Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

1801-1826

Articles taken from Trewman's Exeter Flying Post

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: Alford; Allen; Annear; Arthur; Ash; Ashweek; Atwell; Babbidge; Bagwell; Baker(5); Balderson; Ball; Balle; Barrell; Barrett; Bartlett; Beard; Beckford; Beer(3); Bell; Bennett; Bond; Bonner; Brely; Brice; Brimblecombe; Briscoe; Bromell; Burberry; Burch; Burleigh; Canary; Cann; Cape; Chambers; Chanter; Chapman; Chapple(2); Chichester; Chilcott; Clark; Clegg; Cocker; Cockeram; Coffin; Cook; Coombe; Cosway; Cowans; Crauford; Creber; Crispin; Crowle; Darracott; Daw; Dawson; Densham; Donne; Downey; Dune; Dyer(2); Eales; Easterbrooke; Edwards(2); Elliott; Ellis(2); Essery; Farley; Farrant; Fice; Fish; Follett; Ford; Fouracres; Fowler(3); Franklin; French(3); Froome; Fry; Furze; Germon; Gibbs; Gravel; Grebbell; Griffin; Griffiths; Gullick; Harris; Hawkins; Hayman; Heall; Hellier; Hely; Hexter; Heys; Hill; Hilman; Hoar; Hock; Holway; Hore; Horrill; Humphries; Hutchinson; Ingram; Jackson; Jenkins; Jones; Jope; Kelland; Keys; Lane; Langdon; Langham; Langworthy; Lawrence; Lightholder; Llewellyn; Lowe; Luke; Luscombe; Luxton; Mackay; Mann(2); Mardon; McAusland; Mills; Mitchell; Moore; Morris; Morrish; Mortimore; Mullena; Mundy; Nevett; Northey; Oakford; Oldridge; Osborn; Parish; Parker; Penallum; Perham; Pike(2); Pillman; Pim; Pitts; Pollard; Potter;  Pyne; Rackley; Reed(2); Rendall; Restorick; Rivett; Roberts(2); Rockett; Rogers; Roleston; Rosewell; Rowe(2); Rowsell; Russell; Sanders; Saunders(3); Scriven; Sealy; Sercombe; Sharland; Shortridge; Shute; Skitch; Sloggitt; Smale; Smith(2); Snell(3); Snow; Soper(2); Squire(2); Stacey; Staning; Steer; Stevens(3); Stone; Studley; Tallack; Tapsell; Tattershall; Taylor(2); Teeling; Thomas; Thorne; Tierney; Tout; Townsend; Tozer; Trapnoll; Tremlett(2); Trout; Turner; Underwood; Vinson; Way; Welsman; Were; West; Westacott; Weston; Whitfield; Willmott; Wills; Wilson; Windeatt; Windsor; Wingyett; Wise; Woodman(2); Woolcott(2); Wooten; Worsell; Wright.]

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 17 April 1800
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest of a most solemn and affecting nature was held at the Guildhall of this borough on Monday the 7th instant, and continued by adjournment all Tuesday and Wednesday last, before George Eastlake, gent., Coroner, and a most respectable Jury, on a view of the body of a female, called GRACE ELLIS, aged 13 years, parish apprentice to Mr John Friend, clothier, of this town, who was supposed to have died for want of the necessaries of life and medical assistance. The body was dug up by order of the Coroner and examined by two eminent surgeons, Mr Sercombe and Mr Bragg, and the Jury, and exhibited a most shocking and afflicting spectacle. After a painful, laborious, impartial and minute investigation of the existing circumstances of the whole by the Coroner and Jury, and the examination of several witnesses, particularly of two other apprentices to Mr Friend, whose pallid and woe-warn figures exhibited evident signs of want of care and food, Mr Eastlake proceeded, with great perspicuity; he then, adverting to the case in point, displayed a great deal of legal knowledge, to the satisfaction of the Jury most crowded court ever seen in the Guildhall of this borough. The Jury then retired to the Council-chamber, and after an hour's serious deliberation, returned into Court, and by their Foreman, William Crees, Esq., gave in a verdict to the Coroner of "Wilful and Deliberate Murder against John Friend and Ann his wife." They were accordingly immediately committed to take their trials for the murder at the next Exeter Lammas Assizes.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 15 May 1800
STOKE DAMEREL - Mr Whitford, Coroner for Devon, took an Inquest on the body of a farmer, called W. SLOGGITT, who hung himself in a public-house at Stoke. Verdict, Lunacy.

STOKE DAMEREL - Mr Whitford, Coroner for Devon held an Inquest on CAPT. T. BURLEIGH, master of a collier, who hung himself in the cot where his daughter slept; having discovered evident signs of mental derangement for several days previous to the rash act, the Jury brought in a verdict of Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 17 July 1800
EGG BUCKLAND - Mr Whitford, Coroner for Devon, took an Inquisition at Egg Buckland, on a view of the body of MR FARLEY, a smith, who had been fighting with Mr Butland, a respectable butcher, and his son-in-law, by which means he received a violent blow, which occasioned his death. The Jury, on an impartial investigation of the existing circumstances of the case, returned a verdict of Manslaughter against Mr Butland and his son-in-law. They of course will surrender to take their trials at the next Assizes for the county of Devon.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 31 July 1800
PLYMOUTH - This day G Eastlake, gent., Coroner of this borough, took an Inquest on a view of the body of a female servant - MISS LLEWELLYN, living with Major Wall, Hewer's Row, who was found hanging over the door of an upper room; she was cut down in a few minutes, but though ever means of resuscitation was practised, she was too far gone to recover. The circumstances which came out before the Coroner and Jury were, that a discovery of the footman's being married, who had paid her great attention, brought on a dejection of spirits, which occasioned the unhappy catastrophe above recited. The Jury returned a verdict of Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 13 November 1800
PLYMOUTH - G. Eastlake, Esq., Coroner for this Borough, took an Inquisition on the body of W. THORNE, aged 70, a very industrious lying stationer of this town for near 30 years. He was helping to unload cheese, and dropped down dead. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 18 December 1800
PLYMOUTH - Sunday last Mr Whitford, Coroner, took an Inquisition on the body of MR W. COSWAY, found dead on Stonehouse Bridge; he had been dining with a friend, and was returning home early to Dock and 'tis supposed was taken in a fit and expired directly. Verdict, Visitation of God. He was aged 62, was a reputable boatswain in the Royal Navy and had served with reputation in this and preceding wars, in America, the West Indies and Straits, with unblemished reputation.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 19 March 1801
PLYMOUTH - Friday. About 4 p.m. a boat in coming ashore from a ship in this port, with six men on board belonging to Falmouth, upset and one of the men, named THOMAS TROUT, was thereby drowned; the other five, from timely assistance being rendered them, providentially saved their lives. The Coroner's Inquest was taken on the body. Verdict, - Accidental Death. This misfortune happened on account of a quarrel that ensued with the men on coming ashore.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 2 April 1801
PLYMOUTH - Mr Whitford, Coroner, took an Inquest on JOHN MORRISH, a seaman, who, in a fit of lunacy, stabbed himself and died instantly. Verdict, Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 18 June 1801
STOKE DAMEREL - Last Wednesday as an artillery ammunition waggon was passing through Duke-street, Dock, the leaders took fright, ran away, and knocked down a cartman called STANING, and so bruised him by trampling on him when down, that he remained senseless till he expired, which he did in about an hour, leaving a large family to lament his untimely fate. - Mr Whitford, Coroner, took an Inquest on the body and the Jury, taking into their serious consideration the existing circumstances of the case, returned a verdict of - Accidental Death. The horse was forfeited as a deodand to Sir J. St. Aubyn, Bart. Lord of the manor of Stoke Damerel.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 25 June 1801
EXETER - Yesterday morning a woman, named SUSANNAH WRIGHT, threw herself into the River Exe, above Head Wear, and was drowned. The body was found some time after, but too late to render any assistance towards recovering animation. It is supposed she had quarrelled with some of her friends, which was the cause of her committing this rash action. The Coroner's Inquest sat upon the body, and brought in their verdict, Lunacy.

PLYMOUTH - This morning a melancholy accident happened in this town. MR P. FURZE, an eminent tradesman, under prosecution from the Admiralty for having King's naval stores in his possession, was under confinement, and was to have proceeded to Exeter this morning: fit of despondency, previous to the coach arriving at seven o'clock, he cut his throat so dreadfully as to expire in a few minutes. Surgical assistance was had, but in vain, as he was quite dead. Mr Eastlake, Coroner for this Borough, held an Inquest on the body of the late MR FURZE, and the Jury taking the existing circumstances into their serious consideration, returned a verdict of Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 3 December 1801
PLYMOUTH - This evening was found drowned, in a well, near her lodging, MRS RIVETT, a fruiterer of this town; she was seen much intoxicated in the afternoon and 'tis supposed fell in head foremost and was suffocated. Verdict of the Jury before Mr Eastlake, Coroner, - Found Drowned.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 10 December 1801
BERE FERRIS - Last Monday, MR J. DAW, of Beerferris, was found drowned in the river Tamer; it is supposed, from being in a melancholy way, he jumped into the river. The Coroner's Inquest returned a verdict of Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 30 December 1802
BUCKLAND MONACHORUM - Mr Whitford, Coroner for Devon, took an Inquest on the body of JAMES BENNETT, a miner, who was employed in fitting up a tin-shaft of a mine, near Buckland Monachorum Abbey, the seat of the Right Honourable Lord Heathfield, that had ceased working some centuries past; he was in a hurry to fill it up as a job, but the earth slipped under him, and he was precipitated to the bottom, near 80 feet, and smothered; he was a strong, ha and a good workman, and was dragged out by some tinners from the shaft, after having been missing some days. Verdict, - Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 6 January 1803
YEALMPTON - Mr Whitford, Coroner for Devon, held an Inquest at Secker's Bridge, on a view of MR BARTLETT'S body, the riding supervisor for Dartmouth (mentioned in our last), when, after a long investigation, the Jury found a verdict of "Wilful Murder against a person or persons unknown." Strict search has been made after his inhuman murderers and two notorious smugglers were apprehended on suspicion, and have been examined before the Justices at Modbury. His head was literally battered to pieces, all the flesh being beaten off, as if by the blows of bludgeons. He retained his senses to the last moment, and, previous to his death, took an affectionate leave of his distressed wife and family. Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 11 August 1803 BARNSTAPLE - Friday morning last, between the hours of six and seven, a melancholy accident happened in the river, at Barnstaple, some distance above the bridge. As MR WILLIAM ROBERTS, son of MR ROBERTS, druggist, and MR WILLIAM DUNE, son of MR DUNE, of Horwood, were bathing themselves, the tide coming unusually rapid, forced each of them beyond their depth into the midst of the river, where they were observed very soon to sink. Men with boats, nets &c., were procured as quickly as possible, by whom every effort to find the bodies was ineffectually made use of, until nearly five hours after, when the bodies were found; and after undergoing the Coroner's Inquest, were conveyed to the houses of their almost inconsolable parents. The affable and particularly civil deportment and general conduct of these amiable young men made them universally beloved whilst living, and as sincerely lamented at their untimely death; indeed their fate has cast a gloom over all the town.

EXMOUTH - On Saturday last two men in the impress service, at Exmouth, having stopped two seamen on Kenton Warren, near Mount Pleasant, a scuffle ensued, in which WILLIAM HARRIS, one of the press gang, received so violent a blow in his head from a stone thrown at him, that he expired the Monday morning following. A Coroner's Inquest sat on the body, and did not break up 'til eleven o'clock on Monday night. Verdict, Wilful Murder.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 27 December 1804
PLYMOUTH - Mr Eastlake, Coroner for Plymouth, held an Inquest on the body of MRS GREBBELL, wife of MR GREBBELL, printer, who was found, by her afflicted husband (melancholy to relate), burnt and suffocated to death, on his return from very active exertions, at the dreadful fire at Mr Norrington's, market-place; it is supposed the candle set fire to her cap and handkerchief while she was asleep near a table. Verdict, Found Burnt to Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 17 January 1805
BUCKLAND MONACHORUM - Mr Whitford, Coroner for Devon, took an Inquest on the body of a MR FISH, who dropped down dead in the vicinity of Bucklanhurch: Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 9 May 1805
BRIXHAM - Tuesday last the body of MR WILLS, the unfortunate excise officer of Brixham, who was unhumanly murdered five weeks since by some smugglers, was by two little boys who were searching for birds nests, discovered jammed betwixt the rocks; his body was immediately brought to Brixham in a boat, and on Friday the Coroner's Inquest brought in the verdict of Wilful Murder against some person unknown.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 23 May 1805
PLYMOUTH - Elizabeth Barber is committed to Exeter Gaol, charged by the Coroner's Inquest with the Wilful Murder of JOHN ROGERS, a painter, at Plymouth. Barber, though a married woman, had for some time lived with ROGERS, and her husband dying, she said she would go to his funeral in white and blue: ROGERS objected to this, as highly indecent; a violent quarrel ensued, in which she seized a knife, plunged it in his left side, and stabbed him to the heart: he died in about half an hour.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 25 July 1805
CHELDON - Tuesday last an Inquest was taken before Mr Bremridge, one of the Coroners for Devon, on the body of MRS COCKERAM, of Dockery, in the parish of Cheldon, who had poisoned herself by taking arsenic. It appearing that she had been for some years in a state of insanity, the Jury brought in a verdict - Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 6 March 1806
TOPSHAM - Yesterday afternoon a melancholy accident happened on the road between this City and Exmouth, at that part where the road from Clyst and Newcourt join that between Topsham and Topsham-bridge. - As lieut.-colonel BAGWELL, of the 6th dragoon guards, was riding on a party of pleasure with some officers of his acquaintance, his horse suddenly took fright, and after galloping off with great fury, threw his rider with such force, that it fractured his skull most dreadfully and killed him on the spot. Medical assistance was procured in a few minutes, but it was too late to be of service. The body was removed to Topsham, where the Coroner held an Inquest, which returned a verdict of Accidental Death. The lieut-colonel was in the prime of life, and universally beloved and esteemed by the whole regiment, as well as by all who knew him. He is the son of JOHN BAGWELL, esq., member in parliament for the county of Tipperary; and we understand his brother is also the representative in parliament for the borough of Clonmell, in Ireland.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 24 April 1806
ALPHINGTON - Monday morning last a most shocking murder was committed at Alphington. A man named Richard Wright, a labourer in the employ of Mr Berry, tanner, of that place, knocked at the fore-door of MRS ROWE, an elderly widow lady, which being opened by the female servant, he enquired if her mistress were at home, and on being answered she was not yet up, he forcibly passed her and rushed upstairs to the lodging room, where taking a blunderbuss which was constantly kept there, he went to the bedside and beat her head so dreadfully with the butt end of the piece, that her skull was fractured, and her head and arms lacerated in a most terrible manner; medical aid was procured, but she expired he same evening. - The servant had followed him to the bedroom, but unable to rescue her unfortunate mistress, and fearful of sharing the same melancholy fate, she ran to the street door to call for assistance, when the murderer was soon secured: he appeared in a deranged state of mind, and the only reason he assigned for committing the horrid act was, "That he had been commissioned by a superior power to destroy all the old women in the place, as there would never be a peace until that was accomplished." - Yesterday, a Coroner's Inquest was held on the body of the deceased, when, after several hours' deliberation, they returned a verdict of "Wilful Murder, by the hands of Richard Wright, a supposed lunatic." He is committed to prison.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 10 July 1808
PLYMOUTH - Last night came in a Swedish ship, for orders. Just as she came to in Catwater a melancholy accident happened on board her: One of her guns, a 4-pounder, being loaded, the captain asked one of the pilots, MR MCAUSLAND, who, with his partner, MR MANN (Pilots to the hon. East India company), were piloting the ship to her anchorage, whether he should fire off the gun? - To which they replied, "Yes, certainly;" on which the gun was fired off, and, we are sorry to add, burst in several pieces; by this accident MR MANN was killed on the spot, MR MCAUSLAND had his thighs blown off, and two Swedish sailors dreadfully wounded; this morning MR MCAUSLAND and one of the Swedes died, and the other, it is hoped, will not recover, as his limbs are so mangled. The loss of MR MCAUSLAND and MR MANN will be severely felt in this port, as they were most excellent pilots, well acquainted with the different parts of the harbour, with the various and best places in which to anchor ships and were both excellent seamen, a well as very good and safe pilots. - Mr Eastlake, the Coroner for the Borough, took an Inquest on the above unfortunate persons, and the Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death. Their remains were decently interred in St Andrew's churchyard, attended by a numerous concourse of pilots and seafaring people, out of respect to their memory.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 11 September 1806
EXETER - On Saturday last a Coroner's Inquest was held, at the commercial coffee-house, in this city, before Mr Samuel Walkey, Coroner, on the body of ELIZABETH BOND, servant of Mr Pickslay, who, whilst returning to her master's house, fell down in an apoplectic fit and died immediately. The Jury returned a verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 25 September 1808
EXETER - On Tuesday last a Coroner's Inquest was held at the White Hart Inn, in this City, before Mr Samuel Walkey, Coroner, on the body of RICHARD DYER, mason, who fell from a house in the mint, where he was at work, and was killed on the spot. Verdict, Accidental Death,.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 13 November 1806
EXETER - On Friday last a Coroner's Inquest was held at the Blue Boar, in this City, before Mr S. Walkey, Coroner, on the body of MARY SHARLAND, 3 years of age, who was burnt to death, in consequence of her clothes unfortunately catching fire: Verdict, Accidental Death.

EXETER - Yesterday afternoon, a Coroner's Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier, in this City, before Mr S. Walkey, Coroner, on the body of GEORGE OAKFORD, two years of age, who was burnt to death, in consequence of his clothes unfortunately catching fire: Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 1 January 1807
PLYMOUTH - Mr Whiteford, Coroner for Devon, took an Inquest on the body of MARY MORRIS, a young woman of Plymouth Dock, a melancholy instance of suicide. The case was as follows: She was betrothed to a young man of Dock, and their banns were published. After this, she gave her company to one of the Lancashire sharp-shooters, which so irritated her former betrothed lover, that he upbraided her with her perfidy; this she took so to heart, that feeling the force of her ingratitude, she went home, and took a strong dose of arsenick, and died in the most excruciating torments. The Jury, after taking the case into consideration, returned a Verdict of Lunacy.

EXETER - On Thursday last a Coroner's Inquest was held at the White Hart Inn, in this City, before Mr S. Walkey, Coroner, on the body of MICHAEL JONES, who fell down in an apoplectic fit the preceding evening as he was returning from Mount Radford and instantly expired. Verdict, Visitation of God.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 5 January 1807
EXETER - On Monday last a Coroner's Inquest was held in Southgate Prison, before Mr S. Walkey, Coroner, on the body of EDWARD HEYS, one of the debtors, who suddenly expired the same morning as he lay in his bed. Verdict, Visitation of God.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 29 January 1807
EXETER - On Friday last, a Coroner's Inquest was held at the Dolphin Inn, in this City, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of THOMAS HUMPHREYS, one of the band belonging to the Montgomery militia, who was suffocated in the ruins of the Royal Oak public house, which fell during the late hurricane. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 2 April 1807
EXETER - On Friday last a Coroner's Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM OLDRIDGE, hellier, who was killed in consequence of being bruised between the wheel of a timber carriage and the wall. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 9 April 1807
EXETER - On Sunday last a Coroner's Inquest was held at the Star Inn, in this City, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of JOSEPH HOAR, a child two years old, who was scalded to death, by the oversetting a bason of hot broth on itself. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 7 May 1807
EXETER - On Thursday last a Coroner's Inquest was held at the sign of the Bell, in this City, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of GEORGE TOWNSEND, a labourer, who was drowned in consequence of falling into the canal while at work. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 21 May 1807
EXETER - Sunday last an Inquest was held before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of JAMES UNDERWOOD, a labourer, who fell down in an apoplectic fit, on the quay, and soon afterwards expired. Verdict, "Visitation of God."

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 28 May 1807
EXETER - On Friday last, a Coroner's Inquest was held at the sign of the Plume of Feathers, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of JOHN CRAUFORD, a soldier, who was drowned in consequence of going into the river to bathe himself. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 4 June 1807
EXETER - Monday last died, at the Barnstaple Inn, in this City, much lamented, the REV. MR STACEY, a very respectable clergyman of Crediton. His death was occasioned by having been thrown from his horse about a fortnight since, in consequence of the animal being frightened by an umbrella: - In the fall he ruptured the principal artery of his arm; and a mortification having immediately struck to the part, he was obliged to undergo the painful operation having the arm amputated above the elbow, and since that, to suffer a second amputation, close to the shoulder; but all the art of surgery was ineffectual for his relief, the mortification could not be subdued, he languished till Monday last, and then expired. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body, pro forma, whose verdict was Accidental Death.

EXETER - On Thursday last a Coroner's Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier Inn, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of JOHN WESTON, a joiner, who put an end to his existence by cutting his throat with a chisel: Verdict, Lunacy.

EXETER - On Tuesday an Inquest was held at the Star Inn, on the body of HENRY YOUNG DARRACOTT, a lieutenant in the navy on half-pay, who put a period to his existence by shooting himself with a pistol:- Verdict, Lunacy.

EXETER - On Tuesday evening an Inquest was held at the Blue Boy Public-house, on the body of JOHN BELL, a soldier in the Royal Lancashire militia, who was drowned in consequence of falling into a lake while in a state of intoxication:- Verdict, Accidental Death.

EXETER - This day an Inquest was held at the sign of the Marquis Cornwallis, on the body WILLIAM FRENCH, a hellier, who was killed in consequence of the ruins of a house falling on him:- Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 16 July 1807
EXETER - Last week a Coroner's Inquest was held on the body of MARY TOUT, who fell down in a fit, and soon afterwards expired. - Verdict, Visitation of God.

EXETER - An Inquest was held on the body of WILLIAM WESTACOTT, a child 2 years of age, who was scalded to death, in consequence of drinking boiling water out of a tea-kettle. - Verdict, Accidental Death. Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 23 July 1807 EXETER - On last a Coroner's Inquest was held on the body of JOHN TREMLETT, a labourer, who was killed by a tree rolling over him. - Verdict, Accidental Death. Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 6 August 1807 EXETER - On Thursday last an Inquest was held at the Red Lion on the body of WILLIAM BABBIDGE, a labourer, who suddenly expired in a cart, as he was returning home from this City. Verdict, Visitation of God.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 8 October 1808
EXETER - On Friday last an Inquest was held before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM SHORTRIDGE, who fell down in a fit, as he was returning home from work, and expired: Verdict, Visitation of God.

ALPHINGTON - On Sunday last an Inquest was held on the body of SUSAN MUNDY, who died in consequence of an injury which she received from the stage coach breaking down at Alphington: Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 4 February 1808
EXETER - On Tuesday last an Inquest was held at Southgate Prison, before Samuel Walkey, esq., Coroner, on the body of HENRY PARKER, a prisoner (committed a few days since on suspicion of horse-stealing, who put an end to his existence by hanging himself. Verdict, Felo de se.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 26 May 1808
EXETER - On Sunday last an Inquest was held at the Red Lion, in Saint Sidwell's, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of THOMAS SAUNDERS, a private in the Glamorganshire militia, who died from a wound which he received from a dragoon. The following are the particulars:- On Easter Monday last, in the evening, a party of the Glamorganshire militia had assembled at the Moreton Inn, St Thomas's, to drink beer, when an affray took place between them upstairs; the landlady, hearing the noise, desired two dragoons to go up, in order to quell the disturbance; on which the militia-men drew their bayonets and compelled them to withdraw. The dragoons, however, returned armed with their swords, but still were over-powered by the militia, who followed them downstairs into the passage, here a general scuffle ensued, in which the unfortunate soldier received a wound on his hand, which proved mortal. The Jury, after hearing all the evidence, returned a verdict of Self Defence on behalf of the dragoon.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 21 July 1808
EXETER - On Friday last an Inquest was held at the Old London Inn, before Samuel Walkey, gent., Coroner, on the body of MARY CHILCOTT, who put d to her existence by poisoning herself. - Verdict, Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 25 August 1808
EXETER - This morning a Coroner's Inquest was held on the body of JAMES TIERNEY, a prisoner in High Gaol, who put an end to his existence by hanging himself, in his cell; the string with which he effected his purpose, was formed of pieces of cloth, torn from his shirt sleeves and stockings. The deceased was convicted of sedition at the Lammas Assize in 1804, and received sentence of death; but being found by Inquisition to be Insane, was ordered to remain during his majesty's pleasure. - Verdict, Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 15 September 1808
EXETER - Friday last, MRS ALLEN, wife of the REV. MR ALLEN, dissenting minister of this City, put an end to her existence by strangling herself with a buckle garter. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body the following day: Verdict, Lunacy.

ARNE, DORSET - Monday se'nnight was frowned, in a small inlet of the sea, near Arne, in Purbeck, the body of the REV. JOHN EDWARDS, of Crediton, Devon. He left home in a deranged state of mind, and eluded the diligent search of his friends. From the orderly state in which his clothes were found by the water-side, it is evident he intended to bathe, and went beyond his depth. He was seen bathing the day before in the river Frome, a few miles from Dorchester. A Coroner's Inquest sat on the body, and brought in a verdict, Drowned by Accident.

PLYMOUTH - Tuesday Mr Whiteford, Coroner for Devon, held an Inquest on the body of W. JENKINS, carpenter's mate of the Spencer, of 74 guns, who died in consequence of a wound he received by a blow on his intestines, from R. Burrows, a waterman, in an affray at the Jolly Sailor, in Plymouth-Dock. After a patient investigation of the existing circumstances of the case, the Jury found a verdict of Manslaughter against Burrows, who was committed to Exeter Jail, to take his trail at the next Exeter Assizes.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 22 December 1808
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held n Friday morning on the body of the unfortunate captain BALDERSON, when the Jury, after fully investigating the transaction, returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against James Smith. - The remains of Capt. BALDERSON were interred on Saturday last with naval and military honours, in the churchyard of Stonehouse Chapel.

EXETER - Sunday an Inquest was held on the body of ELIZABETH HILMAN, a poor old woman, who was burnt to death the preceding night, in her apartment in St Catherine's Alms Houses, in this City, occasioned, it is supposed, by her falling on the fire in a fit. Verdict, Accidental Death.

EXETER - An Inquest was held on the body of a little girl, 11 years of age, named HEXTER, found drowned on Saturday evening in one of the lakes, near the island. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 29 December 1808
EXETER 0 This afternoon an Inquest was held before Samuel Walkey, gent., Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM WOOLCOTT, a child two years old, who was burnt to death in consequence of his clothes catching fire. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 2 February 1809
EXETER - This evening an Inquest was held before Samuel Walkey, gent., Coroner, on the body of HARRIET STUDLEY, who was burnt to death by her clothes catching fire. - Verdict, Accident.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 20 April 1809
EXETER - Saturday last, an Inquest was held at the old London Inn, before Samuel Walkey, gent., Coroner, on the body of TEMPERANCE PYNE, an old woman, who was burnt to death, in consequence of her clothes catching fire. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 1 June 1809
EXETER - Sunday an Inquest was held before Samuel Walkey, gent., on the body of MR CHARLES WINGYETT, of this City, cabinet-maker, who cut his throat the preceding Thursday in a fit of insanity. Verdict, Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 15 June 1809
EXETER - Yesterday afternoon an Inquest was held, before Samuel Walkey, gent., Coroner, on the body of ANN HOCK, who expired suddenly in bed, by the side of her husband. Verdict, Visitation of God.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 14 December 1809
EXETER - On Friday last an Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier Inn, before Samuel Walkey, gent., Coroner, on the body of JOHN BEER, who died in consequence of a horse treading on his hand, which occasioned a lacerated wound, attended with lock--jaw. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 1 March 1810
EXETER - On Friday last an Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier, before Samuel Walkey, gent., Coroner, on the body of EMANUEL WILLMOTT, a hellier, who died in consequence of a fracture of his skull, which he received from falling from a scaffolding 34 feet high, in Theatre-lane. Verdict, Accidental Death.

EXETER - On Friday last an Inquest was held at the London alehouse, on the body of HUMPHRY SANDERS, who fell down in the street, and soon afterwards expired. Verdict, Visitation of God.

EXETER - On Saturday an Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier Inn, on the body of ELIZA COOMBE, a child eleven months old, who was burnt to death in consequence of her clothes catching fire. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 8 March 1810
EXETER - On Sunday last an Inquest was held at the Duke of York Public-house, in this city, before Samuel Walkey, gent., Coroner, on the body of JOAN LANGHAM, an old woman, who suddenly expired in the street, after co out of a coach from a journey: Verdict, Visitation of God.

EXETER - - On Monday an Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier, on the body of THOMAS BAKER, an infant, who was burnt to death by falling into the fire from his mother's arms, she being subject to fits: Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 5 April 1810
EXETER - On Saturday last an Inquest was held at the sign of the Anchor, before Samuel Walkey, gent., Coroner, on the body of KEZIA BAKER, a child 4 years of age, who fell out of a window three stories high, and soon afterwards expired. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 21 June 1810
EXETER - On Monday last an Inquest was held at the sign of the White Hart Inn, before Samuel Walkey, gent., Coroner, on the bodies of CLEMENT TATTERSHALL and GEORGE CAPE, two young men, who were drowned on Sunday morning while bathing in the river Exe, neither of them being able to swim. Verdict, Accidental Death.

EXETER - On Tuesday an Inquest was held at the sign of the Three Mariners, Quay Gate, on the body of GEORGE REED, master of the said house, who was drowned, in consequence of falling into the river while washing himself. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 5 July 1810
EXETER - This evening an Inquest was held at the Plume of Feathers, before Samuel Walkey, gent., Coroner, on the body of JOSEPH WAY, a child two years old, who was drowned in consequence of falling into the engine stream: Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 19 July 1810
EXETER - Friday last MR JAMES LUKE, a very respectable grocer and tea-dealer of this City, put a period to his existence. As he was possessed of considerable property, and bore a character unimpeached, it is supposed that the recent failures in this neighbourhood, and in London, by which he had been a severe sufferer, had occasioned so great an agitation in his mind, as to bring on a temporary derangement of his intellect, and, in the frenzy of the moment, he committed this rash act. The Coroner's Jury, composed of some of the principal inhabitants of this City, held an Inquest on the body on Friday afternoon, and returned a verdict of Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 26 July 1810
PLYMOUTH - This morning Mr Whitford, Coroner for Devon, took an Inquest on a view of the body of Sergeant TEELING, second clerk of the Quarter Master's Office, Royal Marines, who, in a fit of lunacy, occasioned by intoxication, shot himself through the head with a double-loaded musquet, so as almost to shoot off all his face and skull. After a minute investigation of the existing circumstances of the case, the Jury found a verdict of Lunacy. Sergeant TEELING was a very respectable man in his situation, was an Irishman by birth, and had frequent fits of intoxication, and then frequent sober intervals for two or three months together. At the beginning of his sober probation he would take an oath not to drink anything stronger than waster or small beer for a given time, which he religiously kept. Last Wednesday his sober probation ended, and he indulged himself to such excess, that on Friday morning, in a deranged state of mind, he executed his horrid purpose. The two balls went upwards through the ceiling of the office, and stuck in the ceiling of the Barrack-room above; and though there were several children playing about the room, providentially not one was hurt.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 16 August 1810
EXETER - Yesterday an Inquest was held at the Plume of Feathers, before Samuel Walkey, gent., Coroner, on the body of MR WILLIAM SNOW, of this City, who was found drowned that morning in the river Exe. He had breakfasted at Cowley Bridge, and on his return went into the water to bathe, opposite the Red Cow public-house, from which place the body had floated as far as the Head Wear, a distance of more than a quarter of a mile. The deceased had been many years principal clerk in the employ of Mr Kingdon and Sons, bore an unblemished character and was universally respected by all who knew him.

EXETER - This evening an Inquest was held at the sign of the Wool Pack, on the body of THOMAS ARTHUR, the landlord, who was found dead in his bed this morning: Verdict, Visitation of God.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 20 September 1810
EXETER - Yesterday afternoon an Inquest was held in this City, before Samuel Walkey, gent., Coroner, on the body of JANE WOOTEN, a child, 8 years of age, who had been absent from her parents a week, but yesterday morning was discovered floating in the river near the Quay: Verdict, Found Drowned.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 1 November 1810
EXETER - On Friday last an Inquest was held at the Red Lion, before Samuel Walkey, gent., Coroner, on the body of BENJAMIN TAPSELL, a private in the East Kent Militia, who died in consequence of an injury received in his back from a quantity of earth falling on him while working some weeks since in the common sewer in the High-street of this City. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 31 January 1811
EXETER - On Monday last an Inquest was held at the sign of the White Horse, before Samuel Walkey, gent., Coroner, on the body of THOMAS HELY, a child two years old, who was burnt to death, owing to his clothes catching fire: Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 28 March 1811
EXETER - On Monday last an Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier, before Samuel Walkey, gent., Coroner, on the body of MARY ANN HORRILL, a child four years old, who was burnt to death in consequence of her clothes catching fire: Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 23 May 1811
SANDFORD - On Wednesday last died, at Sandford, Devon, MR RICHARD KELLAND, of that place, tanner. His death was occasioned by his taking a quantity of arsenic. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body the following day, who returned a verdict of Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 10 October 1811
PLYMOUTH - On Wednesday afternoon, about six o'clock, JOSHUA ROCKETT, Esq., Deputy Inspector of Hospitals in the Western district, after having laboured for some time under a heavy mental depression, which drove him, at length, to the verge of despair, put a period to his life, with a pair of scissors, which purposely concealed about him. This unfortunate gentleman had been subject to several fits of delirium, previous to the commission of this rash act; and one in particular occurred to him on Monday last, subsequently to his arrival at the Prince George Inn, from Exeter, in the Royal Clarence. When the passengers quitted the coach he went into the yard, and remained there absorbed in gloomy thoughts for more than an hour, and when he had been prevailed on to walk into a parlour, he was soon afterwards observed to be sitting in the deepest distress, with a razor in his hand; but by some entreaties he was prevailed on to surrender this, as well as a case of instruments, and a bottle of laudanum, which were found in his pockets. From this period he was closely watched, and on the following day, having a lucid interval, he sent for a solicitor to make his will, which he duly executed, and instructions for which he gave in the most rational and pertinent manner. On Wednesday, an intimate acquaintance of MR ROCKETT, Mr Bruff, Surgeon on the Staff, whose attentions to his friend, during his uneasy moments, were unremitting, affectionately sat with him three hours, endeavouring to allay his sorrows, which in this instance proceeded even to tears, and had all the characteristics of the most bitter agony. About a quarter before five MR ROCKETT expressed considerable anxiety respecting some papers, and Mr Bruff, having sent a servant to look for them in the adjoining room, was induced by MR ROCKETT'S increasing anxiety to see the papers, to go thither also himself for the same purpose. Mr Bruff was not absent more than a minute and half; but when he returned it was to find his friend in the act of destroying himself. He seized on the arm which had inflicted the deadly blow on his throat; but it was too late, for the mortal wound was given, and MR ROCKETT, tearing the scissors away, threw the weapon with furious desperation to a considerable distance, and in fifteen minutes he expired. - Tall, finely-grown, and endowed with manly beauty, and not less polished in his manners and correct in his person, and in the prime of life, MR ROCKETT had lived only to be admired and respected. Mr Whiteford, Coroner, held an Inquest on the body and the Jury found a verdict - Lunacy. What renders the present case the more distressing, is the circumstance of one of MR ROCKETT'S two brothers having died suddenly at Portsmouth on Tuesday week last, whither his other brother, the REV. CALEB ROCKETT. A.M. of Bridgwater, (now the only survivor) had gone to attend his funeral, and from whence he has been summoned to perform the last sad offices to the late MR ROCKETT.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 12 December 1811
EXETER - Monday evening a man named ELLIS, who was employed as a labourer on board the ship Ann, London trader, lying at the Exeter Quay, in coming on shore, fell from the plank, and was unfortunately drowned, leaving a distressed widow and seven children. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body yesterday: Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 24 September 1812
EXETER - Last evening a Coroner's Inquest was held on the body of MISS SARAH COFFIN, of this City, haberdasher, who put an end to her existence by hanging herself. It was clearly proved that ever since the death of her uncle, the late MR JOHN HITCHCOCK, the deceased had been in a deranged state of mind, and the Jury, without a moment's hesitation, returned a verdict of Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 29 October 1812
PLYMOUTH - A most unfortunate occurrence took place late on Monday night in Catwater, a boat with five men in it, was discovered near the wreck of the Redness victualler, who were immediately warned off by those who had the charge of it, but they appeared determined on approaching the wreck, and were fired at, when one of them fell, mortally wounded and expired soon afterwards. We understand the name of the deceased was CANARY, who had been employed in superintending the removal of stores for the Breakwater, he has wife to bewail his premature death. A Coroner's Inquest was held on Wednesday on the body, and which was continued by adjournment until Friday evening, when the Jury returned a verdict of Killed Without A Malevolent Intention.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 1 July 1813
EXETER HEAVITREE - On Saturday a Coroner's Inquest was held at Heavitree, on the body of MR JOHN BARRELL, of that place, farmer, formerly butcher, who put an end to his existence on the preceding day, by blowing his brains out with a fowling-piece in an orchard near his dwelling house. - The most satisfactory evidence was adduced of the disordered state of mind under which the deceased had for some time laboured, and the Jury returned a verdict of Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 16 December 1813
EXETER - Sunday afternoon a Coroner's Inquest was held on the body of MRS NEVETT, of this City, widow, some time since mistress of the Elephant Inn, North-street, who was found drowned on Saturday in the Exe River, below James's Wear. She left her home early the preceding evening and is supposed to have wandered about the fields the whole night, in a state of despondency, and thrown herself into the water early in the morning. - Verdict, Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 23 December 1813
EXETER - Saturday the body of a man, named THOMAS BALLE, a labourer, was taken out of the Canal, a little below the Double lock. A Coroner's Inquest was held on Sunday, when, from the evidence, it appeared that the deceased had been missing six weeks, and is supposed to have fallen off the bank on his return from work: Verdict: Found Drowned.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 10 February 1814
EXETER - Monday last an Inquest was taken at the Valiant Soldier Inn, on the body of SARAH GRIFFIN, a child 10 years old, who was burnt to death in consequence of her clothes taking fire. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 10 March 1814
EXETER - On Saturday a Coroner's Inquest was held on the body of RICHARD EASTERBROOKE, residing in Coombe-street, in this City, who cut his throat with a razor on the morning of that day. The unfortunate man was formerly a respectable farmer of Moretonhampstead, but has latterly been reduced to extreme poverty. - Verdict, Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 9 June 1814
PLYMOUTH - Early on Saturday morning, a duel took place under the Hoe, at Plymouth, between Lieut. Paget and MR FRENCH, assistant surgeon, both of the North Mayo Militia. The former was attended by Lieut. Lundy, ask his second; and the latter by Mr Little, the surgeon of the regiment. The parties fired at the same instant, by signal, when MR FRENCH staggered and fell, the ball having entered his groin. Mr Little ran to his assistance to whom he said, "My dear Little, I am a dead man, the Lord have mercy on my soul," and shortly after expired. - Lieut. Paget and the seconds have absconded; and a Coroner's Jury have returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against them.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 28 July 1814
TAVISTOCK - On Friday an Inquest was held at the King's Arms, Tavistock, before Joseph Whiteford, esq., Coroner, on the body of MR THOMAS JOPE, who had put an end to his existence by cutting his throat. Mr William Bredall, Surgeon, stated that he had known the deceased about 60 years, and that within the last 12 months he had had two paralytic seizures and has since laboured under a very great depression of spirits. The Jury returned a verdict of Lunacy. The deceased was a most exemplary character, and highly respected in the neighbourhood. He was Surveyor to his Grace the Duke of Bedford.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 15 September 1814
EAST STONEHOUSE - An Inquest was held on Monday, at Stonehouse, before Joseph Whiteford, Esq., Coroner, on the body of THOMAS COWANS, a seaman on board the Salvador, who on Friday last, had made a bet he would go up and stand on the truck at the main-top-royal-mast head, which he had effected about half past 7 o'clock in the evening, but on attempting to come down by holding only with his hands on a rope called the top-gallant-back-stay, he came down so swift that he could not keep his hold, and fell from just under the main-top on the starboard side of the deck, on his face, quite insensible; the blood gushed out from his mouth and ears and one of his thighs was fractured; he languished till about one o'clock in the morning, when he died. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 27 October 1814
EXETER - Monday an Inquest was held on the body of ELEANOR GRAVEL, an apprentice to a child-bed linen-maker, of this City, who was found drowned in the river Exe. It appeared in evidence that the deceased left her home late on Friday night, and proceeded to Cowley Bridge, a distance of two miles, where she threw herself off the Centre Arch, leaving a pair of scissors and other trifling articles close to the spot. She had made frequent applications to Mr Sadler, in the course of the week, for permission to ascend with his balloon, and appeared to possess a weak and disordered mind:- Verdict, Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 1 December 1814
KELLY - Accident. - As a MR PENGILLY of Milton Abbot, was returning in a cart from his work, on Saturday evening last, with his daughter, a girl of about 9 years old, who was sitting on its edge; it unfortunately overturned, and killed her upon the spot, but the father escaped unhurt. Such an instance should deter everyone from sitting in such a perilous situation. An Inquest was held upon the body on Tuesday at Kelly, near Tavistock before Joseph Whiteford, Esq., Coroner. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 18 May 1815
SOWTON - On Sunday last MR JAMES WOODMAN, of Sowton, near the city of Exeter, farmer and miller, put an end to his existence by hanging himself in a stable, near his dwelling-house. The body was not discovered until the following morning. He was a man of good character and respectable connections, but has lately appeared distressed in spirits, occasioned it is supposed by a losing concern in business. He has left a widow and six children. A Coroner's Inquest has been held on the body. Verdict - Lunacy

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 15 June 1815
MORETONHAMPSTEAD - Monday the 5th inst. as EDWARD MORTIMORE, mason, his son and two men, were working on a scaffold, 18 feet high, in the of the White Hart Inn, in Moretonhampstead, one of the supporters of the scaffold broke, by which means MORTIMORE and his son were precipitated to the ground; the father was taken up apparently dead, his skull was fractured, and otherwise much bruised. He languished till Friday morning, when he did leaving a widow and four children to lament his loss. The son received very little hurt. The other two men preserved themselves from falling, by catching hold of the scaffold poles. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body, Verdict - Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 27 July 1815
EXETER - Melancholy Occurrence. - CAPTAIN LOWE, formerly of the 25th Light Dragoons, who has for some time resided in an obscure cottage at Hill's Court, in this City, put an end to his existence early this morning by hanging himself in his bed-room. His wife first discovered him, and in a most frantic manner alarmed the neighbourhood; medical assistance was procured, but he was found past recovery. The unfortunate deceased had retired from the army many years, and embarked in the farming line, a speculation which it appears, caused his ruin: he had long laboured under great despondency of mind, and was at length so reduced as to be incapable of providing the necessaries of life. He has left a widow and two young children, in a state of distress beyond description. We shall thankfully receive any donation for the relief of this truly wretched family, which the charitable and humane may be pleased to bestow. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body this afternoon, - verdict, Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 26 October 1815
BRADNINCH - Vicissitude In Life. - A man, named BONNER, who kept a public-house at Bradninch, Devon, was married on Tuesday in the last week, he hung himself on Friday, a Coroner's Inquest was held on his body on Saturday and he was buried on Sunday.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 21 December 1815
EXETER - A Coroner's Inquest was held in this City on Sunday last, on the body of JOHN MOORE, a journeyman tailor, who was seized with a fit of coughing in the High-street, on the preceding evening, which caused the bursting of a blood vessel, and he expired shortly afterwards: Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 25 January 1816
EXETER - Yesterday an Inquest was held in this City, on the body of JEREMIAH LIGHTHOLDER, by trade a whitesmith, who was found dead on the preceding day, in a privy at the bottom of Holloway-street, where he was seen to enter not more than five minutes before he was discovered in a lifeless state:- Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 7 March 1816
HONITON - On Saturday night last, about twelve o'clock, MR JOSEPH WELSMAN, of Sidbury, was found dead near the bottom of the town of Honiton. He was lying under the belly of his horse, with his feet in the stirrups and the bridle in his hand - the horse, which was blind, standing quite still. - It appears that he left the Swan Inn, Honiton, about ten o'clock that night, to go to Sidbury and nothing was heard of him till he was found in the state described two hours afterwards, not two gun-shots from whence he set out, and in the public street. There appeared a deep wound in his side; and it was supposed at first he had been shot. An Inquest was held on the body, on Sunday night, when it appeared that this unfortunate man had been by some means crushed to death: his breast bone was broken to pieces and one of his ribs had been driven through his side, which occasioned the appearance of the wound of a shot. No clue whatever to the cause of his death can be discovered.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 30 May 1816
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - Saturday night, about ten o'clock, LIEUT. TREMLETT, of the Royal Navy, put an end to his existence at his lodgings in Okehampton-street, St Thomas. He was sitting by the fire conversing with the mistress of the house, with his usual complacency, when suddenly taking a pistol from his pocket, he placed the muzzle to his temple and discharged the contents into his head. His hand dropt, the pistol fell to the ground, and he died instantly without the slightest struggle, the body retaining the same position on the chair as before. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body on Sunday: Verdict, Lunacy. Pecuniary embarrassment is supposed to have occasioned the rash act.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 1 August 1816
CULLOMPTON - On Monday afternoon a boy about 13 years of age, son of SERGEANT BAKER, of the East Devon Militia, fell from a horse, near the Cullompton Turnpike, and his foot remaining in the stirrup, he was dragged a considerable distance, by his head was bruised in so shocking a manner, that he expired almost immediately. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body yesterday: Verdict - Accidental Death.

DARTINGTON - A Coroner's Inquest was held the 27th instant, at the Cot Inn, in the parish of Dartington, near Totnes, on the body of WILLIAM BARRETT. It appeared in evidence that the deceased was at the bull baiting on the Totnes Marsh on the 17th t, being the Races; that he went so near the bull, that he was attacked by the animal and received a wound in the breast, which occasioned his death in about a week after. Verdict: - That the said WILLIAM BARRETT came by his death by means of a wound received from the horn of the bull. - The bull, or the value thereof, becomes a deodand to the Lord of the Manor. The Jury felt determined to give such a verdict, to prevent, if possible, the horrid practice of bull baiting.

EAST STONEHOUSE - An Inquest was held last week by Joseph Whiteford, Esq., one of the Coroner's of the county of Devon, on the body of JOHN BRISCOE, a marine, who was found much cut and bruised near Stonehouse-mills, but the evidence not being sufficient to account for the manner in which he came by his death, the Jury adjourned their sitting until Tuesday, when, as no further light could be thrown on the melancholy affair, they found a verdict of - Found dead with considerable marks of violence, but by whom inflicted there is no evidence before the Jury.

PLYMSTOCK - An Inquest was held by Joseph Whiteford, Esq., on the body of ELISHA CREBER, a child, found drowned at Oreston, in the parish of Plymstock.

MALBOROUGH - An Inquest held by Joseph Whiteford, Esq., on the body of HENRY INGRAM, found drowned at Salcombe.

ERMINGTON - An Inquest held by Joseph Whiteford, Esq., Coroner, on the body of FRANCIS TOZER, accidentally killed by a fall from his horse at the parish of Ermington.

PLYMSTOCK - An Inquest held by Joseph Whiteford, Esq., Coroner on the body of EMMA SOPHIA ANNEAR, a child, accidentally scalded to death by falling into a kettle of hot water; the mother had just before put the kettle on the floor, when the child attempted to sit upon the cover which slid aside and she in on her back.

PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held by Joseph Whiteford, Esq., Coroner on Sunday last, on the body of WILLIAM FOWLER, who unfortunately fell over-board in the Sound from one of the Victualling Hoys belonging to this port, a few days since. The body was picked up in Catwater. Verdict - Found Drowned.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 8 August 1816
EXETER - This afternoon a Coroner's Inquest was held on the body of THOMAS HORE, who put an end to his existence yesterday by strangling himself in his bedroom with his neckcloth. Verdict - Lunacy. The deceased was 36 years parish-clerk of St Martin's, in this city, but from which situation he had lately been removed.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 7 November 1816
TOPSHAM - Friday last, MR SMITH, of Topsham, proprietor of a car which conveys passengers to and from this City of Exeter, put an end to his existence by hanging himself at the bed-post in his lodging-room. He was first discovered by his wife, to whom he had a short time before complained of illness, saying he would go and lie down on the bed. Pecuniary embarrassment is considered as the cause of this rash act. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body. Verdict - Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 14 November 1816
ST MARYCHURCH - On Wednesday last a horrid murder was perpetrated at Babicombe, near St Mary Church, in this county, by THOMAS VINSON, on the body of his own wife, whose head he nearly severed from her body with a large knife; he then stabbed, in various parts of his body, her father, who is a very aged man, but we are happy to learn he is not dead. He then, with the same weapon, attempted suicide, by stabbing himself three times, but not mortally, and surgical aid being immediately called, it is expected he will soon be recovered to meet that punishment due to the enormity of his crime. A Coroner's Inquest sat on the body of MRS VINSON, and returned a verdict of - Wilful Murder.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 16 January 1817
PLYMOUTH - A Coroner's Inquest was held on Sunday night last, on the body of MR FRANCIS WILSON, a respectable linen draper and mercer of Plymouth, who put a period to his existence on the preceding day by cutting his throat. The Jury returned a verdict of Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 17 April 1817
STOKE DAMEREL - Dreadful Affray. - On East Monday, according to annual custom, the lower order of holiday folks numerously assembled at Stoke fair, to enjoy the revels. In the evening, a dancing party of the town's people were interrupted by some Marines, who wished to introduce a fifer into the room; a quarrel ensued in consequence and the soldiers were turned out. On the following evening (Tuesday), a large party of the latter, to the number of 80, obtained leave and armed with sticks, staffs and drawn bayonets, again proto the fair, for the purpose of having a row: accordingly, about eight o'clock they entered the dancing-room of the Pear Tree public-house, which they immediately cleared by bruising and knocking down all who opposed them: they then departed until between nine and ten o'clock, when they made a second and more determined attack on the people who had re-assembled, by entering the room with drawn bayonets and sweeping all before them. We are sorry to state, that a young man, called WILLIAM NORTHEY (in the Breakwater employ), interposing, lost his life, having been stabbed through the head. His brother, JOHN, had nearly shared the same fate, having received a dreadful wound near the umbilicus, and many others received considerable injury, in endeavouring to escape by the door and windows. A piquet from the Marine barracks and another from the 19th regiment arrived about ten o'clock (soon after the murder) and took most of the ring-leaders into custody. - The same night a party, connected, it is said, with the above, committed the most wanton depredations in the neighbourhood, particularly at the Church House Inn, near Stoke Church, which they entered with bayonets, and after destroying the furniture &c., broke nearly all the windows in the house. - An Inquest was held on the body of the person killed on Thursday, by Joseph Whitford, Esq., Coroner, and a respectable Jury, who, after the strictest investigation, during nine hours, not being able to affix the murder to any individual persons, returned a verdict of - Wilful Murder against some person or persons unknown.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 31 July 1817
EXETER - On Saturday last, an Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier Inn, in this City, before Samuel Walkey, Gent., Coroner, on the body of JOHN PARISH, who received his death by the kick of a horse, belonging to Mr Pidgley, which was frightened in consequence of two dogs fighting, between his legs, while the man was taking it out of a gig. - Verdict, Accidental Death, and 1s. placed upon the shoe of the said horse; also the dog which was the occasion of the accident, was immediately ordered to be drowned, which was done

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 23 October 1817
PLYMOUTH - Murder - On Thursday last, a murder was committed at Plymouth-Dock; the following particulars of which were given in evidence before the Coroner, Joseph Whiteford, Esq. - John Green, attendant on the boat which conveys the Cornish mail from Dock to Torpoint and REBECCA SMITH, wife of GILBERT SMITH, a rigger in his Majesty's Dockyard, met together at the Lion and Anchor in Cherry-garden-street, Dock. After drinking a pint of beer, Green called for another, requesting the landlady to warm a glass of it for the female; whose mouth he said, was sore. They sat opposite to each other in the back parlour, with the door open to the passage, apparently on the most amicable terms. Soon afterwards SMITH left the room and returned again, when Green went to the tap-room fire, lighted his pipe, and rejoined her in the same apartment. In about a quarter of an hour subsequent to this, the landlady (Sarah Coats) saw SMITH coming to the bar, moving her lips as if endeavouring to speak, though unable to do so, while blood flowed profusely from her throat. Mrs Coats instantly called out for assistance, and having seated SMITH in a chair, and placed her under the care of another woman, hastened in search of a surgeon. In the mean time, the landlord ran to the back room, the door of which was still open, where he discovered Green behind the door, in the act of wiping off the blood from his face and hands, with which his clothes also were nearly covered. The landlord exclaimed, "what have you been doing, you scoundrel?" Green replied, "she attempted to cut my throat, and I have cut hers." He was then taken into custody by two men, from the tap-room, who conveyed him to the town-prison. The surgeon, on examining SMITH, found there was no chance of saving her life: the wound was mortal. A case knife, dyed with gore, was discovered by the peace-officers, secreted under some shavings in the apartment where the prisoner and SMITH had been sitting, and afterwards sworn to, as belonging to Elizabeth Simmonite, at whose house the prisoner had lodged five weeks. - GILBERT SMITH, husband of the deceased, stated that she eloped with Green a year and half since, leaving behind her two children, and had cohabited with him in Ireland until two months preceding this event, when she entreated permission to return to her husband and children, to which he consented, on her promise of amendment. Soon after her arrival at Dock, Green made his appearance and being frequently seen by the husband loitering about the door, was desired to abstain from such conduct. - Mrs Wilson, living in a room adjoining that occupied by the deceased, at No. 17 Fore-street, said, that in an interview she witnessed between the prisoner and deceased, the latter said to the former, "Jack Green, you mean nothing but to murder me:" to which he answered, "I value not my own life, but I don't wish to hurt you." She then requested that he would never again come into her presence which he promised, but neither of the parties had resolution enough to abide by this determination. They met again on Thursday last. The Jury, without any hesitation, brought in a verdict of Wilful Murder; and Green was accordingly committed to Devon County gaol, to be tried at the next Assizes.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 6 November 1817
BUCKFASTLEIGH - Child Murder. - On the 26th ult., an Inquest was held at Buckfastleigh, near Ashburton, before Joseph Gribble, Esq., Coroner, on the body of a male child, about 3 weeks old. - It appeared in evidence before the Coroner, by the testimony of several witnesses, as well as two surgeons, that FRANCES CLARK, a singlewoman, living at Buckfastleigh, was delivered of a bastard child (her second) about three weeks before; that she had been summoned to appear before the Magistrates on the 25th to swear to the father of the child; that on the 24th (the day before) the said FRANCES CLARK, living in the house with several other persons, contrived to administer "vitriol" to the child, which lingered in agony until the 25th and then died. The lip and inside of the mouth and throat appeared very much burnt, as well as the whittle and apron the child had on at the time. The medical men present were of opinion that the death of the child was occasioned by vitriol; and from various other circumstances which appeared in evidence, fifteen out of twenty-three of the Jury, without hesitation, returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against the said FRANCES CLARK, upon which she was committed by the Coroner to the Devon County Gaol, to take her trail at the next Assizes.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 4 December 1817
EXETER - Yesterday afternoon, a Coroner's Inquest was held at the sign of the Royal Oak, in this City, on the body of JOHN CHAPPLE, who died suddenly on Sunday evening, at his house in Guinea-street, when a most respectable Jury returned a verdict - Sudden Death, having died of Apoplexy. He lived 14 years as principal waiter at the Globe Tavern: and whose general character was that of an honest and faithful servant. He has left a widow and seven children to deplore his irreparable loss.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 29 January 1818
HEMYOCK - On Tuesday, the 13th instant, a sheriff's officer went to the house of PETER HOLWAY, a farmer, at Hemiock, near Wellington, to levy an execution for £14. His wife upbraided him for not before informing her of his having been served with the initiatory process, as in that case the expenses consequent on his negligence might have been avoided. In the course of her reproaches she expressed a wish that he was dead. HOLWAY then said he would go to his son's, a distance of about two miles, to get his assistance to pay the amount of the levy. Just before mounting his horse, he took out his snuff-box, and presenting it to his wife, asked her to take a pinch, which she scornfully declined, and said she wished "that he might break his neck before he came home." This wish was unhappily realized; for on returning home with his son, from the house of the latter, he suddenly dropped from his horse in a fit, and dislocating his neck by the fall, expired without uttering a syllable! A Coroner's Inquest has been held on the body, who returned a verdict of Died by the Visitation of God. The wife, from the circumstances of the event, has been ever since in a most afflicting state of wretchedness.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 16 April 1818
EXETER ST LEONARD - Yesterday an Inquest was held, in the parish of St Leonard, before C. D. Pugh, Esq., one of the Coroner's for the County of Devon, on the body of MISS ELIZABETH LANGWORTHY, of this City, who was found drowned in the river Exe, opposite the Exeter Lime Kilns, on the preceding afternoon. - She had been seen walking near the spot a short time previous, and a mantle and other parts of her dress were found on the bank. - The body was but a short time in the water, yet although every means of recovery, as recommended by the Humane Society, were used, they failed to restore animation. - The deceased was 46 years of age, of respectable connections and had long been in a low and desponding state of mind. Verdict, Insanity.

Exeter Flying Thursday 23 July 1818 TOPSHAM - A Coroner's Inquest was held, on Sunday last, on the body of MR JOHN PIM, of the firm of "Oxenham and Pim", paper-makers of Wear, near this City of Exeter, who put a period to his existence on the evening preceding, by hanging himself in a drying loft, in his mill. The deceased had for a long time past, laboured under mental derangement and the Jury instantly returned a verdict of Insanity.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 17 December 1818
EXETER - On Friday last, as MISS MARY JACKSON, who resided in the parish of Bishop's Clist, near this City, was walking on the Terrace, in front of Summerland Place, on her return home, she was suddenly alarmed at the approach of a cow towards her and, in her haste to avoid the animal, she fell from off the footpath. She was instantly taken, in a most terrified state, to the house of a gentleman, close by, where she experienced every attention that humanity could suggest. Medical assistance was procured, she was bled, and appeared to have recovered, in some degree, from the effects of her fright. She was then, ,at her particular request, taken to the house of an acquaintance in Paris-street, where, we are sorry to add, she died shortly after her arrival. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body, at the Old London Inn, on Saturday, when the Jury returned a verdict - Died by Excessive Fright, occasioned by a cow.

TOTNES - Dec. 13, 1818. - An Inquest was, this day, held before Joseph Gribble, Esq., Coroner, and a respectable Jury, at the Seven Stars Inn, in this town, on the body of a young man, named WILLIAM LUSCOMBE, who had been drowned the day before in the river Dart. It appeared in evidence, that the deceased was one of Torbryan, and had been to Totnes Market, as a butcher, had delivered some meat in the country, and was returning to Totnes again, about two o'clock, riding, aside, on his horse behind a pair of panniers and on the Totnes Bridge, which is narrow, and the parapet walls broken down, he met another horse, with panniers, coming against him, the two horses came in contact and MR LUSCOMBE'S horse was forced with his hind legs upon the broken parapet wall, when he directly fell over into the river, above twenty feet high, and altho' assistance was immediately rendered, and the body taken out of the water within ten minutes, and every exertion used by the medical men to restore life, proved ineffectual. The Jury, after a little hesitation, agreed on the following verdict: - "That the said WILLIAM LUSCOMBE was Accidentally Drowned, occasioned by some person or persons unknown having wantonly broken down the parapet walls of the bridge, and the same having been left unrepaired for many months by the Corporation of Totnes."

OKEHAMPTON - MARY WOODMAN, was this day, committed to the Devon County Gaol, by Thomas Colby, gent., Coroner, charged with the Wilful Murder of her husband, CHARLES WOODMAN, of the Parish of Okehampton.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 4 February 1819
EXETER - The body of ANN PITTS who was drowned in the River Exe, on the 25th November 1818, was found last Thursday, near Pyne's Wear. It is an act of justice due to Mr John Hodge, against whose character the most malicious and wicked reports have been in circulation, to add, that clearer and more decisive evidence could not be given to the Coroner, and the Jury, as to the cause of the death of the poor girl, which was entirely Accidental.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 11 March 1819
EXETER - An Inquest was held on Friday evening last, in this City, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of MARY POTTER, aged 30 years, servant to Mr William Dean, fuller, who was found dead in her bed early on the above morning. The deceased, accompanied by her sweetheart, had taken a walk to Whitstone, a few miles from hence, on the preceding evening, to visit her mother, from whence she returned, and went to bed in perfect health. - A bucket was found close by her bed side, from which, it appeared, she had been taken sick in the night, and it is supposed her death was occasioned by violent retching. Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 19 August 1819
EXETER - On Saturday last, an Inquest was taken before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of CHARLES DENSHAM, aged 19 years, who was drowned the preceding evening, whilst bathing at Head Weir. Verdict - Accidental Death.

EXETER - An Inquisition was yesterday forenoon taken, before Mr Walkey, at the sign of the Fuller's Arms, on view of the body of a young man, called JOSEPH SEALY, a sailor, belonging to the William and Mary, London trader, of this port, who was taken out of the river at our Quay the preceding afternoon. - The deceased had been missing since Thursday night last, when he was seen in a state of intoxication, and is supposed to have fallen from off the plank on going from the Quay to the vessel. Verdict - Found Drowned.

PLYMOUTH - A melancholy circumstance occurred last week to MRS STEVENS, wife of MR STEVENS, of the Globe spirit shop, Market-street, Plymouth. She was in the habit of bathing under the Hoe, and on Friday, whilst in the water, the surf carried her off her legs and threw her against the rocks, by which the right side of her head was so injured as to cause her almost instant death. An Inquest was held in the course of the day, and the Jury returned a verdict of - Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 7 October 1819
SHUTE - On Wednesday last, a Coroner's Inquest was held at Shute, on the body of ABSALOM CHAPPLE, a parish apprentice, bound on Sir William Templer Pole, Bart. The deceased was in company with other persons beating for game, in the plantations, and unfortunately received in his head the contents of a fowling-piece, which was fired at some game by a servant of Sir William's, who was on the opposite side of the hedge, and could not perceive the boy. - The Jury immediately returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 25 November 1819
EXETER - On Monday last, an Inquest was taken before Samuel Walkey, Gent., Coroner, at the Swan Tavern, in this City, on the body of JOHN HELLIER, who was found drowned in the Canal, on the Haven Banks on Sunday morning, after being absent from home since Friday week last. Verdict - Found Drowned.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 13 April 1820
STOKE DAMEREL - An Inquest was held on Sunday last, at the parish of Stoke Damarel, on the body of ELIZABETH PIKE, who put a period to her existence, by hanging herself. Verdict - Lunacy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 4 May 1820
EXETER - A melancholy accident occurred here on Thursday night, to a young woman, of the name of SARAH HILL, aged 19 years, servant to Mr T. Cole, of this City, builder. - It appears, that about half-past nine o'clock, the girl informed her master that three men were gone up a ladder, that was resting against the front of the New Subscription Rooms, which are close to Mr C.'s residence, and of which building he has the management. - Depredations having been recently committed on the premises, he ascended the roof, by another way, for the purpose of taking the offenders into custody; on is approach they quickly descended; and, in his anxious endeavours to secure them, he accidentally pushed the ladder (which is fifty feet long) on one side, and it fell on the unfortunate girl, who was standing below; her skull was fractured and her shoulder much bruised; she was conveyed to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, in a state of insensibility, where she expired about three o'clock on the following morning. - A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body, Friday afternoon. Verdict - Accidental Death, occasioned by the Fall of a Ladder.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 21 September 1820
MORETONHAMPSTEAD - An Inquest was taken on Saturday last, at Moretonhampstead, before Joseph Gribble, Esq., Coroner, on the body of JAMES BRIMBLECOMBE, a boy, who met his death by a kick from a horse, while standing at his father's door, near that town. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, and imposed a fine of one shilling as a deodand. The rider of the horse was admonished by the Coroner, and cautioned to be more circumspect in future.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 9 November 1820
EXMOUTH - On Sunday last, a Coroner's Inquest was held at the Swan Public-house, Exmouth, on the body of EREN GRIFFITHS, mate of the schooner Ceres, lately from Liverpool, who died on the same morning, suddenly, while in conversation with another man on board the vessel. Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 14 December 1820
EAST STONEHOUSE - On Sunday morning last, MR WORSELL, late Commander of the Providence Revenue cutter (but superannuated from that service) was found dead in a Lime-stone Quarry, in Firestone Bay, a short distance from the Long-room Barracks, at Stonehouse, with marks of great violence on his person, supposed to have been murdered. A Coroner's Inquest sat on the body yesterday, which was adjourned till this day; their verdict has not yet transpired. MR WORSELL had taken tea with a friend in this town on Saturday, and quitted about six o'clock in the evening for his residence at Compton, about a mile in the country; but the cause of his having taken so different and obscure a route, and the circumstances attendant on his melancholy end, is at present involved in great mystery.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 28 December 1820
EXMOUTH - On Wednesday last, a Coroner's Inquest was held at the Dolphin Inn, Exmouth, on the body of JOHN REED, a young man twenty years of age, who died the preceding night. - Verdict, Died by Excess of Drinking Spirits. It is supposed he drank upwards of a quarter of strong Cognac Brandy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 4 January 1821
EXETER - This afternoon, a Coroner's Inquest was held at the Volunteer public-house, Goldsmith-street, in this City, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of ELIZABETH GULLICK, aged 42, who, on the preceding evening, while in bed, was seized with an apoplectic fit and expired. Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 18 January 1821
EXETER - On Wednesday last, an Inquest was held, in this City, before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of SARAH EALES, a servant girl, whose death was occasioned by taking a large quantity of oil of vitriol on the preceding day. The surgeons who examined the body, say, that they never witnessed such a horrid mass as the stomach exhibited, being entirely decomposed by the burning powers of the acid. It appears that the unfortunate girl, who was about 20 years of age, was the victim of an artful villain, who, under pretence of affection, succeeded in effecting her ruin, and then left her to lament her misfortune and his inconstancy. Insupportable remorse soon preyed upon her spirits, and the miserable object of seduction, being four months advanced in pregnancy, and worn down by shame and sorrow, ended her life, in a moment of insanity, by the dreadful means we have described. The bottle from which the fatal draught was poured was marked "Laudanum," and it is supposed she had before swallowed a quantity of that opiate, without the intended effect. The Jury, after several hours deliberation, returned a verdict of Insanity.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 8 March 1821
EXETER - On Friday evening last, a man named THOMAS SAUNDERS, who has for some time worked on the roads in the neighbourhood of Exeter, fell into the Exe, close by Cowley Bridge, where the water was little more than five feet deep and was drowned. It is supposed that he was in a state of intoxication when the accident happened. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body Saturday afternoon, when the Jury returned a verdict - Found Drowned.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 29 March 1821
CREDITON - Sudden Death. - On Monday night last, between the hours of eight and nine o'clock, MR JOSEPH ROWE, of Paris-street, City of Exeter, builder and auctioneer, was discovered, by a man and his wife, (servants to Jas. Buller, Esq., of Downes) lying on the turnpike-road, in a senseless state, about a mile and half from Crediton. A cart happening to pass at the time, he was conveyed to the White Hart Inn, at Crediton, where medical aid was procured as soon as possible, but without producing the desired effect; some blood was taken from him and he vomited twice, but never uttered a word from the time he was found in the road, and expired in little more than an hour after. - The deceased had dined at a friend's house, in Crediton, which place he left at eight o'clock, in his usual good health, and it is supposed, fell from his horse in an apoplectic fit, as there was no appearance of any blow, received in the fall, that could have occasioned death. MR ROWE has left a widow and large family to mourn their severe loss. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body yesterday. Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God from Apoplexy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 7 June 1821
ASHBURTON - Charge Of Murder. Whereas MARY ANN WINDEATT, late of Chagford, in the County of Devon, singlewoman, stands charged, on the Coroner's Inquest, with the Wilful Murder of her female Bastard Child, who was found dead on the 28th ult., in a Plantation near Ashburton: The Churchwardens and Overseers of Ashburton, do hereby offer a handsome reward to any person who will apprehend the said MARY ANN WINDEATT, and lodge her in the County Gaol, at Exeter. - The said MARY ANN WINDEATT is apparently about 22 or 23 years old, short and rather slight and good looking; when she left Ashburton, was dressed in a black straw bonnet, black or dark stuff gown, black stockings, and check apron, with a handkerchief round her face; and is supposed to be gone into Somersetshire with a man called Edmonds, a stonemason, with whom she has lately cohabited. Ashburton, 4th June 1821

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 28 June 1821
EXETER - An Inquest was held on Monday last, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, at the Red Cow public-house, near this city, on the body of JOHN MANN, a lad 17 years of age, son of MR JOHN MANN, cabinet and chair-maker, living in Green's buildings, on the Crediton road, who met his death in consequence of a severe injury he received while jumping over the posts on Northernhay on Sunday last. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 9 August 1821
EXETER - Melancholy Accident. - Yesterday morning, about nine o'clock, JOHN CHANTER, of Goldsmith-street, in this city, hellier and plasterer, fell from the roof of a house, in Gandy's-street, where he was at work, by which he had his skull fractured in a most shocking manner, and was otherwise dreadfully bruised. He was immediately conveyed, with great care, to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, but he never spoke after his fall, and expired about one o'clock. - A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body last evening. Verdict of the Jury - Accidental Death. The deceased was 43 years of age, of honest and industrious habits, and has left a widow and six children, of whom he was the sole support. The distressed case of his unfortunate family appears in an advertisement in this page. Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 30 August 1821 KINGSBRIDGE - At Wolston, near Kingsbridge, on Friday the 17th instant, DACRES FURLONG WISE, Esq. He was preparing to attend the funeral of Mr Savery, but having retired for a moment previously, he died suddenly while alone. He was only 26 years of age, of an excellent disposition and character. - A Coroner's Inquest sat upon the body on the following day:- Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 13 December 1821
GREAT TORRINGTON - Murder. - An Inquest was taken at Great Torrington, on Sunday last, before James Cutcliffe, Esq., Mayor and Coroner, on the body of MARY STEVENS, single woman; and a verdict of Wilful Murder returned against Philip Chappell, of the said borough, glover; who was on Monday committed to the Devon County Gaol, under the Coroner's warrant. It appeared that the miserable girl was courted by Chappell and was pregnant. They had been seen walking together on Friday evening near the spot, where the body was found next morning lying on a bank, by a mill-pond. Bruises appeared on her forehead; yet from other circumstances it is conjectured that she had been drowned in the mill-pond, and drawn out again.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 10 January 1822
CHRISTOW - In the forenoon of Monday se'nnight, two females, named MARIA ROLESTON and MARTHA CRISPIN, the former about 28 and the latter 12 years of age, set out from Christow to go to Chudleigh. On their way they had to cross a wooden bridge over the Teign; but the railing of the bridge having been washed away by the late flood, they lost their footing and were both carried down the stream and drowned. It appeared on the Inquest, from the evidence of a carpenter, who was employed to repair the bridge, that he had left the spot about ten minutes to procure poles, and on his return found a basket and umbrella on the Chudleigh side of the river, near his tool-=bag, but had not seen anyone deposit them; from this circumstance it should seem that one of the unfortunate sufferers had crossed the bridge in safety, and had returned to help her companion. The melancholy event was not known to their friends until the following afternoon, when immediate search was made, and the body of M. CRISPIN was found in the river about two miles below the place where she fell in: the other was not found on Thursday morning last, though every practicable means had been exerted for that purpose.

PLYMOUTH - On Tuesday the 1st instant, an Inquest was held in this town, on MRS E. BROMELL, of Fore-street, who, whilst eating her dinner alone, on that day, was seized with a fit and fell on the fire in the grate, which communicated to her clothes, and caused her death before the fatal occurrence was known.

PLYMOUTH - On Friday an Inquest was held here, on THOMAS TALLACK, a child who was left by his mother at play with other children, and during her absence, his apron caught fire, which scorched him so dreadfully that he lived only a few hours after. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 7 February 1822
SOUTHLEIGH - An Inquest, noticed in an Exeter Paper of last week, which was holden at Southleigh, in this county, and afterwards by adjournment at Colyton, to Inquire into the cause of the death of JOHN SCRIVEN, terminated on Monday morning, after a patient investigation which occupied several days. - Mr Tucker, of Exeter, Surgeon, who dissected the body, deposed, that if he had not been previously acquainted with the injury imputed, he could and should have very satisfactorily accounted for his death from natural causes. - There were no external marks of injury. The cavity of the thorax or chest was laid open, when the most extensive injury was discovered to have ensued from repeated attacks of inflammation. Both lungs had suffered much, particularly the left, on which there were several tubercles or small abscesses. In the cavity of the abdomen also, very serious mischief had taken place, for the small intestines had in some places gone into a state of mortification or gangrene. These no doubt had ensued from recent inflammation, and could not be dated so far back as the imputed injury. The immediate cause of death was loss of blood from a rupture or ulceration of a branch of the mesenteric arteries. - In these opinions, Mr T., was borne out by four other medical gentlemen; and the Jury found that the deceased died of internal inflammation, arising from Natural Causes.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 28 February 1822
SOUTH TAWTON - Charge Of Murder. - Whereas, ANN SNELL, of the Parish of South Tawton, in the county of Devon, single woman, stands charged on the Coroner's Inquest with the Murder of her Female Bastard Child on the 23rd ult., The Churchwardens and Overseers of South Tawton, do hereby offer a handsome Reward, with all reasonable expenses, to any person who shall apprehend and lodge the said ANN SNELL in any of his Majesty's Gaols. - The said ANN SNELL is about 22 years of age, five feet four inches high, rather thick lips, thin face, with a sallow complexion and light brown hair. She is supposed to have been secreted in the neighbourhood of Zeal Monachorum or Crediton. South Tawton, Feb. 24, 1822.

TIVERTON - On Tuesday last, an Inquest was held before C. D. Pugh, Esq., Coroner, on the body of THOMAS BRICE, of Tiverton. The deceased was a farmer, and possessed considerable property. On Saturday the servant being sent to look for him, discovered him suspended by a rope in a linhay. It appears he had taken every precaution to render his destruction certain by tying several knots in the cord, and when found was quite lifeless. Verdict, Insanity.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 4 April 1822
SOUTH BRENT - On Wednesday last an Inquest was held at Wonton, in the Parish of South Brent, on the body of JOHN PENALLUM, a child about six years old, who was killed by attempting to cross the road at the time the Eclipse coach was passing with six horses, the wheel of which rushed his head, but did not pass over it, though the skull was dreadfully fractured. A verdict of Manslaughter was returned against Wm. Brice, the coachman and John Purty, the postillion, who were taken into custody by Mr Harding, constable of South Brent, and conveyed to Exeter for commitment; but on application to the Magistrates at the Castle on Friday, they were immediately liberated upon bail, as it was deposed that the coach was not going faster than six miles an hour and was turning a sharp corner at Wonton when the child was knocked down by the leading horses. A deodand of 35l. was levied on the coach and horses.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 30 May 1822
DEVON - Murder From Jealousy. - A man named JOHN CHAPMAN has been committed to our County Gaol, for the murder of his wife. - The following are the facts connected with this melancholy affair. The prisoner is a labourer on the Bude Canal, and had discovered an improper intimacy between his wife and another labourer. The parties had been all drinking together at a public-house, and on leaving, the husband requested her to go home with him, but she refused, and went away with the other man. The husband then in a paroxysm of rage ran home for a gun, and followed them about half a mile; on coming near them, he saw her paramour's arm round her neck, he immediately fired his gun and killed his wife upon the spot. He did not attempt to elude justice but was taken immediately into custody, and requested to go back and look upon the body, which was permitted. - He then said, he was contented, that he loved her and could die for her. A Coroner's Inquest was summoned and brought in a verdict of Wilful Murder, and CHAPMAN is committed to take his trial at the next Assizes. The prisoner is about 25 years of age and has only been married the short space of nine months.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 20 June 1822
EXETER - An Inquest was held yesterday, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, at the Red Cow public-house, near this City, on the body of WILLIAM RENDALL, a lad 17 years of age, in the service of Captain Barton, R.N., at the Elms, in the parish of St David, who shot himself with a pistol, on the back premises of his master's house, the same morning. An attachment to one of the female servants, which, on account of his youth, did not meet return, is assigned as the cause of this rash act. Verdict, "Shot himself while in a state of Mental Derangement."

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 16 January 1823
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held on Saturday on the body of ELIZABETH ESSERY, of this town. The deceased, who was a very infirm woman, and upwards of eighty-eight years of age, was in her apartment reading, on Thursday night, when her cap caught fire, and her daughter, who resides in the same house, on going into her room, for the purpose of fetching her some beer, found her lying on the floor, much burnt, and quite dead. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 3 April 1823
EXETER - This day, an Inquest was held at the Windmill Inn, in this City, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of EDWARD SMALE, who died in the Hospital, from an injury he received on the 21st of February last, from a wheel of a cart (unknown) having passed over his thigh, near New-bridge, on the Crediton-road. The witnesses being unable to prove, owing to the darkness of the morning, which of the carts, so passing along the road at the time occasioned the man's injury. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death from a cart wheel."

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 8 May 1823
EGGESFORD - Early on Saturday morning, the body of a man named THOMAS SHUTE, belonging to the parish of Chawleigh, who had been some time in the habit of begging, was found near Eggesford, with many bruises on his body and a large wound on his head, which caused a suspicion of his having been murdered. - A Coroner's Inquest sat on the body on Sunday and upon inquiry, it was found that the man was subject to fits, and the Jury returned a verdict, "Died from the Wounds which it was supposed he had received struggling in a Fit."

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 5 June 1823
EXETER - Last evening, an Inquisition was taken at the Plume of Feathers Inn, David's-Hill, in this City, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of FRANCES POLLARD, aged 26, who was found dead in her bed yesterday morning, at her lodgings in Exe-lane. Verdict - "Died by the Visitation of God, through Epilepsy." - Seems she had been subject to Epilepsy from her infancy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 19 June 1823
PLYMOUTH - The body of a young woman, about 19 years of age, named MARY MULLENA, was picked up on Wednesday in Hamoaze. The deceased was apprenticed to Mr Pengelly, farmer, of Tamerton, who on Whitmonday last, gave her permission to visit her friends in Dock, with whom she remained until the following Friday, when she left them on her return home and was observed going through Knacker's Knoll towards Tamerton the same evening, since which time she had not been seen, nor could any further traces of her be discovered. The surgeon who examined the body of the unfortunate girl found her to be pregnant. An Inquest was held on her the same day, and suspicions being entertained by the Jury as to the manner in which she came to her death, two adjournments took place, in order that every information might be obtained from several witnesses who were summoned to attend by the Coroner. After some time the Jury returned a verdict - Found Drowned, but how or by what means she became so drowned, no evidence appears.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 3 July 1823
WESTMINSTER, LONDON - MR FRANCIS CHICHESTER, who was found drowned near Westminster Bridge, as noticed in our last, was the eldest son of a gentleman of the most respectable family, residing at Hall, near Barnstaple, and was a Member of Trinity College, Oxford. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body and there being no evidence to prove how the deceased came into the water, the Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 10 July 1823
EXETER ST SIDWELL - Suicide. - Yesterday afternoon, an Inquisition was taken at the Red Lion public-house, St Sidwell, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner for this City, on the body of ANN MACKAY, aged 42, wife of MR DANIEL MACKAY, residing in a cottage near Sid-Well, in that parish, who, about half-past ten o'clock, on Monday night, shot herself, in her bedroom, with a fowling-piece of her husbands, which was kept in the house loaded with shot. She effected her purpose by doubling and tying her garter, one end of the loop being placed on the trigger, the other under her foot, placing the muzzle under her stays, and discharging its contents into her body, causing a large wound, from which a portion of the bowels protruded. The unfortunate woman lived about three hours after the fatal transaction, when death terminated her sufferings. - The following is a brief summary of the evidence adduced on this melancholy occasion:- Mary Herd, char-woman to the deceased, said her mistress was a remarkably fine woman, of a sanguine temperament and strong passions, that she was aunt to the late Thos. Elliott, Esq. (of sporting celebrity,) who shot himself some little time since in London, and by whose death it is supposed she would have obtained an increase to her property; she was many years younger than her husband, - MR M. being 67 years of age:- latterly they had lived very unhappily, from his being jealous of a young man of the name of Strong, who boarded and lodged with them; she said her master came home on the afternoon in question about four o'clock; he appeared to have been drinking, a quarrel ensued between her master, mistress and Strong, and the two latter left the house, but not in company, Strong quitting it first; soon after five o'clock her master also went out. In the course of the evening they all returned, MR. M. coming home first, her mistress returned at about a quarter before eight o'clock, - Strong was there before; her master and Strong had both drank, but Mr S. appeared most intoxicated. The quarrel was resumed and witness, who was in the wash-house, hearing a great noise, was induced to go into the house and found her master and Mr S. fighting; at the request of her mistress she called Mr and Mrs Lawless, who came. On her return Mr Strong was out of the house and she did not see him afterward - her mistress at this time was in a state of great agitation and did not appear to know what she was about. She complained much of her husband's ill usage, that is, of his being jealous - he had never struck her. - Mr and Mrs Lawless quitted the house about nine o'clock, wishing MR and MRS M. good night - her mistress went upstairs, master remaining in the kitchen - there was always a gun on her master's side of the bed, it was generally loaded. She saw MRS M. several times afterwards, and removed the gun from the room, but which her mistress again got possession of. Witness offered to remain in the house for the night, but this MRS M. refused. At her master's request, when about quitting the house, she asked her mistress if she wanted her any more, who answered no, and before she had power to descend into the kitchen, heard the report of a gun. - Susan Bartlett corroborated the testimony of the former witness, and said, when she heard the report of the gun, MR M. called out "Good God, she has shot herself," and ran upstairs. He burst open the door, which was locked. MRS M. was laying on her back on the floor, with the gun at the bottom of the bed. MRS M. was on fire, which was put out by witness. Did not observe how the gun was, but there was much smoke and a strong smell of gunpowder. She was living, but did not speak. MACKAY was then desiring her to speak to him, when she cried out "Oh! cruel MACKAY;" she kissed him and forgave him. - Mr Land, Surgeon, said he was called about half-past ten o'clock on Monday night. Was told MRS MACKAY had shot herself - found her lying on the bed - examined her, found a gun-shot wound on the right side, one of the smaller intestines protruded, with part of the omentum, which he reduced. She died about half-past one on Tuesday morning. Considered her death occasioned by the gun-shot wound. - Dr Collins gave similar evidence as to the nature of the wound, and cause of death. Asked deceased what led her to commit the act. She said she was driven to madness by the conduct of her husband, but she hoped that God would forgive her. Witness was of opinion no sane person would commit such an act. - Mrs Elizabeth Batt, sen., had intimately known the deceased about two years and a half. Within the last five or six months had observed a marked alteration in her manner. Appeared much depressed in spirits and at times thought her out of her mind. The cause Mrs Batt understood to be jealousy on the part of her husband, but for which she assured witness there was no foundation. - The Jury, after a long, laborious and patient investigation, and hearing Mr Walkey, who, in a most able and feeling manner, summed up the evidence, commenting as he went on, and stating the strong impression on his mind, strengthened as it most certainly was by the circumstance of her nephew having terminated his own existence, delivered the following verdict: - "Shot Herself when labouring under Temporary Derangement." - We understand, MR MACKAY loses an annuity of about 70l. per annum by his wife's death. -

EXETER - Yesterday afternoon an Inquest was taken at the Fullers' Arms public-house, Rock's-lane, by S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM BEARD, aged 8 years, who on the preceding day fell off the steps at the Quay, and was drowned. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 14 August 1823
EXETER - On Monday last, an Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier Inn, in this City, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of JOSEPH WOOLCOTT, aged 7 years, who about a fortnight before fell over the Cliff from the Friar's Walk on the Quay, by which his skull was fractured, and otherwise severely injured. He had lingered from that time in the Devon and Exeter Hospital, when death terminated his suffers. - Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 18 September 1823
EAST STONEHOUSE - On Monday morning, the 8th inst., FREDERICK ASHWEEK, youngest son of the late, and brother of the present Master of the Royal Marine Band, aged 18, was found drowned near the Long Room Barracks, Stonehouse. The Coroner's verdict was that "Deceased not being of Sound Mind, but distracted, Drowned himself." - Rumours had gone abroad that the deceased had been treated harshly by his brother SERGEANT ASHWEEK, the master of the band, an investigation was held at the Marine Barrack, the result of which was a perfect acquittal of the Sergeant of the injurious aspersion.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 2 October 1823
EXETER - Yesterday a Coroner's Inquest was held at the Lord Nelson Public-house, Rock's Lane, in this City, before Saml. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of GEORGE FRY, aged 7 years. It appeared the poor little fellow, with another boy, were trundling their hoops on Monday afternoon, in a lane beneath the city walls, near the back of the Custom-house, the hoop by some mismanagement was driven down the dipping steps. Eager to regain, he ran swiftly after it, and was precipitated into the Mill Leat, which ran beneath and before assistance could be rendered, was unfortunately drowned. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

EXETER - On Monday afternoon, the body of a female was found floating on a part of the River Exe, below Salmon Pool, commonly called Duck's Lake, and a bonnet and some other articles of female apparel were discovered under a bush adjoining the bank. The body was got out of the water and taken to the Reception House of the Exeter Humane Society, near the Lime Kilns, but though it appeared to have been but a short time in the water, all efforts to restore animation were unavailing. - Yesterday an Inquest was taken before George Whitelocke, Esq., one of the Coroners for Devon, who after viewing the body adjourned to the Windmill Public-house, Holloway-street, in this City. The deceased was MRS ELIZABETH SERCOMBE, 66 years of age, wife of MR RICHARD SERCOMBE, of the Fountain Public-house, on the Quay. A woman whose conduct through life had gained her the love and esteem of all who knew her, she left her house on Monday afternoon between two and three o'clock, and was seen walking on the bank of the river, but no evidence came before the Jury as to the manner of her getting into the water, and they returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 16 October 1823
CLYST HONITON - Melancholy Accident. - On Thursday last, as MESSRS. WILLIAM and GEORGE FARRANT, sons of MR FARRANT, of this city, Surgeon, were on a shooting excursion at Honiton's Clist, about three miles from home; GEORGE being upon a hedge was in the act of taking the gun (which had a percussion lock) from his brother, when a bramble caught the hammer, that had been cautiously placed on the spillet, and drew it back sufficiently to cause detonation. The whole charge entered just under the right breast of the unfortunate youth, who exclaimed, "Oh!" and instantly expired. A Coroner's Jury held an Inquest upon the body in the afternoon, and returned a verdict of Accidental Death. The deceased, MR GEO. FARRANT was about 19 years of age.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 6 November 1823
EXETER - On Sunday last, aged 38, MR FRANCIS STEVENS, drawing-master, South-street died. He had dined that day with his friend Mr Moxhay, in Paul-street, whose house he quitted about seven in the evening in company with Mr Carter, who parted from him at the end of Gandy's-street. MR STEVENS proceeding down Martin's-lane, into the Cathedral-yard, on his way home and was found a few minutes afterwards lying in the road way near Mr Chave's (Perfumer,) a corpse. - He had previously complained of being unwell, but in the latter part of the afternoon appeared more cheerful. MR STEVENS was a native of London, but had resided several years in this city, was eminent in his profession, and highly esteemed by his numerous friends who now mourn his loss. - A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body at the Valiant Soldier, Magdalene-street, on Monday before S. Walkey, Esq., Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 4 December 1823
EXETER - Yesterday an Inquest was taken at our Workhouse, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of SARAH STONE, aged 26, wife of SAMUEL STONE, in the employ of Messrs. Hayman, coach-makers, in this City, - who, being insane, in order that proper care might be taken of her, had been an inmate of the Workhouse from the 15th Sept. and had died suddenly during the night of Monday last. The body was opened at the request of the Governor and Guardians of the Poor, in the presence of the Coroner, the Jury and several most respectable Medical Gentlemen; the appearances presented, on examining the head, leaving no doubt as to the cause of death. The Jury returned a verdict of - Died by the Visitation of God, from Apoplexy.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 1 January 1824
EXETER - Saturday last, an Inquest was held at the Red Lion, Saint Sidwell's, before Samuel Walkey, Gent., Coroner, on the body of ELIZABETH SOPER, a pauper, who was found the same morning hanging by a rope fastened to a beam in her lodging-room. After the Jury had heard a very satisfactory account, from several witnesses, that the deceased had been deranged for nearly twelve months, they immediately returned a verdict that "The deceased Hanged herself while labouring under a state of Insanity."

EXETER - On Sunday an Inquest was held at the Honiton Inn, in this City, before Samuel Walkey, Gent., Coroner, on the body of JANE PIKE, who was found dead in her bedroom on the preceding day. It appeared, from evidence, that deceased was an occasional servant at the General Bank, in this city, having been employed by Mr J. Sparkes, for nearly eight years, to clean the Bank in the morning. In consequence of some suspicion having been excited, for the last three months, as to the honesty of the deceased, Mr J. Sparkes ordered one of the junior clerks to secret himself in the Bank, on the morning of Saturday last. Accordingly the deceased, while in the Bank, was observed to pen a locked drawer and examine it, but was not observed to take away any property. This improper conduct was immediately told to Mr J. Sparkes, who had the woman before him, and told her what had passed, which she said was quite false, calling God to witness as to her innocence. Mr J. Sparkes said, "I have every reason to believe what my clerk has informed me of, and under these circumstances I cannot employ you any longer;" and discharged her. It should be mentioned that when Mr J. Sparkes discharged the deceased from his service, he affirmed that she appeared particularly agitated and looked wild in her countenance. He never saw her look so agitated before. This happened about half-past ten on Saturday morning - about eleven the deceased was found in her bedroom, laying on the floor, quite dead, by a person who went to call on her. The deceased had the appearance of having died from apoplexy. Soon after, Dr Collins, and Mr Harris, Surgeon, were requested to see her, and having been informed of what had occurred at the Bank, began to suspect the cause of her death. A boy, about eight years old, son of the deceased, saw his mother, when she came home from the Bank, take, as he thought, some salts, in her bedroom, after which he went out of the house. The tea-cup, which contained the supposed salts, was examined by the medical gentlemen, who declared it was not salts, but tasted quite acid, which caused a strong suspicion that the deceased had taken some poisonous substance. - Some of the contents of the stomach, vomited before death, were carried home by Mr Harris, who analysed them, and found that there certainly was a poisonous substance mixed, called oxalic acid. The test was proved before the Jury. This poison so much resembles the common Epsom salts, that the difference can only be ascertained by tasting them; which is a caution all persons ought to adopt before taking Epsom salts, as many serious accidents have happened from mistaking one for the other. The Jury, having been charged by the Coroner to this effect, requested that the stomach might be examined, which was done by Mr Harris, Surgeon, in the presence of Dr Collins, who on oath deposed that the stomach presented itself quite black on the inside, with the internal coat entirely destroyed, and in two or three places nearly corroded through, from the effects of the poison taken by the deceased, and the medical gentlemen gave it as their decided opinion, that the deceased died from taking poison commonly called Oxalic Acid. After hearing several witnesses, and being perfectly satisfied of the deceased having taken the said poison, the Jury, being particularly requested by the Coroner to take into their consideration the charge made against the deceased, which charge was fully substantiated, directed them to weigh fully in their minds the result of that charge, that of the deceased being dismissed from her employer, and what sudden effect that dismissal had on the mind of the deceased, returned the following verdict:- "That the deceased, JANE PIKE, died from taking a poison, called Oxalic Acid, while labouring under a state of Temporary Derangement. The Inquest lasted four hours.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 8 January 1824
POWDERHAM - On Monday morning the body of a man, much mutilated, was found by some fishermen, on the river Exe, near Turf Point, in the parish of Powderham. On Tuesday, an Inquest was taken in Powderham Church, before Charles Dally Pugh, Esq., one of the Coroners for Devon, when it appeared the deceased was JOHN HEALL, 74 years of age, who a few years since kept the Masons' Arms public-house, Preston-street, in the city of Exeter, but had latterly been much reduced, and, with his family (three children now totally unprovided for) suffered great distress. He had been missing since the 8th December, on which day he had taken dinner with a friend, at Topsham, and, as his sight was very defective, it is supposed he missed his way on his return home and fell into the river. Verdict, - Found Drowned.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 22 January 1824
CULLOMPTON - Melancholy Occurrence. - It is with the deepest concern and regret, we have to announce to our readers the following distressing accident. MR CHARLES FOLLETT had been for some days on a visit at Hillersdon-House near Cullompton, the residence of Capt. Burn. On Monday morning last being about to accompany Capt. B. on a shooting excursion, he went into the yard for the purpose of turning out the dogs, taking his fowling piece with him. The door of the kennel not opening readily, MR FOLLETT struck it forcibly with the butt end of the gun, which caused it to explode and the whole contents was lodged in his left side, in the direction of the heart. His death was instantaneous. - A Coroner's Inquest has been taken on the body. Verdict - Accidental Death. The deceased was the second son of BENJAMIN FOLLETT, Esq., of Topsham, 25 years of age, an amiable young man, and will be much regretted by all who knew him. The grief of his relatives and the family at Hillersdon, may be conceived but cannot be described.

EXETER - An Inquest was taken before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on Friday last, at the Blue Boar public-house, on the body of SARAH HAWKINS, aged 42, a maiden woman, residing with her father, in the Leper's Alms Houses, Magdalene-street, in this city, who on the preceding day cut her throat with a razor, and, though prompt surgical assistance was rendered, she expired in about three hours. Verdict, Destroyed herself while labouring under Mental Derangement.

EXETER - An Inquest was taken before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner on Monday, at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, on the body of HENRY EDWARDS, a poor boy, aged 12 years, who, a fortnight before, while at work in Mary Arches-street, in this city, fell from a ladder and fractured his skull. He had lingered in that invaluable Institution, where every assistance and attention had been rendered him till that morning, when he expired. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 12 February 1824
EXETER - On Friday morning last, about twelve o'clock, CHARLES ALFORD of this city, tailor, was found drowned in the river Exe, just below the King's Arms Sluice. It is supposed he was in the act of washing his face, and, that a sudden seizure in the head, with which it is said he was afflicted, caused him to fall in. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body. Verdict - Found Drowned.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 22 April 1824
EXETER - MR FRENCH, of Crewkerne, whose serious injury in being thrown from his gig we mentioned in our last, died on Thursday, at the Red Cow Inn. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body before Samuel Walkey, Esq., on Friday. Verdict - Accidental Death.

TIVERTON - Melancholy Accident. - It has been a holiday custom in Tiverton, for many years past, that the Sexton should permit children to ascend to the top of the Tower of St Peter's Church, on receiving a small fee from each. - A shocking accident which occurred on Monday last, will, it is hoped, put an end to so dangerous a practice. About five o'clock in the afternoon, a fine boy, about 9 years old, the son of MR PERHAM, brickmaker, was leaning over the battlements, when, by some accident, his hat fell off and in endeavouring to regain it, he precipitated himself to the ground, and was instantly taken up a corpse. The height from which he fell was upwards of 100 feet, and his body was severely mutilated. A Coroner's Inquest was held yesterday (Tuesday) who returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 29 April 1824
EXETER - A Coroner's Inquest was held on Tuesday last, before S. Walkey, Esq., on the body of ANN RUSSELL, an old woman, who, while dipping water from the river Exe, fell in, and was drowned. Verdict - Found Drowned.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 20 May 1824
BISHOPS HULL, TAUNTON, SOMERSET - An Inquest was held at Rumwell, in the parish of Bishop's Hull, on SARAH DONNE, of Burlescombe, Devon, who being on her way to Taunton market and riding on a loaded waggon, attempted to get down whilst the waggon was ascending the hill at a slow pace, but unfortunately fell, and the wheel passing over her head, her skull was so dreadfully fractured that she died in about an hour. Verdict, Accidentally Killed.

BERE FERRERS - An Inquest was held on Thursday last, at the parish of Beer Ferris, before Joseph Whitford, Esq., on the body of JOHN COOK, who was killed by the sudden explosion of gunpowder in a rock. Verdict - Accidental Death.

EXETER - On Sunday afternoon last, as a boy named RICHARD SKITCH, about 4 years of age, whose parents reside in Exe Island, in this city, was throwing stones at some ducks, from the Bonhay, he over-balanced himself and fell into the river, which from excessive rain, was much swollen and very rapid, the poor little fellow was immediately carried off by the strength of the current and in sight of many persons (amongst whom was his distracted father), but who were unable to render assistance, driven under the Bridge and nearly as far as the Quay, when a young man courageously jumped into the stream, and brought the body to the shore, it was immediately taken to the Humane Society's Reception House, in Rock's-lane and every means tried to restore animation, but in vain. An Inquest was taken on the body the same afternoon before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner. Verdict -Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 3 June 1824
EXETER - Fatal Accident. On Monday afternoon last, as Chapple's Stage Waggon, was entering this city from the North of Devon, it was stopped for a few seconds at the upper end of North-street, near High-street. At this instant a remarkably fine boy named JONATHAN CROWLE, about six years of age, who was passing on the flagged pavement, dropped a half-penny, which rolled into the road and under the waggon. The eager little fellow stopped for the purpose of regaining it and the waggoner, ignorant of any person being near, calling to his horses to proceed, he was knocked down and the wheel passing over him, caused instant death. - An Inquisition was taken on the body yesterday at the Anchor public-house, Paul-street, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner, when after a strict enquiry John Franklin, the waggoner, was exonerated from any degree of blame, it being proved he was in his proper place attending his horses, and several persons bore testimony to the excellence of his character for sobriety and carefulness. Indeed he appeared to labour under great distress of mind at having (though innocently) been the cause of the child's death. - The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, and the wheel having become forfeited, recommended that a fine of 1s. should be levied on the proprietor as a Deodand in lieu thereof.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 10 June 1824
OTTERY ST MARY - On Monday, as THOMAS LAWRENCE, of Ottery, was returning from Bridgwater in his cart, his horse fell and threw him off his seat in the front of the cart and killed him on the spot. A man at work saw the accident and ran to his assistance, and carried him into a neighbouring house. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body the same evening. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 17 June 1824
COLYTON - On Wednesday last, at Colyton, an Inquest was held by Mr Cox on the body of JANE ROWSELL, servant to Mr William Hawkins, yeoman, who was accidentally shot by his son, Henry, a lad between eleven and twelve years of age. It appeared in evidence, that the youth was in the act of handing a loaded gun out of the chamber window to a servant boy below, of the name of Chapple, when it accidentally went off, and shot the unfortunate woman (who happened to be in a passage behind) through the head, and caused instantaneous death. Verdict - Accidental Death, with a deodand of 1s. on the gun.

AXMINSTER - On Wednesday last, at Axminster, an Inquest was held on the body of ELIZABETH RESTORICK, a girl about nine years of age, whose death was occasioned by her clothes catching fire on Sunday morning last, at the house of MR J. HILL, her Grandfather. Verdict, Accidental Death.

EAST BUDLEIGH - On Thursday morning, Mr Cox, Coroner, held an Inquest at East Budleigh, on the body of HENRY ROSEWELL, yeoman, aged 92, who was found dead in the garden, behind his dwelling house on the evening of Tuesday last. Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

MODBURY - On Monday last, an Inquest was held before Joseph Whiteford, Esq., Coroner, on view of the body of ELIZABETH FICE, wife of THOMAS FICE, Miller, at Cotless Mills, in the parish of Modbury, who came by her death in the following melancholy manner. Two boys, called respectively John Lapthorne and William Rogers, apprentices of Mr John Wotton, of Butland Farm, went out to work in the morning of Tuesday the 8th instant, in their masters fields and Lapthorne took a gun with him for the purpose of killing rooks, when as he was ploughing the last furrow before dinner, he found a marble and while the other boy Rogers, was gone into an adjoining field with the horses to grass, he loaded the gun with powder and the marble, - and not seeing at the time any rooks, he put the gun into the hedge as it was. In the evening he had occasion to go into Modbury to get some part of the plough repaired and before going asked Rogers whether he was going to Cotless that evening, and, if he did, desired him to take the gun down to JOHN FICE, son of the above named THOMAS FICE, but entirely forgot to tell him the gun was loaded. He accordingly went down with some cattle and took the gun with him, which he carried into the mill to JOHN FICE, who was on the mill-bed to work, - he went up to him and laid the gun on the floor. About five minutes after, as Rogers understood, FICE asked to see the gun, Rogers took it up for that purpose, with the muzzle pointing down the steps, which are directly opposite to the kitchen door, where the said ELIZABETH FICE was sitting, when in an instant the gun went off and shocking to relate, the marble (after passing between the two boys, one of which had his face scarred with it), entered the upper part of her left thigh, with a direction downward and shattered the thigh bone in pieces. - Medical assistance was instantly called in, but to no purpose as a mortification quickly ensued and after lingering in the greatest agonies until Friday evening about 8 o'clock she expired leaving her husband and numerous family to lament her valuable loss. After about 5 hours patient investigation by the Coroner, the Jury found their verdict - Accidental Death, and ordered the gun to be forfeited to the Lord of the Manor.

PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held on Monday last, before R. J. Squire, Esq., Coroner for Plymouth, on the body of JOHN BURCH, a shipwright in his Majesty's Dock-yard, who met with his death in the following manner. Returning home on Saturday evening in a state of intoxication, he was prevailed upon by a female of loose character to accompany her home, when a quarrel arising he was locked in a front room, from the window of which he endeavoured to get out and falling fractured his head. He was taken to the Richmond Inn, where he died on Sunday night. The woman and her associates underwent a strict examination, and were discharged. Verdict, Accidental Death. The deceased has left a wife and family residing at Devonport.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 1 July 1824
BROAD CLYST - Horrid Murder. On Monday night last, about eleven o'clock, a horrid murder was committed in the road leading from the city of Exeter to Cullompton, by William Marshall, a husbandman, about 42 years of age, residing at a place called Hill-head, in the parish and about a quarter mile from the town of Broad-Clist, towards Exeter. The unhappy perpetrator of this dreadful act served on the earlier part of his life in the Marines, and was for a considerable period quartered in Exeter, performing the duties of a corporal in the recruiting service, but was discharged at the Peace, and since that time has resided at Broad-Clist, where he got married; for the last two years 'tis said he has been subject to fits, and has laboured but little, receiving parochial relief from the parish of Broad Clist. Having a child very ill, he was on Monday last sent to Exeter for some leeches, which had been directed to be applied to the child's head. His stay, it seems, was longer than it need have been, and it was evening before he returned, appearing to have drunk pretty freely. On entering his house, he said he had brought the leeches, when the deceased, who had then his sick and evidently dying child on her lap, answered, "I fear, William, it is too late." - Marshall soon went upstairs to bed, and in a short time the child expired. About an hour had elapsed when he was heard coming again over the stairs, - at this time, there was assembled below, his wife, and a living child, his brother's wife, a neighbour named Susan Thorne, and ANN TAYLOR. They were in the act of stripping and washing the dead infant and fearing some tumult from the state in which he appeared on going to bed, endeavoured to prevent his coming down, but were unsuccessful. He went through the kitchen to an out-house, in which among other things was kept his husbandry tools, and in a few seconds rushed again into the kitchen, armed with a spade, with which he aimed a blow at his wife, but suspecting his intention, she ran under his arm, and escaped the intended mischief. The other three women seeing this, fled from the house. ANN TAYLOR, and the brother's wife, ran on the road towards Exeter. They were pursued by Marshall, when, finding he gained on them, ANN TAYLOR turned, with a view, it is supposed, to get into the hedge, thinking that in the darkness she might escape him, but far otherwise was the result. He saw the movement, and being now close upon the unfortunate woman, struck her with the spade (which from the length of the handle was a most formidable weapon,) the first blow, it is imagined, was down across the face, and she was struck to the ground, as her more fortunate companion in flight heard a cry of murder and for help. The blow was repeated and her cry ceased for ever. The skull was literally clove, and the blood and brains scattered on the road. The neighbourhood was by this time alarmed and after some resistance he was secured. - An Inquest was taken yesterday afternoon before Charles Dally Pugh, Esq., Coroner, at the Red Lion public-house, Broad-Clist, when, after viewing the body and hearing the evidence, as also that of a Surgeon as to the nature of the wounds, the Jury returned a verdict of Wilful Murder, and the miserable man was about 8 o'clock last evening, brought into the Devon County Gaol, under the Coroner's Warrant. - His behaviour while being taken to prison, (during which he was recognised by many persons) was very proper and exhibited no symptoms of hardihood or ferocity. - ANN TAYLOR, the deceased, was about 50 years of age, the wife of a husbandman, and mother of six children, residing at Burriton, in Broad-Clist, and had kindly lent her assistance on the illness of Marshall's child, by which she has so unfortunately lost her life.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 22 July 1824
FARRINGDON - Suicide. - On Saturday last, JAMES LANE, a young man about 20 years of age, who resided with his grandfather, MR SMITH, at Benbow, in the parish of Farringdon, hung himself from a tree in the orchard and was not discovered 'till life was extinct. Some unpleasant circumstances which had occurred, and for which he had been reproached, is supposed to have preyed on his mind and led to the fatal catastrophe. - The deceased was the eldest son of MR JOHN LANE, butcher, of South-street, in Exeter. On Sunday, a Coroner's Inquest was taken on the body. Verdict - Insanity.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 12 August 1824
TIVERTON - Died on Monday morning, aged 37, MR THOMAS TAYLOR, of Tiverton, fruiterer. He retired to bed on Sunday evening in perfect health, but early on the following morning his wife was alarmed by hearing him groan, when, on examination, she found him dead. Medical assistance was immediately procured, but arrived too late. An Inquest was yesterday held on the body. Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

EXETER - On Saturday last, about 11 o'clock in the forenoon, the men at work in the Stone Quarry of Messrs. Hooper at Heavitree, near this city, perceived a part of the super-incumbent earth giving way. An alarm was immediately given. At this time, the two master quarry men were the only persons on the face of the rock in the direction the moving mass was taking. The other workmen being below who easily secured themselves under the projections. One of the master quarrymen moved on one side, and, holding firmly by a projecting part of the rock, escaped unhurt; but the other, JOHN GERMON, attempting to escape over the front of the quarry, fell from a height of about 25 feet. He was taken up senseless and immediately brought to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, where, though every attention was paid him, he never recovered from the stupor in which he was brought in, and died on Sunday. There were many severe bruises on different parts of his body, and one of his legs was fractured. The deceased was 51 years of age, had worked many years as a quarryman, in the parish of Heavitree, bore the character of an honest, industrious and inoffensive man, and has left a wife and seven children (5 of them unprovided for) to lament his loss. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body, before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on Monday. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 19 August 1824
EXETER - MARY ANN SOPER, the wretched woman whose commitment to prison was noticed in our last, put an end to her existence on Sunday morning last. Her conduct, from the time of her committal, had displayed strong symptoms of insanity, and during the night previous to the fatal act, had been very noisy and troublesome, insomuch that she had been visited by one of the Keeper's family, with a view to calm her, and which seemed, for the time, successful; but, at the usual time of unlocking in the morning, it was found the door of her cell could not be opened, and force being used, this unfortunate victim to dissolute habits, at the age of 42, was found stretched lifeless on the floor. It appeared she had taken a neckerchief from her person, in one end of which she had formed a running noose, which placing round her neck, she had tied the other end firmly to the leg of the iron bedstead, and laying herself on the floor, had pushed with her feet against the door of the cell so as to cause strangulation. - A Coroner's Inquest was held before S. Walkey, Esq., on Sunday evening, to Enquire into the cause of her death, when the Jury returned a verdict - Died of Strangulation, being in a state of Insanity.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 16 September 1824
EXETER - RICHARD WINDSOR, the sawyer, whose unfortunate accident we noticed a fortnight since, died yesterday morning, in the Devon and Exeter Hospital. An Inquest was held on the body, the same day, before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner. Verdict, "Accidental Death." The deceased was 45 years of age and belonged to Broad-Hempston, in this County.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 28 October 1824
TIVERTON - An Inquest was held Monday at the Black Horse Inn, Tiverton, by C. D. Pugh, Esq., Coroner, on the body of MR WERE, who died on Sunday last. It appeared in evidence that the deceased (a mason's labourer) was employed to do some repairs in the cellar of Mr Boyce, spirit-merchant. While at work he and his companions discovered a cask of gin, with a common cock in it, and, procuring a cup, proceeded to help themselves. The deceased drank too freely and forfeited his life in consequence. Verdict, Died from the Effects of Excessive Drinking.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 4 November 1824
EXETER - On Thursday last a Coroner's Inquest was held at the Guildhall, before S. Walkey, Esq., on the body of a boy, named JOHN MARDON. It appeared that on the preceding day, MARDON and other boys had gone from the city, down to the Quay, and on board a boat belonging to the Unity, which lay there. They had repeatedly been driven from, but had as constantly returned to the boat, for the purpose of rocking themselves in it. When, by a more than ordinary roll of the boat, the deceased was thrown into the river and drowned. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 11 November 1824
EXETER - Fatal Suicide. - On Monday last, about one o'clock in the afternoon, a man, meanly attired, walked down the Haven Banks, and when a little distance below the ferry-boat landing-place, made a halt, looked steadfastly at the waster, placed his hat on the bank and walked deliberately into the river. Several boats immediately put off from the Quay, but near twenty minutes had elapsed before the body was taken up. It was immediately carried to the Humane Society's Reception House, the Lord Nelson public-house, in Rock's-lane, and every means used to restore animation, but in vain. An Inquest was held on the body yesterday, before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, and a most respectable Jury. It appeared the deceased was WILLIAM CANN, a husbandman, or labourer, of West Morchard, between 40 and 50 years of age, a widower, and had five children. For the last six months he had very frequently come from his home, to Exeter, and cohabited with one of those miserable women who infest our streets, in which time he had expended on this woman and her associates nearly £50, a sum which as far as could be made out had come into his hands in the form of a legacy, but the supply of cash failing, the manner of the prostitute changed towards him and the preceding evening at a public house in the west quartern a quarrel had taken place, and a fight ensued between the deceased and a man present, on whom the attentions of the female seemed more particularly lavished. The marks of the combat were indeed very visible on the dead body. The woman and other men quitted the house and CANN was put to bed. The next morning he declared his intention of returning home, but about noon when finally quitting the house, on being asked by the landlord where he was going, said, "where my hat is, there will my body be found." - The Coroner in a clear and explicit manner summed up the evidence and stated to the Jury that it was always his wish to avoid saying anything that could by possibility, appear like an attempt to bias the mind of a Jury, or lead to any particular conclusion, yet it was his duty in the present instance, to distinctly state that in the evidence which had come before them, he saw none of those aberrations of mind and conduct, which could lead to what might humanely be termed a favourite verdict. Still it was not him (the Coroner) but they who were to decide, and he doubted not but they would do so to the best of their judgment. After about a quarter of an hour's consideration one of the Jury said, he thought it probable that jealousy from the apparent preference given by the woman to the other man might have operated strongly on the unhappy man's mind and occasioned temporary insanity. - Coroner, "it might have been so," but you have no evidence to that effect. After a few moments more of deliberation, the Foreman returned a verdict of "Drowned Himself while Labouring under Temporary Insanity" upon which one of the Jury said, Mr Coroner, "I protest against that verdict, and quitted the room.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 18 November 1824
CREDITON - On Thursday last a Coroner's Inquest was held at Crediton, on the body of a little girl (belonging to the charity school at that place) named WEST, who dropt down in the schoolroom on the Wednesday preceding, whilst eating her dinner. Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 2 December 1824
OTTERY ST MARY - On Thursday last, at the King's Arms, Ottery St Mary, an Inquisition was taken by Isaac Cox, Esq., on the body of a bastard female infant, born on the preceding Wednesday. - It appeared that the mother, MARY ANN ROBERTS, a young woman of about twenty, was, only a few weeks since, taken in the family of Mr Evans, a most respectable inhabitant of Ottery, as a maid of all work. That very shortly after, suspicions were entertained as to her condition, but on being taxed, she resolutely denied that she was in a state of pregnancy. On Wednesday last, she waited upon the family at tea, as usual. About seven o'clock the shopman, and a lad, on going into the salt-house, hearing an unusual noise in the back kitchen, went there to ascertain what it was. On entering, they saw MARY ANN ROBERTS near the pump, in a stooping position, with one hand under her petticoats, apparently pulling or pressing something; and, on being asked what she was about, or whether she was killing anything, she said she would tell them bye and bye. - They went away, but again hearing the noise, one of them returned, and saw her in the same position. The noise also having been heard by the nursery-maid in the house, her suspicions were excited and in a few minutes afterwards she was seen to come out of the dairy, which adjoined the back kitchen. An alarm having been given, Mr Evans went into the back kitchen, when he saw MARY ANN ROBERTS come out from the dairy. He asked her whether she was ill. She smiled and said she was not and he went away, but on hearing what had been seen by the shopman, he again returned to the back kitchen and on examining it, he found blood on the floor, which was traced to the dairy, on a shelf of which was found the body of a female infant, wrapped in a cloth, in a mangled and pitiable condition. Its mouth torn on the right side to the jaw bones, one of which was broken. The infant was found to be alive and was, with its mother, immediately sent to the alms-house. It, however, died on the following morning. - Mr Hodge and Mr Carpenter, Surgeons, were called, both of whom deposed the possibility and even to the probability, of the wound on the infant having been accidentally made during the agitation and alarm of the woman in attempting to deliver herself, particularly as she had been so repeatedly interrupted; and Mr Hodge deposed that he did not think the wounds sufficient to cause death; and that, from the weakly state of the child, he was of opinion it would have died had no such wounds been inflicted. He also stated his opinion that the birth was premature. - The Jury were then adjourned to the alms-houses, where MARY ANN ROBERTS was in bed. She appeared anxious to hear all the evidence and declared that she had no intention of destroying the child, but that the injury she had done it was occasioned by her anxiety to deliver herself and was accidental. The Jury were in consultation several hours; and at length fifteen of them delivered a verdict that "MARY ANN ROBERTS, in attempting privately to deliver herself of the child, Accidentally inflicted the wounds; that she secreted the birth of the child; but whether the child died of the wounds it received, they were ignorant." The remainder of the Jury were for a verdict of "Wilful Murder;" All of them expressed a desire to the parish officers that a further examination should take place, in order that the woman might be punished for secreting the birth of the child. During some part of the examination some of the Jury were desirous that the room should be cleared, but the Coroner refused, stating it was an open court.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 30 December 1824
MORETONHAMPSTEAD - On Sunday, at Moretonhampstead, an Inquest was taken before Joseph Gribble, Esq., Coroner, on the body of ANN ASH, nearly four years of age, daughter of a husbandman of that place. - This was another instance of the folly and danger attending leaving children in rooms where fires are kept, without some grown person being present. About three weeks since, the father being at his labour, and the mother having occasion to leave the house, placed the child for security with the children of a neighbour. While at play with whom her clothes caught fire, and before effectual assistance could be rendered, was so dreadfully burnt that she lingered in great agony till Friday last, when death terminated her sufferings. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 13 January 1825
SANDFORD - On Saturday last, a Coroner's Inquest was held at Sandford, in this county, on the body of JAMES ELLIOTT, late of that place, blacksmith. A verdict of Manslaughter was returned by the Jury against John Fisher, a labourer, of the same place. It appears that they had been drinking together, and some quarrel arising between them blows followed, and Fisher struck the deceased a violent blow on the head with an old gun barrel, which proved fatal. Fisher is committed to the County Gaol for trial.

BLACK TORRINGTON - An Inquest was taken yesterday at Whiteleigh, in Black Torrington, before F. Kingdon, Esq., Coroner, on the body of a young man named BEER, who was found dead in a hay-loft the preceding Saturday, having been missing from Thursday. There were marks of blood about the abdomen; - it appeared he had been subject to fits, and evinced great imbecility of mind, very nearly if not quite, amounting to idiotism. After a patient investigation, the Jury returned a verdict, "That being subject to fits, he had died during one of its paroxysms." - The deceased was 18 years of age and maintained by the parish.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 20 January 1825
EXETER - An Inquest was taken before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner on Friday last at the Honiton Inn public-house, Paris-street, on the body of MR JOHN FRANKLIN, master of the said house, who, that morning in a fit of despondency had terminated his existence. Verdict, Insanity.

EXETER 0 An Inquest was taken before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on Friday, at the Guildhall, on the body of JOHN FOWLER, who had been picked up that morning in the river near Exe Bridge. It appeared the deceased was a Newfoundland sailor and a native of Torquay, about 21 years of age, and a fine young man. He had come to this city to see his sister, living at the Star Inn, from whom he parted on the evening of the 20th December last, in order to sleep in St Thomas, since which he had never been heard of. It is supposed he must have missed his way and fallen into the river, as his watch and money were found about his person. Verdict - Found Drowned.

EXETER - On Sunday an Inquest was held at the Lord Nelson public-house, Rock's-lane, on the body of JOHN THOMAS, a journeyman baker, about 23 years of age. It came out on the Enquiry, that the deceased had spent the evening of Saturday on board the Owners' Goodwill, lying at our Quay, and had requested permission to sleep on board, but was told this could not be granted by anyone but the master, on which one of the crew of the Liberty, who was present, offered him to sleep on board that ship, which was lying close alongside. This was accepted and THOMAS endeavouring to reach the Liberty by going over the bow of the Owners' Goodwill, but missing his footing fell between the two ships. One of his companions in trying to save him nearly sharing the same fate, and though every exertion was made the body was not found till Sunday evening. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 17 February 1825
EXETER - An Inquest was taken yesterday at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of ROBERT FOWLER, whose accident was reported in our paper of the 3rd inst. For some days after his being brought to the Hospital hopes were entertained of rendering him effectual assistance, but he became worse and latterly his sufferings had been very great. He died on Sunday evening and on inspection, it was found the pelvis was fractured. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 14 April 1825
PLYMOUTH - Dreadful Suicide. - At Plymouth, on Saturday last, a commercial traveller named JOHN BURBERRY, from the houses of Murdock and Venables, and Mr Frankham, of London, put a period to his existence in the following manner:- A man named Wood was on the Hoe on Saturday evening at eight o'clock, and saw a man standing on the brink of the rocks, near the Citadel, leaning over the rails; he passed him, and went to the other end. On his return, the person was still there, but turned round, and holding the rails on the inside, he looked at him for a moment, when he heard a cry of "Oh!" and the man (since proved to be MR BURBERRY) fell backwards, a distance of 56 feet, on rugged rocks. Wood got assistance, and the body was borne to the Workhouse. Mr Fuge, Surgeon, went to the Hoe before the body was removed, and with great risk reached the frightful spot, when the deceased was found doubled up, with both legs and thighs broken, and his skull so horribly fractured as to be wholly emptied of the brain. In his pockets were found letters, evidently written in contemplation of the fatal act. The most important letter was one to his wife, at Wells, written from Modbury the Friday evening, by which it appeared that he had neglected his duty and spent about 100l. of his employers' money. Preparatory to his death, in a trembling hand, he wrote a certificate of his wife's good conduct and declaring the cause of his destruction to be irregular habits and pecuniary difficulties, "which had caused his blood to fever;" and he added, that "his nerve was too weak to survive the effects." Several other circumstances were adduced on the Inquest, which clearly established the perturbed state of his mind. Verdict - Insanity.

EXETER - A man named WILLIAM BAKER was last week committed to the Devon County Gaol, on the warrant of the Coroner, Isaac Cox, Esq., charged with killing his wife, occasioned by a sudden blow inflicted by the prisoner during the heat of a quarrel. Since his commitment he has evinced much sorrow for the consequences of his unguarded violence.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 6 May 1825
EXETER - MR WILLIAM HUNTER HUTCHINSON, aged 22, son of THOMAS HUTCHINSON, Esq., Barrister, put a period to his existence on Wednesday night last, or early on Thursday morning. He returned from London about a fortnight since. He has frequently complained of violent pains in his head, accompanied with depression of spirits and on the day previous to his death exhibited strong symptoms of deranged intellect. - He committed the fatal act by dividing the right carotid artery with a razor. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body and returned a verdict - That the deceased destroyed himself in a fit of Insanity.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 19 May 1825
EXETER ST LEONARD - Fatal Accident. - On Monday afternoon last, WALTER BECKFORD, shoe-maker, of Cockwood, near Starcross, who had come to this city on business, set out on his return home. He was, what is denominated among the gentle craft, a wet one, and was observed by the ferry-man at our Quay when taken across between five and six o'clock to be very tipsy. He had then with him a bundle of leather and a bag, and was noticed by many persons on his way down the banks as being much intoxicated, occasionally indulging himself in singing and otherwise acting incoherently. On his arriving at the public-house, at Double-Lock, he again drank, and proceeded on his way home. About half an hour after which his body was found in the canal, a short distance on the Exeter side from the Countess-Weir draw-bridge, by some lighter men. BECKFORD was laying apparently poised on the water, with his face downwards, the bundle of leather having slipped, got under him, and across his breast. He was immediately taken out and if report be at all correct the body was then warm, but on being taken to the Double-Lock public-house was in humanly refused admittance, and before the persons who conveyed the body could reach the nearest Reception-house of our Humane Society, in the parish of St Leonard, the unfortunate man was quite dead. He was about 50 years of age, and has left a widow and children, but the latter are grown up. - The Inquest was taken on the body before C. D. Pugh, Esq., Coroner, on Tuesday. Verdict, Found Drowned, but we understand the Coroner and Jury expressed themselves strongly on the conduct of the landlord at the Double-Lock.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 16 June 1825
EXETER - Fatal Accident. - On Monday evening last, several persons having taken a boat from our Quay for the purpose of pleasure, proceeded down the river, when just opposite the lime kilns, while in the act of changing the rowers, two on the same side rose together, the boat was instantly upset and all in it were thrown into the river. Though prompt assistance was immediately rendered, one of them was unfortunately drowned. An Inquest was taken on the body yesterday afternoon at the Windmill public-house, Holloway-street, before C. D. Pugh, Esq., Coroner, and a verdict returned of Accidental Death, with directions that the boat should be forfeited. The deceased was WILLIAM SNELL, a journeyman cabinet-maker, of this city, and we understand has left a widow and several children totally unprovided for.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 1 September 1825
EXETER - This afternoon, an Inquest was held at the Lord Nelson public-house, Rock's-lane, before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM BEER, in the 18th year of his age, belonging to the Selina, of Plymouth, now unloading at our Quay, who yesterday afternoon while in the act of rowing a boat, caught in a rope, was thrown backward into the river and drowned. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 22 September 1825
BRAMPFORD SPEKE - On Sunday morning last, the body of a man named JOHN SNELL, 29 years of age, a native of Southtawton, but who has latterly been living as a servant with a farmer in this neighbourhood, was taken out of the river near the weir above Exwick. He had been missing and the body appeared to have been in the water some days, but no enquiry had been made after him from its being supposed he had returned to his native place, having previously complained of being unwell and neglected his food. The body was conveyed to Brampford Speke where an Inquest was taken before C. D. Pugh, Esq., Coroner, on Monday. Verdict - Found Drowned. Being jilted by a frail fair one is supposed to have been the cause.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 10 November 1825
TIVERTON - An Inquest was held on Monday, at the Swan Inn, Tiverton, before C. D. Pugh, Esq., Coroner, on the body of --- KEYS, a boy about 14 years of age, who was killed on Saturday evening by an explosion of gunpowder, whilst he was celebrating with others the anniversary of the Popish Plot. From the evidence of other boys, who were present, it appeared that the deceased held a bottle of powder in one hand and a small pistol and a light in the other; and that whilst emptying powder from the bottle into the pistol, the explosion took place. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 8 December 1825
PLYMOUTH - Coroner's Inquests have been held at Plymouth, on the bodies of MR GEORGE HUGH CHAMBERS, midshipman of the Genoa, attached to the Reynard tender, drowned in Mill-Bay, by the boat striking a rock during a severe gale on the evening of the 28th ultimo. Verdict, Accidentally Drowned. Also of MR HENRY SQUIRE, a volunteer of the second class, belonging to the Shamrock, in Hamoaze, missing since the night of 21st October, supposed to have fallen overboard. Verdict, Found Drowned.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 16 March 1826
HORWOOD - THOMAS DYER, servant to the Rev. J. Deane, was found on Thursday last, with his throat cut in a field in the parish of Horwood, near Barnstaple. It appeared on the Inquest that he committed the rash act in a fit of Insanity.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 30 March 1826
EXETER - Monday morning, 9 o'clock, as one of the Plymouth Coaches was proceeding down the High-street, in this city, for that place. When opposite Broad Gate-place, a little boy attempted to cross the street directly in front of the horses, he was knocked down and though the coachman, who did not see the child, pulled up the instant the alarm was given, both wheels on the side on which he fell, had passed over his body. He was instantly conveyed to the Hospital, but death terminated his sufferings in a few minutes after entering that Institution. An Inquest was taken the same afternoon before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, when it appeared the deceased's name was THOMAS DAWSON, 6 years of age, son of the late MR D. DAWSON, boot-closer, of Mary Arches-street. He was a fine boy and his sister who stood waiting for him on the opposite side of the street, witnessed the fatal accident. After a patient investigation, the Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, and imposed a mitigated fine of £2 3s. as a deodand on the wheels, expressly declaring that this was done not because there was anything in this case peculiarly requiring it, but because the Law on this head was imperative, for it was their unanimous opinion that not the slightest blame was attributable to Rose, the driver.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 6 April 1826
EXETER ST SIDWELL - A fatal accident happened yesterday in St Sidwell's, to a bricklayer named WILLIAM TRAPNOLL, who whilst at work on a scaffolding, fell off, by which he was so dreadfully injured, that in being conveyed to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, he expired. A Coroner's Inquest sat on the body yesterday afternoon. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 11 May 1826
SOUTH MOLTON - A melancholy and fatal accident occurred last week at Southmolton. MR JAMES DOWNEY, a respectable butcher and grazier of Tiverton, on his return from Torrington Fair on Thursday last, slept at the house of his brother-in-law at Southmolton. In the morning he arose, took a gun and proceeded towards a rookery alone. His not returning either to breakfast or dine caused considerable alarm, and on a search being made, he was discovered lying in a hedge-trough, shot through the body. It seems that in attempting to get over the hedge, a bough by which he was holding suddenly broke and in falling backwards he received the fatal wound. - This is the most probable conjecture that can be formed, as when found he had a quantity of the leaves &c., clenched in his fist, and there were evident marks of his falling from the hedge. - A Coroner's Inquest was held next day and returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." He was a man in the prime of life, an excellent and truly worthy Tradesman, and has left a wife, MRS ELIZABETH DOWNEY and 3 children to lament their untimely loss.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 1 June 1826
EXETER - Yesterday afternoon, as HUGH WHITFIELD, and his son, a lad about 16 years of age, masons, in the employ of Messrs. Hooper and Son, of this City, were engaged in footing up a cob wall, adjoining the new buildings at Oak Close, near the Heavitree turnpike, a considerable portion of the wall suddenly gave way and buried then both beneath it. On being dug out the lad was found crushed in a terrible manner, particularly about the head, the fathers injuries were less severe. Both were immediately removed to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, but the unfortunate boy died within an hour of reaching that Institution. An Inquest was taken this afternoon before Mr Walkey. Verdict, Accidental Death. - What adds to this calamity is the singular circumstance that the poor boy's mother was also a patient in the Hospital when himself and father were brought in.

EXETER - On Saturday last an Inquest was held before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of MARY ANN OSBORN, a child two years of age, whose mother resided in the butcherow. The investigation took place in consequence of its having been said the child's death was occasioned by injury received about three months since, from a horse ridden down the High-street, but no evidence to that effect came before the Jury, though it appeared the child was suffered to fall by an elder sister in whose care it was and they returned a verdict of Accidental Death, on consequence of a blow from falling on the ground in crossing the carriage road.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 6 July 1826
BRIXHAM - An Inquest was taken during the past week before Joseph Gribble, Esq., one of the Coroners for Devon, at Brixham, on the body of MR MUMFORD, who died in consequence of injuries sustained in being thrown from his car, as stated in our last. - Verdict Accidental Death.

EXETER - An Inquest was taken on the body of MR JOHN HAYMAN, timber carrier, of the Shilhay, in this city, who on his way from Drewsteignton with a load of timber, having drank freely, mounted the waggon and laid himself down to sleep on the timber. The driver seated himself on the shafts and fell asleep also and though awakened and repeatedly warned of their danger they persisted in retaining their situations, when about the 9 mile stone from this city on the Okehampton-road, HAYMAN was thrown off and a wheel passing directly over his head instantly terminated his existence. - Verdict - Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 20 July 1826
EXETER - Fatal Accident. - On Tuesday morning, about half-past 5 o'clock, Mr Taylor, of the Royal George public-house, Quay-Gate, in this city, was alarmed by cries of distress proceeding from the brew-house. He hastened to the spot and found his brewer, who had been up all night, fallen backward into the hot grains, his legs were hanging over the kieve and he had contrived to catch hold with his hands, but was unable to lift his body from the almost burning mass. Mr Taylor succeeded in getting him out, but terribly scalded, the whole of the cuticle slipping off from the parts which had come in contact with the grains. He was taken to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, where, in about 6 hours, death terminated his sufferings. - From the account he gave, it seems the first wort had been drawn off about an hour and he was sitting on the edge of the mashing kieve watching the boiler, when, from drowsiness, he slipped from his seat and fell backward into the grains. He had been repeatedly cautioned against placing himself in such a dangerous situation. The deceased's name was JOHN STEER. He was a native of Drewsteignton, 65 years old and formerly for many years kept the Black Lion's Inn, South-street, but had latterly been in reduced circumstances. He buried his wife about a fortnight since and has left one child. Verdict on the Coroner's Inquest - Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 17 August 1826
EXETER - S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner for the City, has held an Inquest on the body of JOHN BARTLETT FORD, 4 years of age, killed by the fall of deal planks, on which he was at play on the Quay. Verdict - Accidental Death, and a fine of 5s. levied on the deals.

EXETER - S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner for the City, has held, on Sunday, an Inquest on the body of BETTY FOURACRES, an aged woman, for many years servant to the late Mr Horswill, of North-street, in this city, on whom the dread of a Workhouse is supposed to have operated so powerfully, as to lead to self destruction. No evidence could be obtained as to how she came into the water and the Jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned.

MORETONHAMPSTEAD - On Sunday J. Gribble, Esq., one of the Coroners for Devon, took an Inquest at Fingle Mill, in Moretonhampstead, on the body of THIRZA, the infant daughter of MR JOHN BRELY, accidentally drowned in her father's mill-leat. The child was 1 year and 11 months old, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

EAST BUDLEIGH - J. Cox, Esq., one of the Coroners for Devon, has taken an Inquest at Budleigh Salterton, on the body of WILLIAM GIBBS, fisherman of Beer, drowned by the sinking of his boat, in a sudden squall on the 22nd ult. off Weston Mouth, Branscombe. Accidentally Drowned.

BROADHEMBURY - Mr J. Cox, one of the Coroners for Devon has held an Inquest on the body of MRS CHARLOTTE BALL, wife of MR ROBERT BALL, a respectable farmer. Verdict - Apoplexy.

AXMINSTER - Mr J. Cox, Coroner for Devon, held an Inquest on the body of JOHN TURNER, blacksmith, in consequence of its having been said his death arose from injuries received in a skittle-alley, about a month or five weeks previous, but the Surgeon's evidence satisfactorily proving he died from typhus fever, the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

TIVERTON - An Inquest was held at Tiverton on Friday last, on the body of JOHN COCKER, who died the preceding day, under the following circumstances. The deceased, a boy of 13, was employed at Messrs. Heathcoats' manufactory. On the Wednesday morning he was at work at a small factory, some distance from the main buildings, and at eight o'clock was ordered to go home. He stayed, however, and lighted a fire in the open air for the purpose of boiling some meat for a dog belonging to the foreman. While thus engaged his clothes took fire, and he ran into a corn-mill adjoining, where the miller endeavoured to extinguish the flames by wrapping him in a quantity of empty sacks, and at length by plunging him into the mill pond. He was, however, so dreadfully scorched, that scarce any hopes were entertained for his life and he died next morning. Verdict, "Accidental Death."

BIDEFORD - Last week, the body of CAPTAIN THOMAS PILLMAN, of the brig Hazard, of and lying in the port of Bideford, was found in the mud, near the Quay. He was seen on board his vessel the preceding evening at ten o'clock and is supposed to have fallen overboard. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 31 August 1826
KENTON - On Sunday last an Inquest was held by Isaac Cox, Esq., at Kenton, on the body of JAMES LANGDON, a servant in husbandry to Mr Sweet, who died on the Friday night in consequence of an injury he received on Haldon the preceding day. A great number of witnesses had been summoned to attend the Inquest by E. P. Lyon, Esq. - It appeared in evidence that the deceased, and a man of the name of Helyar, of Heavitree, had quarrelled in one of the booths on the hill and by agreement went out on the Down to fight, but they there explained matters, shook hands and returned to the booth and drank together. They however quarrelled again, the question between them simply turning upon which was the best man, they again went out to fight and fought five rounds, there was not the slightest charge of unfair conduct on the part of Helyar. In the first two or three rounds the deceased had the advantage, but being more intoxicated with the exertion he became less able, but more eager to engage. He was described by the witnesses (amongst whom was his brother) as making fiercely at his opponent, and though the precise mode in which he fell was not clearly made out, yet it seemed that in attempting to throw Helyar in the struggle over the fore-hip, he threw himself violently on his head and fell almost lifeless on the ground. He was taken upon a plank to a booth kept by Mr A. Cann, but (we are sorry to say) was not treated with that humanity which might have been expected, for it was stated that Mr Cann ordered the man to be taken out or he would kick him out. It appears his companions were not at all aware of the extent of the injury he had received, and he was kept in another booth all night, and till eight the following morning, when he was conveyed to his lodgings near Kenton. Medical assistance was procured, but he died the same evening at about 10 o'clock. - Mr Collins, who attended the Inquest, inspected the body and it appeared the neck was dislocated between the 2nd and 3rd vertebra, and that one of the processes of the vertebra was broken. The body was in a very putrid state and Mr Collins unfortunately punctured one of his fingers during the dissection - we hope, however, no evil will result to him. - After a very long examination of the matter, the Jury found a verdict that the deceased, having been in a struggle with Helyar, Accidentally fell with his head on the ground and dislocated his neck. - The deceased was a very fine young man, 21 years of age and highly spoken of for his general good character and conduct.

DAWLISH - Mr Cox held an Inquest on HARRIS EDWIN RACKLEY, the infant son of MR RACKLEY, of Starcross, who was discovered dead in its bed by the mother. A Surgeon gave evidence that the child died from convulsions and the Jury returned their verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 7 September 1826 EXETER - An Inquest was taken on Saturday before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of ANN ATWELL, 64 years of age, residing in Preston-street, in this city, who terminated her existence by hanging herself on the preceding Thursday evening. As no one lived with her she was not discovered until Saturday morning. Verdict - Insanity.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 12 October 1826
PLYMTREE - An Inquest has been taken during the last week, before Isaac Cox, Esq., at Plymtree, on view of the body of WILLIAM LUXTON, 16 years of age, an apprentice to the Rev. E. F. Holwell, of that place. It appeared that contrary to the direction of Scovern, Mr Holwell's hind, he had been assisting a carpenter in digging down a Cob-wall in the back kitchen. They had scarcely been at work 10 minutes when the wall gave way. Seeing the danger they ran off, but in contrary directions. The deceased making for a chamber near, which he reached, the wall fell that way carrying all before it, and though he was seen to rise once from the broken masses, he again fell. Assistance was instantly rendered and a surgeon sent for, but death in a quarter of an hour mercifully terminated his sufferings. Verdict - Accidental Death.

WHIMPLE - Mr Isaac Cox, Esq., Coroner held an Inquest at Whimple on the body of ELIZABETH SQUIRE, aged 70. The deceased had been for some time in a weak state and had fallen downstairs, it was supposed, in a fit of apoplexy. The Jury returned their verdict accordingly.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 26 October 1826
EXMOUTH - An Inquest was held by Isaac Cox, Esq., at Exmouth, last week, on the body of JOHN MITCHELL, a labourer, whose death was occasioned by drinking brandy to excess on board of the Fame, of Teignmouth, to which vessel the deceased, with two others, had been to endeavour to take the unloading her cargo, consisting of timber. The deceased on returning to land, began to feel the effects of the spirits, reeled and staggered about and was obliged to be carried home. Mr Land, a Surgeon, was sent for and he administered medicine, bled him and emptied his stomach by means of the stomach pump, but all to no effect. Verdict - "Died by Excessive Drinking."

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 9 November 1826
HONITON - An Inquest was taken on Friday at Honiton, on the body of HARRIET FROOME, whose death was occasioned by taking laudanum, administered in improper quantities by her sister, as a remedy for ague. A verdict was returned accordingly.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 30 November 1826
EXETER - Friday a Coroner's Inquest was held at the Barnstaple Inn, in North-street, before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of a little boy, about two years and half old, named SAUNDERS, who during the absence of the servant-maid from the kitchen but for a few moments, went to the fire and lighted a stick, which communicating to his apron speedily enveloped him in flames. The poor little sufferer, though dreadfully burnt, lingered for three days, when he expired.

Exeter Flying Post, Thursday 21 December 1826
FARRINGDON - An Inquest has been taken before I. Cox, Esq., Coroner for Devon on the body of THOMAS MILLS, labourer, aged 45, who hung himself to the beam of a linhay, adjoining his dwelling. Evidence being adduced of his having been some time in a low desponding state, the Jury returned a verdict "Hung himself in a fit of Temporary Derangement." The deceased was a widower and has left 7 children.

AXMINSTER - An Inquest has been taken before I. Cox, Esq., Coroner for Devon on the 13th inst. on the body of JOHN BAKER, labourer, aged 87. It appeared that on the 14th October last, Hayman Loveridge, a servant, in riding smartly through Axminster, got entangled among a flock of sheep, passing in a contrary direction, by which Loveridge was thrown, falling against the deceased who was in the road. Loveridge immediately regained his feet, assisted the deceased to rise, treated him with great humanity, offered pecuniary satisfaction and desired a respectable individual to furnish him with anything that might be necessary, which he would pay for. The deceased being from his age infirm and also previously labouring under disease, took immediately to his bed, where he languished until the 10th inst. when he died. After a patient investigation of all the circumstances and hearing the evidence of Mr Arnold, the Surgeon, the Jury returned their verdict "That JOHN BAKER casually and by misfortune came to his end."

AXMINSTER - Mr I Cox, Esq., one of the Coroners for Devon, at Axminster, on the 15th inst. held an Inquest on the body of SARAH CLEGG, aged 45. The deceased had been servant to Mrs Tucker of that place, 23 years. Mrs Tucker stated that she returned from a journey at half-past seven in the evening of the 14th inst., the deceased was at the door, enquired the cause of her being so late, took the luggage and came up to the drawing-room to shake hands with the Miss Tuckers' not having seen them for some time. Having done so she said "Oh! how giddy I am, " fell on the floor and instantly expired. Mr Symes, Surgeon, had no doubt but apoplexy was the cause of death and the Jury returned their verdict accordingly.