brother-in-law. The deceased was 46 years of age and was a widower and had two children - a son and a daughter, both of whom lived with witness as they had done since deceased's wife died. Deceased was in the habit of taking drink. - LEWIS HENRY LOVING, gardener, son of deceased, said he saw his father only occasionally and last saw him about three month ago. - John Thomas, watercress vendor, Perriott's Buildings, Pimlico, said about 10.30 a.m. on Wednesday he had been picking watercress and was coming home by way of Cockington. He went into a stone quarry near the Cockington lane for the purpose of bunching his cress. He there saw deceased lying on his right side. Just by the body there was a razor and witness saw that there was a large wound across the man's throat. Deceased had evidently been there some time as he was wet through. Witness accordingly went to acquaint the police of his discovery. He had seen LOVING frequently during the past month, and he had appeared to him to be depressed. - Harriett Perry, keeper of a lodging house in Pimlico, with whom deceased had lodged for about three years, said he had not been in constant work. In fact he had not paid her for his last winter's lodgings. LOVING slept at her house on Monday night, but had not been there since. - John Caseley, fisherman, said deceased had slept in the same room as he for about two months. He slept there on Monday night. On Tuesday morning when witness got out of bed about 8 o'clock, LOVING was still in bed. Deceased had been in his usual health recently. Witness could not say whether he drank a lot or not. - John Henry Cooper, painter, 3 Spring Court, said deceased worked for the same firm as he. On Monday LOVING worked at St. Cyprus. He saw him at the Exeter Hotel in the evening. Witness left deceased about 10 p.m. LOVING told him he had finished his job, and asked him to take home his tools. - Alexander Johnson, foreman in the employ of Messrs. Hacking, a London firm of painters, said deceased came to him on Saturday and asked him for work. Witness engaged him, and deceased worked on Monday. LOVING was told on Monday morning that as he was slow in his work, he must improve or his services would be dispensed with. Upon that deceased took his day's pay - 6s. 3d. and left. - P.C. Arnold, who was fetched to the quarry to see the body and conveyed it to the mortuary, gave evidence, and said he had not been able to find an owner for the razor. On the body he found 10d., a small pocket-knife, and a pair of spectacles and case. - Dr George Michelmore said he saw the body of deceased on Wednesday morning about 11.30. It had evidently been lying in the quarry all night. All the circumstances pointed to suicide. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide."

TORQUAY - Torquay Spinster's Death. The Inquest. The need Of A Public Mortuary. - Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) held an Inquiry at the Upton Parish Room, on Tuesday, into the circumstances attending the death of EMILY LOWES, who was found dead at her home at Crownhill on Saturday morning by her milkman. - Jane Blamey, 13 Crownhill Terrace, said deceased was a spinster. She (witness) had known deceased for about 15 or 16 months, since first she came to reside in Torquay. Deceased was 68 years of age, and had enjoyed fairly good health. On Saturday night she went for a walk. Witness last saw her alive on Friday evening. - Mary Chave, of Avenue Villas, stated that she saw deceased on Saturday evening about 8 p.m. going towards her home. - Thomas Spurway, dairyman, of Church Street, Tor, stated that he had supplied deceased with milk ever since she came to Crownhill. On Sunday morning, when he called, the jug was not on the doorstep as was usual. All the doors were open and he went into the house to get a jug. He found deceased in the sitting room in an easy chair. She was quite dead. The police were sent for immediately. - P.C.Dart and Inspector Jeffery gave evidence to the effect that under a dressing-table they found a cash box, will, and a leather bag containing a banker's pass book and various papers. - Dr Arthur Henry Howse stated that he made a post mortem examination of the body. The heart and kidneys were diseased. Death was due to haemorrhage of the brain. - Mr P. H. W. Almy, solicitor, also gave evidence as to MISS LOWE'S affairs. - A verdict of Death from "Natural Causes" was returned.

PAIGNTON - Paignton Cliff Fatality. - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, on Tuesday afternoon, at Paignton, held an Inquest on the body of FREDERICK THORNTON OPIE, aged 11, son of WILLIAM THORNTON OPIE, of Mount Clare, Cleveland Road, Paignton, who on Monday morning fell over the cliffs skirting Roundham Walk, a favourite resort of visitors and sustained injuries that caused almost instantaneous death. - After viewing the body, the Coroner and the Jury visited the scene of the fatality. - WILLIAM THORNTON OPIE, mining engineer, father of deceased, said his son was in the habit of frequenting the spot where the fatality occurred with his brother. On Monday morning, however, he left home alone. - Elizabeth Caroline Glanville, a visitor from Leicester, said she and her sister were sitting on the rocks below the cliffs and saw the deceased sitting on the edge of the headland. A moment later they heard a thud, and on looking round saw the deceased lying on the rocks at the foot of the cliffs. Witness went up to him, and tried in vain to lift him up. Meanwhile her sister went for help. - Frederick Palk, labourer, said he was in the employ of the Urban Council. On Monday morning he was cleaning up in Cliff Walk, and saw the deceased go to the edge of the cliff and look down upon the rocks below. Just below where he stood there was a projecting ledge of rock, and deceased appeared to witness to be preparing to jump. A moment later the boy jumped on to the ledge, and witness immediately lost sight of him. Fearing something had happened to the boy, witness ran down the slip to the rocks below, and on the way met the last witness's sister, who informed him that deceased had fallen over the cliffs. The boy was lying on his back close under the cliffs, and death appeared to have been instantaneous. A coastguardsman arrived, and a doctor was summoned. The body was afterwards removed by the coastguard to Mount Clare. - George Vinnicombe, station officer of the coastguard, and Mr Griffith Charles Wilkins, a surgeon, not now in practice, also gave evidence. The latter said deceased probably fell upon his head, as there were two severe cuts upon it - one behind the ear and the other at the back. Death, which he attributed to fracture of the skull, must have been instantaneous. The spot where the fatality occurred was an extremely dangerous one, and either the path ought to be closed absolutely or some iron railings erected around the cliff. - Charles Owen Baines, surveyor to the Urban District Council, stated that the path leading round the cliffs lead to Lovers' Lane, and was a public right-of-way, repairable by the Council. The small piece of path leading down to the beach was, however, not under the jurisdiction of the local authority. To the best of his belief it belonged to Mr Belfield, the owner of the adjoining land. - Mr F. W. Puddicombe, agent for the property, said the ground from the end of the cliff walk to the edge of the cliff was the private property of Mr Belfield. So far as he knew Mr Belfield would have no objection to the Council fencing the cliffs, and witness would undertake on behalf of the estate to have a fence erected there. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and called upon the Urban Council to see that the cliffs are properly protected with as little delay as possible. The Jury also expressed sincere sympathy with the parents of the deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 September 1905
TORQUAY - Terrible Tragedy At Hele. Murder And Attempted Suicide. Interviews with Mr Troake and Mrs Stucky. Sketch Of The Scene Of The Murder. Exclusive Portrait Of MISS STAPLETON. - Serious crimes are of very rare occurrence in Torquay, and it was more than twenty years ago, on the occasion of the now notorious Babbacombe murder, that so much excitement was aroused in the Borough as was the case on Tuesday last, when a terrible tragedy took place at Hele, St. Marychurch, one of the quietest and most dead-alive districts within the boundaries of the Borough. The village of Hele, as it is usually termed, consists of a number of working class houses and a few small shops, stretching from the Barton Road near the cemetery on the one side, to the Teignmouth Road at the bottom of Black's Hill on the other. Most of the inhabitants are employed at the Potteries or in the building trade at St Marychurch and Torquay. At the Barton end of the village is a block of cottages with allotment ground in front and next to these cottages is a small creeper-covered detached house with outbuildings and yard, occupied by Mr Walter Troake, market gardener and dairyman, known as Lummaton Cottage. It was here that the ghastly tragedy took place.
Story Of The Tragedy. - About 10.30 on Tuesday morning two young girls, named Amy Moxhay and Annie Balsom, who reside close by, were passing Lummaton Cottage when they heard screams from the interior of the house. They called the attention of John Milford to the matter, and he summoned P.C. Boaden, who, with Milford, tried the front door and found it bolted. The back door was also fastened. An entrance was, however, effected, and a terrible sight at once presented itself to the constable and Mr Milford. Stretched across the passage between the front and back doors and by the side of the staircase, was the apparently lifeless body of MISS EMMA STAPLETON, housekeeper to Mr Troake. Her throat was cut almost from ear to ear, and there was a large pool of blood beneath her head. Splashes of blood on the walls indicated a desperate struggle which was further demonstrated by the fact that there were cuts on both the poor woman's hands, showing that she had clutched the weapon with which the terrible wound in her throat was inflicted. Shortly after P.C. Boaden and Milford had made the horrible discovery, they were joined by Mr Stuckey and several other men, and a search was commenced on the premises for MISS STAPLETON'S assailant. It was ascertained that there was no person in either of the downstair rooms, and P.C. Boaden and others went into the bedrooms and looked under the beds, but found no trace of anyone. They returned to the front room, when someone fancied he heard a groan, and persuaded that it could not have come from the housekeeper, the search party again went upstairs. They had not been there long when Mr Stuckey came across his own son, Wm. Stuckey, aged 23, concealed in a small recess or boxroom between the two front bedrooms. The young man was lying in a pool of blood with a frightful wound in his throat. In the meantime, Drs. Winter and Gough had arrived, and MISS STAPLETON, who was just alive when first discovered, was removed to the kitchen, but an examination showed that life was extinct. Close to Stuckey was found a bloodstained table knife, the property of Mr Troake, and this pointed to the fact that a crime could not have been premeditated, but that it must have been committed on the spur of the moment. The young man was brought downstairs by Messrs. Knapman, Hawkins, Tuck and Walling, placed on a light waggon, and conveyed to the Torbay Hospital. - To Police-Inspector Jeffery was given the task of inquiring into the case. An examination of the house did not reveal any attempt of robbery, although in one of the rooms there is said to have been a sum of £70. Stuckey seems to have been in the neighbourhood of Mr Troake's house earlier in the morning, for he was seen leaning over the wall by a lad, and it is said that he passed the time of day to MISS STAPLETON. - The Supposed Murderer. - William Stuckey, who is 23 years of age, is the eldest child of a family of eleven, and has been physically weak from birth, but there has been nothing to show that there was anything mentally wrong with him. In fact, on the night previous to the tragedy he took part in a whist and cribbage contest at Hele Liberal Club. He was regarded as an exceptionally clever card player. He also frequently acted as umpire in cricket matches at the Torquay Cricket Ground, and had proved himself fairly expert in this capacity. He is a tall, thin, and somewhat cadaverous individual rather effeminate in appearance. Possessing a thin voice and walking with a slight halt, Stuckey was the last man who one would think would be capable of such a terrible crime which must have necessitated a considerable amount of physical strength to commit. Prior to his terrible deed, he was generally regarded at Hele as a highly respectable young fellow, and there was a certain amount of pity for him on account of his delicate health.
Interview With Mr Walter Troake. - His Theory Of The Motive for The Crime. - MISS STAPLETON'S History. - On Tuesday afternoon a representative of the Torquay Times found Mr Walter Troake, the employer of the murdered woman in the yard at the rear of his house, Lummaton Cottage, and had an interview with him, relative to the tragedy. Mr Troake is a short genial looking man of 67 years of age, and has every appearance of having spent the greater portion of his life in the open air. He is well-known and very highly respected in the neighbourhood of Hele and St. Marychurch, and for some years was a member of the Committee of the Hele Liberal Club. - Asked for some details with regard to MISS STAPLETON'S history, Mr Troake replied "My housekeeper, MISS EMMA STAPLETON, was 53 years of age. She was a native of Brixham, and had been in my employ for between 23 and 24 years. Both her father and mother are dead, but she still has brothers and sisters living at Brixham, where the family is well-known. As a matter of fact, she came to my house first to nurse my wife in her final illness. She was a very quiet woman and seldom mixed with anyone and although she passed the time of day with the neighbours, she did not get on very friendly terms with them." - "Did you know Stuckey intimately?" - "Yes, I have known the family for a considerable period. About two years ago I employed the son, William, as a labourer in my gardens more out of pity than anything else. He was not really fit to do a day's work, being a weakly sort of young fellow. But I always regarded him as quite inoffensive. The father has done no work for a considerable time. He was once employed at the St. Marychurch Gasworks, and you will no doubt recollect that the question of his discharge from his employ there was the subject of an inquiry by the Gasworks Committee of the town Council. A number of men were dismissed and Councillor Pike demanded to know the reason for their dismissal. There is, I believe, a very long family, but they have always been respected in this neighbourhood. I believe Wm. Stuckey was at the Liberal Club last night taking part in a card playing competition. he is the last young man who I should have thought would have been guilty of any terrible deed of this kind." - What is your theory with regard to the crime?" - To me there appears to be only one theory. I left home at 9.30 to go on my usual round with vegetables. I have a man named Alford at work in my garden, and when I went away he was on the premises. Before going to the garden, he called to MISS STAPLETON for some water to water some lettuces, and she handed him two buckets full, and he proceeded to a distant part of the garden. As far as I can learn, it was between half-past ten and eleven that two young girls living in a cottage just below, on the opposite side of the road, heard screams and informed a man named Milford, who, finding the door bolted, fetched P.C. Boaden, who forced the back door, and found MISS STAPLETON lying in a terrible condition in the passage. There had evidently been a severe struggle for the walls and floor were splashed with blood. About this time STUCKEY'S father happened to be passing, and he joined the people who entered the house. The terribly sad coincidence about the whole thing is that the father discovered his own son in a recess on the landing with his throat cut. My impression is that young STUCKEY saw MISS STAPLETON leave the house and go into the yard, and knowing that a box containing a small sum of money, the takings for milk and vegetables, was kept in one of the downstair rooms, he entered in her absence with the object of taking the money. She probably returned and found him, and on the impulse of the moment, he snatched one of the knives which remained on the breakfast table and used it with such terrible results on my housekeeper. Then hearing attempts being made at the front door, he rushed upstairs with the object of concealing himself, with the knife still in his hand, and realising that his attempt to escape detection must fail, turned the weapon upon himself." - "And you did not hear of the terrible event until comparatively late in the morning?" - "No, I was fetched from Ellacombe, and I can assure you that the awful affair simply horrified me, especially as MISS STAPLETON was such a quiet inoffensive soul, ever ready to do a kindness."
Stuckey's Mother Interviewed. He Was The Favourite Of The Family. - Prepared To Decorate For a Wedding At 9, Found With His Throat Cut At 11. - At the rear of the main street of Hele is a long concrete shaped block of small cottages. Number 12 is the home of the Stuckey family. At number 1 flags were flying from each of the windows on Tuesday afternoon. There had been a wedding in the morning. Next door the whole of the blinds were down, and when the Torquay Times representative knocked at the closed door, it was opened to him by a pale-faced girl, whose eyes betrayed the fact that she had been weeping bitterly. The mother came into the passage from a room on the right, and other children and one or two consoling friends also appeared. The sister, on being asked if Mr Stuckey was at home, replied "No father is at the hospital with Will." The Torquay Times representative having explained the object of his visit, Mrs Stuckey and her daughter expressed their willingness to give any information in their power. The former, who was weeping silently, said "He has been little better than an invalid since he was an infant, and I never expected that he would do anything of this sort. When he left this morning, he looked at me in a very peculiar manner, and I thought there was something strange about him." - Mrs Stuckey could get no further although it was evident that she wished to say more. The sister, however, supplemented what had been said by her mother. Asked whether her brother was short of money, she replied, "No, he had few wants, and as he was a general favourite with the family we used to study any little wants he might have. When he got up this morning, at about 9 o'clock, he signified his intention of putting a flag out the upstair window to celebrate the wedding in the family of our neighbours next door. He made preparations to do so and then went out, returning shortly after. He remained a little time and left the house again. It was on his departure the second time that my mother fancied she noticed something strange about him. Although he could do little work, he had nothing to trouble about as the whole of the members of the family - and there are eleven of us - tried to make his life as pleasant as possible. I can give you no explanation of this terrible affair, which has come upon us like a thunderbolt. We are all persuaded that he could not have been in his right mind when it occurred."
The Inquest Opened - And Adjourned For A Week. - The Inquest was opened by the Deputy Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock) at the Upton Parish Church Room on Wednesday evening. The Jury comprised Messrs. C. Burrows (Foreman), C. Hill, J. Binham, W. Hutchings, J. Tupman, T. Luscombe, T. Brownson, F. Ward, W. Beer, J. Pulman, W. Bishop, R. Smith, and J. Stoneman. Supt. Roberts was present. - The Coroner, addressing the Jury after they had been duly sworn, said they were summoned to Inquire into the death of this poor woman, EMMA STAPLETON, which was a very sad and tragic event. The official report sent to the Coroner stated that she had been living with Mr W. Troake, market gardener of Hele, as housekeeper and that on the previous day in the forenoon she was found with her throat badly cut, in fact dead, in the house. There was also found in the house a man, who likewise had his throat cut, but was not dead, and was now an inmate of the Torbay Hospital. That was the position of the matter and he (the Deputy Coroner) proposed that evening to only formally open the Inquiry. The Jury would view the body, and he would take evidence as the woman's identity, and then the Inquest would be adjourned to a day to be decided upon later, when perhaps the person upon whom grave suspicion rested, would be present. He could not say to what day the Inquest would be adjourned, probably the doctor would have something to say on that matter. At any rate that was all they could do that evening, but he would ask the Jury to give the case their very careful consideration, as it was an extremely grave one. - The Jury having inspected the body and returned to the Court, SAMUEL STAPLETON was called, and said he resided at Middle Street, Brixham. he was a fisherman. The body which he had seen was that of his sister, EMMA STAPLETON. She was a single woman, 53 years of age. At the time of her death she was living with Mr Walter Troake, of Hele, as housekeeper. Witness last saw her alive about two years ago. - The Deputy Coroner said that was as far as the Inquiry would be carried that evening, and the only question to be dealt with was the fixing of the date of the adjourned Inquest. - Dr Winter said if the man Stuckey lived he would not be able to attend for three weeks or a month at least. Possibly he might die within the next few days. - The Deputy Coroner said he was compelled by law to fix the date of the adjourned Inquiry. - Dr Winter thought it would be well to have a short adjournment, and if necessary, re-adjourn. Only 48 hours had passed since the infliction of the wounds. It was thought the man would die on the previous night, but when he saw him between one and two o'clock he was a trifle better. It was, however, just possible that he might die from septic inflammation of the lungs, which might take place in five or six days. - The Coroner: What do you think of Wednesday, October 18th? - Dr Winter said that would be rather a long adjournment, especially if the man should die that night. If there was a week's adjournment they would be in a position to know whether to proceed or re-adjourn. If the man got over the primary shock, and he seemed to be doing so, the next change would be in five or six days' time. In a week'[s time it would be pretty well known what was going to happen. - The Deputy Coroner: I shall adjourn the Inquest for a week, and we shall then know whether it is necessary to re-adjourn. Will that suit the police? - Supt. Roberts: Yes. - The Deputy Coroner: I think it will be wise to have the Inquiry earlier in the day because it will take some time. I will, therefore, make it three o'clock in the afternoon. The witnesses were then bound over to appear, and the Court was closed. - There are 13 witnesses - Walter Troake, SAML. STAPLETON, Jno. Milford, Elizabeth J. Lawrence, Thomas Townsend, Elizabeth Balsom, Annie Balsom, Amy L. Moxhay, Cecil Barber, Inspector Jeffery, P.C. Boaden, and Dr G. M. Winter. - The funeral of deceased has been fixed to take place at the Torquay Cemetery at three o'[clock this afternoon, the procession starting from the mortuary about 2.30. [picture of Miss Stapleton appears].

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 October 1905
TORQUAY - The Adjourned Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Wednesday afternoon, the Deputy County Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock), re-opened the Inquiry into the death of MISS EMMA STAPLETON, the victim of the Hele tragedy. The Inquest was adjourned the previous Wednesday with a view to seeing if William Stuckey, the supposed murderer, had any prospect of recovering. Supt. Roberts was present on behalf of the Police Authorities. Mr C. Burrow was Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner intimated that as Stuckey had died since the opening of the Inquiry he proposed to ask the Jury to consider his case at the conclusion of that of MISS STAPLETON. - Walter Troake, market gardener, stated that MISS STAPLETON was his housekeeper. He last saw her alive at 9.30 on Tuesday, 26th September. She was then in the garden. Witness knew William Stuckey, who was in his employ some time since. On the morning in question he saw Stuckey in the road about 100 yards from his house. He did not know how Stuckey got into the house. Witness had never allowed him to know that money was kept on the premises. Stuckey could easily have got in at the back door without being observed by MISS STAPLETON. Since the latter's death witness had found a screwdriver in the top drawer of a chest of drawers in his (witness's) room. there was money kept there. - Cecil Barber, a lad, said his home was at Plymouth, but he had been staying at Lummaton Cottage with Mr Troake. On the morning of the 26th, witness was sent by MISS STAPLETON for a box of starch. As witness took the money from MISS STAPLETON['S hand he saw Stuckey pass. He said "Good morning" to MISS STAPLETON and witness. Shortly after he saw Stuckey leaning over a garden wall some little distance away. Witness went with Mr Troake on returning from his errand. - Thomas Townsend, gardener, Hele, stated that he was working his garden between 9 and 10 when Stuckey looked over the wall and said "Good morning" to him. His garden was about 80 yards from Troake's house. Stuckey remained there about a quarter of an hour and then said "I am going home to go to the wedding." A few minutes later witness noticed him some distance down the road. - Amy Moxhay stated that on the 26th September about 10.15 she called at a house close to that in which she lived for a girl called Annie Balsom. When she and her friend got out into the road they heard screams, but could not distinguish whether they were those of a man, woman or child. They ran up the road as far as Lummaton Cottage, and hearing groans coming from the house, they went to the front door. It was opened about two inches, but was closed by someone inside, and then she heard footsteps on the stairs. Witness and her companion returned home and mentioned the matter to Mrs Balsom, who said she did not like to go to Lammaton Cottage but would tell Mrs Lawrence, a neighbour. She knew nothing more until the policeman came. She heard the first scream about 10.30 and the groans ceased as far as she could recollect in about ten minutes. - Annie Balsom corroborated the evidence of her companion. - Elizabeth Balsom, mother of the last witness and wife of Richard Balsom, labourer, of Hele, stated that she heard a noise and thinking it was a wedding party coming, she went outside and heard the screams coming from Lammaton Cottage. Her daughter and Annie Moxhay went up the road, and returned saying there were groans. Witness went to the house, tried the door and called twice "MISS STAPLETON", but got no answer. She heard no sounds. - P.C. Boaden stationed at Hele, stated that at 11.15 a.m. on the 26th September he went to Lammaton Cottage, tried the front door and found it was locked. The front windows were barred, and on going to the back, he found the door there also barred. He obtained a hatchet and with the assistance of Jno. Milford burst open the back door. In the passage about 15 inches from the door he found deceased lying on her side with her throat cut. He searched the kitchen larder and front sitting room, and then proceeded upstairs. Not noticing anything, he went downstairs to see if it was a case of suicide. Whilst there Stuckey's father fancied he heard groans from upstairs, and witness returned with him. On the landing was a small recess or cupboard and as he pulled open the door, he found William Stuckey doubled up with his throat cut, but alive. Lying in one hand was an ivory handled dessert knife. Stuckey was removed and searched. There was a card in one pocket with some writing on it, referring to a horse race. He was quite sure the house was securely locked up. There were marks of a struggle in the passage where he found MISS STAPLETON, but very few such marks in the recess where Stuckey was found. - In reply to questions, witness said the key of the front door was inside. The murder could have been seen if a piece of cloth inside the letter box had been ripped off. There were no blood marks on the stairs. - John James Milford, a naval pensioner, said he helped P.C. Boaden to burst open the door, and could confirm his evidence. Before the arrival of the Police Constable. he passed Stuckey who said "Good morning" to him. Stuckey was about 40 yards from Troake's house, going in the direction of the village. Three quarters of an hour afterwards he was summoned to Lummaton Cottage, and finding the back door shut he took an old ladder and looked in the fanlight, but could see nothing. He then went to the front and looked in both windows but could neither hear nor see anything. P.C. Boaden then arrived. - Elizabeth Jane Lawrence stated that at 10 a.m. she saw Stuckey at the Hele Liberal Club Reading Room. He had a screwdriver in his hand, but it was smaller than that produced. Witness talked with him for several minutes. She went to Lummaton Cottage with Mrs Balsom and tried the door. As she did so someone inside moved the handle. She went around to the back with Milford to see that no one escaped as she felt something was wrong. - Mr Troake, recalled, said he could not swear the knife produced was his. - William George Tuck, weighing machine repairer, Hele, said he knew Stuckey well, and had had many conversations with him. On one occasion Stuckey told him that Mr Troake did not bank his money, but kept it at home in a box, and did his own banking. - The Deputy Coroner: That is purely hearsay evidence, and although we daren't reject it, but you must not retain it in your minds. - Dr Winter, of St. Marychurch, said when he arrived at the cottage he found MISS STAPLETON lying dead in the passage. Her throat was cut, and there was a deal of blood about. He also saw William Stuckey who was living, although his throat was badly cut. The knife produced would have caused the wounds in each case, their jagged character being due to the blunt knife. There were wounds on MISS STAPLETON'S hands which showed that she must have grasped the knife whilst defending herself. There were no such marks on Stuckey. The wound on MISS STAPLETON was inflicted just inside the front door, and the body was probably dragged to where it was found. No screams would be heard after the wound were inflicted, as the injury to the larynx would prevent them. In the case of MISS STAPLETON, one of the big veins was slightly cut, and she bled to death. He thought MISS STAPLETON was trying to get out the front door when Stuckey attacked her from behind, and inflicted the injury. If he had attacked her in front she would have been better able to defend herself. - The Inquiry into the death of WILLIAM STUCKEY was then proceeded with. JOHN THOMAS STUCKEY, blacksmith, gave evidence of identification, He saw deceased was 23 years of age, and since birth had had a physical infirmity. He could do no regular work. Witness was at Lummaton Cottage and was unfortunately the first to find his son. Deceased was very strange when he went out that morning, He came to witness in the garden, and said he wanted a screwdriver to take off the lock of the Liberal Club door, and asked if he (witness) was coming home. Witness gave him the key of the tool-box, and he went away home. - Dr H. Lacey, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said STUCKEY was admitted to the Hospital at 11.45 on the 26th September with his throat cut. He died on Tuesday, 3rd October, from the injury. He was never able to speak or swallow from the fact that he had severed his larynx,. He died from septic pneumonia. - The Deputy Coroner: Which Dr Winter so closely diagnosed. - The Coroner, in summing up, asked the Jury to dismiss from their minds absolutely all they had read in the papers or heard in the street, and deal with the evidence as brought formally and on oath before them. The story told that day was a most gruesome and horrible one from beginning to end. There was some slight evidence as to motive, but it was very, very weak, and they must not place very much confidence in it,. The knife produced was a horribly blunt one, and a dreadful instrument to hack anyone about with. The marks on MISS STAPLETON'S hands showed him she must have struggled to keep her assailant away. With such wounds as evidence there was little doubt that whoever attacked her meant to kill her. As to what really occurred it was really a matter of surmise A more awful and brutal murder there could not be, and Torquay must have been horrified at such an event within her boundaries. With regard to the man STUCKEY there was no evidence that he was insane. If not he was guilty of self-murder. It was a frightfully sad affair, and perhaps it was fortunate for STUCKEY that his injuries had resulted fatally. - The Jury, after a short retirement, returned a verdict that MISS STAPLETON was Wilfully Murdered by WILLIAM STUCKEY, and that the latter died from self-inflicted wounds. - The Jury and witnesses gave their fees to MRS STUCKEY. The funeral of STUCKEY takes place tomorrow.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 October 1905
TORQUAY - Paignton Man's Sad End. Inquest - Lighting Of The Fish Quay. - At Upton Parish Room on Monday afternoon, the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry relative to the death of JOHN LEWIN MARTIN, 50, general labourer, of Prince's Street, Paignton, whose dead body was found in the harbour on Saturday night. Mr F. Codner was Foreman of the Jury. - RALPH MARTIN, 26 Bay View Crescent, Paignton, said he was a gas stoker. The body he had seen in the mortuary was that of his brother, JOHN LEWIN MARTIN, 50, general labourer, of Prince's Street, Paignton. He was a married man and left a widow and six children. Although he lived at Paignton, he had not seen deceased for four months. His brother had been in poor health for years, and had suffered from epileptic fits for 25 or 26 years. They came on at irregular periods. - EMMA EDITH MARTIN, eldest daughter of deceased, said she came to Torquay with her father and her younger sister on Saturday afternoon about 4.30, to have their photographs taken. They came by train, and had their photos taken separately at Messrs. Little and Co's. They walked about until twenty minutes to seven, when she told her father she was going home. He said he thought he should return by motor 'bus, but as she did not like that mode of travelling, she went to Torre Station, and returned to Paignton by train. As she left her father he said "I expect I shall be home before you." Deceased was in the best of health and spirits. Her father had been subject to epileptic fits as long as she could remember, and Dr Evans had told him there was no cure. They came on at irregular times and without warning. She had been at home seven weeks, and he had not had a fit during that time. She had seen her father in a fit, and he became quite unconscious. Sometimes they lasted for hours. When witness reached home and found her father was not there, she was greatly surprised. No news of what had happened was received until the following morning. She believed that whilst strolling round the harbour waiting for the G.W.R. motor 'bus, which started from Vaughan Parade, her father had a fit, and fell into the water. Deceased had had nothing to worry him. - James Furneaux Jenkins, dealer in antiques, of Victoria Parade, said he had a sailing boat, the bottom of which he had been cleaning on the slipway. On Saturday night about 10 o'clock he floated her, and with his son went to the Fish Quay and the South Pier prawning. Whilst moving along, his son said, "Father, there is a dead man floating there." Witness asked him where, and the lad pointed to something floating, but begged not to be taken to the body, or he would not be able to sleep that night. Witness landed the boy and summoned Mr J. Brown, who accompanied him to the spot, and they brought the body ashore. The man was floating with his face downwards. The body was brought ashore at 10.45. From the end of Vaughan Parade to the head of the Fish Quay there was no protection, and the place was badly lighted. It was 300 yards from the spot where the motor 'bus started to the end of the Fish Quay. - Inspector Jeffery said deceased was at the Prince of Wales Inn between 7.30 and 7.45. - Dr James Graham said he was called shortly after 11 o'clock to the Fish Quay, where he saw the body of deceased. Artificial respiration was tried for some time, but it failed. There were no bruises or marks of violence on the body. Appearances were quite compatible with death from drowning. If there was sufficient air in the lungs, a light body might float very soon after death. There was nothing about the body which indicated that deceased had had a fit - there could be nothing. A dazed and stupid condition followed a fit, and the person stricken with a fit invariable fell. - Mr Howe spoke of the very inadequate lighting of the Fish Quay. He was there at all hours, and had many fishermen in his employ, and they were continually complaining. He thought a letter should be sent to the Harbour Committee recommending them to place a lamp at each of the landing steps to be kept burning all night. - Mr T. Brown said that posts and chains should be placed along the edge of the Quay. This would not interfere with the trade of the harbour as the chains could be unhooked each morning. - Mr H. Williams said the present are lamp on the Quay was so placed that it did not light the landing steps. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death by Drowning," and added a recommendation to the effect "That the Town Council be requested to arrange for the better lighting of the Fish Quay, and that the lights be kept burning all night for the safety of the fishermen and the public."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 November 1905
TORQUAY - Sudden Deaths At Torquay. Inquests. - On Saturday afternoon the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry on the body of MARY MCKNIGHT, a widow, aged 75 years, who was found dead in bed at 2 Baymont Terrace, Chelston, on Friday evening. - Letitia Ann Haigh, with whom deceased lodged, said MRS MCKNIGHT had enjoyed robust health during the eighteen months she had known her, and seemed even brighter than usual on Thursday. She retired to bed about nine o'clock. As she did not get up on Friday morning at her usual time witness went to her bedroom - the door of which was always locked - and called out, but received no answer. Being alarmed, she sent for a man to take a ladder and enter the bedroom by the window. Then it was found MRS MCKNIGHT was dead. - Evidence as to entering the bedroom and finding MRS MCKNIGHT dead was given by Mr Charles, a painter in the employ of Mr Narracott. - Dr George Michelmore, who had made a post mortem examination, said death was due to syncope, the result of the rupture of a blood vessel. - The verdict was returned accordingly.

On Monday afternoon Mr Hacker held an Inquiry into the death of ALBERT EDWARD CHALK, who dropped down dead on Saturday afternoon. JOHN CHALK, of 173 Lymington Road, identified the body as that of his son, who was 35 years of age, and was a blacksmith by trade. Deceased was married and left a wife and two children. He lived in Upton Church Road. There had been nothing the matter with him recently. Deceased, witness, and another son were in a field belonging to Mr Scott, at Furrough Cross, on Saturday afternoon, picking greens. They talked together, and deceased seemed in his usual health. About 3.15 he suddenly fell on his back unconscious. Dr Pitt Palmer was sent for. ALEC CHALK, brother of deceased, who was near him when he died, said in answer to a query as to his health, deceased said he was "pretty fairly well." He had been picking greens about five minutes before he dropped. William Scott, brother-in-law of deceased, dairyman of St. Marychurch, also gave evidence. - Dr Wm. Pitt Palmer said death was due to heart disease, and a verdict to this effect was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 December 1905
TORQUAY - Sad End Of A Retired Torquay Tradesman. Found Drowned On Tor Abbey Sands. The Inquest. - Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) held an Inquest on Friday afternoon in the Upton Parish Room on the body of JOHN ROLSTONE, which was found the same morning near Tor Abbey Sands, apparently cast up by the sea. - Laura Elizabeth Potter, married, Glenbacken, Belgrave Road, wife of Ernest Arthur Potter, traveller, identified the body as that of her father, JOHN ROLSTONE. He was 71 years old, and was a retired tailor and outfitter. He had resided with witness and her sister for about eighteen months. Deceased had been suffering from bronchitis, and had not enjoyed good health for some little time. On Thursday he seemed bright and passed the day as usual. He retired about 9.30, and was apparently in the best of spirits. They heard nothing of him during the night and the first intimation that she and her sister had that anything unusual had happened, was at 9 o'clock, when they were told that deceased's body had been found. They discovered that the bed had been slept in. A candle which was in deceased's bedroom, they found downstairs, burnt out. Her father had been depressed at the death of her mother, which took place about nine months ago. He had never threatened to take his life. - LUCY MARY ROLSTONE, also living at Glenbracken, said as far as she knew, her father had no troubles of any sort. On the morning in question she thought she heard someone descending the stairs, but considered it to be the maid. Deceased suffered at times from giddiness. - John B. Dyer, head gardener for the Torquay Corporation, stated that at 7.15 he was on the Princess Pier, where he found an overcoat, a stick and a hat on the ground. On the seat he found the mark of a foot as if a man had stepped up to leap over. There was also a footprint on the rail. He could see no one in the water, and he went after a policeman. - Philip John Abbott, auxiliary postman, 15 Queen Street, Torquay, said about 8 a.m. he coming along the Torbay Road in the direction of the town, when he looked over the rails and saw the body of a man lying face downwards on some rocks, just on the edge of the water. - William Wreyford, yachtsman of 17 All Saints' Road, Babbacombe, also gave evidence, and gave it as his opinion that the body had been in the water about three or four hours. - Dr H. K. Lacey, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he examined the body and found a wound on the bridge of the nose and a few abrasions on the forehead and two slightly incised wounds above the right temple, which might have been inflicted at death or after. Deceased had evidently died from drowning, and must have been dead several hours. - P.C. Voaden, the policeman who was called to the Pier, also gave evidence. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," the Foreman stating that the Jury felt there was not sufficient evidence to show how deceased got into the water. - MR ROLSTONE had been in business in Torquay for a number of years and was highly respected. He retired from business in Fleet Street only a few months ago, and went to live with his daughters, with whom great sympathy is felt.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 January 1906
TORQUAY - Death In The Street. Inquest. - The County Coroner (Mr Sidney Hacker) held an Inquest on Tuesday afternoon at Upton Parish room on the body of JAMES ERNEST STONE, who died suddenly on the previous day, whilst being conveyed from Torwood Street, where he had fallen, to the hospital. - CAROLINE STONE, sister of deceased, of 4 Beaconsfield Terrace, St Marychurch Road, gave evidence of identification. Her brother was 31 years of age, a boots by occupation, employed at Roslin Hall Boarding Establishment, and unmarried. She last saw him on Sunday, when he came to her house for tea. He was very unwell, and complained of shortness of breath and a pain in his chest and right shoulder. He had recently enjoyed splendid health. Deceased had been in the Navy, from which he was invalided through epileptic fits. This was nearly four years ago, and he had had no fits since. - William Gresham, of Roslin Hall, Boarding Establishment, said deceased had been in his employ for 17 months. His daughter told him on the previous evening that deceased was unwell, but he did his work as usual. Deceased left at noon on Monday to go to the Post Office. He saw deceased in the morning, but he made no complaint of being ill. He did not see him again until deceased was being conveyed to the hospital, but he had so altered that he did not recognise him. Deceased had never been ill whilst in his employ. He was very steady. - Theodore Harsant, hairdresser, of Torwood Street, said he was standing at his shop door when deceased passed, and a few steps further deceased put out his hands against the glass of his window and sank down. He supported deceased, who was changing colour, and with assistance brought him inside his shop Deceased did not say a word. Dr Winwood Smith was in his establishment at the time and came to deceased's aid. Deceased was eventually taken by the police on an ambulance. Deceased moaned whilst in his shop. - Dr Winwood Smith of Chelston, said that he was called to deceased by Mr Harsant about 12.30 p.m. Deceased was in a fit, and his condition was grave. He ordered deceased's removal to the hospital. He had made a post mortem examination, and found that the brain was intensely congested, which was symptomatic with epileptic fits, and the heart was very small, and in a condition of fatty degeneration, the aorta being diseased. Death was due to syncope following a fit. - P.C. Lang said deceased died on the way to the hospital. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 January 1906
TORQUAY - Torquay Mason's Sudden Death. - Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) held an Inquest in the Upton Parish Room on Tuesday, on the body of JAMES VINCENT, 39, mason, who died suddenly in Middle Warberry road on the previous day. - EMELIA WAYMOUTH VINCENT, 2 Cavern road, Ellacombe, identified the body as that of her husband. He had enjoyed good health recently, but about four years previously had a severe attack of gastric catarrh. As far as she knew, he had no affection of the heart or anything of that sort, and she could give no explanation of the occurrence. - Fred Ellis Watson, builder, Union Street, said deceased had been in his employment for about eight or nine years. He had been a man in uniformly good health. Deceased was his foreman mason and bricklayer, and a most excellent workman. On the day in question deceased was at work at Kilmorie Meadfoot. He (witness) saw him there about 10.30 when he seemed perfectly well. - James Rendell, 3 Summerville Terrace, Ellacombe, said he was a labourer in the employ of the last witness. He was at work at Kilmorie with deceased on Monday morning. About 11.15 he complained of a pain in the shoulder and went and sat down in a potting shed. He continued ill, and just before noon left with the intention of seeing a doctor. - Emily Northey, married, living at Ridge Hill Cottage, Middle Warberry Road, said on Monday morning about noon she was outside cleaning her doorstep. When deceased passed by she noticed that he looked ill and was tottering in his walk. Just after he had passed he fell down on the footpath pitching on his shoulder and head. She called her husband and went over and lifted his head. She spoke to him, and he seemed to be trying to speak. She and her husband laid him on some pillows, but he seemed quite dead. Her husband telephoned for a doctor, who soon after arrived. - Dr G. Young Eales said he had made a post mortem examination on the deceased. The brain was healthy. His heart, however, was enlarged and fatty. The lungs were fairly healthy, but portions were diseased There was also kidney disease. Death was due to syncope, following kidney and heart disease. The pain in the shoulder was the result of heart spasms. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

TORQUAY - Burnt To Death At Chelston. Old Lady's Untimely End. Inquest. Chelston Man's Plucky Conduct. - Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) held an Inquiry in the Upton Parish Room on Monday morning, into the circumstances attending the death of HANNAH STEPHENS, an old lady, living at 23 Sanford Crescent, Chelston, who was burnt to death at her house early on SAturday morning. - Mr Cecil Wollen (Messrs. Hooper and Wollen) said he appeared on behalf of MR WILLIAM STEPHENS, brother of deceased. - WILLIAM STEPHENS, gardener, living at Foxdown Lodge, Wellington, Somerset, identified the body as that of his sister, HANNAH STEPHENS. She was 58 years of age, and a spinster. For some time she had been living alone but next door to an aunt who was 50 years of age. In a letter he received from her she told him they were thinking of living together. His sister lived on her means, and he last saw her in the previous October. She was quite able-bodied. - Herbert Lewis Parish, living at No. 22 Sanford Crescent, said he knew deceased well. She was very active and enjoyed very good health. She lived alone but was visited every day by her aunt who lived next door. On Saturday morning about one a.m., witness's mother came and asked him if he smelt anything burning. He said no; she went downstairs to see if there was anything burning there. Witness immediately jumped out of bed, and slipping on an overcoat, rushed next door to see if there was anything the matter there. Finding nothing wrong at the back, he went round to the front, where he saw smoke and fire issuing from the bedroom window. He cleared the railings and burst open the door. One entering he found the place full of smoke. With difficulty he crawled up the stairs and searched the bedrooms. The smoke was very dense. On opening the front bedroom door, he was met by flames. He could with difficulty open the door as evidently there was something behind it, which he judged to be a body. He pushed the door and got in. The curtains were all burnt and a good part of the woodwork was burning. The bed clothing was not burnt but smouldering. The fire was evidently coming from a broken lamp which was on the floor, apparently having been knocked off a box which was standing by the window. With difficulty he carried out the body and tore off the burning garments, extinguishing the flames with the end of his overcoat. He then rushed downstairs and shouted for water. By this time his father and brother had dressed, and they handed him buckets of water up over the stairs. With this assistance, he managed to extinguish the fire. Deceased was quite dead when he carried her out of the room. She was dressed in a nightgown and also had a skirt and stockings on under the nightdress. In his opinion deceased had been undressing with the lamp on the box in front of the window, which was open. The night was very stormy and he thought that the lamp was blown down and probably caught the curtains on fire. In trying to extinguish the flames deceased's flannelette nightdress caught fire. - Willis Bernhard, railway station porter, 26 Sanford Crescent, stated that about 1.25 a.m. he heard screams of fire, and saw a small light coming from the window of No. 23. He immediately dressed and proceeded thee. He found that the fire had been practically extinguished by Parish, and there was very little for him to do. He saw deceased's body on the landing. She was quite dead. - Evelyn Parish, 14, sister to previous witness, said she was the last to see deceased alive about five o'clock on Friday evening. - Inspector Jeffery said he was telephoned for shortly before 3.30 on Saturday morning. He at once proceeded to the house in company with three constables and taking a stretcher with them. He found Sergt. Norman and Constable Dart there. He thoroughly searched the house and saw the body of deceased. She was quite dead. - In reply to the Coroner, Inspector Jeffery said the constable on duty in the district had, in the course of his beat, to go as far as the Gasworks, and about the time of the occurrence was somewhere about Livermead. - Dr Hugh K. Lacey, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he saw the body of the deceased at the Mortuary. It was burnt practically all over. Death was due either to the burns or to suffocation. - In the course of his summing up, the Coroner said Parish by his prompt action probably saved the house from burning, and perhaps two or three other houses with it. The fire was evidently due to the falling over of the lamp in some way, and deceased's flannelette night gown caught fire. As they must know, flannelette was of the most inflammable nature and was, perhaps, the most dangerous thing anyone could wear. In concluding, Mr Hacker said Mr Parish's brave and prompt action deserved the utmost recognition, and the Jury would probably consider that Mr Parish deserved the greatest credit for his promptitude. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death due to the upsetting of the paraffin lamp," and expressed their appreciation of Mr Parish's gallant conduct. - Mr Bernhard, at the end of the evidence, said he would call like to attention to the lack of proper communication between Chelston and the Police and Fire Stations. It was a large district, but the nearest fire alarm one way was in Belgrave Road, and the other was equally distant. He would also like to say that he thought Mr Parish should be compensated for the loss of his overcoat, boots, etc., which had been burnt. The Coroner said the former question was a matter for the Town Council to deal with. In the latter case, he advised Parish to send in a claim to the Insurance company with whom the property was insured, as it was certainly a case of salvage.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 9 February 1906
BRIXHAM - Found Dead In A Brixham Road. - At the Inquest on ROBERT HARRIS at Brixham on Saturday, John E. Taylor, a visitor, who found deceased lying by the roadside, said deceased breathed for about half a minute after he found him. Dr W. J. Quicke attributed death to apoplexy. The nostrils were full of blood and dust. As a result of the post mortem, he described the body as a mass of disease. Had it not been for the external bruises, witness would have returned death from natural causes. The Jury gave the verdict "Death from Natural Causes through the effects of a fit."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 February 1906
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Tor. The Inquest. - The Deputy Coroner, (Mr G. F. Kellock) held an Inquiry in the Upton Parish Room on Tuesday, into the circumstances attending the death of MARY VOSPER, 75, spinster, of No. 1 Beenland Place, Tor; who was found dead in her bed on the previous evening. - Fanny Corry, single, of the Beenland Place, said she had lived with deceased, who was her aunt. The latter had been poorly for a few days previous to her death. She would see no doctor, but dosed herself with Vogeler's Curative Compound, and Phospherine. She last saw her alive just after Sunday midnight, when she bade her goodnight. Witness did not see her all Monday. At five o'clock she knocked at her bedroom door, but found it locked and could get no answer. It was not an unusual thing for deceased to keep for a long time to her bedroom. About 8.30 p.m., with the assistance of Mr Nicholson, she managed to open the door. They then found deceased dead in bed. The bottles of medicine produced were found in the room. - Dr Halpin said he was called to deceased's house about 9.30 on Monday evening, and found her dead in bed. He had since made post mortem examination of her body. He could discover no effects of improper drugs or medicines. The patent medicines produced were not calculated to do the woman any harm. The heart was diseased, as was also the liver. Deceased also evidently suffered from dropsy. Death was due to heart failure. Deceased had been dead, in his opinion, about four or five hours when he saw her. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," was returned. The Coroner remarked that this should be a warning to people living alone so much without proper attendance.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 February 1906
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Ellacombe. The Inquest. - At the Parish Room on Friday evening, the Deputy Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock), held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of SUSAN BRAGG, married, aged fifty-six, of 16 Alexandra Road, Ellacombe, who was found dead on the floor of her bedroom on the previous day. - HERBERT BRAGG, the husband, a baker, of 8 Pembroke Terrace, Ellacombe, said he believed the body to be that of his wife, whom he had not lived with for twelve years. - Maud Silmon of Alexandra Road, Ellacombe, deposed that she saw deceased on Wednesday evening at the door of 16 Alexandra Road. Witness went to the house on Thursday at one o'clock and found the door locked. Deceased lived by herself, save for a child about four years old. - Lilian Silmon, sister of the last witness, said she took some milk to deceased's house in the morning, but, although the door was open, she could make no one hear. - Detective Northey said he went to the house on Thursday evening, and saw a child about four years of age, looking out of one of the front bedroom windows, which was open. She was crying. He entered the house by the front downstairs window, and went to the room in which the child was. He then visited deceased's bedroom, where he found her lying on the floor with her arms thrown out. She was partially dressed, and was dead. He should say that the woman died while in the act of dressing. The little girl said she had had nothing to eat all day. - Dr H. K. Lacey, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he had made a post mortem examination. Internally he found heart disease; also fatty disease of the liver and disease of the kidneys. He attributed death to heart disease. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 9 March 1906
TOTNES - An Inquest was held at Totnes on Tuesday evening on the body of CHARLES CROOK, found in a river on the previous day. A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 April 1906
TORQUAY - Child's Body Found In A Box. Adjourned Inquest. - Verdict of "Death Through Misadventure. " - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday afternoon, the Deputy County Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock) resumed the Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of the infant child of FANNY MANTLE, domestic servant in the employ of Bishop Churton, of Longcroft. The Inquest was opened on March 10th, when evidence was given by Drs. Crowdy and W. W. Stabb, the former stating that he visited the house, found FANNY MANTLE in bed, and subsequently discovered that she had given birth to a child, which he found in a box beneath the bed. Both medical men said the child had breathed, and gave the result of a joint post mortem examination of the body. - Dr Crowdy was recalled, and asked by the Deputy Coroner if he could fix what length of time there was between the birth and death of the child. He replied that it was impossible to say definitely, but in his opinion, it was only a question of a moment. Several hours had certainly elapsed between the birth of the child and the time at which he saw it. - The Foreman (Mr C. Hill): How do you arrive at the decision that the child only lived at moment? - Dr Crowdy: If the child had breathed any length of time, it would have breathed vigorously and the lungs would have become fully inflated. - Dr Stabb said at the last Inquiry he gave as evidence that the child had breathed, and therefore might be said to have had an independent existence. That was speaking medically or scientifically. A child was born alive from the time it drew its first breath, but he believed a child was not legally born until it had a separate existence. It was impossible for anybody not present at the birth to say that a legal birth had taken place, but it was possible to say a "live" birth had taken place, as a doctor understood it. - The Coroner: There was in this case a life which resulted in death? - Dr Stabb: A life which was not altogether dependent upon the mother. Is it not the case that a legal birth requires absolute separation? - The Deputy Coroner: I do not know that it does; merely a separate existence. Do you think this child cried? - It might have done so very feebly. - Leah Howse, cook at Longcroft, said she had known FANNY MANTLE all her life. Witness had lived with her at Longcroft about a year and nine months. On Wednesday, March 7th, she went to her door about 8 o'clock and asked her if she was coming down to breakfast. She said she was not. Witness took her up some breakfast, but did not enter the room. MANTLE opened the door and took it from her hand, and when she left, shut and locked the door. MANTLE had not been well for a long time. She usually locked her door at night, but not in the daytime. At 9.30 witness went to the bedroom again and found the door open. She entered, but saw nothing suspicious. Several times she visited the room up to the time Dr Crowdy came, but saw nothing to lead her to suppose that anything extraordinary had happened. - A Juror (Mr R. Easterbrook): Had the doctor been attending her before this? - Yes. - The Foreman: Did you not know the condition she was in? - No. - You are a fellow servant living with her, and yet you say you did not know or were not suspicious of her condition? - No. - Are there any other older servants? - Yes, one. - And she had no suspicion? - No. - A Juror: They must be funny women. - Emma Sturgess, parlourmaid, said she did not know FANNY MANTLE was in the condition stated. She went into her room about 9 o'clock on March 7th, and found her in bed. MANTLE told her that she had got out of bed, and whilst dressing had become very unwell. that was all she said, no mention was made of a child. - Frances Brown said she lived at Longcroft, being a very old friend of Bishop Churton and the family. On the 7th March, about 10 a.m. she went to see FANNY MANTLE in her bedroom. She was in bed and seemed rather unwell, but much the same as she had been for some few weeks. The girl made no statement. On the following day witness went for Dr Crowdy, in consequence of a statement made to her. - In reply to the Foreman, witness said she had no suspicion of the girl's condition. She was an eminently respectable and trustworthy girl, and had been at Longcroft nearly four years. - Mrs Bridgman, widow, of Ellacombe, stated that she was employed as charwoman at Longcroft on March 8th. She came to the conclusion that something was wrong through opening a parcel of soiled linen which came from the box-room. When Dr Crowdy arrived she accompanied him to FANNY MANTLE'S room. She saw the doctor take the body of the child from the box. - Dr Crowdy said the body of the child was rolled up in a petticoat. It was on its side. - The Foreman: Do we understand that you had attended this woman before? - Yes, I believe she came to see me about a fortnight before, but I can assure you I had no suspicion of her condition. I wish I had known. - Mr Priston (a Juror): That is the doctor's evidence on oath, and therefore we cannot be surprised at the other witnesses not being suspicious. - The Coroner: Was the child placed in the box as if in a cradle, or was it closely wrapped up? - It was wrapped up, and could not have breathed if it had tried. - FANNY MANTLE, sworn, said she was 28 years of age. She had been living at Longcroft as housemaid. She had never had a child before. The child, the subject of that Inquiry, was hers. It was born about eight o'clock on the 7th March, before any of the other witnesses entered her room. She had never realized her condition. She wouldn't believe it. After the child was born she had no recollection what happened. She fainted away, and did not remember anything until someone came to the door. She then put away the child under the bed. She was never aware whether the child was alive. No preparation had been made for its birth. - Dr Crowdy, recalled at the request of FANNY MANTLE, said he remembered being consulted by her about a fortnight before the birth of the child, but from what she told him he had no reason to be suspicious as to her condition. - The Deputy Coroner, in summing up, said the Jury had to consider two points, whether FANNY MANTLE had been in any way so neglectful as to be responsible for the death of this child, or whether its death was due to misadventure. There were three great laws to be borne in mind - the natural law that a mother must protect her offspring: a moral law, which said it was her bounden duty to do it, a duty not only to herself, but to the community, and finally a criminal law, which said if she knowingly or wilfully did anything to affect the life of her child, she was held responsible to that law. These laws applied to this poor child, and also to the child born in the house of the highest princess in the land. Infant life must be protected. If the Jury thought FANNY MANTLE had been in any way negligent, it was their bounden duty to say so and put her on her trial, but if they thought it was a case of misadventure, that she was taken by surprise and did not realize her condition, she was free from blame in regard to its death as far as the Criminal Law went. The girl came there very wisely and gave a clear explanation. Some people were afraid to speak out, but he had never known anyone who suffered through telling the truth and if people were only thoroughly truthful, there would not be half the trouble in this world. He did not ask MANTLE who the father of the child was nor why she concealed its birth; that was a matter for another court. The medical evidence was to the effect that the child had only lived a moment, and if they believed the girl's statement, that immediately following its birth she fainted, it was clearly a case for a verdict of death by misadventure. - The Jury retired for a short time, and on returning gave a verdict of "Death by Misadventure, through the inability of the mother to give the child the necessary attention."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 May 1906
PAIGNTON - Sad Fatality At Paignton. Little Boy Falls Into A Limepit. - Mr Coroner Hacker on Tuesday, held an Inquest at Paignton, touching the death of a little boy, ALFRED JOHN MICHELMORE, aged two, who died as the result of shocking injuries sustained by falling into a pit of hot slack lime shortly before one o'clock on Saturday. - The parents live at 13 Mineham Terrace, St Michael's, and at the back is a pit, belonging to Mr Stidworthy, builder. This pit was filled with boiling lime at the time of the accident. The child with several others, was playing about, and was seen by a little boy named Matthews to slip in from the roadway. Matthews told his mother, who ran to the spot, and her screams attracted the attention of the child's mother and others When the child was taken from the pit he was so covered with lime that at first the mother failed to identify him. The poor child was carried indoors and some of the lime was removed from his face. Dr Adams, who was called in, found that the eyesight was completely destroyed, and that the child had sustained terrible injuries. At his orders the little boy was conveyed to the Cottage Hospital where he died on Sunday morning. - Some strong remarks were made by the Coroner and Jury as to the great danger of leaving these lime pits unprotected, and the contiguity of this pit to the road was regarded as an additional danger. The Coroner told Mr Stidworthy that he was not blameless in the matter, and should have taken precautions to fence the pit directly lime was put into it. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and added a rider calling upon the District Council to see that all lime pits in the neighbourhood, where several builders are erecting houses, are properly protected.

TORQUAY - Torquay Child's Death. The Censure Of The Jury. - The County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquest at Torquay on Monday touching the death of the illegitimate male child of FANNY SYMONS, domestic servant, of 187 Union Street. - FANNY SYMONS said the child was born on March 24th last. It did not thrive, suffering from thrush. He had his tongue cut at the hospital. On Friday about [?] a.m. the child went to sleep and not waking, she sent for a doctor at 5 p.m., but when he arrived the child was dead. - The Coroner: You let the child die without sending for assistance? - Witness: I did not know the child was dying. - The Coroner: If he had had nothing that day and was in the state described, any person of ordinary intelligence would have known the child was in a serious condition. - Harriett Lane, 187 Union Street, said FANNY SYMONS was in her employ. The child was admitted to the Torbay Hospital three days after his birth. - Dr Thistle said the body was very much emaciated. Death was due to malnutrition, due to injudicious or insufficient feeding, probably both. - The Coroner said the case was a very unsatisfactory one. The mother and Mrs Lane could have seen that the child was wasting away, and therefore should have gone for medical aid. What the Jury had to Inquire into was whether those in charge of the child were responsible for his decease. The Jury returned a verdict that the child died from Malnutrition accelerated by thrust and added a rider that they considered Mrs Lane was negligent in not summoning a doctor sooner. - The Coroner: You consider that Mrs Lane was negligent, but that her negligence was not of such a character as to be criminal. The Foreman (Mr R. H. Hobson): That is so.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 May 1906
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Torquay. Inquest Yesterday. - Mr Sidney Hacker, (County Coroner) held an Inquiry in the Upton Parish Room yesterday, touching the death of a MRS PLANK, lodging in Torquay, who died suddenly in St Marychurch Road, on Tuesday evening. - Anna Beard, a single lady, of Orleans House, Dartmouth, said the deceased was her third cousin, named SUSAN HALLAN PLANK. She was 75 years old, and was the widow of GEORGE PLANK, fancy warehouseman, of Wolverhampton. Since her husband's death she had lived with witness. She had very little means, and witness practically supported her. Deceased and herself had been living at Dartmouth since November. On May 2nd last deceased came to St. Joseph's Mount, Windsor Road, Ellacombe, as witness had to go to town. Witness last saw her on May 5th, when she seemed quite well, and said she was very comfortable. Deceased was in very good health generally, but her memory was very weak, and she seemed to have felt her husband's death very severely. Witness had since been in London, only returning on the previous evening. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said deceased had been subject to spasms at times. She was also helpless mentally. She was otherwise quite capable of looking after herself. - Helen Striffler, matron, of the St Joseph's Mount, Holiday and convalescent Home, Ellacombe, said the deceased had resided there from May 2nd. She was in very good health, except in the matter of memory. She seemed quite well on the day of her death, and took her meals as usual. She had tea and came down to go out about six o'clock. She evidently thought it was Sunday, and said she was going to Church. Witness told her it was Tuesday, and she apparently went back to the house. That was the last witness saw of her. She (witness) returned about eight o'clock, and found that the deceased was not at home. She accordingly sent to the police, and told them what had happened. Later she heard what had occurred. - Desmond Ellis, school teacher, of 2 Springfield Terrace, St. Marychurch, said about 7.40 on the day in question he was walking down St. Marychurch Road towards Torquay. Just below a house named Hillstead, he passed the deceased. She was standing in the middle of the pavement, looking up and down the road as if she did not know which way to go. He went on a few paces and heard the sound of a fall. He looked around and found that deceased had fallen on her face and hands. He and some companions raised her, and witness ran for a doctor. When he returned, deceased had been removed t the mortuary. To the best of his knowledge, deceased was alive when picked up. - Mr M. Thompson, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he was walking down St. Marychurch Road, about twenty to eight on the evening in question, and saw some people standing around the body of a woman. He went over and examined her, and found that she was dead. Later at the mortuary he made a post mortem examination, and found that the heart was diseased. The lungs and liver were also congested, consequent on heart disease. Death was the result of heart failure. In reply to the Coroner, witness said the disease was of long standing. The condition of the heart might account for death at any moment. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 June 1906
DROITWICH - Sad End Of A Torquay Lady. Suicide On The Railway. - At Droitwich last week, an Inquest was respecting the death of MISS EVELYN TAYLOR, 23 years of age, late of Kilmorie, Torquay, whose dead body was found on the railway near Chawson Crossing. MISS TAYLOR lost her father a few years ago, and her mother in November last. In ill-health, she left Torquay about the middle of this month, with her sister, for Droitwich, hoping to benefit by her sojourn there. For a week the MISSES TAYLOR stayed at the Worcestershire Hotel, and then they removed into private apartments. MISS EVELYN was regularly attended by a Droitwich doctor, and appeared to be so far improving in health that her sister left for London. The next morning MISS TAYLOR left her lodgings for a walk with a Droitwich lady, but after she had been out for a time she left her companion. She was warned off the railway at a crossing, but an hour or so later, after her absence from her apartments had been notified to the police, she appears to have gained access to the railway line further away from the town, and there awaited her death. - At the Inquest the landlady of the house where at the MISSES TAYLOR stayed, said that MISS EVELYN was very cheerful. She did not appear to be suffering from any mental disease. There was no reason to suspect that MISS TAYLOR would be a person likely to end her life: her friends had not said anything to that effect. When MISS TAYLOR left at 10.45 a.m. for a walk she said that she would return for lunch at one o'clock. Inasmuch as she did not return witness sent to MISS TAYLOR'S friend, who stated that deceased left her shortly after twelve o'clock. Witness thereupon informed the police. There was no insanity in the family, and witness did not know of any trouble. - Mrs Chappell said that MISS TAYLOR called for her in the morning to go for a walk. Deceased seemed pleasant, though reserved and shy. Witness did not think that deceased was depressed, and she did not speak of any trouble. There was nothing about MISS TAYLOR to lead Mrs Chappell to imagine that she would be likely to commit suicide. Returning, Mrs Chappell asked MISS TAYLOR to stay at her house, but deceased said that there were several things she wished to do and must return to her lodgings quickly. - The wife of the keeper of a level railway crossing near Droitwich, said that about one o'clock in the afternoon she observed a lady, dressed in black, on the railway embankment. She went to the lady, told her that she was trespassing and that she must leave the railway at once, or she would be summoned. The lady hesitated, but witness insisted. The lady then crossed the railway, but witness recalled her, and directed her along the road. The lady did not answer and walked away. A few minutes later she returned, but, seeing witness and another person, turned down a line, climbed a fence and entered a field, crossed it, walked along the hedge-side until she reached a gate, and then crossed the railway about half a mile distant. When witness first addressed her the lady said that she "wanted to ramble in the fields." Witness told her that she could not ramble along the railway, and must leave. - The driver of the express train said that shortly after passing Droitwich he saw a lady on the railway embankment, about five yards from the rails. He blew the whistle, and then the lady started to walk down the embankment. The train was about fifty yards from the lady, and it was travelling at a speed of thirty-five miles an hour. He continued to blow the whistle, but the lady stepped into the four-foot way and stood facing the engine. Witness shut off steam, applied the brake, and stopped the train in a little over its own length. The body of the lady was lying between the metals behind the train. - The Coroner: Did the lady make any gesture as she walked down the bank? - Witness: No; she stood straight up. She looked lost and dazed. I can see her face now as she stood in front of me. - The Fireman of the train said that when he heard the whistle blown he looked out and saw deceased about a yard from the engine. He saw the train pass over the body. Her face was very much disfigured, and her right arm had been severed. - The Coroner: Was she dead? - Witness: No; she breathed hard for three or four minutes. - A police constable stated that deceased carried her watch on the left wrist. The clothing was marked "E. M. TAYLOR." - Recalled, the landlady said that two days before deceased wrote to a Torquay bank, and that on the day following there arrived for her a registered letter containing some £5 notes. Before leaving for her walk deceased prepared a washing list. The Jury's verdict was "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

WESTON-SUPER-MARE - Torquay Gentleman's Death. Inquest At Weston-Super-Mare. - At Weston-Super-Mare on Monday, an Inquiry was held by the Coroner (Dr C. Craddock) into the circumstances attending the death of RICHARD FLINT WELBY, A.M.I.C.E., aged 66, of "Ravenhurst," Chelston, Torquay, who was on a visit to his sister at Weston-Super-Mare, and met with an accident whilst riding his motor bicycle on the 25th inst. - Mr Thos. O. Gunton, stockbroker, residing at Wenn, Shropshire, said deceased was his father-in-law. Deceased's heart was certainly affected - general weakness so a doctor in Torquay informed him. Deceased was a retired civil engineer. - Albert Edward fisher, fish salesman, said that on Friday, the 26th inst., he was driving a fish cart through meadow Street at the rate of four miles an hour, and, when crossing Orchard Street, deceased, on a motor tricycle, ran into him. The machine ran into the kerb and deceased fell over on to the pavement, the step of the cart striking him or the motor. Witness at once went to his assistance. - The Coroner: I understand deceased's tricycle did not run into you until after he fell? - My cart touched his machine after he fell. - The Coroner: Was deceased thrown from the tricycle owing to the impact with your cart, or was it through his going suddenly on to the causeway? - I think through by going suddenly on to the kerb did it. - The Coroner: To get out of your way? - Yes. - Mr Gunton: Did you hear the sound of a bell or gong? - None whatever. - You fell conscientiously that you have nothing to blame yourself with in the matter? - Certainly. - Henry Cornelius, landlord of the Ashcombe Hotel, Weston-Super-Mare, said on the 25th inst., at about 12.40 .m. he was standing on the pavement at the corner of Meadow Street and Orchard Street. He heard the horn of a motor perhaps half-a-dozen times coming up through Orchard Street, and he also heard a pony and trap coming down Meadow Street at the same time. Just as the motor tricycle was crossing Meadow Street the pony and trap, driven by the last witness (Fisher) came along at the usual pace. - The Coroner: Can you tell me the cause of the tricycle turning over and deceased falling? Was it through colliding with the trap or through coming against the kerb? - It would not be against the kerb; the pony knocked the tricycle over. - Can you say whether deceased fell off before the tricycle collided with the cart or not? - It was the force knocked him off. - You are quite certain of that, because Fisher could not tell us? - Yes. - You are sure the tricycle collided with the cart? - the pony knocked the tricycle over. - Deceased did not fall until then? - No, sir. - A Juror: According to your statement Fisher did his best to avert a collision? - Yes. - John Green, commercial traveller, said he was standing at the junction of Orchard and Meadow Streets, by Mr Stephen's shop. Deceased was riding at a pace of from ten to twelve miles an hour. As he came to the crossing, witness Fisher was driving along Meadow Street in his cart. Deceased seemed to have passed the front part of the cart, and then the machine turned over, deceased being thrown on the pavement. He attributed no blame to Fisher; he believed it was a pure accident. - Dr Stanley Livesey, house surgeon, said deceased was quite unconscious, and only lived about 3 ½ hours. Deceased died from a very severe fracture of the base of the skull, causing a good deal of haemorrhage, which was the immediate cause of death. It was one of the most severe fractures he had ever seen. - The Coroner said there did not seem to be any particular blame attaching to anybody. The question they all wanted to get at was, was there a want of precaution taken by anybody? He did not think any blame attached to anyone, as motors could be pulled up very quickly. - A Juror: Where the accident occurred is a very dangerous spot. - The Jury returned a verdict that "Deceased died from haemorrhage caused by a fracture of the base of the skull, the result of an Accident."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 June 1906
TOTNES - At Totnes on Tuesday an Inquest was held on HARRIETT CALLARD, 50, a spinster, of Bank Lane, the daughter of ABRAHAM CALLARD, cab driver, found dead in bed that morning. Dr Edmund, who had made a post mortem examination, said deceased who was very stout, died of rupture of the heart, which was very fatty and degenerated.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 June 1906
PAIGNTON - Insurance Agent's Suicide. Nothing Worth Living For. - On Friday the Deputy Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock) held an Inquest at Paignton on the body of CHARLES RILEY, insurance agent, of Kingsteignton, whose body was found on the sands at Paignton, early on the previous morning by the coastguards. - EMMA RILEY, wife of the deceased, identified the body as that of her husband, who was fifty-eight years old. Deceased was formerly in the Royal Marine Band, and was in receipt of a pension. He was an insurance agent for the Pearl Life Assurance Society. He left home on Wednesday morning to go to Newton Railway Station. She expected him home at dinner time. But she never saw him again alive. Deceased had had trouble with his insurance books. He was never worried like it in his life before. He was not behind in his payments or collections. On Thursday morning she received a letter (produced) from deceased through the post. - The Coroner said the letter was of a private nature, and he would hand it to the Jury to read if they liked. - William Newberry, baker, of Paignton, said that on Wednesday evening, about seven o'clock he went bathing with a friend at Goodrington, and saw deceased sitting on the sands. Whilst they were in the water deceased ran into the sea partly dressed. They persuaded him, after a time, to go ashore and made him take off his wet clothing and put on his outer clothing. They went with him to the Dartmouth Road and left him, after he shook hands and said good-night. He seemed under the influence of drink, but was all right when they left him. - John Baker, coastguard, proved finding the body on the sands at 4.15 on Thursday morning. - Mr H. Adams, surgeon, said that death was due to drowning. - Richard Eddy, an old man, said deceased spoke to him at the Pier Inn, saying "I don't see there is anything in this word worth living for. I have written two letters telling them that they will never see me again." - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 June 1906
TORQUAY - Died From Burns. Domestic's Sad End. Inquest. - The County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker), held an Inquiry in the Upton Parish room on Tuesday afternoon, touching the death of FLORENCE AGNES SHAPLEY, 23, domestic servant, living at Woodbury, Babbacombe Road, Wellswood, who died in the Torbay Hospital on Saturday, as the result of burns received a few weeks back. It will be remembered that she was found in the kitchen enveloped in a mass of flames, her apron having evidently caught from the fire in the stove. - GEORGE SHAPLEY, tanner's labourer, of 10 Manor Cottages, Newton Abbot, identified the body lying in the mortuary as that of his daughter. She was 23 years of age, and was a domestic servant, employed by Mrs Dale, at Woodbury. He saw her in the Torbay Hospital about a week after the occurrence, which took place on May 21st. His daughter saw her soon after she was taken in. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said he had been to the Hospital on several occasions, but had been unable to see his daughter, it being inconvenient for him to do so. - The Coroner asked Dr Thompson when patients could be seen, and the latter replied that unless patients were being dressed or the doctor was in the ward, they could be seen in urgency cases any afternoon or evening. It was quite a coincidence that the deceased's father had not been able to see his daughter. - Witness, continuing, said when he saw the deceased, she was quite conscious, but could tell him nothing as to the occurrence, saying the flame caught her before she was aware of it. - Rebecca Jones, nurse housemaid, also at Woodbury, said on the morning in question, she went to the dining room to lay the breakfast, and left deceased making some toast in front of the fire. The stove was an ordinary cooking range, and deceased was using a toasting fork. She was wearing her usual dress of print and had on a apron. While in the dining room, witness heard screams, but thinking it was the baby upstairs took no notice of them. They were, however, repeated and witness opened the door. As she did so, the deceased ran past her enveloped in flames, and rushed out into the garden. Witness ran after her, and by the time she got her back to the porch, Mrs Dale had come down. The latter got some rugs and extinguished the flames. Witness had seen deceased since at the Hospital, but she had been unable to give no explanation of the occurrence. - Mrs Annie Dale, wife of Harry E. Dale, said deceased had been in her service as cook-general. On the evening in question, about 8 o'clock, she was upstairs and heard screams coming from the down floor. She ran down the stairs and saw the housemaid bringing the girl in from the garden. She quickly fetched some rugs, and with considerable difficulty, put out the flames. A doctor was telephoned for and arrived about ten minutes later. Her wounds were dressed and she was then taken to the Torbay Hospital. Witness had since asked the deceased if she could account for the occurrence, and she had said she thought it might have been a spark. A piece of oil cloth in front of the grate had two holes burnt in it. - Dr Thompson, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, gave evidence to the effect that on May 21st deceased was admitted to the Hospital suffering from extensive burns about the body, chiefly on the thighs, buttocks, loins, back and arms. Witness treated her and deceased seemed to get over the shock, and considering the state of the wounds, was proceeding very nicely. She was, however, never able to wholly recover from the extensive burning she had received. He attributed death to shock from the result of the burns. A verdict of "Died from Accidental Burns," was returned. - At the conclusion of the proceedings, Mr Dale said he should like to say that the range in question was a comparatively new one, and the bars to the grate were vertical, thus minimising the danger from burning cinders, etc.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 July 1906
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Chelston. Inquest. - The County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquest in the Upton Parish Room on Saturday, on the body of MARGARET HITCHENS DRAKE, aged fifty years, spinster, of 1 Woodland Terrace, Chelston, Torquay. - The unusual procedure of electing a Foreman by show of hands took place, two gentlemen being proposed. Mr W. Oliver was elected. - LOVEDAY ELEANOR DRAKE, spinster, sister of the deceased, said she was the daughter of the REV. W. HINTON DRAKE. She resided at 1 Woodland Terrace with her mother and three sisters. Deceased had been in her usual health of late, and went for a walk with witness on the Thursday before she died. She went to bed about 10.30. It was deceased's custom to call her mother at eight o'clock in the morning, but as she failed t do so the next morning, her mother went into her room after calling and received no answer. Her mother, who was an invalid, was eighty years of age, and unable to attend the Inquiry. - Walter Charles Halpin, surgeon, said he saw the deceased about 8.15 on Friday morning. Her pulse beat for a minute or two after he arrived. He was told deceased took a chill the night before through being out in the rain. - Mervyn Thomson, house surgeon at the Torquay Hospital, said he had made a post mortem examination on the deceased. Externally there were no signs of unnatural death. Internally he found the heart diseased, probably of long standing. The lungs were congested. The other organs were normal, with the exception of the stomach, which showed faint signs of inflammation. There were no signs that deceased had partaken of anything injurious. He attributed death to heart failure, owing to fatty degeneration accelerated by congestion of the lungs. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said the chill which deceased was said to have contracted might have accounted for the congested state of the lungs, which would have hastened her death. - Dr Halpin corroborated Dr Thomson's evidence. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

TORQUAY - Torquay Domestic's Sad End. Inquest - An Adjournment. - At Upton Parish Room yesterday morning the County Coroner (Mr Sidney Hacker) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JESSIE ZAPLE, 25, a domestic servant, whose dead body was found in the sea off Peaked Tor on Wednesday morning. Mr A. Beer was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - SARAH JANE ZAPLE, mother of the deceased, stated that she lived at 20 Braddon's Street, and was the wife of FRANK ZAPLE, labourer. She identified the body as that of her daughter, who since she was 13 years of age had lived with her married sister, Mrs Clark, when she was not in service. Witness last saw her daughter alive about two months ago. She was then very excited about an illegitimate child she had given birth to. Witness had ten children, one of whom had been an inmate of Exminster Asylum for 16 years. Sometimes her husband became mentally deranged, but he had never been in the Asylum. Witness kept her daughter's child, and was paid 3s. per week. When she last saw her she was in arrears with the payments. Witness asked her for money, and she became very excited. She, however, sent 6s. - Mrs Emma Reed, of the Manor Dairy, 72 Fleet Street, said deceased entered her employ as general servant on June 21st. She was a splendid servant, but most eccentric in her manner - nervous, excited and unrestful. Witness asked her if there was any reason for this, and she replied in the negative. But for this, she was one of the nicest servants anyone could have in the house. She had only been with witness a short time when she said "I shall never get into your ways; I shall leave at the end of the month." - On Sunday evening deceased went out, returned punctually at 9.30, and appeared to be in a cheerful mood. On the following morning witness called her about 5.50 and she answered. Subsequently she delivered the key of the stables to the boy, but witness never saw the girl after the Sunday night. Witness communicated with the police. Deceased left her room in perfect order. - John A. Stentiford, in the employ of the last witness, said he received the keys of the stable from deceased at 6 a.m. on Monday. She was dressed in her house clothes and had no hat on. - P.C. Hatherley stated that he was informed on Tuesday that a hat had been found floating near Peaked Tor. On Wednesday morning he examined the sea with a pair of field glasses, and discovered the body in the bottom in about 10 feet of water. The bathing attendant, William Ford, accompanied him in a boat to the spot, and Ford dived for the body, and was successful in bringing it to the surface at the first attempt. Deceased had on a mackintosh, but her other clothing was of the kind she would wear in the house. - Dr Thomson, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he had made a superficial examination of the body. The fact that there had been bleeding from the ear was a sign of a fracture of the skull, but there was no other evidence of fracture. He would not like to say death was due to drowning. - P.C. Hatherley said deceased must have jumped or fallen 15 or 16 feet into the water. - Dr Thomson said the impact of the body with the water might cause a fracture of the skull, and there would be no outward marks. - Sarah Clark, wife of a coachman, living at Braddon Tor Stables, said deceased was her sister. When out of a situation she had lived with witness. Deceased had an illegitimate child, which their mother kept. Witness last saw her sister on Friday last, when she appeared to be in good health and spirits. She was naturally excitable, and had been worried a good deal on account of being out of a situation and being unable to get the money to pay for the keep of her child. As the evidence as to the actual cause of death was not clear, the Coroner adjourned the Inquiry until Monday next, in order that a post mortem examination may be made.

TORQUAY - Old Lady's Fatal Fall. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest on Friday at the Upton Parish Room on the body of SARAH TAIT RINTOUL, who died on the previous Wednesday at Failford, Forest Road. - ROBERT RINTOUL, Civil Service pensioner, said deceased was his mother, with whom he resided. She was 91 years of age, and the widow of JAMES RINTOUL, gardener. She was quite able-bodied. She did her domestic duties, assisted by himself, but there had been a gradual failing. For the last two or three weeks she had been very frail. She took food on Wednesday, but did not get out of bed. She seemed very comfortable at about one o'clock. About two o'clock he went up to her room and found her sitting on the edge of the bed bleeding from a wound on her head. She did not tell him how it happened. He helped her into bed and noticed that her hands were cold. He then went downstairs to fetch her some brandy. When he returned she was unconscious, perhaps dead. He immediately sent for Dr Odell. Witness thought she received the injury to her head through falling out of bed. - Dr William Odell said deceased was dead when he saw her. He had attended her since the 9th June. Deceased told him that she had never ailed before in her life. She died from shock from the fall. - Minnie Clift, district nurse, said she had attended deceased for a few days before death. She appeared to be well looked after. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 July 1906
WESTON-SUPER-MARE - Death of MR EDWARD SERMON - There is not a single person in Torquay who had not had the good fortune to possess the slightest acquaintance with him, but will deeply regret the death of MR EDWARD SERMON, of whom it might be said, "he was a man without an enemy in the world." The news of MR SERMON'S death was received in Torquay on Sunday, the bearer of the sad intelligence being Mr W. J. Hughan, who had been staying with MR and MRS SERMON, and the Rev. H. J. and Mrs Cheatle, their son-in-law and daughter, at Weston-Super-Mare. - MR SERMON left Torquay on June 29th for his native city of Birmingham, where MRS SERMON had been staying for a few days. Relatives and friends endeavoured to induce him to prolong his sojourn in the Midland capital, but arrangements for a holiday at Weston-Super-Mare had been completed, and to the Somersetshire resort MR and MRS SERMON accordingly journeyed on Tuesday week, to be joined by Mr and Mrs Cheatle and Mr Hughan, who had arranged to spend with the SERMON family the first holiday he had been able to take for seven years. On Saturday the five enjoyed a drive. MR SERMON rode on the box seat and not only was he apparently in good health, but he was happy and jocular. Shortly after one o'clock, on Sunday morning, however, MRS SERMON was awakened by the heavy breathing of her husband. Mr Hughan, who was occupying an adjoining room, was informed, and a doctor was summoned, but before he arrived MR SERMON had passed quietly away. At an Inquest on Monday it was determined that death was attributable to heart failure. Never very robust, MR SERMON had a serious illness in January and February, when he suffered a very severe attack of influenza and bronchitis, which left his heart in a very weak condition.
[Details of his life and funeral followed.]

TORQUAY - Torquay Servant Girl's Suicide. Adjourned Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday, the County Coroner (Mr Sidney Hacker) officiated at the adjourned Inquest on the body of JESSIE ZAPLE, a domestic servant, employed at the Manor Dairy, Fleet Street. It will be remembered that the Inquiry was adjourned, as there was some little doubt in the mind of Dr Thomson, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, as to the actual cause of death. The Coroner ordered a post mortem examination, and adjourned the Inquest so that it might be made. - Dr Thomson stated that, previous to making his post-mortem examination, he more closely examined the girl's lacerated lips, and he did not think any blow had been struck. Everything pointed to death by drowning. The only explanation he could give as to blood issuing from the ear, was that some minute sea animal had entered the orifice, as there was no sign of a blow on the head. He had examined the organs, and had come to the conclusion that death was due to drowning. The deceased was not enceinte. P.S. Gregory said he understood a brother of deceased's had committed suicide. - MRS ZAPLE, the mother, was recalled, and said her son, who was a sailor on board H.M.S. Magnificent, did something wrong and was sent to Bodmin Gaol; whilst there he hanged himself. There was certainly insanity on her husband's side. - Dr Thomson said deceased had an ill-formed head, but no disease of the brain was apparent. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 July 1906
BRIXHAM - Brixham Woman's Death. - Mr Hacker opened an Inquest at Brixham on Friday evening on EMILIE ADAMS. The Jury on going to view the body were kept standing in the public highway for 50 minutes, Dr W. J. Quicke not having completed the post mortem examination. - The Coroner said as the doctor was not in a position to give medical evidence, he considered it necessary to send Dr G. B. Elliott to assist at the post mortem and adjourn the Inquest until Friday next. - The evidence from OLIVE ADAMS and Eliza Johnson showed that deceased showed unmistakable symptoms of intoxication during the evening, and that when they found her she had apparently during sleep slipped from the door, and fallen with her head partially behind the gas stove, with her neck slightly twisted. No one was in the house when the accident took place.

TORQUAY - Torquay Baker's Sudden Death. A Fifty Years' Resident Of Torquay - The Inquest. - Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) held an Inquest at Upton Parish room on Monday evening, on the body of JOHN ASH, 70, journeyman baker, who died suddenly at his residence, 25 Melville Street, on the previous evening. - Charles John Bond, baker, of 21 Market Street, gave evidence of identification, and said he had known the deceased for 38 or 39 years. The deceased was originally a native of Tavistock, but had lived in Torquay for over 50 years. Deceased had no relations in Torquay, but witness had heard him speak of a brother. - Ellen Willcocks, 25 Melville Street, said the deceased had lived with her and her husband for about twelve months. He occupied his own room, taking his meals with the family. He was a very steady man, and always paid his rent regularly. All the time he had been with her he had enjoyed good health. On Sunday he ate no dinner, complaining of a pain in his chest. He went upstairs in the afternoon and lay down. At 3 p.m. he was all right and said he would be down to tea at five. He did not come down and at a quarter past five she went up to call him, and found him stretched out on the bed. She at once sent for Dr Cook. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said the deceased had not received a letter since he had been with her. - Thomas Luscombe, baker, 1 Warren Road, said deceased for four years had been in his partial employ, he also working for a Mr Davey. He worked on Saturday and appeared in his usual health. The deceased's wages were 9s. a week, and he also received something from Mr Davey. - Dr T. D. Cook gave evidence to the effect that he was called t see the deceased, and found him dead. He had evidently been dead but a little while. He had subsequently made a post mortem examination, and found that the heart was decidedly fatty. Deceased was also suffering from indigestion, and this would greatly depress the action of the heart. Death was due to syncope, accelerated by the indigestion. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 August 1906
BIDEFORD - Torquay Pedlar's Death. Strange Affair In North Devon. - At Bideford on Monday, Mr W. Pyke, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on KATE DALEY, otherwise known as CATHERINE DRISCOLL, 56 years of age, a hawker, of Pimlico, Torquay. - Sarah Martin, of Torquay, said deceased was known at Torquay as KATE DALEY, but for five years had lived with CORNELIUS DRISCOLL as his wife. Where DRISCOLL was she did not know, and deceased had not been with him for some time. - In answer to Police-Superintendent Buchanan, witness said deceased was a heavy drinker and smoker. She was a native of Southampton. - John Andrew of Parkham, said on Friday he saw deceased with another woman inside a gate at Horn's Cross on the Clovelly Road. The other woman was on her back, and deceased, then standing up, was accusing her of being drunk. He left, but went back again for his stick, and then saw deceased falling over a high hedge. He picked her up, and found her head "lying every way." Both women appeared to be drunk. In answer to the Jury, witness said the other woman could not have pushed deceased over the hedge, as she was four land yards away then. P.C. Townsend deposed to removing both women to Bideford in a trap. Deceased was alive when he lifted her in the trap, but appeared to be dead when he took her out at Bideford. He had no idea there was anything the matter with her otherwise than that she was very drunk. - Mary Crunden, pedlar, who was with deceased at the time, said she remembered nothing about deceased going over the hedge. They were drunk, and went inside the gate of a field to sleep. - Dr Pearson, who saw deceased at Bideford Police Station, at midnight on Friday, said she was then dead, and a post mortem examination revealed death to be due to apoplexy. There was a clot of blood about the size of a Tangerine orange on the left side of the brain, due to the rupture of a blood vessel. Undue exertion would have caused the apoplexy, and nothing could have saved the woman. - Recalled, P.C. Townsend said he should think the doctor was obtained at Bideford in about a quarter of an hour. The police went to Dr Grose, who was unwell; Dr Thompson refused to come, and then they got Dr Pearson. - Dr Pearson explained that there was no means of paying a medical man called by the police under these circumstances, and a doctor was not bound to attend. - A Juror: And it is open for a doctor to come or not? - Witness said yes. He might come, get no fees, and be neglecting his patients. Doctors, like other persons, liked fees for their services. - The Jury found death due to apoplexy, and added a strong expression of opinion "that the present system of non-payment for medical assistance in cases of accident when medical men are called by the police is very unsatisfactory, owing to there being no paid official medical man."

TORQUAY - Railway Porter's Sudden Death. The Inquest. - The Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, held an Inquest on Saturday morning at the Upton Parish Room, on the body of PHILLIP LIDSTONE, a railway porter, who died suddenly at Torquay Railway Station, on Friday morning last. - MARY ELIZABETH LIDSTONE identified the body as that of her husband, with whom she had resided at 3 Goshen Terrace, Chelston. He was 54 years of age. She saw him on Friday morning, when he appeared in good health. He left home about 7.30 to go to work at the Torquay Railway Station. She was fetched between 8 and 9 and saw her husband at the Railway Station unconscious. - James Turner, porter, at the Torquay Railway Station, residing at Upton, said he saw deceased about 7.40 on the morning in question. He seemed in his usual health, and collected tickets and also took some ordinary luggage to the cloak room. - Susan Ann Peel, of Goshen Terrace, who works at Torquay Station, saw deceased go into the gentlemen's lavatory between 8.15 and 8.20. She spoke to him and he appeared to be in his usual health and spirits. She next saw him unconscious and helped loosen his coat. - Charles Leach, porter, at the Torquay Railway Station, said he missed deceased, and went to the lavatory and called him. He found deceased in a little store in the lavatory, where brushes, etc., were kept. Deceased was sitting on a chair, unconscious, and breathing deeply. He fetched some brandy and sent for the doctor, and MRS LIDSTONE. He carried deceased into the ticket office before the doctor saw him. - Dr Walter Charles Halpin said he saw deceased at the station in a comatose condition. He died about 15 minutes after his arrival. Witness had made a post mortem examination, and found the heart enlarged, and the liver very large. The kidneys were also diseased. Deceased was certainly not in a good state of health. There was a large haemorrhage at the base of the brain, a blood vessel having burst. The state of deceased's organs was responsible for this. Deceased died from cerebral haemorrhage. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned. At the funeral the Local Branch of the Amalgamated Society of Railway Servants was represented by Messrs. J. Pratt (chairman), J. Norsworthy, Mutters and Heale. The members sent a very beautiful wreath.

PAIGNTON - Fatal Trap Accident. - The County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry at Paignton, on Tuesday, into the circumstances attending the death of HENRIETTA POPE, aged 67, of Brixham, who died in the Cottage Hospital on Sunday, as the result of being thrown from a market trap on Thursday. - Mrs Parnell, of Collaton, said she was standing at her door, and saw a pony running away with a trap, in which were the deceased and her husband, JOHN POPE, a fish hawker of Brixham. Directly afterwards she saw it upset, and both occupants were thrown into the road the pony immediately standing still. Just in front of it was a motor car, going at a moderate pace, but the occupants apparently did not see what happened behind them. - Alfred Pope, a blacksmith of Collaton, but no relative, gave similar evidence, and P.C. Melhuish, who was on duty in the vicinity, proved picking up JOHN POPE, who was sitting in the road covered with blood, and then his wife, who was lying on her face insensible, with blood flowing from mouth, nose and ears, and he conveyed her to Paignton Hospital. - Dr Gibson, of Totnes, said he was driving his motor car to Stoke Gabriel, and passed the trap at a slow speed. He had blown his hooter, and as he passed the pony stopped dead. He went on, no knowing of the accident until he got home. JOHN POPE, the husband, whose head was bandaged, said that being deaf he did not hear the hooter, but he heard the car when close behind, but not in time to jump out and hold his pony, as he always did when cars passed. When this car had passed the pony started plunging, and bolted. - Dr Bennett proved that the deceased died from the effects of a fracture of the skull. She also sustained a fractured collarbone. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated Dr Gibson from all blame.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 24 August 1906
TOTNES - The Recent Motor Car Fatality. Paignton Visitor's Death - Motoring In Devon Lanes. - Mr S. Hacker (Coroner) held an Inquest at the Guildhall, Totnes, on Saturday afternoon, on the body of MRS JULIA BOUCHER, of Bristol, who was killed in the motor accident at Hood Bridge, Totnes, on Thursday afternoon. - JOHN M. BOUCHER, druggist of Leigh Woods, near Bristol, identified the body as that of his mother, JULIA CHARLOTTE BOUCHER, who was sixty-five years of age, and the widow of JOHN BOUCHER, druggist, of Bristol. - William C. Simm, permanent way secretary for the G.W.R., produced a plan of the spot where the accident occurred. There was a sharp turn on Hood Bridge - where the accident occurred - when approached from Buckfastleigh. Where the accident happened was inside Staverton parish. There was a mark on the left wall that the car scratched for some distance. The Great Western Railway line was 22ft. below the bridge, and where the deceased fell was 30ft. - MISS HELEN CONSTANCE BOUCHER, of Bristol, stated that about 2.30 they left Paignton for a trip to Ashburton. The occupants of the car were Mrs Lewis, her mother, and her brother-in-law, Mr Lewis was the driver. They went to Ashburton. the deceased was sitting beside the driver. They did not go the same way as they returned. As they approached the bridge there was a sharp turn. They were not going fast and as they came to the corner Mr Lewis put on the brake and the side of the car ran into the side of the wall on the left. There was a slight jerk and she only remembered jumping out of the car. Witness ran down to her mother, as Mr Lewis told her that she had gone over and when she got there she thought her mother was dead. - Charles Smith, Totnes, said he was on the road, and the car passed him near Riverford, at an ordinary speed. - William Percival Lewis, of Bristol, said that he was the owner of the motor, and he had driven down from Bristol. On the day in question they went to Ashburton, and all went well until they approached the bridge which was strange to him, as he went the Staverton Road on the outward journey, and he failed to take the turning. He must either have under-rated the turning, or he was going faster than he thought. He approached the bridge at about 15 miles an hour, but he slowed up considerably before he came to the bridge. - The Coroner: Rather a sharp pace for such a turn? - Witness: I did not think the turning was such a sharp one. The car scraped the side of the bridge for 32 feet, when the deceased fell out, and then went 22 feet more. He did not feel any jerk, and he did not anticipate any danger, as he saved the car from going into the wall. He heard a shout, and then saw the back and legs of the deceased going over the wall. - The Coroner asked why he did not pull up when he first touched the wall. - Witness replied that he was afraid to put the brake on hard because they might be unseated. - Dr Edmund deposed that when he came to the spot deceased was dead. As there was no bodily distortion he came to the conclusion that deceased died from shock. - The Coroner, summing up, said the lanes of South Devon were very different to the roads up country, and those who motored in Devon ought to be very careful to mitigate their speed, and not attempt to drive at the same pace in roads where there are complicated turns and twists. Mr Lewis had stated that he was going at sixteen miles an hour and it was, he thought, a big speed, and he was unable to manage the corner. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and expressed their sympathy with the family, the Coroner joining in the expression. MR G. H. BOUCHER thanked all those who had been so kind to them in their bereavement.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 31 August 1906
ST MARYCHURCH - Infant's Death At Hele. - An Inquest was held by Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) at the St. Marychurch Town Hall yesterday, on the body of HAROLD LOCK, aged about 18 days, the illegitimate child of FLORENCE LOCK, of Kingskerswell. It died on Wednesday at 3.30 p.m. - Jessie Grute, a widow, of Tower View, Hele, identified the body as that of the child she received to keep from the St. Andrew's Home for Friendless Girls. - Ellen Margaret Hollis, matron of Kent House Nursing Home, Torquay, and Kent Lodge Home, Paignton, said the deceased was the child of FLORENCE LOCK. The latter was admitted on the 11th inst. to the Paignton Home and the child was born at 7.30 the same evening. The birth was normal, the infant being a fine child and weighing 8 ¼ lbs. It was fed from the bottle and progressed favourably, although it had an attack of diarrhoea. When it was a week old the child was taken to Torquay. - Deaconess Cheveley said she was in charge of the Church Refuge Home at Torquay, and it was acting upon her advice that the mother went to Kent Home. She brought the child from Paignton on Saturday to the Home at Torquay, where it remained for just over a week. It appeared quite healthy. On Monday last Mrs Grute took the infant to nurse, the terms being that she should receive 4s. 6d. a week for its maintenance, and that witness should see the child every Friday. On Wednesday Mrs Grute came to her to tell her the child was dead. - Mrs Grute, resuming her evidence, said the child was seemingly healthy when she took it, but was cross and cried a good part of the day. She fed it on barley water and milk in equal parts. - It was restless in the night and she did not get it asleep until about 1 a.m. She woke up about 3.30 and found it dead. - Dr G. M. Winter said the heart was healthy, and he gave as the first cause of death the intestinal irritation set up by the undigested food. The child might probably have had a convulsion and the membranes of the brain rather pointed to that having been the case. This would have accelerated death. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said there was no suspicion that the child had been overlain. This was a bad season of the year for young babies, and diarrhoea was very prevalent. The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

TORQUAY - Torquay Labourer's Sudden Death. Four Days In Bed Without Medical Assistance. Coroner's Strong Remarks. - The County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) and a Jury held an Inquiry at the Upton Parish Room on Monday, into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM HENRY LYTE, who died suddenly at his home on Sunday night. - Samuel Langdon, brother-in-law to the deceased, hotel porter, gave evidence of identification, and Mrs Mary Jane Hornby, a cousin, of 7 Prospect Place, Upton, stated that the deceased was somewhere about sixty years of age, and had never been married. He was a labourer, and did jobbing work. He had lodged with the last witness and his wife at 20 Braddons Street. - Susan Langdon, wife of the first witness, said she was a sister of the deceased, who had lodged with her and her husband. He had enjoyed fairly good health, but had a severe illness not long before, but seemed to recover and recommenced work. On Wednesday night he complained of pains in his stomach and went to bed. She wanted to send for a doctor, but the deceased refused to allow her to do so. Throughout Thursday he remained in bed, and could not eat anything. On Friday and Saturday he remained ill, and on Saturday he still refused to allow a doctor to be called in. On Sunday he complained of "seeing four clocks on the mantelpiece," and kept fainting away. - The Coroner: And still you didn't get a doctor? - Witness: He wouldn't let me, and said he would order the doctor down the stairs if he were called. - Continuing, witness said she gave him a cup of tea in the afternoon, and he drank it. He ate hardly anything during the time he was in bed, but had beer and cider to quench his thirst. The deceased died at 8 o'clock on Sunday evening. - The Coroner reprimanded the witness for allowing the deceased to lie in bed for four days, without anything to eat and for not sending for a doctor. - The witness said the deceased could not afford to have any but a parish doctor, and she had not known where to go for an order. - Mr T. Priston, a Juryman, said the relieving officer lived in an out-of-the-way district, and expressed an opinion that there should be a centralised office. Several other Jurymen concurred. - William Peeke, carter, of 16 Melville Street, said deceased was at his stable at 8.30 on Wednesday, and complained of feeling unwell. He went to see him at 8.5 on Sunday evening and found him dead. His hands were cold and he seemed to have been dead a considerable time. - Mrs Bessie Taylor, occupying a tenement in the same house as deceased, and the wife of James Taylor, a hawker, said if she had known the deceased was as ill as he was, she should have sent for a doctor herself. She did not see him during his illness and all she knew about his condition was what his sister told her. - GEORGE LYTE, a brother of the deceased, was asked by the Coroner why he had not sent for the doctor, and not giving a satisfactory reply was told by the Coroner that "We don't allow that in England." - William Coliver Burton, temporary house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he made a post mortem examination and found the heart fatty and slightly enlarged. The liver was also enlarged and the other organs were normal. The stomach was quite active and quite healthy. He attributed death to heart failure, the result of fatty degeneration. Deceased would probably have lived longer with proper nourishment. - The Jury returned a verdict accordingly. The Coroner remarked on the ignorance shown by the relatives, and said if the sister had common sense she would have naturally insisted on sending for a doctor, but as the deceased declined when asked, they could not, he supposed, bring any blame home to anyone.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 21 September 1906
BRIXHAM - Child Drowned. Body Found Floating In The Inner Harbour. - Mr H. King, the owner and skipper of the Brixham fishing ketch Sabrina, and Mr Hawkings, one of the crew, on landing from their small boat at New Quay outer steps in the inner harbour, between four and five o'clock on Saturday afternoon, found the body of a little girl afterwards identified as that of MAY THOMAS, aged four years, floating in the water. A lady visitor, Miss condor, and Dr. G. T. Turnbill, staying at Vale Farm, Gampton, did everything possible to restore animation, and later they were assisted by Dr. W. J. Quicke and P.C's Hart and Elworthy, but all their efforts were unavailing. The deceased was seen in the water by a little boy named Cole who noticed the child's head above the water, and shouted for assistance. It appears that no one saw the deceased fall overboard. There are about 7ft. of water off the steps. Generally there are many people in the neighbourhood of the quay, but unfortunately there were few about at the time of the accident. During the summer scores of children have fallen overboard, but assistance has always been forthcoming. This is the first drowning fatality in the inner harbour for many years past. - The Inquest. - A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned at the Inquest (Mr G. F. Kellock, Coroner) on Monday. A young lad named Syms, aged ten years, said he saw the body of deceased floating in the water, and raised an alarm. Although he could swim he did not think of trying to rescue her. - James T. Polyblank, asked by the Coroner why he did not attempt the rescue, said a few years ago he was nearly drowned and had suffered internally ever since. - In summing up, the Coroner said it was a remarkable thing that no one saw the child fall into the water, Brixham being such a thickly-populated place. He commended the boy Syms for getting help as quickly as he could, but was sorry he did not venture out for the body, as there might have been a possibility of the child being then alive. He hoped in future Brixham boys who could swim would not be wanting in confidence to venture into the water and do their best to save a fellow-being.

TORQUAY - Lamp Explosion. Plainmoor Man Burnt To Death. The Danger Of Cheap Lamps. Strong Remarks By The Deputy Coroner: - The explosion of a lamp resulted in a terrible burning fatality at Torquay on Saturday evening, the victim being a gardener named GEORGE BOND, aged 53, living at 7 Victoria Park, Plainmoor. At 10.10 Samuel Webber, and Robert Tucker, who live in the back part of the house, hear d loud screaming and rushing downstairs in their night attire found BOND in the passage enveloped in flames. Speedily grasping the situation, they proceeded to grapple with the fire, and with the assistance of some neighbours successful in extinguishing the blaze. The man was seen to be in a terrible state. His clothes were burnt off him, and in places his flesh was hanging from his body. P.C. Bater, after rendering valuable help in quelling the flames, took BOND to the Torbay Hospital, where he was attended by Dr Powell and the house surgeon (Dr Thomson). It appears that BOND, who was fully attired with the exception of his boots, was proceeding to bed with a lighted lamp in his hand He had not gone far, however, before the lamp exploded covering him with burning oil. The Fire Brigade, under Captain S. C. Chapman, received an alarm of fire and were quickly on the spot. The damage to furniture was, however, very slight. There was a large crowd present while the flames were being fought, and willing assistance was rendered BOND by several neighbours. Mats were thrown over and water poured upon him, and everything done to mitigate his sufferings. The lamp was an ordinary cottage lamp with glass reservoir and had shortly before been filled with oil. It is thought that probably too much oil had been put in the lamp, and that a draught caught it. Tucker and Webber rendered great assistance in getting the flames under and received some burns. A woman living in the house was also burnt about the hands. BOND was in a very critical condition, having been badly burnt practically all over the body, the injuries being principally to his face, neck, abdomen and thighs. BOND passed a very restless night on Saturday and was evidently in great pain. On Sunday his condition remained the same and on Monday morning about 10.15 he expired. - The Inquest. - Coroner's Strong Remarks. - The Inquest was held at the Upton Parish Room on Tuesday afternoon by Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy County Coroner. Mr H. Terry was elected Foreman of the Jury. - JOHN BOND, mason, brother of the deceased, living at Warberry Vale, Ellacombe, gave evidence of identification. - Jane Ellen Cornelius, single, with whom deceased lived, stated that about 10 p.m. on Saturday, the deceased came home and made preparations for going to bed. Witness told him she had forgotten to buy candles, and had none in the house, but deceased said "Oh, it doesn't matter, we will take the lamp." He thereupon took the lamp and went to the bottom of the stairs leading to the bedroom. Suddenly she saw the lamp explode, and in a moment the deceased was in a mass of flames. - The lamp, which was of the ordinary kind with glass reservoir, was produced, and witness identified it as the one in question. - The Coroner: That lamp was not meant to carry about? - Witness: No, sir, and the burner is broken, and has been for a long time. I had filled the lamp only a little while previously with a quart of oil. - The Coroner: Do you usually put a quart of oil into the lamp? - Witness: Yes. It then generally lasts me a week. - Further questioned, witness said the deceased was standing at the foot of the stairs in the kitchen at the time of the explosion, and as all the doors were shut, there could not be any draught. From where she was, she could not see whether he tilted the lamp or not. Witness had her hand burnt in rendering the deceased assistance. - Samuel Webber, labourer, living in the back part of the house, said he was in bed at the time of the occurrence, and hurried downstairs on hearing the deceased's cries. He was in his night attire, but rushed after deceased as he flew out of the house in his agony, and with a piece of carpet did his best to extinguish the flames. Another man living in the house, named Tucker, also rendered assistance, and some neighbours arriving, he went indoors to dress. The flames were then practically out. Witness had his hand severely burnt. - Robert Tucker, labourer, said Webber called upstairs to him, and he went down and did his best to aid Webber. The deceased clutched him round the neck, burning him badly. His shirt also caught fire, his back being severely burnt. - P.C. Bater, stationed at Plainmoor, said he was called to the house about 10.15, and after rendering all the assistance in his power, wrapped the deceased in blankets and took him to the Hospital. - Witness produced the recovered shreds of clothing which deceased had worn. They were hardly recognisable as articles of clothing, and were completely saturated with oil. - Dr Thomson, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said deceased was admitted there on Saturday evening, and was attended by Dr Powell. Witness saw him about 11.15 p.m. He made no statement. He lived until 10.15 a.m. on Monday, when he died as the results of his bodily injuries and the nervous shock sustained. He was burnt practically all over the body, and had from the first no chance of recovery. - P.C. Bater, recalled, said on the way to the Hospital, deceased stated that the lamp exploded. - The woman Cornelius was recalled, and several questions were put to her. - Asked if she thought it right for BOND to take the lamp to carry it upstairs, she replied that they had done so scores of times and anticipated no danger. - The Foreman: How long had you had the lamp? - Witness: About nine or ten months; I bought it second-hand from a neighbour, who was going away. - The Foreman: Did you think it dangerous to put a quart of oil into it at a time? - Witness: I didn't think anything about it. We had always done so. - Several of the Jurymen examined the fragments of the lamp, and found that the burner portion was in a very defective state, it only requiring a slight shake to detach it into two pieces. - The Coroner said it was courting disaster to use a lamp like that produced. An accident was bound to happen sooner or later; it was simply ghastly. - The Foreman said the accident had evidently occurred through the upper portion of the lamp toppling over. - In summing up, the Coroner said the story they had heard that afternoon was a terribly sad one, and deceased had met his death as the result of what they might term a very careless use of a dangerous article. He could hardly imagine anyone having a much more dangerous thing in the house than the lamp produced. A lamp with a glass reservoir was always dangerous on account of its being so fragile, but when it had a defective burner and a person attempted to carry it with a quart of oil in it, it was trebly so. People seemed not only to court disaster, but to ask for it. That case must go out as a warning and a reminder to the public of the fearful calamities that might happen as the result of the use of such rubbish. They could hardly imagine anything much worse. But there it was: and in that case it had resulted in the death of that poor man, and a death in agonies. The witness Cornelius had told them that she had carried the lamp scores of times, but it was always the last straw that broke the camel's back. They could not attach anything like criminal blame to her, but her experience should teach her how dangerous it was to have such articles in the house. The greatest possible credit was due to the men - Webber and Tucker - for their noble efforts to extinguish the flames that enveloped the deceased. Webber did what was perfectly right in snatching up the piece of carpet and displayed great presence of mind. As they had seen, deceased was taken with all possible dispatch to the Hospital, and everything done that could be done for him. They ought to feel thankful they had such fine institutions to take people to. - The Jury retired, and after consultation, said they had decided to return a verdict of "Accidental Death." The Foreman said the Jury wished him to add that they desired to call the attention of the public to the great danger which attached to the use of such defective lamps, and to impress not only on those who bought them, but also on those who sold them, the necessity of seeing that they were in perfect condition. They desired also to support the Coroner in his commendation of the prompt action of the two men, Webber and Tucker. They had acted very bravely.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 November 1906
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Ellacombe. Coroner's Inquest - Verdict. - The County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry in the Upton Parish Room on Wednesday afternoon into the circumstances attending the death of GEORGE STONE, mason, lodging at 4 Hoxton Road, Ellacombe, who was found dead in bed on Tuesday morning. - Mary Louisa Tozer, Princes Road, Ellacombe, wife of Geo. Edward Tozer, a butcher, gave evidence of identification. She had known deceased, who was a native of Torquay, for twenty-seven years. He was about thirty-seven or thirty-eight years of age, and he had previously been in her husband's employ. The last time she saw him before his death was about five weeks ago. As far as she was aware, he had always enjoyed good health. Deceased had a married sister in London, a brother in Ireland and another brother in Cardiff. - Samuel Melhuish, fish hawker, said deceased came to lodge with him on the Sunday previous to his death. He slept in the room occupied by witness's two sons. On Monday he was not well and remained in bed. He seemed to have had a cold when he came to him. He came to witness on Sunday afternoon and asked if he could lie down in his stable as he was unwell, but witness told him he had a spare bed, and he could have that one if he liked. No terms were made, witness taking deceased in as a kindness. On Monday night, witness went to Dr Thistle, who was unable to attend, but asked what was the matter with the deceased and gave him a prescription for a bottle of medicine. Witness last saw him just before twelve o'clock and he then seemed a bit easier. Witness asked him if he would like him to go for another doctor, but he replied that he would wait until the next morning. Witness's two sons rose the next morning about 6.30 and told their mother that deceased was asleep. About 8.30 witness's wife went into deceased's bedroom with a cup of tea, but thinking he was asleep brought it away again. At nine witness went up himself and asked him how he was feeling. He received no answer and went over and felt him and discovered that he was cold. He was lying in a perfectly natural position, and there were no signs that he had struggled at all. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said about a fortnight previously deceased complained to him of having broken a blood vessel, and said he had been spitting up blood. - George Vanstone, pensioner, 15 Princes Road, Ellacombe, said deceased lodged with him for about three months, right up to last week. He was in arrears with his payments and witness had given him a week's notice. Deceased had never complained about his health. - Dr H. M. Thompson, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, proved making a post mortem examination on deceased. The heart and liver and kidneys were diseased and there were also signs of consumption about the lungs. The latter were also congested. He attributed death to heart failure, accelerated by the condition of the lungs. The condition of deceased's internal organs quite accounted for his sudden decease. There was nothing unnatural about it. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 November 1906
TORQUAY - Wellswood Boy's Strange Death. The Inquest - Jury's Sympathy. - The County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry at Wellswood on Friday morning touching the death of CECIL HARRY MAYNE, aged 10, son of MR HARRY MAYNE, Wellswood Place, nurseryman, who died on Thursday morning as the result of swallowing a collar stud. Mr Samuel A. Dale was Foreman of the Jury. - MR HARRY MAYNE said deceased was his second son, and attended St. John's Choir School. He was a strong boy, and had always enjoyed good health. He heard the deceased in his room on Thursday morning laughing. He came to witness's room just before eight o'clock and said "Daddy, I have swallowed a collar stud." He was exhausted. His wife at once telephoned for Dr Gough, and witness placed deceased on the bed and went to get mustard and water. Deceased followed him to the dining room, where he drank a part of the emetic, but brought it up at once. Dr Gough telephoned directions and witness then took the boy to Dr Makeig Jones, about 150 yards away. Dr Makeig Jones attended him, and Dr Gough also came there. The boy died after witness had left Dr Makeig Jones's surgery. He could hardly speak, but witness heard him say "I am dying, daddy," just after he administered the mustard and water. Deceased was in his bedroom with his little brother, aged six. The latter had told him that the deceased had a collar stud between his teeth. Witness conjectured that deceased had the stud in his mouth and swallowed it while laughing. - Dr Makeig Jones, of Beaumont, Lincombe Hill Road, said he thought the boy was dead when he saw him, but found he was breathing. He was in a practically collapsed state, and was undoubtedly dying. He sent for Dr Bunting, but just then Dr Gough came. The latter had his tracheotomy instruments with him, and tracheotomy was performed, as that was the only chance of saving him. The larynx was opened from the outside, the incision being made below the point where the substance was supposed to have lodged. The boy breathed just as the tube was going in. Witness attempted artificial respiration for ten or fifteen minutes. He had made a post mortem examination in the presence of Dr Gough; and on the top of the voice box he had found the stud produced (an ordinary collar-stud). This blocked the passage, but on each side a small column of air could pass. The presence of the stud set up a spasm of the larynx which would close the vocal cords. When he saw the boy, the spasm had passed off. The boy died from suffocation. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned, the Jury adding, on the invitation of the Foreman, a vote of sympathy with the parents, the Coroner joining in the expression. the vote was passed by those present rising. [Details of funeral followed].

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 December 1906
TORQUAY - Burnt To Death. Elderly Woman's Sad End. Inquest. - A sad burning fatality occurred at 250 Union Street, Torre, during Saturday night, the victim being MRS CATHERINE GALE, aged 62, the wife of JOHN GALE, formerly in business as a greengrocer in Market Street. - The Story. - The premises are occupied by Mr G. Pearce, florist and greengrocer, and his family and deceased came to lodge with them on Saturday night. She retired to rest at 11 o'clock and nothing more was heard or seen of her until 12.45 p.m. on Sunday, when Mrs Pearce went upstairs to tell her that dinner was ready. She knocked at the door, but receiving no reply entered, and was horrified to see deceased dead by the side of the bed. Mrs Pearce sent for the police. P.C. Lang was the first to arrive, and later Supt. Roberts, Insp. Pratt, and Sergt. Gregory, in company with Dr Lacey, pursued investigations. by the bedside a candle was found, burnt out. Deceased had removed nearly all her clothing, but had not put on her night-attire. The bed clothing was not disturbed. Some burnt pieces of paper were found near the deceased, and it was believed that she was reading a newspaper, and it was caught by the flame of the candle. Nothing else was burnt. Mr and Mrs Pearce sleep on the ground floor, and another woman occupied a room adjoining that of the deceased. Neither smelt any burning during the night, nor were any screams heard. The deceased was burnt badly all over her body, and when seen by the police had evidently been dead a considerable time. - The Inquest. - Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) conducted the Inquest at Upton Parish Room on Monday morning. Mr W. Blackler was elected Foreman of the Jury. - JOHN GALE, husband of the deceased, gave evidence of identification. On Saturday night last he and his wife had a "little bit of an altercation," and the latter went and took a room at Mrs Pearce's. Witness went there to inquire if she was stopping there, and saw her. They had some words, and witness left, saying he would get rooms at his daughter's and call and see her in the morning. That was the last he saw of her. In reply to the Coroner, witness said his wife had been drinking that evening. She was not a regular drinker, but broke out every now and then. When he left her about 10.45, she had begun to undress. A candle in a candlestick was standing on a chair near the bed. There was no other light in the room. He could not tell where she got her drink; he went to two public houses on Saturday and saw that she was not served with any. - Witness, continuing, said he was called to Mrs Pearce's on Sunday about dinner time and was shown into deceased's bedroom. She was lying near the foot of the bed, with her clothes burnt off her. The candlestick was standing on the chair as on the previous night with a candle burnt out. There were some burnt scraps of paper about the floor. His wife was not in the habit of reading before going to bed. - P.C. Lang produced a bank deposit note for £450, a saving bank book showing £50 deposited, and a will, three £5 notes, a gold watch and chain, and other things, which were found under deceased's pillow. A bottle, containing rum, found on the table, was also produced. - The witness GALE identified them all as belonging to his wife. - P.C. Lang deposed to going, in company with Inspector Pratt, to 250 Union Street, and finding deceased lying on her right side in the bedroom. She was doubled up with her feet towards the door. She had on some under-linen, which had been burnt to a few rags. Her other clothes she had taken off. They were not burnt. The bed had not been disturbed. Nothing of the bedding was burnt with the exception that the quilt had been slightly singed. He searched deceased's garments and found nothing of importance, so looked under the pillow and found the articles already produced. The burnt paper found had evidently formed part of a newspaper. Nothing else in the room had been in any way disturbed. The six rings produced were on deceased's fingers. - Ellen Pearce, wife of George Pearce, market gardener, of 250 Union Street, said she knew the deceased. She came to her about 7 p.m. on Saturday and took a bedroom for two nights. She had been drinking but witness could not say that she was the worse for liquor. She came in to take her bed about 10.45 and witness took her to the bedroom. She had evidently been drinking during the evening, but could walk upstairs without any assistance from witness. Witness unfastened her boots for her and left her. Deceased's husband came later on and wanted to stay there, but she did not wish it and sent him away. Before she left the deceased, witness removed the candlestick from the chair beside the bed, and put it on a dressing table. Deceased, however, seemed to have put it back again. There was no newspaper in the room, but deceased might have had one in the basket she brought with her. Witness last saw her about 11, and later went to her own bed. Deceased did not go out again after. She heard nothing to disturb her during the night. Witness did not call her for breakfast, thinking she might like to "lay on." About 12.45 she went up to tell her dinner was ready and found her in the condition described by the constable. No smell of burning was noticeable except when the room was entered. She went to her husband and he send for the police. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said she and her husband slept on the other side of the house to that of the deceased. - Mary Gifford, single, said she had lodged with Mrs Pearce for twelve months and occupied the room next to that of the deceased. She did not hear the latter go to bed, and in fact did not know who was sleeping in the room. About one or two, she heard the sound of a fall proceeding from some room, but did not attach any importance to it. She heard no screams whatever. - Charlotte Pike, living at the rear of 286 Union Street, said she had known deceased for thirty years. She stayed with witness for four nights, leaving her on Saturday night about 7.30 Witness told her she must go as she had come home the worse for drink every night and created disturbances. Deceased came to witness's house at 11.30 and asked if her husband was there. The deceased would not believe that he was not in the house and did not go away until 12 o'clock. She was fully dressed, but had no cloak on. She did not notice if her boots were undone or not. - P.C. Passmore, whom the last witness called to her house to try to convince deceased that her husband was not there, and induce her to leave, said he saw deceased about 11.20. He saw her go to Mrs Pearce's about 11.25. She appeared quite capable of looking after herself. - Dr Hugh K. Lacey said he saw deceased at 250 Union Street on Sunday afternoon. She was lying in the bedroom, and was quite dead. She was very badly burnt all over. Rigor mortis had set in strongly, and deceased might reasonably have died about 12 or 1 o'clock on Saturday night. Deceased had evidently made an effort to get to the door, but must have been badly burnt before she attempted to move. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death as the result of Burning."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 21 December 1906
COCKINGTON - Sudden Death At Chelston. The Inquest. - Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) held an Inquiry at Cockington Parish Room on Tuesday morning, relative to the death of MARY JANE SNELL, 61, cook, who died at the residence of her employer, Mrs Cash, Birstwith, Chelston, on Sunday. Councillor W. Narracott was elected Foreman of the Jury. - Annie Ford, wife of John Ford, gardener, Staverton, identified the body as that of her sister, who was a spinster. Deceased had been with Mrs Cash for eighteen years. Witness had corresponded with her, but never heard that she was in anything but good health. She last heard from her a fortnight before, and she then seemed to be all right. - At the request of Dr Cash, who said his mother was 87 years old and an invalid, Mrs Cash, was not called. - Annie Higgin said she had lived at Birstwith as housemaid for sixteen years, and knew deceased well. The latter had suffered from rheumatism, but beyond that had never complained of having anything the matter with her. She got up on Sunday morning and had breakfast with witness. She appeared in her usual health. Witness went out about 10 o'clock, intending to return at 7 o'clock. Everything then seemed all right. Deceased, witness said, was active, but suffered from shortness of breath when going up hill. Witness returned home on Sunday about 6.15 p.m. and went in by the back door. S he was surprised to see no lights in the house. She went into the kitchen and saw deceased lying dead on the floor. A chair tipped over stood near her. The rest of the kitchen was quite tidy and straight. Deceased evidently had her dinner and changed her dress. There was a little fire in, and it was witness's opinion that deceased died just after 3 o'clock. - George Harwood, coachman, said he drove to Birstwith at 10.30 a.m. on Sunday to take Mrs Cash to Church. Deceased came to the door and helped Mrs Cash down the steps. After Mrs Cash had got into the carriage, she wished witness "Good morning," and went indoors. She appeared in her usual good health. - Dr A. Midgley Cash, surgeon, said he saw deceased at 6.50 on Sunday. She was quite dead and it was his opinion that she had been dead about four hours. He had known deceased ever since she had been in his mother's service. He treated her in 1898 for pneumonia, but not recently. She was a very reticent and uncomplaining woman, but witness had for some time noticed an increasing shortness of breath, and had been of opinion that she was suffering from some organic complaint. From what he knew of her, and from a superficial examination he had made, he attributed death to syncope, due to a fatty growth over and about the heart. There might have been degeneration of the fibres also. Death was most likely to occur just after a meal. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 January 1907
TORQUAY - Torquay Visitor's Death. An Unusual Case. Inquest. - Mr G. F. Kellock (Deputy County Coroner) conducted an Inquiry at Upton Parish Room on Wednesday, into the circumstances attending the death of RACHEL SNELGROVE, a visitor to Torquay, who died at the Torbay Hospital on Tuesday, under an operation performed consequent on injuries sustained through an accident on Sunday last. - Dr J. Huxley was the first witness called. He stated that he was called to "The Grove" to see deceased on Sunday about 2 p.m., and found her in bed. He had previously attended her. He was told that she had fallen on her right side and injured her hip. On examination he found evidence of severe injury, but not the usual one of fracture of the thigh bone. he saw her again at 5 o'clock and 10 o'clock. She vomited a good deal, and gave evidence of severe internal abdominal injury. The next day the vomiting and all the other bad symptoms increased, and it became obvious that the case was one which could only be relieved by a surgical operation. He accordingly arranged for her removal to the Torbay Hospital early the next morning, and that Dr Arnold should see her before this was done. The deceased consented to the arrangement, and went to the Hospital between 10 and 11 on Tuesday morning. he did not see her further. - Dr G. J. Arnold said in company with Dr Huxley, he saw the deceased on Tuesday, and confirmed his opinion that it was necessary to operate on her. Her general condition was very serious, and it was obvious that if anything was to be done it would have to be done very quickly. Witness saw her after her admittance to the Hospital, and told her that her only hope was a surgical operation. She gave her consent. He was assisted in the operation by Drs. Lacey and Thomson. The operation was performed under a local anaesthetic, as it was considered she was not strong enough to bear a general anaesthetic. The patient would be conscious, but would not feel any pain. The deceased bore the operation well, but vomited a great deal. It was found that the small intestine was abstracted - a very unusual occurrence. The small intestine was nearly divided. It was crushed by a fractured pelvis, and the two broken parts practically closed it as in a vice. It was exceedingly difficult to release the lacerated intestine. This concluded the operation and had deceased been strong enough, she would have improved rapidly. Unfortunately, however, the operation had taken a considerable time, and at the conclusion it was seen that the heart's action was extremely weak. Various remedies were applied but the heart did not respond, and deceased died about three quarters of an hour after the conclusion of the operation. The deceased must have died even if the operation had not been performed. She could not have lived more than twelve hours in her condition. The injury was of a unique kind, and was not described in any of the standard works. He described death to peritonitis following on the injuries received. In reply to the Coroner, witness said every possible care was taken, and there was nothing attached to the operation that caused deceased's death. - ROSA SNELGROVE, single, living at "The Grove", Torquay, said deceased was her mother and a widow. She was 75 years of age. On Sunday she said she took her mother some dinner and put it on a chair near the fire. She went out to get her own, and on returning with some pudding, found her lying on the floor. Witness gave her some sol volatile, put her to bed and sent for Dr Huxley. Her mother had been an invalid, but could walk up and down her room. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

PAIGNTON - Torquay Man's Fatal Fall. - At Paignton on Saturday an Inquest was held on FRANK ALLEN R. POOK, aged 36, a resident of Torquay, who died on Friday at Paignton Cottage Hospital, as the result of a fall downstairs. Deceased, who was a mineral water bottler for Messrs. Shapley & Son, Torquay, paid a visit with his wife and child on Boxing-day to friends at Paignton, Mr and Mrs Mitchelmore, Well Street. After tea deceased went upstairs to the bedroom of Mr Mitchelmore, who was unwell, and on coming down with a candle in his hand slipped on the stairs, turned a somersault, and crashed on to a small gate at the bottom. He was picked up, put on a couch and at first thought he was not much hurt, but getting worse, Dr Adams was sent for and the next morning he was sent to the hospital, where he died. Dr Adams said the cause of death was rupture of the liver and shock. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

TORQUAY - Torquay Child's Death. The Inquest. - An Inquiry touching the death of ELSIE MARGARET FROST, aged three months, the infant child of CHARLES FROST, gardener, living at 24 Pimlico, Torquay, who was found by its parents dead in bed on Sunday morning, was held by Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) at the Upton Parish Room on Monday. - ANNIE FROST, the mother of the child, gave evidence of identification, and said the child was one of two children. It had been delicate from its birth, but had not seemed to have anything serious the matter with it. She fed it with the bottle on cow's milk and water. On the Saturday previous she did not notice anything the matter with it, except that it was a bit cross. It fed all right. At 12.30 a.m. on Sunday she and her husband took it upstairs, and fed it the last thing before going to bed. She, her husband and the child slept in the same bed, the child lying on the pillow between witness and the wall. When she went to sleep it was all right. She heard nothing during the night. Just after eight o'clock she awoke and remarked that the child had not cried for its early morning bottle. She looked round and saw the child dead. It was lying in exactly the same position as on the previous night. The body was still warm. - By a Juror: The face was uncovered. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said the child seemed to be near teething. It might have had a convulsion. - Charlotte Lear, 18 Pimlico, married, said she knew MRS FROST intimately. The baby was a very small one. It appeared to be well looked after. - Dr G. M. Winter said he was present at the child's birth. It was small, but otherwise healthy. He saw it about a month ago, although not professionally. On Sunday morning he was called in. Its lips and upper mouth were darkened, and its limbs were cold. The body was a little warm. A post mortem examination had revealed the fact that the chest organs were quite healthy. It was not a thriving child, and was not very well nourished. There was a good deal of congestion at the base of the brain. The bowels were healthy, but there was a considerable distension of the stomach. He should think that from the evidence of the mother it had indigestion during the day, and that the last meal had also not been digested. It was not near teething. The average age at which teething commenced was seven months, although he had seen children born with teeth. He attributed death to an infantile convulsion, caused by the distension of the stomach. There was absolutely no evidence that the child had been overlain. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 January 1907
PAIGNTON - Railway Fatality At Paignton. Stationmaster's Father Killed. Inquest. - At Paignton on Wednesday the Deputy County Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock) held an Inquiry with reference to the death of MR HENRY MORRIS, aged sixty-six, who was killed at the level crossing on the Great Western Railway at Young's Park, a short distance below the town. Mr T. Shattock (chief inspector, Exeter) watched the case on behalf of the company, and the other officials present were Mr G. H. Llewellen (locomotive department, Newton Abbot), Mr S. T. Cole (engineering department, Newton Abbot), and Mr T. Tonkin (district inspector, Newton Abbot). - HENRY MORRIS, stationmaster at Paignton stated that deceased was his father, who was a retired grocer and baker, and resided at Dendy Road. Deceased was in the habit of visiting his wife, who was at the nursing institution at Oakdene, every morning, and would cross the line on his return. - Mrs Catherine Sarah Marshall, a nurse at Oakdene, said that on Monday morning she saw deceased pass through the little gate in order to get on the railway. Just as he put his foot on the rail he was looking in the opposite direction to that from which the train was coming. All at once the train was on him. Deceased tried to step back, but was unable to do so before the engine struck him. She could see a look of horror on his face. After the train had passed she saw the body huddled up, a short distance below the crossing. - The Coroner: You consider he had no time to step back? - No, he gave me the impression that he tried to do so. - Fred Heywood, driver of the train, said that as soon as he came in sight of the crossing he saw a man by the side quite clear of the line. Witness thought deceased would have waited until the train had passed, but just as the engine got within a few yards he started to cross over. Witness shut off the regulator and shouted to the fireman "Has that man got clear?" Witness looked out over on the other side, but could see nothing of him. He concluded that the man had been run over, and stopped the train as quickly as possible. - The Coroner: Was the man well clear of the line with sufficient room for you to pass? - Yes, according to my estimation he was waiting for the train to go by. - He took no notice of the whistle? - Yes, he looked at me, and I took in the man's appearance. - The Foreman (Mr W. Drew): The bank is high at that spot; would that not block the view? - There is plenty of space between the rails and the bank, and I could see from the engine. - Did you watch the man? - I did not take my eyes off him. He was in line with my sight. - The Coroner: How many paces would he have to walk before he got on the line? - Not many. - The Foreman: What part of the engine struck him? - About half way, I should think. He fairly startled me when he started to walk across. - Replying to the Coroner, witness said it was possible for anyone to escape if he lay beneath the fire-box, but it would be a tight job. - Questioned by Mr Morris, witness was of the opinion that the man would have had plenty of time to cross over in safety but thought that the deceased was waiting for the train to pass. As soon as he saw the man make the start, he shut off the regulator. - James Ellicombe, fireman, stated that he did not see anything of the deceased until the train had stopped. When passing the crossing his mate asked him if the man had got clear. Before this question was asked Heywood had shut off steam. He went back and found the deceased, about the length of the engine below the level crossing lying between the rails. - Edward James Parnell, guard, stated that he felt the brake being put on, and the train stopped about its own length on the other side of the crossing. - P.C. Braund described the condition in which he found the body. - Inspector Shattock said that he was quite satisfied with the evidence given by the officials, and did not think they could have done any more than they did. - Miss Marshall, recalled, said that her impression was that he never saw or heard the train. - MR MORRIS informed the Court that his father left everything at home in anticipation of returning. - Summing up the evidence, the Coroner said the case was perfectly clear. The deceased was somewhat deaf, and it was probable that he did not hear the train. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," adding that no blame was attached to anyone. A vote of sympathy was also passed with the relatives and friends of the deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 January 1907
TORQUAY - Septuagenarian's Suicide. Sad Case At Ellacombe. The Inquest. - Early on Sunday morning, JOHN ABEL, 74, living at 12 Hoxton Road, Ellacombe, committed suicide by strangulation. He had done no work for eighteen months, but was a former employee of the Corporation. - The Inquest. - was conducted at the Ellacombe Parish Room on Monday afternoon. Mr G. F. Kellock was the Coroner and Councillor E. T. Blackler was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness was Robert Bray, a bootmaker, who said deceased was his wife's uncle, and had lived with them for nine years. During the time he had given up work, he had received club pay, and had also some savings to fall back upon. He had had everything that was necessary. On Saturday he stopped up with the deceased the whole of the night. He made no remarks or threats and appeared in his usual health. Witness left him about 7.30 on Sunday morning and went to lie down. Deceased then appeared to be in a quiet and restful sleep. His wife then went to deceased, and between 8.10 and 8.15 he heard her say "I am going for the milk, uncle." When she returned about five minutes later, he heard her scream, "Oh my God; oh, my God." He at once rushed up the stairs and found deceased lying on the floor with a black silk neckerchief around his neck, with one end fastened to the bedstead. He at once cut him down and found that he was quite dead. - By the Coroner: He heard no noise or disturbance. He could not account in any way for what had happened. - Emma Bray, wife of last witness, said her uncle had at times been very bad in his head and had once wished he was dead. When she left him on Sunday morning, he had just drunk a cup of tea, and she noticed nothing unusual in his manner. She returned in about five minutes and found deceased in the condition described by her husband. She had since been very much upset. - Questioned by the Coroner, witness said she was sure she was not out of the room more than five minutes or so. - Police Sergeant Gregory deposed that on Sunday morning at 8.30 he proceeded to 12 Hoxton Road, and on going into the bedroom found deceased with the neckerchief produced around his neck. He tried artificial respiration for a considerable time, but without avail. He had made the proper and usual searches, but these had revealed nothing. No letter or papers that would throw any light upon the matter had been found. - Dr Geo. Young Eales, said he had attended deceased for a year or more. Varicocele had prevented him from doing any work, and he had seen him at least once a week. Of late deceased had also suffered from bronchial trouble and severe headache. He had been restless at night. Deceased was one of the type of workmen who hated to be "on the club," and he worried himself and everybody with whom he came into contact because he could not get out to go to work. This had made him very depressed. Some weeks ago he told witness that he could not sleep because such awful thoughts came into his mind. He was unable to explain what those thoughts were, but was afraid to be left alone. By his instruction, Mr or Mrs Bray had remained up with him at night. He had told Mr Bray that there was a probability that deceased might become insane, as he had noticed signs of approaching brain weakness. Witness saw deceased as late as Saturday last. He was not surprised to hear of what had happened. The deceased had been properly cared for by Mr and Mrs Bray. On Sunday, about 9.15 a.m., he saw the body and on examining it found a mark of discolouration round deceased's neck, showing that it had been constricted by some tight material. Death was due to strangulation. - The Coroner said Mr Bray deserved commendation for what he had done for the deceased. If ever a man had done his duty that man was Mr Bray. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane," and expressed their sympathy with Mr and Mrs Bray.

TORQUAY - The Upton Burning Fatality. Inquest And Verdict. - The Inquest on the body of ELOISE EFFIE PAVEY, who was burnt to death last week, was held at the Upton Parish Room on Friday afternoon by Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy County Coroner. - CHARLES PAVEY, 2 Orchard Road, Lower Upton, sawyer, said deceased was his child and aged 7 years. On Wednesday evening, he was in the cellar cutting up wood when he heard screams and on rushing up to the kitchen found the child covered in flames. About ten minutes previously she had been in the cellar with him. He did his best to put the fire out, and put a rug around her. He took her to the Hospital, where she died about 12.30 the next morning, four hours after the accident. The kitchen was lighted with gas. There was no oil there. An ordinary open fire was burning. - By Dr Lacey: She had no flannelette clothing on. - Continuing, witness said he had six children previous to the death of deceased. The other children, who were older, had gone to bed. When he came up from the cellar his wife was in the passage and had fainted. - ELIZA PAVEY, mother of deceased, said she was in the bedroom and heard screams. She found the child in flames in the kitchen, and her husband put the flames out. The little girl had not been out of her sight but two minutes when she heard the screams. Deceased had on a woollen vest and a print overall. Deceased had told the doctor that she put a potato in the fire. Witness had found no potato, but a piece of charred bread. All the other children were in bed. There was no fireguard. There was a log of wood on the fire. - Dr Hugh K. Lacey said he saw deceased at the Torbay Hospital on Wednesday night just before nine o'clock. She was badly burnt on the legs, arms, part of the chest and face, in fact - practically all over. The superficial skin of the face was burnt right off. In his opinion deceased's clothing must have carried the fire all over her. The child told him that she caught fire at the fireplace while she was cooking a potato. She lived until 12.55 and died from shock, the result of her injuries. - The Coroner, addressing the Jury, said he could not understand how the child had been so fearfully burnt without the aid of something very inflammable. The child's explanation to the doctor seemed very feasible. It behoved them to warn all fathers and mothers, and all those who had the care of children, to take the utmost precaution to prevent them from playing with fire. - "Accidental Death" was the verdict returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 February 1907
ST MARYCHURCH - Fatal Fall At Plainmoor. Old Lady's Death. Inquest. - Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) presided over an Inquest at the St. Marychurch Town Hall on Monday, on the body of SUSAN REDDING, 72, widow of 9 St. Giles' Terrace, Plainmoor, who died on the Friday evening previous. - Mr Haynes was elected Foreman of the Jury. Jessie Drew, 4 King's Terrace, Prior Estate, Hornsey, London, married, said the body was that of her mother. The deceased had lived at St. Marychurch for 36 years. On Monday 28th ult., she (witness) received a wire from a neighbour that her mother was ill, and she at once came to Torquay. The person living in the house mentioned that her mother had had a fall, but the latter said nothing about it. She continued very ill and died at 7.5 on Friday morning. - By the Coroner: Her mother told her she had felt queer since Xmas. She had been in failing health for about two years. - Sarah Potter, living in the same house as the dead woman, said at 1 a.m. on Friday, the 25th ult., she heard the noise of a fall coming from the deceased's bedroom, followed by moaning. She got out of bed, and went to see what was the matter. The deceased was lying on the floor on her right side. She tried to lift her, but failed. The deceased was in a state of collapse. Witness then went for Mr and Mrs Godfrey, and together they got her into bed. Deceased told her she thought she must have slipped out of bed. A doctor was subsequently sent for, and witness looked after the deceased until her daughter came down. - William George Godfrey, 10 St Giles' Terrace, corroborated and said a doctor was sent for on Saturday evening. - The Coroner: Supposing she had broken a limb or anything, I suppose you would have sent for a doctor at once? - Witness: Oh, certainly. But she said she was comfortable, and appeared to have sustained no serious injury. - Louisa Godfrey, wife of the last witness, gave similar evidence. There appeared no immediate necessity for sending for a doctor on Friday morning. - Dr W. Pitt-Palmer, surgeon, said he had been attending deceased for heart disease for about twelve months previous to her death. On Saturday, the 26th, he was called to the house and went at once. She complained of a pain in her left side, and her body was bruised, showing that she must have sustained a fall. She was suffering from shock, which, combined with heart disease, eventually brought about her death. The deceased was a heavy woman, and the fall shook her up a good deal. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 February 1907
TORQUAY - Sad Drowning Fatality At The Harbour. The Inquest. - The Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquest at the Upton Parish Room, Torquay, on Friday, on the body of ARTHUR HARGRAVES HAMBLING, aged 8, who was found drowned in the Harbour on Friday morning. Mr William Oliver was chosen Foreman of the Jury. EMMA LOUISA HAMBLING of 11 Braddons Road West, said that deceased was her son and lived with her. He would have been 9 years of age next April. He attended Upton School. He was a perfectly healthy boy and strong. He had had no illness for years. She saw him last alive at 9.30 on Wednesday morning, when she was going to work, and he was going to Upton Church, it being Ash Wednesday and he was along with his schoolmates. She expected to see him when she came home in the evening after her work,. she being an upholstress. A friend, Mrs King, living in the same house looked after the boy during her absence. On her way home she met Mrs King in Fleet Street, who was looking for deceased as he had not come home. She accompanied Mrs King to the Quay to see if they could hear anything of him. They went to the Quay because the Fleet was in and the ships had a great attraction for him, and other children had said that he had been seen in that direction. She and Mrs King went to the Police Station and reported the matter. Deceased's cap was brought to her about 2 o'clock on Thursday. - The cap, a black one, with red stripes, was produced and identified by witness. - Witness said deceased went by the name of WESTAWAY, that being her mother's name . Deceased called witness "Aunt." Deceased had been to school over three years and had not missed once. She had never heard that he suffered from giddiness. Deceased had told her that he fell down on Tuesday, but that she thought was in the course of play. He was a perfectly happy child and his death must have been purely accidental. She was in the habit of cautioning deceased not to go near the water, but she did not that morning, otherwise he would not have gone. - William Smith, 10, schoolboy, attending the same school as deceased, of 1 Gloucester Place, Rock Road, said he was playing with deceased on Wednesday. Deceased called for him in the afternoon about 2.30. Deceased asked him to come to the Haldon Pier to see the ships. They went on the Haldon Pier and witness stayed there until 3.40 and looked at the ships. Witness left to go home leaving deceased there alone. It was a windy afternoon and there were not a lot of people about. - Mr A. E. Ryder, a Juryman: Did he say to you he wanted t see the pinnacles come in? - Witness: Yes. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said he had once seen deceased fall down in the course of play, but not have a fit. - Witness also stated they did not go on the steps. Deceased was wearing the cap produced. - Emma Jane King, living in the same house as MRS HAMBLING said the boy returned home at 12.30 on Wednesday, had his dinner and left at 1.30. Deceased told her he was going to play with the last witness. Deceased said his friend had to go somewhere at 3.45 and witness said that would be about the time for the deceased to come back and as he did not return, she made a search. He was a most healthy boy and had never had a fit to her knowledge. - George Fleet, labourer, said he found the cap under the iron ladder on the Haldon Pier, close to the wall, floating in the water. He was there at work for the Corporation. As soon as he heard that the boy was missing he gave information to the coastguard. He picked the cap up on Wednesday at 4 o'clock. On Friday morning he helped in the dredging operations, and was present when deceased was found in the corner close to where the cap was discovered. The body was taken to the coastguard's boathouse and then to the mortuary. There was a gale blowing on Wednesday, the wind coming from the north. There were four of them dredging, viz., Messrs. W. Melhuish, A. Fleet, T. Warne and himself. - Richard Harvey, assistant schoolmaster at Upton School, said deceased was under his charge in standard four. A short time ago in that room he was giving a lesson and he asked deceased a question and he got up to answer it and fainted off, closing his eyes and falling to the floor. They got some water for him and brought him round. That was about a fortnight ago. Deceased had never been well and strong in the class and he had excused him exercises. - The Coroner: You considered him delicate? - Yes. - The Coroner: When he fainted, did you send him home? - No, he sat on a chair for the remainder of the time. - The Coroner: You did not send word to his mother? - No, I did not think it necessary. - Deceased's mother said deceased had never told her of this. - Thomas William Frost, 12, said he knew deceased. He saw him last on Wednesday night at 5.30 outside the Torquay Times Office, in Fleet Street. He had his cap on. - The Coroner: How long have you known him? - A long time. - Witness: I said "Hullo WESTAWAY," but he did not give any answer. - The Coroner: don't you think you made a mistake and that it was some other little boy? Was it a cap like the one produced? - Yes, only with thicker stripes. - Edward Mervyn Thomson, House Surgeon, at the Torbay Hospital, said he had examined the body. Externally there were no particular marks and the slight mark on the face was probably made by a sea animal. Internally he found the organs very healthy and everything pointed to death by drowning. - In answer to the Coroner, MISS HAMBLING said deceased could not swim. The Coroner said the evidence pointed to the fact that deceased was Accidentally Drowned by falling off the Haldon Pier and a verdict to that effect was returned. [Details of funeral followed.]

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 March 1907
TORQUAY - Stevedore's Fatal Fall. Inquest And Verdict. - At the Upton Parish Room on Saturday, Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) held an Inquest on the body of GEORGE TRELEAVEN, aged 49, a coal lumper, who died in the Torbay Hospital as a result of injuries sustained by him on March 6th. - Arthur Deeble, clerk in the employ of Messrs. Renwick and Wilton Ltd., coal merchants, said that on March 6th he was superintending the discharge of the steamer Glassalt in the harbour. Deceased was on the deck guiding the baskets (worked by a steam winch) up and down the main hold. The hold was 15 or 16 feet deep, and was quite clear of coal under the hatchway. - Robert Pym, who was working the winch, said that deceased had guided an empty basket back to the hatchway and had lowered it. The man in the hold had hooked a full basket and it was being hoisted. The rope attached to the basket swung against the combings and deceased, in attempting to seize the rope to bring it true, failed t grasp it, and overbalancing himself, fell head first into the hold. He had not known a similar accident for thirty years. None of the steam of the winch was blowing in deceased's face. The combings were two feet above the level of the planks on the iron deck. - Dr Mervyn Thomson, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said that TRELEAVEN'S injuries consisted of a compound fracture of the upper jaw, a broken nose and a fracture of the front part of the skull. - Mr F. Dobson, secretary to Messrs. Renwick and Wilton, said that the firm would be responsible for the expenses of deceased's funeral. All the men employed by the firm were insured in a first-class office. - The Inquest was adjourned until Thursday to give the Factories Inspector an opportunity of attending if he so wished. - Adjourned Inquest. - Mr S. Shuter, factory inspector, attended the adjourned Inquest yesterday, and put a number of pertinent questions to the various witnesses. - Arthur James Deeble, in the employ of Messrs. Renwick and Wilton, said, in reply to questions, that he was quite sure none of the exhaust steam interfered with deceased's action when he fell. The exhaust pipe was quite ten feet high. - Mr T. Priston, a Juryman, said he had on numerous occasions seen vessels unloading by the Quays completely clouded in smoke. - Witness, continuing, said the height of the combings was two feet six, which was about the average. - The Inspector: But three feet would be safer? - Witness: Yes; this might be three feet high; I cannot say definitely the height. - The Inspector: There was no question of the rope breaking? - Witness: We did not part a rope during the whole discharge. From what another witness said, I should say deceased overbalanced himself. - Robert Pym, lumper, in reply to the Inspector, said he considered the height of the combings to be about three feet. Sydney Pym estimated it at about two feet nine inches. He thought they would not come quite up to his knees. - The Inspector measured the distance to witness's knees from the ground, and found it to be eighteen inches. - Mr T. Priston thought there should be a guard rail, breast high. It was a wonder that there had been no more accidents. - Albert Rice and Alfred Lethbridge were also called. - Samuel Ernest Stapleton, foreman lumper, said he considered the combings about the usual height. Some vessels had hardly any combings at all. - The Inspector said the regulations with regard to ships loading and unloading were very stringent and drawn up after exhaustive inquiry. A Juryman had suggested that the exhaust steam might have interfered with the work being carried on. That would be a breach of the law which was now being severely punished. There was no regulation as to the actual height of the combings above deck. There was a regulation which bore somewhat on the point. When there was more than one opening in the deck for lowering or raising goods, sometimes one opening was used and the other not, and accidents frequently happened through men falling down the opening not being used. The latter must be completely covered in unless the height of the comings about the deck was at least 2 ft. 6 in., and in that case there might be a guard rail of 3 ft. running around it, but that was only operative when the hatch was not being used. Apparently, 2 ft. 6 in. was considered quite sufficient, and he agreed with the Juryman who said that below a man's knees was not sufficient. There was no regulation as to the height of the combings at that time, because the hatch was being actually used. - The Coroner, in addressing the Jury, said the height of the combings was a material point, and they had the evidence of several witnesses that those in question were not lower than the usual run of them, and there was nothing to comment upon. It appeared to be clearly shown that deceased overbalanced himself. - The Foreman (Mr Oliver) suggested that a temporary guard might be put up. After a short retirement, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 March 1907
TRUSHAM - A Mid Devon Mystery. Woman's Body Found In The River Teign. Introduced From A Torquay Home. - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, opened an Inquest at Trusham on Monday on a woman, about 50 years of age, supposed to be MISS AGNES VIVIEN, formerly a resident in a Torquay home, whose body was found in about a foot of water in the River Teign on Friday afternoon. - The Coroner said it would be for the Jury to ascertain absolutely who deceased was, where she came from, and who were her relatives. The police had not been able to find any relatives, but a telegram had just been received from someone in London, stating that he believed deceased to be his sister. Under these circumstances the Inquiry would have to be adjourned. - William T. Warren, a clerk, Newton Abbot, stated that early on Friday afternoon, by the side of the River Teign he noticed a black bag lying on the bank, also a lady's jacket, umbrella and hat. On going close to the bank he saw the body of a woman, face downwards, with her arms crossed, in about a foot of water, the back part of the dress not being covered by the water. - Sidney Wood, Ashton, a ganger, in the employ of the Great Western Railway Company, said on Friday afternoon, as he was going home to dinner, he was called by the last witness, and on going over to him he notice deceased in the water, and helped to take her out. - William R. Yeo, railway packer, stated that on Friday morning, about eleven o'clock he saw a woman dressed very similarly to deceased at the back of Teign-road. He was some distance away, but considered the woman was picking flowers. He saw her cross the line and go towards the river. He did not see her afterwards, until he saw the body lying on the bank. - Mary Callard, wife of a farmer, of Trusham, said she saw deceased about 10.30 a.m. on Friday in Teign Lane. She was walking very slowly in the direction of the river, and was carrying a handbag and umbrella. Deceased spoke to witness, saying, "Good morning, isn't it a lovely morning?" and witness returned the greeting. She saw deceased on the previous Wednesday when she (witness) was going to Newton market. - Henriette Mro, a French sister at St. Joseph's Convent, Oaklands, Chudleigh, whose evidence was interpreted, stated that she recognised the body as that of AGNES VIVIAN. Deceased had spent nearly a month at Oaklands, coming there in February. When deceased came witness did not know her, never having seen her before. Deceased could speak a little French. She gave no account of herself, and would not in any way refer to herself or family. She left the convent on march 11th, apparently to fetch luggage, and witness was under the impression that she intended to come back. She did not return, however, until dinner-time on Thursday last, having been away for ten days, and nothing whatever was heard from her during this time. When deceased came back she told witness that she wished to remain there always. Deceased was an excellent needlewoman. On Friday morning witness met deceased in the convent grounds as she was leaving. She asked deceased where she was going, and she replied: "I don't know, but God is good. Mind and don't follow me." Deceased had often said she was afraid she would have her money taken away from her. She never paid for anything during the time she was at the convent. - Rev. J. Lonergan, chaplain of Syon Abbey, another religious home close to Oaklands, said he had administered Holy Communion to deceased on two or three occasions. He considered she was weak-minded. She told him, before she left, she wanted to go. On Thursday evening she complained of feeling very thirsty, and said she had great pains in her head. Witness thought whether it was not probable that, when deceased went for a stroll by the side of the river, she felt thirsty, leaned over to get a drink, and perhaps had a fit and fell into the water. Deceased had always struck him as being a peculiar woman. - Eliza Lang, mother superior at the convent, said she had received a letter of introduction with regard to deceased from the home, Waverly, Torquay, the people there thinking that deceased might be of service at the convent as an interpreter. Deceased several times stated people were following her for her money, and that she was afraid of them. - The Coroner here read the telegram he had received, which read, "Please adjourn Inquest; will be down as soon as possible," and signed "VIVIAN." - P.C. Chapman of Christow, said in a purse in the bag found there was £1 14s. 6 ½d., and a wedding ring was on one of deceased's fingers. Witness also produced several other articles which had belonged to deceased, and which had been handed to him by the mother superior of the convent, including a brooch, gold watch and chain, and rings, a cheque payable to MISS VIVIAN for £94; some preference shares in the Newcastle-upon Tyne Electric Supply Company; two bank-books, and some government stock papers, one of which was for £97. - Dr Walters, Chudleigh, said there were no external marks on the body. The brain was quite healthy, but the lungs were somewhat affected. He considered that death was due to drowning. - The Coroner said it would be only fair to the sender of the telegram - who he surmised was the brother of deceased - to adjourn the Inquest for his attendance, and accordingly he adjourned it until today (Thursday). It had been intended to bury deceased that (Monday) afternoon, but, after the receipt of the telegram, it would only be right to give the brother an opportunity, if possible, of identifying the body.

TORQUAY - Ellacombe Fish Hawker's Death. Dangerous Staircases - Jury's Recommendations. - ALBERT EDWARD LAND, a fish hawker, living at 16 Lower Wellesley Road, died at the Torbay Hospital early on Friday morning as the result of a severe fall down stairs leading to the basement of his house on the previous evening. He was unconscious when admitted and remained in that condition to the time of his death. - The Inquest. - Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, held the Inquest at the Upton Parish Room on Saturday afternoon. - EMMA JANE LAND, wife of deceased, said the latter was 40 years of age. She and her husband went to Hancock's show at 7.45 p.m. on the day of his death. They left together, and her husband went on ahead. She got home about ten minutes later, and found him lying in the passage. Some men were with him. He was unconscious and was bleeding freely from the ears. He had been working all day and left home at 4.30 to pay his fish money. When she met him at the Quarry she could see that he had been drinking, but he was "nothing out of the way." She was sure he did not have any more drink on his way home. Her husband was very near-sighted. She could not say why her husband attempted to go down into the basement. There were thirteen steps, which were very steep. They were similar to others in the row, and were very dangerous, there being no protection. Her children had to use the stairs. Continuing, witness said deceased never recovered consciousness. - Humphrey Martin, fisherman, deceased's next door neighbour, said he was sitting in his kitchen on Thursday night about 8.40, when he heard defendant pass outside and enter his house. Immediately afterwards he heard the sound of a fall. At the same time his two girls came in and told him that LAND had fallen over the stairs. He went in and found him doubled up at the foot of the stairs leading to the basement. With the assistance of two youths - Wallace and Lee - he took him upstairs into the passage. He was unconscious and bled freely. A man named Edgcumbe then came in and after bathing his head, they fetched a cab and sent him to the Hospital. - Questioned by the Coroner - the basement stairs were very steep for a house in which people with families lived. In most of the houses in the street, two families resided. A hand-rail would lessen the danger. All the conveniences of the houses were at the back and they had to go outside for even water. The houses were old and the partitions they could "blow through." - Questioned by the Foreman, witness said deceased's house was in darkness at the time of the accident. - Thomas Wallace, 6 Lower Wellesley road, said he and a lad named Lee, found deceased at the bottom of the stairs in the position described by Martin. He was bleeding from his left ear. - William Hutchings, living in the same house as deceased, said his little girl fell down the basement stairs last year and had to be treated at the Hospital. They were very steep and dangerous. A hand rail could very easily be fixed. - Richard Edgcumbe, of 10 Wellesley road, said deceased came into his shop and bought some tobacco on the evening in question. He found no difficulty in walking into the shop and was not the worse for liquor. - Dr Thomson, house surgeon at Torbay Hospital, said LAND was admitted with a scalp wound at the back of the head. He was unconscious and remained in that condition until the time of his death - about 4 a.m. Death was due to fractured skull. - MRS LAND was recalled and the Coroner offered her some strong words of advice with regard to charges she had made against another woman. When she saw or heard nothing she should not make such statements or she might get herself into trouble. MRS LAND said the woman had made threats. - The Coroner: You must be certain about your facts before you make any charges. The least said the better. MRS LAND said she saw nothing of the accident, and had nothing more to say. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the stairs, as was the case in many old houses, were evidently very steep and dangerous. He should think it would be a very inexpensive matter to provide hand-rails. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." They added a rider to the effect that the attention of the Borough Surveyor should be called to the necessity of seeing that hand-rails were provided at this and other houses in the neighbourhood.

TORQUAY - The Betting Evil. Butcher's Assistant's Suicide. - Quite a sensation was caused in the town on Saturday, when it became known that WILLIAM PARSONS, an employee of Mr W. Reed, butcher, Market Street, had committed suicide in a most determined manner. He was a familiar figure with shoppers and well-known. He was always been regarded of a cheery disposition and he was the last who would have been thought to take his life. - The Inquest. - was conducted in the Upton Parish Room, on Monday, by Mr Sydney Hacker (County Coroner). - HENRY PARSONS, labourer, 31 Melbourne Street, Exeter, said deceased was his brother, WILLIAM, aged 27. He had not seen him for a year. When deceased was a child, in Exmouth, doctor said that he would probably have water on the brain as he grew older. - Geo. Hy. Melhuish, in the employ of Mr Reed, said he was engaged in farming nearly all the week, but came into the shop on Saturdays. On Saturday morning last, deceased did his usual round, and throughout the day seemed in the best of spirits. When he returned from dinner, deceased told him he had had a County Court summons served on him. Witness told him not to worry about that, and he replied, "I'd as soon cut my throat as face it." Witness told him not to be silly and get about his work. - The Coroner: Was he in financial difficulties? - Witness: I did his round this morning, and found that the accounts are wrong. It appears to me that they are several pounds to the bad. - The Coroner: Had he many debts? - Witness: I can't say. - The Coroner: Was there anything peculiar about him? - Witness: No, sir. He seemed right in every respect. - Continuing, witness said deceased went out and returned shortly with some parsley to put on the meat. He left again, and shortly after a young man came to him and asked him where PARSONS was, as he had borrowed his lavatory key, and he wanted it. Witness thought he might be in the lavatory and went out to look for him. He entered the lavatory and found deceased, who had been absent for about an hour and a half, lying on the floor, which was covered with blood. A butcher's knife was lying just under him. Witness could not see the deceased's throat, as his head was on his chest, and without endeavouring to ascertain how he had met his death, witness fetched the police. Deceased's collar and tie were lying on the lavatory seat. When he returned with the constable, they found that deceased had cut his throat from ear to ear. - Willoughby Ernest reed, butcher, said deceased had been in his employ for three or four years. The knife produced was his, and had evidently been recently sharpened. On Wednesday last, having received complaints, he had the deceased into his office and told him he would not allow men to come to the shop during the dinner hour better etc. - The Coroner: Were his accounts wrong? - Witness: On Thursday, I asked him about two customers' accounts, and he replied in an off-hand way that they were all right. On Friday morning, my suspicions were further aroused in connection with another account. On Saturday morning, I told him there was something radically wrong on his round, and that I should find it out before the day was over. I left about dinner time, and made some enquiries, and found that a lot of money had been stolen. I intended to have him arrested on my return, and should have done so. Before I got there, however, deceased took his life. During the week he handled £20 for backing horses or something and that is not all. - Mr C. Hill, a Juryman, interposed, and suggested that the police should make strenuous efforts to prevent the betting that went on. - The Coroner: You cannot stop two men talking to one another. - Continuing, witness said deceased was not an excessive drinker, but had been a heavy bettor it seemed. - Dr Thomson, house surgeon at Torbay Hospital, said deceased was dead when he saw him soon after his admission to the mortuary. There was a wound in the throat quite 2 ¾ inches deep. The jugular vein was severed on both sides, and the windpipe was also cut through. Deceased died from haemorrhage from the wound. - P.S. Gregory said he found 15s. 4 ½d. in money on deceased. There were also a number of betting slips in the pockets. he also produced a note on a piece of rough paper, which he had found. The writing was identified as being that of deceased, and the Coroner read it out, as follows:- "There I am. I have done this through one county court summons. My home address is 21 Melbourne Street, Exeter. Good luck to Amy." - Mr Hill followed up his former remarks in regard to betting and said the police should keep a strict eye on bookmakers and their touts. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 April 1907
PAIGNTON - Lady's Sudden Death. - Shortly after six o'clock on Thursday evening MISS ELIZABETH DENNIS, aged forty-two, a lodging-house keeper, living at The Briars, Paignton, left home to go shopping. She suffered from heart disease and, feeling ill, secured a cab and was driven home by William Daniels, who saw her enter the double doors leading to the back of the house. Just inside she evidently fell and expired, her body being found next morning by the servant, Louisa Penwill, who, with deceased's niece, waited up for MISS DENNIS and fell asleep about midnight. On the servant drawing up the kitchen blind at five o'clock on Friday morning, she saw the body of her mistress lying just beneath the window, dead and cold. She had evidently fallen there before she could reach the back door, and died in an unconscious condition. Dr Adams, having made a post mortem examination, found the heart extensively diseased, and a Jury on Saturday evening, which sat under Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, returned a verdict in accordance with this evidence.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 April 1907
TORQUAY - Child Burnt To Death. Sad Accident At Upton. - A child named PERCY CROSSMAN, aged three years, of 2 Parkfield Terrace, Upton, was admitted to the Torbay Hospital on Monday evening suffering from severe burns, said to have been received through playing with matches. He remained in a serious condition throughout Monday and Tuesday, and died at 8 o'clock on Tuesday evening. - The Inquest. - was held yesterday at the Upton Parish Room by Mr Coroner Hacker. Fanny George, matron of the Door of Hope Home, St Marychurch Road, identified the body as that of PERCY CROSSMAN, the illegitimate child of SARAH CROSSMAN, domestic servant, living at Wells. It was at the home on December 16th, 1904, where it was brought by its mother from Weston-super-Mare. It was then about two months old. The mother remained until August, when she went out into service. The child was taken charge of by a Mrs Norsworthy, who then lived at Springfield Terrace, Upton, receiving 16s. a month for its keep, this being paid by the mother. She (witness) had seen the child several times since. - The Coroner: Is it rather an unnatural thing to part mother and child in this way? Is there no employment a woman can get into in Torquay which would enable her to keep the child with her? - Witness: No; domestic service is generally all that is open to them. - Continuing, witness said the mother agreed to the arrangement. She (witness) last saw the child on Tuesday afternoon at the Hospital. It had always been a sickly baby. She was satisfied that no one could give it more attention than had Mr and Mrs Norsworthy. She first heard of its death on Tuesday night. - Mary Norsworthy, married, living at 2 Parkfield Terrace, Upton, said her husband was a mason. They had one child, who was 10 years old. She took charge of the deceased child from the matron, receiving 4s. a week for its keep, paid by the mother. The latter paid regularly for five months. She (witness) had received nothing from the mother since, but the matron had paid her something out of her own pocket. When she took charge of the child, it was suffering from rash. It, however, took its food and seemed to thrive during the year and a half during which it was with her. On Monday morning last, about 7 a.m., she came downstairs leaving the child in a cradle in the bedroom asleep. At five minutes or ten minutes past eight it was still quiet. About 8.15 she heard screams and, rushing upstairs, she found the cradle enveloped in flames and smoke. She seized the child and wrapped him in rugs, thus managing to extinguish the flames. She went for assistance, and as soon as it was possible took the child to the Torbay Hospital. - The Coroner: How do you account for this accident? - Witness: I left a candlestick and matches beside the bed, and the child must have reached over the head of the cradle and got at them. In the cradle I found the burnt box of matches. - Continuing, witness said she always took precautions to keep the child from the fire, and had a large fire guard in the kitchen. - Dr Hugh K. Lacey, acting house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said the child was brought to that institution on Monday. It was suffering from burns, and he treated it immediately. Its death took place thirty-six hours after its admission. The cause of death was shock. The burns were very extensive, especially on the lower limbs. The child was very well nourished. - SARAH CROSSMAN, the mother, said she had been an inmate of Wells Workhouse, where she had been since July of last year. The deceased child was hers. She saw it last in February 1906, when she left Torquay. She had been in no situation since going away, but had been removed from Bristol to Wells Workhouse, the latter being her parish. She had had one other child besides the present one, born in September last in the Wells Union. This had since died. - The Coroner, in summing up, said there was every reason to suppose that the child had received the best of care from Mrs Norsworthy. There had, of course, been carelessness, but everybody made mistakes sometimes, he was sorry to say. It seemed to him that if charitable homes such as the one in question took charge of children in the laudable endeavour to assist the mother and reclaim her, they should go further and provide for the child. It seemed to him that not much good was done by simply taking the child away from the mother, and then leaving it without anyone to provide for it. He should think that homes such as these would have arranged to apply is charitable funds to the maintenance of the child. Otherwise he did not see that they did much good, at least to the children. it was doubtful, also, whether the separation of the mother and child, opposed as it was to the dictates of nature, did much good. Of course to reclaim the mother work must be found for her, and if there was no work open to her but domestic service, she could not of course have the child in her care. The Matron said the Home always found a situation for the mothers on their leaving, and provided the children with suitable out-fits. If the former kept their employment, they could support their children. The Home could not venture to do it. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 May 1907
COCKINGTON - Young Chelstonian's Sad End. Cycle Fall In Mill Lane. - Exceptionally sad are the circumstances attending the death of MR FREDERICK GEORGE BINDON, of Ambleside, Chelston, and a member of a well-known Torquay family, who succumbed on Tuesday morning to injuries received through falling off a cycle in Mill Lane on the previous night. Deceased was a son of MR G. D. BINDON, butcher, of Chelston, and was much respected in the neighbourhood. He was twenty-nine years of age, and leaves a widow and two children. MRS BINDON has been in delicate health for some time, and she is quite prostrated by the blow. - The Inquest. - was held at the Chelston Assembly Rooms on Wednesday morning by the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker). Mr T. S. Pender was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - ALBERT HENRY BINDON, of Devon House, Chelston, said deceased was his brother. He was 29 years of age and was married. He last saw deceased on the morning of Monday, and knew that he left on his cycle in the latter part of the afternoon to go for orders. He saw him on Tuesday morning just before his death, which occurred at 6.45 a.m. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said deceased had only taken up cycling regularly for the past ten or twelve days, but had known how to ride for a long time. The cycle he was riding was a free-wheel machine with two brakes. He had since seen the cycle, and it was quite intact, with no marks of damage upon it. - The Coroner: Don't you think that if he collided with the kerb the machine would be injured in some way? - Witness: It might not be injured. - Mrs Southwood, living at 21 South Street, said on Monday night about eleven o'clock deceased called at her house on his way home to ask her if she could lend him a bicycle lamp. She let him have her husband's lamp. The night was not very dark. He fixed the lamp, and after saying "Goodnight" to her, left in the direction of Mill Lane. - Hugh Hall Brown, of 3 Freda Terrace, Chelston, said he was an artist. On Monday night he was walking down Mill Lane about a quarter to eleven o'clock. When he came to the junction with Cleveland road deceased passed him, going in the direction of Chelston. As he passed under the arch a light shone on him, and witness noticed that he missed his pedal, and the machine swerved in the direction of the lamp-post. He, however, righted himself and proceeded down the hill. Witness lost sight of him in the shadows, but a moment or two later heard a crash. He ran down to see what had happened, and found the deceased with his face on the ground, bleeding profusely. The machine was lying between his legs with the back wheel nearly touching the kerb. He turned him over and released the machine from his legs. He was unconscious. Witness then called assistance. - Henry Border, postman, living at Victoria Terrace, Chelston, said he was passing down Mill Lane when Mr Brown called him to deceased's assistance. He went down and seeing his condition, sent for the police and helped to take him to his home. - Inspector Pratt said at 10.50 p.m. on Monday, from information received, he proceeded to Old Mill Road and found the deceased lying on the footpath in the condition described. He examined the edge of the footpath near where deceased had fallen, and found blood and skin right on the outside of the path, where deceased evidently had fallen. He sent for a doctor, and took deceased to his home. - Dr Thistle said he went to Ambleside at 11.45 p.m. and found deceased quite insensible. He had bled very profusely from his nose and there was a large cut just over his left eyebrow. The left side of the cheek and eye were much swollen and deceased was suffering from very evident symptoms of compression of the brain. Witness treated him but he died the following morning from fracture of the base of the skull. Deceased must have fallen with great violence on the left side of his head. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

BRIXHAM - Tower Accident. Labourer's Serious Fall In The Parish Church Belfry. - A serious accident happened at the Lower Brixham Parish Church tower on Saturday morning. While at work in the belfry, CHARLES WILCOX, a labourer, accidentally fell through the open trapdoor to the floor of the ringing chamber, a distance of some 16 feet. He was picked up in an unconscious condition. Dr W. J. Quicke was promptly in attendance. WILCOX was conveyed to the Brixham Cottage Hospital, where he lay in an unconscious sate until Monday evening, when he died. - The Inquest was conducted by Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, in the Market Hall on Monday. The Rev. Stewart Sim (Vicar of Lower Brixham) and Mr E. P. Bovey, of the firm of Messrs. E. P. Bovey and Sons, contractor, of Torquay, were present. - CHARLES WILCOX, father, gave evidence of identification. - William Henry Brown said that he and deceased on Saturday morning at 10.15 were in the clock chamber of the tower shifting scaffolding. They had been pulling up planks through the trap door by ropes. The door had been kept open for the whole week. Witness heard orders that it should have been kept closed. Planks were placed across the opening in order to carry out their work. Deceased when witness last saw him, was standing on the first floor waiting for orders. When witness turned round he saw WILCOX had fallen through the opening. It was possible that he might have caught his foot in the open door. He never called out. Witness ran down to where he was lying, and found him unconscious on the floor, bleeding from the ears and mouth. He fell about 17 feet. A doctor was sent for, and he directed the man's removal to the hospital. - The Coroner: The doors are usually kept closed? - Yes. There was no danger in having them kept open, as there is plenty of room on the floor. - The Contractor: May I ask if deceased, with witness, was solely responsible for the scaffolding, and was I angry on finding the doors open after having given deceased orders to have them kept shut?: - Yes. - Alfred Tancock said that he was the stonemason foreman in charge of the building. The last time he noticed the trapdoors open was on Wednesday last, the day of reopening services. He should not think there was any danger in their being left open. He had not given any order about shutting them. - The Coroner: Did you know anything about Mr Bovey's order to keep them closed? - No; not until yesterday. - Mr E. P. Bovey, contractor, said that on Wednesday, he noticed the trapdoors were opened in both chambers and complained to WILCOX about it. His complaint was not by reason of any danger, but to prevent unnecessary mess going to the bottom. Deceased was a very agile man, and good at scaffolding. He had been engaged on the tower all through the contract. This was the first serious accident during his forty years' experience as a builder, and it was a great grief to him. - Dr W. J. Quicke said he found deceased in the tower in an unconscious condition, bleeding from the right ear, nose and mouth. He ordered him to be removed to the hospital. Deceased died from the effects of laceration and compression of the brain. He had a broken collar bone, a broken rib, and an injury to his right lung. He complimented the foreman, the workman, the police and Mr J. C. Wyatt on the careful and clever manner in which they lowered deceased from the ringing chamber to the base of the tower. A verdict of "Accidental Death, and that no blame was attached to anyone," was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 24 May 1907
TORQUAY - Old Woman's Sudden Death. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday afternoon, Mr Sydney Hacker (County Coroner) held an Inquest on the body of KATHERINE WALKER, who died suddenly in a tenement in Abbey Road, on Saturday night. - Bessie Dart, Spring Place, Pimlico, wife of Walter Dart, identified deceased, and said she had lived alone in one room in Abbey Road. Witness saw her in her room at six o'clock on Saturday night, when she was sent by Mrs Coffey to look after her. She was unwell, and was in bed. Witness stayed an hour with deceased, made her bed and cleaned her room. She gave her a cup of tea. There were some biscuits and bread and butter in the room. She left deceased about seven o'clock and came back at eight thirty, when she found her with her head on the floor and her feet on the bed, dead. She called for help, and P.C. Smerdon arrived. Deceased had complained of a pain across her chest. She had been in bed all day. - Mary Coffey, 24 Fleet Street, widow, said she had known deceased for thirty years. Deceased was a married woman. Her husband was in the Navy, and she was parted from him. She had had three children, who had died. Deceased did not know whether her husband was living or dead. Deceased got her living by picking and selling flowers. The Roman Catholics were very good to her and gave her assistance. They wanted her to go to their home at Plymouth but she refused. Deceased did not know her own age. She was Irish and a Roman Catholic. Her neighbours wee unkind to her and refused her a cup of cold water. That she could prove. Witness visited deceased on Friday evening, and found she had been in bed all day, but was in good spirits. Witness gave her some tea and biscuits. Deceased complained to her that her neighbours would not come to her, so witness sent Mrs Dart to her, and also sent some fuel. She last saw deceased on Saturday afternoon, when she appeared all right, except for a cough and pain in her chest. - George Young Eales, surgeon, said he was called in to see deceased about nine o'clock on Saturday night. She was dead. He had since made a post mortem examination: there were no external marks of violence. Internally, he found extensive and long standing disease of the kidneys and extensive and old standing heart disease (valvular). The lungs were also diseased, deceased having had pneumonia of about four days' standing. The cause of death was syncope from heart failure, following pneumonia. Anyone who suffered from pneumonia was liable to die suddenly from heart failure. Especially with elderly people with symptoms were not acute. He had spoken in hospital to a young man dying from pneumonia and asked how he felt, and he had said "Quite well." Pneumonia patients did not suffer much pain as a rule. Mrs Coffey, recalled, said that a gentleman neighbour refused to help deceased into bed after death. - A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 31 May 1907
TORQUAY - Babbacombe Lady's Sudden Death. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Tuesday afternoon the County Coroner (Mr Sydney Hacker) held an Inquiry touching the death of ANNE ARLIDGE, who died at the Torbay Hospital on Sunday at 12.40 p.m. - Mary Adams, of Streatham, London, widow, identified the body as that of her sister-in-law. Deceased was about 72 years of age. Witness came to deceased's house on May 19th, when she was wired for. She was ill in bed suffering from shock. She told witness that on the Tuesday prior she was lighting a fire, and feeling faint fell down. Witness remained with her until her admission, on the advice of Dr Steele, to the Hospital on Friday last. Witness saw her on Saturday and on Sunday when she called deceased was dead. The moving did not seem to have weakened her. - Mary Jane Martin, of 7 Haredown Terrace, Babbacombe, married, said deceased had lodged with her for between two and three years, having her meals in her own room. Deceased had been ailing for some time but did not take to her bed before her fall. On the Tuesday that she fell witness went to deceased's room and found her in the fireplace in her nightdress. She went over to her and deceased told her that she had fainted and fallen. Witness helped her into bed and sent for Dr Steele - Dr F. H. Rudge, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said deceased was admitted on Friday. She was in a very weak condition and there were two large bed sores on her back, which might have resulted from slight bruises. Deceased died on Sunday. A post mortem examination revealed that deceased was suffering from senile degeneration. The heart was weak, but no weaker than one would expect to find. Death was due, in his opinion, to heart failure, accelerated by the bed sores. Death was primarily of course the result of the fall. A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical evidence.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 June 1907
NEWQUAY - Torquay Lad's Death At Newquay. The Inquest. - On Monday an Inquest was held by the County Coroner, Mr E. L. Carlyon, at Newquay, respecting the death of SELWYN GLANFIELD, a native of Torquay, who met his death in the lift at the Hotel Victoria on Saturday. - Philip James, brother-in-law of the lad and head porter at the Hotel Victoria, said the deceased, aged 14 last November, was the son of JOHN GLANFIELD, of Chelston, Torquay. The lad had been at the hotel about three months, and it was part of his duties to work the lift under witness's supervision. The lift was an electric one, which stopped automatically at either floor; but, with the exception of the tunnel entrance, would not start from any floor unless the doors were closed. The deceased was not allowed to use the lift by himself, and had had special instructions never to run down by the lift to the tunnel, unless conveying passengers. Witness last saw deceased at 2.10 p.m. on Saturday, and he was then on duty. At about 2.30 he was called to the lift, and found the boy with his head jammed in the lift on the ground floor. He was quite dead, and his head was very badly crushed. At the tunnel end of the lift, some one had propped open the shaft door with an old shrimp net. He had been unable to find out who did so. He thought the boy entered the lift unknown to anyone and was ascending to the first floor when the accident occurred. The boy had no right to be there. He was probably stooping out of the car while it was in motion, was knocked down, and then his head was caught by the bottom of the lift, and so crushed. The lift had been passed by the engineer of the Otis Company a few days before. He (witness) had had no trouble with the lift during his five years' experience. - John Roberts, engineer at the hotel, said the lift was under his charge. It was an automatic lift controlled by a push button. It would stop at any floor the button was pushed for. The doors opened when the lift arrived at the floors, and locked automatically when it left. The bottom door at the tunnel was closed with a spring. He had no doubt the lift was ascending when the accident happened. As far as he knew the boy had no occasion to go down the lift. Presuming the boy went down, and that he triggered open the door, he could not imagine what his object could have been. It was only possible for the lift to be worked by the person inside it. The fishing net could not have got into its position by accident. It was possible the boy was killed through reaching out for the net whilst the car was in motion. - Dr A. Hardwick said on being called to the hotel he saw the boy lying on the floor of the lift quite dead.. His head was underneath the floor of the lift, which had to be cut out to get him away. The car must have been ascending when the accident occurred. He noticed hair from the boy's skull on the lintel of the door, and marks on the shaft. The boy's head was very badly crushed. The injuries were across the forehead. He was inclined to think the boy did not reach out of the car. He was knocked down somehow, or possibly, he might have stumbled. - The Coroner, summing up, said the lift was evidently one of the best, and was in perfect order. The boy was quite competent to take charge of the lift, and had been told not to make use of it by himself. He had disobeyed orders. For some reason he went down to the beach. Why, they would probably never know. They could also imagine he triggered back the door. But why they could not tell, as it was unnecessary, unless he thought the door going back would make a noise, and he would be discovered. When he got to the car to come up, he forgot to remove the fishing net. When the car started he must have thought of it, and put his head out, and got caught. It was a pure accident, and if anyone was to blame it was the poor lad himself. - Mr Shuter said the whole was shrouded in mystery. He had seen many lifts, but in this one the danger was minimised to the uttermost. It was curious that 72 per cent of lift accidents occurred through lift doors being left open. They did not know who propped open the door. But if the boy had done it, he was afraid he must have seen someone else do it before. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider that a notice should be fixed to the car warning persons that the lift was not to be used unless the door was shut. - Mr G. Bullmore said the recommendation of the Jury would receive the consideration of the directors, and they would consult the engineers to see if any further improvements could be made with the object of rendering the lift still safer. When the lift was constructed it was stipulated that every modern improvement was to be incorporated. The doors on the floors were really closed to prevent people from falling down. The Coroner added that they could not attach any blame to anyone. The lift was in perfect order.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 June 1907
TORQUAY - Torquay Rag Sorter's Death. Inquest. - The County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquest at the Upton Parish room on Monday, into the circumstances attending the death of ELIZABETH PARFITT, 38, widow, of No. 6 Spring Steps, who died suddenly on Sunday evening. - WILLIAM JOHN PARFITT, fisherman, and son of deceased, said his mother was the widow of EDWARD JOHN PARFITT, a gardener. He resided with her and her brother at Spring Steps. On Sunday witness was at home all day. Deceased appeared to be in her usual condition of good health, and ate her meal heartily. Just after ten o'clock his mother rose from a chair to get supper. She had no sooner risen to an erect position, than she fell to the floor apparently dead. Witness asked her what the matter was, but he obtained no reply, and noticing that she did not breathe, he called in a neighbour. Deceased did not complain of illness during the evening, but she had occasionally suffered from sick headaches. No doctor had attended her. For years she had been employed as a rag sorter at Mr Cole's marine stores. - Mr Fredk. Hy. Rudge, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he had made a post mortem examination, and found the body well nourished. All the organs were healthy with the exception of the heart and brain. There was evidence of long standing valvular disease of the former, and chronic inflammatory disease of the latter, which would account for the headaches. - James Davies, fisherman, said the deceased was his sister, but he knew nothing about her death. - Mary Ann Powell, who lives next door said she never heard deceased complain of her heart, but she frequently complained of headache. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - Octogenarian's Fatal Fall. Sad Occurrence At Ellacombe. - On Monday night, about 10 p.m. MRS BETSY GUEST, widow of JOHN GUEST, blacksmith, fell over the stairs at 4 Inglewood Terrace, Ellacombe, and fractured her skull. She was picked up insensible, and died at the Torbay Hospital about 11.30. - The Inquest. - was held in Upton Parish Room on Wednesday afternoon by Mr G. F. Kellock (Deputy County Coroner). - John Facey, labourer, Aller Vale, said deceased was his aunt. She was eighty years of age. He had not seen her since two months prior to her death. - Christian Adams Ball, spinster, said she lived at 4 Inglewood Terrace, Higher Wellesley Road. The deceased, who was a friend of hers, came to her house on the Sunday previous to stay for a week. On Monday night after supper witness went to see her uncle, and left deceased, who said she would put away the supper things. After she had gone about three minutes her uncle heard a scream. Witness hurried through the passage. MRS GUEST was not in the kitchen. Witness saw her cat looking very frightened at the top of the stairs leading downstairs. She took a lamp and saw deceased lying huddled up at the foot. Witness went down to her. She lay stiff, with her head a little on one side, whilst blood was flowing from her mouth. Witness went for Mr Saunders, a neighbour, and deceased was taken to the Hospital. Deceased never moved or spoke. - In reply to Inspector Pratt, witness said the top of the stairs was quite close to the kitchen door. - Do you consider them dangerous? - No. I have lived there twenty years and nothing has ever happened before. - Would deceased have had occasion to go downstairs? - Oh, no. - Inspector Pratt gave some measurements he had made of the stairs, and these, the Coroner said, were reasonable. - P.C. Hawkins deposed that at 10.10 p.m. on Monday he was called to the house. The deceased was lying at the foot of the stairs, which were fairly steep, but not so steep as he had seen. Deceased, who was insensible, was in a pool of blood. He found that the blood came from her left ear. After bathing it, failing to get a doctor, he took her to the Torbay Hospital. - Dr F. H. Rudge, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said deceased was admitted about 10.10 p.m. on Monday. She was moribund and bleeding from the left ear. She died about half an hour later from fracture of the base of the skull. She had evidently struck the back of her head. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

TORQUAY - Drink The Cause. Tor Labourer's Sad End. - To complete the trio of Inquests, which seem to be the order in Torquay, after the first case has been reported to the Coroner, an Inquiry was held on Wednesday afternoon by Mr G. F. Kellock, touching the death of WILLIAM HENRY ROOK, labourer, of Tor, who fell severely on May 23rd, and died at the Torbay Hospital on Tuesday night. - Evidence of identification was given by MRS ANNIE ROOK, who said deceased was her husband. He was 60 years of age, and at the time of his death was working for Mr Northcott. She was called home from her work on the day in question, and her husband told her he had fallen off a waggon, and had been to the Hospital to have his wounds dressed. She assisted him to bed, and later the doctor ordered his removal to the Hospital. She had seen him several times since his admission. - By a Juryman: Her husband told her he was loading at the time of the accident. - Robert Bolt, marine store dealer's manager, said deceased came to him about 1.30 p.m. for a load of rags. Witness helped him to load the rags, which were in packing bags. Deceased stood on the waggon and the rags were hoisted down from one of the floors. One bag had been passed down, and when he shouted "All right," witness let down another. As he did so deceased, who had had one foot on the bag previously passed down, slipped and fell head foremost over the side of the cart. The deceased, witness noticed, had previously been loading salt, and this would make the bottom of the cart slippery. - Dr Rudge said he attended deceased for his injuries on May 23rd. He complained of having fallen off a waggon and knocked the back of his head. Witness found a superficial contused wound on the back of the head. Witness dressed it and deceased, who complained of nothing else, soon after went home. He was a bit shaky, but he had evidently been drinking and he (witness) attributed it to this. Later deceased was readmitted, vomiting have given evidence of internal injuries. A day or two later he developed mania, and this lasted just over a week. During that time he frequently had to be forcibly restrained. He grew gradually weaker and weaker, and died on Tuesday night. Death was due to the scalp wound, followed by delirium tremens and heart disease. - By the Coroner: The wound was a trivial one, and had deceased been in normal health he would have recovered in three days. - Recalled, Bolt said deceased might have had a drink before he assisted him in loading. - Albert Charles Smeardon, landlord of the Bannercross Inn, just opposite the scene of the accident, said he did not notice anything wrong with deceased when he was loading. The Coroner said it was a very sad case. Deceased's death was the result of excessive drinking and it should act as a fearful warning. They had been told that an ordinary man would have recovered in a few days. - The Jury retired, and on their return Mr R. Hodge (Foreman) said they had come to the conclusion that deceased had met with his death as the result of Accident, but at the same time they recognised that there might have been contributory causes to his decease.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 21 June 1907
PAIGNTON - Little Child's Sudden Death. - An Inquest was held at Paignton on Friday afternoon on the body of THOMAS R. PIDDELL, aged four years, who fell on the pavement outside the Gerston Hotel. Dr Adams said he had made a post mortem examination and found that death was due to a rare condition known as status lymphaticus, an enlargement of the glands of the spleen. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, and gave their fees to the mother, who is a widow and cook at a Paignton Hotel.

TORQUAY - Sad Motor Car Fatality. Italian Child The Victim. The Inquest. - What must be considered one of the saddest fatalities that Torquay has known for some time took place on Friday last. The victim was a tiny Italian girl, little more than an infant, who in going home from school ran heedlessly across the road in Higher Union Street right into the track of an approaching motor car for her injuries to prove fatal about a quarter of an hour later. - The details of the accident will be found below in the report of the Inquest and it will suffice to state that the child, by name ANTONIA JANNETTA, was the child of an Italian ice-cream vendor, living at Parkfield Road, Upton. They form a community to themselves, these settlers in our midst, and confining themselves chiefly to the picturesque occupations of organ-playing and ice-cream making, soon adapt themselves to their surroundings. Their picturesque attire often brightens theirs and their neighbours' drab surroundings, and with the free, happy nature of the children of the south, it is rarely ever that they are not soon at home and almost naturalized to their adopted homes. JANNETTA, the father, is one of the oldest immigrants to this part of the country and it is ten years since he took up his abode with us. At Upton he has become almost a fixture, his frank good humour having made him extremely popular. In his sad bereavement, "JOHN," as he is known, has received general sympathy at Upton. - And what a change it had wrought in him at the Inquest on Saturday! Surrounded by other of his children and a number of his compatriots, among them the picturesquely attired interpreter, a buxom Italian matron, he looked the picture of grief. He refused to be consoled and he only roused himself on one or two occasions to murmur some unintelligible comments on the evidence of the witnesses. A particularly pathetic scene was that at the close of the Inquest, when the young owner of the car, Mr Greswolde-Williams, and his chauffeur, sought to express through the interpreter their sorrow for what had occurred. The interpreter very volubly conveyed the sentiments expressed, but it was only when another Italian lady spoke to him that he seemed to realise what was being said and so far aroused himself as to shake hands with Mr Williams and the driver. - The interest taken in the Inquest was manifest by the crowd that gathered round the entrance to the Upton Parish Room, anxious to hear what the Jury's finding would be. Mr G. F. Kellock, the Deputy County Coroner presided and Supt. Roberts and Inspector Pratt were present on behalf of the Police. Mr W. Oliver, near to whose business establishment the melancholy affair took place, was Foreman of the Jury. - The first business was the swearing in of the interpreter, Mrs George Fourchalk. - The father, JOSEPH JANNETTA, was first called and through the interpreter said his child was six years old, and had been born in Torquay. He last saw her alive on Friday morning when she set out for school. - John Redmore, a young labourer, stated at 12.50 p.m. on Friday he was standing with a horse and waggon outside Mr Hancock's butcher's shop in Higher Union Street, when he saw the deceased run off the footpath by Mr Oliver's as if to cross the road. Just as she did so a motor car came along going in the direction of the town, and knocked her down. The car was in the middle of the road. He went over and picked the child up. It was then alive. There were two people in the car, and they at once jumped out and rendered assistance. - Cross-examined by Supt. Roberts - The child came out from behind him from Oliver's. - Were you between the van and the child? - Yes. - You say that the child ran into the road from the footpath and was knocked down by the motor car and run over. Are you quite sure that the child was run over? - I thought so. - A motor car is very heavy, you know. If it went over the child it would crush it. - Yes, sir; I know that. - Mary Emmett, wife of Charles Emmett, a labourer, said she was in Brunswick Road when she saw the car pass and the accident occur. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said the child came from the footpath into the road. - Did you see the car go over the child? - No, sir; I did not. - Did you notice the pace at which the car was going? - It was not going fast when I saw it. - Was anyone chasing or worrying the child? - No, it left the footpath as if to cross over to some children on the other side of the road. - By Supt. Roberts - When you saw the child, how far was she from Bowden's the tobacconist's? - I could not say. - Did the car pass you before it struck the child? - No, sir. The car struck the child just by Mr Oliver's in a line with Mr Bowden's shop. - Was the child dragged along or not? - It was dragged about four or five feet. - How was the car being driven with regard to the other traffic in the road? - I did not see any carelessness. I think the gentleman driving the car did his utmost to save the child. - Dr H. K. Lacey said he saw the child in the surgery at the Torbay Hospital at 1.55 p.m. She was then alive but insensible, and died a few minutes later from fractured skull. - The Coroner: Had she stopped breathing when you saw her?: - She had stopped breathing when I arrived, but there were still some pulsations of the heart. - Supt. Roberts: Were her injuries of such a nature as to suggest that she had been run over? - I don't think it possible she could have been for in that case she would have been crushed. - At this juncture the Coroner announced that there was a very considerable amount of evidence to be taken and he would therefore adjourn the Inquiry until Wednesday at 4.15 unless any Juryman had a reasonable objection to make to that hour and date. - One Juror said he would be unable to come as he did not close his shop until 6 o'clock. The Coroner said that was not sufficient excuse for making a change in the date. He must attend. - Coroner & Motor Cars. The Adjourned Inquest. - At the adjourned Inquest, Mr E. Hutchings held a watching brief for Mr Greswolde Williams. - Ernest Border, grocer's assistant of 16 Ellacombe Terrace, said he was employed at 215 Union Street, near the scene of the accident, and on the day in question about midday, he was looking out of the shop window and saw the occurrence. The car was not going fast. Its occupants could not see the girl nor the latter see the car. She was standing with other girls, but ran away from them. - The Coroner: Was the van we have heard about between the deceased and the car? - Yes. - Witness was shown a plan prepared by the police, and spoke as to its accuracy. - Questioned by the Coroner, witness said the child was picked up just at Oliver's corner. - A Juror: Was the car going fast? - No. It was going slowly as compared with the rate at which cars usually travel. - Continuing, witness said the car was stopped, and the occupants jumped out and went to deceased's assistance. He did not know if the driver of the car sounded his hooter; he did not hear it. - Supt. Roberts: Did the car go over the child? - I don't think so. - By Mr Hutchings: The car was stopped immediately, and was pulled up almost within a yard. - Frederick John Avent, landlord of the Brunswick Inn, Torre, gave corroborative evidence. - The Coroner: At what speed was the car going? - Very slowly, about five or six miles an hour as far as I could judge. - Mrs Elizabeth Addems, who was at the Brunswick Bakery, also said the car was not going fast. In fact its speed was very little more than that of a horse and carriage. - ZANNETTA JANNETTA, sister of the deceased, said she was thirteen years of age. On the day in question she and another little Italian girl were in Higher Union Street. The deceased was on the other side of the road, and left the footpath to cross over to witness and her companion. As she stepped off the kerb the accident occurred as described. The car was pulled up by the tobacconist's shop. It did not stop immediately. - By Mr Hutchings: She could not see what part of the car struck her sister. She saw it go over her, but nothing more. - Antonia Ventri, eleven, who was with the last witness, said the car dragged the deceased and went over her. - In cross-examination by Mr Hutchings, witness said by dragging she meant that the car pulled deceased along. She was quite sure this happened. - The deceased's hat was produced. There was a large hole in the front of the crown. - Mr Henry John Greswolde-Williams said he was the owner of the car. At the time of the occurrence, he was in it, his chauffeur was driving. He was coming from Torre Station towards the town, and the car had just slowed up for a funeral to pass. He saw the van, and the child run headlong from behind it. it seemed to him as if her head was turned over her shoulder away from the car a little. The car knocked her down, but did not go over her. His chauffeur pulled up instantly, and they both jumped out. Someone had picked the child up, and they had it put into the car and taken to the Hospital. - The Coroner: At what pace were you travelling at the time? - Quite slowly. - How far did you go after knocking down the child before you pulled up? - A few feet; I could not say exactly. - Were the engines working? - Yes; the road there is on a level. - By the Foreman: The child ran into the splasher on the off side of the car. - Mr Hutchings: What is the weight of the car? - Twenty-two cwt. The horse-power of the car is 20-32. - William Edward Blackburn, the chauffeur of the car, at the request of the Coroner, produced his licence. He corroborated Mr Williams' evidence. The child was caught by the right front mudguard and knocked back. He applied the brakes immediately, and the car stopped within six or seven feet. The car was not travelling more than five miles an hour. - The witness Radmore was recalled, and in reply to Mr Hutchings, said he was not sure that the car went over the child. The deceased fell right in front of the car. The child was not dragged along at all. The car was going slowly. - Dr Lacey, recalled, said the skull was fractured in two places. This might have been caused by the child striking a stud as she fell. - Inspector Pratt said he afterwards found no marks on the splashboard of the car. - Asked through the interpreter if he had any questions to ask, the father said he wished to know what compensation he would get. - In summing up, the Coroner said motors were as yet a dangerous means of travelling despite the rules and regulations that legislation had drawn up. This undoubted fact had been brought prominently before them, and in nothing more than the cases that came into the Coroner's court. There ought, he thought, they would agree, to be some greater protection for the general public from motor cars. In America there were such things as cow-catchers affixed to the front of such vehicles, and he thought something in the same nature should be enforced in England. The cars at present were built so low and were of such weight, that were a person struck by them, he had not a reasonable chance of saving his life, and too often a fatality ensued. The present case was a very sad one. There was nothing so precious to Englishmen, at any rate, as infant life. They must save of course, all life, but still infant life must have special consideration for they could not put old heads on young shoulders and children used the streets with less heed than adults. There were too, old people, deaf people and partially blind people, who were about the streets, and rightly so. If motor cars were allowed in the streets, there must be some protection for the general public and the risk of death or terrible injury in the case of an accident, materially lessened. - The Jury, after a short retirement, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated the driver of the car from all blame. - Mr Hutchings expressed, on behalf of Mr Williams and the chauffeur, their deep sympathy with the relatives of the deceased under the tragic circumstances that had caused her death. They both felt acutely sorry that their car should have caused such an accident. Mr Hutchings intimated that Mr Williams would take the responsibility of any expenses that might have been incurred from off the bereaved father's shoulders, and would undertake in addition to do all that was reasonable and just.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 July 1907
TORQUAY - Wife's Sad Discovery. Ellacombe Ostler's Death. - Late on Wednesday night, last week, MRS TUCKER, of 22 Wellington Road, Ellacombe, found her husband, an ostler, employed at the Country House Hotel, outside her house delirious, with his leg broken and his head cut. She had him taken to the Torbay Hospital, but his injuries proved fatal, and he died on Saturday evening. - The Inquest. - The Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, conducted the Inquest at the Upton Parish Room on Monday evening, when deceased was stated to be WILLIAM HENRY TUCKER, aged 44. Mr W. Blackler was appointed Foreman of the Jury. - Wife's Evidence. - MRS TUCKER said her husband was an ostler employed at the Country House Hotel. On Wednesday last she saw him at 9.50 p.m., when he was in his usual health. He was at the Inn when she went for his supper beer at that time. Deceased's time for leaving work was after 11 o'clock. Witness came home and at 11.20 she heard deceased outside the door, calling her. She went out and found him in a kneeling position with his head against the wall of the house. There was no-one else about. Deceased said, "I have fallen down and hurt my leg and can't stand up." She got deceased into the house and saw blood coming from his foot. She took off his boots and stockings and saw a bone projecting from his leg. She got a cab and took him to the Hospital at once. The side of deceased's face was bleeding. Deceased had not been too well since he had the influenza in January. - The Coroner: Had he been having too much to drink? - I don't think so, sir. He was a little strange in his manner. The Coroner: Do you attribute that to drink? - No, he seemed a little strange in his head. - Continuing, witness said she saw deceased at the Hospital and asked him what caused him to fall, and deceased said he could not tell her. - Quite Sober. - George Chard, landlord of the Country House Hotel, said deceased was his general man. On Wednesday evening he left at 5.30 p.m., but witness saw him again at 11.15. He was then quite sober and to his knowledge had not had a pint of beer the whole day. Deceased had been with him for nine years, and had always been steady. He had served witness well. Deceased had suffered a long while from swelling of the knee. - Richard Ladner, 19 Wellington Road, plasterer, said he saw blood just outside his door on Thursday morning. - Dr F. H. Rudge, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said deceased was admitted to that institution at 1 a.m. on Thursday, suffering from a compound fracture of the left leg, and an abrasion and contusion of the left side of the face. The leg was set and the deceased properly treated. Deceased had told him that he remembered nothing of what had happened. During Friday and Saturday deceased suffered from delirium, but had sane intervals. On Friday night he appeared slightly better, but died on Saturday afternoon from shock following the injuries he had received. Deceased was a very heavy man and a fall would result very seriously to him. A probable theory was that he tripped on the kerb and fell over against the wall. - Verdict. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 July 1907
ST MARYCHURCH - A Visitor's Sudden Death. Inquest At St. Marychurch. - At the St. Marychurch Town Hall, on Saturday, the County Coroner, (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquest on the body of LUCY WEEKS, a visitor. - GEORGE WEEKS, 109 Hinds Road, Harrow, Middlesex, house painter, said the deceased was his wife aged 57. She left home last Thursday morning to visit Torquay with her daughter HELENA, for the benefit of her daughter's health. She stayed with her sister-in-law. Deceased was in good health when she left home, and was to have stayed in Torquay a fortnight at Mrs Robertson's, 2 Highfield Terrace, St. Marychurch. He had a telegram on Friday afternoon that his wife was dead. His wife had no disease to his knowledge and her death was a mystery to him. - HELENA WEEKS, daughter, said she and her mother arrived at Torquay on Thursday at 3.40 p.m. Deceased was not fatigued by the journey. They had tea about 4.30. On the journey they had some sandwiches which they brought with them. They had supper about 9.30 and deceased with the others partook of fried mackerel. Witness slept with her mother. About 2.30 a.m. she heard deceased masking a noise as if in pain, and she asked her what was the matter. She replied that she was all right and told witness to go to sleep. Her mother went to sleep again, but half an hour later, she again woke and commenced vomiting. After 5 o'clock her mother fainted and fell out of bed, but did not fall heavily as the bed clothes caught her. Witness and Mrs Robertson put her in bed again and she came around. A doctor was sent for at 8.30 as deceased was in great pain internally. Deceased was subject to wind spasms. Deceased said on being asked if she would have a doctor "I think you had better - I don't think I can get over this. I am in such awful pain." Dr Winter came and deceased died within five minutes of his arrival. Witness was not present when deceased died as they had no suspicion that the illness was so serious. Her mother was in better health that day than she had been for a long time. - Mary Ann Robertson, 2 Highfield Terrace, deceased's sister-in-law, gave similar evidence. - Dr Winter said he put a few questions to the deceased on his arrival. She was perfectly conscious and answered him. He had his hand on her pulse when she suddenly collapsed. The pulsation stopped and she died in a minute or two. He had made a post mortem examination and found that deceased was not a well nourished robust woman there being very little fat about the body. He found the liver and gall bladder very much enlarged. Deceased had suffered from gall stones and over one of these an abscess had formed. The kidneys were a little enlarged and congested and the heart was extremely thin and flabby. There was nothing wrong with the stomach as regarded irritation and he had no reason to suppose that any food had upset her. In his mind, she was tired after coming from London, and not being a strong woman she should not have had supper before retiring. Indigestion was caused and the vomiting that followed ruptured the abscess and this acting on the heart caused her to faint and fall out of bed. Deceased died from the bursting of the abscess into the abdominal cavity. That was perfectly clear although the case was an unusual one. Deceased was liable to have died at any time. A strong person might have recovered after an operation. There was no suspicion of ptomaine poisoning. Death was due to the failure of the heart's action through the bursting of an abscess sin the peritoneal cavity. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 July 1907
TORQUAY - French Polisher's Death. Sad Occurrence At Ellacombe. - At the Northcote Hall on Wednesday, Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) held an Inquiry touching the death of FRED PRIDHAM, French Polisher, of 18 Waterloo Road, Ellacombe, who died suddenly on Tuesday afternoon. Mr J. Heale was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - CLAUDE PRIDHAM, son, gave evidence of identification, and said deceased was 38 years of age. At dinner time on the previous day between one and one thirty deceased came home from work and went upstairs to see witness's mother, who was ill in bed. He came down later and refused his dinner, saying he did not feel very well. Witness then left for work, but was fetched home about 2.30. Deceased was dead when he arrived. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said his father had always appeared in the best of health. - Mrs Kate Potter said she lived next door to the PRIDHAMS. At two o'clock on Tuesday MRS PRIDHAM called her in, saying her husband was very bad. Deceased was sitting in an arm chair in the sitting room. He was unconscious. He swallowed some brandy, but he did not rally and died almost immediately. - Dr Courtenay Dunn said when he was called at 2.15 p.m. deceased was dead - evidently quite recently. There was nothing to notice in his condition except that he had vomited. A subsequent post mortem examination had revealed no signs of external violence. Internally both of the lungs were diseased. The heart was in a state of fatty degeneration of long standing. The liver and kidneys were also enlarged, and the stomach dilated, but the latter showed no sign of irritation. Death was due to failure of the heart following on the vomiting, which was caused by indigestion, evidently the result of his having taken a hasty meal. Deceased's wife had told witness that he was in the habit of taking just a snack at lunch time, and this he had probably bolted. A verdict was returned in accordance with Dr Dunn's evidence.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 2 August 1907
TORQUAY - Fatal Fall Over A Quarry. Inquest. - The death of SYDNEY TUCKER, aged 8, who was found dead in a quarry near Market Street last week, was inquired into by the County Coroner (Mr Sydney Hacker) at the Northcote Hall on Friday. Mr W. Blackler was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Parents' Evidence. - FREDERICK CHARLES TUCKER, of 26 Queen Street, tinsmith, said deceased was one of his eight children. He was a strong and hearty little fellow in every respect. The boy was missing on Wednesday night, and he reported the fact to the police. He searched the whole of the night unsuccessfully. - MARY ANN TUCKER, wife of the last witness, said deceased went to school on Wednesday. She saw him just after eight o'clock. She called him to go to bed, but he asked to be allowed to stay up a little longer, saying that he would not leave Queen Street, and would come when she called him. She never saw him again alive. She later heard another boy call out that he had a ball and she concluded they were at play. Deceased had often been in the Quarry, and she had told him not to go there. - Climbed Over The Wall. - Charlotte Lane, Queen Street, spinster, said she saw the deceased climbing over the wall at nine o'clock on Wednesday evening at the top of the Quarry. There were four boys together playing with a ball. The boys went over the wall like cats. - The Coroner mentioned that the wall was six feet six inches high, and he questioned if the boys got over unaided. - Witness replied that the boy got over without assistance. People did not take any notice of boys climbing over the wall. She had known twenty go over. - John Smith, aged nine, 19 Queen Street, said he was playing ball with the deceased on Wednesday night. The ball went over the wall and witness climbed over the wall after deceased had gone over after it. Witness had a push up, but deceased got over unaided. He found deceased was not there, and someone said that he had gone to Hancock's, but he would have had to come back over the wall to go there. The ball produced was not the ball they were playing with. - Found By A Corporation Employee. - William Woodcock, in the employ of the Torquay Corporation of 3 Barlow Terrace, Upton, said he went to the Quarry to commence his work on Thursday morning at 6 o'clock and saw the deceased lying on his side at the foot of the Quarry, 40 feet from the brow. He did not touch the body, but went and informed the Police. - P.C. Perriam said he found deceased at 6.5 on Thursday morning lying on his right side. He was dead. There was a discolouration of the right side of his head. The basket produced, and the rags inside were near him. - The mother, recalled, said the basket was not the deceased's. - The constable added that the deceased had his handkerchief in his right hand. - The mother was handed the handkerchief, which she identified as the deceased's. - By Inspector Pratt: There were evidences that the deceased had fallen from above. - The constable added that from the inside foot of the wall to the edge of the quarry was only three feet. - Borough Surveyor's Evidence. - Henry A. Garrett, Torquay's Borough Surveyor, said the Quarry was not only fenced, but the fence was constantly watched to see that it was not damaged. - The Coroner: It is a frightfully dangerous place. What about barbed wire on the top of the wall? - The Surveyor said that broken glass would be better. He had seen the boys of that neighbourhood climbing in most dangerous places and had been afraid to speak in case he would startle the boys and cause them to lose their balance. - "Boys Will Be Boys." - Several of the Jury pointed out that barbed wire and broken glass had no terrors for the boys of that locality. Frederick Henry Rudge, House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he had made a post mortem examination of the body. There were no extensive bruises visible, but there was an extensive fracture of the skull with internal haemorrhage there. - The Coroner said it was the duty of parents to look after their children. MR TUCKER said that he had always told his children not to go over the wall. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 9 August 1907
TORQUAY - Visitor's Fatal Fall. Death Trap Stairs. Second Fatality Through Same Cause. - At the Ellacombe Boys' School on Wednesday the County Coroner (Mr Sidney Hacker) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM CHARLES VANSTONE, 37, bricklayer, 119 Cunningham Road, Shepherd's Bush, London, who met his death by falling over a flight of stairs at No. 7 Lower Wellesley Road, Ellacombe, on Sunday evening. Mr W. Blackler was elected Foreman of the Jury. - WILLIAM VANSTONE, plasterer of 119 Cunningham Road, Shepherd's Bush, London, said deceased was his eldest son. He was a single man, and lived with witness. Deceased left home at 8 o'clock on Sunday morning with a view to catching an excursion train from Paddington to Torquay. He intended visiting relatives at Newton and Kingskerswell as well. On Monday, about 11 a.m., witness heard of the accident by wire, and subsequently heard through his second son, FRED, who had accompanied his brother on the excursion, the details of the matter. On Tuesday morning a telegram arrived announcing the death, and witness came to Torquay. - Henry Pook, lodger at No. 7 Lower Wellesley Road, said his sister, Mrs Ada Owens, was the owner of the house. Mrs Lander was the tenant and he took apartments from her. Deceased was a cousin of his, and came to Torquay to see him about 10 o'clock, quite unexpectedly. They had supper together and remained chatting until 11.30 or 12. Deceased proposed that they should go to bed. Witness went upstairs and lighted the gas in the bedroom he and deceased were to occupy. He had been there but a few moments when he heard a heavy fall. Witness rushed downstairs, and halfway down met Mr Lander, who was coming up for a light. The door to the basement was open, and VANSTONE was lying at the bottom of the stairs in an unconscious state. There was a pool of blood near his head. His feet were pointed up the stairs, and it seemed to witness that deceased fell so far down the stairs and then rolled to the bottom. The plaster on the wall at the side had been broken away as if someone had clutched at it. With the assistance of Mr Lander, deceased was removed to a sofa. Dr Dunn was called and treated the wound. On the following day VANSTONE was placed in bed. - The Coroner: I wonder you did not place him in a cab and take him straight to the Hospital? - Witness: Everything possible was done for him. - In reply to questions, witness said it was necessary to go down these stairs for water and to reach the only w.c. on the premises. There had never, to his knowledge, been any handrail there. There had been no accidents in the house, but the steps were very steep. The majority of the houses were similarly constructed. Some might have handrails. - The Coroner: A man was killed in a house close by quite recently by falling over the stairs. - Witness: That is so, but the two houses are a little differently arranged. - The Coroner: It seems to me this is more of a trap than the other. - In reply to further questions, witness said VANSTONE was perfectly sober. A glass of ale was placed before him at supper, but he would not take it. If there had been a hand rail he might in all probability have saved himself. - Thomas Lander, tenant of 7 Lower Wellesley Road, said he heard VANSTONE open the door at the top of the basement stairs. Witness followed him out, and on reaching the door heard a crash. When the door was shut the basement was quite dark. Witness went to where deceased was lying at the bottom, and then returned to get a light. In the meantime Mr Pook had gone down. There were twelve stairs, and a drop of twelve or thirteen feet. He assisted Mr Pook to move deceased. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said he had lived in the house nine or ten years and had had no accident. He had four children. He knew a man was killed through falling over the stairs at a house a little higher up, but he was not aware of any other accidents having occurred. - In reply to the Foreman, witness said deceased had visited the house before, and knew his whereabouts. A hand rail would be a great advantage. - Sarah Lander also gave evidence. - Dr Courtenay Dunn said he was called to see deceased on Sunday night. He found him lying in the passage at the bottom of the basement stairs totally unconscious. There was a severe wound at the back of the head. Deceased was semi-conscious on Monday morning, and relapsed into insensibility again on Tuesday morning, when he died about 7.30. Death was due to fracture of the base of the skull. Deceased was a big man, and would fall heavily. He was well looked after and was better there than at the Hospital. It would not have been advisable to move him. - Mrs Ada Owens, the owner of the house, who resides at Belsford, Shirburn Road, said she was the wife of John Owens, a stoker in the Navy. She owned other houses in the same road. They were similarly constructed, and none had a hand rail from the top to the bottom of the basement stairs. She had received a communication from the Borough Surveyor asking her to have handrails fitted. The work had been commenced. - The Coroner: I am glad you are going to have this done to all the houses. It is the only way to meet the matter. Of course you cannot abolish the stairs. - Witness: One house has been done. - The Coroner: I hope the other owners will do the same. have you heard whether they are? - Witness: I have not, but I expect my sister, who owns some of the houses will have her's done. - The Coroner said this was the second death which had occurred during the past few weeks in this road from the same cause. These stairs were steep and dangerous, especially to a stranger. It was possible to get used to anything, and probably the tenants did not notice the danger, but when he (the Coroner) went down he felt as if the slightest thing would upset him. This condition of things ought not to exist. They were old houses; in new, no such thing would be permitted. At the last Inquest the owner was written to and asked to place a handrail there. He was very pleased to hear that Mrs Owen was providing these handrails, and he hoped the other owners would have the public spirit and proper feeling she had shown. If they did not do something the authorities would take some steps to compel them to. If further accidents occurred after these warnings, a Jury would probably send negligent owners to stand their trial for manslaughter. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and endorsed all that had been said by the Coroner. They expressed their satisfaction at the fact that Mrs Owens was providing handrails in the houses which she owned, and hoped the other owners would do likewise.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 August 1907
TORQUAY - Painter's Death. "I Am Going To Die." Inquest And Verdict. - At the Northcote Hall on Tuesday morning, the County Coroner (Mr Sidney Hacker) held an Inquiry into the circumstance attending the death of HENRY WHEATON, 50, painter of 4 Ellacombe Terrace, who died suddenly on Saturday. GEORGE WHEATON, painter of 41 Pennsylvania Terrace, identified the body as that of his father, who he last saw alive on Saturday morning at Mr W. Cole Watson's workshop. He then appeared to be in good health, and left the workshop to do some work at Wesley Manse, in Morgan Avenue. Last winter deceased suffered from an attack of pneumonia, but regained his health. Witness heard of his father's death about 12.20 on Saturday. - Mr W. Cole Watson, painter and decorator of No. 1 Arden, Abbey road, said deceased had been in his employ for ten years. He was a most capable and steady workman. Witness went to Wesley Manse to see deceased about 10.30 and found him painting the staircase. They had a conversation, and just as witness was leaving, deceased called out as if in pain, clutched the hand rail, and said "I am going to die." He sank to the ground. Witness endeavoured to raise him, but found that impossible. There was no one else in the house, and therefore witness went for assistance. The gardener at the Hospital returned with him and the Town Clerk's wife (Mrs Hex) also came in and gave deceased brandy. The house surgeon at the hospital (Dr Rudge) came most promptly, but their efforts were of no avail. WHEATON seemed to become unconscious at once. Deceased was not a strong man, he suffered from haemorrhage of the lungs last winter and in the spring had an attack of pneumonia. - Dr Rudge, house surgeon at the Hospital, said when he arrived at Wesley Manse he found deceased lying on the landing. He was in a dying state and bleeding from the mouth. Deceased was placed on a stretcher with the intention of removing him to the Hospital, but he died before the bottom of the stairs could be reached. Death was due to a ruptured aneurism in the large vessel leading from the heart. The disease was of long standing. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

BRIXHAM - Brixham Fatality. Knocked Down By A Bicycle. - Charles James, in the employ of Mr Savery, butcher, Brixham, was riding a bicycle in King Street, Hill, Brixham, on Tuesday morning, when the brake refused to act, and James losing control, the machine turned the corner at the bottom of the street at great speed. MRS MARY GIFFARD, an elderly lady, was knocked down and was found to be unconscious. Dr W. L. Mayer was speedily called in, and he ascertained that the base of her skull was fractured. MRS GIFFARD did not regain consciousness, and died in the afternoon. - On Wednesday, at Brixham Town Hall, Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest on the body. The evidence of Messrs. H. D. Bovey, W. Locke, W. Gray and Mrs Collier, showed that James lost control of the machine through the brake refusing to act while riding down King Street Hill. Dr Mayer attributed death to the fracture of the base of the skull. Deceased never regained consciousness after the accident. - Charles James, the rider, said the brake refusing to act, he lost complete control of the bicycle. He took a wide sweep to turn King Street corner and while trying to get round the bend leading to Fore Street, accidentally knocked deceased down. The brake refused to act through the rubber being worn out. The cycle was a free-wheel, but had only one brake. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. The Jurors gave their fees to the widower.

COCKINGTON - Sudden Death. Inquest On Septuagenarian At Chelston. - An Inquest was held by Mr S. Hacker yesterday at the Chelston Assembly Rooms, on the body of ELIZA FURSDON, 76, widow, who died in bed at 5 Walnut Road, Chelston, on Wednesday morning. - HENRY PHARE, builder, of 5 Walnut Road, Chelston, said deceased was his mother, and had been married twice. Deceased's second husband was a naval pensioner. She came to stay with witness on the previous Sunday week for a change. She had been in delicate health for some years, owing to bronchitis. She was, however, in her usual health right up to the Tuesday night. On Wednesday morning witness thought he heard some tapping and also the sound of a fall from bed, coming from his mother's bedroom. He went down and found her on the floor on her back and shoulders, her feet being entangled in the bed clothing. She seemed to be breathing, and he could not tell whether she was alive or not. A vessel by the side of the bed was a third full of blood, and the carpet was also bespattered. Deceased had evidently discharged from the nose and mouth and in his (witness's) opinion, his mother had leant over the bed to vomit and fell out. After he and his wife had got her into bed, he hurried for a doctor. - ANN PHARE, wife of the last witness, said deceased had not complained of feeling worse than usual. She had a cough and was rather weak, but had been the same for a long time. Deceased, in her opinion, was just alive when put back into bed, and died before the doctor's arrival. - Dr H. C. Halpin said when he was called to see deceased on the previous morning she was dead. She was still warm, and blood had evidently been coming from her nose and mouth. Deceased had drunk from a glass of brandy and water that was by her side, and this showed that the attack was not a sudden one. Witness had attended her in the previous September for congestion of the lungs and valvular disease of the heart. Then she was in a critical condition. In his opinion, a fit of coughing had proved too much for her lungs and heart, and a vessel in her lungs had been ruptured. Death was due to haemorrhage of the lungs caused by long-standing bronchitis. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 August 1907
ISLINGTON, LONDON - Schoolmistress's Suicide. - At Islington, London, an Inquest was held on JESSIE MABEL LANGRIDGE, 47, who died last Friday. DR LANGRIDGE, of Ilfracombe, said the deceased, who was his sister, was an assistant school mistress. He had not heard from her for the past three years, but he knew she had suffered a great deal and was always very depressed. She had never threatened to take her life. - Deceased's landlady stated that on Friday morning she found deceased dead in bed. She had been living with witness for the past three weeks, having come from Margate to take a rest. She did nothing but lie in bed, or sit about on chairs all day long. On a chair beside the bed was a mug, and a note was found on an adjoining table. - Death was shown to be due to poisoning by cyanide of potassium. - The Coroner read the following letter written by deceased:- I feel a bad attack coming on. If it does not kill me, I beseech you not to make it public. If I die, please break it gently to my sisters. No one is to blame. I cannot go on, that is all. I leave about (a sum of money was here mentioned), and my effects, and there is plenty in the Post-office, to pay for the trouble. I got the medicine from a friend, a chemist, who died a little while ago. My best love to ----. - A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

TORQUAY - Fatal Lockjaw. Kingskerswell Child's Death - Something About The Tetanus Baccili. - The death took place at the Torbay Hospital on Saturday of FREDERICK SNELLING, of Brookacre, Kingskerswell, who had been admitted just previously suffering from lockjaw. - The Inquest. - The County Coroner (Mr Sydney Hacker) held the Inquest at the Northcote Hall on Tuesday afternoon. - GEORGINA RADMORE, of Kingskerswell, married, said the deceased was her grandson, aged 11, and son of her married daughter, CATHERINE MARY HEITZMANN. Witness had brought the deceased up. Her daughter had not seen the boy since he was three years old. Deceased had been a fairly healthy child. Last Monday week he complained of stomach ache. Deceased told her then that a week before he had hurt himself by falling over the root of a tree. Deceased had his supper, and got up next morning apparently all right again, but just as he was going out he complained again of stomach ache. She sent for a doctor, who advised her to take deceased to the Torbay Hospital, which she did on the following evening. Deceased had violent pains in the stomach on Tuesday night. She had informed her daughter of the occurrence. - Geo. Cann Radmore, labourer, said the deceased was the son of his wife's daughter. Her daughter's husband was FREDERICK HEITZMANN, a boots or waiter in London. On Wednesday evening deceased had a spasm in his jaw. - Dr Rudge, surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said after admission deceased had spasms with a high temperature and pulse. Under treatment, the spasms diminished. On Friday he got better, and had no spasms at all and on Saturday he died suddenly in a spasm. A post mortem examination revealed a partially healed abrasion on the left knee. Internally everything was quite normal. The cause of death was heart failure following tetanus. He thought that the abrasion was the place that the bacillus of tetanus entered from the earth. - Replying to the Coroner, Dr Rudge said he did not know that the bacilli existed in horse droppings more than anywhere else, but it was a fact that stablemen were particularly subject to tetanus. - In summing up, the Coroner said that lockjaw was a mysterious disease. Of recent years science had discovered a means of treating it, but before there had been no way of combating it. There was now a serum which was injected into the patient which sometimes proved effectual, but it was all very uncertain. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 September 1907
ILFRACOMBE - Deadly Flannelette. - At an Inquest at Ilfracombe on the three year old daughter of WILLIAM NORMAN, a coachman, who died as the result of her flannelette nightshirt catching afire, the Coroner strongly deprecated the use of such deadly and terrible material as the ordinary flannelette and commended the non inflammable variety, with which he said he had experimented before an Appledore jury. It was a material which had the merit of being exceedingly cheap. Until it was made an absolute offence to use the common inflammable flannelette, he supposed they would go on having inquests on poor children sacrificed to the use of flannelette.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 September 1907
NEWTON ABBOT - Died Whilst Shooting. Chelston Resident's Sad End. Inquest Last Night. - MR W. R. MARSHALL, of Glyn Garth, Vicarage Road, Chelston, died suddenly whilst shooting at Haccombe on Wednesday. Deceased, who always appeared hale and robust, was well known at Chelston. A Conservative in politics, he was a prominent supporter of the Cockington Conservative Club. He also took a great interest in sport etc., and in addition to being a vice-president of the Torquay Athletic Football Club, occupied a similar position in the Cockington Athletic and Social Club, in which he took the greatest of interest. - The Inquest. - The Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of deceased was held by Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) at the Town Hall, Newton Abbot, last evening. - Evidence of identification was given by the widow, MRS CATHERINE A. MARSHALL, who was visibly affected and gave her evidence with great difficulty. Her husband, she said, was 64 years of age. He had always been in good health, and as far as she knew, he at no time had had anything organically the matter with him. On Wednesday morning he left home at 10 a.m. in company with Capt. Fortescue to go rabbit shooting. - Leonard Prowse, of Coffinswell, trapper, employed by Mr D. Potts-Chatto, at Haccombe, said the occurrence took place at Aller Park, where witness and his fellow keepers met deceased and Capt. Fortescue just after eleven. Deceased then seemed in the best of health. They proceeded through the covers, and after walking along at a slow pace, before any gun was discharged, deceased fell forward on his face and hands. He moaned, but made no other sound. Witness turned him over, and then went after a doctor. - Capt. Reynell John Fortescue, of Nutcombe, Torquay, said he asked deceased, whom he knew slightly, to have a day's shooting, and on Wednesday met him at Torre Station. He seemed in good health. They walked slowly up the hill from Newton Station to Aller. Witness was about seventy or eighty yards from deceased when he fell, and when the keeper called out to him, at once ran to the spot. Deceased gurgled slightly in his throat, but beyond that he made no sound nor moved after his fall. - Henry Hawk, head keeper at Haccombe, gave similar evidence. - Dr Charles Martin said when he arrived at Aller at 11.50 deceased was quite dead. At Newton mortuary he had since made a post mortem examination. This had revealed fatty degeneration of the heart, which was in an extremely flabby and weak condition. This was of long standing. The other organs were quite healthy. Death was due to heart failure and was probably accelerated by deceased walking up the hill to Aller, and also smoking just before hand. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 September 1907
CHAGFORD - Chagford Labourer's Terrible Death. - ALBERT BURROWS, in the employ of Mr G. R. Reed, and one of a number in charge of a traction engine near Drewsteignton, was killed by being run over on Friday. It seems that the man, who had been assisting in supplying the engine with water, and afterwards hung up the hose and shouted that all was right, failed to stand clear of the waggons, for the driver on looking back from a little distance saw BURROWS lying on the road. The other men returned and discovered that the engine or a truck had gone over his head. Medical assistance was at once called, but life was extinct. An Inquest was held on Saturday, when a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 October 1907
PLYMOUTH - Died Through Sucking Matches. - An Inquest was held at Plymouth, on the body of WINIFRED BLANCHE BALL, daughter of a journeyman mason. BLANCHE BALL, the mother, said deceased was two years and eight months old. On Friday afternoon, about three o'clock, she noticed some phosphorus inside the baby's mouth. She asked her if she had been eating matches, but the child replied "No." Witness was sure she had been doing so, and gavel her some castor oil. The next day she sent for Dr Palmer, but the child died about an hour after the doctor's arrival. Witness was of the opinion that the child must have picked up some matches from outside the house, as she could not get at any in her home. - Dr Palmer said he prescribed for the deceased, but death ensued before the medicine could be sent to the house. He made a post mortem examination, and was satisfied that death was due to phosphorus poisoning, due to the child having sucked some matches. A verdict of "Death from Misadventure" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 October 1907
BRIXHAM - Smackowner's Suicide. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Brixham on Friday on JOHN ROBERT MILLER, aged 57 years, blacksmith and smackowner, of Station Hill. - ALBERT MILLER, a cousin, said deceased had complained to him of great pain in his stomach. Great business difficulties also made him very depressed. He could not get in any of the money he was owed. Deceased had a sick wife who could not walk. - Sidney S. Lewis, blacksmith, R.N., said deceased spoke to him about his business troubles, and said he really did not know what he should do. Witness saw him about 2 p.m. on Wednesday last, near the loft. They had an ordinary conversation, after which deceased entered the workshop. - Ralph Skedgell said deceased was in the habit of telling him about his troubles, but on Wednesday morning he was silent. He last saw him about 12.45 when he (witness) went aboard his ship. On Wednesday at 7.30 p.m. when he was informed that deceased had not been home, he searched and found him hanging in the loft. Often deceased would leave his forge and bury his face in his hands and writhe. This was attributable to business troubles. - Dr W. L. Mayer, P.C. Potter, Alice Williams, and Wm. Henry Treeby, also gave evidence, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst in a state of Unsound Mind," and gave their fees for the purchase of a wreath for deceased's coffin.

BISHOPS NYMPTON - What A Wasp Sting Led To. - At an Inquest at Bishopsnympton on RICHARD ELWORTHY, 79, a labourer, of Bish Mill, Bishopsnympton, Jacob Venner, farmer, said deceased was working in one of his fields picking up stubble, when a wasp stung the pony which was in the cart. The pony starting to kick, deceased jumped to its head, and was knocked down and stepped on, with the result that his right leg was broken, and he also sustained injuries to his chest. Dr Smyth attributed death to shock, consequent on the injuries, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 October 1907
TORQUAY - Fatal Measles. Little Boy's Death In Queen Street. - An Inquest was held at the Upton Parish Room on Saturday by Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) on the body of EDGAR HINGSTON, 8, who died in bed at 8 Queen Street, early on Friday morning. In giving evidence of identification, ALICE HINGSTON, the mother, who is a widow, stated that her husband was a boatswain in the Royal Navy. When he died she applied for outdoor relief, but this was refused, the relieving officer offering her a ticket for admission to the workhouse. This she would not take, and she obtained work at the Theatre, for which she was paid 12s. per week. Her son in the Navy allowed her 5s. per week. About fourteen days ago deceased had the measles and was kept in bed. On Thursday night he became worse, and she did all she could for him. He had practically recovered from the measles. She did not think it necessary to have a doctor, as it was only an ordinary case of measles. - Hannah Pearse said the boy appeared to be all right on Thursday morning when he was sitting on the bed playing with some toys. She considered the boy properly nursed. - Dr G. Young Eales said a post mortem examination had revealed that all the organs were healthy with the exception of the lungs, which showed signs of pneumonia, which occurred in cases of measles. This was the cause of death. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 October 1907
PAIGNTON - Boatman's Death. - On Tuesday afternoon Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Paignton Police Court touching the death of JOHN WHITEWAY, aged twenty-six, a Paignton boatman, who died suddenly on Sunday evening. The deceased was the son of MR JOHN WHITEWAY, coachman, of Cliff Cottage, and was well-known in Paignton. - The father stated that deceased had a supper party on Sunday evening, and retired to bed apparently in the best of health. About eleven o'clock witness and his wife heard groans, and going to deceased room found him dead. His son had always been strong and healthy. - Dr Newling, who made a post mortem examination, said that some of the organs were very much enlarged. The inference to be drawn was that this was owing to some condition of the heart, but that organ was not in any way diseased, though somewhat dilated. It was curious that those facts did not give rise to symptoms during his life. Witness's opinion was that the heart must have been at fault in the first place, and that deceased died of syncope. Replying to the Foreman of the Jury (Mr W. Drew), the doctor said the enlarged condition of the organs might quite possibly be due to the constant rowing that deceased indulged in. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 December 1907
TORQUAY - Fatality At Upton. Old Man Killed By A Runaway Pony. The Inquest. - A very sad accident which has resulted in the death of an old man named JOSEPH PARISH, a gardener living at Westhill, St Marychurch, and serious injuries to William Bailey, cab proprietor, of Elstow Terrace, Ellacombe, occurred on Saturday afternoon near Hill Park, Upton. Mr Bailey and his son were driving home from a garden which is rented near Cary Farm, and when coming down the incline towards the refuse destructor the pony got out of control. Mr Bailey's son alighted and endeavoured to hold it in but failed to do so and the animal dashed off at a great pace down the ill-lighted and dangerous road. PARISH and some friends were walking home from a football match and head the pony coming but could not see it as the road has several curves. Hearing wheels grating against the wall on the left side three of the party made a rush to the right side of the road and escaped injury, but PARISH was caught between the vehicle and the wall and so severely injured that he died at the Hospital on Monday morning, whilst Mr Bailey, who was thrown out of the trap, is now suffering from concussion of the brain and other hurts. - The Inquest. - The Inquest was held at Upton Parish Room on Monday evening by the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker). - JAMES PARISH, labourer, 6 Watcombe Terrace, St. Marychurch, gave evidence of identification and said his father was 78 years of age last Christmas. he was a jobbing gardener and lives at Westhill, St. Marychurch. On Saturday witness heard of the accident and went to the Torbay Hospital, but his father was not then in a condition to say anything about the occurrence. - William Henry Tamlin, stonecutter, 11 Barewell Cottages, Westhill, said deceased had been a neighbour of his. They went to the football match at the Recreation Ground together. PARISH was an extremely active man for his age. After the match they were returning through West Hill Road about 5 o'clock or 5.15. It was quite dark. They were walking up just beyond Hill Park. PARISH being on witness's left, nearest the wall of the Daison grounds. There was no lamp near the spot. Witness heard the clatter of a horses' hoofs coming down the incline and shouted to his companions that a horse had run away and advised them to try to find out on which side of the road it was. He heard the wheels of a trap grating against the wall on the left side of the road and shouted to deceased and his friends to run across to the other side. As witness dashed across the road one of the wheels of the trap grazed his coat and the next thing he knew was that the horse had gone down about 20 yards beyond and that PARISH was lying senseless on the ground by the side of the wall. Witness struck a match and saw that deceased was bleeding about the face. Witness, with the assistance of his companions, placed the old man on the trap from which the horse had broken away and drew it by hand to the Hospital. The driver of the trap was lying in the hedge and his son was standing by him. He did not remember seeing any lights on the vehicle. Witness said the nearest lamp in front was 150 yards away and behind 50 yards. - William Gilpin, yachtsman of No. 2 Barewell Cottages, said he was walking on the right hand side of the road when he heard the horse coming at a terrific pace. On hearing the wheels of the vehicle grating against the wall he ran to the hedge on the right. He saw no lights to the trap. Someone fetched Mr Pascoe, who assisted in the removal of PARISH. - William Bailey of No. 1 Elstow Terrace, said he worked with his father who was a carriage proprietor. At present his father was suffering from concussion of the brain and an injured back. On Saturday his father and himself were driving back from Cary Farm in a two-wheeled trap. His father had the reins. At the top of Westhill, witness dismounted and walked by the side of the pony as the road was exceptionally greasy. The animal started slipping and witness caught hold of the reins. This did not seem to check it, so he caught hold of its nose. This seemed to cause it to work in against the wall and witness found himself caught between the trap and the wall. He was compelled to let go his hold and the pony went off at a gallop. There was no brake on the trap. Witness raced after the vehicle, and lower down the hill came across PARISH lying in the road. A little further on was the overturned trap and his father lying in the hedge. The pony had broken clear of the harness and gone on. His father had had the pony a week and it had been driven every day. It was warranted quiet to ride and drive. The doctor had said his father was to see no one for a week or two, and to be told nothing about the accident for three weeks. There were no lamps on the trap. The Westhill Road was very dark as the trees overhung on both sides. - Dr Laverick, house surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased was admitted at 5.15 in an unconscious condition. There were abrasions on the head and face and general contusions of the whole body. He died at 7.30 on Monday. Death was due to concussion and shock. - At this stage the Coroner adjourned the Inquiry until Monday 23rd for the attendance of Mr Bailey. Juryman named Thomas Rendell did not appear until some time after the Inquiry had commenced. He subsequently stated that he had been to the Tor Parish Room and had waited some time there. The Coroner accepted his excuse.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 December 1907
ST. MARYCHURCH - Terrible Fatality At Wall's Hill. Indian Official's Sad End. Inquest. - At the St. Marychurch Town Hall yesterday, Mr Sidney Hacker (County Coroner) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of OLDBURY BURNE, of Garry Lodge, Grafton Road, whose dead body was found on Wednesday at the base of the cliff near the shooting butts at Wall's Hill. The Coroner asked if there was anyone present who could give identification. - Dr Dalby said he could. Deceased's wife was in a state of collapse, and could not possibly attend the Inquiry. - The Coroner remarked that he understood that deceased lived with his wife and mother-in-law. He could understand the wife not being in a condition to attend, but he certainly thought the mother-in-law might have done so. - Dr Dalby said the mother-in-law was an old lady suffering from heart disease. The Coroner thought she might have attended. he would be compelled to adjourn the Inquiry as the wife and mother were the only persons who knew deceased's course of life. No doubt in a week the widow would be able to attend. - Mr Oliver toms, tailor, of Torwood Street, said he had known deceased for about nine months as a customer, and as a member of the Yacht Club, of which witness was secretary. Deceased was about 42 years of age, and had a wife and two children. He lived at Garry Lodge, Grafton Load. - Mr Thomas Blissett of Gray's Lodge, said he had known deceased in India, where he was employed in the Government telegraphic service. The last place he was at was Calcutta. Deceased was only on leave. He came to Torquay about nine months ago, and lived with his mother-in-law (Mrs Travers), his wife and two small children. Witness last saw MR BURNE alive on Monday, when he (deceased) called upon him. He was suffering from an affection of the legs, but was otherwise in good health. - John Gooding, golf caddie, No. 2 Portobello Terrace, stated that on Wednesday between 11 and 11.30, whilst on the Wall's Hill golf links, he saw deceased sitting on the edge of the cliff. He made an effort to get up by raising his body on his hands, and appeared to slip away over the edge of the cliff. The body seemed to turn a somersault. Witness raised an alarm. - William John Stone, labourer, 36 Victoria Park, said he saw deceased walk down the slope towards the edge of the cliff. Subsequently he found the body lying head downwards part way down the cliff. - Sidney Weeks said he went down the cliff by the path leading to the beach, and saw the body lying in a kind of gully. The right foot was caught in a fissure. Deceased had fallen from 120 to 130 feet. P.C. Bater said he assisted in bringing the body to the mortuary. He discovered the identity of the deceased by the name on the buttons on his clothing. - Dr Winter said he examined the body, and found that the base of the skull was fractured, the neck broken, the left collar bone was also broken, the right fore arm and four ribs. Death must have been instantaneous. Dr Dalby said he had attended deceased for phlebitis. This would not occasion loss of power in the legs, although it might cause tiredness. Deceased was otherwise in good health and a high-spirited man. The Coroner adjourned the Inquiry for a week, for the attendance of the widow.

TORQUAY - Torquay Lad's Sad End. Death After Trivial Operation. A Remarkably Rare Case. - At the Upton Parish Room on Wednesday afternoon, the County Coroner, (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry respecting the death of HARRY SAMUEL SAGE, aged 7 years, the son of HENRY DODD SAGE, fish dealer of 2 Osborne cottages, Lower Union Lane, who died after being anaesthetised for an operation. - Mr R. Hodge was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The father gave evidence of identification and stated that on Thursday in last week the boy went to the Poultry Show in the Market and squeezed his finger in a door. He went to the Hospital and had the injury bandaged by one of the nurses. He said it was a trifle sore, but not very painful. On Friday morning the boy was sent to the Hospital to have his finger again dressed. When he returned witness saw there was a small splint on the finger. The boy said he had to go to the Hospital again on Monday. Witness's wife went with deceased to the Hospital on Monday, and on returning she said she had to go again on the following morning, and the doctor had said it was possible that the top of the finger would have to be amputated. The boy was taken to the Hospital on Tuesday to undergo the operation. That was the last time he saw his son alive. He was a strong, healthy boy, and had had nothing the matter with him since he was run over by a carriage and pair five years previously. The child was then in the Hospital for nine or ten weeks. His skull was broken and the bone had to be removed and replaced by a silver plate. This had not affected the boy's health. He had received four certificates at school and quite recently he had received a medal for regular attendance. - Dr Laverick, house surgeon at the Hospital, said he saw the deceased on Friday morning. The boy was suffering from a very bad cut at the end of the third finger f the right hand, which had severed some of the blood supplies. There was a chance that the top of the finger would recover: and it was properly dressed and the boy told to return on Monday. On that day it was found that the top of the finger was beginning to mortify. He told the mother it was advisable that the end of the finger should be removed, and he would operate the next morning at 11. He instructed her how to prepare the boy before the chloroform was administered. On Tuesday morning about 112.40 the boy was taken to the operating room, and the anaesthetist (Dr Van Buren) administered chloroform. The boy was, to all appearances, thoroughly healthy, and capable of taking an anaesthetic. Only ten minutes elapsed between the administration of the chloroform and the completion of the operation. The boy behaved quite normally, and when removed from the table, he appeared to be quite right. Only the first joint of the finger was removed. Deceased was carried to the waiting room, where his mother had remained, and about ten minutes after he (witness) was called to see the boy. He found him lying down. His face was slightly blue, and his breathing was embarrassed. There had been vomiting. Witness gave him a dose of strychnine and breathing considerably improved. It commenced to fail again, and artificial respiration was resorted to for an hour, but his breathing gradually failed, and he died about threequarters of an hour after the operation. He had since made a post mortem examination. The boy was well nourished, but there was evidence of old established injury at the back of the skull, a considerable portion of the bone having been removed. There was no plate. The brain had adhered to that part of the skull, and gave evidence of slight softening. In the thorax there was found a very large gland, called the thymus gland. This gland was present in the newly-born child, but it usually shrank away, and had disappeared at the age of three or four. The presence of this gland at a later age was exceedingly rare. The gland lay over the windpipe and over the upper border of the heart. The fluid which this gland secreted was necessary to the well-being of the infant, but it acted as a poison to the centres of breathing and circulation of the blood in an adult or child over four years. This was the theory of the medical profession. Death was due to asphyxia, probably caused by status lymphaticus, due to the presence of the thymus gland. It was impossible to ascertain the presence of this gland. The condition was more rare than one in a thousand. - Dr Van Buren, anaesthetist at the Hospital, gave similar evidence, and said the function of the thymus gland was really unknown. It was one of the mysteries of the human body. - Miss Ethel Fortescue, Matron at the Torbay Hospital, said when she noticed that the lad suddenly stopped breathing, she immediately sent for the doctor. MRS SAGE said the boy was breathing when brought to her after the operation. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 December 1907
ST MARYCHURCH - Walls' Hill Fatality. Adjourned Inquest - A Dangerous Place. - The Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MR OLDBURY BURNE, of Garry Lodge, Grafton Road, who was found dead at the base of the cliff at Walls' Hill, Babbacombe, on the 11th inst., was resumed by Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, at the St. Marychurch Town Hall last evening. It will be remembered that the Inquest was adjourned for the attendance of the widow. - MRS MAUD EVELYN BURNE said she identified the body as that of her husband on the 12th December. Had he lived he would have been 45 that day (December 19th). Deceased came home from India last May and took up residence with her at Garry Lodge. His leave would have expired next September. With the exception of phlebitis in his legs he had been in very good health. The disease had been practically cured, but he could not take quite so much active exercise as he would like. On the morning of the accident deceased was in particularly good spirits. He was particularly fond of walking, and left home about 10.30. She did not see him again until she identified his dead body the following day. Her husband never carried letters, and it was not the custom to mark linen in India. The natives did not understand the marks. Deceased was extremely fond of the sea and Babbacombe was a favourite walk of his. Her husband had told her that he had no fear of any height. He had a very clear, steady head, and never suffered from giddiness. There was absolutely nothing, as far as she knew, to throw any light on her husband's death. Her opinion was that deceased's legs must have become weak, and gave way under him. He had absolutely no troubles. When her husband did not return on the night of the 11th, she thought he had gone out sailing with some friend, and got becalmed. This had occurred before. - Mrs Christine Travers, deceased's mother-in-law gave similar evidence. - MRS LOUISA BURNE, 21 Stanley Crescent, Notting Hill, said deceased was her brother. She visited him in August. He wrote to her at the end of November or beginning of December, stating that he was coming to stay with her whilst he was engaged on some Government work in London. - Mr H. A. Garrett, Borough Surveyor, said Walls' Hill was in the Borough. It was a much frequented place. The declivities were steep and dangerous, but fencing had not been considered as the hill was private property. There were two owners - the Cary Estate and the Rev. Whidborne, and the Corporation only leased that portion belonging to the Cary Estate. This part formed a portion of the golf course. The remaining part was leased from the Ilsham Estate. Redgate Cliff, he believed belonged to the Rev. Whidborne. There was a public right of way on the hill. The Corporation had no power whatever to compel the owner to fence the cliff. - The Coroner said if a landowner allowed the public to use his land, he was bound to make it safe for their use. He thought the Corporation might do a great deal by diplomatic pressure. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider "That in their opinion the proper authorities should be approached, with a view to rendering this part of Wall's Hill better protected for the public use without forfeiting any of their public rights there." The Jury also conveyed their deep sympathy to the widow and relatives of deceased.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 December 1907
TORQUAY - Westhill Fatality. Adjourned Inquest. Evidence of Mr Bailey. - The adjourned Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JOSEPH PARISH, 72, gardener of Westhill, was held by Mr Coroner Hacker at Upton Parish Room on Monday. PARISH was killed in Westhill Road on November 30th by being knocked down by a runaway pony attached to a trap in which was Mr W. Bailey, carriage proprietor, of 1 Elstow Terrace, Ellacombe. Mr Bailey was seriously injured and the Inquest was adjourned for three weeks so that his evidence might be taken. - William Bailey, who appeared to be still in a very weak state, said he was a cab proprietor, and resided at No. 1 Elstow Terrace. On Saturday, November 30th, he and his son visited a garden which he rented at Barewell, Westhill. They left the garden just as the St. Marychurch bells chimed quarter to five. He did not light the lamps on the trap as they expected to get home before lighting-up time. At the top of the hill his son got out of the trap. The pony was one he had recently purchased, but it had been driven to the garden on several occasions. The hill was usually slippery. His son was leading the animal when it slipped to the left and jammed him against the wall. When the boy had cleared himself the pony sprang away and he pulled it into the right side of the road, where it was not so slippery. The collision with the wall threw witness into the bottom of the trap and he lay half-way out of the vehicle and half-way in. He still held the reins in his right hand, but found he could not control the pony. The animal broke into a gallop and he remembered nothing until he recovered consciousness and found himself in bed at home. - Inspector Pratt said the accident took place at a bend of the road. The lamp at the junction of Westhill and Shirburn Roads was 150 yards from the accident and the next lamp 375 yards up the hill. The road was 13 or 14 feet wide and was used more than it used to be owing to the opening of the tramways. - The Borough Surveyor (Mr H. A. Garrett) said the road was an old parish highway or country lane. There was no gas main in the road and the Corporation was not compelled to light it. Negotiations were proceeding to widen the road to 36 feet and light it. In fact negotiations with regard to a portion had been completed. He would report upon the matter to the Highway Committee. The Coroner said if the road had been well lighted, probably deceased would have seen his danger and got out of the way of the pony. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 January 1908
PAIGNTON - Fatality In Totnes Road. - A fatal accident occurred in the Totnes Road, near Blagdon Barton, in the parish of Paignton on Friday. MRS KINGWELL, an elderly woman, was driving a two-wheeled trap in which were also Mrs Wyatt, of Goodrington, and a lad, from Totnes market, when a traction engine belonging, it is understood, to the Devon Traction Company, was met. The cob shied at the engine and the wheels of the trap coming in violent contact with the engine, the occupants of the former were thrown into the road, MRS KINGWELL being instantaneously killed and the others injured. - The dead body and the injured people were taken to Paignton Cottage Hospital, by Messrs. Willing, Maddick and Doble, returning from Totnes Market, and the sad event will form the subject of an Inquest. Death, we understand, was due to fracture of the skull. - The Inquest. - took place on Monday before Mr S. Hacker. - Charles Doble, a lad of 12, in the employ of Mrs Wyatt, of Goodrington, said on Friday they went to Totnes Market in Mrs Wyatt's two-wheeled cart, and MRS KINGWELL went with them. He had been with Mrs Wyatt and driven the pony for about a fortnight and had not known it shy. A steam traction engine in the road near Blagdon Barton on the return journey was pulled to the side to allow a motor 'bus to pass. MRS KINGWELL was driving the pony, which went past the traction engine, but opposite the second truck shied, and tried to run into the hedge. Then the trap fell over. There was a threshing machine at work in a field as they passed the engine, and he thought the pony shied at the steam coming over the hedge from the thresher. Mrs Wyatt suggested to MRS KINGWELL that she should hold up her hand as a signal to the traction men to help the pony pass the engine, but MRS KINGWELL said she would manage the pony. - William Henry Shepherd, of Torquay, said he was cycling from Paignton to Totnes, and saw the traction engine pull up to allow the motor 'bus to pass, and it waited still by the side of the road for the trap to pass. The pony seemed to go by very well, but made a sudden plunge opposite the second truck as if to go into the hedge. The trap fell back, and the occupants were all thrown out, MRS KINGWELL being under the big wheel. He assisted to her into the trap, and she died just as he did so. The roadway was 18 or 20 feet wide, and the space between the traction engine and the rut nearest the hedge, which the pony tried to jump, was 8 feet. Dr Newling said death was due to fracture of the skull. - Arthur Chapman, the driver of the traction engine, said the engine was pulled up to let the other vehicles pass, and there was not the slightest escape of steam, or noise, nor anything to frighten the pony. There was nothing to explain the accident. - the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and declared that no blame was attached to anyone.

PAIGNTON - Second Death. - MRS MARY JANE WYATT, who was injured in the trap accident near Paignton on Friday last, died on Tuesday morning. An inquest was held on Wednesday by Mr Coroner Hacker, who read over the evidence given by witnesses at the Inquest on Mrs Kingwell, who was killed on the spot. Mr John Maddick, farmer, proved driving MRS WYATT who, he said, was quite sensible, to the Hospital. - Dr Newling said he bound up a scalp wound and sent her home on Friday evening. She suffered from a weak heart, however, and the shock accelerated death, which was due to heart failure. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 February 1908
ST MARYCHURCH - Plainmoor Child's Death. Eight Months Old Baby Fed On Dried Peas And Potatoes. - Mr G. F. Kellock (Deputy Coroner) held an Inquiry at St. Marychurch Town Hall, on Monday evening, touching the death of JOSEPH ROWLAND DIST, the illegitimate child of MAUD DIST, of 43 Victoria Park, Plainmoor. - Mr G. Hosking was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The mother stated that the child was eight months old. She had kept house for her father and looked after the baby which had been quite healthy from the day of its birth. About 5.45 on Sunday she was having tea and she took the child on her lap and allowed it to drink out of her cup. Quite suddenly the baby drew back from the cup and appeared to be choking. Its face changed colour and on seeing this witness screamed and her father took the child from her whilst she ran for Dr Winter. When she returned the baby was dead. The child was insured. She paid 1d. a week but she did not know how much she would get at its death. - In reply to Dr Winter, witness said she gave the child bread and milk in the morning and again at dinner time. She had meat, peas, and potatoes for dinner and she gave the baby a little of the latter mashed up with gravy. - Dr Winter: That is not ideal diet for a child. - The Deputy Coroner: I never heard of such a thing. Were these the dried peas that you buy and soak in water? - Yes, sir. - Dr Winter: They were soaked over night? - Yes. - The Deputy Coroner: And the potatoes: how were they cooked? - In a pie. The child had more potatoes than peas. - JOSEPH DIST, labourer, father of the last witness, said he saw his daughter give the child peas and potatoes. It had been given that kind of thing on several occasions during the past two months. The child was very lively during the early part of the evening. He saw his daughter give the child the cup to drink from. It took a sip and then appeared to be choking. He took the baby and shook it slightly, afterward staking it to a neighbour, in whose arms it died. - Elizabeth Howard, wife of a gardener, said she heard someone screaming on Sunday evening. She went to ascertain the cause and saw MR DIST standing with the child in his arms. She took the child from his arms but it died almost instantly. - Dr Winter said he was called by the mother at 6 p.m. on Sunday evening. He cycled to Plainmoor and found the child lying in Mrs Howard's lap quite dead. He was told about the cup of tea. The child was well nourished and appeared to have been well looked after and attended to. It was very clean and a large child for its age. All the organs were healthy, but the stomach was exceptionally full, the contents including potatoes and peas. He thought a little of the tea went "the wrong way" and the nervous system being rendered very susceptible owing to the distended stomach had caused spasm of the larynx. - The Deputy Coroner: Are potatoes and peas the right food for a child of eight months? - Certainly not, they set up indigestion and all sorts of things. - Would you like to eat them yourself? - No they are not like fresh peas. - A Juror: Death was not due to improper feeding? - I would not say that. - The Deputy Coroner: Do you condemn the way in which the child was fed? - Yes it is improper feeding. There is a tendency amongst people to give their children a little of what they have. The child could not have been persistently badly fed or it would not have been so well nourished. - The Deputy Coroner said it seemed incredible that any person should think of giving a child of this age peas and potatoes. The mother saved herself by the excellently nourished condition of the child. It seemed to him to be a case of a life lost by mistaken kindness. It was a terrible food to give a young baby. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and expressed the opinion that the mother had shown mistaken kindness to the child.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 February 1908
ST MARYCHURCH - Death Whilst Gathering Sticks. - At St. Marychurch Town Hall on Friday, Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy County Coroner, held an Inquiry respecting the death of WM. HY. S. S. SMITH, aged eighty-four years, retired painter, 3 Chennick Cottages, Fore Street, St. Marychurch, who was picked up dead at Petitor Common on Thursday. REBECCA SMITH, widow, said deceased left home at 1.40 p.m. for the purpose of gathering sticks. Hy. Pearce, quarryman of Westhill, said that at 3.39 p.m. he was at Pettitor when two ladies came to him and said a man was lying under a bank near by. Witness went to pick him up and discovered that he was dead. Dr Hugh Steele said he had previously attended deceased for dysentery and heart weakness. From a post mortem examination of the body he was of opinion that death was due to heart disease. There were general signs of senile decay. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 March 1908
KINGSWEAR - Torquay Seaman's Body Recovered. - On Monday the body of THOMAS LASSON, of Ellacombe, Torquay, seaman, of the "Tommy Dodd," who was drowned in Dartmouth Harbour about ten days ago, was recovered and landed at Kingswear. The Inquest was held at the Royal Dart Hotel, Kingswear, on Tuesday. Robert Andrews, a seaman, Dartmouth, said deceased, his brother-in-law, was 56 years of age, and was employed on a coasting vessel called the Tommy Dodd. A week ago last Saturday he called at witness's house. The vessel having then put into Dartmouth Harbour on the way to Plymouth from Brixham. Witness had a talk with him and he seemed well then. He expected to sail on the Sunday morning. It was twenty past nine o'clock when deceased left his house to go on board the vessel. On the Monday following the captain told him the deceased was missing. Ruth Andrews, wife of the last witness said she left deceased on Saturday night in Duke-street, outside the Steam Packet Inn. His boat was in the boat float. An Italian, who could not write, said on the Saturday night deceased purchased some chipped potatoes of him. William Francis Owens, engineer, gave evidence of finding the empty boat. Walter Lamble, master of the Tommy Dodd, said he was away at Torquay on Saturday. Mr A. N. Hill of The Warren, Kingswear, deposed to finding the body on Monday at Milbay Cove. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 March 1908
COCKINGTON - MISS VULLIAMY. - A well-known resident at Chelston in the person of MISS VULLIAMY, died suddenly at Min-y-don last week. She was found dead in bed by a servant, and at the Inquest on Thursday, Dr Black said death was due to heart disease. MISS VULLIAMY was well known as a friend of the poor, and was a member of the committee of the local University Extension Society.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 March 1908
TORQUAY - Ship's Engineers Death. At The Torbay Hospital. Was It Suicide? - At the Upton Parish Room, Torquay, on Wednesday afternoon, Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) held an Inquiry touching the death of NORMAN ABBOT, 33, engineer, who died at the Torbay Hospital, Torquay, on Monday, during an operation. - In opening the Inquiry, the Coroner stated that his information was to the effect that whilst at sea, deceased cut his throat. He was treated on landing at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, and when discharged from there was out of danger. The cure did not, however, prove permanent, and he was later admitted to the Torbay Hospital, where his condition was such that an operation was considered necessary. It was performed, but deceased died. - MAURICE ABBOT, solicitor of the Supreme Court, at present living at Ingleburn, Torquay, said he was the elder brother of the deceased, whom he saw in Plymouth Hospital early in February for the first time for about three years. He was then suffering from the effects of the injury to his throat and also bronchitis. Witness knew nothing except by report as to the manner in which the incident in question occurred. About a fortnight or so ago deceased was reported as fit for discharge from Plymouth, and witness brought him to Torquay. He again became ill, and witness sent his brother to St. Martin's Nursing Home, Torquay. There an operation was thought necessary, and he was removed to the Torbay Hospital on Sunday last. Witness last saw him alive on Sunday afternoon. He received a wire at Plymouth on Monday night to the effect that his brother had died. - Asked if he could throw any light on deceased's alleged attempt on his life, witness said his brother, after having been out of employment for eighteen months, obtained a job on the Heliopolis. There witness heard that he had a dispute with the Chief Engineer, who threatened to put him ashore at Plymouth, and he understood that it was following this that deceased, who had been on several ships before, cut his throat. - Further questioned by the Coroner, witness said he believed that the Heliopolis was at present trading between Marseilles and Egypt. - The Coroner: That is very awkward. - Dr F. R. H. Laverick, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said that when deceased was admitted on Sunday evening he was exhibiting the most acute symptoms of suffocation, and had the utmost difficulty in breathing. This was caused by an obstruction in the throat following upon the injury mentioned. The larynx had been injured. On Monday the symptoms were very much more urgent, and deceased implored the medical staff to operate upon him. Witness communicated with the surgeon in charge of the case (Dr Cumming), and the operation was commenced about 1 p.m. The operation was attended by Drs. Horton, Cumming, Lacey, witness and the requisite nursing staff. Deceased could not have lived for more than three hours had not the operation been performed owing to his inability to breathe. An operation was the only chance of saving his life. Chloroform was administered, and the operation was commenced by Dr Horton. The patient gave three or four respiratory efforts and collapsed, dying under the operation. Deceased died in witness's opinion from suffocation, with which neither the anaesthetic nor the shock of the operation had anything to do. The old wound in his throat was the cause of death. Deceased had only been kept alive during Monday morning by inhalations of oxygen, and as this had to be ceased when the operation commenced, he was unable to take in a sufficient supply of air. As the wound had healed so had the larynx closed up. - Dr T. Horton corroborated. He saw deceased on the 8th inst. whilst he was at the Nursing Home. he then had difficulty in breathing. After a consultation witness and Dr Cumming told the deceased that an operation was advisable, but he twice refused to allow it. Ultimately he got worse and was taken to the Torbay Hospital. He agreed with Dr Laverick that deceased had died from suffocation brought on by the injury to the throat, which had evidently been of a serious nature. He did a few seconds after the opening of his windpipe. - The Inquest was then adjourned to April 23rd, to enable the agents of the Shipping Company, by whom deceased was employed, to be communicated with, with a view to witnesses being obtained from the Heliopolis.

TORQUAY - An Open Verdict. Mystery Of An Ellacombe Young Man's Death. - ALFRED COOMBS, 21, a young plumber in the employ of Mr Kitto, plumber and gas fitter, of Market Street, disappeared on February 14th, under mysterious circumstances, and on Sunday his body was found floating in Torbay by John Holding, a fisherman. Deceased was a highly respected young fellow; a reliable workman, a teetotaller, and a well-known member of the Ellacombe C.L.B., and the circumstances attending his death are most mysterious. - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday, the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending COOMBS' death. Mr W. Blackler was elected Foreman of the Jury. - CHARLES COOMBS, naval stoker, of H.M.S. Lynx, stated that he was the brother of ALFRED COOMBS. He could not identify the body as that of his brother by the features, but he did so b y his trousers and socks. there were two buttons missing of the trousers. He last saw deceased at his (witness) home, 52 Victoria Road, Ellacombe, on Sunday, February 7th. The buttons were then missing. He would not absolutely swear the body was that of his brother, who was 21 years of age last August. ALFRED, who was a plumber, and worked for Mr Kitto, of Market Street, lodged at No. 21 Higher Union Lane. On the 7th February when witness went for a walk with him he was in good health and spirits. He had not been keeping company with a young woman since last October, and as far as witness knew he had no troubles. He could throw no light on his being in the water. He was a very strong swimmer and regularly bathed during the summer months. - Inspector Pratt: Did you ever see your brother with a two foot rule? - Yes, with his initials A.C. on the end. - The Coroner: Do you recognise this rule as your brother's? - Only by the initials on it. He used it whilst doing some work at my house. - Do you recognise this piece of chain and sixpenny pieces? - yes, I gave him the chain for his birthday, and he must have placed the sixpenny pieces on it. - There are a lot of farthings which were found on him. Do you know anything about them? - Yes, there were many hundreds at our home, but I did not know that he carried any about with him. - Mr Heale: How long did he keep company with this young lady? - I don't quite know. I was not at home. - The Foreman: Has he shown any signs of depression since his mother died? - Not to me. - William Henry Kitto, plumber, etc., of 65 Market Street, said he most positively identified the body as that of ALFRED COOMBS. Deceased had been in his employ for seven years. Witness recognised the rule and belt taken from the body. He last saw COOMBS alive on February 14th, when he came to his work as usual. He then seemed to be in good health and spirits. Deceased came back at one o'clock from dinner and he sent him to Lower Ellacombe Church Road for his tools to take them to do a job on the Strand. Witness never saw him again. Deceased went to Ellacombe Church Road, but he did not bring his tools away. He thought COOMBS, who was a very sensitive young man, had grieved since the death of his mother two years ago. - The Coroner: Would that account for his action? - Witness: I had cause to reprimand him over some work he had done. This was just after dinner; a moment or two before he went away to get his tools. - The Coroner: The work was badly done? - No, not badly done, there was an error in it. The reprimand was a slight one. - Witness, continuing, said deceased was a very capable, steady, industrious young man - a first class workman. He was a member of the Rechabites. As he left the workshop deceased asked whether he should take the work out again or turn a tap on one side. Deceased was earning 7d. per hour and even when on short time he had received 28s. a week. Witness did not know whether he contributed towards the maintenance of his father. - Reginald Harris, ironmonger's assistant, of 13 Higher Union Lane, said COOMBS had lodged at his house since last March. On 14th February he came home to dinner and appeared to be in the best of spirits. He laughed and joked at the dinner table. Deceased was a teetotaller and a very steady and well-behaved young fellow. He was a very deep thinker, and during meals he would be suddenly lost in thought. This was his only peculiarity. Although of a religious turn of mind he did not carry this to excess. He had a Valentine from a girl the same day he disappeared, but he only laughed at it. The sixpenny pieces on the chain were his mother's. - Charles Horwill Melhuish, fish-hawker, of No. 3 Wellesley Road, Ellacombe, said he saw deceased on February 14th near Kilmorie between 3 and 4 p.m. He was walking in the direction of Meadfoot in a leisurely manner. He had a blue dungaree coat on, and another coat over that. - Mary Elizabeth Helman, 4 Lower Ellacombe Church Road, the wife of P.C. Helman, said deceased was at her house at work during the morning of February 14th. He left to go to dinner and soon after one o'clock he returned, and she saw him pass through the back door. He did not take his tools but merely walked through the premises. There was a small bottle of spirits of salts used for soldering near deceased's tools, but after he had called this was missed. She thought during the morning deceased was depressed. He was talking to his mate, and said "Always keep away from girls; they lead you into trouble." - John Holding, fisherman, said whilst out pot trawling with his son on Sunday, he came across the body, floating about half a mile from the shore. He fastened a rope round it, brought it to Haldon Pier, and informed the Police. - P.C. Webber said he took charge of the body, and had it conveyed to the mortuary. In the pockets he found the rule, the piece of chain and the farthings. - Mr W. Buckley, who is Captain of the Ellacombe Company of the Church Lads' Brigade, said deceased was a Sergeant of buglers. He was of a singularly bright nature, most unselfish and loveable, and a great favourite with everybody. He was certainly not the kind of lad to take his life. - The Coroner, in summing up, said there was a deal of mystery surrounding the case. On looking into deceased's life they found that he had a thoroughly good character, yet there were certainly peculiar circumstances about his going off from his work in this way, the missing bottle of spirits of salts and the neighbourhood in which he was last seen. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned." [Details of funeral followed.]

KINGSWEAR - Search For A Doctor. Husband's Strange Story At A Kingswear Inquest. - On Wednesday the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquest at Kingswear on ELIZABETH HALL, wife of GEORGE THOMAS HALL, gardener. - MR HALL stated that deceased had had six children. Her confinement had been expected to take place at the end of the present month, and Dr Kendall had been engaged. On Sunday he told her he would get Dr Kendall to see her. At half-past ten in the morning he went to the doctor's, but he was ill in bed. Dr Kendall sent down a message that he had better get a nurse who would see what was the matter, and if she then considered it necessary witness should obtain another doctor. Witness went to Compass Coastguard Station, three miles away to get a nurse, but she was engaged. The nurse arranged to come soon after dinner, but said that if his wife became worse he was to telephone from the depot when she would come at once. Witness returned home. - About half past one his wife was worse, and he ran for Dr Phillpotts. Deceased was then in great pain. He told Dr Phillpotts the circumstances, but he did not think he said anything about haemorrhage. Dr Phillpotts said he had an engagement at Dartmouth and could not attend the case. Witness replied "If you can't come I must run to Dartmouth for a doctor." Dr Phillpotts replied that that was the best thing he could do. Witness crossed the river to Dartmouth straight away and saw Dr Young, who also said he could not attend. He had attended a case for Dr Kendall and could not attend more, as he had his own patients to look after. Witness replied, "I must try someone else," and left. He asked a young fellow to get a Mrs Eden to stay with his wife. He next went to Dr Soper's but he was out, and the doctor's sister sent a telephone message to Dr Harris, who promised to attend the case. After that witness walked to Compass Coastguard Station again to hurry the nurse on. He reached home again about three o'clock. The child had been born before his arrival. Mrs Eden and a Mrs Tutchings were there, but no doctor or midwife. It was after three when Dr Harris arrived. Dr Harris sent down for him, as he thought it was a bad case. His wife was then dying. Dr Harris told him that if a doctor had attended her an hour or so before her life would have been saved. - A maid-servant, Mrs Eden, and Mrs Tutchings having given evidence. - Dr J. H. Harris, of Dartmouth, said he received a telephone message to attend MRS HALL about half-past two on Sunday afternoon. He started at once. He found her in extremis. There was no time to save life, and she passed away quickly. Death was due to loss of blood. - By the Coroner: In all human probability, if deceased had had medical attention shortly after the child was born, her life would have been saved. - Dr H. Phillpotts, surgeon, Kingswear, said that at 1.30 p.m. on Sunday MR HALL told him that he had been to Dr Kendall, and had asked him to see his wife. Dr Kendall was ill, and could not go, and he wished witness to come. Witness replied that he was very busy, and had to go to Torquay - not Dartmouth, as HALL said he had said. Witness asked HALL what was the matter, and he did not give him the slightest cause to believe there was any danger. He said he had telephoned to the nurse on the way, and witness told him he had ample time to get a doctor from the other side of the water, as it was practically impossible for him to come. - Dr C. Young, Dartmouth, said that on Sunday he had just returned from his country calls and was sitting down to lunch when HALL came. He stated that Dr Kendall had been engaged, but was ill in bed; that he had gone to Dr Phillpotts, and that Dr Phillpotts had declined to attend the case. Nothing was said about any extraordinary features. Witness explained that he had to make his Dartmouth visits that afternoon, and that it was not possible for him to attend the case without neglecting his own patients. Witness added that he had attended a confinement case in Kingswear for Dr Kendall previously - on Christmas morning - at great inconvenience. He had written to Dr Kendall to say that he could not find it possible to attend similar cases for him in Kingswear, but would do anything for him in Dartmouth if he would give him notice. - Dr Kendall said deceased was an old patient of his. On Sunday morning the husband called, but witness was ill in bed. He sent word that he was to get another doctor. The etiquette was that if a doctor attended a case for another member of the profession he should receive half the fee, but in the present case, witness wanted to give another doctor perfect freedom in taking over the case so that that doctor would get the whole fee. So he was particularly careful not to name any particular doctor. Dr Young had written to him as indicated, and he felt that Dr Phillpotts was not very likely to take the case, and therefore, he wanted to leave MR HALL'S hands free in obtaining what medical man he could. - By the Coroner: There was no understanding between him and any other doctor to take midwifery cases for him? - It is usual for a doctor when he is expecting a confinement case to make some arrangements with another doctor if he is too ill to attend himself? - I had been ill only two or three days, and I could not have made any arrangement in this particular case. I was hoping to be well by the end of the month, when I expected the confinement to take place. Dr Kendall added that had he known that deceased's condition was so serious, and that no other doctor was available, he would have gone down himself although he was ill. - The Coroner summed up at length, and then as he had to catch a train to Torquay, adjourned the Inquiry. - At the adjourned Inquiry yesterday, the Jury returned a verdict of Death from Haemorrhage and expressed their opinion that a certain amount of blame was to be attached to the medical men.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 March 1908
PAIGNTON - Death From Burns. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Paignton on Saturday on MS ELIZA PERRY, living at 8 Efford Place, who died as the result of burns. She lodged with Mrs Elizabeth Hill, and when her son, MR ALFRED PERRY, a carpenter, called to see her on the previous Sunday last, he heard groans. Opening the door of his mother's room he found her on the floor, alongside the fender, with her clothes burning. Dr Adams was called, and she was under his care and that of the district nurse until Friday night, when she died. - Mrs Hill, who is rather deaf, said she heard no outcry or had any intimation of anything wrong until the alarm given by her son. She asked deceased how it occurred, and she said the fire-irons fell down, and in stooping to pick them up the loose ends of her shawl caught fire. - Dr Adams said MRS PERRY had a very severe burn on the right arm, and the burns extended from the shoulder down the right side of the body to the hips. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 April 1908
TORQUAY - Sudden Death. - An Inquest was held at Upton Parish Room on Wednesday on the body of WM. CORNELIUS FLORY, 71, of Rose Lea, Forest Road, who died suddenly on Tuesday. Dr Winter said death was caused by failure of the heart following long standing kidney disease, and a verdict was returned accordingly.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 15 May 1908
- Suicide At Aller Vale. Sad Story. - On Monday morning MR JAS. LANG, farmer of Manor Farm, near Newton Abbot, was found hanging in a hayloft by a boy who went there to fetch some fodder. He ran for Mr Victor Judd, the manager of the Devon Hide and Skin Company, whose works are close by. The body was cut down, but it was too late, as it was quite cold. Deceased had been in very bad health for about eighteen months. He was to have left the farm shortly, and felt this very much. Only a few hours before he was found hanging he had been with Mr Judd talking of his troubles. - A pathetic story was related to Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, at the Inquest on Tuesday. - ANNIE MARY LANG, the widow, who resides at Manor Farm, Aller, with her four children, stated that her husband stopped in bed all day on Sunday. He was always complaining of pains in the head, and did so on Sunday. She took him all his meals in bed. On Monday morning he did not have his breakfast, only a cup of cocoa, which witness took to him whilst he was in bed. On his wife inquiring as to his health, he stated that he was just the same. He came downstairs between 7.30 and 8 a.m. and went to see Mr Judd with reference to a business transaction. He returned to the house about 8.30, but went out again at nine o'clock. He did not complain of feeling unwell, but for the past few months he had been very depressed, very quiet. About a quarter to twelve her son came in and asked where his father was. She stated that he had gone to the fields to work, and as they could not see anything of him she sent him to the loft, as she thought deceased might have gone to sleep there. On going there the boy found his father hanging from a beam. Witness had never heard him threaten that he would do anything desperate. A doctor had advised him to go away for a little time for the benefit of his health, but he did not wish to leave home, as he thought he would get on all right. She did not know that he had any trouble or financial worry. - JAMES LANG, aged 13, son of the deceased, stated that he went up to the loft, where he found his father hanging from a beam. He immediately went for Mr Judd. The rope, produced, was used as a bridle on the horses. - Albert Victor Judd, manager of the Devon Hide, Skin and Manure Co., Aller, stated that just after noon he heard the boy screaming, "Mr Judd, father has hanged himself." Witness found LANG hanging to a beam at the end of the loft, and he immediately cut the body down, but nothing could be done for the unfortunate man, he having already expired. Witness said that his coat, collar and hat had been taken off and laid down quite carefully, thereby apparently showing that it was a determined case of suicide. Deceased had looked in at his office earlier in the morning when he made this pathetic statement: "I am nearly come to the end. I am broken-hearted." Witness advised him to cheer up, but he seemed very, very despondent and witness advised him to go away for a short time for a change. - Dr Rayner Hatfield, who saw deceased in the hayloft about one o'clock, was of opinion that he had then been dead about two hours. The cause of death was suffocation from hanging. There was no sign of any struggle, and he undoubtedly came to his death by committing suicide. The doctor said that six years ago deceased had a bad attack of influenza, and the pains in his head at times were most unbearable. He thought there was some thickening of the cover of the brain as the result of influenza. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 May 1908
TORQUAY - Torquay Visitor's Sudden Death. The Inquest. - The death took place suddenly, at Ehrenberg Hall, Chestnut Avenue, on Sunday of MR JOHN DREW, 83, retired manufacturer of Helengate, Crouch End, London, who came to Torquay for the benefit of his health on the 18th instant. The Inquest was held on Monday afternoon by the County Coroner (Mr Sidney Hacker). - MR H. S. DREW, son of deceased, stated that he last saw his father alive at a business meeting on the 5th inst. He then complained of being unwell and suffering from shortness of breath when he went upstairs. Witness also stated that his father's health had been failing for some time. - Miss Louise Morton, private secretary to deceased, stated that he had been in bad health for some time. On Sunday he went to chapel, and on returning complained of being unwell. She gave him some brandy, and later a cup of tea. Whilst assisting him to take off his coat and waistcoat, he fell against her and slowly slid to the ground. She was unable to hold him up. He never spoke again and died before medical assistance arrived. Dr Walker, who was called with Dr Gardner, stated that from what he saw of deceased on one occasion when he visited him, and otherwise, he was of opinion that death was caused by the rupture of a large blood vessel on the brain. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 June 1908
ST MARYCHURCH - Contagious Consumption. St Marychurch Child's Death. Should There Be Isolation? - Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquiry at St. Marychurch Town Hall on Friday, touching the death of EDWARD GEORGE WALLACE, aged 2 ½ years, the son of GEORGE WALLACE, labourer, of 5 Plainfield Terrace, St. Marychurch, who died on the previous day. - The father stated that he had had two children. The one now living was fourteen months old, and was quite healthy. The deceased child was ill for about six months before its death, but had been in good health previously. - Dr W. Pitt-Palmer said that he attended the deceased for the first time about a month ago. He had seen it twice before, and it was then sitting up at a table with another child which was in the last stage of consumption, eating out of the same plate as the latter. That was in November last. When he saw it a month ago it was suffering from consumption of all its organs. It was in a hopeless condition. It had, in fact, been some time previously in the Rosehill Children's Hospital where it was discharged because, so the parents told him, it "did not get on." Death was due to tuberculosis. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said that when he called in November, it was to treat Mrs Bolter, a sister of WALLACE, who had been sent to Torquay from London in the last stage of consumption. She died about three weeks after. Two children had come with her, one of whom, the one he had mentioned, was also in an advanced stage of the disease. He told MR and MRS WALLACE the danger of allowing their child to take its meals, or mix with its cousin. The deceased child was then a strong healthy looking boy, and he warned its parents against the danger of infection. He had not treated the deceased at that time. There was nothing the matter with it then. - By the Coroner: The presence of the women and the child in the house was alone a danger to all the other occupants. Isolation was impossible, the children were all running about together. When he warned the parents he told them he was sure that their child would become infected. - The Coroner: Was there any place where they could have sent Mrs Bolter and her child? - Dr Pitt-Palmer: There is no place where a working-man suffering from a chronic consumption can be sent. If they are so far advanced, they cannot be admitted into the ordinary sanatorium. There seems nothing for them but to infect other people. I may be speaking in ignorance, but that is my experience. - Continuing, witness said that Mrs Bolter died about a month after coming to Torquay. - The mother of the deceased was asked when Mrs Bolter's child left the house, and she replied soon after its mother's funeral. - Dr Pitt-Palmer pointed to the short time that infection had been possible, and said that it showed the virulence of the disease and the need for precaution in other cases. He could not say if his warning to the parents had been followed. - The Coroner: If there are two consumptive hospitals in Torquay, there should be no difficulty in the way of sending patients of this sort to them. - Dr Pitt-Palmer: There has got to be room in these hospitals, and my experience extending over 20 years is that they are practically always full. It is practically impossible to put anybody in an advanced stage of consumption away. - The Coroner: But you cannot blame a man who has got a sister and nephew so ill as these were, if when there is no other place for them, he gives them a home and bed. - Dr Pitt-Palmer: I do not blame him at all. - The Coroner: Still there would be a certain amount of blame attached to the master of a house if he permitted an infected child to infect his child. In the case of scarlet fever this would be so. - Dr Pitt-Palmer: Of course if you put it in that way, the man had no right to take his sister and her child in; the railway had no business to take them in their trains; and the hospital authorities under whose care Mrs Bolter had been, had no right to let her leave their institution. The case was reported to the authorities and that was all that could be done. - The Coroner: Do you know if any attempt was made to find room for the patients in the Torquay institutions? - Dr Pitt-Palmer: I don't know. One of the institutions is closed half the year, and even this does not take advanced cases, and then, if there is a vacancy anywhere, tickets have to be obtained, and various other formularies carried out. - Dr Dunlop referred to the regulations governing the notification of diseases, and said a year and a half or two years ago, the Town Council received circulars from the National Society with regard to the prevention of consumption. It brought certain matters to their notice, and the Sanitary Committee thought it would be advisable to arrange for voluntary notification, although feeling that little good would result. The Town Council confirmed this resolution, and it was done. In the first six months 12 cases were notified, and last year the number was about a dozen for the whole time. Two thirds of these were notifications of people who were either in the last stage of consumption or who died from it. The Authority had no power in the matter, and could not enforce even disinfection. In regard to the present case it was reported to him, but he did not know what steps were taken, the Local Government board having refused to allow compulsory notification. - The Coroner: What could you have done if you went to the house and found this woman and her child suffering from tuberculosis with other children there? - Dr Dunlop: I could have warned them, but done nothing else. - The Coroner: Could they have been removed anywhere? - Witness: No. - The Coroner: What would have been done, if it had been a case of small-pox or scarlet fever? - Dr Dunlop: In that case I should have had then sent to the local sanatorium, which is under my control. - The Coroner: Is not tuberculosis an infectious disease? - Dr Dunlop: Certainly. - The Coroner: Then although it is an infectious disease, there is no place in Torquay where a person infected can be removed? - Dr Dunlop: None under my control. - The Coroner: Should not a person suffering from consumption be isolated? - Certainly. - Questioned as to whether the Torquay Council had considered the advisability of establishing a separate Sanatorium for such cases, Dr Dunlop said that it was considered altogether unfeasible and in any case would be very expensive. The first step in the direction of remedying the evil would be to get the Government to make notification compulsory. - The Coroner: I should think that the first step would be to provide an institution for such cases as these. Then you could have compulsory notification. - In reply to the Foreman (Mr R. D. Scholes), Dr Dunlop stated that Sheffield was the only place in the kingdom where notification of tuberculosis was compulsory, and in that case a special Act of Parliament had been obtained. - Mr Scholes: Do you think Torquay could get a special act? - Dr Dunlop: I doubt it if the Local Government Board feel that the problem is a difficult one. It would be impossible to take a man in the early stages of consumption away from his family of whom he is the only support. - A verdict of "Natural Cases" was returned. - The Jury added a rider calling the attention of the authorities to the case, and asking them to take some steps to remedy the evil.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 June 1908
BRIXHAM - Death From Burns. - Mr Coroner Hacker held an Inquest at the Lower Market Hall, Brixham, on Saturday on the body of IDA GRACE GOOD, aged three years, who died at the Brixham Cottage Hospital shortly after admission on Friday evening from shock through severe burns. - The mother stated that she left deceased in the house. There was no fire in the grate, and the matches were on the mantel-piece, quite out of reach. To her knowledge, no matches had been dropped on the floor, as none had been used during the morning. - Mary Jane Pitman heard screams and on going to the back of the house saw deceased in flames. She took off her own skirt and wrapped it round the child, extinguishing the flames. Then she screamed for help, and while medical assistance was being obtained, did her best to remove the burnt clothes and alleviate the pain. Dr Henry D. Colman said deceased was practically unconscious. she was extensively burnt, especially about the head and legs. After he had dressed the burns, he sent the child to the Cottage Hospital. He attributed death to shock from burns. A verdict of "Accidental Death" through shock from burns was returned. The witness Pitman was highly commended for her presence of mind and promptitude in extinguishing the flames.

TORQUAY - Corporation Gardener's Fatal Fall. At Babbacombe Downs. - At the Northcote Hall yesterday, the County Coroner (Mr Sidney Hacker) held an Inquiry respecting the death of JOSEPH PHILLIPS, 62, gardener in the employ of the Torquay Corporation, who died at the Torbay Hospital on Wednesday from injuries received from a fall on Babbacombe Downs on Wednesday in last week. Mr W. Addems was Foreman of the Jury. - CHARLES THOMAS PHILLIPS, engine driver, of 4 Coombe Road, St. Marychurch, said deceased was his father. He was employed by the Corporation, and had charge of Babbacombe Downs gardens. Witness last saw his father alive about two months ago. - Marina Bray, who resides at Furrough Cross, said she had acted as housekeeper to deceased, who was a widower. She did not reside in the house, but cooked his meals and kept the place clean. On June 3rd deceased, who had been looking after the gardens for eighteen and a half years, came home to dinner as usual and returned to his work. Witness heard of the accident late in the afternoon. On Friday last she saw PHILLIPS at the Hospital, and he told her that he was cutting the grass, which was very slippery, on a narrow slope by the shelter. When near the edge he slipped his foot and fell over on to the path below. - James Ralph, commissioned boatman in the coastguard service, said he saw deceased about 1.50 mowing the slope under the bandstand with a machine. A moment afterwards witness heard a thud, and on hurrying up he found PHILLIPS lying doubled up on the path by a seat. He had fallen about seven feet, and was quite conscious. There was a large wound on the top of his head. Witness sent a lad for a doctor, and afterwards ran for assistance to the coastguard station. When he returned deceased had been carried into the shelter. The slope was narrow and had a considerable gradient. It would require a strong man to keep the machine on it. There was a small flower border on the edge. Deceased had recently had a severe illness, and witness was of opinion that the sun, which was very strong that day, affected him. The mowing machine went over the bank as well, but he did not think deceased's head struck on it. Dr Pitt-Palmer order deceased's removal to the Hospital in a cab. - P.C. Brimfield said when he arrived he found PHILLIPS bleeding profusely from a large wound on his head. Witness bandaged it, and at Dr Pitt-Palmer's orders, removed deceased to the Hospital in a cab. The bank was eight feet high. It was a very hot day. - Dr Phillips, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said deceased, when brought to the Institution, was suffering from a severe scalp wound and concussion of the brain. On June 7th he had a bad relapse and in delirium, he attempted to get out of bed. On the 8th he had another attack of mental unsoundness, became very violent, got out of bed and struck right and left. He was removed to a room by himself and died quite suddenly on Wednesday. Death was due to heart failure, accelerated by the concussion. Deceased never got over the shock. He could not describe PHILLIPS as a strong man. - Mr H. A. Garrett, Borough Surveyor, said no complaint had been made respecting the difficulty of cutting the slope. It was a very hot afternoon, and he thought it likely that PHILLIPS was attacked by a sudden fit of giddiness. The grass in dry weather was very slippery, but the flower border at the edge of the slope would give foothold. Mrs Bray said deceased had only returned to work a little over a week, after an attack of inflammation of the lungs. - Mr Garrett said PHILLIPS was in a position to select his own work. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 June 1908
SEATON - Tragedy At Seaton. Mother Almost Decapitates Her Only Child. - The quiet little seaside town of Seaton, well-known to those who are accustomed to take trips along the coast by the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire pleasure steamers, was startled on Saturday afternoon by the report of a terrible tragedy which upon investigation proved to be only too true. It appears that HERMAN CASLEY, a plumber residing at 10 Queen Street, left his home early in the afternoon to visit Beer. He had not been in the latter village long when he was fetched by a messenger. On returning home he found his wife in the custody of two policemen. Later he saw his only child, VIOLET MABEL a little girl of four months old lying on the bed upstairs with her throat cut from ear to ear. The tragedy had been previously reported to the police. - At the Inquest on Monday the father said the child had a hare lip and was operated upon when eight or nine weeks old. The operation was quite successful. He had never heard his wife threaten to take the life of the child. His wife sometimes showed a fondness for the child and was always worrying about it. His wife was not in good health and suffered from melancholia, but she had never been to the Asylum. - John Loud, dairyman, said on Saturday afternoon about four o'clock, he saw the mother of the deceased at her house, and the child was in a "pram" in the kitchen. The mother came to the door for the milk. He noticed nothing peculiar about the child or the mother. About an hour later he heard of the child's death. He believed the mother was very kind to the child. He had never seen any ill-treatment. - Emily Cawley, a widow, next door neighbour of the CAWLEYS, said she was in no way related to Mr and Mrs Cawley. She was in the habit of looking into their house during the day, and often saw the mother and child. The mother seemed worried over the child's infirmity. On Saturday, just before five, the mother came into her house and said, "Oh, Mrs Cawley, I've cut my baby's head off." Witness replied "You don't say so." She said "Do, come in and see it." Witness said she could not, and sat the woman down in her own house and sent for the police. She remained with her until the police came. The woman looked very ill and her hands were covered with blood. Witness was too frightened to take much notice of her. She had never heard MRS CAWLEY threaten to take the life of the child, but she worried about the child both before and after it was taken to Exeter Hospital. - HELEN MARY HOOPER, wife of Philip Hooper, Sidmouth-street, Seaton, said she visited MRS HERMON CAWLEY, her sister nearly every day. She appeared fond of the child, but worried about it a good deal. She had an idea that people would laugh at the child when she grew up. Witness took the child to Exeter Hospital with the mother, and the operation which was performed was very successful, but the mother said many times that the child was disfigured for life. The child was left in the hospital, and they returned to Seaton. The mother had not been the same woman since. She had never heard her threaten to take the child's life. She was fond of the child up to a fortnight after it was brought back from the hospital. She did not appear to have any love for it after that. She said it seemed like another child. The mother was always talking about the child. On Thursday last she said to witness, "Now this is the end of it," She asked her what she meant and she said "Now you will see that is the end of it." - Dr G. E. A. Evans, of Seaton, said he was called to 10 Queen Street, on Saturday evening, and found the child lying on her back on a bed upstairs dead. The head was severed from the body with the exception of about two inches of skin at the back of the neck. There was blood on the quilt and on the rugs on the floor. He found a razor on the bed. The child's body was then still warm. Witness had been attending the mother since the birth of the child. She was always of a melancholy disposition, and she had been worse since the child returned from the hospital. She had a bad attack of melancholia twelve years ago. It would not require any great effort to cut a child's head off with a razor. The mother made no statement to him on Saturday evening. There was blood on her hands. Witness saw her last Friday morning. - P.C. Webber said on Saturday afternoon he accompanied P.C. Friend to 10 Queen Street, where he saw MRS CAWLEY, the accused, sitting on a chair in the kitchen, with Mrs Cawley, her neighbour. Witness said to the latter "What is the matter?" She replied "MRS CAWLEY tells me she has cut her baby's head off." There was blood about the prisoner's hands, and as she was about to make a statement, witness cautioned her. Accused replied, "I have cut my baby's head off." Witness and P.C. Friend went up into the bedroom, where he found the deceased as described by Dr Evans. The razor (produced) was blood-stained and lying close by the child. He returned downstairs and charged the mother with the capital offence. She replied "I did it." Asked if she understood the charge, she said "Yes: I cut my baby's head off." He noticed that she was unwell and sent for Dr Evans. Accused was afterwards conveyed to Axminster Police Station. - The Coroner asked the accused if she wished to give evidence or not. She replied "I did it; I did not know what I was doing." She was, however, not sworn, and no statement was taken from her. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Manslaughter" against the mother, and added that in their opinion she was not responsible for her actions at the time. The Jury gave their fees to the husband. Brought before the magistrates on the following day, MRS CAWLEY was committed for trial at the assizes.

TORQUAY - Torquay Painter's Fatal Fall. Inquest. - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Northcote Hall on Saturday afternoon respecting the death of CHAS. AYSHFORD, journeyman painter, aged fifty-four, of 5 Brunswick Terrace, Torre, who met his death through falling from a ladder whilst at work on Friday. - GEORGE HENRY AYSHFORD said deceased was his uncle and was a bachelor. - Wm. James Harding, painter, said he was working with deceased at Dudley House, Belgrave Road, Torquay, when he appeared to be in his usual health. About 5.25 p.m., whilst descending the ladder on which he was working, deceased pushed aside some branches of a fir tree which over-hung the ladder about seven rungs up from the bottom. These apparently swung back, and deceased, losing his balance, fell into the area below, where witness was working, a distance of fifteen feet. he pitched on his head, and when witness picked him up he was unconscious. - Dr Lionel Phillips, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said when admitted to that institution deceased was unconscious and suffering from a scalp wound, which he dressed. Deceased died four hours after admission without regaining consciousness. Death was due to concussion of the brain. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," no blame being attributed to anyone.

KINGSKERSWELL - Suicide At Kingskerswell. Looking At The Black Side Of Things. - GEORGE COUNTER, aged 63, single, who lived with his brother-in-law, MR W. FLOYD, at Kingskerswell Mills, is believed to have committed suicide on Monday night. Unable to find deceased in the evening, Mr Floyd ascertained that he had locked up the premises and brought in the keys, but had not been seen since. Mr Floyd found him hanging in the store dead, the door being locked on the inside. Deceased is described as a very quiet man, and it is said that he had lately been depressed and out of health, following upon an attack of influenza. He worked for his brother-in-law and only a few days ago he was heard to say he could not get about so well as he used to, and feared he should have to go into the Workhouse. - At the Inquest conducted by the Deputy Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock) on Wednesday afternoon, William Floyd, a miller, gave evidence of identification, stating that the deceased was his brother-in-law, and had worked for him for twenty-eight years. Of late CAUNTER had been somewhat depressed, and especially so on the previous Monday. There had been no trouble with regard to money matters. On returning to the house on Monday evening he found that CAUNTER was missing. A search was made, and a man named John Mitchell found the body in the loft. - John Mitchell stated that CAUNTER had not made any complaints to him as to any trouble. The door of the store was not locked, although a sack of corn was placed against it on the inside. CAUNTER was dead when witness cut the rope. - MRS ANN BUCKLE, a sister of deceased, did not know anything to cause the depression except an illness from which her brother was recovering. - Dr Hatfield said that he had attended CAUNTER for about two months. He was suffering from an internal complaint, and, although the disease was chronic, it was by no means fatal. CAUNTER was of a very melancholy disposition, and witness did his best to cheer him up. CAUNTER had told him that his life would be a burden to him if he could not work, as he did not desire to be dependent on his relatives. CAUNTER would look on the black side of things, but did not show any signs of insanity. Deceased would have been quite well in about a fortnight's time. The disease was of such a nature that it might have affected the brain. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane," and passed a vote of sympathy with the relatives.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 July 1908
TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Belgrave. Inquest. - At the Northcote Hall yesterday, Mr S. Hacker held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of FRANCIS NEVILLE, 62, cab proprietor of 33 Belgrave Road, who died suddenly yesterday morning. - Thomas Harwood, of 15 Bath Terrace, gardener, brother-in-law of deceased, gave evidence of identification. - Albert Rendall of 5 Fairhaven Crescent, Chelston, waiter, said that the deceased dropped dead ten minutes after entering the bar of the Avenue Hotel. He had just drunk a mouthful of half a pint of beer which had been served him when witness saw him fall back in the chair on which he was sitting. Witness went over to deceased, who had so seemed in his usual health, and did what he could in the way of loosening his clothing and pouring cold water over his hands, and sent for a doctor. He was dead, however, before the latter arrived. - LOUISA NEVILLE, wife of deceased, said the latter had been in good health and she could not account for his death. He had that morning, however, complained of pains in the side and attributed them to indigestion. - Dr Phillips said a superficial examination of deceased had led him to the opinion that death had been quite natural. Without a post mortem examination he could not state the cause, but it was probably either heart failure or cerebral haemorrhage. The hot weather might have raised the pressure of the blood in deceased's veins and brought on death. This was very likely in a stout man and his view was that cerebral haemorrhage was the more probable cause of death. The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

TORQUAY - Suicide At Pimlico. Watercress Vendor Hangs Himself. - At the Northcote Hall yesterday, Mr Coroner Hacker held an Enquiry touching the death of THOMAS ROYCE, 64, watercress vendor, of No. 22 Spring Steps, who was found hanging in his bedroom on Wednesday at midday. Mr R. Hodge was Foreman of the Jury. - JOHN ROYCE, son, gave evidence of identification and added that his father had suffered from pains in the back. On Wednesday morning, deceased called witness at 6.30 and he went to work. About 12 o'clock his sister fetched him from the Plymouth Brewery and on going home he discovered his father hanging by a rope behind his bedroom door. The rope had been placed under the door and carried over the top. Witness sent for a knife and cut the body down. There was a chair close to the door. He had never heard his father threaten to take his life. Deceased had received notice to quite the house which he had lived in for 18 years, and he worried about this. He had also been upset over a daughter who had been deserted by her husband. One evening last week he received a letter about her and he put his arms on the table and cried. - GERTRUDE ROYCE, daughter of the deceased, laundry woman, said her father complained on the morning of his death, of pains in his back. Whilst at her work she fell ill and returned home just after eleven. She found the front door locked and thinking her father was out she waited until twelve. Her little brother then came home and on getting into the house, unlocked the door, the key being on the inside. Thinking her father was in bed, she went upstairs to look for him. With some difficulty she opened the door and as she did so was horrified to find her father hanging behind it. She ran out frightened, and at once went for her brother. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said the plight in which her married sister had been left had upset her father a great deal. She had, however, never heard him threaten to do any harm to himself, but on the morning in question when complaining of the pains in his back he exclaimed: "I wish I was dead". SAMUEL ROYCE, 14, another son of deceased also gave evidence. - Thomas Pike, an old man, a neighbour of deceased, said he saw the latter going home at 10 on the morning in question. They exchanged remarks on the weather and deceased seemed as usual. - Dr L. L. Phillips, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he saw the body in the mortuary subsequently. He was quite dead and appeared to have been in fair health. There had evidently been constriction of the throat. He could not say if the neck was dislocated. The appearances were consistent with the view that deceased died from strangulation. A verdict of "Suicide" was returned.

TORQUAY - Death From Lockjaw. St Marychurch Boy's Sad End. - At Northcote Hall yesterday, Mr Sydney Hacker, held an Inquiry respecting the death of GEORGE ERNEST KELLY, 17, farm labourer, who died at the Torbay Hospital yesterday from lockjaw, following a cut received whilst at his work. - LAURA KELLY, of 10 Portland Place, St. Marychurch, domestic servant, stated that deceased was her son. She heard of his mishap nine days after it happened and she went to the Torbay Hospital to see him both on the day and on Wednesday, the day before his death. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said she was not informed of her son's injury because it was not at first thought that it was anything more than a simple cut. - Albert Short, farmer, of Cary Farm, St. Marychurch, where deceased was employed by witness's brother, Mr Nicholas Short, said on June 20th the lad was cutting mangold for the bullocks with a hand machine. When he got nearly to the last of the mangolds, evidently in a hurry to leave work, he put his hand into the "box," turning the handle with the other. In doing this he cut the outside of his thumb in the knives. He ran to witness who made him bathe it under the tap. It was not a very bad cut, but witness sent him to Mr Cutmore, chemist, to have it tied up. Deceased continued to come to the farm for a week subsequent to this, although not doing much work. Five days after witness found him asleep in the stable leaning his head on the "crib." On the following day, Friday, he complained of pain in the neck and witness told him that he caught a cold through sleeping in the draught. On Saturday he complained of soreness in the throat and stiffness in the back. Witness sent him to the chemist again and also saw him in the evening when he said he was a lot better. - HENRY KELLY, of 10 Portland Place, tailor, cousin of deceased, said that after having the cut dressed, his cousin took no notice of his injury. He seemed to be getting well until the following Saturday when he complained of a sore neck. On Sunday morning witness went out to do deceased's work and on his return found that deceased, who was still in bed, was unable to open his mouth. Witness fetched a doctor and in the early part of the afternoon deceased was taken to the Torbay Hospital. - By the Coroner: Deceased went to see a doctor on Saturday evening and was told to go home and rest and come to see him again on Sunday morning. Deceased was a strong great fellow, and had worked at Cary Farm for a number of years. - Dr Phillips, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he saw deceased immediately on his arrival. He was then undoubtedly suffering from lockjaw and had spasms at intervals. On Monday morning the top joint of the injured thumb was amputated. The thumb was then healing and was quite clean. The wound was treated with anti-tetanic serum, but it had no effect other than to reduce the number of spasms of the muscles. Deceased gradually grew worse and died early that morning. This was the second case that had occurred at the Torbay Hospital during the last two years, so that cases were not numerous. The partial healing that had taken place he added, had served to confine the tetanus microbe in the wound. - A verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 July 1908
TORQUAY - Visitor's Sudden Death. The Inquest. - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry on Friday touching the death of CHARLES ROBINSON, age 64, a visitor to Torquay, who expired suddenly at 4 Ingatestone Terrace. - MRS EMMA ROBINSON, the widow, said that she and her husband had lived at Bunkers Lane, Staincliffe, Batley, Yorkshire. The deceased, who was a rag merchant, came to Torquay with witness a fortnight ago for a rest. On the previous day he complained of feeling the heat and remained indoors. He had suffered from heart disease for several months. He had a good supper on Thursday night, and as he went to bed, remarked that he had quite enjoyed it. About 2.30 a.m. that morning he got out of bed and fell right down along the floor. He did not speak after. - Dr G. Young Eales said when he arrived at the house at about 2.30 a.m. on Friday deceased was quite dead. He had formed the opinion that death was caused by heart failure. The heart would put an additional strain on a weak heart. A verdict was returned accordingly.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 July 1908
TORQUAY - Sudden Death. - At the Police Court yesterday, an Inquest was held by Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, respecting the death of WILLIAM SMERDON, 79, of Maisonette, Victoria Road, Ellacombe. Deceased had been crippled by rheumatics for some years and yesterday morning after he got out of bed, his wife left him to go into the next room. When she returned he was lying on the floor quite dead. Dr Young Eales who was called in attributed death to syncope due to a senile heart. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 31 July 1908
LONDON - Burning Fatality. Torquay Lady's Death In London. Dangerous Floor Polish. - At Southall, Norwood W., MRS HETTY JANE SALTER, the wife of MR THOMAS SALTER, one of the best known dispensing chemists in the suburbs of London, et with injuries of so terrible a character that they terminated fatally. She was the daughter of Councillor A. HARRIS, a well-known St. Marychurch resident, whilst her husband is a cousin of Mr W. E. Warren, of Paignton. - According to the evidence given at the Inquest on deceased she was engaged in preparing a mixture of beeswax and turpentine as a floor polish, when the turpentine became overheated and burst into flame. Her blouse and apron quickly ignited, and in a short time all the clothes on the upper part of her body were burnt to cinders. Her little child ran to her side, but a young lady in the house snatched it away with one hand, while with the other she picked up MRS SALTER'S skirt, and vainly tried to extinguish the flames. Although she screamed several times for help, no assistance came, so the young lady, who is a schoolmistress named Lawrence, ran into the street after telling MRS SALTER to roll on the floor and cover herself with a rug. Instead of doing this, the deceased rushed panic-stricken into the street, where the flames spread rapidly. Meanwhile the burning floor polish had set the house on fire. Some men at work near by took a rug from a horse and van and enveloped the poor woman and the fire brigade were called. The house was easily saved, but MRS SALTER was conveyed in a dying condition to a neighbour's, where, after enduring forty-eight hours' excruciating agony, she passed away. - The Coroner said he had had several Inquests where death had been caused by the same thing and he thought that women ought to be made to realise the immense danger which lurked in the preparation of this polish. The Coroner and Jury expressed their deep sympathy with the husband, and also with the Councillor and Mrs HARRIS, of Torquay

TORQUAY - Yachtsman's Death. Fatality In Torquay Harbour. - Between 8 and 9 o'clock on Saturday evening the body of HENRY LEAR, 47, yachtsman, who resided at No. 23 Princess Road, Ellacombe, was found in the corner of the inner harbour, close to the Princess Pier. LEAR was skipper of Mr C. G. Evans's steam yacht Shawnee, and had two hands under him. LEAR had gone ashore on Friday, and had intimated his intention of returning for his night watch, to allow the others to land for the night. The two hands went to the Pier on Saturday morning, but found that there was no punt to take them off. They, however, obtained a boat and reached the Shawnee and proceeded to carry out their duties. As LEAR did not put in an appearance they became anxious and went ashore again. They discovered the punt drifting in the harbour and later found their skipper's body lying in shallow water near the Princess Pier. There was a nasty blow on the head, and a portion of one ear had apparently been torn away. LEAR was a strong swimmer and it is thought that he must have struck himself as he fell into the water and became unconscious. He leaves a widow and several grown up children. - The Inquest. - The Inquest was held by Mr Sydney Hacker at the Northcote hall on Monday. Mr T. Parsons was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was the widow, MRS ELLEN LEAR, to give evidence of identification. Her husband had lived, she said, at 23 Princess Road, Ellacombe, and had been master of the Shawnee, which was owned by Mr C. G. Evans, of Fairhaven, Chelston. Deceased had lived on the yacht which had been lying in Torbay harbour, but came home about twice a week. He slept at home on Thursday night and also called to see her on Friday night. He stayed only about five minutes, however, and left about 9.35. He had nothing of any value on him except about 15s. in cash. Her husband was well liked by everybody and she had no suspicion that he had come to his death through any foul play. - Charles Gatting, of 28 Queen Street, seaman, employed on the Shawnee, said he last saw deceased alive about 8 o'clock on Friday night, when he landed witness in a dinghy and then returned to the yacht which was lying under the Princess Pier, abreast of the Pavilion. On Saturday morning witness went to the Pier to go aboard the yacht. When he got nearly abreast of the yacht one of his mates who was with him called his attention to the fact that the yacht's dinghy was lying in the harbour near the steps at the Pier entrance. Witness went down to the boat and found that it was made fast to the side of the steps. He unfastened it and went aboard the Shawnee. He and his mate went about their work as usual, although on finding that the skipper was not on board, they thought it very strange. Subsequently they went for a short pull round the harbour and then found deceased's body in the corner near the spot where the dinghy had been found fastened. - In answer to the Coroner, witness said the steps which deceased descended were often very slippery. After 10 p.m. the Piers were closed and then were in darkness. To get on the Princess pier after that hour, it was necessary to clamber over one of the turnstiles. - Dr Lionel L. Phillips, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said that deceased was badly bruised on the head. There were no deep wounds but the right ear was almost torn off, and the left ear was grazed. There was a bruise on the left knee. The body was covered with weed and had evidently been in the water for some time. Witness had come to the conclusion that death was due to drowning. None of the wounds were sufficient to cause death although the blow deceased received on the right side of the head might have caused unconsciousness. The appearance of the wounds coincided with the theory that deceased had fallen over the steps. There were no indications of foul play. - William Gilpin, also a seaman on the Shawnee, said that when he went aboard on Saturday morning the deck light on the yacht was still burning. There was no one aboard then, and subsequently he and Gatting whilst rowing around the harbour found the corpse. - William Henry Mayne, innkeeper of 14 Melville Street, said that deceased came to his house about 9 o'clock on Friday night and again just before closing time. He asked for some matches to take aboard the yacht and witness gave him some. Deceased had nothing to drink on the occasion and was quite sober. Owen Fegan, of 2 Camden Road, Ellacombe, carriage proprietor, said he saw deceased near his home at Ellacombe about 11.30 on Friday night. he was then walking towards the town and was quite sober. The Coroner said the evidence was by no means satisfactory and adjourned the Inquest until today (Friday) to enable further inquiries to be made.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 August 1908
TORQUAY - Torquay Yachtsman's Death. Adjourned Inquest. - At the Northcote Hall on Friday, Mr S. Hacker held the adjourned Inquiry into the death of HENRY LEAR, 47, skipper of the yacht Shawnee, whose body was found on the previous Saturday. P.C. Mitchell spoke to searching deceased's body at the mortuary. - In reply to the Coroner he said the steps near the Princess Pier entrance were in darkness after ten o'clock. There was no rail on the outside. The steps were fairly clean, and there was no seaweed except at the bottom. - John Holding, fisherman, 13 Levan Street, said on Friday, the 24th, he saw the deceased at the Theatre corner at 11.10. He stopped and spoke to witness and then proceeded up Union Street. He was perfectly sober. - Samuel Tucker, tobacconist, 8 Union Street, deposed that he saw the deceased going towards the harbour at 11.30 on Friday night. Deceased was quite sober. The Jury's verdict was that the deceased was "Accidentally Drowned by falling down the steps and into the water."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 August 1908
NEWTON ABBOT - Killed On His Holiday. Torquay Boy Run Over At Newton. - The summer holidays of BERT SHAPTER (12) a Torquay schoolboy unfortunately ended in a fatal manner. His father is in the employ of Mr Coleridge, of the Torbay Mill Company, Torquay, and on Saturday his son accompanied him to Umber, near Kingsteignton, to fetch a load of hay. The journey was safely accomplished, and on the return the boy rode on one shaft of the waggon and the father on the other. - When they had proceeded as far as the brickworks of Messrs. Hexter, Humpherson and Co., which they reached at about six o'clock, the boy, unknown to his father, fell from the shaft, and both the wheels of the waggon passed over him. The accident was witnessed by a young man named field, a member of the Newton Rugby Football club, who rendered all possible assistance. - A remarkable feature of the occurrence is that the boy's father states that just after the wheels went over him the boy ran across the road! He (witness) only heard him ejaculate the word "Oh!" The father called to a man named Robert Sharp, who resides at the Pottery Cottages close by, and who is employed as a foreman at the Brickworks, and he procured a trap from Mr Loveridge and conveyed the boy to the Newton Hospital. - Dr Culross attended to the injuries, but the lad died in the hospital about eight o'clock, about two hours after admittance. The unfortunate lad resided with his father at 85 Church Road, Ellacombe, Torquay. The loss of the boy is naturally a terrible blow to the parents, who have brought up ten children. - The Inquest. - was held by Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner on Monday. the evidence showed that deceased had been riding on the shafts all the way from Ideford, and catching hold of the rope with which the hay was fastened. His father heard him cry out "Oh!" and by the time he pulled up the horses, which was done instantly, the boy had got up and walked across the road, leaning against the railings of the cottages. All that deceased said was, "Oh, my stomach!" - Arthur Wm. Field, of Quay-terrace, Newton, saw deceased stooping to look back under the wagon and overbalance himself, the wheels afterwards going over his back. The boy then looked up and saw the horses of another wagon close up on him. He then struggled up and staggered across the road. - Charles Robert Sharp, of Pottery Cottages, Kingsteignton, rendered first aid, and took deceased to the Hospital. Dr Culross stated that deceased was suffering from shock when brought to the hospital. The lad told him that he had been run over the chest, but there were no severe internal injuries. There was no extensive haemorrhage, and death must have been due to shock. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - Tailor's Sudden Death. Inquest. - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Northcote Hall, Torquay, yesterday, respecting the sudden death of SYDNEY SMITH RYDER, at his residence 5 Church Road, Tor, on Wednesday. Mr John Jones was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Percy Herbert Gardiner, surgeon, said he did not know deceased during his lifetime, but was called to see him about 7.30 the previous morning. Deceased was being supported in a chair, but he was dead when witness examined him. There was a large quantity of blood on the floor. Witness made a post mortem examination, but he found no external signs to account for death. The internal organs were all healthy with the exception of one lung which was being pressed upon by an aneurism, which had burst and caused the blood which was on the floor. The disease was of long standing and the bursting of it was the cause of death. Sudden exertion would be likely to cause the bursting of the aneurism, the existence of which was not outwardly visible. - MARY ANN RYDER said she resided at 5 Laburnum Street, Torre, and her husband, SAMUEL RYDER was the eldest son of the deceased, who was her father-in-law. Deceased was 56 years of age and was a tailor, living at 5 Tor Church Road, with a younger son. Witness saw deceased on Tuesday last, when he was in good health. She was called on Wednesday morning just after seven, and on her arrival found deceased in the care of two men, and a lot of blood was about the floor. - EMILY ANN RYDER, widow of deceased, said her husband ate a hearty supper on Tuesday night and went to bed all right. He got up on Wednesday morning as usual, and proceeded to dress himself but was taken with a fit of coughing and fell down. Witness here had to be assisted from the court in a fit of hysteria. - Octavius L. Jones, groom, of 65 Lymington Road, said he was in Mr Cawdle's yard the previous morning when he heard someone calling for help. On reaching deceased's room he found him partly dressed and vomiting blood. Witness held him up, but before medical assistance arrived deceased had passed away. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 21 August 1908
COCKINGTON - Crushed By A Mangle. Sad Fatality At Chelston. - A very sad fatality occurred at Chelston on Monday afternoon, when VERA NETHERWAY, aged two years and ten months, daughter of MR W. H. NETHERWAY, upholsterer, of 15 Fairhaven Terrace, met her death under distressing circumstances. The child was playing with a little girl, named Dorothy Baker, in the basement of a neighbour's house. A swing had been made by tying a rope from the stair rail to a mangling machine weighing about two hundred-weights. Dorothy Baker was swinging on the rope and her companion was standing near the mangle when the machine over-turned, knocking little NETHERWAY down and crushing her head in a terrible manner. She died within a few minutes. - The Inquest - was held by Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner on Tuesday morning. Mr Levi Powell was elected Foreman of the Jury. - MRS NETHERWAY, mother of deceased, gave evidence of identification, and added that just after dinner on the previous day the child went to Mrs Bond's, her next door neighbour, to play with a little girl who was stopping there, as she had frequently done before. Only about ten minutes had elapsed, when Mrs Bond's brother-in-law rushed into her house with the child in his arms, and told her that it had been crushed by the mangle. The little one only breathed twice before it died. - William Bond, boots at the Victoria and Albert Hotel, said he resided with his parents at Fairhaven Terrace. On Monday afternoon he heard screams coming from the wash-house in the basement, and, with his mother, ran down the steps. He found VERA NETHERWAY lying on her back on the floor, with the mangle resting on her head. He lifted the mangle with one hand and released deceased and handed her to his mother. There was a rope attached to the stair rail leading to the basement by one end, and to the top of the mangle by the other. He presumed that the children had been swinging on the rope and overturned the mangle. He knew nothing about the rope or where it came from. Mrs Bond gave similar evidence. - Dorothy Baker, aged 7 years, said she was grand-daughter of the last witness, and, with her mother, was on holiday at her grand-mother's house. On Monday afternoon VERA NETHERWAY and herself were playing in the basement. Witness found a rope in a drawer in the wash-house, and tied it from the stair rail to the mangle. Witness was swinging on the rope, which was close to the floor, and deceased was standing near the mangle. Suddenly the mangle toppled over on VERA NETHERWAY, and knocked her down. She screamed and her grand-mother and uncle came down. - Dr Michelmore stated that he was called in at about 2.30 but the child was quite dead. The cause of death was a fractured skull, which had exposed the brain. The injury was of a terrible nature. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed their sympathy with the parents.

TOTNES - Torquay Ostler's Death. Chronic Alcoholism. - On Saturday, Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) at Totnes Workhouse Boardroom, enquired into the circumstances attending the death of GEORGE FREDERICK GODFREY. Mr F. K. Windeatt (Clerk) represented the Board of Guardians. Mr J. R. Veasey was foreman of the Jury. - Evidence of identification was given by JOHN W. GODFREY, who said deceased was an ostler, 46 years of age. He had been at the Torbay Inn, Torquay. Witness saw him unconscious at the Police Station on August 5th, but had not previously seen him for eleven months. He made no complaint of his treatment at the Police Station, or at the Workhouse. - Evidence was given by P.S. Bolt of the deceased being found lying in South Street, apparently drunk and incapable, about 11.15 p.m. on August 4th. Witness took him to the Police Station, deceased being carried part of the way and walking the remainder. He was placed in a cell and at 7.45 a.m. on August 5th witness found him in a fit. He sent for Dr Johnson, who came and stayed there two hours. He saw him four times that day, and next morning he was removed to the Workhouse. - The Foreman: Is it not usual in such cases to take a person to the Cottage Hospital? - P.S. Bolt said the magistrates could only make an order for the Workhouse, and Supt. Jeffery said the Hospital would not accept such a case. - The Coroner: For a man destitute, without anyone to take care of him, the Workhouse would be the proper place. - Supt. Jeffery said at 9 a.m. on August 5th he saw the deceased at the Police Station. He was then unconscious, and did not recover consciousness during the day. He gave instructions that he should be constantly watched. He called the attention of the magistrates to the case and the deceased was remanded until the next day, when it was thought he might have been all right. - Dr W. R. Edmond stated that in the Workhouse the deceased had a succession of epileptic fits, and continued in the same condition until his death on Friday evening. Death was due to delirium tremens, caused by chronic alcoholism and the heat. - P.C. Phillpotts deposed to seeing the deceased drunk outside the Castle Hotel at 10.40 p.m. He did not interfere with him as he thought he would get to his lodgings. After he was taken in custody he visited him every hour until 3 a.m. on August 5th, finding him asleep. - The Coroner said the deceased was under surveillance during the night, and the police did the right thing in sending for a doctor when it was found he had a fit. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 August 1908
TORQUAY - Labourer's Fatal Fall. The Inquest. - Mr Sydney Hacker held an Inquiry at Torquay on Friday at the Northcote Hall, touching the death of RICHARD THORNE, labourer, fifty-eight, who died at the Torbay Hospital on Wednesday, presumably from injuries received through falling over the stairs at 3 Higher Braddon's Terrace, about two months ago. - THOMAS THORNE, labourer, Saltash, identified the body as that of his brother. - Mrs Maria Martin, niece of the deceased, said that about 8 p.m. on June 20th her uncle, who lived with her, went out to go to the Princess Gardens. She and her husband also went out later. On their return at 10.20 p.m. they found the house in darkness. Witness went into the passage to put a penny in the gas slot meter, and as she did so she heard a groan, apparently from the bottom of the basement stairs. With assistance they got deceased, who was semi-conscious, to bed, and next morning they obtained a doctor. - By the Coroner: She could not say whether deceased had been drinking or not. She did not think he had. - Mr Hacker: Then why didn't you send for a doctor the same night? The man might have died in the night and then you would have been blamed. Are the stairs dangerous? - They are not very pleasant stairs. There is no rail, simply a rope. - Continuing, witness said deceased had no reason to go downstairs. her opinion was that he wanted to put a penny in the gas meter, which was at the top of the stairs. - John R. Martin, husband of the last witness, said he did not think the deceased was in drink at the time of the accident. he had seen him in the Princess Gardens at 9.20 when he was quite sober. - Detective Potter, Mrs Hawkins, William F. Pope and P.C. Hammett also gave evidence. - Wm. F. Pope, the landlord of the Braddon's Arms, said that deceased called at his house at 9.40, had a glass of beer, and left in about three minutes. He was perfectly sober. - DR. L. L. Phillips, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he saw the deceased on June 21st. He was in a semi-conscious condition, in which he remained practically until his death. There were no external marks, and the conjecture was that he had fractured the base of his skull. The post mortem examination had proved this. The fracture was very small and that accounted for his living so long. Blood poisoning set in and this was the real cause of death. Without it deceased might have recovered, although he would always have had an affection of the brain. A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical statement.

TEIGNMOUTH - Gravedigger's Death. Suicide In Teignmouth Cemetery. - An Inquest was held at Hazeldown, Teignmouth, on Monday evening, on WILLIAM WESTAWAY, who for the past 22 years had been caretaker and gravedigger at the Cemetery. The body lay at the Cemetery Lodge buildings, but as there was so room large enough for the Jury, Mr H. Stanbury placed his ground floor at the disposal of the Coroner. - HELEN WESTAWAY, the widow, stated that deceased was 56 years of age. They had been married 29 years and 22 years of that time had been spent at the Cemetery Lodge. Although her husband had been doing his work he complained of pains in his head, and at times lost his appetite. She wanted him to see the doctor, but he put it off. He was very poorly all day on Sunday and would not go out. Witness went out and returned at 8.15. Her husband was not in, and there was a note on the table with his watch placed on it. He had lighted the lamp so that she could read the note, which she did not understand. The writing on the note (produced) was:- "Oh my poor head. I can't stand this much longer. Good bye, HELEN, Bill Goodbye. Do not believe what they say. It does not belong to me. Do not take me away from here, let me lie until put away. Oh my poor head." - Witness went at once to Mr Stanbury, who had been very good to them, and whose house was some distance away. Mr Stanbury and his son Frank came down and they all searched for deceased. After some time they looked into the tool-house attached to the Nonconformist chapel, and found deceased hanging from the roof. He had never threatened to take his life, and he was the last man she thought would have done it. He had no other worry than his work. He was generally of a cheerful disposition, of a healthy and sound family; in fact his mother was now living and was 84 years of age. - By the Coroner: She did not know the meaning of what was referred to in the note. - Thomas H. L. Stanbury of Hazeldown, said he had known MR and MRS WESTAWAY for at least 20 years. When the last witness came to him on Sunday night, and gave him the note, he suspected something was wrong. He took his lantern and with his son searched the cemetery. Deceased's feet were about ten inches from the ground, and it looked as if he stood on a box, and after adjusting the noose turned the box over. Deceased had complained of pains in his head. He did not believe there was a more devoted couple than WESTAWAY and his wife in the town. Frank Stanbury corroborated and said deceased had been dead some time before being cut down. - P.C. partridge said he knew something had happened and that a man had threatened to take legal proceedings against deceased. Witness had noticed deceased was strange in his manner recently. The Jury consulted in private, and returned a verdict of "Felo-de-se."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 September 1908
TORQUAY - Labourer's Sudden Death. - A labourer named JAMES WYMAN, aged about forty-five, living at Brunswick Terrace, Torre, died suddenly on Tuesday evening. He was discovered sitting in the hedge near Shiphay Bridge, evidently ill, by a man named Borlace. The latter obtained assistance and put him on a vehicle, with the intention of taking him to the Torbay Hospital. Before arriving at that institution, however, WYMAN expired. Deceased leaves a widow and several children. The Inquest was held by Mr S. Hacker, at the Masonic Hall on Wednesday afternoon. Mr W. Blacklet was Foreman of the Jury. MRS HARRIETT WYMAN stated that her husband had been in ill health for two months, Dr T. D. Cook having treated him for heart disease. On Tuesday afternoon, after having a hearty dinner, he went to Cockington to pick mushrooms. That was the last time she saw him alive. Thomas Connett, coal lumber, said he met deceased about 4 o'clock sitting in the hedge near Shiphay House. He complained of being ill and said he had been chased by Mr Reed, on whose property he had been gathering mushrooms. Frank Lang of Lawes Bridge, said when he was called, he found deceased lying on his right side foaming from the mouth. He died within a quarter of an hour. P.C. Finch also gave evidence. Dr Cook said deceased died from heart disease, he had warned him against violent exertion. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 September 1908
TOTNES - Death Through Excitement. Torquay Hawker Dies On Totnes Racecourse. - At the Totnes Cottage Hospital, on Friday morning, Mr George F. Kellock (Deputy Coroner) held an Inquest on the body of GEORGE MICHAEL PILE, fish hawker, of Pimlico, Torquay, who fell down on Totnes Racecourse on the previous Wednesday afternoon, and died shortly after he was admitted to the hospital. - The widow gave evidence of identification and said deceased was forty-nine years of age. She last saw him alive on Wednesday morning, when he left to go to Totnes Races, and he appeared in his usual state of health. - Isaac Loxton, fish hawker, stated that he accompanied PILE to Totnes and at Newton deceased complained of feeling ill and giddy. After the first race, PILE dropped on the turf unconscious and he did all he could for him before he was removed t the hospital. Detective Potter, Torquay, said he knew the defendant, and saw him on Torre platform, when he remarked that PILE looked ill. - Dr Chapman, Totnes, stated that deceased broke a blood vessel on the brain, which was probably caused by excitement, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" and gave their fees to the widow.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 September 1908
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Fatality. Labourer's Mysterious End. A New Theory. - At Plymouth on Tuesday the Inquest was resumed touching the death of WM. HENRY COLLINGS, labourer, who was supposed to have been killed by a motor car in Embankment Road. It will be remembered that the police have been making a search for a motor car and that inquiries were made both at Torquay and Paignton, in regard to two cars which left Plymouth on the night in question, but were proved to be quite unconnected with the affair. At Tuesday's hearing the motor car theory was refuted. - The Coroner (Mr J. Graves) said the Inquest was adjourned for further inquiries by the police, and for a post mortem examination. The police had been most assiduous in the matter, but they had been unable to find anything satisfactory. According to the evidence, the deceased was not sober when he passed the toll-house on the embankment Road. The gate-keeper described him as rambling drunk. A woman and another man who also saw him agreed that he had been drinking. Just after deceased passed the toll-gate, at 11.10, a small car passed. That car had been seen, and nothing attached to that. At 11.20, a yellow car passed; they stopped and gave up their ticket, and proceeded along the Embankment Road. A man living near by said he looked out of his window and saw that yellow car going at a furious pace; but according to the statement of another man who saw it shortly afterwards, it was going at a very moderate pace indeed. Afterwards two market carts passed at a furious rate, and neither of them stopped at the toll gate to give up a ticket. The police had been unable to find that those carts had anything to do with the matter. The result of the post mortem examination came to this, that the deceased had only one abrasion on the forehead, and the doctor would tell them he thought that might have been caused by some kind of protected weapon which fractured the skull, but did not leave any bad external mark. The body was found lying on the left-hand side of the road, with the head towards Laira, which suggested that the man being in a rambling condition might have turned round at the time he was struck. The vehicles were all going in the direction of Plympton. The Doctor thought the injury might have been caused by the shaft of a cart, but there were still left very much in the dark about the matter. There was some evidence of the deceased being dragged over the road but, if so, there were no marks on the body to lead them to suppose he was violently dragged over the road. His overcoat was apparently dragged off him except part of the left arm, and it was difficult to imagine how that could be done. Altogether the occurrence was extremely mysterious. - Dr Parsloe, who made a post mortem examination of the body, said there was a superficial abrasion about the centre of the forehead about the size of a crown piece. There was another superficial abrasion just under the right eye. Deceased's skull was fractured as the result of direct violence applied to the forehead. It was probably the result blow by some protected instrument, such as a stick or life preserver, covered with some material. It might have been done by the end of a shaft of a carriage, but he did not think a motor car could have done it. There was no scratch upon the body, nor was the face disfigured, which must have been the case had the body been dragged by some vehicle. - To a Juryman: It was impossible to say how the wound was caused, but in his opinion it was certainly not a motor car. - A Juror asked whether it was possible to have been done by deceased falling down? - Witness did not think so. - A Juror: Was the blow sufficient to have caused deceased to drop at once? - Witness: Oh, yes; immediately he was knocked down he was probably killed; at any rate he was insensible. - Supt. Ford: Is the nature of the blow consistent with a blow from a tyre hanging on the side of a motor car? - Witness: I don't think a large tyre would make a comparatively small abrasion. He must have had one great crack by something or other more or less smooth; otherwise the wound would have been a jagged one. - A Juror observed that no car or cart could have carried so heavy a body 14 yards without knowing something about it. - Mr Dobell: Was there a wound at the back of the head? - Dr Pascoe: None whatever. - The Coroner said this was evidently a mystery they could not elucidate. This was all the evidence he proposed to call. - The Jury retired to consider their verdict, and on their return the Foreman said they had agreed to an Open Verdict - that the deceased was found dead on the Laira Embankment Road; how he came by his death there was no evidence to show.

TORQUAY - Torquay Fatality. St. Marychurch Joiner's Sad Death. - Whilst working at Cary Park, St. Marychurch, on Wednesday, a young joiner, named ARCHIE EDWARDS, living with his parents at St. Marychurch Road, fell from a scaffold thirty-feet high, and was picked up unconscious. P.C. Brimfield took him in a cab to the Torbay Hospital, where he was at once attended to. His injuries were, it was apparent from the first, very severe, and the expectation that he would not live through the night was realised, the unfortunate man dying early yesterday morning. An Inquest will be held this afternoon.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 September 1908
TORQUAY - Torquay Inquests. St Marychurch Builder's Fatal Fall. - At the Masonic Hall, on Friday afternoon Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest on ARTHUR EDWARDS, 29, who died at the Torbay Hospital on Thursday evening, as the result of a fall at a St. Marychurch building. - HENRY JAMES EDWARDS, builder of 2 Plainmoor Terrace, said deceased was his son, who had been recently married. Deceased who was in his employ, was on Wednesday engaged at a building in course of construction at Cary Park. At 8.30 witness was called there and found his son on the ground unconscious and being attended by Drs. Dunlop and Winter. - John Stribling, carpenter, Victoria Park, said that he was working with deceased. They were both on the roof of the building about 30 ft. from the ground putting on battens in preparation for slating. Deceased was standing on the wood battens. At the time of the accident witness had his back to the deceased. He heard the latter cry "Oh!" and on turning round, he saw deceased in mid-air just over the side of the building. He struck a scaffold and fell to the ground head downwards. It was witness's opinion that deceased must have overbalanced himself and fallen backwards. - By the Coroner: The roof on which deceased was working was much steeper than most. - Dr Lionel Phillips, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said deceased was admitted at about 9 a.m. on Wednesday. He was unconscious and was suffering from concussion and also compression of the brain. He was treated, and subsequently an operation was performed, with the idea of removing the pressure. He did not last the night, and died at 3.30 a.m. on Thursday. Death was due to compression of the brain. - MR EDWARDS inquired if he could put a question to the doctor, and on the Coroner giving his consent, MR EDWARDS asked the doctor why the operation was delayed until the evening. - Dr Phillips stated that up to about 7 p.m. there was no indication as to where the operation would have to be performed. Directly this was learnt the operation was proceeded with. - MR EDWARDS expressed dissatisfaction with this reply, and the Coroner said that they all felt deeply with him, but he must accept Dr Phillips's explanation, which seemed quite clear. Had the doctors operated before they had an indication as to where the compression was, they would not have been doing their duty. - Dr Phillips added that there were two other members of the medical staff present besides himself. - The Father (excitedly): I want to know the number of hours my boy lay there before the operation was performed? - Mr Hacker: I cannot allow you to say anything more. You must get down. - Frank Causley, labourer, also gave evidence. - Summing up, the Coroner said that the discretion of the doctors had to prevail in all questions such as an operation. - A verdict of "Accidental Death", no blame being attributed to anyone was returned, the Jury expressing their sympathy with the deceased's father. The Inquiry was attended by Mr L. P. Evans, H.M.'s Inspector of Factories, Plymouth.

TORQUAY - Tor Child's Death. - The Coroner also Inquired into the death of the unnamed male child of JAMES and ELIZABETH BROOKS, living at 6 Tor Square. - The child was left in bed asleep on the previous morning by his mother. The latter went downstairs to get her breakfast, and when next seen the child was black in the face and had evidently had a fit. A doctor was sent for, but the baby died before his arrival. - The mother stated that the only thing done to the baby was to moisten its lips, and, in reply to the Coroner, she said that she had never heard that the first thing to be done to a baby in a convulsion was to put it into a hot bath. - Lottie Northcote, a neighbour, also gave evidence. Dr Cook, who said that the child was healthy, and well cared for, attributed death t an infantile convulsion, primarily caused by a slight inflammation of the bowels. Questioned by the Coroner, witness said that if deceased had been immediately put into a hot bath, it would probably have recovered. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 9 October 1908
TORQUAY - Chelston Nurse's Death. Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Saturday, the Deputy Coroner (Mr G. F. Kellock) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of SARAH HUNT, aged 84, a nurse in the employ of Miss Cross of Lyndhurst, Chelston, who was found dead early on Friday morning. - Alice toms, cook at Lyndhurst, Chelston, said she had known the deceased for many years. She was a spinster and a native of SOUTH MOLTON. Witness last saw MISS HUNT alive at 5.45 on Thursday evening, when she was reading. Deceased had been unwell for about a fortnight, but said she was better that day. At 7.15 on Friday morning witness took a cup of tea to her room and found her lying across the bed quite dead. - Emily McDermott, parlourmaid at Lyndhurst, said she saw MISS HUNT at 8.5 on Thursday evening. She was then seated in a chair in her room. Witness took in her supper, which she ate heartily. On the following morning she visited deceased's room and saw her on the bed dead. She was undressed. Dr G. Mitchelmore said he was called at about 8 a.m. on Friday. He found deceased's body lying across the bed. he thought she had been dead about two hours, as the body was not cold. On making a post mortem examination he found advanced fatty degeneration of the heart. Death was due to cardiac syncope. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 October 1908
TORQUAY - Another Death From Lockjaw. Third Within Twelve Months. Dangers Of Blackberry Gathering. - At Northcote Hall on Tuesday afternoon, the County Coroner, (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry respecting the death of SAMUEL WEBBER, 44, general labourer, of Pimlico, who died at the Torbay Hospital early the same morning. Mr R. Blatchford was elected Foreman of the Jury. - CHARLES WEBBER, labourer, 3 Myrtle Cottages, Plainmoor, identified deceased as his brother, who had been living at a common lodging-house in Pimlico. Witness had not seen him for three weeks until the previous evening, when, upon being told he was at the Hospital, he went to that Institution. Deceased could understand what witness said, but could make no reply, as his jaws were tightly closed. He knew nothing of the circumstances which caused deceased's illness. - Dr Phillips, house surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased died early on Tuesday morning. When admitted he said he had bitten his tongue and could not open his mouth. It was difficult for WEBBER to speak, but he gathered from what he tried to say that he had been out of work for some time, and had been out picking blackberries to earn a few pence. He was suffering from tetanus, and had spasms the whole of the day. He telephoned through to a chemist to get some anti-tetanic serum, and obtained some, but it was not very active. He telegraphed to London for some fresh, and it arrived at 11.30 on Monday night, but it had no effect. Deceased had to be artificially fed for a time, but eventually the spasms became too violent to allow of this. In reply to the Coroner, witness said in some cases the serum had effected distinct cures, but they were very rare. On the whole the treatment had been disappointing. No wounds could be found on deceased's body which might have set up the disease, but deceased's hands were very dirty, and the flesh around the finger nails was very rough and sore. It was just possible that the tetanus microbe might have entered from these places, and it was also very possible that it might have been conveyed by a blackberry thorn, especially if the brambles were growing near the road, as the microbes were largely found in road dust. - The Coroner: How long does tetanus take to develop? - The time varies, but it usually takes six or seven days. - There is no telling, then, when the damage was done?: - No; when the patient was brought to the Hospital the tetanus was well developed. There was a stiffness about the neck and muscles of the mouth. - Replying to further questions by the Coroner, witness said there had been three cases of lockjaw at the Hospital during the past year, and he agreed with Mr Hacker that it was somewhat curious. - The Coroner: It almost looks as if the microbe was more prevalent at one time than another. - Dr Phillips thought it was a question of chance more than anything else. - Edwin Buckpitt, who lodged with deceased and slept in the same room, said he awoke and found him ill and unable to speak plainly at 2 a.m. on Monday morning. At his advice deceased dressed and walked to the Hospital. - In summing up, the Coroner said there was no direct evidence to show what produced the tetanus. It was, of course, possible that the microbe was lurking on one of the blackberry bushes as Dr Phillips suggested. It was a curious thing that during 25 years he only had one or two cases of tetanus and then he had to deal with two or three in a twelvemonth. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Misadventure."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 October 1908
MILFORD HAVEN - An Inquest was held at Milford Haven on Tuesday, on the body of WILLIAM LONSDALE, skipper, of the Brixham smack Morning Star, who died suddenly at sea off the Helwicks early on Monday morning. The mate gave him a cup of tea, deceased not feeling well, and shortly afterwards found him dead in the cabin. Deceased's wife is on a visit to Milford, making the affair doubly sad. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

TORQUAY - Bricklayer's Fatal Fall. Inquest - Protection Of Scaffolding. - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry at Torquay on Friday touching the death of SIDNEY C. W. WOODLEY, a Dawlish bricklayer, aged 35, who died at the Torbay Hospital late on Wednesday night, as the result of injuries received in a fall from a scaffold at Barton Road, Torquay, on the previous Tuesday. Mr L. P. Evans (Plymouth), H.M's Inspector of Factories, was present. - MRS BESSIE WOODLEY, Towntree House, Dawlish, wife of a plasterer, said that deceased, her eldest son, was a widower and had left one little girl. She saw him on the night of his death and he told her that his tight line broke as he was working, and that he fell twenty feet from the scaffold. - Horace Henton, bricklayer, of Cockwood, near Dawlish, said that deceased and he were at work at a villa in course of construction at Barton Road. Deceased was standing on the scaffold board pulling his "tight line" taut, when it broke and he lost his balance. He fell about twenty feet to the ground. Deceased was partially conscious when picked up, but was evidently in great pain and was taken on a waggon to the hospital. - Samuel Scadding, also a bricklayer, of Stoke Gabriel, said that the last "course" was being reached and an extra pull was given to the line, which parted in the middle. - Dr Lionel L. Phillips, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said deceased broke his spine. He lived about thirty hours after the injury was received. His spine was broken near the neck and he was paralysed from the top of his chest downwards. - Edwin Martin, plasterer, of Ellacombe, also gave evidence. - Robert E. Narracott, builder, employing the deceased, said there were no protections on the scaffolding. His experience was that they were a failure. - A Juryman ventured the opinion that a protecting rod around the scaffolding would have prevented the accident, but witness said that in mounting the scaffolding there would be a liability of accidents. Whilst he was building the Free Library a protection was around the scaffolding, but they a man fell off as the result of the breaking of the pud-log, fortunately, however, escaping injury. - By the Coroner: Protection rods were used on high scaffolds. - Mr Hacker: Then if they are any use on high scaffolds, should they not be equally useful on lower levels. - Witness: Few builders have them. They are only used if the men themselves ask for them. Many men object to them. - Mr Evans, in reply to the Coroner, said there were no official regulations as to the protection of scaffoldings. Opinions were divided as to their utility. - Summing up, the Coroner said it was evidently an open question whether it was advisable to have a protection runner around scaffoldings, and with different practices in use no blame could be attached to a builder who did not provide them. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

TORQUAY - Vanman's Strange Suicide. Inquest - Pathetic Last Letter. - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Northcote Hall on Monday, touching the death of FRANK WILLS, 33, of 77 Ellacombe Church Road, who hanged himself in a loft at the rear of Prince's Road, on Saturday night. - One of the Jurymen, Mr J. C. King, was late and pleaded as his excuse that he mistook the place of meeting. The Coroner accepted the explanation but pointed out that had Mr King been a minute later he would have been fined. - ELIZABETH ANN WILLS, wife of the deceased, gave evidence of identification. She stated that her husband had been of late in his usual health. On Saturday he went to work at 8 a.m., and returned to dinner at 2 p.m. He ate a hearty meal, but she noticed that he was a little more quiet than usual. He left again at 4 p.m., kissing his children and saying good-bye in his usual way. That was the last time he was in the house. - Asked if she could throw any light on the occurrence, MRS WILLS said she could not account for it in any way. The deceased had never threatened to take his life. He had had no home troubles and had never shown signs of having outside worries. - Further questioned by the Coroner, witness stated that when in drink six months ago, her husband exclaimed that he would drown himself. During the past half-year he had been a heavy drinker. - MRS WILLS was shown a pencilled note which was found addressed to her by the side of the corpse. She identified the handwriting as that of her husband. The Coroner read the note which was as follows:- "My dear LILY. - Just a line of farewell to you to say I am in trouble and rather than bring disgrace to you and the children I have decided to take my life. If you will kindly tell Mr Oldfield of Melbourne Towers, what I have done you will always have a friend. Give my love to all my friends and always remember me. I remain, your ever loving husband, FRANK. You will find the key of my money in your room in the red box." - Dr T. Horton stated that he was called to stables at the rear of Prince's Road, Ellacombe, and found the body on the floor of the loft, it having just been cut down. Life was extinct, but the body was still warm. There was the mark of a small cord cutting deeply into deceased's neck and it was evident that death had resulted from hanging. He considered that deceased broke his spinal column and that there was no strangulation. Evidently the jerk of the fall caused death. - William George Zaple, employed with Mr Douglas with deceased as a carman, said he left the latter at the stables about 7 p.m. on Saturday. He was all right, but seemed very quiet. The rope (produced) deceased might have got from his waggon. Witness knew nothing of deceased's private affairs and did not know whether he had had any troubles. He had heard deceased threaten to drown himself. - William Townsend, 'bus-driver, said that at 9.30 p.m. on Saturday he had just concluded putting his horse and 'bus away in the same stable where deceased's horse and waggon were stabled, when he noticed a light in an unused loft over. He thought there must be something wrong and went for a policeman. When P.C. Mitchell arrived, it was found that the door of the loft was tied on the inside. They forced the door and saw deceased hanging by a cord from a piece of wood placed across the beams. The light came from a small piece of candle. Witness knew deceased well, but he had never told him he had any troubles. - P.C. Mitchell said that deceased's feet were eighteen inches off the ground. WILLS had evidently jumped off a box which was near his feet. Directly he had cut deceased down, witness tried artificial respiration, but with no result. - Townsend, recalled, said that he found the note which had been read, near deceased's feet. - George R. Douglas, of 7 Victoria Parade, parcel agent, said that the deceased had been in his employ for nine years and previously to that for a period of three years. He was a fine man for work, but was of an excitable disposition. About six months ago witness lost a horse which he had had for nineteen years. Deceased had been exceptionally fond of it, and its death seemed to upset him a great deal. It was in connection with this that witness thought he made his threat to drown himself. During the last half-year he had drunk a little more than usual, but witness had never seen him drunk. On Saturday last witness found a deficiency of a shilling or two in deceased's accounts, It was a matter for explanation, solely, he thought, and asked deceased at 6.30 to look down in half an hour and have a talk with him. Witness did not tell him what he wanted him for but deceased said, "If it is a money matter I can put it right." Deceased then went to the stable and in witness's opinion, in a slight fit of depression, had taken his life. A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned. - A fund has been started for the widow and four children of WILLIS, and subscriptions will be gratefully received by Mr Douglas of the Strand.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 13 November 1908
TORQUAY - A Fatal Ride. Accident To Gentleman In Barton Road. Inquest. - At the Northcote Hall on Friday, Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, conducted investigations into the circumstances attending the death of GEORGE BELL, sixty-two, of Southernhay House, Torquay, who died at the Torbay Hospital on Thursday following a fall from a horse on the previous day. - MRS BELL, the widow, who gave evidence with much difficulty and was accommodated with a chair, said that her husband was a retired builder. On Wednesday morning she left home to go to Newton Abbot. Her husband was then making preparations to go for a ride. Deceased was very fond of riding. She returned between three and four o'clock in the afternoon, and her husband was then lying at the Torbay Hospital unconscious. - In reply to the Coroner, MRS BELL said that a considerable time ago her husband's mare, which he had had for years, stumbled, but MR BELL was then unhurt. - Edwin Rendell, a carter, of 216 Lymington Road, Upton, Torquay, said on Wednesday morning he met a riderless horse in Barton Road. He caught it and went in the direction from which the horse had come. About two hundred yards back he found the deceased lying in the road insensible, with blood oozing from his ears. He obtained assistance, and deceased was conveyed to the Torbay Hospital. He later found marks in the centre of the road which pointed to the horse having fallen there. He rode the mare home, and it went quite steadily. It's off knee was cut, and in his (witness's) opinion it had fallen sideways. - Robert Trand, haulier, Hoxton Road, Ellacombe, said that just prior to the accident he saw the deceased riding along Barton Road just behind him. The mare was then going at a walking pace. Witness heard a noise and on turning round a little later he saw MR BELL lying in the road. In witness's opinion the horse tripped and threw its rider over its head. - William Kellaway, haulier, also gave evidence. - Dr L. L. Phillips, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said on Wednesday afternoon after his admission deceased became paralysed and at 2 a.m. on Thursday he became very much worse, and died about 3 a.m. He was of opinion that one of the blood vessels in the deceased's brain was ruptured. Fracture of the base of the skull caused death, but the deceased might have been taken ill in the saddle and fallen off the mare. The paralysis that set in pointed to haemorrhage of the brain, but witness could not say definitely whether it occurred before or after the fall. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. The Coroner and the Jury, through the Foreman (Mr W. Oliver) joined in an expression of sympathy with the widow and family of the deceased.

PAIGNTON - Paignton Officer's Death. - An Inquest was held at Paignton on Monday touching the death of MAJOR ALEXANDER COOK, a retired Indian Army officer, of Osney-crescent, Paignton, who died suddenly on Saturday. He came down to lunch about a quarter to three, and stopped in the hall for a minute to help the servant move a bath-chair. While doing so he suddenly fell to the ground. In falling he struck his head against the window-sill. The girl procured some whisky and water, but deceased could not take nay. He breathed once or twice and then expired. - Mr Bennett said death was due to the bursting of an aneurism on the aorta of the heart. A verdict was returned accordingly.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 November 1908
ST. MARYCHURCH - Pensioner's Fatal Fall. Inquest At St. Marychurch. - At Plainmoor, Torquay, on Wednesday, Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry touching the death of ROBERT THOMAS, aged 83, 28 St Giles' Terrace, Plainmoor, on the previous day. Mr Geo. Hosking was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Richard Skedgwell, landlord of No. 8 St. Giles' Terrace, a carpenter, said he had known deceased for thirty years. He had lodged with witness for twenty-eight years. Deceased was a pensioned shipwright, without any family. On the 10th deceased was going upstairs to bed with one hand on the rail of the stairs when witness heard a sound which led him to believe that the old man had missed his footing. He rushed to the spot and saw the deceased falling over the banisters. He complained of having injured his side, and had since been under medical care. - Dr W. Pitt-Palmer gave evidence to the effect that he had attended the deceased since last Saturday. He was suffering from three broken ribs on the left side. He had received a great shock, and there being internal bruises he had little chance of recovery at his advanced age. Mrs Sarah Potter, who had attended the deceased as nurse, also gave evidence. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 November 1908
BARNSTAPLE - In A Pan Of Hot Milk. - At an Inquest at Barnstaple on Tuesday on the body of VERA BARNES, the little child who died as the result of severe scalds inflicted through falling into a pan of hot milk at Georgeham, MRS BARNES, the mother, stated that whilst she went from the passage to an adjoining room to attend to another of her children, who was crying, the deceased fell into the milk which she had just placed temporarily in the passage. The little girl was removed to the N.D. Infirmary, where she expired on last Sunday week despite every attention. - Dr Appleyard, house surgeon, said the burns were very serious and extensive, death being due to shock. In reply to the Coroner (Mr T. A. R. Bencraft) he said the best kind of first aid in a case of this kind was to keep the patient as warm as possible. The mother, therefore, was not wrong in wrapping up the child warmly in bed until Dr Harper's arrival. The Coroner emphasised the great need of exercising care in the matter of scalding milk where there were little children. There had been several accidents in that neighbourhood, whilst they were continually happening all over the country. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 4 December 1908
TORQUAY - Painter's Sudden Death. The Inquest. - At the Northcote Hall, on Tuesday morning, Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry respecting the death of WILLIAM CHING, 55, painter, of Stentiford's Hill, who died at the Torbay Hospital on Monday. - MRS CHING, the widow, gave evidence of identification. Her husband, she said, had been in his usual health. On Monday morning she was fetched from her work to go to Luneville, Warberry Road, to see her husband, who had been taken ill. On arrival there she was told that he had been suddenly attacked by illness whilst on the roof. The other employees had brought him down to a small area. He was quite unconscious and after being seen by a doctor was placed upon an ambulance and taken to the Hospital. She sat with him until he died about 1.30. Deceased never regained consciousness. - Charles Cload, plumber and painter, said deceased started to work for him at 7 o'clock on Monday morning. He seemed to be in good health and spirits and was pleased with the prospect of a few weeks work after being out of employ for some little time. Deceased was at work on the conservatory roof, witness being close by. Whilst witness was speaking to him he slowly sank down on the plank. He said he had a pain in the head and that he was suffering from rheumatism. He rapidly became worse and appeared to lapse into unconsciousness. Deceased was removed from the roof and subsequently conveyed to the Hospital. - Dr Phillips, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said deceased was admitted in an unconscious state and died within an hour. - Death was due to cerebral haemorrhage. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 December 1908
PLYMOUTH - Death While Chasing A Rat. - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth on Monday on MRS SHELTON, of Buckwell Street. Mrs Ellis, living in the same house, said on Friday morning MRS SHELTON was trying to catch a rat, and it jumped at her. She screamed and became paralysed. She was not bitten by the rat. Dr T. H. Williams said MRS SHELTON was dead when he arrived. As the result of a post mortem examination, he attributed death to a rupture of a blood vessel on the brain. Fright was not the cause of death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 25 December 1908
SOUTH MOLTON - Death Results From A Scratch. - Mr G. W. F. Brown, District Coroner, held an Inquest at Embercombe Cottage, near South Molton, on Monday relative to the death of JOHN MUXWORTHY, aged 46, labourer. MRS MUXWORTHY said that whilst cutting browse on Brennage Farm, on December 5th, her husband, by some means, scratched his forehead, and two days later complained of pains in his head and back. He went to work next day, but gradually became worse, expiring on December 20th. Dr Seale, called in on December 16th, deposed that MUXWORTHY then had a large swelling on the forehead. Death was due to blood poisoning which probably originated in a scratch from a thorn or bramble. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," presenting their fees to the widow.

TEIGNMOUTH - Flannelette Dangers. A Teignmouth Boy's Sad Death. - An Inquest was held on Monday at Teignmouth Hospital on ARTHUR RICHARDSON, aged eight years. - JESSIE RICHARDSON, of the Strand, said the deceased was her son. He had been in the habit of getting up mornings and lighting the gas stove and making tea. She had begged him not to do it, but he had a will of his own, and would go downstairs so she would let the slot stove run out. On Saturday morning he went downstairs, and shortly afterwards she heard a scream, and her husband and self going to the bedroom door saw the lad outside in a volume of flame. They picked up an old carpet to roll around the boy, but he ran out in the yard. They laid him down on a couch and spread oil over the burns. He had on a woven shirt and a flannelette nightdress. He was able to tell them he lit a candle and was placing the candlestick on the table, when it slipped off and caught his nightdress. - ARTHUR RICHARDSON, the father, corroborated. - The Coroner (Mr S. Hacker): Did you not know that flannelette was most inflammable? - No, sir. My wife may have, but I always leave home affairs to her. - The Coroner: It is asserted that there are 1,500 deaths annually through children being burnt through wearing this material. Its dangers are reported in the newspapers, and coroners and their juries caution parents and it all seems to no purpose. - Dr Hayward said the boy was so badly burnt there was no chance of his recovery. Dr Flint, at the hospital, had the case under his charge, and the boy said it was through disobedience that it had happened. - The Coroner said in the case of fire the person wearing flannelette had 100 to 1 chances against him. This information was spread broadcast, but the material was not set aside as it should be, and he trusted less thoughtlessness would be seen in Teignmouth now this accident had happened. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and the Foreman said the Jury fully endorsed the Coroner's remarks and passed a vote of sympathy with the parents.

NEWTON ABBOT - Wife's Sad Discovery. - On Tuesday evening, Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Newton Abbot on CHARLES WALLEN, fifty, a labourer, who was found hanging in the scullery of his house the previous night. - MARY ELIZABETH WALLEN, the widow, stated that she and her two sons went out the previous evening to a social, leaving deceased home with a twelve-year-old daughter. When they returned the latter was in bed asleep, while deceased was hanging dead in the scullery. Deceased was at work as usual on Monday and apparently in his usual health, although he had been worried because he was in arrears with his allotment rent. He sometimes suffered pains in his head, and about twenty-five years ago his mother died in the asylum. - MARY WALLEN, the daughter, stated that she sat with her father until eight o'clock, when he told her to go to bed. She heard nothing of him after. - P.C. Maddick said deceased hanged himself to an upright post in the middle of the scullery. It supported the beam on which the ceiling rested, and the rope was passed through a staple, which was evidently put in to carry a clothes line. Deceased was hanging with his back to the post. A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was passed.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 January 1909
PAIGNTON - Aged Paignton Man's Death. - An Inquest was held at Paignton on Friday concerning the death of WILLIAM FOGWILL, aged 85, who died on the previous Tuesday. Deceased lived with his daughter in Cecil Road, and sometimes he wandered and left his bed. As he did so one morning in December he fell downstairs. In the opinion of Dr Collyer, however, the accident had nothing to do with the cause of death, which was attributed to cerebral haemorrhage. Testimony was borne to the daughter's care of the old man, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - Inquest On Chelston Infant. Warning To The Mother. - At the Northcote Hall on Tuesday the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker)_ held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of the infant male child of MARY SAUNDERS, 34, a single woman, residing at 4 Rosery Cottages, Chelston. Mr T. H. Wills was elected Foreman of the Jury. - JANE SAUNDERS, wife of SIDNEY SAUNDERS, painter, said her daughter, MARY, was the mother of the child, which was born on the morning of the 3rd inst. Her daughter lived at home, but she (witness) was quite unaware that she was enceinte. Witness kept a laundry and her daughter worked at home. Another daughter, aged 24, slept with MARY, but had no knowledge of her sister's condition. - The coroner: If the child was born alive it will be a rather serious matter. - Witness, continuing, said her daughter called her between twelve and one o'clock on Sunday morning and told her of her state. She immediately sent for a doctor, but before his arrival the child was born. She could not get her daughter into bed. The child did not sustain any blow, and it did not utter any cry. She did not think the child was alive, as it did not move. - Dr. G. H. Michelmore stated that on his arrival at 4 Rosery Cottages, he found the dead body of a recently born child. He made an external examination of the body, but found no marks of violence. He had since made a post mortem examination and applied the ordinary tests, with the result that he found that the child had had no separate existence. - The Coroner said he trusted that MRS SAUNDERS would inform her daughter of the dangerous position she placed herself in by concealing her condition. - The Jury's verdict was that the child was "Stillborn."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 15 January 1909
TORQUAY - Retired Builder's Sudden Death. Inquest. - At the Braddon Street Schoolroom on Tuesday evening, the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry respecting the death of JAMES JOHN BROWNE, 75, retired builder of No. 4 Modena Terrace, who was found dead in his garden on Monday at midday. Mr R. Hodge was elected Foreman of the Jury. - JOHN JAMES BROWNE, licensed victualler of the Cary Hotel, identified the body as that of his father, who had lived with him for the past six years at Modena Terrace. He had always enjoyed exceptionally good health. Witness was with deceased in the garden from 10.30 to 11.30 on Monday morning. He was doing a little work. About one o'clock witness received a message at the Cary Hotel to come home as something had happened to his father. He found deceased lying in the garden, and after feeling his pulse sent for a doctor. - William Harvey, painter of 15 Braddon Street, said he was working for the last witness. Deceased was instructing him how to mix some mortar, and was in the best of health and spirits. Witness left about 12.15 to go to his dinner, and as he passed out deceased gave him instructions what to do when he returned. - MISS BEATRICE ELLEN BROWNE, grand daughter of deceased, said she sent her younger sister into the garden to call him to dinner. She returned and said she could not make him hear. Witness advised her to go back and call a little louder. When she returned a second time she remarked that she had touched grandfather but he did not appear to take any notice. Witness then went into the garden and saw deceased leaning against a ladder, and from his peculiar position she arrived at the conclusion that he was dead. She immediately sent for her father. - DR F. M. Gowell said he made an examination of the body, but found no external marks. He attributed death to the rupture or blocking of a blood vessel on the brain. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 January 1909
TORQUAY - Fatal Scalds. Overturned Tea Causes Child's Death. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Torquay on Friday on the body of CARRIE, the two year old child of JOHN HUXHAM, carman, who is best known as the Paignton and ex-Torquay Rugby football player. - BEATRICE HUXHAM, mother of the child, stated that on the previous Tuesday afternoon she poured out a cup of tea and placed it on the kitchen table. She went to attend to her baby, and as she did so the deceased child, unnoticed by witness, ran in. Witness was startled to hear the sound of a cup breaking, and on turning round saw that her daughter had knocked the cup over, and that the hot liquid had fallen on her face and throat. With a neighbour she wrapped the child in blankets and took her to the Torbay Hospital. - Lionel Phillips, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said that at first the injuries did not appear serious, and up to Wednesday night the child seemed to be progressing satisfactorily. The following morning, however, there was a change for the worse, and the child died about 5 p.m. Death resulted from shock and the effect of the burns. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 February 1909
TORQUAY - Torquay Infant's Death. - At the Northcote Hall on Tuesday afternoon the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry respecting the death of the female infant child of WILLIAM J. PEARCE, coal dealer of 13 Pennsylvania Terrace, Ellacombe. Mr W. Oliver was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The father said the child was born at about noon on Sunday. A quarter of an hour after he was told by the nurse that it was dead. - Eliza Martin, certificated midwife, said she was with MRS PEARCE on Saturday night. The child was born about 12 on Sunday. It gave two or three gasps, and then died before a doctor could arrive. Dr Couteny Dunn said he saw the child about two o'clock. It appeared to have been dead about an hour. He examined the body which was of average size and weight and had been properly attended to. The lungs had not fully expanded. The child had breathed and had a separate existence. Its death was due to inanition. The only thing to do in such a case was to try artificial respiration and the midwife had tried this. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

ST MARYCHURCH - Sudden Death At St. Marychurch. - Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) at St Marychurch Town Hall, yesterday afternoon, conducted an Inquest on the body of THOMAS LEWIS, 44, labourer, of 1 Chester Row, Victoria Park, who died suddenly on Tuesday. SARAH WILLCOCKS, sister of the deceased, said on Tuesday night she left deceased alone in the kitchen
for about five minutes. On her return she found him doubled up in a sitting posture, apparently dead. She called a neighbour
and Dr Winter was sent for. Five weeks ago her brother fell down in Union Street in a fit, and had had another since. No doctor
was sent for as deceased soon recovered. He had further a dread that a doctor would send him to the Hospital. Dr G. M. Winter
said that a post mortem examination had revealed extensive kidney disease and the heart was in a weak state. He attributed
death to failure of the heart due to kidney disease. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 February 1909
TORQUAY - Invalid From Birth. Torquay Young Woman's Sudden Death. Inquest. - At Torwood Schoolroom on Tuesday, the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MINNIE LOUISA SHIMMELL, 31, daughter of JAMES SHIMMELL, porter of 9 Meadfoot Lane, who died suddenly on Sunday. - The mother gave evidence of identification and said deceased had been an invalid from birth. She had never been able to walk out but could move about indoors from chair to chair. Occasionally she had suffered from haemorrhage but it passed away and it was not thought necessary to have medical attendance. - The Coroner: But that is a serious matter. Why did you not take her to the Hospital? - Witness gave no answer. She, however stated that deceased was able to take light food, up to 7 o'clock on Sunday evening. At 8.30 her father carried her to bed. She slept in the same room as witness, and just after she had said "good night" witness noticed something strange about her and called her husband. He went for a medial man but before he could arrive her daughter expired. There was no struggle. She did not give her daughter any restorative. Witness thought deceased's heart was affected as she was occasionally short of breath and she had fainting fits. - JAMES SHIMMELL the father, said deceased had been practically helpless since birth. She was very small and weakly. Years ago several medical men saw her, and said nothing could be done for her. About twelve months ago deceased had haemorrhage badly, but it passed away. She had a slight attack on Friday but recovered from this. - The Coroner said the case appeared to him to be one in which medical attendance should have been called in. If witness could not afford to pay a medical man he should have gone to the parish doctor. - Witness said the girl was seen years ago by a medical man who said it was an extraordinary case, but nothing could be done for her. On Sunday evening she was brighter than usual. He carried her to bed and a few minutes after was called by his wife. He went upstairs and noticed a great change in deceased. Her face was drawn and her eyes rolling. Witness ran for Dr Carver who came most promptly, but deceased was dead when he arrived. - Dr Carver said when he arrived deceased was quite dead. She was only about four feet high but was well nourished. Death was probably caused by heart disease. He did not think anything could have been done medically for the girl. The kindly tone of the father and mother and everybody in the house, led him to think that they were extremely fond of deceased. - Sarah Pack, next door neighbour, said deceased was thoroughly well treated and suffered very little pain. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 February 1909
TORQUAY - Torquay Fisherman's Suicide. The Inquest. - On Saturday afternoon THOMAS FLEET, 32, fisherman, residing with his wife and two children at No. 5 Queen Street, committed suicide in a most determined manner by cutting his throat with a table knife. he must have entered the kitchen and locked the door whilst his wife was absent, for his little son saw blood running out under the door and summoned deceased's brother-in-law, who, on going into the kitchen found FLEET lying dead on the floor. Deceased had been somewhat low-spirited of late on account of money affairs, but there was no suspicion of his attempting to take his life. He is described as a steady, industrious man. - The Inquest. - was conducted by Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, on Monday. Mr W. Gregory was elected Foreman of the Jury. - WILLIAM ELI FLEET, brother of deceased, a fisherman, having given evidence of identification, stated that he and deceased were engaged in cleaning witness's boat on Saturday morning, parting at noon. Deceased seemed just as usual. Witness had never heard him threaten to take his life and could give no explanation of his action. He had been earning a fair amount and he had no family troubles. - VIOLET FLEET, the widow, stated that she and the deceased had dinner together at 2 p.m. on Saturday. He ate a good meal, and she noticed nothing wrong with him. Witness went to her sister's just after 3 o'clock, leaving deceased and one of the children at home. After she had gone her husband sent the child for a loaf of bread saying "Hurry up, FREDDY, and we'll have a game of dominoes." When the lad returned, however, he was unable to open the kitchen door. He called witness, saying that he had seen some blood coming from under the door. Witness's brother forced the door open and an entry was made. her husband was lying on the floor quite dead. - Asked if she could throw any light on the motive, witness replied in the negative. Deceased had been a good husband and when he earned anything he always brought it home. On Friday, however, deceased mentioned that he did not know how he was going to pay the rent. The arrears were £2 15s. 0d. On Thursday night, witness added, she saw deceased reading the Bible - a thing she had never seen him do before. - Further questioned, witness said that her husband had never hinted that he would take his life. On Saturday he made all preparations for going to work on Monday. The table knife (produced) was hers. Deceased must have taken it from the cupboard. Witness concluded her evidence by stating that she had searched the whole house, but had found no note or communication of any sort. A person living in the same house heard nothing during Saturday afternoon. - George Henry Hammond, brother of the last witness, a private in the 1st Devons, said that when his sister was unable to open the kitchen door, he forced it open. Deceased was lying face downwards in a pool of blood, with the knife produced by his side. Witness felt his heart and found that he was quite dead. - P.C. Hatherly, who was called by the last witness, also gave evidence, and said that when he arrived deceased had evidently not been dead long. Witness sent for the doctor and took the body to the mortuary. Witness had known deceased as a steady, respectable man. - Dr Hugh K. Lacey said when he saw deceased at his home at 4.10 he was quite dead. There was a large wound in the throat. The windpipe and one of the arteries was severed, and under such circumstances death would occur in a very short time. Deceased was a man of splendid physique. The Coroner characterised the case as a mysterious one. Deceased had undoubtedly committed suicide and the point for the Jury to consider was whether deceased was sane or not at the time of his action. - A verdict of "Death during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 March 1909
TORQUAY - Sudden Death - The County Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, yesterday at the Northcote Hall, held an Inquest concerning the death of BESSIE SHERWOOD, aged 28, parlourmaid at Normount, Warberry Road. Deceased was identified by LEONARD SHERWOOD, ironmoulder, her brother. The evidence of Edith Bond, and Gertrude Moyles, housemaid and lady's maid respectively, at Normount, pointed to deceased having complained of a cold, but of no pains. Dr H. R. Walker said death was due to acute congestion of the lungs. Deceased had evidently long been anaemic and probably was attacked by influenza. The Jury, without withdrawing, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - Delusions. Aged Widow's Sad End. Inquest. Coroner's Strictures. - At Northcote Hall on Tuesday, the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry respecting the death of ELIZA BELLAMY, 75, widow, who died at Torbay Hospital on Saturday from internal injuries, stated to have been received as the result of throwing herself from an upper storey window at Pinewood Stables, St. Mark's Road, on the previous Thursday evening. - Mr R. Perring was Foreman of the Jury. - JOSHUA GEORGE BELLAMY, son of deceased, said he was gardener, at Pinewood. He lived at the stables, which lay back from the highway in the grounds of the house. His mother, who was the widow of the late WILLIAM BELLAMY, a general labourer, came to live with him at Christmas. She came to him on two or three occasions, crying, and saying men were following her, and asked him to take her in. There was no doubt that she was going wrong in her mind. Sometimes she said that she would have to go to the gallows and have her head off. Dr Thistle attended her, but witness did not think it needful to send her to an asylum, as Dr Thistle said there was just a chance of her recovery. For the past fortnight she had been decidedly better. On Thursday March 4th, however, she declined to have tea as she said she would be taking it away from witness. She was, however, persuaded to eat something, and subsequently witness took her for a short walk. On returning deceased seemed all right and witness and his wife went to the Theatre, leaving home at 7.30. Deceased was left in the upstair kitchen. He told her where he and his wife were going, and that she might expect them back about 11 o'clock. He did not tell anyone he was going to leave his mother alone in the house, but he told the kitchenmaid at Pinewood he was going to the Theatre. - The Coroner: How is that? You leave your mother who is a lunatic in the house all alone without asking anyone to look after her? - Witness: We had been out before in the same way. - The Coroner: But you undertook to look after your mother and should certainly have asked someone to keep an eye on her whilst you were away. - Witness, continuing, said he locked the front door, as his mother wished it. He and his wife returned home at 11 o'clock, and found deceased lying in the yard beneath the scullery window, which was shut and fastened by his wife before she left the premises. Deceased was groaning but conscious. She said she had jumped from the window, as there was someone after her who was going to cut off her head, and she had to die. Witness took her up and placed her in bed. She said she was sorry for what she had done. Witness ran for a doctor, who ordered deceased's removal to the Hospital. - The Coroner : I understand you to say you did not consider it dangerous to leave this unfortunate woman quite alone? - Not at the time. She said she would get supper for us by the time we came back. She was quite willing for us to go. - If she had been in an asylum she would have had attendants to look after her properly. You undertook to look after her, and instead of giving proper attention to her, you leave her alone and lock her in. The only excuse you give is that she seemed all right when you left, and was willing for you to go. - If I had known that my mother was going to do such a thing I would not have thought of leaving the house. I had too much affection for her for that. - Where was she sitting when you left her? - Near the fire. - So that if she had caught fire she would have been burnt to death without being able to get out. - The Foreman: Had you left her before? - No. - The Coroner: You said you had left her before, and came back and found her all right. Now you say you never left her. - Witness (excitedly, and in a loud voice): Not for the first fortnight, when she was in bed; but when we found she was getting better we went out one night and returned and found her all right. - The Coroner: Speak properly please. If you behave in that way I shall commit you to prison. - Dr Thistle said he saw deceased, at the request of her son, on the 17th January. She was well physically, but quite out of her mind, suffering from profound melancholia. He suggested that she should be removed to an asylum. The son and daughter-in-law did not wish her to be removed, and he told them they would have to watch her carefully as there was always a possibility of suicide in such cases. She might have benefited from treatment in an asylum, but medical treatment was of no use whatever. - The Coroner: I suppose no one knew BELLAMY had a lunatic in his house? - Not so far as I know. There is no law that I am aware of that prevents people from keeping a lunatic relative in their house. - EMILY BELLAMY, daughter-in-law of deceased, said she was under the impression that someone was after her, either lawyers or policemen, and that they wanted to cut her head off. She never talked of suicide or tried to do any harm to herself. Three days after Dr Thistle saw her she improved in mind and body. Her son CHARLES saw her on the Saturday evening previous to the occurrence, and said he had never seen his mother looking so well. When witness and her husband went out, deceased desired to be locked in. - The Coroner: You knew what the doctor told you. Did you never think of asking anyone to look after her? You were warned, you know. - But she had got so much better. She was at times a little childish, but we did not think it necessary to ask anyone to look after her. She did everything sensibly. We never thought she would do anything of this sort. She even wanted to go to the theatre with us. We left her quite comfortable, and she told us when we found her that she had had supper, which she had prepared herself. She did not know how she had got out of the window, but she was sorry for what she had done after all they had done for her. - Dr L. L. Phillips, house surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased was admitted between 2 and 3 o'clock on the morning of Friday, 5th March. She was suffering from internal injuries and shock, from which she died on Sunday morning. - P.C. Penwill said he was informed of the occurrence by the first witness. He went to the house and saw that deceased must have fallen a distance of about 15 feet. On asking her why she had jumped from the window, she replied, "They were going to chop my head off, and I wanted to get into the yard." - The Coroner, in summing up, said the case was rather a serious one. Deceased had been pronounced a lunatic by Dr Thistle and her son had been told that the proper place for her was an asylum, and he had been persuaded to have her removed. He, however, wished to keep her with him, and he was told that if he did so he would have to keep a most careful watch over her. He had this advice given him, but he had not followed it. He had taken a responsibility upon himself which he had not carried out. No one but another son seemed to know of her presence in the house. They were in the habit of going out and leaving her alone, locked in the house. So far from watching her carefully, this was about the most careless thing they could have done. There was nothing more dangerous than leaving a woman in this condition locked in a house alone. It was the greatest negligence and want of care; in fact it almost amounted to criminal negligence. MRS BELLAMY had given her evidence in a sensible way. That was more than he could say respecting her husband; but, however, they looked at the case they must regard the BELLAMYS as guilty of a great error of judgment, even if it could not be regarded as great carelessness and negligence. They had failed in their duty by leaving this woman locked alone in the house. Deceased apparently jumped from the window to escape an imaginary pursuer. The Jury, after a short retirement, returned a verdict that deceased met her death from injuries sustained by jumping out of the window under a delusion. They attached no blame to the son and daughter-in-law.

TORQUAY - Torquay Porter's Suicide. The Inquest. - At the Northcote Hall, on Friday afternoon, Mr S. Hacker, conducted an Inquiry touching the death of JOHN THOMAS ROOK, twenty-eight, porter, of 3 Holmefield Cottages, Babbacombe, who committed suicide on Thursday morning by inhaling gas from a gas stove at Mr R. T. Knight's drapery establishment, the Strand, where he was employed. - FLORENCE AMELIA ROOK, the widow, said she had been married two years and one of two children was living. On Wednesday her husband did not return from his work as usual, and she stayed up all night expecting him. Her brother and deceased's brother went in search of him, but their effort was unavailing, and the next occasion that she saw him was on her visit to the Mortuary. Witness, in tears, identified the writing of a pencilled note which had been found on the body. The not ran: "To my dear wife, - Goodbye, MIN. I cannot put up with the pains in my head any longer. Look after the dear boy, though I know you will, as you have been a good wife to me. - From JACK." - MRS ROOK also corroborated that her husband had suffered from pains in the head of late, which he had described as neuralgia. She could give no reason for his action. He was in good employment, and had no debts or worries. They had lived happily together, and she had never heard him threaten to take his life. They parted on the best of terms on Wednesday morning. One of the children died two months ago, and since then, it was true, her husband had been very depressed. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said deceased always brought the whole of his wages, 18s., home to her. - Frederick Taylor, draper's assistant, employed by Mr Knight, said that deceased had not been well for some time, and for a week before his death was very much depressed. On Thursday morning witness and other assistants found deceased lying on the floor in the kitchen with his head in a gas oven. The room was full of gas. In the opening caused by the door of the oven being ajar deceased had put a towel to prevent as much of the gas as possible from escaping. After having permitted the fumes to clear, witness and an assistant, named Greenwood, lifted deceased up, to find that he was dead. Parcels that deceased should have delivered on Wednesday night were still in the shop. Deceased had been a very steady man. - William Crago, another assistant, said that he locked up the premises on Wednesday night. He had no idea when he left that there was anyone remaining behind. - Harry Holland, porter, described finding deceased on Tuesday about noon with his head in his hands. When asked what was the matter, he replied, "My head is hurting me something cruel." - Robert T. Knight, draper, said that deceased had been in his employ nearly nine years. He had been a very steady man, and had always done his work properly. In the bottom of the gas oven in question there were no fewer than twelve jets. - Dr L. L. Phillips, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said that a post mortem examination had revealed that death was due to coal gas poisoning. There were no signs of any brain disorder. P.C. Hammett also gave evidence. - A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 19 March 1909
TORQUAY - A Lonely Life. Death Of A Septuagenarian. The Inquest. - At Northcote Hall on Monday, Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry respecting the death of JOHN STEWART, 70, who was found seriously ill at his residence, No 1, Croton Villas, Warren Road, and on removal to the Torbay Hospital, died at midnight. - CORPL. JOHN CLYDE STEWART, 2nd Lifeguards, stationed at Windsor, gave evidence of identification. Deceased was a widower, his wife dying in 1900. Witness had been in communication with deceased up to quite recently. His father had lived in Torquay for six years. He was formerly a tobacconist, and had carried on business at Sloan Street and then at Hammersmith. Subsequently he kept a private hotel, but when his health broke down he came to Torquay. He had ample means to live upon. Deceased had two daughters. Witness last saw him alive last Christmas twelve months, when he visited Acton and stayed with witness for three weeks. The last letter he received from his father was about a month since. His sister had almost weekly letters. As she did not receive a letter on Monday in last week she wired, and not receiving a reply, wired again. An answer came to the effect that he was writing. On the Wednesday, his sister received a letter stating that he was all right with the exception of two bad toes. Deceased was ordered out of London on account of his chest. He was advised to go to Torquay, and remained in a home for a time and then took rooms. Witness was always under the impression that his father had someone to look after him. Deceased's daughter and witness allowed their father £1 a week, and it was regularly sent him. - Miss Mary Hammond, No. 12 Florence Terrace, Warren road, said deceased formerly lodged with her, but left four or five years ago. He took a room at Croton Villas. Witness knew that he suffered from a weak heart. Deceased frequently came to see her but he would never allow anyone in his room. He had failed considerably during the past few months. - Mr F. Gollop, steward of the Torquay Constitutional Club, said deceased was a member of that institution. He came in regularly from 5 to 6 o'clock for tea. Witness last saw him on Friday week, when he complained of not feeling well. - Dr Phillips, house surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased had a very weak heart and his toes were mortified. About 10.30 on Friday evening he became delirious, suddenly collapsed and died. Death was accelerated by the condition of his toes, which might have arisen from chilblains. - P.C. Hatherley said he obtained admission to deceased's room and found him lying helpless on the bed. He was quite conscious and said he was ill and placed his hand over his heart. There was about half a pound of stale bread and some tea in the room. The bed was dirty and wet, with only two rugs on it. Deceased was partially dressed. There were two shillings and some coppers on a table and in a purse was a pawn ticket for a suit of clothes. There were plenty of things upon which money could be raised. - Dr Cook stated that about 1.15 on Friday he was called to No. 1 Croton Villas, Warren Road, where he saw the deceased, whom he had been acquainted with before, lying on a bed in a room on the ground floor. He was alone and quite helpless. Witness found that his heart was extremely weak. Deceased had previously told him that he suffered from a weak heart. He was quite conscious and complained that one of his feet was very bad. Witness examined the foot and found that one of the toes was mortified. Deceased said it had started with a chilblain. He was very cheerful and seemed pleased to see witness and the constable. When he heard that he was to be removed to the Hospital he appeared to be glad. The room was very untidy, and there was no fire. The utmost difficulty was experienced in removing him to the Hospital as he was so stiff, and experienced so much pain in his back. Witness had seen deceased stop in the street and gasp. - Mrs Alice Marker said she lived in the same house. Deceased had lived at Croton Villas for about two years. He previously resided on the opposite side of the road. He occupied one room and did everything for himself. No-one ever entered his room. As far as witness knew he had means and used to go out and get his meals. He had no relations in Torquay. The last time witness saw him was on Thursday at 7.30 a.m., when he called her and asked her to run and fetch a little rum for him. He complained of having a cold. She heard him moving about during the day. On Friday morning she noticed that he had not put his milk jug outside and that he did not cough as he had been used to do, and she knocked at the door but received no answer. Witness then called Miss Hammond with whom deceased had previously lodged. She came across and knocked at the door but got no answer. The police were then sent for. - The Coroner said there were unusual circumstances in the case. Deceased, who was made a comfortable allowance, seemed to have lived alone and fallen into neglectful habits, which to a man of his age had a very bad result. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes," and expressed their approval of the conduct of Mrs Marker, who appeared to have taken a very kindly interest in deceased. - The Coroner endorsed the Jury's expression of opinion.

TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Ellacombe. Inquest. - An Inquest was held at Northcote Hall, on Tuesday, by Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner), on the body of ELLEN FARLEIGH, laundress, aged 57, who died suddenly on Monday at her residence, at 28 Lower Wellesley Road. - WILLIAM FARLEIGH, coal dealer of 39 Ellacombe Church Road, identified deceased as his aunt, and said he last saw her alive at 3.30 p.m. on Saturday. He had been in the habit of taking around the clothes for her and several other laundresses. He did this on Monday, and on reaching the door he was told that it was locked on the inside, and that no one was able to gain admittance. The kitchen blind was drawn. He obtained entrance through the bedroom window, and found deceased lying on her bed quite dead. She had on a quantity of her clothing, and he was of opinion that she had begun to dress. He immediately sent for the police. - Mary Hurvid, next door neighbour of deceased, said MISS FARLEIGH had been unwell, but when she saw her on Saturday, for the last time, she said she felt much better than usual. Deceased was in the habit of staying indoors by herself on Sundays. - Dr H. K. Lacey said he treated deceased for bronchitis and heart disease, and he attributed death to the latter. P.C. Summers also gave evidence. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 9 April 1909
DARTMOUTH - Cliff Fatality. Killed Whilst Gathering Flowers. - At Dartmouth, shortly after noon on Sunday, JOHN JONES, aged 17, fell from a cliff when picking primroses and was killed. He was the son of JOHN JONES, seaman, living off Duke-street, and was apprenticed as a fitter to Messrs. Philip and Son, shipbuilders and engineers, Dartmouth. On Saturday evening deceased made arrangements with a friend, Francis Warren Sanders, also an apprentice, to go primrose picking, and on Sunday morning they went to Coombe Point. Deceased went further than his companion, and at about twelve o'clock Sanders missed him. As he did not reappear Sanders called to him but received no reply. He then looked over the cliff, and saw his friend lying on the beach below. He called again and JONES raised his head, but did not reply. Sanders considered that his friend had fallen, because he was lying on his stomach. He at once ran to the coastguard station, about half a mile from the spot and asked the coastguards for assistance. Taking some ropes with them, the coastguards accompanied Sanders to the scene of the accident, and descended to the beach, where deceased was still lying. A telephone message was sent for a doctor, and a boat was also sent for. Immediately upon receipt of the message Dr G. M. Soper proceeded out of the harbour in the tug Nimble, but in consequence of the heavy sea running he was unable to land at the Coombe Point, and returned to Dartmouth. Meanwhile the coastguards obtained a hurdle, and placing the deceased upon it, raised it up the cliff. JONES was then dead, his skull having been fractured. - At the Inquest which was conducted by Mr A. M. Davson on Monday, Frank Warren Sanders, pattern maker at Philip and Son's yard, said on Sunday morning he went with JONES to Coombe Point to pick primroses. About noon he missed deceased. They had been close to the edge of the cliffs. He called to deceased and as he received no answer went in search and noticed two bunches of primroses which deceased had picked lying on the edge of the cliff. After further search he found deceased on the beach below the cliffs. He called to him, and JONES lifted his head and then dropped it again. He (Sanders) then ran to the coastguard station for assistance. The earth was very slippery on the cliff and it was reckless to go where deceased fell. - James Pepperell, chief officer of coastguard at Dartmouth, said he proceeded with lifelines to the cliff, and found JONES in a sitting posture, with his left arm resting on a projecting rock. He lifted him from the rocks and laid him on his back. All that deceased said was "My God." The lad died before other help could reach him. They then placed the body on a hurdle and raised it up the cliff. It was a dangerous spot where deceased fell. He had fallen 150ft. and had pitched on his head on the rock. Dr G. M. Soper said death was due to fractured skull. The Coroner trusted the sad affair would be a warning to others not to go into dangerous places. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed their deep sympathy with deceased's father and their appreciation of the prompt services rendered by the coastguard. The Coroner concurred. Several of the Jury handed their fees to MR JONES.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 April 1909
ST. MARYCHURCH - Torquay Child's Death. Unusual Case of Ptomaine Poisoning. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at St Marychurch Town Hall, Torquay, on Tuesday evening, on the body of ERNEST PERCIVAL BAKER, the two year old son of LEWIS HENRY BAKER, a petty officer of H.M.S. Espiegle, living at 2 Parkfield Terrace, Victoria Park, Torquay. - The father stated that on Saturday the child was having tea with the rest of them and had eaten some cake, when it was taken suddenly ill and commenced vomiting. It remained in this condition until Sunday morning when Dr Pitt Palmer was called in. The child passed a good night on Sunday and it died on Monday morning. - Questioned by the Coroner, BAKER said he could in no way account for the child's death. All the other members of the family had eaten the same cake and drunk the same tea, and had experienced no ill effects. All he could suggest was that the boy had picked up something in the street which had poisoned him. - MRS BAKER, the mother of the child, and Mrs Reed, the grandmother, both stated that they could give no reason for the child's death. - Dr Pitt Palmer said his opinion was that the case was one of ptomaine poisoning, and that the child had picked up some decomposed matter in the street and eaten it. He could not say definitely, as vomiting had removed all food from the stomach. The mother was recalled and stated that the child had eaten no tinned food lately. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 April 1909
KINGSBRIDGE - Starved Herself. - A remarkable story was told at an Inquest held by Mr Sidney Hacker, at Kingsbridge Workhouse on Monday, relative to the death of CHARLOTTE ANGEL, a single woman aged 64. Deceased was removed from Stokenham to the Workhouse on Tuesday, and died on Thursday. - George Tremeer, cabinet maker, Kingsbridge, said the deceased was his sister-in-law. About three weeks ago his brother-in-law came in, and said his sister had been in bed ten days. He then asked Dr Webb to go out and see her, which he did. The woman was not in want, as he rendered her assistance, a niece paid the rent, and deceased had £4 17s. in the bank. The deceased refused to eat food. She was not insane, but she was wicked and stubborn, and he considered she refused food through temper. - THOMAS ANGEL, the brother, said the deceased and himself had lived together for years. About six or seven weeks ago she failed, and gave up altogether. He tried every way possible to get her to eat food, but she always refused, saying she could not. He did not take steps to have her removed, as he thought she would get better again. Deceased would often lie in bed three or four weeks at a time. - Dr Pettinger (acting for Dr Rarston, the Medical Officer), said he saw the deceased on Wednesday morning. She was semi-conscious and very emaciated, and in a dying state. He prescribed for her, but did not see her again. He had made a post mortem examination and was of the opinion that death was caused by congestion of the lungs, accelerated by want of proper nourishment - in other words, starvation. - Miss Annie Smith, nurse in the Kingsbridge Workhouse, said she had experienced great difficulty in making the deceased take nourishment. The Jury returned a verdict that "Deceased died from Congestion of the Lungs, accelerated by her refusal to take nourishment."

BIDEFORD - Nurse's Tragic Death. Doctor Censured. - An Inquest was held on Tuesday at Bideford concerning the death of a trained nurse, MISS ROSIE BUDD, aged 28, who committed suicide on Saturday evening by taking carbolic acid. She was found dead in bed. - A brother, from Portsmouth, said he had heard his sister say that she was engaged to be married to a medical man in London. - Dr Bishop, of Mansell-road, Wimbledon, stated that he had known MISS BUDD for about a year, having met her in the house of a patient. They became engaged. He could give no reason why she should commit suicide. Replying to a Juryman, the witness said he was a married man living apart from his wife. Since his acquaintance with MISS BUDD, divorce proceedings had been taken, and he intended marrying her at Christmas next. - A brother, interposing, said his sister had told him that it was to have been last Christmas. Replying to the Coroner, witness said he had forgotten to bring the letters of the deceased lady, which were of no consequence but subsequently he admitted that he had destroyed them. - A letter from MISS BUDD, delivered on Monday morning, was read. It ran: Darling Harry - I am sending your letters back to you. I don't want other eyes to read them when I am gone. The silver toy watch and ring will also be sent. I have told you I cannot live without you. I ought never to have stayed here away from you. I have just moped, and lost interest in my work. You have been everything to me. I have never loved anyone but you. God will forgive me for what I am about to do. I shall love you unto the end. - Your own ROSIE. - The Jury returned a verdict of Suicide by Carbolic Acid. At their request that censure should be passed upon Dr Bishop, the Coroner said that he had destroyed letters, and in addition his conduct was most reprehensible as a married man. His evidence had been dragged out of him. Dr Bishop took advantage of this young woman as a professional man, and promised marriage to her while living with his wife, and without any prospect then of a divorce. His conduct throughout had been a disgrace to an honourable profession.

TORQUAY - Sudden Death At Ellacombe. Inquest. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at the Northcote Hall on Saturday, relative to the sudden death of SARAH ABRAHAMS, fifty-seven years of age, a widow, at her rooms in Happaway Court, Stentiford's Hill, on Thursday evening. Evidence was given by a sister, Mrs E. Johnson; a son, GEORGE ABRAHAMS; Ann Heath, a neighbour and William Bowden, a lodger; the last named stating that they occupied two rooms. Deceased had a pint of beer on Thursday evening and they intended to go to bed early. He was assisting her upstairs when her legs gave way. He fetched a doctor. - Dr Courtenay Lunn stated that death had taken place before his arrival. He had made a post mortem examination, which revealed a large abdominal rupture. It was not, however, strangulated, and had nothing to do with the cause of death. Internally, he found an aneurism of the aorta, cirrhosis of the liver and stones in the kidney, one stone weighing nearly two ounces. - Replying to the Coroner, the doctor would not say that alcohol had caused the cirrhosis of the liver, although frequently that was the case. Death was due to failure of the heart. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 May 1909
ST MARYCHURCH - Inquest At Babbacombe. An Unwise Journey. - At Wood's Restaurant, Babbacombe, on Tuesday afternoon, the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MARY FURNEAUX, 55, of Ivy Cottage, Kingskerswell, who died at 30 Prince's Street, Babbacombe, on Sunday. Mr G. Hosking was Foreman of the Jury. - JAMES FURNEAUX, labourer, identified the body as that of his wife, and said for the last six months she had been an invalid. She could not do the work of the house and he had to engage a housekeeper. His wife left Kingskerswell last Friday evening. During the previous two or three days she had been fairly well. An arrangement had been made by deceased and her sister by which the former was to visit Babbacombe for a change of air. Miss Hawke accompanied his wife. The last time witness saw his wife alive was on Friday at midday. Mr Norman, his brother-in-law, came to him on the Saturday and told him of his wife's arrival at Babbacombe. He said she was not so well, but witness did not take any notice of this until the Sunday, when he came to Babbacombe. On his arrival at four o'clock he found that his wife had been dead about half an hour. His wife was, in his opinion, in quite a fit state to travel when she left Kingskerswell. She visited several friends and he did not think there was any necessity for her to see a doctor. Mrs Edith Norman, wife of Wm. Thomas Norman of 30 Prince's Street, Babbacombe, said deceased was her sister. She had been ill for six months. Witness and her husband visited Kingskerswell about a week ago and an arrangement was made by which MRS FURNEAUX was to come to Babbacombe and stay for a few days. Deceased came on Friday last and on her arrival she said she did not feel very well. On the following day she was worse and witness sent for Dr Pitt Palmer, who said her between five and six. Deceased became worse on Sunday and died at 3.30. When first taken ill she said she thought it was due to the shaking up in the train. - Dr Pitt Palmer said he saw deceased between five and six on Saturday evening. She was extremely ill and he came to the conclusion that she was suffering from cancer of the liver. He sent to Dr Hatfield, of Kingskerswell, with a view to ascertaining what he had been treating her for, and also told her friends that there was little hope of recovery. He had diagnosed the case, and found that the woman's right leg was absolutely dead and that she was suffering from acute cancer of the liver. Her death was undoubtedly accelerated by travelling. Deceased was most emphatically not in a fit state to be sent away from home. - Dr J. R. Hatfield, of Kingskerswell, said when he attended deceased first she was suffering from jaundice, which he attributed to cancer of the liver. He advised the husband that she was not in a condition to do the work of the house, and he engaged the services of a housekeeper and made things as easy as possible for her. Up to a fortnight ago deceased had been able to walk about the village. When he heard that MRS FURNEAUX was seriously ill at Babbacombe he was surprised to hear that she had been removed, and suggested to the husband that he might have called him in to see his wife before she went away. The railway journey was undoubtedly unwise. Deceased had had every care, her two sons being devoted to her. - Minnie Hawke, the housekeeper, said she accompanied deceased to the railway station and took the railway journey with her. At Tor station they entered a tram and reached Babbacombe. At the end of the journey deceased complained of feeling unwell. - The Coroner said the only question the Jury had to consider was that raised by Dr Pitt Palmer, who said that the journey from Kingskerswell to Babbacombe had accelerated deceased's death. The evidence showed that there had been no compulsion, but the deceased herself and all her friends had thought the change would do her good, and that she was anxious to take the journey. Everything pointed to the fact that MRS FURNEAUX had received every care and attention. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - Cab Proprietor's Death. Inquest. - At St. Mark's Hall on Friday, the County Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, held an Inquest on the body of MR CHRISTOPHER INCH, 82, carriage proprietor, of St. Mark's Place, who died suddenly on the previous Wednesday. - MRS EMILY INCH, grand daughter of the deceased, who had lived with her and her husband, gave evidence of identification. Deceased had been subject to epileptic fits, but between them had enjoyed fairly good health. He did not get up on Wednesday morning, but as he had sometimes stayed in bed all day she was not surprised. At 12.30 she went to call him, but not finding him thought he must have gone for a walk. He did not appear during the afternoon, and witness, becoming anxious, made inquiries. At 4.30 her little daughter was unable to open the lavatory door, and as witness was unable to open it, she sent for a police officer, who obtained an entry. He found deceased huddled up on the floor. - JAMES INCH, male attendant, and husband of the last witness, said that deceased made no complaint of feeling ill at eight o'clock on Wednesday morning. P.C. Mitchells aid MR INCH was dead when found. The lower portion of his face was covered with blood, which had evidently come from his mouth. - Dr Powell attributed death to heart failure rather than to an epileptic fit. The latter, however, might have initiated it. The constrained position into which deceased fell must have speedily brought about death. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 21 May 1909
NORTH DEVON - Dog Finds His Master's Body. - When MR JOHN HENRY HOYLAND was missed from his home at West Hill, North Devon, his brother set out to search for him, taking MR HOYLAND'S spaniel with him. The dog led the way to a spot in a wood close by, where MR HOYLAND'S body and a gun were found. At the Inquest held on Saturday the Jury found that MR HOYLAND shot himself while Temporarily Insane.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 June 1909
COOMBE MARTIN - Fall From A Cliff. - A sad accident occurred on Sunday afternoon at Sandy Bay, Coombmartin, near Ilfracombe, resulting in the death of MISS EDITH MILNER PALLISER, aged 26, of Holmwood, Addlestone, Surrey. It appears that the unfortunate lady, who was spending a holiday with two lady friends at The Nest, Coombemartin, went for a walk on the cliffs. How the accident occurred is unknown, but the body of MISS PALLISER was found lying on the sand at the foot of the rocks, she having apparently fallen from the summit of the cliffs, a distance of over 100 ft. MR GEORGE HENRY PALLISER, father of the lady, has been travelling for the benefit of his health, and has recently been residing in Clapham Road, London. The first news he received was on Sunday evening when a telegram came to hand acquainting him of the accident, but giving no address. A further message on Monday morning brought the sad news that his daughter had died. At the Inquest on Tuesday, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

ST MARYCHURCH - Marychurch Ostler's Suicide. Oxalic Acid Poisoning. Extraordinary Letters. - At St. Marychurch Town Hall on Monday afternoon, the County Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, held an Inquiry respecting the death of WILLIAM THOMAS VYSE, 32, ostler, until recently in the employ of Mr J. Edwards, of the Commercial Hotel. Deceased left his employment without notice, on Monday in last week, and slept at his lodgings at 17 Fore Street, that night. On Saturday he was seen going in the direction of Watcombe and later his dead body was found on Petitor Common. Mr W. Terry was elected Foreman of the Jury. - Thomas Henry Berry, sweep, of 17 Fore Street, St. Marychurch, gave evidence of identification. He said he had known deceased for eight years, during part of which period he had been in the Army Service Corps and received a pension, but it had expired for some time. For the last three months deceased had been employed as ostler at the Commercial Hotel. He was a bachelor and a native of Exeter, where he had a father and sister living. Witness saw the latter on Sunday and she said she could not have anything to do with the burial of deceased. By the family's wish he had undertaken the responsibility of the funeral. Deceased last slept in witness's house on the previous Monday. He left early on Tuesday morning, witness having previously told him that he would have to get other lodgings. There had been unpleasantness. Deceased in witness's absence, had, whilst under the influence of drink, been creating a row in the house and disturbing the whole neighbourhood. He had paid the previous week's lodgings, but he left his clothing, a bicycle and other property behind. Witness did not see him after, but on Saturday heard that someone had seen him in Teignmouth Road. The spot at which the body was found was ten minutes or a quarter of an hour's walk from witness's house. At times VYSE was very depressed because he could not re-enlist in the Army. He said he did not know what he should do when his money was gone. Deceased was by no means destitute. He received good wages. - In reply to the Foreman, witness said deceased did not undress on Monday night, he slept on the bed in his clothes. He was then somewhat depressed. - Witness identified the handwriting of three letters, two of which were addressed to himself and his wife, but unopened, as that of deceased. - In reply to the Coroner, P.C. Bater said it had been impossible to find out what became of VYSE between the Tuesday and the following Saturday. - William Damerell, grocer's assistant, of 50 Fore Street, St. Marychurch, said he saw deceased in Teignmouth Road on Saturday morning and bade him "Good morning." this was about 7.10. Deceased was walking in the direction of St. Marychurch. - Robert John Melhuish, painter, said he knew VYSE by sight. On Saturday evening witness was taking a walk on Petitor Common about 5.30, when he discovered deceased's body lying in the bushes close to a path in an unfrequented part of the common. His arms were outstretched and in one hand was a handkerchief and in the other a note. Witness ran for assistance. - George Kirton, gardener, said he was summoned by the last witness. He found the body as described. It was quite cold. Witness went for the police. - P.C. Bater said the body was partially concealed. In the left hand was a note and in the right a handkerchief. Witness had the body removed to the mortuary. Every endeavour had been made to discover where deceased had been in the interval between leaving his lodgings and Saturday last, but without success. Deceased's outside clothing was wet, but is inner garments were quite dry. - The Coroner said the note found in deceased's hand commenced, - "I, WILLIAM THOMAS VYSE, confess" and then followed a statement of an involved nature, reflecting upon the character of someone else. It had no bearing upon the death, but upon rather a scandalous matter. He (the Coroner) would show it to the Foreman of the Jury. The letter concluded with the words, "That is why I am doing away with myself." As to the other contents of the letter, he (the Coroner) did not think they should be made public. - The Foreman of the Jury said if the matter subsequently leaked out, he did not wish the responsibility attached to himself. - The Coroner remarked that he did not deem it advisable to make public, statements written by a man of this sort, which reflected upon the character of another person. It had nothing to do with the cause of death and courts such as that were not held to air scandals. The only three persons who had seen this note were himself, the Foreman and the police constable. There were two other letters, one to Mr Berry and a second to his wife, Mrs Charlotte Berry. The first was quite a private communication and need not be read. It referred to some old quarrels and was of considerable length, but it bore no date. The letter to Mrs Charlotte Berry contained one or two points which were essential to that Inquiry. It began by saying, "I sincerely hope and trust you will be happy now you know the last of me." Then later there was this sentence, "The only thing I do hope is that if ever you get over this, you will try not to tell such lies and not be ready to run everybody down and think nobody like yourself, as before doing this deed I have told others of our carryings on." The letter was signed, "Broken hearted WILL." This letter appeared to give certain suggestions of what he intended to do. There was another sentence which bore on the matter. "As this is the last note I shall write, it is just as well to tell you." - P.C. Bater, continuing his evidence, said deceased's pockets contained a case of razors, a watch and chain, and 4s. 10d ½d. in money, a cycle and other property. The letters to Mr and Mrs Berry were also in deceased's pockets. VYSE'S father and sister had said they would not undertake the funeral arrangements. - John Edwards, proprietor of the Commercial Hotel, said deceased had been in his employ for three months. He was an excellent workman and he greatly regretted his loss. Deceased was a very moderate drinker. He left his work on the previous Monday and witness had not seen him since. - Dr Pitt Palmer said he made a post mortem examination of the body and found the lips and gums whitened by some acid. There were the same marks in the gullet and stomach and in fact general symptoms of acid poisoning. He was of opinion that the acid used was oxalic acid, such as was used for cleaning brass. Three teaspoons full of this would kill in an hour. There were signs that deceased had suffered from lung disease, but a cure had been effected. The stomach was almost empty. - In reply to the Coroner, Dr Pitt Palmer said oxalic acid was not a scheduled poison and could be obtained by anybody. - Mr Edwards, recalled, said deceased used a patent cleaner for brass work at his house, but he did not know whether it contained oxalic acid. - After a short retirement, the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide, whilst Temporarily Insane."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 June 1909
TORQUAY - Third Attempt Success. Sufferer From Cancer Cuts His Throat. The Inquest. - At the Northcote Hall on Monday, Mr R. de V. Whiteway Wilkinson (Deputy Coroner) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of SAMUEL HONEYWILL, 63, formerly a cab proprietor of 3 Welbeck Terrace, Tor. Deceased cut his throat on the 9th inst., and was removed from his residence to the Torbay Hospital, where he died at 2.10 on Sunday. - Mr Shapley was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - GEORGE HONEYWILL, cab proprietor, 33 Higher Terrace Mews, said deceased was his brother. He saw him about three weeks ago at his house at Tor. He suffered from cancer and was in bed. Deceased had twice attempted to commit suicide by cutting his throat before. He had been in America for twelve years, and whilst there he suffered from sunstroke, which occasionally affected his head. His sufferings whilst he had had cancer had been very great. At times he became delirious and had to take morphia tablets to deaden the great pain he experienced. Deceased had been operated upon but it proved useless, and he became very depressed. - EMMA HONEYWILL, widow of deceased, said she last saw her husband alive on the previous day at the Hospital, but he was quite unconscious. On the 9th inst. whilst in the kitchen she heard a noise in the room above and ran up to see what had happened. She found her husband with his throat cut. He was unable to speak. During the past eighteen months, deceased had suffered much pain and had told her frequently that he did not think he would be able to stand it much longer. He had been worse since the operation. - P.S. Bromell stated that about 11 a.m. on the 9th he was called by deceased's youngest daughter. He found deceased on his knees leaning over a commode. His throat was badly cut, and there was a razor by his right hand. Witness rendered first aid, and when Dr Dunn arrived he ordered the man's removal to the Torbay Hospital. Deceased was quite conscious but was unable to speak. The wound had stopped bleeding. - Dr Woodburn, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said at 11.30 on the 9th inst. HONEYWILL was brought to the institution. He had a large wound on the throat, and witness was informed that he was suffering from cancer. Death was due to exhaustion caused by the wound in the throat. Deceased tried to speak but was unable to do so. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 July 1909
PAIGNTON - Old Man's Pension. Coroner's Remarks On Medical Relief. - Mr Hacker opened an Inquest at Paignton on Saturday on ELIZABETH ELLIS, a married woman, aged 56, found dead in bed on Friday. - WILLIAM ELLIS, the husband, over 70, said his wife had been suffering for a fortnight from a very bad cough and cold, and had practically eaten nothing during that time. She refused to allow him to fetch a doctor, and she had no nurse. On Thursday night she said she was comfortable, and she asked him for a drink about 5 o'clock Friday morning. He gave her cold tea, and she lay down again, but when he awoke at seven she was dead. - The Coroner told him it was his duty to have procured medical attendance, and adequate food, comforts and nursing for his wife. - The old man said, unknown to his wife, he went to the relieving officer on Monday, and applied for the parish doctor, but he was informed that if he did this he would forfeit his old-age pension, and become a pauper. He was also told that for a penny a week he could join the dispensary in connection with the Cottage Hospital, which would entitle him to medical attendance, but he was too old to join it. Dr Adams said the appearance of the body was consistent with death from natural causes. From what he could ascertain from the husband he concluded that she very possibly had pneumonia, which led to heart failure. P.C. Kingdon said he went to the house when the husband came to the police station with news of the death. Everything looked natural, and he saw nothing to suggest anything wrong. - The Coroner said they ought to have before them the relieving officer with reference to the allegation of the husband as to the attendance of the parish doctor. If a person had not means to pay for a doctor, the law said he was entitled to the services of the parish doctor, and if there was any difficulty as to the loss of an old-age pension that was a thing that ought to be seen into. He therefore adjourned the case until Tuesday morning, for the attendance of the relieving officer, and directed Dr Adams to make a post mortem examination, that they might know the actual cause of death. - The Inquest was resumed on Monday. Evidence was given by Dr Adams that deceased, who was in a very dirty and neglected condition, died from pneumonia of many days' standing. - Mr Moore and Mr Marks said ELLIS made no application, though he had a conversation with Mr Marks, who expressed a doubt whether an old age pensioner could have medical relief. - The Coroner said there had been no perjury, but ELLIS was under the impression from the conversation he overheard that the order was refused. The law was quite definite as to the power of relieving officers to grant medical relief to old age pensioners. Poor relief disqualified, but medical relief was permissible. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 July 1909
TORQUAY - Fatality At Torre Station. Goods Porter Killed. - Only Married A Month. - A fatal accident of a particularly distressing nature occurred at Torre Railway Station about 7.20 on Tuesday morning. ARTHUR HOARE, 24 years of age, a goods porter, whilst the up train was at the platform, was crossing the line from the up to the down platform with an empty hand truck. He had just passed in front of the up train, and was near the centre of the crossing, when the down train came into sight. HOARE did not at first seem to notice its approach and when a moment or two later his attention was called to it, both by the noise it made and a shout from the Foreman Shunter Packe, he seemed undecided what to do, whether to go forward or back. He remained stationery for a second with the result that the train dashed down upon him, carried him several yards and then hurled him to the right, into the permanent way. Packe, even before the train had slowed down, had called for the ambulance and with other men went around to the rear of the train and found HOARE lying by the side of the rails quite motionless. Along the top of his head was a frightful gash, evidently caused by a blow from a wheel and life was apparently quite extinct. The body was removed to the Hospital, and examined by the House Surgeon (Dr Woodburn), who found no sign of life. Mr H. Smale, the Station Master, was on the Station at the time, and after viewing the body, had a short interview with the engine driver of the train, which proceeded on its way four minutes late. The accident caused great consternation amongst the passengers by both the up and the down trains. HOARE was formerly in the Devon Regiment and had only been married a month. He lived at Upton and his parents reside in Madrepore Road. - The Inquest. - No Blame Attached To The Engine Driver. - At the Northcote Hall on Wednesday afternoon, Mr S. Hacker conducted an Inquiry respecting HOARE'S death. Mr S. Wylie was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The G.W.R. Company were represented by Inspector Tonkin, traffic department; Inspector Wager, locomotive department; and Mr H. Smale, stationmaster at Torre. - MARTHA ELLEN HOARE, the widow, of Upton Church Road, gave evidence of identification, and said that deceased had been employed at Torre for a month on temporary duty, having been with the Company about two months in all. Prior to that he had been in the army. - William Packe, goods shunter at Torre Station, described what he saw of the accident. He was standing on the down platform awaiting the arrival of the 7.20 train when he saw deceased leaving the up platform with an empty four-wheeled trolley. He stopped before stepping on the level crossing and looked up the line in which direction the train was due. He then ran to cross over, evidently thinking he could get over before the approach of the train which had then come in sight. Witness felt sure that deceased saw the train coming. - The Coroner: Had he a clear view of the up line? - Witness: Yes, for 100 yards at least. - Would not the goods shed blocked his view? - No. - How long have you been at the station? - Twenty years. Is there not a sharp curve before entering the station and is there not care needed? - No one has any business to be there when a train is approaching. - Continuing, witness said that when he saw the train tearing down to where deceased was he shouted to him to go back. The latter, however, did not do so and the train, the driver of which had blown his whistle, dashed down upon him just as he stepped on the down rail. Then the engine struck him and the fatality had occurred. - Replying to further questions of the Coroner, witness said that the up train had not moved when the accident occurred. Deceased was a very steady man. - Robert Satterley, newspaper vendor, said that he was on the down platform when the accident occurred. He saw deceased approaching the metals on the down line. Witness saw the down train approaching and heard it whistle about 30 yards from deceased. Witness shouted "Look out." Deceased hesitated a moment, tried to push his trolley back, and the side of the engine struck him. - William Tope, packer, in the employ of the G.W.R. gave similar evidence. - Joseph W. Bastin, the driver of the train that killed deceased, said that he sounded his whistle when about 450 yards on the Newton Abbot side of the station. When he got in sight of the signal box he noticed the deceased leaving the end of the up platform. He ran down the slope and when between the two running roads he stopped. Witness thought that he had realised that the train was approaching and released the brakes to allow the train to run into the station. As he did so he saw deceased go forward in the direction of the down platform. - By the Coroner: He could not explain why HOARE went forward. When he stopped witness concluded that he was waiting for the train to pass. Had witness thought otherwise he could have pulled up the train, which was going at about six miles an hour. Deceased was about 30 yards away from the train when witness loosed the brakes. - The Coroner inquired why witness did not again blow his whistle when he saw deceased leave the up platform. Witness replied that he had already sounded it. - The Coroner: I think you could have been freer with your whistling. It is best to be on the safe side. It's doubtful whether deceased knew your train was coming or not. - Witness: Deceased stopped between the lines and I naturally thought he knew the train was coming. When he stepped forward I sounded the whistle again and applied the brakes. The right hand buffer struck the deceased and knocked him at an angle. - Dr W. H. Woodburn, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said that deceased was dead when admitted. His skull was fractured and this had been the cause of death, which must have been instantaneous. - Albert G. Shaw, the driver of the up train that was stationary in the station at the time of the accident, said that deceased was carried a distance of about fifteen sleepers from the crossing. There was no sign of life when witness picked him up. - The Coroner, summing up, said the only difficulty seems to be to understand what could have caused deceased to move on after he had stopped between the lines. The only explanation was that he thought he could get over before the train reached him. He was probably very confused. The engine driver might have blown his whistle again when he saw deceased begin to cross, but his explanation was an extremely sensible one. The case was an unfortunate one but it seemed to be a pure accident. - In reply to a Juryman, the Coroner said porters had to rely on their own judgment when crossing the lines. - Mr Smale said that the men's instructions were to look in both directions before attempting to cross. - Replying to the Coroner, Inspector Wager said that a driver, if he saw anybody in any danger, would instantly blow a whistle. - The Coroner: I think a whistle might have been blown when deceased left the up platform, but I accept the driver's explanation. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Jury exonerating the driver of the train from blame.

PORTLAND, DORSET - Found. MR NICHOLSON'S Body Recovered. - The body of MR THOMAS B. C. NICHOLSON, son of the REV. H. D. and MRS NICHOLSON, of Lonsdale, Mannamead, Plymouth, was recovered early on Sunday morning near Portland. MR NICHOLSON, who was 21 years of age, was a clerk at the National Provincial Bank, Torquay, and was last seen on Saturday, July 3rd, when he hired a boat at Torquay, and rowed out of the harbour towards Paignton. The next morning John Brown, son of the boatman of whom MR NICHOLSON hired the boat, saw a barge coming in from the direction of the Orestone Rock, and making for Paignton with two boats in tow. One of these he found to be the boat hired by young NICHOLSON on the previous day, and it contained MR NICHOLSON'S straw hat and spectacles. The paddles had been placed on the floor of the boat with the blades towards the stern. A complete search was made of Torbay and its vicinity, and bills offering a reward for information were freely circulated on both sides of the Channel, there being a faint hope at one time that MR NICHOLSON might have been picked up by a French fishing boat. Nothing, however, was heard until Sunday morning, when the body was washed ashore near Portland, and was identified by a visiting card in one of the pockets of the clothes. There is thought to be little doubt that the young man was leaning over the boat to catch hold of some rocks to pull the boat ashore when he overbalanced himself. Great sympathy is expressed for the bereaved family, who have suffered from such a painful period of suspense. - The Inquest. - The Inquest was held on Monday by Mr G. P. Symes, Coroner for South Dorset. MR GEORGE NICHOLSON said the deceased, his brother, was a clerk in the National Provincial Bank, Torquay. On Sunday morning, July 4th, he received information from his brother's landlady that he was missing. He went to Torquay and learnt that he went out in a boat on the evening before, that the boat had been found adrift, and brought into Torquay. In the boat was his brother's hat and pair of spectacles. He identified a watch and chain, a charm and visiting cards found on the body, which from the dress he had no doubt was that of his brother. - Richard C. Andrews, quarryman, stated that whilst on the beach at Church Hope, he saw the body in the breakers and brought it ashore. - George Brown, a boatman, of Torquay, said on the evening of July 3rd, MR NICHOLSON hired a sixteen foot boat, the only one in at the time. He handled the boat well, and went out of the harbour all right, he (witness) telling him which way to go. He saw no more of him. The boat was brought in next day, with the hat and a pair of spectacles in it. - The father of the deceased said he was perfectly satisfied with the evidence. He had examined the boat, and as an old yachtsman could say it was in good order and that no fault could be found with it. - The brother of deceased asked if he could account for the accident, said he could not. His brother was fond of climbing, and perhaps he tried to climb a rock and the boat got adrift. There was no reason whatever why he should have committed suicide. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," the Coroner offering the condolences of himself and the Jury to the family of the deceased. The REV. H. J. NICHOLSON, feelingly expressed his thanks.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 August 1909
TORQUAY - Inquest On MRS MUDGE. Death Accelerated By The Heat. A Holiday Excursion. - Mr Sydney Hacker (County Coroner) on Friday held an Inquiry at the Northcote Hall respecting the sudden death of ELIZA JANE MUDGE, wife of MR H. C. MUDGE, of Eastcourt, Collyend, Paignton, which occurred at Torquay G.W.R. Station on the previous morning. - Mr John Saunders was elected Foreman of the Jury. - HENRY CHARLES MUDGE identified the body as that of his wife. He said that on Thursday, on which day she celebrated her 53rd birthday, deceased left Paignton in the company of a number of friends to go to Torquay, the intention being to have met a steamer there and taken an excursion trip to Plymouth. He was informed that she was taken ill after she had gone and he reached Torquay Station just in time to see her alive. His wife had never had an illness since their marriage. - William Binmore, a London visitor to Paignton, stated that he was one of the party which accompanied MRS MUDGE by train to Torquay on Thursday. The remaining members of the company were his (witness's) wife and a friend from London, Mr Barthing. When Torquay was reached they detrained and, after having proceeded over the footbridge, gave up their tickets at the door. They had, however, only just got outside the door when MRS MUDGE suddenly exclaimed, "Oh, dear. What is the matter with my poor head?" at the same time falling. He (witness) caught her in his arms, and she was conveyed to a waiting-room, where she died in a very short time. - In answer to the Coroner, Mr Binmore said deceased had not complained of the heat before she was taken ill, nor had they to hurry to catch the train at Paignton. - James Barthing, also a visitor to Paignton from London, corroborated the last witness's statement. - Ellen Hollis, matron of Kent House Nursing Home, deposed to passing Torquay Station and seeing deceased ill. She did her best for her, but her efforts proved of no avail. Dr Halpin said he attended deceased soon after her death and her features were livid. He was of opinion that death was caused by apoplexy accelerated by the heat. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

ST MARYCHURCH - Babbacombe Cliff Fatality. Inquest. - Should The Cliff Be Fenced? - At the St. Marychurch Town Hall on Friday, the County Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of NEHEMIAH MEAL, 22, assistant woollen designer of Dodlee, Longwood, Huddersfield, who met his death by falling over the cliff at Walls Hill on the previous day. Mr E. Hearne was elected Foreman of the Jury and the Deputy Town Clerk, (Mr P. H. W. Almy) represented the Corporation. - The Coroner, in opening the Inquiry, said only last year a fatal accident of a somewhat similar nature occurred almost at the same place, and it would be for the Jury to say whether anything was necessary to be done to make the place a little less dangerous. - JOHN MEAL, of Dodlee, Longwood, Huddersfield, said he was a wool-weaver, and identified the body as that of his son who was 22 years of age. He was a woollen designer and a single man. Deceased had lived at home with his parents. The last time witness saw him alive was on the previous Friday evening, when he left Huddersfield for a week's holiday at about 7 o'clock. Deceased was an active, promising young man. His employers thought the world of him. Witness was summoned to Torquay by telegram. Deceased had two companions staying with him at Torquay. Witness expressed the opinion that the cliff ought to be better protected. A little wood and barbed wire would be sufficient. - The Coroner: Have you seen the spot where your son fell over? - Witness: No, I am only going by what his companions told me. - The Coroner: You cannot give an opinion unless you have seen the place. - Fred Parkinson, pattern weaver, of 16 Green Hill, Longwood, Huddersfield, said he accompanied deceased and a Mr Lumb on their holiday trip to Torquay. He and deceased had been life-long friends and they had stayed together at Hawkhurst, Babbacombe. On Thursday, 12th, after going on the tourist car, they had an hour to wait for dinner and they crossed the road to Walls Hill and went along the top of the cliffs in the direction of Anstey's Cove. They arrived at a wire fence on the left hand side, and then turned down a slope which was not fenced. There was a path down the slope. Witness led the way with MEAL following and Lumb behind. They went about twenty yards down; they had been there three times before. On getting down about twenty yards, MEAL, who said it was very hot, remarked that he saw a shady place on the left under the rocks and suggested that they should sit down there. A path led to this particular spot. Witness led the way and was about to sit down when deceased turned to him to speak and then appeared to slip, roll sideways down a ledge about three feet blow. He continued to roll down the grassy slope and then disappeared over the edge of the cliff. The path they were on had apparently been made by people constantly walking round under the cliff. Witness found his way to the bottom, and came across the body which was lying 30 feet further eastward than the spot from which deceased fell. The skull was broken and the brains were protruding. The hands were terribly bruised and the body was in a huddled-up position. Witness covered up deceased's face and went to the Cary Arms for assistance. - The Coroner: Had you any difficulty in getting down there? - Not the slightest. - Had you been down there before? - We had not been around the bend. Where we first sat was 50 or 60 yards from the edge of the cliff. I think there ought to be railings placed there to prevent such accidents happening again. - The Coroner: But you found it safe enough? - Yes, but there is a fence on one side and it is continued again on the other side and this gives people the impression that this place is quite safe. I should like to thank the people who rendered any assistance. - In reply to Mr Almy, witness said he did not know whether the spot at which he sat down was between the fence and the sea. - Mr Almy: If you were inside of this fence no amount of fencing would have prevented the accident? - I say it would. Strangers would naturally follow this path. The fencing should either be continued down the slope or the slope should e cut off altogether. - Herbert Lumb, cotton warehouseman, of 3A Rock Street, Longworth, Huddersfield, said he was 10 yards behind the others when they went around the bend out of sight. Witness heard the sound of something rolling down the cliff and he also heard Parkinson shout, but saw nothing of the accident. - In reply to Mr Pearce (a Juror), witness said he would not have attempted to go round the bend had there been a fence there. - P.C. Davey said he went to the cliff and looked over and saw the body lying at the bottom. When he reached the spot he found Parkinson lying by the side of the body, the latter having collapsed. Witness got a boat and placed the remains in it, and they were subsequently taken to the mortuary. Deceased was terribly injured. There were several silver and copper coins scattered about near the body and in a hip pocket of the trousers witness found £8 in gold. - In reply to Mr Almy, witness said the quarry was fenced and the body was lying inside the fence, about 50 yards from the end. There was no path around the bend that had been mentioned by previous witnesses. - A Juror (Mr Southcott) said the path down the slope was made by golf caddies, who went there to search for golf balls. - Mr J. S. Walton, Assistant borough Surveyor, said the body was found in a disused quarry. The land was leased by the Corporation from the Trustees of the Cary Estate. The quarry was fenced on the level and there would be no difficulty in fencing the cliff down the slope. - The Coroner: Ought not this disused quarry under the Quarry Act to be fenced all round? - I don't think so, only that portion to which the public would have access. - In reply to Mr Almy, witness said deceased must have got inside the fence. - The Coroner: Has there ever been a fence around the slope? - Mr Walton: Not to my knowledge. - Mr Almy said under the Quarry Act, the Corporation was compelled to fence the disused quarry at the top, but there was really no pathway down the slope beyond what had been made by the caddies who attended on the golf players and certainly none on the left hand side of this path. By leaving this path the deceased and his companions went inside the fence which ran along the top of the quarry and the spot at which the accident occurred was not used by the public. - The Coroner said the accident was a sad and unfortunate one. A similar fatality occurred not many months ago near the same spot. It appeared to him that the fact that this slope was unfenced was practically an invitation for the public to go there. People visited this hill in hundreds, it was a regular walk for visitors and probably the fence had been put at the top of the quarry since something had happened there. - Mr W. Terry: No, it has been there 20 years. - A Juror (Mr Southcott): How many years has it been down? - The Coroner, continuing, said the natural feeling of strangers on seeing this path down the slope would be that it led somewhere and that there was no harm in going there to explore the place. There was a fence part of the way, in fact there was not a very large portion unfenced and he thought it was for the Jury to say whether or not some representation should be made to the Corporation respecting the advisability of continuing the fence further down. It seemed to him that perhaps it would be better to have a fence along the top of the slope so as to cut it off altogether. It would certainly act as a deterrent and warning. Perhaps some people would be foolhardy enough to go over it. If they did no responsibility could be thrown upon the Corporation. - After a short retirement, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and expressed their deep sympathy with deceased's relatives.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 27 August 1909
PAIGNTON - Fatality To Torquay Page Boy. Killed By Motor 'Bus At Preston. - A sad fatality occurred near Preston, on the Torquay and Paignton-road early on Friday afternoon. A page boy named ROBERT HELLYAR was knocked down by a motor 'bus and instantly killed. - Deceased, who was aged between sixteen and seventeen years, had been for about eight months in the employ of Mr A. E. Wood of "Maplestead," Babbacombe-road, Torquay. Just before noon he was sent on his cycle to take a parcel to Mr Hockin, living in the Torquay-road, Paignton. He delivered the parcel, and on his return rode for some distance behind a motor 'bus owned by Mr Senior, of Torquay. On nearing Preston he turned from behind the 'bus, and almost simultaneously a 'bus, (also owned by Mr Senior) approached from the opposite direction. In an instant, before the driver of either 'bus was aware of what was happening, the lad was under the approaching vehicle. Both wheels passed over his chest, and when he was picked up life was extinct. He sustained a fracture of the base of the skull and his chest was smashed. His watch was dented and had stopped at three minutes to one o'clock. - Deceased was taken to the Paignton Cottage Hospital, and the Torquay police were apprised of the occurrence. The latter, after having with some difficulty identified the lad, communicated with the Coroner. - The Inquest. - The Inquest was held by the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) on Saturday. Mr S. H. Easterbrook attended on behalf of Mr George Senior, Torquay, owner of the motor omnibus, and stated that the deceased had no near relatives to whom sympathy could be extended, but this did not mitigate Mr Senior's extreme regret at the sad occurrence, nor did it minimise the sympathy he felt for the other relatives. - The Coroner pointed out to the Jury that it would be their duty, after having heard the evidence, to say whether the sad occurrence was the result of a want of care on the part of the driver of the omnibus, or whether it could be placed under the category of an accidental occurrence. - Jessie Squire, Cheriton, Conway Road, Paignton, cousin of the deceased, gave evidence of identification. - Walter Pomeroy, of Preston, described the accident, of which he was an eye-witness. He stated that a few minutes before one o'clock on Friday deceased passed him riding a bicycle on the top of Hollacombe Hill. At that moment there were two motor cars passing each other about 30 yards ahead, one car coming from Torquay and the other going in the opposite direction. The cars were going more slowly than usual. As they passed each other they were near their respective hedges, and, as the road was not very wide, there was not more than about four feet between them. When the car going to Torquay had passed the other by about two lengths, deceased approached the car that was coming towards him and witness presumed that the lad was trying to ride between the conductor standing waiting in the road and the car. There was plenty of room, as he was not forced to go between the two cars. When he had got within two or three feet of the car he seemed to slide round and go between the conductor and the car. Immediately he did so he had a side-slip and went over, falling on his right side within 18 inches or two feet of the car, both right-hand wheels of which went over him. The car was immediately stopped and brought up within its own length. From an examination on the spot since, witness said the side-slip of the bicycle was caused by the machine being ridden in a road-rut, the road being very greasy. But for the side-slip, deceased would have had sufficient space to pass. There was nothing on the left side to block him, and he was not driven by anything close up to the car. - Mr Easterbrook: Do you think that anything could have been done to avoid the accident? - No; I don't see that anything could have been done to prevent it. The side-slip occurred when deceased was almost immediately in a line with the car. It was all over in a few seconds and in my opinion it was a perfectly genuine accident. - A Juryman: Don't you think that the fact of the conductor being in the road caused deceased to hesitate? - Probably it caused him to hesitate as to which side he should pass him, but it did not cause the accident. - Frank Wm. Fox, a visitor from London, stated that he was riding on the car from Torquay to Paignton. At the time of the accident the car was on the left side of the road and about three feet from the hedge, and there was plenty of space for passing on the right side. Witness commended the driver for the smart way in which he pulled up the car in about its own length. The driver was also the first to get to deceased, who was lying curled up in the middle of the road. At the time of the accident the car was going slowly, about six to eight miles an hour. - Reginald George Veith, a lad from Preston, Paignton, the conductor of the motor car which started from Paignton, said he met the other car, coming from Torquay, on the top of the hill. He got off the one car in order to go on the other, and was standing in the road on the level when deceased came along. When he was about three feet from him, deceased turned his bicycle to get out of his way, and then the bicycle slipped. There was nine feet between witness and the car. - The Foreman: did you call out to the driver? - No; I was too much frightened. Deceased was not in front of the car until his bicycle slipped. - Frederick Alexander Emmett, Paignton, driver of the motor car, said that as he was going up Hollacombe-Hill he met their other car coming from Paignton, and he had got about half a length past this vehicle when deceased approached tight behind and hidden by the other car. He saw him turn the wheel of his bicycle, and did not realise anything more until he felt the bumps from the wheels of the car. Deceased was on his right, about three feet off and level with the car, when witness first saw him. He did not see the conductor standing in the road, as he was looking straight ahead, nor did he see the side-slip of the bicycle. Witness was on his right side of the road, about three feet from the wall. He was always careful about this, as there were generally children playing at the spot. Witness added, in answer to the Coroner, that he had driven the car since January. This was his first employment of the kind, but he had always been on the road with horses. - Dr Harold C. Adams, Paignton, said the boy was dead when he saw him in the hospital very soon after his admittance. He had sustained considerable injury to his head. There were two or three wounds on the side of the face and on the scalp and considerable contusion on the back of the neck. He thought one wheel went over the lower part of the head and neck, at the juncture, and that there was a fracture of the base of the skull, as there was bleeding from ear and nose. There were also extensive bruises over the front of the chest. Death was caused by the fracture of the skull and other injuries. - The Coroner, summing up to the Jury, remarked that it always required careful inquiry when a person was killed on the public highway by a vehicle running over him. The drivers of vehicles of heavy weight and great speed should exercise the greatest care and the greatest skill, so that none of the public might run any risk of injury or loss of life. In this case the evidence was fairly clear, and, unfortunately, it showed that deceased was killed by being run over by the motor car, and therefore the driver was responsible for the death, unless the Jury found that the circumstances were such as to satisfy them that the occurrence was accidental. The act of the side-slip of the bicycle on the slippery road clearly explained the unfortunate accident. There was nothing at all in the evidence to suggest that there was any negligence or want of care on the part of the driver; in fact, he appeared to have acted in a very proper way, and apparently he had his car under good control. It was for the Jury to say whether the driver was free from responsibility, and, if they thought the circumstances justified it, to bring in a verdict of accidental death. - The Jury, after a brief consultation, returned a unanimous verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated the driver from all blame. They added a rider, however, recommending that when in future a conductor is being changed he shall not stand in the middle of the road.

TORQUAY - Seaman's Sudden Death. Running After A Tram Causes Heart Failure. The Inquest. - At the Northcote Hall, Torquay, on Monday, the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the sudden death on Saturday of SAMUEL ASHTON, aged 24, 1st class stoker on H.M.S. Vivid, stationed at Devonport. He had been in the service for 5 years. - Mr John Lovell was elected Foreman of the Jury. - JANE ASHTON, of 37 Francis Street, Plymouth, identified the body as that of her son. She stated that deceased had been invalided home from China. On Tuesday he left the hospital and he visited her at Plymouth on Friday. On the same day she saw him at North Road Station, when he left by Train for Torquay. He had been very steady and belonged to Miss Weston's Sailors' Rest. - P.C. Patch said that on Saturday he was in Union Street soon after mid-day. He was walking along the pavement in the direction of Castle Circus. He saw the deceased suddenly stagger and almost fall. Witness was quite near at the time and caught him. Deceased spoke a few words saying "I was down by the Princess Gardens. I ran to catch a tram and it has upset me." Soon afterwards he became a little better and a man led him up the street. He, however, fell and witness got a cab for him, taking him to a Mrs Meade's, in Upton Church Road, a cousin of deceased. Deceased while in the cab told the constable his name and address. He heard of the death when at the police station at about 10.30 p.m. - Mary Meade, of Upton Church road, said deceased was her cousin. Deceased visited her on Friday and, as she could not accommodate him, he went to the Sailors' Rest. Deceased was brought to her about 1 p.m. on Saturday and about half an hour afterward she was again taken ill and died in a very short time on the sofa. She summoned Dr thistle, who pronounced life extinct. - Dr H. T. Thistle stated that he was summoned to deceased at about 1.30. Deceased had a slight cut under the chin caused through the fall. A post mortem examination revealed the fact that deceased had an abnormally small heart, which was only about half the normal size. The heart shewed signs of degeneration, no doubt the effects of enteric fever, from which deceased had recently recovered. The death in his opinion was due to the condition of the heart, accelerated by the overstrain caused by catching the tram. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 September 1909
TORQUAY - Old Age Pensioner's Death. The Inquest. - At the Northcote Hall on Monday afternoon, Mr Sidney Hacker (County Coroner) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of GEORGE HUGGINS, 74, tailor, of 47 Ellacombe Church Road, who died suddenly on Saturday. Mr W. Blackler was elected Foreman of the Jury. - MRS ALICE HUGGINS, the widow, gave evidence of identification. Her husband, she said, gave up work about 15 weeks ago, and had since been living on his Old Age Pension. Deceased had never had a doctor in his life, but during last week he complained of a slight shortness of breath. On Saturday he got up, but subsequently said he was tired, and went to bed again. She went to him about twelve o'clock and he then said he was very short of breath. A doctor was sent for, but did not arrive until half an hour after her husband's death, which took place about 1 o'clock. Just before he died he said he felt he was going to collapse. She was not aware that deceased had a weak heart. - Richard W. Wyatt, builder of 47 Ellacombe Church Road, said deceased had rented rooms from him. On Saturday he saw MR HUGGINS in the garden just after breakfast. He seemed then to be in good health. Just before one o'clock MRS HUGGINS called witness and he went to the bedroom where he saw deceased who was breathing very heavily. He passed away quite quietly some few minutes after. - The Coroner said he had received a note from Dr Courtenay Dunn, stating that he had been called away to attend a case. He would not wait for him, unless the Jury thought they ought to have medical evidence. The case appeared to him to be a very simple one and there was no need for an adjournment. - The Foreman remarked that many of the Jury knew MR HUGGINS and they did not think medical evidence necessary. If, however, the evidence of the witnesses had been less conclusive, it would have been awkward, for the Jury would either have had to be kept waiting, or an adjournment would have been necessary. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes." - Dr Dunn subsequently appeared and the Coroner informed him that the Inquiry had been concluded without his evidence, which the Jury did not think under the circumstances was necessary. No doctor's fee would be allowed if no medical evidence was given.

TORQUAY - Coroner On Jury's Fees. Inquest On Electrical Wireman. - The County Coroner on Saturday held an Inquest touching the death of FREDERICK MARTIN, electrical wireman in the employ of Messrs. T. L. Harding and Sons, who died suddenly on Friday. - WILLIAM HENRY MARTIN, engineering apprentice, of 2 Hilldrop-terrace, said that deceased was his father. He said he felt ill before going to work at No. 1, Higher-terrace. - James Graham, plumber, living at Ellacombe, said that deceased was sitting on his heels sawing a piece of flooring when he dropped his saw and fell back dead. - Dr. J. C. Payne attributed death to heart failure and a verdict was returned accordingly.

TORQUAY - Sudden Death Of A Painter. - Mr S. Hacker, at the Northcote Hall on Saturday evening, held an Inquest on the body of WILLIAM DELVE, aged about 46, painter, who was found dead at his lodgings at No. 2, Stentiford's Hill, by P.C. Friendship on Friday. - Mrs Rose Crocker, deceased's landlady, said that she had kept him entirely since June, he having had no work. She knew nothing about him, whether he had any friends or not, or where he came from. He had nothing except the clothes he stood upright in. He had been unwell for some time, and had got very weak recently. He did not come down from bed on Friday morning, and when she returned from work at noon she sent for a constable to force the door. Deceased was discovered lying in a pool of blood on the floor. - Rose Crocker, 12, daughter of the last witness, gave similar evidence. - Dr. W. H. Woodburn, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said that deceased, who was much wasted, died from haemorrhage. He had suffered from consumption in practically all his organs. P.C. Friendship described his finding of the deceased, and William Hayes, painter, who said that he had known him for thirty years, also gave evidence. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

AYLESBEARE - Death To Escape Agony. - A remarkable theory of a strange shooting fatality was put forward at the Inquest on a youth named ARTHUR BREWER, whose body was found in a ditch at Aylesbeare Common, a few miles from Exeter. BREWER, who was seventeen years of age, left home on Friday with his gun, and on Saturday was found dead with bullet wounds in his body and head. His gun was broken and a portion of it was lying across the dead body of a fox by his side. The medical evidence at the Inquest went to support the theory that BREWER shot at and wounded the fox. He then, it was suggested, reloaded and ran after the animal and struck it with the butt end of the gun. This discharged the contents of the weapon into his own body. Then, said Dr Bartlett, he must have sunk down and, realising from the nature of his injuries that he was doomed, shot himself through the forehead. There was no doubt that the wound in his body was caused first, for one cartridge could not have inflicted both injuries. The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that BREWER shot himself to escape the agony which he was suffering from the accidental wound in his body.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 September 1909
STONEHOUSE - Fatal Football. Sailor's Death At Stonehouse. - Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, on Tuesday, on FRANK EDGAR BAISS, aged 26 years, A.B., H.M.S. Vivid. - William H. Brooks, of St. Aubyn Street, Devonport, said he was referee in a Rugby football match on SAturday at Torpoint, between the Ramblers and H.M.S. Leviathan. BAISS played stand-off for the Ramblers. About eight minutes after the interval the ball was passed out from scrum to BAISS, who immediately went towards his opponents' goal. At the same moment he was collared, and threw the ball away. The ball was at once taken up by another of the Ramblers, who went through and scored. As soon as he had awarded a try, he looked around and saw several players standing around BAISS, who was lying where he saw him take the ball out of the scrum. BAISS complained of pains in his back between his shoulders, and it was thought he had broken his collar-bone. - The Coroner: Up to the time BAISS was given the ball from the scrum was everything fair in the match? - Yes, it was a very quiet game. - Ernest H. Oatzias, shipwright, one of the players, said BAISS received the ball about 35 yards from his opponents' line. He ran about ten yards and was then tackled. BAISS threw the ball from him, and then twisted round and fell. At the time the opponent had left the side of BAISS. He heard him exclaim: "Oh," as he fell. There was nothing unfair or foul about the tackling. A doctor was sent for, and advised removal to the Royal Naval Hospital. It was a quiet and good-tempered game. BAISS was a good athlete and sportsman. - By the Jury: BAISS was tackled by the legs. Could not say that caused the twist. It was a slight tackle. In throwing the ball BAISS twisted round quickly. - William H. Leonard, engine-room artificer, H.M.S. Leviathan, who was playing in the match, said he tackled BAISS around the hips when he had the ball, and to prevent him passing it. He believed they fell together and BAISS said "Oh!" He remained by the side of BAISS as soon as he had been hurt. The game was played fairly and quietly. - William Jenkins, leading seaman, of H.M.S. Leviathan, one of the linesmen at the match, said when BAISS was passing the ball he twisted around his body very quickly and fell on his right shoulder. - William Bennett, hon. secretary of the Ramblers' Club for sixteen years, said he never saw a better contested or sportsmanlike game. There was no rough play. It was quite an accident that BAISS met his death. - Fleet-Surgeon Vidal Thorpe, R.N. Hospital, said that BAISS was admitted on Saturday at 6.30 p.m., suffering from symptoms of fracture of the spine. He was completely paralysed in the lower portion of the body. An operation revealed that the spine was fractured between the shoulder-blades. The fractured bone was removed. BAISS died on Sunday. He was a fine, athletic man. The twist and the fall would account for the accident. - The Coroner said the case was a sad one, and they would express their sympathy with all who were associated with the deceased in the game on Saturday, and which terminated in such an unfortunate way. Their sympathy would also be expressed to the relatives of the deceased. The evidence had fully proved that the game was fair, and that the death of BAISS was the result of an accident. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," the Foreman adding: There is no blame attached to anyone.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 8 October 1909
TORRINGTON - Danger Of Plum Eating. - The North Devon County Coroner (Mr G. W. F. Brown) on Monday held an Inquest at Torrington on BEATRICE BLIGHT, the fourteen year old daughter of ALFRED BLIGHT, postman of New-street. Deceased was taken very ill after eating a quantity of plums, and died as the result. The father stated that he also ate some of the plums on Saturday night and experienced pains in his legs and eyes but was now better. Dr H. C. Parsons said he found deceased feverish, pleurisy and acute peritonitis following. Dr Macindoe agreed that the chief trouble was peritonitis, probably due to the fruit eaten on Saturday night, and that death was due to peritonitis. The Jury found a verdict of Accidental Death from peritonitis, set up by eating unsound plums.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 15 October 1909
TORQUAY - Death From Burns. Torquay Child's Sad End. Dangers of Flannelette. - At the Upton Parish Room on Tuesday evening the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) conducted an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ALBERT WM. INNIS BORLASE, aged five years, son of a labourer residing at 6 Myrtle Cottages, Stentiford's Hill, who died in the Torbay Hospital as the result of burns sustained on the 7th October. - Mr A. Beer was Foreman of the Jury. - LOUISA INNIS BORLASE, the mother, said she had seven children, the oldest of which was 16 and the youngest 2 ½ years. On Thursday in last week about 7.30 a.m. witness heard screams, and on going down stairs partially dressed, she saw a neighbour named Mrs Uglow in the court with deceased in her arms. His clothing was smoking and smouldering. Witness took the boy and handed him over to his sister whilst she went upstairs, dressed as hastily as she could, wrapped the child in a blanket, and took him to the Hospital. The boy cried nearly all the way "Take me home mammy." - In reply to the Coroner, witness said the children did not light the fire. This was done when witness came down to prepare their breakfast. Deceased got up and went out to play before breakfast with other children. - The Coroner: It is not the proper thing for the mother of a family to stay in bed and let the children go down like this. - Witness: This was not done at the fire. It was done with a candle. There was not a match in the house. My husband had to dress in the dark. The children must have got a match outdoors and lighted the candle, which usually stood on my bedroom mantelpiece. Witness added that she saw the child at the Hospital every day, but he was always asleep. The nurses would not allow her to see him whilst he was awake as he cried so much when she left. - The Coroner: Was there any fire in the grate when you came down? - No, and I picked up the piece of candle which it was said fell upon the boy outside the door afterwards. - Dr Woodburn, house surgeon at the Hospital, said when the child was admitted to the institution he was suffering from burns and shock, and died on Monday. The burns on the body were very extensive; in fact the left side of the back was charred. - Recalled, the mother stated that the boy had not dressed himself before he went down. He only had on a flannelette shirt. Mrs Uglow tore it off. He was the only child who wore flannelette, and she made the shirt for him because he suffered from bronchitis and she thought it would be warmer. - The Coroner: You know flannelette is dangerous I suppose? - Yes, but I could not afford flannel. - There is a kind of flannelette which is not dangerous you know? - I did not know it or I should have bought it. - LOUISA POMEROY, 16, daughter of MRS BORLASE, corroborated her mother's evidence. - LILY BORLASE, age 10, said she slept in the same room with deceased. She was dressing when he went downstairs. When she went down the accident had happened. She did not know where her brother got the matches to light the candle. Witness had lighted the fire once but she was not told to do so by her mother. - Mrs Bessie Uglow said she lived opposite MRS BORLASE. On the Thursday morning she came out to draw some water when she heard screams and saw the deceased run out the passage in flames. He had only his shirt on and the greater part of it had been destroyed. She wrapped her clothing around the boy and made the fire out. Witness saw a piece of candle lying in MRS BORLASE'S passage, but she did not know how it came there. She carried the child in to its mother. - MRS BORLASE said a little child aged four had told her that the boy was playing on the floor when the lighted candle fell from the mantelpiece on to his back. - The Coroner: Are you in the habit of leaving your children alone? - No. - Have you a guard to the fire? - No. - You know what the penalty is for neglect? - Yes, but my husband has been out of work and I have not had the means to have a fire. - The Coroner called attention to the danger of clothing children in flannelette which was responsible for so many fatal cases of burning. This material was a most dangerous one. There was a kind of flannelette made which was inflammable and very little dearer than the dangerous kind. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - Torquay Printer's Suicide. Poisoning By Gas. Inquest. - Quite a sensation - especially acute in football circles - was caused in Torquay on Tuesday morning by the announcement that MR CHARLES HENRY KING, who had for many years been connected with football affairs in Torquay, had taken his life. Although it did not actually become known how the deed was committed for some little time, the details eventually leaked out and proved of a particularly distressing nature. MR KING, who had for many years been employed by the Torquay Publishing Company, where he was manager of the printing department, was only 40 years of age, and he leaves a widow and six children, all under the age of 13 years. He had had a big connection with the football clubs of the Borough, having been a player for a considerable time and subsequently occupying the position of hon. sec. of the Torquay Athletic Club for three years. Deceased, who had been depressed for some days, was apparently worried by financial embarrassment, and on Tuesday morning left his home at an earlier hour than usual, went to the office in Cary Place, and going to the stereotyping room, turned on the gas jets connected with the stereotyping apparatus, and suffocated himself. He was discovered quite dead by the Secretary to the Company, Mr C. W. Ford, as the result of the complaints of neighbours respecting an escape f gas. - The Inquest. - was conducted at the Upton Parish Room by the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) on Tuesday evening. Mr A. Beer being the Foreman of the Jury. - ANN JANE KING, widow, stated that she lived at 3 Marguerite Villas, Ellacombe. She identified the body as that of her husband, who was manager of the printing department at the Torquay Publishing Company's Works. Deceased came home to tea on Monday as usual and went out immediately after. He returned about 11.10. Witness was then in bed. On Tuesday morning her husband got up at 6 a.m. and when she asked him why he was rising so early he replied that he had a special job to do for Mr Crossman, timber merchant. He did not wash himself or have breakfast, but went off in a great hurry. That was the last time she saw him alive. Her husband had been very strange in his manner, especially on Monday evening when he came home to tea. She did not know what the cause was. He did not tell her his troubles. When she spoke to him he did not answer. He had never threatened to take his life. Deceased enjoyed good health with the exception of an occasional head-ache, and his strangeness had only been shown during the past few days. She had been married fifteen years and there were six children. - Charles W. Ford, Secretary to the Torquay Publishing Company, said deceased was manager of the printing works. On Monday witness saw him on many occasions. He was carrying out his duties in the usual way. They discussed Saturday's football match together, and witness did not notice anything strange in KING'S manner. At 9.40 on Tuesday morning the machine man came to him and said the neighbours had complained of the strong smell of gas pervading their premises. A man from the Gas Company had been across but could find no leak on their side and therefore they had arrived at the conclusion that the leak must be on the Publishing Company's premises. He asked the machine man if he had been over the premises. He replied that he had not and witness suggested that they should go together. They first visited the paper room but found no leak there but on opening the door of the stereotyping foundry there was a great smell of gas and witness saw deceased's body lying on the floor with his head close to a box of envelopes. The body was partially covered with brown paper. Two india rubber gas tubes, used for the stereotyping apparatus, had been disconnected and were hanging downwards to the floor. With a gas pipe on the wall they were emitting gas. The two windows were shut and the register of the firegrate was down. Deceased had told him on various occasions that he was in financial difficulties outside and this was worrying him. - The Coroner: Have you ever heard him threaten to take his life? - Yes, once. At the end of May last he complained of being in difficulties and said "I fell at times tempted to get rid of myself". I told him to stop talking such rubbish as that. Deceased had been in the employ of the Company for 17 or 18 years. - In reply to Inspector Pratt witness said the brown paper covered the ends of both of the tubes from which the gas was coming. The tubes were near deceased's face. No-one knew that deceased was on the premises. - Dr Carver said he was called about 9.45 and saw the body in the stereotyping room. There was a strong smell of gas on the premises. As the result of a post mortem examination witness found all the organs healthy but the blood gave every evidence of gas poisoning. Death was due to suffocation by ordinary coal gas. - Edwin Hill, bottle dealer of 1 Coburg Terrace, said he met deceased in the Palk Arms, Ellacombe, between 9 and 10 o'clock on Monday night. They went home together at 11 o'clock. Deceased said nothing of his private affairs. - MRS KING, recalled, said deceased was not a heavy drinker. - Detective Potter said he searched the body but found nothing to throw any light on the matter. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane." - An Appeal. - Sir, I am venturing to appeal to your readers for help in a very distressing case, the details of which they will read in your issue of this week. It is not for us to pass judgment upon a dead man, shocked though we are at the terrible deed which betrays the cause of God, and leaves a wife and six young children to face the battle of life alone. But it is ours to do what we can to minister to the necessities of the moment, and to help a poor grief-stricken woman in her brave determination to keep her little ones from want. There must be many friends of CHARLIE KING who would be glad to help, for more than old acquaintance sake, and I shall be very pleased to receive any donations for this purpose, or they may be sent to our Parochial Treasurer, Mr Gordon Morray, Broxholme, Shirburn Road, or if preferred, paid direct into the "MRS KING Fund" at the National Provincial Bank. Yours truly, J. P. Baker, Vicar of Ellacombe.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 October 1909
PAIGNTON - Sudden Death. - Mr Hacker held an Inquest on Friday at Paignton on WILLIAM WINCHESTER, aged 73, who died suddenly at Cotswold, Osney Crescent. - MR GEORGE WINCHESTER, of Caversham, a brother, said deceased, a retired London tradesman, had resided in Paignton for three years with a wife and one son. He became insane last year and was taken to Wonford Asylum, and came out again last November. Chas Corney and James Gerry, night and day attendants of the deceased, said he had been fairly well in bodily health since he left the asylum, but was apt to be violent at times, and suffered chiefly from absentmindedness. On Sunday night he had a fit, which exhausted him, but he seemed all right in the morning. He went to sleep about 4 o'clock Wednesday morning and slept on until he died. - Dr Cosens said he had attended the deceased for rather more than two years. His affairs were put under a Master in Lunacy, MRS WINCHESTER being appointed committee of his personal estate. Deceased was properly looked after. On Sunday he had an epileptic fit and on Tuesday he became violent, suffering from acute mania. On Wednesday he became comatose, and so remained until he died. The primary cause was bronchial pneumonia. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

DARTMOUTH - Woman's Strange Death. In Service At Torquay. - At Dartmouth Guildhall on Monday evening, Mr A. M. Davson, the County Coroner for the Dartmouth district, held an Inquest concerning the death of FLORENCE MAY WIDDICOMBE, of Coombe, Dartmouth, who died at the Torbay Hospital, Torquay, on Thursday last. Suspicion was aroused as to the cause of death and an Inquest was ordered. - MARGARET WIDDICOMBE, widow, identified the body as that of her daughter, FLORENCE MAY WIDDICOMBE. Deceased was twenty-eight years of age and single. She last saw her alive on Tuesday week at Dartmouth, where she was spending six weeks' holiday. She was in a situation at Torquay. She made no complaint when at home. - By the Coroner: Witness did not want to wire to her mistress to let her stop a little longer. Deceased had one little boy five years old. Witness saw her in the Torbay Hospital on Monday last, but she was scarcely conscious. - Florence Rawlings, living at 5 Plainmoor Terrace, Torquay, wife of a tram conductor, said that on Thursday, the 7th inst., she saw deceased, who said she had been home and had caught a chill. She also said she thought she had strained herself when coming home by carrying a dress basket. On the Saturday she complained of being worse, and on Sunday she took her to the hospital. Witness asked her if she had been taking anything, and she replied that she had and asked her not to tell the doctor, as she did not wish him to know. She said she had taken a box of pills which she had seen advertised. She took them on the Tuesday after she got back to Torquay. Witness asked how many she had taken, and she said all. On the way to the hospital she made another admission. Witness told Dr Carver that. - Ethel Susan Fortescue, matron of Torbay Hospital, said the deceased was admitted on Sunday week, and she had seen her constantly up to the time of death. The only thing which she said to her which could have a bearing on the case was, "Will the Lord forgive me? Will He forgive me? If He spares me, I will be good to my mother." - Stella Fanny Smith, nurse at the Torbay Hospital, said deceased had only spoken to her of a fair man with blue eyes named Allen, who was away. She did not think she quite knew what she was saying then. - Dr A. E. Carver, practising at Torquay, said that on Friday morning he saw deceased at her mistress's house. Deceased complained to him that she had had diarrhoea, which had lasted two or three days, and pain in her stomach. Deceased said the diarrhoea was better than it had been. Next day he saw deceased again. At 3 p.m. he examined her, but could find nothing definite, though he was suspicious. He again questioned her very carefully as to a phase of her condition, but could get nothing from her. He told the mistress he felt certain she had something on her mind, and that perhaps she could get it out of her after he had gone. On Sunday it was obvious that the girl was very ill, and he directed her removal to the hospital. He accused her of hiding something from him, and warned her that the risk of doing so was very great. She swore on her oath there was nothing. The cook afterwards told him the maid had confessed she had taken some pills. He made arrangements as quickly as possible for her admission to the hospital. - Dr T. Horton, practising at Torquay, said he saw deceased at the Torbay Hospital on Sunday evening, and took charge of the case. She was extremely ill, and there were all the signs of severe blood poisoning. They tried to remove the cause of the infection as far as possible, but she never rallied and died on the 14th. He had made a post mortem and found acute infection of the pelvic organs, probably the result of abortion. By a Juror: He did not see any sign of an instrument having been used. - William Harrison Woodburn, house surgeon, Torbay Hospital, confirmed the evidence of Dr Horton. He gave the certificate of death. Deceased made no statement to him. The Jury found that death was due to blood poisoning. The Jury gave their fees to the deceased's mother.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 October 1909
PAIGNTON - Torquay Old Age Pensioner's Death. Asphyxiated at Paignton. - Mr Coroner Hacker on Monday held an Inquest at Paignton on the body of an old man named GEORGE WOTTON, which was found early the previous morning in Spark's Barn Lane, St Michael's, by a youth named John Westaway. - RICHARD GEORGE WOTTON, of Ellacombe, identified the body as that of his father, who enjoyed good health, and had an Old Age Pension. - Mrs Annie Pugh, 5 Brunswick-terrace, Torre, said deceased had occupied a room in her house since last Easter. She missed deceased on Saturday afternoon, last seeing him at one o'clock. He was very childish in his manner, and witness considered someone ought to have looked after him. - John Westaway proved finding the body, and said there were marks in the road showing that deceased had struggled in the mud, which covered his face, clothes and hands. - P.S. Maur (Paignton) and P.C. Greenslade (Torquay) proved seeing deceased along the Torquay road on Saturday afternoon. Greenslade going with WOTTON as far as the railway station, where deceased said he knew where he was. The witnesses spoke of deceased's childish manner. - Dr Adams attributed death to asphyxia by the mud and water, accelerated by exhaustion and exposure. The lungs were considerably collapsed. - The Coroner expressed the opinion that the son ought to have prevented his father from wandering about in the way he did, having regard to his childish manner. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

NEWTON ABBOT - Labourer's Fatal Fall. Inquest. - At Newton Abbot Hospital on Monday, Mr S. Hacker, held an Inquest respecting the death at the institution on Sunday of THOMAS EDWARD REDDAWAY, of Bowden Hill, Newton Abbot, after an accident at Kingskerswell. - MRS REDDAWAY, the widow, stated that her husband who was 41 years of age, left home at 4.30 a.m. on Monday to walk to Torquay, where he was working, and she did not see him again until informed by the constable of the accident. At the hospital the deceased explained to her how the accident happened. He told her he had some time to wait for his train at Kingskerswell, and that he went into the orchard for pastime, tumbling over the wall some time after. Deceased also told her that on his way back from Torquay he called at the Halfway House and had four three-half-penny-worths to drink. - Henry Ford of Kingskerswell, deposed that he and others were standing in the road way when they saw the deceased go into Mr Codner's orchard through the doorway. They knew deceased had no business there, and informed Mr Codner, who lived opposite. Young Mr Codner came out and borrowed a lamp from George Stacey, who was cycling past, and with it they found the deceased beneath a tree. Mr Codner said "Go and fetch a policeman," when deceased exclaimed "Here's off," and bolted, scrambling through the bushes and over the wall. Going outside they found the man lying on the footpath. - Richard E. Codner corroborated. - Questioned by the Coroner, he said his father kept poultry in the orchard. They had missed some, but not on that night. - George Stacey also spoke of the scene in the orchard. Dr Hatfield, he said, was sent for, and after he had attended to the injuries the deceased was removed to Newton hospital in a cab. - Mrs Hodge Brooks, wife of the landlord of the Half Way House, said, in reply to the Coroner, that the deceased called there about 7 o'clock and left shortly after 9. He was served with three or four three-halfpenny-worths of beer. She considered that he was sober when he left the house. - Dr Scott said he had attended the deceased for three or four days in the hospital. The deceased who had a large scalp wound, died on Sunday from failure of the heart's action, accelerated by injury to the spine. Replying to the Coroner, the witness said the injury to the spine was caused by the deceased falling on his head. Witness heard from the Matron that the deceased smelt as if he had been drinking when he was brought to the hospital. - P.C. Webber said the ground of the orchard at the place where the deceased fell was in a bevel in the wall, and the road was five or six feet below. To the poultry run there was wire netting and also some bushes. The Coroner, in reviewing the evidence, said the deceased was where he had no business to be, and there was no evidence why he was there. No doubt in trying to escape he caught his foot in either the wire netting or the bushes, and accidentally fell over on to the footpath. It did not appear as if drink was the cause. Jury's verdict: "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - Octogenarian's Death. - An Inquest was held at Torquay on Thursday on the body of HENRY MOGRIDGE, 82, who died at the hospital. It was stated that deceased broke his leg and was taken to the institution for treatment. Dr Woodburn said that death was due to heart failure, accelerated by shock, and a verdict was returned accordingly.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 3 December 1909
NEWTON ABBOT - Children And Gunpowder. Fatal Explosion At Newton Abbot. - At Newton Abbot on Monday, Mr S. Hacker conducted the adjourned Inquest on ARTHUR CHARLES RAYMONT, aged six years, son of WILLIAM HENRY RAYMONT, labourer, Pear Tree-place, who died in the hospital from injuries which, with three others, the little boy sustained in an explosion of gunpowder, which took place in East-street on the evening of November 5th. A youth named Bassett, aged 18, whilst having in his possession some gunpowder, which had been given to him by Thomas William King, a retired schoolmaster, threw a portion of it over a lighted paper lantern in the street, the result being an explosion, which resulted in more or less serious injuries being sustained by Bassett, the deceased boy, Emily Bassett, aged 13, and William Coombes, aged six, all four being removed to the hospital. The Inquest had been adjourned in order to obtain further evidence, more particularly that of the youth Bassett. - Mrs Fanny Bassett, of Pear Tree-place, stated that early on the evening in question her son, William, brought home two tins of gunpowder, which he said had been given him by Mr King, who is employed in a newspaper office. He said King gave the powder to him to let off in the backyard, but witness said he should not do so. She then took the powder to RAYMONT'S place in her apron and asked RAYMONT to throw it into the drain, but he objected. She then covered up the powder and placed it under an old tub in the back yard. At 8.45 p.m. she told her son where the powder was, and he said he should take it down to the river and throw it away. - William Henry Bassett, labourer, son of the last witness, who appeared with his head and face bandaged - and who was cautioned by the Coroner before giving his evidence - stated that when King gave him the powder he told him it was to make fireworks with, and he warned witness not to let off the powder in the street. He (witness) did not know how to make fireworks, and had never handled powder in his life before. When he took away the powder at 8.45 p.m. he told his mother that he intended to throw it into the river but when he got outside in the street he saw a paper lantern burning, and near it were standing deceased and his sitter. He then sprinkled some of the loose powder which was in a paper over the lighted lantern and immediately his eyes became full and he was "properly deaf." He remembered nothing more at the time, and when he came to himself he was in the hospital. In doing what he did with the gunpowder he disobeyed his mother and also disregarded King's caution. - In reply to the Jury, witness said he left his house with the intention of throwing the powder away, and he should have done so if he had not seen the lighted lantern. What he did was done to amuse the children, and at the moment he did not see any danger in it. - Thomas W. King, recalled, and who seemed distressed, said when he gave Bassett the powder, he thought he would make a "train" with it in the backyard. He knew that Bassett could not make ordinary fireworks, but it did not strike him (King) for a moment that a lad of his age would do anything dangerous with it. - The Coroner: You must have known he would not be able to use it unless it was in some very dangerous way. If you had thought at all, you must have known that it was not prudent? - King: Young men are used to making loose fireworks. - The Coroner: You did not inquire whether Bassett knew anything about it? - King: I thought a lad of his age would know the use of powder. I gave it to him out of kindness as he had behaved himself very well. - The Coroner, in summing up, said death was undoubtedly due to the explosion which was caused by the act of Bassett. The evidence showed clearly that there was no malicious intention on the part of Bassett to do the deceased child any harm, and therefore it came to the question of negligence and carelessness and a want of taking ordinary precautions in dealing with a dangerous article like gunpowder. It was illegal to ignite gunpowder in any public place, the penalty being £5, and it was to be presumed in the case of a young fellow of 18 that he knew what his responsibilities were. Bassett must have known that he was doing wrong in playing with or lighting this gunpowder; he had been warned both by his mother and King, but he paid no attention to either of them. The question for the Jury was whether the act of Basssett, in using the powder in this careless and negligent manner, was such gross negligence and carelessness as in their opinion to render him guilty of criminal negligence or manslaughter, or whether under the circumstances there was anything sufficient to excuse him from this charge, and to warrant the Jury in finding that the child's death was due to an accident for which no person was responsible. King's conduct in giving Bassett loose gunpowder seemed to him (the Coroner) most imprudent. One could hardly imagine a man who had been a schoolmaster, and who therefore knew what boys were, doing such a thing. There was all the distinction in the world between giving a boy a squib and a tin of gunpowder. What did King expect Bassett was going to do with it except to ignite it? King's conduct in acting as he did was most imprudent and highly censurable. - The Jury, after about ten minutes' deliberation in private, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death from the explosion." The Coroner asked if there was a rider, but the Foreman (Mr A. Sampson) replied that the Jury did not wish to add anything.

BRIXHAM - Brixham Lad's Death. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at Brixham yesterday on the younger son, seven years old, of MR FRANCIS MOXEY, fisherman. The father said when he saw his son after the accident he spoke quite rationally for a time, but died two hours afterwards. William John Thompson, aged nine years, said on Saturday morning he and MOXEY were digging a cave under a wall. About 2 p.m. the wall fell and MOXEY was buried beneath the stones. Five boys were playing there, but George Glanville was the only other boy hurt. He (witness) had been warned not to go into the yard to play. - Walter Savery, butcher, Fore Street, said he was on Station Hill when he heard the wall fall. On looking through the gate he saw MOXEY almost buried beneath the stones. He took the boy out and cleared the earth from his mouth to enable him to breathe. MOXEY was unconscious. Dr F. Brett Young said the lad had four ribs and a leg broken. Death was attributable primarily to shock, possibly induced by an internal rupture. Harriet Webber (nurse) and John Siller (surveyor Brixham Urban District Council) also gave evidence. John E. Philp (owner of the premises) said every precaution had been taken to keep children from the yard. The wall was safe as far as he was aware prior to the accident. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 December 1909
COCKINGTON - Retired Farmer's Sudden Death. - At Chelston. The Inquest. - At the Chelston Assembly Room on Monday afternoon the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquest on the body of JOHN SADLER CANN, 79, of 4 St. Bernards Road, who died suddenly on Friday night last. Mr W. Narracott was Foreman of the Jury. MRS GRACE MARION CANN, the widow, said deceased was a retired farmer and had resided in Torquay for 20 years. He had always enjoyed excellent health and on Friday last appeared to be in excellent spirits. He went to bed about 9 o'clock, witness following about 10. When she entered the room her husband was looking very ill and said he was suffering great pain in his arm. She told him it was probably a return of the muscular rheumatism he had suffered from three years ago. He, however, became much worse and died shortly afterwards. There was really no time to send for a doctor. - Dr G. Black said he was called on Saturday morning and made a short external examination of the body. He subsequently made a post mortem examination and arrived at the conclusion that death was due to fatty degeneration of the heart. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 December 1909
TORQUAY - Torquay Children Suffocated. A Dangerous Practice. - At the Northcote Hall on Saturday, Mr S. Hacker held an Inquiry on the body of the unnamed daughter of JOHN COOMB, cab driver, of 22 Church Street, Torre. - The father said that the child was born on Tuesday last. Both mother and child seemed to be going along all right after the birth. The child continued well on Wednesday and Thursday. On Friday morning witness, who had slept during the night in the same bed with his wife and child, awoke to see the infant dead in its mother's arms. Witness called a neighbour and at once sent for the doctor. - Dr Thistle said that when he saw the child about 8 a.m. on Friday it had evidently been dead some hours. The face was dusky in colour and the lips were blue. He made a post mortem examination of the child, which was well developed and above the average weight. Death was due to suffocation following overlying. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said that it was the general custom for mothers to take their infants, especially when very young, to bed with them. It was not an advisable practice on account of the risk of suffocation. Children should sleep in cots immediately they were able to leave their mothers. MRS COOMB, grandmother of the child, also gave evidence. - Summing up, the Coroner commented on the tremendous risk of mothers taking their children in bed with them. Statistics on deaths from overlying were appalling; every year 1,500 to 2,000 children were suffocated in bed with their parents. Mothers should know the danger of the practice. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - The Coroner also held an Inquiry touching the death of HERBERT, the three months old son of A. NOWEL YOUNG, compositor, of No. 3 St. John's-place, Braddon's-road. - IDA YOUNG, mother of the child, said that it had seemed a little weakly from birth. It was bright on Thursday, and took its bottle at midnight. It went to sleep soundly by witness's side, but when she awoke at 6.30 it was dead. Dr Crowdy, who was called to the child shortly after its birth, said that it was healthy. He was called to it after its death, which had been caused by suffocation. Nurse Jacocks, of the Nurses' Institution, also gave evidence. - The Coroner said that the case was a similar one to the first, and he again remarked on the very large number of deaths of children every year through overlying. It was of no use blinking at facts and the seriousness of parents sleeping with their young children. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 January 1910
TORQUAY - Torquay Infant's Death. Another Warning To Mothers. - At the Northcote Hall on Tuesday evening the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry respecting the death of EDITH WINIFRED BARTLETT, the six weeks old daughter of JAMES BARTLETT, labourer of 15 Braddons Street. The child was found dead by its mother's side on Saturday morning. - The mother stated that deceased was her sixth child. The other five were living. Deceased was cross on Friday evening and remained in a cradle beside her bed until 12 o'clock. It woke up at about 12.15 and she took it into bed with her and nursed it. The child fell off to sleep and witness saw that it was not unduly covered with the clothes. When witness woke at 5 o'clock the little one was all right and again at 5.45 it was sleeping peacefully and moving its fingers. Half an hour later when witness went to the bed the child was dead. There had been no convulsion. - In reply to the Coroner, the mother said she felt persuaded the child was asleep at 5.45. - The Coroner said it was considered a dangerous thing for parents to take small children and especially weakly children into bed with them. Very little would suffocate a child. In cold weather the bed clothes was very heavy and the slightest movement of the mother was attended with risk. So much had been said about this matter in recent years that mothers ought to know the risk they ran. - Dr Courtenay Dunn said he saw the child after its death on Saturday morning at 8 o'clock. It had evidently been dead three or four hours. A post mortem examination revealed signs that death was due to suffocation. The child was more liable to suffocation than an ordinary child, owing to a large gland in the throat. - The Jury returned a verdict that the child was Accidentally Suffocated whilst in bed with its mother.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 February 1910
ST MARYCHURCH - Fatal Fall. St. Marychurch Octogenarian's Death. The Inquest. - At St. Marychurch Town Hall on Tuesday the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MRS SUSANNAH REED, an elderly widow, who died at 8 Home Cottages, Victoria Park, on Saturday night. - MRS LUCY SHINNER, granddaughter to the deceased, said the latter was 87 years of age, and had been living with her for twelve years. She was in receipt of an Old Age Pension. Three weeks ago whilst witness was absent from the house deceased had a fall over the stairs. When witness returned she found her grandmother seated in a chair to which she had dragged herself from the foot of the stairs. She complained of having hurt her knee, and was in pain. In the evening when witness's husband came home they got deceased to bed and sent for Dr Lacey. Her grandmother did not leave her bed again. She appeared to become weaker and died on Saturday. Every care was bestowed upon deceased. - Dr Lacey said he saw deceased on the evening of Wednesday, January 19th. He examined her and found a lot of fluid on the right knee. There was also pain on the right side, but no broken bones. Deceased who had every care and attention gradually grew weaker and died on Saturday from shock. MR F. REED, auctioneer's assistant, of Bath, and son of deceased, said he had sent money to his mother towards her maintenance. He knew she had been well looked after. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 February 1910
TORQUAY - Railway Fatality. Guard Loses His Life At Torre Station. Extraordinary Coincidences. The Inquest and the Jury's Verdict. - Torre G.W.R. Station was the scene of a singularly unfortunate accident on Monday evening, as a result of which a guard named FRANCIS HERBERT HOLE, widower, of Newton Abbot, lost his life. It appears that HOLE was in charge of a goods train from Newton Abbot, which proceeded so far as Torre Station, and, on reaching there, was drawn into a siding. HOLE apparently crossed the rails with the intention of locating some trucks which were to be attached to his train. He was missed and a search was instituted with the result that he was discovered on the metals of the down main line in a terribly mutilated condition. He was, however, alive, and so assistance was procured and he was speedily conveyed to the Torbay Hospital, where he died two hours afterwards. The fatality is the second of the kind which has occurred in the locality of late. In fact, it was but a few months ago that a young porter was killed very near the same spot. It is rendered extremely sad in that the deceased was a widower with five children dependent upon him. Deceased, too, it seems, is not the only one of his family to be involved in serious railway tragedies. The history of the family reveals a melancholy string of coincidences in this respect, which renders Monday's fatality all the more lamentable and all the more to be regretted. Whilst Station Master at Dunball, near Bridgewater, deceased's father, nineteen years ago, was killed under peculiar unhappy circumstances. Deceased's sister had got in front of a passing train and the father made a brave attempt to save her. The attempt failed, however, both being killed. Thirty years ago deceased's eldest sister was knocked down by a train at Molland, on the Barnstaple line, and subsequently had to have a leg amputated. - The Inquest. - was held by Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) at the Northcote Hall on Tuesday afternoon. Mr Sidney Mann was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The G.W.R. Company was represented by Chief Inspector Mapledoram (Exeter), and Inspector Wager (Locomotive Department, Newton Abbot), Mr Smale (Station Master, Torre) and Inspector Tonkin were also present. - ROBERT JOHN HOLE, brother of deceased, a railway employee, at Digby Street, Bristol, gave evidence of identification. - Henry William Alsop, of Newton Abbot, the driver of the goods train, stated that he was in charge of the train on Monday evening when it left Newton at 7.49 p.m. for Kingswear. The train stopped when it reached Torre Station, near the goods shed, on the "refuge" siding. They stopped here to allow the up train to pass and to pick up a number of waggons. The guard remarked to him that the night was rough and proceeded towards the waggons to see how they were standing. These were on the up rails, and consequently, he had to pass over the line. Deceased had his hand-light with him and witness saw him take the path which runs between the down "refuge" siding and down line. About a minute after he left witness, the up train, which was in the station, proceeded outwards and at the same time a down train came along and the two passed one another just opposite his engine. As the down train approached Torre Station he heard a whistle and he considered it was the whistle of the in-coming train. He suggested that he might have heard the whistle and deceased might not have, as he was on the footplate of his engine. Up-trains, as a rule, sound a whistle when leaving the station, but he heard only one whistle, he concluded it came from the down train. After the two trains had cleared he looked out at the side of his engine and, knowing the guard had just proceeded down the path with a light, he considered it strange that there was no light to be seen. He commenced to see if anything unusual had occurred and walked down about 30 yards in advance of his engine. He found deceased on the down main line. There was a light from the station, besides a glare from the signal box. The lamp was found near by, but the light was extinguished. A shunting-pole was found further on, nearer the station. He met the station master coming from the signal box and informed him of his discovery. Deceased was terribly cut up, but was living. He procured assistance and deceased was removed on an ambulance. The up-train made a lot of noise and that, combined with the roughness of the night, might have prevented deceased from hearing the warning whistle of the down-train. - James McNamara, of Queen Street, Newton Abbot, fireman of the gods train, corroborated the evidence of the former witness. He was putting on fire at the time of the arrival of the down-train and did not hear any whistle. Neither did he hear the out-going train pass. He accompanied the driver along the line when the deceased was found. - Doctor Woodburn, house surgeon at Torbay Hospital, said that deceased was admitted into the Hospital on Monday evening between eight and nine o'clock. He had several scalp wounds, his upper jaw was broken, the bone of his upper left arm was broken, both bones of his left forearm were broken, the right hand was very badly lacerated, the left leg had a compound fracture of the thigh-bone, the knee-joint was laid right open, the lower portion of his left leg was broken to pieces and the lower muscles of his leg were torn. He was partially conscious, but was suffering from shock. He died about 10 minutes after 10 p.m. The cause of death was shock and the effect of the injuries. - Henry Richards, of Moretonhampstead, driver of the down-train, said his train left Newton at about 7.55 p.m. He passed through Torre Station sounding his whistle about 200 yards before reaching Torre Station, in accordance with regulations. He knew nothing of the accident at the time. It would have been difficult on such a dark night to see anyone on the metals. When he reached Torquay Station the guard of his train informed him that they had run over someone. They examined the engine when they reached Paignton, but found no marks of any kind. It was raining hard at the time and he was proceeding in the opposite direction to that in which the wind was blowing. - Sidney Herbert Bearne, of Moretonhampstead, fireman on duty on the footplate of the down-train, stated that, in accordance with the usual custom, the driver sounded his whistle on approaching the station. They always made it a practice of sounding a long-drawn out whistle at this point. - John Mitchell, foreman porter at Torre Station, deposed to being on the up-platform when the out-going train left the Station. He crossed in front of the down-train as it came into the station after having cleared the up-train. He saw the train approaching, but heard no whistle sounded. This might be accounted for by the fact that the up-train made a deal of noise. - P.C. Brock said he was on the down-platform of Torre Station on the evening in question. He saw the up-train leave the station and also noticed the down-train approaching. He did not hear any whistle, probably owing to the noise made by the up-train and the rough, boisterous night. Immediately the down-train left the station, the Fireman of the goods train ran toward the platform and said there had been an accident. He proceeded to the spot and found deceased lying on his right side with his head towards Newton. He seemed crushed beyond hope of recovery. With assistance deceased was conveyed to the Torbay Hospital. - The Coroner, in summing up, pointed out the necessity of drivers blowing warning whistles when entering the station. In this case the regulation seemed to have been complied with. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 1 April 1910
KINGSKERSWELL - Sudden Death At Kingskerswell. - At Kingskerswell, on Tuesday, Mr Sidney Hacker, conducted an Inquiry into the death of ROBERT PATERSON. - JOHN PATERSON, Blackheath, London, said deceased, who was his brother, was a man of independent means, and had resided at Kingskerswell 15 years. He was a bachelor and was formerly in South Africa in an official capacity. - John Dyer said he waited on deceased, and left him at 12 o'clock on Saturday night. At 3 o'clock he heard a fall and found deceased lying near the fireplace with his head in the grate. He was bleeding from the mouth. Deceased said, "It can't be helped; my legs gave way." Deceased bled a good deal. A doctor was sent for at seven o'clock. - The Coroner: Would it not have been the proper thing to send for the doctor at once? - I did not think he was in so much pain as all that. - Dr J. R. Hatfield said deceased was a chronic invalid, and fell and broke a rib six weeks ago. When he saw deceased the latter's face was terribly swollen. He had two black eyes, and blood was trickling from his mouth. He was suffering from shock, which aggravated his condition, so that he died. - The Coroner: Would you say his death was due to excessive alcoholism? - Not directly. His neuritis was the result of it, but he was not directly under the influence of drink at the time. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 15 April 1910
NORTH DEVON - Broke His Heart. - Thrown from a cart after his horse had been frightened by a motor-car, THOMAS LANE, 67, builder, of Parkham, North Devon, was found dead, and was considered to have broken his neck. This theory was, however, completely disposed of at the Inquest on Tuesday by the evidence of Dr Betts, who said, as the result of a post mortem, that the cause of death was a broken heart and not a broken neck. The man had a weak heart, which he considered had given way under the excitement and strain of trying to hold the horse in, and he was probably dead before he was thrown out of the cart.

TORQUAY - Torquay Labourer's Death. After Eight Months' Suffering - Does an Injury Cause Cancer? - At the Northcote Hall on Tuesday, Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of THOMAS MUDGE, 30, labourer, of 27 Queen Street, who met with an accident in August last, whilst at work on the S.S. Londonderry, belonging to Renwick Wilton and Co., from which it was said his death resulted. Mr Percy T. Pearce (Plymouth) represented Renwick Wilton and Co., Mr E. Hutchings the widow, and Mr F. Cowell, inspector under the Factory Act, was also present. Mr W. E. Hill was elected Foreman of the Jury. - ELLEN MUDGE, the widow, gave evidence of identification and said deceased was a painter's labourer. They had been married for nine years. Her husband had been ill since last August and died on Saturday morning at 12.15. After the accident deceased was an inmate of the Torbay Hospital until Christmas, when he left the institution for a short time, but had to return again. He eventually came out, but was unable to do anything. For a time he was able to walk about a little and then he took to his bed. On Friday, 27th August, when deceased came home he complained that he had strained his arm and was in great pain. He said he was taking another man's place on the vessel and met with an accident. Witness advised him to tell his employers, but he declined to do so, saying the pain might pass away. On the following morning he went to the Hospital and subsequently informed Messrs. Renwick and Wilton. There was no wound or bruise on the arm, nor was it swollen. Deceased was previously a healthy man. - Dr Hugh K. Lacey said he had attended deceased. He first saw him at the Hospital on November 5th, when he was suffering from a swelling in the neck which became larger. He was treated and sent out on 21st December, but came in again in January and was discharged as an out-patient in February. Witness formed the opinion that the growth in the neck was a cancer. He treated the man in his home after he was discharged from the Hospital. Death was due to widely spread cancer, which extended to the lungs. When he first saw deceased he could discover no trace of the accident which he had been told had taken place. - The Coroner: In a certificate of death what would you state? - I should state that death resulted from Lympho Sarcoma, which is a form of cancer and syncope and then, of course, there is the accident. - Would you mention it. You found no trace of it, you had only been told of it? - I think I should mention it because Sarcoma can arise from an injury. - And it may come in quite a natural way? - Yes, it does not necessarily arise from an injury. This man was perfectly healthy before the accident - a young man of 30 - and then six weeks after he had this malignant growth in his neck. My opinion is that the cancer was brought about by an injury, but I would not like to swear to this. - In further reply to the Coroner, Dr Lacey said he was of opinion that most cases of cancer arose from some irritant source. - In reply to Mr Pearce, witness said his opinion was based upon the man's previous healthy condition and the fact that he had had an injury. By healthy, in this case, he meant without any sign of malignant disease. He knew the man had undergone an operation previously, but it was not due to anything of a malignant nature. Even if it had been, that operation took place so long ago that it would not affect the growth in the neck. As far as he remembered the Hospital report was that the operation was in connection with tubercular disease. It was probable, in a general way, that this tubercular disease would develop elsewhere on the body. It was impossible to say whether or not the cancerous growth would have developed without an accident. - Mr Hutchings: Supposing a man is cancerous and meets with an accident, would it be the means of aggravating or assisting in its more rapid development? - Yes. The growth was in the region where deceased received the blow, just above the collarbone. - Dr Woodburn, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he saw deceased on August 28th and treated him as an out-patient. He complained that he had wrenched his left arm, but witness could find no bone injury. The skin was slightly abraised under the upper part of the arm. Deceased was treated as an out-patient until November 5th. At first the pain subsided, but later he complained of pains in his chest and neck. A month after the accident witness noticed the swelling on the left side of the neck, which increased in size. When he first saw deceased he came to the conclusion that he had ruptured some of the muscle fibres. - In reply to the Foreman, Dr Woodburn said as far as he could see the man was in good health, apart from the accident. - Replying to Mr Pearce, witness said MUDGE had previously undergone an operation of a tubercular character. - SAMUEL FRAGALL, an uncle of deceased, said MUDGE was employed placing the rope around the drum of the donkey engine on board the S.S. Lord Londonderry. When a basket of coal was being raised from the hold, it got foul of the combing and the whole of the strain of the basket and the pull from the donkey engine fell on deceased's left arm and strained it very badly. Every time the basket caught in this way there was a certain amount of danger to those below, but it could only be avoided by a guide and if this was adopted it would greatly lengthen the time occupied in the unloading of a vessel. Witness had known deceased ever since he was a lad. He had been healthy and had worked very hard. Witness was aware that deceased had undergone an operation at the Hospital, but he had heard no details, although he understood that it was rendered necessary through a kick he received. - William Bartlett, labourer, gave corroborative evidence and added that deceased was bound to hang on to the rope or he would have endangered the lives of the men in the hold. The abrasions on deceased's arm were possibly not due to the accident, for it was the custom of the rope man to hold the end of the rope under the arm in order to avoid friction on the hands which would make them blood-raw. - Mr F. Cowell, inspector under the Factory Act, said this ship was unloaded in the same way as was customary in certain ports. There was always a danger in raising coal from the hold of a vessel. A guide rope was impracticable and would greatly delay the work. The men engaged in this work kept going at top speed and this possibly accounted for the basket fouling the combings. There was nothing to prevent this rapid execution of the work. - The Coroner pointed out to the Jury that they had nothing whatever to do with the question of compensation, which was a matter for another Court. All they were called upon to do was to say whether deceased met his death as the result of an accident, or whether he died from cancer, which would be a natural death. - After a short retirement, the Jury returned a verdict "That deceased died from cancer which was caused by the accident."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 April 1910
TORQUAY - Recent Fatality At Torre Station. Sequel at Newton County Court. - It will be remembered that on Monday, February 15th, an unfortunate railway accident occurred at Torre G.W.R. Station, which resulted in the death of FRANCIS HERBERT HOLE, a guard, of Newton Abbot. HOLE, who was in charge of a goods train which was drawn into a siding on reaching Torre Station, evidently crossed the rails with the intention of locating some trucks which were to be attached to his train. He was missed and a search was instituted with the result that he was discovered on the metals of the main line in a terribly mutilated condition. He was, however, alive and so assistance was procured and he was speedily conveyed to the Torbay Hospital, where he died two hours afterwards. At the Inquest on the following day at the Northcote Hall, Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) presiding, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." At the time it was mentioned in the Torquay Times that deceased was a widower with five children dependent upon him, and that he was not the only member of his family to be involved in railway tragedies. The history of the family revealed a melancholy string of coincidences in this respect, which rendered the fatality all the more lamentable and all the more to be regretted. Whilst Station Master at Dunball, near Bridgwater, deceased's father, nineteen years ago, was killed under peculiarly unhappy circumstances. Deceased's sister had got in front of a passing train and the father made a brave attempt to save her. The attempt failed, however, both being killed. Thirty years ago deceased's eldest sister was knocked down by a train at Molland, on the Barnstaple line, and subsequently had to have a leg amputated. The sequel to HOLE'S unfortunate death was seen on Friday, when at the Newton County Court, an application in reference to the accident was made by Mr J. H. Hutchings (Teignmouth). He said the sum of £206 9s. 2d. had been paid into court. There was no widow, but five children, the eldest being 14 and the youngest four, and they were now with different relatives. The Great Western Orphanage at Derby was prepared to take two of the children, and the deceased's brother who, as next of kin, was making this application thought the two boys, aged nine and seven should be the ones to go. The Orphanage, however, required a subscription of £5 to be paid for each of them. Mr Hutchings said if the money was divided now it would mean a great deal of expense and the two boys who were going to the orphanage would not need any more money for a time, although they might later. He suggested that these two sums of £5 should be paid out of court, and that the sum of 4s. weekly should be paid out of court for each of the other children. To this the presiding judge (His Honour Judge Lush Wilson, K.C.) agreed.

TORQUAY - Ex-Waiter's Sudden Death. Inquest. - At the Northcote Hall on Tuesday, the County Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of HENRY EDWIN PARSONS, 52, formerly a waiter residing in Park Street, who died suddenly on Saturday. WILLIAM HENRY PARSONS, carman of 44 Ellacombe Church Road, identified the body as that of his brother, who was a widower. He had a little means, but lived alone, a sister calling upon him frequently to clean up the house, etc. Witness saw deceased on Saturday at 9.30. His sister was sent for but he preceded her. Deceased was in body did not show any signs of starvation or neglect. Selina Peek said she lived next door to deceased and had seen a great deal of him. He had money and plenty of food, although he was by no means regular in his meals. He complained of a cough last week. On Friday night he did not go t bed, but remained sitting before the fire. Witness induced him to go to bed on Saturday morning and sent for his sister. The Jury returned a verdict of "Heart Failure, accelerated by Excessive Drinking."

TORQUAY - Torquay Lady's Fatal Fall. Inquest Last Evening. - At the Northcote Hall last evening the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquest on the body of MISS LOUISA MUNRO, aged 87, of Kiltearn, Tor Hill Road, who died on Tuesday evening as the result of a fall over the stairs at her residence on March 31st inst. - MISS JANET MUNRO, sister of the deceased, gave evidence of identification, and said on the 21st March her sister fell down the stairs, just as they were ready to go to church together. Deceased was very nearly blind. She had lost the sight of one eye and witness thought her sister must have caught her foot in a wrap she was carrying on her arm. She found her lying in the hall in a semi-conscious condition. Deceased was put to bed and a doctor and nurse summoned at once. When her sister recovered consciousness she had no recollection that she had fallen. - Emma Rowlands, housekeeper at Kiltearn, said she found deceased lying at the foot of the stairs in an unconscious state. - Dr W. W. Stabb said he saw deceased about 12 o'clock on the day in question. She was suffering from a fracture of the right collar bone, laceration and bruising and shock. For the first week or ten days she improved and then the shock affected her nervous system and she died from exhaustion. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

BIRMINGHAM - Fatality To A Torquinian. Knocked Down By A Cyclist At Birmingham. - MR W. H. B. BAKER, 44, Excise Officer, who lived at 108 City Road, Birmingham, died in the Queen's Hospital on Saturday morning as the result of injuries received by being knocked down in the street by a cyclist. The accident occurred on Thursday evening while MR BAKER was crossing the road at the Corner of Broad Street and Paradise Street. According to the statement of a witness of the occurrence, MR BAKER was walking across the thoroughfare, and when near the refuge at the corner of Paradise Street and East Row, a cyclist coming from the direction of Broad Street ran into him. MR BAKER fell heavily on the back of his head, and was rendered insensible. The front wheel of the bicycle was buckled by the collision. A taxi-cab, which was being driven from Easy Row, was pulled up just in time to avoid the fallen gentleman. The chauffeur, a man named Jones, seeing that MR BAKER was seriously injured, informed some ladies who were passengers in the car, and they immediately alighted in order to enable him to take the injured man to the hospital. Jones spoke to the cyclist, who was a youth of seventeen or eighteen years of age, and, in reply to the chauffeur, the lad made the remark, "I'm not going to run away." Having told some of the by-standers to take the youth's name, Jones, who was accompanied by two other witnesses of the accident, took MR BAKER to the Queen's Hospital, where he was found to be suffering from a very severe injury to the head. While the patient was being attended to it was discovered that none of the witnesses, who had accompanied Jones to the hospital, had ascertained the cyclist's name, and when the chauffeur drove back to the scene of the accident the youth was no longer there. The Inquest was held on Monday and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. MR HARRY BAKER was a Torquinian by birth and was educated at St Winifred's School, Abbey Road, where he later served as an assistant master, while preparing for the Civil Service Examination for H.M. Excise. He was also connected with the Abbey Road Congregational Sunday School, where he officiated for several years as librarian. He entered the Excise some 25 years ago and was stationed for short periods at Plymouth and Newquay. He then removed to Derbyshire and Staffordshire and was for some time stationed at Fenny Compton, near Leamington. About eight years ago he returned to Devonshire and for many years took charge of the Inland Revenue at Totnes. Then four years ago a promotion to Birmingham was offered him and MR BAKER once more returned to the Midlands.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 29 April 1910
STONEHOUSE - Kingskerswell Woman's Death. - The County Coroner (Mr R.R. Rodd) opened an Inquest at the Town Hall, Stonehouse, on Saturday on the body of RUTH LOUISE MITCHELL, aged twenty-nine, a married woman, of Kingskerswell, who died on Thursday while on a visit to her sister at Pennycross. - DAVID MITCHELL, labourer, of Kingskerswell, husband of deceased, said his wife left him on the 9th inst., to visit her sister at Pennycross Barton. She was under the care of Dr Hatfield, of Kingskerswell, at the end of March, and came to Plymouth for a change of air. On Thursday evening he received a telegram saying that his wife was seriously ill. He came to Plymouth next morning, but found that she had died during the night. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said he had been living on friendly terms with her. There was one child, eighteen months old. - The Coroner said that there were circumstances connected with MRS MITCHELL'S death which rendered it desirable that an adjournment should take place. - At the resumed Inquiry on Tuesday, Dr Heppenstall, of Weston Peverell, said on being called to Pennycross Barton on Thursday he found MRS MITCHELL dying. A post mortem examination showed that death was due to acute peritonitis, caused by the rupture of an abscess. He did not think there had been foul play. - Dr Thompson Marshall, locum tenens for Dr Cooke, said he was called early on Thursday morning to see MRS MITCHELL. Owing to the terrible pain she was in he was unable to examine her fully. She denied being pregnant. He noticed on the sideboard bottles of medicine bearing the label of a local chemist, and he began to entertain suspicions. He administered a dose of opium, and told the people to let him know how the patient progressed. On the following morning he received a note saying his services would be no longer required, as they had called in another doctor. He attended the post mortem examination by Dr Heppenstall, and concurred with him as to the cause of death. Had a medical man been in attendance at the beginning of the week, an operation could have been performed, and in all probability the woman would have recovered. - The Coroner said the only question for the Jury was whether MRS MITCHELL'S sister had been guilty of culpable ignorance in not sending for a doctor earlier. He thought she was to blame. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 6 May 1910
TORQUAY - Killed By A Motor-Car. Little Girl Meets Her death. Was the Driver To Blame? - The tranquillity usually associated with a Sunday afternoon in Torquay was sadly married on the last Sabbath day by an accident, of a most unfortunate character, which happened in Union Street. As a result of being knocked down by a motor-car, driven by an Exeter gentleman, a little girl named KATHLEEN MORRIS lost her life. It appears that the child, who was thirteen years of age, was at Market Corner after leaving Sunday School. She caught sight of a girl-companion and, waiting for a tram to negotiate the corner, ran quickly across to Palk's side to meet her. Before, however, she could gain the pavement, a motor-car, which apparently she had not seen, came along and ran over her. She received severe injuries, to which she succumbed at the Torbay Hospital later on Monday morning. - The Inquest. - The County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) conducted an Inquiry at the Northcote Hall on Tuesday afternoon. Mr S. H. Easterbrook appeared on behalf of the parents of the child. - MRS ELIZA ALFORD, wife of a labourer, 36 Lower Union Lane, gave evidence of identification. Deceased was her daughter by her first marriage. Her child, who was at the time in good health, left home on Sunday afternoon for Sunday School at about 2 p.m. About 4 o'clock witness was summoned to the scene of the accident and was just in time to accompany her to the Torbay Hospital in a motor-car. Deceased recognised her and said "Oh, Mother! Mother!" This she repeated at the Hospital during the night and added "I believe they've killed me." Witness broke down at the conclusion of her evidence, saying "Nothing can bring her back, I know. She's worth too much for that." - A little girl named Winifred Bartlett, 13, said she was on Sunday afternoon going down Union Street behind the Free Mission band, in company with a girl friend. When they reached Market Corner, they met deceased, who was waiting for a tram to pass to allow her to cross the road. The child asked them to wait for her and when the tram-car had passed she began to run across. A motor-car came down Union Street, before the tram had cleared the road to go up Market Street. The motor-car knocked her down as she was about to step on the path on Palk's side of the road. Questioned by a Juryman, witness said she heard no warning hooter. - Frederick Powlesland, carter, living at 26 Alexandra Road, Ellacombe, stated that about 4 o'clock on the day of the accident he was standing at Market Corner. He noticed a motor-car coming down Union Street at a moderate pace. It pulled up slightly on reaching the crossing to allow the tram-car to proceed around the Corner. The motor-car was driven on the right-hand side as the tram was almost around the corner. The next thing he saw was the child with the car apparently just passed over her. - By Mr Easterbrook: When witness first caught sight of the car it was going at about 9 or 10 miles an hour. no sound of any motor-horn reached his ears. - Dr S. Moore, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, was the next witness to be called. He deposed to seeing deceased when brought to the Hospital. She was partially unconscious and was suffering from shock due to injuries. There was a large cut at the back of her head, which was badly bruised. She showed signs of rupture of internal organs. There was nothing to indicate that the car had passed over her. The internal injuries might be caused by any heavy blow. Death ensued on Monday morning at about 9 o'clock. It was due, in his opinion, to shock caused by internal injuries. - William Bridgman, porter of 24 Ellacombe Terrace, said no horn was sounded. - James Henry White, gardener, said that deceased stood by his side prior to crossing the roadway. He saw the motor approaching and, seeing that it was a dangerous corner, he thought the car was being driven at a "fairly good pace." The driver, when he saw the child's danger, did his best to avoid running into her. He considered that the sudden application of the brakes caused the motor-car to swerve to the right. The tram-car was not in the way, nor was there any other traffic. When the car struck the deceased, she was about eighteen inches from the kerb on the right-hand side. - Continuing, witness stated that he heard no warning sound. - In answer to a Juryman, witness did not think the motor would have knocked down the child had it gone on its proper side. - Mr Frank Harold Rippon, giving evidence, said he lived at Exeter and was an electrician. He was the driver of the car which caused the accident. There were other persons in the car, four altogether. It was his intention to stop at the Union Hotel for tea. As far as he knew, he was driving, when he approached Market Corner, in the middle of the road, - if anything towards the left. His pace then was about four to six miles an hour, he having already slowed up. The child suddenly ran out into the middle of the road. - The Coroner: By the evidence of all the witnesses the child was near the right-hand pavement when struck, so you must have been on the right side. - I was not. There was no other traffic to impede me. - The Coroner: Most people would say that the car ran into the child, but you think the child ran into the car? - Mr Rippon: Well, I consider she must have been near-sighted. - In reply to a further question, witness said he left Exeter at ten o'clock in the morning. He stopped at Ashburton. - The Coroner: None of the witnesses heard any hooter. What is your explanation? - Witness: I certainly sounded it. I had blown it all the way through the town. - The Coroner: You have killed a child and by the theory of owner's risk, it is your duty to give an explanation. What do you say? - I hardly understand your explanation. - Witness: The child suddenly ran into the road. - Mr Hacker: You were going at about five miles an hour. Surely you could have stopped the car? - Mr Rippon: I was unable to , it happened too suddenly. I was nearly on her and she was near the middle of the road. - Coroner: Well, this is contrary to all the evidence. - I can't help it. - Questioned by a Juryman, witness did not notice that the child wore eye-glasses. - Samuel T. Bartlett, also of Exeter, who was in the car, gave corroborative evidence. - Asked for an explanation of the accident, witness said his opinion was that the girl mis-judged the distance and did not give herself sufficient time to cross. - P.C. Lake said he was stationed at Market Corner on the afternoon in question. The motor-car came along at about ten miles an hour. It was about the centre of the road. The car, as it reached the corner, pulled up and went slightly to the off-side, because a tram-car was coming up the street. The next he saw was the child behind the car, having been apparently run over. The passengers in the rear of the car were looking back. On the journey to the Hospital he was in the same motor-car and the driver at one junction had difficulty in moving it. He did not hear a hooter of any sort. The driver seemed greatly frightened, but answered all his enquiries. - MRS ALFORD, recalled, was asked by the Coroner what was the state of the girl's eyesight. She said the deceased wore spectacles, not because of short-sightedness, but because of a cast in one of her eyes. She wore them at the order of the school's doctor. - Thomas H. Puddicombe was also called. The Coroner, addressing the Jury, said the serious duty devolved upon them of considering this case. It was a terrible thing to think that such an accident should happen in the main street of Torquay. They had to find out the reason of it and who was responsible. - After a retirement of ten minutes duration, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," a rider being added cautioning the driver to be more careful in the future.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 20 May 1910
PAIGNTON - Stoker Drowned In Torbay. Unable To Swim. - At Paignton on Tuesday evening Mr S. Hacker investigated the circumstances attending the death of ARTHUR HOOK, twenty eight, 1st class stoker, of H.M.S. Jupiter, who was drowned in Torbay on March 12th, and whose body was found almost on the spot where the accident occurred on Monday. Chief Officer A. E. Lark (Coastguards, Torquay) represented the Admiralty. - JAMES HOOK, proprietor of the Railway Inn, Cheltenham, identified the body as that of his son, by tattoo marks on the left arm. The features were, of course, unrecognisable. - Mr George Weddell, well known in local sports circles, said that on Tuesday he found the body some distance from the Pier, and, with the assistance of a youth named Hawke, towed it into the harbour. - Thomas Beck, A.B., of H.M.S. Jupiter, described the accident. Deceased was, he said, called about half-past three on the morning of March 12th and instructed to light up a steamboat, preparatory to going ashore. Deceased went over the boom and down the "Jacob's Ladder" to get into the boat, whilst a number of his shipmates kept the boat steady, there being a very bad swell at the time. Deceased slipped, in witness's opinion, in consequence of his holding the boat rope. Deceased must have lost his hold of the ladder. He fell four or five feet into the sea, but with a wave washing him back, he hung on for three minutes to the ladder. Had he been able to swim, or had he hauled himself up the ladder, he would have been all right, but after hanging on for the period he had named, witness saw him let go, when he was washed away altogether. It was pitch dark at the time, and although searchlights were at once cast over the surrounding water, deceased was not seen again. - By the Coroner: A boat was lowered as soon as possible, and everything done to locate the deceased after he had been washed away. There would have been a chance had he been able to swim. A year ago he had a course of lessons at Portsmouth, but even then did not learn the art. - James Weddick, second class P.O., also of the Jupiter, agreed that if deceased had been able to swim he could have floated until the lifeboat was launched. As it was he hung a dead weight to the bottom of the ladder and the seas dashed right over him. The previous witness offered to go down to the boat before the deceased left the deck, but he replied that it did not matter - that he would go down as usual. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. [Details of funeral followed.]

TORQUAY - Found Dead In Bed. Torquay Child's Death On Sunday. - The County Coroner (Mr Sydney Hacker) conducted an Enquiry into the circumstances attending the death of GWENDOLINE IRENE SETTERS, seven months old, at the Northcote Hall on Tuesday. Mr C. Coles was elected Foreman of the Jury. - MRS BESSIE EMMA SETTERS, wife of a carter and the mother of the child, living at 2 Spring Place, gave evidence of identification. Deceased was her second child, the first having died of teething convulsions when twelve months old. The deceased child was unhealthy and was extremely small. Deceased slept with witness and her husband and they found her dead on Sunday morning. The child had been fed at about 8.30 o'clock in the morning. They left her asleep to go downstairs to breakfast. After a while, about half-past ten, witness heard deceased cry and on going up found her dead. - Medical evidence was given by Dr Courtenay Dunn, who said the child was small in fat, muscle and bone. It was undeveloped and badly nourished. Death, in his opinion, was due to hydrocephalus - water on the brain. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 10 June 1910
ST MARYCHURCH - Poisoned By Carbolic Acid. St Marychurch Lady's Sad End. The Inquest. - A particularly sad and painful tragedy took place at St. Marychurch on Saturday morning, when at about 10.30 MRS MARY LOUISA ROBERSON, wife of CAPT. T. ROBERSON, R.N. (retired), of Maisonette, was discovered by a domestic in an unconscious condition in the bath-room, she having apparently taken some of the contents of a bottle of carbolic acid which was found by her side. Drs. Steele and Winter were immediately summoned and did all in their power to restore consciousness but without avail, the unfortunate lady passing away within a short time of having been discovered by the servant. MRS ROBERSON, who was very popular in social circles at St Marychurch, had suffered from a nervous affection for some little time and had worried considerably because her sense of hearing had of late become very bad. It is thought that whilst suffering from an acute attack of nerves and acting on a momentary impulse she took the poison. Great sympathy is felt for CAPT. ROBERSON and the members of the family. - The Inquest. - was conducted by Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) at the St. Marychurch Town Hall on Monday afternoon. Mr W. Terry was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - THOMAS ROBERSON, retired Captain, R.N., stated that he resided at Maisonette. The deceased was his wife, MARY LOUISA ROBERSON, and her age was 53 years. She was the mother of two children, a son who was at present in America, and a daughter PHYLLIS MARGARET, who resided in London, but was at present on a visit to Torquay. On Friday night witness and deceased went to bed together at about 10.30. His wife suffered from nervous depression, and was in low spirits that day and on the previous day. She was in the house nearly the whole of the Friday, and in the evening went to the tennis ground. On returning she was much better. She breakfasted with witness at 8.30 on Saturday morning and appeared to be slightly depressed. There was no tangible form to the depression. It was occasional. After breakfast witness went into the garden and was engaged in mowing the lawn. About 10.30 the maid servant came out and said she had been to the bath room to ask a question of deceased, and found her in a kneeling posture, and could get no response from her. Previous to his leaving the house his wife was placing things straight in the drawing room. He went to the bath room, and found his wife in a kneeling posture with her arm against a chair. He spoke to her but got no reply. It appeared to him that she had collapsed and was unconscious. He picked her up, carried her to the bedroom and placed her on the bed. At that time he did not see any marks on deceased's face. Witness went to the residence of Dr Winter, but he was not at home. He then proceeded to Dr Steele who came at once, and Dr Winter, who had been informed that his services were required,. came a few minutes after. A doctor was on the premises within a quarter of an hour of the girl reporting the matter to him. Witness said he noticed a strong smell of carbolic acid in the bath room immediately he stooped to pick up deceased, and he was so confident that his wife had taken it, that he at once went for the doctor. In the act of picking her up his face came into close contact with her's, and the smell of the acid was very strong. His wife had never taken anything before, and had never given him the slightest reason to suppose that she would do such a thing. He knew there was carbolic always kept in the house but he did not know where. Witness did not notice any glass. It had generally been his habit to order the carbolic at the chemist's when it was required. It was used for disinfecting purposes and as a dog wash. He could not tell the Jury anything that would throw any light upon the matter, beyond the fact that his wife suffered from mental depression which was fitful and was most severe in the early part of the day. - The Coroner pointed out that the bottle containing the carbolic acid was in a recognised poison bottle with a specially made stopper to show that it contained poison, so there could not have been any mistake. - Witness said his wife had taken medicine, and usually kept the bottles in the bath room. The depression was of a physical nature. There was nothing really to account for it. His wife went out and took part from time to time in the social life of the place. She had suffered from this depression for about two years. It showed itself in the form of melancholia and a disinclination to take part in anything. - Annie Heale, general servant, in the employ of CAPT. ROBERSON, said she had been at Maisonette for two years. On Friday night MRS ROBERSON appeared to be in her usual health. On Saturday morning after breakfast deceased came to the kitchen and asked witness what she required for the house. Witness gave her a list on the understanding that she would follow her usual custom and go out t purchase the articles. She left the kitchen about 10 o'clock, and about 10.30 witness went to the bathroom to fetch some soap not knowing that MRS ROBERSON was there. The door was not locked, merely latched, and on entering witness found her mistress kneeling on the floor, with her head and arms on a chair. She looked and spoke to the deceased, but there was no response. witness then went into the garden and called CAPTAIN ROBERSON. On entering the bathroom witness did not see any glass or bottle. She had seen a bottle of carbolic similar to that produced sometimes in the bathroom, and at others in CAPTAIN ROBERSON'S bedroom. It was more frequently on a little shelf in a recess with other bottles in the bathroom. She remained with deceased whilst CAPTAIN ROBERSON went for the doctor, but her mistress never moved or recovered consciousness. - In reply to the Foreman, witness said the glass produced was not kept in the bathroom, but in one of the bedrooms. She found the glass in the bathroom on the window sill. There was a little of the acid in the bottom. - The Foreman: Did MRS ROBERSON suffer from any infirmity of any kind? - CAPTAIN ROBERSON: Yes, she was deaf. - The Foreman: Did that cause her any trouble? - Yes, her deafness was increasing and it added to her depression. - Dr G. M. Winter said when he arrived deceased was quite unconscious and her breathing was very laboured. There was nothing much to show what had occurred beyond the smell of the acid and marks on the tongue and mouth. He sent the servant to see if she could find the carbolic, and she returned later with the bottle and glass. In the meantime every effort was made to restore consciousness and to remove the poison from the stomach. these efforts, however, failed, and she died in about a quarter of an hour. He had since made a post mortem examination, and found that the mouth, throat and stomach were greatly corroded by the acid which was one of the strongest forms. Death was due to poisoning. The bottle containing the poison had a special stopper which gave warning upon being grasped that its contents were dangerous. He had attended deceased for about three years, and she had suffered from periodical bouts of nervous depression and sleeplessness. Deceased had arrived at a critical age. Her deafness was a great sorry to her. Her son was also deaf, and as a consequence could not enter the Navy. This also troubled her. Possibly deceased was taking medicine he had prescribed, but he had not recently supplied her with any physic. The Captain and his wife lived upon the most happy terms, and but for these fits of depression deceased was a very bright little woman. - Recalled, Annie Heale stated that when she found the bottle the stopper was in it. - Mrs Louisa Acton, widow, of Dunboyne, St. Marychurch, said deceased was a great friend of hers. She last saw her on Friday evening and she was then very interested in a game of croquet and seemed in particularly good spirits. Had deceased had any great trouble on her mind she would certainly have told witness. - CAPTAIN R. C. DYER, R.N., (retired), said deceased was his daughter, and he occasionally saw her. She had been a good deal in hot climates, but was generally a very bright woman. In everything she undertook she did well, and was particularly successful at prize winning at school. - The Coroner said death was undoubtedly due to poisoning, and the only question which arose was whether deceased took the poison with the object of destroying herself, or whether her death was due to misadventure. There was not much evidence in support of the latter supposition, for the stopper of the bottle was so constructed that it was practically impossible to mistake it for anything else. In fact there appeared to be only one thing on the shelf that she could have taken, and that was a saline. - Dr Winter said he had not been asked, but he wished to say that the quantity of the acid taken was about a table-spoonful. - In reply to a question Dr Winter said the poison acted very quickly, and there would not be time to call for assistance. - The Coroner said the colour of the liquor, and the smell of the acid would have prevented a mistake. Deceased, they had heard, was of a very nervous disposition and subject to fits of depression. - After a short retirement the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane," and expressed their deep sympathy with CAPTAIN ROBERSON and his family. The Coroner joined with the Jury in their sympathy. The Jury gave their fees to the Torbay Hospital.

TORQUAY - Chelston Butcher's Death. Accelerated By Excessive Drinking. - At the Northcote hall on Monday evening, Mr Sydney Hacker held an Inquest on the body of JAMES P. SHORT, aged 40, a single man living in lodgings at 19 Fairhaven Crescent, Chelston. Deceased was by trade a journeyman butcher. - ALBERT SHORT, of Cary Farm, St. Marychurch, identified the body as that of his brother. - Mrs Harriet Payne, tenant of No. 19 Fairhaven Crescent, said deceased had been practically unemployed for three months. Deceased had not been in want, although he had been unable to pay regularly for his lodgings. When deceased made a complaint of feeling unwell she had advised him to consult a doctor. She had reason to believe he had not done this. On Friday he came down saying he felt better. She told him he did not look better, and persuaded him to see Dr Thistle and he was driven there, so she thought, by a lad named Harvey. On Friday night she fetched him from a public house and after walking a short distance he fell down, his legs seeming to give away. Two men picked him up and helped him home, and when there he again said he felt better. On the following morning he had three cups of tea in bed and drank a quantity of milk. Later, he refused to east any breakfast, but about 12 o'clock he asked for lunch. She proceeded to get him lunch, and when she went up to his bedroom she found him drawing his last breath. She fetched some neighbours and sent for Dr Thistle. The latter arrived about one o'clock and was followed by Dr Winter. - Dr Winter stated that he had attended deceased three years ago, when he was suffering from delirium tremens - the result of drink. Once since he had visited him. On Friday night deceased's brother called and asked him to see him on the following day. When witness arrived on Saturday deceased was dead. After a post mortem examination, he found internally there were very few organs that were not diseased. The heart was dilated, and the liver was nearly twice the normal size. The cause of death was heart failure, brought about by heart and kidney disease, accelerated by excessive drinking. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 17 June 1910
STARCROSS - Found In The Exe. Torquay Retired Waiter's Mysterious End. - On Wednesday morning the body of an elderly man, who had evidently met his death by drowning was discovered in the River Exe near Starcross. There was nothing whatever on his clothing or in his pockets which would lead to his identity, but the following description of the body was immediately circulated by the County police: Deceased is about 60 or 70 years of age, and he is 5ft. 9 ½ in. in height. He is of fresh complexion with brown hair turning grey, a grey beard and several days' growth of moustache on the upper lip. He was dressed in a black morning coat and vest, and dark striped trousers and was wearing a white starched shirt and collar and black bow tie. He also wore a truss. He had black laced boots on, and red web braces. There were no marks on any of his underclothing. In his pocket 7 ½d. in coppers were found. - Later in the day MISS EDITH WOOD notified to the Torquay Police that the description answered to that of her father, who left Torquay at 7.45 a.m. on Tuesday morning with the object of going to Newton. The body has since been identified as HENRY OSMOND WOOD, who resided at No. 2, Torre Square, Torquay. Deceased was a retired waiter and was 81 years of age. He had resided in Torquay for many years. - The Inquest. - Mr H. W. Gould held the Inquest at Starcross Parish Room yesterday morning. - EDITH WOOD, daughter of the deceased, of Ashleigh, Tor Square, Torquay, stated that her father was a retired butler, and his age 81. She lived with him. He was a widower. Witness last saw him alive at 7.45 on Tuesday evening, at which time he left home, stating that he was going out for a little while and would not be long. Witness was unable to account for his being found at Starcross. He left no communication behind, and had not, apparently, suffered from lapse of memory. He never spoke of suicide, but had complained of pains in the head, which did not depress him. He had spoken of going to Newton Abbot, where he had friends, and, as he did not return on Tuesday night, she thought he might have gone there. - Alfred Hawkins, labourer, of Starcross, stated that he found the deceased, about 600 yards from the Pier. He was quite dead. - P.C. Auckland, of Starcross, said he was called to go to the beach at 3.45 on the morning of Wednesday, and saw deceased lying on the beach as described by the last witness. He searched the clothing, and found a sixpence and three half-pence in the pockets. Deceased's bowler hat was found some distance further down the beach. The body was quite cold and dead when witness saw it. He had been unable to find anyone who had seen the deceased after he left his home. - Dr Iles, of Starcross, deposed that he had examined the body. He found no marks of violence and there were all the appearances of drowning, but he could form no accurate opinion as to how the deceased had been dead. The Coroner remarked that the case was certainly a mysterious one, and he feared it would remain a mystery unsolved. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 15 July 1910
PENZANCE - Torquay Child's Death. - An Inquest was held at Crowlas, near Penzance, on Thursday last, on the body of CHARLES BURBAGE ROSEVEAR, aged two years and two months, son of ANNIE BURBAGE, wife of EDWARD HAROLD BURBAGE, artist's colourman, of Torquay. Death was caused by a kick from an animal in a field in which the child was accustomed to play.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 22 July 1910
TORQUAY - Tailor's Suicide. Tragedy Of A Pricked Thumb. Pathetic Last Message. - Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) at the Northcote Hall, on Saturday, Inquired into the death of FRANCIS PEARCE, forty-nine, journeyman tailor, who cut his throat on Friday and was found dead in the waste piece of ground known as Upton Valley, at the rear of the Free Library. - Evidence of identification was given by EDWARD J. PEARCE, innkeeper of the Grapes Inn, Pimlico, and brother of the deceased, who added that deceased, a widower, had for some time been suffering from a pricked thumb, and had drawn sick club pay. Witness last had conversation with the deceased at Ashburton about three weeks ago. - Asked by the Coroner if anything had been wrong with the deceased, witness said that about three months ago his brother was found on the Quay at Torquay wet through. He stated that he walked into the Harbour, whether accidentally or not he did not make clear. Deceased was always secretive. - Shown a note that had been found on the deceased, witness stated that he could not say whether his brother had written it, as he did not know his handwriting. - The Coroner read an extract from the note, and asked the witness if his brother had been an invalid. - Witness replied that he had been under medical treatment; that was all he knew about it. - EDWARD PEARCE, son of the last witness, said deceased was at his father's house on Thursday for several hours. He had three pints of beer, and appeared as well as usual. He left, under the pretence of going to listen to the band. Before he went he opened a bag which he had previously left there, and took out a clean collar. A razor which had been in the bag was the next day found to have also been taken out. - Miss Kate Jones, daughter of the proprietor of the Castle Hotel, stated that the deceased came to the house between four and five o'clock on Thursday, and remained until about 7.30, having two pints of beer. She noticed nothing unusual about him. After he had left the hotel, she saw him leaning over the wall surrounding the plot of ground in which the body was found. - A labourer in the employ of the Torquay Corporation, named William Luscombe, described finding the body in a secluded portion of the Upton Valley. Witness when he found that the man, who had taken off his coat and vest, had cut his throat, communicated with the police. - P.C. Pearce said that the razor found near the deceased was that produced. - MARGARET PEARCE, niece of the deceased, was shown the razor, and said it was similar to that which deceased took out of the bag at the Grapes Inn on Thursday. - Questioned by the Coroner, witness said that deceased had suffered from pains in the head, in addition to the effects of the injury to the thumb. - Dr T. D. Cook deposed that when he saw the body, just before 2 p.m. on Friday, the deceased had been dead for any period from two to eight hours. Examination of the body revealed a terrible gash in the throat. The nature of the wound showed that the deceased had cut his throat very determinedly. Death must have been almost instantaneous. Witness added that he had seen the note found on the deceased, and it seemed to him that the contents indicated derangement of mind. - The Coroner after pointing out that there was nobody to identify the handwriting as that of the deceased, read the note. It was very incoherently written and opened as follows: - "Cannot bear the pain any more - got to suffer all the remainder of my life - so the doctor tells me. Goodbye all. You can manage things all right, Ned (evidently deceased's brother). Just think what I have suffered since last November - not me to complain, but my poor heart! I have been walking all night." The note concluded with a reference to a policeman who had disturbed him whilst asleep in the open at Paignton. The Coroner having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporary Insane."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 5 August 1910
TORQUAY - Torquay Fatalities. Death In A Swinging Boat. Young Woman's Tragic Death At Recreation Ground. - Whilst swinging in a swing-boat at the confetti fete, arranged by the Friendly Societies at the Recreation Ground on Wednesday evening, a young woman named FLORENCE TOPE, aged 22, living at Rosery Cottages, Chelston, suddenly collapsed. Her sister, who was in the boat with her, raised a cry and the boat was immediately stopped and the young woman placed on the ground apparently in a fainting fit. Inspector Pratt, P.C. Milford and Inspector Jones, N.S.P.C.C. and on his arrival Dr Winwood Smith maintained artificial respiration for 50 minutes, but without avail. Deceased, it is stated, had been treated for heart disease. - The Inquest. - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the young woman's death at the Northcote Hall yesterday afternoon. Mr Levi Powell was Foreman of the Jury. - WILLIAM TOPE, father of the deceased, and a packer on the G.W.R., said he lived at No. 3, Rosery Cottages. He identified the body as that of his daughter, who was 22 years of age. On Wednesday at midday she was in good health and spirits. She left home between 6 and 7 o'clock to attend the confetti fete at the Recreation Ground. Between 10 and 10.30 he was called to the Ground and found his daughter in an unconscious state. She died a few minutes after. His daughter had rheumatic fever in February last and Dr Black, who attended her, said her heart was affected and that she should be taken care of. - OLIVE DEAN, married sister of deceased, said she met her mother and sister at the Recreation Ground about 9 o'clock. With deceased witness went on the switchback and then her sister asked her to go on a swinging boat. They had been swinging about five minutes when her sister ceased talking which was most unusual, and dropped the rope she had been holding. Witness asked her what the matter was but she fell forward and said she was going to sleep. The boat was stopped and some young men helped deceased out in an unconscious state. She was laid on the grass and a doctor was summoned, but she died about 11 o'clock. Witness did not know that her sister's heart was affected, but she did know that she had had rheumatic fever twice. - Dr Winwood Smith said he saw deceased just before ten o'clock at the Recreation Ground. He could not say she was then dead. Artificial respiration was tried for a considerable time to restore animation but without success. Death was due to heart disease which frequently followed rheumatic fever, and pulling a swing would be very likely to cause heart failure. He would like to express his appreciation of the manner in which the police endeavoured to restore animation. Everything that could have been done was done. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - Death After Taking Gas For Teeth Extraction. - On Wednesday evening a coachman named ALFRED W. FORD, living at Cockington, died after having taken gas for teeth extraction at Mr Hunt's dentistry in Tor Hill Road. The gas had been administered by Dr Thistle and soon after something was seen to be wrong. Drs. Horton and Lacey were called in to assist him in trying to restore animation, but without success. - The Inquest. - At the Inquiry conducted by Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, at the Northcote Hall, yesterday, EMMA FORD, the widow, gave evidence of identification, and said deceased was 38 years of age and was at the time of his death in the employ of Capt. Mallock, of Cockington Court. On the previous day she walked into the town with her husband, who had made an appointment to have some teeth extracted by Mr Hunt. He arrived at the dentistry at 3.30. Deceased had arranged to have gas administered. He had had six teeth extracted whilst under gas on the previous Thursday and suffered no ill effects. Witness did not go into the room in which the extractions were made with her husband but remained in the waiting-room. She was subsequently called and saw her husband lying dead. Six months ago her husband had a long illness and she had been told that he suffered from a weak heart. She told Mr Hunt of this when deceased first visited Mr Hunt. - Mr Graham Hunt, qualified dental surgeon, said on July 28th, he extracted six teeth for deceased. He was placed under gas, administered by Dr Thistle. An appointment was made for August 3rd, to extract more teeth. Deceased mentioned that he suffered from a weak heart and witness informed Dr Thistle. On Wednesday the gas was administered by the doctor in the usual way and two teeth and two roots were extracted. Just as witness made the last extraction he noticed that deceased had ceased breathing. Artificial respiration was resorted to and was successful, but the man did not recover consciousness. Witness then summoned Drs. Horton and Lacey, but just before 5 o'clock breathing again ceased and the patient expired. - In reply to the Coroner witness said the gas, nitrous-oxide, was supplied by wholesale chemists in London and he had never known it to vary in quality. Neither he or his father had ever had such a case before. Such cases were very rare. As many as 20 administrations of gas were made at Guy's Hospital each day, whilst he was there, and there was not a single death. - Dr Thistle said he examined deceased on the first occasion and considered him to be in a suitable condition of health to take the gas. He suffered no ill-effects from it. On Wednesday deceased took the gas and extractions were made when he suddenly ceased breathing. Every effort was made to restore consciousness, but without success. Deceased had walked from Cockington with a heavy overcoat on in a stormy day and this he thought had more to do with his death than the gas. Witness had administered gas 2,000 times and had never had such a result before. Nitrous-oxide was the safest of anaesthetics. He was satisfied that deceased had no valvular disease of the heart, although he possibly had a degenerate heart, but there were no symptoms to corroborate this. Having taken the gas so well previously, there was no reason he should not take it again. - Dr H. Lacey said examination had revealed an enlarged heart with disease of other organs. Syncope was the cause of death. The gas had probably thrown greater strain on the heart. Witness admitted that there was some danger in administering nitrous-oxide gas to a person with a degenerate heart, but it was very difficult to diagnose symptoms of a degenerate heart. The Foreman (Mr Levi Powell) said the weak part of the case to him was that an examination of deceased was not made on the second occasion he visited the dentist. From Dr Lacey's evidence it would appear that deceased was far from physically well. Dr Thistle said deceased took the gas so well on the first occasion that he regarded it as unnecessary to make a second examination. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Heart Failure, resulting from the effect of the nitrous-oxide gas, which was properly administered."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 12 August 1910
NEWTON ABBOT - Newton J.P.'s Suicide. Found Shot In The Garden. - On Monday Newton Abbot was startled by a report that MR W. J. WATTS, of the Firs, one of the best-known public men in South Devon, had been found shot through the head in his garden. A man named Harry Carpenter, in the employ of Mr Hugh Mills, builder, was engaged in the grounds of St. Bernards, when he heard the report of a gun discharged close at hand. Looking over the wall, he saw MR WATTS lying on the ground with a gun beside him. He gave the alarm and assistance was quickly at hand, but the unfortunate gentleman was dead, his head being frightfully shattered. Deceased, who was seventy-one years of age, was the eldest son of the late MR W. J. WATTS, of Forde House, an ex Sheriff of the county. He was one of the principals of Watts, Blake, Bearne and Co., one of the largest firms of clay merchants in the West. A Justice of the Peace for the county, he was a member of the Standing Join Committee, and was also churchwarden for the parish of Wolborough, a member of the Teignmouth Harbour Commission, a feoffee for the parish of Wolborough; in fact, he was connected with almost every public body in the neighbourhood. Of late he had been very indisposed and had suffered from insomnia. He leaves a widow, a son and several daughters. - The Inquest. - The Inquiry into the death of MR WATTS was held at the Town Hall, Newton Abbot, on Monday afternoon, by Mr S. Hacker. Dr Harvey was the Foreman of the Jury, and Mr G. D. Woollcombe watched on behalf of the family. - MR WILLIAM JOHN VICARY WATTS, of Abbeydale, Newton Abbot, said the deceased was his father. He was seventy one years of age, a clay merchant and a Justice of the Peace for the county. Witness last saw his father alive on Sunday night at a quarter past ten, having been at the house to supper. - The Coroner: Was he in ordinary health? - He had not been very well. he had been away from his work for a week. He suffered a great deal from gout. - He had not been seriously ill, then? - Oh, no. He had been depressed and poorly, and he told me when I left him on Sunday that he thought he was better. He had decided to go away for a change, and I asked him when he was going, but he said he would see Dr Scott. - Was there anything in the conversation you had with him to throw any light upon this occurrence? - Not the slightest. He was depressed, but nothing to cause anxiety. - Had he been suffering pain during the week? - Yes, such pain as one suffers from gout. - Nothing worrying him? - No, I have no reason to know there was anything. He has had sleepless nights lately. For the past five or six years he had suffered from sleeplessness occasionally. - Witness said the gun produced was usually kept in the harness-room, and had belonged to the deceased. There were two cartridges in the gun of the sort the deceased generally used. Witness believed there were cartridges kept in the harness-room as a rule. He was informed by messenger that morning, and found his father lying at the back of the house. The gun was by his side. Witness had looked into deceased's room, but there was no communication explaining the occurrence. - Edith Jeffery, house parlourmaid at The Firs, said MR WATTS came down to breakfast at eight o'clock, and appeared to be as usual. There was nothing remarkable in his demeanour. She did not hear the report of the gun. - Henry Carpenter of 17 Quay-terrace, a labourer in the employ of Mr H. Mills, builder, said he was working in the grounds of St. Bernard's, adjoining The Firs, that morning. At 8.45 he heard the report of a gun and a thud as if someone had fallen. He got up and looked over the boundary wall and saw deceased lying on his back inside the enclosure round the dog's kennel. He did not know who it was and went round to the front of the house thinking to tell MR WATTS. He saw one of the servants and MISS WATTS, and went for the police. - John Rogers, 37 Hilton Road, gardener employed at The Firs, said he had charge of the gun for some months and cleaned it at the beginning of last week at MR WATTS' instructions. The gun was in its place on Sunday morning. On arrival from breakfast that morning he was told that a man had shot himself in the garden, and on making his way to the enclosure he found it was his master, who was lying on his back with his feet towards the boundary wall. By his side was the gun and a cane, which was used for gardening purposes. - Dr R. H. Grimbly found deceased as described. Death must have been instantaneous. The mark on the front of the throat indicated where the shot entered, passing out through the upper part of the skull. The muzzle of the gun was in deceased's left hand, and the cane was lightly grasped in his right hand. There was brain matter quite two yards from the body, and deceased must have staggered back two paces before he fell. Witness thought the cane must have been used for the purpose of pressing the trigger. The muzzle of the gun must have been placed towards the throat. Witness did not think there could be any doubt that the wound was self-inflicted. - Dr W. Scott said MR WATTS had been a patient of his for many years, and the reason he had not seen him during the last month was because witness had been away on holiday. Witness's son had attended him. Witness had been urging deceased to go away for a change for some time. Deceased had been suffering from suppressed gout and had been very quiet about himself, but there was no sign of mental aberration. Deceased used to get fits of depression when he got these attacks of gout. - Mr G. D. Woolcombe said he saw the deceased at his request on Tuesday, when he was looking very seedy. He said that he was going to Aix-les-Baines for his health. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane," expressing their condolences with the family, and referring to the loss the town had sustained by the death of an old citizen.

ST MARYCHURCH - Showman's Death At Babbacombe. Verdict of Heart Failure. - At St. Marychurch, on Friday evening, the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) conducted an Inquiry with reference to the death of WILLIAM NEWMAN, aged seventy-four, stepfather of MRS SOPHIA HANCOCK, and who accompanied the shows, visiting Torquay for the Babbacombe Regatta. - On Thursday afternoon NEWMAN was found dead behind the caravans by a visitor, named Mr Cozens. - Elizabeth Frampton stated that NEWMAN ate a good dinner at 1.30 p.m. The evidence of Dr Pitt-Palmer showed that deceased had a diseased heart and a verdict of "Death from Heart Failure" was returned.

ST MARYCHURCH - Babbacombe Man's Fatal Fall. Inquest. - In St. Anne's Road, Babbacombe, early on Tuesday morning, last week, P.C. Bater and Mr William Down found a man named THOMAS HOCKING TERRY, tailor, aged seventy-eight, lying in the gutter outside his residence. The man had apparently been lying there for some time. Internal injuries were received, there was shock from exposure, and TERRY died on Thursday afternoon. Mr S. Hacker conducted an Inquiry on Friday evening. - CAROLINE TERRY, daughter, stated that deceased was in the habit of walking in his sleep. The bed had been slept in. - MARK TERRY, son, said his father was a little bit "muzzy" on Monday night when he came home. He knew that for years his father had been in the habit of walking in his sleep. The window had been opened as wide as possible. - William Down, a neighbour, stated that when he was in bed he heard someone cry "Come down Carrie, and help me up." He went down and saw deceased lying in the gutter. Witness attempted to move him, but TERRY said "Don't touch me; I am sore, cold and soaked with rain." P.C. Bater came along at the time. Dr Steele said there had been a slight concussion, which, with the shock, caused death. His theory was that TERRY felt dizzy during the night and on looking out of the window overbalanced himself. - A visitor named Lewis J. Newton, of Walthamstow, stated that about two a.m. he heard someone asking for help, but on going to the window could not see anyone. P.C. Bater said there was no one in the road at 1.20 a.m. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 26 August 1910
TORQUAY - Torquay's Loss. Tragically Sudden Death Of COUNCILLOR T. H. WILLS. - Painfully tragic in its suddenness, the death of COUNCILLOR THOMAS HENRY WILLS, which took place on Monday evening, will be sincerely deplored not only by the inhabitants of Torquay, but by a wide circle of friends outside the Borough. The circumstances connected with MR WILLS' death render it all the more sad. As chairman of the Regatta Rowing Committee, he was officiating as starter on the Committee vessel moored off the Princess Pier and soon after four o'clock on Monday afternoon he was about to fire a gun at the conclusion of one of the races, when he was seen to collapse. Mr Wilson, of Exeter, and Mr E. G. Hawkins, of Torquay, immediately went to his assistance and prevented him from falling from the deck of the vessel into the sea. MR WILLS was helped to a seat, but as he had lapsed into unconsciousness, he was laid on the deck and every attempt, by the administration of restoratives and the chaffing of limbs, was made to bring him round. They failed, however, and with all possible speed a motor launch was summoned and he was conveyed ashore, placed in a taxi-cab and taken to the Torbay Hospital. Dr Horton and other medical men did their utmost on his behalf, but without regaining consciousness COUNCILLOR WILLS passed peacefully away at 5.40, the cause of death being cerebral haemorrhage or apoplexy. Two months ago MR WILLS suffered a severe illness, and was strongly urged by his medical adviser to take life a little less strenuously, but his anxiety to carry out what he considered to be his public duties and responsibilities prevented him from accepting a warning, which, in his own interest, should have been heeded. - COUNCILLOR WILLS had spent the greater portion of his life in Torquay, although he was not a native of the town. His late father was one of the Australian pioneers who took part in the early gold rush, and COUNCILLOR WILLS was born in Australia. After a somewhat adventurous life, MR WILLS, senr., decided to settle in Torquay, and established the business of clothier, boot dealer, and pawn broker in Market Street, to which his son succeeded. On completing his education, MR T. H. WILLS entered the business, but it was not until the incorporation of Torquay that he displayed any active interest in local government work. He then came forward as a candidate for the Strand Ward, and was successful. For eighteen years he had represented this ward, and although his position was on several occasions challenged, his popularity and grip of municipal affairs enabled him to hold the seat against all comers. It was an open secret that in recognition of his services to the Borough, he had been selected to fill the vacancy upon the Aldermanic Bench, occasioned by the retirement of Mr E. P. Bovey, and there is little doubt that he would have been elected by an over-whelming majority to this honourable post in November had he lived. For many years COUNCILLOR WILLS was Chairman of the Baths and Piers Committee of the Town Council and in this position he played a prominent part in developing the sea-front amusements, the bowling greens, tennis courts, and the summer season concerts. The success of these attractions is largely due to his enterprise. As Chairman of the Water committee - a post he held at the time of his death - COUNCILLOR WILLS displayed keen foresight and business ability and as an advocate of amalgamation in 1900, he did excellent work. Possibly the deceased Councillor has held seats on more committees than has any other member of the Town Council, but in spite of the calls made upon his time, he year after year stood at the head of the attendance records. To fill a place n the governing body which has been occupied with such usefulness will be extremely difficult. Other public offices he occupied were those of an overseer for the parish of Tormoham, vice-chairman of the Newton Abbot Board of Guardians, and deputy chairman of the Torquay and district Chamber of Commerce. He was a sidesman at St. Luke's Church, a prominent Freemason, being a P.M. of the Jordan Lodge, an Oddfellow, a director of the Torquay Motor Cab Company and the Plat-Glass Insurance Society, and financially interested in the Theatre company, the Market Company, the Torquay (Imperial) Hotel Company, the Gas Company, the Cemetery Company, and other town companies. Interested as he was in the works of charity, he served on committee of the Charity Organisation Society, and was the hon. treasurer of the Queen Street soup kitchen, managed by Mr and Mrs Whiteford. For several years he promoted efforts on behalf of the funds of the Torbay Hospital. He was the first hon. secretary of the Torquay Bowling Club, and one of its founders. He was a lover of the game of bowls, and was often seen on the green. Keenly interested in the Torbay Royal Regatta, he of late years served the committee as its financial hon. secretary. MR WILLS was also a football lover, and a supporter of the Athletic Football Club, of the committee of which he had quite recently been asked to become Chairman, but had to reluctantly decline the honour owing to the many calls upon his time and the condition of his health. MR WILLS leaves a widow and two children for whom the deepest sympathy is felt. The funeral takes place today. The interment at the cemetery will be preceded by a service at St. Luke's church. - The Inquest. - was conducted at the Northcote Hall on Tuesday afternoon by the County Coroner, Mr S. Hacker. Mr James Redmore was elected Foreman of the Jury. - MRS MARY WILLS, the widow, gave evidence of identification and said she was with her husband at the Hospital when he died. He left home about 11.45 to go to the Pier with the object of getting on the Rowing Committee boat. Deceased was financial Secretary of the Regatta Committee. He complained of a pain in the head before he left home but this was not unusual. He had occasionally complained of such pains. She suggested to him that he should stay at home, but he replied that he was sufficiently well to go. She would much have preferred him to remain at home. Witness went to the Pier and soon after 4 o'clock she was informed that something had happened to her husband and immediately went to the Torbay Hospital. She reached the Institution at 4.30 and found deceased unconscious. She remained until he died at 5.40. He did not regain consciousness. Three or four months ago her husband had severe nose bleeding and was attended by a medical man. He had complained of pains in the head for several weeks. - Frank Thomas Wilson, timber merchant, of Heavitree Road, Exeter, said he was not unacquainted with deceased. Witness was on the Committee boat standing close to MR WILLS in the after-part of the boat. Deceased was acting as starter and had a gun in his hand, which he had been firing every few minutes. Witness noticed that he was collapsing and took the gun from him with one hand whilst with the other and the assistance of another man he supported him. Deceased had been talking with several people just previously. When it was seen that he had lapsed into unconsciousness deceased was laid on the deck and a tug summoned, in which he was taken ashore and conveyed to the Hospital in a taxi-cab. He did not speak or recover consciousness. It was about 4.30 that deceased collapsed but there was nothing to account for his sudden illness. - Robert Richard Browne, poulterer and fish dealer of 9 Lucius Street, said he was on the Committee vessel about 4 o'clock and as a member of the Committee deceased asked him to get together the boats for the next race. He noticed deceased fall and asked him if he had hurt his leg. He merely nodded and did not speak. At lunch MR WILLS told witness he had a head-ache. - Dr T. Horton said he saw deceased at the Hospital shortly after his admission. He was unconscious and apparently suffering from an apoplectic fit. He remained unconscious until death took placed at 5.40. All his symptoms pointed to apoplexy and he was of opinion that death was due to cerebral haemorrhage. Deceased had been a patient of his and had suffered from nose bleeding and headaches, which went to support his opinion as to the cause of death. A headache and nose bleeding might not necessarily mean apoplexy, but they were suspicious. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." The Foreman expressed the Jury's deepest sympathy with the widow and children of deceased. He had known MR WILLS for a number of years and much regretted his sudden demise. Mr R. Hodge, another Juror, associated himself with Mr Redmore's remarks and the Coroner said he would like to join with the Jury in its expression of sympathy and regret.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 9 September 1910
TORQUAY - Retired Torquay Coastguard Officer's Death. Sad Discovery By Wife And Daughter. - The wife and daughter of MR FREDERICK CRICKET, retired chief officer of coastguard, formerly of Torquay, received a terrible shock on Saturday evening about 10 p.m., when they discovered his dead body in his boat. He had in the afternoon taken them and Miss Osman up the river Teign as far as Newton for a sail, returning at 8.30. Arriving at the customary landing stage near his house, he put the ladies ashore, and the three proceeded home, Miss Osman being invited to supper. MR CRICKET remained to secure the yacht. As he did not return, a search was made. The yacht was seen to be moored, but there was no sign of the punt used for landing. Proceeding along the beach towards Teignsnape, the residence of Mr and Mrs Orsman, they must have passed the punt. Mrs Orman being made acquainted with MR CRICKET'S absence, she obtained a lantern, and the four ladies searched again, and to their great horror found the punt high and dry, the paddles in the rowlocks, and MR CRICKET lying in the bottom of the boat dead. It is thought that having secured his yacht, he attempted to row up stream where a better landing could be affected, but feeling unwell and tide rushing out, he turned shorewards to escape being carried away by the current. Dr K. Bell, on being summoned, said MR CRICKET had been dead over an hour. MR CRICKET retired from the chief officership of the Torquay Coastguard Station at Daddy Hole Plain about three years ago, and purchased Shrublands, where the family have ever since resided. - The Inquest. - Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) held an Inquest on Monday. MARY CRICKETT, the widow, stated that they pulled up to Newton on Saturday and sailed back, returning about 8.30, when deceased put witness and a friend ashore. They left him while he went to moor his craft where he had left a smaller boat in the afternoon. Deceased did not come home within half an hour, by which time she expected him, and she subsequently found him lying dead in his boat. Deceased had suffered from the heart. Ida Orsman, of Ringmore, who accompanied deceased and his wife, gave similar evidence. Dr Bell deposed that death was due to syncope. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 16 September 1910
TORQUAY - Fall At Ellacombe Green. Aged Woman's Sad Death. - An Inquest was held on Friday at the Northcote Hall by Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner) on the body of EMMA MACE, 76, a widow of 12 Hoxton-terrace, Ellacombe, whose death on Thursday followed an accidental fall in Ellacombe Green. - ISABEL MACE, daughter of the deceased, said the latter had been ill recently, but not sufficiently ill to prevent her taking short walks. On Thursday night witness left her mother alone in the house whilst she went to the Library. She could not find her at home on her return. Almost immediately somebody came to the house and said that her mother had been taken to the Torbay Hospital. Witness hurried there, and found that her mother was dead. Her opinion was that her mother left the house to meet her on her return. Ellacombe Green, where deceased was found, was very near their house. - Questioned by the Coroner: Her mother was deaf, and had very poor sight. It was very dangerous for her to go out alone. - Elsie Dart, a young woman, living at 2 Furrough-cross, Babbacombe, said that whilst walking through the Green she heard groans, and found the deceased lying at the foot of the bordering wall. Her face was covered with blood and she was in a semi-conscious condition. Witness at once fetched the police. - P.C. Summers said that the wall on the Green side was seven feet high; on the road side not quite two feet high. The wall was easily seen after dark, the lighting of the road being good. Witness, with P.C. Luxmore, took the deceased on an ambulance to the Torbay Hospital. She was alive when put on to the ambulance. - The house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital (Dr S. Moore) said that the deceased was dead when admitted. She had fractured her jaw, broken her nose, and had received bad wounds on the face. Death, in his opinion, was caused by shock, following the injuries. In his opinion the deceased caught her knee in the top of the wall and fell over head foremost. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider suggesting that the top of the wall should be protected by a railing.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 September 1910
TORQUAY - Tragedy At Chapel Hill. Sad Story Of Wife's Fits Of Depression. - A particularly sad tragedy occurred at the Chapel Hill Pleasure Ground on Friday morning, when MRS JESSIE EVELYN PHILLIPS, aged only 24, wife of MR GEORGE EDWIN PHILLIPS, auctioneer, who resides at 10 Shirburn Terrace, Shirburn Road, and carries on business in Torwood Street, committed suicide by throwing herself over the cliff, on the summit of which stands the ancient chapel of St Michael's. MRS PHILLIPS was discovered lying at the foot of the cliff in a terribly injured condition by an unknown gentleman, who reported his discovery to John Evans, a Corporation gardener. Evans had previously seen a lady enter the pleasure grounds from Barton Road, hatless and with a medicine bottle protruding from her coat pocket. He passed the time of the day with her, and saw her pass around the narrow path towards the chapel. When called, he immediately identified the lady as the same he had met on the higher part of the grounds a short time before. Evans went up the cliff and found the medicine bottle intact, and this was the means of establishing the lady's identity, for on the label appeared the name, MRS PHILLIPS, with the number of the prescription, which had been made up by Mr B. Knight, chemist, of Union Street. The injured lady was quite unconscious when discovered and Evans very promptly went to the Torre Railway Station, obtained the ambulance stretcher, and had her conveyed to the roadway, where she was placed in a cab and taken to the Hospital. Life was, however, extinct when the Institution was reached. a pathetic pencil-written note, in deceased's pocket, threw light upon the painful tragedy. - The Inquest. - was conducted at the Northcote Hall, on Saturday morning by Mr R. de V. Whiteway Wilkinson (Deputy Coroner). Mr G. Moore was Foreman of the Jury. The Assistant Town Clerk (Mr P. H. W. Almy) watched the case on behalf of the Corporation. - The first witness called was the husband, GEORGE EDWIN PHILLIPS, who stated that he resided at 10 Shirburn Terrace, and was an auctioneer. He identified the body as that of his wife. He last saw her alive on Friday morning at 8.45 when she appeared to be very cheerful. He had been married three and a half years, and his wife had occasionally suffered from fits of depression. She imagined that her health would give away. Before marriage she suffered in the same way, but he had never heard that members of her family had been subject to anything of the kind. He heard of the fatality at 1.30 on Friday, and subsequently went to the Hospital, where he identified the body. - In reply to a Juryman, witness said he went to the hospital because he heard that his wife had not been home since 10.30. - The Coroner asked what form the fits of depression took. - Witness replied that his wife would be cheerful one day and depressed the next. When in company she endeavoured to be bright and cheerful. - ETHEL NORAH HARRIS, said she was deceased's sister. She had lived with her since June. Deceased was as a rule cheerful and happy, but she had periods of great depression. When alone she troubled about little things, but she had rather a horror of anything like self-destruction. She had a great affection for her baby. An idea used to get into her mind that she would die young, and she used to say she would not like to leave them. Her married life had been very happy, and there were no monetary troubles. Witness came to live with deceased because she thought her companionship would cheer her sister, who was very fond of her. Deceased left the house at 10.30 on the previous day to go to Babbacombe to get something for witness who was suffering from a bad cold. Her long absence did not alarm witness at first, as she thought she might have called on a neighbour. As time passed she did become frightened, and thinking that an accident had happened she asked a neighbour to go to Babbacombe. Nothing could be ascertained of her whereabouts, and witness went out and met MR PHILLIPS and accompanied him to the hospital. - John Evans, gardener, at the Chapel Hill Pleasure Ground, stated that he saw deceased enter the gardens from the barton Road about 11 o'clock. She had no hat on, and carried a small stick in one hand. A medicine bottle was protruding from her left hand coat pocket. He said, "Good morning" to her, and she replied, and then passed around on the path at the top of the hill. Ten minutes later he followed, but saw nothing of the deceased. Subsequently whilst witness was in his tool shed, a gentleman came to him and said a lady had fallen over the cliff. He went to the spot where the body lay and identified it as that of the lady he saw on the path a quarter of an hour earlier. She was quite unconscious and was terribly injured about the face. Witness fetched the ambulance and a cab and removed deceased to the Hospital. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said there was a ledge some distance down the cliff, but he fancied deceased must have jumped and cleared this. The ivy on the wall at the top of the cliff gave evidence of a heavy body having passed through it. - Nurse Lilian C. Hatch, said when deceased was brought to the Hospital at 11.40 she was dead. Witness saw a paper with writing on it in pencil, protruding from one of the pockets. It was a sheet taken from a small memorandum book. There was also a sovereign in the pocket. Deceased wore a wedding ring. Dr Stevenson P. Moore, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital said he saw deceased when she was brought to the Hospital in a cab. Life was extinct. - Dr Horton said he had attended deceased occasionally for depression. He last saw her on the previous Saturday at his house. He prescribed for her. The contents of the bottle produced were very similar to what he prescribed. He had no idea that deceased would do anything rash. he had made a post mortem examination and found that the lower jaw, left wrist and the pelvis were fractured. All the organs were healthy. Death was due to internal haemorrhage caused by the fractured pelvis. - The Coroner said the letter found by Nurse Hatch on deceased read as follows:- My dearest husband, sister and child, forgive me if you can. We were all so happy till this awfulness got the better of me. It has spoilt my life for the past three months. It is no one['s fault, but just my own wretched nature, which I can't master. Let mother and Eth. have my baby. Forgive me George and you, Eth, for what I have brought upon you. I shall be punished as I deserve - your unhappy wife - Good bye and God bless and prosper you. - MR PHILLIPS said the letter was in his wife's hand writing, and the paper was taken from a small account book. - A man named Brooking asked to be allowed to speak and said he heard Dr Moore order deceased's removal to the mortuary before her eyes were closed. - Dr Moore: A person's eyes do not close in death. I was in the operating chamber when called and I got to the cab in five seconds. The woman had ceased breathing and her pulse had stopped. John Evans said the doctor was a very short time in coming to the cab. The Coroner said the evidence and the deceased's letter pointed clearly to suicide. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" and expressed their deep sympathy with MR PHILLIPS and the family, an expression with which the Coroner said he wished to associate himself. [Details of funeral followed.]

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 30 September 1910
KINGSKERSWELL - Kingskerswell Fatality. At Fore Down Farm, Kingskerswell, on Monday, an Inquest was held into the circumstances attending the death of EDWIN UNDERHAY, farmer, aged seventy-five, who died following injuries received from a falling tree on Saturday. SIDNEY UNDERHAY, son of the deceased, said he was felling a tree, and his father helped him. Witness had driven in a wedge, and told the deceased to get out of the way. He was under the impression that his father had gone clear when he felled the tree, but it caught the deceased on the back of the head. His father was neither hard of hearing nor short of sight. Dr Hatfield said deceased was unconscious when he saw him, and there was very little animation left in him. There were bruises on the back of his head and shoulders. Death was due to shock following concussion of the brain. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 7 October 1910
SOUTH BRENT - Torquay Sailor's Terrible Death. Knocked Down By An Engine At South Brent. - At Brent Railway Station, on Saturday night, shortly after eight o'clock, a number of sailors were returning from a football match, and while waiting for the train to Torquay, JAMES ANTONY, an A.B., of H.M. cruiser "Isis!, living at Stentiford's Hill, Torquay, left the platform and attempted to cross the lines instead of going by the overhead bridge. At the time a light engine was being shunted down the line to be attached to a waiting train, and before the driver could pull up the engine it struck ANTONY and dragged him along the line for several yards. Dr Eccles, of Plymouth, and a local doctor happened to be on the spot, and after the man's injuries were attended to he was conveyed by the 8.42 train to Plymouth. Dr Eccles was in constant attention on the man during the journey, and at times gave him morphia to relieve the pain. A telegram having been sent to the authorities at the Royal Naval Hospital, an ambulance was in waiting at Millbay Station, and ANTONY was taken to the hospital. He was still conscious but shockingly injured, and an examination showed that both arms were almost smashed to pieces and that he had received extensive cuts on the back and several other lesser wounds on the body, legs and scalp. He was admitted to the hospital about ten o'clock, and soon afterwards it was decided to amputate one of his arms at the shoulder. This was done, and the man recovered from the effects of the anaesthetic, but died four hours later from shock. ANTHONY leaves a widow and one or two children. - The Inquest. - was conducted by the County Coroner(Mr R. R. Rodd) on Tuesday. Mr J. P. Goldsmith represented the Admiralty, Mr T. Hodges and Chief Inspector A. Poulteney the G.W.R. Co., 2nd Inspector Joslin the County Police. - Thos Edward Blunt, surgeon, R.N., deposed that deceased was admitted to the hospital at ten o'clock on Saturday night, suffering from extensive injuries. He was conscious. His right arm was very much crushed and lacerated, and it was found necessary to amputate it at the shoulder. He had a comminuted fracture of the left arm above the elbow and scalp wounds. He died on Sunday morning. As a result of a post mortem examination, which witness made, he found that one of his lungs had been pierced by a rib, two of his ribs having been fractured. Haemorrhage was thereby caused. Death was due to shock consequent upon the injuries received. - Harold Upton, A.B., H.M.S. Isis, stated that the deceased formed one of a team of footballers belonging to the ship on Saturday, and went to play at Salcombe. On returning in the evening the team changed at Brent Station for the purpose of catching the Plymouth train. Whilst walking on the platform deceased, who was near the edge, slipped off on to the line. He kept on his feet, however, but before he could get clear of the metals, a light engine struck him. - Replying to the Coroner, witness said that there was no skylarking. The fall was purely accidental, and no one was to blame. Deceased did not attempt to cross the line. He was quite sober at the time, and had not much opportunity of getting drunk, as considerable time was occupied in travelling to Salcombe and back, and in playing the match. Deceased was attended by a doctor at Brent, while Dr Eccles, of Plymouth, accompanied the deceased from Brent to Plymouth in the train and brought him to the hospital. - Frederick Tuck, driver of the engine which knocked the deceased down, said that on arriving at Brent from Kingsbridge, after shunting his engine on the main line, he was informed by a signalman that his engine had struck a man. He, however, saw nothing of the man or the accident. He examined the engine subsequently, but found no marks upon it. He saw the team get out of the train at Brent. They were all acting orderly and appeared to be sober. Upton was asked if he agreed with the railway officials that the platform was well lighted, and replied in the affirmative. The Coroner remarked that it was a very sad case. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 14 October 1910
TORQUAY - Torquay Territorial's Death. Caused By Ptomaine Poisoning. - Mr R. de V. Whiteway Wilkinson (Deputy County Coroner) presided over a court of Enquiry, held at the Police Court on Friday, respecting the death of CORPORAL THOMAS SIMMONS (Devon Fortress Royal Engineers), alleged to have been caused by ptomaine poisoning. Mr R. Hodge was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Mr E. Hutchings attended to watch the proceedings on behalf of Messrs. Lipton, grocers. - The widow, MRS ALICE SIMMONS, living at No. 26 Hoxton Road, gave evidence of identification. The deceased, who was a journeyman blacksmith, and was 35 years of age, was quite well on Saturday. He set out for Wall's Hill for shooting, and before leaving she gave him some sandwiches of pressed beef, bought from Messrs. Liptons', to take with him. She ate some herself, but with no ill effects. On Sunday he complained of a pain in his stomach and later was taken ill. Witness called in a doctor. So far as she knew at the time she bought it the meat was good. She had none of the beef left. - Mr Hutchings: Deceased went to Wall's Hill on Saturday - a very wet day. Did he get very wet? - MRS SIMMONS: No. - Dr G. M. Winter said he was called to see deceased on Sunday morning before noon. Deceased told him that soon after midnight he was taken with acute pains in the stomach and excessive vomiting. Witness made enquiries as to his movements on the previous day and what he had been eating. Deceased told him that he had had sandwiches and they did not taste nice. He attended him for vomiting and diarrhoea for four days and he called in two other doctors - Drs. Dunlop and Eales - who concurred with his opinion that SIMMONS was suffering from ptomaine poisoning. That day he held a post mortem examination and found that the lining of the stomach and other parts of the body were inflamed, which was consistent with ptomaine poisoning. It was quite possible that only a fragment of the meat was diseased, but he could not say that the poisoning was caused by the meat in question. - The Coroner: You could not say it was through eating the pressed beef? - No; I could not say that at all. - In reply to a Juror, Dr Winter said he did not think that the inflammation was brought on by deceased getting wet whilst shooting, as his illness was of a much more acute nature than it would have been from a cold, although this might perhaps cause him to be more susceptible. Deceased had enteric fever badly when he was in South Africa, and that might have affected his resisting power. It was impossible to say whether deceased would have got over the illness if he had not got wet. - Answering Mr Hutchings, witness said this was a case of acute ptomaine poisoning, caused by some animal poison. It was quite possible that a portion of the beef was not quite as good as it might have been, and then it would be infective. - The doctor further said that ptomaine poisoning might arise from several causes. SIMMONS died from acute ptomaine poisoning. - William French, french polisher, living at 14 Ellacombe Terrace, deposed to being with deceased on Wall's Hill on Saturday. Deceased gave him two or three sandwiches, composed of pressed beef. He felt none the worse for eating them and did not taste anything wrong. - By the Coroner: Deceased was of sound constitution, and had been a volunteer as well as a Territorial. He served in the South African war. - Edward Frederick Robbins, assistant at Lipton's, did not remember serving MRS SIMMONS with the meat. An inspector examined the meat every week. The beef sold on Friday night, the time of MRS SIMMONS' purchase, was that which arrived at the shop on the same morning. The meat was the product of Lipton's, and they sold roughly six or seven lbs. a day. The meat came in slabs and was examined on arrival by the manager, as was the rule. If anything was suspected it was immediately put aside. The meat was taken in quantities sufficient to last for two or three days. - By Mr Hutchings: He had been at Lipton's for four and a half years. He had been accustomed during that time to sell this pressed beef, which was wrapped in grease-proof paper. He had not received any complaints in respect of any other meat sold on that day. - The Coroner remarked that it might sometimes happen that through misadventure there might be a very small quantity of meat in which there was some putrefaction, and that probably happened in this case. The shop assistant had shown that all meat received was examined, and that if it was found to be not fit for human consumption, it was at once discarded. - The Jury returned a verdict that death was due to Ptomaine Poisoning through Misadventure. They expressed their sympathy with the widow and family, and the Coroner associated himself with this expression.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 28 October 1910
TORQUAY - Bengal Lights. Cause An Upton Child's Death. The Inquest. - At the Upton Parish Room on Monday afternoon, the County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of CONSTANCE ALICE LOUIS HAYMAN, aged six years, daughter of ALBERT EDWARD HAYMAN, tailor's cutter, of 3 Orchard Road, Upton, who died at the Torbay Hospital on Friday last, as the result of burns received on the 8th October. - FLORENCE ELEANOR HAYMAN, the mother, gave evidence of identification, and said that on the morning of Saturday, the 8th, her daughter was at play in the garden at the back of the house with some other children. She (witness) went out to get some meat for dinner. Soon after she returned she heard screams and on coming downstairs saw a neighbour named Mrs Vincent putting out the fire on deceased's clothes with a rug. When the flames had been extinguished, witness's husband wrapped the child in a sheet and took her direct to the Hospital. Witness followed, and at the Institution her daughter, who was quite conscious, said a little boy called Webber threw a light at her, and it caught her clothes on fire. The child was wearing a cambric pinafore and a white silk dress and there was no flannelette in her underclothing. - The Coroner: Where do they get the matches? - They did not come from my house. - A Juror: They are coloured matches which are lighted and thrown about by children. - The Coroner: I know squibs, but I don't know these. - Another Juror: They are very much like the old fusee; they flame for some time and are of different colours. Each box contains about 16 and is sold at half-penny. - MRS HAYMAN said she gave her son a penny that morning and he gave the money to another boy as he thought he was not old enough to get these matches. - Mr Routery (A Juryman) said they were known as Bengal Lights and the question as to whether they came under the Explosives Act had been considered by the County Council, and it had been decided that they did not. Therefore anyone could sell them. They were made for the purpose of amusing children. - Edith Vincent of 4 Orchard Road, said she saw deceased coming from the back lane with her clothes in flames. She was running to get to her mother. Witness ran out with a large bag and rolled the child in it. This put the fire out. Witness took off the smouldering garments and deceased was then taken to the Hospital. The child's dress seemed to have ignited in front and with running the flames were fanned. Deceased was badly burnt under the arms. Witness had seen these coloured lights thrown about and considered them very dangerous. - Dr Stevenson Moore, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said the child was admitted about 11.50 on the 8th inst. It was suffering from severe burns on the upper part of the body. She was quite conscious and said two boys bought "candles" and one pushed her on to one when it was lighted, but he did not do it on purpose. Deceased did well until Thursday in last week when she developed bronchial pneumonia and died on the following day, as the result of the burns. - ALBERT HAYMAN, aged 8, brother of deceased, and a particularly sharp little lad, said he gave Webber a halfpenny to buy a box of lights, and Webber let them off. He threw them in the air, and one of them fell on his (witness's) sister's dress and it blazed up. Webber did not throw the light purposely. - The boy Webber said he bought the coloured lights and threw one in the air. It fell on the girl HAYMAN and caught her dress alight. - The Coroner advised both the youngsters not to buy any more of these dangerous matches. As far as he knew there was no law to prevent the sale of these matches to children. He frequently had inquiries from the Home Office, and he would certainly report upon this particular matter. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 11 November 1910
TORQUAY - Babbacombe Fatality. Inquest On Mason Killed By A Collapsed Wall. - The County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) held an Inquest at the Northcote Hall yesterday afternoon on the body of CHARLES LEWIS, mason, of 4 Richmond Cottages, St. Marychurch, who died at the Torbay Hospital on Wednesday morning about 7 a.m. Deceased was one of three men who suffered injuries as the result of the collapse of a wall of a house which they were engaged in erecting at Babbacombe, as reported in our last issue. - Mr P. H. W. Almy (Asst. Town Clerk) watched the proceedings on behalf of the Torquay Corporation. Mr L. P. Evans (Inspector under the Factories' Act), Mr H. A. Garrett (Borough Surveyor), and Mr Shipway (Borough Surveory) and Mr Shipway (surveyor in the employ of the Cary Estate), were also present. Mr W. Eliot Thomas was selected by the Jury as their Foreman. - CHARLES WILLIAM LEWIS, of No. 2, Lee's Cottages, St Marychurch, tram conductor, and son of deceased, gave evidence of identification, stating that his father was a widower. He was passing by in a tramcar just after the accident and found a doctor attending to his father. He spoke to deceased, but the latter was unconscious and did not speak to witness. Witness had to leave the scene to proceed with his car. He subsequently visited the hospital several times, but only once was deceased conscious and then all he said was "Is it Char?" - Thomas Cecil Quick, labourer, of 8 All Saints' Road, Babbacombe, said that on Friday, October 28th, he was working on the same building as deceased - a dwelling house which was nearing completion, being erected as far as the ceiling joists. Deceased was engaged in laying the chimney bricks, from a scaffolding about 30 feet from the ground. There were two masons at work. Witness was at the bottom of the scaffolding in the act of bringing bricks to the masons, when suddenly he heard a fall. Deceased shouted out "What's that?" and before witness could look in the direction of the fall, the whole of the chimney fell, smashing the scaffolding. Witness escaped unhurt, but deceased and two other men were carried to the ground. Deceased was unconscious when witness reached him and was bleeding from a wound behind the ear. He was bandaged up and later taken to the Torbay Hospital. - By the Coroner: He and others put up the scaffolding on the same day as the accident occurred. He could not say what caused the chimney to fall. - Sydney Badcock, another labourer, living at 29 All Saints' Road, said he was engaged on the day of the accident in carrying mortar to the masons. He made the mortar and its constituents were sand, lime and ashes. He emptied a bag of mortar on the scaffold platform, where deceased was working, but when he turned to go down the ladder he heard a loud crash. With the same the scaffolding gave away under his feet and he was thrown to the ground. He knew nothing more until he arrived at the Hospital. - Questioned by Mr Hacker, witness said that as far as he knew the scaffolding and chimney had been constructed in a proper manner. - Dr S. Moore, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, stated that deceased arrived suffering from severe cuts and a fractured skull, as well as a compound fracture of the left leg. Deceased had bruises all over his body and had injuries to his brain. He was semi-conscious and was delirious. He died from paralysis, the result of injuries to the brain. - Henry Augustus Garrett (Borough Surveyor) said he had visited the spot to inspect the building, of which he produced plans. It was the second in a terrace of eight houses, each with two storeys and a gable. The height of the chimney would be probably about 32ft. from the ground joist. - By the Coroner: The Corporation bye-laws did not describe what was the exact material to be used in building, but the Council were applying to the Local Government board for a bye-law fully defining what was now described as "other suitable material." It was his opinion that the super-saturation of the wall by incessant rain had caused a crack across the base, which resulted in the fall. He found the mortar below the surface very hard and evidently composed of good material. He did not consider that the "other suitable material" used by most builders in the Borough was suitable material. The vibration caused by a man mounting a ladder vertical against the scaffolding with a hod of mortar might have contributed to pressure which would cause the collapse of the wall. He did not suggest that there was any fault to be found with the construction of the building. - The Foreman asked Mr Garrett if he considered the mortar used on this building was suitable material. - Mr Garrett said that it complied with the regulations of the Corporation. - By the Coroner: In this case, better material could have been used. - In reply to Mr Almy, the Surveyor read the reply of the Local Government Board to the letter asking them to extend the bye-law. It stated that the Board advised as wide a choice in the use of materials as possible. - Alfred Broad Lyle, builder of the houses, said that the construction of the scaffolding was left in the hands of the masons. The mortar used was good. There had been during the night before the accident 1 ½ inches of rainfall. - By the Coroner: He was not aware that a builder was supposed to acquaint the Factories Act Inspector when a building reached 30ft in height. - The Coroner: It is your business as a builder to know these things. - Mr Garrett, in answer to a Juror, said, that the wall was now bulging outwards, and there were two cracks in the remaining portion of the wall. - Another Juror said he could remember when there was a large put where the houses now stand. - The Coroner having briefly summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," adding a rider to the effect that there was a necessity for a strengthening of the bye-laws, defining more clearly the term "other suitable material," and that a copy of the rider be sent to the Corporation.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 18 November 1910
TORQUAY - Cricketer's Suicide. Painful Torquay Tragedy. The Inquest. - A painful shock was occasioned during the weekend in Torquay, especially in sports circles, by the determined suicide of FREDERICK DELBRIDGE, who for some three years had been engaged by the Torquay Cricket club as professional. Deceased had been in poor health for some time, and the medical evidence at the Inquest subsequently held, shewed that he suffered from brain irritation. He was well known and beloved for his cheery disposition and general good nature, and he having made use of no threats, there was never the slightest suspicion that he would take his life. - An Inquiry was held at the St. James' School, Upton, on Saturday by Mr S. Hacker (County Coroner). - Mr W. Coram was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - HARRY DELBRIDGE identified the remains of the person lying dead as those of his brother. His brother had been a mason and professional to the Torquay Cricket club. His age was 31 and he was unmarried. He lived at his parents' house at Daison Cottages with witness, his mother and father, and three brothers and a sister. Deceased had returned from Wales 3 ½ years ago with a bad attack of influenza. He had been out of sorts off and on since then. On Wednesday week he was unable to go to work, but had to stay in bed. Witness, deceased and another brother slept in the same room the night before the tragedy. Deceased slept well and there was no untoward incident. Deceased was the first to rise on Friday morning. Witness came downstairs after nine o'clock and deceased had finished a good breakfast. He said to the mother, "I will go upstairs and have a smoke." He went up, but came down when witness was having his meal. Deceased went behind him and took something from a shelf where razors were kept. Witness thought at the time he had taken a packet of epsom salts, which he was in the habit of using. Deceased left the room and said to witness "I think I'll go up and lie down and sleep." It was then about 9.30. Suddenly they heard a thud in the bedroom situate above the kitchen and the mother rushed upstairs, followed by witness. Deceased was lying half-dressed with one leg on the bed and his body on the floor. He was "awful," and was bleeding from wound in the throat. Blood was on the floor at the foot of the bed, and deceased was just breathing. A razor, belong to witness, was lying about a foot from the body. - The bloodstained razor was produced and identified by witness. - Continuing, witness said he went to fetch a doctor, and someone summoned the police. Deceased died before either arrived. - By the Coroner: Deceased got up early in the morning and took his parents tea while in bed. He seemed in good spirits. Deceased suffered from pains in his head. As far as witness knew, deceased had no troubles, monetary or otherwise. He was able to get work. Deceased had never made use of any threats whatever, but was strange in his head the few days previous to the tragedy. Deceased had made several strange statements. On the previous Monday witness found deceased with his head resting on his hands, and shaking visibly. He asked him what was the matter and deceased said he supposed he had the "shakes." He was better soon afterwards. - Witness further stated that on the morning of the tragedy deceased received a postcard which he burned after reading. Witness asked him whom it was from and he said "a girl." Witness did not know of a girl and deceased told him it was from Newton Abbot. Deceased did not seem at all perturbed by the receipt of the card, but did not divulge its contents. - Both the father and mother - RICHARD and LUCY DELBRIDGE, - stated that they had never seen or heard anything which would lead them to suppose their son would have taken his life. - Dr G. M. Winter said he had been attending deceased off and on for two or three years. He believed deceased had been for a time somewhat affected in his head. During the cricket season deceased came to him two or three times complaining of headaches and of the heat. Witness saw deceased on Wednesday at Daison Cottages, and he was somewhat peculiar. He would answer all questions at one moment, but at the next he would ramble off on some other subject, without apparent reason. He seemed to suffer from brain irritation. Witness found the deceased lying dead, face downwards on the bed. His head was severed right round to the spinal muscles. He had apparently fall off on to the floor after the deed was committed. Influenza had evidently left its effects in irritation of the brain. He should never call deceased of a depressed nature, and his manner never gave him the idea that he would take his life. He was a bright fellow, and was thick-set and in a very good physical condition. - The Coroner, summing up, said the evidence could leave no doubt in the mind of the Jury of the cause of death. They had to determine whether deceased took his own life, whether there was any cause for such an action, and if he was in his right mind at the time of the deed. - A verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was returned.

TORQUAY - Sudden Death. A Torquay Inquest. - An old man named WILLIAM BINMORE fell down dead on Tuesday evening in Abbey Road. The County Coroner (Mr S. Hacker) conducted an Inquest at the Upton Parish Room on Wednesday. - Mr W. Gregory was appointed Foreman of the Jury. - Louie Bearne, of 14 Braddons Hill Road West, stepdaughter of deceased, gave evidence of identification. He was 71 years of age at the time of his death, and had formerly been a general labourer. He had given up work for the last two years and had drawn Parish pay. He was able to walk about and was very active. He had not complained of any illness, and was quite well before leaving the house on Tuesday. - The Coroner asked witness who last saw deceased before his death, and she replied that his wife last saw him. - The Coroner: Where is she? - Witness: At home. She is too ill to attend. - Mr Hacker asked for a doctor's certificate, but witness had none, although stating that Dr Cook was attending MRS BINMORE. The Coroner said a certificate should have been obtained, as, if such things were allowed, there would never be any witnesses at Inquests. Although MRS BINMORE had their sympathy in her bereavement, a certificate should always be produced if the relatives were too upset to attend. - William German, labourer, and a next door neighbour to the BINMORES, said that on the previous night he stated his intention to take some plants to Torre. The "old gentleman" volunteered to go with him to help. They set out with the plants on a handcart, witness pushing the cart with the help of deceased. The latter talked in a commonplace manner, and witness saw no signs of illness until he suddenly fell backwards. Witness caught him and deceased died immediately without uttering a sound. This was in Abbey road, and Dr Horton was sent for. The latter soon arrived, but could do no more than pronounce deceased dead. - By a Juror: There was no evidence that deceased tripped at all. - Dr S. Moore, house surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, discovered as the result of a post mortem examination, that death was due to heart failure. There was a fatty degeneration of the heart, whilst other organs were quite normal considering the age of deceased. - The witness German, recalled, sated in reply to the Coroner, that deceased did not blow excessively going up the hill. - The doctor stated, in answer to the Coroner, that death might have been accelerated by the exertion of pushing up the hill. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 9 December 1910
ST MARYCHURCH - Inquest At St. Marychurch. - On Saturday afternoon Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at St. Marychurch Town Hall, relative to the death of CAROLINE TURNER, of 2 St. Anne's Terrace. Mr E. Maynard was the Foreman of the Jury. GEORGE EDWIN TURNER, the husband, a baker, stated that deceased, who was aged 56 years, had been suffering from shortness of breath, and had been unable to get about quickly for the past two years. He had tea with his wife, and left home at 7 p.m. returning two hours later, when he found his wife lying n the floor in the passage. He called a neighbour and fetched a doctor. Mrs Pitts, a neighbour, spoke to seeing deceased feeding her fowls about tea time, whilst Geo. Wm. Seaman said he saw deceased at 7.30 the same evening, and she appeared in her usual health. Dr W. Pitt Palmer said there were no signs of a struggle having taken place. He found the heart was in a state of fatty degeneration and in his opinion death was due to syncope. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Torquay Times and South Devon Advertiser - Friday 23 December 1910
TORQUAY - A Mysterious Blow. Torquay Cabman's Death - After Witnessing Torchlight Procession. - An Inquest was held by the County Coroner, at the Upton Parish Room on Wednesday afternoon touching the sudden death of CHARLES ERNEST HAWKINGS, aged 60, cabman. - MAUD HAWKINGS, of 15 Camden Road, Daughter of deceased, gave evidence of identification. Her father had been out of work six weeks prior to his death. On Monday he went out in quest of employment, returning to meals. After nine o'clock in the evening he left home, saying he would go as far as Market Corner to see the torchlight procession. Witness returned from a walk after ten and found deceased in bed unconscious. At midnight he moved his head and cleared his throat and then died without speaking a word. - Richard Herbert Stoyles, living at 3 Alexandria Road, deposed to standing in Market Street on Monday evening. There was a large crowd returning home after viewing the procession. He noticed deceased, who was his uncle, staggering up the road. He came towards witness who said "What is the matter, uncle?" Deceased answered "They hit me on the head and knocked me down." Witness further questioned him, but he was in a dazed condition and unable to answer, except to complain of headache. Witness and his wife each took hold of deceased's arms and helped him along. He seemed to get more insensible as he went along and eventually he collapsed, as if paralyzed, and witness had to carry him for the remainder of the journey. On reaching home deceased commenced vomiting violently, and witness took a tram to Dr Winter's residence. The doctor said he was unable to come at that moment, but would come an hour or two later. - The Coroner: Did you not get another doctor? - Witness: No I left it in the hands of the family. - Mr Hacker: You ought to have got another doctor in such a serious case. - In reply to Police Inspector Pratt, witness said that deceased's clothes when he accosted him were slightly dirty as if he had fallen against a wall. - Dr Winter: You did not prop him up against a wall in getting him home? - Witness: No. - Inspector Pratt: Was the mud wet or dry? - Witness: It was dry and not at all like street mud. - The widow, MRS CHARLOTTE HAWKINGS, was evidently greatly affected and gave her evidence with much difficulty. She was almost helpless, the effects of a recent seizure. She said that when deceased was brought home he was very ill, but there were no marks on his head. - The Coroner asked why another doctor was not summoned when Dr Winter was unable to visit deceased. - MISS HAWKINS interposed that Dr Cook was not at home and Mr Hacker asked her to be quiet until he asked her a question. - Later Mr Hacker questioned MISS HAWKINGS and said that certainly another doctor should have been fetched when Dr Winter was unable to come. - Another daughter of deceased was present to give evidence, but she swooned and was consequently unable to make any statement. - The witness Stoyles, recalled, said that deceased repeated his statement about being knocked down, on arrival at his house. - Dr G. M. Winter stated that when Stoyles called on him about ten o'clock he told him he was unable to come then and advised him to call another doctor. He suggested Dr Cook and further said that he would come later if he could be of any use. He visited the house soon after twelve and found deceased lying dead. He had apparently been dead for about a quarter of an hour. Deceased was in his clothes and if there had been any mud on his garments witness would probably have noticed it. He made no specific examination, as no suggestion of a fall was made to him. The doctor went on to refer to the fact that a neighbour who was present, told him deceased had had a seizure recently. - The Coroner reminded witness that it was the duty of a police constable to interview an intending witness and not of the doctor. - Continuing, Dr Winter said there were no external marks of violence on deceased. The external appearance was perfectly natural. Internally, there had been a rupture of a blood vessel. He had suggestions of pleurisy on his right side, his heart was fatty and the muscular tissues were soft. Death was due to apoplexy. - By the Coroner: There was no direct cause and effect between a blow and the apoplexy. If a slight blow had been received, with his muscular tissues degenerated, it might have produced abnormal excitement, which possibly might have caused the blood vessel to give away on the brain. There was no direct connection between a blow and the haemorrhage. It was possible to sustain a very heavy blow without effecting the brain internally. It was rather unusual, however, that deceased was able to talk at all at the end of his journey. - P.C. Avery gave evidence to the effect that he was stationed at Market Corner directing the traffic on Monday night from eight until eleven. There was a big crowd in Union Street the whole of the time. He did not see deceased, nor did he see any disturbance or any untoward incident. - The Coroner said that there was nothing in the case which could not be explained, except the statement of deceased regarding a blow. This required investigation. It was possible that deceased might have received a blow, whereby apoplexy might have been set up. The medical evidence shewed that there was nothing to suggest a blow and nothing to support such a suggestion. It was possible that the old man had been under a delusion and his excitement was the indirect cause of the apoplexy. It was for the Jury to judge, to see whether death was from a natural cause or not. - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned. The Coroner added that when a man was lying in a serious condition, it was the duty of his friends to fetch a doctor. It was not a question, as suggested by a Juror, as to whether the doctor would have been able to do any good or not.