Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

Articles taken from the Exeter and Plymouth Gazette

[printed in Exeter.]

1887

Transcribed by Lindsey Withers

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

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

Names Included:-  Anderson; Ash(2); Ashworth; Avery; Badcock; Baker(4); Barrable; Barrett(2); Beer; Belt; Bently; Berry; Bickle; Bolt(2); Bond; Boon; Bossence; Bradford; Braunton; Bright; Brock; Brown; Browning(2); Bryan; Bryant; Bunkin; Burridge; Butler; Bye; Calloway; Candy; Cann; Cape; Carter; Cates; Challacombe; Chamberlain; Clemas; Cole; Coles; Cooke; Cornish; Cowd; Cox; Crabb; Crocker(2); Crook; Crowther; Curtin; Dart; Davey(3); Day; Dean; Dennis; Densham; Disney; Doble(2); Don; Down; Dunsford; Dyer; Dymond; East; Eastmond; Ellis(2); Endacott; Eveleigh; Ewings(2); Farley; Finch; Fisher; Forward; George; Gerry; Gilbert; Gilks; Glade; Glover; Griffiths; Grose; Guillaume; Halse; Hamlyn; Handcock; Hanson; Harley; Harris; Harvey(2); Hayman; Hill; Hillman; Hindom; Hobbs; Holmes; Holwill; Horrell; Howard; Hughes; Hutchings; Huxham; Ireland; James; Jerred; Jewell; Johns; Jolly; Joslin; Kerslake; King; Lane; Langdon; Langley; Larcombe; Lavers; Leach; Lear; Lee; Lendon; Lethbridge; Lever; Lewis; Ley; Lichfeld; Lock(2); Locke; Lomman; London; Longman; Luke; Lunns; Luscombe; Mantle; Manvell; Matthews; Maunder; May; Maye; McDermott; Melhuish(2); Minto; Mogford; Morgan; Murdock; Nicholls; Paddison; Palk; Parkin; Parish; Patey; Pengilley; Perkins; Pettle; Philips; Phillips(2); Pinker; Platt; Potter(2); Pugsley; Rabjohns; Reading; Reed; Rice; Robins; Rooks; Rose; Rowden; Sampson; Sanders(2); Saunders; Scagell; Searle; Sheriff; Shilson; Singleton; Smale; Smith; Snell; Snow; Sparke; Spiller; Staddon; Stevens(2); Stone; Stratford; Swain; Symons; Tarr; Taylor(2); Thomas; Townsend; Tozer; Trump; Turner(4); Vinnicombe; Waldron; Walker; Walters; Wareham; Warren; Webber; Wedlake; West; Westacott; Westaway; White(2); Williams; Wills; Wilson; Wood(3); Woodley; Woolas; Wreford; Yeo.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 4 January 1887
TIVERTON - The Death From Burns At Tiverton. A Reward For Bravery. - Last evening Mr L. Mackenzie (Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at the Tiverton Infirmary touching the death of BESSIE DAVEY, aged 15, who was admitted to that Institution last week suffering from burns received under circumstances previously reported. The witnesses examined were JOHN DAVEY, of Passmore's Court, the father of the deceased, and who works for Mr Grater as mason's labourer; a younger sister of the deceased; John Heath, labourer, and Mr Michelmore, House Surgeon. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and through Mr James Williams, their Foreman, expressed their admiration of the bravery displayed by the man Heath. The evidence showed that the girl ran out of the house into the court in flames and that Heath, on hearing the screams, rushed down, clad only in his shirt, and did his best to save the girl by wrapping his coat around her. The girl's father and others came to the rescue also, but Heath's bravery was conspicuous and he himself received burns which incapacitated him for work for some days. - The Jury further proposed that a subscription should be raised for rewarding Heath. - The Coroner warmly concurred in their opinion and their proposition and on his suggestion Mr Williams consented to act as Hon. Secretary of the fund. The Coroner proposed further that Mr Williams should represent the facts of the case to one of those Societies which usually took notice of acts such as that of Heath, which really was one which deserved some recognition of the kind which those Societies bestowed. Tiverton, he said, had not been without its heroes, for more than one Tivertonian had been awarded the Royal Humane Society's medal. The man Heath, in accordance with the wish of the Jury, was called in and informed by the Coroner of the way in which it had been determined to show their appreciation of his conduct. He hoped that he would make a proper use of the money for himself or his children; he would recommend him to make it the beginning of a banking account. He hoped the Press would give publicity to the fact of the subscription being raised. - The Coroner and most of the Jurymen put down contributions towards the fund before separating.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 5 January 1887
LAUNCESTON, CORNWALL - Sudden Death In A Police Cell. - An Inquest was held at the Railway Inn, Launceston, on Monday evening, before G. G. White, Esq., (Coroner), and a Jury, of which Mr J. F. Geake was Foreman, on the body of W. DOWN, of Lifton, who was discovered dead in the police-cell. - P.C. Wonnacott stated that about half-past 11 o'clock on Saturday he saw the deceased, who was rather the worse for liquor, coming in the direction of St. Thomas Bridge, and he asked him to try and get a bed at the Railway Inn. The witness asked Mrs Dawe, the landlady, if she could accommodate the deceased; but she could not. It being very slippery the deceased fell. P.C. Wonnacott helped him up. After a few paces he fell again. With the assistance of another man he was taken to the Police Station close by. DOWN seemed to have lost the use of his legs. The deceased was provided with six thick rugs, as the night was very cold. The cell was also very warm, a fire having been in the adjoining cell all day. P.C. Wonnacott visited the deceased at various times during the night up to about 4 o'clock on Tuesday morning. Superintendent Sherstone had occasion to pass the cell about 6 o'clock and spoke to the deceased and received an answer from him. Later in the morning, about half-past 7, P.C. Worth spoke to the deceased, and, receiving no answer, he entered the cell and found him dead. - Dr Andrew stated that deceased had recently consulted him about the loss of power in one side. He examined him and found that he previously had a seizure, but there was no valvular disease of the heart. It was no surprise to him that deceased died suddenly. His opinion was that the deceased died from effusion of blood on the brain. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 6 January 1887
ST PANCRAS, LONDON - Singular Death Of A Devonshire Woman In London. - Dr Wynn Westcott has held an Inquest at the Crowndale Hall, St. Pancras, on view of the body of LOUISA "BERRY", aged 26, described as having been companion and lady's maid to Miss Tracey Alice Stubbs, of 30 Ampthill-square. The Inquiry was held in consequence of the reception of the following letter by the Coroner:- "Sir, - I feel justified in writing to you, as a death has occurred in Ampthill-square. A young woman who was sitting at dinner on Christmas Day died suddenly, and the body was removed to Bayham-street two doors from the Laurel Tree, and just opposite to the Almshouses. - Signed, Mrs Ponsford." - Upon this letter being read, MRS EMMA PONSFORD, sister of the deceased, who was present at the death and who resides at the house indicated, 107 Bayham-street, indignantly denied that she had written such a letter, nor did she know the handwriting. A most remarkable fact connected with this case, which did not transpire before the Coroner, although the medical attendant upon the deceased was present to give evidence in the inquiry, was that the death of the deceased had been previously registered upon his certificate as follows:- "LOUISA 'PERRY', 26 years, died 29th December 1886, at 30 Ampthill-square. Cause of Death, primary convulsions, seven days; delirium tremens, seven days; coma, 26 hour. 30th December, 1886. Signed, John Cross, M.D., 7 Stanhope-terrace, N.W. - The deceased was registered as LOUISA 'PERRY' (not 'BERRY'), described as 'lady's maid,' the informant being 'Emma Ponsford,' sister, present at death, 107 Bayham-street, Pancras," the date of the registration being the 31st December 1886 and on the registrar's certificate for burial was duly given. - The evidence taken by the Coroner was first that of Julia Flick, a servant, who said that on each occasion when the deceased went out by herself she came home the worse for drink and brought some in. On the morning of the 24th she heard a fall in the bedroom of the deceased and on entering the room found her lying on the floor. She seemed sober, but not well. Dr Cross was sent for, and attended the deceased until her death. - Miss Tracey Alice Stubbs said she resided at 30 Ampthill-square and the deceased was her lady's-maid. Witness was aware that she was in the habit of drinking to excess and would bring in drink. Witness knew she had been ill from December 23rd. On that day the deceased went out with her at half-past 2 p.m., and during the time they were out deceased made an excuse to go and see her sister. Witness did not return home till 10 or half-past and the cook then told her that the deceased had come home and gone upstairs, and she believed was unconscious. Next morning witness heard a peculiar snoring noise outside her door and on opening it found deceased sitting down in an apparent fit. Witness gave her something to revive her and believed she was in a fit and not intoxicated. Shortly afterwards witness noticed she was seized with a sort of convulsion. - Dr Cross said he had known deceased six weeks, since she came from Devonshire and knew she was of intemperate habits. He was called in on the morning of the 24th December at 9 o'clock and found her on the floor of her bedroom in a semi-conscious state and in convulsions and on the same night she had an epileptic fit, followed by delirium tremens. - She gradually got worse, merged into a state of coma, and died on the 29th. - The Jury returned a verdict that the deceased died from convulsions and delirium tremens and from natural causes, and the Jurors further say the deceased was well cared for and had medical attendance at her situation when she came to her death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 7 January 1887
MARIANSLEIGH - An Inquest was held at the King's Arms Inn on Wednesday, touching the death of MR JOHN EASTMOND. The deceased, who was 72 years of age, was Assistant-Overseer of the parish. Deceased had been away for a few days, and returned home about 5 o'clock on the 30th December. In the evening, as he was going upstairs to bed, he slipped when near the top and fell backwards. The accident was witnessed by other persons in the house, and MR EASTMOND was at once picked up and assisted to bed. He was so ill in the night that on the following morning Dr Sanders was sent for. On examination it was found that the deceased had two ribs broken under the shoulder-blade on the right side and was also suffering from a severe shock to the system. An internal injury to the lungs was also feared, and the result proved that the fears of the medical man were correct. The deceased's case was considered hopeless almost from the first and he died on Tuesday. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, viz., that death was caused by the injury to the lungs and the shock to the system.

TEDBURN ST MARY - An Inquest was held on Wednesday on the body of SAMUEL HENRY BRYAN, a retired army captain. The evidence showed that the deceased, who had been ailing, was found dead in bed by his wife on Monday afternoon. The doctor said internal haemorrhage was the cause of death, and a verdict was returned accordingly.

TIVERTON - Sudden Death At Tiverton. - During a meeting of the Infirmary Committee on Monday morning, MR WILLIAM BODLEY DUNSFORD, of Newport-street, who was passing along the street, was seen to stagger and fall to the ground. Mr Michelmore, the House Surgeon, at once hurried out and MR DUNSFORD, who meanwhile had been picked up by passers-by, was carried into the Institution. Death, however, had taken place instantaneously. Heart disease, from which deceased had been known to suffer, is supposed to be the cause. He was nearly 70 years of age and he leaves a grown-up family. - Mr Lewis Mackenzie, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest on the body at the Tiverton Infirmary on Tuesday and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 8 January 1887
EXETER - Sudden Death Of An Exeter Publican. - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest at the Anchor Inn, Exe Island, yesterday afternoon, on the body of JOSEPH CARTER RICE, formerly a builder, but recently landlord of the public-house at which the inquiry was held. - ELIZA ANN RICE, daughter of the deceased, identified the body as that of her father, who was 57 years of age. Deceased had been in his usual health during the past week and on Thursday night retired to rest about half-past 11 o'clock. A few minutes after 7 o'clock yesterday morning witness heard her father coughing. She went downstairs and applied a mustard leat to his chest. Witness also fetched some brandy, but deceased could not take it. He spoke to witness, and said he felt something rising in his chest and did not think that he should live much longer. Witness remained with her father until his death which occurred a few minutes later. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said that deceased had been outdoors during Thursday, and served on the Jury at the Sessions on Monday. - Mr Moone, Surgeon, said he was called about half-past 7 o'clock on Friday morning to see the deceased, and on his arrival he found that he was dead. He examined the body, but failed to find any marks of violence. Death was due, in his opinion, to syncope. Witness had often told MRS RICE that her husband would die suddenly, inasmuch as he had a very fatty heart. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 10 January 1887
EXETER - On Saturday Mr Coroner Hooper held an Inquiry at the Buller's Arms Inn, St. Sidwell's, relative to the death of WILLIAM HENRY MELHUISH, aged three months, whose father is a cabinet maker, of Yeovil-place. The evidence was to the effect that on Friday morning the infant, after having been attended by his mother, was put to bed. The child then appeared to be healthy and slept for a while. Shortly afterwards, however, MRS MELHUISH, hearing the child cry, took him from the bed; he began to struggle as if convulsed and the child soon expired while in his mother's arms. The body was examined by Dr A. Perkins, who attributed death to a natural causes - probably convulsions. A verdict to this effect was returned by the Jury.

CLERKENWELL, LONDON - Sad Death Of An Exeter Woman In London. - (Special Report). - On Saturday, Dr George Danford Thomas, the Coroner for Central Middlesex, held an Inquiry at the Court House, Clerkenwell, into the circumstances attending the death of ELIZABETH IRELAND, otherwise HARLEY, a single woman, aged 40, supposed to have been the daughter of a well-known clergyman in Exeter, and lately occupying the position of housekeeper in the family of a wine merchant residing at No. 39 Gower-street, London, who expired suddenly last Tuesday under extraordinary circumstances. - Mrs Langley, who lives at 2 Guilford-street, Clerkenwell, deposed that she had known the deceased for the last 17 years. She sometimes went by the name of HARLEY. She was a single woman, but had a daughter, aged 17. Witness did not until recently know that deceased was housekeeper with Mr Hart in Gower-street, as she had not seen her for the last 18 months. Her friends lived at Exeter. Witness could not say who she was related to, as the deceased was a very reticent woman. She came to witness's house last Monday evening, when she said she had been living at 39 Gower-street. Witness said, "You look very ill," and deceased replied, "I will be better in the morning." She afterwards said that Mrs Hart, her employer, had given her notice to leave the house at once, and that she threatened to send for a Policeman unless she left immediately. - The Coroner: Was she sent away without due notice? - Witness: She did not say so. I asked her if she would have a doctor, and she said, "Well, we will see in the morning." At 2 o'clock in the morning we went to bed, I and the deceased and her daughter sleeping in the same bed. - The Coroner: Was her daughter there? - Witness: I have brought up the daughter since she was eight months old. Witness went on to say that about six o'clock the daughter woke her and said that there was something the matter with her mother. Witness immediately sent for Dr Taylor, who arrived just when the deceased expired. - LOUISA IRELAND, the daughter, corroborated the statement concerning the last night the deceased was alive. - Dr Taylor of 79 Gray's-inn-road, said he was called in on Tuesday morning and found MRS IRELAND dead. He received the same account of the death as he had heard that day at the Inquest. He had since examined the body, which seemed well nourished. She had had ruptures of the bowels. The brain was very much congested. There was a slight quantity of fluid in the ventricles, and disease of the lungs, with recent pneumonia, especially in the left lung. - A Juryman: Was there any trace of laudanum? - Witness: There was very little fluid in the stomach, and it seemed to be brandy. - The Juryman: You had not heard that insensibility had been caused by taking laudanum? - The Coroner: Did you examine the pupils of the eyes for traces of poison? - Witness: I did not; I found sufficient cause of death in the lungs and brain without going any further in search of poison. A Juryman: Had some of these symptoms existed for any considerable duration of time? - Witness: The congestion of the lungs was quite recent. - Mrs Hart, who resides at 39 Gower-=street, Bloomsbury, said she was the wife of Mr John Hart, a wine merchant. The deceased had been her housekeeper for about six months. During that time her health had been very poor indeed. Witness had to attend at the numerous offices of her husband and consequently she was for many hours away from home. While witness was in the house deceased never gave way to drink, but when she returned home deceased was often in a condition of frightful drunkenness. Witness had had to discharge two young men from amongst her servants for procuring her the drink and there was no doubt that the drink was not obtained in her house. At last witness could put up with the deceased no longer. She had often discharged her, and the last time but one she said, with great despair, "Is this final? Give me but another chance!" Witness gave her the chance, although her misconduct was demoralising her household. - A Juryman: Did you send her away without notice? - Witness: She had been very ill. I made my servants attend her carefully, but at last I advised her to go home to her sister in Exeter. She said she had a friend in Clerkenwell named Mrs Langley, and witness said she would be better off where she would be more comfortable, as witness was compelled to engage a housekeeper. - Deceased was in the habit of drinking gin and brandy. It was perfectly untrue that witness threatened to call a Policeman. - The Coroner remarked that it was a very sad history indeed. - Mrs Langley, in reply to a question put by the Jury, said she was quite surprised to hear that the deceased had been given to habits of intemperance. Eventually the Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 11 January 1887
EXETER - The Fatal Accident At St David's Station. - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquiry at the Railway Hotel, Red Cow Village, yesterday, into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM PARISH, employed as foreman shunter on the Great Western Railway, who was killed while engaged in shunting in the goods-yard at St. David's Station on Saturday night. - Inspectors Green and Rogers and Mr Hannaford were present and watched the case on behalf of the Great Western Railway. - SAMUEL PARISH, a mason, residing at Witheridge, identified the remains of the deceased as those of his brother, who was 35 years of age, married and lately resided in Toby's Buildings, Lower North-street. - John Drew, shunting porter at St. David's Station, deposed that he was engaged in shunting trucks with the deceased from the mileage line near the Exwick crossing down towards the South Devon bridge. Witness was riding on a truck immediately in front of deceased, who would at that time have had his feet in the spring of the truck. When passing the engine-house at the western end of the yard, witness heard a fall and on looking around saw deceased lying on the ground at No. 3 point. Witness immediately jumped off and having signalled to the driver to stop he went back to the spot where deceased was lying. He called deceased by name, but the latter never spoke or opened his eyes. Witness then noticed that the trucks had passed over his body. He procured assistance, and deceased was removed to the porters'-room, and thence to the Railway Hotel. Witness had never known deceased the worse for liquor. - Richard Rice, chargeman of the locomotive-shed, gave corroborative evidence. - Mr Moone, Surgeon, deposed that he was called to see deceased on Saturday night. When witness arrived life was extinct. Deceased's body presented a shocking appearance, the bones in the lower part of the body being smashed. The injuries sustained were sufficient to cause instant death. The cause of death, technically, was shock to the system consequent upon the injuries received. - The Coroner, in summing up, said that the accident seemed to him unavoidable, and there was nobody to blame. Accidents of the kind would occur from time to time; and it was marvellous, considering the way in which the men jumped on and off the trucks, that they did not occur oftener. The Railway Company took every precaution to prevent such accidents, and if the railway employees would run such risks as they did, they only had themselves to blame. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 13 January 1887
TAVISTOCK - Mr R. R. Rodd, District Coroner, held an Inquest at the Union Inn, Tavistock, yesterday, touching the death of WILLIAM GERRY, a quarryman, of Tavistock, 50 years of age, who was found dead in the Hurdwick Quarry, near Tavistock, on Monday evening. - Mr W. Squire was Foreman of the Jury. - Dr Brodrick, of Tavistock, stated that when he saw the deceased he had been dead for several hours. On examining the body he found a fracture of the lower jaw, several abrasions about the scalp, a good deal of injury about the top of the left chest, and a probable penetration of the lung. The right thigh was fractured, as were also several ribs. Death resulted from the injury to the chest. - Lucy Jones, deceased's housekeeper, having given evidence as to the identity of the body, Mr J. Paull, mineral agent to the Duke of Bedford, and Richard Davey, a labourer, deposed to the finding of the body; and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 14 January 1887
TAVISTOCK - On Monday an adjourned Inquest was held by Mr R. R. Rodd, District Coroner, at Tavistock, on the body of WILLIAM LONGMAN, aged 14, who was crushed by the wheel of a truck on the East Cornwall Railway on the 6th December last. - From the evidence it appeared that the lad in trying to climb into a truck slipped, and his leg was so badly injured that it had to be amputated, and death resulted from exhaustion. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 15 January 1887
BISHOPS TAWTON - The Fatal Gun Accident In North Devon.- Last evening, J. F. Bromham, District Coroner, held an Inquest at Hall Farm, Bishopstawton, near Barnstaple, on the body of JAMES CHALLACOMBE, son of a farmer, who was shot dead the previous day. - THOMAS CHALLACOMBE said the deceased was his son, and was 19 years of age. He had been in the best of health the day before he and deceased and another son went out rabbiting. Deceased did not have a gun, but the others had guns. They met young Mr Chichester of Hall, and the gamekeeper, Mr Facey. The party joined in rabbit shooting and soon afterwards, while witness and Master Chichester were in the roadway, he heard a report, and found that his son JAMES had been shot. - WILLIAM CHALLACOMBE, brother of the deceased, said at the time the accident occurred Facey was standing about a land-yard from the hedge on the lower side of the field. Deceased was about 12 or 15 feet off from Facey and witness was further down and nearer to the hedge. Deceased was stooping down to take out a turnip or two which had got into a rabbit-hole so as to enable the rabbit to come out, as the ferrets were working. Just then a rabbit started out of the hedge on the other side of deceased and Facey levelled his gun and fired. Just as he fired deceased rose up a little and the charge struck him in the head. He fell at once and witness ran over and noticed he breathed twice and then seemed to be quite dead. Facey said, "Oh, I have shot poor JIM," and he seemed very distressed about it. Facey intended to fire over the deceased, but he rose up and got the charge which was intended for the rabbit. Deceased and Facey were very good friends and they had been laughing and talking together. - John Facey, gamekeeper, said that when he saw the rabbit he raised his gun to fire. At the time MR WILLIAM CHALLACOMBE called "Look out," and then the deceased rose and moved forward a little just at the very same time as witness fired. He did not think there was the least danger of shooting the deceased. He had had considerable experience as a gamekeeper and had never had an accident in his life. - In answer to a Juryman, witness said he did not kill the rabbit, and he was not sure that the gun went off before he raised it to his shoulder. - Dr Mark Jackson, of Barnstaple, said he was sent for and on arriving at Hall Farm found deceased in an upstair room quite dead, and the body getting cold. There was a large opening in the skull and the bones of the skull were broken in pieces and the brain substance and blood were issuing from the wound. He should say that death was instantaneous. - The Coroner remarked upon the painful occurrence and advised the Jury that by the evidence it was a pure accident. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 18 January 1887
BRADNINCH - At Bradninch yesterday, before Mr Coroner Burrow, an Inquest was held respecting the death of HENRY JOHN MELHUISH, aged 25, indoor farm servant to Mr W. Frankpitt. The witnesses were Mr Frankpitt, Robert Drew, MRS ELIZABETH MELHUISH, Mr Salter (chemist), and Dr Marrack. - It appeared that twice within the last six weeks deceased had been disabled from work through some affection of his leg. Last Friday morning he went ploughing and after dinner was directed to pull some turnips. About 2 p.m., while in the field smoking his pipe, he complained to Robert Drew, his fellow-labourer, of something in his throat; he felt as if he could not swallow. Half-an-hour later he again complained and went home to his sister-in-law's. His sister-in-law, MRS W. J. MELHUISH, sent for Dr Marrack. Subsequently, seeing Dr Marrack in the street, she asked him to come to deceased, but he refused. She then assured him of payment for his services, saying she believed deceased was dying; but he still refused and reminded her that he had on a previous occasion told her sister-in-law that he would have no more to do with deceased's family. She then went home and applied a poultice to deceased about 4 p.m. Deceased said to his brother soon after he came to the house, "Lord, have mercy on me," and gasped for breath. - Mr Salter, chemist, was sent for, but he was from home. Mr Thicknesse was then fetched and he applied another poultice. Deceased was got to bed and supplied with warm milk to drink. In the evening Dr Marrack was again asked to come and he came, but deceased had meanwhile expired at about 8.20. - Dr Marrack, in his evidence, said that two years ago he attended deceased. Last Saturday week, deceased never having paid the bill, which came to 25s., witness said he should have no more to do with the family for that reason, and he said so again last Friday when he was asked to come during the afternoon. About 8 p.m., Mrs Willey came and asked him to come to deceased, and then he went, but when he arrived deceased was dead. Witness had seen the body, but could not express any opinion as to the cause of death. He was certain, however, that it was not acute bronchitis. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes" in accordance with the Coroner's direction, but desired to append a rider expressing indignation at Dr Marrack's refusal to attend. - The Coroner, however, explained that, whatever the Jury might think, Dr Marrack was within his legal right in the course he took under the circumstances. - The Foreman, Mr J. Rowell, said they were of opinion that Dr Marrack's conduct was very inhuman.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 20 January 1887
DAWLISH - Extraordinary Affair At Dawlish. - An Inquest was held at the London Hotel last evening before Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, on the body of BESSIE HOLMES, aged 14 days. - Jane Drew, a widow, gave evidence to the effect that she attended the confinement of ANNIE ELIZABETH HOLMES, the mother of the child, who was staying with her brother at Haldon Lodge. Witness last saw the child alive on Thursday when she left to go home. On the following morning she was called by HARRY HOLMES to go to the Lodge, as he said the child had died. On her way she inquired of the sexton how to proceed to get a child "like a still-born" child buried and was instructed. After having seen the child, for the purpose of concealing the matter from HOLMES'S employer she took the body to her own house and called in Mr A. de W. Baker, Surgeon, who having examined it gave her a paper stating that to the best of his belief death had resulted from pneumonia. Witness had previously told the doctor that the child had died at 8 Manor-row. This was also certified in the Registrar's certificate which witness obtained. - ANNIE ELIZABETH HOLMES, the mother of the deceased, stated that on Thursday evening she went to bed with her infant and noticed nothing the matter with her. She gave it the milk-bottle at 21 a.m., but on waking about 6 she found the child dead. Mrs Drew was sent for and took the child away to Dawlish in order to keep the matter from HOLMES'S employer. - Mr A. de W. Baker stated that he had made a post mortem examination and considered death was caused from pneumonia. He observed that at the time of his first examination just after death he could find no marks of violence or any indications of foul play. - The Jury, after a short absence, returned a verdict that death occurred naturally from Pneumonia, adding a rider severely censuring the conduct of Mrs Drew in the case and also the disgraceful manner in which the child was buried.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 21 January 1887
BERE FERRERS - At an Inquest held touching the death of the daughter of MR WALDRON, of Beeralston, a child aged two years, who died from the effect of injuries received through falling into a frying-pan full of boiling fat, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

TAVISTOCK - An Inquest was held yesterday, at the Whitchurch Inn, touching the death of MAGGIE LEWIS, aged eight years, daughter of FREDERICK LEWIS, coachman to Mr W. H. Chichester. The child died suddenly on Tuesday and the result of a post mortem examination showed that death was due to Natural Causes. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 22 January 1887
EXETER - The Fatal Accident At Yeoford Junction. - Yesterday, at the Valiant Soldier Inn, Exeter, Mr H. W. Gould (Deputy County Coroner) on behalf of the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest on the body of JOSEPH BRIGHT, late a signalman at Yeoford Junction Station. - GEORGE BRIGHT, gardener, of Dolton, North Devon, identified the body as that of his son, a signalman in the employ of the London and South Western Railway Company at Yeoford Junction. He was married, had two children and was 29 years of age. The deceased always bore a good character and was a sober man. - John Willcocks, living at 1 Summerland-crescent, Exeter, a goods guard employed by the South Western Railway Company, deposed that on Wednesday night he was in charge of the 8.45 goods train from Exeter to Devonport, and the deceased, who was not on duty, accompanied him in the van. On arrival at Yeoford witness got out on the six-foot-way to give a signal to the driver for shunting purposes, and left the deceased in the van. The train was then merely in motion. About a minute later witness heard a porter named Alford call out that someone was run over. He found it was the deceased, who was lying about 20 yards from the van between the platform and the trucks. With assistance witness got the deceased on to the platform, when it appeared that both his legs were broken and also his right arm. He was also injured about the head, from which blood was flowing. Deceased was taken into the waiting-room and witness "backed" his train into a siding, attached the engine to some carriages and took the sufferer to Queen-street Station. The deceased, who was sober at the time of the accident, conversed with witness during the journey between Exeter and Yeoford and was cheerful. Witness had known the deceased for 10 or 12 years, and during that time he had never seen him intoxicated. The average space between the platform and a train such as the one which witness was in charge of would be about eight inches. The engine did not pass over the deceased. All that witness heard the deceased say was, "Lift me up, and let me sit down." - William Alford, a porter, living at Yeoford, said he was on duty in the booking-office on the up-platform on the arrival of the train when he heard an unusual jerking of the waggons. He hurried out and on reaching the door heard a groan. He shouted to the driver to stop. The train was only going at the rate of from three to four miles per hour, as it was on the point of stopping. - Andrew Gregory, also a porter, of Yeoford Junction, saw the deceased lying on his side between the platform and the trucks, the latter being quite clear of him. The deceased exclaimed, "Help me up, help me up!" The following morning witness examined the line where the deceased was found and discovered a quantity of blood and a few yards distant some bits of flesh on the metals and pieces of shattered bone by the side. He also found a basket belonging to the deceased, with a broken medicine-bottle, close by. In the waiting-room witness said to the deceased, "BRIGHT, however did you do it?" and he replied, "I was jumping from the van, when I missed my footing and fell down between." He also added that his wife was unwell and he had fetched some medicine from Exeter for her. - Mr Blomfield, House Surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, said the deceased was admitted into that Institution on Wednesday night. Both his legs were completely smashed, the right thigh was broken, there was a compound fracture of the right elbow and three severe scalp wounds. He died from shock at a quarter to 3 on Thursday morning. - The Coroner, in summing up, apprehended that the Jury would have no difficulty in arriving at their verdict. The deceased probably was daily in the habit of alighting from trains while in motion and yet on the present occasion an attempt of this kind brought about an untimely death. This should be a very great warning to ordinary passengers. - "Accidental Death" was the verdict. - The deceased's family have suffered great affliction of late, inasmuch as one of his brothers, a railway-guard in America, was killed but six months since and deep sympathy is expressed for them.

MALBOROUGH - The Wreck Near Salcombe. - An Inquest was held at Lower Sorter Farm, in the parish of Malborough, yesterday, before Dr Donald A. Fraser, Deputy Coroner, touching the death of GUSTAVE LICHFELD, able-bodied seaman, aged 25 years, who was drowned on Tuesday morning in attempting to swim ashore from the wreck of the clipper-ship Halloween, after being in the rigging of the vessel for upwards of twelve hours. The second mate, Mr Maclean, and another seaman also made the attempt and got safely to land. - The evidence of the first officer went to show that the ship struck the sands at Sewer Mill at a quarter to 8 on Monday evening. They burned seven or eight blue lights, fired off a rocket and burnt 15 gallons of paraffin oil and a lot of other oil in making flares with the object of attracting attention on the shore. The lights continued up to 11 o'clock when their stock of oil and clothing was exhausted. They sent up their last rocket at 1 o'clock on Tuesday morning. they failed to attract the notice of anyone on shore and had to remain in the rigging until daybreak. At about half-past seven in the morning the second mate, the deceased, and another man jumped over the side with a small line which they hoped to carry ashore in order to secure communication with the land. The line slipped, however, and the best swimmers were soon ahead. The deceased appeared to fail. Then he floated on his back and afterwards commenced swimming again. The sea knocked the deceased against the rocks and when they next saw him he was being carried out to sea with his back uppermost. - The Coroner said it appeared to him to be a very important matter to ascertain whether the man at the Coastguard Station could have seen the vessel's signals of distress. - Benjamin Horn, of Salcombe, proved the finding of the body under the rocks on Thursday morning. - Thomas Cummings, Chief Officer of Coastguard, said the man on duty from 5 p.m. to 12 midnight was Thomas Tewkesbury. It was his duty to pass up and down his beat when he was n duty. The night was very thick, and he did not think the signals could be seen from the shore. The vessel was about 200 yards from the path of the Coastguard on duty. - Thos. Tewkesbury, commissioned boatman, on the Bolt Head Station, said he went on duty at 5 p.m. on the day in question, and was on duty seven hours. His regular beat was 4 ¼ miles. He passed the sands at 5.30 and again at 6.30 but after that he did not go westward of Goat Point, which was 1,600 yards from the scene of the wreck. In doing this he thought he was acting for the best. He made the points which were required by the Coastguard regulations. - The Coroner, having summed up, the Jury returned the following verdict:- "That the death of the deceased, GUSTAVE LICHFELD, was Accidental, but the Jury desired to express their surprise that the Coastguard arrangements render it possible that a dangerous part of the coast should remain unvisited for five hours - from 6.30 p.m. until 12 midnight - and they desire the Coroner to call the attention of the proper authorities to the matter."

EXETER - Mr H. W. Gould held an Inquest at the Sawyers' Arms Inn, Preston-street, yesterday afternoon, on behalf of the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, relative to the death of WILLIAM JERRED, aged 4 ½ months, who died suddenly on Wednesday. - The evidence showed that the mother, the wife of WILLIAM JERRED, a mason's labourer, of 16 Preston-street, went to her work as usual in the morning, leaving her child in charge of a daughter aged about 14. The mother left some soaked brad with sugar and a bottle of milk and water, upon which the child was always fed during her absence. About 11 o'clock the daughter gave the infant two or three spoonfuls of food, and half-a-teaspoon about a quarter to 2. Five minutes later the deceased turned purple and stiff. The girl took the child to her aunt - a short distance off, and fetched her mother. During this time the child died in his aunt's arms. - Mr E. A. Brash, Surgeon, proved being called after death. There were no marks of violence about the body. He could not state positively the cause of death, but his opinion was that the deceased was convulsed. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 24 January 1887
EXETER - Sad Suicide Of A Surgeon. - An Inquest was held on Saturday by the Deputy Coroner for Exeter, Mr H. Gould, touching the death of MR MAURICE HANNIGAN CURTIN, Assistant Surgeon in the employ of the Medical Aid Society. - Mr George Stanley Barstow, senior Surgeon to the Society, stated that the deceased, who was about 26 years of age, was taken ill about a week ago and as Dr Davy, who was called in, thought deceased was suffering from typhoid fever, witness had him removed on Thursday to his own house on Southernhay, where he would have constant attention. Witness saw deceased again on Friday about 11 o'clock when there were no untoward symptoms and deceased's mind was perfectly clear. It was not unknown that in cases of typhoid fever sudden attacks of suicidal mania overcame patients. - Mrs Barstow spoke to seeing the deceased in bed about half-past 1 o'clock. He then seemed cheerful, but had previously been crying and spoke of his being so far away from home. He never threatened to commit suicide, and there was nothing in his manner to make her believe that he would do so. A short time after 1.30 Father Hobson arrived and went to the deceased in his bedroom, remaining with him about half an hour. After Father Hobson left she heard footsteps in the passage. She came out of the dining-room and saw the deceased in his night shirt at the bottom of the stairs walking towards the surgery. She called to him and asked him where he was going, but he returned no answer. She followed him, but he closed the door against her and she then went into the street and asked the first man she saw to go with her to the surgery, as she feared the deceased wanted to destroy himself. On going to the surgery they found the deceased lying on the floor bleeding at the nose with a bottle containing liquid lying beside him. He was still breathing when first discovered, but did not recover consciousness. - The Rev. George Hobson stated that when he saw the deceased on Friday his mind was wandering, and he appeared to be low in spirits. On the previous day the deceased had told witness that he had better receive the last rites of the Church as he thought he might become delirious. - John Lane, of West-street, who accompanied Mrs Barstow to the surgery when the body was discovered, gave corroborative evidence. - Mr A. C. Roper, Surgeon, said he was called to see the deceased, who, on his arrival, was pulseless, gasping, bleeding from the nose and his heart was scarcely acting. He injected ether and ran into his house for a stomach pump. On his return life appeared to be almost extinct, and he applied artificial respiration and sent for assistance. Mr Domville arrived shortly afterwards and they kept the deceased breathing for 20 minutes by artificial respiration and also applied the stomach pump, but without avail. Witness smelt the deceased's lips and at once came to the conclusion that he had taken prussic acid. It was also stated that the deceased had probably taken about three drachms of prussic acid. The exertion of getting out of bed and walking downstairs might have produced the haemorrhage spoke of, or he might have knocked himself in falling. - The Deputy Coroner, in summing up, said the deceased appeared to have received every kindness and care from his colleague, Mr Barstow. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

COLDRIDGE - An Inquiry was held here on Saturday by Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, into the cause of death of ELIZABETH HANDCOCK, 69 years of age, wife of JOHN HANDCOCK, carpenter of Coldridge, which took place on Wednesday. The evidence showed that the husband got up at 11 o'clock in the morning, leaving his wife in bed. His wife did not come down and at 3 o'clock he went to her bedroom, where he found her dead in bed. A neighbour was called in and Mr Norman, Surgeon, was subsequently sent for. The deceased had been in the habit of drinking freely, but Mr Norman gave it as his opinion that the immediate cause of death was paralysis. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 26 January 1887
BURLESCOMBE - The Fatal Accident At Westleigh Quarries. - Mr F. Burrow, District Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at the Farmers' Hotel, Westleigh, concerning the death of JOHN RABJOHNS, aged 62, quarryman, who, as reported yesterday, was killed during blasting operations at Pitcher Kiln Quarry on Monday morning by a piece of stone falling on him, smashing in his skull. - Mr J. Gush was Foreman of the Jury. - J. Bailey, J. Condick and John Chard, quarrymen and Mr Grigg, of Holcombe Rogus, Surgeon, were the witnesses. - Bailey, the man who inserted and fired the blasting charge, said he duly hoisted the danger flag to warn the public and gave the customary and proper signal to the workmen by shouting "Fire!" The other men retreated, but deceased - as witness was told, for he did not see him at the time - stayed beside a waggon, about 100 yards away at the other end of the quarry. After the explosion witness heard that a man had been killed. - Condick said he heard Bailey give the signal. Deceased was working then close by witness. There was plenty of time for all to retreat. Witness did not notice what deceased did, but after the explosion he saw deceased lying face downwards by a waggon nearly the length of the Quarry from where the explosion was. - (A Juryman here suggested that deceased got behind the waggon for shelter.) - The stone now produced (a sharp-edged fragment, weighing 31 ½ lbs.) was the one which fell on deceased. - Chard corroborated as to the signal being given, but he also said he did not notice deceased until after the explosion. - Mr Grigg said he saw deceased about 8.30 a.m. the same morning. He had received a fearful fracture of the skull, the right side of which was smashed. Death must have been instantaneous. - A Juryman, named John Dibble, who was in the Quarry at the time, added his testimony that the signal was duly given. Deceased might have looked up for a moment, but he went on with his work. He was not deaf. - The Coroner, in summing up, said that no blame seemed to attach to anyone but the deceased himself. He hoped his fate would be a warning to other workmen to retreat to a safe distance when the signal was given. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 28 January 1887
STOKE GABRIEL - Burial Scandal At Stoke Gabriel. The Body Exhumed. A Scene At The Grave. - Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Church House Inn, Stoke Gabriel, yesterday, into the cause of death of SELINA LEVER, aged 46, who died on the previous Tuesday week. The affair caused considerable excitement in the neighbourhood, as various rumours were afloat respecting the deceased. Rear Admiral Dawkins, J.P., was chosen Foreman of the Jury, which also included Mr H. Studdy, J.P. - The Jury, having been sworn, were informed by the Coroner that they had been summoned to hold an Inquiry into the cause of death of SELINA LEVER and the circumstances surrounding it were of such a character as to make it necessary for him to refer shortly to them. The information he had received was that the woman died last Tuesday week under circumstances which had raised in his mind and in the minds of many of the parishioners serious suspicions, and he had in his discretion considered it necessary to hold an Inquest. The death occurred on Tuesday week and on the following Friday notice was given to the Registrar, and the death entered in that official's book. The Registrar did not, however, give a certificate for the body to be buried, but communicated with the Deputy Coroner, who was of opinion that it was necessary to hold an Inquiry and gave an order to that effect, but before it could be carried out he learnt that the corpse had been buried without an order. That was an irregular although a legal practice, as the clergyman was not prohibited by law from performing the Service if he gave notice with seven days to the Coroner. That was the strict law, although it was never acted upon. The body was buried on Saturday morning and on the case being reported to him he made inquiries, with the result that he came to the conclusion that for the public good it was essential that an Inquest should be held. He therefore issued an order calling upon the minister and church-wardens to have the body exhumed in order that the Jury might view it as required by law. That should have been done at 8 o'clock that morning; but the Queen's orders had not been carried out, and he should like to hear an explanation before proceeding further. - Mr F. C. Kellock, Solicitor, who represented the Rev. J. H. N. Neville, the Vicar, said the Registrar had notice, and no summons not to bury reached the rev. gentleman until the interment was over. It would be a revolting step if the exhumation now took place unless sufficient cause was shown for it, as he did not think there had been, and Mr Neville desired him to urge the following:- "In the matter of SELINA LEVER, I object to the course you have taken on the following grounds: - Because I consider, in the first instance at least, an Inquiry should be made to ascertain if there are any suspicious circumstances to warrant the exhumation of the body. Also because I consider it my sacred duty, as Vicar of the parish, not to permit the churchyard or grave to be desecrated without sufficient cause, and I shall therefore not consent to it - firstly, without authority from the Home Secretary, to whom I have already sent; secondly, without the consent of the Bishop of the Diocese, to whom I intend to apply immediately for instructions, having been advised that a corpse once buried could not be taken up or removed without a license from the Ordinary. In making these objections to your present line of action in ordering an immediate disinterment of the body it is not my intention to defy authority, but to endeavour to have the law correctly and humanely carried out after a preliminary inquiry, provided sufficient cause is then shown for such a revolting step. - Mr Neville said he received a certificate 24 hours before the burial, so that he had not adopted an unusual course. When he received it Mr Rossiter, the registrar, said he was sorry he had handed it over, as it would be the means of his losing his place and it was then returned to him. - The Coroner said, in reply to the rev. gentleman's objections, he might state that a preliminary inquiry had been hold and was sufficient to satisfy him that an Inquest was necessary; but no evidence could be taken on oath until the Jury had viewed the body. Death had only taken place within a few days, and within a reasonable time in which the remains could be disinterred and a post mortem examination made in order to obtain reliable information. There could be no danger to public health by adopting such a course and under the circumstances he should certainly have his order carried out. Anyone interfering with the Coroner or Jury would have to put up with the consequences, for he should certainly proceed against them by indictment according to law. He then called upon the Jury to accompany him to the place where he understood the body was interred and asked the churchwardens to carry out their duty. - The Rev. J. H. N. Neville asked, if he undertook the consequences of being proceeded against would that prevent an actual violation of the grave? - The Coroner: Certainly not; the order will be carried out by force if necessary. - The rev. gentleman said he protested against it as entirely illegal. - The Coroner and Jury then proceeded to the entrance to the churchyard - a distance of about 40 yards - where it was found that the double gates were locked. Here the husband of the woman came forward and said he objected to the disinterment. - The Coroner: Oh, you have nothing to do with it. He then called upon Mr Neville, who had the keys, to come forward. The rev. gentleman at this time was standing a short distance off in consultation with his legal adviser, and when their conversation had ended he walked leisurely towards the Coroner, who met him with the words, "The Coroner and Jury wish to view the body of SELINA LEVER; will you admit them?" - The Rev. J. H. Neville: I refuse it without a faculty from the Bishop. I use no force or opposition, but I am required by law to see that a grave be not violated without such authority. I do not consent. - The Coroner: The Churchwardens must then do their duty. - The Rev. J. H. Neville protested against such action, and said he would proceed against anyone who entered the Churchyard. - The Coroner, who had been standing by the gates and shaking them occasionally, now acted on the suggestion of a bystander and gained admittance by lifting a bolt on the inside. The Jury, churchwardens and sexton's men followed Mr Hacker, while a Constable kept back the small crowd of villagers who had gathered around the entrance. Proceeding round the Church the principal actors walked to the newly-made grave, which was on the south side of the yard, whence a view was obtained of the River Dart. The fresh mount was covered with wreaths and crosses of flowers and had apparently received every attention at the hands of the sexton. The whole scene at this time was one of much solemnity. The Foreman of the Jury, bareheaded and his colleagues surrounded the grave, and in close attendance were the Rev. J. H. Neville, his legal adviser, the churchwardens, the sexton's men, and several reporters, while the outer wall of the yard was occupied by spectators. A moment of suspense was broken by Rear-Admiral Dawkins, who, addressing the Coroner, asked if there was any doubt as to whether they were acting within the law? - Mr Hacker replied, none whatever. - Rear-Admiral Dawkins said if there was the slightest doubt he should advise them to hold their hands until further inquiries were made; but if the Coroner thought they were carrying out the law, as they were sworn to do, he should hold his pence and do it. - The Coroner said he could tell him that they were carrying out the law as it was laid down in all legal books. As Coroner he was within his reasonable bounds of duty, when the death of any person occurred, to order that the body be exhumed so that the Jury might view it. - The Foreman asked if the medical gentlemen present thought it was a reasonable time in which the body might be exhumed. - Dr Haynes replied in the affirmative. - The Coroner then asked the sexton if he was ready to proceed with his work. - The Sexton answered that he had six men ready, but the Vicar told him that he would be liable to five years' imprisonment if he proceeded. - The Coroner: Well, if you won't do it someone else must. - The men then proceeded to dismantle the grave, which was 4 ½ ft. deep, and after about half-an-hour's work raised the coffin to the surface, whence it was conveyed to a cottage opposite the Church House Inn. Here the lid was unscrewed and the body exposed to view. A very cursory glance was sufficient for the Jury, as the remains evinced signs of being in an advanced state of decomposition. - On returning to the inquiry-room the Coroner called upon HENRY LEVER, the husband of deceased, to give evidence of identification. LEVER at first refused to take the oath, but on the Vicar explaining that the outrage had been too much for him, and that he did not know what he was saying, although he was a sincere Christian, he was then sworn in the usual way. LEVER identified the body as that of his late wife and said they acted as groom and gardener and housekeeper to Mr Neville. - The Coroner said as it was necessary in any event to adjourn the Inquest to give an opportunity to the surgeons to make an examination of the body, it would be more convenient to do so at that point when they had formal evidence of identification. He had been requested to summon a witness in London who could give material evidence respecting the death of deceased. - After some discussion it was decided to adjourn until noon on Saturday. - The Jury and witnesses were then bound over to appear at that time when further evidence will be taken. - It is stated that the deceased had been suffering from a chronic complaint and came from Southampton with her husband at the request of Mr Neville, who took upon himself the task of securing her convalescence by means of prescriptions supplied by an uncertified practitioner in London who made this disease a special study. He was successful for a time, but the woman again became a victim to the malady in September last and about a month later took to her bed, where she remained until the time of her death. This statement was volunteered by the Vicar, who throughout the proceedings conducted himself in a quiet and dignified manner and appeared to be thoroughly in earnest in the course he was pursuing.

CLYST ST MARY - Shocking Death Of A Waggoner. - An Inquest was held at the Maltsters' Arms, St Mary Clyst, yesterday, by Mr C. E. Cox, touching the death of a waggoner named JAMES S. DAVEY. It appears that on Tuesday morning the deceased, who was in the employ of Mr Ware, a tanner, of Woodbury, was sent to Exeter to fetch a load of manure and in the evening the horse and waggon returned home without the driver. The Rev. H. P. Alford (Vicar of Woodbury Salterton) was driving through St Mary Clyst in the evening and his attention was called by his wife to something lying in the road. On examination he found that it was the body of the deceased, whose head was nearly severed from his body. The Police were communicated with and the body was removed to the Maltsters' Arms. A lad gave evidence to the effect that he saw DAVEY jump on the shafts of the waggon and proceed along the road with his legs hanging down. It is presumed that he was jerked off by some means, and that the wheels of the waggon passed over his head, causing immediate death. - Mr Ware gave the deceased a good character. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and the Jury gave their fees to the widow, who is left with five children.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 31 January 1887
STOKE GABRIEL - The Stoke Gabriel Burial Case. The Adjourned Inquest. Curious And Conflicting Evidence. - The adjourned inquiry into the circumstances connected with the death of SELINA LEVER, 46, who for the past five years has occupied the position of housekeeper to the Rev. J. H. N. Neville, Vicar of Stoke Gabriel, near Paignton, took place on Saturday, before the District Coroner, Mr Hacker, at the Church House Inn, Stoke Gabriel. The evidence taken was of a very curious and conflicting nature, and great interest was taken in the proceedings by the inhabitants of the village and surrounding district. It will be remembered that the Inquest was adjourned for the purpose of holding a post mortem examination on the body, which was exhumed on Thursday under the orders of the District Coroner. This examination had been carried out, but on Saturday it was found necessary to adjourn the Inquest in order that a London analyst to whom some of the internal organs had been sent might complete his analysis. - The Vicar, who was present during the inquiry, was represented by Mr T. C. Kellock, solicitor, of Totnes. Rear-Admiral Dawkins was the Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner, in his opening remarks said: We have this morning to resume an Inquiry which was opened on Thursday last and you will have today to take the evidence, and if - as we may hope - it proves to your satisfaction that the deceased came to her death in a natural way, we shall have to congratulate the public on having its mind satisfied. If the evidence leads to any other conclusion you will have to follow the evidence to its proper end. - The first witness called was HENRY LEVER, husband of the deceased. After confirming his previous evidence, he said: My wife died about 7 o'clock in the morning. The nurse, Mr Neville and myself were in the room at the time. The nurse was with deceased when I saw her at 2 o'clock in the morning. She was insensible then. Deceased had prolonged convulsive fits at the time. All her limbs were twitching. She had convulsions more or less from 2 o'clock to 7. She had had fits some days before, but they did not last long. I did not notice the pupils of her eyes, but she was continually staring and her eyelids were twitching. During the hour previous to her death I was in the room together with Mr Neville. I believe my wife died from convulsions. She was not sensible at the time of her death. I cannot tell what time she became insensible, but it was the same morning. She was sensible on the previous evening and said to me, "I don't think I shall get over this." I had stayed up nearly all night. I first went to my wife at two in the morning. I was in and out the room on many occasions the previous night. My wife had been ill for many years. I have been married 31 years. She had had frequent attacks of illness. I have been in Stoke Gabriel for five years. Deceased's last illness commenced about three months before death and she took to her bed. She had been ill off and on years before we came here. I lived in the house with my wife on the best of terms. She was engaged in her duties up to the time she took to her bed. I occupied another room when my wife took to her bed. My grandson, a child six years of age, slept with my wife, during the 12 months' stay he had with me, but previous to that I occupied the bedroom with her. I took my wife out in a Bath-chair three times after she took to her bed. She thought it would do her good. The first time I took her out was a month ago. She never experienced thirst. She took new milk, eggs, oatmeal and a great many oranges during her illness. I used to give her whatever she asked for. I cannot say whether she had medicine; I expect she had. She had no convulsions a month before her death. I gave her what she liked to drink. I cannot say what liquids; but she never had anything strong during her illness. I believe she took a little "betimes" before her illness, but I never saw her the worse for it. I have no reason to believe she took strong drink during her illness. I saw some gin or brandy in a bottle in her pocket once previous to her taking to her bed. I do not know where she got it from. I knew she was seriously ill when she took to her bed; but I did not think she was going to die until I saw the convulsions. I did not call in any doctor, but she had attendance from the house and I did not think she required it. She had medicine from different places. - The Coroner: I thought you said she had none? - The Witness: I suppose I must tell you. she had medicine from Mr Neville. I did not think it necessary to call in a doctor when she had convulsions. I thought there was quite sufficient attendance in the house. There was no one else in the house but Mr Neville. He gave my wife medicine up to the last when it was required. Deceased had been a strong woman in her time. I did not see her vomit at the time of the convulsions. She got sick at times when she smelt anything cooking. She was sick about three days before her death, and I held the basin. On the last occasion she was sick she threw up her food and the vomit was of a light colour and looked as if the food had not been digested. I cannot say how long this was after the meal. - Dr Haynes at this point whispered to the Coroner and Mr Kellock reminded him that the time would shortly arrive when he could give his evidence. - The witness (continuing): My wife did not complain of any pains up to the last. I do not know what my wife died of, nor do I know what she was having the medicine for. She never told me from what she was suffering. I did not see that my wife wasted much before death. I cannot tell you anything more. - In reply to Mr Studdy, witness said: During the time my wife was with Mr Neville she received the best of treatment. - By a Juror: I do not know that my wife ever asked for animal food. - By Admiral Dawkins: I observed that my wife wasted about the legs about six weeks before her death. It did not suggest to me that I should get further advice. I did not think it was necessary. - In answer to Mr Rendell: I had to carry my wife to the Bath-chair. - By Mr Kellock: I recollect that Dr Curry saw my wife when I first came here and he prescribed for her. He came to the house and saw my wife. Dr Kingdon, of London, also saw her and said she was likely to die at any minute. Dr Kingdon said she was suffering from liver disease. Dr Wallace saw my wife two months ago. Mrs Bull and two nurses have been in the house since my wife's illness. The first came in December and stopped in the house until the day before my wife's death. One of the nurses was with my wife every night until her death. The second nurse came two days before my wife's death, and was present when she died. My wife had been an invalid at Southampton. My wife was in agonies at times and I have heard her say that she felt as if a knife was running into her side. It was about twelve months ago that she made these complaints. I believe that this ceased before the last illness. In her last illness she complained much of cramp, but it left her about a fortnight before her death. - In answer to Mr H. Studdy, J.P., witness said: I never heard my wife ask for medical attendance. - By the Coroner: I believe Mr Neville sent for Dr Wallace, but I do not know whether he attended anybody else in the house. - On adjourning to the Schoolroom, the first witness called was Ellen Bull, who said: I live in Stoke Gabriel. I am married and my husband is named James Bull. I went to the house of the deceased about four months ago as charwoman. I knew her before I went there. I went to work in the morning and came home in the evening. I was engaged by Mr Neville. When I went to the Vicarage the deceased was ill, but had not taken to her bed. Some weeks after she was taken seriously ill and had to take to her bed. I had to attend on the deceased during her illness, but I do not know what her complaint was. The only persons in the house were MR LEVER, Mr Neville and myself. I could not tell her symptoms. She did not suffer any pain in the first place, but before she took to her bed she was languid and weak. She got worse and I believed she was suffering from a violent cold. I did not think she was dangerously ill. I gave the deceased her food. She was never wanting anything. She had no strong drink while ill, but I could not say if she took it previously. During her illness she was taken out in a chair. I stayed with the deceased during several nights. I am not a trained nurse, but I did not think it necessary to call in a medical man. I never gave the deceased any medicine. I believe it was very little that she took. I have seen her take it once or twice. I heard that Mr Neville obtained it, and I have seen him give it to her once or twice. I understood that the medicine came from Dr Wallace. I saw deceased between 4 and 5 o'clock on the evening before she died. She was quite sensible then and able to speak to me. The other nurses came to the house three weeks before MRS LEVER'S death. I then thought she was dangerously ill and was under the belief that Dr Wallace was attending her. I never saw her have any convulsions or symptoms of any such thing. She complained of cramp. I gave deceased her food on the day previous to her death, but she did not have any convulsions while I was with her. I have not talked about her death. I have not told anyone that deceased had suffered from want. I have given the deceased meat unknown to Mr Neville, but she could not eat it. It was not at my suggestion that the other nurses were called in. Deceased's hands and feet were swollen at different times during her illness. I was greatly surprised on hearing that deceased had died. - By Mr Rendell: I have said that if the deceased had had medical attendance she would now have been on her legs. Deceased walked out after she took to her bed. I never knew her send her grandchild out for any food. - By a Juror: The medicine Mr Neville gave deceased was a liquid, but there was very little in the glass. - By the Coroner: I saw the deceased vomit on several occasions. - By Mr Kellock: She was never required to do any household work after she was taken ill. - Alice Penzer, of St Raphael's Home, Torquay, said: I went to the house of Mr Neville on the 29th December. I am a trained nurse. When I first went to the house MRS LEVER was very ill in bed. I believe she was supposed to be suffering from cancer of the liver. I took charge of her during the night. She suffered from sickness and was very restless. She had one convulsion. I do not know when it was, but I can refer to my notes. I believe it was on the Wednesday night before I left on the Monday. It lasted about 10 minutes and during the time she was insensible. Deceased wandered at times. - When deceased got sick the vomit was of a green colour. She also had cramp and her feet were swollen. The convulsion commenced with a drawing of the mouth and the eyes twitching. When it had passed she went into a deep sleep. I administered her food and medicine. I obtained the latter from Mr Neville. I don't know what it was composed of. I did not think the illness of deceased was at any time dangerous. I did not think it my duty to send for a doctor because I was working under Mr Neville, and he was working under Dr Wallace, of London. I was satisfied with going on in this way without having any further advice. - By the Foreman: As a trained nurse it was not my duty to suggest that medical advice should be obtained. I was working under Mr Neville. - The Foreman: I hope I shall never have a trained nurse for me. - By a Juror: I have been a nurse about five years, but have always previously worked under a doctor. - By the Foreman: I am certain the deceased had everything she wanted. - By the Coroner: Animal food was denied deceased. I considered that animal food was not required. I only had to administer the diet. I did not exercise my judgment as a nurse, but gave the diet as prescribed by Mr Neville. - By Mr Churchward: I have never treated any case in a similar manner. - By the Coroner: When I left I did not consider MRS LEVER to be in a dying condition. I was called away to other duties, but expected to return. Deceased frequently complained of thirst, but not so much during the last few days of her life. Deceased told me that she did not expect to get better. - By Mr Kellock: The other nurse arrived before I left and took over the charge of the patient. After my experience as a nurse, I think that she had all she required and received every care and attention. I kept notes and the results every week were communicated to Mr Wallace, by Mr Neville. I never knew medicine act so quickly as that given by Mr Neville. The medicine always stopped sickness. I was trained in the Royal Infirmary, Derby. I have not had any experience in homoeopathy . It was only the care and attention the deceased had that kept her alive so long. - Isabel Patterson, of St. Raphael's Home, Torquay, said: I came to Mr Neville's house to nurse MRS LEVER on Saturday, the 15th January. I found deceased very ill. On the Monday night I administered food every hour. She took gruel, lemonade and barley-water. I only gave the patent medicine once and that was on Sunday. Mr Neville gave her medicine on the Monday night. She had two doses between 5.30 on Monday evening and 7 o'clock on the Tuesday morning that she died. Just before 2 a.m. the deceased vomited, after which she had a fit. The vomit was white. The convulsions began shortly after 2 o'clock and lasted until death. Deceased was quite sensible previous to the convulsion. Mr Neville and MR LEVER were in the room at the time of death. - By the Foreman: I did not think it my duty to send for medical assistance although I knew deceased was dying. If I had been working under a doctor I should have suggested it. - By Mr Kellock: If a medical man had been called in he could not have done any good. I was perfectly satisfied with the treatment deceased was receiving. - Elizabeth Jane Durrant of Sharpham, said: I last saw the deceased alive on the 25th and 26th December. I stayed with her all night on these two occasions. I did not see any doctor in attendance. - Mr Joseph Wallace, of London, said: I reside at No. 1 Oxford Mansion, Oxford Circus, London, and am a medical scientist. I have no qualifications of a regular character, thank God! I was on a visit to a patient in Torquay on the 16th of November, when Mr Neville waited on me and drove me to Stoke Gabriel to see the deceased, about whom I had been giving advice through the post. I saw deceased in bed. She was very much prostrated and could not move herself. Her general condition was a tendency to dropsy. Her legs were beginning to swell. Her pulse was 1124; she was exceedingly weak and irregular; respiration, 24; temperature 99.5. She could not retain food in her stomach, every teaspoonful was brought up. I brought down malt extract, which enabled her to retain food. I expressed an opinion that there was no chance of recovery. I said she would last ten days under ordinary circumstances, but with careful nursing two months. She was suffering from disease of the liver and cancerous habit of the body generally. I saw her again the next day and prescribed for her. I have not seen her since. I prescribed two patent medicines, No. 2 and No. 3, which did her a great deal of good. I have only on one occasion sent medicines. Mr Neville being a pupil of mine could prepare them himself. - By the Foreman: I knew deceased was married, but never told her husband that I was not a qualified medical man. - Witness continuing: I did not think it was necessary. - Admiral Dawkins: I have strong suspicions that you have been a doctor, and I feel very strongly on the matter. - Mr Neville: I told the husband who Mr Wallace was. - Mr Rendell: You were introduced to me by Mr Neville as Dr Wallace. - The Witness: That might have been so. - Dr Haynes, before being sworn, asked whether it would not be better to postpone his evidence, as he had sent a portion of the remains to London for analysis. - The Coroner: We will go as far as we can now. - Dr Haynes then went on to say that in conjunction with Dr Fraser he had made a post mortem examination of the body. The condition of the remains was such as to enable him to obtain sufficient information for his purpose and there was no danger to the public from the exhumation of the body. The body was much stiffened. It was fairly nourished; but all the extremities tended to emaciation. The eyes were staring and the pupils had a tendency to dilation. There was a good deal of haemorrhage from the mouth and nose. There were no marks of violence to be found. The brain was healthy, and weighed 42 ozs. On opening the thorax he found the left lung was much congested and the pleura adhered to the chest, showing that deceased had suffered from pleurisy at some former period. The lungs floated in water and were filled with dark fluid blood. The right lung was very similar to the left, only not so much congested and did not emit so much fluid blood. On opening the pericardium he found the heart and valves to be healthy. The liver weighed 2 lb. 3oz., and contained dark fluid blood. The liver was soft; it never had been hard, and the organ was not diseased. On opening the stomach he found that it contained no fluid or solid substance whatever. The inner surface of the stomach was stained with an inky-looking matter. - The Coroner: Did you find sufficient to account for death? - Dr Haynes: I would refrain from answering that question without pressure. - Mr Kellock: What portion of the remains have you sent to the analyst? - Dr Haynes: The stomach and a portion of the liver. In consequence of the appearance of the stomach and the congestion of the internal organs, I thought, in conjunction with the medical man assisting me, that it was advisable to send it to London to be analysed; and I must ask, on account of the time the analysis will take, to have the Inquest adjourned until February 7th. - By Mr Kellock: Who is the analyst, Dr Haynes? - Dr Haynes: Dr Blyth, the Analyst for the County of Devon. - The Coroner then adjourned the Inquest to the 7th February, at noon. - Previous to closing the Inquiry, the Coroner called upon Mr George Rossiter, Registrar of Births and Deaths for the sub-district of Stoke Gabriel, Marldon and Paignton, and questioned him as to his duties. Mr hacker said it was the duty of Mr Rossiter to have reported the case to him immediately, if a doctor's certificate was not presented, on application for a register of death. - Mr Rossiter acknowledged that he had erred, and said when he gave Mr Neville the register he told him that he (Mr Rossiter) was not justified in doing so, and it was then returned to him. - Mr Kellock said more would be heard about the matter, and he thought Mr Rossiter should attend the adjourned Inquiry and bring his books with him and give an explanation of the whole affair. - The Coroner said Mr Rossiter had given his explanation and he felt sure he would not make another mistake of the same kind. He must refer Mr Kellock to Mr Rossiter if he required any further information on the matter. - The proceedings, which lasted 5 ½ hours then terminated

CHULMLEIGH - A Child Burnt To Death. - Mr J. F. Bromham held an Inquest at Chulmleigh on Thursday on the body of MARY ANN CROOK, about five years of age, daughter of JOHN CROOK, labourer, who died from burns received on the 24th inst. It appeared that during the absence of the mother, an elder sister, aged about 10 years, who was left in charge of the deceased, had occasion to go to the back of the house. By some means or other the clothes of the deceased must have almost immediately caught fire, as she was seen running enveloped in flames towards South Week Farm. Mrs Fewins and JOHN CROOK (her father) soon extinguished the fire and sent for Dr Pollard, who on his arrival found that the child had received very serious burns about the body and legs. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." At the suggestion of the Foreman, Mr T. Baker, the Jury handed their fees to the parents of the deceased.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 2 February 1887
BRADNINCH - The Shocking Fatality Near Hele. - At the Bradninch Guildhall yesterday, Mr F. Burrow, District Coroner, held an Inquest concerning the death of TOM EWINGS, a farm lad, who was run over and killed on the Great Western Railway, near Hele, by the "Zulu" express on Saturday. Mr C. T. Cuming was Foreman of the Jury. The evidence bore out the facts already reported and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

EXETER - The Fatality At The Devon And Exeter Hospital. - The Deputy Coroner for the District, Mr H. W. Gould, held an Inquest at the Valiant Soldier Inn, Magdalen-street, yesterday afternoon, touching the death of ESTHER GRACE EVELEIGH, a domestic servant, who it will be remembered was found lying on the ground at the back of the Hospital on Saturday morning. - Christiana Sellick, wife of a labourer, residing at Aylesbeare, identified the body as that of her sister, who was 30 years of age and unmarried. - Mr A. G. Blomfield, House Surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, stated that the deceased was admitted into the Institution on the 20th January, and was under the care of Mr Domville for a small ulcer on the leg. She was perfectly rational and witness had no reason to suppose that her mind was in any way affected. Deceased was under treatment for ten days, and on Friday she was told that she would soon be able to go home. About 9.30 on Saturday morning witness was called to the back of the Hospital, where he found deceased lying unconscious on the ground underneath a window of the ward in which she had been a patient. On examining her he found that the left shoulder, elbow and fore arm were broken. She was also suffering from shock, from which she died about noon the same day. The height from the ground to the window was 44 ft. Witness here stated that deceased had received two letters, but on a search being made after the deceased was picked up only one letter could be found. - This the Coroner perused and he informed the Jury that it was from a fellow-servant at Woodbury Salterton, and in no way led up to the cause of death. - Eliza Daniells, head nurse in the ward, said that she last saw the deceased about 8.45 on Saturday morning. She was helping to wash up the breakfast things and appeared in her usual health. Shortly before 9 o'clock witness saw that the window was shut, but at 9.25 discovered it open. Contrary to instructions the patients would sometimes open the window for the purpose of looking out. Witness did not see the deceased leave the ward. - Albert Sellick, a labourer, of Cardiff, deposed that up to the 1st of September last he resided at Colaton Raleigh. He had "kept company" with the deceased for about three years. His letters to the deceased contained nothing that would lead her to commit a rash act. - The Rev. Henry Powell, Vicar of Woodbury Salterton, said the deceased had been in his employ as cook for about three and a half years. It was understood that she would return to his service after she left the Hospital. - The Coroner having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and recommended that something should be placed outside the windows to prevent a similar fatality. - The House Surgeon (Mr Blomfield) promised to forward the recommendation to the Committee. - The Jury did not consider there was the least blame attached to any of the officials at the Institution.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 4 February 1887
EXETER - The Accident At The Salvation Army Temple. - At an Inquest held yesterday by Mr Coroner Hooper on the body of GEORGE FREDERICK BARRETT, a writer and grainer, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The evidence showed that deceased was at work at the Salvation Army Temple, Exeter, on Tuesday, and that while standing on a plank the ladder, to which one end of it was fastened, slipped away and precipitated BARRETT to the ground, with the result that his skull was fractured.

CHRISTOW - Fatal Accident At Doddiscombsleigh. - Mr Henry W. Gould, Deputy County Coroner, held an Inquiry yesterday at Teign House, Christow, touching the death of GEORGE TOWNSEND, aged 66, lately residing at Christow, who was killed in a disused mine level at Mistleighs Copse, Doddiscombsleigh, on Monday last. James Clarke stated that he and the deceased had been engaged for a week previous in cleaning out the level in search of samples of manganese. They were continuing their operations on Monday when a part of the top of the level gave in and buried the deceased. Witness went for assistance and returned to where the deceased was, when he was discovered that he was quite dead. Every precaution had been taken, by means of supports, to prevent the top falling in. - John Wright corroborated. - James Hampton deposed that the deceased was employed by him, and was a very competent man. - Mr Fenwick, Surgeon, deposed to the injuries the deceased had received and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 8 February 1887
STOKE GABRIEL - The Stoke Gabriel Burial Scandal. The Adjourned inquest And Verdict. - The adjourned Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of SELINA LEVER, 46, housekeeper to the Rev. J. H. N. Russell, Vicar of Stoke Gabriel, took place yesterday at the Sunday Schools. Great interest was again manifested in the proceedings and the Court was crowded throughout the day by people interested in the case from all parts of the district. Some very curious revelations were made. Mr Kellock, of Totnes, was present, and represented the Vicar. - The Coroner, in opening the Inquest said: Gentlemen of the Jury, this Inquest was adjourned on the last occasion, you will remember, for the purposes of an analysis being made of the internal organs of the deceased's body. Dr Haynes, who conducted the post mortem examination, stated on the last occasion that, although the organs were greatly congested, he did not like to take upon himself the responsibility of giving his opinion as to the cause of death without an analysis being made. I have received a communication from Dr Blyth, (the County Analyst), who states that he has found nothing which would lead to a supposition that deceased came to her death by poison or in any but a natural way. Under these circumstances I shall call Dr Haynes to continue his evidence, and give us what in his opinion is the cause of death. - Dr Haynes, having had his evidence read over to him, was asked by the Coroner if he could give an opinion as to the cause of death. He answered that from the symptoms narrated in evidence and from the post mortem examination, the cause of death was kidney disease (or Bright's disease) followed by uraemic convulsions. He should say the disease had been of long standing, for several months or more. Dr Haynes then described the symptoms of cancer of the liver and detailed the treatment he would adopt, and what diet should be given. - The Coroner asked if it would be right to take a patient suffering from the kidney disease out of doors. - Dr Haynes: It would be most injudicious, especially if the weather was cold. If a person suffering from Bright's disease did not receive proper treatment it would certainly tend to cause death. A moderate use of stimulants would not have been proper excepting that the patient had been addicted to drink. He should then have ordered light wine. - Dr Fraser said he resided in Totnes. He had assisted in the post mortem examination on the 27th January. He had heard the evidence of Dr Haynes and confirmed it in every way. From the symptoms he had heard, it pointed to the frequent termination of Bright's disease in uraemic convulsions. He agreed with the last witness in his description of the chief symptoms of cancer of the liver. He was of opinion that there had been no disease of the liver whatever. He believed the presence of two large gall stones accounted for the paroxysms of pain in the region of the liver. - By Mr Kellock: I agree with the evidence given with regard to the deceased's liver. Congestion is not actually disease. The weight of the liver was slightly diminished. The liver was very congested and I attribute this to the convulsion. It was not a long-standing congestion. I did not examine the liver with the microscope. There was not sufficient time. If a medical man had said two years before that deceased was suffering from liver disease I should have expected it to have been clearly visible to the naked eye. As a rule cirrhosis of the liver terminates fatally. - By the Coroner: There is a great difference between cirrhosis and cancer of the liver. Cancer of the liver is a secondary disorder. - John Currie, Surgeon, practising at Totnes, said he had known the deceased for the past five years. He was the Medical-officer for the parish of Stoke Gabriel. He last saw her on August 1886, when he attended to her husband. He last attended deceased in April 1884. She was suffering from a liver attack at that time. It was apparently a temporary attack of congestion of the liver, and only lasted four days. He did not believe she was ever a healthy woman. Her daughter died from consumption. Deceased had an unhealthy habit of body. He agreed with the other doctors as to the cause of death after hearing the result of the post mortem examination. - By a Juror: I thought the woman's illness at the time I visited her was due to alcoholic indulgences. - By Mr Kellock: When I visited deceased's husband she did not complain. There has been ample cause of death shown, and I don't think life could have been prolonged. The diet given was perfectly right. - By the Foreman: I should have continued animal food and stimulants if the patient could have taken them. I don't consider eggs and milk vegetable diet. - At this point in the proceedings the Vicar and Mr Wallace were seen to smile and the Foreman observing this said he considered the matter a very serious one and he was sorry to see persons treating it in such a light manner. - By Mr Churchward: If the patient could have taken meat I should have given it her, but I should have withheld alcohol. - By Mr Kellock: If the smell of meat made her sick I should have kept it from her. - Admiral Dawkins: The smell of meat makes me sick, but when it is served up it has a different effect. (Laughter.) - The Rev. John Henry Napper Neville said: I am the Vicar of Stoke Gabriel. I have known the deceased since 1876. She entered my employment in March 1882. When she first came she was in a very delicate state of health. - Mr Neville at this point commenced to read a long statement, being the history of the deceased, but was stopped by the Coroner. - Mr Neville: You wish to suppress this? - The Coroner: No; you had better put it in your pocket. - The witness, proceeding with his evidence, said: I understood the deceased to be suffering from kidney disease. Occasionally she was so ill that she could not perform her work. I have never seen the deceased under the influence of strong drink. I believe during her last illness she took brandy. - I never saw her in the least affected by drink. Her disease led me to believe that she did drink; but I never found that it was really the case. Deceased through constant sickness had to take to her bed on the 9th September. I believe as a remedy she took alcohol, which had an effect upon her health and not on her mind. Mr Wallace was the only gentleman who attended deceased. I used to give her medicine, but the method of treatment was Mr Wallace's. Mr Wallace saw deceased on the 16th November and then said her life was flickering. I did not treat deceased for cancer of the liver. I acted on what I was told, and formed my own opinion. I acted under the instructions of Mr Wallace with regard to the medicines. The medicines were patent ones and numbered 2 and 3 and I on one occasion gave her No. 1. I prepared some of the medicines myself and others were prepared by Mr Wallace. I know what they are composed of, but I do not feel at liberty to say what a specific medicine is composed of. I knew what I was administering. - The Coroner: I must know what they were composed of, as it is most important. - The Witness: I obtained them from Mr Wallace, and it is for him to tell you what they were composed. - The Coroner: You are bound to tell me. - Mr Neville: You gave me the right of giving evidence or not, and now you bind me to answer a question. - I gave you an opportunity of refraining from criminating yourself. - Mr Neville: I object to that term. - The Foreman: I believe the Coroner wishes to find out what proportion of the different drugs you used. - Mr Neville: Is the Foreman of the Jury the Coroner's interpreter. - The Coroner: You ought not to make such remarks; you ought to know better. - The witness, continuing: I was five years being educated as a doctor and I formed my own opinions of deceased. I was perfectly contented to leave the deceased under the care of Mr Wallace, who was in London and I have every reason to believe that he prolonged her life. I gave the deceased No. 1 medicine four times during the last six weeks of her life. On one occasion I gave two drops and on others three and five drops. I gave the five drops about 10 or 12 hours before death. During the last convulsion the deceased was utterly incapable of taking anything. I constantly expected deceased's death. I was quite satisfied to let the deceased goon without having any medical advice. I did feel that it was necessary. I have never seen life so prolonged. I acquainted MR LEVER with the fact that Mr Wallace was not a qualified medical-man two years ago. I administered medicine myself on the night of deceased's death. Whenever any medicine but Nos. 2 and 3 was required I administered it myself. - The medicines were produced and Mr Neville said:- They are Nos. 1, 2 and 3 and a gargle for the throat. I believe the medicine produced is taken from the same bottle as that given to deceased on the night of her death. The diet, as stated by Nurse Penzer is that advocated by Mr Wallace. Deceased took brandy about four weeks before her death. It was taken against my wishes. - Dr Wallace, recalled, said: I considered this case to be under my care. Mr Neville was working under me. I did not feel satisfied to take the responsibility of the case without seeing the deceased; but I thoroughly trusted in Mr Neville's ability to deal with the case. I could not leave my business in London to come down and see the deceased and as she was suffering from organic disease I knew there was no cure. I sent the ingredients to Mr Neville from which the prescription had to be made up, and I gave him directions as to when to use the medicines. A medical man would give me a 100 guinea fee to know the use of these medicines. I gave No. 2 medicine for the general cancerous condition of the body and No. 3 for nervous prostration. I communicated with Mr Neville about a week before death. No. 21 medicine was for restlessness and inability to sleep. - The Coroner: What are the ingredients of No. 1? - Witness: I decline to answer that. My fee is £100, and my pupils are under a penalty of £10,000 if they divulge it. - The Coroner: What does would cause death? - Witness: My wife has taken 2oz., and has experienced numbness in her extremities, but that is all. - The Coroner: That does not answer my question. - Witness: I cannot answer it. I will take a drachm of No. 1 now and take half-ounce of the others if you like. - By the Foreman: I had a suspicion that the deceased indulged in strong drink. I did not know that she was not a vegetarian. I always thought she was. I detected that she took strong drink from the symptoms. - By Mr Kellock: I was informed that the deceased was living under the same system I was, viz., animal products and farinaceous food. - Ellen Ball, recalled, said: I may have made some statements after the last Inquiry to Mrs Soper and Mrs Callard. I may have told them if I told the truth I may have said a good deal more. I meant about some drink I took to deceased. I took in two or three three-pennyworths of port wine unknown to anyone. I gave it to deceased in small quantities. It was a month before she died. I took it in because she asked me for it. I did not swear on the last occasion that I never took in drink. - The Coroner: You did, and I shall know how to deal with your evidence. - Witness: I don't know anything more about it. - The Coroner: I can't believe you. - Witness: No one knew that I took her the drink and I paid for it myself. - The Coroner: What did you say to Mrs Cree about this matter? - Witness: I don't know that I told her anything. - The Coroner: Did you tell her that deceased did not have proper nourishment? - Witness: I did not say such a thing. I deny it. - The Coroner: I think it is hard and very prejudicial to the case that people should make such statements out of Court and refuse to make them in my presence. - By the Foreman: Mr Neville had found drink in the deceased's room. - LEVER, recalled said: My wife was 46, and I have been married 29 years. - The Coroner: You said 30 in your depositions. - Witness: We were married when she was between 17 and 18 years of age. I did not find out that Mr Wallace was not a qualified man until after my wife's death. I was perfectly satisfied to let my wife goon under Mr Neville's care without calling in further medical assistance. No one ever told me that Mr Wallace was a qualified man. I found out afterwards that he was not a qualified man by reason of having some trouble over obtaining the certificate of death. - By Mr Kellock: I cannot say that I was not told that Mr Wallace was not a qualified man. - Mr Studdy said he should like to have the matter of the certificate of death cleared up and the Coroner called Mr Rossiter, the registrar of births and deaths at Paignton, who admitted that he had committed an error in not reporting the case before giving the certificate of death. Mr Neville threatened him with proceedings if he did not give the register. - Mr Kellock said the public had been led to believe that Mr Rossiter knew of some suspicious circumstance connected with the death, but this was not the case. - The Coroner, in summing up, said he did not propose to go through the evidence in detail, for after the attention the Jury had given to the case it was not at all necessary. He, however , felt it his duty to say a word of warning to the Jury - that any rumours they had heard outside the Court should not influence them in any way. They should neither be biased by any feelings of friendship or ill-will towards any of the parties connected with the case. It was hardly necessary for him to mention this; but he did so because we were all liable to be influenced by feelings of this kind. On looking at the evidence it seemed to him that the principal question for them to decide was, did the deceased comer by her death in a natural way, or was her death caused or accelerated by means of ignorance or neglect on the part of any persons. The law upon this had been laid down by Mr Justice Stephen, who said if a person undertook any duty for the preservation of life and by his gross neglect or otherwise in any way causes or accelerates the death of a person he is guilty of manslaughter. It would be for them to consider whether upon the evidence of any of the witnesses any person had taken upon himself the medical care of the deceased. He should leave it to them to look at the evidence, which was fresh in their minds, to decide this question. They had heard the evidence of Mr Wallace and Mr Neville and it would be for the Jury to judge whether either of these two gentlemen took upon themselves the medical care of the deceased. Then there was the evidence of the two doctors who made the post mortem examination and that of the nurses, who said they were acting under Mr Neville's advice. They would have to consider the question very carefully before they felt they were warranted in saying that the death of the deceased was caused or accelerated by the treatment she received. In the case of Rex v. Webb the rule of law was thus laid down by Lord Lyndhurst - "In these cases there is no difference between a licensed physician or surgeon and a person acting as physician or surgeon without license. In either case, if a party having a competent degree of skill and knowledge makes an accidental mistake in his treatment of a patient through which mistake death ensues he is not thereby guilty of manslaughter; but if where proper medical assistance can be had a person totally ignorant of the science of medicine takes upon himself to administer a violent and dangerous remedy to one labouring under disease, and death ensues in consequence of that dangerous remedy having been so administered, then he is guilty of manslaughter." Mr Justice Parke coincided with this view and in the case of Rex v. Williamson said, on the one hand we must be careful and most anxious to prevent people from tampering with physic, so as to trifle with the life of man; and on the other we must take care not to charge criminally a person who is of general skill because he has been unfortunate in a particular case. It is God that gives; man only administers medicine; and the medicine that the most skilful may administer may not be productive of the expected effect; but it would be a dreadful thing if a man were to be called in question criminally whenever he happened to miscarry in his practice. I call a man acting wickedly when he is grossly ignorant and yet affects to cure people; or when he is grossly inattentive to their safety. If you think there was gross ignorance or scandalous inattention he is guilty." He should now leave them to consider the case for themselves as he believed he had put the law very clearly before them. - The Jury then retired, and after being absent for an hour and a quarter returned into Court. The Foreman said: Mr Coroner, we have arrived at the conclusion that the deceased came to her death by Natural Causes, but wish to add a rider that blame was attached to Mr Neville for not calling in medical attendance and we pass a vote of censure on the nurses for not suggesting this course to him. - The hearing of the case lasted from noon until 5.40 p.m.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 10 February 1887
TEIGNMOUTH - The Boating Fatality In The Teign. - An Inquest was held at the Queen's Hotel, Teignmouth yesterday, before Mr Sydney Hacker, Coroner, on the body of JAMES BROWNING, fisherman, whose body was picked up near the Pier on Monday morning. - ELIZA BROWNING, widow of the deceased, living at Shaldon, identified the body as that of her husband. She last saw him alive on Tuesday afternoon about 20 minutes to 3, when he left home to go to Captain Warneford's to work; but as he had not returned when it was late she went in search of him and was informed that he had gone to Teignmouth to get some oysters for Captain Warneford. She got someone to row her across to Teignmouth, when she went to the King William Inn, and the landlord informed her that the deceased had left there about 9 o'clock. She then returned home again, but could not find her husband or his boat anywhere on the beach, and she wandered about until daylight and then raised an alarm that her husband had not returned home for the night. - William Foster, fisherman, residing at Teignmouth, said he was with the deceased about 8 o'clock on Tuesday, January 11th. They had a glass of beer each at the King William Inn, and then went straight down to the boat. He (witness) took the mast down and saw the deceased row out clear of all the boats. The Coroner: Was he worse for the drink he had? - Witness said he had had a drop too much, but he had seen him worse. - Q.: What did you unshift the mast for? - Because I thought it dangerous. - Q.: Will you say he was drunk? - No, sir. It was very rough outside the Bar, but not in the harbour, for it had been blowing a gale all the day. - The Coroner: Was he in an unfit state to go over alone? - No, sir. - Other evidence having been given, the Jury returned a verdict "That deceased was Accidentally Drowned," and gave their fees to the widow.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 12 February 1887
SEATON AND BEER - Alleged Manslaughter At Seaton. - At the Axminster Police-court on Thursday, before J. I. Scarbrough, Esq., THOMAS SNELL, 40, labourer, of Seaton, was charged by P.S. Pike with the manslaughter of his wife MARY ANN SNELL, aged 42. - Sergeant Pike said he only proposed that day to call sufficient evidence to justify a remand. - Dr Evans, of Seaton was called, and stated that he had been attending the deceased for the last two and a half years for softening of the brain. She became worse on Sunday last, was unconscious and died on Tuesday evening. The actual cause of death was softening of the brain, but it was accelerated by the want or proper care and nourishment. - Prisoner was then formally remanded. - An Inquest was held at the Pole Arms Hotel, Seaton, on Wednesday, when a verdict of "Manslaughter" was returned. - It appears that the deceased's body was in a very emaciated condition and showed that she had been much neglected. Dr Evans has made a post mortem examination, the result of which will be made known at the Court on Tuesday next. At the Coroner's Inquiry the evidence of the neighbours showed that the poor woman had been grossly neglected and often left in the house without food.

EXETER - The Accident At Mr Sampson's Brickyard. - Mr Coroner Hooper held an Inquest at the Topsham Inn, South-street, yesterday morning, on the body of CHARLES GEORGE, 39 years of age, a labourer, lately in the employ of Mr Sampson of Polsloe-road. ELIZABETH GEORGE, residing in Silver-lane, Blackboy-road, identified the body of the deceased as that of her late husband. Witness said that she saw deceased at the Hospital after he had met with the accident, and he complained of great pain in his chest and back, caused through some clay falling on him. - Charles Ewens, a labourer, deposed that he was at work with the deceased in Mr Sampson's Brickyard on Wednesday. Deceased and witness were engaged in digging clay from a bank, when a portion of it - that nearest where deceased was working - gave way. Deceased noticed that the clay was falling, but was not able to get away before it fell upon him and buried him up to the waist. Witness called for assistance and deceased was removed as quickly as possible to the Devon and Exeter Hospital. - Mr Sampson, who was present during the Inquiry, with the permission of the Coroner put several questions to the witness, who, in reply, said that neither he nor the deceased noticed any danger, or else they would have taken steps to prevent such a calamity. - In reply to a Juror, witness explained that deceased and himself were not undermining the bank, but were digging some clay which was at the foot of it. It was the "face" of the bank which gave way. Witness thought the accident was due to the frost. - Mr A. G. Blomfield, House Surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, said that he admitted the deceased to the Hospital shortly before 1 o'clock on Wednesday. He was suffering from shock, had a wound on the left elbow, and several ribs of the left side were broken. With the exception of these the external injuries were slight. Deceased died on Thursday morning from internal bleeding. Witness, at the request of the Coroner, made a post mortem examination, and had found that the right portion of the collar-bone was broken away from the joint of the breast bone. Four ribs on the left side were broken, and the lung n the same side was wounded. Deceased had also sustained injuries about the abdomen. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - Mr Sampson spoke in high terms of the deceased, and said that he had no doubt that the accident was due to the frost.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 16 February 1887
EXETER - Suicide Of An Ex-Steeplechase Rider. - An Inquest was held at the New London Inn Hotel, yesterday, before the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, touching the death of ALFRED BARRETT. - The deceased, who was formerly a steeplechase rider, was a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, and for the last six months had been engaged as assistant to Mr J. P. Heath, M.R.C.V.S., 47 Southernhay. The deceased was about thirty years of age, and belonged to a family residing at Dartington, near Totnes. - Mr Heath in his evidence, said he had known the deceased's family for forty years. Deceased was a most valuable, hardworking assistant, but was rather deaf, and at times absent-minded. The deceased had suffered from severe concussion of the brain, consequent on spills and horses falling on him, and the least drink upset him. In consequence, Mr Heath advised him to become a total abstainer. On Sunday the deceased visited his brother at Newton Abbot, and returned the same night. On the Monday he was unwell and unable to eat. He, however, fulfilled his duties during that day, and on the following morning, when Mr Heath was sent for from Haldon. As he was about to leave his house he saw the deceased apparently in a fit. The thought struck him that fits might be the result of the concussion deceased had received, and he at once loosened deceased's clothes, bathed his face with water and also sent for a medical man. Mr Heath also fancied that the deceased's breath smelt of prussic acid, and noticed that the bottle containing that acid had been taken down, but he could not say if any had been taken, as the deceased had used the bottle on the previous day to poison a dog. Mr Kempe, Surgeon, was promptly in attendance, but in spite of the exertions used by him and Mr Heath, deceased expired within a very few minutes. - The medical evidence showed that death was caused by swallowing prussic acid. There was no evidence to show what had induced the deceased to take it and the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 23 February 1887
EXETER - Sudden Death. - A labourer named SAMUEL WARREN, residing in Stevens'-place, West-street, and in the employ of Mr Court, wood and coal dealer, was found dead about 9 o'clock yesterday morning at his employer's stores in Bartholomew-street. It seems that the deceased, who left home shortly before 9 o'clock in his usual health, was found by Mr Court lying on his face in the store dead. - At the Inquest subsequently held on the body the medical evidence went to show that death resulted from natural causes, probably heart disease and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 25 February 1887
MORETONHAMPSTEAD - An Inquest was held at the Golden Lion Inn, Moretonhampstead, yesterday by Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, on the body of GEORGE STEVENS, who was found dead on Tuesday evening in a small stream of water near the Rectory. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was recorded.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 1 March 1887
BARNSTAPLE - Sudden Death At Barnstaple. - An Inquest was held last evening, at the Union Inn, Derby, Barnstaple, before Mr R. I. Bencraft, Coroner, on the body of ELIZABETH CANN, who died suddenly in the street on Saturday night. Selina Bracher stated that she had lived with the deceased in Princess-street for the past two months. Deceased was 66 years of age and got her living by mangling clothes. She used to complain of heart-disease and often lost her breath. Witness and deceased left the house with a basket of clothes. After they had gone a little distance deceased cried out, "Oh, my head!" and fell against the wall and then dropped on her knees and witness believed she then died. Mr Clarke and Mr John Perkins went to the assistance of deceased and helped to carry the body home. Mr Perkins said deceased's sister died in the street and her mother, he had heard, was found dead in bed. Witness had told him she knew she should die suddenly. - Mr J. W. L. Ware, Surgeon, said death had ensued before he arrived and his pinion was that death was caused by syncope, or failure of the heart's action. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 2 March 1887
CLYST HYDON - Shocking Death Of A Child. - An Inquest was held on Monday by Mr C. E. Cox, at the Clysthydon Schoolroom, on the body of a boy named JOHN FARLEY, aged 6 years, who died from injuries he received from a traction-engine. From the evidence it appeared that the child got up behind a traction-engine while it was in motion and falling off the wheels passed over him, crushing him in a fearful manner. The little fellow was taken to the house of Dr Saunders, but died soon after reaching there.

BRIXHAM - Improper Feeding Of Infants. - An Inquest was held at Brixham last night, before Mr Sydney Hacker, on the body of ALICE MAUD SHERIFF, an infant two months old, who died suddenly in her mother's arms on Saturday. - The medical evidence showed that the child was a very small one, the organs were healthy, and that death had resulted from convulsions, brought on, in the opinion of Dr Heyward, through improper feeding. - The mother, in her evidence, stated that the child had been fed upon bread and biscuits; it was fed, in fact, the same as any of the other members of the family. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," but added a rider to the effect that they considered feeding infants upon such food as biscuits dangerous to the health of children and they strongly condemned the action of the mother in doing so.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 3 March 1887
EXETER - Yesterday the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest at the Crown and Sceptre Inn, Newtown, relative to the death of an infant named EDITH NICHOLLS, aged 18 months, daughter of FREDERICK NICHOLLS, a foreman in the employ of the London and South Western Railway Company and living in John-street. Evidence was adduced to the effect that the child on Monday afternoon suddenly became ill and in a very few minutes expired. Dr Perkins was communicated with, and he was of opinion that the child died from convulsions, from which it had previously suffered. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

BRENDON - Suicide at Brendon. - On Sunday an old woman named MARY LOCK committed suicide by hanging herself in a barn while the family were at church. The Inquest was held on Tuesday and a verdict was returned to the effect that deceased committed the act while in a fit of Temporary Insanity. MRS LOCK was 90 years of age.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 4 March 1887
BIDEFORD - Fatal Accident At Bideford. - On Saturday morning an accident happened to a young man named LEWIS BEER, and it terminated fatally on Sunday. It appears that BEER was working on the new buildings in Abbotsham-road on Saturday and between 10 and 11 o'clock he and a man named Found went up to the first floor for scaffolding; but as it was not there they went up to the second floor. As BEER was walking across the floor he stepped on a short plank and fell down between the joists, a distance of about 12 ft. Found hurried down and saw BEER lying insensible. He was taken to the Dispensary, where it was found he was suffering from a fracture of the skull and he died without recovering consciousness. At the Inquest yesterday the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 7 March 1887
DARTMOUTH - A Farmer Found Drowned At Dartmouth. - Mr R. W. Prideaux (Borough Coroner) held an Inquest on Saturday in the Dartmouth Guildhall on the body of MR WILLIAM CUTMORE BAKER, of East Down Farm, near Strete, whose body was found on Saturday close to the Dartmouth pontoon belonging to the Great Western Railway Company. It will be remembered that the deceased was last seen alive n the 24th January and no trace of him could be found until Saturday, when, owing to a strong smell arising in the vicinity of the pontoon, the body was discovered by two men named Roper and Radford. - Mr Richard Stranger, a distant relation, identified the body, and said that on the 24th January last deceased dined at his house and afterwards they went to the King's Arms Hotel. Witness and deceased remained there some time, and on leaving, about six o'clock, witness went out at the front door, while deceased went out at the side one and witness never saw him alive afterwards. - Emily Preece, a charwoman, stated that on the 24th January she remembered deceased being in the King's Arms and opened the side-door for him and noticed that he went towards the river. She said to him, "You are going the wrong way," and deceased replied, "I'm all right; I'm going home. Where's my mate?" She replied, pointing towards Mr Humphrey's, chemist. He said, "I'll soon catch him up." This was the last time deceased was seen alive. - Frederick Roper and George Radford proved finding the body. - The Coroner summed up the evidence and the Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 8 March 1887
EAST BUDLEIGH - The Suicide Of An Exeter Solicitor. The Inquest. - An Inquest was held at the Rolle Arms Hotel, Budleigh Salterton, yesterday, by Mr C. E. Cox, Deputy Coroner, touching the death of MR ALBERT FAIRWEATHER LUKE, a solicitor practising at Exeter and residing with his family at Exmouth. The deceased had been missing since Thursday and his dead body was found on Saturday afternoon in a plantation on Knowle-hill. The circumstances attending the finding of the body were reported in our issue of Monday, and from what was then discovered there was little doubt that the deceased committed suicide and the Inquiry of yesterday fully confirmed that view, while it was also shown that the unfortunate gentleman was mentally distressed. - The first witness called was MR GEORGE A. LUKE, eldest son of the deceased, who said his father was 43 on his last birthday, and was a solicitor practising at Exeter. He last saw his father alive on Thursday morning about 10 minutes to 9 o'clock. He resided with his father at Exmouth, and believed his father left the house about 2 in the afternoon. His father had been very depressed in spirits of late; but had not said anything to indicate very great depression, nor said anything to lead them to suppose that he contemplated suicide. He had made the casual remark some ten days ago that rather than be so worried it would be better to jump off the pier. No notice was taken of that, as he was in such good spirits, and no special care was taken of him at that time. Witness returned from Exeter that evening at 9 o'clock and on finding that his father had not returned home he and some friends went along the beach with a lantern to try and find him, knowing that he had intended going that way. They searched until 1 o'clock in the morning and then returned. The next day they went out in search again, first inspecting the coast and afterwards the neighbourhood. They did not discover the body that day. On Saturday the search was resumed. Witness and a friend named Mallett were returning between 1 and 2 o'clock and between Admiral May's house and Budleigh Salterton met a man who told them the body had been found. Witness subsequently saw the body of his father in Admiral May's coach-house. - The witness here utterly broke down and the Coroner said he thought it unnecessary to ask him any more questions, a view in which the Jury coincided. - Miss Catherine Woodhouse, residing in Budleigh Salterton, stated that she saw the deceased about a quarter-past 3 o'clock on Thursday afternoon on Knowle-hill. She was driving up the hill and the deceased was coming down. She noticed that the deceased looked odd and frightened. - Mr C. H. Thornton, chemist, Exmouth, said he knew the deceased by sight, and last saw him on Thursday afternoon, between 2 and 3 o'clock. Deceased was smoking and asked for some chloroform to clean his pipe. Witness said, "I suppose you know the nature of it?" Deceased replied, Oh, yes." Witness said, "What quantity do you want?" and he said, "Oh, I want a bottle of it, if you please." Witness took up a half-ounce bottle and said, "Will that be sufficient?" Deceased replied, "No; I would rather have a larger bottle. I use a good deal of it for cleaning my pipes; it evaporates very quickly." Witness said, "You will be very careful of it," and deceased replied, "Oh, yes; I will be very careful." Witness labelled the bottle "Chloroform" and "Poison." He knew the deceased as a customer and there was nothing strange in his appearance when he entered the shop. As a chemist he knew the nature of chloroform. He should not serve children with it; but he should grown-up persons, though he should always take the precaution to ask for what purpose they required it. He had no reason to suppose the deceased intended to commit suicide, nor did he know that deceased had tried to get chloroform at another shop and been refused. - By a Juryman: The quantity supplied was not unusual, and it was quite enough to destroy life. - By another Juryman: There would be no difficulty in a person getting a quantity of chloroform from different shops. There was no limit as to the quantity they might sell. The deceased when told it was dangerous, said, "What, that small quantity?" and witness said, "Yes, even half of it." Deceased had one ounce. - Thomas Rough, a youth, 16 years of age, said he was employed to look after Admiral May's dogs. On the 5th March he was walking through the woods with the dogs when he found the body of the deceased. The deceased was lying on his right side and his hat was about 3ft. off. The body was lying in the plantation above Knowle House and about 400 yards from Ting Tong pit. Witness did not go up to the body, but immediately went back and told his father. He had heard the deceased was missing and thought the body he saw must be his. - Mr Moone, the deceased's medical attendant, at this stage asked the Coroner to take his evidence, as he desired to catch a train back. - The Coroner said he had only power to call one medical witness unless the Jury wished it and one had been called in. - Mr Moone intimated that he was the best person to give evidence as to the deceased's state of mind. - The Coroner said he thought they had enough evidence to that effect, and left it to the Jury to say whether they would have Mr Moone's evidence or not. - The Jury intimated that they did not think it necessary to take that gentleman's evidence and accordingly he withdrew. - James Taylor said he was informed by the last witness of the discovery of the body and went up with others and removed the body. He then saw the larger of the two bottles produced. On the Sunday he went up to the spot again and then found a second bottle (the one procured from Mr Thornton), and the stopper of the first bottle. The first bottle was also labelled "Chloroform." - A letter which was found on deceased was put in, but the Coroner said he did not propose to read it as it was calculated to pain the relatives. It clearly pointed to the fact that the deceased intended to put an end to himself. It did not bear on the deceased's state of mind, but there was plenty of evidence of that. - Dr Walter said he was called to Admiral May's coach-house on Saturday about 1 o'clock and there saw the body of the deceased, which he had removed to the Rolle Arms Hotel. That morning he made a post mortem examination of the body. He found the deceased's face and mouth marked as with fluid chloroform. He also found chloroform in the stomach. He could not say that sufficient chloroform had been swallowed to cause death. Some might have been inhaled, and the deceased might have fallen on his face and have got his mouth and nose stopped by leaves. There were no marks of violence or struggling, and he had no doubt in his mind that death was due to chloroform. - The Coroner said the case was a very painful one, and it was a question whether, if they thought the deceased put an end to his life, he was in his right mind when he did so. He had not thought it necessary to take the evidence of the medical man who had known the deceased for years, as he thought there was sufficient evidence to show that deceased was depressed in mind. - The Jury unanimously returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased committed Suicide while of Unsound Mind, and through the Coroner expressed their sympathy with MR LUKE'S family. - Mr H. W. Hooper, Exeter, thanked the Jury on behalf of the family for their sympathy.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 10 March 1887
TEIGNMOUTH - An Inquest was held at the Queen's Hotel last evening, before Mr Sydney Hacker, District Coroner, on the body of THOMAS MORGAN, aged 59, whose body was found on the sands on Monday. Mr King was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - ELIZABETH MORGAN, 19 Bitton-street, identified the body as that of her brother, THOMAS MORGAN, who resided with her. He was a single man - a shipwright by trade, but he had not done any work for some time on account of ill-health. Dr Lake had been attending him for some time for weakness of the nerves and told him to keep out in the air. The deceased had been ill for about five months and would give way to low spirits at times, but on Monday she noticed nothing unusual. She was of opinion that the deceased became suddenly giddy and fell over the sea-wall. She could account in no other way for his death, for he had no occasion to trouble about work. - T. H. Aggett, porter at the Teignmouth Railway Station, said that he was on the railway near the sea-wall on Tuesday morning, about 7 o'clock, when he saw a man on the breakwater looking over the sea. On his returning to the Station the man was walking on the sea-wall, but he did not see him fall or go over. Witness saw the deceased when dead lying about 40 yds. from where he first saw him. - William Soper, a boy aged 13, said he and his brother were going up the sea wall on Tuesday morning and observed a man struggling in the water with his hat in his hand. Witness called out to a man who was passing, but he took no notice and passed on. Witness said the man was alive and he told his brother to stay there while he went and told someone, which he did. - Evidence as to the finding of the body was then given as already reported, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

EXETER - A Child Burnt To Death In Exeter. - A shocking accident happened on Tuesday afternoon to a child named THOMAS SANDERS, aged two years and a half, the son of MR E. SANDERS, residing in Victoria-street, Pennsylvania. The child, it appears, had been unwell for some time, and was confined to his bedroom. Yesterday afternoon MRS SANDERS left the bedroom for the purpose of getting some coals for the fire, and on her return she discovered that the child had taken a box of matches and had by some means unfortunately set fire to the bedding and his night-shirt. The mother at once endeavoured to extinguish the flames and succeeded in doing so in a short space of time, but not before her son had been terribly burned about the head and body. Medical aid was called in and everything possible was done to alleviate the sufferings of the poor child, who, however, succumbed to the severe injuries he had received a few hours later. An Inquest was held yesterday afternoon at Mr Pope's Victoria Inn, Pennsylvania, by Mr Coroner Hooper, relative to the death of THOMAS SANDERS, two years and a-half old, the son of MR E. SANDERS, residing in Victoria-street, who was burned to death on Tuesday morning through playing with matches. - The evidence given bore out the facts which we published yesterday morning, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 11 March 1887
DALWOOD - The Deputy Coroner for the District, Mr C. E. Cox, held an Inquiry at the house of MR GEORGE GLADE, Holly Bottom, Dalwood, relative to the death of CHARLOTTE ANNIE GLADE, aged 8 years. The mother of the deceased stated that about a month since her daughter came home and complained of having been knocked on and at each side of the head by the Mistress at the Board School (Mrs Sarah Bennett). the girl seemed to dread the thoughts of going to school the following day; but, nevertheless, she was sent on that and three or four subsequent days, at the same time complaining of pains in her head. Dr Hodges ordered the deceased to be put into a bath and confined to her bed. This gentleman was in attendance up to the time of death. During the last two or three days of her illness the deceased never spoke, but her actions indicated that she was suffering greatly in the head. - EVA GLADE and two other female scholars gave evidence to the effect that about a month previously they saw Mrs Bennett inflict one blow on the top of the deceased's head and one on each side, with the "flat " of her hand. The deceased cried, but the blows were not violent. - Dr Hodges said he was first of opinion that the girl was suffering from congestion of the brain, and he prescribed for her accordingly. On making a post mortem examination he discovered about five ounces of water on the brain, which in itself was sufficient to cause death. - In answer to the Coroner, Dr Hodges said that the blows alleged to have been sustained by the deceased would have had the effect of accelerating death; but, as he previously stated, the water on the brain would have proved fatal. - Mrs Sarah Bennett, schoolmistress, emphatically denied having struck the deceased on the head on the occasion referred to by the previous witnesses, or at any time during the past twelve months. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned. - Dr Hodges was of opinion that the water on the brain had been accumulating for over three months.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 14 March 1887
EAST BUDLEIGH - The Sudden Death At Budleigh Salterton. - An Inquest was held at the Rolle Arms Hotel, Budleigh Salterton, on Saturday afternoon, on the body of HERBERT BOLT, aged 53, whose sudden death on the previous day we recorded in our issue of Saturday. Mr R. Neave was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The body was identified by his employer, Mr Benjamin Kerslake, coal merchant. Mrs Knott, the proprietress of Mount View Villa, and two domestic servants were called as witnesses. In accordance with the medical evidence given by Mr Mercer, Surgeon, a verdict was returned that "The deceased died from failure of the heart's action." - The deceased having left a widow and nine children, the Jury requested that their fees might be handed over for the benefit of the family. - Mr Henry Owd, of this town, has also opened a subscription for the widow and orphans.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 17 March 1887
BARNSTAPLE - Sudden Death At Barnstaple. - An Inquest was held yesterday afternoon at the Union Workhouse, before Mr R. I. Bencraft, Borough Coroner, and a Jury, of which Mr John Kingdon was Foreman, on the body of RICHARD BELT , who was admitted to the Union on the previous Thursday suffering from a cutaneous disease. - James Rattenbury, a wardsman of the House, stated that he attended deceased until Saturday, when on bathing him, previous to his removal to the fever ward, deceased said he was then felling very well. - Henry Loosemore, another wardsman, who carried meals to the deceased, said he had seen him alive on Tuesday, when they had a friendly chat, during which deceased said he was all right now, and there was not much amiss with him when he came in the House. Deceased lit his pipe, and they continued in conversation until about 8 p.m., when witness made up a good fire in his room and bade him "Good night." Deceased ate a hearty supper before witness left. As they were separating deceased said, "I don't think you will see me again tomorrow morning," which remark sounded strange to witness taken in conjunction with is previously-expressed determination of leaving the House soon. On taking up his breakfast yesterday morning, at 7.30, he found him dead in bed. There was no external evidence to show that he had died other than a painless and quiet death. - Dr John Wood Cook, the Medical-officer of the Union, deposed that he first saw deceased on Thursday, when he gave him an order for admission to the Union. He saw him the following day, and prescribed certain remedies which he detailed. He had examined the body carefully and had come to the conclusion that the deceased had died from heart disease, there being no outward indication of struggling or any suspicious circumstances. - The Coroner commented upon the entire absence of any facts which would lead them to suppose deceased had died from other than natural causes, and after a short discussion a verdict was returned, "That deceased died some time during the night from Natural Causes, probably heart disease."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 21 March 1887
TIVERTON - The Suicide Of A Gentleman Near Tiverton. - The circumstances attending the death of MR GEORGE CARPENTER ANDERSON, of Bolham House, near Tiverton, who, as reported in Saturday's Gazette, shot himself in the head during the early hours of Friday morning, were on Saturday the subject of an Inquest held by Mr Lewis Mackenzie, the Tiverton Borough Coroner, at the residence of the deceased gentleman. The following composed the Jury:- Colonel Squirl (Foreman); General Roome, Colonels Greatwood and Kekewich, Messrs. T. Hume, T. O. Lazenby, T. Anstey, J. Barne, J. Grason, G. K. Beedell, H. B. Pidsley, T. B. Patterson, and T. B. Haydon. - The Jury viewed the body as it lay on a couch in the smoking-room, where the lamentable act was committed. Except about the right ear, through which the pistol had evidently been fired, there were no observable marks of injury, the bullet not having passed out again. - The first witness was CAPTAIN HENRY ARCHIBALD ANDERSON, of the Royal Fusiliers, who said deceased was his brother, and 32 years of age. Witness arrived at Bolham House about 11 p.m. last Thursday. Deceased met him at the door. Witness was served with sandwiches in the smoking-room and he conversed there for about an hour and a -half with deceased and MRS ANDERSON. Shortly after MRS ANDERSON had retired witness wished his brother "good night" and went to his bedroom, which adjoining the smoking-room. It was then about 12.30. Deceased presently came in to him and began telling him how he would like to go away for a change. Witness said he would discuss that in the morning, and having got into bed he again wished deceased "good night." A few minutes later witness heard a sharp sound and simultaneously MRS ANDERSON came to his door and said, "Did you hear a shot?" Witness hurried into the smoking-room, and there saw his brother sitting in the arm-chair at the writing-table, his arms hanging down and his head hanging over the chair back. Blood was pouring from the right ear and on the carpet by the writing-table witness noticed a pistol. He laid deceased on the floor and found his pulse was still beating. He then summoned the servants and told the housekeeper to stay with deceased and the nurse to look after MRS ANDERSON. Meanwhile he dressed and went into Tiverton for Dr Smith, the family attendant, with whom he returned shortly before 2 a.m., when Dr Smith pronounced deceased to be dead. Deceased kept his sporting weapons in the smoking-room, and the pistol, which belonged to witness, was under a glass case. Deceased had not been in the habit of carrying such a weapon and witness was not aware that this one was in his possession. Deceased's health had varied of late years; he was at times queer in his manner and conversation, and not, in witness's opinion, always responsible for his actions, yet there was nothing to indicate suicidal intention. Deceased had remarked, as people sometimes did, that life was not worth living, but witness had never taken that seriously. On Thursday evening he seemed in lower spirits, bored and anxious to get away from the neighbourhood. - Mr J. Sidney Smith, M.R.C.S., deceased's medical attendant during the past four years, deposed to being called to Bolham House by the last witness, as stated, and finding deceased lying dead. He had no doubt that death resulted from the discharge of the pistol into the right ear. The pistol, a small pocket weapon by Colt, was here produced by Superintendent Crabb, and examined. The empty cartridge was still remaining in the barrel. During the past four years deceased had had attacks of dipsomania, which rendered him not responsible for his actions. He had been under the care of male nurses at such times. The last attack occurred about a month ago. Witness had approached him as to the advisability of his being temporary confined in a dipsomatic retreat, but he would not hear of it. Witness last saw him alive on Wednesday, when he had been calmer for some days. Deceased conversed about various matters and seemed cheerful, but complained of pains in his head and about his heart. Witness did not think that deceased knew right from wrong when he shot himself; it was possible for him to have sudden, though momentary, attacks, during which he could not be held responsible for his actions. Having been somewhat better lately, the deceased had been unattended, in fact he had been out and into Tiverton during the past few days. - The Coroner very briefly touched upon the evidence and pointed out that if they believed deceased was sane at the time the Jury must find a verdict of Felo de Se, if not, one of Suicide during Temporary Insanity. - The Jury at once adopted the last named alternative and the Inquiry closed with an expression of thanks from the Coroner for their attendance, together with sorrow as regarded the sad occasion for calling them together.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 22 March 1887
EXETER - Another Child Burnt To Death At Exeter. - At the Topsham Inn, Exeter, yesterday afternoon, the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest relative to the death of WILLIAM FREDERICK HARRIS, aged six weeks, who succumbed on Saturday to the effects of burns received that morning. - EMILY HARRIS, wife of THOMAS HARRIS, a mason's labourer, of 39 Coombe-street, who identified the body as that of her son, stated that about 9 o'clock on the morning in question she was in the kitchen, which was not on the ground floor, in company with her three children, whose respective ages were 11, 5 and 3 years. The eldest, ELIZABETH, was seated on a chair in front of the fire with the deceased on her lap. It was an open grate and a coal fire. Witness had occasion to go into the bedroom, situate on the same floor and in a few minutes she heard ELIZABETH exclaim, "Quick, mother, quick; the baby's bed-gown is on fire." - Witness took the baby from the girl and pulled off its nightdress and in doing so she severely burnt her hand. She let the deceased fall as a result of her hands being burnt. There was not much fire in the grate. The girl ELIZABETH was accustomed to nursing the deceased. - ELIZABETH HARRIS was then called and stated that she put the poker in the fir to make it burn. When red hot it fell out of the grate on to the baby's nightdress. She called to her mother three or four times. - By the Jury: She was close to the fire, sitting on a rocking-chair. Her frock caught on fire as well. - Mr A. G. Blomfield, House Surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, into which Institution the deceased was admitted, said the child was severely burnt about the head, body and limbs and died from shock two hours after admission. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 23 March 1887
ASHBURTON - An Inquest was held on Monday evening, before Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, relative to the death of JOHN HAMLYN, 77 years of age, whose body was discovered lying on the floor of the room where he lived, in Browse's-buildings, on Saturday morning. Dr Fraser stated that he had made a post mortem examination, and he considered the cause of death was apoplexy. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 25 March 1887
CHAGFORD - An Inquest has been held at the Globe Hotel, before Mr Burd, Coroner, on the body of HARRY YEO, a child 1 year and 7 months old, who died last week. The child from birth had been in the charge of his grandmother, and medical evidence showed that death resulted from natural causes. A verdict was accordingly returned to that effect.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 29 March 1887
YARCOMBE - Fatal Accident At Yarcombe. - MR LAMBERT WILLIAM DOBLE, of North Common, Yarcombe, son of MR JOHN DOBLE, farmer, met with his death in a very sad manner. He was proceeding on Saturday in a cart heavily laden with furniture, &c., and coming to a steep hill he attempted to get off the vehicle. In doing so it is supposed that his foot caught in something, and he fell under the wheel. When found he was dead. An Inquest was held at Yarcombe yesterday before the Coroner, Mr Cox; the Jury being unanimous in returning a verdict of "Accidental Death." Much sympathy is felt for the young man's family in their bereavement.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 30 March 1887
CREDITON - An Inquest was held on the body of JOHN PERKINS, who died early on Monday yesterday afternoon, at the King's Arms Inn, before Mr Gould, Deputy Coroner. The medical evidence showed that the deceased had died of syncope and a verdict was returned accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 31 March 1887
BRAUNTON - The Fatal Accident To A Waggoner. - An Inquest was held yesterday by the Deputy Coroner, Dr E. Slade-King, at the Black Horse Inn, Braunton, North Devon, on the body of JOHN BOSSENCE, a carter, aged 38, who was accidentally killed the previous day. - Robert Pickard, of Barnstaple, foreman carter at the Great Western Railway, identified the body as that of JOHN BOSSENCE. Deceased had been assisting him in loading furniture at Mr Alford's farm the previous day. The furniture was being removed to Thorverton and while coming down over the new road from Mr Alford's house he saw the deceased walk forward to the front of the van. Witness was riding behind and in a few moments he felt a jerk. He thought it was a stone, but he immediately saw the deceased lying on his side in the road. He should think the weight of the van and furniture was about three tons. They had no skid or chain to check the van going down hill. Three horses were pulling the van. The hill was not a stiff one. Witness saw deceased turn over, and he ran to him and said "What's the matter?" and he replied, "Oh, I'm finished for." About ten minutes or a quarter of an hour afterwards deceased expired. That was about twenty minutes to 4 o'clock. Medical assistance was sent for and Mr Lane, of Braunton, was quickly in attendance. - James Huxtable, a farm labourer, said he was driving the horses in the van at the time of the accident. As they were going along the road he saw the deceased sit up on the shaft of the waggon. The horses were going at a gentle trot and about five or ten minutes afterwards he felt a jerk, looked round and missed the deceased. Witness was standing on the shafts the other side. There was no place provided for the driver or for the other men to sit. Witness had never driven a furniture van before, and he was told that the place to stand was on the shafts. He did not think it was necessary n the occasion to have used a skid. He could give no reason for the deceased falling off. Deceased was sober at the time. Witness pulled up the horses, put on the safety chain, went back to the body of the deceased, and found the last witness holding the deceased in his arms. - Mr Pickard stated that there was a place behind the van for the assistants to ride upon if they wished. - Mr S. O. Lane, Surgeon, said when he arrived on the spot deceased was covered over with straw. He found that he was dead and had the body removed to the Mortuary at Braunton. He there examined him and fund a large lacerated wound across the lower part of the body. All the principal blood vessels were torn through and the left hip bone was completely crushed. The injury was such as would be caused by a wheel or a heavy weight passing over the body, and he believed that death was caused in that way. - P.S. Rich deposed to searching deceased and finding nothing on him but a pocket-knife. The Deputy Coroner having summed up, and touched upon the sad end of the deceased, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 7 April 1887
EXETER - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest held yesterday, at the Valiant Soldier Inn, before Mr Coroner Hooper, on the body of a woman named SUSAN KERSLAKE, who died at the Devon and Exeter Hospital from the effects of a broken thigh.

TEIGNMOUTH - An Inquest was held at Powderham-terrace last evening by Mr Sydney Hacker to Inquire into the death of MRS J. ASHWORTH, a visitor, age 24 years, who died suddenly. The medical evidence was to the effect that death resulted from apoplexy, and a verdict in accordance was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 11 April 1887
PAIGNTON - A Boy Drowned At Paignton. - A little boy named WILLIAM HUXHAM, son of GEORGE DENBOW HUXHAM, mason, of Paignton, was drowned on Good Friday afternoon while walking along the Redcliff Tower footpath. An Inquest was held on Saturday evening at the Polsham Arms by Mr Sydney Hacker. Mr R. S. Cooksley was Foreman of the Jury. - AMELIA HUXHAM, aunt of the deceased, identified the body. - Susan Ann Battershall, 11 years of age, said that on Good Friday afternoon she was on Preston Sands, near the rocks, playing with the deceased and several other children. He left her to go home about 3 o'clock by the Redcliff Footpath way. Soon afterwards she heard him crying, when she told him to come back and go home through the lane. Deceased said that he did not know that way and walked on the path. Shortly after she saw him in the water, which was very rough and close up to the wall. She tried to pull him out, but was unable to do so on account of the rough state of the water. - GEORGE DENBOW HUXHAM, deceased's father, proved finding the body. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," with the following rider: - "The Jury strongly recommend to the Paignton Local Board that a rail be erected round the Redcliff Footpath for the protection of the public, as they consider it a most dangerous place, more especially for children.

BARNSTAPLE - Fatal Accident At Barnstaple. - On Saturday the Borough Coroner, R. I. Bencraft, Esq., held an Inquest at the Masons' Arms, Hardaway Head, touching the death of CHARLES SMITH, an old man, who died the previous day from the result of an accident. Mr J. Baker was Foreman of the Jury. - Fanny Hunt, with whom deceased lodged, said that on Thursday deceased had tea downstairs with her about 5 o'clock. Shortly afterwards he proceeded to go upstairs and took in his hand a cup of cocoa. Just as he reached the top of the stairs, she heard him cry out, "Oh!" and he fell back down over the stairs, head foremost. She picked him up and saw he had a large wound on the top of his head. She sent immediately for Dr Cooper, and deceased was removed upstairs. He recovered consciousness about two hours after. He died on Friday morning. Deceased was perfectly sober at the time of the accident. - Mr W. Cooper said he visited deceased on Thursday and found him lying on his back at the foot of the stairs, his head being supported by a woman. He examined him and found he had a lacerated wound on his skull, about 4 inches long, which witness bound up. Deceased was quite unconscious. He directed him to be put to bed and left word that he (witness) was to be informed how deceased was at 9 o'clock the same evening. At this time he was informed that he was better. On Friday morning he was sent for again and on arrival he found deceased had expired. Death was caused by concussion of the brain, the result of the fall. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

TIVERTON - On Saturday afternoon Mr L. Mackenzie, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at the Workhouse concerning the death on Thursday of GEORGE ELLIS, aged 40, a native of Tiverton, who had been an inmate of the Institution since December 16th, the date of his last admission. The evidence of Mr J. Mills (Master of the House), of George Quick (gardener to Mr W. W. Martin) and of Mr H. C. Davis (Surgeon-assistant to Dr W. R. Haydon, the Union Medical-officer) was taken. Deceased was wardsman over the boys in the House and on Monday, being a respectable, trustworthy man, he was sent in charge of a party of them to Mr Martin's farm at Tidcombe, where, according to previous arrangement, they gave some assistance in potato planting by way of exercise and recreation. Deceased joined in the work voluntarily, but shortly after 2 p.m. was seized with an attack of heart disease, from which he had previously suffered. He sat down and remarked to Quick that he did not think he should do any more, and that he had heart disease and kidney disease. He subsequently walked a few yards towards where his coat was lying and then sat down again, frothed somewhat at the mouth, and in two or three minutes expired. The body was taken to the Workhouse and there seen by Mr Davis, who now certified that death was due to syncope through failure of the heart's action. He had never treated deceased professionally beyond giving him on one occasion a bottle of cough mixture. - The Master said that, though not admitted to the house as an able-bodied man, deceased had never complained of illness, nor had he been under medical treatment. The Jury at once returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TIVERTON - On Saturday morning WALTER FORWARD, a man aged between 40 and 50, died suddenly at his house in Kiddle's-court. Until a fortnight or three weeks ago he had been employed as a mason by Messrs. Ford and Son. During the past week or ten days he had been indisposed, but was not professionally attended. It is stated that he complained of feeling bad in his throat and that on Friday he remained in bed and had poultices applied to him and other remedies. On Saturday morning his wife fancied there was something wrong and she called in a neighbour named William Woodman, who on going to deceased found he was dead. An Inquest is to be held today at the Infirmary.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 12 April 1887
TIVERTON - Sudden Death At Tiverton. Death Amid Squalor. - Mr L. Mackenzie, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at the Infirmary yesterday concerning the sudden death (reported in yesterday's Gazette) of WALTER FORWARD, aged 46, of Kiddle's-court. - MRS FORWARD, wife of deceased, said he had always enjoyed good health until Thursday when he complained of being ill. She procured for him several noggins of brandy, which, together with several cups of tea, he drank. He did not, however, eat anything. He remained in bed during Friday, and when witness retired to rest he was apparently asleep. In the morning, when she awoke, she thought deceased was dead and she called in a neighbour named William Woodman, who found that her suspicion was correct. - William Woodman, shoemaker, said he found the deceased lying in bed "two-double" on his right side. Witness, from his knowledge of deceased, could not say he was a sober man; he, of course, liked a drop now and then like most working-men. Deceased and his wife did not live happily together. - Mr R. B. Cullin deposed to being instructed by the Coroner to make a post mortem examination. He did so at the Infirmary, as he could not do so at the house because of the very dirty state it was in. The witness went on to give details of the state of the body and internal organs, and said he was satisfied that death resulted from apoplexy. - The Coroner, in briefly addressing the Jury, expressed regret that in the nineteenth century such an insanitary condition of things as had been shown to exist at the house of the deceased should be permissible in their midst. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 13 April 1887
LAPFORD - Sudden Death At Lapford. - An Inquest was held at Lapford yesterday by Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, on the body of JOHN ELLIS, a retired farmer. It appeared from the evidence that the deceased, who lived alone, was last seen alive by Mrs N. T. Down, a neighbour, on the morning of Friday. She went to his house at 12.30 and found him in the kitchen lying on the floor with one of his hands in the fire, very much charred. Mr Tucker, Surgeon, who was in the village at the time, was called in, and pronounced life to be extinct. He now stated that there were no injuries to the body other than those caused by the burning and he also gave the opinion that death was due to apoplexy. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Thursday 14 April 1887 TEIGNMOUTH - Mr Sydney Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of ROBERT HINDOM, at the Queen's Hotel, yesterday morning. The body was found on Monday by a man named Knapman, a stone-cutter, residing at Shaldon, jammed between rocks near Labrador. The Inquest was adjourned until this morning for the purpose of hearing the evidence of a man named Kernick, residing at Dawlish, who, it is said, saw the deceased at Dawlish about 6 o'clock in the evening of the 22nd of March. Two of the Jurymen were fined 10s. by the Coroner for being late.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 16 April 1887
EXETER - Buried Alive At Exeter. - Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquest at the Topsham Inn, South-street, yesterday, relative to the death of JOHN JAMES, 28, labourer, of 2 Mermaid-yard, Sun-street, in the employ of Mr Gibson, builder, which (as was reported in yesterday's Gazette) took place under very painful circumstances on Thursday. - JANE JAMES identified the body as that of her late husband, who went to his work shortly before 6 on Thursday morning. About 1 o'clock she went to Pennsylvania, where her husband was at work, with his dinner, and on the way she met four men who told her that the deceased had met with an accident and had been taken to the Hospital. She went at once to the Hospital where she saw her husband in the dead-house. - James Bennett, labourer, who witnessed the accident, said the deceased was excavating in a trench about 5ft 6in. in depth, which was intended for a drain. About 11.30 when deceased was using a shovel, a mass of earth fell, burying the deceased, except for his head. When extricated the poor man was in an upright position, supported by the side of the trench. The earth was "shillet." The trench had been "shoved" during the Easter holidays; but the props had since been removed, so that the work might be performed with greater ease. - By a Juror: The trench was 2ft. 6in. in width. - George Gale, who was also employed at the same work, said he took away the "shoves" on his own responsibility, and his fellow-workmen did not object to his removing them. - By the Jury: It took half-an-hour to release the deceased. - Mr Blomfield, House Surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, said that when admitted the deceased was quite dead and cold. His right leg was broken and the body bore many dark marks resembling bruises. Blood was flowing from both ears. The appearances of the body were those of suffocation. - The foreman of the work said when he left the men, about 10 minutes previously, a part of the "shoving" was up and it was improper for Gale to have removed it. Witness was not aware that the whole of the buttress had been removed until after JAMES was killed. Immediately after the deceased was buried witness asked who had shifted the barrier, but got no reply until the afternoon, when he told Gale that it was a wrong thing to do. - The Jury commented strongly on the action of Gale in removing the buttress, especially as the depth of the trench was being increased, and considered that the foreman should have had more control over his men; and in returning, after a private deliberation, a verdict of "Accidental Death," expressed the opinion that Mr Gibson should employ competent men as foremen of such works whose instructions would be acted upon.

BROADCLYST - The Railway Fatality At Broadclyst. A Foot-Bridge Recommended. - Last evening, at the Alexandra Hotel, near the Broadclyst Railway-Station, H. W. Gould, Esq., Deputy Coroner for the District, empanelled a Jury, of which Mr Worth was Foreman, to investigate the circumstances attending the death of JAMES BRADFORD, aged 21 and son of the late Assistant-Overseer, who was frightfully mutilated by a goods train the previous day. - The deceased, who was placed in the porters' room, was not recognisable. - MR WILLIAM BRADFORD, schoolmaster of Bloxham, identified the body as that of his brother, JAMES. He last saw the deceased in the booking-office. - Henry King, a signalman at the Station, deposed that on the departure of the down passenger train - immediately the guard's van at the rear had passed the foot-crossing - he saw the deceased make two jumps, the second leap bringing him on to the up-line, by which way he intended leaving the Station. Before he could get on to the up-platform, however, the deceased was struck by the engine of a fast goods train from Exeter, which is due to pass the Station at 11.25. Witness immediately went to the spot, but only to find the poor fellow lying in the four-foot way of the up-line quite dead, the whole of the train having passed over him. - Replying to the Coroner, witness said he was not aware of any prohibition against visitors to the Station crossing the metals by the level crossing. - Alfred Cann, engine-driver, said he was driving the 11 a.m. fast goods train from Exeter to Templecombe. Seeing the passenger train leaving the platform he sounded his whistle before entering the Station, as a warning to the officials. When about halfway through the Station, witness saw the deceased jump in front of his engine, but as he was only about three yards from him it was impossible to pull up. His train was running 30 miles an hour - the usual speed. - Mr George Webb, Stationmaster, said he had no rules prohibiting persons from crossing the metals and it was not the express duty of any particular official to warn the public against approaching trains. Passengers booking for the up-trains, if they did not utilise the level-crossing, would have to go round the road and over the public bridge. - The Jury were of opinion that from where the deceased was standing, the up line was hidden from, view by the down train. - Mr James Somer, Surgeon, Broadclyst, described the condition of the body. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the evidence pointed conclusively that the deceased met his death in the manner described. They had been told that it was customary for visitors to the Station to cross the line - there being no prohibition against their doing so - and the deceased was, therefore, perfectly right in what he did. He did not think it fair to passengers that they should be exposed to the risk, which they evidently were at present. Whether there should be a ticket-office on both sides of the Station, or whether a foot-bridge should be erected, was for the Jury to consider, and recommend accordingly. - The Jury were unanimously of opinion that the deceased came to his death by Accident. - The Foreman remarked that the whole of the Jury expressed their opinion that a foot-bridge was essential, and that a recommendation to that effect should be forwarded to the S.W.R. Company.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 18 April 1887
EXETER - On Saturday the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest at the Globe Inn, Newtown, on the body of JOHN MCDERMOTT, a pensioner, and retired sergeant-major of the 4th (Militia) Battalion Devonshire Regiment, whose sudden death on Friday was recorded in Saturday's Gazette. Deceased was 68 years of age and resided in Albert-street. On Friday morning about 10.30 his wife noticed that he was unwell and he complained of a cold and a pain in his chest. Some brandy was administered to him and upon subsequently going to his room to apply some oil to his chest his daughter discovered that he was dead. The evidence of Mr Perkins, Surgeon, of Sidwell-street, was to the effect that death was occasioned in all probability from the bursting of a blood-vessel internally. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned by the Jury.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 20 April 1887
EXETER - The Sad Death Of A Bailiff At Exminster. - Yesterday an Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier Inn, Exeter, by the Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, on the body of GEORGE WOOLAS, who died in the Hospital from injuries received at the late fire at Exminster. THOMAS WOOLAS, coachman to the Hon. Stephen Lawley, residing at Spurfield, Exminster, said his father was 54 years of age and a farm bailiff in the service of Mr Lawley. On Good Friday Spurfield was burnt. - P.C. Pike said he was present at the fire. Deceased was burnt by falling thatch. Witness took him to the house of a Mrs Clarke, and his burns were dressed by a Mrs Pullin and others with lime-water and linseed oil. The medical men at the Asylum - Drs. Saunders and Clapp - were called and by their advice deceased was removed to the Hospital. - The Hon. S. W. Lawley said after the fire he saw the deceased at the cottage where, he had been removed by the last witness. He then told him that he had gone down into the underground cellar to see to the pumping of water for the use of the engines and while there the cornice fell in large masses and cut off his retreat. He found that the only way of getting out was to fight his way through, which he did, and in doing so received severe burns. - Mr A. G. Blomfield, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said he found the deceased was severely burnt about the face, neck, both arms and both legs. He died from exhaustion in the Hospital on Monday. - In summing up, the Coroner commented on the kindness shown the deceased during the time he was in the Hospital by his employer, who had visited him night and day. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 22 April 1887
TIVERTON - A Man Killed On The Railway. - Between eight and nine a.m. on Saturday a groom to Mr Coulson, of Lythecourt, was passing over the railway-bridge near his master's residence, when he saw the dead body of a labourer named JOHN TURNER lying on the line below at right angles to the meals, the feet against the masonry of the arch and the head close to the nearest rail. A large portion of the head had been cut off obliquely by a passing train and the brains were scattered along the permanent way for a distance of more than 20 yards. The groom came into Tiverton and informed Superintendent Crabb, who at once went out and had the body removed to the deceased's cottage, which is very close to the spot. Meanwhile the railway people were communicated with, and an examination of the engines working the Exe Valley trains resulted in the discovery of some blood-stains on a guard-iron of one of them, from which it was inferred that the man was killed by the lat train from Dulverton on Friday evening. So far as could be seen without undressing the body there was no injury other than the fracture of the skull, which is contrary to what might be expected if while trespassing on the line he had got in the way of the train accidentally. He is, moreover, said to have been addicted to drink, and to have been peculiar at times in his speech and conduct in a way that renders it not altogether unlikely that he intentionally placed himself in danger. Deceased was employed by Mr Greenslade, bailiff to Sir J. Heathcoat Amory, was 27 years of age, and leaves a widow and one child. At one time he worked at Mr Wood's flour-mills at Tiverton. A circumstance that is remarked upon is that neither of the men on the engine of the first train from Exeter noticed the body either on their way to Dulverton or when returning about an hour later. - An Inquest was held when it was proved that the deceased's mind was affected - supposed to be the result of fever caught in India. On Friday night he was excited and had been drinking. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Dead."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 23 April 1887
HONITON - An Inquest was held yesterday, before Mr C. Cox, Deputy Coroner, touching the death of ANNIE GERTRUDE DOBLE, 17 months old, the daughter of a boot fitter. The child was staying with her grandmother, and the mother went to fetch her. While in the house the mother took some boiling broth from the fire and poured it into a can, placing it on the table. By some means the child got hold of the can and the scalding liquid fell over her head and chest. Dr Shortridge immediately attended the little sufferer, but the child died a few hours afterwards from the serious injuries she had received. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 6 May 1887
TEIGNMOUTH - On Tuesday morning a serious accident, which terminated fatally, occurred to a young man named THOMAS SCAGELL, about 23 years of age. The deceased, who was employed at the Old Quay by Messrs. G. P. Ward and Co., was on board a vessel named the S. R. & H. for the purpose of helping to load her. SCAGELL was with others looking into the hold of the vessel for the purpose of seeing whether it was clear to receive the cargo, when a bag containing lignite was swung on board. Before the poor fellow had time to move he was swept by the bag into the hold. In his fall, SCAGELL caught the combing of the hatchway, but the force of the blow sent him so far under that he could not retain his hold and he fell a depth of some 11 or 12 feet. SCAGELL was at once conveyed to the Infirmary, but he never spoke after the fall, and died an hour after his admission. The flags were raised half-mast for the deceased, who is much respected, and leaves a widowed mother to mourn her loss. The Inquest on the body of THOMAS SCAGELL, was held on Wednesday, when a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

BARNSTAPLE - Fatal Case Of Burning At Barnstaple. - An Inquest was held yesterday before R. I. Bencraft, Esq., on the body of MARGARET PHILLIPS, an old woman, aged 71, who lost her life by burning. - James Scoins stated that the deceased lived in a house in Clement's-row, Trinity-street. He resided in a tenement in the same house. On Saturday, about eight o'clock at night, he heard deceased screaming. He went to her room and found her sitting in a chair, with her clothes all on fire. She said, "I was frying the supper and the lamp burst and caught my gown on fire." He immediately took off his coat and wrapped it round her and succeeded in extinguishing the flames. Mr Curtis soon afterwards came in and rendered assistance and by the advice of Mr Cook, Surgeon, who was sent for, the deceased was removed to the North Devon Infirmary. - Mr H. H. Lovell. House Surgeon at the Infirmary, said when deceased was brought in she had burns all over her, the legs and thighs being very bad. All her clothes were burnt. Everything necessary was done, but it was a hopeless case from the first and she died on Wednesday from the effects of the burns. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TORQUAY - Fatal Fall Into A Limekiln At Torquay. - Yesterday morning Mr Sidney Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Upton Vale Hotel, touching the death of GEORGE BENTLY, 24, of St. Mary Church, who fell into a limekiln at Upton on Monday, and died on Wednesday afternoon from the injuries he received. It was stated in evidence that no one saw the deceased fall into the kiln, but that he was last seen by one of the quarrymen standing on a low wall. One of the men engaged below the kiln smelt something burning and called to one of his companions to go and see what it was, and when he arrived at the spot BENTLY had managed to crawl out of the kiln, and was lying, quite sensible, on the edge. - Mr Eales, House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he received the deceased into the House at 1 o'clock on Monday afternoon suffering from burns all over the body and limbs. He had several fits during the afternoon. Deceased rallied on Tuesday, but sank again on Wednesday and died during the afternoon. Death, in his opinion, was due to the shock to the system resulting from the burns. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 10 May 1887
EXETER - The Sudden Death In The West Quarter. - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest at the Crown and Sceptre Inn, Iron-bridge, St David's, yesterday afternoon, touching the death of EMMA GEORGINA TAYLOR, who died suddenly while in the West Quarter on Saturday night. - The Jury having viewed the body, the Coroner called EDWIN GEORGE FOURACRE residing at 7 Bouverie-place, Magdalen-road. Deceased was a widow, and was 70 years of age last October. Witness last saw deceased about a quarter to 2 o'clock on Saturday afternoon at her own house, having taken his little boy down to her previous to going away to Dawlish. To all appearances deceased was then in good health. Witness's wife sent for his son about 6 o'clock, and deceased was then playing with him in the green. Witness had been in the habit of sending a dinner to the deceased on Sundays and dispatched the servant with one on Sunday about 1 o'clock. The servant, however, returned with the dinner again, saying that there was no one home. Witness made inquiries as to deceased, but could get no information. Subsequently, in company with Mr Galt, he went to deceased's house, and by means of a ladder looked into the bedroom, but found that she was not there. A Policeman who was on duty near the spot, on being told who they were looking for, informed witness that a woman had dropped down dead in the West Quarter on Saturday night and that the body had been removed to the Mortuary. Witness went to the Guildhall and proceeded, in company with a Constable, to the Mortuary, in the Lower Cemetery, where he identified the body lying there as that of his sister. He was truly sorry to see his sister in such a place. - The Coroner said the difficulty was that the Authorities did not know who she was and where to lay her. - Witness: Quite so; but I think, with the rates and taxes we pay, there should be a decent place where to lay down a Christian in, instead of that cold-blooded place (the Mortuary); I cannot call it anything else. - The Coroner: I quite agree with you; but I think that in the new Municipal Buildings there will be adequate provision made which will meet the exigencies of such cases; at least, I hope so. I sympathise with you very much, and I hope that the matter will be rectified before long. - Witness: I hope it will. - The Coroner: Yes, from what I hear I think it will. - The witness then withdrew. - Jane Connett, shopkeeper, residing in West-street, was the next witness called and she deposed that on Saturday evening the deceased, whom she did not know, came to her shop and asked to be allowed to sit down, as she felt faint. Witness assisted her into the house and gave her a chair. Deceased said she felt ill and wanted to go to her home in Magdalen-road. Witness then asked if she should send for a cab, but deceased made no reply. Witness then procured a glass of water and endeavoured to get her to drink, but failed to do so. Witness then sent for Dr Perkins, of South-street, who arrived shortly afterwards. - In reply to a question from a Juror, witness stated that about twenty minutes elapsed after deceased first entered her shop before Dr Perkins came. - Dr John Perkins, of South-street, stated that he was called between 7 and 8 o'clock on Saturday night to go to West-street to see a person who had been taken ill. He went and found deceased lying on the floor on her back in Mrs Connett's house. On examination he found that she was dead. There were no marks of external violence. The face was very pale and from what he heard from Mrs Connett, and his own observations, he had no doubt that deceased died from syncope and failure of the heart's action. - The Coroner, in summing up, said that the case was a very simple one and a very sad one for MR FOURACRE, who paid the greatest possible attention to his sister. With reference to MR FOURACRE'S remarks as to the Mortuary, he said that it was a comfortless place to lay a body in, but, under the circumstances, he did not know what otherwise could have been done. There was no one who knew the deceased, and he did not know how it could have been arranged in any other way. In the new Municipal buildings he understood that there would be a Mortuary erected and no doubt the cold, earthy appearance of the Mortuary, which MR FOURACRE complained of, would be remedied. At least, he hoped so. It would have been rather unpleasant for Mrs Connett to have had the body in her house. - Mrs Connett said that she could not have allowed the body to remain for very long in the house. As it was, it remained there for two or three hours. - The Coroner said that no doubt Mrs Connett did the best she could. - A Juryman said that he knew for a fact that it would have been impossible for the body to have remained in Mrs Connett's house, because they had no accommodation for it. - The Coroner said he heartily sympathised with MR FOURACRE in the loss which he had sustained by the death of what appeared to him to have been a very fond sister. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes".

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 11 May 1887
EXETER - The Fatal Accident To A Waggoner At Crediton. - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest at the Topsham Inn, South-street, yesterday afternoon, touching the death of ROBERT JOHN SHILSON, a waggoner, who met with an accident near Crediton on Thursday while journeying to Exeter. - ELIZABETH SHILSON, 17 Sidwell-street, the widow, said deceased was a waggoner in the employ of Mr Bastow, corn dealer. He was 30 years of age. About 11 o'clock on Thursday night she was informed by Mr Bastow that her husband had met with an accident and was at the Hospital. Witness went to the Hospital and saw deceased, who said that he was jumping off the shafts when he caught his foot in the reins and fell under the wheels. - Frank Frost, a labourer, said that on Thursday morning he and deceased trucked some straw at St. David's and about half-past 10 proceeded to Helleton Cross, Crediton, to fetch some hay. They loaded the waggon and started on the return journey about half-past 5. Descending a hill between Barnstaple Cross and Crediton, witness stopped the horses for the purpose of putting on the "drag." On returning to the leading horse witness noticed that deceased was not on the shafts where he had seen him standing but a minute or two previously. Witness went behind the waggon and saw deceased lying on the ground. On asking him what was the matter he replied that the wheels had run over him. With the assistance of a man who came along just afterwards deceased was taken to the White Swan Hotel, Crediton. The accident happened about 8 o'clock. It was not dark. Deceased and himself had about two or three quarts of cider and a quart of beer between them during the day. They were not the worse for liquor when the accident occurred. - Mr A. G. Blomfield (House Surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital) said deceased was suffering from a compound fracture of the right arm, and there were bruises over the lower part of the spine. He was very cold and suffering severely from the shock. Deceased hardly rallied at all and died on Sunday morning. - The Coroner, in summing up, said that deceased's death seemed to have been purely accidental and expressed the opinion that the number of hours which deceased was kept at work was much too long. - The Jury concurred in the Coroner's observations. - Mr Bastow, jun., observed that deceased was not kept at work any longer than other men in similar occupations. It was generally arranged, as far as possible, that a man who was sent into the country one day and did not return until late should be kept in the city during the following day and vice versa, so that one day he would, perhaps, get 15 or 16 hours' work and another about nine. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 13 May 1887
PLYMTREE - Sudden Death At Plymtree. - On Tuesday afternoon the Deputy Coroner for the District, Mr C. Cox, of Honiton, held an inquiry at Lower Weaver Farm, Plymtree, into the circumstances attending the death of ELIZABETH TAYLOR LOMMAN, single, aged 36, which took place on Friday night. - Mr C. Pratt, of Payhembury, was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MR THOMAS TAYLOR LOMMAN, of Newton Abbot, said he was the eldest brother of the deceased, who during the greater portion of the past eighteen months had resided with him, and also with her other brother at Teignmouth. She had been suffering from a bad knee and was always in a weak state; but to witness's knowledge she was not subject to fits. The deceased left witness's house at Newton on April 25th to visit her brother at Teignmouth, and on the 27th she came to Plymtree. - MRS ANN LOMMAN, of lower Weaver, deposed that on Friday night, at 25 minutes after 9, the deceased went to bed apparently in her usual health. About 10 o'clock witness heard a crash, but took no notice of it. The following morning, about half-past 6, witness took to the deceased a cup of tea, which she was in the habit of doing. On opening the bedroom door she observed that the deceased was not in bed and exclaimed "You're out of bed," and on looking round the room at the same time she saw deceased lying on the floor upon her face and hands, undressed and ready to get into bed. The deceased was quite dead and cold. - MR JOHN LOMMAN, uncle of the deceased was also called, principally to corroborate the previous evidence. - Dr Saunders of Clysthydon, who made a post mortem examination, was of opinion that death was caused by an apoplectic fit. The deceased had been taking "Syrup of Phosphates," recommended by her medical adviser at Teignmouth and this, Dr Saunders remarked, was a good thing for her in her weak state. - The Jury unanimously concurred in the medical evidence that death was the result of an Apoplectic Fit.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 16 May 1887
ALPHINGTON - Fatal Accident On The Canal Banks. - The Deputy Coroner for the District, Mr H. W. Gould, held an Inquest on Saturday evening at Carpenter's Farm, Alphington, touching the death of WILLIAM JOHN CANDY, a farmer, lately living at Alphington, who was found drowned in the Canal on Friday morning. - Mr F. Loram was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MR CANDY, farmer, of Alphington, identified the body of the deceased as that of his son. Witness last saw him alive about 9 o'clock on Friday morning, a short time previous to deceased leaving the house on horseback to visit, as was his custom, some cattle &c., which he had in fields on the banks of the Canal. Deceased would have to pass through several gates on the banks of the Canal before he could get to his fields. Witness was afraid that deceased in leaning over the horse to unfasten the gate must have over-balanced himself through the horse shying, or some other cause, and have fallen into the water, which was very close to the gate at the spot in question. The deceased, who was 33 years of age, had been a cripple for many years, and the slightest movement on the part of the horse while he was endeavouring to unfasten the gate would have probably thrown him into the water. The animal deceased was riding was much given to shying. - Eliza Lewis, residing at Countess Weir, deposed to seeing deceased riding up the Canal banks on Friday morning about 11 o'clock. Witness had some conversation with him, but did not notice anything unusual in his manner. - Evidence was also given by William Budd, a farm labourer, to the effect that a week previously the deceased had told him that his horse had shied near the spot where the body was found and had nearly thrown him into the water. - Mr Charles Frederick Bailey, Surgeon at Exminster Asylum, deposed that on Friday about half-past 1 o'clock he was rowing in his boat from Countess Weir to Double Locks. About half-way between those two points he saw in the water the body of a man lying face downwards and about four or five yards from the bank. With assistance witness succeeded in taking the body , which proved to be that of the deceased, out of the water. Deceased was dead and in witness's opinion had been so for half an hour. The spot where the body was found was close to a gate. Deceased's horse was feeding near the side of the gate, and his stick was lying on the ground about a yard and a half from the water. - P.C. James Paine having explained of the way in which the gate at the spot in question opened, the Coroner summed up and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The Jury thought that something should be done to prevent a similar calamity occurring in the future, but did not add any rider to their verdict.

EAST STONEHOUSE - The Fatal Explosion On Board A Torpedo-Boat. - A Coroner's Inquiry was opened at the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, on Saturday concerning the deaths of HENRY READING, stoker and FREDERICK PLATT, engine-room artificer, caused by a boiler explosion on torpedo-boat No. 47 on Thursday. After the identification of the bodies the Inquiry was adjourned until June 1st.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 17 May 1887
NEWTON ABBOT - At the Inquest yesterday at Barton on the body of ANN TARR, Dr Steele stated that the cause of death was heart disease, and a verdict was returned accordingly.

ST MARYCHURCH - A Public House Fracas At St Marychurch. The Death Of A Lunatic. - An Inquiry was held at the Royal Standard Inn, Hele, St Marychurch, yesterday morning, before Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM ROWDEN, 63, tailor, of 5 Regent's-terrace, Hele, St Mary Church. - The Coroner in his opening remarks, said the deceased died on Friday evening and from information he received it appeared that death was attributed to injury in the stomach and it would be the duty of the Jury to Inquire into the circumstances under which the injury was inflicted. He need scarcely point out that if the evidence which they would have before them went to show that the injury was inflicted by any person, very serious questions might arise as to the responsibility of that person for the death of the deceased. - The first witness called was SARAH MILDRED STONE WILLOT, who stated that she resided at Low's Bridge. The deceased was her father, and he resided at 5 Regent's-terrace, Hele. He had a wife and four daughters living. Her father died at 5.30 on Friday, the 13th May. He became very ill on the Sunday previous but she did not know what his illness was due to. Her father had recently been an inmate of the Exminster Asylum, having left that Institution about five weeks. A statement made on the afternoon of her father's death led her to believe that he died from a kick in the stomach. Dr Steele attended her father during his illness. Her father up to three days before his death occasionally wandered, and was not in his right mind; but after he was taken ill he became quite sensible and quiet. - SARAH ROWDEN, wife of the deceased, stated that her husband left Exminster Asylum about a month ago, having been an inmate for about six months. Since deceased had been out, his mind had been affected at times. Witness had been residing with her daughter at Babbacombe and when she came home on Saturday week she found her husband very ill. He complained of great pains in his stomach. Her husband would not let her apply a poultice to him, but on Thursday afternoon told her he was suffering from a very severe kick in the abdomen. After her husband died she saw two large bruises on the stomach. - In answer to a question put by P.S. Nott, witness stated that she saw the two bruises before the deceased's death, when P.S. Nott came to see him. - Mr W. S. Steele, Surgeon, practising at Babbacombe, said the deceased came to him for a certificate as to his state of health about a fortnight ago. On Saturday week deceased's daughter (MRS POLLARD) came to him and said her father was in a very excited state. He gave her some soothing medicine and told MRS POLLARD to let him know if her father got worse. On the Monday he went to the deceased and found that he had been sick and was suffering from a severe pain in the stomach. He said he had received an injury when a special constable in the Chartist riots many years ago. On the 10th witness heard from ROWDEN, who said he was much better. On the 13th MRS POLLARD came and said her father was much worse, and he went and saw him. It was then that deceased informed him that he had been kicked in a quarrel on the 4th May. He (witness) thought deceased had kept this as a secret on account of his being afraid that he should be sent back to the Asylum, as he was only out for a month on trial. If the quarrel had been heard of by the Police they would have been able to send him back to the Asylum without application to the Magistrates. The deceased was vomiting very severely, the action of the stomach having been reversed. The deceased died on the following day. He had seen a bruise on the deceased's stomach previous to death. By order of the Coroner he had made a post mortem examination of the body. After death the small bruise had disappeared. On opening the body he found a large quantity of water in the abdomen and the peritoneum, the lining membrane of the stomach was very much inflamed, as also were the bowels. The liver and other organs were tolerably healthy. There was great inflammation and there could be no doubt that the cause of death was peritonitis and inflammation. A violet blow would be likely to cause a complaint of that kind, but there was no indication of such a blow, the small mark on the stomach having disappeared. Bruises and blows on the body were frequently exciting causes of these complaints, but they might also arise from cold. - The Coroner: There was nothing to show that peritonitis was set up by any exciting cause? - Witness: No. The mark he saw before deceased's death was of a character such as to cause that complaint. A severe blow might have been received on the stomach without causing much external mark, especially if done with a blunt broad instrument. - ELIZABETH SUSAN POLLARD, wife of a cab proprietor, said her father (MR ROWDEN) came to her on Thursday, the 5th, in a very excited state and made a complaint as to a man named Luxton, in consequence of which she went to Luxton's wife and asked for her father's hat. Deceased came to her house on the previous night in a somewhat excited state. He smelt as if he had been to a chemist, but did not make any statement. When he came on Thursday morning he said the hat he had on was not his own and asked witness to go to Mrs Luxton's to ask for his if it was there. Witness asked Mrs Luxton, who lived next door, if she knew what had happened the previous night. She replied that she did not, but produced a hat which she recognised as her father's. Witness took it to her father. Mrs Luxton accompanying her. - William Eddles, landlord of the Crown and Sceptre Inn, St Mary Church, said he knew the deceased perfectly well. The last time he saw him was in his bar about a week ago. On the 2nd of May, between 4 and 5 o'clock, ROWDEN was at his house, when a man named Luxton came in and said to deceased, "Well, old man, are you out again?" This offended the deceased, who "sparred" up to Luxton. Witness told deceased he would not have that in his bar and he then became quiet. Witness left the bar for a little time and during his absence the row began again. When he came out he saw Luxton and ROWDEN getting up from the floor. Witness took up deceased's hat, as he thought, and put it on his head and sent him away. Deceased came in the next evening and asked witness for some water to take his medicine in. Deceased never had anything but ginger-beer at his house. - In reply to P.S. Nott, witness said deceased might have said, "Mr Eddles, I claim your protection." He remembered saying to Luxton, "Stop that, Charley, or leave my house." - The Coroner: You have not told the Jury all the details. - In reply to Mr Jarman, solicitor, of Paignton, who watched the case on behalf of Mr Eddles, witness stated that he did not see the whole of the disturbance as he was tending the other customers. - Charles Saunders Bailey, poulterer, St Mary Church, said he saw the occurrence of the 2nd May. The bar was quiet when he went in, but some "chaffing" went on. Mr Luxton said to deceased, "What is the use of taking any notice of him (meaning ROWDEN): he is only a lunatic." ROWDEN then said someone had been sowing carrots on Luxton's face or walking over his face with hob-nail boots. As Luxton took no notice ROWDEN took off his coat and offered to fight or wrestle him. Luxton took no notice at first; but when ROWDEN began to kick they caught hold of each other and fell to the ground. Luxton was under and ROWDEN on the top. Immediately on rising another struggle ensued and eventually the men were taken away. He did not hear ROWDEN claim the landlord's protection. - William Bovey, carpenter, of Fore-street, St. Mary Church, said he was at the Crown and Sceptre and saw ROWDEN. When Luxton came in he said to deceased, "Well, daddy, have they let you out again?" This made deceased very angry and he attempted to strike Luxton in the face. Witness persuaded ROWDEN to sit down which he did. Shortly afterwards ROWDEN wanted Luxton to wrestle with him, and caught hold of him by the collar, and as he (witness) left the room he saw that both men were falling. He did not hear ROWDEN claim the landlord's protection. - Thomas Guest and Saunders Wilson, brush hawkers, gave corroborative evidence. - George Innes, of 11 Western-terrace, St Mary Church, said the deceased was the aggressor throughout and could not have been much injured, as he went home 11 o'clock at night, singing "God save the Queen." - Charles Luxton, of St Leonard's-terrace, Babbacombe, said he did make the remarks stated by the witnesses. The deceased used very abusive language to him, and in the end took off his coat and waistcoat and rushed at witness, knocking him down. Witness got up, but was again thrown by the deceased. He was not put out at the back door as several witnesses had stated, but walked out to get away from the deceased. - The Coroner in summing up, said there was no actual evidence to connect the cause from which the deceased died with any external injury. They could judge what took place in the fracas at the public-house from the great quantity of evidence. - P.S. Nott stated that the deceased died before his depositions could be taken in the presence of a Magistrate. - The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased died from inflammation of the bowels and peritonitis, or otherwise Natural Causes.

HALWELL - Fatal Accident Near Totnes. - An Inquest was held by Mr Hacker last night, at Halwell, on the body of GEORGE BOON, a farm labourer, in the employ of Mr John Irish, of Pulson Farm, in that parish, who died on Friday from injuries caused by being thrown from a horse the previous Thursday evening. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 18 May 1887
TEIGNMOUTH - The Suicide At Teignmouth. - Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday morning on the body of MR FREDERICK CLEMAS, Superintendent of the Teignmouth Swimming Baths, who committed suicide the day previous by hanging himself. - MRS CLEMAS, having given evidence as to finding the body of her husband, in answer to the Coroner and Jurors, stated that she had not noticed anything peculiar in her husband's manner of late, but he had complained of pains in the head and had also suffered from weak eyes. They did not go to bed in the house on Sunday night, as they had been spending the evening at a Mrs Turner's, who resided close by and left there to return home about 3 a.m. On arriving at the front door of the Baths her husband opened it, went inside and shut her out. She then returned to Mrs Turner's house and had not been there long before the deceased came. Witness lay on the sofa, and deceased, after remaining some time sitting in a chair, returned to his home. Questioned as to what induced the deceased to shut her out of the house, she said she could not imagine. They had hitherto lived very peaceably together. He was very fond of joking. - Charles Pring, builder, of Exmouth, stated that he came to Teignmouth on Sunday and dined with the deceased and MRS CLEMAS. He parted with the former about 10 o'clock on Sunday evening at the Market House Inn, where witness slept. About 9.40 a.m. on Monday he was coming through the passage of the Market House Inn, where he met MRS CLEMAS in a very excited state. She told him that her husband had hanged himself and witness ran into the Baths, took a knife from the kitchen, proceeded to the Bath-room and cut deceased down. The latter was wearing his nightshirt only and was found in a stooping posture, leaning over the bath, with his feet touching the ground. The body was then warm. Medical assistance was speedily procured and Drs. Johnson, Piggott and Rutkin were in attendance, but life was found to be extinct. - Dr Piggott said he attended deceased in March last for weakness of the eyes. He had always known him as an apparently cheerful man, and had never noticed indications of insanity. He proved examining the body after death, and said that in his opinion CLEMAS had been dead about half an hour. - Elizabeth Turner was then sent for to give evidence. She stated that she was a widow and resided at Carlton House. She had three sergeants of Yeomanry lodging there and when CLEMAS and his wife came to the house they all sat down together. In answer to a Juryman, witness said she did not notice any signs of intoxication about the deceased. - The Coroner asked the witness whether there appeared to have been any jealousy existing between the deceased and his wife? She replied in the negative. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a State of Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 19 May 1887
LENHAM, KENT - Sad Death Of A Seaton Boy. - A little boy named PARKIN, 9 years of age, son of MR PAXTON WILLIAM PARKIN, of Seaton, Devonshire, lost his life a few days since at Lenham, in Kent, under very distressing circumstances. The deceased, who was a grandson of the late REV. CHARLES PARKIN, Vicar of Lenham, was on a visit with his mother at Chapel Farm, the residence of MR J. H. PARKIN, his uncle. He had been staying at Lenham about a fortnight and was in the habit of amusing himself on the farm by fishing and birds' nesting. MR J. H. PARKIN left home on Thursday about 3 o'clock and told the boy that he wanted him to accompany him to the Railway Station about half-past 5. On returning home the deceased could not be found, so his uncle went to the Station alone, but on returning at half-pat 6, found that he was still missing. Accompanied by deceased's mother he then went in search of the lad, MRS PARKIN going towards the dipping-tank, while he proceeded in the direction of the pond. He afterwards heard MRS PARKIN scream and running back to the tank found that she had discovered the body in the tank and had got it partly out. With the assistance of Charles Weeks, MR PARKIN got the body out and brought it to the house. The little fellow was quite beyond resuscitation and it was found that his watch had stopped at 4.10 p.m. A plank was lying on the edge of the tank and from its position it is surmised that the deceased got on it for some purpose and slipped off. Mr G. L. Thorne, Surgeon, of Lenham, was sent for, but he found on his arrival that the deceased was quite dead. Dirt was found under the nails of the deceased as though he had grasped the bottom or sides of the tank in his struggles. Evidence to this effect was given at the Inquest by the deceased's mother, his uncle and Mr Thorne, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

EXETER - Death From Lock-Jaw At Exeter. - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest at the Valiant Soldier Inn, Exeter, yesterday, relative to the death of GEORGE LENDON, who died in the Devon and Exeter Hospital on Tuesday from the effects of an accident which happened to him at Trew's Weir Paper Mills. From the evidence it appeared that the deceased on the 9th instant was engaged, together with a woman named Annie Jones, in working a revolving chopper, worked by steam power, with which they were cutting rope and bagging for the manufacture of brown paper. The deceased was feeding the chopper, when he suddenly turned to Jones and said, "I'm going, I'm going," and she noticed that the first finger of the deceased's right hand had been cut off, and the skin of the middle finger was hanging. - Dr Blomfield, House Surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, described the injuries from which LENDON died and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 20 May 1887
NEWTON ABBOT - Sudden Death At Newton Abbot. - Mr Hacker, Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest at the Newfoundland Inn, Newton, relative to the death of a woman named CLARE SAMPSON, 26 years of age, wife of a cab-driver, living in Tudor-road. - Evidence showed that the deceased died very suddenly on Tuesday evening and a post mortem examination showed that death was due to failure of the heart's action. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." - The deceased leaves three children, one about nine days old.

TOPSHAM - Suicide At Topsham. Disappointment In Love. A Witness Reprimanded. - The Deputy Coroner for the District, Mr H. W. Gould, held an Inquest in the Vestry Room, Topsham, yesterday morning, touching the death of ROBERT DENSHAM, a naval pensioner, 66 years of age, who committed suicide by shooting himself during Monday night or on Tuesday morning. From the evidence given, it appeared that deceased occupied some rooms in a house in Fore-street, Topsham. He had always been very reserved in his manner and had of late been very depressed in spirits. Deceased entered his lodgings about 9 o'clock on Monday night and a short time afterwards a woman named Fellows, residing in the same house, heard a peculiar noise, which another woman, named Hall, with whom she was having some conversation, attributed to something having fallen down in the street. On Tuesday morning it was noticed that the shutters of the deceased's room were not open. A baker named William Wall, residing next door, was called, and he found deceased lying on the floor, apparently dead. Dr Bothwell was fetched, and that gentleman on his arrival pronounced life to be extinct. Dr Bothwell yesterday stated that he had made a post mortem examination, which led him to believe that the wound over the right ear was caused by a bullet which had entered the base of the skull, passed through the substance of the brain, and came out at the squamous portion of the temporal bone. There were no powder marks about the face, but the tongue was blackened. Witness felt certain that the wound had been self-inflicted, probably with the left hand. He had known deceased for five or six years, but had never noticed anything which would lead him to suppose that deceased would commit suicide. He, however, added that from his knowledge of the deceased he could quite understand that he was a person who would be likely to commit suicide through his mind suddenly becoming unhinged. - Some difficulty was experienced by the Coroner in getting two witnesses, named Harriet Fellows and Harriet Hall, both residing in the same house as deceased, to admit that deceased in their presence threatened to commit suicide. Both at first denied that deceased had threatened to commit suicide, but on being pressed Hall admitted that deceased had been keeping company with a young woman in the town, but had for some reason broken off the engagement. Witness believed that this preyed upon his mind and a fortnight ago deceased said in her and Mrs Fellows' presence that he felt as if he could shoot the young woman with whom he had been keeping company and shoot himself afterwards. - The Coroner, addressing Hall, said that she had not, he was sorry to says, given her evidence in a straightforward manner. He asked her when she was giving evidence if she had ever heard deceased threaten to commit suicide, and she answered "No." She must remember that in answering any questions which he put her she was upon oath and that unless she told the truth the consequences might be serious for her. - Fellows, recalled, said she had never heard deceased threaten to commit suicide. She had, however, heard him say that he would kill the young woman with whom he had been keeping company. - Several of the Jury commented upon the discrepancies in the evidence of the two last witnesses. - The Coroner having summing up, the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that deceased Committed Suicide while in a State of Temporary Insanity.

TIVERTON - The Fatal Accident To A Cullompton Hotel Keeper. - The Inquest touching the death of MR THOMAS CAPE, landlord of the White Hart Hotel, Cullompton, was held last evening at the Tiverton Infirmary, before Mr L. Mackenzie. Mr J. Williams was Foreman of the Jury. - Evidence of identification having been given, James Sweet, who has lately been employed at the Prince Regent public-house, Tiverton, as ostler, said deceased rode in there and put up his horse on Tuesday morning. He came for the horse about 9 p.m. He went into the house saying he was going to "have a drink." He had some spirit and then asked witness to help him to mount, as at home he was accustomed to mount from a barrel. Witness brought a chair and assisted him into the saddle. Deceased rode away quietly. He carried under his arm a bundle of fishing-rod sections and a whip. During the day the horse had not been otherwise than quiet in the stable. - Robert Smale, coachman to the Misses Rayer, of Bingwell House, Tiverton, said that about 9.10 p.m., when it was not very dark, deceased passed him by the Lodge Estate, riding at about ten miles an hour. He seemed sober; but witness called out to him to be careful and he answered "All right." On proceeding up the road witness picked up in succession deceased's hat and then the fishing-rods, and further on still he found deceased himself lying on the road, face downwards, about a mile from Tiverton. He called a neighbouring resident, named James Were, to his assistance, and he brought out a light and a chair and witness, after propping deceased up by the road-side, went for Mr Cheek, dairyman, of Hay Park. On his way he found and stopped deceased's horse. One of the reins was broken; but the horse did not seem to have been down. - James Were, gardener at Bingwell House, also gave evidence. - Mr James Chick, dairyman, Hall Park, deposed to conveying the deceased to the Infirmary. Deceased was still breathing when he returned to Hall Farm, but was dead when he came up to the trap. When deceased reached the Infirmary Dr Haydon was in waiting there. Mr Michelmore, House Surgeon of the Infirmary, said that deceased was brought there at 11.30 p.m., but he was then dead. Besides various external abrasions, witness found, on making a post mortem examination, a three-inch fracture of the back of the skull, with extensive extravasation of blood. Death resulted from compression of the brain caused by the injury. - The Coroner advised the Jury that the circumstantial evidence pointed undoubtedly to accidental death. - The Jury concurred and returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 24 May 1887
LYNTON - Fatal Accident To A Carter At Lynton. - Mr J. Bromham, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Foresters' Hall on Saturday afternoon to Inquire into the death of RICHARD CARTER, of Coombe Farm, Countisbury. It appears that on the previous Monday deceased was proceeding home with a load of manure drawn by two horses, when on going down a declivity the horses started off. In his endeavour to stop them CARTER fell, and the waggon went over him, braking the bones of his right leg and severely injuring his head and face. He was removed to the Lynton Cottage Hospital, where he received the greatest attention at the hands of Dr Berry and Miss Pope. CARTER died on Wednesday afternoon, the doctor being present. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 28 May 1887
TORQUAY - A Lesson To Mothers. - On Thursday evening the District Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquiry at the Upton Vale Hotel, Torquay, touching the death of a child named SIDNEY LAVERS, aged three months, the son of GEORGE LAVERS, tailor, of Myrtle-place, Upton. - The mother stated that the child was taken ill in her arms and died in a few minutes from what she believed to be a fit. One of her other children had died in a similar manner. She had fed the deceased on boiled bread and biscuits. - Dr Thistle said the child had died from convulsions, probably brought on by indigestion, accounted for from the fact that the child had been fed with bread and biscuits. - The Coroner, addressing the mother, remarked upon the mistake she had made in giving such things to a child so young. He advised her to profit by the lesson conveyed in the doctor's evidence, and tell her neighbours and acquaintances that young children should be fed on milk. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 30 May 1887
BAMPTON - A Child Drowned In A Pond At Bampton. - On Saturday an Inquest was held before Mr H. W. Gould touching the death of HENRY TOM MANTLE, a little boy, aged two years, who was drowned in a pond at Rill Farm the previous evening. - The Jury consisted of Messrs. J. Capron (Foreman), F. Kemp, F. Hooper, W. Escott, J. Escott, H. Nott, J. Paull, C. Hill, R. Channin, G. Rudall, W. Blamey, R. Brewer, and F. Townsend. - THOMAS MANTLE, the father, identified the body and stated that he last saw the child in the kitchen about 6 o'clock when he was going down his farm. The servant-maid, who had been milking, met him on returning and told him that they had lost HARRY. He saw his other children at play in the yard when he went out and inquired for the deceased, but understood he was at that time in the other court. Passing the pond he saw the child lying on his face in about 3ft. of water. He at once took him out of the water and carried him indoors, but efforts to restore animation were of no avail. - Ellen Burrows deposed that a little past 6, when she had milked three cows, MR MANTLE came out to know if HENRY was with her. Not finding him in the places where the children usually played she went to the head of the field and met her master, and told him the child was missing. She did not hear any cries, though she was not very far from the pond. The little girl "MAY" came to her while milking, and she (witness) asked where HARRY was, as her mistress was unwell and he was the youngest. Dr T. A. Guiness, of Bampton, who was called about 7.30, but the child was dead. There were no marks of violence, not even a scratch. - The Jury were unanimous in their verdict of "Accidental Death by Drowning."

OTTERY ST MARY - The Drowning Case At Ottery. - On Saturday afternoon the Deputy Coroner for the District, Mr C. Cox, held an Inquiry at Mr Squire's King's Arms Hotel, into the circumstances attending the death of THOMAS BAKER, Yonder-street, Ottery St. Mary, formerly a waggoner, 80 years of age, which occurred on Friday afternoon. Mr E. Carnell was chosen Foreman of the Jury. The first witness called was a woman named Channon, who saw the deceased and spoke to him about 1 o'clock, and to whom he said that he was homeward bound. About 2 o'clock BAKER was found by two boys - John Boffett and Isaac Preston- lying in Tapes Brook on his face and hands. - Henry Clapp, who lifted the deceased out of the stream, said his head, which was partially covered by the water, was stuck in the mud. There was a flint stone close to where the deceased was lying, which, in witness's opinion, accounted for the wound in the deceased's forehead. - Dr Reynolds, who was called considered that the deceased had been in the water at least half an hour and was of pinion that death was caused by drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned." - The deceased, it was mentioned, was very feeble, and it was known that he went close to the brook.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 31 May 1887
BARNSTAPLE - The Suicide Of A Prisoner At Barnstaple. - An Inquest on the body of a man named WILLIAM JOSLIN, aged 29, labourer, of Tawstock, who committed suicide at Barnstaple on Friday night in the cell at the County Police-Station, where he was being lodged for the night, was held by the Borough Coroner, Mr R. I. Bencraft, on Saturday evening. - Mr J. Parminter was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - P.C. Howard was the first witness called and he deposed to apprehending the deceased on Friday, at Tawstock, on the charge of attempting to commit a rape on Elizabeth Dobbs, a young woman. He was brought before a Magistrate in the evening, when the case was heard, and deceased was committed for trial at the next County Quarter Sessions. He was afterwards removed to the County Police-station by P.C. Blackmore to be kept there for the night. Deceased was an industrious man. - P.C. Blackmore, who is in charge of the Police Station, stated that he locked the prisoner in the cell about 7 o'clock, and afterwards took him some supper, which he ate. He told witness that he should like to see his cousin, a postman in the town, and witness consented to fetch him. On leaving the cell, deceased inquired of witness whether he should see him again that night, and he replied that he would. Shortly before 9 witness again went to the cell in company with P.C. Setter and on entering they saw the deceased in a kneeling position on the floor with a belt around his neck and the end fastened to the ventilator, by means of a cord. Witness immediately broke the cord and laid deceased down on his back and rubbed his chest to endeavour to restore animation, as the body was warm, and P.C. Setter fancied there was a twitching in the muscles. The latter ran off for Dr Cooper, who arrived very soon after and pronounced life to be extinct. At the hearing of the case the Magistrates agreed to accept bail to the amount of £25 if deceased could procure it. - P.C. Setter gave corroborative evidence as to the finding of the body. - Mr W. Cooper said that when he arrived deceased was quite dead. The neck was not broken, but here was a livid mark around the upper part of the neck and witness was of opinion that death was caused by asphyxia, produced by strangulation. Death appeared to have taken place very recently. - A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was returned, and the Jury exonerated the Constable from blame.

CHITTLEHAMPTON - Suicide By Drowning At Chittlehamholt. - Mr J. F. Bromham, one of the Coroners for the County, on Saturday held an Inquest at Head Farm, Chittlehamholt, concerning the death of JOHN HOWARD, aged 58, labourer, who committed suicide by drowning himself in the mill-leat on Thursday night. - Deceased's daughter stated that on Thursday evening the deceased came to her at Head Farm, where she was in service, and gave her a parcel, which he told her not to open until the following day. He remained with her about an hour and a half, when he left, but did not tell her where he was going. This was the last time she saw her father alive. He had been living apart from her mother for some time. - William Adams deposed to finding the deceased in the mill-leat on the following morning, where he was lying in about four feet of water. He was quite dead and stiff. - Dr Tucker, of Chulmleigh, said he saw the deceased after he was taken from the leat, and he then appeared to have been dead some hours. - P.C. Mitchell gave evidence to the effect that deceased had been rather depressed of late. In two letters found on him there was evidence that deceased intended to commit the act. - A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was returned.

TIVERTON - Death From Lock-Jaw At Tiverton. - At the Infirmary last evening Mr L. Mackenzie, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest touching the death of an in-patient named MATTHEW THOMAS, aged 20, who was admitted on Saturday suffering from lock-jaw. The witnesses called were JAMES THOMAS, of Witheridge, brother of the deceased; Abraham Hagley, carter; Mr Davis, assistant to Dr Haydon; and Mr Mitchelmore, House Surgeon at the Infirmary. - Deceased was a labourer on Hayne Farm. It appeared that as he was coming down Hayne Hill on May the 21st with two horses and an empty cart belonging to Sir J. Heathcoate Amory the wheel-horse bolted. Deceased tried to stop it, but was knocked down and one of the horse's feet trod on the index finger of his right hand, causing a lacerated wound. Subsequently the finger was dressed by Dr Haydon, who strongly advised amputation. Deceased, however, a weak and nervous man, would not face the operation. Gangrene supervened and on Saturday last Mr Davis, assistant to Dr Haydon, went, in response to a message, to see deceased at his cottage at Bolham. He found that tetanus was coming on and by his advice deceased was removed to the infirmary. The finger was taken off, but death resulted in the early hours of Sunday morning. - The Jury found a verdict of "Accidental Death," and recommended that the horse in question should not again be used in a cart.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 1 June 1887
CHARLETON - Mysterious Death Of A Young Lady Near Kingsbridge. - The Inquest on the body of MISS GERTRUDE ELIZABETH MAYE, of Croft Farm, Charleton, which was found near Dicker's Rock, near the Rickham Coastguard Station, on Saturday afternoon, was held at Croft on Monday evening, before Mr Sydney Hacker, District Coroner. It will be remembered that MISS MAYE left her home about 3 o'clock on Thursday afternoon and was traced as far as East Prawle, where she was seen about 7 o'clock the same evening. Although a most diligent search was made, nothing was heard of the whereabouts of the missing young lady until about 4 o'clock on Saturday afternoon, when her body was found on the sands at the place already indicated, by P.C. Thomas White. The case has attracted much attention in the district and the utmost sympathy has been felt for MRS MAYE and family, who are very highly respected, in the sad calamity which has so suddenly overtaken them. At the Inquest, Mr Alfred James Coaker, of Charleton Manor, was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the first witness called was MISS MARIAN MAYE, who deposed that the deceased was her sister and resided with her mother and other members of the family at Croft Farm. The deceased was 14 years and 9 months old. In addition to her mother, two brothers, and three sisters, a gentleman, named Mr Upjohn, also resided with the family as a boarder. On the previous Thursday the deceased had dinner with the members of the family, when she ate her dinner and was bright and cheerful and laughed and talked with the others. She was in her usual health. She was asked by her mother and Mr Upjohn to go to Kingsbridge in the afternoon, and she laughed and replied, "Yes." The last witness saw of deceased was when she passed the window and went up to see the pony put in the carriage. She changed her mind after dinner and said she would not go to Kingsbridge; but she did not say why. Witness thought she was going until she heard someone say in the passage, "Ar'nt you going?" and he said "No." She had never before been to the spot at which her body was found. She had never been beyond Ford before. She had her garden things on when witness saw her. She was very quiet and reserved in disposition. She was always on good terms with her sisters and the other members of the household. Witness never heard of any unpleasantness at all. She did not wear any jewels or other valuables, and carried no purse when she went away. - Mr Henry Upjohn said he resided at Croft and was an independent gentleman. He had known the deceased as a member of the household for many months. He had asked her to go to Kingsbridge on the Thursday. He was at dinner with the deceased and the rest of the family. Nothing took place at the dinner which threw any light upon the matter. There was nothing in the manner of the deceased which was unusual. She was cheerful and pleasant, as she always was. At the dinner-table witness told deceased that he should wish to go to Kingsbridge in the afternoon and asked her to accompany him. She said she would be pleased to do so. Witness did not see her again until some time after dinner. As he left the house to go to the pony carriage she joined him. He observed she was not dressed to go to Kingsbridge, and remarking it said, "Arn't you going to Kingsbridge with me?" and after a little time she said she was not going. Nothing else occurred but his (Mr Upjohn's) repeated questions as to why she was not going, and she gave no reason whatever. There was nothing unusual in her manner. There was no pique. Deceased was his little friend, his little playmate and he asked her as usual to go with her sister and himself to Kingsbridge. Witness did not know why she did not go, but his opinion was that she wished to get some wild flowers for him. She knew he (witness) was passionately fond of wild flowers and she had taken the vases out of his room in the morning and stated that she was going to re-fill them. His idea was that she promised to go to Kingsbridge on the spur of the moment and forgot about the wild flowers. She was in the habit of filling the vases for witness and often took long walks by herself to get the flowers he liked. Witness went to Kingsbridge and MISS ALICE MAYE went with him. When she told witness she was not going she showed no temper. When he asked her the reason she cried, as if she did not like to be pressed on the subject. Witness thought it was her modesty, her maiden delicacy which made her not like to tell she was going to get flowers for him. He thought with her disposition that would cause her to cry. No one else was present when she cried. When the deceased left witness she was not crying. - Andrew Popplestone deposed to seeing the deceased pass over the cliff on Thursday afternoon and go into the mud in the creek. He thought her conduct rather strange, as she walked where the mud must have been over her boots; but he was in the habit of seeing the deceased and her sisters about the creek and did not therefore speak to her. - Thomas Easterbrooke, a labourer, residing at Ford, saw the deceased pass on the road between 4 and 5 o'clock. - Clara Blank, a domestic servant, of East Prawle, saw the deceased pass by Mr Foss's house about 7 o'clock on Thursday evening. She had a green fern in her hand and another at her breast. - William Henry Burner, a labourer, saw the deceased on the road at East Prawle about half-past 6 on Thursday. When she saw him she got over the wall and ran along the field in the direction of Moor Sands. - P.C. Thomas White deposed to finding the body of deceased about 4 o'clock on Saturday afternoon near Dicker's Rock. He stood at the top of the cliff, which was about 40 or 50 feet high and saw the body of the deceased on the sands below. There was a very narrow bridge across to an island, and it had rails only on one side. The bridge crossed from the field. The body of the deceased was found below, in the direction of the of the side on which there was no rail. If deceased had got in from the bridge the tide would very likely wash her to where she was found. She had lost one shoe and her hat was gone. - Dr William Henry Webb, of Kingsbridge, deposed to examining the body, which had the appearance of having been dead from 24 to 48 hours, but it had not been in the water all the time. There were a few post mortem scars and bruises, but the cause of death was drowning. - Sarah Dammerell gave evidence that the pockets of the deceased were empty when the body was found. - The Coroner having reviewed the evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," the evidence not being sufficient to lead them to any other conclusion. The funeral of MISS MAYE took place yesterday.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 3 June 1887
SHALDON - An Inquest was held at Shaldon on Monday before Mr Sidney Hacker, concerning the death of MR GEORGE CATES, of Manor House, Shaldon, which occurred on May 28th. The deceased gentleman, who was 88 years of age, had a fall on the stairs on May 14th. His medical attendant, Mr George Vawdrey, stated that deceased was suffering from an internal complaint and he was of opinion that the fall accelerated the death from this cause, coupled with old age. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 4 June 1887
TORQUAY - Alleged Disrespect To A Coroner's Jury At Torquay. - At the Torbay Hospital yesterday morning Mr Sidney Hacker, District Coroner, held an inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of HERBERT BROWN, of Galmpton, near Churston Ferrers. The Inquiry was held in the dentist's room which was strongly impregnated with the smell of disinfectants, and, prior to the commencement of the proceedings, the Coroner said he was very sorry the Jury were compelled to meet in such an unpleasant room. It seemed that the authorities thought that it was not necessary for them to provide a decent room to hold an inquest in. The only alternative was to go to the nearest public-house, which would take up more time. The only way in which they could mark their dissatisfaction at that state of things was in any case in which they would be likely to give their fees to any public institution to strongly refrain from giving them to the Torbay Hospital. - A Juror: That is a very just remark. - The Coroner: It seems to me that it is not only disrespectful to a Jury, but prejudicial to health. - A Juror asked if there was not a Board-room belonging to the Hospital which would have been more suited to the purpose. - The Coroner replied that there was a Board-room in which the Inquiry could have been held. Every other Hospital in the district had a Board-room provided for Inquests, which was the proper thing for such inquiries. - From the evidence it appeared that the deceased had while out picking flowers for the decoration of the Sunday School was knocked down by a runaway horse, the waggon passing over him and causing injuries from which he died at the Hospital; the medical man giving it as his opinion that the lad succumbed to internal injuries. The explanations given by Jeffrey Mitchell Oldrieve, 14, who was in charge of the waggon, said he had been to fetch a load of trefolium for his father. Coming down the hill the wheel went over a stone and the shaft struck the horse's head and made it bolt. He had charge of the horse and Alfred Miller was at the back of the waggon. He managed to get off the cart and tried to catch the horse's head, but without success and the horse galloped down the hill at a very rapid pace. - The Coroner, in summing up, alluded to the fact that if the drag had been put on the accident would probably not have occurred. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 6 June 1887
BARNSTAPLE - Alleged Concealment Of Birth At Barnstaple. - A case of alleged concealment of birth was discovered at Barnstaple on Saturday morning. It appears that a widow named ELIZABETH CROCKER, a servant in the employ of Mrs Seldon, of the wine and Spirit Vaults, Boutport-street, was late in coming downstairs on Saturday morning and on going into the kitchen she said she had overslept herself. While putting on her boots she suddenly fell back on the floor. She was raised by a charwoman named May, who, at the request of Mrs Seldon, went to the woman's bedroom and found in a pail, which was under the bed, the body of a fully-developed female child which was dead. A Surgeon was called in and he examined the body, and under his direction CROCKER was removed to the Workhouse. During the afternoon an Inquest on the body of the child was opened by the Borough Coroner, Mr R. I. Bencraft, Esq.. The Inquiry was adjourned until today for the purpose of a post mortem examination.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 7 June 1887
BARNSTAPLE - The Alleged Concealment Of Birth At Barnstaple. - The adjourned Inquest was held yesterday in the Council Chamber of the Guildhall, Barnstaple, before the Borough Coroner, R. I. Bencraft, Esq., upon the body of the infant child of ELIZABETH CROCKER, a widow, aged 40, and a domestic servant in the employ of Mrs Seldon, wine and spirit vaults, Boutport-street. - The circumstances of the discovery have been reported and at yesterday's Inquiry Mr Charles E. Pronger gave evidence. He said that on Saturday when he visited Mrs Seldon's house he found CROCKER sitting on a chair. She was dressed and looked pale and faint. She told him that she had been confined that morning, about 5 o'clock. In CROCKER'S room he saw the child in a pail. It was quite dead. In the afternoon of the same day by the order of the Coroner, he made a post mortem examination of the body. It was a female child, having no marks of violence. His opinion was, from the appearances, that the child never breathed after it was born, and therefore had no separate existence. - The Coroner, in summing up, said it was evidently a case of a stillborn child and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly. - The mother is at present in the Workhouse, whither she was removed on Saturday.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 10 June 1887
BIDEFORD - Death From An Overdose Of Narcotics. - An Inquest was held at Chudleigh Villas yesterday morning before Dr Thompson, the Borough Coroner of Bideford, touching the circumstances attending the death of MR F. COOKE, aged 50, who was found dead on Tuesday. - From the evidence of various witnesses, including the deceased's employees and medical attendants, it appeared that for many years MR COOKE had suffered from indifferent health, brought on by neuralgia and other ailments, and had been in the habit of taking chlorodyne to get ease and induce sleep. On Tuesday morning a lad named Charles Williams, in the service of the deceased, took his master a glass of whiskey and water, when he told the witness that he wanted sleep. There were two bottles of chlorodyne on a table near his bed. One was nearly full and the other nearly empty. A little before 12 o'clock MR COOKE repeated that he wanted sleep. About a quarter-past 12 witness went to ask the deceased whether he wanted anything and found that he was dead. - The medical evidence showed that the deceased died from narcotic poisoning and the Jury returned a verdict "That MR COOKE died from taking, Accidentally, an Overdose of Narcotics.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 11 June 1887
BRANSCOMBE - An Inquest was held yesterday by Mr Cox, Deputy Coroner, on the body of ELLIS BARTLETT DEAN, who cut his throat the previous day. A verdict of "Temporary Insanity" was returned.

ST MARY CHURCH -= Found Drowned At Babbacombe. - Mr D. A. Fraser, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Royal Standard Inn, Hele, St Mary Church, yesterday, into the circumstances attending the death of ADELINE CHUDLEIGH LEAR, aged 28, whose body was found early the previous morning in about two feet of water on Petitor Beach. Deceased, who had suffered from heart disease, went out for a walk on Wednesday afternoon with a view to visiting a friend at Babbacombe, and was not again seen by her mother, who resides at No. 1, Austin's-place, Hele. At 7 o'clock on Thursday morning William Taverner and Harry Holt, fishermen, were rowing towards Babbacombe when they observed a body on Petitor Beach, and on going ashore they removed it to above high-water mark. P.C. Richards was communicated with and removed the body to Hele. On examining the clothing he found a quantity of sand distributed about it; but it was in no way damaged. The hands were covered by kid gloves. P.C. Thomas proceeded to Petitor on Thursday afternoon and on looking about the beach saw the parasol produced open and standing between two stones, where it had apparently been washed by the tide. The Constable also searched for deceased's hat, but without avail, and also failed to discover any marks of the body having fallen over the rocks. - Mr Thomas Finch, Surgeon, said n examining the body he found no marks of violence, the only injury being a slight abrasion on the left temple and marks about the face caused by the sand. There were no bones broken, and he attributed death to drowning. - The Jury returned an Open Verdict of "Found Drowned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 13 June 1887
ILFRACOMBE - The Fall Over The Cliffs At Ilfracombe. - Mr J. F. Bromham (District Coroner) held an Inquest at the Cottage Hospital on Saturday respecting the death of the little girl, LOUISA WEDLAKE, who was killed by falling from the Capstone on Thursday evening. Mr Hooper was appointed Foreman of the Jury. The facts of the accident have already been reported and it will be remembered that the child was gathering flowers for her governess's grave, when she over-balanced herself and fell on to the Parade. - Mr Phillips, a visitor at Ilfracombe, testified to witnessing the accident; and Mr Copner, Surgeon, deposed to the nature of the injuries received, which he saw at once were fatal. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and a rider was appended recommending the Local Board to fix notice-boards cautioning persons against going too near the cliffs. The fees were given to the sister of the deceased

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 17 June 1887
TEIGNMOUTH - The Sad Mistake By A Workman At Bishopsteignton. - The Inquest on the body of GEORGE STADDON, a plumber who died the previous day from drinking a quantity of weed poison in mistake for cider while working at the Vicarage at Bishopsteignton, was held yesterday at the Teignmouth Infirmary before Mr Sidney Hacker. From the evidence of William Taylor it appeared that the deceased was seen by witness at the Vicarage shortly before 9 a.m. on Wednesday. He had his hand on his chest and looked bad. Witness asked him what was the matter, and he said he had been drinking out of the cask in the coach-house, which he thought was cider, but which he found was not. The deceased appeared in great pain, and witness sent for help into the house. An emetic of mustard and water was given and he vomited a little, but not much. Mr Brompton came about a quarter-of-an-hour afterwards and gave the deceased another emetic and had him removed to the Teignmouth Infirmary. The cask contained a fluid known as Smith's Patent Weed Killer. It was marked "poison" in plain red letters on the front of the cask, where the tap was. The coach-house was dark and there was no window, and the deceased could not have had light enough to enable him to read the letters if he shut the door behind him. - Mr Brompton, Surgeon, deposed that on being called to the deceased he gave him an emetic and had him removed to the Infirmary. On examining the liquid in the cask he found it to contain carbolic acid. - Mr Ellis, House Surgeon, stated that everything was done at the Infirmary to counteract the effects of the poison, but the deceased died from collapse about 11 a.m. - A post mortem revealed the fact that death resulted from the effects of poison. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 18 June 1887
BARNSTAPLE - Sudden Death At Barnstaple. - Last evening R. I. Bencraft, Esq., the Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at the Chichester Arms, Pilton, Barnstaple, on the body of WILLIAM GILBERT, aged 67, who fell down dead that day while at work as a painter. - WILLIAM RICHARD GILBERT, son of the deceased, said his father had been suffering for some time past and had been attended by Dr Pronger. That morning he had had breakfast as usual, and appeared rather better. Deceased afterwards went to work at Lake, Pilton, where he was employed by Mr Thomas. About an hour afterwards he heard of his father's death. Deceased sometimes suffered from faintness, the attacks occasionally lasting for several hours. He was taken ill in that way about a month ago. - John Thomas deposed to going through the passage of the house where deceased was at work, and seeing deceased lying at the foot of the stairs about half-past 10 in the morning. Not long before that he saw the deceased enter the passage. With assistance the witness carried deceased into an adjoining room. Deceased did not breathe. - Dr Mark Jackson said there was no doubt the deceased fell down in a fainting fit and fell over the stairs. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 20 June 1887
GREAT TORRINGTON - Sudden Death At Torrington. - An Inquest was held on Saturday at the Globe Hotel, before F. Bromham, Esq., Coroner, on the body of ROBERT DENNIS, farrier, who died suddenly on the previous day. The deceased had complained of being unwell for some time past, but did not think it worthwhile to obtain medical advice. The Jury, of whom Mr H. Grant was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and gave their fees to the widow of the deceased.

BUCKLAND IN THE MOOR - Alleged Concealment Of Birth Near Buckland. - A domestic servant named SARAH ANN KING, living at the house of Mr Hext, a farmer, at Putsham, on Thursday evening complained at the tea table of being unwell and went out. An hour later Mrs Hext found her in an outhouse with a newly-born infant lying near. The child was alive when found, but died six hours afterwards. An Inquest was held at Putsham on Saturday evening before Mr Hacker, District Coroner. KING was too weak to be present and the proceedings were adjourned for a week in order that she might be able to attend.

TOPSHAM - Bathing Fatality At Countess Weir. - An Inquest was held at Countess Weir on Saturday by Mr W. H. Gould, Deputy Coroner, on the body of a young man named HILLMAN, who was drowned while bathing in the river on the previous day. FREDERICK JOHN HILLMAN, a telegraph clerk, residing at the Schoolhouse, Countess Weir, identified the body as that of his brother, EDWARD PERCY HILLMAN, who was 17 years of age. The deceased could swim a little, and was in the habit of bathing. - Thomas Foster, a pensioner, residing at Countess Weir, said that about a quarter to 2 o'clock on Friday afternoon he was near the river and heard the deceased call out "Mr Foster." Deceased was sitting on the bank near witness's house and was dressed. Witness said, "What are you doing there, my sonny?" He replied, "I have been in the water twice and I'm afraid to go in again," or "I don't like to go in again." Witness replied, "Don't do it then," and went away. - HENRY STEWART HILLMAN, ten years of age, said he was the son of MR GEORGE STEWART HILLMAN, schoolmaster at Countess Weir and deceased was his brother. On Friday, about half-past one, deceased, witness and another boy went to the river for the purpose of fetching water. Deceased went across the mill-yard and over a bridge to the opposite side of the river, saying he was going to have a swim. Witness saw him undress and enter the water. He swam towards witness at first, and then turned back. Witness then lost sight of him, and, though he watched the spot for a quarter of an hour, he saw him no more after he sank. Witness then went home. His brother was in the habit of practising swimming with other youths. - John Sharland, mason, of Countess Weir, said he received information of deceased's death about 4 o'clock. He recovered the body, which was about eight or nine feet from the bank, the depth of water being some ten feet. - Dr Vlieland deposed to examining the body of deceased, which presented the usual appearance resulting from death by drowning. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 21 June 1887
SHUTE - Alleged Neglect Of A Child. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr C. Cox, held an Inquest at Colhayne Farm, Shute, two miles from Seaton Junction, yesterday afternoon, relative to the death of CHARLES JAMES POTTER, aged 1 year and 9 months, the son of ROBERT POTTER, a labourer of the same parish. - The evidence adduced was of a very painful nature. - The first witness called was MARY JANE POTTER, aged 11, and sister of the deceased, whose evidence was to the effect that five of her brothers, including the deceased, had died, also one sister and she still had four brothers alive. Her mother when pursuing outdoor occupation used to leave home at 10 o'clock in the morning, return to dinner at 12, and leave work at 4. She also gathered flowers, mushrooms and blackberries in season for sale. Witness's father would always be at home looking after the children when his wife was away, which was a frequent occurrence. Her father did not work. [A Juryman mentioned that he was maintained by parochial relief being asthmatical.] Corn-flour, milk and biscuits had been given to the deceased a fortnight before he died, and he seemed to have sufficient food. Previous to a fortnight ago the deceased was fed on bread soaked in milk and water, with sugar. The deceased used to lay in a perambulator. A pennyworth of milk a day had to supply the whole family - six persons. - (POTTER, interrupting: It was skim milk and we had nearly a quart in a bottle every day.) Continuing, witness said she did not know how many loaves of bread were bought each week. - At this stage a basket perambulator, 18 in. in length, was produced, in which witness stated the deceased was placed until a short time since, when, in consequence of a complaint from the Medical-officer, a rude box, about 2 ft. 6 in. wide and a foot in length, was constructed and placed upon rockers and this formed the cradle for the child by day from that date down to its death. The girl, although 11 years of age, was unable to affix her name to the evidence which she had given, the Coroner remarking that it was a very sad state of things. - The Foreman (the Rev. T. Cole) explained to the Court that the deceased was laid upon a rough bolster, which made the perambulator referred to much shorter - short as it was - and the child's legs were either doubled up or hanging over the bottom of it. The deceased, to him, did not seem any larger now than he was 12 months ago. - The Coroner remarked that it was very hard for the Guardians to have to maintain large families, but the six shillings a week which the man POTTER had been receiving from the parish was a miserable allowance with which to maintain himself, wife and six children. - The Foreman: The other children don't appear to be ill-fed. - The Coroner: The girl who gave her evidence seemed fairly strong. - ANN POTTER, mother of the deceased, who did not know how her name was spelt, said the deceased was always a weakly child. Dr O'Meara's late assistant attended the child when it was three months old, and he ordered him plenty of milk, sugar and cod liver oil, the latter being supplied by the parish. She bought a pennyworth of milk per day - as much as she could afford. Used to take the deceased to the doctor every week up to November last; after that time to April fortnightly. As a rule she received 6s. parochial relief. Her son, HENRY, who worked at Dalwood, received 2s. 6d. a week besides his food and lodging, and the half-a-crown he paid to her. Her husband had not worked for ten years. Sometimes he earned sixpence or a shilling per week, but received nothing permanently. - By the Foreman: Her husband smoked, and his extra money provided this. The Jury regarded this as a luxury, but witness said it was recommended to him by a doctor on account of his asthmatical complaint. - Further questioned by the Foreman, POTTER stated that they consumed a quarter pound of tea per week, for which she gave eight-pence at Dalwood. The Jury regarded this as bad management. - The Foreman further said it was stated that POTTER kept a canary, which she obtained by exchanging fowls of the value of 4s. 6d. - The Coroner said the latter incident showed a want of management. The children should have been fed instead of the bird. - MRS POTTER: I feed the bird and children too. The canary seed did not cost much. - The Coroner: You know the Board of Guardians don't support you to keep a canary. I daresay it is only a trifle, but it is a great deal for you whatever it is. - In reply to another question, witness said they consumed three pounds of sugar per week. The deceased used to have half a tea cup full of soaked bread three times a day. For the past five weeks he had had corn flour. Witness carried the child to Dalwood on Thursday last, and he died on Friday morning. Noticed that the deceased was dying at 4 o'clock on Friday morning. Sent for her mother but not for a doctor. Paid 1s. 4d. a week as rent; but a lodger paid them a 1s a week when he was in work. - A bottle produced showed that out of eight ounces of cod liver oil supplied by Dr O'Meara in November last, only three ounces had been given to the deceased, POTTER'S excuse being that the child did not like it. - ROBERT POTTER, the husband, who said he came from the County Prison that morning, where he had been confined one month for an assault upon Sarah Trivett, corroborated the previous evidence and added that he had been in receipt of parochial relief for over ten years. He had not eaten any of the food or drunk the milk which had been sent for the deceased . - Mr James Archer O'Neill, assistant to Dr O'Meara, of Colyton, who made a post mortem examination of the body, was of opinion that death resulted from improper treatment and improper and insufficient nourishment. - Dr O'Meara (Colyton) said he was at POTTER'S house on May 18th for the purpose of a sanitary inspection and he took special notice of the deceased, who was sitting up in a sort of seat and was in a very dirty state. He considered it cruelty to keep the child in the perambulator (produced) for half-an-hour. - Mrs Sarah Trivett, of Colhayne Farm, said that in the winter time she had seen the deceased in the kitchen purple with the cold, with the rest of the family seated around the fire. POTTER said it was the nature of the deceased. The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that death resulted from Natural Causes, but they severely reprimanded both ROBERT and ANN POTTER, the parents, for the treatment which they had extended to the child.

EAST STONEHOUSE - The Tragedy At Stonehouse. Inquest And Verdict. - Mr R. R. Rodd, Coroner for East Stonehouse District, held an Inquest yesterday afternoon on the body of HENRY CALLAWAY, who (as reported in yesterday's Gazette) committed suicide by drowning himself in Millbay Dock, after having made a murderous assault on his wife. - The evidence of P.C. Ridge, a man named Lovering, and others fully corroborated the details already reported as to the savage nature of the assault. CALLAWAY had often threatened his wife with violence and he was under bond to appear before the Plymouth Magistrates yesterday morning on an adjourned summons for assaulting her. He came home to his lodgings in East-street on Saturday night the worse for liquor, but certainly not drunk, and a quarrel took place between the parties. Just before twelve they went to bed, they had not retired more than half an hour when CALLAWAY got up and went into an adjoining room, whence he returned armed with a hammer, with which he attacked her, in a most furious manner, shouting, "I'll stop your squeaking tonight," and striking the defenceless woman blow after blow on the head with a brutal violence which left no doubt as to his intention to murder her. - P.C. Ridge described the fearful nature of the poor creature's injuries. There were four bad wounds on the head, two on the forehead and side of the head, and one on the back of the neck, where the nose of the hammer seemed to have been completely buried in the flesh. - When Ridge arrived MRS CALLAWAY was covered with blood, the matting on the floor was saturated and blood was bespattered on the walls. Mr Waterford, Surgeon, dressed the wounds. The hammer was found in the room, the handle broken off within a few inches of the head. CALLAWAY, who evaded capture by the man Lovering by stating that he was going to fetch a Policeman for his wife, seems to have locked the bedroom door behind him, and to have made a run for Millbay Dock, which he entered without alarming the Policeman on duty. His body was found on the mud, exposed by the receding tide. Mr Rodd, in summing up the evidence, intimated that in his opinion there was good ground for a verdict of Felo de Se, but ht Jury, after a short consultation, returned one of "Suicide while in a State of Temporary Insanity." - MRS CALLAWAY is still alive, though, of course, in a very weak state.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 24 June 1887
TORQUAY - Suicide Of A Coastguard's Wife At Torquay. - Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry last evening at the Torquay Coastguard Station relative to the death of SOPHIA FISHER, wife of FREDERICK FISHER, Coastguardsman, whose wife was found floating in the water at the foot of Daddy Hole Plain on Wednesday afternoon. - FREDERICK JOHN FISHER said his wife had been very strange recently and had complained of her head, especially since the hot weather had set in. On Wednesday his suspicions were aroused by her absence. Having obtained leave he went in search of her, but without effect. In the meantime she had been seen to cross the Plain in the direction of the cliffs. - Thomas Homes, Coastguardsman, said whilst on duty on Wednesday afternoon he saw something in the water and with the aid of his glass he ascertained that it was a body. Having raised an alarm at the Station, he swam out and brought in the body of deceased. Every effort was made to restore life, under the direction of the chief boatman, but without avail. - Mr Reginald Pollard, Surgeon, who was called to the beach, said he examined the body and found only a slight abrasion on the thigh and back. His opinion was that death was caused by drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 25 June 1887
TIVERTON - The Death Of MR THOMAS H. WILSON. Inquest and Verdict. - Last evening Mr Lewis Mackenzie, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at the Tiverton Infirmary touching the death (under circumstances already reported) of MR TOM WILSON, lately a member of Miss Clarice Trevor's theatrical company on tour. The Great Western Railway Company were represented by Mr G. E. Cockram, solicitor, of Tiverton, and Inspector Green. Mr Watkin, solicitor, appeared to watch the proceedings in the interest of deceased's widow. Mr J. B. Crabb, Superintendent of the Tiverton Borough Police, was also present, together with Mr Dayman, the Deputy Coroner. - MRS LILIAN WILSON, deceased's widow, who was much affected, stated that on the 29th May deceased, herself and children and Mr Norman, another member of the company, left Tiverton by the 5.33 train. On getting into the compartment witness noticed the window open on the opposite side of the compartment and she crossed the carriage and closed it, as she suffered from pains in the face. Sometime after the train had been travelling the child got off the seat beside her father and leaned her back against the door, of which she had shut the window. It immediately flew open and the child fell out. There was a scream of terror amongst those present and deceased immediately jumped after the child. Witness ran to the other side of the compartment to pull the alarm cord, but could not find it. She then herself prepared to jump out, but Mr Norman pulled her back. Up to the time of the child leaning against the door everyone had kept their seat and could not have possibly unfastened the door. When she pulled up the window at Tiverton she was positive the door was properly shut - had it not been she certainly would have fastened it for the sake of her children. On arriving at the Junction she gave information of what had occurred and ran back the line towards where her husband had disappeared. In reply to further questions from the Coroner witness stated that she did not look to see whether the handle was fastened before she closed the window. Her late husband's age was 36. - Mr W. E. Williams, residing in Gold-street, stated that he saw the deceased and his wife and children off by the 5.33 train on the evening of the 29th May. He stood at the door abutting on the platform in conversation with them, and saw MRS WILSON close the window of the door on the off side. There appeared nothing unusual in the compartment. - Daniel Layman, living at Lake Cottage, Halberton, and employed as a labourer by Mr Samuel Gillard, stated that he was called by some people who saw the girl lying on the railway. He went to the spot, which was a short distance from Brown's Bridge, about a mile from the Junction. She was crying and calling for her mother. About 60 yards further towards the Junction lay MR WILSON. He was lying on his back, with his feet towards the off rail. Witness carried the child to MR WILSON, who at the time was conscious and asked witness whether he was out of the way of the train. Witness pulled him aside and then the deceased told him that he jumped from the train to rescue his daughter, who had fallen out. Witness noticed no blood at the spot where MR WILSON and his daughter were lying. - John Ward, a porter in the service of the Great Western Railway Company, stated that he was acting as guard to the train in question. It was his duty to examine the train before starting and he did so on this occasion on both sides, and was positive that it started with everything safe. He particularly saw that the handles were fastened before the train started, and did so afterwards from the luggage van. Witness neither heard or saw anything unusual before he reached the Junction. At that place, however, he heard a little boy exclaim that his sister had fallen out of the window. He communicated with the Station Master and on the return of the train to Tiverton a few minutes later they picked up MR WILSON and the child at Brown's Bridge. The deceased was stretched on a gate, while the child was under the care of an old man. Both invalids were conveyed to the Tiverton Station and then to the Infirmary. There were no communication cords on the train. Had he received any intimation of the accident on the rails he could have stopped the train by means of the vacuum brake within 20 yards. - To further questions by the Coroner, witness stated emphatically that he saw all the handles of the train safely turned, and it was an impossibility for the door to fly open unless someone turned the handles. The carriage was one of the ordinary vehicles, and had a ring handle. - By the Jury: On examining the carriage he found the glass of the window intact. - By Mr Watkins: Denied remarking to Mr Williams the day following the accident that the handle was a very loose one. - John Hunt, Station Master at the Tiverton Junction, deposed to receiving a communication from one of the officials that a child had fallen from the train during the journey from Tiverton. The train returned in a few minutes and witness accompanied it. He found, at Brown's Bridge, deceased lying on a hurdle and the child on the grass. Examined the carriage and found everything in working order. - By Mr Watkins: The train started on the return slightly before its time as he was anxious to have the injured persons attended to. - Mr G. Michelmore, the House Surgeon, at the Tiverton Infirmary, stated that on being brought to the Infirmary the deceased was in a state of collapse and was suffering from paralysis of the lower part of the body due to an injury to the spinal column. A post mortem examination revealed that the spinal cord had been dislocated and fractured. Deceased, before his death, made a statement to witness in which he said he thought that the means of fastening the door were defective. - Mr William Green, Superintendent of Police on the G.W.R., deposed that since the accident he had made an examination and had experimented on the compartment in question. He found that the door worked easily, though the window was tight and it would be impossible to raise the window without causing the door to open. He put the same carriage in a train no less than six times and found that before it travelled 35 yards the door with the handle unfastened flew open. He had also experimented in another direction. At various times he had the handle half-fastened before the train started, and he found that it worked in its proper position by the simple oscillation of the train. The same result followed when the handle was quarter closed. - By the Jury: It was true that owing to the window being tight a child could not have lowered it. - A desire was expressed by several Jurors to hear the depositions made by MR WILSON before his death. - The Coroner said they could certainly be read, but he pointed out that they were of no legal value. - In his depositions, which were sworn before Mr F. A. Payne, solicitor of Tiverton, deceased related what occurred, and added that he could positively swear that from the time they entered the train to the time the child fell out the glass window was not lowered. - The Coroner, in summing up, reminded the Jury that the deceased died from injuries received through jumping from the train. It was an act deceased alone was responsible for and it made little difference, as far as the Jury were concerned, whether the door was defective or not. - The Coroner elicited that the Jury thought it unnecessary to send for Mr Norman, who it was stated, was now at Teignmouth. In the result the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 27 June 1887
SHALDON - Drowned In The River Teign. - A sad case of drowning occurred in the River Teign on Friday night, when a young man named THOMAS CHARLES BRYANT, a fisherman, residing at Shaldon, lost his life by the capsizing of a boat. The Inquest was held on Saturday afternoon by Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, at the Royal Standard Inn, Shaldon, Mr R. Devonshire being chosen Foreman of the Jury. From the evidence it appeared that the deceased, in company with other lads, were boating in the Teign, and on returning, by some means or other, the boat was capsized near Archy Brook, with the result that the five occupants were thrown into the water. Four of the lads were picked up, but nothing was seen of BRYANT. A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 30 June 1887
GREAT TORRINGTON - Fatal Fall Out Of Bed At Torrington. - An Inquest was held yesterday by Mr F. Bromham on the body of GERTRUDE PETTLE, aged 10, who died on Sunday from the effects of injuries received through falling out of bed. The Jury, of whom Mr W. Smale was chosen Foreman, found that the child died from "Concussion and Compression of the lower part of the brain or the top of the spinal cord, the result of a Fall from the Bed."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 2 July 1887
EXETER - The Sad Case Of Misadventure At Alphington. Inquest Yesterday. - An Inquest was held by Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, at the Topsham Inn, South-street, yesterday, on the body of SARAH ANN PATIENCE COLES, 42 years of age, and landlady of the New Inn, Alphington, near Exeter, who died in the Devon and Exeter Hospital from the effects of poison taken in mistake for port wine. - The evidence of the deceased's husband, CHARLES COLES, was to the effect that on Tuesday he was in the kitchen of his house, which was also used as the bar, when his wife, who was in an upstair room, called to him, asking him to bring her a glass of port wine. He was about to do so when some customers came in, and before he had finished serving them he heard a noise as of someone violently retching. He went to the room where his wife was, and found that she had swallowed some of the contents of a bottle labelled "Saxam's Sanitary Fluid." Some mustard and hot water were administered to the deceased, and a doctor sent for. Mr Vlieland soon arrived and by his directions she was removed to the Devon and Exeter Hospital. In reply to the Coroner, MR COLES stated that his wife must have fetched the fluid herself. He should not have seen deceased fetch it because the stairs leading to the upstair room were a long way off from the kitchen. The port wine was kept in a cupboard in the front parlour, which could not be seen from the bar. The bottle containing the port wine was labelled, as was also the bottle containing the fluid. His wife could read. He did not know who purchased the fluid, but had been informed that it was brought to the house twelve months ago for disinfecting purposes by a Mrs Paul. He had had no unpleasantness with his wife on the day in question. His wife was of temperate habits, but did not enjoy good health. - Mrs Charlotte Jackson, a widow, of Bartholomew-street, who was fetching some water for the deceased when the occurrence happened, also gave evidence. - Mr A. G. Blomfield, House Surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, proved receiving the deceased into that Institution on Tuesday, and said she died rather suddenly on Thursday. He had made a post mortem examination, from which he gathered that she had suffered from a diseased heart. In his opinion death was the result of failure of the heart's action, accelerated by acute inflammation of the stomach, which must have resulted from having taken the fluid. Under any circumstances she would not have lived many weeks. The disinfectant fluid was a preparation of coal tar, and he should imagine that there was a slight quantity of carbolic acid in it, although it was stated to be absolutely non-poisonous. The deceased told him that she mistook it for port-wine. - The Coroner said the case was a very sad one. There seemed to be no predisposed intent on the part of the deceased to take the fluid, although it was difficult to imagine how a person who could read should have made such a mistake, in the case of labelled bottles. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Misadventure." - The Coroner concurred in the verdict and observed that the Inquiry had satisfactorily cleared up a matter which would otherwise have probably been left in considerable doubt.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 5 July 1887
PLYMOUTH - Determined Suicide At Plymouth. - A most determined suicide has been investigated before the Borough Coroner. About 7 o'clock in the morning the body of a porter named TOMAS JOLLY was found in the water off the North Quay with his legs tied together and his hands similarly secured. The way in which the hands were tired led to the supposition that he did it himself, but evidence was given that on the previous evening he went into a public-house, showed the people there two pieces of string and told them he was going to tie his hands and feet together and fall overboard. He had two glasses of beer at the public-house and the landlord said he was perfectly sober. It was proved, however, that he was addicted to drink, that he had so violently assaulted his wife that she was taken to the Hospital, and that he ought to have appeared at the Police-court that morning to answer the charge. The Jury returned a verdict of Felo de Se.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 6 July 1887
LODDISWELL - Sad Death Of A Farmer's Son Near Kingsbridge. - Yesterday morning an Inquest was held before Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, at Rake Farm, near Loddiswell, on the body of RICHARD LUSCOMBE, 13 years of age, the son of MR ANDREW LUSCOMBE, farmer, who was thrown from a horse in front of a horse-rake in the hay-field on Saturday afternoon. Two of the points of the rake passed into the poor boy's body, one through the arm and the other into the back. The deceased lingered in great pain until Sunday afternoon at 5.30 when he died. The evidence of MISS FRANCES ELIZABETH LUSCOMBE, sister of the deceased, and JOHN LUSCOMBE, his brother, went to show that the deceased was riding the horse drawing the horse-rake when his sister took him a large sunhat to wear in the field. It is supposed that this frightened the horse, which started forward at full gallop, throwing the unfortunate lad, who was afterwards dragged several yards by the horse-rake. - The evidence of Dr Webb, who was in attendance shortly after the accident, showed that the deceased suffered considerably from the shock, but that neither of the external wounds were sufficient to cause death. In the opinion of the medical man death was the result of rupture of the liver and internal haemorrhage, probably caused by the efforts of the deceased to release himself from the horse-rake when he became entangled in it. - The Jury, after hearing the evidence, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 7 July 1887
PLYMOUTH - Alleged Child Murder At Plymouth. - Last night Mr T. C. Brian, the Plymouth Coroner, concluded an Inquest on the body of the newly-born child of MARY ANN STRATFORD. The mother of the deceased, a married woman, whose husband has been at sea two years, virtually confessed that the child had been poisoned by Ann Buchan, her mother-in-law, who poured a teaspoonful of corrosive acid down the infant's throat. BUCHAN is in custody on the charge of being concerned in a case of concealment of birth. The Jury returned a verdict of "Wilful Murder". Buchan will be brought before the Magistrates today.

HOLSWORTHY - Sudden Death At Holsworthy. - An Inquest was held yesterday by Mr F. Burd, District Coroner, on the body of JOSEPH BARRABLE, of Chilsworthy. - Ann Hancock deposed that the deceased lodged in her house. He went to bed in his usual health on Sunday night about 9. He went downstairs again about 3 in the morning. Witness got up at 5 and found the deceased sitting in the settle with his arm clutching the end of it. He was apparently dead. Dr Symons was immediately called in, and pronounced life to be extinct. Dr Symons believed that the deceased died of apoplexy. A verdict was returned of "Death from Natural Causes." - The deceased was 54 years of age.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 11 July 1887
EXMOUTH - The Bathing Fatality At Exmouth. - Mr Cox, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Pitt's Beach Hotel, Exmouth, on Saturday, on the body of the youth MURDOCK who was drowned on Friday while bathing at the point known as the Crabb Hole, Exmouth. It appeared that MURDOCK and another youth named Balmano went to the spot to bathe during their dinner hour, not knowing it was a dangerous place. Balmano was able to swim, while MURDOCK could not swim at all. Balmano, having swam out a short distance, was returning to the shore, when he saw that MURDOCK was sinking as his arm was the only part of the body above water. Balmano swam to MURDOCK'S assistance, and was dragged under water by the deceased, but succeeded in freeing himself while under water and reached the shore, giving the alarm that MURDOCK was drowning. Mr Peck, who happened to be in his boat-house, at once went to the rescue and reached down in the water to get hold of the deceased. He could just touch his head, but was unable to get hold of his hair, as it was so short and the body was sinking. Other people came, a grapnel was procured and the body recovered and brought to shore. While the doctor was sent for everything that possibly could be to restore animation was applied, but without success and Dr Hodgson endeavoured to restore animation for more than half an hour, but it was too late. After hearing the evidence the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," adding to the verdict a rider that the owners of the property should place a notice-board warning bathers of the danger of bathing there, as at the spot the water suddenly deepens from about one foot to about 10 or 12 feet at low water. The Jury handed their fees to the deceased's mother.

CREDITON - Fatal Accident At Crediton. - An Inquest was held by Mr J. D. Gould, on Saturday afternoon at the Ring of Bells Inn, on the body of MRS BADCOCK, who died from injuries received by falling downstairs. Mr Elias Browning was chosen as Foreman of the Jury. - MR WILLIAM H. BADCOCK deposed to having identified the body as that of his wife. On Wednesday evening she went upstairs to put away some paper and in about five minutes after she fell down and never spoke afterwards. No one else was upstairs at the time. - Thomas Gulsworthy stated that he was in the house at the time and was sitting on the stairs. The deceased asked him to move and opened the stair-door and went up, shutting the door after her. He sat down again and about five minutes after he felt something burst against the door, the force of which threw him forward on his face and hands. When he got up the door was open and MRS BADCOCK was lying across the step on which he had been sitting, her head being on the floor. He and another man named Easterbrook picked her up and conveyed her to another room. They were assisted by MR BADCOCK. - Edwin Easterbrook gave corroborative evidence. - Mr Body, Surgeon, practising at Crediton, deposed to being called to attend to the deceased. He examined her and found she had at the back of her head an irregular wound, not a clean cut, altogether about an inch in length and at the upper part of the wound the scalp had been partly lifted. He felt her pulse, which was beating regular and there was nothing then to lead him to suppose that he had anything more to deal with than the external wound. The next day, however, he found her suffering from compression of the brain and at once saw it was a hopeless case. - The Jury, after a few remarks from the Coroner, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - The funeral took place in the Parish Burial-ground yesterday, and was attended by a large concourse of people. Several beautiful floral tributes, including one from members of the bereaved family and another, composed of white lilies and ferns, sent from Cardiff, by Mrs J. H. England, were placed on the coffin.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 13 July 1887
AXMINSTER - The Sad Fatality At Axminster. - Yesterday morning the Deputy Coroner for the District, Mr C. Cox, held an Inquest at the George Hotel, Axminster, relative to the death of MR JESSE SWAIN, of Summerleaze Farm, which occurred on Saturday night. - Mr W. Pulman was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MR EDWIN SWAIN, draper, Trinity-square, Axminster, said the deceased was his brother, a single man, 35 years of age. Between 2 and 3 o'clock on Saturday afternoon the deceased came into the town and he heard him tie up his horse in side entrance to his (witness's) premises, as he was in the habit of doing. About 8.30 witness visited the George Hotel in company with a customer, where he saw the deceased, who was excited by drink, in the bar. He had seen his brother many times in a much worse condition through drink. The horse which the deceased was riding on that day was a rather noted animal for trotting, and the deceased was bragging of this in the Hotel. Although plucky the horse was a quiet animal, and was about nine or ten years old. Very little drink affected the deceased's head and the occasion in question was not the first time he had fallen from his horse. After a short time witness returned home from the Hotel, and about half-past 9 he came outside his shop just in time to see the deceased mount his horse in the Square and ride off at a strong canter, amounting almost to a gallop. He had not time to stop his brother had he required to do so. About 10 o'clock witness was requested to go to Dr Langran's house, where he found the deceased prostrated. Dr Barns was sent for, but his brother did not regain consciousness and succumbed to his injuries about 25 minutes past 2 on Sunday morning. - Dr Langran described the injuries which the deceased sustained to his head. He also added that about a quarter past 10 he saw the deceased outside the Bank and he considered him then to be the worse for liquor. Witness spoke to MR EDWIN SWAIN about the deceased, but there was scarcely time for him to have stopped him. Witness did not speak to the deceased about his condition because he thought it would be no use. The injuries of the deceased were such that the case was a perfectly hopeless one from the first. - William J. Morgan, painter, Axminster, said that he was returning home from a walk in company with another young man, named Joseph Hitchcock, and when near Bow Bridge they met the deceased's horse walking steadily home, the reins of the bridle being broken. Hitchcock took charge of the animal and witness walked towards Axminster, when he saw the deceased lying across the road on his face on the Axminster side of Bow Bridge. Witness turned the poor man over on his back, when he groaned once, but did not speak. Blood was flowing freely from his head. - Joseph Hitchcock said the curb chain was undone. - In reply to a question put by Mr Henley, a Juror, MR E. SWAIN said £8 12s. 8 ½d. was found upon the deceased. - The Coroner thought that from the evidence there was not the slightest doubt that the deceased was intoxicated. He did not wish to lay any blame upon MR E. SWAIN or anyone else; but without doubt the deceased was not in a fit state to ride any distance. It was, of course, a very unsafe thing for a man when under the influence of drink to mount a horse and such actions frequently terminated fatally, as in the present case. This was by no means the first Inquest he had held under similar circumstances, and where there was an opportunity to prevent persons from meeting with such deaths it was the duty of a friend to take advantage of it. In conclusion, the Coroner again remarked that he did not wish to lay blame upon anyone in the present case, as the evidence showed that no one had time to stop the deceased; but it did seem established that the unfortunate man was not in a fit condition to perform the journey home on horseback. - After some deliberation the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that death was due to a fracture of the skull, caused by an Accidental Fall from the Horse.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 15 July 1887
EXETER - Sudden Death. - Yesterday Mr Coroner Hooper Inquired into the circumstances attending the death of JAMES BURRIDGE, aged 63, recently residing in Gatty's-court. The Inquiry was held at the King's Head Inn, Sidwell-street, and the evidence showed that the deceased, who was a pensioner from the 9th Lancers, was lately in the employ of Mr Collings, Longbrook-street. He retired to bed on the previous evening and then appeared to be in good health. During the night, however, he awoke and complained of a pain in his chest and subsequently fell backwards on the bed. Dr Perkins was communicated with, but before that gentleman arrived death had resulted from heart disease. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 16 July 1887
TIVERTON - The Fatal Accident At Tiverton Railway-Station. - The Inquest touching the death on Thursday of MISS EDITH CAROLINE PADDISON, of Gotham House, Tiverton, who was run over at Tiverton Station the same morning while attempting to enter a moving train, was held at the Town Hall last evening by Mr Lewis Mackenzie, Borough Coroner. Colonel Greatwood was Foreman of the Jury. - Mr James Denholne Fraser, J.P., said deceased was his wife's sister and for 12 years past had resided with them at Gotham House. On Thursday morning she started for the Railway Station with the intention of going by the 10.41 a.m. train to Exeter. She bid witness "Good-bye," and made the remark that she should be in good time for the train. She was in her usual state of composure and was quite accustomed to travel alone. - Arthur Lovell, signalman at the Tiverton Station-box, said that about 10.30 he saw a lady on the down platform attempting to enter an empty train, which the engine was shunting from behind at a speed of perhaps five or six miles an hour. When he caught sight of her a carriage door was open and she had her right hand on the fixed brass rod of the carriage side and her left hand on the door handle. Her feet were then on the platform. She turned round two or three times and witness next saw her drop between the train and the platform. She was again twisted round two or three times and then fell on her back with her legs over the rail. Witness had meanwhile shouted to the driver and held up his hands for the train to be stopped. The driver pulled up the train within about the length of a carriage and deceased was then lying between the last carriage and the engine. It all happened in a moment. - John Acland, Great Western Railway Signalman, deposed to seeing the deceased try to enter the train. She slipped and was twisted round. Witness saw what would follow and turned away in horror. - Mr S. H. Fisher, Surgeon, deposed to the injuries the deceased received. She had a compound fracture of both legs and there were extensive flesh wounds, but not much haemorrhage. The deceased did not appear conscious of the real extent of her injuries. She made some remarks, but none attributing blame to anyone. The railway people were most kind and assiduous in all they did for her after the accident. Deceased expired the same day at 1.45 p.m. from the effects of the shock to the system. - Mr H. L. Hathway, a gentleman who happened to be on the up-platform at the time, testified, as an independent witness, that the railway officials did everything they could for the lady. - William Trott, the engine-driver, said the train was going about four miles an hour when the accident occurred, and a person used to doing so could easily enter the train and alight again at that speed. - Mr Harris, Station-Master, who had not been sworn previously, described the rules of the Company as to the shunting of passenger trains. A guard had finished with his train when he had closed the doors, windows, and emptied out the luggage and it was then handed over to a porter and the porter superintended the shunting, and he did so in this case. - Mr W. Green, Superintendent of Police on the Great Western Railway, said that the Company did not require the guard of the train to remain with it until it was shunted away from the platform. - The Coroner said the Jury felt that this was an accident which might happen again under similar circumstances by virtue of the fact that another train was due to start from the same platform only a few minutes later. Was there any reason why the Company should not have someone on the platform with the train? - Superintendent Green: There would be nothing for him to do. - The Coroner: It so happens that there was something for him to do; if he had been there he might have saved this lady's life. - In summing up, the Coroner described the case as one of Accidental Death, and expressed regret that, although every Inquiry had been made, no person could be found who had actually seen what the lady did from the beginning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 18 July 1887
DARTMOUTH - Sudden Death At Dartmouth. - An Inquest has been held by Mr W. R. Prideaux, Borough Coroner, on the body of JAMES TOZER, who died suddenly on Friday. - JOANNAH DAMMINGS, of Newport-street, widow, identified the body of the deceased as that of her brother, JAMES TOZER. He resided with witness in Newport-street, and had been a shipwright. Witness last saw him on Wednesday evening, when he appeared in his usual health. For two or three years he had been subject to fits; but he had not been under medical treatment. Between 8 and 9 on Friday morning she saw him when he was dead. He attended upon himself in the room. There were tenants in the house who could have heard him if he had knocked. - Leah Chadder, wife of John Chadder, residing at Newport-street, said deceased came into her house about 3 o'clock on Thursday afternoon, when he was in his usual health. On Friday morning between 8 and 9 as she did not hear him moving witness went upstairs and the kitchen door being open she saw him lying on the floor. She called the last witness and they both went up to his room. He was seated on the floor, leaning against the window, as if he had slipped from the chair and it had fallen over him. Witness imagined that he had been dead some hours. His bed had not been slept in. - The Jury (of which Mr T. O. Veale was Foreman) returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

CHURSTON FERRERS - An Inquest was held at Churston Schoolroom on Saturday evening before Mr Sydney Hacker, the Coroner for the District. Mr William Warren, the Schoolmaster, was chosen Foreman of the Jury. META MARY ANN HAYMAN, wife of JOHN HAYMAN, a labourer, of Churston Ferrers, died on Friday morning after being confined the same morning. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 20 July 1887
CHAGFORD - Mr Burd (Coroner) held an Inquest on Monday at the King's Arms Inn, on the body of ELIZABETH ENDACOTT, aged 7 years, who died on Saturday. The child was at school on Thursday and appeared to be in perfect health. The evidence of the mother showed that deceased complained of headache and pains in the stomach on Friday. She applied a poultice and paid every attention to her, and on Saturday morning, seeing that the child became suddenly worse, she sent for the doctor (Mr Hunt). In a few minutes the doctor was in attendance, but life was extinct before he arrived. - The medical evidence showed that there was nothing in the appearance of the child other than would lead him to suppose that death resulted from natural causes. It was probably the rupture of a blood vessel in the head. - The Jury accordingly returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

BRIXHAM - The Fatal Accident At Brixham. - An Inquest was held on the body of SAMUEL JOHNS, aged 7 years, who was drowned on Saturday in the Harbour, at the Queen's Hotel, Brixham, yesterday, before Dr Fraser (Deputy Coroner). The following were the Jury:- Messrs. Howard (Foreman), Gregory, Sanders, Johnson, Jones, Hellings, Chapman, Dart, Atkin, Evans, Spurdens, Perkins and Veale. Evidence of the lad being missed from his father's shop and being subsequently found in the Harbour having been heard, the Deputy Coroner thought there was not sufficient evidence to show how the deceased was drowned. - The Jury gave a verdict in accordance with the Coroner's ruling and added the following rider:- "That the Commissioners ought to block up the narrow path at the back of Mr Jackman's store at both ends, so that no other accident could occur there."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 23 July 1887
AXMINSTER - The Scaffold Accident At Axminster. - On Thursday, at the George Hotel, Axminster, Mr C. E. Cox, Deputy Coroner, held an Investigation into the circumstances relative to the death of SAMUEL SPILLER, mason, Castle-hill, Axminster, which occurred through his falling from a scaffold on Wednesday afternoon. - WILLIAM SPILLER, father of the deceased, said his son was married, and was 24 years of age. They were both employed by Messrs. Turner and Skinner, of Honiton, in the building of a house at Axminster. The deceased and another workman named Raymond built the scaffold, which was about 18 feet high. Witness and his son were engaged in stuccoing the front of the house. The scaffolding was two planks in width. Witness was sitting on the plank, and his son was working on his left hand side. He was in either a kneeling or stooping position. Witness saw the deceased fall and pitch on some iron railings. He could not tell what caused his son to fall. Dr Hallett was sent for, but the deceased only lived two or three minutes. - Raymond, who supplied the deceased with stucco through a window from the inside of the house, said the latter was in a kneeling position. He did not see the actual cause of SPILLER'S fall. - Tom Anning, foreman of the building operations, proved examining the scaffold before the men got on it and he was of opinion that it was perfectly safe. He considered it wide enough for the men to work upon. There were two planks of nine inches each. - Dr Hallett, who examined the body, found a contusion on the left side, near the region of the heart, caused by the fall. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. It was stated that Mr Turner, the deceased's employer, would provide the coffin, and the Jury gave 2s. each to the widow. Mr Brice contributed the fee for the room and other contributions were given.

SHALDON - Drowned In The Teign. - A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned at the Inquiry held at the Royal Standard Inn, Shaldon, by Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, of Totnes, on the body of ALFRED GEORGE PALK, a lad, who met with his death while bathing in the River Teign, close to the Shaldon Bridge, on Thursday morning.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 25 July 1887
UFFCULME - The Death Of A Child By Burning At Uffculme. - At Brickyard Cottage, Wellington-road, on Saturday, Mr Coroner Burrow held an Inquest touching the death of the child FREDERICK HENRY STONE, aged 2 ½ years, who was burnt to death on Friday morning. - MRS JANE STONE, the mother, Mrs Potter, a next-door neighbour and Dr Morgan, of Uffculme, gave evidence. - It appeared that about 8 a.m. the mother, having just lit the kitchen fire, sat the child in a chair beside it while she prepared breakfast. She went away for a moment and meanwhile the child's nightdress was ignited by a burning stick which fell out from the grate. Hearing screams, MRS STONE rushed back and failing to smother the flames by wrapping some flannel around the child she called Mrs Potter to her aid. Mrs Potter found the child in the middle of the kitchen floor and enveloped in "a mass of flames from head to foot." His night-clothes were then almost completely burnt and she tore off what remained. With the assistance of other neighbours limewater and linseed oil were applied and meanwhile Dr Bryden of Uffculme, was sent for, also Dr Morgan, who was the first to arrive, just after the child had expired, remarking that he himself could not have done more. - WILLIAM HENRY STONE, the child's father, who had to be ordered from the room for interrupting during the evidence, was subsequently allowed to make a statement. He complained bitterly that Doctor Bryden having promised to come did not arrive until an hour after the child was dead and then only in the course of his ordinary round as District Medical Officer. He mentioned that he owed Dr Bryden 7s. 6d. for previous attendance, but declared he should never pay the money. - The Coroner remarked that this was a very sad case, and of course they sympathised with the parents. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 26 July 1887
ILFRACOMBE - The Fatal Accident At Ilfracombe. - The woman who was thrown from a trap on Saturday night died on Sunday. The Inquest was held last evening, before Mr H. J. Bromham. The husband of the deceased, MR BOND, from Swansea, having identified the body, evidence was given by Mr Chugg, the driver, and others showing that the hose bolted and that no blame was attached to anyone. A verdict of Accidental Death was returned. The two other ladies who were injured are in the Tyrrel Cottage Hospital, where the doctor states they are likely to remain some time, their injuries being more severe than was at first anticipated.

EXETER - Sudden Death. - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest at the Palace yesterday afternoon on the body of WILLIAM FINCH, aged about 56 years, and a butler in the service of the Bishop of Exeter, who died suddenly yesterday morning. - From the evidence given by GEORGE FINCH, a lance-corporal in the Royal Engineers, and son of the deceased, a gardener named Mundy, and a housemaid named Jane Germon, it appeared that the deceased had been in the service of the Bishop for about two years. On Sunday night he was seen by Mudge, and was to all appearances then in his usual health. About 7 o'clock yesterday he called the housemaid as she was passing, and after complaining that he had been unwell during the night, but felt somewhat better, requested her to send for Mundy. The latter proceeded to deceased's bedroom, but left him shortly afterwards for the purpose of preparing breakfast, deceased having stated that he felt better. About 10 minutes to 8 the housemaid again went to deceased's bedroom. She knocked at the door, but failing to get any answer she entered the room and found that FINCH had expired. The housemaid stated that when she first entered the room she asked the deceased if she should get him some medicine or medical aid, but he declined, saying that he would wait. - The evidence of Mr Cumming, Surgeon, showed that death was a natural one, and the Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 28 July 1887
DAWLISH - The Bathing Fatality At Starcross. - At the Inquest held by Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, at the Courtenay Arms, Starcross, yesterday, on the body of JOHN ROSE, aged 18, who was drowned while bathing in the River Exe, just off the Bonhay of the River Ken, opposite Powderham Castle on Sunday under circumstances already reported, and whose body was not recovered until Tuesday, a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned. The deceased was a native of Kenton, but lately had been employed at St Georges Clyst as farm labourer. He had just enlisted into the Royal Artillery, and should have reported himself at the Depot on Monday.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 29 July 1887
NEWTON ABBOT - The Fatal Accident At Newton Abbot. - "Accidental Death" was the verdict returned as the result of an Inquiry held on Monday at the Cottage Hospital on the body of WILLIAM BAKER, market gardener, aged 26 years, who fell from a break on the way home to Newton from the Volunteer camp at Hartor on the previous night. The evidence given showed that the fall took place while deceased was trying to change seats and that death was due to shock to the system. Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, conducted the Inquiry.

HOLSWORTHY - Suicide. - At an Inquest held on the body of JAMES HORRELL, aged 77 years, an inmate of the Workhouse, the Master, Mr J. Bines, deposed to finding the deceased on Tuesday in a closet of the establishment with his throat cut. HORRELL, during his lifetime, was rather queer in his behaviour and had a religious mania. He was alive when found and was treated by Dr Symons, but he died on Wednesday morning from the effects of the wound. The Jury returned a verdict of Suicide while in a state of Unsound Mind.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 1 August 1887
ILFRACOMBE - The Late Fatal Carriage Accident At Ilfracombe. - On Friday evening MRS DYER, another of the ladies who were injured on Saturday week by the carriage accident, succumbed to her injuries. It will be remembered that she was removed to the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital, where she received the utmost attention. On Thursday morning, however, dangerous symptoms set in, and she died on Friday evening. The Inquest was held at the Hospital on Saturday afternoon before Mr J. F. Bromham, District Coroner. - Mr Tatham was appointed Foreman of the Jury. - MR PHILIP DYER, a butcher, residing near Swansea, identified the body as that of his mother, ELEANOR DYER. She was about 63 years of age and the wife of LEWIS DYER, ostler. - The evidence that followed as to the accident was similar to that already reported at the previous Inquiry. - Dr Gardner described the injuries received by the deceased, remarking that he examined her. She was suffering from a long bruised cut on the left leg and several bruises on other parts of the body. She was afterwards removed to the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital, where she was seen by other medical men. Unfortunately gangrene set in, in the right leg, and rapidly spread to the body and after that there was no hope. A daughter of the deceased was also injured, receiving concussion of the brain, but she has recovered. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

BIDEFORD - The Suicide At Bideford. - The Inquest upon the body of MR BROCK, painter, of Bideford (reported in our issue of Saturday) was held on Saturday evening before the Borough Coroner, Dr Thompson. Mr S. Martin, sen., was chosen Foreman. The first witness called was Mr E. Rouse, who said: I knew the late JOHN BROCK, and attended him professionally. I have attended him four or five times during the last fortnight. He had been very depressed and was morbidly anxious about his wife, who was poorly. He was altogether of a highly nervous temperament. He did not complain to me of any general outside trouble, but he was always of a very excitable nature. I have no doubt that his death was occasioned by hanging. - In reply to the Coroner, Mr Rouse said: I have just a doubt whether the deceased hung himself. The mark on the neck suggests that the rope was not in such a position as it would have been placed by a man intending to hang himself. - In consequence of these observations the Jury at once proceeded to view the workroom where the suicide took place. The rope in question was an ordinary one, had always been in position for weighing purposes, and was in the centre of the room. It must certainly have been, comparatively, but a very little distance from the floor. - Montague Bray said: I was an apprentice of the deceased. I last saw him alive at half-past four in the afternoon in the workshop. I left him there at that time to go to work at Fox's Bank. I was away an hour and having finished I returned to the workshop. I found MR BROCK hanging by his neck to a rope in the middle of the room. His feet were touching the ground and his hands were hanging by his side. I looked at him for a second or two astounded and then called to his son to send for a doctor. I tried to lift him out of the rope, but found he was too heavy. The rope was simply tied round a balance-block, and there was no "noose" at all in the rope. At this point Superintendent Morgan produced the rope and the block, and explained that the rope, as it was around the neck, was only 4ft. 8in. from the ground, not the height of a man's shoulder. Witness continuing, said: As I could not lift him out I ran for Dr Ackland, and the young doctor came at once. When we returned the body was on the floor, the rope having been cut by MR BROCK'S daughter. The doctor in my presence examined the body and said MR BROCK was quite dead. The rope and the block had always been kept exactly where it was when the body was in it. It was kept there for weighing purposes. - ANNIE BROCK deposed: MR JOHN BROCK was my father. I saw him several times on Friday. He had breakfast and dinner with all of us; he ate as usual, and he seemed in his general health. He did not seem silent or depressed and he talked with us as usual. In the afternoon, at 20 past 5, I went up into the workshop to fetch a pail. Father was there and had a brush in his hand. He asked me if mother was asleep, and I said yes. I took the bucket I wanted and went away. About ten minutes after my brother told me something had happened as he ran off for a doctor. I ran up into the loft alone, and saw father hanging. I took hold of him and shook him, and said "Father!". He then gasped. I ran down and got the carving-knife and some brandy. I took hold of his arm and cut the rope and then poured some brandy into his mouth. The brandy went down his throat. I was holding him in my arms all the time. When Mrs Freeman's servant came in we sat him on the floor and held his head up till the doctor came. The doctor did all he could, but found he was dead. I did not call my mother at all, as I thought it would frighten her. - The Coroner remarked that the witness was the bravest little girl he had ever had before him and the Jury expressed their warm admiration of her conduct. - The Coroner having briefly summed up, the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased Committed Suicide while Temporarily Insane.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 2 August 1887
EXMOUTH - The Boating Fatality At Exmouth. - Mr Deputy Coroner Cox held an Inquest at Winter's Rolle Hotel yesterday to Inquire into the cause of death of WILLIAM HANSON, who was drowned while boating off Exmouth on Sunday week. - After hearing the evidence the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," adding the following rider to their verdict:- "It is expedient that a public mortuary be erected on or near the beach to receive bodies which may be recovered from the sea or otherwise and having no home to be taken to." - The Jury gave their fees to the woman of the house wherein the deceased had formerly lodged and who took in the body after it had been recovered.

EXETER - Sudden Death In Exeter. - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest at the Victoria Inn, Union-road, yesterday, touching the death of MARY JANE GLOVER. - WILLIAM GLOVER, a fireman, on the London and South Western Railway, and living at 16 Victoria-street, Pennsylvania, identified the body of the deceased as that of his wife, who was 29 years of age. Witness left home on Tuesday last at half-past 9, and deceased was then in her ordinary health. On returning at half-past 4 o'clock on Saturday he found his wife lying on some chairs in the front-room dead. Witness's wife had not been under medical treatment since she had lived in Exeter. - John Hayward, a fireman, employed on the London and South-Western Railway and lodging with the last witness, deposed that he went home to dinner on Saturday about 20 minutes past 1 o'clock. Witness, not seeing anyone, called for MRS GLOVER, but did not get any reply. Witness then had a wash and again called for the deceased. He did not get any answer, but, fancying that he heard a groan, he opened the door of the front room and found MRS GLOVER lying on her back on the floor. Witness, failing to get MRS GLOVER to speak, called Mrs Bishop, a neighbour, and with the latter's assistance deceased was lifted on to the sofa. Witness had to be on duty at 2 o'clock and left the deceased in charge of Mrs Bishop. Deceased, when witness left home on Saturday morning, was to all appearances in her usual health. - Dr M. L. Brown stated that he was called on Saturday about 2 o'clock to see the deceased. He found her lying on her back in the front room dead. He examined the body, but did not find any marks of violence. Death was due to syncope, consequent upon the failure of the heart's action. - In reply to questions, the husband stated that his wife enjoyed good health. She had never complained of her heart. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TIVERTON - The Inquest touching the death of ARCHIBALD REED, keeper to the Tiverton Fishing Association, who was murdered while on his beat close to Tiverton early on Saturday morning, was opened yesterday by Mr Lewis Mackenzie, Borough Coroner. The evidence of seven witnesses, including the widow, having been taken, the Inquiry was adjourned for a week.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 3 August 1887
ALPHINGTON - The Drowning Fatality In The Exeter Basin. - An Inquiry was held at the Anchor Inn, Alphington-street, yesterday, by the Deputy Coroner, Mr W. Gould, relative to the death of LEWIS VINNICOMBE, 13 years of age, son of JOHN VINNICOMBE, a carpenter, residing in Alphington-street, who was drowned in the Exeter Basin on Saturday afternoon. - LUCY VINNICOMBE identified the body as that of her son. - Sidney Snell, a little boy, stated that on Saturday he and the deceased, with the latter's two sisters and a lad named Frank Kelland, went to the Exeter Basin and deceased seeing a steam-tug there, got into a boat and climbed on it. He played about on the vessel for about an hour, when the lad Kelland called out, "There's a man coming!" Deceased then ran to the side of the steamer and in attempting to get on to the bank of the Basin fell backward into the water. He paddled about for a minute or so and then sank, but appeared on the surface again, and ultimately disappeared. Deceased had been in the water at Salmon Pool, but could not swim. - EMILY VINNICOMBE, a sister of deceased, stated that the evidence of the last witness was perfectly correct with the exception of that part of it referring to the fall. The deceased, she said, jumped from the steam-tug on to the bank and then slipped and fell into the water. - William Came, a labourer, employed on the Quay, and a resident of Coombe-street, deposed to recovering the body from the water. Efforts were made to restore animation, but without avail. - Dr Farrant said he had examined the body, which presented the usual appearance of death by drowning. Some Jurymen suggested that something should be erected at the spot for the purpose of preventing a similar accident, as one of a like nature occurred, they said, to a man last summer. - The Coroner observed that it was private property. Perhaps, however, the Press would take notice of the matter, and something might be done. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death by Drowning."

SIDMOUTH - The Fatal Accident To A Sidmouth Lady. The Inquest. - Mr C. E. Cox, Deputy Coroner, and a Jury sat at Sid Abbey, near Sidmouth, last evening, to Inquire into the melancholy circumstances attending the death of MRS GROSE, which resulted from an accident of a somewhat extraordinary character that occurred on Saturday last. - The first witness examined was MISS MARTHA SKINNER. The deceased, FANNY GROSE, who was 71 years of age, was her sister. She was the widow of the late MR WILLIAM GROSE, of Paignton, and had been an invalid, perfectly helpless. On Saturday morning, about 11, witness took her sister for a drive in a donkey-chair, as she was in the habit of doing. In All Saints'-road, near the Parsonage, witness, who was leading the donkey, was surrounded by bees, as was also the animal. Having been stung badly the donkey became very restive, and she (MISS SKINNER) had no control over him. Two little boys came, but they were frightened by the bees, and could not unfasten the harness. The deceased, she should have mentioned, was also stung. The donkey kept going round and round, and eventually the carriage came in contact with a wall on the opposite side of the road and was upset. The deceased lady was thrown forward, with her shoulder and side of her face on the ground. The apron of the carriage prevented her from being thrown completely out. The carriage was turned over on its right side. Mr Alfred Reed then came to the assistance of witness, who could only prevent the donkey from crushing the deceased with his feet. This gentleman called another man and the deceased, who was perfectly conscious, was taken to Mr Reed's house previous to being removed to her home. Mr Reed also called upon a third man to assist, but he would not do so. Witness also received injuries in addition to being stung, but she did not think they were serious. - Mr Alfred Reed, of Khandwa Villa, Sidmouth, whose attention was drawn to the accident by his wife, said the carriage was upset about 50 yards from his house. He threw the donkey, which he thought was mad, on the ground, and a postman kept it in that position while he (witness) got the deceased from under the carriage. A man was walking towards the scene of the accident and both witness and his wife appealed to him to make haste. He did not exert himself in the least, but walked slowly up. Witness asked him if he was a man why he did not assist in getting the poor lady from under the carriage. After a little time witness said to the man, "Do you call yourself a man?" to which he made the simple reply, "There's assistance coming," and walked away. - A Juror: Do you know the name of that man? - A.: No; but I should know him again if I saw him. - A Juror: It was very unmanly and disgraceful of him. - Dr Pullin: MISS SKINNER also appealed to him. The apron-strap must have been broken or disconnected, as the greater portion of MRS GROSE'S body was under the chaise. - Henry Solomon, postman, Sidmouth, who was on duty at the time, proved seeing the ladies shortly after the carriage was upset and corroborated Mr Reed's evidence as to the assistance which he rendered. Witness further added that the man who refused to render assistance was called Jefford. - In answer to a question put to him by witness, Jefford said, "There's someone coming," but he (Soloman) did not see anyone. - Jefford was then called before the Jury, the Coroner thinking that he might be able to explain the reason for his conduct. He stated that he never saw the lady under the carriage; Mr Reed had her in his arms. He looked up and down the road for assistance. Jefford admitted that Mr Reed appealed to him for assistance, but "he was unable to assist because he was under the doctor, and any worry and excitement flew to his heart." Had he not been in a bad state of health he should have been "very glad" to give assistance. Continuing, Jefford said he had been to Dr Wright that morning for a certificate, but, while declining to supply him with one, that gentleman expressed his willingness to come forward if necessary on his behalf. He was last under Dr Wright's treatment in May, since which time he had been better. - A Juror (Mr Paynton) said he was certainly afraid that Jefford's heart was not in the right place - (hear, hear) - or he would have rendered the unfortunate lady some help. His conduct was most cruel, uncourteous and uncalled for under such circumstances, and he did think that he was not a man. (Hear, hear.) - Jefford was then sworn and said he was an insurance agent, living in Old Fore-street, Sidmouth. He did not know the deceased. He was proceeding up the road towards the Station. Mr Reed asked him (witness) to help him, but he did not see the deceased until she was in the former's arms. He looked up and down the road to beckon persons for assistance. He (Jefford) didn't help because he was not in a fit state of health to do so. By the Coroner: When Mr Reed said to him, "You are no man," he did not give any reason for his conduct. The Coroner did not wonder at Mr Reed making use of that expression to witness. - A Juror: Nor I. - The Coroner added that all that could be done was to leave persons such as Jefford to the judgment of their neighbours. There was no legal obligation. - A Juror: There's a moral one. - The Coroner observed that his (Jefford's) legal obligation was much higher. (Hear, Hear). It was right for him to exculpate his conduct as far as possible in the eyes of his fellow-men. As regarded his bad health, it might excuse him in a small degree, but he (Mr Cox) thought that any man with a heart beating within him would have felt strongly impelled to go to the assistance of a weak lady who was in such great suffering. - William Wilson, gardener to the Misses Stainton, who reside close to the scene of the accident, said that his employers kept a hive of bees just inside a wall, which was about 5ft. high, near the main road. He (Wilson) had taken eight sections of honey from the hive that morning, but he would not say whether the bees referred to were those of the Misses Stainton. He heard nothing of the accident when taking the honey. - Dr Pullin, who attended the deceased, said she died on Monday morning about 5.45. Both her thighs, a rib in the right side and her right collar-bone were broken. The right shoulder-bone was also dislocated. Death was caused chiefly through shock from the injuries received. - The Coroner, in reviewing the evidence, said he was sure the Jury would agree with him that the case was a very distressing one indeed, and it called for their deep sympathy for the sorrowing relatives. Concerning the conduct of the man Jefford, he did not wish to further allude to that very disagreeable subject. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and the Jury tendered their sincere sympathy to the relatives, as well as their thanks to Mr and Mrs Reed and the witness Solomon for the services so kindly rendered by them. - A Juror thought it inadvisable to hive bees so near the highway, which opinion was conveyed to the Misses Stainton through the Foreman.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 4 August 1887
SEATON AND BEER - The Seaton Drowning Case. - Yesterday the Deputy Coroner, Mr C. E. Cox, held an Inquest at the Lion Hotel, Seaton, relative to the death of NATHANIEL HOLWILL, 12, son of SERGEANT HOLWILL, of the Somerset Constabulary, Crewkerne, who met his death while bathing at Seaton on Bank Holiday. - HERBERT HOLWILL, of East-street, Crewkerne, identified the body as that of his brother, who was 12 years of age, and who was just learning to swim. Witness and his brother visited the town on Monday for a holiday and until about 4.30 in the afternoon they kept together, at which hour, when near the bathing-machines, they separated. Deceased, with another companion, named Frederick Lacey, also of Crewkerne, then left witness. Subsequently witness went to look for his brother, before leaving by train. At the lower end of the beach he met Lacey, who was coming towards Seaton with his brother's clothes. He afterwards saw his brother lying on the beach. Lacey, who was about 13 years of age, could not swim. - George Holman, of Crewkerne, said he divested himself of his clothes with the intention of saving the boy; but, being unable to swim, he found the water too deep for him. He gave an alarm to a boatman named Robert Stark, who took the deceased from the water and brought him ashore. Witness assisted in endeavouring to restore animation, but to no purpose. The deceased's last words to witness, while he was in the water, were "Come on" which he repeated three times. - A Juror here observed that the spot in question (the mouth of the Axe) was a very dangerous one. - In reply to Dr Evans, the witness (Holman) said the deceased was floating up the river very quickly, with his face downwards, and faster than he could walk. - Dr Evans remarked that the best swimmer in Seaton could not have swam under such circumstances. - A Juror observed that the current at this point had been seen to run at the rate of seven or eight miles per hour. There ought to be a notice-board erected there. - Robert Stark, Old Ferry House, Axmouth, proved lifting the body from the river into his boat and landing it. - Dr Evans stated that when he reached the body, in company with his son, a Coastguard was following the printed instructions supplied respecting the action to be taken by these officials with a view to restoring animation. For about 20 minutes witness and his son continued these efforts, but without success. The body was bruised very much by the action of the shingle. The deceased must have been taken off his legs and thrown against the shingle with great force by the tide. He believed the boy was dead when taken from the water. The place was a very dangerous one. - The Coroner thought it would be a very good thing if the instructions received by the Coastguards as to the movements of the arms of persons rescued in this manner with a view to restoring life were more generally known. Not infrequently the knowledge of how to act by the public under such circumstances might save a life, when medical aid was not close at hand. - A Juror remarked that the scene of the occurrence was not within the boundary of the Local Board. - The witness Stark said that a "caution" board would remain on the beach about 10 minutes. It would only be a target for the boys to shoot at. - In returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," the Jury expressed the opinion that everything possible was done to save the poor boy's life. - Mr Skinner, a Juror, and a member of the Local Board, said it was his intention to propose at the meeting on Friday that a board warning persons of danger should be placed near the mouth of the river.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 5 August 1887
EAST BUDLEIGH - The Drowning Fatality At Budleigh Salterton. Inquest Yesterday. - Yesterday Mr C. E. Cox, Deputy Coroner for the District, held an Inquest at the Rolle Arms Hotel, Budleigh Salterton, on the body of HENRY COWD, an auctioneer, and a resident of Budleigh, who, with an elderly inhabitant named SAMUEL HOWARD WILLIAMS met with his death by drowning, under circumstances already reported in these columns. Deceased were married men, and tradesmen of the place, MR WILLIAMS being a painter and glazier. MR COWD was 62 years of age and MR WILLIAMS a year or two older. The body of the latter has not yet been recovered. - The Jury, of which Mr George Gibbs was the Foreman, having viewed the body, the first witness, Walter Sedgmore, stated that he lived in the parish and was a fisherman. He also occasionally let out his boats as pleasure-boats. He was well acquainted with the deceased, who had on previous occasions been out with him sailing. He also knew MR WILLIAMS - the other unfortunate person who was drowned - and gave him a general permission to use his boats. Witness called MR WILLIAMS a very good amateur sailor. - The Coroner: You knew that these gentlemen were able to manage the boat? - Witness: Yes; certainly on such a fine day as Monday. - The Coroner said he asked these questions because it was important that persons of his (the witness's) occupation should know that it was their duty to exercise a proper and efficient discretion as to who they allowed to go out in their boats. - The witness, continuing, said MR WILLIAMS spoke to him on Monday and asked him for a boat for himself and MR COWD. He came to him about 12 and said he wanted to catch some mackerel. Witness said he could take which boat he liked and that he would find a small sail in one of them. The boat which WILLIAMS did take was about 12ft. 4in., and had been lately used every day eight miles off in crab-fishing. There was some iron ballast in the boat, but he did not think there was any ballast board. These boards were used to prevent the shifting of the ballast, but they were not put in all boats and witness himself did not often use them. He saw them start. They rowed out a bit in a south-westerly direction and then set sail in a good sailor-like fashion, as if they had been accustomed to it all their lives. Witness heard some time after six that the boat had capsized. He hurried to the beach and the body of MR COWD had then been recovered. - The Foreman said the boat in question was a kind of one which was used a great deal in this locality. - Mr Joshua C. Tuckwell, of Exeter, said he was at Budleigh Salterton on Monday. Between 5 and 6 p.m. on that day he was sitting on the beach opposite the Parade, and heard a cry raised that a boat had upset. Witness pulled off a part of his clothing, and with others named Middleton, Taylor and Pratt, jumped into a boat and pulled off about a mile to the spot where the boat had been seen to capsize. It took them about 10 minutes to get out there and a mast then rose out of the water. Witness soon afterwards saw the body of COWD rise, and it was taken into their boat. This was about 20 minutes after the boat capsized. When they got the body into the boat two pulled towards the shore and two others endeavoured to restore animation. Mr Taylor, who was a retired officer in the Coastguard, was one of those who attended to the deceased immediately, but life appeared to be extinct. As they could see no signs of the body of MR WILLIAMS they rowed back to the shore as quickly as possible, where the body was given in charge of the officer of the Coastguard. - Richard Pratt, a fisherman of Budleigh Salterton, said that at the time of the accident he was standing on the Parade. The boat in which the deceased were was then about a mile south-west. They were sailing with a lug sail when he first noticed the boat, which was tacking in and out. She kept away before the wind which was rather fresh, and there was a short swell. The boat was running about half a minute before the wind when he noticed the sail shift from one side to the other, then back again, and then he lost sight of the boat altogether, which went under. The wind was a good one for sailing, and not at all squally. - Witness should not have been afraid to trust Mr Williams with the boat on the same day, as he was about the best amateur sailor, with one or two exceptions, in the neighbourhood. The shifting of the sail must have been caused by rather indifferent steering. Witness could not see who was steering. Witness afterwards went off in a boat with the previous witness and two other persons, and recovered the body of COWD, which was lying under the capsized boat. Life was then extinct. He could see nothing of the body of WILLIAMS. - By the Foreman: The boat capsized by what they called "jibbing." He heard that the sheet was made fast. Witness did not see that it was, but he thought it was, as the sheet was full when in the water. - Dr Mercer said he was called to the beach after the accident, and when he got there he found the Coastguard-officer, Ellis, was properly carrying out the instructions of the Humane Society to induce respiration on the body of COWD. Life, however, was quite extinct, and there was no chance of resuscitation. Death was occasioned by drowning. - P.C. Frood said the deceased's watch was found to have stopped at six minutes past five. - The Coroner said it appeared that, though the occurrence was a very sad one, blame was not attributable to anyone. It did not seem that the boat had been controlled in a proper way and he would impress upon all who had boats to let for hire that the greatest discretion was necessary. He was sure that the families of these unfortunate gentlemen had their sympathy in this sad accident. (Hear, hear). - The Foreman said he thought it was fair to Sedgmore to say that anyone in Budleigh Salterton would have let MR WILLIAMS have a boat. - Another Juror said it was still desirable that every precaution should be taken. - The Jury found a verdict of "Accidental Drowning through the Capsizing of the Boat." - The Coroner intimated that after hearing the evidence on this Inquiry, he did not think an Inquest in the event of finding the other body would be necessary. All that he required was that the Police should communicate to him the fact if the body be eventually recovered. - The Jury expressed their strongest sympathy with the bereaved families.

BARNSTAPLE - A sad accident has befallen a young man named JESSE BRAUNTON, aged 22 years. Deceased, who was in the employ of Mr Dalling, coal merchant, was changing some horses in a mowing-machine at Tawstock when one of the horses lashed out suddenly with both legs, striking BRAUNTON in the abdomen. It was seen that he was much injured and he was conveyed to the North Devon Infirmary, where it was discovered he had sustained severe internal injury. He was suffering great pain and expired on Wednesday night. A few weeks ago a brother of the deceased had to have a toe amputated at the Infirmary as the result of an accident, and on Tuesday, the same evening that the deceased was conveyed to the Infirmary, his sister-in-law was taken to the same Institution with a broken leg. An Inquest on the body was held last evening at the North Devon Inn, before the Coroner, Mr R. I. Bencraft, when evidence to the above effect was given and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 9 August 1887
EXETER - An Inquest was held by Mr H. W. Hooper (City Coroner) at the Guildhall yesterday on the body of GEORGE SALTER BROWNING, a commercial porter, 65 years of age, and residing in Butcher's-row, Smythen-street, who died suddenly on Saturday morning in Fore-street under circumstances already reported in these columns. - The evidence of Mr Moon, Surgeon, who was called to see deceased, showed that death was due to heart disease and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 11 August 1887
CROYDE - Sudden Death In A Corn Field At Croyde. - An Inquest was held yesterday at Croyde by the County Coroner, J. F. Bromham, Esq., on the body of WILLIAM BUTLER. From the evidence of two men named Staddon and Zeal, fellow workmen of the deceased, it appeared that on Monday they were in a corn-field belonging to T. J. Dennis, Esq, carrying corn, when deceased was observed to fall down. Staddon went to his assistance immediately and picked him up. The deceased breathed two or three times and then expired. - Dr Lane deposed that he was called to see BUTLER about 12 months ago at the Braunton Station, where he found him exhausted and faint and his opinion was that he suffered from heart disease. On Monday he saw him after death and he had no hesitation whatever in saying that death was the result of natural causes, namely, failure of the heart's action. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 13 August 1887
EAST BUDLEIGH - The Budleigh Salterton Boating Fatality. Recovery Of The Second Body. - The body of the late MR HOWARD WILLIAMS, who was drowned on Bank Holiday, was picked up at 5 o'clock yesterday morning very near the spot at which the accident occurred. The body was found by some Lympstone men and brought ashore by one of the Salterton boats.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 16 August 1887
EXETER - Sudden Death. - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest at the Guildhall yesterday on the body of WILLIAM TURNER, residing at 2 Bartholomew-yard. The deceased was 66 years of age and was employed as smith and fitter by Messrs. Garton and King. According to the evidence it seems that he went to bed as usual on Saturday night; but on his wife proceeding to the room a little later she found him dead. The medical evidence showed that death was due to natural causes, probably angina pectoris. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 19 August 1887
Another Drowning Case Near Bideford. Plucky Conduct Of A Lady. - A sad case of drowning occurred towards the end of Tuesday afternoon in the River Torridge, by Boat Hyde, between Appledore and Bideford. There is a beach at the spot, where boys from Northam, about a mile or so over the hill, are in the habit of bathing. In the afternoon a boy named WILLIAM TURNER, aged 13, the son of CAPTAIN TURNER, of Bay View, Northam, went to Boat Hyde Beach and entered the water in the usual way. TURNER could not swim, and there were no boys with him who could. It is supposed that the boy must have been seized with cramp, for presently a lad in the employ of Mr Garvice, whose residence is close by, saw him struggling in the water. The boy immediately ran into the house and gave the alarm. Mrs Garvice instantly rushed down to the beach, and, jumping into a canoe, paddled to the spot where she was told the boy must have sunk. She could not succeed in recovering the body while in the canoe, but as another boat came up she waded into the water and got into it and in a very short time succeeded in securing the body with the boat-hook. Upon its being taken to the shore medical assistance was sent for, and in the meantime every means was taken to restore animation. Unfortunately, however, they were of no avail, and on the arrival of Dr Cox life was pronounced to be extinct. The greatest sympathy is felt for MR TURNER, who is much respected at Northam, and for all the members of his family. The deceased was a big boy for his age and very bright and promising. An Inquest was held on Wednesday afternoon before Mr J. Bromham, County Coroner, and, the above particulars having been given in evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," and expressed their admiration of Mrs Garvice's conduct.

CREDITON - The Strange Case Of Drowning In Shobrooke Park. Verdict Of "Found Drowned." - The Deputy Coroner for the District (Mr H. W. Gould) held an Inquest yesterday at the Oat Sheaf Inn, Crediton, on the body of HANNAH WHITE, who was found drowned in the pond at Shobrooke Park on Tuesday. The Inquest was opened at 8.45 a.m., the Coroner explaining that he had been obliged to hold the Inquiry at that hour or otherwise to postpone it until the following day. - Mr E. Lane was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MARY ANN WHITE, residing in St Saviour's-court, identified the body of the deceased as that of her daughter, who was 15 years of age last birthday. Witness last saw deceased alive about half-past 10 o'clock on Tuesday morning. About that hour witness left home, leaving the deceased upstairs. Witness returned about half-past 12 o'clock, but the deceased was not at home. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said that she could not account in any way for her absence. There was no one in the house. - Q.: Can you account at all for her being found in Shobrooke pond? - A.: No, sir. - Q.: Did she leave any letters? - A.: No, sir; no papers of any kind. My husband and I searched the house all over to see if she left anything. - Q.: Had you ever heard her threaten to commit suicide? - A.: No, sir, never. - Q.: Of what sort of a disposition was she? - A.: Very sulky and quiet. If you said anything to her which she did not like she would not say anything; she was very quiet in her ways and manner. - Q.: Had you said anything to her that morning to cause her to sulk or be despondent? - A.: I had not said anything to cause her to sulk. We were the best of friends up to the last moment of my leaving the house. Witness remarked that she had gone out earlier in the morning to attend to some work, and on her return to the house she saw the deceased beating a younger sister about five years of age. Witness said, "Oh! ANNIE, how can you be so brutish to serve the child like that? Why don't you get a place?" The deceased made no reply. She had previously beaten the child, but witness could not give any reason for her doing so. - Q.: Did she say anything about going away? - A.: No, sir. - Q.: Had you occasion to complain of her treatment of the children before this? - A.: No, sir, not at all. The deceased did not say anything, and shortly afterwards went about some domestic work. Deceased had no occasion, so far as witness knew, to go to Shobrooke Park, neither had she any trouble on her mind. Witness remarked that she was quite easy in her mind upon not finding her at home on her return, because she found that the deceased had taken some money, and had therefore, witness surmised, gone to Exeter by train to see her sister. - Q.: What was the general state of her health? - A.: Very good. Deceased had, however, she stated, complained of being unwell of late and had been attended by Dr Body, who said that she was suffering from indigestion - Elizabeth Doney, 10 years of age, and residing at the Park gates, said that she remembered seeing the deceased in the Park on Tuesday morning, a little after 12 o'clock. The deceased asked witness whether there was anyone in the Park and she replied that there was only a little girl there. Deceased made no reply, but passed on. On looking round, when about half-way down the pond, witness saw her put down her umbrella on the ground and take off her hat. She was then standing close to the water's edge. Witness recognised the hat produced as that worn by the deceased. Witness, who thought that deceased was doing something to her hair, proceeded on her way. - P.C. Pike said that he was present when the body was recovered from the water. The only thing he found in searching the clothes was a purse containing a three-penny-bit and a halfpenny. - Mr Leslie Powne, Surgeon, of Crediton, proved examining the body. There were no abrasions or marks of violence. The body presented the usual appearance of death by drowning. - The Coroner, in summing up, said that the Jury would have to consider whether the death of deceased was brought about by her own act or caused by her accidentally falling into the water. There certainly seemed to be no motive for suicide so far as they could gather from the evidence of the mother. With reference to what the mother said to the deceased on Tuesday morning about beating the child, he took it that that was nothing more than a mother would reasonably say to her child in the course of everyday life, and those words alone would certainly not cause a person of ordinary balance of mind to go and commit suicide. Then, with reference to the evidence of the girl, which was given in a very intelligent manner, the Jury would have to consider whether the fact of the deceased having taken her hat off and placed her umbrella on the ground had anything to do with an intention on her part to commit suicide. It seemed rather strange that she should have done so. They had no evidence of deceased being in an unsound state of mind, or that she was suffering from any great trouble, and the Jury could not suppose that a person in a sound state of mind would commit suicide in that way. On the other hand, they had no evidence whatever that death was caused by an accident, and if the Jury had any doubt as to the verdict they should return - namely, whether the deceased committed suicide or whether death was caused by an accident - he thought the best course would be for them to return an open verdict of "Found Drowned." - The Jury returned the verdict in question, and desired that their fees should be given to the mother of the deceased. - The Coroner intimated that he was quite sure that the mother would appreciate the kindness of the Jury.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 20 August 1887
BIDEFORD - Another Drowning Case At Bideford. - The third drowning case had to be reported, though this time it is not a bathing fatality. At 7 o'clock yesterday morning some men on a "lighter," as they were approaching the Long Bridge, saw the body of a man floating. They secured it and brought it to the land. It was dreadfully decomposed and there was for some time considerable doubt who it could be. It was eventually identified as the body of ANDREW JEWELL, who had been a carriage driver at Bideford for some years. JEWELL had been queer for some time, and his conduct was like that of a man unaccountable for what he did. For more than a fortnight nothing had been seen of him, and it was thought he had gone away to some other town. There is nothing to afford the slightest explanation how the deceased man got into the water, and at the Inquest - which was to be held at a late hour last evening - there was nothing for the Jury but to return an Open Verdict of "Found Drowned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 23 August 1887
SIDMOUTH - The Sad Fatality At Sidmouth. - Yesterday the Deputy Coroner for the District, Mr C. E. Cox, held an Inquest at 2 Fortfield-place, Sidmouth, on the body of MR JOHN LETHBRIDGE, sen., late of Tedburn St Mary, 72 years of age, who met his death through falling from a window, a distance of about 30ft., during Saturday night or early on Sunday morning. - Mr H. Newton was selected Foreman of the Jury. - Ann Freeman, the first witness called, stated that she was a housekeeper in the employ of MR JOHN LETHBRIDGE, jun., of Fore-street, Exeter, who rented No. 2, Fortfield-place. The deceased had been a visitor there since Tuesday last, when he came accompanied by two other gentlemen. On arriving from Exeter the deceased was in a rather exhausted condition, and he was attended in the evening by Dr Gordon. During his stay at Sidmouth MR LETHBRIDGE had revived, and walked in the fields close by. She knew the deceased at Exeter, and considered that he wandered in his mind at times. On Saturday night, about 10 o'clock, witness carried the deceased some bread and milk. He got out of bed, but re-entered it with witness's assistance, and on leaving wished her "Good night." In reply to questions, witness said some of the bedclothes were pushed under the bed and the deceased's night-shirt and stockings were scattered about the room. The deceased always slept with the window open, but witness found the sash lower than she left it on Saturday night and the curtain was drawn back. - MR JOHN LETHBRIDGE, grocer, Fore-street, Exeter, identified the body as that of his father, who, until 2 ½ years since, was a farmer, residing at Tedburn St Mary. Since that time he had lived with witness in Exeter. About 18 months ago his father had a seizure, which very much affected his memory and speech. His mind, however, was not affected to any extent. Witness rented the house, 2 Fortfield-place, Mrs Freeman acting as caretaker. He never knew the deceased walk in his sleep. About four o'clock on Saturday morning the deceased came out of his bedroom, but, after partaking of some refreshment he went into bed again. He was then somewhat excited. Witness never knew the deceased make an attempt upon his life. Mr Mortimer and Dr Davey attended him while in Exeter. Witness's impression was that being in a strange room the deceased thought he had come to the door. - Mr George Finch, Exeter, said he had known the deceased for many years. He came to Sidmouth on Friday as a guest of MR LETHBRIDGE, jun. The deceased was quiet in his manner. About 2 o'clock witness awoke and heard the deceased say "I can't" and he concluded that Mrs Freeman was in the room with him. He heard nothing more and went to sleep. The deceased was the last man in the world whom he should have thought would take away his life. When leaving the house on Sunday morning shortly before 7, witness saw the deceased lying on the footpath quite nude and dead. - Mr John Finch, a brother of the last witness, and who was also on a visit to Sidmouth, said he had known the deceased for 30 years. Witness, who slept in a room adjoining the one occupied by the deceased, with a man named James, at 5 o'clock on Sunday morning, heard someone walking in MR LETHBRIDGE'S room, but he, too, thought it was Mrs Freeman. - Mr Louis James, another visitor to the house, also heard a movement in the deceased's room. He also fancied that he heard a female voice, which he took to be that of Mrs Freeman, but he was not at all clear upon this point. - Dr Gordon (Sidmouth), a practitioner with Dr Norris, said that on Tuesday night the deceased was in a stupid condition and refused food. His opinion was that the deceased was suffering from softening of the brain, and that occasionally he was overcome by aberrations of the mind, when under such circumstances he might get out of the window or do anything of that kind. - In summing up the evidence, the Coroner observed that the case was one of a very peculiar kind, although it was sufficiently clear to them all that the deceased was not a man perfectly sound in health nor in his condition of mind. The seizure, no doubt, affected his mind to a certain extent. - The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that death was caused through a fall from the window by Misadventure, adding that from the evidence they were of opinion that it was caused purely by accident.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 24 August 1887
AXMINSTER - Sudden Death In The Axminster Workhouse. - Mr C. E. Cox, (Honiton) held an Inquest in the Boardroom of the Axminster Workhouse yesterday on the body of ELLEN LARCOMBE, 35, a native of Hawkchurch, who had been an inmate of the House for six years. The deceased was an idiot from her birth and subject to epileptic fits. - Mr B. Gage was Foreman of the Jury. - The Master (Mr T. Pickering) said the deceased had been in the House under the charge of the Lunacy Commissioners. He had seen her daily and she was in her usual health. On Monday morning, about half-past 5, witness was informed of what had occurred, and on going to the ward he found LARCOMBE lying by the bed on her right side, dead and cold. - Mary Bennett, also an inmate, in charge of the idiots' ward, said they all went to bed on Saturday night between half past 7 and 8 o'clock, when the deceased was apparently in her usual health. About 5.30 on Monday morning witness looked across the ward and saw that the deceased was gone from her bed, but afterwards found her on the floor in the posture described by the Master. - Eliza Sansom, a very old and infirm pauper, said that during the night, when it was dark, she heard a rumpus, but thinking that the other occupants of the room were similarly aroused, she said nothing about it. - Dr Hallett, the Workhouse Attendant, proved examining the deceased since death, and he had no doubt that she succumbed to the effects of a severe epileptic fit. The Jury were unanimous in returning a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 27 August 1887
OKEHAMPTON - Fatal Lamp Accident At Okehampton. A Child Burnt To Death. - About half-past 5 yesterday morning a fire broke out at No. 2 Sparrow-court, Okehampton, which is occupied by MR CORNISH, his wife and child. The fire was occasioned by the bursting of a paraffin lamp which stood by the bedside. The bed-clothes caught fire and the mother and baby, which was only four months old, were very much burnt about the face and hands. A doctor was immediately sent for, but the poor little sufferer succumbed to its injuries. In the meantime the flames had been extinguished. The mother was not so severely injured. - Mr Bird, District Coroner, held an Inquest on the body at the King's Arms the same morning. After hearing the evidence a verdict of "Accidental Death from Shock to the System" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 29 August 1887
ILFRACOMBE - The Yachting Disaster At Ilfracombe. The Inquest. - The excitement created by the terrible yacht disaster at Ilfracombe on Friday afternoon had very little abated on Saturday, but very few additional details of the accident could be gathered. In the course of the morning news arrived that one of the passengers had been landed at Lee Village, but this has not been authenticated. Strenuous search was made for the missing bodies, but it is feared that the north-west current has carried them out to sea. A number of tugboats are cruising about in the Channel, but nothing has been found so far. Most of the friends of the deceased, thanks to the exertions of the Vicar (the Rev. R. Martin), the Rev. W. H. Shaw, and the local clergy, have now been communicated with and the Post-office has been besieged with people communicating with their friends at home. No less than 600 messages were sent during Friday evening and the resources of the staff were naturally severely taxed; but notwithstanding this the clerks performed their task in a most efficient manner and with commendable promptitude. - The Inquest was held at the Pier Hotel, on Saturday afternoon, by J. F. Bromham, Esq., District Coroner. Captain Facie was appointed Foreman of the Jury. Mr Simonds, solicitor, of Bath, represented the family of the deceased MR TURNER. - The Coroner said it was with deep regret that he presided over an Inquiry of such a sad character. The catastrophe had cast the town and neighbourhood into a state of gloom, and plunged several families into a state of distress. He proposed that they should view the five bodies and identify them and then take general evidence on the case, and he hoped to be able to conclude the Inquiry that day. - Henry Greeves Walker identified the body at the White Hart Inn as that of his father MR SAMUEL WALKER, of the Elms, Edmonton, aged 53. He was at Ilfracombe on a visit with his wife and family. - The Rev. John Steadman, of Bath, identified the body lying at the Pier Hotel as that of MR T. PINKER, member of the firm of Duck, Son and Pinker, music-sellers, of Bath. He was organist at St John's, Weston, Bath. He was about 35 years of age. Witness knew he was on a visit to Ilfracombe and had seen him twice. The deceased was a married man and his wife was staying at Ilfracombe with him. - Mr Austin, concert agent, of St James's Hall, London, identified another body at the Tunnels as that of the late MR WILLIAM WAREHAM, J.P., merchant, of 14 Charing-cross Road, London, and his private house was at Hook, near Surbiton. He was about 65 years of age. He had been staying at the Castle House with his wife for a fortnight. Mr George Pinson, of Milsom-street, Bath, draper, identified another body lying at the Pier Hotel as that of MR GEORGE TURNER, of Lansdown-road, Bath, about 57 years of age. He was a private gentleman. - Mrs Popham, keeper of the Coffee Palace, recognised the body of the young lady lying at the Baths as that of one of her visitors, MISS ANNIE ASH, from London. She came on the 13th in company with another lady, Miss Blyton. Her residence was 111 Bond-street, London. She was about 26 years of age. - Mr William Rice Rumson, boatman, said: For some time past I and Charles Buckingham have looked after the pleasure-boat Monarch. She is a half-decked boat of abut ten tons. She belongs to Mr John Rumson, and he has owned her for five years. During the season she is used for taking parties for a sea trip, and generally remained out about two hours. The charge for each person was 1s. The average number we take out is about 20, but I have taken 42, and they came back safely. I have sailed in her ever since she was built. About five minutes past 3 yesterday we left the pier with a party of ladies and gentleman, numbering about 21 or 22 exclusive of crew. When we left the wind was a little squally, but the sea was smooth. Everything went all right until we came to the Tunnels. We were then about half-a-mile off land. A puff of wind came off the shore and put her gunwale under. A boat-hook then fell overboard. We were under double-reefed main-sail and working jib. I saw the squall coming, but she righted herself before this. Buckingham said, "The boat-hook is gone, we will pick it up again." I replied, "Is it worth it?" He said, "Yes, we will pick it up." I was at the helm at the time. I then said, "We will stay her round." He then put up main-tack and we went round towards the boat-book. The wind was then about three points on the quarter. A puff of wind then came from the west and blew the boom over. This caused the yacht to fill and sink, and I found myself floating in the water, with all the passengers round me. I caught hold of a floating fender and an oar for about 20 minutes, when I was picked up by a rope which was thrown to me. By this time there were several boats about picking up the people. We have never met with any accidents before, and I did not consider the boat cranky, but a staunch boat and quite capable of carrying 25 persons or more. I can only account for the accident by the sudden puff of wind. We had a lifebuoy and four tons of iron ballast. - Mr Field Evans, one of the saved, who represented his friend Mr Reyner, put a number of questions to witness who replied that he saw a number of hassocks floating about, which were capable of supporting a person. - In reply to the Foreman, witness said if they had a boat behind she would have been drawn down. - Cross-examined by Mr Simmonds, witness said he had always carried four tons of ballast. She had been altered by being lengthened in the middle 8ft. Her present length is about 38ft. 6in. Her crew has always consisted of two and never carried less. He had the main sheet in hand two minutes before, but made it fast to pick up the boathook. When the accident happened, to the best of his belief the passengers were standing up. He thought the accident would have happened if there had only been five passengers. - The Foreman said it was not usual to hold the main-sheet in the hand. - Mr Thomas Godfrey, of Westbourne Villas, W., visiting Ilfracombe, said: I was one of the passengers in the Monarch on Friday afternoon. When off the Tunnels the vessel turned back. Somebody asked, "Are we going back?" and one of the men said, "No." The boat was then turned, and she went down immediately. I was able to swim and jumped overboard before she sank. I was in the water about a quarter of an hour when picked up by a boat. The same boat picked up seven others, one of whom was dead. We were landed at the harbour. My cousin, Thomas Smith, of 46 Buckingham Palace-road, was with me, but is missing. There were 21 passengers in addition to the crew of two men. - John Wedgewood Yeeles, of Bath, Major in the Yeomanry Cavalry, stated that he was out in a small boat on Friday at the time of the accident. He was returning home when he noticed the Monarch founder. Previous to this he had seen her jibe twice and he remarked, "I should think they are having a game of teetotum." He immediately pulled for the scene of the wreck and picked up six living and one dead. Other boats were on the spot by this time. - Mr T. Price, lessee of Tunnels Bathing-place, said he was called by his son on Friday afternoon, who told him the Monarch had gone down with about 30 on board. By the time witness got down he found the boat launched by some gentlemen. Witness and his son jumped in. When they reached the spot they found four persons swimming. He picked up three alive and another boat the other. After this he saw a lady and gentleman floating face downwards and took them into the boat. He saw one or two more, floating face downwards, but the boat would carry no more, so they pulled straight for the beach. By the time they landed witness's wife had thoughtfully got three doctors and every means to restore animation was used. One of the gentlemen rescued did all he possibly could to restore the lady while the boat was coming ashore. - Mr Taverner, the gentleman referred to, spoke in the highest terms of the noble conduct of Mr Price. - William Williams, seaman, deposed to picking up MR PINKER and John Davie the body of MR TURNER. - The Jury considered it unnecessary to call the medical evidence. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the present was one of the most sad and appalling accidents which had ever occurred in the neighbourhood. It appeared to him that the evidence was clear and straightforward. After reviewing the evidence he said it was unfortunate that the boatman put back to pick up the boathook; there was certainly a risk in doing so, and the sudden squall caused the boat to founder. He was glad to find that Captain Facey gave it as his opinion that no blame was attached to Rumson for making fast the sheet. It appeared no actual blame was attached to anyone. Great praise was due to all who had rendered aid and rushed to the rescue. He strongly recommended a verdict of Accidental Death. - The Jury, after some discussion, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and the fees of the Jury were given to the widow of BUCKINGHAM. A Committee has been formed of the Local Board, Magistrates and others to collect funds for the family of BUCKINGHAM. - Among those missing not already reported are Thomas Smith, Pimlico; John Hards, Ewell, Surrey; and H. Chamberlain, Nailsworth. Mr L. Knapman, draper, Exeter, was among the saved.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 31 August 1887
EXETER - Fatal Gun Accident Near Tiverton. - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest at the Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday afternoon on the body of AARON MATTHEWS, a farm labourer, who was shot about a fortnight since while cutting oats. - HAROLD MATTHEWS, of Rackenford, Tiverton, said the deceased, who was his uncle, was 48 years of age. The accident occurred on the 15th inst., while they were at work in a field cutting oats. Mr Turner, who was assisting, took up a gun which was lying on the ground to look at it when it went off and hit the deceased in the right foot. He was taken home and Dr Llewellyn, of Witheridge, who, on the following Wednesday, recommended his removal to the Hospital, was sent for. - Frank Turner, a smith, said he was in the field cutting oats on the 15th of August. He was riding the machine. A man named Gunn came in and brought a gun with him, which he placed on some hay close by. He got off the machine and took up the gun to examine it. It was loaded. A rabbit then came out of the corn. He turned around quickly and the gun went off, striking MATTHEWS, who was standing about 6ft. from him. He did not know how the gun went off. He did not pull the trigger. He picked deceased up and took him home. The deceased afterwards said it was a pure accident. - Dr Stadwell, Assistant House Surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, said he saw the deceased on the 17th inst., and he was suffering from a wound on the left side of the right foot. Mortification made its appearance and the leg was amputated the same day. For a few days the deceased seemed to rally, and then began to get worse, and died on the morning of the 29th. Death was due to shock to the system. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 1 September 1887
MORCHARD BISHOP - Fatal Accident At Morchard Bishop. - Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy County Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at Morchard Bishop on the body of JOHN LEACH, son of WILLIAM LEACH, who identified the body. It appeared that the deceased, who was 12 years old, was at work harvesting at Oxenpark Farm on the 8th of August and, according to the evidence of a witness named Vodden, who was driving a load of corn, the deceased accompanied him for the purpose of opening a gate. Vodden was leading the horses and the deceased was walking behind the waggon. Before they reached the gate he heard the deceased cry out and on turning round saw him between the wheels. The deceased told him there was not much the matter and with witness's assistance he walked home. - Dr Bell, who attended deceased, deposed that on examining him he found a large scalp wound, and the patient went on well until the eighth day, when symptoms of tetanus set in, which gradually developed, and he died on the 29th August from exhaustion in consequence. The deceased told him and the other witnesses that he had jumped on to the waggon and had fallen under the wheel. He also said that it was all his own fault and that his master had told him not to ride on the waggon. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and the Jury gave their fees to the father.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 3 September 1887
HESSENFORD, CORNWALL - The Fatal Bathing Accident In Cornwall. - An Inquest has been held at Downderry, Cornwall, respecting the bathing accident by which three young ladies named CROWTHER, of Plymouth, were drowned. It was reported that the mother, who was nearly drowned on the same occasion, was progressing favourably. Mr Lea, M.P., brother of MRS CROWTHER, attended the Inquiry and expressed his thanks to Captain Williams, of the Coastguard, Mr Tiltman and others who had rendered assistance. - Mary Stokes, servant of MRS CROWTHER, said that she was bathing at the time of the disaster, that seven members of the family were in the water and that she heard screams proceeding from the ladies. She inferred that the youngest girl, aged 12, had got out of her depth and that the eldest, JULIA CROWTHER, aged 23, first went to her assistance, followed by the third daughter, then the mother. Soon afterwards the young ladies disappeared and the mother was rescued in a half-drowned state. The bodies of the two younger girls have not yet been found. - The Jury, in the case of MISS JULIA CROWTHER, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

SIDMOUTH - Fatal Lamp Accident At Sidmouth. - Mr Cox, Deputy Coroner, of Honiton, held an Inquest yesterday on the remains of MRS WOODLEY, wife of JOSEPH WOODLEY, who died on Wednesday from injuries received through the bursting of a paraffin lamp on the night of Wednesday, August 17th. - Mr H. T. Bolt, of the London Hotel, was elected Foreman. The evidence showed that MRS WOODLEY was extinguishing a lamp filled with petroleum, when it burst and the unfortunate woman was soon enveloped in flames, from which she has since died. She rushed from the house and ran in the direction of the Esplanade, where she attracted the attention of two men, who proceeded to put out the flames with their coats. The woman walked with help to her house. Dr Bingley Pullin was sent for, and applied sweet oil to the burnt portions of her body. - After hearing the evidence, the Coroner adjourned the Inquest for a fortnight.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 5 September 1887
ILFRACOMBE - Two more bodies were recovered off Ilfracombe on Saturday of the victims of the accident to the yacht Monarch. They were identified as MR WILLIAM LUNNS, of Burton-on-Trent and MR F. T. COX, of Chard. An Inquest was opened on Saturday evening by the District Coroner, who, referring to the criticisms passed since the last Inquiry, said that the Jury empanelled on that occasion agreed with him that no good could result from adjourning the Inquest until the other bodies were recovered. He now proposed, however, to take evidence of identification and then adjourn for a fortnight, as other bodies might be found. The two bodies having been identified the Inquest was adjourned to Tuesday, 20th instant. The bodies of two more victims were picked up yesterday.

EXMOUTH - Suicide At Exmouth. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr Cox, held an Inquest on Saturday at Winter's Rolle Hotel, Exmouth, on the body of ELIZABETH GRIFFITHS, a widow, who committed suicide on Friday night by cutting her throat with a table-knife. - GEORGE CLARKE identified the body as that of his sister, and in answer to a question from the Coroner said he had never observed any signs of insanity in his sister's actions, although she was very low-spirited at times. - John Shaw, a neighbour, said that about 9.30 a.m. on Friday the daughter of the deceased, about seven years of age, ran into his house in her night-dress, saying her mother was lying on the floor bad. Witness at once procured the assistance of a Police Constable and went to the room, when they found the deceased lying on her face and hands and the floor covered with blood. Dr Hodgson was immediately sent for. - P.C. Vanstone said he searched the room and found four bank books, £5 note, £2 in gold, some silver and a few coppers and a gold watch and chain. - The Jury returned a verdict that the deceased took her own life during Temporary Insanity.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 10 September 1887
EXETER - Sudden Death Of MR SPARKE, Of Cardiff, At Exeter. - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest at the Guildhall on Thursday afternoon touching the death of MR EDWARD SPARKE. - FRANK SPARKE, accountant, of Cardiff, identified the body as that of his late father, who was 74 years of age, and lived at Cardiff, where he carried on business as a commission-agent. On Saturday deceased, in company with witness, came to Exeter for the benefit of his health and stayed with his daughter at 14 Albion-place, Old Tiverton-road. Witness explained that his father was subject to asthmatical attacks, on which account he slept with him. Deceased, who appeared to be in his general health and had been out during the course of the day, retired to bed just after 10 o'clock on Wednesday night. Deceased did not have any supper; the last meal he had was tea at 6 o'clock. Witness followed deceased to bed about half-past 11 o'clock. He complained of a tightness in his breathing and witness accordingly burnt some powder which had been prescribed by a doctor at Cardiff for the purpose of relieving him. The breathing of his father did not improve at all, but seemed to get worse and witness sent for a medical man. Mr Mortimer arrived shortly afterwards, only, however, to confirm witness's worst fears, viz., that life was extinct. - Mr Mortimer said that death was due to chronic asthma. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

SANDFORD - The Fatal Accident At Sandford. - Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Lamb Inn, Sandford, touching the death of MR PETER SNOW, aged 76, who met with his death on Saturday under circumstances yesterday reported. - Sarah Dally deposed that she was walking down the Rose and Crown hill on Saturday about 6 o'clock with MR SNOW. She saw a man with a trap coming slowly towards them, and a waggon and horse coming behind the trap. The man was standing on the shaft of the waggon. The trap was on the left-hand side and, in trying to pass the vehicles collided. The deceased was crushed against the wall at the side of the road. The driver jumped off his waggon and remained a few minutes standing at the head of the horses and then drove on. Witness, on being asked if there was sufficient room for the waggon and trap to pass, said the waggon was not going beyond a trot. The driver was not the worse for liquor. - Mr W. Phillips, of Brindewell Farm, Woolfardisworthy, deposed that he was driving up the hill on SAturday, when the waggon collided with his trap. The waggon had before passed him in coming down Forches-hill, and afterwards passed him again. The driver was going at a walk. He had no reins, but was walking by the side of the shaft horse. Witness thought he had a young horse and the leader was pulling very much. Witness heard Mr Wollacott tell the driver to "Take care of those horses, Bob." When witness passed the last witness he did not hear her cry out. - Mr John Wollacott said he lived at Snow's Farm, Sandford, and was returning from Crediton on the night in question. He saw Chudleigh, the driver of the waggon, coming down Forches-hill. He was then driving very slowly. He said to him, "Be careful, Bob, as I see your horses are restless." The driver then jumped from the waggon and led his horses. Further on he saw him again. He was then on the shafts going steadily. Witness was near the spot at the time of the collision. He found the trap on the near side of the road and the waggon on the off side. The deceased was between the wall and the waggon. He spoke to the deceased, who was conscious and said he was not much injured. - Medical and other evidence having followed, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," in which the Coroner fully concurred. - The funeral of MR SNOW took place on Wednesday afternoon in the Parish Burial-ground. There was a large attendance of relatives and friends and the Rev. G. T. Llewellyn officiated.

SILVERTON - The Fatal Accident At Silverton Paper Mills. - The Inquest touching the death of the lad JOHN DUNCAN LOVELL DON, aged 15 years, of Bradninch, who was killed during Wednesday night at Bridge Paper Mills, Silverton, was held yesterday at the office of the mills, before Mr Coroner Burrow. Mr W. Worth was Foreman of the Jury, and Messrs. Hall and West, the owners of the mill, were represented by Mr James Hall. Mr Bignold, Government Inspector of Factories, had been advised of the Inquiry by telegraph, but was not present. - Evidence of identification was given by James Anderson, day foreman at the mill, who said that at the time of the accident deceased was employed on the night shift. - John Haydon, an oiler employed in the mill, said that about 12.30 a.m. he was sitting on a bale of wood pup by one of the heaping engines when deceased, whom he had not seen previously that night, came up behind him, caught hold of him by the side, and said, "Jack, how be getting on?" Witness replied, "All right," and put his hand on deceased's thigh to make him go back. What passed between them was said quite in a friendly and jocose manner; there was no anger between them. After witness touched deceased, deceased slipped and fell head foremost into the opening of the pulley-casing. He was dragged further in by the belting and fell among the pulleys down below. Deceased must have been about two feet off the belting when he slipped. Witness did not think that deceased slipped through his having touched him. There was not, so far as witness knew, any grease on the floor which might cause deceased to slip on. Deceased's work was not in that part of the mill. Directly after the accident witness went down under, where it was dark, to feel for deceased. Witness was sure that there was no anger between himself and deceased and that deceased's slipping did not result from witness having touched him. - Henry Bryant, a lad employed at the mill said he witnessed the accident. The last witness was sitting on a bale of wood pulp. Deceased was sent to fetch some tea, and on his way he sat down beside Haydon with his back towards him. He touched him and said in a friendly way, "Well, Jack, how be getting on?" Haydon, who had been sitting with his face towards the engine, gripped deceased on the inside of his thigh. Deceased said, "Get out of the way," and then got up, thinking to get away, but he slipped and fell among the pulleys. Haydon and deceased were friendly and what passed on this occasion was all in a friendly way. They were, in fact, skylarking. Witness did not see what became of deceased, but ran and had the engine stopped. Deceased, in order to fetch the tea from the stokehole, would have to pass the place where Haydon was. - The Jury here adjourned to view the scene of the accident. The aperture through which deceased fell was found to be 11 ½ inches wide, extending vertically from the top of the casing to the floor. The breadth was about half the breadth of the casing, the remaining half being closed. The belt which caught deceased was a few inches within and moved downwards from the pulley at a rapid rate, and there was a considerable projection at the point where the ends were bolted together. The witness Haydon, recalled, said he could add nothing to what he had said. Deceased did not sit down beside witness. - The Coroner: Did you not tell the people he sat beside you? - Witness: I cannot say any more. - Mr Mardon (a Juryman): Don't you think that your gripping him and his trying to get away from you was the cause of his slipping? - Witness: I cannot say any more; I do not think it was. - Mr Mardon: I was given to understand this lad was sitting beside you when you gripped him. - Witness: I do not know that he was. - The Foreman: This is a serious question. - Witness: I cannot say any more than I have said. - The Coroner: The Jury only want the truth. - Witness: I have told the truth. - The Coroner: Don't you recollect that deceased sat down beside you? - I do not know that he was sitting down. - Robert Daw, night foreman at the mill, said George Bonner told him of the accident. Witness found deceased between the wall and the pulley. Deceased was dead and his legs and hands were nearly off. As witness could not extricate him he went and fetched James Sanderson. Haydon told witness that as he was sitting on the bale of pulp deceased came and pushed him and was in the act of sitting down when his feet slipped and he fell in the wheels backwards. Witness subsequently asked Haydon whether he had pushed the boy and he said he did not touch him. - Witness thought it impossible for deceased to have slipped. If deceased had fallen clear of the belt he would still have been caught between the driving-pulley and the wall down below. - Francis Lake, a man employed at the mill, deposed being called by Bonner to deceased, whom he found between two belts about two feet from the ground. Witness found he was very much mangled. The remains were jammed between the pulley and the wall and they had to smash the pulley to extricate them. - Mr L. Puddicombe, Surgeon, of Silverton, said he was called to the mill about 1.30 a.m. He found deceased had a large fracture across the forehead, one at the back of the head, through which the brains were protruding. The face was crushed out of shape, the spine fractured in at least three places, the bowels were protruding , the legs were very much torn, and both feet and one hand were off. - The Coroner then remarked that Mr Hall was present, and the Jury might ask him questions. - The Foreman said he thought the aperture through which deceased fell was a very dangerous place for boys and girls to be passing. He recommended that the firm should have a door placed there. - Mr Hall said the aperture had been there ever since he came. They used to have the apertures open to their full extent, but there now were doors which pulled out for repairs. The doors had been inspected not many months ago, when the Inspector was accompanied by Mr Whymper, from the Home Office. They recommended them to make up two apertures where the boards were entirely down, but the partly open one through which the deceased fell they passed without remark. - The Foreman said the Jury thought this dreadful accident might occur again. It would not cost much to prevent it. - Mr Hall urged that the lads would persist in skylarking at times and that deceased might have tumbled into the river if he had been on the bank instead of where he was. - The Foreman said that might be so, but the great thing was to prevent accidents if they could be prevented. - Mr Hall: We might work the mill twenty years and never have an accident like that. - The Foreman: Never mind that, sir. - Mr Hall said the aperture in question had been left open to enable the men to wet the belting during the recent very hot weather so as to make it stretch. He dare say he should have made up the aperture by now, only he wanted the Jury to see it as it was when the accident happened. - The Coroner was sure that Messrs. Hall and West would give the recommendation of the Jury every consideration. He proceeded to sum up, and advised the Jury that the evidence pointed to a verdict of Accidental Death. It was no doubt in consequence of Haydon and deceased doing as they did that deceased fell through the aperture; but they had been very careful to ascertain that there had been no bad blood between the two, and the Jury could not find a verdict of manslaughter unless Haydon had been engaged in some unlawful act at the time. - The Jury found a verdict of "Accidental Death," and gave their fees to the mother of deceased. - Dr Puddicombe added 2s. 6d. and the Coroner 5s.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 13 September 1887
DAWLISH - Sudden Death Near Dawlish. - At Langdon, about one and a half mile from Dawlish, an Inquest has been held by Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, on the body of SAMUEL MAUNDER, a labourer, in the employ of Mr Carol Adams, of Langdon Barton. - CAROLINA WILSON, daughter of the deceased, stated that her father never previously had a day's illness. He seemed to be dead when he was brought in from the orchard. - Walter Blackmore, residing at Mamhead and working at Langdon Barton, stated that deceased asked him to sharpen his axe on the grindstone, deceased turning the handle. Shortly after deceased fell forward, and did not speak again. - Mr A. de Winter Baker, Surgeon, said he considered heart disease was the cause of death. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - The Fatal Street Accident At Torquay. - Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, conducted an Inquiry last evening at the Torbay Hospital into the cause of death of AGNES AVERY, aged 62, who expired on Saturday evening in the Infirmary from injuries received on the previous Wednesday by being knocked down by a horse. The circumstances attending the accident have been already reported and the Jury, having heard the evidence, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 17 September 1887
SIDMOUTH - At an adjourned Inquest at Sidmouth yesterday, which occupied 6 ¾ hours, on the body of MARY ANN WOODLEY, of Peak Lodge, the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased met her death by the explosion of a lamp, caused by a mixture of oils, but how the oils became mixed there was no evidence to show.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 20 September 1887
TIVERTON - The Fatal Lamp Accident At Tiverton. - Last evening Mr L. Mackenzie, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest touching the death of the ten-months-old male child of WALTER ROOKS, Chapel-street, who, as already reported, was severely burnt on Saturday evening through the upsetting of a benzoline lamp during the temporary absence of its mother. MRS ROOKS, also Henry Olden, factory operative; and Mr R. B. Cullin, Surgeon; were examined. - The Coroner, in summing up, remarked upon the indiscretion of the mother in leaving the child where it could reach the lamp, but did not think the evidence showed anything like malice prepense. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental death." A remark being added as to the carelessness on the part of the mother, the Coroner said they could not take cognizance of that unless it amounted to culpable carelessness, which did not under the circumstances appear to be the case.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 21 September 1887
TOPSHAM - Drowned In The Exe. - An Inquest was held yesterday at the Countess Weir Inn, before Mr H. W. Gould, Assistant District Coroner, touching the death of GEORGE HILL, whose body was found in the Exe on Monday, as described in our issue of yesterday. - JOHN HILL, general dealer, residing on Stepcote-hill, identified the body as that of his brother, who also resided on Stepcote-hill with his mother and sister. Deceased was 33 years of age and was troubled with fits. He was in the habit of going fishing and because of his fits they used to persuade him not to go. So late as Friday last he had a fit; nevertheless he went fishing on Monday morning. - Mr A. J. Roberts, clerk, Burton-on-Trent, at present staying in Bartholomew-street, Exeter, stated that on Monday about midday he was preparing to fish in the Canal near Countess Weir bridge when he noticed the deceased sitting on the bank of the river close by. The deceased had a fishing-rod in his hands, and was sitting in a crouching position. Deceased's appearance caused witness to think that something was amiss and he shouted to him and ran to his assistance. Before he could reach him, however, HILL had staggered down the bank and on reaching the brink gave a jump and fell into the water. Witness shouted for help and picked up deceased's rod and placed one end across his arms. Deceased, however, appeared unconscious and after bobbing up and down for about three minutes, sank. The body was not recovered for an hour and 40 minutes. Witness could not swim, or he should have entered the water to assist deceased. - Mr Benjamin Bowden, of the Countess Weir Inn, deposed to recovering the body of the deceased. The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased met his death by drowning while in a fit.

EXETER - Inquest At The City Workhouse. - The Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest yesterday afternoon at the City Workhouse, touching the death of JOHN LONDON, an inmate of the House. - Mr William Newall, Master, stated that the deceased had been an inmate of the House for 15 years, and was previous to that engaged as a groom. He was 73 years of age. On Monday morning, about 7 o'clock, the assistant-nurse informed witness that deceased, who was very unwell during the night, had been vomiting. Witness immediately went and saw deceased, who was in bed, with Mr Piper, the ward-attendant, by him. Witness asked him how he felt and he replied that he was better. Witness asked if he should send for the doctor, but deceased declined, remarking that he (meaning the doctor) would be there during the evening, which would be soon enough. Witness gave instructions to Piper to give deceased some warm tea. Piper replied that he had already done so, and witness left, with a request that he might be informed if a change took place in deceased's condition. Witness visited him again at 11 o'clock, and he then appeared to be sleeping comfortably. He (witness) left the House a little before 12 o'clock. On his return, about 3 o'clock, the Matron told him that she had sent for the Medical Officer of Health, Dr Woodman, in consequence of a report which she received from Piper. Dr Woodman arrived about twenty minutes to 2 o'clock, only, however, to find that deceased had expired a few minutes before. Deceased was a native of Exeter. - Dr Woodman, who explained that he was at the Guildhall when the message arrived, was of opinion that death was due to gradual failing of the heart's action. The deceased had been a failing man for the past twelve months. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 23 September 1887
DODBROOKE - Sad Death At Kingsbridge. - On Saturday morning, about 9 o'clock, the body of a man was discovered in the Kingsbridge estuary opposite Mr W. Bond's quay. On being got to the shore the body was discovered to be that of WILLIAM PATEY, a gardener, who had for some months past been residing with his sister, MRS BALL, of Ebrington-street, Dodbrooke. - The deceased was 54 years of age and until recently resided at Dartmouth, where he held a good situation. He was a thoroughly steady and respectable man. Some time ago he lost his wife and this event seems to have preyed upon his mind. His health afterwards broke down and he was treated by several medical men for acute indigestion. The deceased had been in a desponding state for some time. On Friday evening he went to bed as usual about 10 o'clock, abut at 7 o'clock on Saturday morning he was missed, and two hours later his body was discovered, as already described. - An Inquest was held at the King of Prussia Inn, Dodbrooke, before Mr Sydney Hacker, and a Jury, of which Mr George T. Brown was Foreman. A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 27 September 1887
BRIDFORD - Death On The Road. - An elderly man named HUTCHINGS, in the employ of Messrs. J. Easton and Son, has met with his death on the road in the parish of Bridford. Messrs. Easton, who are granite merchants of Exeter, have also a farm not far from their quarries at Bridford; HUTCHINGS, who was 52 years of age, was engaged in drawing manure. There were a couple of horses in the waggon, and it appears that between Doccombe and the farm, while ascending a hill, the animals started. Mrs Wannel, who was near, alarmed by the runaways, ran into the road, where she saw the deceased staggering towards a wall. In answer to a question, HUTCHINGS stated that the wheels had been over him and the poor fellow died the same evening. An Inquest was held on Saturday by Mr Gould, at Messrs. Easton's farm, Lower Westcott, where the deceased, who was a bachelor, resided. A verdict of "Accidental death" was returned. The funeral took place after the Inquest on Saturday and the deceased was carried by hand by twenty of his fellow-workmen the whole of the distance, something over two miles, between the farm and the church.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 28 September 1887
SANDFORD - The Fatal Accidents Near Sandford. - Mr Henry W. Gould, the Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at Sandford touching the deaths of ERNEST ASH, and WILLIAM WREFORD, two lads who died from injuries they received in an accident on Saturday, one being killed on the spot and the other lad, ASH, dying on Saturday afternoon. - Mr W. H. Bolt acted as Foreman of the Jury. - WILLIAM WREFORD, farm labourer, identified the body of WILLIAM WREFORD as that of his son, seven years of age. The deceased lads accompanied him and his companion for a day's holiday. They had two waggons and a cart, and went after stone on Dartmoor on that day. John Ackland was the driver of the horse and cart. The accident took place on the return journey. The lads rode together until coming down Raddon Down Hill. Ackland was leading the horse. There was a bend in the road, and as he came round he saw the cart turning over. Witness was walking behind. He ran forward and went to his boy, who was lying in the hedge. The cart was loaded with two granite steps; no stone was lying on his boy. The boy ASH was on the two stones with his left leg between the stones as they lay in the road. Witness's son was dead when witness reached him. ASH asked witness to help him out and said he thought that his leg was broken. Witness assisted to lift the stone off the lad. Witness did not see the cause of the cart turning over. The pin of the breeching came out on the road, and he assisted in putting in a stick. They put the stick in the breeching about eight or nine miles before they came to the place where the accident took place. - GEORGE ASH, living at West Sandford, and also a labourer, identified the body of ERNEST ASH as that of his son, 10 years of age, and gave corroborative evidence. The lad was conscious and remained so on Saturday night. Witness sent for a doctor the next morning, and Mr Prowne came. Deceased died about half-past 4 on Sunday. He did not make any statement as to the cause of the accident, merely that his foot was between the two stones. - John Ackland, the driver of the cart, said that on Saturday he was driving down over Raddon Down-hill. In going down the hill the breeching-pin broke, and the horse was unable to keep the cart back. The wheel went up the side of the hedge and turned over the cart. They had been to Throwleigh on Dartmoor, after the stones. WILLIAM WREFORD accompanied him. He had two horses and a waggon. Witness was leading the horse down the hill at the time the pin broke. Both the boys were riding in witness's cart at the time and were thrown out. One of them, ASH, had his leg between the stones and his hands were resting against the hedge. WILLIAM WREFORD was killed immediately. In the early part of the day witness lost the breeching pin and on the return journey he substituted a stick, and it was the stick which broke. No other part of the harness was broken. It was in consequence of the stick breaking that the accident occurred. - HENRY JAMES ASH also gave corroborative evidence and Mr Leslie Powne, Surgeon, practising at Crediton, having described the injuries from which the deceased died, the Jury after a short deliberation returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 29 September 1887
EXETER - Alleged Concealment Of Birth At Exeter. The Inquest. - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest yesterday afternoon at the Guildhall, Exeter, on the body of the newly-born female child of CATHERINE HALSE, a single woman. Mr Samuel Loram was chosen Foreman of the Jury. Captain Showers appeared on behalf of the Police. The Jury, having been sworn, proceeded to the Mortuary in the Lower Cemetery to view the body. On their return ALICE HALSE, a domestic servant, at present living at Mrs Lamacraft's Horse and Groom Inn, Heavitree, and sister of CATHERINE HALSE, deposed that her sister was also a domestic servant, 22 years of age; but had been living during the past two years with her father in Mary Arches-street. Witness had been out of employment for a month and during that time she had been living at home with her parents. Witness went out on Friday evening about half-past 6 and returned again shortly after 10 o'clock. She saw her sister, who said she had the face ache, and asked to be given a drink of water, which witness gave her. Witness, who slept in the same room as her sister, did not hear anything more until about 3 o'clock on the following morning (Saturday), when her sister asked for another drink of water, which she gave her. About 10 o'clock her sister had a cup of tea. witness went in and out during Saturday, but she did not know that her sister, whom she knew to be enciente, had been confined until she was informed of the fact by Detective Constable Dymond on Tuesday evening. She knew there were some clothes being prepared for the child. She knew Mrs Turner and had a conversation with her about her sister, who she said was very unwell. On the Thursday her sister carried a flasket of clothes upstairs and injured herself in doing so; the result being a serious one. Her sister got out of bed on Saturday, but did not, as far as she knew, go downstairs. - Harriet Turner, wife of Henry Turner, shoemaker, residing next door to MR HALSE, stated that on Saturday evening she went into MR HALSE'S house about half-past 6 o'clock. there were present MR and MRS HALSE and a son. Witness repeated the conversation she had had with ALICE HALSE relative to CATHERINE, who came down while witness was there and denied the statement, saying that her sister had told a lie. MRS HALSE appeared to be greatly distressed at witness's statement and apparently knew nothing of it. Witness then left the house. On Monday morning witness again went to MR HALSE'S and saw CATHERINE, to whom she said, "Oh! CARRIE, what I came in to you about is true. Where is the child?" MRS HALSE said it would be best if she (CATHERINE) told the truth and the latter replied that "it was nothing to the neighbours. It was not a full-grown baby, and she was not going to trouble." Witness did not see the body. - John Dymond, Detective Constable in the City Police, said that on Monday afternoon, the 24th inst., about 3.30 p.m. he went to 41 Mary Arches-street, where he saw MR HALSE, father of CATHERINE HALSE, who asked him what he wanted. He told him he was in possession of certain information that his daughter CATHERINE had been confined of a child, to which he replied, "It is so; she has just told us of it. We did not know it before." Witness went upstairs in company with MR HALSE and in a back room on the first landing he saw CATHERINE HALSE in bed. He cautioned her and she said she was confined on Friday night, but she did not know it. When she came to herself she took the child up and put it where witness would find it. Witness then went into the top storey with her father, and in the right hand corner of a room nearest the street, covered over with a petticoat and some rags, he found the body of a newly born female child. There was a bed-tick in the room, and under it witness found some clean baby-linen in a box. - Mr C. E. Bell, Surgeon, St Sidwell's, deposed to examining the body and making a post-mortem examination. There were no marks of external violence. On opening the body he found that the lungs were fully distended with air. They freely floated in water and supported the weight of the heart. He had no doubt that the child was born alive, and he had no hesitation in saying that the cause of death was suffocation. - Mr Bell added that he thought it was only fair to say that at the time there was nothing to show that any violence had been used towards the child in order to produce the suffocation. It was quite possible that the mother after the confinement fainted away and that the child was thus suffocated, no one being present to assist her. - The Coroner having summed up, the Jury, after a consultation in private, returned a verdict to the effect that death was due to Suffocation, but whether wilfully or accidentally caused there was no evidence to show.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 3 October 1887
COMBE MARTIN - Death From Burning At Combmartin. - An Inquest was held by Mr J. F. Bromham, Coroner for the District, at the George and Dragon Inn, on Thursday afternoon, touching the death of ANNA ROBINS, aged 18, whose death resulted from injuries received through the explosion of a paraffin lamp on the night of the 10th inst. The first witness called was the deceased's father, MR SAMUEL ROBINS, Relieving Officer and Registrar of Births and Deaths for the Combmartin district. He stated that on the evening in question, shortly after he had got into bed, he was startled by his daughter's screams. Rushing downstairs with all speed he found her in flames. He seized his waterproof coat that was hanging close by and threw it around her and rolled her on the floor. This extinguished the flames. He put her to bed with the assistance of some friends who had heard her screams and who had by this time become aware of the serious nature of the accident. - Dr Manning stated that he was at the house soon after the accident and found the case a most serious one, the poor girl having been severely burnt from the waist upwards. She was, however, progressing as well as could be expected until Tuesday night, when effusion of blood upon the brain set in, and this caused her death. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death by Burning through the Explosion of a Lamp."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 4 October 1887
EXETER - Sudden Death In Exeter. - An Inquest was held at the Guildhall yesterday by the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, touching the death of EMMA CHAMBERLAIN, aged 28, wife of JOHN FRANCIS CHAMBERLAIN, labourer, residing at 62 Bartholomew-street East. On Sunday the deceased complained of being unwell and about midday was assisted and some brandy was given her. In the evening at her own request she had some gin and nitre given her. After taking this she fell into a sleep from which she never awoke. on its being apparent that a change for the worse had taken place, Mr C. E. Bell, Surgeon, was sent for, and he gave it as his opinion that death was due to internal haemorrhage. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 6 October 1887
TIVERTON - Fatal Fall Downstairs At Tiverton. - MRS ANN EWINGS, wife of MR WILLIAM EWINGS, of the Worth Arms Temperance House, Leat-street, Tiverton, met with a fatal accident on Tuesday evening. About half-past six she went upstairs for something which she said she would not trouble the servant to fetch. She was heard to come to the landing on her way back and then to fall from the top of the stairs to the bottom. MRS EWING'S son, RICHARD, who happened to be in Tiverton on a visit, was called by the servant and he raised his mother up and took her into the parlour in a state of unconsciousness. Mr Fisher, Surgeon, was soon in attendance, but shortly before 8 p.m. MRS EWINGS expired. - An Inquest was held yesterday afternoon by Mr F. S. Dayman, Deputy Coroner. Mr Fisher's evidence was to the effect that death resulted from a fracture of the skull and the Jury, having herd other evidence in due course, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." MRS EWINGS was 63 years of age, and for more than 30 years had been a member of the Bible community at Tiverton.

BARNSTAPLE - The Fatal Railway Accident At Fremington. - The Borough Coroner, Mr R. I. Bencraft, held an Inquest at the North Devon Infirmary, Barnstaple, yesterday, touching the death of WILLIAM WHITE, a lad who was killed on the line at Fremington on the previous day. - THOMAS WHITE, father of the deceased, said he was a coal-heaver, employed at Fremington Station. The body which had just been views was that of his son. He was engaged by the London and South-Western Company at Fremington, and it was his duty to assist the horseman in shunting trucks. Witness was called to his son when the accident happened, and he saw him lying on the metals with his body greatly crushed. His son spoke to him and asked him to kiss him, which he did. Deceased was brought to Barnstaple by the 11 o'clock train and taken to that Institution, where witness remained with him until about half-past 2, when he died. Witness believed that no blame attached to anyone for the accident. - Joseph Hoare stated that he was employed in working the steam-crane at Fremington Station. Shortly after 10 o'clock the previous day he saw the deceased bringing along a single truck drawn by one horse. He did not see the boy fall, but after the truck had passed he saw the deceased lying on the metals and he cried out. Witness ran to his assistance and found that he was frightfully mutilated. He was taken up and conveyed to Barnstaple. It appeared that he had slipped down between two rails at a crossing. Deceased had sole charge of the horse at the time. - John Mock, porter, at Fremington, said he heard the deceased cry out and on running to where he was he found him lying face downwards, and his left leg was jammed between two fixed rails. His left leg and arm were dreadfully crushed. Witness released his foot as quickly as possible. Deceased had been engaged there some time and he was a very quiet boy. When witness came up to the deceased he said, "I have only one arm now," pointing to the mutilated limb. - Mr H. H. Lovell, House Surgeon at the Infirmary, said the deceased was brought to that Institution yesterday morning. He found he had received a compound fracture of the arm close to the shoulder and the left leg was crushed just above the knee. He was in a very collapsed state and he administered some stimulants. He was taken to the operation room and the limbs were removed by Mr Pronger. He seemed to recover a little under the anaesthetic and also after the operation. They did all they could to save the lad, but there was very little chance from the first. He never wholly recovered from the shock to the system and it soon proved fatal. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 7 October 1887
SOUTH HUISH - Fatal Accident At Galmpton - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest at Galmpton, near Brixham, on the body of THOMAS LOCKE, a labourer, married, who met with his death on Tuesday by his head being caught in the machinery attached to a corn crusher which he was working with two horses on Manor Farm, occupied by Mr Dobell. No one saw the occurrence, but the evidence showed that while oiling the wheels the shaft of the big wheel must have caught his head, cutting the top of it completely off. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 13 October 1887
MORTEHOE - The body of WILLIAM LEY, who was drowned in Morte Bay while fishing last week, was discovered floating in the sea off Bull Point on Tuesday and was recovered by the Coastguardsmen and taken to Morthoe, where an Inquest was held yesterday by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner. The evidence was to the effect that while a gentleman named Prole was fishing, with the assistance of the deceased and a man called Shapland, the sea took the two men off their legs, LEY stepping into a pit and being carried out of reach. Shapland was, after some difficulty, rescued by Mr Prole, who was much exhausted, and after a little while Shapland was resuscitated. LEY, however, was drowned. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning." Deceased leaves a widow and three children, for whom a subscription has been made in the neighbourhood.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 14 October 1887
HATHERLEIGH - Suicide At Hatherleigh. - A gloom was cast over Hatherleigh on Saturday by the death of MR WILLIAM GAFFIL SMALE, one of the oldest tradesmen of the town, and who had won the respect and esteem of all who knew him. MR SMALE was in the hat trade and had regularly attended Okehampton Market for a great number of years. The deceased had a seizure in the spring of this year and since that time had been suffering from its effects, but during the past month he appeared somewhat better. On Saturday morning, however, he was found dead on the floor in his bedroom. In the evening an Inquest was held before Mr Coroner Burd and a Jury, of whom Mr W. S. Horne was elected as Foreman. Their verdict was unanimous, from the evidence, that the deceased Committed Suicide by Cutting his Throat while of Unsound Mind. The Coroner expressed his opinion in favour of the verdict. Great sympathy is expressed on all sides for the bereft widow and grown up family. MR SMALE was 72 years of age.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 19 October 1887
EXETER - A Child Burnt to Death At Silverton. - An Inquest was held last evening at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, by the Coroner, Mr Hooper, touching the death of ARTHUR SAUNDERS, 2 years of age, and son of JOHN SAUNDERS, farm labourer, residing near the village of Silverton. It seems that on Saturday afternoon the mother left the deceased in charge of a son named FRANK, 10 years of age, together with two smaller children. In the absence of the mother FRANK went out, but hearing the deceased crying he returned to the house and found that his clothes were on fire, he having apparently fallen against the stove. FRANK threw some water over the child's clothes and the flames, with the assistance of a neighbour, were extinguished. The mother, who was sent for, arrived in a short space of time and the child was taken to Mr Puddicombe, Surgeon, who advised his removal to the Devon and Exeter Hospital. Mr Coombes, House Surgeon, stated that the deceased was admitted into the Hospital suffering from burns to the face and neck, the upper part of his chest, arms and hands and lower part of the abdomen. The child got on fairly well until Monday, when he had convulsions which lasted an hour and a half, and he died from shock to the system, the result of the burns. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

GREAT TORRINGTON - Sudden Death At Torrington. - Yesterday Mr J. Bromham, District Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of ALBERT WESTACOTT, aged 55 years, a shopkeeper, of Well-street, Torrington, who died suddenly in the morning while carrying a bundle of hay through the street. From the medical evidence it appears that the deceased suffered from heart disease and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 20 October 1887
DAWLISH - At an Inquest held last evening, before Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, on the body of MARY WOOD, aged 56, wife of JAMES WOOD, mason, the Jury, after hearing the evidence of Mr Webb, surgeon, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

EXETER - An Inquest was held yesterday afternoon at the Guildhall by Mr Coroner Hooper on the body of MRS CHARLOTTE SEARLE, 58 years of age. The deceased, who was the wife of MR JAMES SEARLE, of 7 North-bridge, was taken ill in February last and gradually lost her hearing. She was attended by Mr Bell, Surgeon and got on fairly well up to the 19th of August, when, in crossing the road in High-street, she was knocked down and run over by a cab. No bones were broken, but the deceased was considerably bruised and suffered a good deal from shock. Within a few hours she developed apoplexy and subsequently partial paralysis. She got slightly better and went away for change of air. Deceased returned home last week, having but little improved in health and on Sunday evening she died from a second attack of apoplexy. It was stated that there was no blame attachable to the driver of the cab. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

EXETER - Mr Coroner Hooper and a Jury Inquired yesterday afternoon at the Guildhall into the circumstances attending the death of CHARLOTTE CROCKER, daughter of WILLIAM CROCKER, of Stone-court, Preston-street. It appeared that the deceased was born on Saturday morning and died on Monday, according to Dr Perkins, from convulsions. Verdict, "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 21 October 1887
EXETER - Fatal Accident To A Lad At Honiton. - The Exeter City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest at the Devon and Exeter Hospital touching the death of FRANK MANVELL. From the evidence it appeared that the deceased was a little over 12 years of age and in the employ of Mr Batting, of West Colwell, in the parish of Offwell, near Honiton. The boy was in sole charge of a horse and cart and was returning from Honiton Market when the horse shied at a barrel placed on the roadside and containing water for the use of a house close by. The effect of this was that the wheel of the cart came in contact with the hedge and the cart overturned on the top of the boy. The lad was speedily picked up and conveyed to Honiton, where he was seen by Dr Macaulay, who advised his removal to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, where he died on the 15th inst. - Mr Shadwell, Assistant House Surgeon, stated that the deceased had a small wound on the right side of the head and a large wound on the left side of the head, extending from the eye to the back part of the head. Mr Shadwell stated that he believed that deceased had concussion of the brain. Death was due to exhaustion, consequent on the injuries received. Mr Batting stated that he had never known the horse, an old one, which deceased was in charge of, to shy. - The Jury, some of whom expressed surprise that so young a boy should have been in charge of the horse, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 22 October 1887
TIVERTON - Sudden Death At Tiverton. - Mr Dayman, the Deputy Borough Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at the house of Mr N. Cooke, Chevithorne Barton, touching the death of MARY WEBBER, aged 31, wife of RICHARD WEBBER, one of Mr Cooke's labourers. Mr R. S. Norrish was Foreman of the Jury. On the 5th inst. deceased was confined. Mrs Ware, of Chettiscombe, was the midwife, but, as on previous occasions, no medical man was called in. After her confinement deceased was nursed by two neighbours, Mrs Vickery and Mrs Honor. She seemed to progress favourably, except that she had sleepless nights. On Monday she was seized with what appeared to be a fainting fit. On Thursday morning, while deceased was left alone for a short time, her father-in-law, who lives in the same house, called to her to say that he was going into the garden. Receiving no answer he went upstairs and there he found deceased by the beside in a kneeling position, her chin resting on the bed and her arms out-stretched. - Dr H. C. Davis, who had attended deceased previously, said she was not a strong woman and from what he knew and had seen of her he considered that death resulted from the blocking of one of the larger vessels in the neighbourhood of the heart by a large clot of blood, which caused cessation of the heart's action. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 27 October 1887
DAWLISH - Sudden Death At Holcombe. - An Inquest was held at Holcombe last evening, before Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, on the body of JOHN BUNKIN, aged 47, Naval pensioner, who died suddenly on Tuesday morning. Mr G. H. Coles was Foreman of the Jury. - ANN BUNKIN, wife of deceased, who left him in bed in the morning, said on hearing a gurgling noise some time after, she went upstairs and found her husband lying on his left side. He had the appearance of death and expired in a few minutes. - After hearing the evidence of Mr A. de W. Baker, Surgeon, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes, accelerated by syncope or heart disease." The fees were handed to the widow.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 28 October 1887
EXETER - At an Inquest held yesterday afternoon at the Guildhall by the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, on the body of JOHN PUGSLEY, 6 years of age, and son of WILLIAM HENRY PUGSLEY, a joiner, residing at 4 Summerland-crescent, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The evidence showed that on the 18th inst., the deceased was at play with an elder brother, who had him on his shoulder, when he fell and received a blow on his left temple. The medical evidence showed that the cause of death was inflammation of the brain.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 29 October 1887
EXETER - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned at an Inquest held yesterday before Mr Coroner Hooper on the body of THOMAS BRADFORD, who died suddenly on Wednesday evening at 41 Hoopern-street.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 31 October 1887
STOCKLAND - Sad Shooting Case At Stockland. - The Deputy Coroner for the District, Mr C. Cox, held an inquest at Stockland on Friday on the body of STEPHEN ISAAC LANE, formerly of the King's Arms Inn, Honiton, but who of late has resided with his brother, JAMES LANE, at the Royal Oak, Stockland, and who met his death under very distressing circumstances on the previous morning. - The effect of the evidence adduced was that on Wednesday evening the deceased, who was apparently in his usual health, informed his aunt that he would try and shoot a rabbit for her on the following (Thursday) morning. She replied, "So do," or words to that effect. The deceased was in the habit of using his brother's gun. Early the following morning JAMES LANE heard the deceased get up and shortly afterwards was aroused by the report of a gun, but he did not think anything of it. Within a few minutes of the report a lad employed on the premises found the deceased lying immediately under a fence, dead, with his hat off and a gun close by. There was a wound on the side of the poor man's face, apparently where a charge had entered. An examination of the gun - a double-barrel one - showed that one of the cartridges had not been discharged. - The Jury viewed the fatal spot, about 200 yards from the Royal Oak, after which they formed the opinion that the weapon was accidentally discharged while the deceased was endeavouring to get over the fence, and a verdict to that effect was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 1 November 1887
EXETER - At an Inquest held yesterday at the Prison, Exeter, by the County Coroner for the District, Mr H. W. Gould, on the body of a prisoner named HENRY DAVEY, aged 37, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." The medical evidence showed that the deceased, who had previously been treated for disease of the heart, died on Friday last from pneumonia.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 3 November 1887
OTTERY ST MARY - The Sad Death Of An Ottery Licensed Victualler. - Yesterday morning, at the Volunteer Inn, Ottery St Mary, the Deputy Coroner for the District (Mr C. Cox) and a Jury, of whom Mr John Hake was the Foreman, investigated the circumstances attending the painful death of MR WILLIAM DRAKE SANDERS, aged 41, landlord of the Five Bells Inn, in that town, which took place on Monday morning. - The first witness examined was Mrs Maybank, sister-in-law of the deceased, whose wife, she stated, had been dead five years. She had been at the Five Bells three years next February. About 11.30 on Monday night she went into the deceased's bedroom and told him not to believe a scandal that was in circulation concerning him because it was not right, to which he replied that he could not stand it; he did not know what to do; if it was the truth he would face it as a man, but the report to which currency had been given he could not face. Witness entreated the deceased to take some refreshment, as she thought his appearance strange, but he refused; and she wished him "Good night" before retiring to a room immediately above. The deceased was the last man in the world that she thought would have taken his life. Mrs Maybank then described the position in which she found the deceased on Tuesday morning, as already reported. - Mr W. J. Larkin, a Juror, asked whether they, as a Jury, were to enter into a matter of scandal? Mrs Maybank apparently assumed in evidence that it was through some scandal the deceased's mind was depressed, and which was ultimately the cause of death. - The Coroner replied that the Jury were to Inquire into the circumstances which led to MR SANDERS'S death, and anything bearing on those circumstances and if they thought that the scandal had anything to do with his decease, they were quite at liberty to ask any questions. - Mr Larkin remarked that if Mrs Maybank's evidence was admissible, as taking up the question of scandal, they must either go into it thoroughly or leave it alone. - The Coroner: Mrs Maybank's evidence is with regard to what the deceased said to her, which tends to show that he was very much affected by some rumours of which we have not heard anything yet; but I believe it is a matter of some notoriety in this neighbourhood what the rumours were. I don't think that this witness is able to answer any questions concerning them, because as far as I am led to believe she would know nothing personally about the matter. - Mr Gray, Surgeon, said there was a large incised wound in the deceased's throat, just below the jaw. He was quite dead when witness visited him. A "lamb-foot" knife, which Mr Gray found near the deceased was produced, and the Jury remarked that the weapon had been sharpened very recently. He (Mr Gray) had always known the deceased as a straightforward, steady, honest man. - George Meldon, painter and glazier, gave evidence as to a conversation between him and the deceased on Friday. The deceased said, "I suppose you have heard that I have lost my servant, haven't you?" Witness replied, "No," and asked "Which servant?" and deceased said "Edith." Witness asked, "Have you had a fall out?" and the deceased answered, "No, not exactly a fall out; but it hasn't been very comfortable lately, and they put it down to my fault now." The deceased said nothing more and witness asked no further questions. He was very low, but Meldon did not suppose that he was about to destroy himself. - Edith Glover, 22, daughter of Charles Glover, town-crier, Ottery St. Mary, said until lately she had been a general servant at the deceased's house. - The Coroner, addressing her, said they had heard of certain rumours just previously to her late master's death, which appeared to have preyed upon his mind, and her name had been mentioned in connection with those rumours. She had therefore been summoned to give evidence with regard to what had actually passed between her and the deceased. - Gover deposed that on Wednesday night, about 12 o'clock, the deceased entered her bedroom without knocking and said, "Edith, fetch me some brandy?" She replied, "Yes, sir," and took the brandy to her master, who had then returned to his bed. As witness was placing the brandy on a box by the bedside, the deceased, she alleged, tried to catch hold of her with his right hand. He then put out both arms and tried to catch hold of her, as she supposed. She was wearing her afternoon dress. Whether the deceased intended to or not she could not say. - The Coroner (to witness): Did he actually catch hold of you? - Witness: Oh, no sir; he didn't catch hold of me; he only tried to do so. - Gover, continuing, stated that the deceased then aid to her, "Edith, you come to me; I want to speak to you," to which she (witness) replied, "£If you want to speak to me, why don't you?" Her master would not say what he wanted of her, although witness asked him three or four times. The deceased looked very strange - in fact, as witness had never seen him look before, and she was very frightened. Witness acquainted Mrs Maybank with what had occurred; also her sister, whose husband (Cousins) advised her to leave on the following (Thursday) night. She told her father and mother of what had occurred; but nothing more than she had now given in evidence. - In reply to questions, Gover stated that she had been in MR SANDERS'S employ about five years, during which period he had never made improper advances of any kind. - By the Coroner: The deceased did not touch her in any way. - In reply to the Foreman, witness was unable to say that her brother-in-law (Cousins) said to the deceased that "if he was a man like him he would go and cut his throat directly." Also, she could not say that Cousins accused the deceased of trying to seduce her. A boy, 11 years of age, was in bed with the deceased on the Wednesday night in question. Further questioned, witness said when the deceased held out his hand to her she thought he intended to seduce her, which impression she gave both Mrs Maybank and her mother. - Mrs Maybank, re-examined, stated that Gover said she should not tell her sister of what had taken place, or the whole town would know it. She continually asked Edith to speak to the deceased about it, but she would not. When questioned by Mrs Maybank as to whether Edith was frightened on the Wednesday night the deceased said "I don't know." - The Coroner said it was perfectly clear that the deceased was very much affected by the rumours and therefore he did not think it absolutely necessary to call every person who had interviewed the deceased. - Mr G. Read: If we can clear the father's character for the sake of the children it is our duty to do so. - The Coroner: It is quite clear from the witness Gover that nothing actually was done to her. - Interrogated by Mr Larkin, Miss Gover said she never expressed any desire that deceased should be punished. - Charles Gover, Town-crier, was then called, and detailed the statement made by his daughter at home. Witness was told by his wife that the deceased said he had no objection to marry Edith Gover. Witness on Saturday laid information to the Police on the statement his daughter had made. - By the Coroner: Witness told Mrs Maybank that he was going to have the deceased arrested. - During further examination, Gover said he could not remember saying at the London Hotel that "he could have SANDERS arrested, provided he had the warrant signed by 12 o'clock." - Mr Harding, a Juror, said he was present at the London Hotel on the occasion in question. Gover was not intoxicated. - Witness said he might have made use of the words in the Hotel without having any meaning for them. - Mr Harding: You should be careful what you say in public. - William Cousins was called and refuted the statement which it was rumoured he made to the deceased. - P.S. Pope proved that on Saturday night Charles Gover preferred a serious charge of assault on his daughter against the deceased at the Police Station. From inquiries made, however, witness thought the statement inaccurate. Gover, at the Station, said, "I want to get a warrant for his (deceased's) arrest, and if you don't take notice of this I shall go to Honiton to see the Superintendent." Gover was under the influence of drink. - The Coroner , in summing up, said the case was a very melancholy one indeed. With regard to the circumstances surrounding the death of the deceased, no doubt a very serious charge was preferred against him on Saturday by the witness Chas. Gover. He (the Coroner), from the evidence adduced, had no hesitation in saying that there was no foundation for making such a serious charge. The gravity of such a charge would affect very considerably any man, and there was no doubt whatever that it did affect the deceased's mind. It was not for them to scrutinise too keenly the deceased's conduct; whether it was discreet or indiscreet was a matter into which they need not go, but they would agree with him from the statement of Edith Gover, who had given her evidence very clearly, that there was no foundation whatever for the charge. With regard to the witness Cousins, the Coroner was very glad that he had an opportunity of denying that very serious statement upon oath, because it was a statement which no man would like to have been charged with making. He was not there to find any great fault, either with what Cousins said to the deceased, or with the witness, Edith Gover, who might have fancied more than what actually was the matter, and he did not think he could attach any blame whatever to her. Her father acted very unwisely in preferring such a very serious charge against the deceased, although he did not mean to say there were no grounds for alarm. He asked the Jury to consider whether this charge had the effect of unhinging the deceased's mind. - After a short consultation the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased cut his throat on the 1st of November while Temporary Insane. They also considered that there was no ground whatever for the serious charge preferred by the witness, Charles Gover, at the Police Station, and regretted that such a charge should have been made. - The Jury also expressed their deep sympathy with the children and friends of the deceased, who was much respected.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 9 November 1887
TORQUAY - Fatal Accident At Torre. - Mr Sidney Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at the Torbay Infirmary on the body of JOHN HARVEY, who died from injuries he received while working at Messrs. Webber and Stedham's Clay Works, near Torre Railway Station. It appears that the deceased was engaged in his usual employment, when, without any warning, a huge mass of clay weighing about three ton fell on three men and deceased being on the inside had the worst of it. He was covered with the debris, while his comrades had been hurled against an adjoining bank and into a pool of water. Without delay they set to work with other help in extricating HARVEY from his perilous position, and after they had successfully proceeded for some time down came a second mass of clay, crushing deceased in its fall and precipitating the workers in all directions. Renewed exertions resulted in HARVEY being rescued, when he was found to be unconscious and was removed to the Infirmary where he died. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 11 November 1887
EXETER - Sudden Death Of A Pauper Lunatic. - At an Inquest held yesterday at the City Workhouse by the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, on the body of a lunatic named JAMES BAKER, 57 years of age and an inmate of the Institution named, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." From the evidence of the master, Mr Newall, and Richard Oliver, lunatic warder, it appeared that the deceased was admitted into the Workhouse in 1879 as an imbecile. He went to work as usual on Friday morning about 11 o'clock, apparently in good health. On returning, however, about 12 o'clock, the deceased fell down and when the Master came to him he was evidently in a dying condition. He was removed to a bedroom, some brandy given him and a medical man sent for. - Dr Woodman said the deceased had been in the lunatic ward for seven years and was known as an imbecile, or man of weak mind. On witness's arrival he found BAKER dead in bed. There were no marks of violence with the exception of an abrasion on the nose and one on the right knee caused by falling. Death was due to natural causes, either to apoplexy or syncope consequent on failure of the heart's action.

WHITCHURCH - On Monday an Inquest was held at Whitchurch, near Tavistock by Mr R. R. Rodd, District Coroner, touching the death of MARY MINTO, the wife of an army pensioner, who shortly after returning home from Tavistock Market on Friday complained of feeling ill and expired. Dr Brodrick of Tavistock, said death was due to fatty degeneration of the heart and the Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 12 November 1887
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at Plymouth last evening on the body of JOHN SINGLETON, 80 years of age, who committed suicide at Cattedown by blowing out his brains with a pistol. The deceased was formerly a chemist, but had fallen in position. He had been living at Coxside for some time, and was usually cheerful, but suffered from fits of depression. Yesterday morning he seemed well and went out. He was seen no more of until his body was found lying on a rubble heap in a pool of blood with the side of his head nearly all shot away. Deceased had evidently placed the pistol close to his right temple and pulled the trigger.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 16 November 1887
EXETER - Sudden Death At Exeter. - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest yesterday at the Guildhall on the body of a bootmaker named WALTER GUILLAUME, aged 44, lately carrying on business in South-street. It appeared from the evidence that on Saturday morning Elizabeth Crocker, who occupies rooms over the shop in South-street, was sweeping the stairs, when the deceased approached her and made a remark, as she thought, about a pain in his ear. He almost immediately fell down. Assistance was obtained and Dr Perkins, South-street, was sent for. The latter, who arrived a few minutes before the deceased expired, gave it as his opinion that death was due to a severe attack of apoplexy. It was stated that the deceased was a man of quiet and temperate habits and formerly lived in London. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 19 November 1887
NEWTON ABBOT - Fatal Accident At Kingsteignton. - Another accident of a serious and fatal nature occurred on Thursday afternoon at the clay pits of Messrs. Whiteway and Co. Two men, JOHN HOBBS, and George Partridge, were engaged in shovelling clay near the mouth of the pit, when about a ton and a half fell upon them. They were instantly removed by their fellow-workmen, and taken to the top of the pit and a doctor sent for. On the arrival of Dr Davies it was found necessary to remove both men to the Newton Abbot Cottage Hospital, where, on examination by Drs. Davies and Haydon it was found that Partridge had received internal injuries and HOBBS had dislocated his thigh. Yesterday HOBBS'S injuries had a fatal termination. The clay at this pit on the Bovey road is very hard and gives way without any warning of cracking to the workmen. Mr S. Hacker, the District Coroner, opened an Inquest last evening and adjourned it until Thursday for the attendance of the District Inspector of Mines.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 22 November 1887
EXETER - Sudden Death In A Shop At Exeter. - At Exeter Guildhall, yesterday afternoon, the Coroner for the City, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest on the body of ELIZABETH WOOD, who expired suddenly in the shop of Messrs. J. H. Newman (Limited) on Saturday afternoon. - CHARLES WOOD, coachman, residing at Sidmouth, but who rents No. 1 Salutary-cottages, St. Sidwell's, Exeter, identified the deceased as his wife, ELIZABETH WOOD, who was 53 years of age. She resided at the address in Exeter given above. Witness last saw her alive on Thursday, the 7th inst., when she was in a very weak state of health, suffering very much from spasms. She complained of spasms on the 6th November. About 5 o'clock on Saturday evening witness was telegraphed for. He arrived at Exeter about 8 o'clock, when he heard that his wife was dead, and had been removed to the mortuary. - (The witness here produced a certificate from Dr Brown, and was about to hand it to the Coroner, when the latter replied that he did not want it, and he was surprised that Dr Brown should have given it.) - The Coroner (to witness): She is not in the mortuary now. How came deceased to be removed? - Witness: I asked the sergeant if she could be removed yesterday, so as to be dressed. - The Coroner: You knew very well, she having been taken to the mortuary, an Inquiry would be held. The mortuary is supplied for public purposes, and when a body has once been removed there it ought not to be taken away again until an Inquiry has been held. It is a very improper proceeding, and I hope I shall not hear of it again. Witness made it clear that he communicated with the Police before doing so. - John Henry Braund, grocer's assistant, in the employ of Messrs. J. H. Newman (Limited) said that on Saturday afternoon, about 4 o'clock, the deceased came into the shop and asked for a box of Anning's lung-healers. Her went to fetch them, but on returning found that she had fallen backwards on the floor as if in a faint. Efforts were made to revive her, but without success, and Mr Domville, Surgeon, was sent for. - Mr E. J. Domville, Surgeon, Southernhay, proved finding MRS WOOD dead when he arrived at Messrs. Newman's Stores. Death, in his opinion, resulted from syncope. - In reply to the Coroner as to whether he ordered the removal of the deceased from the mortuary to her home, Mr Domville said he left the matter in the hands of the Police. - The Coroner (to Mr Domville): I am sure you will agree with me that the mortuary is a great advantage to the public? - (Mr Domville: "Quite so") - and when a body is once removed there it is very improper to take it from place to place before an Inquiry has been held. One of the great points, as you know, is that the mortuary should be attached to the office I have the honour to hold. - Mr Domville thought it but fair to say that, although he distinctly declined to give any authority concerning the removal of the body, the deceased had lived in a house for some time and no one knew who she was or to whom she belonged. The Police, however, when they found that the deceased had been under medical attendance, thought that an Inquest might be dispensed with. - In reply to a Juror (Mr Banbury) Mr Domville said it was a fact that the husband asked him for authority to remove the body from the mortuary, but he believed that he could not do so, although it might be a convenience to him. - Inspector Wreford explained that the deceased's husband came to him in a very distressed state and asked for a certificate of removal. He (WOOD) produced a certificate from Dr Brown, from which he (Inspector Wreford) thought there would be no Inquest. - The Coroner: I am the judge of that. It is not because a medical man gives a certificate that the matter is finished, because if, after a certificate is given, I consider an Inquest necessary, I have power to over-rule that certificate. - Inspector Wreford said he thought that as WOOD produced the certificate referred to he had no right to further detain the body. - The Jury eventually returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

EXETER HEAVITREE - An Inquest was held at the Guildhall yesterday afternoon on the body of ELIZABETH PHILLIPS, a single woman, aged about 44, who died on Sunday night. - Elizabeth Heywood, a widow, living at 13 King William-terrace, St Sidwell's, said the deceased had occupied a room in her house about five days. She was subject to fits and during Sunday she had five. The deceased had been residing with her son in Cheeke-street until a few days since, when the latter went to a situation in Cornwall and she then came to reside with witness. - Mr Bell, Surgeon, was of opinion that deceased died from an epileptic fit and a verdict was returned accordingly. - In the course of the Inquiry, there being no definite information as to whether the deceased was a widow or a single woman, she having no relatives save her son, who was at Camborne, a Juror, whose wife was acquainted with the deceased, volunteered a statement that she was a single woman. - Mr Banbury (a Juror) objected to this evidence on the ground that the Juryman was not sworn as a witness. - The Coroner said the Juror had done nothing wrong; he simply acquainted them of a fact not already obtained. - Mr Banbury: I bow to your decision.

EXETER HEAVITREE - The Fatal Accident To MR PENGILLEY, of Heavitree. - The melancholy death of MR FRANCIS ROBERT PENGILLEY, brick manufacturer of Heavitree, which we reported in our yesterday's issue, formed the subject of a Coroner's Inquiry at the Horse and Groom Inn, Heavitree, last evening, conducted by Mr H. W. Gould. - Mr John Capron was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner remarked that they were met to investigate the circumstances attending the death of a very old and respected inhabitant of Heavitree, who, he regretted to say, was killed on Saturday last. - MR ROBERT PENGILLEY, joiner of Heavitree, said the body just viewed was that of his father, whose age was 52. On Saturday, about 5 p.m. the deceased, who had driven from Alphington in his four-wheel carriage, called for witness, who was engaged on a building at the bottom of Heavitree. They proceeded to Blue Ball, near Clyst St Mary, to see a horse, and on returning passed the building about 5.45. Near this spot the pony came in contact with a cow. The latter being rather ferocious, the pony jumped on to the path, which at that spot was about 18 inches high, drawing the carriage, in which the deceased and witness were seated, with it. Witness, who alighted he did not know how, gripped the reins and the deceased cried, "Hold on, ROBERT! Hold on, ROBERT!" The pony galloped along the path for some distance, witness still holding on to the reins. Eventually both horse and carriage fell over the bank, and witness found himself in the gutter below. On getting up he discovered the deceased lying on his back on the path. He did not see his father fall from the trap owing to excitement and his attention being engaged in holding the reins. The deceased, when witness lifted him on his knee, said, "It is my head, dear." The deceased was conveyed to his home in a passing trap, occupied by Mr Fulford, auctioneer, and others, and Dr Andrews was sent for, but he did at half-past 9 the same evening. - Albert Webber, East Wonford, said he saw the cow in question jump into the road from Heavitree Park and run towards the pony. - A man named Tucker, of Wonford-hill, proved seeing the accident. - The evidence of the medical gentleman was to the effect that death resulted from concussion of the brain and syncope. - The Coroner remarked that the evidence pointed to the occurrence being accidental. He regretted very much indeed that MR PENGILLEY, who was well-known among them, and a most respected inhabitant, should have met with such an untimely death and they would concur with him in returning their sympathy to the bereaved family. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and the Jury, through Mr Capron, tendered their deepest sympathy to the widow and family of the deceased in their sad bereavement. - MR PENGILLEY, jun., thanked the Jury for their expression of sympathy.

TORQUAY - Fatal Accident To A Torquay Publican. The Inquest. - Last evening Mr Sidney Hacker (District Coroner) held an inquiry at the Torbay Inn, Torre, into the circumstances attending the death of FREDERICK WILLIAM DAY, 32, landlord of the Globe Inn, Torre, who expired on the previous evening from injuries caused by falling from his horse in Fleet-street, on the 18th inst. - MR SAMUEL DAY, soda water manufacturer, identified the body as that of his only son. He saw deceased when he was brought home about an hour after the accident. He was then unconscious. Deceased died at 8.30 on Sunday evening, and was accustomed to riding and driving. The horse from which he was thrown was a young one, but was very quiet. - Thomas Dunning Cross, plumber and gasfitter of 2 Westbourne-terrace, Torquay, said he saw the deceased coming up Fleet-street about 6.30 on Friday evening. Deceased called witness to him and after some little conversation he dismounted and they went together into the Devon Arms, the horse being handed over to the care of a boy. After some conversation deceased came out and went towards the horse, which he mounted. Shortly after the animal started it became restive and plunged a good deal. All at once MR DAY gave a lurch and fell, his head and shoulder striking on the crossing. He could not say if the deceased had his feet in the stirrups. He was picked up and conveyed to the Devon Arms, after which, on the advice of the Police, he was conveyed to his home in a cab. Deceased was unconscious up to the time of his death. MR DAY was perfectly sober. - Mr William Powell, Surgeon, stated that he was sent for to see deceased between 7 and 8 o'clock on Friday evening. He was suffering from concussion of the brain and was quite insensible. There was a small abrasion on the right side of the back of his head. Deceased was totally unconscious up to the time of his death. He became completely comatose and died on Sunday evening from injury to the brain caused by the fall. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 23 November 1887
COLYTON - Killed By A Threshing Machine At Colyton. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr C. Cox, held an Inquest at the Gerard Arms on the body of GEORGE WEST, engine-driver, who on the 17th inst. succumbed to injuries which he received while working a threshing-machine at Roadpit Farm on the 11th November. - Evidence was given by Frank Pavey, John Crabb (labourer), John Hellier (the feeder). Mr J. Searle (the owner of the machine) and Dr Pearse and the Jury, of which Mr W. Farmer was the Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The Jury gave their fees to the widow.

SHUTE - Unfortunate Children At Shute. - Unfortunate Children At Shute. - An Inquest was held at Colhayne Farm, Shute, on Monday, before Mr C. Cox, concerning the death of WALTER POTTER, aged 7 months, son of ROBERT POTTER, labourer, Colhayne. The evidence showed that the deceased was put to bed on Friday night about 8 o'clock. About midnight the parents awoke and the infant then appeared all right, but half an hour later they discovered the child to be dead. - Dr O'Meara made a post mortem examination and attributed death to inflammation of the bowels, accelerated by want of proper attention. - The Jury, after a prolonged deliberation, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." - The death of the present infant makes the seventh child that POTTER has lost in infancy.

BROADCLYST - Fatal Accident At Broadclyst. - An Inquest was held yesterday at the Chapel Cottage, Broadclyst, before Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, touching the death of SARAH LANGDON, aged 73 years, wife of JOHN LANGDON, a farm labourer, residing in a cottage close by the Baptist Chapel. - JOHN LANGDON was called and identified the body as that of his wife. He did not know her exact age and did not know her birthday - they had never kept up her birthday, for they never had the means. His wife was active and kept everything about the house as it should be, but she was very "thick" of hearing. At the time of the accident he was in his garden digging a few potatoes. When he returned his wife was very sick and she died the next morning (Saturday) about 4 o'clock. She was not able to speak after the accident. - Henry Crispin, a lad, residing at "Dog," said that on Friday about 6 o'clock he was with Harry Wilson near Mrs Westcott's railings, and saw Mr Stevens's (publican, of Broadclyst Station) trap coming in the direction from Exeter. Mr Stevens was driving and Mr Parker was in the trap with him. MRS LANGDON at that time was in the middle of the road, and she was knocked down by the horse. The horse was being driven fast, but not faster than usual. The occupants of the trap did not call out to the deceased. MRS LANGDON was picked up by Mrs Perry and after the accident the trap was stopped. The men did not get out and MRS LANGDON motioned to them to go on, but she was not able to speak. - By Jurymen: Mr Stevens pulled back the horse before the deceased was knocked down. There was room for the trap to have passed on one side. - Elizabeth Perry, residing close by the scene of the accident, said that about 5 o'clock on the day in question she was at the pump getting water. On looking around she saw that the horse driven by Mr Stevens had stopped, and that the deceased was lying on the road. Witness picked MRS LANGDON up and the latter told Mr Stevens to go on. She said that twice while she was stood up holding on to the gate. After being told the second time Mr Stevens went on. - By a Juryman: The trap did not go over deceased, who was knocked on one side. - Harry Wilson, aged 9, said he was with the witness Crispin, and saw the deceased knocked down. He corroborated his companion's statement. - John Stevens, landlord of the Alexandra Inn, Broadclyst Station, said he was driving the pony which knocked the deceased down. He was coming from Exeter and on passing the corner at "Dog" he saw the old lady standing in the road. He thought she was going to stand still, but instead of doing so she crossed the road in front of his pony just as it came up and the pony's nose knocked her down. Witness pulled up instantly and the old woman was picked up. He asked her if she was hurt, and the reply was "Drive on." He did not offer to go for medical assistance, because he did not think she was hurt. - Thomas H. Parker corroborated the last witness, and added that he was on the point of getting out of the trap when two women picked the deceased up. - Mr James Somer, Surgeon, who attended the deceased, said that he found her suffering from concussion and compression of the brain, which brought on paralysis and caused death. - P.C. Tucker stated that from inquiries he had made he learnt that the pony was driven steadily. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 25 November 1887
TAVISTOCK - A Man Fatally Gored By A Bull At Tavistock. - On Monday afternoon JAMES STEVENS, a labourer, 56 years of age, in the employ of Mr Rosekelly, of Nutley Farm, in the parish of Tavistock, received orders to drive two bulls from a field to a farm-yard and started on his errand. William Smale, a young man living at Moore's Shop, came to the farm with a cow about half-past 1 o'clock and saw Mr Rosekelly who told him that STEVENS had gone to drive in the bulls, and that therefore he (Smale) had better leave the cow in the yard and go down to meet him. When Smale reached the gate of the field he saw one of the bulls turn upon STEVENS and, not having a stick, he hastened back to Mr Rosekelly, who immediately proceeded to the field with two dogs. In the meantime Mrs Legassick saw what was going on from Kingsford Farm, which overlooks the field, and she sent her son, Henry Legassick with Henry Glanville to the rescue, one being armed with a gun and the other with a pitchfork. When they got to the field Mr Rosekelly set his dogs at the bull, one of which caught it by the nose and the other by the tail, which drew its attention from the prostrate man, who was speedily dragged over a hedge and was able to walk as far as the farmyard. Dr Theed, of Tavistock, was sent for and found that the poor fellow had been terribly gored, several ribs and the breastbone having been smashed in. STEVENS died in great agony about 7.30 on Tuesday morning. The Inquest was held at Mutley Cottage, Tavistock, on Wednesday, by Mr R. R. Rodd. Evidence was given by W. Smale, who saw the bull attack the deceased; by Mr Roskelly; and also by Dr Theed, who said he thought that the deceased was knocked down and knelt upon by the bull. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. Mr Roskelly informed the Coroner that he had sold the bull to a butcher who had slaughtered it.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 26 November 1887
HENNOCK - The Suicide In The Teign. - Yesterday we reported the finding in the Teign of the owner of the clothes discovered on the river bank. It appears that on the 7th as Mrs Lang, who lives at Bellamarsh, Chudleigh, was on her way to Chudleigh Knighton across the Clam Bridge over the Teign, she saw a great coat and a hat on the bank of the river. Information was at once given to the Police, but no clue was obtained to the owner of the articles until Wednesday, when, as Mr Milton, jun., was passing New Bridge, he found the body of a man lying on a sand bank. He informed the Police and the body was removed to Chudleigh Knighton. At the Inquest, held by Mr Sydney Hacker, it was announced that on the body was found a subscription card of St Phillip's Conservative Club, Bristol, with the name "C. WOOD, 13 Glen Park," on it. The Coroner had communicated with the Bristol Police, and it appeared that a person named WOOD had been missing for some time from that city, and as there was a Mrs wood, he would have to adjourn the Inquest in order that she might attend. - Mrs Loveys' of the Anchor Inn, Chudleigh Knighton, stated that the body was that of a person she had seen on the 7th instant. While she was standing at the door of her house she observed him coming on the road from Chudleigh. It was about 2 o'clock in the afternoon. He entered the bar of the Inn and had some bread and cheese, two bottles of stout and a little gin. He remained in her house until half-pat three and on leaving he asked her how far it was to Ashburton. He seemed in good health and spirits and his talk was rational. - Sidney John Stone, water bailiff, stationed at Chudleigh, stated that on the afternoon of the 7th instant he called at the Anchor Inn. There was a man in the bar whom he recognised as the deceased. About 9 o'clock the same evening he was informed by Mrs Lang that she had found some wearing apparel on the bank of the River Teign. He received a greatcoat, silk hat, with hat-band, pocket-handkerchief, silver lever watch, with gold albert chain and three trinkets; an umbrella, a razor in a case and seven penny-pieces. He went to the bank where the things were found and could trace footsteps leading into the river. He received information on Wednesday morning that a body had been found near New Bridge and on searching it he found a letter referring to the letting of a public-house, some pieces of paper with figures on them, two subscription cards (1886 and 1887) of St Philip's Conservative Club, Old Market-street, Bristol, with the name "C. WOOD, 13 Glen Park," and also a small book, entitled, "The Order for the Burial of the Dead." T here was only about 3ft. of water in the river where the clothes were found, but the stream was very swift. - Mrs Susan Lang gave evidence as to the finding of the clothes. There were no signs of any struggle, the body was not in any way disfigured, the coast was carefully folded inside out and the hat was on the top of it. - James Milton said that as he was going over New-bridge he saw the body lying on the sand bank and he at once went to Chudleigh and informed the Police. - Mr C. H. Wade, Surgeon, of Chudleigh, said he had examined the body and had come to the conclusion that deceased had met with his death from drowning. He appeared to be from 40 to 45 years of age. The Inquest was then adjourned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 28 November 1887
ILFRACOMBE - The Fatal Boat Accident At Ilfracombe. - The Inquest on the body of the fisherman WILLIAM LOCK, who was drowned on Friday evening, was held at Popham's Coffee Palace on SAturday evening, before Dr Slade-King, Deputy Coroner for the District. Captain Dennis was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was WILLIAM LOCK, sen., father of the deceased, who stated that he was a boatman, living at Ilfracombe, and he identified the body as that of his son WILLIAM, who was 26 years of age. He last saw him alive on Friday morning near the Crown Hotel. - Nicholas Lovering, boatman, deposed that on Friday afternoon he left the harbour about 4 o'clock to go fishing. He went to the eastward, and when near the Buggy Pit, about 5 o'clock, fishing he heard a voice in a north-easterly direction shouting "Hoy! hoy!" Witness at once pulled in the direction of the sound, and presently he saw a man floating on some nets about thirty fathoms off. Witness called out "Keep your heart up, I am coming, I am coming." When witness was within ten fathoms of him the man disappeared. Witness pulled to the spot, put the paddle down under the nets, turned it up and cleared the nets from deceased's arms and legs. John Comer, in another boat, then came to witness's assistance and with his help deceased was placed into the second boat and taken ashore as quickly as possible. Deceased was not alive when taken into the boat. Deceased was well known to witness. About ten minutes elapsed from the time the voice was first hard until the body was taken into the boat. In reply to the Jury witness said he was close upon the nets before he saw them; he also heard voices from the shore after deceased shouted. - John Comer, boatman, said that when passing the Beacon Point, on Friday evening, about 5 o'clock, in his boat, he heard people shouting from the shore, but he could not understand what was said, but Thomas Rudd, in another boat, which was near at the time, informed him that a boat had capsized. Witness then looked around and saw the nets in a north-east direction and the body of a man in the middle of them, about a quarter of a mile off. Witness then pulled for the spot and as soon as he reached there Nicholas Lovering, the previous witness, had just got hold of the body of the deceased. Witness then took charge of the body and brought it ashore. It took about a quarter of an hour to bring him ashore. Deceased was taken to the Pier Hotel and given to the care of Mr Copner, Surgeon. As far as witness knew he was dead. - By the Jury: Witness used means to restore animation all the time the body was in the boat. - Arthur Copner, Surgeon, stated that about twenty minutes past four he was near the Battery at Hillsboro', when he heard cries of distress. He saw several women coming up from Hele, who told him a boat had capsized. He looked to sea and saw something black about a quarter of a mile off. He and the other people called out to some boats which were near, the crews did not appear to hear. Presently one of the boats made for the spot and then witness went round to the Pier. While there the body was brought in and taken to the Pier Hotel. He tried the usual means of restoring animation, but without result. Death was evidently caused by drowning. By the Jury: The women did not say they saw the accident. The witness Comer was recalled and said he knew the deceased had left the harbour on Friday in an open boat of about 16ft. keel, accompanied by a sailor named Richard Lovering. The boat had in nine nets, and was called the "Jane." - The Coroner briefly summed up and the Jury considered their verdict, which they returned as follows:- "That the said WILLIAM THOMAS LOCK came to his death by Drowning, but that there was no evidence to show how he got into the water." The fees were given to the widow.

MALBOROUGH - Trifling With Illness At Salcombe.- An Inquest was held at the Commercial Inn, Salcombe, on Saturday, touching the death of ROSALINE SYMONS, who died on Thursday after an illness, during which she had not been attended by a medical man. This being the second case of the kind occurring at Salcombe within a few days, the facts were communicated to the Coroner (Dr Donald M. Frazer, of Totnes), who conducted the Inquiry with a Jury, of which Mr W. Hannaford was Foreman. - The evidence adduced went to show that the illness of the child was first noticed a week previous to her death. The mother thought it was measles, and had procured a powder from the chemist's. After taking the powder the child seemed to get better and the next day the mother asked Mr Balkwill, the chemist, to see the patient, which he did and said she had a touch of bronchitis and a little inflammation. He gave her medicine and ordered her to apply poultices. The child appeared very bright on Wednesday, but in the evening grew much worse and the mother called Mr Balkwill's assistant to see her. He advised her to go for a doctor and she procured Dr Twining, who, when he had seen the little girl, said she had not long to live and that the mother should have sent for a medical man before. He would do what he could for the child, but if she were to die he could not, under the circumstances, give a certificate. - The mother, in reply to a question, stated that it never entered her head to send for a medical man before, as she thought the child was all right under Mr Balkwill's treatment. - Evidence was also given by Mr Friend, the nurse, Mr A. Thomas, the chemist's assistant, who visited and prescribed for the deceased, and by Dr Twining, who said the cause of death was due to bronchial pneumonia. - The Coroner, in summing up, dwelt upon the fact of the visiting by the chemist and his assistant, and their prescribing medicine for the deceased, which they were not allowed by law to do. He also dwelt upon the neglect of the mother in not sending for a medical man before she did, and quoted the law upon the matter, which was to the effect that any parent or guardian conscious or suspicious of illness was bound to procure medical treatment for children under fourteen years of age. The Jury, without retiring, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and upon being asked if they had any rider to add remarked that the publicity of the case would prove a sufficient warning. - The Coroner hoped it would be a warning to others not to pursue a similar course. - Dr Twining stated that the idea prevailed among some people that if a doctor was called in a moment before death they were perfectly safe, but under the circumstances he thought he should not be doing his duty if he had granted a certificate.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 30 November 1887
NEWTON ABBOT - The adjourned Inquiry into the death of JOHN HOBBS was held yesterday afternoon at the Town Hall by Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner. It will be remembered that HOBBS, while at work in a clay mine, was fatally injured by a lot of clay falling on him. Complaint was made that the doctors at the Hospital did not attend to HOBBS'S injured thigh for five hours and the Coroner adjourned the Inquest until Monday next to allow the medical men to attend and give evidence on the subject. - Mr Pinching, District Inspector of Mines, was present, and said the deceased man's relatives had complained to him on the matter and it was right to get at the truth.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 1 December 1887
BRIXHAM - An Inquest was held at the Shotover Inn on Tuesday evening, before Mr S. Hacker (Coroner) on the body of IDA DISNEY, aged two weeks, the child of WILLIAM HENRY DISNEY, a fisherman. - The mother (BESSIE DISNEY) stated she lived in HIgher-street. The deceased child was very healthy. Witness went to buy some meat on Saturday evening after dark and left her husband with her son, 3 years old, in his arms. The deceased child was on the bed asleep. When she returned a few minutes afterwards she took up her baby and found her dead. She called her husband, who was lying on the bed with his son in his arms and told him the baby was dead, and "he said get out do." She called Mrs Towell, her nurse, who lived opposite and went for the doctor. - Dr A. E. Hayward, Brixham, stated that he was called shortly before 10 o'clock on Saturday night and found the child dead. The body was warm, but the heat might have been caused by the father's body. He examined the child and found marks round the neck under the skin, and marks like the pattern of the quilt on the nose and forehead. The child was well nourished and weighed 7 ½ lbs., the organs were healthy. My opinion was that the child was suffocated. When he came in MR and MRS DISNEY and two children were there. MR DISNEY was sitting on the chair nursing the younger boy. He looked astonished as if he had just woke up. The mother seemed very much excited and was crying. - MR DISNEY was next called, and the Coroner asked him if he would like to give any evidence. He replied that he should and after being sworn, he said, I came home about 8.30 p.m. on Saturday. Missus went out to buy some meat, whilst she was away I took the little boy and laid on the bed. When she returned she woke me up and said, "The baby is dead." I got up and sat by the fire. I did not see my wife put the child on the bed, but I knew it was there. I did not know I touched the child and did not feel anything of it in my sleep. I cannot account for the child's death. I only had a pint of beer during the day. I might have laid on the child. - The Jury, after a little consideration, returned a verdict of "Accidentally Suffocated."

EXETER - The Sudden Death At Queen-Street Station. - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest at the Guildhall yesterday, on the body of MR JOHN HUGHES, aged 43, who expired suddenly at the Queen-street Railway Station, Exeter, on Tuesday. - Mrs Annie Melhuish, wife of Mr James Melhuish, confectioner, Exmouth, identified the body as that of her late brother, who was married and resided at New Barnet, Hertfordshire. He was a retired pianoforte-maker. For a fortnight the deceased had been on a visit to Exmouth. On Tuesday he came to Exeter with witness, reaching Exeter about 11.30 and was then, apparently, in his usual health. After going to the corner of Paul-street, they returned to the Station to go to Pinhoe, where witness had a sister. When about three yards from the steps on the up-platform the deceased called to witness, who was a short distance in front of him, and she noticed he was spitting blood. He said, "It is all over," and requested the attendance of a medical man. The deceased walked a short distance with the assistance of a railway employee, and was afterwards removed to the waiting-room. - Henry Passmore, a brakesman, employed by the London and South Western Railway Company, said he assisted MR HUGHES to the waiting-room, where he died in witness's arms. - Mr Moone, Surgeon, said when he arrived at the Station the deceased was lying on a couch, dead. Death, in his opinion, resulted from internal haemorrhage. - The Coroner remarked that it was an extraordinary case of sudden death and he deeply sympathised with the bereaved family. - Mrs Melhuish said her brother had always been in a very indifferent state of health. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 2 December 1887
STOWFORD - Yesterday Mr W. Bond, District Coroner, held an Inquest at Stowford, near Lifton, on the body of MR JAMES BICKLE, of Mayne Farm, Stowford, who, on Tuesday, was discovered by his wife hanging in the barn. He had been greatly depressed of late. The Jury returned a verdict of "Temporary Insanity." The deceased was 57 years of age.

EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - At an Inquest held yesterday at the Plymouth Inn, St. Thomas, on the body of GEORGE EAST, a seaman, employed on board the Devonshire Lass, who suddenly disappeared about a fortnight since, and whose body was recovered from the Exe on Wednesday, the Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned." The deceased was last seen in a drunken condition proceeding in the direction of the Haven Banks, probably to get on board the vessel, which was lying in the Basin.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 6 December 1887
DAWLISH - An Inquest was held at the Town Hall on Monday evening, before Mr S. Hacker, on the body of an infant named HERBERT CHARLES DART, son of WILLIAM DART. It appeared that the child died of convulsions on Saturday evening. Mr A. de W. Baker said the child suffered from imperfect digestion, which he ascribed to biscuits being mixed with the milk food. The child not being naturally strong it daily grew weaker and pneumonia of one lung having set in was the immediate cause of death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and intimated that it should be known that mixing biscuits with milk in the case of delicate children was injurious.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 7 December 1887
EXETER HEAVITREE - Death From Chlorodyne At Wonford. - An Inquest was held at the Wonford Inn, Wonford, yesterday, before Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, on the body of the infant ROSALINE FLORENCE BOLT, daughter of JOSEPH and SARAH ANN BOLT. - SARAH ANN BOLT, wife of JOSEPH BOLT, gardener, of Wonford, said the deceased was born on the 23rd September last. When deceased was a fortnight old she was attended by Dr Kempe. She was ill about a month, and Dr Kempe visited her for about ten days. Last week the child had a bad cold, but witness did not think it necessary to send for a doctor, and she also thought that Dr Kempe, who was attending her other children, would call on Saturday, when he might have seen the deceased. He, however, did not call and she gave deceased two drops of chlorodyne on Thursday and also two on Saturday, according to instructions which accompanied the bottle which contained it, and which stated that two drops might be given to a child a month old. She gave the deceased the chlorodyne in a bottle of milk. On Sunday she noticed that deceased looked very pale, and she remarked to her husband that she should send for Dr Kempe, but he thought she had better not do so on a Sunday. About an hour afterwards deceased appeared to want to cough and she took her up in her arms, when the child made a noise in her throat three times and died. - JOSEPH BOLT, husband of the last witness, and Bessie Matthews gave confirmatory evidence. - Mr Arthur Kempe, Surgeon, said that about eight o'clock on Sunday morning MRS BOLT called on him and informed him of the death of deceased. He saw the child at three o'clock the same afternoon. There were no marks of violence, and the deceased was apparently a healthy baby. He had since made a post-mortem examination. In his opinion the deceased child had had a slight attack of capillary bronchitis. With a child in that condition chlorodyne would prevent it from coughing up the secretion attendant on bronchitis, and the lungs gradually became collapsed, so that the final act of life was caused by a final effort to cough up the phlegm. He did not think the bronchitis was of itself sufficient to cause death, which he did not think would have taken place had it not been for the chlorodyne. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death from an Overdose of Chlorodyne." They also strongly condemned the practice of giving children chlorodyne.

REWE - Fatal Accident To A Farmer At Up-Exe - An Inquest was held yesterday at Up-Exe Cottage, Up-Exe, touching the death of MR WILLIAM TAYLOR, a retired farmer of Up-Exe, who was found dead on Saturday, partly buried under a cob wall, situate in the garden adjoining his residence. It is supposed that deceased, who was 75 years of age, was engaged in pulling down the cob wall mentioned when it fell on him, partly burying him. He was missed by his wife about 3 p.m., and on her going into the garden to search for him she discovered him partly buried under the wall. She screamed and a neighbour came to her assistance. Deceased was extricated and Dr L. Puddicombe, of Silverton, was sent for. On the latter gentleman making an examination of the body he found that several ribs were broken and the spine fractured. These injuries were the cause of death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 8 December 1887
GIDLEIGH - Burnt To Death At Chagford. - An Inquest was held by Mr Burd, District Coroner, at Leigh, Gidleigh, on Tuesday afternoon, touching the death of WILLIAM HENRY MAY, aged 2 years. Evidence showed that the deceased accidentally upset a benzoline can which his sister had just used to replenish the lamp and being near the hearth fire at the time, he was quickly in flames and severely burnt. He died at an early hour on Saturday morning. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 13 December 1887
EXETER - Sudden Death On The Duryard Estate. - An Inquest was held by the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, at the Exeter Guildhall yesterday, touching the death of JOHN BYE, a gardener, 53 years of age, who died suddenly on Saturday afternoon. - Mr Thomas Pitts, clerk in the West of England Insurance Office, said he, in company with another gentleman, was rabbiting in the Duryard Estate on Saturday afternoon. Just as he was leaving the estate the dog found a rabbit in the hedge, and he stopped. The deceased was coming up the hill, and when he came up to witness they had some conversation together. In the meantime witness took his ferret out of a bag and put it in a hole. After it had been there some few minutes it came out and MR BYE endeavoured to catch it, but did not succeed. The ferret came out on the other side of the hedge. MR BYE, who was standing behind him, then said, "I am blind," and before witness had time to turn round and understand the purport of his words deceased stumbled against the hedge. He saw there was something wrong and caught hold of him. Deceased had no movement in his body and he laid him back, unbuttoned his collar and his shirt, thinking, perhaps, it might have been a fit of some sort, but as deceased showed no symptoms of a fit he saw that he was dead. The only sign of life after the use of the words "I am blind" was a groan. On placing him back he discovered blood on his face. - Mr Moone, Surgeon, said on Saturday, about half-past 6, he was called to go to Duryard, to see a man who he was informed had fallen down in a field. On going there he found deceased in bed, and he notices some blood on his face, which, on examination, he found to come from a scratch. There were no marks of violence and he believed death resulted from natural causes, probably syncope. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and thanked Mr Pitt for the trouble he had taken.

BARNSTAPLE - Accidental Death At Barnstaple. - An Inquest was held last evening at the Carpenters' Arms, Derby, Barnstaple, on the body of HENRY HARVEY, a plasterer, before Mr R. I. Bencraft, County Coroner. The deceased fell from the roof of a house on which he was at work and received injuries from which he died. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 14 December 1887
EXETER - At an Inquest at Exeter yesterday touching the death of MARY TRUMP, of Sidwell-street, Exeter, who was found dead in her bed on Monday, Dr Woodman giving it as his opinion that death resulted from syncope, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

NEWTON ABBOT - Mr Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Newton Union on Tuesday evening on the body of GEORGE DYMOND, 34 years of age, who died at the Workhouse on Saturday night, having been admitted on the previous day. Evidence was given that the deceased was a farm labourer in the employ of Mr Hill, a farmer, of Staverton, and that on Thursday last whilst cleaning a horse the animal kicked him. He was taken to his home, and being very ill, was next day taken to the Newton Union, where he died as stated. Medical evidence showed that death was due to inflammation of the bowels caused by the kick, and the Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 15 December 1887
EXETER - The Fatal Accident At The "Express" Office. - An Inquest was held by the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, yesterday, at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, touching the death of the boy WILLIAM HENRY F. D. WALTERS, who died from injuries received at the Express office, on the 6th inst. - FREDERICK WALTERS, cab-driver, residing at 14 Follett's-buildings, identified the body as that of his son, who was 13 years of age. - John Henry Pratt, apprentice at the Devon Weekly Times office, said he was passing through the machine-room between 5 and 6 o'clock on the evening of the accident and saw WALTERS. He was standing up between the belt, swinging. The machine was then in motion. Witness told him he had better get off and then went into the yard. On looking around he saw deceased attempt to jump off, when the belt caught him across the chest, between the armpits. It was a three-inch belt. He ran and stopped the engine and called Mr Warry, the engineer. The boy was taken out and conveyed to the Hospital. The belt was loose on the shaft. - Was there anyone in the machine-room at the time? - Witness: No; there ought to have been someone, but he had gone after his coat and hat to go to tea. - Elias Willey, apprentice at the Devon Weekly Times office, said he was there at work on the 6th of December. He saw the deceased in the machine-room about three minutes before the accident occurred. He was then swinging on the belt. He told him to get off, which the deceased did on his leaving. He afterwards heard some screams, and also Mr Warry call out about the engine stopping. - Samuel Warry, machinist at the Devon Weekly Times office, in charge of the engine at the time, said he was called about 20 minutes after 5 and told that a boy was on the shaft. When he came down the engine was stopped. He found the boy across the shaft. The distance from the shaft to the ground was 8ft. 6in. The deceased's chest was on the shafting. Witness got up and took him down and removed him to the Hospital. There was a rule stuck up that no one was allowed in the machine-room except assistants. - The Coroner: Then he had no business there? - Witness: No, sir. - Mr Russell Coombe, House Surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, said he received WALTERS on the 6th inst., between 5 and 6. He was a great deal crushed, and his left foot was nearly torn off. His right leg was also a great deal injured and he had some blood in his eyes. It was thought necessary to amputate his left foot, which was done, after consultation with the surgeons, about 7 o'clock the same evening. Deceased went on fairly well for the first few hours, but then became delirious and died on the 13th about 3 o'clock. He examined deceased's head and found a laceration on the upper part of the brain. He was of opinion that deceased died partly from his general injuries and partly from the brain injuries. - The Coroner said it appeared to him that the boy was where he had n business to be and was warned off the place, but appeared to have taken no notice. They had heard the evidence, but he did not think there was any blame attributable to anyone but deceased. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," but added as a rider that someone should remain constantly in charge of the machine-room. - A Juryman: I don't think that anyone is to blame; it was deceased's own negligence. - Another Juror: May I ask if it is the custom for the belts to hang loose? - The Machinist: They are tied up when not in use, but some way or other deceased managed to get it down. - Another Juror: Got it down for the sake of swinging, I expect. - The Machinist: No doubt about it. - The Jury expressed their sympathy with the parents of deceased, which was concurred in by the Coroner and Mr Wreford, who represented the proprietors of the paper.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 17 December 1887
PLYMOUTH - Sad Death On Board Ship. - An Inquest was held at Plymouth yesterday by Mr Brian, Borough Coroner, with reference to the death of FREDERICK LANGLEY, 17, who fell from a loft on Thursday afternoon. - Horace Welacourt Travers, captain of the s.s. Tartar, of the Union Steamship Company, on a voyage from Southampton to the Cape, said deceased was ship's boy on board and had been several voyages. - William Mills, A.B., deposed to seeing deceased at the Royal truck engaged in clearing the house flag as they were leaving Southampton water. When deceased was on the way down his cap blew off and he fell between the engine skylights. - He was alive when picked up, but unconscious. - Mr Phillips, the Tartar's Medical-officer, said the boy had sustained a compound fracture of the left leg and a broken arm, besides bruises. He died at half-past 4 from shock to the system, caused by his injuries. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and attached no blame to the officers.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 19 December 1887
BURLESCOMBE - Shocking Accident At Burlescombe. - A shocking accident happened on Friday afternoon to a quarryman, named LUKE MOGFORD, employed at Westleigh, Burlescombe. MOGFORD, who was unmarried, was in charge of a stone-crusher at the Quarries. Somehow he missed his footing and fell against the fly-wheel of one of the crushers and was killed instantly. An Inquest was held at Mrs Russell's Farmers' Hotel, Westleigh, on Saturday, by Mr Burrow, Coroner. Mr Grigg, Dr Trevelyan, and Mr C. Thorne were witnesses. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was recorded. Deceased had been engaged on the same work for twelve years.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 20 December 1887
EXETER HEAVITREE - Sudden Death Of An Infant At Heavitree. - Last evening, at the Horse and Groom, Heavitree, an Inquest was held by the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, touching the death of MABEL FLORENCE FRANCE PHILLIPS, an infant ten weeks old, who was found dead in her cradle on Saturday morning last. - MRS PHILLIPS said the deceased was her daughter who was born on the 5th October last. She last saw her alive between half-past 10 and 11 o'clock on Friday night when she carried the deceased in the cradle from the sitting-room to the bedroom, as was customary every night. At this time the deceased had been asleep about an hour and did not awake during the night. When she awoke she remarked to her husband, "How beautifully the child sleeps," and, leaving over the bed, she put her hand upon the deceased and found that she was dead. - MR PHILLIPS gave corroborative evidence. Mr Andrews, Surgeon, who was called to see the deceased by the last witness, said that he found her in the cradle upstairs lying on her right side; the child was cold and frothing at the mouth, with her head sunk in the pillow and was dead when he arrived. It was impossible to say exactly what was the cause of death. The frothing at the mouth might be owing to a convulsive fit or to difficulty in breathing. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 22 December 1887
KINGSBRIDGE - Strange Death Of A Torcross Fisherman. - Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest on Tuesday evening, at the Kingsbridge Union Workhouse, on the body of a man named SAMUEL COLE, a fisherman, aged 64, who died on the previous Sunday under somewhat peculiar circumstances. On Wednesday evening, the 7th December, the deceased was engaged at Torcross, with other fishermen, carrying out the nets. In jumping out of the boat the deceased slipped and fell into the water. He afterwards assisted to haul in the net and then went to a public-house, where he had a pint of ale armed with 3d. of spirit in it. About 7 o'clock he went in the direction of the house in which he lived by himself. A light was afterwards seen in the house. The next day the deceased did not go to his work as usual and some neighbours knocked at his door, when he shouted from the upstair room that he would be down directly. He was not seen that day, nor till noon the day afterwards, when, at the suggestion of a neighbour, a man named Clements broke a pane of glass and entered the house through the window. He found the deceased in bed in a sleepy state, but he complained of pain in his head. Blood was found at the bottom of the stairs. He was attended by Dr F. H. Clarke, of Chillindon. On the following Tuesday, by the direction of Mr W. Hurrell (the Guardian of the parish) the man was taken to the Union Workhouse, where he was attended in the Infirmary by Dr John Elliot, the Medical Officer. He told the nurse that he had fallen over the stairs and hurt his head. He died on Sunday, the 18th inst. - Evidence having been given by Drs. Elliot and Clarke, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 23 December 1887
SHALDON - At Shaldon yesterday Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of the infant son of MR WILLS, retired draper, of Shaldon, who died on Monday. After hearing the evidence of Dr Vawdrey, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 27 December 1887
EXETER - Death At St Winifred's Homer. - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquiry at St Winifred's Home for Aged Women on Saturday relative to the death of MARGARET CRABB, aged 77 years, who died suddenly on the previous day. - MISS Alice Crabb, a sister of the community, said deceased had been feeble of late, but had been able to get about the house. - On Friday she remained in bed complaining of being unwell. Witness thought it necessary to send for a doctor and about 1.30 she asked Mr Domville to see the deceased during the afternoon. When witness returned to the Home she found CRABB in a dying condition and death ensued about half-an-hour afterwards. - Mr E. J. Domville, the medical attendant at the Home, examined the body on Friday afternoon and was of opinion that death arose from failure of the heart's action. - A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 28 December 1887
EXETER - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest yesterday afternoon at the Guildhall on the body of the infant child of CHARLES GILKS, a gunner in the Royal Artillery, stationed at Topsham Barracks, and who lived at 21 Friar's-walk. The evidence showed that the child had been taken care of while alive and died from natural causes. A verdict to that effect was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 30 December 1887
EXETER - Sudden Death In Exeter. - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, yesterday morning held an Inquiry at the Exeter Guildhall into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN WESTAWAY, who died suddenly on Monday evening. The deceased, it may be stated, had been one of the door-keepers at the Cathedral for 4- or 50 years. - ELIZABETH WESTAWAY, residing at 8 Exe-street, identified the body of the deceased as that of her late husband, who was 72 years of age, and was a mason by trade. On Monday, the 26th inst., he went out about 6 o'clock in company with witness for a walk. They went through Bartholomew-street and entered the London Ale House, as her husband complained of the cold, where they remained in the kitchen for about an hour and had some warm beer. While sitting the deceased said he felt faint and as witness and some other persons who were in the room saw that something was wrong a medical gentleman was sent for. Some brandy was procured and applied to deceased's lips and forehead. The deceased, however, did not drink any of the spirit, and died just as Mr Moone arrived. He had only had two small glasses of beer. Deceased was a man of temperate habits. - Mr Moone, Surgeon, residing in Upper Paul-street, deposed that he was called on the evening in question about 7 o'clock to go to the London Ale House to see the deceased. He went immediately, and found the deceased sitting upright with someone supporting his chin. He saw that WESTAWAY was dead. He inquired into the circumstances of the case, and he had no doubt that he died from natural causes, and, most probably, from heart disease. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 31 December 1887
BRIXHAM - An Inquest was held at the George Hotel last evening on the body of WILLIAM LEE, aged four months, before Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner for the Totnes District. - Mr Allery was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was the mother, SUSANNA LEE, who deposed that the child died on Thursday morning. She nursed him at 3 o'clock that morning and at 6 o'clock she awoke and found the child was stiff in her arms, with foam running from his mouth. She thought that the child was in a fit. His life was insured in the Prudential three months ago. - Dr Hayward, practising at Brixham, said he was called shortly before 7 o'clock on Thursday morning. The child was then cold. He examined the body and found symptoms of the child having died from a fit. - The Jury, without withdrawing, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."