Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

Articles taken from the Exeter and Plymouth Gazette

[printed in Exeter.]

1889

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: Aggett; Allen; Andrews; Ash; Axe; Ayers; Back; Ball; Barnett; Bartlett; Batten; Bawden; Beavis; Bent; Berry(3); Bickel; Bidgood; Bishop; Blacker; Blight; Bond; Boundy; Bowden; Braund; Brealey; Brice; Brimacombe; Brooks(3); Bryant; Butler; Callicott; Cape; Carter; Channon; Cheriton; Chick; Chipling; Clarke; Claxton; Cole; Combstock; Coombes; Cox(2); Creuse; Crocker; Crossman; Dacie; Dally; Dart(3); Davey; Deer; Dendle; Dimond; Dodd; Domvile; Drake; Dunn; Dymond; Easterbrook; Edwards(2); Ellershaw; Ellis; Elstone; Evans(2); Farleigh; Ferris; Flay; Flew; Foale; Fogwell; Follett; Ford(3); Frost; Fudge; Gahn; Gammon; Gard; Gibbs; Gigg; Gilliard; Glover; Goodenough; Gubb; Hall(2); Hammett; Hannaford; Hansford; Harris(2); Hart; Harvey; Hawke; Hawkes; Hawkesley; Hexter; Hillman; Hole; Holland(3); Hooper; Hore; Howard; Howe; Hutchings(2); Huxtable; James; Kemp; Kerswell; Key; Knill; Lake; Lethbridge(2); Lewis; Litten; Lowe; Luscombe; Lyne; Mardon; Marshall(3); Martin(2); Matthews; May; McDonald; Melville; Michelmore; Miller; Milsom; Minto; Mitchell; Moore(2); Murch; Nilder; Ord; Osborne; Osman; Ould; Parker(2); Parkhouse; Passmore; Pavey; Pearse; Peckham; Perkins; Pethybridge; Pomeroy; Pook; Powell; Price; Prince; Pullin; Rice(2); Richards; Riddells; Rodgers; Rogers; Rook; Roper; Rowell; Rowsell; Russell; Scoble(2); Scott; Selwood; Shaw; Shepherd; Skinner; Skoines; Smith; Spiller; Spring; Spurway; Stansbury; Steer; Stenner; Stephens(2); Stone; Sullivan(2); Sweet; Titherley; Tomkins; Tottenham; Tout; Towning; Toye; Train; Treffy; Troake; Tucker(3); Tunstall; Turner; Underhill; Vallance; Winnicombe; Warner; Warren; Westcott; White; Wilkins; Willcocks; Wills; Wilson; Witheridge; Wood; Wotton; Youlden

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 1 January 1889
EXETER - Inquest At The Devon And Exeter Hospital. - The Exeter City Coroner held an Inquest yesterday at the Devon and Exeter Hospital on the body of ROBERT WILKINS, who died from injuries received at St. David's Station. - Mr Hawkins was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - THOMAS WILKINS, brother of the deceased, who was 33 years of age, identified the body. He was a labourer, employed on the Great Western Railway. On the 13th December, the day he sustained an injury, witness saw his brother. He had been to the Hospital and come out again. Deceased said he was at work putting down the brake of a waggon at St. David's Station, when his foot slipped on the rails. He fell and sustained an injury to his left arm. As witness was speaking to him his arm burst out bleeding, and he advised him to go back to the Hospital, which he believed he did. - William Warren, porter in the Goods Transfer Depot at St. David's, said that on Thursday, 13th December, witness was working with a man named Pollard, transferring some goods. They required another empty truck, which was being shunted back to a steam crane. WILKINS was standing in one of the sidings near the truck, which was on the narrow-gauge. Deceased went to pull down the brake of the truck, placing his left hand on the corner and using the brake with his right. He took two or three steps backwards from the truck, and, slipping his foot, fell. Witness at once went to his assistance. Deceased got up without aid, and was taken to the Mileage Office by Pollard and another man named Shepheard. He was subsequently taken to the Hospital in a cab. The truck was shunted in the ordinary way, and was going at a steady pace. - By the Jury: The occurrence took place about 12.30. The rails were slippery; rain had fallen. - Tom Pollard, a contract porter, engaged at St. David's Station, gave corroborative evidence. He called out to WILKINS to put down the brake. He described the manner in which deceased fell and his head was struck by the grease-box. - In cross-examination witness said he believed deceased was a teetotaler. - Mr Russell Coombe, House Surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, said deceased was received into the Hospital on the 13th December. Witness saw him some time during the day. He had a wound on the inner side of his left arm. It was quite possible there may have been a slight wound on the head, but witness did not see it. The injury on the arm was a contused wound on the inner side of the elbow. He went on very well until the 25th December, when other symptoms set in, and he died on the 28th. - By the Jury: We did not see him when he was first admitted. He was first made an out-patient, but on his return he admitted having had something to drink. He was made an in-patient. - It was mentioned by one of the Jury that it was given in evidence that deceased was a teetotaler, and the witness said deceased admitted to him that he had had something to drink. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. - Superintendent Hannaford and Inspector Rodgers watched the case on behalf of the Great Western Railway.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 2 January 1889
CREDITON - Death From Burning At Crediton. - Mr Deputy Coroner Gould has held an Inquest on the body of MRS MARY BLIGHT, who died at Crediton from injuries received by burning. - Mary Ann Forward, a married woman, of Crediton, identified the body. Deceased was a widow, aged 84, and lived alone. On Christmas Eve she was sent for, to go and see deceased. She went and found her sitting in a chair by the fire, very much burned on the right arm and the face. A portion of her clothing was also burned. Witness frequently visited her and remained with her until her death, which took place on Thursday last. Deceased had complained of shooting pains in her head. She did not tell her how she received the burns. - Emily Tucker, a married neighbour of the deceased, said that on Monday last, about 2 o'clock, she heard deceased call her name. She went into the house and found her in the front of the fire in the kitchen, on the floor. She lifted her up and seated her on a chair. She was not burned then, and said something had taken her in the throat. She then fetched a Mrs Wilkey and the last witness. A chair was near the fire. Witness subsequently heard deceased scream, and on going to the house she found her enveloped in flames, standing against the woodwork of the stairs. She called for assistance and the flames were extinguished. Deceased was conscious, but did not say how the accident occurred. - Mary Jane Pollard, a neighbour, married, and Mrs Wilkey, a widow, also gave evidence. - Dr Campbell of Crediton, said he was of opinion that death was due to shock, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 4 January 1889
TAVISTOCK - An Inquest was held at the Union Inn, Tavistock on Friday, by Mr R. R. Rodd, District Coroner, and a Jury, of whom Mr J. Clifton was Foreman, on the body of GEORGINA MOORE, aged two years and two months, child of WILLIAM MOORE, farm labourer, residing at No. 8, King-street, Tavistock. Mr S. V. Theed, Surgeon, of Tavistock, gave evidence to the effect that death was due to congestion of the heart and lungs. The father deposed that the child was found dead in bed by its mother's side shortly before 8 o'clock on Thursday morning. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 5 January 1889
THORVERTON - The Mysterious Disappearance Of A North Devon Farmer. Inquest At Thorverton. - Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at the Dolphin Inn, Thorverton, touching the death of WILLIAM HOWE, late of East Liscombe Farm, East Anstey, who has been missing from home since November 29th, and whose body was found in the Exe on Wednesday near Thorverton. - Mr F. G. Ross, Clerk to the Dulverton Highway Board, watched the proceedings on behalf of that body, and those present in the room included also Mr Francis Quick, London, an uncle of the deceased by marriage. - MARY ANN HOWE, of East Liscombe, East Anstey, identified the body as that of her son. He was a single man, aged 27, and used to reside at home with her. She last saw him alive on the morning of Thursday, November 29th. The day previously deceased told her he thought he should go to a sale on the Thursday at Hawkwell, in Dulverton Parish, and about a mile from East Liscombe. He went after dinner, but witness did not see him after the morning. Before starting he promised to be back at five o'clock in time to take his sister and a friend to a concert at Dulverton. He did not return as he promised, but it was thought at first that he must have gone to Mr Buckingham's at Molland, where he had on previous occasions stayed the night. - The Deputy Coroner: Had he any trouble on his mind? - Not that I know of, and assuming that he had he would not take it very much to heart. - Mr John Burrows, Stationmaster at Dulverton, said he saw deceased at the Carnarvon Arms Hotel, close by the Station, on November 29th, between 7.30 and 8 p.m. He was seated in the bar, smoking, but witness did not see him drink anything. He asked when the train went to East Anstey, and witness replied that it went at 7.59. Subsequently witness saw deceased come out of the Hotel, but did not notice which way he went. - By the Jury: Deceased had undoubtedly been drinking, but talked rationally. - By the Coroner: Could not say whether deceased came from East Anstey by the 7 p.m. train. (Mr Quick here stated that the East Anstey Stationmaster saw deceased enter the 6.40 p.m. train for Dulverton). - Mr W. Westcott, an uncle of deceased, said he last saw his nephew alive on November 29th at Hawkwell Farm. There was a sale there. Witness had some conversation with him about a small business matter, but deceased did not say anything about going to Dulverton. - Frederick Pike, a railway packer, living at Thorverton, deposed to finding the body of deceased on Wednesday morning, about 11.15, underneath the railway bridge. - P.C. Dymond said that no evidence could be obtained as to how deceased got into the river. - Mr King-Lewis, of Thorverton, Surgeon, deposed to examining the body, which presented the appearance of having been a month or more in the water, but at such a distance of time he could not say positively whether death was actually caused by drowning. - MRS HOWE, recalled, said that there was no occasion for deceased to have gone to Dulverton before returning from Hawkwell Farm. Between Dulverton Station and the town it was rather dangerous travelling for a part of the way after dark. - Mr Burrows, recalled, said it was a very rough night on November 29th, and the Barle, which joined the Exe near the Railway, was much swollen. - The Deputy Coroner, having summed up, suggested a verdict of "Found Dead," and the Jury, after a momentary consultation, returned their verdict accordingly.

IPPLEPEN - An Inquest has been held at the Plough Inn, Ipplepen, on the body of JOSEPH MARDON, an old inhabitant. The old man, 82 years of age, had been failing in health for some time past. On his neighbour, Mr Curtis, calling to see him on Wednesday morning about 7 o'clock he found MARDON worse than usual. Mr Curtis sent for a medical man, but before his arrival the old man died. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

EXETER - The Improper Feeding Of Infants. - At the Exeter Police Court yesterday afternoon the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ALICE PEARSE. - ANN PEARSE, wife of SAMUEL GEORGE PEARSE, a mason, residing at No. 5 Wesleyan-court, St. Sidwell's, deposed that the body was that of her daughter, ALICE, four months and a week old. The deceased had enjoyed good health. She fed the deceased on tea biscuits soaked in water three times a day. This was not in accordance with medical advice. About half-past 3 o'clock on Thursday morning she found the child dead by her side in bed. The deceased was not restless during the night. She last fed the child on Wednesday, about 7.30 p.m. - Mr C. E. Bell, Surgeon, residing in St. Sidwell's, deposed that he was called on Thursday morning at 3.30, to see the deceased, whom he found lying on its left side in bed, having just died. He examined the body and failed to find any marks of violence. The child died from convulsions, which, from the fact of the deceased having been sick and other appearances, might, in his opinion, have been caused by undigested food. - The Coroner was proceeding to make some remarks as to the danger that attended the feeding of infants with biscuit food when a Juryman pointed out that a doctor had recently expressed a different opinion. The Coroner replied that he was aware that during his absence a gentleman of Exeter, he was very much surprised to find, gave such an opinion, but it was in no way shared by the general medical profession. If a child was exceedingly weak and a small quantity of biscuit food was given under medical advice he did not mean to say that it might not at times be beneficial, but for any man to say that people should give it as a general food he considered to be too broad, too dangerous and misleading. If he could bring it home to the parties using biscuit food he should make an example of them, because he thought it was time it should be stopped. - A Juryman: I quite agree with your remarks. - The Coroner: Many cases come before us, and what is the result? All die from convulsions, produced by undigested food. If it were given in becoming quantity, under medical advice, it would be a different thing, but they do not seek medical advice. They do it according to their own bare opinions, and put in the excessive quantity, which does the harm. - Mr Cundy (a Juryman) inquired whether, after giving a child biscuit food previous to going to bed, the fact of the mother allowing the infant natural nourishment immediately afterwards would be the means of causing convulsions or affect the digestion of the food. - Mr Bell: The probability is that the child never digested the biscuit at all. - Mr Cundy asked whether the mother by giving the child natural nourishment would occasion it. - Mr Bell: It is a large question. The point was this - a child, if nursed in a natural manner, required no food whatever until eight months old. If people gave a child biscuit food or starch foods before that age it could not digest it. - Mr Cundy repeated the latter part of his first question and the Coroner, in replying to it, said that such a thing would bring on sickness. - Mr Bell said children should not be given biscuit food or bread with milk and water if nursed naturally. If not, the best food to give them was cow's milk and water. The great number of deaths that occurred among young children was either from convulsions or diarrhoea, which latter was caused by food passing through the stomach without being digested. That was the real cause of the enormous infantile mortality that occurred. - The Coroner pointed out that if biscuit food was given under medical advice it would be a totally different thing. The gentleman who gave evidence during his absence and stated that he fed his own children with it, had knowledge which the general public did not possess. Giving an excessive quantity of biscuit food was just like giving a person an overdose of medicine. He could only say that the gentleman in question differed from the whole medical profession. - The Jury, after some further observations, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 7 January 1889
JACOBSTOWE - The Suicide At Jacobstowe. - On Saturday Mr G. L. Fulford, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Lower Cadham Farm, Jacobstowe, on the body of MR GEORGE CROCKER, whose death was reported in Saturday's Gazette. - EMILY CROCKER identified the body as that of her father, GEORGE CROCKER, who was a farmer, 53 years of age. She last saw him alive on Friday morning, shortly after half-past 7. She saw him leave the house, and called him back, but he made no answer. He had been ill and for over six months he had a wound on his face. On Thursday he was very depressed. - James King, a farmer, said that on Friday morning, at 9.30 he was walking by the side of the river, when he saw the deceased lying on his face, near the centre of the stream. His slippers were on the bank. He had a bruise by the side of the nose and could not have fallen in accidentally. He was from ten to twelve feet from the bank. - Mr H. H. Parsloe said he was a surgeon in practice at Hatherleigh. He had attended the deceased. He saw him about six weeks ago, and found him suffering from melancholia and ordered his removal to the Hospital. The deceased said he was perfectly miserable, and he (Mr Parsloe) could hardly get him to speak to him. He had examined the body and was satisfied that he died from drowning. The nature and situation of the disease MR CROCKER was suffering from would be likely to cause great depression. - The Coroner having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a state of Unsound Mind."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 9 January 1889
BARNSTAPLE - Suicide At Barnstaple. - Yesterday morning, at 8 o'clock, the body of RICHARD FARLEIGH, aged about 60 years, was found in his kitchen at No. 3 Alma-terrace, Barnstaple, suspended by a rope round his neck from a beam running across the ceiling. Deceased for many years past has been "boots" at the Golden Lion Hotel, where, by his civility and attention to his duties, he became much respected. In October last, soon after the sudden death of his wife, he gave up his employment and it is supposed that grief over his loss induced melancholy, which was accelerated by leisure and while in that state of mind he committed the rash deed. An Inquest was held on the body last evening before the Borough Coroner, Mr I. Bencraft, at the Exeter Inn. - Superintendent Songhurst deposed that he resided near the deceased. He was called in at 8 o'clock in the morning and he found the deceased hanging by a rope round his neck attached to a staple in the ceiling of the wash-house, about eight feet from the floor. Deceased's feet were touching the ground, the knees being bent. A chair was just behind the body. Witness cut the rope and laid the body down. It was cold. Deceased had his coat off. - ARCHIBALD FARLEIGH said since the death of his mother, his father had been very much depressed in spirits, and on Monday he went to bed early in the evening complaining of pains in his back. Witness went to bed later on and found his father asleep. witness did not awake until a quarter to 8 in the morning when he found his father gone and on going into the wash-house he found him hanging as described. He told his brother and sister, who went for Superintendent Songhurst. - The medical evidence was to the effect that deceased had been a patient of Dr Laing, and that he had been suffering from melancholia and had refused to take the medicine prescribed. He had lately imagined that everything was poison, and that people wanted to poison him. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

MOREBATH - Suicide At Morebath. - An Inquest was held at Hayne Farm, Morebath, yesterday afternoon, before the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. Gould, touching the death of MISS SARAH KEMP, who has been for many years housekeeper for her nephew, MR W. J. D. KEMP, of Morebath. - MR KEMP stated in his evidence that his aunt was single and about 59 years of age. The last time he saw her alive was at 6 o'clock on Saturday morning, when she expressed a wish, if the weather was fine, to go out for a drive. His niece told him when he came home at 11 a.m. that deceased had gone out for a walk. In passing through the pound house he noticed a rope suspended from the cider-press and discovered his aunt, in a lifeless condition, with the rope around her neck. He called for stimulants and sent a messenger for Dr Guinness, of Bampton. The unfortunate lady was much depressed at times, and was much worried lest she should suffer a long illness. - MISS SARAH KEMP (niece of deceased, and Mary Leach, a domestic servant, gave corroborative evidence. - Dr T. A. Guinness stated that when he examined the body he saw a dark-coloured mark around the neck and was of opinion that life had been extinct for about a couple of hours. He attended MISS KEMP three years ago and by his advice she was sent away for a change, as she was greatly depressed. He saw her last on Thursday, and tried to cheer her up, as he knew such a state of melancholia was often followed by suicidal tendencies. - The Jury, of whom Mr Charles Hancock, of Moor Farm, Morebath, was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a state of Unsound Mind."

EXETER - An Inquest was held in Exeter yesterday by Mr Coroner Hooper on the body of LILY COX, an infant, aged 11 months, who had died suddenly that morning. From the evidence it appeared that the child was taken ill on Sunday and from the symptoms the mother found she was suffering from measles. Saffron and milk was given the child and this, with poulticing the chest, was continued till yesterday, when the deceased was seized with convulsions and died before medical aid could arrive. Mr H. G. Harrison, Surgeon, stated that death was evidently due to convulsions, which sometimes supervened on measles. He did not think the quantity of saffron given the child was excessive, or that it was indigestible food which caused the convulsions. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 10 January 1889
CULLOMPTON - The Gun Fatality At Cullompton. - The Inquest touching the death of JOHN PERKINS, of Cullompton, carpenter, whose body was found on Tuesday in a linhay near the Railway Hotel, Cullompton, was held last evening at the Hotel before Mr Coroner Burrow. Mr Joseph Foster was Foreman of the Jury, and Mr Alfred Burrow appeared to watch the proceedings on behalf of Mr F. C. Matthews, landlord of the Hotel, who lent the deceased the gun which caused his death. - Charles Hawkins, dairyman, deposed to hearing the report of a gun while he was working in a field in the vicinity. He took no particular notice, as the occurrence was not uncommon. Deceased, whom he knew, had said to him several weeks ago, "If you see me down the orchard (behind the Hotel) trying to kill a bird or two don't say anything about it." Witness rented the orchard. Deceased was in the habit of amusing himself in and about the orchard by shooting small birds. He had never used any suspicious or desponding expressions in witness's hearing. About 4.45 witness went to milk his cows and in his linhay he found a body, which he did not recognise at the time, it being dark. It was in an apparently sitting posture on the rail of the cow crib, but leaning back, while the feet appeared to be touching some hay on the ground. Both hands were thrown back at the sides. Between the legs there rested a gun, stock downwards and the lock towards the deceased. The body was cold and stiff. Witness was frightened. He covered the body over with hay without disturbing it, and after he had finished milking, which took about a quarter of an hour, he called at the Hotel and told Mr Matthews. - In cross-examination, the witness repeated that deceased had always appeared to be perfectly reasonable. - By the Coroner: Did not notice any difference in the report of the gun, as if it was discharged inside the linhay. Never noticed whether deceased handled a gun carelessly or clumsily. Deceased might have been waiting to fire at the birds from out of the linhay. Witness had known him do so. - The Coroner: Did it not strike you as a very improper thing to go on milking before you had given information? - By a Juryman: When I caught deceased by the leg, I thought at first he might have been asleep. - Mr Matthews, the landlord of the Hotel, said he knew deceased well, and never heard him say anything to excite suspicion of his intentions. About 10.30 a.m. on Tuesday deceased called and borrowed witness's gun, as he had often done previously for the purpose of amusing himself by shooting small birds in the vicinity. About ten minutes later he returned, remarked that he felt cold, had three pennyworth of brandy and then borrowed six cartridges. That was the last time witness saw him alive. At 5.30 Hawkins called and said deceased was in the linhay and that he feared there had been an accident and that deceased was dead. They then went together and informed Superintendent Collins. - By Mr Foote (one of the Jury); Witness must admit that the gun had been in use for twelve years and might not be quite safe. The right-hand barrel, which was the one which killed deceased, used to go off very easily, the sudden jarring of the stock on the ground might send it off, but about two years ago witness had had the lock altered in consequence. He had known the gun to go off accidentally. Deceased was no sportsman in a proper sense of the term, and might not quite understand the handling of a gun. When he called in on Tuesday he seemed quite sober and in his usual frame of mind. - Mr Collins, Superintendent of Police, deposed to being called to deceased by the previous witnesses. He at the same time sent for Dr Lloyd and Mr P. Plumpton, deceased's brother-in-law. Mr Collins went on to describe exactly the position of the body, which he illustrated by leaning back on a seat in a similar fashion. The body was quite cold when he saw it and he at once remarked that PERKINS must have been dead some hours. Mr Plumpton, at his request, examined the gun, and handed him a loaded cartridge from it, and one that had been discharged. Witness's first impression was that there had been an accident, but he did not see how, if the gun had gone off accidentally, deceased could have fallen into such a position if he had been standing up when the gun went off, as the rail of the crib was too high for him to sit down upon without raising his feet from the ground. Witness had never known deceased other than as a steady, sober, respectable man. He was a good tradesman, a man whom witness had thought was doing well, and one of the very last men whom he would have thought at all likely to commit suicide. If witness had been in Mr Lewis's position he should not have hesitated for a moment to lend him the gun. If he had been in Mr Matthews's position he should not have hesitated a moment to lend deceased the gun. - John Walter Stone, porter at the Cullompton Railway Station, said he had known deceased for some years. He last saw him alive about 11.25 a.m. on Tuesday near the linhay in the rear of the Railway Hotel. He had a gun in his hand and was looking up, as if at some birds, but he did not fire. Witness was walking up the line at the time. He should not have thought him likely to shoot himself, nor had he any suspicion that way. - John Henry Stone, a man engaged at the Cullompton Gas Works, said he had known deceased well for some time and last saw him alive on Monday evening, when they walked up the street together from Mr Rutley's shop. Deceased seemed the same as usual, and made no allusion to any trouble, nor did he say anything which led witness to think he might commit suicide. About 11.30 on Tuesday morning, while with another man in the purifying shed at the Gas Works, he heard the report of a gun, and remarked that "something was dead," meaning a bird, probably. - Mr Peter Plumpton, brother to deceased's widow, said he had known deceased over 20 years. He last saw him alive at a short distance off in Church-lane on Tuesday morning. He noticed nothing unusual about deceased, but was not near enough to speak. Witness gave other evidence of a corroborative character. Deceased had only recently left off paying into the Foresters. He was not insured. - Sergeant Baker, of Cullompton, deposed to searching deceased. In the left hand coat pocket he found five loaded cartridges, and in a right hand pocket an empty ne. In other pockets there were three papers of no importance, some coins, a key, three carpenter's pencils, &c., all of which he now produced. Witness last saw deceased about 9.30 a.m. on Tuesday passing along the street, apparently in his usual state. - Dr Lloyd, Cullompton, said he had attended deceased for about six years, but had never suspected his intentions. He went by request of Superintendent Collins and saw the body in the linhay in the position described. There was a very large ragged wound in the neck passing under it from right to left, which witness at once concluded was caused by the discharge of a gun. There was a slight blackening at the back of the left hand. Witness on re-examining the body that afternoon found that the skull was completely smashed in from the same cause. - By Mr A. Burrow: Deceased was an excitable man, but witness had never noticed any trace of insanity in him. - Several of the Jury commented adversely upon the conduct of the witness Hawkins, and the Coroner remarked that his evidence was very unsatisfactory. - Mr A. Bulwer said he trusted that the Jury did not consider that Mr Manley was at all to blame in lending the gun. - The Jury intimated that they certainly did not. - The room was cleared and after about 20 minutes' consultation, the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that deceased was Found Dead through the discharge of a gun, but that there was no evidence to show how the discharge was occasioned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 12 January 1889
EAST BUDLEIGH - Inquest At Budleigh Salterton. - An Inquest was held at the School House, Knowle, Budleigh Salterton, yesterday, by Mr Deputy Coroner Cox, on the body of JOHN ELLIS, labourer, aged 64, whose remains were lying at the Britannia Inn, Knowle, where they were viewed by the Jury, of whom Mr Born was Foreman. The evidence showed that at 3 p.m. on Wednesday the deceased left his home to go to Knowle about the sale of some wood. Having completed his business, ELLIS went to the Britannia Inn. He left this place at 6.30, apparently sober; indeed, it was stated he had only taken a small quantity of whiskey, having said he was feeling unwell and did not care to take beer. At 9.30 a boy named James Stamp found the deceased lying in a watercourse nearly opposite the Inn, and on calling for assistance it was found the man was dead. Medical evidence showed death resulted from fracture of the skull, probably caused by the deceased's head coming in contact with some stones. It was very dark when ELLIS left the Inn, and several witnesses proved that other accidents had taken place at this spot. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," adding a rider, conveying to the way-warden that in their opinion the spot where the accident happened was very dangerous and recommending that the watercourse be railed in or otherwise guarded.

BARNSTAPLE - Sudden Death At Barnstaple. - Mr Incledon Bencraft, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at the Lamb Hotel yesterday, on the body of MARIA MURCH, of Bear-street, who died the previous evening. The husband of the deceased said that although his wife had been very ill for a considerable time, suffering from an affection of the bowels and another complaint, she would not take any physic. The previous day about 5 o'clock she insisted in getting up from bed and dressing, saying she was better. She got up and laid down on the couch. She soon, however, became very sick and died. - Mr Cooke, Surgeon, said he had not attended the deceased for ten years. He believed she suffered at the time of her death from some obstruction in the bowels, and the sickness produced syncope, from which she died. She might have been relieved if she had sent for a medical man. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

HITTISLEIGH - Sad Death At Hittisleigh. - Yesterday Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Huntsman's Arms Inn, Hittisleigh, concerning the death of ERNEST DART, a child, aged three months. - ELIAS DART, farm labourer, of Hittisleigh, identified the body of the deceased as that of his late son, who died on Monday last. On Sunday, the 16th December, about 4.30 o'clock, witness left home, leaving his wife and three children there. On his return, at about 6 o'clock, he was told by Mrs Sobey, a neighbour, that his wife had had a fit and had fallen in the fire with the deceased. His wife was lying on the floor n a fit at the time. He saw the deceased and noticed that he was injured on the hand and heel. He applied linseed oil to the burns, and two days after his wife took the deceased to Dr Body, of Crediton. His wife had previously fallen in the fire with the deceased about a week before the occasion referred to. The child then received injuries to his arm and forehead. He was not attended by a doctor then, but witness applied linseed oil and he was getting much better. His wife was subject to fits and she had been in the Hospital three or four times for burns received while suffering from fits. - Hannah Sobey, wife of Henry Sobey, farm labourer, of Hittisleigh, deposed that on Sunday, the 16th December, at about 6 p.m., she heard the previous witness's children screaming that their mother had fallen in the fire. Witness entered the house and in the kitchen saw the mother lying on the corner of the hearth and the deceased in front of the fire, his face nearly in the fire and his hand quite. The mother was quite unconscious. Witness took the child up and put out the flames. His clothes were in flames. The mother became conscious about 20 minutes afterwards. Witness had seen the mother with a fit once before the occasion referred to. - Mr Leslie Powne, Surgeon, of Crediton, deposed to the mother bringing the deceased to him on the 19th December. He prescribed for the child and told her to bring him in, in three or four days. She did not, however, bring him, and witness did not see her until the 2nd instant, when she told him that the child had been better, but was then much weaker and the severe part of the burns was in much the same condition. He did not see the child again alive. He had since seen the body of the deceased and he found no marks of violence beyond the burns. He attributed death to shock to the system caused by the burns. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death, consequent upon shock to the system, caused by the burns."

EXETER - Allegations Against The Hospital Officials. - Yesterday afternoon, at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, Mr H. W. Hooper, the City Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM CHARLES HOLLAND, aged 23. - THOMAS HOLLAND, labourer, of Harpford, near Newton Poppleford, identified the body as that of his son, who was admitted to the Hospital about three weeks ago, Dr Body, of Crediton, treating him previously for heart disease. He had seen the deceased since his admission, but he died on Wednesday night. He had not made any remarks about the treatment of his son at the Hospital, neither had his wife. - EMILY HOLLAND, wife of the last witness, said that she saw her son since his admission to the Hospital, and had conversed with him. She asked him if he was in any pain, and he replied, "No." She knew he had an appetite, but they would not allow him what he wanted. He did not say what he had been denied. He asked witness to bring him in some sweets, but the nurse said they were not allowed. A sponge-cake or two had been taken to him, but he was not permitted to eat them. She would swear that she had not spoken to anyone about deceased's treatment at the Hospital. She applied to Mr Coombe for a certificate of the death of her son, but he said he could not furnish one, as death resulted from fever. He said he should have to make a post-mortem examination. Witness refused to have that done, because he had been medically treated at Crediton, and had been three weeks in the Hospital, and because she did not think it was necessary. - The Coroner having pointed out the inadvisability of refusing to allow a post mortem examination to be made, Mr Russell Coombe, House Surgeon, was called, and deposed that he admitted the deceased into the Hospital on the 20th December. At the time of his admission he was suffering from a swelling in his left side and his lungs were congested. About the 31st December signs of pleurisy set in. Between the 3rd and 4th of January another disease was noticed and he died on the 9th of January. Witness was applied to for a certificate by the mother, but he refused to give it on the ground that he thought a post-mortem examination was necessary to enable him to certify as to the cause of death. MRS HOLLAND refused to have an examination made, but as he could not certify as to the cause of death he had no alternative but to have the present Inquiry held. He had done his best to explain to the parents that he could not give a certificate, but he was met by a reply that deceased had been long enough in the Hospital to have a certificate. The mother said that as he (witness) did not know the cause of death he had probably given him medicine which was of no value for his complaint and which might have caused the death. He (witness) had since made a post-mortem examination, and considered death due to natural causes. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned. - The Coroner and the Jury expressed the opinion that the House-Surgeon had acted quite properly. - The Coroner: If a person was admitted to the Hospital it was very wrong that damaging reports should be circulated about his treatment. The doctors knew what was best for patients. It was quite clear that Mr Coombe could not have given a certificate without first making a post mortem examination. - Mr Coombe thanked them for their opinion on the matter, and said the rules of the Institution did not permit of things being taken to patients, and he had to act almost as a detective at times to prevent things being smuggled in.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 15 January 1889
WEST ANSTEY - The Suicide Of A North Devon Woman. - An Inquest was held by Mr J. F. Bromham, District Coroner, at West Anstey, North Devon, yesterday, on the body of MARY LETHBRIDGE, who committed suicide by drowning in ten inches of water on Friday evening last. The evidence of her brother, JAMES ELWORTHY, was that deceased had been suffering in her mind owing to the death of her husband, and some time ago she tried to hang herself. She had been receiving parish pay, and had six children. On Friday last the Relieving Officer called and told her that her pay was stopped and that she and the children would have to go into the Workhouse. The pay came from Bristol, where she was chargeable. The news affected her considerably. He was away on Friday and on reaching home in the evening he heard that deceased was missing, and, on searching for her, he found her in a stream near the house. She was quite dead. Medical evidence being given, the Jury returned a verdict that deceased Committed Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 18 January 1889
LOXHORE - The Accident To The Lynton Coach. Inquest At Loxhore. - The Inquest on the body of MR LOWE, timber merchant of Bristol, who was killed through an accident to the Lynton coach on Wednesday evening, was held last evening by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, at the Foxhunters' Inn, Loxhore Cot, about a mile from the scene of the accident. The Foreman of the Jury was Mr Michael Yendle, of Loxhore Barton. The father of deceased, MR CHARLES HOSKINS LOWE, timber merchant, of Bristol, said the deceased was named ALFRED CHARLES HOSKIN LOWE and was one of the firm. He was on a journey in North Devon and witness first became acquainted of the accident by reading the morning newspaper. His son was thirty years of age and had left a widow and one child. George Moon, the driver, said that he had driven the Lynton coach in connection with the South Western Railway for twelve years. On Thursday he left Barnstaple, the two outside passengers being the deceased and a gentleman named Harris, also of Bristol. Three other gentlemen were inside passengers. The vehicle he was driving was the winter omnibus. At Loxhore Cot the passengers walked up the hill and just on the top the deceased and Harris got up again. As the 'bus was turning two well-known sharp corners the horses shied a little. This took the 'bus against a large stone which projected over the water-table. The 'bus ran a little way in a tilted position and then fell over. Had the passengers been inside he believed it would not have capsized All three were thrown off. Witness was thrown into the hedge unhurt. He got up and saw Harris, who said he was afraid MR LOWE was under the 'bus. Assistance came and the 'bus was lifted, when the deceased was found there quite dead. A Policeman came and the body was removed to the Foxhunters' Inn. The evening was dark and misty. The stone was placed there to keep vehicles from going into the water-table, but it projected awkwardly into the highway. - In answer to the Coroner, witness said he was perfectly sober. - Mr C. E. R. Chanter, of Barnstaple, who represented the proprietors of the business (Messrs. Jones, of Lynton), asked several questions which were satisfactorily answered. - Mr Edward Harris of Bristol, deposed to the horses making a start and the 'bus striking against the stone. While the vehicle was running along on the side wheels he missed the deceased, who must have fallen or jumped off. Witness and the driver were thrown off, and subsequently, on righting the 'bus, the deceased was found under it quite dead. - The other passengers had walked on and did not return. His opinion was that the driver was perfectly sober and no blame was attributable to him. In answer to Mr Chanter, witness said he knew the driver, having gone the journey with him dozens of times, and he always considered him a very steady driver. Wm. Huxtable, labourer and P.C. Richards also said the driver was quite sober. The Constable remarked that he had never seen him otherwise. Both said the stone was dangerous and ought to be removed. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," adding that they did not think any blame was attributable to the driver, and they thought the road ought to be straightened and the stone removed.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 19 January 1889
TOTNES - An Inquest was held yesterday by Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, at the Seymour Hotel, Totnes, on the body of MR ALBERT H. LUSCOMBE, butcher, of Bridgetown, who died on Thursday from blood poisoning, in consequence of a splinter of a bone causing an abrasion of the skin of the left arm. Mr T. W. Windeatt, the deceased's solicitor, was present. A lad in the deceased's employ and MR EDWIN LUSCOMBE, of Brent, a brother of the deceased, both stated that deceased told them how the scratch occurred. - Dr A. Fraser stated that death resulted from blood poisoning. The Coroner summed up, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" expressing their deep sympathy with the widow in her affliction.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 21 January 1889
COLYTON - An Inquest was held by Mr Cox, Deputy Coroner for the District, at the Globe Hotel, Colyton, on Friday, touching the death of the illegitimate child of SARAH ANN MITCHELL, a domestic servant. From the evidence it appeared that the child had been placed in the care of Mrs Newton, of Colyton. It had been weakly from birth and up to a month ago suffered from convulsions. Since that time the child had seemed better, but on Tuesday was taken ill and died before medical aid arrived. An autopsy had been made by Dr Pearse, and he was of opinion that the child died from debility, brought on by teething and aggravated by convulsions. The Jury, of which Mr Mountstephen was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TEIGNMOUTH - The Fatal Carriage Accident At Shaldon. - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner for the District, and a Jury, of which Mr G. Pedley was the Foreman, sat at Westcliff on Saturday afternoon to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of MRS PRICE, of Teignmouth, who died on Friday night under circumstances already reported. Several of the Jurymen were drawn from Shaldon and the others from Teignmouth. They were sworn at the Crown and Anchor Inn, Shaldon, after which they viewed the spot where the accident occurred, and then they adjourned to the residence of the deceased lady, Westcliff, Teignmouth, where the body had been removed. - The first witness was Mr Frederick Charles Wood, residing at 9 Grove Villas, Teignmouth, and cousin of the deceased. He stated that the age of the deceased was about 63, and she was the widow of COLONEL PRICE, of the East Indian Army. The last time he saw her alive was on Thursday. She was then in her usual health. On Friday night, in consequence of a message, he went to Shaldon and saw the body of deceased lying in a house owned by Mr Wills. From there he had it conveyed to her residence, Westcliff. Mary Ann Elms, lady's maid to deceased, in answer to the Coroner, said the deceased left her house on Friday night about a quarter to 8 to attend a party at "Ness House," Shaldon, the residence of Colonel Brine. The deceased was very bright and cheerful. - Edward White Baker, the driver of the cab and residing at 7 The Strand, Teignmouth, deposed that he was in the employ of Mr John Northcott, of the Brunswick Mews, and had been employed by him about four years. On Friday night he received orders to be at Westcliff at a quarter to 8 to take MRS PRICE to Shaldon, also to call at "Elmhurst" and take up Mrs Preston-Cooke and Mrs Lee. From "Elmhurst" he drove to Shaldon by way of the bridge, all going well until opposite "Undercliff" - the residence of the Rev. Marsh Dunn - where the horse shied at a barrow laden with white clothes, and made a clean jump over the embankment on to the beach below, a distance of about three feet, taking the carriage with him. The carriage turned completely over. As soon as he recovered himself he ran to the horse's head and held it while a coastguard and another man helped the ladies out through the top of the carriage, which had to be broken open for the purpose. Mrs Cooke and Mrs Lee wee both on the top of the deceased. the latter, on being taken out, asked for her slippers, and on their being brought to her she asked to have them placed on her feet. A chair was obtained, and the deceased was conveyed to a house close by, where she died in about 10 minutes after the accident. - In answer to the Coroner, witness stated that the lamp near the spot was not lighted, although the night was dark, and there was no wall to prevent the horse going over. The width of the road was 13 ft. If there had been a wall there was no doubt but the horse would have shied the other way on seeing it. He (witness) was perfectly sober. - James Leslie, a Coastguardsman, stationed at Shaldon, deposed that he was on duty the night in question near the ferryboat landing. About 8 o'clock he saw a horse and carriage coming towards him and when near Undercliff the horse without any warning shied and jumped clean over the wall on to the beach. The carriage pitched about six feet from the wall, falling on its side. The driver, as soon as he recovered himself went to the horse's head, while he (witness) tried to open the door of the carriage, but was unsuccessful. He asked to have it unfastened from the inside, but one of the ladies said they could not move. He then, with assistance, tore open the top of the carriage, and got all three ladies out, the deceased being under the others. Mrs Price was quite sensible, and asked to have her shoes put on. This was done. The deceased then appeared to faint. A chair was brought, and the deceased was conveyed to Eversley Cottage. He was not present when MRS PRICE expired. - In answer to the Coroner, witness said that the cabman appeared to be perfectly sober and acted with coolness. - Similar evidence was given by John Mole, of Shaldon, who assisted the last witness. - Mr John Austin, Surgeon at the Teignmouth Infirmary, stated that he was in a cab following close behind the one in which the deceased was riding. His carriage was suddenly brought up and he was then informed of what had happened. He went to MRS PRICE, who was then breathing and had her conveyed to a house close by. She was placed on a sofa, and he used water freely in trying to bring her to consciousness, but she did not rally. There was no serious wound or fracture, and in his opinion death was due to syncope caused by shock. - The Jury, in returning a verdict of "Accidental Death" added a rider that it was desirable that a wall should be placed at the spot where the accident occurred, and that the lamp, which was a public one, should be kept burning by night. The Jury also wished to express their deep sympathy with the bereaved relatives, which the Coroner promised to convey. The cabman was exonerated from all blame.

EXETER - Sudden Death Of A Child In Exeter. - At the Exeter Police Court on Saturday afternoon Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquest touching the death of EDWIN THOMAS AXE, son of WILLIAM AXE, railway porter, Red Cow Village. the child, who was eight months old, and the youngest of a family of seven, died on Thursday morning. He had not been medically attended, but the mother had given him powders and castor oil. She took the child downstairs to dress him on Thursday morning and having been fed he was seized with convulsions and died in a few minutes. The child's life was insured five weeks ago in the Liverpool Friendly Society for 15s. - Dr McKeith, St Thomas, proved prescribing for the child on Wednesday evening without seeing it. The mother told him the child had been suffering from convulsions and he prescribed accordingly. He had seen the child since its death, and appearances were consistent with death from convulsions. There were no marks of violence and the child was well nourished. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 22 January 1889
EXETER - Sad Death Of A Child At Exeter. - Mr Coroner H. W. Hooper held an Inquest yesterday afternoon at the Higher Barracks respecting the death of a boy named THOMAS CLAXTON, who died on the previous day from injuries received through an accident. - MARGARET CLAXTON, wife of PATRICK CLAXTON, private in the Devonshire Regiment, stationed at the Higher Barracks, identified the body as that of her son, who she said was eight years of age and resided with her at the Barracks. About half-past 5 on Saturday evening he came home, having been out to play. He appeared drawn together, and his hands were clenched He said he had hurt his chest, having been playing with the roller, which knocked him. She put him to bed, when he commenced to vomit. She, however, thought there was no danger, as he was able to speak and also walked about, several times getting out of bed to drink. On Sunday morning, shortly after 7, he ate some bread and milk, but in consequence of his appearing to get worse she sent for the Hospital Sergeant. The latter, on looking at the deceased, sent for Dr Bryan, who came immediately, but deceased only lived an hour and a half later. - Alfred Bond, aged eight years, residing in the Barracks, made a statement to the effect that he was at play with the deceased and another boy on Saturday night under the Granary with an iron roller, which CLAXTON was pulling. By some means the deceased was over-powered and jammed with his stomach against the wall. - Surgeon-Major Thomas Michael Bryant, of the Army Medical Staff, deposed to being called on Sunday morning to go to the Hospital. After seeing the Sergeant, who told him that he thought the deceased was dying, he went and saw him. After examining him very carefully, and hearing the history of the case, he came to the conclusion that the boy was suffering from some internal injury. He saw he was in a perfect collapse and after prescribing for him he saw him again within an hour. He was then in a dying state The deceased, no doubt, died from internal injuries, but the nature of them he could not tell without a post-mortem examination, but some internal organ had no doubt been ruptured. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. The Jury recommended that the roller in question should either be chained or place somewhere in safety where children could not get at it. The Coroner said he would bring the matter before the proper authorities.

EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - The Drowning Fatality In The Exe. - Yesterday Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Ship Inn, St Thomas, relative to the death of a little boy named CHARLES HENRY HORE, aged 6 years, who was drowned in the Exe on Saturday, as reported in Monday's Gazette. - WILLIAM STEVENS HORE, a brushmaker, residing in St George's-square, Stepcote-hill, identified the body as that of his son, who he last saw alive about 3.20 on Saturday afternoon. He was then playing with a ball. Witness was called by a boy about 4 o'clock, who told him his son had fallen into the water. He went with the boy to the spot, on the Canal banks, and there saw men searching for the body. He remained there until the body was found. - James Clark, a boy, living in St. Thomas, said that on Saturday afternoon he was passing along the Canal banks by the saw mills, and saw the deceased in the water on the opposite side. Two small boys were on the bank on that side. He saw the deceased struggling and witness ran for a man called Campbell, who jumped into the water after the deceased. Witness saw the deceased sink. Campbell could not find the body. He heard no screams. - Henry Thorne, a boy of St. Thomas, who was with the last witness when he saw the deceased in the water, gave corroborative evidence. - Bertie Mott, aged 6, who was not sworn, said he went down with the deceased and two other boys to the Canal banks on Saturday afternoon. They were playing and the deceased slipped off a stone into the water. Nobody pushed him. - Percy Webster, a little boy, said he was with the last witness and the deceased when the accident occurred. The deceased was previously throwing stones into the water. - P.S. Egan, stationed at St. Thomas, stated that the boy was recovered from the water at 25 minutes to 5 on Saturday afternoon. It had been in the water about an hour. When witness arrived on the scene of the accident, which was a few minutes after it happened, he was told that a man named Campbell had taken off his coat and gone into the water after the deceased, but was unsuccessful in saving the life of the boy. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 23 January 1889
EXETER - Inquest In Exeter. - Yesterday afternoon Mr Coroner H. W. Hooper held an Inquest at the Exeter Police Court concerning the death of RICHARD LYNE, residing at No. 11 Gattey's-court. St Sidwell's. The first witness called was HENRIETTA LYNE, who identified the body as that of her late husband, who was 57 years of age. He went to work that morning about 7.30. He had been suffering from a violent cold during the past week. About 9 o'clock she heard that he had fallen down. On her way to the place where he had been at work she met him in an exhausted condition near St. Sidwell's Church. On getting home she gave him a little brandy and water and he was put to bed. He then complained of his feet being cold and she went downstairs to get some hot water. When she returned to the bedroom she saw her husband draw one breath. She at once went to a neighbour and when she returned to the bedroom her husband was dead. He had been suffering in his leg for some time and for the last five or six months had not been well. - Mr C. E. Bell deposed that he had known the deceased for many years. He was called to go to his house that morning, and on arriving there he found him in bed dead. He examined the body, but found no marks of violence. The cause of death was heart disease. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 24 January 1889
AXMINSTER - The Fatal Accident At Axminster. - An Inquest was held yesterday at the Police Station, Axminster, before Mr C. E. Cox, Deputy Coroner, and a Jury, of whom Mr Edward Harvey was chosen Foreman, touching the death of MR JOSEPH CHICK, landlord of the Axminster Inn, Axminster, aged 36, who died from the effects of an accident on Friday while returning from Chard. - Mr J. Willicombe, stepson of deceased, deposed that on Friday one of their horses met with an accident near Chard, and in consequence of a telegram received he saw deceased drive a horse and two-wheel trap from the yard. He was accompanied by a boy named Dimond. The horse he drove was a bay mare, named Polly. The deceased was perfectly sober. About 8.30 the same evening a young man rode in on horseback and told him (witness) that MR CHICK had met with an accident the other side of Tatworth. Witness then went to Dr Barnes and acquainted him of the accident and they at once drove to the Tytherleigh Arms, where deceased in the meantime had been removed and distant 3 ½ miles from Axminster, on the highway to Chard. They arrived at the Inn about 9 p.m., and found deceased in a chair. Under the doctor's care he was brought home the same evening. the deceased remained unconscious until the time of his death, which took place last Tuesday morning. - Jas. Dimond, a lad, in employ of the deceased, said he started with his master about 12 o'clock on the day mentioned for the purpose of going to Chard. The mare was quiet. On their arrival at Chard they went to the King's Head stables to see the horse which had met with the accident. Witness attended to the horse and deceased without having anything to drink drove away on his return journey about a quarter past 6. - Mr Joseph Norris, landlord of the King's Head, Chard, said that on Friday the deceased came to the Inn about 1.15 and said, "I am given to understand I have a horse ill." Witness took him into the stable and deceased said, "Give the horse a good feed and he will be able to go home all right." Deceased did not have anything to drink then, but said he would drive on to Ilminster to see Mr Heal, who had in the morning borrowed the horse which met with the accident. Deceased returned to his house about 6.15 and gave the horse he was driving a feed. He also had three pennyworth of whiskey and was perfectly sober. In a short time afterwards witness assisted deceased and the boy in putting the horses in the traps and they both started for Axminster. - Mr Francis Charles, farmer, of Knowle, St Giles, near Chard, said that he, accompanied by his brother-in-law, Mr George Miller, was driving from Chard to Tytherleigh, and on the way met Joseph Denning, carter to Mr Zealley, of Court Mills, Wadford, with a waggon and two horses tandem fashion. The carter, who was sitting on the front-board of the waggon, said that someone had met with an accident and driven into his wheels, in consequence of which his horses bolted. Mr Charles and his brother-in-law then drove quietly on, and in a short time saw a hat lying on the right-hand side of the road, and about two yards further he saw a man on the ground. Mr Miller got out and said, "This looks something serious." The trap was turned completely upside down and the horse was not to be seen. Witness placed the deceased into his trap and took him to the Tytherleigh Inn, and remained there until the arrival of a Policeman from Tatworth. The deceased was very much bruised on his face and forehead. - By a Juror: The road was wide where the accident occurred. - Mr Miller corroborated the last witness. - Dr Barnes, a Medical Practitioner at Axminster, deposed that on arriving at the Tytherleigh Inn he found that the deceased was suffering from concussion, but he was not insensible, for he spoke a few words to witness when he was dressing the wounds. The tongue was also much injured. Deceased was very near-sighted and was in the habit of wearing green spectacles. On Friday night it was very foggy, which made everything indistinct, and witness had no doubt the collision was the cause of the accident which resulted in the death of the deceased. - Joseph Denning, carter to Mr Zealley, deposed to having met a boy with a horse and cart and passed them all right; but about a quarter of a mile from Tytherleigh he was riding on the shafts of the waggon when he heard a trap coming very fast, the horse going from 10 to 13 miles an hour. There were no lights and the wheel of the deceased's trap caught the nut of the front wheel of the waggon, causing the horses to run away. He had reins, but he could not pull them up until they reached the top of the hill. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and considered that the cause of MR CHICK and the waggoner coming into collision was because neither carried lights. The waggoner was severely censured by the Coroner for not returning to the scene of the accident after it occurred.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 26 January 1889
TEIGNMOUTH - On Thursday evening Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Railway Hotel, Teignmouth, on the body of MARY DART, who resided at 8 French-street. From the evidence of her husband, SAMUEL DART, it would appear that he found deceased lying in an unconscious state upon the kitchen floor when he came home to dinner about half-past 12 the previous day. After hearing the evidence of Dr G. H. Warren Thomas, who said the cause of death was heart disease, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 28 January 1889
NORTH MOLTON - Sudden Death Of A Farmer At Northmolton. - An Inquest was held at Little Rapscott Farm, Northmolton, by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, on Saturday, on the body of THOMAS FOLLETT. - From the evidence of the widow, it appeared that the deceased, who was a farmer, and 69 years of age, had not been in good health lately and that she and her husband slept in separate rooms. On Thursday the deceased went to bed about 9 o'clock. When MRS FOLLETT went in to call him the next morning at 8 o'clock she noticed something was wrong and ran at once to a neighbour and called assistance. James Newton, a farmer, came in and found that FOLLETT was dead. He had been suffering from dropsy and had been medically attended. - Dr Kendall said he had attended the deceased for some time. He had examined the body of deceased, and had no hesitation in saying that he died from syncope consequent on heart disease. He was not at all surprised to hear of the sudden death of FOLLETT. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

EXETER - Found Dead In Bed At Exeter. - An Inquiry was held on Saturday at the Exeter Police Court by the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, into the circumstances attending the death of JAMES TOUT, an old man, who was found dead in bed on the previous day. - John Lock, porter at the Exeter Workhouse, identified the body of the deceased, who, he said, had been an inmate for 18 or 19 years of Wynard's Almshouses, where he occupied two rooms. He was 78 years of age, and had formerly been a gardener. Deceased was a widower. Witness had not seen deceased, who was his stepfather, since last April. Deceased was a very eccentric sort of a man, and would not allow anyone to go into his rooms, which accounted for their dirty appearance. He lived alone. - Harry Smalldon, a builder, living at 66 Magdalen-road, stated that he was at work during Friday on some repairs to the Almshouses. About 5 o'clock he was informed by a Mr Robinson that the deceased had not been seen about for a day or two. Witness thereupon looked into the deceased's room and discovered that the door was locked on the inside. Witness next procured a ladder and gained access to the deceased's bedroom window, took out a pane of glass, unfastened the window, and saw the deceased lying in an almost naked state over the side of the bed, his legs being outwards. Witness called to him, but failing to get an answer assumed that the deceased was dead, and gave information to the Police. The bedroom was subsequently entered by P.S. Sullock and witness, and the deceased was found dead as described. - Mr Henry Bascombe Harrison, Surgeon, deposed to being called to see the deceased, whom he found half in and half out of bed, having been dead some time. No marks of violence were visible. Death was apparently due to syncope, produced by fatty degeneration of the heart. - The Coroner commented on the dirty condition of the apartments occupied by the deceased, and said he had never seen any that would equal them. He could not fancy that the trustees of Wynard's Almshouses, which were, he believed, vested in Mr L. Kennaway and the Aldermen of Exeter, could be aware of the fact or they would never permit such a condition of things as the Jury had seen that day. (Hear, hear). - Mr Cundy: In this case I should like to make a remark, but before making that remark I should like to say that whenever I make a remark the Press always put my name in the paper. I wish they would not do it. I should like to ask if Mr Kennaway could not make personal visits often. - The Coroner: I believe they (the Trustees) do make visits once a year. - Mr Cundy: I think in this case there should be visits oftener to see that these houses are kept in a clean state. - The Coroner: I will take an opportunity of seeing Mr Kennaway and speak to him about the matter. If a man shuts himself up there and won't allow anybody to go into his house what are you to do in such a case? - The subject then dropped and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 2 February 1889
TORQUAY - Suicide Of A Lady At Torquay. - Mr Sidney Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquiry at Moncoffer Villa, Kent-road, Torquay, last evening, into the circumstances attending the death of MISS SYBELLA KATHERINE PECKHAM, aged 56. Deceased had suffered for seven years from bronchitis and had visited Torquay during the past three months for the benefit of her heath. She came down from Guildford in October last and stayed at Moncoffer. On Christmas Day she had an epileptic fit and her sister was sent for. She continued to be in a very weak state and her sister remained in attendance on her. On Sunday morning last she came downstairs to the dining-room and commenced reading. After a time she laid aside her book and went to the window, but as it was raining the sister said they would not go out. They looked at the pictures on the wall and deceased appeared to be in her usual state, but without the slightest warning she picked up a knife from the table and inflicted two cuts on her neck. One severed the windpipe, but the other was not so serious. Her sister, whose head was turned in another direction at the time, looked round casually and was horrified to see what had been done. She immediately seized her by the right arm, took the knife away and called for assistance. The housemaid came in and the cook fetched Dr Boreham, who did all that lay in his power to stay the bleeding, and with the help of Dr Gordon Cumming conveyed the unfortunate lady to her bedroom. Here she lingered until Wednesday evening, when death ensued. Both medical gentlemen considered that MISS PECKHAM was suffering from the effects of the epileptic seizure, which caused sleeplessness and pains in the head. She appeared to be quite rational up to the time the wounds were inflicted, and afterwards expressed by writing on a slate a hope that her friends would forgive her, as no one knew what her depression had been. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 4 February 1889
BISHOPSTEIGNTON - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an inquest on Saturday on the body of MR JOHN LAKE, a tenant farmer, of Rodway, Bishopsteignton. The deceased, it appears, was riding on a spirited pony, and while going through a gateway the animal bolted. One of the stirrups gave way and the deceased was thrown off. He received severe injuries to his head and never regained consciousness. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 5 February 1889
EXETER - Sudden Death In Exeter. - Yesterday Mr Coroner Hooper held an Inquest at No. 22 St Leonard's-road, Exeter, relative to the death of MRS JUDITH MATTHEWS. Mr Warren was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - WILLIAM MATTHEWS, a retired grocer, residing at No. 22 St Leonard's-road, identified the body as that of his late wife, who was 76 years of age last birthday. Her state of health lately had been fair, considering her advanced age. Some years ago she was seen by a medical man, who then said that she had a "slow" heart, but she might live for years. On Sunday evening, the 3rd inst., she retired to reset about 10 o'clock, having previously, having previously partaken of a small piece of bread and butter and a drop of milk. She was then in good health - better than he had seen her for some time. She slept until about 2.30 the following morning. When she awoke she said she felt faint and asked witness to get her some water. He handed her a wine glass full of water, which she drank, dying instantly. Witness sent for Mr Nourse, Surgeon. - Mr William Edward Charles Nourse deposed to being called to see MRS MATTHEWS on Monday morning. He found her in bed dead. He attributed death to failure of the heart's action. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony. - The Coroner expressed his sympathy with MR MATTHEWS in his bereavement and the Foreman of the Jury endorsed the Coroner's remarks.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 6 February 1889
ILFRACOMBE - The Recent Boat Accident At Ilfracombe. - An Inquest was held at Popham's Coffee Tavern yesterday morning, by Dr Slade-King (Deputy Coroner) on the body of JAMES TUCKER, a young man, who was drowned some weeks ago by the capsizing of a boat while entering the harbour. Mr Herbert Braund was chosen Foreman. - The body having been viewed, WILLIAM TUCKER, boatman, father of deceased, identified the body. He last saw his son alive on Tuesday, the 8th January. He changed his clothes about 10 p.m. and said he would not be home for some time. - George Rudd, the sailor who was in the boat at the time of the accident, deposed that at 6 p.m. on Tuesday evening, the 8th, he and the deceased saw a vessel off the harbour wanting to come in. The deceased, Davie, and witness manned a boat and went off to her and boarded her. They tried to get her into the harbour, but there was not sufficient water until 8 p.m. They again tried, but owing to so many tugs being at the entrance they could not get in. They tried for one hour and a half. There were five or six tugs anchored in the fairway to the harbour. they left her about half-past 9 in the evening, the captain saying he should hang about until the morning. Witness felt quite sure that had the tugs not been lying in the mouth of the harbour they could have brought the vessel in. Witness had had 20 years' experience. At 11 o'clock they boarded the vessel again. She was then off Hillsborough, about half-a-mile from the shore. About an hour afterwards she was anchored under Lantern Hill. They remained until about 7 o'clock in the morning, when the wind veered to the west, and they got her under weigh. They left the ship about half a mile to the north of Hillsborough Hill and pulled for the shore and then skirted along towards the harbour. Coming round Beacon Point, a sea struck them broadside on and sent them over the rocks towards the shore. The boat capsized. Deceased then took witness round the neck and said, "I can't swim, George; take me to the boat." He did so, and TUCKER took hold of it by the stern and witness went to the bows. In about a minute and a half deceased went down, and witness saw no more of him. When they left the vessel it was blowing a double-reefed mainsail breeze. They were hugging the shore to avoid the tide. - John Wilson, Coastguardsman, stated that he saw the vessel mentioned trying to get into the harbour on the evening of the 8th, but she appeared unable to do so owing to the number of tugs and steam trawlers at the mouth of the harbour. Witness was not acquainted with the limits of the harbour and could not say whether the steamers were within the limits or not. They obstructed the tacking of the vessel so that she could not get in and she then anchored under Lantern Hill. Two of the tug-boats were more to the eat than their usual position and nearer Rapparee. - The Coroner asked if the Jury wished to call any further evidence as to the limits of the harbour and a large majority of the Jury considered this was not necessary. - Frederick Louch, a youth employed about the boats, deposed to finding the body of the deceased on Monday last about 5.30 p.m. He first saw it close to Lastone Beach and he picked it up in a boat and it was brought to the Lifeboat House. - The Coroner briefly summed up, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," adding the following rider: - "While acquiescing in this verdict, the Jury unanimously consider that the primary cause of the accident was due to the number of tugs and other vessels lying in the fair-way of the harbour, and thus preventing the entrance of the vessel. They would earnestly represent to the Board of Trade that the necessary steps be taken to prevent a recurrence of this in the future." - The Jury gave their fees to the father of the deceased.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 8 February 1889
TAVISTOCK - At the Inquest held on the body of WILLIAM ROOK, a navvy, who was killed while engaged in blasting at the Broadwell cutting near Tavistock, on Tuesday, under circumstances already reported in our columns, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

HOLCOMBE ROGUS - Mr Coroner Burrow held an Inquest here on Tuesday touching the death of the man BRICE, a farm labourer, who disappeared mysteriously on Saturday, and whose body was found in a pond at Kitton Barton on Sunday morning. - Mr T. Merson, of Buehill, was Foreman of the Jury. - Mr Jesse Wright, of the New Inn, who was summoned on the Jury, sent a medical certificate signed by Mr Mackenzie. - The Coroner said Mr Mackenzie must take the responsibility, as Mr Wright was liable under the recent Act to a fine of £5. - Evidence was given by LUCY BRICE, Mr J. H. Merson (of Kitton Barton, deceased's late employer), Thomas Hawkings (a lad employed on the farm), P.C. Eveleigh and Dr Grigg. - It appeared that about a year ago the deceased, who was then living at Stawley, was attended by Dr Grigg for what appeared to be erysipelas. Dr Grigg was then struck with deceased's dejected manner, but deceased said nothing to account for it, nor had he ever said anything to his wife to cause alarm as to his intentions. They always lived happily together, and MRS BRICE never noticed any singularity in his manner. - One of the Jury said he always had thought deceased a melancholy man. Deceased entered Mr Merson's service at Lady-day, and had been sober and industrious, but had nearly always seemed desponding. On Saturday morning he left his work at the farm at the usual time, saying he was going to breakfast, but he did not go home and was not seen again alive. MRS BRICE made inquiries at the farm and Mr Merson at once gave orders to have the ponds dragged. He, P.C. Eveleigh and several of the farm labourers were engaged in the work all Saturday, but it was not until Sunday morning that the body was found. It lay in the centre pond, face downwards, and there were no marks on the margin to show where or how the deceased got in. A pipe, pocket knife and key were found in deceased's pockets, but no paper or letter. - The Coroner pointed out to the Jury that there was no evidence of either accident or suicide, nor of any family disagreement. - The Jury, acting on the Coroner's advice, returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," and gave the widow their fees. - Superintendent Collins watched the proceedings.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 9 February 1889
WITHYCOMBE RALEIGH - The Fatal Accident At Withycombe. - Yesterday Mr Deputy Coroner Cox held an Inquest at the Holly Tree Inn, Withycombe, relative to the death of JAMES MARSHALL, a waggoner, who met with an accident, which had a fatal termination, on Tuesday, at Withycombe, as reported in the Gazette. - Mr Henry Woodcock was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was Joseph Jarman, waggoner, in the employ of Mr Heath, of Bystock. The deceased was also in Mr Heath's employ up to Tuesday last. On the afternoon of that day witness and the deceased were returning from Exmouth, each of them being in charge of a waggon and two horses. Witness was in front of the deceased. the last time he saw the deceased he was riding on the shafts of his waggon. He had no reins. This was a few minutes before the accident occurred. Witness did not see the accident, but he knew that something had happened, as the horses of the waggon which the deceased had been driving galloped up to where he was, and he stopped them. Witness went back and found the deceased lying in the road. There were scars on the deceased's chin and eyes. He did not move and appeared to have been killed on the spot. - It was pointed out that the accident occurred while the deceased was driving down a steep hill. - Witness said that there was a drag attached to the waggon which the deceased was driving, but he had not used it in going down the hill in question. the waggon was loaded with 27 cwt. of coke. - Sophia Matthews, wife of Gilbert Matthews, farmer, deposed that about 4.30 p.m. on Tuesday last she saw the deceased in charge of a waggon and two horses going down over the hill near her house. As the horses went round a turn they increased their speed. Deceased was then walking on the near side of the waggon, and had hold of the trace-chain. He stumbled and fell, and the wheels of the waggon passed over his neck. Witness saw the deceased lose his hold of the chain. The shaft might have struck the deceased. Drags were generally used going down this hill. - The Deputy Coroner said he could not help thinking that drags ought to be used going down this hill. - A Juror pointed out that stones had recently been laid on the hill, and therefore the deceased did not require to use the drag. - The Deputy Coroner remarked that he did not think it was safe to drive down the hill with such a heavy load without utilising the drags. - A Juror said there would be no danger if the driver kept at the heads of the horses. - Witness, continuing, said she called her husband, who went to the deceased. - Gilbert Matthews gave corroborative evidence, and added that he sent for Dr Shapland. - Robert Farrant said he managed a farm for Mr Heath and the deceased and the witness Martin were in his employ. Both the waggons were provided with drags. - Martin, recalled, said there was a drag provided for the deceased's waggon, but he did not use it. Witness did not carry a drag for his waggon on Tuesday. The Deputy Coroner: You should have had it furnished with one. - Dr Shapland, deposed to being called to see the deceased. He found him in a dying state. There was a fracture of the lower jaw and a fracture of the base of the skull, which injuries he considered were the cause of death. - In reply to the Deputy Coroner, witness said he always put on the brake when driving down the hill in question in a four-wheel trap, on account of the turns in the road. He thought that if the horses bolted there would be no chance of pulling them up unless a drag was used. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 11 February 1889
ASHBURTON - An Inquest was held on Saturday by Dr Fraser, Deputy District Coroner, touching the death of ELLEN CLARKE, who died at the Ashburton Cottage Hospital on the previous day under circumstances as already reported in the Gazette. The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that death was caused by accident, through the deceased using benzoline to light her fire.

EXETER - The Mysterious Drowning Case At Exeter. - At the Police Court on Saturday Mr W. H. Hooper, the City Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of MISS CARTER, which had been found floating in the Exe the previous day. - Francis John Horwill, baker, 74 Sidwell-street, deposed that the body discovered was that of JANE ISABELLA CARTER, a single woman, 41 years of age. She was a sister of his wife's, and had resided at his house for the last 11 or 12 years. She assisted witness in the shop. She had suffered much from neuralgia. On the 15th January she left her home in the morning, saying that she was going for a walk, and witness had not again seen her until that week. Finding she did not return witness put the matter into the hands of the Police. She was carrying a muff when she left home, and one was picked up in the water very like that belonging to the deceased. On Friday witness received information that the body of a woman had been found in the water. He went to see it, and identified it as that of his sister-in-law. - John Maunder, carpenter, Crediton, stated that he was at work on Friday at the Powhay Mills, and saw the body of a woman against the grating in about two or three feet of water. He informed the Police, who removed the body to the Mortuary. - P.C. Pethybridge corroborated Maunder's statement as to the conveying of the body to the Mortuary. On searching it 4s. 6d. was found in silver, 4 ¼d. in coppers, four small keys and a pair of scissors, as well as a small paper marked "Stocker, Chemist. Poison." - Mr C. E. Bell deposed that he had examined the body, which was very much decomposed. There were no fractures and no external marks of violence. Death was due to drowning. The paper marked "Poison" had contained oxalic acid - salts of lemon - but it was empty. - The Coroner having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," adding that there was o evidence to show how deceased came into the river.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 18 February 1889
ASHBURTON - Mr Sidney Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Globe Hotel, Ashburton, on Saturday evening, concerning the death of the infant child of ELIZABETH FORD, found dead in bed in its mother's arms. Dr Fraser stated that he saw nothing that led him to suspect that death occurred from any but Natural Causes, and the Jury found a verdict in accordance.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 21 February 1889
TAVISTOCK - Fatal Accident Near Tavistock. - Mr R. R. Rodd, District Coroner, held an Inquest at the Tavistock Cottage Hospital yesterday on the body of WILLIAM HART, alias BRYANT, about 24 years of age, who met with an accident in the Wringworthy cutting of the new railway, about two miles from Tavistock, on the 9th of February, and died on Monday. - Mr W. Northcott was Foreman of the Jury. - Francis Maunder, a horse driver on the new line, said the deceased's duty was to empty waggons, but on the day in question HART asked him to let him unhook the chain from the waggon to which a horse was attached. The deceased went in a hurried manner to do this, and while on the wrong side of the waggon whipped the horse, which started forward with such force that the deceased could not unlock the waggon, and in attempting to do so was caught between the chains and the waggon and thrown to the ground. The first waggon passed over him without inflicting any injury, but the second waggon crushed his left food, and the third went over the deceased's right leg. the brakesman, Thomas Stephens, prevented a fourth waggon from going over the deceased by promptly putting on the brake. Had not the deceased whipped the horse he might have been able to unhook all right, although he was on the wrong side. - Thomas Stephens gave corroborative evidence, and added that HART was very venturesome. - Dr Brodrick stated that the deceased underwent three amputations but his death was due to internal injuries to the bowels and congestion of the vessels. The internal injuries were doubtless the result of the deceased having been squeezed by the chains. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

EXETER - Sudden Death In Exeter. - Yesterday Mr Coroner H. W. Hooper held an Inquest at the Exeter Police Court, relative to the death of RICHARD STEPHENS, an old man, who was found dead in his bedroom at the Lord Nelson Inn, Spiller's-street. Mr Trapnell was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MARY JANE STEPHENS, a single woman, residing at No. 13 Spiller's-street, identified the body as that of her late father, who was a widower and was 70 years of age last birthday. He lodged with her in the day, and slept at Mr Marles's. About 11 o'clock on the previous evening the deceased left her house. He then said he felt "giddy headed," but he thought it would pass off again. She accompanied him to Mr Marles's. He partook of nothing after tea. He seldom took intoxicants. About 7.30 that (Wednesday) morning Mr Marles fetched her and on going to his house she found her father dead. - Richard Marles, landlord of the Lord Nelson Inn, Spiller's-street, said he knew the deceased, who had lodged at his house for six years. He came home about 11 o'clock on the previous evening. the last witness accompanied him to the house, as she said her father felt "giddy in his head." Deceased was sober; in fact, he was a very temperate man. Witness asked if he was unwell, and he remarked that he felt giddy and shortly afterwards went to bed. About 7.30 that (Wednesday) morning witness went to the deceased's room with a cup of tea for him, when he found deceased lying on his left side, dead. Deceased was dressed, and was lying near the fender. Witness immediately sent for a medical man. - Mr C. E. Bell, Surgeon, deposed to being called to go to the Lord Nelson Inn about 8 o'clock that morning. He found the deceased lying on his left side on the floor of the bedroom, dead. He was fully dressed and was lying near the wash-stand. There was a quantity of vomit about the room. He attributed death to apoplexy. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

ILFRACOMBE - An Infant Drowned Near Ilfracombe. - An Inquest was held yesterday at Hele, near Ilfracombe, by Dr Slade-King, Deputy Coroner, on the body of NORMAN GIBBS. ANNIE ALMA GIBBS deposed that the deceased was her son, and was 16 months old. She last saw him alive on Monday, at 12.45 p.m. He was then in the kitchen of her house. He strayed out shortly after, and she missed him. She looked, but could not find him. She heard Nathaniel Lewis calling out and on running up to him found the deceased by the side of the stream. She tried to restore animation, but could not do so. She sent at once for Dr Gardener, who came out in 10 minutes and said the deceased was dead. - William John Lewis said he heard from MRS GIBBS that her little boy was missing, and went out to look for him. He saw something in the stream and took it out and found it was the missing child. He was quite dead. When he first saw the body it was turning over in the stream. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death by Drowning."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 22 February 1889
SIDBURY - Shocking Case Of Death Through Drink. Inquest And Verdict. - An Inquest was held by Mr Charles Cox, Deputy Coroner, at the Hunters' Lodge public-house, near Sidbury, on Monday, to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of GEORGE BERRY, a young man, who died at Mincombe Farm, Sidbury, on Thursday, the 14th inst., through the effects of drinking a quantity of spirits on the same day. - Superintendent de Schmidt watched the case on behalf of the Police. - THOMAS BERRY, agricultural labourer, of Sidbury, the father of the deceased, said that he identified the body as that of his son, and that he had lived at home owing to ill-health. He was well on the morning of the 14th, when he left to attend an agricultural sale at Mincombe Farm. He left about 12 o'clock. Witness also went to the sale in the afternoon, but did not see his son drink anything. About 6 o'clock deceased was standing holding Mr Burroughs's horse when he dropped down, and his brother went and picked him up. Witness, deceased's brother, and George Lockyer then took him home. For a little way they went arm in arm with him, but he then became insensible and they had to carry him. He talked for a little while before he got home, but did not say anything with reference to what he had drank. He never moved after they got home, nor did he give any sign of life. He as 16 years of age at his last birthday. By the Foreman: No one employed the deceased to look after the cattle. - By the Superintendent: A cup of gin was handed round to those standing around. Witness took a sip and had had about a pint of cider previously. the gin was neat. This was about ten minutes before his son fell. - THOMAS BERRY, elder brother of the deceased, said that he was present at the sale, at which he was assisting. There was liquor being handed round before the sale, and he believed that Mr Burroughs, of Honiton, had charge of the refreshments. The liquor taken before the sale began was gin. Witness had taken three lots himself before the sale began. The liquor was in an ordinary beer glass. The gin was watered. What witness drank was about three-quarters of a glass each of the three times. He did not take any more until the time to which his father referred. There was about three-pennyworth handed round in a pint cup. Witness finished this lot. He had not seen his brother take any liquor at all. He corroborated his father's evidence as to taking his brother home. - George Lockyer, a lad, of Starcombe, stated that he was at the sale, going there merely to look on. Witness remained until the sale was over, and did not have any liquor till then. The first he had was some cider, which he had from the stables. He also had some gin from the pint cup to which the previous witness had referred. The cup was got from Mincombe Farm by the deceased, who was told by Mr Burroughs to get a glass and pass it round, instead of which he got a cup. The cup was about half filled, but instead of putting some water to it the deceased drank from the cup, taking more than half of it. Witness then took a sip and BERRY took the cup again. Burroughs, on pouring it out, told them to put some water with it. Mr Burroughs went into the house and when he came out BERRY handed the cup to him. - By the Foreman: He only took about three-pennyworth himself. - The Foreman: It must have been a heavy threepennyworth from what I can hear of it. - By the Superintendent: He saw the deceased taking a drink from a jar at the tail of the waggon. That was before the drinking from the cup to which he had referred. Witness did not know what the jar contained. Deceased took a heavy pull from the jar. - By the Superintendent: You were very ill that night, were you not? Yes, sir. - You were very nearly dead? - Yes. - And yet you say you only had threepennyworth of gin? - Yes, sir. - Further examined by the Coroner, the witness stated that he helped the deceased home, and then was taken ill himself. He remained there all night. As near as he could fix it, three-quarters of an hour elapsed between the time when the deceased drank and the time when he fell. - Dr T. H. S. Pullin, Sidmouth, deposed that he was called to see BERRY, who was dead when he arrived, at about half-past eleven. When he entered the cottage he saw such a sight as he never saw before or hoped to see again. The last witness was in convulsions on the floor and BERRY was sitting in a chair dead. Lockyer was in most violent convulsions and without medical aid would have died. If witness understood Lockyer correctly, the deceased drank a third time. (Lockyer, recalled, denied this.) He had made a post mortem examination. the natural appearance of the body was that of a healthy corpse. There was a bruise on the left elbow, and another on the left hand. These, he thought, were caused by the fall. The pupils were dilated and on opening the body the brain was found to be slightly congested. The heart and lungs were sound, the bronchial portion not being so fully developed as might have been expected for a body the size of the deceased. This, however, was to be accounted for from the fact that the deceased had suffered from bronchial asthma. The liver, kidneys and all the other organs were healthy. On opening the stomach he found it much distended, and contained about a pint of thick fluid, which smelt strongly of spirits. The lining of the stomach was of a very deep livid colour, which extended up a portion of the gullet and downward, to some portions of the intestines. There were dark extravasated spots of fluid on the membrane of the stomach. Death was the result of an irritant poison. The first cause was alcoholic poisoning, the second being irritant poisoning. - The Coroner: Do you draw a distinction between alcoholic poisoning and an irritant poison? - Yes; but alcohol is an irritant poison. Alcoholic poisoning affects the brain, but irritant poison takes an effect on the stomach. It produces a shock just as if a man had received a blow. I consider the whole quantity must have been taken within twenty minutes to half an hour. - The Superintendent: There is no doubt that this liquor was got surreptitiously. - John Perry, shoemaker, Sidbury, deposed that he went to the sale. He had two lots of gin before the sale, and one drink after the sale was over. He heard Mr Burroughs say to GEORGE BERRY "If you bring me a glass I will give you a drop of gin." He heard Mr Burroughs also say, "Go and put some water with it." Witness drank some cider in the day and gin after the sale was over. - A Constable deposed that the last witness told him the cup was three-parts filled. - Henry Richards, Sidbury, was also present at the sale. He had three drinks of gin. He got very drunk. He thought he walked home. (Laughter.) - The Coroner: Well, gentlemen, this case has its comic aspects, but it is a most disgraceful state of affairs. - Edward Burroughs, of the Star Inn, Honiton, stated that he was instructed to supply the refreshments at the sale at Minscombe Farm. He took his man with him. He took gin and whiskey with him, seven gallons of gin and a gallon and a half of whiskey. It was always customary at sales to have liquor go round before the sale commenced and after the lunch. They had cider with the lunch. It was usual to make the gin and water in a big cup, about a gallon at a time. - The Coroner: How much water do you put with a quart of gin? - Witness: I don't think that is a fair question. - The Coroner: I must ask you to answer it. - Witness: About two quarts to two quarts and a half, or, perhaps, three quarts. Many people come to these sales for the purpose of drinking and eating. After the sale the men working on the farm often had a little gin given to them, and if they had watered the gin no bad effects would have resulted. He did not know the deceased. He had a room where he made the grog, but did not know who drank it. - The Foreman of the Jury, who was present at the sale, said that he had drank some of the gin and thought it very fairly made. - The Coroner: I can't help thinking that a man ought to be as careful in distributing liquor at a sale as in his own house, and this sale seems to have been the cause for a great deal of disgraceful drunkenness. - John Rowlands, a man who had charge of Mr Burroughs's horse and waggon, said he saw the deceased go to the waggon just previously to their coming away and drink from a whiskey jar. He took a long pull and witness thought he might have drank a quarter to half a pint. He fell down in about ten minutes or a quarter of an hour. - The Coroner: You ought to have stopped him. It is in all probability the drink which you let him have then which cost him his life. If you were in charge you should have prevented him. - In summing up, Mr Cox said he considered the case was one of a very distressing and shocking nature. After the evidence they had heard there could be no doubt as to the cause of death. BERRY was a very young man, for it seemed that he was only 17 years of age. In fact, they could hardly call him a man at all, but only a lad. There was no doubt whatever that death was due to irritant poisoning caused by his consuming raw spirits and there was very little doubt that the spirit consumed was either whiskey or gin. The deceased seemed to have taken a very heavy pull at the jar, in addition to a quantity of gin he had drunk previously. He was glad to learn from the evidence that Mr Burroughs did not give him the spirits to take raw; at the same time he could not help thinking that there was a great deal too much facility given for anyone who liked to take liquor. As they all knew, a great many people went about to these sales for the purpose f taking liquor and great care ought to be taken by those in charge of the distribution of the liquor. In fact as much care ought to be taken as there would be in the Innkeeper's own house to see that drunkenness did not prevail to any extent. He was glad to find that Mr Burroughs was not personally aware of the disgraceful drunkenness that was going on, and at the same time he hoped he would be more careful in future at any sales at which he might be in charge. It was a disgraceful thing that three people should have got so extremely drunk that one died, another became seriously ill and a third didn't know how he got home. He called it a scandal. At the same time there was no doubt that the deceased got the drink by his own act and no one was legally responsible for his death, which seemed to be caused by the pull which he took at the whiskey jar surreptitiously. The man in charge of the cart was greatly to be blamed. The features of the case were very shocking and he trusted he should never again have to hold an Inquest on such a disgraceful case as this seemed to be. - The Jury, having consulted, returned a verdict that "Death was due to Irritant Poisoning, caused by Excessive Drinking of Raw Spirits, a large portion of which had been surreptitiously obtained." - A Juryman: We ought to add, sir, that we find no blame whatever attaching to Mr Burroughs. - The Coroner: I am bound to take what the Jury have to say, but I must adhere to the strictures I have made that there ought to have been more care taken. - The Foreman: Perhaps you haven't been to any sales, sir. I was there, and I don't see how Mr Burroughs was at all to blame.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 25 February 1889
EXETER - Inquest In Exeter. - On Saturday Mr Coroner H. W. Hooper held an Inquest at the Exeter Police Court respecting the death of a child named JAMES STEPHENS. - BESSIE STEPHENS, wife of RICHARD STEPHENS, a labourer, residing at 8 Mary Arches-street, identified the body as that of her child, who was six years of age. He had not been seen by a doctor lately. Last Monday afternoon he was attacked by measles and she gave him some saffron tea. On Friday, about 1.30 p.m., he became worse and she then sent for Mr Harris, Surgeon, who arrived about 4.30 p.m. The child was then dead. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said she had received an order from the Guardians for medical attendance on another of her children, who was suffering from measles. She sent for Mr Harris to come and see the deceased, in respect of whom she had had no order from the Guardians. In reply to the Coroner, witness said she gave the deceased a little arrowroot the morning he was taken worse. - A Juryman asked why Mr Harris did not come. - The Coroner reminded the Jury that the case was not what was known as a "parish" one, and therefore Mr Harris was not bound to go instantly. If it was a parochial case and was described to him as "urgent," he was bound to go. - Mr Edward Steele Perkins said that he was informed on his arrival at the house that they had waited two hours and a half, but Mr Harris was unable to come. - The Coroner remarked that it was always desirable that a medical man should go as soon as possible. If the case was a parochial one he was bound to go when the order was brought to him, but a private medical man was not bound to go instantly. - Mr Edward Steele Perkins, Surgeon deposed that about 4.30 p.m. on the day in question he received a message from his father to go to No. 8 Mary Arches-street, to see a child who had the measles, and who was then vomiting blood. He went immediately, and found the child lying on a bed dead. There was a quantity of blood on the bed, which witness was told the child had vomited. The child's mouth was covered with blood. He examined the body; there were no marks of violence and he considered death was due to haemorrhage of the lungs. - The Coroner: There is no question about it, I should think. - Replying to the Coroner, Mr Perkins said that the case was a very unusual one. He had never seen a similar case. He considered that the child was in a much more serious state than was imagined by those who had charge of him. There were a number of people in Exeter who themselves treated their children for measles without sending for a doctor. - In reply to the Coroner, Mr Perkins said that the child probably had congestion of the lungs as well as the measles. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 26 February 1889
NEWTON ABBOT - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday morning at the Town Hall, Newton Abbot, on the body of JOHN BAWDON, retired farmer, of Halcyon-terrace, Newton, who died suddenly on Saturday morning. Evidence was given to the effect that deceased left his home early on Saturday with the intention of proceeding to Aller to gather flowers. He was found shortly after on the Torquay-road by a telegraph messenger lying on his back, dead. The Police were informed and deceased was conveyed to his home, where Dr Grimbly made a superficial examination. No wounds were found, but there was a slight abrasion on the nose. Death was probably due to failure of the heart's action. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned. Deceased leaves a widow and three children. he was 71 years of age.

SEATON AND BEER - The Boating Fatality At Beer. - An Inquest was held at the Anchor Inn, Beer, on Saturday, before Mr C. Cox, Deputy Coroner of the District, touching the death of JONATHAN MILLER, aged 30, a fisherman, who was drowned on the 14th instant under circumstances already reported. - Richard Westlake, a youth of 18, in the employ of the deceased on the day of the accident, stated that on Wednesday morning, about 11 o'clock, he went out with his master in the boat to pick up some crab-pots. They were out with a number of other boats. On their return, about 4 o'clock in the afternoon, they were between a quarter and half a mile from shore, with all sail up, when a sudden squall caused the boat to heel over and ship water. Deceased jumped overboard and called to witness to follow him. Witness went down with the boat, but came up again and with the help of an oar was able to keep afloat until he was picked up by a boat which put out to their assistance from the shore. Deceased had on his heavy sea boots and all his clothing. He could not swim and after he jumped from the boat witness saw no more of him. The other boats out could give them no assistance because the wind was dead against them. - William Ward, Coastguardsman, said he saw the boat capsize and at once made a report to his officers. He was of opinion that the disaster was caused by carrying too much sail. - Robert Driver, fisherman, also saw the boat go down, and put off from the shore to render assistance. He picked up the youth, but could see no trace of the deceased. He considered that the boat was carrying too much sail. - Evidence as to the finding of the body was given by Joseph Miller, a relative of the deceased. - The Jury, of which Mr Gibbons was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," and gave their fees to the family. The children lost their mother some years ago, and much sympathy is felt for them in their present distress.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 27 February 1889
TAVISTOCK - Yesterday an inquiry was held by Mr R. R. Rodd, District Coroner, at the Tavistock Cottage Hospital, into the circumstances attending the death of RICHARD COX, a mason, who had been employed on the new line The circumstances were reported yesterday. The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased died under the influence of chloroform while suffering from a diseased heart.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 2 March 1889
TAVISTOCK - Mr Rodd, District Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at Wonwood, near Tavistock, to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of MR ROBERT MAY, aged 37, corn merchant and farmer, which occurred on Wednesday last. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 5 March 1889
TOTNES - Fatal Accident At Totnes. - An Inquest was held last evening, at the Plymouth Inn, Totnes, on the body of MISS HARRIET MICHELMORE, aged 69 years, who was found dead at the bottom of the stairs of her house on Sunday night, a little after 10 o'clock by her brother, HENRY MICHELMORE, with whom she resided. - MR MICHELMORE deposed that his sister had lived with him for about 17 years. He last saw her alive about 6 o'clock on Sunday evening, when he left home. He returned home about ten minutes after 10 o'clock, when he found everything in the usual order. His lamp and matches were on the sitting-room table. He lit his lamp, and on going into the passage to go upstairs he saw the deceased lying at the foot of the stairs. Her head was towards the front door, and her feet towards the stairs. He called her, but she made no answer. She was warm. He ran out and called Mr Edwards, a neighbour. - Mr John Edwards, landlord of the Plymouth Inn, Totnes, said he saw the deceased about a quarter past 9 on Sunday night. She passed him while he was at the door of his house. She had her books in her hand as if she was coming from church. She spoke about the weather, and then went towards her door. About 10 minutes after 10 he was called by MR MICHELMORE, who told him what had happened. He helped to carry the deceased upstairs. He then saw her two books and bonnet on the bed and a lamp not lighted on the table. He examined the stairs, but could not see anything by which she might have tripped or slipped. - Dr James Thompson deposed to examining the body. There was a swelling on the back of her head, but no wound. He considered the deceased had fallen downstairs and fractured her skull. Dislocation of the neck was the immediate cause of death, which he should think was instantaneous. - James Cole, who lives at the next house to deceased, said that about a quarter to 9 on Sunday evening he heard a noise as if something had fallen. The noise appeared to proceed from the passage of deceased's house, the houses only being divided by a plaster partition. He listened but heard nothing more. - The Coroner having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

SEATON AND BEER - The Suicide At Seaton. - The Deputy Coroner for the District, Mr C. Cox, yesterday assembled a Jury at the Beach Hotel, Seaton, to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of MR CHARLES ELLERSHAW, a gentleman, who committed suicide on Thursday last, as already reported in this columns. Mr Oakley was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and, the body having been viewed, the following evidence was taken. - The REV. JOHN ELLERSHAW said he was the only brother of the deceased, who had been staying at the house of Mr E. Dawson, 5 West Cliffe-terrace. He was 44 years of age last birthday; he had a handsome allowance from his father and devoted himself chiefly to literature. About seven years ago, in Brussels, deceased made a similar attempt on his life. He then promised that he would never do such a thing again, and as the people with whom he was staying were much attached to him, and promised to look after him, it was not thought necessary to put him under any restraint. He was then living a quiet, regular life, and there was no special circumstance to account for his making an attempt on his life. He last saw his brother alive about three years ago in Brussels. About two months ago deceased wrote and told him that he thought of taking a walking tour along the South Coast for the benefit of his health. He did not suppose that when deceased left his home on Thursday he had any idea of suicide, but rather that it was the result of a sudden impulse. He did not know the deceased was subject to fits of depression, but he thought a man living such a solitary life was likely to suffer in that way. - Mr Edward Dawson said deceased had lodged at his house for 17 months. He always appeared full of life and conversation, very fond of reading and taking long walks, but never showed any symptoms to cause uneasiness. He objected to the body being removed to his lodgings because, in his wife's state of health, he feared it would have a bad effect on her, perhaps cause her death. - Kate Paley said she was in the employ of the last witness and accustomed to wait on the deceased. She had never noticed anything strange about him. At dinner-time on Thursday he seemed to be in his usual state, and she had no reason to think that anything out of the way was going to happen to him. - To the Foreman: He gave no orders before leaving the house. No one came to the house to give information of what had occurred. She heard of it from her master. - Anne Jackson, housekeeper at the Beach Hotel, said she had known the deceased for some months and his appearance had always struck her as rather wild. She saw him on the Parade between half-past 6 and 20 minutes to 7 on Thursday evening. He had been walking up and down all the afternoon from half-past three. Half-past six was unusually late for him to be seen on the Parade, and she thought he looked very pale and ill. - Richard Hatton, coastguardsman, said he was stationed at Axmouth and knew the deceased. He thought him rather peculiar, because he talked rather loudly to himself as he walked and never took any notice when saluted. He had mentioned to the chief officer at the Station that he felt sure deceased was not right. At a quarter-past seven on Thursday evening he found the body of the deceased lying on the walk about 150 yards east of the Beach Hotel. His umbrella was against the wall, and his right hand glove on the seat. Under his hand was a small pocket knife with the blade open. He was quite dead. Witness struck a couple of matches and seeing what had occurred he fetched Mr Richards with a lantern to watch the body while he went for a doctor and the Police. - Mr Evans, Surgeon, said he knew the deceased by sight. He was a peculiar looking man, rather wild in his appearance. On Thursday night he was called by the last witness and went down to the Parade where he found the body of the deceased. Death was caused by a deep cut on the right hand side of the throat, which severed the large arteries. The wound appeared to have been self-inflicted with a small knife which was found close by deceased's right hand. Several cuts had been made. - The Jury found that deceased Committed Suicide while in a state of Unsound Mind.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 9 March 1889
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - The Suicide Of An Exeter Commercial Traveller. The Inquest. - Mr Deputy Coroner, H. W. Gould yesterday held an Inquest at City-view, Ebrington-road, St. Thomas, on the body of GEOFFERY GOODRIDGE COLE, a commercial traveller, who committed suicide by shooting himself on Wednesday, as stated in the Gazette of Thursday. Mr George Robins was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Ellen Milford, a widow, and sister of the deceased's wife, residing in Fortescue-road, St Thomas, identified the body as that of GEOFFERY GOODRIDGE COLE, a commercial traveller, aged about 28 years. Witness saw him on Tuesday at his residence. She was in his company on Sunday for a long time. He was very excited and seemed to have something on his mind. Witness's mother had heard from Mr Body, manager of the Tiverton Branch of the Devon and Cornwall Bank. Deceased did not divulge anything to witness, but on Tuesday she advised him to see Mr Body. She had never heard him threaten to commit suicide. - By the Foreman of the Jury: He seemed very excited and kept going from room to room holding his head, and saying "My head, my head." His eyes were swollen and he looked very strange. - SELINA COLE, widow of the deceased, who was very much affected, deposed that she last saw her husband alive on Tuesday evening about 7 o'clock. The last witness was then present. She did not know whether deceased expected to be arrested. She knew that Mr Body, the manager of the Tiverton Branch of the Devon and Cornwall Bank, had communicated with the Police, and she advised her husband to go and see him and arrange matters. In answer to witness's mother deceased stoutly denied that there was anything wrong. He left the house on Tuesday morning, but he did not then say he would not go and see Mr Body. Witness did not see him after Tuesday night. She was informed that someone was watching the house and as she was afraid that her husband would be arrested for something he had done, in connection with the Devon and Cornwall Bank, she left the house that night. Deceased was not told that someone was watching the house. - By a Juror: She left the house because she was afraid her husband was going to be arrested. That was the only cause. - By another Juror: Her husband had not threatened her life. - By the Coroner: She had never heard him threaten to commit suicide. He was very excited when in drink. - In reply to the Foreman, witness said deceased seemed to have been in trouble for a long time; he never let her know his business. - Police-Sergeant Michael Egan deposed that on Wednesday afternoon he went to the deceased's residence for the purpose of arresting him on a charge of uttering three promissory notes, of the value of £50 each, on the Tiverton Branch of the Devon and Cornwall Bank. He found the doors of the house locked, having been bolted on the inside. He procured a ladder and entered a window at the back of the house, which led to a bedroom. The deceased was not there, but the bed was quite warm, and his boots and other articles of wearing apparel were on the floor. Witness then proceeded further until he came to a room, the door of which was locked on the inside. He looked through a chink in the door and saw the deceased lying on the floor, upon which there was a quantity of blood. Witness communicated with P.C. Rattenbury, who was outside the house, and he entered the window of the room and opened the door for witness. On entering the room witness found the deceased in a half-sitting posture on the floor. He was dead. A six-chambered revolver was lying about six feet from the body. Dr Vlieland was sent for. Witness had searched the deceased's clothes, but had discovered nothing bearing on the cause of death. He also found a box of bullets in a downstairs room. The box should have contained 50 bullets, but there were only 49 in it. Witness wished to say that on Tuesday, as far as the Police were concerned, they knew nothing about the house being watched. They did not receive instructions until Wednesday morning. - Dr Vlieland deposed to being called by P.C. Rattenbury to go to the deceased's residence on the afternoon of the day in question. On going there he found the deceased in the position stated by the Police-Sergeant. the body was quite warm, and witness should say that death had recently taken place. Blood was issuing from the mouth and nose, but there was no other signs of external violence. On examining the interior of the mouth he found a small wound, which went upwards into the base of the skull. There was a smell of powder in the mouth. He did not think, from the position of the wound, that it could have been inflicted otherwise than by the deceased himself. Death was instantaneous. - Police-Sergeant Egan, recalled, said that he only went to the house on Wednesday. P.C. Rattenbury watched the house for about half an hour while witness was absent. - The Jury, after a brief consultation, returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased Committed Suicide while Temporarily Insane.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 11 March 1889
TAVISTOCK - Mr Coroner Rodd held an Inquiry at the Union Inn, Tavistock, into the circumstances attending the death of GEORGE BARNETT, aged 18 months, the child of WILLIAM HENRY BARNETT, labourer, of Bannawell-street, Tavistock. About 7 o'clock on Wednesday morning the mother found the child ill in the cradle and a few minutes later it died in a neighbour's arms. Dr Brodrick stated that death had resulted from congestion of the brain, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 13 March 1889
NEWTON ST CYRES - The Case Of Drowning At Newton St. Cyres. The Inquest. - Yesterday Mr Deputy Coroner H. W. Gould held an Inquest at the Railway Hotel, Newton St Cyres, concerning the death of JOHN POOK, an aged man, who was found drowned in the river close to the Newton St Cyres Railway Station on Sunday afternoon, as stated in Monday's Gazette. - Mr Thomas Ellis was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - JOHN THOMAS POOK was the first witness. He stated that he was a groom and gardener, residing at 6 Marine-parade, Dawlish, and he identified the body as that of his father, who was a labourer, aged 68. He resided at Hookway, near Crediton, with Mrs Sims, as a lodger. Witness last saw him alive on the 2nd of January last, but on the 2nd March he received a letter from him acknowledging the receipt of a postal order he had sent him. Witness was not aware that the deceased had any trouble and there was nothing about his demeanour to lead witness to think he would commit suicide. - Ann Simms, wife of Robert Sims, a labourer, residing at Hookway, said that the deceased had lodged at her house for about six months. She last saw him alive on Wednesday night last, but she heard him in his room on Friday morning at about a quarter to 7 o'clock. She went to work before he came down. There was a little boy besides the deceased left in the house. There had been nothing amiss with POOK. He never made any complaint to her and he never spoke of suicide. - Elizabeth Haydon, wife of William Haydon, a miller, of Hookway, Crediton, said that deceased was her brother-in-aw. He had been in the habit of coming to her house daily during the time he had lived with the last witness. He did so on Friday last at a quarter before 8 a.m. She asked him to have some breakfast, but he replied that he had had some and that he was going to meet the 9.30 train. He then left. He was much the same as usual on that occasion. At times the deceased fretted about the loss of his wife and son, but altogether she should call him a very reasonable man. She had never heard the deceased speak of suicide. - William Pethybridge, road contractor, of Smallbrook, Newton St. Cyres, said he knew the deceased, whom he last saw alive on Friday morning last, about 8.30. He was going down a lane leading to the railway-crossing at Dunscombe. He merely said "Good morning." Witness saw nothing more of the deceased. He did not notice anything amiss with him. - Charles Frost, porter, in the employ of the London and South Western Railway at Crediton, deposed that on Sunday afternoon, while out for a walk, he found the pipe, tobacco and box of matches (produced) by the line by Dunscombe-crossing. - Robert Henry Kemp, Police Constable, stationed at Crediton, stated that on Sunday morning he commenced a search of the river for the deceased. When close to the Newton St. Cyres Station he found a hat (produced) on some bushes on the Newton side of the water. About 400 yards below he saw the body of the deceased on the opposite side of the river. With the assistance of Police-Sergeant Fursdon he recovered the body. He searched the deceased, but found nothing on him besides a pocket-handkerchief and a comb. - Mr. John Augustus Edwards, Surgeon, of Crediton, said he had examined the deceased. There were no marks of violence. From the appearance of the body he was of opinion that death was the result of drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

EXETER - Inquest At The Devon County Prison. - Yesterday an Inquest was held at the Devon County Prison by Mr Deputy Coroner, H. W. Gould, relative to the death of JOHN HAWKE, a convict, who died in the Hospital of that Prison on Sunday morning. - Mr James Tucker was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The Deputy Coroner thought that the Jury would have little difficulty in arriving at their verdict, as the evidence would shew that death was due to natural causes. He explained that the Inquiry became necessary by reason of the death having taken place in the Prison. - Mr Edwin Cowtan, Governor of the Prison, deposed that the deceased was 56 years of age, and was a farm labourer. At the Bodmin Assizes held n the 13th July 1888, he was convicted of a charge of assaulting a girl under the age of 13, and was sentenced to 18 years' penal servitude. He was transferred to that Prison o the 14th of August 1888. From that time until about eight days since he enjoyed good health. He was then seen by the Medical Officer of the Prison, who ordered his removal to the Hospital, which was done. The deceased was a well-conducted, industrious man, as a prisoner, and he was never reported for misconduct or breach of the rules, nor was he ordered any punishment from the date of his admission to the Prison to the time of decease. Witness had informed the deceased's sons of their father's death, but they were unable to attend the Inquiry. Deceased received the ordinary prison treatment. His death was reported to witness at 2.30 on Sunday morning. While in the Hospital the deceased was attended by a night and a day nurse. - Dr Thomas Wilson Caird, Medical Officer of the Prison deposed that on the 2nd instant the deceased complained of having caught a cold, for which he was treated. On the following morning he had a shivering attack and witness ordered his removal to the Hospital, where he remained until his decease. Witness saw deceased twice daily, and his deputy (Mr Domville) also saw him. He was placed on hospital diet. Since death witness had made a post mortem examination of the body. There was an abscess in one kidney and an enlargement of the other, with inflammation of the lungs. Death was due to a chill, following upon a kidney disease of an insidious form. - James Hoppings, night attendant and a former warder of the Prison, said he had been in attendance on the deceased from 6 o'clock in the evening to 6 o'clock in the morning since his admission to the Hospital. When witness went on duty at 6 p.m. on Saturday he saw that there was a great alteration in the deceased from when he left him that morning. Deceased died at 2.15 on Sunday morning. Witness followed out the medical man's directions and about a quarter of an hour before his death he gave him some brandy and milk. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 14 March 1889
BOVEY TRACEY - The Alleged Child Murder At Bovey Tracey. - On Tuesday evening Mr Sidney Hacker, the District Coroner, held an inquiry at Joll's Dolphin Hotel, Bovey Tracey, into the circumstances attending the death of a male child found in the river Bovey. Mr Henry Baker was Foreman of the Jury. - Charles Dear, residing at Bridge Cottage, stated that on the previous day he was looking over the wall of his cottage, which is near the river, when he saw what he took to be the body of a child. He gave information to the Police. - P.C. Slee stated that he found the body of the child in about three feet of water. The body was that of a male child and was naked. He subsequently went to the shop of Mr Leaker, baker and confectioner, and saw a servant girl named CHARLOTTE WARREN and questioned her as to whether she had been confined. She denied that the child found in the river was hers. He then arrested her on the charge of wilful murder. - Mr W. Leaker stated that WARREN had been in his employ nine months and a week. Neither himself or his wife had any idea that she was in distress. - Mr. Henry Goodwyn, Surgeon, deposed that he had examined WARREN with her consent and found that she had been recently confined; and, with Dr Nesbitt, he subsequently made a post-mortem examination of the body. It was well nourished and the child had had a separate existence. The lungs were inflated with air. In the stomach he found some sand, showing that the child had tried to breathe in the water. He was of opinion that death was due to drowning. - The Coroner having summed up the Jury retired, and after a lengthy consideration the Foreman said they returned a verdict of Manslaughter against WARREN. - During the day WARREN was brought before Colonel Walcott, at the Dolphin Hotel and charged with the Wilful Murder of her infant child. The only evidence given was that of P.C. William Slee, who repeated his statement before the Coroner and the prisoner was remanded until Tuesday.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 16 March 1889
STOKE DAMEREL - The Fatal Accident At Devonport Railway Station. - Mr Vaughan, Devonport Borough Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Royal Albert Hospital yesterday respecting the death of THOMAS NEWTON RUSSELL, aged 32 years, late fireman in the employ of the London and South Western Railway Company. - Alice Eliza Cole, nurse, in the service of Mr Besant, naval store-keeper in the Devonport Dockyard, stated that while crossing the stone bridge near Valletort-place on Thursday morning, between 11 and 12 o'clock, she noticed the deceased fall from his engine. - William Powell, of Exeter, engine-driver, employed by the Company, stated that he was engaged shunting the carriages at the Station. The deceased walked along the left side of the engine to see whether the "glands" were blowing, and in order to do this he had to stoop, and, on account of the jerking of the engine, he accidentally fell off the buffer beam, which is three feet wide and for safety a rail is placed around it. The deceased neglected to hold on to the rail, and by the oscillation was thrown off, falling between the guard's van and engine. He was thus crushed by the ash-box, which is only 12 inches above the line. The pointsman noticed after the train had traversed a few yards something move, and he immediately signalled to the engine-driver to stop. The pointsman went to the spot and found the deceased lying between the rails on his face and hands apparently unconscious. The deceased was placed in one of the carriages and brought back to the Station, whence he was removed to the Royal Albert Hospital. Witness further stated that he gave the deceased no order to go and inspect the "glands;" he went unknown to him. - Henry Lewis, pointsman, having given evidence, a nurse belonging to the Hospital was called and stated that when the deceased was admitted it was seen his case was hopeless. He was conscious during the hour and a half that he lived, but made no statement in reference to the accident. - The Jury, after a short consultation, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," exonerating the driver from all blame. - Mr H. J. Foster (Detective-Inspector of the Railway Police), and Mr R. Samson (Stationmaster at Devonport) watched the proceedings on behalf of the Company. The deceased formerly resided at 4 Broomwell-terrace, Exeter. He was a married man and leaves a widow and child to mourn his loss.

EXETER - Infant Mortality In Exeter. The Question Of Infant Assurance And The Liability Of Medical Men. - Yesterday afternoon the Coroner for the City, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest at the New Police-court, Exeter, on the body of WILLIAM ALBERT SKOINES. - ANNIE SKOINES, wife of ALBERT SKOINES, bricklayer, 4 Waterloo-place, Friernhay-street, stated that the deceased was four months and a fortnight old. She fed the child on condensed milk. The deceased's life was insured in the Prudential Office when he was six weeks old. The contributions amounted to a penny per week and if the child had been insured for three months witness would have received £1 10s. at his death. The deceased had not, however, been insured for three months. Witness's husband had also been ill for two months and she had not kept the payments up. Witness could not therefore tell what she would get from the Insurance office, and did not anticipate anything. Witness had three other children aged 7, 5 and 3 respectively and they were all insured at the same rate as the deceased. The deceased had been in ill-health since its birth and was attended by Dr Kempe when it was three weeks old. It appeared from the subsequent evidence of the witness that she put the deceased in its cradle on Thursday morning about 10 o'clock. The child awoke soon after 12 o'clock. witness nursed it and at 1.20 noticed that the child looked ill. She sent a little girl to Mr Bell's with a request that the latter would come and see the child. The girl, however, returned, stating that Mr Bell had told her to ask whether witness had half-a-crown to pay or whether it was a parish case. - Mr Bell: Excuse my interrupting. - The Coroner: Please do not, Mr Bell. - Mr Bell: It is only to say I have an answer to that. - The Coroner: You will have an opportunity directly. - Witness, continuing, said she sent the girl again to tell Mr Bell to come down. - The Coroner: What answer did you give to the question about the half-crown? - Witness: None. I sent the girl right away to tell Mr Bell to come down as quickly as he could. - Mr C. E. Bell, Surgeon, St. Sidwell's, deposed that he was called at ten minutes to 2 o'clock on Thursday afternoon to see the deceased. The message was brought by a little girl, who, in reply to witness's question, said she did not know what was the matter with the child. Witness asked the girl whether MRS SKOINES had a medical order from the Relieving Officer, and she replied that she did not know. Witness said that if the child's mother had not got parish pay, nor an order, she had better get one and he would see the deceased when he went out in the afternoon. Witness had hardly turned round from the door when MRS SKOINES'S brother came up and asked him to go to the same place, remarking that the child was very ill. Witness at once proceeded to MRS SKOINES'S, and reached the latter's house at five minutes after 2. The child was then dead. He did not remember saying anything about half-a-crown to the girl - that was not his visiting fee. He did not refuse to go because the half-crown was not brought. As a matter of fact the man reached his house before the girl could have gone 100 yards. He was not aware that the girl went to his house twice. - In reply to a question asked by a Juryman as to why he asked if the case was a parish one or not, Mr Bell explained that it had always been the custom since he had been Medical Officer of one of the districts of the City (a period of 12 or 13 years) to inquire of those who came to his house if they could produce an order for attendance from the Relieving Officer. If they could not, and were poor people, he advised them to get an order. But if it was a case in which a person was very ill and likely to die he had always gone at once irrespective of any order. - The Coroner said he did not see that there was any blame attachable to Mr Bell. - A Juryman observed that while an order was being fetched the child or person ill might die. He thought the law ought to be altered so as to compel doctors to attend at once on being summoned, no matter whether the order was produced or not. - The Coroner said Mr Bell both explained the course usually adopted. - One or two of the Jurymen, however, dissented and expressed the opinion that Mr Bell ought to have proceeded at once to see the deceased instead of inquiring whether there was a parish order. One Juryman said he thought that Mr Bell did not care to go because the deceased was a child of poor parents. - The Coroner pointed out that the remark was a very improper one and the majority of the Jury coincided with him. - Mr Bell subsequently proceeded with his evidence. He examined the body and found there were no marks of violence. The child was well nourished, but had a very pale appearance. The deceased had the symptoms of having died from convulsions. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," the Foreman said the majority of the Jury were of opinion that no blame was attributable to Mr Bell.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 18 March 1889
GERMANSWEEK - A Child Burnt To Death At Germansweek. - On Saturday Mr W. Burd, Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of EVA JAMES, one and a half years of age, who accidentally fell into the fire the previous Monday at Eworthy, Germansweek. It appears that the unfortunate child was left alone in the house while the mother (SIBELLA JAMES) went to a neighbour's house on some errand, and she had not been absent more than five minutes when screams were heard coming from the house. The mother and a neighbour (Mrs Reddecliffe) ran to see what was the matter, when they found the child in flames. The infant was immediately attended to and Dr Snell, of Okehampton, was called in. At the Inquest Dr Snell said the burns which were of a very severe character, had been dressed properly before he saw the child, which, in his opinion, died from shock to the system. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 19 March 1889
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - Drowning Of A Boy At St. Thomas. Inquest And Verdict. - An Inquest was held at the Turk's Head, St Thomas, yesterday, by Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, into the circumstances attending the death of CHARLES EDWARD HOLLAND. - Mr Stokes was appointed Foreman of the Jury. - GEORGE WILLIAM HOLLAND, 10 Cleveland-street, compositor, deposed that the deceased was his son. The child was five years old on the 29th of last March. Witness last saw him alive at 1.45 p.m. on Friday, when he left home to go to the Board School. - William Hall, a lad nine years of age, residing in Clinton-street, said that he returned from school with the deceased, and they went into a field. The deceased laid down near the pond to try to take out a stick and witness told him to come away from the pond. Afterwards another boy told him that deceased had fallen in and witness saw him in the water, nearly in the middle of the pond. - Mr Vlieland, Surgeon, stated that he was called about half-past five on Friday evening. He went immediately and found deceased in a field, not far from his father's house. Life was extinct, death being due to drowning. There were no marks of violence on the body. - Frederick Lockyer, 22 Clarence-street, dairyman, said that he was delivering milk near the place where the boy was playing, when his attention was called to the fact that deceased was in the water. Witness went to the pond and pulled the deceased out. He used efforts to restore animation, but without avail. The field was private property, belonging to Mr Commings. - The Coroner said that although they must all regret the circumstances, yet they would have no difficulty in finding a verdict. It appeared that the pit was private property and the boys had no right to go there. Still it was impossible to keep the boys out and perhaps if the Jury made a recommendation to that effect the owner of the property would place a fence around it. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Accidental Drowning," adding a rider that it was highly desirous that the pit should be fenced in.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 20 March 1889
HEMYOCK - The Suicide At Hemyock. - An Inquest has been held by Mr C. E. Cox, Deputy Coroner, touching the death of WILLIAM FLAY, aged 62, dairyman to Mr S. Farrant of Westown Farm, Hemyock. - MRS ELIZABETH FLAY, the widow of deceased, said he had been in low spirits through having to leave the dairy, and not being suited to another, but he had never said a word to cause her to suspect his intentions. Early on Saturday morning he went out as usual to attend to the cows. He did not return to have his customary basin of broth, but she was not alarmed, as she thought he had gone somewhere else. On her going up into the tallet to look for some eggs she saw his body on some straw, face and hands downwards, attached to a rope hanging from a beam above. She touched him with a stick, but he did not move and she then ran away and sent to Westown for help. She did not attempt to cut the rope, and she did not return to the tallet, for she was too frightened to do so. JAMES FLAY, deceased's son, gave corroborative evidence. He had noticed nothing strange about his father. When he went to the tallet his father was lying face and hands on the straw. There was a slight strain on the rope, which was quite tight round the neck. Witness did not loosen the rope from around the neck because he thought his father was dead, but he untied it from the beam. He called "Father," but did not examine deceased to see whether any life was left. - ELIZA FLAY, daughter of deceased, said she had never heard her father threaten to take his life. She thought of going back to cut the rope never entered the mind either of her mother or herself. Her mother told her she thought her father was quite dead. - The Deputy Coroner remarked that he could not understand why they never thought of cutting the rope. - Mr S. Farrant said deceased had been under notice to leave. They had disagreed and he (witness) thought it better they should part. The report that he wanted deceased to send the milk to the factory was wrong, in fact he had let the dairy to another man who was not going to do so. Deceased had told him he was losing money by the dairy, and he advised him to send the milk to the factory for his own benefit. Deceased had been particularly annoyed because witness had stopped his daily "firkin" of cider, allowing him a fair equivalent in money. He had treated all his workmen alike in that matter. He had never noticed anything strange in deceased. A quarter's rent was owing from deceased, but he never pressed him for it. - Dr Ellis deposed to being sent for and finding the body in a room of the dairy house at Tedburrow. There were signs of hanging and the rope was in a position that would involve pressure on the trachea and result in asphyxia. - The Deputy Coroner, in summing up, commented strongly on the fact that no one attempted to cut the rope or loosen it from deceased's neck immediately upon discovery of the body. Mr Farrant had behaved to deceased in a very liberal manner and had been very considerate. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," and gave the widow their fees.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 21 March 1889
BRANSCOMBE - At the Mason's Arms Inn, Branscombe, yesterday, Mr C. E. Cox, Deputy Coroner for the District, held an Inquest on the body of MRS ELIZA JANE BUTLER, wife of the sub-postmaster, who came by her death under very sad circumstances, as reported in yesterday's paper. - MR GEORGE JOSEPH BUTLER, husband of the deceased, and a baker by trade, said his wife was in her 38th year. For some time she had been very depressed. She had not been in ill-health and he knew of no cause for her low spirits. She suffered from delusions and about two months since he called in Dr Callaghan, who had been attending her ever since. The doctor said from the first that she must be watched, and this had been done, but she never threatened or attempted to do herself any injury. On Tuesday morning he went about his usual work and shortly after six called his wife to breakfast. At that time he thought her better and more cheerful than usual. Shortly afterwards he heard a great noise in the bedroom and on going upstairs found her full length on the floor in a pool of blood with a carving knife by her side. He went for the doctor, who came in about an hour, but his wife was dead before he arrived. - Bessie Farrant, a niece, gave corroborative evidence, and said the father of the deceased destroyed himself in very nearly the same way. - FRANK BUTLER, son of the deceased, aged about 9, who slept in the same room with his mother, was called, but could add nothing to the evidence. - P.C. Martin said he went to the house as soon as he was sent for, and did what he could to bind up the woman's throat, but was not able to stop the bleeding and she died in a few minutes. - Dr Callaghan said from the time he was first called in he advised that deceased should be watched, and he believed his instructions were well carried out. He thought it necessary because her father committed suicide, and not on account of any special symptoms in MRS BUTLER, which led him to suppose that she would make an attempt on her life. She was depressed and subject to delusions, but he did not think she required to be put under restraint. The Jury returned a verdict of "Temporary Insanity" and expressed their sympathy with the family. The deceased, who was greatly respected, has left her husband with four young children to bring up.

EXETER - Mr Coroner Hooper held an Inquest at the Exeter Police Court yesterday on the body of JOHN PROWSE BOWDEN, lately residing in Parr-street, who died from injuries received while at work at Poltimore on Thursday. - ROSE BOWDEN identified the body as that of her father. She said he was 62 years of age and by trade a plasterer in the employ of Messrs. Garton and King. On returning from work on Thursday evening he complained of being weak and exhausted, having fallen from a ladder eight feet from the ground. He was attended to by Dr Barstow up to the time of his death, which took place on Tuesday. - John King, engineer, deposed that the deceased had been in the employ of his father's firm for nearly 40 years. He was a temperate man. Witness saw him just after the accident occurred, when he told him that he was on a ladder and fell off, pulling it with him. - Mr G. Stanley Barstow, Surgeon, deposed that the deceased's left temple and left leg were bruised, as were also his right ribs, which might have been caused by the ladder falling on him. He prescribed for him and the next morning when he saw him his brain seemed seriously affected. Mr Cumming also saw him on Monday, and he concurred with witness's opinion that deceased had received concussion of the brain, from which he died. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 22 March 1889
PINHOE - The death on Wednesday last of MRS ANN CRUWYS PULLIN, of Wallpark House, Pinhoe, at the age of 76 was on Friday the subject of an Inquest held by Mr Coroner Burrow. The deceased was a widow lady, who, many years ago, came from Cullompton, of which town, it is said, she was a native. The Inquest was necessitated by the fact that the deceased had not been attended for more than a year past by any medical man. MR JAMES PULLIN, son of deceased, stated, in answer to questions by the Jury, that his mother was a very self-willed, determined woman, and would not allow either a doctor or a nurse to be called in. Dr Bankart, of Exeter, deposed that he last attended the deceased about 15 months ago, when she was suffering from a form of dropsy, for which he treated her, and he assigned that malady as the cause of death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

WHITCHURCH - A Military Pensioner Starving Himself To Death. - An Inquiry was held at the Whitchurch Inn, near Tavistock, on Monday afternoon, by Mr. R. R. Rodd, jun., Deputy Coroner, touching the death of ANDREW MINTO, a military pensioner, who was found in an insensible condition in his cottage on Friday evening, and died a few hours afterwards. - Mr J. W. Willcocks was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Elizabeth Davey, a married woman, stated that about 7 o'clock on Tuesday evening the deceased, who lived alone, asked her if she would please light his fire. She did so, and then he asked her to purchase some firewood and candles for him, which she also did. The deceased had been ill about a fortnight. He told her that he had had a fall on his back indoors. Witness, being a neighbour, had been in the habit of doing little things for him. On Sunday he was worse and she advised him to have medical assistance, but he declined to do so, saying no medical man would do him any good When she left him on Tuesday evening she asked the deceased not to lock his door and he said he would not. She went to the cottage on Wednesday and found the door locked, but she called and the deceased answered her and said he did not require anything. The same thing occurred again on Wednesday and twice on Thursday, but when she knocked between 2 and 3 on Friday afternoon she received no reply. She raised an alarm, and an entrance was effected into the cottage, when she saw the deceased lying on the bed partially dressed and unconscious. She gave him some brandy and sent for a doctor. - Maria Pearce said the deceased told her that about three weeks ago he fell so heavily as to break a chair and he had not been well since. - Dr Brodrick said on making a post mortem examination of the body he found an effusion of blood on the left side just below the surface of the skin, showing that the deceased must have had a heavy fall as stated by the previous witnesses. The intestines were quite empty and the body was much emaciated. In his opinion death was due to want of food. The sum of £1 5s. was found on the deceased, who had received a pension of 11d. a day for 38 years. - The Deputy Coroner remarked that the case was a very peculiar one. The poor old gentleman was living in an extraordinary manner by himself, and, according to the medical evidence, had practically starved himself to death. It was evident that no neighbour could have done more for him than Mrs Davey had done. She appeared to have attended to his wants day by day, and even as late as the evening previous to his death, when he told her he was all right, and did not require assistance. Therefore it was quite clear that no neighbour was responsible for the state in which the deceased was found. The medical evidence went to show that the body was very emaciated, that the stomach was empty and that death resulted from starvation, not for want of funds, because £1 5s. was found on the body. - The Jury returned a verdict to the effect "That the deceased died from Want of Food," and that no blame was attached to any person for such want. - The deceased's wife died suddenly about 16 months ago. The cottage was found to be in a filthy condition, as the old man would not allow anyone but Mrs Davey to enter it, and he had only consented to her doing so since his illness, to bring him what he required as he was unable to go out himself.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 23 March 1889
TORQUAY - Extraordinary Case Of Suicide At Torquay. Strange Revelations. - At the Torquay Police Station yesterday afternoon Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of THOMAS CARTE TOMKINS, aged 56, a retired auctioneer, of 17 Carleton-terrace, Ellacombe, who was found dead in his bed on Wednesday evening last. - Mr H. Terry was chosen as Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was EUGENE TOMKINS, son of the deceased, and Station Master at Middleton St George, Durham, who identified the body as that of his father. Witness was not in correspondence with the deceased, nor had he seen him for three years. Deceased's wife was still living, and was housekeeper to the Vicar of Ealing. His father at one time was an auctioneer at Saltburn-by-the-Sea, Yorkshire, and after that he occupied a small public-house. He had no means, but for some time he had been receiving sick pay. - Jane Warne, wife of James Warne, a coal-hawker, stated that she resided at 17 Carleton-terrace. The deceased came to lodge with her about a fortnight before Christmas. He occupied one bedroom. He agreed to pay his rent weekly, but she never received any money from him. He said he had plenty of money coming to him, and frequently received letters with money orders from a cub. He never did any work, and always complained of being ill. Deceased said he was very ill and weak on Monday last, but said he was better on Tuesday. He used to consume a large amount of spirits, but he never had his meals in the house. He never ate much and at the last he said he was in want and distress. Deceased was always very weak and feeble and it was almost impossible to tell when he was under the influence of drink. On Tuesday night he came home at 11.20 and he then appeared to be quite cheerful. She waited up for him every night and on the occasion in question she talked with him until midnight. He complained of his circumstances, but said he expected some money the next day. He never had any medical man to visit him, but he used to take physic regularly. On Monday night he complained of sleeplessness and cough and said he should get something for it When he returned he brought with him a bottle which was full of a sweet liquid. When he went to bed he took about an eighth part. During the day on Tuesday he took no medicine, but at night he took the bottle to his room with him. Her room was on the same landing, and as she went to bed she heard the deceased say "Goodnight." She heard no more of him, but on Wednesday morning she sent her son to deceased's bedroom at 9.30 with a cup of tea as usual. Seeing that deceased did not come down during the day she carried up a cup of tea about 6 p.m. He would frequently lie in bed two or three days together, and would have a cup of tea at intervals, but seldom anything to eat. She knocked to the door, and as deceased did not answer she called her son and husband, and went into the room. They found that he was lying in bed quite dead, and the candle which he had taken to bed with him was burnt out. The bottle (produced) was found on the table, quite empty. She sent for a doctor at once, and information was given to the Police. There were numerous bottles containing medicine in his room, but she did not know what the contents were used for. Many of these were produced and the majority bore "poison" labels. When she saw deceased take his medicine on Monday night he drank it out of the bottle. - Upon being pressed by the Coroner, witness said deceased was greatly distressed at being compelled to leave the residence of Mrs Harris, confectioner, of Lower Union-street, with whom he had been living. He used to say he was going to be married to Mrs Harris. - Ernest Warne, son of the last witness, said that on Wednesday morning, about 9.30 he took a cup of tea to the deceased's room, and placed it by his bedside. He told deceased he had put the tea on the table, but he did not reply, and appeared to be sleeping. Witness then left the room. - William John Rawling, assistant in the branch establishment of Mr Bathe, chemist, of Abbey-road, situate in Lower Union-street, said he knew deceased by sight but not by name. He passed the shop frequently, and usually spoke. Deceased first came to him on Monday afternoon for medicine. He asked for chloral to induce sleep, saying he was greatly troubled with rheumatics. He said a friend of his in London had advised him to take chloral. Witness told him it was dangerous to get into the habit of using such medicine, but he persisted in being served with it. Witness prepared an ounce of syrup of chloral, which was one-sixth the strength of chloral and contained 80 grains of pure chloral. This he told deceased to take the eight part of each night at bed-times, but not to use it unless he felt the necessity of it. - At this point the Coroner produced the bottle, and asked witness how it was it was not labelled "Poison." - Witness said the Act of Parliament did not require it when the medicine was put up in the form of that supplied to the deceased. - The Coroner said the Pharmacy Act required that all medicine containing poison should be labelled as such. - Witness produced a paper, which he said was the Act and laid down that poison could only be supplied to persons on certain conditions, but did not apply to a medicine made up with poison in it. - The Coroner said all physic containing poison must be so labelled. the Act was passed to safeguard the public, who did not know what was or was not dangerous. - Witness said if this was the case he misunderstood the Act. In reply to the Coroner witness said he qualified in 1883. - In reply to the Foreman, witness said the whole of the contents of the bottle would be fatal to a weak man, but not to a healthy one. - Mr F. E. Cave, House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said he was called to the house of Mrs Warne on Wednesday evening and on entering deceased's bedroom found him dead in bed. Rigor mortis had set in and one side was congested. Witness saw several bottles in the room, which he told the Police to take possession of. He subsequently made a post mortem and found that there was extensive disease of the heart and lungs. The other organs were all healthy. There was a certain amount of fluid in the stomach, but there was no chloral in it, as it had probably evaporated into the blood. He was of opinion that deceased had been dead for 12 or 16 hours. He believe death was caused indirectly by the chloral, the narcotic having effected the disease of the heart and lungs. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said 70 grains of chloral would not kill a man in imperfect health, but would have a fatal result in the case of a man suffering from heart and lung disease. - P.C. Coles said he was called to Mrs Warne's house and found the deceased dead. He took possession of many bottles, some of which were empty and others containing medicine. He also took possession of a large quantity of papers and cards which were lying on a table, while he found a will in a box under the bed. - MR EUGENE TOMKINS, recalled, stated that the card produced was in his father's handwriting. - The Coroner said it threw some light on the matter. The words on the card were as follows:- "I have parted with everything I value. I am sick, weary, in pain and disheartened. At least I die a classic death, and this rock is a grand tombstone. T. C. TOMKINS." - MR EUGENE TOMKINS said the card appeared to have been written some time. His father did not write so firmly as that recently. - The Coroner produced another letter, which read as follows:- "Dear Jennie, - My love for you has been my ruin. Your unkindness has been my death. Yes, and killed me, and my death lies at your door. See me buried. The £10 funeral money from the Oddfellows' Lodge is payable only to you. My love has lasted to the end. Goodbye. My riches now consist not in the greatness of my possessions, but in the fewness of my wants." This letter was addressed to Mrs J. Harris, 64 Lower Union-street. - MR EUGENE TOMKINS said he wished to make an observation, and on being given permission by the Coroner, said it was a pity that a decent person should be injured by the ravings of a mad man. His father had frequently made use of the expressions used in the letters. In fact, he had been drinking so heavily that he was not really accountable for his actions. - The Coroner said the Jury must be left to decide whether or not the deceased was insane. - The Coroner read another letter in the handwriting of the deceased, thanking Mrs Warne for her kindness and saying that she must apply to Mrs Harris for his money. - The Coroner called Mrs Jane Harris, who stated that she was a widow residing at 64 Lower Union-street. She had known the deceased for many years. He came on a visit to her about 18 months ago, but his conduct was such that she had to turn him out of the house about a fortnight before Christmas last. He drank very heavily, and she had repeatedly asked him to leave her house before. She had not seen the deceased for fourteen weeks, but she received a note from him, which she sent back. She knew nothing whatever respecting the cause of his death. - Mrs Warne was recalled and said she had frequently seen the papers, although she could not recognise them. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the question to be decided by the Jury was whether the deceased met his death from an overdose of chloral or whether he committed suicide. The medical evidence went to show that 70 grains of chloral would kill a man in a weak state of health like the deceased, but, on the other hand, the letters produced pointed to suicide. - The Jury then retired and after a quarter of an hour's absence returned and gave their verdict, that "Deceased Committed Suicide while in a State of Temporary Insanity." A rider was added to the effect that it was the opinion of the Jury that the law had been violated in that the label "Poison" was not affixed to the bottle. - The Coroner said no doubt the Police would take notice of the rider, and if they thought it necessary to take steps in the matter it would be for them to do so. Although the label would not have made any difference in a case of suicide, it was the duty of chemists to take every precaution for the public safety.

BISHOPSTEIGNTON - An Inquest was held at the Delamore Room, Bishopsteignton on Thursday, by Mr Sydney Hacker, District Coroner, on the body of MISS L. E. HALL, who died somewhat suddenly on Tuesday evening. A post mortem examination was made on Wednesday by Drs. Broughton and Little, which revealed the fact that deceased died from exhaustion through an internal cancer. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 25 March 1889
EXETER - On Saturday afternoon Mr Coroner H. W. Hooper held an inquest at the Devon and Exeter Hospital relative to the death of MARY ANN BICKEL, aged 66, who died in that Institution on the previous day, from injuries received through a fall. - ROBERT BICKEL, a young man, an engraver, residing at 6 Church-street, Heavitree, identified the body as that of his late mother, who had lived at the same address up to the 23rd of January. On that day she was proceeding from the kitchen to the back kitchen when she fell over a wooden step and injured her thigh. Witness did not see the accident, but his mother appraised him of it. A medical man was sent for, and the deceased was removed to the Devon and Exeter Hospital. She was of temperate habits. - By the Foreman (Mr Gosland): The medical man set the limb before ordering deceased to be removed to the Hospital. - Sarah Anstey, residing at 27 Church-street, Heavitree, deposed to being called by an invalid lady (Miss Stevens), who lodged with the deceased, to come to the house, as MRS BICKEL had had a fall, on the 23rd January. Witness went and found the deceased on the floor in the kitchen. The deceased said she had fallen and had injured her thigh. Witness called her husband and son, and together they lifted the deceased. A doctor was sent for and the same evening the patient was removed to the Hospital. - Mr Russell Coombe, House Surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, deposed to admitting the deceased into that Institution on the 23rd of January. She was suffering from a fracture of the left thigh, for which she was treated. She had been gradually sinking for the past fortnight, and she succumbed on Friday. Death was due to the injury she sustained. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 26 March 1889
BOVEY TRACEY - A great gloom was cast over the congregation of the parish church at Bovey Tracey on Sunday evening by the sudden death of MRS DYMOND. On reaching her pew with her little niece, MRS DYMOND knelt down and on rising and sitting down in her seat she was taken ill, and expired almost instantly. Dr Goodwyn soon arrived but pronounced life to be extinct. Great sympathy is expressed for the relatives, the deceased lady being much respected. An Inquest was held last evening at the Union Hotel.

AXMINSTER - Fatal Quarry Accident Near Axminster. - Mr C. E. Cox, Deputy Coroner for the District, yesterday held an inquiry at the George Hotel, Axminster, into the circumstances under which JAMES HENRY RICHARDS came by his death. - Mr Titherley was chosen Foreman of the Jury, and the following evidence was taken. - EVA RICHARDS, said she was the sister-in-law of the deceased. He was a quarryman, aged 23 years and unmarried. On Wednesday week at half-past four deceased came to her and asked if she would rub his head with some oil, as a stone had fallen on him in the quarry and hurt his head very much. She told him it was a case for a doctor, and sent for Mr Craig. Deceased was very much hurt, but he walked to her house and afterwards to his lodgings. She nursed him until Friday night, when he died shortly before 12 o'clock. - To a Juryman: When deceased first came to her he said he was working underneath in the quarry when a stone fell o the back of his head and made him insensible. He did not say anyone was near him at the time. - Charles Pym said he was a quarryman working in Tolcis quarries, belonging to Mr Charles Swayne. Last Wednesday week about midday he was working close to deceased. The quarry was worked in four ledges and deceased was at the bottom clearing up some rubbish, when a stone, weighing from 14lb to 20lb, fell on to the deceased's head. Witness was close behind, but did not see the stone until it had fallen. Witness had been o the top an hour before and knocked down everything that appeared loose or likely to fall. No such accident had occurred there before. The sides of the quarry sloped back a good bit. He lifted the deceased up and called the foreman. Mr Swayne afterwards came and gave deceased some brandy. Deceased recovered consciousness in about half an hour and walked home. He would not allow his master to drive him. - Caleb Austin said he was a lime burner and employed the deceased. The men were always told to keep the top well worked back and he had never known stone to fall before. The stones varied from 1lb to 10cwt. but the heavy ledges were all at the bottom. - Mr Francis Thornhill Swayne said he occupied Tolcis Farm and the lime quarries. The quarry was about 30 feet deep, was worked in four lifts and the bottom one was about 15ft. deep. The stone which fell must have come from the top of the under layer. He had never known the quarry in a safer state or the head of the lifts better worked back. When he saw deceased he gave him some brandy and wanted to drive him home, but deceased would not ride. - Mr Samuel Horner Craig, Surgeon, said that about 20 minutes to 5 o'clock on Wednesday, the 13th inst., he was called to see the deceased at the house of his sister-in-law. He found him suffering from concussion of the brain, and ordered him to go quietly home to bed. He went on very nicely up to Friday and witness told him he must keep quiet in bed: he also warned those who were attending him that it would endanger his life if he were to get up. The man felt so well on Saturday that he did get up. He thought by doing so he should sleep better at night. After getting up he was so bad that on Sunday he had to go to bed again. Inflammation of the brain and lungs followed and he died on Friday night. The primary cause of death was a blow on the head, causing concussion of the brain. The man might have recovered if he had kept quiet in bed. - Mrs Russell said the deceased lodged at her house and she attended him. The doctor ordered him to bed and said he was to be kept very quiet. Deceased remained in bed until Sunday morning when he got up. Her husband tried to persuade the deceased to go back to bed, but he said he was all right and wanted to go to his sister-in-law. They did not know the danger the man was in or they would not have allowed him to get up. He was constantly watched after that. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Accidental Causes," and gave their fees to the widowed mother, who is ill in bed and has another son an invalid.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 27 March 1889
DARTMOUTH - Fatal Accident At Dartmouth - While the steamer Kingmoor was discharging coal alongside the Kingswear Jetty one of the seamen, named CHARLES WILSON, fell down the hold of the ship, and, pitching on his head, was rendered insensible. The poor fellow was picked up and conveyed to the Dartmouth Cottage Hospital. Medical aid was promptly at hand, but he eventually succumbed to his injuries. He was a married man and a native of Shields, where his family resides. He was only 30 years of age. Mr R. W. Prideaux, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at the Guildhall, when a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 29 March 1889
NEWTON ABBOT - An Inquest was held at the Queen's Hotel, Newton Abbot, yesterday, by Mr Sidney Hacker, touching the death of MR JOHN BERRY, woollen manufacturer, of Ashburton and Buckfastleigh, who expired suddenly at Newton the previous day under circumstances described in the Gazette of Thursday. The medical evidence shewed that death was the result of failure of the heart's action induced by over exertion. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was accordingly returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 30 March 1889
TORQUAY - The District Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquest at the Upton Vale Hotel, Torquay, yesterday morning, into circumstances attending the death of FREDERICK RICE, aged eight months, and son of JOHN RICE, of 8 Davson Cottages, Upton, who died suddenly on the previous morning. The evidence of Dr Benstle led the Jury to return a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 1 April 1889
SIMONSBATH, SOMERSET - An Inquest was held at Simonsbath, Exmoor, on Saturday, on the body of MR R. GAMMON, of Rowley Farm, Parracombe, who committed suicide by drowning about a fortnight ago. The deceased had contracted an affection for a young lady of the parish of Parracombe, but the affection was not reciprocated, he being a widower and the father of 10 children. He accordingly one night left the parish, remarking that he was going off to Pinkworthy which is a large pond on Exmoor. Search was made for his body by dragging, but with no result. A Cardiff diver subsequently went down and failed to discover the body. Ultimately the plug of the pond was raised and when a large portion of the water had been let off the body was found near the bank, not far from where his clothes had been found, and close to where the diver went in. Several witnesses were called at the Inquest, including Miss Richardson, of the Fox and Goose Inn, Parracombe. The Jury returned a verdict that the deceased Committed Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity.

TORQUAY - Suicide At Torquay. - Late on Friday night JOSEPH R. BISHOP, a confirmed invalid, residing at No. 3 Hazelwood-terrace, Ellacombe, jumped from his bedroom window into the road below, a distance of nearly 40 feet and sustained such severe injuries to his head that he died a few minutes after. The deceased had several times threatened to destroy himself. Mr Sidney Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquest on the body at the Police Station on Saturday afternoon, when the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that deceased Committed Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 3 April 1889
SOUTH MOLTON - The Borough Coroner, Mr Thomas Sanders, held an Inquest at Southmolton on Monday evening on the body of MRS ELIZA HARRIS, aged 76 years, of Bidders-court, who was found dead in her bed on Sunday afternoon. WILLIAM HARRIS stated that he last saw his mother on Saturday night, when she was in good health. She never complained of any illness in any way, but on several occasions she said she felt a pain in her side. He had o reason to suspect that she would commit suicide. He was called on Sunday afternoon about 4 o'clock by William Vernon, when he found his mother dead. Henry Vanstone stated that he saw deceased on Sunday morning by the water-tap. At 4 o'clock Mrs Vernon spoke to him, saying she thought something was up with deceased as she had not seen her. He got a ladder and looked through the window, when he saw deceased lying on the bed partially dressed. He sent for her son and also for P.S. Leyman. Mr E. Furse, Surgeon, stated that he had known deceased for several years, but had not attended her professionally for several months, but he should say she died from natural causes, most probably heart disease. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 5 April 1889
KINGSBRIDGE - Dr Donald M. Fraser, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on Saturday on the body of MR GEORGE EDWIN HARVEY, aged 27 years, at Grimpstonleigh Farm, near Kingsbridge. Deceased, on Thursday, went on business to Harbertonford, and on his return it was supposed a fowl, which was found under the cart, flew across the road, frightening the horse which MR HARVEY was driving, the result being that the trap was overturned and the back of the cart bore heavily on his neck, the Constable stating that the deceased's neck was broken when assistance arrived, two minutes after the occurrence. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 8 April 1889
EXETER - Sudden Death From Bronchitis. - An Inquest was held at 93 Clifton-street, on Saturday, by Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of FLORENCE HILLMAN. - MARY JANE HILLMAN, mother of deceased, and wife of W. HILLMAN, printer, of 93 Clifton-street, deposed that her daughter, FLORENCE, was two years and six months old. Last Wednesday week the child was taken unwell with measles. The child seemed to get better, but on Thursday last bronchitis set in and on Friday morning witness sent for Mr Mortimer, but before he came the child was dead. The child's life was insured in the Prudential Office for £3 when it was three weeks old. The other child was also insured in the same office, but she was five years old. The insurance was on a sliding scale, the instalments being one penny per week and the amounts being £10 up to ten years of age. - Mr Mortimer, Surgeon, Exeter, stated that he was called on the preceding morning just before 8 o'clock. When he arrived the child was dead. He examined the body and considered that death was due to bronchitis following on measles. - By a Juryman: Saffron was not of the slightest use as a medicine in the case of measles. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TAVISTOCK - On Saturday afternoon Mr R. R. Rodd, District Coroner, held an Inquest at the Union Inn, Tavistock, on the body of EMMA HOLE, aged 24 hours, child of DAVID HOLE, a navvy, living at No. 2, Bannawell-street, Tavistock. Mr R. Warren was Foreman of the Jury. The child was taken ill at 2 o'clock and died at 5 o'clock on Saturday morning. Dr Brodrick having given evidence, the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased died from Natural Causes.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 12 April 1889
DREWSTEIGNTON - On Saturday Mr William Burd, District Coroner, held an Inquest at Drewsteignton on the body of HENRY DODD, about three years of age, son of WILLIAM DODD, labourer, Drewsteignton, who was accidentally scalded to death on Wednesday. It appears that the child was playing in the house, when it fell into a large boiler of hot water, which a few minutes before had been taken from over the fire. The child's screams soon brought assistance from the brother, who was close at hand, washing out some bottles, and who at once pulled the unfortunate child out, but not until it was badly scalded. The child was taken to a neighbour's house (Mrs Brock's) by the brother and undressed. Dr Hunt, who was passing at the time, was called in, and attended to the extensive scalds on the back and loins, but the child died within 28 hours. Dr Hunt informed the Jury that everything that could possibly be done was done and, in his opinion, the child died from shock to the system, caused by falling in the boiler of hot water. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 13 April 1889
BARNSTAPLE - The Fatal Accident At Barnstaple. - An Inquest was held yesterday at the Mermaid Inn, before Mr R. Incledon Bencraft, Coroner, on the body of a man named BILL BRAUND, a workman in the employ of Messrs. Smyth Bros, tanners. - John Joce said he lived in the Rackfield and was foreman at Mr Smyth's tan-yard. Deceased was one of the workmen and had been employed in the yard for many years. The previous day the deceased had been engaged in working a machine called the "Striker," in one of the lofts. That machine worked the offal, and was composed mostly of brushes. Witness passed him in the loft about a quarter to 1 o'clock and spoke to him. He had a brush in his hand sweeping the floor close to the machine, as he had finished the job he was on. His machine was stopped. Witness went down into the loft under and still heard the deceased brushing, but in about a minute he heard an unusual noise up over Something like bumping or knocking. He went up to see what it was, and he saw deceased on the shaft going round, as the engine had not stopped. The engine was immediately stopped and witness stood upon a stool and began to release the body from the shaft and the belt in which it was entangled. Deceased was lying lengthwise on the shaft with his head away from the pulley. The belt was wound round the lower part of his body and the belt was broken. They had to cut the belt and the clothes to get the deceased off. Witness saw that one of deceased's feet and an arm was knocked abroad. He saw no injury to the head or face. Deceased was not conscious. The body was taken into his house, which was in the yard. Someone had gone for a medical man. There was a nail in a beam over the shaft and the deceased used to hitch up the belt there. He might have been in the act of doing this when he was pulled round. The hole in the roof was made by the belt going round. - Robert Popham and Henry Shaddick gave corroboratory evidence. - Mr W. Smyth, one of the members of the firm, said the deceased was a very steady man and was a teetotaller. He believed the accident must have occurred by deceased in some way slipping when on the stool trying to hitch up the belt to the nail. - In answer to the Foreman as to whether it was not possible to protect the pulley, the witness said he never knew a pulley six feet from the ground protected, but it could be done. - Mr J. L. Ware, Surgeon, describing the injuries the deceased received, and added that when he saw him he was in a state of extreme collapse, from which he never rallied and he died within an hour. - The Coroner, having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict that deceased met with his death Accidentally, and that no blame was attached to anybody. They also expressed their opinion that deceased was released from his position without a moment's delay. It was suggested that the nail on which the belt was hitched should be removed and the pulley protected.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 15 April 1889
EXETER - Death From Measles At Exeter. - An Inquest was held at the Exeter Police Court on Saturday morning, before Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of GEORGE PARKHOUSE. - GEORGE PARKHOUSE, tailor, 8 Russell-street, St Sidwell's, the father of the child, deposed that his son was one year and eight months old. The child had been ill ever since its birth and had medical attendance last year for congestion of the lungs. On Friday morning the child, who was suffering from measles, seemed to get worse, and witness sent for the doctor. The family doctor was not at home and witness called in Mr Bell. He was only absent about 5 minutes. The deceased's life was insured, he believed, in the Prudential Office, but as it had only been insured for two months he would not receive anything. He had five other children, who were all insured in the same office. - Mr C. E. Bell, Surgeon, said he was called in at 12 o'clock on Friday and found the child dead in the arms of its grandmother. He examined the body, but found no marks of violence. The pupils of the eyes were dilated. Death was caused by convulsions, due to measles. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 17 April 1889
DARTMOUTH - Yesterday Mr R. W. Prideaux, Coroner, held an Inquest at Dartmouth Guildhall. The first was on the body of WILLIAM SCOBLE, who was found hanging by the neck in the staircase of a house adjoining the London Inn. After viewing the body the Jury returned to the Guildhall. Mr W. R. Atkins was Foreman of the Jury. - Samuel C. Widdicombe, lessee of the Dartmouth Market, identified the body of the deceased as that of WILLIAM SCOBLE, lately residing at London Inn-passage. He was a pork butcher and was about 47 years old. He last saw him on Saturday about 10.30 p.m. He was tolerably sober then, but was of intemperate habits. He appeared in trouble about his brother. He said he would do his brother's work and clean the market. On Monday, about noon, witness inquired about him, but no one had seen him. He inquired again about 5.30 p.m. and went to the London Inn and tried his door and found it locked. He looked around and saw Reynolds, who lodges in the London Inn. He said he had not seen SCOBLE. Witness and Reynolds looked through the key-hole and saw the key on the inside. They entered the adjoining house and Reynolds got in through a staircase window, and came back and said SCOBLE was dead and stiff. They then went for the Sergeant of Police, and in his presence went up the stairs and saw the deceased hanging to the staircase with a rope around his neck. He was quite dead. - Hedley Wallis, a baker, said he saw deceased on Saturday evening about 11.30. He appeared to be sober. - John Henry Reynolds, residing at the London Inn, said he was at the London Inn on Sunday. He did not see or hear anything of the deceased on that day. He remembered Mr Widdicombe coming in about 5.30 p.m. on Monday. Witness went and knocked at the door, but there was no answer. He looked through the key-hole and saw the key on the inside. He went into the next shop and up the stairs and called out, "MR SCOBLE." He noticed a man's hands catching hold the rails of the staircase. He looked further and saw SCOBLE hanging by the neck. The loop of the cord was tied around the rails and another cord like a slip-knot around his neck. He was in a stooping posture. Witness did not touch him, but was quite sure he was dead. He then went to the Sergeant of Police. - James Stentiford, Sergeant of Police, said that on going upstairs he saw the deceased hanging by the neck by the cord produced, a piece about two yards long. His hands were out through the balusters, and were cold and stiff, as were also his legs. Witness immediately loosened the cord and freed him. He had evidently been dead several hours. He had 6s. 11d. on his table, and two keys. He had spoken several times about his half-brother, who had attempted to commit suicide and appeared to trouble himself about him. The deceased had a brother in the Lunatic Asylum. - The Jury, after a short consultation, returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity."

DARTMOUTH - Yesterday Mr Prideaux held an Inquest at Dartmouth Guildhall on the body of ISAAC BALL, a child aged about 4 years. Mr W. R. Atkins was Foreman of the Jury. - GEORGE BALL, blacksmith, residing at Undercliff, identified the deceased as his son, who was 4 years and 6 weeks old. Witness last saw him about dinner-time on Monday. At 2 o'clock he went to school and generally returned a little after 4 to have something to eat. About 6 p.m. witness's wife began to get uneasy about the child and sent around the town to get information about him. Eventually she told the Police. About 20 minutes to 11 o'clock he saw the body of the child in Russell's boat, opposite the Porter's Rest. He took him up and ran home with him. - Mary Jane Hannaford said she saw deceased on the New Ground about 5.30 p.m. on Monday, opposite the Coal Lumpers' Rest. He was playing alone. He was not near the edge of the quay. - Henry Russell, boatman, proved finding the body with his boathook and pulling it into his boat. The deceased was quite dead. There was about 18 inches of water where he found him. - After a short consultation, the Jury returned a verdict of "Found Dead in the Water, but how deceased came into the water there was no evidence to show; probably by Misadventure."

EXETER - Fatal Accident To A Waggoner. - Yesterday Mr Coroner H. W. Hooper held an Inquest at the Devon and Exeter Hospital concerning the death of GEORGE STEER, who died in that Institution on Sunday last. - Mr George Hawkins was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Mr Lee, farmer, of Neopardy, near Yeoford, in whose employ the deceased was at the time he met with an accident, was present. - The first witness called was JANE STEER, who identified the body as that of her late husband. He was a farm labourer. He had been in the employ of Mr Lee, and was 45 years of age. On the 6th instant deceased left home about 7 a.m. to go to work, and he was then in his usual health. His work that day was tilling potatoes and she was in the field with him until 5 o'clock when she went home. Later in the evening the deceased was taken in a cart by some workmen to Yeoford Junction Station and conveyed to the Devon and Exeter Hospital. She knew nothing about the accident. - James Rendle, labourer, of Neopardy, deposed that he was at work with the deceased on the 6th instant. They were tilling potatoes. Deceased left the field about 5 o'clock to go home. He was then sitting on the shafts of a waggon containing a few empty bags and some potatoes. While driving down hill in the field witness heard a cry and on proceeding to where the waggon was he found the deceased lying across the road on his right side, his left leg crossing the right. The horse and waggon had gone up over the field. Deceased said: "I was tore to pieces." Witness noticed blood flowing from deceased's leg and face. Deceased said he had fallen off the shafts and the horse had knocked him along. - In reply to a Juror, witness said he understood that the waggon was not "dragged," and, in answer to another Juror, he said it was usual to "drag" the waggon while going down this hill. - It was pointed out by a Juror that the waggon was not heavily laden. - Mr Reginald Martin, Assistant House Surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, deposed to admitting the deceased into that Institution at 7.30 p.m. on the 6th of April. He had a compound fracture of the left thigh and was suffering from shock. He progressed favourably until Tuesday, when he became worse and succumbed on Sunday last. Death was due to the injuries he received, followed by septicaemia. - The Coroner asked MRS STEER whether her husband was a temperate man. - MRS STEER: What do you mean? - The Coroner: What I say. Did he drink? - MRS STEER: A little. - The Coroner: Was he addicted to drink? - MRS STEER: Not much, sir. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

NEWTON ABBOT - MARY ANN ROPER, 64, widow, of Torquay, died in No. 10 Court, Wolborough-street, Newton, suddenly, on Sunday afternoon. An Inquest was held yesterday by Mr Sidney Hacker, when it was elicited that the deceased was in receipt of out-relief. She lived in Newton several weeks, and last week resided with a pedlar and his wife named Jones, in No. 10 Court, who took her in for charity. She was taken very ill during the week and late on Saturday night Jones went to the Relieving Officer. The Officer found the woman lying on a heap of straw, with a few rags to cover her. He called in the Medical Officer, who ordered her stimulants. The woman died the following day. The cause of death was broncho-pneumonia. The Coroner, in summing up, commented on the absence of a lamp in the court, and observed that it tended to increase debauchery and crime, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 18 April 1889
TOTNES - Suicide Of A Postman At Totnes. - Much excitement was caused in Totnes yesterday by the report that JOSEPH SKINNER, a well-known local postman, had committed suicide. It appears that about half-past 6 o'clock a workman named William Sims, in the employ of Messrs. Bentall, Lloyd and Co., was engaged with some casks near the leat and close to the bridge when he saw a walking-stick and a postman's hat lying on the banks. He at once proceeded to the residence of Police Sergeant Nott and the leat was dragged, with the result that the body of the deceased was found about an hour and a half afterwards. The remains were removed to the Dartmouth Inn to await an Inquest. - The deceased was noticed at the Totnes Mills about half-past 5 o'clock and just before 6 was seen near the spot where he is supposed to have jumped into the water. Deceased was over 50 years of age, and had been in the Post-office employ about 30 years. Domestic trouble is believed to be the cause for the rash act. SKINNER lost his wife a short time since, and had lately resided with his son-in-law at Jubilee-cottages, South-street. At the Inquest on the body held last evening, it was stated that the deceased was a man of peculiar temperament and had been depressed since his wife's death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in an Unsound State of Mind."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 22 April 1889
NEWTON ABBOT - Fatal Accident At Newton Abbot. - A lad named WILLIAM GEORGE HAMMETT, 10 years of age, son of P.C. HAMMETT, of Newton Abbot, was playing with a companion in the East-street School playground on Thursday afternoon. They procured a rope, one end of which was attached to a spout and the other held by one of the lads. Over this rope the lads proceeded to jump. HAMMETT, in jumping, hitched his foot and bruised his head, which he then proceeded to bathe at the conduit near. He afterwards complained of feeling unwell, and, accompanied by his companion, a boy named Hamblyn, he went to Courtenay Park, where he lay down on the grass. He went home sometime afterwards, when he related what had occurred. He was suddenly taken very ill and his mother put him to bed. The poor lad grew unconscious and died in this state at 9.30 p.m. Dr J. W. Ley visited him twice and found a wound about the size of a pea on his head. His opinion was that deceased died from rupture of a blood-vessel of the brain, compression of the brain being plainly marked. An Inquest was held on Saturday morning by the Deputy Coroner, Mr Edmonds, and the Jury, after hearing evidence to the above effect, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," exonerating deceased's companion from all blame, and expressing their sympathy with the parents.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 23 April 1889
HOLSWORTHY - Fatal Accident At Holsworthy. - A shocking accident occurred on the London and South Western Railway at Holsworthy on Saturday afternoon. It appears that a girl named BESSIE COOMBES, aged 12, and the daughter of SAMUEL COOMBES, a signalman engaged on the railway, was sent to the coal stores adjoining the Station to order some coal. She was seen leaning against the outside of the stores, but shortly afterwards was missed. Some shunting was going on at the time and one of the porters engaged in the work, noticing that one of the trucks bumped, ran to see what was the matter. He found the body of the girl on the line, with the head crushed and completely severed from the trunk. It is conjectured that the deceased attempted to cross the line and was knocked down. No blame is attached to anyone. - An Inquest was held on the body of the deceased yesterday. - The father identified the body as that of his daughter. When he saw the deceased on Saturday afternoon her head was severed from the body, and crushed, and both hands were cut off. - P.S. Hambling deposed that he took charge of the body, and had it removed to her father's residence. - Dr Symons said that death must have been instantaneous. - The head porter, George Howe, deposed that he was shunting a train, and on looking back for instructions to the other porter he saw the legs of the deceased under the truck. On an examination he found that the engine had passed over the deceased. The girl had no business whatever on the line. Her father's house was close by and it appears she had been sent to the coal-yard by a neighbour to order some coal. On returning to her home, instead of going by the road she must have attempted to cross the line. No one saw the engine go over her. - The girl was blind in one eye. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated the railway officials from any blame. It is supposed that the deceased must have attempted to creep under the truck rather than wait till the train had passed out of the way.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 24 April 1889
BRIXHAM - An Inquest was held at Brixham yesterday to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of MR PETER BARTLETT, fisherman. After hearing the evidence the Jury returned a verdict that the deceased Committed Suicide while in a State of Temporary Insanity.

BRIXHAM - An Inquest was held at Brixham yesterday on the body of MR GEORGE FUDGE, who had died suddenly. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 30 April 1889
EAST STONEHOUSE - The Recent Fatality At Stonehouse. - An Inquiry has been held at the Great Western Docks, Plymouth, by the District Coroner, Mr R. R. Rodd sen., relative to the circumstances attending the death of JOSEPH MELVILLE, late chief steward of the steamship Iron Prince, lying in the Docks. - Michael Wallace, serving on board the Iron Prince, stated that he was keeping the night watch on Saturday when the deceased fell overboard. At 10 o'clock deceased called to him that he wanted to come aboard. He had a parcel with him, which he handed to witness, and as he was walking along the plank he fell overboard between the vessel and the quay. - E. H. McQuire deposed to being called by the watchman, who told him that the deceased had fallen overboard. Attempts were made to rescue the man, but when he was brought up life was extinct, his head being completely smashed in. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," exonerating the crew from all blame.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 1 May 1889
KINGSBRIDGE - The Suicide At The Kingsbridge Workhouse. - Mr Sydney Hacker held an Inquest at the Kingsbridge Union Workhouse yesterday concerning the death of an inmate of the Hospital Ward, named HENRY SCOBLE. Mr H. R. Lamble was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The evidence of Mr William Cause, Master of the Workhouse, was to the effect that the man had been very clamorous for stimulants, and he was informed by Dr Elliot on the day before SCOBLE died that he had threatened to cut his throat. He did not take any further precautions, for there were other men in the ward. - John Condon, an inmate of the ward, deposed to hearing SCOBLE threaten to destroy his life on one or two occasions. On Sunday morning about 5 o'clock, he was awake and saw the deceased reach under his bed and pick up a little bag, from which he took a pocket-knife. Witness asked him what he was going to do with the knife, and deceased replied that he was going to cut his throat, and immediately plunged the knife into his neck. - William Narramore, another inmate, jumped out of bed and took away the knife, and called the nurse. - Dr E. Elliot described the nature of the wound and said that deceased previous to his death was constantly asking for brandy, but he did not consider it would be beneficial to prescribe it. - Dr John Elliot gave evidence as to the threat used by SCOBLE on Saturday last, stating that he looked upon it as an idle one uttered for the purpose of intimidating him to prescribe brandy. He had never seen symptoms of suicidal tendency. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 4 May 1889
WIDECOMBE IN THE MOOR - A Coroner's Inquest was held before Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner, at Uppacott, Widecombe, on Thursday evening, on the body of SARAH ANN TURNER, about two years old, the child of JOHN TURNER, who was found dead in her cradle by her mother on Monday evening. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 7 May 1889
EXETER - Yesterday, Mr Coroner H. W. Hooper held an inquiry at 27 Elmside, Mount Pleasant, Exeter, into the circumstances attending the death of ELIZABETH ARABELLA MARSHALL, who was found dead in a bedroom at that address on Friday evening last, as reported in the Gazette. It will be remembered that the deceased, who was alone in the house, had not been seen for several days, and on her neighbours forcing an entrance she was found dead on the floor of her bedroom. The medical evidence showed that death was due to failure of the heart's action, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 8 May 1889
EXETER - The Recent Fatality In Exeter. Inquest And Verdict. - At the Police Court, Exeter, yesterday, Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of SUSAN BACK, who was found burnt to death on Sunday evening. - MARTHA JEFFREY, who was in a very nervous condition and would not for some time enter the Inquest-room because she was afraid the body was therein, said she was the widow of THOMAS JEFFREY, a shoemaker, of Torquay. She identified the body of the deceased as being that of her late sister, who was about 70 years of age. The deceased was the widow of MR BACK, a china dealer, and resided in King-street. - William Quick, a general dealer, living in the West Quarter, deposed that he knew the deceased for 25 years. She lived with Mrs Woodhouse in King-street, occupying some rooms in the latter's house. Witness last saw the deceased alive about a quarter to nine on Saturday night in the Teignmouth Inn. She had been selling oranges during the morning and entered the public-house with witness, leaving about the time above mentioned. Deceased had a couple of glasses of beer, and, having given witness his key, went home. On Sunday morning witness went to the house where deceased lived between 8.30 and 9 o'clock for the purpose of asking her to come down and send the dinner to the bake-house, she having acted as his housekeeper. Witness could not get to deceased's apartments, the front door being fastened. He called the tenant of the house, Mrs Woodhouse, who shouted deceased's name, and eventually told witness MRS BACK would be down in a few minutes. Finding deceased did not come, at 10.30 witness sent Mrs Carter to the deceased. She returned saying that the deceased would be down in a few minutes. Witness remained indoors all day. The deceased did not arrive and at 6.30 he went to her lodgings, and on opening the door found the place full of smoke. He immediately called assistance. - In reply to a Juryman, witness said the deceased was not drunk when he left her on Saturday night. She had been under medical treatment for some time, being subject to fits. - The Coroner: Was she addicted to drink? - Witness: She had a drop occasionally. - Mary Woodhouse, wife of Richard Woodhouse, plasterer, 11 King-street, deposed that deceased rented a furnished apartment of her and paid a rent of 1s. 6d. per week. Deceased lived alone and the apartment she occupied was the top back room. The deceased came home on Saturday night about 9.30 and at the request of witness bolted the door. Witness did not think deceased was intoxicated. On Sunday morning, at the request of Quick, witness called to the deceased, and was under the impression that she answered. Witness accordingly told Quick the deceased would be down in a few minutes. Nothing further occurred until Quick called again in the evening and discovered the melancholy state of affairs. Witness's husband went upstairs, opened the door, and on seeing what had happened requested witness to fetch a Policeman, which she did. There was a fire-place in the deceased's room, but witness did not believe there had been a fire lit in it for two months. Deceased had some hot water from witness when she required it. Witness was not aware that the deceased burnt oil; in fact, deceased said she burnt candles. Witness did not detect during the day the least smell of fire or smoke. There were seven persons living in the house, namely, witness and her husband, witness' son and his wife, Mrs Powell, Mrs Guppy and the deceased. - Elizabeth Powell gave evidence to the effect that deceased reached home between 9 and 10 o'clock on Saturday night. She wished witness "Good night." Witness did not hear or notice anything unusual on Saturday night, or during Sunday. During the afternoon Mrs Carter called, and witness told her she believed the deceased had gone out. - P.C. Guppy deposed that on Sunday evening, about 5.50, he was on duty in Preston-street, and hearing an alarm of fire proceeded to 11 King-street. Witness saw Quick, who said "MRS BACK is burnt to death." He went up two pairs of stairs and in a room he saw Woodhouse and another man named Powell, residing next door, throwing buckets of water. The room was full of smoke. At the end of the room on the floor, between the bed and a chair, he saw the body of the deceased. He took hold of her hand, moved her and found that life was quite extinct. She was fully dressed. Witness sent messengers to the Police and Fire-Stations. With assistance the body was taken downstairs and from thence to the Mortuary. Witness then searched the room in company with Superintendent Pett and Sergeant Sullock, and found that the straw paillasses and bed-tie were very much burnt. Among the straw under the bed was a small kettle and a small glass-bottle lamp(produced), in which there was a little oil. They also found a box of matches and a few coppers. Witness subsequently saw Quick, and asked him the last time he saw the deceased. He replied, "She left me at 8 o'clock last night outside the Teignmouth Inn to go home." Witness also saw Mrs Carter and Mrs Powell, both of whom looked into the room through the keyhole on Sunday morning and they stated that the room appeared free from smoke. Quick told witness deceased was insured some time ago, but she had failed to keep up the payments on the policy, which had run out. Witness, in reply to questions, said the part of the room where the deceased was lying could not e seen by a person looking through the keyhole. Witness did not consider that the deceased had been in bed. - Mr Perkins, Surgeon, South-street, proved being called shortly after 6 o'clock on Sunday evening to see the deceased. On an examination he found there were no marks of violence, nor could he detect any smell of spirit or beer. The body was much burnt in various parts, and nearly all the clothes were burnt off. The face was black. Death was undoubtedly caused by the burns. It was impossible to say how long the deceased had been dead. The body was warm when he made his examination at the Mortuary. - By a Juror: How do you account for the blackness of the face? Suffocation, I suppose? - Witness: She might have been suffocated first and burnt afterwards. - The Coroner: But the burns of themselves were sufficient to cause death. - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner, in summing up, said that the deceased was found burnt to death, but by what means they had no direct evidence to show. The Jury had got all the evidence they could have before them. - The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased was Burnt to death, but how caused there was no evidence to show.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 10 May 1889
HOLCOMBE ROGUS - A fatal accident happened on Monday to a girl named ELIZA TROAKE, aged 13 years, living with Mr Farrant, Wiseborough Farm. It appears that she left in the morning as usual with Mrs Farrant's little girl, in a donkey cart, as she had been accustomed to do. After quitting the yard she attempted to get into the cart when the donkey moved on, and the opposite wheel caught the bank, while the weight of the girl pulled the cart over. The girl fell underneath and broke her neck. Mr Grigg was sent for, but he pronounced that death must have been instantaneous. Mrs Farrant's little girl was also under the cart, but escaped with a few bruises. An Inquest was held by Mr F. Burrow, District Coroner, on the body of the deceased, when a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 11 May 1889
TORQUAY - Mr Sidney Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Torbay Hospital, Torquay, last evening, into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM WILLS, 58, cab-driver of 4 Chester-place, Torre, who died on the previous day from injuries received in a cab accident on Braddon-hill on May 2nd. - GEORGE ALFRED WILLS, cab-driver of 4 Higher-terrace Mews, said the deceased was his uncle, and was employed by Mr F. U. Webb, cab proprietor of Lansdown Mews, Torre. On the previous Monday deceased explained how the accident happened. He said he had just dropped his fare, and was mounting the box when the carriage turned over. He added that the vehicle was never safe, as it had previously turned over several times. On this occasion the cab fell on him and he was dragged some distance. Deceased was quite sensible when the conversation took place. Witness had since seen the carriage, and he thought it was not fit for public work. It was so constructed that it was liable to lurch when going around a corner. Such carriages were seldom placed on the stand. - Elizabeth Turner, of 3 Higher Braddon, stated that between 7 and 8 p.m. on the 2nd May she saw the deceased drive up to a house near her residence. He dropped his fare and took in the luggage. Deceased then mounted the box, and endeavoured to turn the horse, but the wheels of the carriage seemed to lock and the vehicle turned over, deceased being underneath. The horse plunged and dragged deceased and the carriage for about 20 yards. When picked up the man appeared to be greatly injured, and he was subsequently conveyed to the Hospital. - John Henry Rowe Collins, carpenter of 2 Higher Braddon-street, said he was standing close to the spot at the time of the accident. The carriage fell down the road as it was being turned. The road was very much out of the level, and he thought this accounted for the accident. - Mr Heale, House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said the deceased was admitted on the 2nd instant. He was suffering from a lacerated wound of the scalp six inches long. It was a very ragged wound and part f the scalp had been torn away. Both bones of the left leg were fractured, and there were several bruises on the body. Inflammation sent in on the 4th inst., and he died on Thursday, 9th inst., about 7 o'clock in the evening. Death was caused by the injuries and exhaustion brought about by the shock to the system. - Mr F. U. Webb, carriage proprietor said the deceased had been in his employ for a large number of years. The carriage deceased drove had been in use for 11 years, and was not at all of an uncommon description. He attributed the accident to the condition of the road. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider to the effect that the attention of the Local Board be called to the dangerous condition of the road. The Jury gave their fees to the Hospital.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 14 May 1889
PLYMOUTH - Determined Suicide At Plymouth. - An Inquest was held yesterday by the Plymouth Borough Coroner, on the body of JOHN TRAIN, aged 72, who was found in the water at Sutton Pool under suspicious circumstances. Inspector Wood watched the case on behalf of the Police. - Mary Ann French, wife of a fisherman, living at 35 New-street, identified the body of the deceased, and said he lived in the same house. On Saturday night at about a quarter to 10, she heard a noise in the room of the deceased, as if something had fallen to the floor. The wife of deceased had been dead six or seven months, and he had been strange since that time. - William Brett, who previously gave his name as Charles Oliver, stated that he gave this name to the Police because it was the name he used to bear. He had no occupation or stated residence, having been three months at Plymouth endeavouring to get work on a ship. - In reply to the Coroner, he stated that at 10 o'clock on Saturday night he was asleep on board a trawler, which was lying at Vauxhall Quay. At half-past 4 o'clock on Sunday morning he came ashore, and after he had been on the Quay about five minutes he discovered a body floating near the vessel. He obtained assistance and the body was brought ashore. He afterwards perceived that the throat was cut. - P.C. Brown deposed to bringing the body to the Mortuary. He found on him the key of the room in which he lived and eight pawn-tickets. - Inspector Wood stated that when the occurrence was reported to him he went to the room of the deceased. He found the furniture packed up as if ready for removal. The room and the bestead were bespattered with blood and on the floor there appeared to have been a large pool of blood. On the floor about three feet from the bedstead he found a razor covered with blood. His opinion was that the deceased cut his throat while he was sitting on the bedstead and then fell on the floor. He found spots of blood on the stairs and also in New-street. - Mr Wolferstan deposed to having made a post-mortem examination. He found the mouth full of froth and below the chin there was an irregular wound dividing all the parts down to the windpipe, but not dividing any of the larger vessels on either side. The wound in itself was not necessarily fatal. He found that there were two distinct cuts. Examination of the internal organs led him to believe that death had resulted from drowning. He believed that deceased could have walked without assistance after cutting his throat from his house to Vauxhall Quay. His opinion was that the man first fainted, afterwards rallying again. - The Coroner, addressing the Jury, said that it appeared the man had thrown himself into the water, after ineffectually attempting to cut his throat. He mentioned to the Jury that the deceased had had notice to leave the room, and that evidently depressed him. - The Jury were of opinion that the deceased attempted first to cut his throat and then drowned himself while in a state of Temporary Insanity.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 15 May 1889
BARNSTAPLE - The Barnstaple Borough Coroner, Mr R. J. Bencraft, held an Inquest at the Globe Inn, Queen-street, yesterday, touching the death of a child, aged 1 year and 10 months, the daughter of WILLIAM HENRY SPURWAY, basket-maker, of Aze's-lane. The circumstances connected with the decease of the child are given in the following evidence:- WILLIAM HENRY SPURWAY said the deceased chid was scarcely two years old and had always been somewhat delicate. She suffered chiefly from bronchitis. On Sunday night the infant was attacked with a tightness on the chest and they applied poultices and oil, and on Monday she appeared to be better. That (Tuesday) morning, however, between 5 and 6 o'clock, when witness got up to go to work, the child seemed worse and on his returning at breakfast-time he found she was dead. They did not call a doctor until that morning. the child was insured in the Prudential Office and had been for about 18 months. The premium was 1d. a week and on the child's death witness became entitled to about £3. His other child was also insured. - Mary Jane Chapple, who resides near the last witness, said she knew the deceased child and she believed it had been delicate from its birth. That morning shortly before 8 o'clock, she called and asked for the child and the mother requested her to go for a doctor. Witness went for Dr Cooke and was only absent about five minutes, but on her return she found the child had just expired. She used to visit the house frequently, and the child was always very kindly treated and well attended to. - Mr J. W. Cooke stated that on being called to the child he found it lying in a cradle downstairs and it had just died. The deceased was a think, delicate child and frequently suffered from bronchitis. He attended for that complaint about three months ago. There were no indications of the child having died from other than natural causes and he thought it very probable that bronchitis was the cause of death. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

COLYTON - The Suicide Of A Young Woman At Colyton. - Mr C. E. Cox, Deputy Coroner for the District, yesterday held an Inquest at the Colcombe Castle Hotel, on the body of MISS ALICE WHITE, 35 years, who was found dead on the previous day under circumstances already reported. Mr Mountstephen was chosen Foreman of the Jury and after the body had been viewed evidence of identification was given by MRS FANNY WHITE, mother of the deceased. About half-past three the previous afternoon she found her daughter hanging in an outhouse. She was suspended by a strap fastened round her neck and her knees were on the ground. Witness released her daughter, but she was then quite dead. - William Brown, baker, said he was the last to see the deceased alive, and she then seemed very spirited. Miss Emily Driscoll and Mr Pound also testified to the despondent state the deceased had been in for some time past, the former stating that only a short time before death, MISS WHITE asked her if she thought it a sin to commit suicide. - Medical evidence went to show that death resulted from suffocation. - The Jury, without hesitation, found "That deceased Committed Suicide while in an Unsound State of Mind," and expressed their sympathy for the mother.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 17 May 1889
WEST ALVINGTON - Mr Sydney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Ring of Bells Inn, West Alvington, on Monday morning, on the body of an illegitimate child, aged six weeks, named ELIZABETH ELLEN FOALE. - Evidence was given by the mother, SARAH J. FOALE, and Susan Sherriff, both stating that the child had been subject to convulsive fits since its birth and not being satisfied with milk from the breast it had been given biscuit food during the past month. Dr Vincent Wing Twining, who had made a post-mortem examination on the body, stated that he had found the organs healthy and there were no external marks of violence. Had he been called to see the child before its death he should certainly have changed the diet, as he thought children under six months of age ought to be fed with milk from the breast or with some specially prepared food and not biscuit food, as children of such tender age could not digest it. In his opinion the child died from syncope. - The Coroner, in summing up, said he was sorry to say that many cases like the present often came under his notice, the cause of death often being that of improper food. The Jury, of which Mr J. S. Tucker was Foreman, without retiring, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 21 May 1889
SEATON AND BEER - Inquest At Seaton. The Coroner And The Doctor. - Yesterday an Inquest was held by Mr Coroner Cox at the Clarence Hotel, Seaton, to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of a child named MURIEL TUNSTALL, who died on Saturday morning. - Mr T. Aldridge was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was HENRIETTA TUNSTALL, wife of WILLIAM GEORGE TUNSTALL, an accountant, of Mere, Wiltshire, who identified the body of that of her daughter, aged 10 weeks. She stated that the child was weakly from its birth; she had been attended to by Dr London, of Mere, who last saw her on Wednesday evening. He had advised witness to take the child away for the benefit of her health and accordingly on Friday witness accompanied by her husband's sister, journeyed with the child to Seaton, and engaged lodgings in the same house as her (witness's) mother was staying. - The Coroner said that a certificate from Dr London had not been handed to the Policeman in charge of the case when he gave information to him (the Coroner). - The Constable stated that the certificate referred to was brought to him that (Monday) morning. MR TUNSTALL told him that he got it from Dr London. - Continuing, MRS TUNSTALL said that on Thursday and Friday the child was as well as usual. She went to bed with the child between 10 and 11 o'clock on Friday evening. The child cried during the night, but not more than she had done often previously. About 6 o'clock in the morning witness's sister awoke her, and said there was something wrong with the baby. Witness got up directly and sent for a doctor. Her sister, who was sleeping in the same bed, was holding the child in her arms. The child was terribly convulsed, her face was drawn and her mouth twitched. After sending for a doctor witness took the child from her sister's arms and laid it on the bed. The doctor arrived in the course of an hour and he then said the child was dead. - LUCY MARIA TUNSTALL, sister of the father of the deceased child, deposed to accompanying the previous witness and the child to Seaton on Friday. The child was weakly, but she was not worse than usual prior to Saturday morning. About 1.30 on Saturday morning the child did not seem very well, but witness did not notice anything particular. The child was fretting. At this time the mother was awake. About 6 o'clock witness awoke and felt that the child was heavy. She looked at the child and observed that there was something wrong with her face, it being black. The mouth was twitching and was drawn up. A doctor was summoned, and witness was present when he arrived. Witness and MRS TUNSTALL were present when the child died. She did not know of anyone else being in the room. - MRS TUNSTALL, recalled by the Coroner, said that she did not know that the child had been subject to convulsions before Saturday. - The Coroner: Was there any mark on the child's face? - Witness: It was terribly disfigured all over; it was drawn and discoloured. - The Coroner: There is a mark on the forehead and also a mark on the right side of the mouth. - Witness said she expected that the marks were caused by a woollen shawl which was wrapped around the child's head. She always wrapped the shawl around the chid before putting her to bed. - The Coroner: You have not noticed the marks? - Witness: There were no marks when she went to bed. I did not notice the marks until I took her out of bed. I am sure she has never been hurt in any way. Being so very delicate nearly all our time was given to her. - Further examined, MR TUNSTALL'S sister said that when she heard the child fretting she took her in her arms. - MRS TUNSTALL stated that the child was facing her and lying across her aunt's should in bed. - Mrs Pearse, lodging-house keeper, deposed that MRS TUNSTALL arrived at her house on Friday. On the evening of that day witness nursed the child, who was small, but seemed fairly well. That was the only time she saw the child alive. At five or ten minutes past 6 on Saturday morning a doctor was sent for the deceased child. Witness went to the room in which was the child about 10 minutes after being apprised of its illness. She then thought the child, who looked to have had convulsions, was dead. - The Coroner: Did you notice any marks on the face? - Witness: Not then, sir. - The Coroner: Did you subsequently? - Witness: Well, when the nurse was washing it I noticed a mark on the face. - The Coroner: What mark did you notice? - Witness replied that she noticed a mark on the forehead, which she thought might have been caused by the child lying on her hands. - The Coroner asked witness whether she noticed anything else, and she answered, "Just a scar on the right side of the cheek, sir." Witness was not present when the child died. - Hannah Wilkins, a nurse, residing at Seaton, said that on Saturday morning about 6.45 she was called to go to the deceased child. Dr Evans was in the room, and he said he believed the child had had a convulsive fit and witness concurred in that opinion. - The Coroner: Did you notice any marks about the face? - Witness: Two marks on the forehead and a mark on the cheek. The nose was a little flattened. - The Coroner: You informed the Police Constable of the fact? - Witness: I did. - The Coroner: Quite right, too. - The Coroner asked MR TUNSTALL, who was present at the Inquiry, whether he wished to give evidence. - MR TUNSTALL replied that he should like to ask a question. - The Coroner: I don't know that I can allow you to ask me a question. - MR TUNSTALL said that when the doctor came he did not ask any questions about the child. He might have made some inquiry as to ----- The Coroner, interrupting MR TUNSTALL, reminded him that he was not asking a question, but making a statement. He could not allow him to make a statement unless he did so on oath. - MR TUNSTALL said that the doctor sent for a Policeman without making any inquiries about the child, and he did not think the gentlemen of the Jury should be brought there respecting the matter. - The Coroner requested MR TUNSTALL not to make any comment, and mentioned that in a case like the one in question he always held inquests. In a case in which it was reported to him that a child had died suddenly without medical attendance, whether it was the fault of the parents or not, and when he heard that there were marks on the face of the child, he should not be fulfilling his duty in the position in which he was placed if he did not held an Inquiry into the matter and have a post mortem examination of the body made. That was the course he felt it his absolute and bounden duty to follow. If MR TUNSTALL wished to ask him any questions he could do so, but he could not allow him to comment upon a matter which concerned the Coroner. Referring to the certificate by Dr London, the Coroner said he was not going to say that that gentleman had not attended the child, but when a child arrived in the town from a strange place and died, and marks were found on the child's face, he should hold an Inquest. If there was nothing wrong about the case it would be more satisfactory to MR TUNSTALL and his wife and all concerned that the matter should be thoroughly inquired into. If it was a child of his (the Coroner's) he should certainly wish this course to be pursued. He repeated that he could not allow MR TUNSTALL to make any comments upon the case. Did he wish to give any evidence? - MR TUNSTALL: Oh, no; I don't wish to give any evidence. - The Coroner: Then you had better sit down. - Dr Evans was then sworn. He deposed to being called at 6.30 on Saturday morning to go to the deceased child. He was sure as to the time, as he made a practice of looking at his watch when called. Without thoroughly dressing himself he proceeded at once to MR TUNSTALL'S lodgings. On his arrival he found that the child was dead. - The Coroner: Did you make any particular examination? - Witness replied that he looked at the child as she lay in bed. He inquired of the mother if the child had had anything like convulsions, and he could not get anything like information which would satisfy him as to the cause of death in any way. - The Coroner: It would have been impossible for you to have known the cause of death? - Witness: Exactly. The child was dead when I got there, and I had no opportunity of knowing what it died of. - Proceeding, witness said he made a post-mortem examination of the body, by order of the Coroner, on Saturday. He found a mark - about half-an-inch - on the right cheek and a small mark on the forehead. There were some slight marks about the nose, but he noticed that there was little trace of them left that (Monday) morning. He saw no other marks about the body externally. - The Coroner: Could you form an opinion from the aspect of the marks as to how they might have been caused? Would it be possible for you to form an opinion as to whether they were caused by the shawl, for instance, which has been referred to by MRS TUNSTALL? - Witness: I think it is highly probable. The upper mark might have been caused by the pressure of the fingers of the child. - The Coroner: During a convulsive fit or otherwise? - Witness: At any time immediately before death. The marks were now much more apparent than they were before the death of the child. If the child had lived the marks would not have been noticeable. At any rate, he was perfectly satisfied that the marks were superficial. - The Coroner: No marks of violence? - Witness: Certainly not. - Continuing, witness said that when he opened the body he found that the sac in the heart contained a considerable quantity of fluid, to the pressure of which on the heart he ascribed the immediate cause of death. In the stomach he found some milk, which had partly digested. The right lung was congested, probably it had been so for some time. The left lung was healthy and the other organs of the chest and the abdomen were perfectly healthy. - The Coroner said he might as well ask the witness a question. It did not seem to have been unknown in that town that the child had suffered from convulsions before. In case the witness had not seen the child, could he certify that death was due to convulsions on seeing the body afterwards? - Witness replied that he should not have given a certificate. - The Coroner said he had had a certificate handed to him which was open to a great deal of comment. It was given by a doctor, who certified that the cause of death was convulsions. He (the Coroner) asked what opportunity had that doctor, who resided at Mere, of having a personal knowledge that the child died of convulsions; he considered that he had no right to give that certificate. Addressing MR TUNSTALL, the Coroner said, "And you can tell him so, MR TUNSTALL, if you see him." - MR TUNSTALL: All right, sir. - The Coroner said he should never accept a certificate in that form and in the course of further remarks he said that he should have made strong remarks about it to the medical man if he had been present. - Further questioned, Dr Evans said that the child might have had convulsions previous to death. He considered death was due to peritonitis with effusion. He hoped that the Coroner did not think he had neglected his duty, as MR TUNSTALL considered he had. - MR TUNSTALL denied this, saying that he thought it an unusual course to be adopted in a case of that sort, where he could give a certificate, that a Constable should be informed of it. - The Coroner said that the case was one for Inquiry. He thought Dr Evans had done nothing but his duty and he hoped he would continue to do so. He thought it would be satisfactory to all parties that the cause of death had been ascertained beyond, he ventured to think, very much doubt. - The Jury, after a short deliberation in private, returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony. - MR TUNSTALL said he did not wish to cast any reflection upon Dr Evans.

EXETER - Fatal Disturbance At A Sale. Killed By A Mangold. - At the Exeter Guildhall yesterday Mr Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM CHANNON, butcher, of Bridge-street, Exeter. - ANN CHANNON deposed that she was the widow of WILLIAM CHANNON, and lived at Bridge-street, St Edmund's. Her husband was 47 years of age and was a butcher by trade. He had not been very strong for some time. He had been under medical treatment before and after Christmas. On the Monday previous to his death he attended a sale at Alphington-street, St. Thomas. He was taken ill on the morning of Friday last, about four o'clock, with diarrhoea and died about half-past eight. He had complained through the week of heaviness and of being tired. On Monday, when he returned from the sale, he spoke of having had a blow on the head from a mangold, but couldn't state by whom it was thrown. He had a red mark near the right ear, which he said was very painful. He said the blow made him dizzy at the time. - Cross-examined by Mr Friend: She was aware that her husband was insured in the Accidental Railway Insurance Office. The agent was Mr Brewer, Stationmaster at St. Thomas. She had made no communication to him until that morning. - The Coroner here interposed, and pointed out that these questions were not to the point at issue, which was the cause of death. - By a Juryman: Her husband complained frequently of the blow. - John Sweet, Okehampton-street, said he knew the deceased well, and had known him for about 16 or 17 years. He saw him on Monday, the 13th inst., at different places and at the sale referred to by the previous witness. He thought there were upwards of 200 people at the sale. There was no noise or disturbance, but small packets of flour were thrown about. He saw a mangold thrown, but did not know by whom. It was thrown at a distance of about five yards and struck deceased on the right side of the head. Deceased put up his hand to his head and said, "That is a hot one for me." He appeared to be in great pain. The vegetable was a little larger than witness's fist. Deceased complained to witness day after day of the blow. - Cross-examined by Mr Friend: On different occasions deceased had complained of the blow. - By the Chief inspector: He could not tell from what direction the mangold came. - By a Juryman: He considered it purely an accident that MR CHANNON was struck. - William H. T. Oliver, innkeeper, Ship Inn, Alphington-street, deposed that on the day of the sale deceased went from witness's yard into his own garden to see where they could stand to throw some bags of flour at the bailiff and auctioneer. CHANNON had the flour in a box. When the auctioneer, Mr Wills, came deceased went in and stood near him saying, "I am going to stand near you Mr Wills, or else he will swear that I was in my garden throwing it." CHANNON had nothing to do with getting the flour, which was sent there, he believed, by Mr McLaren. - By a Juryman: He did not throw any flour. - Re-examined by the Coroner: MR CHANNON proposed that they should mix some yellow ochre and any rotten eggs that could be found with the flour. - James Rattenbury, Police Constable of the Devon Constabulary, stationed at St. Thomas, stated that he saw the deceased at the sale, after which he complained of being struck in the head. Witness searched the garden next day, but could not find any trace of a mangold. - Mr Mark Farrant, Surgeon, of St Thomas, said that on Friday morning last he was called to the house of the deceased. He found MR CHANNON in bed, and he died almost immediately on witness's arrival. MRS CHANNON informed him that he had been suffering from diarrhoea and vomiting, accompanied by severe pain in his head. Witness, later in the day, examined the deceased, but could find no marks of violence. On the following day, by the Coroner's orders, he made a post-mortem examination, assisted by Dr Mortimer and Mr Vlieland. The skin on the side of the head had become discoloured by decomposition. On the removal of the scalp n contusion or fracture of any kind was visible, but on opening the head he discovered distinct signs of acute inflammation of the membranes of the brain, with considerable effusion of turbid serum beneath the aerachnoid. There was no trace of extravasation of blood and the brain was healthy. On opening the chest the heart and valves were normal, and the lungs, kidneys and liver were natural. Witness had attended deceased for congestion of the liver. Having heard the evidence, and after carefully considering the condition of the brain as ascertained by the post-mortem examination, witness was of opinion that deceased died from cerebral effusion following acute inflammation of the membranes of the brain, and that such a condition might be the effect of concussion, the result of the blow. - Cross-examined by Mr Friend: Vomiting often followed cerebral mischief. - By a Juryman: He considered the deceased would have been alive but for the blow. - The Coroner, in summing up the case, said it was one of considerable importance. The people engaged in throwing flour about were committing an unlawful act, and if the person could be discovered who threw the object that struck the deceased it might amount to a charge of manslaughter. He would suggest that the Inquest be adjourned until the following week for inquiries to be made. The parties at the sale were obstructing the law, and it seemed doubtful as to whether CHANNON was not at least a consenting party to the obstruction. - After some consideration the Jury agreed to adjourn the Inquiry until Monday next, at 10 a.m.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 22 May 1889
HALWILL - An Inquest was held yesterday afternoon by Mr W. Burd, Okehampton, Coroner for the District, at Halwill Junction, on the body of the infant son of JAMES MARTIN, a labourer, of Halwill. The child was found dead in bed at 6 o'clock on Sunday morning. The facts stated at the Inquest were thoroughly consistent with the theory that he had been accidentally overlaid and a verdict to that effect was returned by the Jury.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 23 May 1889
KINGS NYMPTON - The Fatal Accident At Kingsnympton. - Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at Lightly Farm, Kingsnympton, North Devon, on the body of DANIEL PAVEY. - The widow, MRS SUSAN PAVEY, said the deceased was a farmer and was 57 years of age. On Thursday, the 9th inst., she and the deceased drove to Mariansleigh to see their daughter, who had recently been married. They arrived back about 10 o'clock and as her husband was unharnessing the pony the latter bolted. The pony knocked him down and he was taken into the house in an insensible state and Dr Tucker was sent for. Her husband never recovered consciousness. The pony was rather a spirited one, but they had never met with any accident before. Her husband died on Monday last. - Dr Tucker deposed that when he arrived at the house he found MR PAVEY suffering from compression of the brain caused by a fracture of the base of the skull and he was quite insensible. He never thoroughly recovered consciousness. There was a wound just over the right temple and the base of the skull was fractured as well. There was considerable bleeding at the ear. The cause of death was a fracture of the skull. - The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 24 May 1889
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - Inquest At The St Thomas Workhouse. A Recommendation To The Guardians. - Yesterday Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the St. Thomas Workhouse respecting the death of RICHARD YOULDEN, who died in that Institution from the effects of injuries received through a fall on Sunday last, as reported in yesterday's Gazette. - Jessie Ellis, nurse at the Workhouse, identified the body as that of RICHARD YOULDEN, aged 86 years. He was formerly a mariner. He had been an inmate of the Workhouse for some time - ever since she had been thee, which was eighteen months. He was under her care, and was in the habit of going out into the airing-grounds. He was feeble, but was able to walk with the aid of a stick. On the morning of last Sunday week she saw the deceased. Later in the day the wards-man, John Bradford, reported to her that he had picked up the deceased, who had had a fall and requested her to attend to his injuries. She found the deceased in a chair at the bottom of the stairs. He was unconscious, but he recovered consciousness before she had finished attending him. He had sustained a cut on his head and his collar-bone and hands were bruised. He was put to bed and on the following morning he was seen by a medical man. Deceased remained under her care until his death, which occurred on Sunday last. - By a Juror: Deceased was not subject to fits. - John Bradford, wards-man at the Workhouse, deposed to finding the deceased at the foot of the stairs about 4 o'clock on the afternoon of last Sunday week. The deceased's head was between his legs. Witness had previously heard a noise proceeding from the stairs. Deceased did not say how he received the injuries. He had been in the habit of going upstairs without assistance. - Mr H. T. Hartnoll, Medical Officer of the Workhouse, deposed that the deceased was admitted into the infirmary of the Workhouse three years ago suffering from general debility. Witness had seen him three or four days a week during that time. He was infirm and required being looked after, his mind being affected by old age. On the morning of the 13th instant witness saw the deceased, who, he was informed, had met with an accident. Witness saw him again on the Wednesday, after which day he gradually failed and died on Sunday last. He attributed death to shock to the system, the result of the injuries, which were consistent with a fall downstairs. - It was stated by the witness Bradford that there was a rail on one side of the staircase and that the deceased usually ascended the stairs by catching hold of it with one hand and with the other assisting himself with his stick. Witness also stated that the deceased went into the grounds on the afternoon of the accident. - The Deputy Coroner said it had occurred to him that as the staircase was narrow a rail might with advantage be placed on the opposite side. He did not know whether the Jury wished to make a recommendation on that point. - A Juror: It is necessary it should be done. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and recommended that a second rail be fixed in the staircase for the assistance of aged persons.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 25 May 1889
EXETER - Yesterday afternoon Mr H. W. Gould held an Inquest at the Welcome Inn, Haven Banks, Exeter, into the circumstances attending the death of C. H. BERRY, who was found drowned in the Canal on Wednesday. - ANN BERRY, residing in Oxford-street, St. Thomas, identified the body as that of her husband, who she said was 66 years of age and carried on the business of a coal dealer. She last saw him alive on Wednesday morning, about 9.30 when he left home to go to his stable. The next thing she heard was that he was drowned. He had been unwell for some time past and on different occasions his mind seemed wandering. He appeared to be troubled at the illness of his son, and the death of one which took place recently. He also was troubled about pecuniary matters, not being able to collect his debts. She never heard him threaten to commit suicide. The same morning as he left home he appeared faint, and witness advised him not to go out. About three months since he was kicked in the head by his donkey. - Charles Williams, a boy, residing in Bartholomew-street, said that on Wednesday afternoon he was proceeding down the banks of the Canal with his brother when he saw the deceased standing near the Salmon Pool drawbridge. After proceeding some distance further their attention was drawn to something in the water. Witness saw it was the body of a man and immediately went for a Policeman. On returning the body had been taken out and they saw it was the body of the man whom they had previously met. - William Westcott, labourer, Round Tree, Frog-street, deposed to fetching a boat and taking the body from the water. - P.S. Egan gave evidence as to searching the clothes of the body and finding 5s. 6 ¾d. and a knife. - Mr Vlieland, Surgeon, said he had examined the body. There were no marks of violence, and it presented the usual appearances of death from drowning. - The Coroner said there was no direct evidence as to how the deceased came into the water and the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 27 May 1889
BRENTOR - An Inquest on the body of WILLIAM BATTEN, shopkeeper, of Brentor, who was cut to pieces by a passing train between Lydford and Marytavy on Friday was opened by Mr R. R. Rodd, District Coroner, at 9 o'clock on Saturday evening. After the Jury had viewed the body the inquiry was adjourned until Thursday next. The Rev. R. French-Smith (Vicar of Brentor) was chosen Foreman of the Jury.

EXETER - Sad Death In Exeter. - An Inquest was held at the New Police Court on Saturday, by Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, touching the death of MAJOR WILLIAM DOMVILE, a visitor to the City, who died at the Clarence Hotel on Friday from a shock to the system, due to burns received some time since. - The REV. CHARLES COMPTON DOMVILE, Rector of Chickerell, Weymouth, identified the body of the deceased as that of his brother, who was a retired major of the 21st Scotch Fusiliers, and was 74 years of age. Witness last saw the deceased on the 18th instant. The deceased was in bed suffering from severe burns, the result of an accident. He told witness how the accident occurred. He stated that he was putting on a clean shirt near the fire, with his back towards the grate, when the shirt caught fire. He went on to the landing and called for assistance, shouting "Save the house." Deceased became better and witness returned to Chickerell, but was again summoned to Exeter and on arrival found that the deceased, who was a bachelor, had died. - Annie Street, a chambermaid at the Hotel, said that on the 10th inst., about 11 o'clock, she went to the deceased's room with some water. MAJOR DOMVILE was then out of bed and in his dressing-gown. There was a fire in the room, with a guard before it. Witness left the room and while engaged with a lady heard the deceased calling "Chambermaid." As she was engaged she sent a waiter named Pengelley to the deceased and shortly afterwards followed to the room. She then saw deceased sitting in a chair in his dressing-gown. He told her that he had met with a very severe accident and he showed her his hands, which were very much burnt. Witness wrapped them in a handkerchief and advised the deceased to have a doctor. He told witness that he had caught his shirt - a flannel one, extra long - on fire while standing with his back towards the fire. A doctor and nurse were sent for. - John Pengelley, a waiter, employed at the Hotel, stated that on going to the deceased's room he found him on the floor, on which was a little fire. Witness asked what was the matter, and deceased replied, "Save the house." Deceased appeared very much frightened and was shaking. Witness noticed that deceased's shirt was burning a little and he put the fire out. He also noticed that deceased was very much burnt about the left side and the left hand and he immediately sent for a medical man. At breakfast-time deceased appeared in his ordinary state of health. Deceased had nothing on when witness went into the room, having taken off his shirt and witness then helped on the dressing-gown. - Mr E. J. Domville, Surgeon, who was called to attend the deceased, described the injuries caused by the burns. He dressed the burns, and arranged for a nurse to be in constant attendance. The deceased told him that he was putting on his shirt with his back to the fire when the tail of the shirt caught between the guard and the fire, the door of the room being open at the time. He (deceased) thought the draught had blown the shirt on to the fire. Deceased went on very well for the first ten or twelve days, when he lost consciousness and died on Friday from shock to the system, the effect of burns. Everything was done for the deceased by the proprietor and staff at the Hotel. - The REV. C. C. DOMVILE expressed his thanks to all who had rendered assistance to the deceased. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and the Coroner and Jury expressed their sympathy with the brother of the deceased.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 31 May 1889
NORTHAM - On Tuesday an Inquest was held at the King's Head Inn, Northam, near Bideford, by Mr J. F. Bromham, on the body of JOHN B. HUTCHINGS, a carpenter, who met with his death by drowning the previous evening. The evidence given was to the effect that he was 47 years of age and worked for Mr A. B. Wren. He had been ill for some time past. On Monday evening he left his house about half-past 6 o'clock. He called at the house of Mrs Braunton and had a conversation with her. When he left he said he had to go and measure the well door at Holywell so that the children should not fall in. Soon afterwards the deceased's daughter went to look for him, and Mrs Braunton's daughter soon afterwards discovered that deceased had been found in the well. Mrs Braunton heard him ask two little boys as he was going to the well whether there was a door to it or not. - Thomas Wilkey deposed to finding the deceased in the well and on being taken out he was quite dead. - P.C. Champion stated that from what he had seen of the deceased lately he should say that his mind was slightly affected and that he was subject to delusions, but nothing to indicate that he should be watched. - Dr Pratt deposed to having attended the deceased for some months past. He had no hesitation in saying that his mind and brain were very weak. When he was called on Monday to see the deceased he was quite dead, with all the appearances of death from drowning. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

BRENTOR - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at the adjourned Inquest yesterday on the body of WILLIAM BATTEN, farmer and shopkeeper of Brentor, who was knocked down and killed by the 3.20 p.m. train from Exeter on Friday last.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 3 June 1889
TOPSHAM - A Sad Case Of Starvation. - The Deputy Coroner for the District, Mr H. W. Gould, on Saturday afternoon held an Inquest at the Countess Weir Inn on the body of FRANCIS LETHBRIDGE, who, as already reported, was found dead in a linhay on Friday morning. - Mr G. S. Hillman was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - John Taylor Brooking, residing at 1 Dudley-terrace, Saltash, and a builder and contractor, identified the body of the deceased as that of his brother-in-law. The deceased had no fixed place of abode. He was in lodgings at Plymouth for three months. He left the Three Towns six weeks ago. Deceased was 59 years of age and a baker by trade. He, however, did not follow it, but did odd jobs. At the beginning of the present year witness persuaded the deceased to take out a pedlar's license and gave him a bag of tea to start with. Witness had not seen the deceased since he left Plymouth. About two years ago the deceased was sent to Stapleton Asylum, Bristol. Deceased was not a very strong man and very attenuated. He had never heard the deceased threaten to commit suicide, and he was rather inclined to be cheerful than otherwise. The deceased's wife died two years ago in Bristol. - In reply to questions witness said he did not think the deceased was sent to an Asylum because he had a suicidal tendency. - William Hunn, 12 years of age, son of Mr M. Hunn, auctioneer, Topsham, stated that he was passing along Topsham-road on his way to school, at Countess Weir, on Friday morning about 9 o'clock. In company with his brother he entered a linhay adjoining Glass House-lane, opposite Wear House. While in the linhay he heard a noise like that produced by mice running about. On going into a loft overhead witness saw a lot of mice and nearly stepped on the face of the deceased, who was lying on his back on the floor dead. Witness informed P.C. Potter of what he had seen. - P.C. Potter, stationed at Countess Weir, deposed that on receiving information, about 9.30, from the last witness he proceeded to the linhay, which was in the occupation of Mr Tuckett, and found the body as described. On the left hand side were two spectacle cases, one containing a pedlar's certificate (produced). - The deceased's hat was battered and partly under his shoulder. Various articles, including a couple of purses, packet of tea, pipe, handkerchief, scarf &^c., were lying near, but no money. It would be difficult for a weak or intoxicated person to enter the loft. There was no trace of foul play nor any poison. - Mr Henry Godfrey, farmer, of Countess Weir, who accompanied the Constable, corroborated the evidence of the last witness. - Dr Bothwell, of Topsham, stated that he first saw the body between 12 and 1 o'clock, Friday. There were no marks of violence or anything to indicate the cause of death. he considered that the deceased had been dead at least a week. Witness had since made a post mortem examination and found there was a total want of fat and the stomach perfectly empty. The gall bladder was very much distended, which was one of the most marked indications of starvation. There was no smell of poison. The examination was quite sufficient to satisfy witness that death was due to starvation. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Dead," and that, in their opinion, death was due to starvation.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 4 June 1889
EAST ANSTEY - A verdict of Death from Heart Disease was returned at an Inquest held yesterday by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, on the body of a woman named KEZIA FLEW. The deceased was housekeeper to the Rev. J. Owen, of East Anstey, and had suffered from heart disease for some time. A few days ago she was taken suddenly ill and died a few hours afterwards.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 5 June 1889
TAVISTOCK - A verdict of Death from Natural Causes was returned at an Inquest held yesterday by Mr R. R. Rodd, District Coroner, at Tavistock, on the body of GRACE EASTERBROOK, infant daughter of WILLIAM EASTERBROOK, butcher, Tavistock. The child was nursed by its mother at 2 o'clock on Monday morning and found dead in bed at 3.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 12 June 1889
EXMOUTH - A verdict of "Suicide by Drowning while in a state of Temporary Insanity" was returned yesterday at the Inquest on the body of LOUISA BEAVIS, who had been missing from her home at Exmouth since Thursday, and whose body was found on the beach near the town on Sunday.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 17 June 1889
HOLSWORTHY - Suicide At Holsworthy. - An Inquest was held at Holsworthy on Saturday by Mr Burd on the body of ELIZABETH ALLEN, aged 70, and the widow of the late JOHN ALLEN. - From the evidence of the son and others it appeared that the deceased was last seen alive about 2.30 p.m. on Friday. For some months she had complained of pains in her head, but had never threatened to take her life. It was usual for someone to be always with her, but on the day in question she was alone and during the afternoon she went upstairs and strangled herself with a stay-lace, which she tied to the cot of the bed and then knelt down. When found she was cold. - Dr Linnington Ash deposed that he was sent for and found the deceased cold. She had since her husband's death, 18 months ago, been suffering from nervous depression. He had strongly urged her removal to the Workhouse. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 18 June 1889
EXETER - Sudden Death Of A Retired Accountant In Exeter. - Yesterday afternoon Mr Coroner H. W. Hooper held an inquiry at No. 4 Barnfield-crescent, Exeter, respecting the death of MR WILLIAM JOHN SMITH HOOPER, a retired accountant who died suddenly that morning. Mr A. Baker was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness called was MRS ELIZA HOOPER, residing at No. 4 Barnfield-crescent, who identified the body as that of her late husband, who was 74 years of age. He was a retired accountant, having been employed at the West of England Fire Insurance Office. For the past few weeks he had been unwell. He had been attended by Dr Shapter. On Saturday and Sunday last the deceased was on the lawn. She last saw him alive about 10 o'clock that (Monday) morning in the dining-room. He had for his breakfast an egg, a small piece of bacon, a piece of toast and some tea. He left the dining-room and subsequently she missed him and knowing that he was unwell she became anxious about him. He was found in the lavatory dead. He had nothing to excite or vex him and he remarked that he felt better. - In answer to a Juror, MRS HOOPER said that the deceased said he had made a better breakfast that morning, and he hoped that now he was getting better. - James Mare, gardener to Dr Shapter and residing at South Wonford, said he knew the deceased. That morning he was called to see if he could open the door of the lavatory. He entered the lavatory by means of the window, which was open, and then saw the deceased in a sitting posture with his head leaning forward. Witness opened the door, which was locked on the inside and admitted Dr Shapter. Witness could not say whether the deceased was dead when he saw him. - By a Juror: He did not hear any noise prior to entering the lavatory. - Dr Lewis Shapter deposed that he knew the deceased, whom he had attended professionally for some years. He had latterly suffered from loss of appetite, indigestion and a pain across his chest. Witness was called about 10.15 that morning to see the deceased, whom he was informed was in the lavatory, the door being bolted on the inside. Witness sent for assistance and meanwhile got on the roof and looked through the window into the lavatory, where he saw the deceased in a sitting posture, with his head and shoulders leaning forward. The gardener opened the door for witness. He thought there was the faintest trace of life, and they did all they could to restore animation, but without avail. Knowing that the deceased had a weak heart, he attributed death to syncope. - The Coroner expressed his sympathy with MRS HOOPER in her bereavement. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 19 June 1889
EXETER HEAVITREE - Death from Improper Feeding At Heavitree. - Yesterday Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Horse and Groom Inn, Heavitree, on the body of the female child of ANN RODGERS. - The mother of the child stated that it was 14 days old and died on Sunday morning. About 4 o'clock on that day the child woke her (witness) by screaming; she seemed to have a convulsive fit. A medical man was sent for, but the child died before his arrival. - Mr Andrews said that on his arrival at the house the child was dead. He had made a post-mortem examination of the body. The lungs were in a highly-congested state and a small quantity of food in the stomach, which seemed to be biscuit, was undigested. He should attribute death to the congested state of the stomach, due to improper feeding. The child ought not to have been fed on biscuit, but from the breast or else on cows' milk. - The Coroner, in summing up, said it appeared from the doctor's evidence that death resulted from improper feeding and he wished it to be a caution to the mother as to the treatment of infants. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

STOKE DAMEREL - Suicide At Keyham Dockyard. - The Devonport Coroner, Mr J. Vaughan, held an Inquest last evening relative to the death of WILLIAM CALLICOTT, an engine-man, employed in Keyham Yard, aged 58. The evidence showed that the deceased has lately been somewhat depressed in consequence of family differences. Yesterday morning he came to work and was seen by a stoker named Gloyn at 5 minutes past 6. Six minutes later he was found hanging in the engine-room. Life was then extinct. A verdict that the deceased Committed Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 21 June 1889
TAVISTOCK - An Inquest has been held at the Cottage Hospital by Mr R. R. Rodd, District Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM TREFFY, a waggoner, who was fatally injured while in charge of a waggon and two horses at Gunnislake. Dr Bowhay stated that the right leg, which was the one least injured, was smashed into eight pieces. The Jury returned verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 24 June 1889
NORTHAM - Suicide At Northam. - Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, of Barnstaple, held an Inquest at Northam, near Bideford, on the body of an old man named RICHARD HUTCHINGS, of Northam. His widow stated that on Thursday she took dinner with him at the usual hour, after which she went out to work. On her return a few hours afterwards she discovered him in the water closest. She saw there was something the matter, and she screamed and went for assistance, and it was found that her husband was dead, he having hanged himself. He was in a sitting position when she saw him. He had been a sailor in the Navy and for some time past had been rather weak in his mind. She had seen Dr Pratt about him and he told her he could not give a certificate to send him to an asylum. - Robert Downing deposed to going to the assistance of the deceased on his hearing the wife scream. He found deceased in a sitting position, but hanging by the neck by a rope, the other end being round a beam. He knew the deceased, who had been in a low state lately. - P.C. Champion and Dr Pratt gave evidence as to the state of mind of the deceased, and the Jury returned a verdict that the deceased Committed Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 25 June 1889
SOUTH MOLTON - Found Drowned At Southmolton. - Considerable excitement was created at Southmolton on Friday evening upon a report being spread that the dead body of a woman was lying in one of the unused lime-pits at South Aller Farm. Superintendent Baker, together with Constables Keeley and Madge, and some scores of the inhabitants, proceeded to the spot, where they found the report was correct. With the assistance of ropes P.C. Keeley was lowered into the pit and succeeded in getting the body out. It was at once conveyed to the Mortuary of the Union Workhouse and an Inquest was held on Saturday evening before the Borough Coroner, Mr Thomas Sanders, and a Jury, of which Mr Joseph Kingdon was Foreman. - The Jury having viewed the body, the first witness called was Elizabeth May, who deposed that she was the wife of William May, and lived in East-street. She had viewed the body of ELIZABETH STENNER lying in the dead-house of the Workhouse. Deceased was a domestic servant and has been living at Mr Webber's Castle Inn, Barnstaple. She left there on the 8th June. She had lived there only a month. Deceased told witness she left because she did not like a public-house. From the 8th to the 15th she resided with witness, who was a distant relative. Deceased was in no way depressed in spirits. She slept with witness's children. On Saturday, 15th June, Sergeant Leyman, of Southmolton, with Mr Webber, her late master, called on deceased at witness's residence and accused her of having stolen a pair of shoes belonging to Mrs Webber. She denied it and said she had never seen them. She had left her box at the Angel Hotel, Barnstaple, where she was going to live on the following Wednesday. This was between 10 and 11 o'clock in the morning. She was excited at the charge and cried about it. About 10 minutes afterwards she left. The sergeant and Mr Webber had gone. Witness offered to go with her to Barnstaple, and advised her to let Mr Webber have the key to open her box. She replied that she would not give up her key to allow anyone to "rummage " her box. She said she would go to the Angel herself if she had the money. Witness let her have 1s. to pay her fare to Barnstaple. She then left the house and said, "I am going straight to my place." She said she would send to witness and let her know how she had managed. Witness went to Barnstaple on the previous day and saw Mrs Lock, of the Angel, who said she had not seen the deceased. Witness went to Mr Webber's, and accompanied him to the Police-Station at Barnstaple, and there saw the box opened in the presence of the Police. In it were a pair of shoes which Mr Webber identified as his. Witness took the box and its contents, which she gave a receipt for, but the shoes were retained. The Sergeant asked her age and description, which witness gave him. Deceased told witness she was 18 years old last May. Witness identified the body by the clothing, the features, and the hair of the head, and also by her right hand, which was covered with warts. - Mr Edwin Furse, Surgeon, Southmolton, deposed that he saw deceased's body in the Mortuary of the Workhouse about 10 o'clock on Friday evening. It was very decomposed and there was a depression over the right side of the frontal bone, but no other mark of violence. He made a post-mortem examination the next day by the Coroner's orders, and found no injury to the bone - it was perfectly sound. He believed the depression was made by the head resting on some hard substance. From the general condition he was of opinion that death resulted from drowning. Deceased was not pregnant and the report to that effect was not true. He knew the deceased before death. - Mr John Hill, of South Aller Farm, Southmolton, said deceased was a domestic servant in his house in April last. She lived with him 14 days. She was rather excitable and passionate. Passing one of the old disused lime pits on his farm on the previous evening between 7 and 89 p.m. he saw something floating in the water. He believed it to be the body of a female and at once went to Southmolton and gave information to P.C. Keeley, who, with Supt. Baker and others, went to the spot. Before witness got there the body had been got out. The lime-pit was about 100 land yards from his house. - P.C. James Keeley deposed that on the previous evening, about 8.30, the last witness reported to him what he had seen. Witness went to the spot with Supt. Baker and Constable Madge. Witness went to the brink of the pond with a rope and got out the body. He did not know the deceased. He searched the body and found a jubilee 4s. brooch which she wore. She had a white linen handkerchief, marked with a "W.," in her pocket and a purse containing 2 ½ d. fell from her bosom and also a stud. He subsequently removed the body in a cart to the Workhouse Mortuary. That morning about 4 o'clock he went to the pit and found a glove and the skin of a hand on the edge of the pit. these he produced. He could see no signs of a scuffle. - Sarah Jane Peters, living at Newtown Gate and keeping house for deceased's father, said deceased called there on the 13th inst. She looked depressed in spirits. Witness had seen the body and recognised it as that of the deceased. She told witness she was going to America. - The Coroner summed up the evidence and the Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 26 June 1889
PLYMOUTH - At the Plymouth Guildhall last evening the Coroner, Mr T. C. Brian, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ANNIE RIDDELLS, [or ANNIE RIDDLE] who was found in the court of a house in Bath-lane yesterday morning with her head smashed in. Considerable mystery surrounded the case, and the Inquiry was necessarily of an exhaustive character. The Chief Constable, Mr W. Wreford, watched the case on behalf of the Police. - Francis Tyrell, residing at 4 Radford-road, West Hoe, identified the deceased as his sister-in-law, who, he sated, was about 33 years of age. She was a married woman, but had been parted from her husband five or six years. - Jane Goulding, living at 20 Bath-lane, said that she was on the leads at about half-past 2 when she saw the deceased leaning on the wall. She was then vomiting. Had she then fallen she would not have dropped on the spot where the body was found. She was quite right in her mind and she was a most inoffensive person. - Annie Mitchell said that she saw the deceased at the house 18 Bath-lane, at about a quarter to 12 on the previous night. She was then lying down on the bed fully dressed and was apparently the worse for drink. A man named Taylor had been with the deceased. She had never heard anyone threaten deceased, but she heard that Mr Roseveare had put her out of doors because he thought she was bringing liquor into the house. - By the Chief Constable: When she entered the room of deceased Taylor was upstairs by himself. - Lydia Denithorne, who saw the deceased on the previous night, stated that the latter was very much the worse for liquor at the time. Between half-past 12 and 1 o'clock she heard the deceased apparently scolding someone. - The Coroner proposed calling Taylor, but after consultation with the Police suggested that as there were a great many more witnesses and especially the medical evidence, it would be better to adjourn until Friday. It was quite clear they must not endeavour to push the case. The Police were making every inquiry and, he hoped, might get some further information. A good deal of the evidence was very vague and did not lead them to an important conclusion. He therefore proposed adjourning. - The Jury consented to adjourn until Friday afternoon, when they will proceed to view the spot.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 28 June 1889
GREAT TORRINGTON - The Inquest on the body of an old man named WILLIAM PASSMORE, who died suddenly at Torrington on Saturday has been held by the County Coroner, Mr J. F. Bromham. The deceased, who was 82 years of age, went out on Saturday to go to a barber's shop to be shaved. He went to the shop of Mr Elsworthy. He sat down in the shop awaiting his turn, and whilst there he turned colour. Mr Elsworthy noticed this and offered to send for his son or his daughter-in-law, but he said he should be better in a minute or two. He also refused some brandy, but he got up and walked towards the back door, and when he had reached it he fell down on the floor. A doctor was sent for and a message sent to deceased's house, but he expired soon afterwards. Dr Morse was quickly in attendance, and on examining him pronounced life to be extinct. The cause of death was heart disease and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

EXETER - Suicide At Exeter. A Terrible Sequel To The Betting Raids. - Yesterday, at the Exeter Guildhall, Mr Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquest into the circumstances attending the death of GEORGE BOND, a butler, who had been found dead with his throat cut in a temperance hotel in Goldsmith-street the preceding day. - MRS BOND, of Crediton, said the deceased was her husband. He had been a butler, but for some time past had been out of employment. His last place was with Lady Carmichael, where he stayed for about a month. He arrived at Crediton on the 23rd May and remained there six weeks. He was 56 last birthday. Witness last saw him alive at Crediton on Monday. He left Crediton on Tuesday morning for Exeter, and she never saw him afterwards. He suffered a great deal from liver complaint, and was under medical treatment while at Crediton. He had been very depressed and witness attributed it to losing money. - The Coroner: In what way? - Witness: It was certainly horse racing. He had no means except what he earned. - By a Juryman: She thought he was in a little better spirits on the night previous. He came originally from Cambridgeshire. - Samuel Staddon, a tailor, residing at Belmont-road, and carrying on business in Goldsmith-street, said that on Tuesday evening the deceased came into his shop and asked if witness would recommend him to a place where he could obtain a bed. Witness replied that he thought he could, and went with him to Miss Gitsham's house, next door, where he obtained a bed. On the following morning Miss Gitsham asked him if he knew the man he had recommended. Witness replied "No, he was a stranger." Mr Gitsham said, "He requested to be called at 7 o'clock this morning, and we have been rattling and knocking at the door and can't make him hear." Witness looked at his watch and said, "it is very nearly twelve. If I were you I should have the door opened." Miss Gitsham then sent for the Police, and on two officers arriving witness went up with them. Whilst they were trying to open the door Miss Gitsham said, "There is something wrong, for his blood is coming through the ceiling." When the door was burst open he saw the man on the floor on his face and hands and lying in a very large pool of blood. He had only his shirt on. Witness did not see any knife or razor on the floor. - Emily Gitsham, 9 Goldsmith-street, said that the deceased came to her on Tuesday evening about six o'clock in company with Mr Staddon and asked if he could be accommodated with a bed. Witness replied "Yes," and the deceased said "On the first or second floor." But both these floors were occupied and he was given a bed o the third floor. He said he had not been to bed for three or four nights and that he would go and get a parcel and return early to bed. Witness did not notice anything strange in his manner and he talked rationally. He returned with his parcel and went to bed at half-past 6. He asked to be called at 7, but on the maid knocking at his door she could get no reply. Witness went and knocked herself at 8 and 9. Witness had business out and when she returned at 11 and found that he was still in his room she sent for a Police Officer and the door was burst open. Witness did not see the body. - Bessie Francis, a servant girl in the employ of Miss Gitsham, said she slept on the same floor as the deceased. She went to bed at 11 o'clock and passed the door of deceased's room. She heard him breathing very hard and at half-past 11 she heard him get out of bed and lock his door. - Sergeant Salter, of the Exeter Police Force, said that on the 26th of June, about 12.15 p.m. the servant girl at Miss Gitsham's came to the Police Station and from what she stated witness went to No 9 Goldsmith-street and went upstairs to the third floor. He found the door closed and locked from the inside. He knocked at the door, but received no reply. With the assistance of P.C. Bubear witness forced open the door with a jemmy and found the deceased lying on the floor in the manner described by Mr Staddon. Witness went to the Police Court and fetched Mr Bell, who examined the body. When the body was turned over it was found that the throat had been cut and the man had apparently been dead for several hours. Not far from his feet was an open razor (produced) covered with blood. On examining the clothes witness found several letters and testimonials from different people. One of these was from Miss Carmichael, daughter of Lady Carmichael, stating that the deceased was leaving her service because they required a man-servant and his wife. Another letter read was to the Dean of Exeter recommending the deceased. It was as follows:- "12 Sussex-place Regent's Park, March 30th. - Miss Carmichael presents her compliments to the Dean of Exeter. Her mother is very much an invalid and so hopes the Dean will forgive her not answering the letter herself. GEORGE BOND was one month in Lady Carmichael's service and left an account of the rearrangements in her household. She believes him to be honest and respectable. He kept his lamps in good order and valeted her son, who considered he did his duty well." A programme of racing was found on him, and the following note: "From A.B.W., Thursday. Lost Lord Lorne, 12s. 6d; Trayles, 8s. 3d; Rada, one and two, 6s. 3d.; Pioneer, 3s. 8d; Amphion, 3s. - £1 13s. 8d. Sir, will you please send it on, and I shall wire each. - G. BOND, Avery's Court, High-street, Crediton." The note was evidently intended for Messrs. Moore and Co. there were also two copies of the Sporting Life, a silver watch and chain, another razor double case, several bottles containing medicine, a travelling rug and a rope, a cloak-room ticket of the London and South Western Railway and some collars, &c. - At this point the Coroner stated that in future cases of suicide he wished the Police to leave the body where they discovered it, otherwise the object of viewing the spot was nullified. It was desirable that he should be the first communicated with. - Mr Charles E. Bell, Surgeon, practising in Exeter, said he was called about midday to go to Miss Gitsham's eating-house. Deceased was lying with his right hand under his head and his left arm stretched out and he was in a large pool of clotted blood. There was also a razor case and a razor strop. On the dressing-table was a watch, which was going. The bed had been slept in. He turned the body over and found a large wound in the throat from left to right, about three inches in length. The wind-pipe was hanging out of the wound and there was blood on the valence at the foot of the bed. Death was due to haemorrhage from the wound in the throat. - The Coroner, in summing up, said it was a very sad case. The deceased seemed to be a man of very good character, but on the day preceding the suicide he was evidently in a very depressed and nervous state. Whether his mind was off its balance or not was a question for the Jury to decide. It seemed that he had been mixed up in the recent betting transactions. The Inquiry in another Court had disclosed things which were not at all creditable, and showed that these commission agents were in the habit of draining money from people who were really unable to pay, and this, of course, led them into difficulties. - At this juncture the Chief Constable stated that the initials "A.B.W." found on the paper in the deceased's pocket corresponded with a large number of transactions found in the books of one of the firms. - The Coroner, continuing, said this threw some light on the case and it was for the Jury to decide whether the loss of the money was enough to render him for the time non compos mentis. He thought they would have no difficulty in getting at their verdict. The law of Felo De Se was still in existence and Juries should be careful as to what verdicts they returned. Some people were under the impression that all suicides must be the result of insanity, but he believed there were cases in which that was not so. They must remember that he was suffering from a derangement of the liver, which was a very painful complaint. - The Jury unanimously returned a verdict of "Suicide while under the influence of Temporary Insanity." It was mentioned that the deceased was to have been removed to an Asylum.

UFFCULME - A Child Drowned At Uffculme. - An Inquest was held before Mr C. E. Cox, Deputy Coroner for Honiton, at the George Hotel on Tuesday, relative to the death of REGINALD PRINCE, aged five years, who was found drowned in the River Culm. The Jury consisted of Mr J. Waytt, sen. (Foreman), Messrs. C. Studley, S. Brice, S. Curwood, Israel Owens, J. Welland, jun., J. Southey, W. Leach, H. Tapscott, W. Long, H. Marsh, W. Lemon and J. B. Spencer. - JAMES PRINCE, drayman at the Uffculme Brewery, deposed that the deceased was his son and was aged five years. He last saw his boy at breakfast time about half-past seven in his usual health. Deceased had been going to school for nearly two years, but Saturdays was a holiday. He had arranged with Mrs Cork to look after the children, which she had done for the past three years. - The Coroner: I understand Mrs Cork was in charge of the children while their parents were at work? - Yes, sir. - The Coroner: It's a great pity they should be let go in such places without older people to look after them. - The father, continuing, said he heard of the occurrence at Stenhill, after returning from a journey to Clysthydon. He had no fault to find with anyone, but considered that the deceased in walking across the two strips, forming part of the old fender, fell in. - The Coroner: Some responsible person should have been with him. - MR PRINCE: His other brother, aged seven, was with him at the time. - FREDDY PRINCE was next called and the Coroner asked him: Did you see the deceased fall in! No answer. - Did you hear him cry? No answer. - Did anyone push him in? - The boy shook his head. - Lena Spurway stated that she was at her grandmother's until 12 o'clock and afterwards while going to Mr Trott's hayfield with Alice Hines she saw the deceased in the water, but he wasn't moving. She could see his head and collar. As soon as she saw the lad they ran home and told each of their grandmothers, but said nothing to Miss Towning and Miss Dole, who were coming through the Park. - A Juryman: Was the boy floating or at the bottom? - Witness: At the bottom. - Alice Hines corroborated the last witness's evidence. - Clara Hellier said that she heard the neighbours say that a child had fallen in the river. She immediately proceeded thither. This was about half-past 12. She arrived there first. The boy appeared dead. The body was taken out by Mr Perkins. - A Juryman: In what position was the body lying? - Witness: Cross ways off the fender. - Mrs Cork stated that she had the care of the children, one of whom she had had for three years and the other for the past two years. - The Coroner: Why hadn't you looked after them? - Mrs Cork: I did, sir. - The Coroner: It doesn't appear so. Were you with them at the time? - Mrs Cork: They generally came home all right together, sir. - Several Jurymen: Children will go out to play together. - The Coroner: It's quite clear to my mind they should not go to this place without someone to look after them. Are you not supposed to look after them at any other time than at their meals? - Jurymen: The father hadn't the means of paying for continual looking after them. - The Coroner: What I want to point out is that a responsible person should look after them in this playground. - A Juryman: They have n right there. - Mrs Cork, continuing, said: The deceased and his brother started to play about 10 o'clock and she cautioned them not to go near the water. She was always very particular in telling them that. - The Coroner: Are you quite sure you cautioned them? - Yes, sir. - The Coroner (who had the boy brought forward): Did you hear Mrs Cork or auntie tell you not to go near the water? - The by, after a considerable pause, replied, "No." - The Coroner hoped the occurrence would be a warning to parents not to allow children to play at dangerous places without someone in charge of them. - Jurymen: Who is going to pay for it? - The Coroner: The parents should combine to do so. If not the children should be kept away. - A Juryman suggested that a notice-board should be placed up, as a public path ran close by. - Mr Curwood: It seems a mystery the packers so near hadn't heard. - The Coroner said if something were not done the present accident would not be the last at the same spot. - A Juryman considered that Messrs. Fox Bros. should use stricter precaution to keep the children away. - Samuel Perkins said he was having his dinner about a quarter to 1, when he heard some shouting that a boy had fallen in the water. He ran to the spot and saw someone trying to pull the deceased out. the depth preventing them, he ran back to the Railway Station for a "coupling crook," by which means he got the lad out. He tried means of restoration, but without avail. The hands were quite blue. By the appearance of the flesh the lad seemed to have been in the water an hour. - Dr Dickinson stated that he was called in and found the child at its home quite dead. He should consider the body to have been in the water more than half an hour. - The Coroner: Wasn't there a child that fell in at the same spot some years since? - Mr Dickinson: Yes; some five years since. There was one mark on the head about the size of half-a-crown, which he considered due to falling against a stake, and thus met with its death by drowning, but no abrasion. - the Constable said the water was 4ft. 6in deep at the spot in question. - The Coroner having summed up, the Jury, after a short deliberation, returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned."

LUPPITT - An Inquest was held at Ararat, in this parish, on Saturday, before Mr S. M. Cox, Coroner, touching the death of BLANCHE POMEROY, aged 18 months, daughter of JAMES and JANE POMEROY, who met with her death by drowning on the previous Thursday evening. The little girl was left by her mother in the house at play in charge of her sister, aged 10 years, and two brothers. It appears that these three children in their play ran out leaving the little one alone and when the mother returned, after an absence of 20 minutes, she found her lying on her back in a small pond in front of the house. she instantly took the child out and found her to be quite dead. There being no evidence to show how she got into the water, the Jury, after a short deliberation, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." A small rivulet runs in front of the house within six feet of it, and directly opposite the front door it is dammed up as a dipping place, the widest part of which is but three feet and the greatest depth one foot. Into this the little child must have accidentally tumbled. The Jury gave their fees to the parents, who are poor labouring people.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 29 June 1889
BRIXHAM - An Inquest was held at the Queen's Hotel, Brixham, on Thursday, on the body of a child, five weeks old, named JOHN SCOTT. The evidence went to show that at daybreak the child was in good health and was nursed, but that when the mother again awoke at 5.30 a.m. the child was dead. Dr Searle's opinion was that death was due to convulsions. The Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, in summing up, strongly condemned the practice of giving infants bread, which they were unable to digest and was likely to cause convulsions. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - The Mysterious Death At Plymouth. - The adjourned Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ANNIE RIDDELLS, the woman who was found in a court at the back of Bath-street, Plymouth, was held at the Guildhall in that town last evening. There was a very large attendance of the general public, the space devoted to that purpose being thronged. The Chief Constable, Mr Wreford, watched the case on behalf of the Police. The Jury first proceeded to view the court in which the unfortunate woman was found. On returning to the Guildhall the first witness called was Samuel Robert Taylor, naval stoker, who, after being cautioned, said that on Monday he slept at Mr Roseveare's house, being in the company of deceased. He met her in Bath-lane, proceeding subsequently to the Dock Hotel tap, where he left her. At 9 o'clock he met her there again. She was then the worse for liquor. Returning later in company of Delathorne deceased was still there. Afterwards he proceeded to 18 Bath-lane. Having gone to his bedroom at the top of the house he turned out five minutes later to see if deceased was all right. He saw her in her room lying on the bed with her clothes on. that was about 12 o'clock, and he did not see her alive again. When he had gone to bed he heard deceased cursing and swearing. The deceased came up and tried to get into his room. He was in Delathorne's room at the time. Did not say anything to her about her condition, nor did he know whether she had any money. Did not hear a noise of anyone falling and heard no quarrelling. - Thomas Lillicrap said that the back portion of his premises overlooked Bath-lane and on Tuesday morning, at about a quarter to 7 o'clock on looking out of his staircase window he saw the body of deceased lying in the court of No. 12. It was lying parallel with the leads. He immediately proceeded to the house and being unable to make himself heard at the back he went to the front of the premises. The door was opened by Mr Eke. Witness said, "There is a woman dead or murdered in your court." He said "Nonsense." Witness then pushed by him and proceeded into the court. the body was lying on the back, one arm being by the side and the other across the chest. The clothes were not disarranged and the legs were out perfectly straight. From the position of the body when he saw it he should think it had been brought out and left there. It would be impossible for it to be in that position if deceased had fallen off the leads. There was a scar on the right side of the head, but it was not bleeding. He did not see any blood until after the body had been moved. The deceased had no hat or shoes on. - By a Juryman: There was a little dry blood under the nostrils. - Alfred Eke, residing at 19 Bath-lane, said that he went to bed at a quarter to 11 o'clock. He heard no disturbance or quarrelling during the night. At 7 o'clock he was awakened by Mr Lillicrap. He knew nothing of the occurrence before that. He bolted the front and back doors on the previous night. - Eliza Roseveare was next called, and the Coroner asked her if there was any reason why she would rather not be sworn. - Witness replied that she knew nothing about it. She never saw the deceased after Monday morning. - The Coroner: Did you hear anyone at all? - No, sir. - The Coroner asked the Chief Constable what should be done with the witness, and Mr Wreford replied that as she was the occupier of the house it was desirable she should make a statement. - The Coroner (to witness): We desire to hear your statement. There are things you must clear up. Do you object to be sworn? - Witness: Certainly not. Q.: Do you wish to make a statement? - I do not know anything about it. - The Coroner: I think you are in a very responsible situation. You have a great deal to clear. At the same time if you object we should not force you. - Witness signalled her willingness to give evidence and she was then sworn. She stated that her husband rented the house, 18 Bath-lane. She occupied four rooms. She knew the deceased. She last saw her alive on Monday morning between six and seven. She would swear the deceased never came into her room on Monday evening. She went to bed after Taylor came in. She was awakened in the morning and informed that the body was lying in the next court. - The Chief Constable: Did you hear any disturbance in the night? - Not at all. Q.: Did not somebody go and tell you the Police were there? - No, sir. - Elizabeth Quint, living at 18 Bath-lane, said that on the day in question she went to bed at 11 o'clock. She saw the deceased and Taylor enter the house together. Mrs Taylor was in another room and afterwards came upstairs as far as the leads. The deceased was then in the room in which Taylor was to sleep. Mrs Roseveare followed up, and from the position in which she (Mrs Roseveare) was she could see RIDDELLS. Addressing the latter Mrs Roseveare said, "Over these stairs you go or I will throw you over." RIDDELLS first went into Delathorne's room and afterwards went downstairs. She went out and on returning Mrs Roseveare came to the door, and, calling her dreadful names, said she should not enter until her son came. She afterwards saw ANNIE RIDDELLS sitting in the stairs near the back room on the second floor. She heard a good deal of quarrelling between Mr and Mrs Roseveare afterwards. She heard no more screaming or vomiting. - The Coroner: Then you are quite sure that Mrs Roseveare was wrong when she said she did not see RIDDELLS after Monday morning? - Yes, sir. - Did you hear any quarrelling between Mrs Taylor and RIDDELLS? - No, sir. - P.C. Bennett said that on Tuesday morning he was called to 19 Bath-lane. In the court he found the body of the deceased. He confirmed Mr Lillicrap's statement as to the position in which the body was found. There was blood under the head, and it seemed to have leaked away under the broken stone. He subsequently had the body removed to the Mortuary. - The Coroner: Did you question any of the inmates? Mrs Roseveare stated to me that she saw the deceased on the stairs at half-past 11 on the previous night. - Mrs Roseveare (interrupting): I said I went over the stairs to see her, but could not. - The Coroner: We have had two oaths to say that you have seen the deceased since Monday morning, and you have no right to interrupt. - Mr C. G. Bean, M.R.C.S., said : On Tuesday last I made a post mortem examination of the deceased. The body was that of a woman about 30. It was well nourished. The stiffening was well marked. There were no bruises or other external marks of violence excepting the scalp wound. Each nostril was clogged with a clot of blood, but there were no traces of blood running over the face. There did not appear to be any smears as if it had been sponged off. There was no haemorrhage from the ears. On the right side of the head was a large crescent-shaped scalp wound, measuring eight and a half inches along the curve. It had the appearance of an incised scalp wound. Witness proceeded to describe the wound in detail. - The Coroner: I should like to ask you whether it is your opinion that the whole of the mischief might have been occasioned by one and the same blow or impact? - Yes. - Might all these injuries have been occasioned by a person falling from the height of about 20 or 25 feet directly on the top of the head? - Yes. - Questioned as to the manner in which a body would fall he gave it as his opinion that a body would not turn in that short space. If it commenced falling legs first he did not think it would turn round. - Emma Taylor said that she was at 18 Bath-lane on Monday evening. She saw RIDDELLS upstairs, but did not hear Mrs Roseveare tell her to go out of the house or threaten to throw her over the stairs. She left the house at half-past 12 and returned between one and two. Mrs Roseveare did not go upstairs after that. - The Coroner said that this was a most unsatisfactory case. He did not think it was unsatisfactory from want of activity or sagacity on the part of the Police. It was sometimes found that although they might bring the shrewdest intelligence to bear the authorities were baffled. He need only refer to the series of brutal murders in London as an instance in point. He (the Coroner) was inclined to the belief that the woman fell over the leads and then the question arose as to whether the injuries were inflicted by her own agency or by a second person. Commenting on the fact of the clothes being found neatly arranged around her, he said it was impossible she could have reached the ground without the clothes being disarranged. They could only have two suppositions. First that the woman was first killed and the body carefully brought out and laid there; or secondly, that she fell or was pushed over the parapet and that some person went afterwards and quietly put the clothes in a neat condition. He strongly recommended the Jury not to say, without great consideration, that she died by accidentally falling, but to leave the hands of the officers unshackled by bringing in an open verdict. - The Jury returned into Court after half-an-hour's deliberation and returned the following verdict:- "That the deceased died by the injuries to the head as described by the doctor, but as to how the injuries were inflicted there is not sufficient evidence before the Jury to show." They regretted the manner in which some of the witnesses gave their evidence. They were asked to specify names, but they refused to do so.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 2 July 1889
TOTNES - Suicide At Totnes. - At the Totnes Guildhall yesterday, Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of JOHN SELWOOD, of Fore-street, Totnes, who was formerly manager of the Totnes Coffee Tavern. JAMES SELWOOD, builder, identified the body of the deceased, who was 36 years of age. He had been in ill-health for a long time past, and was much depressed in spirits. The evidence of Henry Smith, a railway porter, William Parsons, engine driver and John Davis, fireman, employed by the Great Western Railway Company, showed that about eight o'clock on Saturday evening the deceased was seen sitting on the bridge of the tramway from Totnes Station to the Quay. Just after the train went back Smith, who was on one of the trucks, noticed, after the train had passed by, the body of the deceased on the rails, his head having been cut clean off. Deceased's hat and stick were on the parapet of the bridge. - Dr Currie gave evidence as to the deceased having suffered for sometime from phthisis. He was very melancholy and had delusions of people being down on him. - The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased Committed Suicide while Temporarily Insane.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 5 July 1889
SWANSEA, WALES - Information has been received respecting the death from drowning at Swansea of MR ELI DUNN, a native of Uffculme, and whose parents reside at College Court, Uffculme. The deceased, who was 28 years of age, appears to have been in the habit of bathing in the sea after leaving work at Swansea, where he was employed as groom and gardener. Shortly after 6 o'clock on Friday evening he accompanied his master's sons for the purpose of teaching them swimming, he being an excellent swimmer. Deceased, who had gone out some distance beyond the young gentlemen, was swimming on his back, when he was noticed to throw up his arms. The lads with him, noticing the occurrence, screamed for help. Two men, it is said, were passing on the beach, but did not notice the call. The lads, shouting, made way to their home, alarming the town as they went. A crowd soon went to the spot and found the body had been carried by the tide to the beach. Deceased's wife, who was at home, was expecting her husband's return, and on going to the door saw a boy, who told her "She wouldn't see MR DUNN any more - he was drowned." The wife dropped down, and remained unconscious until late the next day. The deceased was subsequently carried home and at the Inquest held on Saturday the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," and gave the widow their fees. The funeral took place at Cocket Church, a distance of two miles from their residence, and was attended by a long train of sorrowing friends, including father and mother of the deceased, and the gentleman for whom he worked. A large number of wreaths were sent. The oldest child of the deceased is about five years of age and the youngest two months.

ILFRACOMBE - An Inquest was held on Monday at No. 8, Adelaide-terrace, Ilfracombe, by Dr Slade-King, Deputy Coroner, on the body of MR JOHN WARD GOODENOUGH, a gentleman of independent means, 65 years of age, whose death occurred suddenly on Sunday morning. Henry Knight, an attendant at Brislington House, Bristol, identified the body, and stated that the deceased was a person of unsound mind, and a patient of Dr Fox's. He last saw him alive in bed at 9.30 on Saturday night. In the morning at 7 a.m. he went to his room with water, and missed him from the bed. He then found him in a sitting position in a corner of the bedroom. He took him by the hand and found he was dead. He called Griffith, the head attendant, who sent for Dr Foquette. Mr E. Griffith was then called and corroborated the last witness's statement and further added that he had known deceased nearly two years and during that time he had been suffering from diabetes and kidney disease. He took his supper with the other patients at 8.30 and appeared to be in good spirits. Dr Charles H. Fox stated that deceased had been a resident patient of his since March 1854 and was suffering from dementia. During the last two years he had suffered from diabetes. He had examined the body and considered the cause of death to be due to syncope, or a convulsive fit. The Coroner, having briefly summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 8 July 1889
NEWTON ABBOT - On the body of the infant child of MARY OSMAN, widow, living at Marldon, near Paignton, Dr Fraser (Deputy Coroner) held an Inquest at Newton Abbot, on SAturday. Evidence was given to the effect that the child was removed on the day of its birth to Compton and subsequently to Newton, where it died after having suffered from convulsions. Mr Nesbitt, Surgeon, of Newton, deposed to attending deceased at the house of Elizabeth Heath, who had the child under her charge. It died on Wednesday, and he had since held a post-mortem examination. The body was well nourished and there was no organic disease of the lungs. He gave it as his opinion that death was due to acute inflammation of the stomach. The Jury, of whom Mr P. Heawood was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

DARTMOUTH - Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Dartmouth Guildhall on Saturday touching the death of RICHARD EVANS, aged 66 years, who was found drowned on the beach at Bayard's Cove, Dartmouth, on Saturday morning. - From the evidence it appeared that the deceased, who was on very bad terms with his family, and did not live with them, came from Newton on Friday and at half-past nine in the evening walked into James Saunders' Royal Oak Inn and asked for lodgings, but the house was full. He was told he could go to the London Inn and after drinking a pint of beer he left at 20 minutes after ten. This was the last time he was seen alive and at 10 minutes before six on Saturday morning his corpse was picked up on the beach near the Royal Oak Inn, by Captain Perring. There were bruises on his face and he was taken to the mortuary by P.C. Bray. A son of the deceased, CHARLES EVANS, said his father had not lived with the family for upwards of twelve months, and they did not know he was at that time in Dartmouth. - The Coroner said there was no need for a medical man to be called, while the case did not present any special difficulty, since there was no evidence at all as to how the deceased came there. - An Open Verdict of "Found Drowned " was returned, and the Jury called the attention of the Coroner to the state of the Mortuary, which required more light and ventilation, and a supply of water for cases of emergency. - The Coroner promised to bring the subject before the Council.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 9 July 1889
OTTERY ST. MARY - Mr C. Cox, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Cadhay Barton, yesterday, on the body of JOHN AYERS, a waggoner, who was killed from the kick of a horse on Saturday. - Mr A. Marshall, of Cadhay Barton, was the first witness called and he said that the deceased had been a carter in his employ for the last 18 years. On the day of the accident deceased was employed in braking in two young colts. - John Wilson, servant in the yard, and assisted him to catch one of the colts, which had broken loose, after which the deceased led the colts to the field. - William Board, labourer, proved seeing the deceased a few minutes after he left the last witness on the road to the field, leading one of the colts, the other colt following. - William Hartnell, farmer, of Woodbury Salterton, stated that he was passing on the road to Fairmile, when he saw a man lying by the side of the road, but thinking him asleep he took no particular notice. Returning from Fairmile just after 6 o'clock he found the man still lying there. One of the deceased's arms was over his head, and the position of the body would not attract particular attention. Several persons were then around the deceased, and he appeared to be quite dead. - The Coroner made a few remarks upon the witness's thoughtlessness in leaving the man lying in the road, and not informing anyone of the circumstance. - James Snell, of Ottery St. Mary, said he was passing on the road at the back of Cadhay and saw the deceased lying there. He called to a man named Lovering and sent him for medical assistance, and he remained on the road until Lovering returned. - Dr Reynolds said he was informed by Lovering that a man was lying dead at Cadhay. He at once proceeded to the spot and found the deceased quite dead on his arrival. Deceased had a large scalp wound and his skull was fractured. The blow was quite sufficient to cause death in a few minutes. - After the summing up by the Coroner, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and gave the widow their fees. MRS AYERS was also presented with the fees of two witnesses, Messrs. Marshall and Snell, half a sovereign by the Coroner and Mr Marshall gave her the fees for the room.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 10 July 1889
BIDEFORD - Fatal Accident At Bideford. The Coroner And His Jurisdiction. - Mr J. F. Bromham yesterday held an Inquest as to the cause of the death of MR THOMAS BOUNDY, miller, of Littleham, which occurred at the Bideford Infirmary the previous day. - Before opening the Inquiry, Mr Bromham explained that he was intending to hold the Inquest in consequence of Dr Thompson (Borough Coroner) having declined to do so. As he (Mr Bromham) understood the law, Dr Thompson did not cease to be Coroner by the operation of the County Government Act, but instead of being Borough Coroner under the Town Council he became County Coroner under the County Council, with his jurisdiction limited to the Borough. He (Mr Bromham) was simply acting instead of a brother County Coroner and was therefore within his legal right, as Dr Thompson did not desire to act. - The first witness was MRS BOUNDY, wife of the deceased, who said that her husband left home all right on Tuesday morning, the 2nd inst., to attend Bideford Market. She saw no more of him until she was called to the Infirmary the next morning. Miss Elizabeth Stacey, of Hallsannery, stated that as she was walking home from Bideford on Tuesday evening last, about 10 o'clock, she passed MR BOUNDY, who was sitting on the wall at Northam Ridge. She said, "Good night," and he replied. He appeared to be in his usual health. - William Glover, shoemaker, of Littleham, said that as he was passing the hedge at Northam Ridge about 3 o'clock on Wednesday morning, as he was going fishing, he heard someone inside, and he thought it was a man he had seen just before. About 5 o'clock as he was returning, he heard the noise again and then got over the wall and looked. He found a man there lying on his back close to the river wall. He spoke to the man, but could get no reply. Finding he could not do him any good, witness went off for the Police by a waggoner who was passing. Witness could not discern the least smell of drink about him. - By the Jury: I did not go in the first time, because though I thought it was my friend taken rather ill it was an awkward place for me to get at. - P.C. Hamlyn deposed that on Wednesday morning last, at 6.40 he went to Northam Ridge and after getting over the beach wall he heard a "wisht" noise and upon getting over another wall he saw a man lying there, who proved to be MR BOUNDY. He was lying in a "twisted" position among some very big stones. He was insensible. Witness got assistance from a boat and removed MR BOUNDY to the Bideford Infirmary. - Mr E. Rouse stated that last Wednesday morning he came to the Infirmary, and saw MR BOUNDY in the accident ward. He was quite insensible. Witness examined him carefully and found no evidence whatever of external injury. He never expected MR BOUNDY would recover. From his condition he judged that death was caused by pressure upon one side of the top of the spinal cord. This might have been the result of a fall or of lying in the position in which he was found by Glover. The balance of evidence, in his opinion, pointed to deceased having had a fall, but there was not the evidence of violence. - At this point an adjournment was made for the doctor to make a post-mortem examination. Upon the Jury reassembling, Mr Rouse stated that he had found evidence of considerable extravasation of blood on the left side of the top of the spine, from which he came to the conclusion that deceased had either had a heavy fall or a severe blow. - In accordance with this evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - Several of the Jury commented somewhat strongly upon the conduct of Glover and Branton, who, after the former had found MR BOUNDY, went away and left him alone until the Police-Constable came.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 11 July 1889
CREDITON - Mr Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry yesterday at The Parks, Crediton, touching the death of the lad PETER PARKER, who was drowned in the river Yeo on Saturday last as already reported. - The first witness was GEORGE PARKER, the father of the child, who said he was a labourer, living at The Parks. He last saw his son alive on Saturday, about 1 o'clock. He was then in the garden. He did not know that his son was in the habit of going bathing, nor did he know if he could swim or not. The boy was 10 years of age last birthday. He first heard of his son being drowned when in the field at work. When he came home the body had been recovered and was placed in bed. - Percy Moore, living in Park-street, Crediton, stated that on Saturday last he went into the Bull Marsh to bathe in the River Yeo. The deceased and several other boys were there when he arrived. He saw the deceased going into the river. He appeared to be washing off some mud and as he went near the pit slipped and fell on his side. After struggling a bit in the water deceased sank. Witness then went towards him to try and save him, but when deceased came to the surface he was further away than when he went down. Before witness could get to him he sank again. Witness went into the water up to his neck, but when the deceased rose he was still further away, so witness could not reach him. Deceased sank a third time and he did not see anything more of him. Witness dressed and ran and gave information. Witness was 13 years of age and could not swim. - Walter Godsland, a little boy, eight years of age, stated that he was bathing in Bull Marsh with the deceased and several other boys. He saw the deceased sink three times and the boy Moore tried to rescue him. There was no one near him when he fell in the water. No one was near enough to push him. - James Gore said that on Saturday he was going towards Bull Marsh for the purpose of bathing when he met the last witness, who told him that PETER PARKER was drowned. He went straight to the place with the boy, and when he came there John Tarr was trying to recover the body with a long rake, but could not succeed. Witness undressed and dived where the boys told him and brought the body up the first time. He should say there was seven or eight feet of water where the body was found. The lad was quite dead. - Dr Edwards stated that on Saturday last he went to The Parks and saw the deceased laying on a bed. He examined the body, which presented all the symptoms of drowning and in his opinion the cause of death was drowning. - The Jury, of which Mr E. Lane was Foreman, immediately returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - The Deputy Coroner made no reference to the Jury as to the unusual delay in holding the Inquiry, but it is understood that he had not received any communication from the Coroner at Cullompton, and the cause of the delay is still unaccounted for. The Sergeant of Police posted the information to Cullompton personally on Saturday.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 13 July 1889
DARTINGTON - A labourer named NILDER committed suicide at Dartington on Wednesday by cutting his throat during his wife's absence at Totnes on business. The deceased had been suffering from depression for a long time, the result of a fall from a loft, from which he received serious injuries to his head. At the Inquest a verdict of "Temporary Insanity" was returned.

TOPSHAM - The Fatal Accident At Topsham Locks. - An Inquest was held yesterday at the Topsham Vestry Room before the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, touching the death of the little boy WARNER, who was drowned in the Canal on Wednesday. The father of the deceased said he was generally known as WARNER, but his real name was ROBERT JOSEPH HOWARD. The deceased was his son ROBERT, aged five and a half years. He last saw him alive on Wednesday, about 5 o'clock, when he left the house to see another boy named Hunn. At 5.30 witness heard this last named lad call out, "MR WARNER your little BOBBY is in the water." He went out, but did not see deceased until he subsequently recovered the body with grappling irons. - Leonard Hunn, aged 11, said that on the day in question he was fishing in the Canal, and saw the deceased near the bridge. Deceased was throwing stones into the water and while doing so fell in. Witness immediately called to his father, who was on the other side of the Canal. - Mr H. Hunn stated that his son, the last witness, called him, whereupon he dropped his line and ran across the bridge. He saw the lad under the water on his back. Witness called the ferryman Little, who dived for deceased, but overshot the body. - The ferryman Little stated that in running to the spot he hitched his foot in the chain at the bridge and it took him two minutes to get clear. - Dr Bothwell stated that death was due to drowning, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death from Drowning." - Both the Coroner and the Jury commended Little for his praiseworthy endeavour to rescue the lad.

EXETER - Sudden Death In The Mint. - Yesterday afternoon, at the Exeter Police Court, the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquiry concerning the death of AMELIA CHARLOTTE SOPHIA SWEET, 70, wife of HENRY SWEET, a dairyman. - Mary Price Hammett, of 10 The Mint, gave evidence of identification, and said the deceased, with her husband, occupied a room in her house. On Thursday evening, in response to a call from MR SWEET, witness went to the room referred to, where she found the deceased in a dying state. Medical aid was summoned, but the deceased expired before it was at hand. - Mr Edward Steele Perkins, Surgeon, expressed the opinion that syncope was the cause of death. - The deceased's husband subsequently appeared in Court, and corroborated the evidence of the first witness. - The Jury were unanimous in returning a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 17 July 1889
DARTMOUTH - The Drowning Of MR J. W. H. BENT At Dartmouth. The Inquest. - At the Dartmouth Guildhall last evening Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN WILLIAM HENRY BENT, 25, until recently clerk in the National Provincial Bank, Exeter, and son of CAPTAIN BENT, late Chief-Constable of the City of Exeter, who was drowned in the river Dart off Water Head on the previous morning while preparing to leave the harbour in the small yacht Seabreeze with a friend named Mr Frank Robert Bradbeer, brush manufacturer, of St Thomas, Exeter. - Mr W. F. Geare, of the firm of Tozer, Geare and Mathew, solicitors, of Exeter, represented the deceased's family. - Previous to opening the Inquiry, the Coroner stated that that was the first Inquest he had held in that Borough. As they were doubtless aware, the jurisdiction of the gentlemen who had hitherto so admirably conducted the Inquests had ceased, the Local Government Act providing that certain county authorities, among others the county coroners, should have jurisdiction in boroughs with a population under 10,000. He had been in the habit of holding Inquests all around the Borough, and as there was an excellent train service from Newton Abbot to Dartmouth he should be able therefore to attend with promptitude when his presence was required. He presumed he should be expressing the sentiments of the people of Dartmouth when he said that he hoped those occasions might be few and far between. - (Hear, hear.) - Mr Walter Frederick Geare, solicitor, of Exeter, stated that he knew the deceased. He had formerly been a clerk at the Exeter branch of the National Provincial Bank, but recently he had resigned his post in consequence of bad health. Deceased suffered from epileptic fits, which came on at intervals. - Mr John William Bodley, proprietor of the King's Arms Hotel, Dartmouth, stated that the deceased had been staying at his house with his friend, Mr Bradbeer. On the previous morning they were going on board a small yacht which they had in the harbour. They had engaged a punt, but as the boy who was to put them on board did not turn up witness put them off. Shortly after one of his servants told him that one of the gentlemen who was staying at the Hotel had returned from his yacht and almost immediately he met Mr Bradbeer, who went away with the deceased, and he explained to him (witness) that MR BENT was drowned. Both deceased and his friend left the house shortly before 10 o'clock and he heard of the accident about half-an-hour afterwards. - Mr Frank Robert Bradbeer, brush manufacturer, of St. Thomas, Exeter, stated that in company with the deceased and a boy he sailed around from Starcross in a small yacht, called the Seabreeze, arriving at Dartmouth on Sunday. On Monday morning, shortly before 10 o'clock, Mr Bodley put them off in order that they might proceed to Starcross. On reaching the vessel witness proceeded to arrange the sails, the deceased sitting down in the well of the boat, which was half decked. Witness had his back turned for a few moments, when deceased asked if he should unloose the mainsail. Witness said he could if he choose, and within a quarter of a minute he (Mr Bradbeer) heard a heavy splash. He immediately rushed to the side of the vessel and saw deceased's hat floating on the water, the deceased being missing. He hailed several boats, thinking the body would rise, but it did not do so. After waiting some time he was put ashore, and gave information to the Police, afterwards giving orders for the river to be dragged. Some two or three hours after the body was recovered. He knew deceased had had fits, but had never seen him in one. They had not occurred recently and deceased had been in much better health than heretofore. The mainsail could have been let loose without going on to the deck. He (witness) did not hear any cry from the deceased, which led him to believe that he was in a fit at the time. - James Fisher, fisherman, of Dartmouth, said he recovered the body with a boat-haul about 200 yards from the yacht. He first conveyed it to Kingswear, and afterwards handed it over to the Police. - Dr Soper said he had made an examination of the body and found no marks of violence upon it. He considered death was due to drowning and, from the circumstances, believed deceased was in an epileptic fit at the time he fell into the water, which would cause immediate suffocation. The body would in all probability sink at once as the teeth would be tightly clenched. - P.S. Stentiford said he received the body, and, in searching it, found that a gold watch in the waistcoat pocket had stopped at five minutes to 10. He also discovered in the pocket a sovereign case containing £4 in gold, and there was a loaded six-chamber revolver in a leather case strapped around the waist. - In reply to the Coroner, Mr Bradbeer said the deceased had had the revolver from a tradesman on approval and had recently been practising with it at glass bottles. After hearing the remarks of the Coroner, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 19 July 1889
HEANTON PUNCHARDON - An Inquest was held on Tuesday, before the County Coroner, Mr James T. Bromham, at Wrafton, in this parish, on the body of MRS ANN TUCKER. - Mrs Harriet Symons said that the deceased was the widow of the late MR GEORGE TUCKER, and that for some few weeks she had been acting as cook for Miss Prout of Braunton. On Wednesday evening last she heard deceased talking to a dog over the wall. The deceased suddenly disappeared, and witness heard a bucket rattle and then a scream. Witness went in and asked what was the matter and the deceased said she had fallen down some steps and her neck came in contact with the edge of the bucket. Dr Lane was called in and deceased was, at her own request. removed to her son-in-law's, Mr Sanders, of Wrafton, where she remained until she died on Monday night. - John Sanders said the deceased was his mother-in-law and was 72 years of age. He was home when the deceased was brought to his house on Wednesday last. - Dr Lane said that he had attended the deceased since the accident. She had sustained concussion of the brain and compression of the spine, the result of the fall. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

MERTON - Mr J. F. Bromham held an Inquest on the body of JAMES ANDREWS, thatcher, aged 36, who met with an accident, as reported in the Gazette, some days ago. the Inquiry was held at the Malt Scoop Inn, Merton and Mr Trickey was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - GEORGE ANDREWS deposed that deceased was his brother. He saw the deceased two days after the accident. He was then conscious and seemed to be recovering. Deceased said that it was an accident; he had slipped off the ladder on which he was while thatching a rick of hay for Mr Salter, Huish Barton. - George Ridge, carpenter, said he was working at the same place as the deceased on Monday, the 1st July. He heard a noise and on going to the bottom of the rick which deceased had been thatching he found him lying there unconscious. In a few minutes he recovered consciousness and was taken home and a doctor sent for. He saw him several times after the accident and deceased told him that he over-reached himself and slipping off the ladder fell head foremost, falling with his left shoulder on a large stone. - Dr Drummond said he was away from home when the accident occurred, but his assistant attended the deceased. He (witness) saw the deceased himself two days after the accident. His injuries consisted of a broken collar bone and two broken ribs, while there was a large bruise over the region of the heart. Deceased got on very well for the first week, but then the temperature rose and a lot of matter came from the lungs. On Sunday night he was sent for about half-past 11 o'clock and found the deceased much worse and when he saw him again on the Monday he found the case hopeless, death ensuing a few hours afterwards. The cause of death was inflammation and collapse of the lungs, one of the ribs having penetrated the left lung and an abscess formed. The injuries were such as would be caused by a fall such as had been described. The Jury brought in a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed their sympathy with the widow, who had been left with four little children. The fees of the doctor and Jurymen were handed over to the brother of the deceased for the widow. The event has cast quite a gloom over the village, as deceased was respected as a sober and industrious man, and liked by all his fellow parishioners.

TOTNES - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at the Inquest yesterday on the body of O. A. ROGERS, who was killed the previous day at the timber yard of Mr Griffis, under circumstances already reported.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 20 July 1889
KINGSTEIGNTON - The Suicide At Kingsteignton. - Yesterday morning Mr Sidney Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquiry at Fosteville Farm, Kingsteignton, into the circumstances of the death of EDWARD AGGETT, who committed suicide by hanging himself on Wednesday afternoon. Mr T. Butland was chosen the Foreman of the Jury. The first witness called was the deceased's father, SAMUEL AGGETT, who said his son was 26 years of age and lived on the farm with him. The farm was occupied by himself, his wife and the deceased, and the farm servants. He last saw his son alive on Tuesday evening at supper time. There was nothing remarkable in his conversation or manner. Witness got up before the deceased on the following morning and went away on business. When he came home at 7 p.m. the deceased was dead. There was a disagreement about three months ago between them, but that had passed away. - Richard Friend, a labourer on the farm, deposed that he had known deceased from a child. On Wednesday afternoon, in the hay-field turning hay, between 3 and 4 o'clock, deceased suddenly said he should go and hang himself. He laughed at him, thinking he was joking. He went on working after that for some time. Shortly after 4 o'clock deceased put down his hay-fork and went away. Witness heard afterwards that he was dead. He never knew of anything to account for the act deceased had committed. - Jessie Beater, the wife of Robert Beater, a neighbour, said that on Wednesday last she went to get water near the stable of the farm, when she noticed the stable-door open and as she went to shut it, saw deceased hanging in the stable. She ran for assistant. - Mary Ann Napper deposed that she lived at Lord Clifford's lodge at Fosteville, about a gun shot from the farm. On Wednesday she was called by Mrs Beater, and found the deceased hanging by a rope tied to a beam above and round the neck of deceased, who was quite dead, but the body was warm. The weight of his body was all on the rope, but his toes were touching the ground. It was then a quarter-past 5 o'clock. For the last month or two deceased appeared somewhat gloomy. There was a pail standing upside down near the feet of deceased. - ANN AGGETT, mother of the deceased, deposed that her mother's brother was out of his mind and committed suicide some ten years ago. - Alice Caunter, a servant employed on the farm, said deceased came into the kitchen on Wednesday afternoon and sat down in a chair with his face in his hands. She went out and saw the deceased leave the kitchen and cross to the stable. - Evidence having been given by P.C. Seldon as to the searching of the deceased and finding now writing on him, the Coroner briefly summed up and the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that deceased came to his death by Hanging Himself while Temporarily Insane. Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 22 July 1889 TORQUAY - Fatal Fall Over Steps At Torquay. A Husband And Daughter Censured. - On Saturday evening Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Half Moon Hotel, Torquay, touching the death of EMMA MARTIN, 54, wife of EDWIN MARTIN, mason's labourer, Spring Steps, Pimlico. On the afternoon of Whit-Monday deceased fell down the steps leading from Pimlico to Union-street, sustaining a severe flesh wound on the forehead, from the effect of which she died on Saturday morning. As no medical man could be found at the time of the accident deceased was taken to the Torbay Hospital, where the wound was dressed by Dr Cave, who put two stitches in the wound and told deceased to come to him again on the following day. She did not visit the Hospital again, however, until eight days after, when the House Surgeon found that the wound was in a very bad state, and through neglect the bone had become exposed. - In reply to the Coroner, Dr Cave said he did not think the woman was suffering from concussion of the brain, or he should have detained her. She did not seem to like the idea of remaining in the Institution and he did not press her. Since her second visit to the Infirmary she had been seen by other medical men, and witness saw her last Wednesday, when she was perfectly sensible. Death was caused by inflammation of the membrane of the brain. There was no fracture; it was simply a flesh wound and was not a serious one when he first saw it. - The husband of deceased was closely questioned by the Coroner and Jury as to why he allowed his wife to remain seven days without obtaining medical aid. MARTIN replied that he did not like to see the wound and was under the impression that she was getting better. Other evidence was given, including that of Mrs Rooke, who visited MRS MARTIN daily, but did not see the wound, as it was always bandaged when she went into the room. The husband added that he wanted her to have a doctor, but she declined. - The Coroner said the husband was responsible and if his wife was dangerously ill it was hid duty to see that she had proper medical aid. She ought to have been either forcibly removed to the Infirmary or the assistance of a medical man obtained in time. In summing up, he said it at first appeared to him that death had been due to culpable negligence, but on hearing the evidence he thought it was accounted for by the ignorance of the husband and daughter. The Jury had to consider the position of the parties and if they thought there was more ignorance than carelessness a verdict of accidental death only ought to be returned, but if they thought that culpable carelessness had contributed to or caused death it would be for the Jury to find a verdict of manslaughter against the person guilty of such carelessness. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider to the effect that they considered that the husband and daughter deserved censure for not bestowing proper attention upon the deceased after receiving medical directions concerning her. - The Coroner quite concurred with the decision of the Jury.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 23 July 1889
TIVERTON - At the Tiverton Infirmary yesterday Mr Mackenzie, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest touching the death of ALFRED DAVEY, aged 2 years and 9 months, the child of a woman now living in London, and who has been in the care of his grandparents, HENRY JAMES DAVEY and wife, at Tomswell Cottage, adjoining the factory leat, at Loughborough, which the grandfather is employed to look after. The circumstances of the case were stated in yesterday's Daily Gazette. The child, it was shown, fell in while playing near the water unattended, and the body was taken out by Dr Reddrop, whose attention was called to the accident some time later as he was driving to Washfield by a boy named Copp. Dr Reddrop tried for an hour to restore respiration, but it was too late. - The grandfather stated that the leat was unfenced at the point where it adjoined the cottage. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," and the Coroner congratulated Dr Reddrop on behalf of the Jury and himself upon his heroic efforts and did so, he said, the more warmly because it showed there were some Tivertonians, at any rate, who did not lose their heads when an emergency arose. On the occasion of a former death by drowning everyone seemed to have run away, but had Dr Reddrop been on the spot life would probably have been saved.

TIVERTON - The Distressing Suicide At Tiverton. The Inquest. - The Inquiry into the death of the young woman MARTHA PETHYBRIDGE, who cut her throat on Saturday at hr brother-in-law's house in Chapel-street, was held yesterday afternoon at the Tiverton Infirmary before Mr Lewis Mackenzie, Borough Coroner. - Mr Alfred Mold was Foreman of the Jury. - MARY ANN ROOKS, wife of HENRY ROOKS, lace hand at the factory, said deceased was her half-sister and had lately been doing laundry work. Deceased had lived at witness's house for the last two years, and had always seemed in good health and spirits until last week, when she became very queer in her conversation and complained of her back. She did not take her food well. She had a five months' old baby and it disturbed her rest. Witness last saw deceased alive about 12.30 on Saturday, when she was queer, following witness about the house, but not saying anything. Dr Cullin had recently attended her. On Friday night she threatened to destroy herself and witness told her it was silliness to say so. On Saturday morning she seemed different and had a strange stare. About 1 p.m. on Saturday, witness was at the pump in the yard when she saw deceased pass into the back kitchen and run back into the house. Witness spoke to a neighbour about deceased and at that moment heard a fall in the front room. She called Mrs Boobier and Mrs Needs, and they went in and found deceased lying by the fire-place with her throat cut. Witness was within hearing all the time, but heard no call or cry. Deceased had never complained of anyone, nor had she threatened before Friday night to destroy herself. She was naturally cheerful. In the back kitchen witness's husband kept his razor. Deceased had one other child, aged four years. Deceased had not made complaints formerly as to her health. - Bessie Boobier, wife of Samuel Boobier, lace-hand, and a neighbour of the last witness, said she had known deceased for years. The last week or fortnight deceased had not been well, and on Thursday and Friday she had seemed queer. Witness inquired about her on Saturday and just then Mrs Rooks remarked that she heard something fall. Witness summoned all her nerve, went into the room, and found deceased lying in front of the fireplace on her back, with her legs over the rug, her head towards one corner. The razor lay on one side by the fender. On Friday evening, in the presence of witness and Mrs Rooks and Mrs Gibbons, deceased said she "Felt like it" again, and should put an end to herself. Witness never knew of any quarrelling in the house, or that deceased had been unhappy. - Elizabeth Gibbons, wife of John Gibbons, butcher's labourer, said that on Friday evening she heard deceased say she would drown herself. She was passing along the street with her baby and seemed to be talking to herself. On witness speaking to her, she repeated the threat. Witness persuaded her to return home with her. Deceased did not allude to any cause of unhappiness. Witness never knew of her being intemperate. - P.S. Perry said he was called to the house at 1.15 p.m. He found the deceased lying in the front room as described, with the razor now produced by her side. The pier-glass, fender and fire-irons were splashed with blood. Deceased was dead. She was clad in only an ulster, a petticoat and boots, no stockings. Witness knew her, but never saw her drunk. - Mr R. B. Cullin, Surgeon, described the position of the body and the injury. The cut in the throat was five or six inches long and witness had no doubt it was a suicidal wound. Just recently deceased had been under his care. He saw her twice - on Tuesday and Thursday last. She seemed to be suffering from a disordered liver, the result of alcohol; but she showed no sign of insanity, though on Thursday she seemed "hazy." His post-mortem examination revealed a frightfully enlarged liver, chronic congestion of the stomach and kidney disease. Deceased was no doubt insane when she cut her throat. As to the family history in that respect, he had twice sent her mother to Exeter Asylum. She too had threatened suicide, by cutting her throat. The Coroner pointed out that the internal bodily condition described by Dr Cullin was not unlikely to have the effect upon a nervous woman, rendering her unsettled and uncertain in her actions. The evidence of the first three witnesses went to indicate that deceased was mentally unhinged for at least some portion of the 24 hours before she died. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity." - The Coroner remarked upon the saving of time and the convenience generally which was found to result now that there was a public mortuary at the infirmary, to which bodies could be removed and where the Jury could view them. It was, however, much better from a sanitary point that bodies should not remain in the house of relatives in cases where an Inquest had to be held.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 26 July 1889
BARNSTAPLE - Fatal Accident At Barnstaple. - An Inquest was held on Tuesday at Mr Frank Garland's Carpenter's Arms, Derby, Barnstaple, before Mr Incledon Bencraft, Coroner, and a Jury, on the body of GEORGE HENRY FORD, aged ten months, infant child of HENRY FORD, cabinet-maker, of Raleigh Works. The evidence was to the effect that on Saturday night last the deceased was on the floor in the back kitchen. An elder brother, named FRANK, aged 13, was in the room and had upset some benzoline on the floor. The mother took up the baby and then told the other boy to take a match and throw it on the oil. The mother stood back amusing the child with the sight of the flame, but there was a small pit in the stone floor, which held the oil and which, as soon as the fir got to it, flew up in flames. There was oil on the clothes of the baby and the flames immediately ignited it. The mother ran screaming into the back yard, trying to put out the flames with her hands. Shew as much burned about the hands and arms, and in her fright let the chid fall on the ground. The father then rushed out from the front room, and taking up the child, which was burning, placed it in the trough and turned on the water tap. Dr Jackson, who was sent for, soon arrived, and dressed the wounds, but after much suffering the child died on Sunday night. The father of the child, in his evidence, said the deceased's life was not insured. Dr Jackson described the nature of the burns, which were of a very severe character all over the back and also in front of the lower part of the body and down the legs. The upper layer of skin was blistered and the child was suffering from shock. The next day convulsions set in and the child died. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 31 July 1889
DAWLISH - An Inquest was held at the Dawlish Town Hall yesterday evening, before Mr S. Hacker, on the body of a little boy, ALFRED GEORGE KERSWELL, aged three years and nine months, the son of MR JAMES KERSWELL, gardener. From the evidence of the mother, it appeared that she was washing in the back-yard and had left to get tea in the kitchen, when the child climbed on to a bag of coke and then on the furnace, when he accidentally slipped in. His both legs and face were somewhat scalded, and, according to the evidence of Mr A. de Winter Baker, Surgeon, the child died from the effects of the scalds, followed by shock to the nervous system. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 3 August 1889
TORQUAY - The Stabbing Fatality At Torquay. - Contrary to general expectation, the public were not admitted to the Torquay Police Court yesterday, when it was expected that William Townsend would be charged with causing the death of CHARLES GARD, under circumstances already reported in these columns. The affair produced a profound sensation throughout the town, and the greatest sympathy was expressed for the widow and eight young children of the deceased. No one appeared to regret the occurrence more than Townsend, who had been on intimate terms with GARD; and when he was placed in the dock yesterday his appearance bore testimony to the suffering he had experienced during his sojourn in the cells. Mr W. F. Splatt, the only Magistrate present, formally informed the accused that he was charged with unlawfully wounding. - P.S. Osborne said in this case the prisoner was locked up at midday yesterday charged with unlawfully wounding a man named CHARLES GARD at the Clarence Hotel, Torquay. GARD had since died at the Hospital, and the facts have been communicated to the Coroner, who had ordered an Inquest to be held at 5 o'clock that day. Pending that Inquiry he had to ask for a remand until Monday. The application was granted, and Townsend was removed to the cells. - The Inquest. - Mr Sidney Hacker (County Coroner) held an Inquiry at the Torbay Hospital last evening into the circumstances attending the fatality. Mr Thomas Taylor was appointed as Foreman of the Jury. Mr Carter watched the case on behalf of William Townsend, who was at the Inquiry, in the custody of the Police. - The Coroner, in opening the Inquiry, said it would be the duty of the Jury to Inquire carefully as to who was responsible for the death of deceased, and generally as to the circumstances attending it. - ROSINA GARD, wife of the deceased, was first called. She said her husband was 36 years of age. She spoke to being fetched to the Infirmary to see deceased. She asked who did it and Townsend said "Me; it was not intentionally." - Alfred Way, clerk, residing at No. 2 Pennsylvania-terrace, stated that on Thursday he was on his usual round, soliciting orders for his employers. He called at the Clarence Hotel, and as the landlord was busy he ordered a glass of bitter and sat on a stove inside the bar door. He saw Townsend sitting down in the bar eating some bread and cheese. When he arrived at the Hotel it was about 11.30. Just after he arrived a man named Gardener, a railway porter, came in, and subsequently GARD and a man named Kinch. there was a general conversation going on. Something was eventually said which led GARD to go over to where Townsend was sitting and catch hold of his whiskers. Townsend turned around and faced GARD, at the same time giving him a slight blow in the face. GARD then commenced to jump around in a boxing attitude. Townsend was still sitting down and made no effort to defend himself. After GARD had knocked Townsend's hat on one side he went to the mantelpiece to take up his glass to drink. Suddenly he said, "You have pricked me; you must be a fool to play with a knife in your hand." I didn't know you had one." After repeating these words several times, Townsend said, "Bother the knife; I wish I never carried one," at the same time shutting it up and putting it in his pocket. GARD, who had remained with his arm on the mantelpiece, suddenly became very pale. Townsend had been eating bread and cheese with his knife, but witness did not notice it while the sparring was going on. Townsend was sitting on a three-legged stool, and remained seated all the time while GARD was standing. After drinking from his glass deceased unbuttoned his waistcoat and inserted his hand. On taking it out it was covered with blood. The landlord, Mr Rowland, said, "CHARLIE, you had better come inside; I will stop that for you." Deceased then walked into the bagatelle-room followed by Kinch, in whose arms he subsequently fainted. Mr Rowland obtained some lint which he placed on the wound. The knife had apparently entered just below the left breast and blood was flowing copiously from the wound; in fact, the flannel vest was saturated. After staunching the bleeding, Mr Rowland sent for medical aid. Townsend meanwhile tried to get deceased to speak, saying "Did I do it intentionally? Did I mean it?" Deceased did not at first answer but subsequently he said, "No, Will." A doctor eventually arrived and after examining deceased ordered him to be conveyed to the Hospital. The wounded man was placed in one of Pickford's waggons. Witness accompanied him and in the evening he said, "Let me die; what must I die like this for?" Mr Rowland, who was in the waggon, asked deceased if Townsend did it intentionally and he distinctly replied, "No, Rowland." He heard no angry words. Townsend appeared to be innocent of any intent and he went on eating his bread and cheese until he saw the blood. - In answer to Mr Carter, witness said Townsend was greatly distressed after the occurrence. Previous to the wound being inflicted the men appeared to be on the most friendly terms. - John Palmer, painter, and Harry Kinch gave corroborative evidence. The latter said that as GARD came forward a second time, Townsend put his hand up and GARD appeared to lean on it, the former remaking, "That will do, CHARLIE." GARD immediately went back to the mantelpiece and said, "You must have been a fool to have a knife in your hand. You pricked me that time." Having discovered that he was bleeding, GARD walked into the bagatelle-room, where he fainted and was subsequently removed to the Hospital. Townsend was terribly upset at the occurrence. - James Gillard, James Gardner, and William Henry Rowland, the landlord of the Hotel, gave corroborative evidence. - P.C. Greek proved arresting Townsend. - Mr Cave, House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said the deceased slept for an hour after his admission to that Institution. At that time he had a hopeful opinion of the case, but 10 minutes after deceased awoke he expired. The witness described the appearance of the wound. - Harriett Peck, Nurse at the Torbay Hospital, said deceased told her he had received the wound through sky-larking. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the case was one of homicide, and the question the Jury had to consider was whether the deceased's death was due to excusable homicide - homicide by misadventure - or whether to homicide amounting to manslaughter. - The Jury retired at a quarter to 8, and after 15 minutes' deliberation returned a verdict of "Homicide by Misadventure."

BARNSTAPLE - At an Inquest last evening at Barnstaple, on the body of CHARLES CREUSE, a bargeman, who it is supposed fell off his barge and was drowned, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - The Drowning Of A Child In The Exeter Basin. - Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner for the District, held an inquiry yesterday at the Plymouth Inn, St. Thomas, into the circumstances attending the death of ELIZABETH ANN LITTEN, aged 7, who was drowned in the Exeter Basin on Wednesday evening. - FRANCIS LITTEN, a smith, of Hawkins's-buildings, Water-lane, said the deceased was his daughter. She left his house with her little brother about 5.40 on the evening in question. Witness, who had returned from work, was washing at the time when they went out. About 6.15 a little girl named Elston informed witness that his daughter had been drowned. The little boy, aged 5, who accompanied the deceased, could only speak indifferently, and it was therefore difficult to understand him, but they had gathered from him that he and his sister, who was throwing something into the water, were standing upon the steps leading down to the water, when the deceased over-balanced herself and fell in. - Mr Vlieland, Surgeon, of St. Thomas, who saw the body immediately after its recovery from the water, said the case was undoubtedly one in which death was caused by drowning. - The little girl Elston, aged 7, said the deceased's brother told her that his sister was throwing hay into the water and fell in. - The Coroner remarked that the Jury had only indirect evidence of the deceased having fallen into the water. This testimony, if they were satisfied with it, would justify them in returning a verdict of accidental death by drowning. If, on the other hand, they entertained any doubt concerning the matter, it would be for them to find an open verdict of found drowned. Without hesitation the Jury found that the deceased was Accidentally Drowned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 8 August 1889
SALCOMBE - At the King's Arms Hotel, Salcombe, yesterday afternoon, Dr D. A. Fraser, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of MR JOHN WOOD, a mariner, of Salcombe, who was drowned on Bank-holiday, by the upsetting of his boat, while engaged in fishing near the Mewstone, which was stated to be a very dangerous place for sailing-boats when the wind was rather high. Evidence was given by Albert and James Distin, who observed the catastrophe. They pulled to the spot and picked up the body and tried to resuscitate the deceased, but without avail. On being brought to the shore Dr A. H. Twining used artificial means for the same purpose, but at the end of a hour desisted without a successful result. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death, caused by Drowning."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 9 August 1889
INSTOW - An Inquest was held on Wednesday at the Marine Hotel on the body of WILLIAM LEWIS, a lad who was found in the river Torridge on the previous day. Deceased had been in the employ of Mrs Harriet May, of Horwood Cottage, since just before Lady-day last. A week ago he left her service without giving notice and Ada Prouse, a servant in the same employ, finding he did not return, appeared much troubled and went into the village to make enquiries. The morning after the lad had left Ada Prouse showed her mistress the following letter which she had received from him and in consequence of the letter she communicated with the Police. The letter ran:- "Miss Prouse, you will find me lower side of Bideford Bridge were you go in across to Southkett. I going to drown myself all through the mains of you and it your fault and nobody else. good bye I shall never see you again." - (A number of crosses followed). - Ada Celia Prouse gave evidence and said the deceased had been "keeping company" with her. They had had no unpleasantness all the time they went together, except that a week before she told the deceased that she could not keep company with him. He was very anxious that she should, but she did not care for him. The day after he left the house she received the letter referred to. - GEORGE LEWIS, of Newton St Petrock, North Devon, said he was the father of the deceased. On Thursday in last week he received a letter from the deceased saying he intended to destroy himself. He made inquiries and found that the lad had been seen on Bideford Quay. - P.C. Hamlyn deposed to seeing the lad at Bideford on Wednesday, and William Sharley, platelayer and P.C. J. Smith gave evidence of finding the body in the river Torridge near the place described in the letter. - The Jury returned a verdict that deceased Committed Suicide while of Unsound Mind.

BARNSTAPLE - North Devon. A Jury Of Fifteen. - An Inquest was held on Tuesday at the North Devon Infirmary, Barnstaple, before Incledon Bencraft, Esq., Borough Coroner, and a Jury of 15 instead of 12, the reason for which was explained by the Coroner. The body on which the Inquest was held was that of a young man named WILLIAM HAWKES, aged 20, a workman in the employ of Messrs. Lucas and Ayre, the contractors who are doubling the railway between Braunton and Barnstaple Stations on the Ilfracombe Branch of the London and South Western Railway. Deceased was a native of Warmington. The Coroner, addressing the Jury, explained the nature of the evidence to be called and told the Jury that they must inquire and see whether anyone was to blame for the accident which had befallen the deceased, or whether it was the result of his own negligence. He (the Coroner) had on this occasion fifteen Jurymen instead of twelve, as usual. In doing so he had acted upon the suggestion of one of the Judges at the last County Assizes, Mr Justice Charles. The suggestion was made for this reason that the verdict must be of twelve and, therefore, now having fifteen, should two or even three stand out he would still be able to take the verdict of the other twelve. When there were only twelve Jurymen the verdict must be given by the whole of them, and even if they had then only one dissentient - he would not say a "cranky" one - among them that would prevent him from taking a verdict. - The body having been viewed, the following evidence was given:- Henry Newton, a timekeeper, in the employment of Messrs. Lucas and Ayre, stated that the deceased was a shunter or rope-runner, employed by the contractors. On Saturday, the 20th July, about 6.30 a.m., deceased was uncoupling the break van from the trucks, about 100 yards this side of Wrafton Station. He stepped from the platform of the guard's van on to the buffer of the same van. He then placed one foot on the buffer of the truck that was attached to the van. The truck was uncoupled, and the van then moved faster than before and deceased slipped off it, and before he could catch hold of the truck he fell on the line between the rails. The whole of the trucks passed over him. The engine was the last, as it was shunting and the fire-box of the engine struck deceased on the head as it was passing over him. The deceased got up and walked some little distance. Witness saw he was bleeding from the head and a couple of men led him to the break van, as he seemed to be injured a good deal. He was immediately brought on to Barnstaple and taken to the Infirmary. In answer to the Coroner, the witness said he did not know whether it was usual to uncouple trains while in motion. The deceased was riding on the platform of the break van, which it was his duty to do. There were eight empty trucks to the train, which was going at about five miles an hour. - Francis F. Freke, the engine-driver, said the first thing he noticed was the ash-pan of the engine striking against something. He looked behind and saw the deceased in the middle of the four-foot way, the trucks and the engine having passed over him. Deceased got up himself and walked towards the engine, when a couple of men assisted him. He (witness) drove him to Barnstaple Station with the same engine. - In answer to questions the witness said it was usual for men to uncouple trucks while in motion. Had he seen the accident he might have eased the speed of the train. No one drew his attention to the accident. - William Treble, acting-guard in the employ of the London and South Western Railway Company, said he was on the train in question. On the morning in question the deceased was on his van, but he saw nothing of the accident, as he was keeping a look-out in front. He saw deceased afterwards walking down the line. - John Roberts, walking ganger, said he went to the Infirmary with the deceased, who did not find fault with anybody, but explained to him how the accident happened. - Mr H. H. Lovell, House Surgeon at the Infirmary, stated when deceased arrived at the Institution he was suffering from shock and had three scalp wounds. The largest one was on the left side of the forehead, and the other two were on the top of the head. He had evidently received a blow on the forehead. The wounds were dressed with antiseptic precautions. there were no symptoms of concussion or compression. He did well up to the fifth day after the accident. Then slight feverish symptoms set in. About the eleventh day he got considerably worse and on the twelfth day Dr Jackson thought it advisable to operate by removing a small portion of bone, because it was dead and suppuration was going on within the skull. Deceased was relieved for 24 hours after the operation. Two days afterwards he seemed to be worse again, and Dr Jackson removed another small portion of bone. Symptoms got worse, coma supervened and deceased expired on Monday morning. the injuries to the head were the cause of death. - The Coroner said there were several rumours about, and he had heard that day that portions of the brain were seen before he went into the Infirmary. - Mr Lovell said that was quite impossible. There was nothing to lead one to suppose that there was anything beyond ordinary scalp wounds. As a matter of fact, however, there was a fracture to the skull, but there had been no symptoms of it. That was ascertained at the operation, and that was the reason for removing the bone. The actual cause of death was abscess on the brain, which was verified afterwards. - The Coroner pointed out that there appeared to be no blame attached to anyone but the poor fellow himself, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

SAMPFORD COURTENAY - Mr William Burd, Coroner for the District, held an Inquest on Wednesday, at West-hill Farm, Sampford Courtenay, on the body of JOHN EASTCOTT FROST, son of JOHN FROST, of Stoke Newington, and aged six years, who met with a sad death on Wednesday last. It appears the boy went some distance from the farmhouse and began to amuse himself by tying drain-pipes to the handles of a plough which the servant of MR FROST (the boy's grandfather) had left beside the hedge. The little boy was noticed by Samuel Branch playing with the drain-pipes, and was told he had better leave them alone. Branch then went on with his work, and took no further notice of the boy until he came with the horses close to the gate, where he could see the plough, which was turned over and lying across the boy's throat. The lad then appeared to be quite dead, but instead of Branch taking the boy from underneath the plough he ran about a mile-and-a-half to get assistance, and, of course, when assistance came life was extinct. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The boy only came from London about a fortnight ago to spend a holiday with his grandfather, and much sympathy is felt for the distressed parents.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 10 August 1889
TORQUAY - Suicide At Torquay. - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Upton Vale Hotel, Torquay, on Thursday evening, into the circumstances attending the death of GEORGE RICE, 59, labourer, of 6 Prospect-place, Upton. - GRACE RICE, wife of the deceased, identified the body and said her husband had been ill and unable to work for twelve months. During the past five weeks he had been confined to his bed, but had been unable to obtain sleep. On Wednesday evening, after attending to the wants of the deceased, witness left him at 9.20 and on returning to him about ten minutes later she found him sitting in a chair by the bedside, with blood issuing in large quantities from a deep wound in the throat. She called for assistance and her son and a neighbour came in and made endeavours to staunch the bleeding. Dr Thistle was sent for, and everything was done on deceased's behalf, but without avail, and he died almost an hour and a half afterwards. A razor was lying on the wash-stand covered with blood. It was usually kept in a cupboard and deceased must have walked around the bed and obtained it, although he had not been able to walk for a fortnight previously without help. The only cause she could give for deceased's committing the rash act was that his pain was more than he could bear. - Sarah Ann England, who lived next door to the last witness, gave similar evidence, and added that when she visited deceased on the previous day he said he wished his time was come. - JOHN RICE, labourer, son of the deceased, corroborated the evidence of his mother. - Dr Thistle stated that when he arrived at the deceased's house he was sitting in a chair, with two towels around his neck. On seeing the extent of the wound witness ordered deceased to be placed in bed. Witness then discovered that the wound was a large one, although the principal arteries had not been severed. The case was a hopeless one, and deceased died from the haemorrhage shortly afterwards. Deceased was suffering from Bright's Disease, which often affected the mind. - William Elson said he visited deceased on Tuesday afternoon. He then appeared to be in a very depressed condition and the pain he suffered seemed to prevent his talking. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 13 August 1889
SANDFORD - Mr Henry W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Lamb Hotel, Sandford, touching the death of FRANK DALLY, a mason's labourer, who died suddenly on Wednesday last while walking through the street, having broken a blood-vessel. - Mrs E. Brewer, wife of James Brewer, identified the body as that of FRANK DALLY, a single man, who had lodged at her house about two months previous to his death. She had never heard him complain of illness until recently, when he spoke of pains in his chest. She had seen him frequently bring up clots of blood, but he went to work as usual on the day of his death. - JAMES DALLY said he was a brother of the deceased, and last saw him alive on the day of his death. He was then engaged in cleaning out a well-pit at Sandford. Deceased had previously lodged with him, and during that time he had often heard him complain of pain in his chest. Deceased was about 45 years of age. - W. Acres said he worked with deceased on Wednesday last. They were engaged in cleaning out a well, and commenced work about 9 o'clock in the morning. At a quarter-past 5 they were returning to Mr Norrish, of Town Barton, with a ladder which they had been using when he observed a quantity of blood coming from the mouth of deceased, and within a few seconds he was dead. - Mr Mounsdon also gave corroborative evidence, and Mr John A. Edwards, practising at Crediton, having described that death was caused by the breaking of a large blood vessel, the Jury, after a short deliberation, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 16 August 1889
HEMYOCK - Mr C. E. Cox, of Honiton, Deputy Coroner for the District, held an Inquiry at the Star Inn, Hemyock, into a case which has excited considerable sensation. - ELIZABETH ANN ROWSELL, a domestic servant, living with her parents, was the mother of an illegitimate child, aged 8 months, named EMILY ROWSELL, who had died under circumstances involving a grave suspicion on the conduct of the mother. The mother, in her evidence, stated that she was unable to suckle the child, which was accordingly fed on bread, water, milk and sugar. On July 26th the deceased was seized with a fit, the following day she had another and died the same evening. the Medical Officer at Culmstock had refused to vaccinate the child because it was undersize and weakly. No doctor was called in at the time of the fits. Mr G. A. Slack, Surgeon, gave evidence as to a post-mortem examination and deposed to finding the body extremely emaciated and shrivelled. Death arose from atrophy and inability to assimilate food. Mr Sidney Ellis, Surgeon, of Culmstock, gave evidence as to declining to vaccinate the child because of its undersized and shrivelled appearance. In summing up, the Coroner commented strongly on the conduct of ELIZABETH ROWSELL and her mother. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" in accordance with the medical evidence, adding as a rider that in their opinion the child had been sadly neglected and that the mother and grandmother should be severely censured.

EXETER - An Inquiry was held at the Guildhall, Exeter, yesterday, before Mr W. H. Hooper, City Coroner, into the circumstances attending the death of the infant child of EMILY POWELL, of Coombe-street. The child, who was 12 months old, was taken ill with diarrhoea on Tuesday, and on Wednesday it was much worse. The mother, whose husband was a labourer, did not get a doctor until the Wednesday and Dr McKeith only arrived when the child was dead. The medical evidence showed that death was due to collapse following diarrhoea. it was elicited during the Inquiry that the child was insured in the Liverpool Legal Friendly Society. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 17 August 1889
EXETER - Exonians At Newton Races. Fatal Result. - The circumstances attending a fatality which arose through a visit to the Newton Abbot Races on last Bank Holiday were yesterday investigated by the Exeter Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, and a Jury at the Devon and Exeter Hospital. The deceased was CHARLES POWELL, 18, labourer, single, son of WILLIAM POWELL, hawker, of Coombe-street, Exeter. - Evidence of identification was given by the mother, ELIZA POWELL, who stated that on Bank Holiday, August 5th, the deceased left her house to attend the Newton Abbot Races. The next morning she noticed a mark on his face, apparently caused by a blow. He, however, said, "That's nothing." The next day (Wednesday) the deceased had a handkerchief around is face, but said to his mother "It's all right. It will pass away again." On Thursday morning he kept his bed. His face was very much swollen and he was in very great pain. Mr Clapp, Surgeon, was called in, and on his advice the deceased was removed to the Hospital the same morning. After great pressure by witness on the Thursday night the deceased said, "I received a blow from 'Badger' (referring to a man named Tootell), but it was not meant for me. It was an accident. He didn't mean to do it." Without complaining of the conduct of Tootell, he added that there was a bother at Newton with some strangers, without mentioning any names. - By the Jury: The deceased said Tootell was taking his part, and in doing so accidentally kicked him. - Samuel Marshall, 20, labourer, Rack-street, said he met POWELL who was in the company of other young men - Tootell and a companion named Trump being among the number - upon the racecourse on the date in question. While in a drinking-booth some angry words passed between the deceased and a stout man (a stranger) who was wearing a dark suit of clothes. Another stranger said to POWELL "Have a 'go' at me; I'm only seventeen." Thereupon the second stranger hit the deceased in the side. POWELL said, "Half a minute; let me pull off my coat." A fight ensued, and after three of four rounds both combatants fell. Tootell ran into the ring to pick up POWELL, who, after one more round had been fought, said, "I've finished." The deceased was removed to a caravan, where he said, "Badger, you finished me. I shouldn't have 'gived' out if it wasn't for you. I know you didn't try to do it. You ought to have 'seed' where you was coming to." Witness believed that the deceased was accidentally kicked by Tootell when the latter went to his assistance. The deceased told witness at the Hospital that it was an accident. They had had some drink, but were not intoxicated. Witness, POWELL and Tootell afterwards saw three races run, previous to going to the Ship Inn, Newton. Upon leaving the latter place they commenced the homeward journey, reaching Exeter by train about 11 p.m. - By the Jury: It was a rough-and-tumble affair. The people pressed so closely round the ring formed for the fight that Tootell might have been pushed forward in attempting to reach POWELL. - Thomas Tootell, labourer, Coombe-street, said the whole of the evidence given by the last witness was true. He did not know the man with whom POWELL fought. Witness went to the deceased's assistance. There was a scuffle. He could not say that he kicked POWELL in attempting to rescue him; he might have done so. The deceased said witness must have stepped upon him or kicked him. Witness was sober. The deceased's opponent wore a light suit of clothes, but witness would be unable to recognise him. He said he came from Plymouth. - One of the party of excursionists present said the man who fought with the deceased was about 5ft. 8in. in height and 37in. around the chest. - Mace-Sergeant Shipcott said the Police had been unable, with the meagre description provided, to trace the man. - The Coroner said it was pretty clear to him how the deceased sustained the injury to his face and that the blow was not intentionally given. - Mr Russell Coombe, House Surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, said the deceased's face was intensely swollen. The patient was also suffering from erysipelas, which apparently proceeded from a graze over the edge of the lower jaw. He became delirious and died on the morning of the 13th instant. A post mortem examination revealed the fact that the brain and lungs were much congested. Death, in witness's opinion, was due to erysipelas. - The Coroner said it seemed clear that the deceased accepted a challenge to fight and that Tootell, in endeavouring to render assistance, kicked him. If the man with whom the deceased fought had been found it would have been necessary to show that POWELL died from injuries received at the hands of his opponent. In that case it would have been for the Jury to return a verdict of "Manslaughter." The medical evidence, however, showed that the principal injury was in the jaw. The deceased himself stated that Tootell caused the injury accidentally. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," with which the Coroner agreed.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 19 August 1889
PETROCKSTOWE - Suicide By Hanging In North Devon.- An Inquest was held at Hall, in the parish of Petrockstowe, North Devon, on Friday, by Mr James T. Bromham, Coroner, on the body of CHARLES MARSHALL. - MARY ANN MAY deposed that the deceased, who was 47 years of age, was her brother. He was a labourer. She had not seen him for about ten days, when he visited her and seemed in very low spirits. She first noticed he was in low spirits about eight weeks ago. He told her he was in trouble about money matters, and almost felt inclined to destroy himself. - John Whitlock said that on Thursday morning, about 9 o'clock he was passing in the road outside an orchard which adjoined deceased's residence when he saw someone hanging to a tree. Witness at once ran home and told his mother and then ran off for a neighbour (Mr Mills). When he got back to the orchard he found deceased had been cut down. - Sarah Whitlock, mother of the last witness, said that on Thursday her son ran into the house and shouted out that "CHARLEY MARSHALL is hanging to a tree." Witness got a knife and a ladder and she went to the spot, but not being able to reach the deceased by means of the ladder she had to climb the tree and cut him down. He was quite dead. She had noticed for some time that the deceased had been depressed in spirits. - Elizabeth Burd corroborated. - P.C. Thomas Jarvis stated that he was sent for, and went to the orchard and found the deceased lying on his back quite dead. A piece of rope (produced) was handed to him and he was told it had been taken off the neck of deceased. The body was quite cold and had, in his opinion, been dead for an hour or two. He had the body removed to the house. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while suffering from Temporary Insanity."

DARTMOUTH - Fatal Fall At Dartmouth. - At Dartmouth Guildhall on Saturday Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of WILLIAM ELSTONE, aged 61, a naval pensioner, who met with his death on the previous evening by falling down the hold of a coal hulk. Evidence was given showing that the deceased was engaged by Collins and Co., coal merchants, and had been one of a gang of men who were coaling the Portuguese steamer Olinda. When the steamer was finished they took the coal hulk to another hulk, to which they moored it. The deceased then stepped into the other hulk to get across to the boats and in doing so fell into the hold, a distance of some 11 or 12 feet. He was at once taken to the Cottage Hospital, where death speedily ensued. It was elicited by the Coroner that there were no railings around the hatchway, only a small combing some six inches in height. The Coroner, commenting upon this, said it was a kind f pitfall into which any man would be likely to step in the dark. He thought it was great neglect on someone's part. Some time ago a similar accident happened and a representation was then made that the lights on board the coal hulks should be increased. He was glad to say that this had since been done, and now he hoped that the hatchways would be properly protected. The Jury, who gave their fees to the widow, in returning their verdict of "Accidental Death," added a rider, expressing the opinion that in future the holds of all hulks should be protected by railings.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 20 August 1889
EXETER - An Inquest was held yesterday afternoon at 27 Longbrook-street, by Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, on the body of MR GEORGE VALLANCE, who died suddenly at his son's residence on Saturday afternoon. - MARY ANN VALLANCE said that her husband was superintendent gardener at the Scilly Islands and was aged 66. He had been under medical treatment and suffering from heart disease and dropsy. He came across from Tresco in a steamer on Friday, leaving their at 10 o'clock for Penzance. She accompanied her husband, and they had a very good passage. They landed at Penzance at about 1 o'clock and came straight on to Exeter from Penzance by the mail train, staying at deceased son's in Longbrook-street. On the following day he was quite bright and cheerful, and after dinner he slept for a little while. When he awoke he felt a little faint, had some shrub and walked around the garden at the rear of the house. They came into the house and deceased sat on the chair. Almost immediately deceased put up his hand, exclaimed "Oh," and expired. - Dr Budd said he was called to see the deceased on Saturday afternoon. He found him in an arm-chair quite dead. There were no marks of violence and he considered that deceased died from heart disease. - the Jury returned a verdict that deceased died from Natural Causes. - MR VALLANCE son of the deceased, rose, and speaking with great warmth, said he strongly protested against the Coroner holding an Inquest. It was most unnecessary. - The Coroner: That is a matter entirely for me. - MR VALLANCE: I told you this morning that Dr Budd was willing to give a certificate of death if it was desired. - The Coroner: It is my business to know when to hold an Inquest upon a person who has suddenly died. I will not allow you to go on. - MR VALLANCE: If I cannot speak here I shall express my opinions somewhere else. It is a perfect waste of time and money holding this Inquiry. My father died a perfectly natural death. - The Foreman of the Jury (Mr F. Edwards): I think it is quite necessary that this Inquest should have been held. - MR VALLANCE (warmly): You don't know the facts of the case. The Coroner won't allow you to know them, and he won't let me state them. - The Coroner (sternly): I will not allow this wrangling with you to go on. You must desist, sir. - MR VALLANCE: I am not wrangling. What did you tell me this morning when I told you that Dr Budd was willing to give a certificate of death? - The Coroner: I told you nothing. - MR VALLANCE: Didn't you say you would over-ride the opinion of all the doctors in Exeter? - The Coroner: I did not say so, sir. - MR VALLANCE: You did; you know very well you said so. - The Coroner: I cannot allow this; I am presiding over this Inquiry, and will not allow you to go on wrangling. - MR VALLANCE left the room, still protesting.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 21 August 1889
TORQUAY - The Bathing Fatality At Torquay. - Dr Fraser, Deputy Coroner, yesterday held an inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of REGINALD KEY, whose body was found floating in Torbay, off Corbyn's Head, on Monday morning. The Jury assembled at the Clarence Hotel and after being sworn viewed the body, which was lying at Ellerton, the residence of deceased's parents in Cleveland-road. On reassembling the first witness called was MR JOSEPH H. KEY, clay merchant, Newton Abbot, who said that his son, who was aged 26, had been subject to epileptic fits since the age of 11 years. He had strictly forbidden him to bathe, and he left Ellerton quite unknown to the household on Monday morning. - Mr W. Cox, a retired General from the Madras Army, described how while taking his walk on Corbyn's Head he at 9.15 saw the body floating face downwards some 30 yards out. - William Hatten, attendant at the Bathing Cove, said he had to drag the body 30 feet before he could get the head above water. He was single-handed in the boat, and it was as much as he could do to prevent it from being smashed against the rocks. He had seen deceased have fits at the Cove. - Mr W. A. W. Smith, Surgeon, practising at Chelston, described the efforts made by Dr Richardson and himself to restore vitality, though he was of opinion that death took place before his arrival. - The Deputy Coroner said it was a most unfortunate case, but he could not see that anyone was to blame, and the Jury immediately returned a verdict of "Accidental Death by Drowning."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 23 August 1889
BARNSTAPLE - Fatal Accident At Barnstaple. - An Inquest was held yesterday at Mr Wreford's Golden Anchor Inn, Barnstaple, on the body of a woman, aged 69, named ELIZABETH GLOVER, who died from the result of an accident. - The Coroner, Mr Incledon Bencraft, pointed out to the Jury that although the accident occurred on the 10th instant yet it was their duty to hold the Inquest as death had occurred within 12 months of the accident. - ELIZABETH GLOVER, daughter of the deceased, said her mother had been blind and very infirm for some time. On Saturday week last, about 12 o'clock, deceased was walking upstairs to bed, with witness behind her. They both got to the top and witness went into her bedroom. She immediately heard a fall and a scream and on coming out saw her mother lying at the bottom of the stairs. Deceased got up and sat on the stairs and complained of pains in her side and wrist. Witness carried deceased up to bed and attended to her all night, after which she sent for Dr Cooke. - Mrs Bater deposed to seeing deceased a day or two after the accident, and she told her she fell over the stairs. - Mr j. W. Cooke, surgeon, deposed that when he saw the deceased the left wrist was very much bruised, also a fracture of the pelvis, or hip-bone which was a very unusual occurrence. He attended her until her death, which was the result of the accident, congestion of the lungs having set in. Deceased had been well attended to by the daughter. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 24 August 1889
DODBROOKE - An Inquest touching the death of a boy of 12 years, named GEORGE SHEPHERD, was held yesterday afternoon at the King of Prussia Inn, Dodbrooke, before Dr D. A. Fraser. Mr W. H. Blake was Foreman of the Jury. The evidence of PETER and MARIA SHEPHERD, the boy's parents, and Charles Pepperell went to show that the deceased on Monday afternoon ate a portion of a large toadstool, being under the impression that it was a mushroom, from the result of which he died. Dr Webb had made a post mortem examination of the body, and found the various organs in a healthy condition, but the stomach and intestines had been highly irritated and inflamed. The cause of death was inflammation of the bowels and peritonitis, brought about by eating the poisonous fungus. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly. The Coroner said he had hoped that the Jury would have added a rider to their verdict concerning the neglect of the parents to procure medical aid. any parent or guardian should not hesitate to call in a doctor when a child had been known to have taken such an irritant poison.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 27 August 1889
DODBROOKE - The Deputy Corner, Dr D. A. Fraser, on Friday held an inquest on the body of ERNEST ALBERT WITHERIDGE, gardener, of Dodbrooke, who committed suicide by cutting his throat on the previous day. The evidence of WILLIAM and MARY WITHERIDGE, father and mother of the deceased, and his brother EDWIN, went to show that deceased had been subject to epileptic fits from infancy. On Sunday and Monday he had two very bad fits, and since then he had been noticed to wander in his mind. The evidence of Dr E. A. S. Elliot went to show that it was not unusual for insanity to follow fits and from what he had heard he thought it had been so in the present case. - The Coroner, in his summing up, corroborated the doctor's opinion and a verdict was returned that deceased Committed Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 28 August 1889
CULLOMPTON - Fatal Accident Near Cullompton. - Mr F. Burrow, District Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at the Rising Sun Inn, Cullompton, touching the death of PHILIP VINNICOMBE, a single man, aged 45, lately employed at a local tan-yard, and who died shortly before midnight on Monday from the effect of injuries received through being thrown off the outside seat of a fly late on Sunday night. The witnesses called were Mrs Aldridge, sister of the deceased, with whom he lived; H. T. John Reynolds, who was employed by Mr T. Luxton to drive the fly, and who appeared with his head in bandages; Mr H. G. Chick, who was one of the inside occupants of the vehicle; and Mr Lloyd, of Cullompton, Surgeon. On Sunday evening the deceased, Mrs Aldridge, Mr Chick and two children left Bradninch about 10 o'clock to return to Cullompton. Deceased rode on the outside with the driver, and the side lamps were alight. On coming to Waterstave-hill the front of the fly in spite of the brake being put on, went up against the horse's hind-legs, owing to the breaking of a ring in the breeching seat. The horse bolted down the hill at top speed, but was eventually stopped by Mr Chick, who at great risk jumped out and ran to its head. Meanwhile the deceased and the driver were thrown off. The driver ran after the horse and then returned some 200 yards to where deceased was lying. Deceased at first could not speak nor move, but presently said his legs were broken. Later on he managed to stand up and was assisted up to the fly. Mrs Aldridge and her boy went to Bradninch for help and on the arrival of P.C. Coppin, deceased was put into the fly and taken on to Cullompton, where the arty arrived between 2 and 3 a.m. Dr Lloyd was fetched and he found the deceased with a wound on the left side of the head three or four inches long. He at once ordered him to bed. He saw him again at 10 a.m. on Monday and found him quite conscious, but suffering great pain in the region of the stomach. His legs were considerably bruised and he was evidently suffering from internal injuries. In the evening Dr Lloyd paid a third visit and found deceased in a state of collapse, and his end was only a question of hours. His opinion was that deceased had been dragged along the road after the fall; and he attributed death to collapse, resulting from internal injuries. Deceased was known to him as a very steady man and no evidence was given to show that in the occasion in question either the deceased or the driver were otherwise than perfectly sober. - The Coroner in summing up said there did not appear to be any blame attributable to anyone; it was unfortunate that the harness broke. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

NORTH TAWTON - Suicide At Northtawton. - Yesterday Mr W. Burd, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Gostwyck Arms, Northtawton, on the body of WILLIAM BREALEY, a wheelwright, living in Exeter-street, who cut his throat the previous night. The deceased had been under medical treatment for some months, suffering from an internal disease. Mr W. Heath was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The Jury having viewed the body, GEORGE BREALEY, residing at 12 Melbourne-street, Exeter, identified the body as that of his half-brother, WILLIAM BREALEY, of Northtawton, a wheelwright, aged 48 years, and single. - Edward Shobbrook said he lived with MR RICHARD BREALEY, at Exeter-street, Northtawton, as a servant. About half-past 5 o'clock on Monday, the 26th inst., he carried the deceased a cup of tea, which he drank. Shortly afterwards he went to the foot of the stairs and asked the deceased if he would have another cup of tea, and he said no. Witness then went into the shop, and just before 6 he went in and had his tea. Shortly after 6 he heard a noise upstairs and thought the deceased was sick. He ran up and saw the deceased standing in the middle of the room. He ran to the deceased and as he approached him he saw a razor fall from his hand and at the same time he fell on the floor on his back and he saw his throat was cut. He had been in bed all day. Witness told MRS BREALEY (his stepmother) what had happened and raised an alarm. Deceased had been in low spirits lately and had been talking to himself a great deal. - Questioned by a Juryman: Had he been out of doors that day? - No, he had been in bed all day. - Frank Sidney Hawkins, sworn, said he was a M.R.C.S. practising at Northtawton. He was sent for on Monday shortly after 6 to see the deceased. He found him lying on the floor, his head leaning against an oak chest with an incised wound, five or six inches long, across the middle of the neck, just beneath the chin, dividing the middle line of the upper part of the windpipe and the gullet, and on either side the deep vessels of the neck. He was quite dead and his death must have been instantaneous. He had attended him for several weeks. He had been greatly depressed during the past week, caused no doubt by the disease from which he was suffering. He had never seen any symptoms that would lead him to suppose deceased would make an attempt on his life. - Question by a Juryman: From what disease was he suffering? - From cancer of the stomach, which would cause excessive pain. - Would not the malady cause great depression? - It would, as it generally ends fatally. - The Coroner having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a state of Unsound Mind." Much sympathy is felt in the place for his relatives, his father being about 82 years of age and his stepmother totally blind.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 30 August 1889
KENTON - The Fatality At Kenton. - Yesterday afternoon an Inquest was held at the Devon Arms Inn, Kenton, by the Deputy Coroner of the district, Mr H. W. Gould, relative to the death of THOMAS BIDGOOD, 58, labourer, employed by Mr French, of Teignmouth, who was run over by a waggon at Southtown, Kenton, on Tuesday night. - MARY JANE SLOCOMBE, wife of William Slocombe, smith, Ilfracombe, identified the body as that of her father. - Henry S. Hoare, of 16 Parson-street, Teignmouth, who was the driver of the other waggon, said that they were going from Kenton to Teignmouth on Tuesday. About 4 o'clock, after they had changed horses, he drove after his friend, who was a little ahead and on the top of the hill outside Kenton his (witness's) horse shied at something on the side of the road and bolted and when he tried to stop the animal it pulled him off his legs, but he got up and ran after it as fast as he could. On coming up to his waggon he found it pulled up on the top of the hill, with the deceased's waggon still in front. When asked by the Coroner if the deceased was sober, the witness answered that he was. He saw nothing of the deceased after they had changed horses until he was taken to Taylor's market gardens. - George Hellins, carpenter, of Kenton, said he was standing in the yard of South Down, at half-past 5, when he saw the deceased pass driving a load of hay at a sharp trot and a short time afterwards he saw Henry Hoare trying to check a runaway horse, holding the reins in his right hand. The horse pulled Hoare along the ground, causing him to lose the reins, when the horse started off at full gallop. This happened about 50 yards from Hellins. The deceased, who was sitting on the shaft, jumped off his waggon which was still going, and attempted to catch hold of the runaway horse with his left hand, but the animal knocked him down and both wheels of the waggon appeared to pass over him. Witness immediately went with another man and picked up the deceased, who was unconscious and placed him in Taylor's gardens, but he died almost immediately. The man did not appear to him to be the worse for liquor. - Mr Edgar Richard Lipscombe, Surgeon, said that he examined the body on Wednesday afternoon and found the right leg badly smashed both above and at the knee. The injuries were quite sufficient to account for death, and they were undoubtedly caused by the wheels of a waggon passing over the limb. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 4 September 1889
EXETER - The City Coroner, Mr W. H. Hooper, held an Inquest at the Exeter Police Court yesterday on the body of JANE MCDONALD, aged 75, who died somewhat suddenly the previous night at her residence in Preston-street. Dr Brash said he examined the deceased, and death was, in his opinion, due to failure of the heart's action. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 5 September 1889
EXETER - A Fatal Kick At Crediton. - Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquest at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, yesterday morning, into the circumstances attending the death of a boy named FRANK EDWARDS, who died at the Hospital on the preceding day from the effects produced by a kick from a pony. - ELIZABETH EDWARDS, wife of GEORGE EDWARDS, mason, Langdon-place, Crediton, identified the body as that of her deceased son, FRANK, five years of age. Deceased met with the injury on the 4th of July last. He went out about 5 o'clock, witness sending him on an errand, and ten minutes after a boy named Harry Chamberlain came and told witness that her son had been kicked by a pony. Witness went out and saw the boy walking across the field towards her and on coming a little nearer he said the pony had knocked him down. The pony was the property of Mr Bullen, of Crediton. Witness carried the boy home and sent for Dr Body, who, with his assistant, attended to the injuries. Witness afterwards carried him to the Devon and Exeter Hospital for advice and he was detained there until Monday, when he died. - Harry Chamberlain, a boy eight years of age, said he lived near MRS EDWARDS. He recollected the accident. He saw the deceased in the field running after the pony, when suddenly the pony kicked and struck the boy on the forehead, knocking him down. Witness went to MRS EDWARDS and told her of the occurrence. - By a Juryman: The gate had lost some of the bars (upright ones) and deceased could crawl in under, but witness could not. - Another Juryman said that it was a frequent occurrence. - Mr Martyn, Assistant House Surgeon at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, said the deceased was admitted on August 8th. He had a slight discharging wound on the inner side of the upper eyelid. Ten days after he was taken with convulsions, and on account of this he underwent an operation. He went on favourably until the 2nd of September, when he had a second convulsion. At 9 o'clock in the evening it was thought proper to perform another operation and the lad died the following morning from abscess f the brain, the result of the accident. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - The Juryman expressed their opinion that the farmer ought to be called upon to mend the gate.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 10 September 1889
DAWLISH - An Inquest was held yesterday before Mr Watts, touching the death of GEORGE COMBSTOCK, who was drowned at the Dawlish Regatta on Friday, the 23rd August. The Jury, Mr G. B. Avant, Foreman, after hearing the evidence of JOHN COMBSTOCK, the father of the unfortunate man, as to identification and that of William Casely, who was in the Wave when she went down, brought in a verdict of "Accidental Death by Drowning." According to Casely's evidence, the main sheet was made fast at the time of the boat going down. This, the Jury remarked, might have been also accidental.

NORTHAM - Singular Fatal Accident At Appledore. - A singular accident has occurred to a man named JOHN EDWARDS, a labourer, aged 51, of Appledore, by which he lost his life. An Inquest was held yesterday at the Dock Inn, Appledore, before the Coroner, Mr J. F. Bromham, and a Jury. It transpired that on Sunday, the 18th of August, deceased was taking supper with his wife. While eating a potato he drank some beer which he had poured into a small glass. He drank the beer right off and immediately afterwards felt a needle in his mouth, and discovered that he had also swallowed one. The glass was one which was not often used and two needles had been kept in it. He spat out the needle which was in his mouth with the potato and he tried to clear the other one by vomiting. He did not succeed and Dr Pratt was sent for. Dr Pratt soon arrived, but could find no trace of the needle. He recommended deceased to drink cooling drinks, such as barley water and he saw him daily for three or four days. After that the deceased went to work, the only inconvenience he felt being a slight difficulty in swallowing. On Wednesday last he got worse and he went home and went to bed. Dr Pratt again attended him and used an instrument to try and find the needle, but could not. On Friday night deceased spat up some blood and on Saturday his wife was frightened at finding him on the floor in great pain, with blood about the floor. Deceased shortly after died. Dr Pratt deposed that no operation could possibly have got at the needle. Death was due to the rupture of a blood vessel through swallowing a needle. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 11 September 1889
ILFRACOMBE - Fatal Accident To A Fireman At Ilfracombe. - A sad accident, which unhappily terminated fatally, occurred on Monday evening to a young man named ALBERT DENDLE, who is employed as messenger to the Ilfracombe Fire Brigade. The men, under the command of Captain Jewell, were out for their weekly drill and were engaged in practising with the escape outside the Town Hall. Several men were n the roof of the building, and a man was successfully lowered in what is termed a "chair knot," which is used when the escape does not reach the top of a building. A second trial was made with the same rope and this time DENDLE was attached, but when the descent was about half accomplished the rope snapped, and he fell heavily to the pavement, a distance f about 20 feet, on his left side, his left temple striking the ground with a heavy thud. The unfortunate youth's father, who is also a member of the Brigade, was stationed at the bottom and was the first to pick up his son. The left side of the skull was completely smashed in. He was immediately taken to Dr Foquett's house and from thence to the Hospital, where Dr Gardner was also in attendance, but it was soon seen that the case was hopeless. DENDLE lingered on in an unconscious state until just before 12 o'clock, when he expired. The young man was about 19 years of age, and was very popular in the Brigade, he having been a member for about five years. An Inquest was held on the body last night.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 14 September 1889
LYNTON - The Drowning Case At Lynton. - An Inquest was held on Thursday evening at the Reading Rooms on the body of a gentleman visitor named HERBERT WILLIAM ORD, a brewer, of Somerton, who met with his death by drowning on the previous Tuesday. The Inquest was held by the County Coroner, Mr J. F. Bromham. - Jane Valentine deposed that she was the niece of the deceased, who was 59 years of age and a widower. She and deceased were in the habit of going about to watering-places together, and they arrived at Lynton that day week, and took lodgings at Sea-breeze Cottage. Up to Tuesday last the deceased was in his usual health and spirits, which was ordinarily good. On Tuesday they were on the beach together, and deceased left her with the intention of going to bathe. It was 12 o'clock then, and he said he should be back to lunch at half-past one. As he did not return she went to look for him, but could not find him. In the evening, however, between six and seven o'clock, her uncle (the deceased) was brought home to his lodgings dead, and she was informed he had been picked up in the water. There was nothing in his private affairs to worry or distress him and she had no doubt whatever that his death was accidental, as for some time past his heart had been rather weak. His breathing was short in going up hill, but with that exception he was in the enjoyment of good health. They came to Lynton for pleasure and not on account of any depression in his spirits. - David Crocombe, a boatman, deposed to picking up the body. He as in a boat and saw people waving their handkerchiefs near Castle Rock. He rowed down some time afterwards and saw deceased's body in the water. He put a rope round it and towed it to the shore. The deceased was fully dressed and the towel was round the neck. - P.C. Toms said he arrived at the beach at Lynmouth just as the body was brought ashore, which was at half-past 6. He made inquiries and found out who the deceased was. He searched the body and found a gold watch and gold chain, three gold rings, £1 5s. 1d. in money and a guide book. The watch had stopped at 20 minutes to 6. - Dr Berry deposed to having examined the body, which presented the usual appearances of death from drowning. There were no marks at all to indicate that he had fallen off the cliffs. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 17 September 1889
NORTH MOLTON - A Man Crushed To Death At Molland. - An Inquest was held on Monday, at the Poltimore Arms, Northmolton, before the County Coroner, J. F. Bromham, Esq., on the body of a man, aged 65, named JOHN KNILL. The Jury appointed as their Foreman, Mr E. Passmore. - Frank Baker said he was a miner and after leaving work was standing at a little distance watching the deceased at the time of the accident, who was working out some of the iron from the burning heap and was using a pick for the purpose. Witness saw the dust and smoke rising from the fall of the ore, and ran to the spot where deceased was lying and found that the lower part of KNILL'S body was covered with the hot ore. Witness then called for assistance. The deceased must have seen the ore falling and ran about nine feet right into the way of it. If he had kept in his original position he would have been secure. - William Priest, the next witness, stated that he was at another heap of ore adjoining. He heard the noise of the ore falling, and immediately heard the deceased calling for assistance. Witness called to several men, and they assisted in extricating deceased. - Corroborative evidence was given by George Ransom, who added that he discovered that one of the deceased's legs was broken. He as conscious and able to converse, and expressed a desire to be removed to his home. Witness had never thought the work was dangerous. They were about ten minutes extricating KNILL. - Dr Spicer described the injuries sustained by the deceased, and said that he died from a general shock to the system resulting from the hot ore falling on him. - The Coroner summed up, and, after retiring, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider to the effect that they thought it would be desirable to employ younger and more intelligent men on work of the same kind. - Mr Archibald E. Pinching, of Devonport, Government Inspector of Mines, was present during the Inquiry.

EXETER HEAVITREE - Fatal Accident At Heavitree. - An Inquest was held at Heavitree yesterday by Mr Henry Gould, Deputy Coroner, on the body of JOHN MILSOM, a labourer, 66 years of age, who met with his death through falling from a rick on which he was working. The deceased formerly resided at Sowton, but had been working for Mr Burgoyne, of Heavitree. On Friday last the deceased and a fellow-workman, named Elias Metherell, were at work on the top of a rick, and another man, named Strong, was pitching up straw to them. The deceased was not seen to fall, but Metherell suddenly missed him and called out, "Halloa! I've lost MILSOM." Strong on looking around saw deceased, as he described it, curled up on the ground. The deceased opened his mouth once, but gave no other sign of life. Dr Rutherford, of Digby's Asylum, was at once sent for, and saw the deceased at the spot where he fell. He stated at the Inquest that the deceased had broken his neck, but had no other marks of violence. MILSOM was sober at the time he met his death, but it was stated that he had been subject to attacks of giddiness. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

BARNSTAPLE - A Child Burnt At Kingsnympton. - Yesterday morning an Inquest was held at the North Devon Infirmary, Barnstaple, before the Borough Coroner, Mr R. I. Bencraft, on the body of a child of a labourer called MOORE, residing at Kingsnympton. The mother said the deceased was named HENRY MOORE, and was five years old. On Saturday, August 24th, she left her home to go to Lightleigh Barton, a short distance away, leaving in her house her four children, the eldest of whom was eight years old. The children went to an outhouse attached to the cottage searching for some kittens. The deceased climbed up to a loft and being unable to see, the elder brother struck a match and held it up, and in so doing he placed it in contact with some rushes, which ignited and caught the house on fire, destroying it, with part of the furniture. The deceased in forcing his way through the flames to get down from the loft was severely burned. - Dr Joseph Tucker, of Chulmleigh, described the injuries the child had received, and stated that from the time he had first attended the deceased to last Thursday its condition seemed to have improved, and on that day he sanctioned the request of the parents for the removal of the child to the North Devon Infirmary. - Mr James Cooke, the locum tenens for Dr Lovell, the House Surgeon at the Infirmary, stated that the child was received at the Infirmary on Friday afternoon and died early on Saturday morning from shock to the system and exhaustion from the effects of the burns. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 19 September 1889
COMBE MARTIN - Yesterday an Inquest was held at the King's Arms, Combmartin, by Mr J. F. Bromham, District Coroner, touching the death of a child named ALFRED GUBB, six months old, who died under rather strange circumstances on Sunday night. From the evidence of MRS GUBB, grandmother of the deceased, it appeared that the child was put to bed as usual on Saturday evening, but awoke about 11.20 vomiting. The next day she sent for Mr G. E. Manning, Surgeon, who prescribed for the child, but it died on the Monday. Mr Manning said the result of a post mortem showed that death was caused by strangulation of the bowels, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 21 September 1889
CREDITON - Arsenical Poisoning At Crediton. Inquest Yesterday. - An Inquest was held at Bedford's King's Arms Inn, Crediton, yesterday, by Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, into the circumstances attending the death of CHRISTIANA GILLIARD, Park-street, Crediton, a widow, aged 72, who died from the effects f arsenical poisoning on the 17th inst. - EMMA GILLIARD, unmarried daughter of the deceased, identified the body as that of her mother, the widow of JAMES GILLIARD, mason. Witness lived with the deceased. On Tuesday her mother got up as usual, but appeared strange in her manner. In the afternoon she was taken with vomiting. The deceased was subject to strange delusions and was under the impression that people were looking at her. The poison must have been taken at dinner-time during witness's absence in the garden. Mrs Belford was in the kitchen with witness when the vomiting occurred, which happened after the deceased had taken some tea at about half-past 4. Witness asked her mother if she had taken anything and she replied, "Yes, my tea." Thinking this an evasive answer, witness again questioned her, when the deceased said, "Shall I tell you the truth?" Witness replied, "Yes, dear," when deceased answered, "I have had some of the stuff you gave the rats." Witness asked her where she had obtained it and she replied in the front room, the cupboard being open. Witness did not know how the cupboard came to be open. Witness sent for the doctor immediately, and he saw her mother while she was still alive. The poison had been in the cupboard for more than 20 years, the bottle being labelled "W Searle, High-street, Crediton; arsenic, poison." The deceased died about 11 o'clock. - Emma Belford, widow, deposed that she resided with the last witness. She corroborated the daughter's statement. - Mr Walter Campbell, Surgeon, practising at Crediton, deposed that he was called to see the deceased, whom he found sitting in the kitchen. She was pale and agitated, and admitted having taken the arsenic because she was so miserable. Witness considered she suffered from degeneration of the brain. In his opinion she must have taken from 20 to 30 grains, and he attributed death to the irritation of the intestines which ensued. Witness had attended her for some time, her mind was affected and she had lost will power. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the Jury could have very little difficulty in arriving at an opinion as to the cause of death. There was no doubt as to the fact that deceased had taken arsenic, while the medical evidence showed that her mind was affected. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a state of Insanity."

WIDWORTHY - At an Inquest held at Widworthy by Mr Deputy Coroner Cox on the body of WILLIAM DIMOND, aged 25, labourer, who died suddenly, a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned. It appeared that the deceased died from long-standing disease.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 24 September 1889
HOLSWORTHY - On Sunday MRS BRIMACOMBE, of Derriton Mill, Holsworthy, died suddenly while n the way to Pyworthy Church. The Inquest was held yesterday by Mr Coroner Fulford at the residence of the deceased. The Jury having viewed the body, MR WILLIAM BRIMACOMBE identified it as that of his wife, ELIZABETH BRIMACOMBE, aged 54. Two months ago she was attended by Dr Ash, and seemed on Sunday to be in her usual health. She had not complained. - Elizabeth Kivell, of Broadshill, Pyworthy, deposed that on the way to church deceased was complaining of being unwell and she said she would return to Mrs Kivell's, where she had been to dinner, but she refused to let either witness or Mrs Gilbert, who was with them, accompany her back. - Elizabeth Newcombe, of Leworthy, deposed that coming home from church when about midway between Pyworthy to Broadshill she saw deceased lying by the hedge, apparently dead. She sent someone for a constable. - P.C. Newbury deposed to being called. He saw deceased lying in the hedge-trough quite dead. There was a slight bruise on the side of her face, but no other marks. - Dr Ash said he had attended MRS BRIMACOMBE for many years, and knew she was suffering from palpitation of the heart. He attributed death to sudden cessation of the heart's action - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 25 September 1889
EAST STONEHOUSE - Fatal Accident At Stonehouse Theatre. - A shocking fatality took place at the new Theatre building, Stonehouse, yesterday. It appears that one of the workmen, JOHN STANSBURY, was engaged at work in fixing one of the principals. He was standing on a plank, which had been secured to two uprights by ropes. One of the uprights was of iron, and as the man walked to that end the half-hitches with which the plank had been secured slipped owing to the wet weather, precipitating the poor fellow to the next floor, some 12 feet. The plank and some other woodwork fell on the man, and it was at once seen he was severely injured, blood flowing profusely from his mouth. He was removed with commendable haste to the Hospital, where it was found that he was dead. The deceased was married, but had no family. An Inquest was held at St George's Hall yesterday afternoon by the Coroner, Mr R. R. Rodd, and after hearing the evidence the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 28 September 1889
ILFRACOMBE - An Inquest on the body of JOHN TUCKER, boatman, who was drowned by the running down of a mark boat during the Ilfracombe regatta on August 21st was held at the Pier Hotel, Ilfracombe, on Thursday evening by Dr Slade-King, Deputy Coroner. The body was found floating off the Tors in the afternoon by the crew of the smack Favourite. After hearing evidence of identification , the Inquiry was adjourned to Monday, October 7th, at 5 p.m., in order to obtain the master of the pilot boat as a witness.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 2 October 1889
STOKE DAMEREL - The Tragic Suicide Of An Officer At Devonport. Inquest. - An Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of FRANCIS EDWARD JANVERIN TOTTENHAM, naval lieutenant, was held at the Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, last evening by the Borough Coroner, Mr J. Vaughan. - George Neck, boots, at Thomas's Hotel, stated that the deceased came to the Hotel on the 19th ult., and for eight days went on very well, and was moderate in his drinking. At 11 p.m. on Friday he rang his bell, and witness, answered. The door of his room was locked, and he would not open it. He went downstairs to call Mrs Parker, and on coming up again he saw the deceased dressed and ready to go out. He heard deceased say to Mrs Parker that someone was looking in his window, and he had to load a revolver for his protection. Soon afterwards he went to his room. Witness had no doubt deceased was then suffering from delirium tremens. There were two naval doctors in the house, who went and saw him. They talked to him and pacified him, and by their direction witness got a sleeping draught for deceased. While the doctors were there the revolver was taken away. They locked the door on the outside and left deceased in his room. At half-past 8 next morning deceased appeared much better, and fancied he was under arrest. After breakfast he came down and wished to be brought to the Hospital. Witness assisted Dr Berry to bring him there. On Friday deceased only had a glass of brandy and two glasses of beer. He was not aware he went out of the house on that day. Mrs Parker said in his hearing on the previous night that the deceased did not drink excessively except on one day. He did not know what day that was. - The Coroner said that a brother officer of the deceased had called on him and explained that he had been tried by court-martial and had since been a teetotaler. If a man broke out after a period of abstention the drink had more effect on him than one who regularly took drink. - Mr James C. Smith, House Surgeon, said deceased was admitted to the Hospital on Saturday afternoon suffering from delirium tremens. On Sunday morning deceased told him that he had been drinking hard previous to Thursday and that on that day he only had a moderate amount. He also said he had been a teetotaler for three years at a time. It was not a bad attack, but on Sunday night he began to get troublesome and was very excitable at times. He was a very strong man. On Monday morning at about 9 o'clock deceased walked over the stairs in his night-dress. The nurses were trying to stop him, and witness seeing him, persuaded him to go to bed, which he did. He remained in bed until about 11. At about a quarter past 11 he was called to see the deceased, and found him lying in the operating room suffering from compound fracture of both thighs and fracture of the base of the skull. He died about three quarters of an hour afterwards. Witness communicated with the Royal Naval Hospital asking that the deceased should be removed after his outbreak on Monday morning and deceased knew of the communication, as it had been his suggestion. - Esther Maddijan, Nurse at the Hospital, said deceased was under her charge from Saturday afternoon. When she went on duty at about 9 o'clock on Monday morning the deceased was asleep. He presently awoke and after partaking of his breakfast he got out of bed and went towards the door. Witness held him and rang the bell, but she was not sufficiently powerful to detain him. At the second flight of stairs deceased was met by Dr Smith, who persuaded him to go to bed again. At about 11 o'clock he again got out of bed when witness was standing by the door. She rang the bell, opened the door and called "Help." While she was doing this she heard the glass smash and on turning round saw that he was gone. Mr Green, Assistant Surgeon, came to her assistance. She spoke to deceased on his getting out of bed, but he did not answer her as he had always done. She saw such a determined look on his face that she knew there was mischief. On Saturday the deceased smashed a window in the lavatory and the windows were screwed down to ensure safety. - William Coombes, carpenter, stated that he was working outside the Hospital at about 11 o'clock. He heard a breaking of glass. He ran to get out of the way of the falling glass and on looking round he saw the deceased fall to the ground. He afterwards assisted in removing him to the Hospital. - The Coroner said that it had been laid plainly before the jury that the deceased was suffering from delirium tremens. It was lamentable to consider that this had been brought on by himself. Although he had suffered in his professional reputation and his general reputation from drink, yet he did not seem to have had sufficient strength of mind to take a little without taking too much, or yet, what would have been far better, the strength of mind to abstain altogether. It was really a very fearful thing. Drink was the curse to the English nation, and it was horrible to contemplate the amount which was annually expended in the consumption of alcoholic stimulants. The expense was shown when a drunkard turned to a sober man and made a bright and cheerful home in the place of the misery occasioned through drink. He wished people would learn to be temperate. - The Jury returned a verdict that the deceased Committed Suicide while of Unsound Mind.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 4 October 1889
EXETER HEAVITREE - The Deputy Coroner for the District, Mr H. W. Gould, held an Inquest on Monday afternoon at the Half Moon Inn, Whipton, on the body of WILLIAM GEORGE CHIPLING, five years of age. - William Jefford, a labourer , of Whipton, stated that he had taken care of the child since its birth. The mother's name was MARY ELLEN CHIPLING, a spinster. The deceased went to a field belonging to Mr Snow, at Heavitree, where witness was working on Saturday. There were two horses in the field and witness caught one of them. The other followed. Witness thought deceased must have struck the horse and caused it to kick him. He did not see the accident, but another boy who was with the deceased called out that CHIPLING was dead. Witness picked up the deceased, who appeared to be dead, and sent for a doctor. The horse was not in the habit of kicking and was a quiet animal. - John Bickley, Whipton, labourer, deposed that on Saturday last he was at work with the last witness. He noticed that two boys were driving a horse. He did not see the deceased knock the horse, but he saw the horse kick him. He noticed that the deceased had a stick in his hand. Witness looked after the horse, which was usually very quiet. - Mr Richard James Andrew, Surgeon, Heavitree, deposed that he was called on Saturday about 2 p.m. to see the deceased. He went immediately and on arrival found the boy was dead. There was a wound at the back of the ear, which might have been occasioned by the kick of a horse. He did not think the skull was fractured. Deceased probably died from concussion of the brain. - The Deputy Coroner said the death of the boy appeared to have been occasioned by an unforeseen, but nevertheless regrettable circumstance, over which no one had control. The boy's death appeared to have been purely accidental and no blame could be attached to anyone. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 9 October 1889
EXETER - Sad Fatality In Exeter. - An Inquest was held yesterday by the City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, touching the death of MRS ANNE DACIE, wife of CAPTAIN G. L. DACIE, residing on St David's-hill, Exeter. It appeared from the evidence that on Sunday night the deceased, who was 55 years of age, retired to her room. She was in the habit of reading in her bedroom, and for that purpose a lamp stood on a small table by her bedside. Some time after she had gone to her room, MR CHARLES DACIE, her son, heard her call out. He at once ran upstairs and finding the door of deceased's bedroom fastened, burst it open. On entering the room he saw his mother, who was in her nightdress, in flames. He pulled off his coat, wrapped her in it and also rolled a hearthrug around her. CAPTAIN DACIE and another son also came to deceased's assistance, and the flames having been extinguished, MR CHARLES DACIE at once ran off for Mr Moone, the nearest Surgeon, and then went on to Mr Hawkins, the family doctor. Mr Moone was very soon in attendance and was shortly followed by Mr Hawkins. On examination it was found that MRS DACIE was badly burnt on the front of her body from just above the knees to her head. She was put to bed and her wounds were dressed, but she expired on Monday evening. The lamp, which stood on the table by the deceased's bedside, was found on the floor with the chimney and shade broken. The medical evidence showed that death was due to a shock to the system, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

ILFRACOMBE - The resumed Inquest on the body of JOHN TUCKER, who was drowned in the mark-boat at the Ilfracombe Regatta, was reopened at the Pier Hotel on Monday evening by Dr Slade-King, Deputy Coroner. Evidence having been given by William Sanders, and Lewis Jones, Cardiff pilots, who took part in the Regatta, and other witnesses detailing the circumstances of the accident, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death by Misadventure."

SAMPFORD PEVERELL - Yesterday, before Mr Frederic Burrow, Coroner, an Inquest was held at the Globe Inn, Sampford Peverell, on the body of ROBERT HANSFORD, who was found drowned in the canal at Sampford Peverell under circumstances already reported. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 15 October 1889
EXETER - Yesterday an Inquest was held by Mr Coroner Hooper on the body of the infant daughter of WILLIAM EVANS, of Bishop's-building. The evidence adduced by the mother of the child was to the effect that on Sunday morning when the child woke about 6 o'clock she was suffering from convulsions. The child died before a medical man arrived. The Coroner elicited from the mother that she fed the child on bread food. Dr Perkins stated that death was due to natural causes, accelerated by convulsions, and a verdict to that effect was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 16 October 1889
MORETONHAMPSTEAD - Death Of A Moretonhampstead Woman. The Inquest Adjourned. - Mr Sydney Hacker, District Coroner, opened an Inquiry on Monday evening at the White Hart Inn, Moretonhampstead, on the body of a single woman named HARRIET WOTTON, aged 61, late of Moretonhampstead, who died on Saturday morning from congestion of the lungs brought on by exposure during a journey by road from Exeter the previous evening. - ELIZA FORD, widow, of Moretonhampstead, identified the body as that of her sister. Deceased had been living in the place for two or three years past and lodging with witness. She had a little money and had been able to work. About two months ago she went to the Exeter Eye Infirmary for treatment. Witness did not know when she was coming home, but on Friday night she was sent for, and found deceased in the carrier's van. Deceased was taken out and carried home. She groaned as if in pain and seemed insensible, not recognising witness. Witness put her to bed, gave her some brandy and summoned the doctor. Deceased did not speak again, but died about 8 a.m. on Saturday. - MRS JANE WOTTON, 18 James-street, Exeter, wife of a nephew of the deceased, said she saw her when she came to Exeter. She seemed then in her usual health, except that she was nearly blind. Witness saw her subsequently about three times a week. For a time the deceased got on very well. A fortnight ago she underwent an operation on one of her eyes. Witness saw her last Tuesday week and last Tuesday, when she said she felt still better. On Friday witness received a message from the infirmary to fetch deceased away, it being represented that she would get stronger in her own air. Deceased, who had left her bed the previous Sunday, was able to walk downstairs and said she was better. She was taken in a cab to the Oatsheaf Inn, where she waited two hours for the carrier's van to start. As she was leaving the Infirmary the nurse gave her some brandy and water. Deceased declined to have any tea. Deceased preferred to go home by the carrier rather than go by train. At the Oatsheaf she had some hot brandy and water, but would not have anything to eat. She seemed weak, but there was nothing to be alarmed at. She had a great wish to go home and witness considered she was fit to travel. Witness believed that the Infirmary people were aware that the deceased intended travelling by road. - Selina Tucker, sister of the carrier, said they left Exeter at 6 p.m. On the way witness asked deceased if she was getting on all right and she said, "Yes." She gave her brandy and water four or five times in sips. It was a covered waggon, open at the front. They reached Moretonhampstead about 11 p.m. About three miles out from that place witness spoke to deceased, who replied that she was all right. At Moreton witness's mother gave deceased some tea, which she drank, remarking that it was good. She was carried home and then seemed very ill and could not say more than "Yes" or "No." - Mr R. G. Collyns, Surgeon, Moretonhampstead, said he attended deceased some time ago for cataract in both eyes, and on his recommendation she went to the Exeter Eye Infirmary. On Friday, just before midnight he was called to see her on her return at Mrs Ford's, where she sat in a chair before the fire in a state of collapse, unable to move and perfectly cold. Witness sent for some brandy and got her to swallow it. He then had her put to bed and attended to and had some Liebig's Extract administered. He had since made a post mortem examination, which showed that the cause of death was congestion of the lungs. Deceased evidently had had previous disease. The congestion was caused by exposure to cold. The body was very thin and emaciated. Deceased had undergone an operation upon one of her eyes. - At the close of the evidence the Coroner remarked that on the fact of it the case seemed to be one which required further explanation and that unless the Jury were satisfied with the evidence they had already heard the best course would be to adjourn the Inquest for evidence by someone in authority at the Eye Infirmary. - The Jury concurred in this view, and the Inquest was adjourned to Friday next.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 19 October 1889
MORETONHAMPSTEAD - The Death Of A Moretonhampstead Woman. Adjourned Inquest. - The Inquest on the body of HARRIETT WOTTON, an old woman, belonging to Moretonhampstead, who was for sometime an inmate of the West of England Eye Infirmary at Exeter, was resumed yesterday at Moretonhampstead before Mr Coroner Hacker. The deceased was suffering from cataract in both eyes when she entered the Hospital, and an operation was performed on one eye. She was subsequently sent home in a carrier's van and on arriving at Moreton late at night she appeared to be dangerously ill, and shortly afterwards died. Dr Collyns was called in, and he subsequently expressed the opinion that from the post mortem the deceased ought not to have been sent out of the Hospital and on such a journey. - Alice Haines, the nurse at the Infirmary at Exeter, who gave her evidence with much clearness, said the deceased was admitted on the 16th August. The deceased was under Mr Toswill and witness had charge of her as regards the nursing. When she came in she was in a very weak state of health. Mr Toswill said it was not a favourable case and ordered that she should remain some time before she was operated on. She did not appear to get much better. Witness was present when the operation was performed and Mr Roper was also there. After the operation was performed the deceased could see and she was taken back to bed, where she remained the usual time in similar cases. The operation was performed on the 27th of September. After eight days she sat up in the ward, and the next day, Sunday, came down into the day ward. When she was in the day ward witness still attended her. She seemed about the same in health in the day ward, and had a good appetite. She had stout up to the time of the operation, and after that some brandy daily. She was discharged on Mr Toswill's order. She seemed all right up to the Thursday before she left, when she was sick. Witness gave her some brandy immediately, and left her some brandy and milk the last thing at night. She slept soundly and in the morning went down into the day ward after eating a good breakfast. After the operation she had a gathering on her finger, but witness poulticed it and it got better. She took her to Mr Toswill, who said, jocularly, he couldn't find much the matter. She had probably been eating something wrong - perhaps apple dumplings. he said he thought she would get on much better in her own country air than staying in the Infirmary, and she said she thought she should. He told her that he would give her medicine for a month and when she came again she could bring another recommend. She was to go out and come again in a month. He said, "How do you think about going home?" Deceased said she could go with the carrier, as she knew him very well, and he passed close to her door. She said the carrier started from the Oat Sheaf, in Fore-street. Mr Toswill said, "You had better go home by train." She said she wanted to get home, that she had friends in Exeter and they were coming in to see her that afternoon; her niece would certainly come, and they would put her into the carrier's van. Mr Toswill then asked the deceased whether she couldn't go and stay for a change with her friends before going home, and she said she would rather get away at once. Witness was in the room all the time the conversation went on. Mr Toswill said, "Very well, come and see me again at the end of a month." Deceased said she would, and then turned and thanked witness for all she had done for her. Deceased was always a most grateful patient. Deceased had never shown any signs of failing appetite, and when Mr Toswill said she had probably eaten something that disagreed with her she said she had had no apple dumplings and she would rather like to have one. When witness took her back she determined the old lady should have one, and she took her up one. On the day she left she asked witness to see to her things, and witness packed them up for her. She said she was surprised that her niece, who had promised to come, had not arrived to see her off, and witness said she would get somebody to find out her niece's address. Before the deceased went witness offered to lend her some wraps, but deceased said she would get some from her niece. MRS WOTTON, when she came, readily offered to lend her aunt something to cover her with, and the old lady walked downstairs and left in a cab. She was in her usual health when she went away and offered not the slightest complaint, in fact, she seemed very grateful for all that had been done for her. She said she was quite warm enough with what she had on. - By the Coroner: I knew where she was going, and I thought she was able to take the journey. - Q.: Did you think she was strong enough to walk to the Oat Sheaf? - A.: I did. - Q.: Why did you suggest a cab? - A.: Because it was so damp. - Q.: And you say that when she left the Institution she was in her usual health? - A.: Yes. - Q.: And you knew that she was going to Moreton, and the way she was going? - A.: Yes. Mr Toswill asked her before she left whether she felt well enough to go the journey, and she said she did. Witness considered her quite as well in the afternoon as she was in the morning. - Mr Toswill: Would you mind asking the witness, Mr Coroner, if the deceased made any complaints as to feeling unwell when she left? - The witness (in answer to the Coroner): No; she said she was much better and had slept soundly the night previous. - Mr Louis Henry Toswill )who made an affirmation) was the next witness. He said he was a Surgeon practising in Exeter and was surgeon to the Exeter Eye Infirmary. To a very great extent the evidence given by Nurse Haines described the circumstances of the case. In answer to the Coroner as to why the deceased was so suddenly sent away from the Hospital, witness said he wished to state at once that it was in no way due to the fact that her recommend had expired. In this case it was true the recommend had expired, but he was not aware of the fact, except from what he had heard. He had nothing whatever to do with the recommends at the Hospital (that was the Secretary's work), and he never sent away a patient simply because the recommend had expired. Indeed, he had kept patients for three weeks or even longer after the recommend had expired. He attended deceased while she was in the Infirmary. She was suffering from double cataract and was by no means a good case. It was not a good one for an operation. There was no certainty about it. There were peculiar circumstances which made it unfavourable. Witness wished here to explain that he was informed by the deceased as to her anxiety to have the operation performed, that if it was unsuccessful, she might get a pension, and if no operation was performed the friends who were exerting themselves on her behalf would be able to give assurance that she might not be cured. - In answer to the Coroner, the witness said unless a patient was in such a state of health as to preclude the possibility of a successful operation he or she was operated on. If there was a reasonable prospect of relief there was an operation. The deceased's was not an average case, and it was for this reason that she was kept so long without being operated upon. Witness joked with her, and told her he wanted to fatten her up. Usually a patient was operated upon in a week or fortnight after admission, but the deceased was kept for six weeks without being operated upon. The operation was perfectly successful - that is to say, whereas the woman lay on the operating table blind she arose with the cataract removed and could count his fingers. The operation failed ultimately, but that was on account of the deceased's feeble condition. When witness found she had a gathering on her finger, he looked upon that as indicating the state of the system very unfavourable to the ultimate recovery of her eyesight. After that he found her eyes got worse day by day and when he removed the bandage at last he was convinced that it would be best for her to be out of the Hospital, and, if possible, in the country. When he heard she was sick on the Thursday that rather went to confirm the opinion he had formed that she would get no better while in the Hospital. - The Coroner: How was it you discharged her without notice? - Witness: Well, sir, I have had 17 years' experience, and I find that when a patient has been in the Hospital a couple of months and does not make substantial progress in health she is much better in pure country air. In such cases it becomes apparent that the Hospital air does not agree with them, and they are likely to be better out than in the Institution. When he heard that the deceased had been sick it struck him that she would be saved from a further attack if sent to her home in the country, and that the sooner she went out the better. When he saw her on the morning of leaving he could possibly assert that she was in her usual health - her pulse was satisfactory, and her tongue clean. He came to the conclusion that as her eye had failed she must wait for a time before attempting an operation on the other one and he told her so. She was an old and feeble woman and he thought the two months in Hospital had told upon her. The reason he advised her to go to her friends in Exeter was because it was found that that practice tended to the patient's advantage rather than otherwise; it often proved an acceptable change, and enabled the patients to be close to the Hospital in case they should find themselves suddenly worse. With regard to the woman's condition, he had not the slightest hesitation in saying that he considered her perfectly well able to bear the journey to Moreton on the day he discharged her. If he had thought otherwise he should not have allowed her to go. He suggested that she should go by train, as he thought that a more comfortable mode of travelling for her, but she persistently declined and expressed her intention of going by carrier. There was not the slightest reason why she should not go home. The witness here expressed the desire to make some remarks as to a report which had appeared giving what purported to be the evidence of Dr Collyns. If that was true, Dr Collyns had not only given facts, but had made deductions from those facts which were altogether unjustifiable and as his statements, if uncontradicted, might do a great deal of harm to the Institution which he (witness) represented he had attended that day to give evidence in contradiction of Dr Collyns's assumption. He would go so far as to say that the results of the post mortem examination were if they were correctly reported, in some respects unreliable. Dr Collyns had said - according to that report - that inflammation of the lungs in its first stage was apparent. - The Coroner: Then that is not correct. What he did say was that inflammation was imminent. But I don't think we can have newspaper reports brought into the matter. Dr Collyns has a perfect right to express an opinion. - Mr Toswill: But what I say he has no right to do is to say that the woman was in such a condition when she left the Hospital that she ought not to have been sent home. Now, sir, I have had a severe attack of congestion of the lungs and up to three o'clock on the say on which I was attacked I was hard at work seeing patients. A gentleman, who was formerly Mayor of Exeter, told me only on Thursday that on the morning of that day last year when he was attacked with a similar disease he had remarked to his wife how well he was. The deceased old lady had no doubt been suddenly stricken down with congestion of the lungs, probably due to exposure on the long journey, but he gave the most emphatic denial to the assertion that she was in other than her usual health when she left the Hospital. He (witness) thanked the Coroner for allowing him to make this explanation, as it was possible that unless the reporters gave the denial publicity the accusation might do harm to an Institution which was considered in Devon to be worthy of the heartiest support. - The Coroner briefly summed up, and suggested that after the lucid explanation of the doctor and the nurse the Jury would probably come to the conclusion that deceased died from natural causes. The Jury retired, and after a few minutes' deliberation, returned with a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," adding that no blame whatever was to be attached to the Medical Officer or the Nurse.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 23 October 1889
TOTNES - Fatal Accident While Rabbiting. - An Inquest was held yesterday by Mr S. Hacker at the Totnes Union Workhouse on the body of a labouring man named JOHN OULD, aged 66 years, lately living at Cornworthy, who met with an accident while rabbitting at Cornworthy on the 30th September. It appeared from the evidence of a man named Lamble, who was in deceased's company, that deceased in getting over a hedge caught hold of a stick in order to let himself down, and the stick giving way, he fell forward, his head pitching on a stone, which caused a very severe wound. He was able to walk to his home and a few days after was seen by Dr Hains, who advised him to go into the Workhouse, where he would be better attended to , his wife being from home nursing. He went into the Workhouse on the 7th instant, the wound then being in a very bad state. He was seen by Dr Hains several times, and appeared to be improving, but a few days since he got worse and died on Saturday evening. Dr Hains considered the injuries to the head were of an internal character and the Jury, of whom Mr J. F. Ellis was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 24 October 1889
ST PANCRAS, LONDON - Singular Death Of A Doddiscombsleigh Farmer in London (Special Report). - At the St Pancras, London, Coroner's Court yesterday Dr G. Danford Thomas held an Inquiry touching the death of JOHN DRAKE, aged 84 years, a retired farmer, formerly of Doddiscombsleigh. - The evidence showed that the deceased, who was a remarkably healthy man for his age, lately resided with his married daughter, MRS DIGGENS, of 2 Eton-street, Primrose-hill, and on Friday morning last he was discovered lying injured and unconscious in the area at the back of the house, having apparently fallen out of his bedroom window - a distance of 12 feet. Dr Charles Reed, a neighbouring practitioner, was called in, but the deceased expired in the evening from the effects of concussion of the brain. When discovered it was stated that the deceased was very cold and had evidently lain in the area some hours. The bedroom window was open, and the deceased's bed was beside it. He might easily have fallen out. - MRS DIGGENS said her father had lately been wandering in his mind and fancied he was on his old farm in Devonshire again. She thought that while under this hallucination he might have opened the window and fallen out. There was not the slightest reason to suspect him of an intention to commit suicide. He was a happy and cheerful old man. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Misadventure."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 26 October 1889
SOUTH MOLTON - The Suicide At South Molton. - The Inquiry into the death of MR WILLIAM HUXTABLE, of South-street, Southmolton, tailor, who committed suicide by hanging himself, was held yesterday afternoon at deceased's residence, before Mr Thomas Sanders (Borough Coroner) and the following Jury:- Mr William Kingdon (Foreman), Messrs. J. Bulworthy, C. Manning, John Mills, T. Pady, G. Hodge, C. Shave, John Cruwys, G. Gibbett, W. Brayley, W. Cotty, and W. Hawkes. - MR J. C. HUXTABLE, deceased's son, deposed that he last saw his father alive on Tuesday evening between 6 and 7 o'clock. Deceased called at his (witness's) house and stayed a few minutes only. He saw him also on Monday evening and he then seemed depressed at the contents of a letter which had been received by Mrs Harris as to his son in Australia and said his children in Australia and his late wife were always in his mind and he could not reset about them. On Tuesday evening he appeared excited and worried. On Thursday Miss Hill, who lodged at his father's house, came to him and said that she could not get into the house. She had tried the door several times, but could get no answer. She asked witness to come down with her, which he did. On entering the house by a ladder through one of the windows he found his father hanging in the staircase by a rope, which he produced. The body was quite cold and on looking around the house he found the following letter which was in his father's handwriting: - "Please give this letter to my son JOHN. Good-bye. May God bless you all and may God forgive me for this rash deed." - MARY ANN HUXTABLE, widow of the deceased, said she resided with her husband up to Tuesday evening last, when she left him on account of a family difference. He seemed depressed at her leaving, but did not say anything that would lead her to believe that he would take his life. They did not leave on the best of terms. He had been drinking a little more than usual lately. She intended to return home again the same evening, but did not do so in consequence of a message he had sent her. - Mrs Martha Bowden said that on Wednesday last, between 2 and 3 in the afternoon, she passed deceased's house. He called to her, as he knew her well. She stopped and went to the door and saw him smoking his pipe. He took the pipe from his mouth and, putting it on the table, began to cry. She said, "I can't stand this, tailor," and immediately left. She saw he was greatly distressed in spirits and seemed strange in manner. - Mary Louisa Hill deposed to lodging at the deceased's house. Witness got deceased's breakfast on Wednesday morning and went to her duties at the Infant School. She returned at 12 o'clock and found the door locked and again at 4 with the like result. Witness went to the Station, where deceased's wife was staying and slept there the night. On Thursday, between 12 and 1, she again went to deceased's house and finding all the doors still locked suspected there was something wrong and called his son's attention to the circumstances. - Mr A. Hind, Surgeon, said he was called to deceased's residence on Thursday at 12.30 p.m., and found the deceased suspended by the rope produced from the railing of the staircase. The face of the deceased was perfectly cold, and he had evidently been dead some hours. There was a very slight feeling of warmth about the heart and waist, which was not unusual in these cases several hours after death. From the position in which the body was found witness was convinced that the deceased committed suicide. - The Jury returned a verdict that deceased Committed Suicide by Hanging himself while in an Unsound State of Mind.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 29 October 1889
EXETER - Yesterday, Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquest at the Devon and Exeter Hospital on the body of a child named ELLEN JANE OSBORNE, who died on Saturday. LUCY OSBORNE, wife of RICHARD CHARLES OSBORNE, ironmonger, living at 21 Friar's-walk, identified the body of the deceased as that of her daughter, who was 14 months old. During last week the child had a cold, but was not attended by a medical man. On Saturday afternoon shortly after 3 o'clock, witness took the child from its cradle, when it was taken with a violent fit of coughing. Mr Harrison, Surgeon, was sent for, but when he came the child seemed to be dead. The deceased had always been tight on the chest, but had never been attacked with such violent coughing. She had six teeth. - The child's life was not insured. Mr Harrison, Surgeon, Exeter, stated that when he saw the child it was dead, although the body was still warm. There were no marks of violence. The hands were slightly clenched. The cause of death was convulsions, following on teething and bronchitis. In reply to the Coroner, witness said that ipecacuanha wine, which was given to the deceased by MRS OSBORNE, would be a good thing to check the coughing, but should not be too often repeated. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TIVERTON - Killed On The Railway Near Tiverton. - An Inquest was held at Tiverton on Saturday on the body of JAMES CAPE, aged 53, late an inmate of the Workhouse, who was run over and killed on the railway near Blundell's School on Friday. The body was identified by the Workhouse Porter, and evidence was also given by William Redwood, labourer, who found the body, P.S. Perry, P.C. Sparkes, the driver of the Tiverton and Tiverton Junction trains and the Workhouse Master, Mr Penny. The Police had not been able to trace the man's movements since he left the House on Tuesday further than that he was seen near Old Blundell's on Thursday evening. It transpired that he had a mother supposed to be living in Yorkshire, but no brother at Halberton, as at first reported, nor any other relatives in the neighbourhood. The driver stated that he did not see anything on the line on Thursday evening, nor feel any jerk such as might be caused by passing over a body. Deceased was found at about the point where he usually sounded the whistle and he might therefore have been the less likely to notice anything of the kind. - The Workhouse Master mentioned that some years ago he learned from an inmate that the deceased had been talking about making "a hole in the water," but he had not heard anything of the kind lately. - The Jury returned an Open Verdict to the effect that deceased was Found Dead on the Line. - Inspector Green watched the case for the Railway Company.

EXETER - The Fatal Accident At Sidmouth Junction. - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest yesterday, at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, on the body of WILLIAM HENRY GIGG, who died on Saturday from the effects of injuries sustained through an accident at Sidmouth Junction. - Mr Foster was present to watch the proceedings on behalf of the London and South Western Railway Company. - MARY JANE GIGG, widow, residing at Tipton St. John, in the parish of Ottery St Mary, identified the body as that of her late husband, who was 52 years of age, and a platelayer on the London and South Western Railway. On Friday deceased left home at 10 minutes to 7 o'clock to go to work at Sidmouth Junction. He was then in good health. At 10 o'clock witness received a message saying that she was to come on by the next train to the Junction, as her husband had received a slight accident. She proceeded by the 12.20 train from Tipton to Sidmouth Junction, when she found that deceased had been taken to the Exeter Hospital, whither she at once proceeded and saw him in bed. He was quite sensible. The first words deceased said were "Oh! mother, it is a bad job. Here I be; I can't move hand or foot." Witness asked him if he was braced to the bed. He replied "No," but that he felt dead all over. Deceased also said that the pick-axe he was using fell out of a sleeper and he tumbled off a truck. There was no blame attaching to anyone. - Harry Mortimer, a ganger in the employ of the London and South Western Railway Company, stated that on Friday he was at Sidmouth Junction at work with the deceased. The accident happened about 9.30. Witness, deceased and three other men were engaged in loading some sleepers in a truck on a siding. The deceased was in the truck, on the sleepers, which were old ones and had not recently been "pickled," putting them straight prior to being sent off to Wimbledon. The deceased was using a pick-axe, and was in the act of pulling a sleeper up when the pick got out of the sleeper and the deceased fell backwards right over the truck on to the ground, a depth of about eight feet. Witness was on the other side of the truck, but he went round to deceased as quickly as possible. Deceased did not appear to be able to speak for some time. The first words he uttered were "Oh! my head." A doctor at Ottery was telegraphed for, but before he arrived a train came in for Exeter, by which deceased was sent on to the Devon and Exeter Hospital. - Mr Russell Coombe, House Surgeon at the Hospital, deposed that he received the deceased into the Institution on Friday morning, a little before 11 o'clock. He was conscious and suffering from a severe scalp wound on the left side of the head and much pain in the left shoulder. Shortly after being put to bed deceased became paralysed in his limbs and eventually became weaker and weaker and died on Saturday between 12 and 1 o'clock. Witness had since made a partial post mortem examination and found that deceased had broken the fifth cervical vertebra, but it was not displaced at all. This injury was sufficient to cause death, and was consistent with the symptoms. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TAVISTOCK - Shocking Fatality Near Tavistock. - About half-past 9 o'clock on Saturday morning a fireman named WILLIAM SPRING, aged 40, was blown to pieces by an explosion of dynamite at Hocklake, near Tavistock. It appears that it was the duty of the deceased to charge holes with dynamite in connection with the construction of the new railway. About 9.20 he charged a hole for a tunnel miner named Samuel Endicott. It exploded all right, and the deceased went in the direction of a tool-box in which the dynamite charges were kept. Shortly after he had left a terrific explosion occurred about fifty yards from where Endicott was working, and he at once hastened to the spot and after the smoke had cleared away saw SPRING lying on his back and literary blown in pieces. The deceased, who is believed to have been well up to his work, was a steady man, but a smoker. The remains were conveyed to the mortuary of the new cemetery and in the evening Mr R. R. Rodd, District Coroner, opened the Inquest at the Duke of York Inn, Tavistock. - Dr Brodrick stated that the body was in too terrible a condition to be kept. - Mr J. Davy was Foreman of the Jury. - The man Endicott gave evidence of identity, and said the explosion might have been caused by the dynamite being overheated. - The Coroner adjourned the Inquiry for a week in order that the Government Inspector might have an opportunity of attending and the Foreman of the Jury intimated that he had several questions which he wished to put to Endicott in the presence of the Inspector.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 1 November 1889 WINKLEIGH - Mysterious Death Of A Child At Taw Bridge. The Inquest. Conflicting Evidence. - An Inquest as held on Wednesday at Taw Bridge Farm, near Winkleigh before Mr H. Gould, Deputy Coroner for the District, touching the death of MAUD MARY PARKER, a little girl, aged nine years, the illegitimate daughter of ELIZABETH WARD, wife of JESSE WARD, a labourer, residing at Taw Bride Cottage. - It will be remembered that the deceased girl was reported to have left her home suddenly on the morning of the 16th instant without hat or shoes, from which time all trace of her was lost until her body was found by the Police on Tuesday, after a prolonged search in the river Taw, which runs close by the cottage occupied by the girl's mother and stepfather. The affair has caused a good deal of excitement in the neighbourhood, owing to a rumour that the girl had been heard to threaten to drown herself. The evidence of the mother could not be taken, as she was confined on Wednesday morning, but her statement to the Police and others was that the girl went downstairs after her stepfather went to work on the morning in question, presumably to bar the door, and from that time was missing. The river was searched daily, but the muddy state of the water prevented the discovery of the body earlier, though it lay only a few hundred yards from the cottage. The boat used in searching the river was kindly lent by Lord Portsmouth. - The first witness called was JESSE WARD, stepfather of the deceased, who identified the body as that of his wife's daughter. Witness married deceased's mother about four years ago, but the deceased had only lived with them about two years. He last saw deceased alive on the morning of the 16th, a little after 6 o'clock. She was then in bed. Witness went downstairs leaving his wife in bed. Witness did not see deceased again, but when he came back to dinner, about 1 o'clock, his wife told him deceased was gone and she could not find her "nowhere." His wife could not account for her absence. Witness searched for the girl, and his wife made inquiries. Witness looked in all the hedges, as he thought she could not have gone far without any boots on. His wife told him that she heard the child go downstairs after witness left the house. The child was in the habit of coming downstairs after witness left in the morning to bar the door. When deceased disappeared she took her clothes except her hat and boots. He could not account for the child disappearing. There had been no quarrel or disagreement between witness or his wife and the deceased. The child had not made any complaint to him. Witness, his wife and the deceased lived happily together. He searched for the child again when he left work, and the following morning went to the Police. - By the Foreman: Has the girl been in the habit of leaving? - A.: Yes. - Q.: What made her leave? - A. I cannot give any account of that. - By the Coroner: About a month ago the deceased went away to North Tawton. She had no one there to go to, and would give no account of why she went. - By a Juryman: The deceased had not stayed away for a night. - By a Juryman: Did you at any time take the birch for her? - A. No. - A Juryman: Did she not have marks about her? I saw her coming home from Winkleigh once and she had a baddish mark. - Witness: Where was that to? - The Juryman: Upon her cheek. - By Superintendent Baker: About five weeks ago when I went up to pay the school fees the schoolmaster said he did not know what he could do with her and he said he had to send her out. - Q.: What did she tell him? - A. He did not tell me. - Superintendent Baker: You told me in the presence of the Sergeant that she said if he sent her home she would drown herself. A. She would attempt to. - Q. If the schoolmaster said he did not say anything of the kind it would not be a true statement? - A. Yes. Q. Rather than go home she would drown herself and he took her back fearing that she would do so. That was what you said? - A. Yes. - Q. Then if he says he said nothing of the sort he is not speaking the truth, or you are not? - A. Yes. The master said he did not know what to do with her. She would not learn anything, he had tried her rough and tried her smooth. - Charles Sampson, a labourer, stated that on the morning of the 16th, about half-past 7 o'clock, he saw MRS WARD, who asked if he had seen the deceased, who, she said, went down to bar the door, since which time she had seen nothing of her. - P.C. Waldron deposed that, on receiving information of the disappearance of the girl, and going to Taw Bridge Cottage, MRS WARD told him that the girl went down to bar the door. Not hearing her, she (MRS WARD) called to her and getting no answer came down and found the child gone. The mother told him that the child had once before gone to Northtawton to Charley Sampson's mother and said she had been sent for some oil; but she had not been sent. Witness asked if she had ever heard the child threaten to commit suicide, and she replied, "No, I've not heard it, but other people have. I should not be surprised if she had committed suicide, as she seemed strange, as if she had been 'hurted' in the head, for this last month or five weeks." Witness said, "What do you mean by being 'hurted?' and who has 'hurted' her?" She said, "I don't know, but there are those who can witch anyone." Witness said, "Get out, tell about witchcraft." An uncle of the deceased's was present and said the girl had threatened on one occasion when he took her home from school, to commit suicide. From that time witness assisted daily in searching the river until Tuesday, when the body was found by Sergeant Mitchell and Constable Cox in the river Taw about 500 yards from the cottage. - Mr James Tipper, schoolmaster of Winkleigh Board School, said the deceased had been in the habit of attending the school, but very irregularly, and was last present on Monday, the 23rd September. Every word of the statement of JESSE WARD as to his (witness) telling him that on his ordering the child home she threatened to commit suicide was false. The child had never threatened to commit suicide to his knowledge. The child was of quite the ordinary capacity. - Q. Have you ever heard her complain of ill-treatment? - A. Yes, on her way home. I will tell you as well as I can remember. It was previously to the 23rd September probably a month or five weeks. Up to that time I did not know that JESSE WARD was her stepfather. I then met him and he asked me if I had seen MAUD PARKER, and he told me that she had run away from home. Afterwards I met the child, and asked her why she had run away, and she said that on her way home her stepfather had thrashed her and she ran away. I took the child in and gave her some tea, and took her home and asked the stepfather not to beat her again. The next morning when she came to school the girl said she had not been beaten. - Q. Was that the only occasion? - A. No; it is not the only occasion. She has told me that her mother beat her and treated her badly. On the morning following the occasion I speak of the child came to school without breakfast or dinner, and I sent her to a woman to give her some. - In answer to the stepfather the witness said he did not look in the child's bag. In justice to the parents, he should say she was a very untruthful child, which might account for her being beaten. - Mr James Tucker, Surgeon, Chulmleigh, who was called to see the body, said that owing to the length of time the body had been in the water he could give no reason for the cause of death. There were no external marks of violence, and he had no reason to suppose that death was caused otherwise than by drowning. The body was fairly nourished. - JESSE WARD was recalled, and again asserted that the schoolmaster told him that the child had threatened to drown herself. Witness's wife was in bed, having been confined that morning. - The Coroner, in summing up the evidence, said it was for the Jury to say whether they thought it necessary to have an adjournment, in order that a post mortem examination might be made. He reminded them that if an open verdict were returned that would not prevent the Police proceeding further if they thought it necessary. - The Jury, after a short consultation returned an Open Verdict to the effect that the girl was Found Dead in the River Taw.

DITTISHAM - An Inquest was held yesterday at Dittisham by Mr Sidney Hacker on the remains of JANE WILLS FERRIS, aged 63, a paralytic, who, while seated by the fire, was so severely burnt by a coal catching her dress that she died next day. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

YARCOMBE - Fatal Accident At Yarcombe. - Mr Deputy Coroner Cox held an inquest at Yarcombe on Wednesday respecting the death of EDWARD SPILLER, a waggoner, in the employ of Mr Clarke, farmer, of Yarcombe, who was found lying dead in the road on Monday evening. It appeared from the evidence that the deceased was in charge of a waggon and three horses on Monday, and when last seen alive he was walking by the side of the middle horse. An hour later he was found lying in the road dead, and from the injuries he had sustained it was evident that the wheels of the waggon had passed over him. The horses were found some distance away. It was stated that the animals were quiet. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The deceased leaves a widow and ten children.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 4 November 1889
TAVISTOCK - The Fatal Dynamite Explosion Near Tavistock. - The Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM SPRING, a fireman, who was blown to pieces in a cutting of the new line, near Tavistock, was resumed at the Duke of York Inn, Tavistock, on Saturday afternoon, by Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, assisted by Mr R. R. Rodd, jun., (Deputy Coroner). Mr J. Pethick (of the firm of Relf and Pethick, the contractors for the new railway) was present and Mr Superintendent Mitchell (Inspector of Explosives for the Tavistock district) also attended. Mr J. Davey was Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner said he had communicated with the Home office, but it was not thought necessary to send down an Inspector. - Dr Brodrick deposed to examining the body of the deceased. The legs, arms and head were blown off and the body was disembowelled. - Samuel Endacott who gave evidence on the last occasion, was further examined and said he had never seen dynamite thawed on the new railway works. When he found the body he saw seven or eight pieces of paper lying about, each of which would have contained a charge of dynamite. - In answer to Mr Superintendent Mitchell, the witness said the deceased was always particular about using a sufficient length of fuse. Moses Frost, the ganger, had charge of the tool-box and gave the key to deceased in order that he might get out explosives. Deceased was fireman in another cutting under Frost before he came to the Hocklake cutting, where the accident happened. - In reply to Mr Pethick, witness said deceased was the only man besides Frost who had access to the powder and dynamite. No one but SPRING charged the holes. - Moses Frost, ganger of the cutting, deposed that deceased, whom he had known for eight or nine months, was a competent fireman and he had never had a better one under him. The deceased fired several holes on Saturday. After the explosion witness found a barrel near the scene of the accident, about three parts filled with hot water, which had been taken from the engine. There was dynamite in the barrel. The deceased had been thawing dynamite in a tin vessel suspended in the barrel. The sketch produced by Mr Marten, engineer, represented the apparatus. The only means they had of judging of the temperature of the water was by feeling it with their hands. He did not think a thermometer was necessary for the purpose. Saturday was a cold day, and it was necessary to thaw the dynamite, because it was hard. In the printed directions issued with each packet the use of Noble's warming apparatus was recommended for thawing dynamite but he believed the apparatus the deceased was using was as good as Noble's. He could give no opinion as to the cause of the explosion. The process of thawing could not have occasioned it, because the thawing apparatus was unaffected by the explosion, although close to the ammunition box. He had seen no directions issued by the contractors relative to the use of explosives. - The Deputy Coroner: Do you think, with your experience, it was possible for such an explosion to take place and yet the apparatus, which was only a few feet away, not to be interfered with in the least? - Witness: Yes; I am not come here to tell a lie, but to speak the truth. It was the same apparatus as the deceased had used. - By the Jury: Hot ashes were never used for drying dynamite. Deceased put his own caps on the fuse and put the fuse to the dynamite, and he might have had a mishap in doing so. - Sergeant Coles said he visited the scene of the accident on Monday, and saw the warming apparatus which it was stated the deceased had used. Several pills of dynamite in the warmer had been broken, and the paper attached to them was singed. He asked how it had happened that the pills were broken and the paper singed and Frost said the pills were picked up after the explosion. - Frost, recalled, stated that if he told Sergeant Coles the broken pills were picked up after the explosion he made a mistake. - Mr Superintendent Mitchell stated that he visited the cutting on Wednesday in his capacity of inspector of explosives. The deceased was killed about three feet from the ammunition box. As a result of his examination witness was of opinion that deceased removed a quantity of dynamite from the thawing apparatus and took it away some distance from the barrel and that it was through the manipulation of the dynamite thus taken away that the explosion took place. It might have been caused through the explosion by a detonator by striking it, stepping upon it, or improperly picking it, or a stone might have fallen on it. He did not think the explosion was due directly to the thawing. He did not condemn the apparatus used. There was danger after the temperature had reached 150 degrees, but the apparatus would not bring the water up to that heat, because directly it was put into the barrel from the engine it began to cook, unless there was a fire to keep up the temperature. If the temperature of the dynamite had got down to 40 degrees it would be necessary to thaw it to make it fit for use. - The Coroner briefly summed up and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," adding that there was not sufficient evidence to show how the explosion had occurred.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 12 November 1889
IPPLEPEN - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest at Ipplepen, near Newton Abbot, touching the death of HARRIET BLACKER, 49, wife of JENKIN BLACKER, farm labourer, who died suddenly on Saturday. The medical evidence showed that death was due to heart disease and the Jury accordingly returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 15 November 1889
NEWTON ABBOT - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Newton lat evening concerning the death of MR GEORGE HAWKESLEY, aged 30, formerly a draper in the North of England. Deceased came to Newton for the benefit of his health, having suffered from consumption for four years past, and been treated by a London Medical man. On Wednesday haemorrhage of the lungs set in and death rapidly ensued. Not having been medically attended in Newton, an Inquest was necessary and the Jury, after hearing the evidence, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TORQUAY - Strange Suicide At Torquay. - Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Court Room, Torquay, on Tuesday, on the body of ANNA MARIA BLEUK HALL, 19, a laundress, whose parents reside at Stentiford's-hill, Pimlico. - ELIZABETH BLEUK HALL said the deceased, who was her daughter, died at a quarter-past six on Monday morning. On Wednesday last the deceased was ill and witness advised her to get something. Deceased had suffered from bilious attacks and giddiness previously, but beyond this her health had been good. On Wednesday night deceased said she would soon be better and went upstairs. Shortly afterwards witness heard a fall and found deceased at the bottom of the stairs. With the assistance of a Mrs Pym, who lived with witness, she got deceased upstairs. A young man, named Harry Pym, who kept company with deceased, also lived in the house, and witness asked him if he had said anything to deceased, and he replied that he had not. After being carried upstairs deceased was very ill. On the following morning witness called deceased to go to her work, but she said she could not go. Deceased got out of bed, however, but fell down and shouted "Oh." Witness lifted her into bed and gave her some senna and tea. Deceased remained in bed all day, but would have nothing to eat, as she said she felt sick and giddy. On Friday witness sent for Dr Cook, but as he did not arrive witness went to Mr Davey's, chemist and obtained two pills, which deceased took. Deceased was better on Saturday, and ate fairly well. On Sunday, however she was again ill and witness sent again for Dr Cook, but he did not come. Later in the day Dr Gardiner came and gave her some medicine, but she died on the following morning. - Asked what caused deceased to fall downstairs, witness replied that she could not tell, except that she complained of being giddy. - In reply to further questions, witness said that on the night of Monday week she left home, leaving her husband, who was a fisherman, in bed and deceased with young Pym, but she was fetched home by a neighbour, who said her daughter had taken rat poison. Witness asked deceased if she had taken poison, and she replied that she had not. There had been no quarrel between deceased and Pym, but the latter left the house alone, and told deceased that she was to remain at home, and this annoyed the deceased. She had no idea what caused deceased's death. When witness returned home on the Monday evening her husband handed her a jar containing something which smelt like brimstone, and witness destroyed it. - By a Juryman: Deceased and Pym did not quarrel on the night of the 5th November. When deceased fell downstairs, Pym was in his room upstairs. She had not given deceased notice to leave the house. - Mr P. H. Gardiner, Surgeon, deposed to being fetched to deceased. There were no symptoms of any acute disease except weak and rapid action of the heart. - In reply to witness, deceased, who seemed hysterical, denied that she had taken anything she ought not to have taken, but said her young man had threatened "to do a 'Jack the Ripper' on her." On Monday morning witness was told that she was dead, and this surprised him somewhat. The mother told witness on Monday morning that there were no suspicions of deceased having taken poison. Witness had made a post mortem examination and in his opinion the cause of death was acute fatty degeneration of the heart, liver and kidneys. In the stomach there were signs of irritant poison, which the state of the heart would show to be phosphorus. The fatty degeneration of the heart was undoubtedly the result of phosphorous poison, which might have been taken from three to seven days previously. He believed phosphorus was used in rat poison. Witness also saw abrasions on the face of deceased which might have been caused by a fall. - By the Jury: If a doctor had been called in an hour or two after the poison was taken death might have been prevented. Dr Cook had told witness that the wrong address had been given to him and he could not find the house. - Elizabeth Heath deposed to being fetched to the house on the night of Monday week and finding deceased had fainted. Witness noticed something like brimstone round deceased's mouth and thinking she had taken poison called her father's attention to it. - The father of deceased deposed to being called from bed and seeing his daughter fainting. There was something said about her having taken poison, but deceased denied this. He did not see poison on her mouth. Young Pym handed witness a jar which he gave to his wife. He did not know what was in the jar, or whether there was a label on it. - Dr Gardiner (recalled) said there was no sign of pregnancy. - MRS HALL (recalled) said she did not know that there was any rat poison in the house. Her daughter had never threatened to take her life. Witness had paid 1d. a week for an insurance policy on her daughter's life. There had been quarrels between Pym and her daughter. - Henry Pym, fisherman, living in Pimlico, said he had lived in the house occupied by deceased's family and kept company with the girl for the past 12 months of longer. He had been on good terms with her during the past week. He proceeded to describe how he found the girl at the bottom of the stairs and aid he took a jar out of her pocket. He asked her what she had taken, as there was something fiery over her face, but she did not answer. Witness subsequently stated that the girl gave him the jar, which contained something "like greenstuff." He gave it to the father, but could not learn if the girl had taken any of the contents. He saw her on the following morning and asked her what she thought of herself and told her not to do it again. He could not account for her taking the stuff beyond the fact that she might have been jealous of his having kept company with another girl. She had threatened to kill herself. - In reply to a Juror, witness denied that he had ever threatened to give her "Jack the Ripper." He also said he did not strike her about a fortnight since. - By the Coroner: His mother remarked on one occasion that she would, but she (the girl) had gone down to take some stuff. He could only account for this by deceased having previously threatened to do so. - P.C. Bond said he went to the house occupied by deceased's parents and was told by MRS HALL that her daughter had not taken poison, but afterwards admitted she had thrown a jar of rat poison into the ash-pail. He made a search, but could find nothing. - This being the whole of the evidence, the Coroner thought it was sufficient for the Jury to come to a verdict. Having reviewed the facts, he called attention to the absence of medical assistance until the Sunday, when Dr Gardiner was called in, but was not informed of what the girl had taken. He thought this was most extraordinary conduct on the part of the parents and Pym, and it was for the Jury to say if notice should be taken of it. - The Jury, after a short absence, returned a verdict that death was due to Poison Self-Administered, while the girl was in a state of Temporary Insanity, and added as a rider that the girl's mother, father and Pym should be severely censured for not sending for a medical man earlier. - The Coroner said he quite concurred in the censure, which was thoroughly deserved and they were only prevented from taking a more serious view of the matter owing to the gross ignorance of the parties.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 20 November 1889
WEST PUTFORD - Suicide At West Putford. - An Inquest was held yesterday by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, at West Putford, North Devon, on the body of a man named JOHN HARRIS, labourer, aged 49 years, living at Parsonage Cross Cottage, who committed suicide on Friday by cutting his throat. - MRS HARRIET HARRIS identified the body as that of her son, and deposed that the deceased had been twice in an Asylum. About eight years ago he was detained for about four months and in May last he was again a patient. He was discharged on the 6th of November and came to live with witness. Since coming home again he seemed to be better in his mind. Last Friday morning he seemed as usual and had his dinner with witness and his aunt. After dinner he stayed in the house a little while and then went across the road into an outhouse. Witness immediately went out after him and found him in a sitting posture. She saw that something had happened and told Mrs Harris (the aunt), who went for assistance. - Ann Harris, the aunt of the deceased, deposed that she heard MRS HARRIS call and ran across to her. She saw the deceased sitting in a corner and on examining him she found that he had cut his throat. - Other evidence having been given the Jury returned a verdict "That the deceased Committed Suicide while suffering from Temporary Insanity."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 22 November 1889
TAVISTOCK - The Inquest on the body of JOHN TOYE, a young miner, who was killed at Creber Mine, near Tavistock, on Wednesday, was opened yesterday by Mr Coroner Rodd. The body was identified by deceased's brother, who was working with him at the time of the accident. He said that no one was to blame. The Inquest was adjourned until Thursday.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 25 November 1889
BRIXHAM - On Saturday an Inquest was held by Mr J. Hacker, Coroner, at the Three Elms Inn, Brixham, touching the death of the little boy, WILLIE DART, aged two years and ten months, who was accidentally killed by a timber waggon belonging to Mr Stokes, of Newton, on Thursday. The Jury, of which Mr William Cann was Foreman, after hearing the evidence, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 27 November 1889
EXMOUTH - An Exmouth Fisherman Drowned. A Warning To Fishermen. - Yesterday the Deputy Coroner for the District, Mr C. E. Cox, Honiton, held an Inquest on the body of a fisherman named HARRY STONE, of 30 Charles-street, Exmouth, who met with his death by drowning on Monday afternoon. - Mr P. Sherwin was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - From the evidence given it appeared that on Monday the deceased, Thomas Davey, William Davey, Robert Rousell, and Robert long, fishermen of Exmouth, were engaged in herring fishing. About half-past 1 the deceased and William Davey went on a bank of sand, known as Bull-hill in the river Exe, to work the shore-arm of the net, while the other three went in the boat and paid out the seine. Davey stood about 12ft in front of the deceased, who had hold of the end of the rope, or shore-arm. In the course of his operations the deceased, following a custom prevalent among fishermen, placed a coil of the rope round his waist to ease the strain on is arm. Unfortunately, STONE placed his foot over the end of the rope and the coil, which under proper conditions could be shaken off by simply shifting the hand, became completely twisted round his waist. There was a great strain on the rope owing to the swift current running and the seine gradually pulled the men towards the water. The deceased tried to loosen the rope and slipped it down to his legs, but it became tightened and he as well as Davey were dragged into the water. Davey, who had not stepped over the rope like the deceased, nor taken a coil, swam to the shore. The deceased kept his head above water for some time, but was dragged after the drifting net. The men in the boat, as soon as they perceived the accident, cast off the seine from the boat and rowed to the assistance of the deceased. After rowing about 70 or 80 fathoms against the tide they managed to come to the deceased, who was far below the surface and when hauled into the boat the rope was still fastened round his legs. Efforts were made to restore animation and the deceased was taken ashore. - Dr Cock was summoned and arrived within two minutes, but despite every effort life could not be revived. - William Davey and other witnesses stated that it was rather rare for the deceased to work the shore-arm of the net. Four or five minutes elapsed after deceased was dragged into the water before being pulled into the boat. The net was 55ft long and from 18ft. to 25ft. deep. - The deceased was 24 years of age, and leaves a wife and one child. - The Coroner said great care was requisite on the part of the shore-arm men to prevent the rope from twisting round their body, as it was very easy to step over the end of it and thus be entangled at a critical moment like the deceased. Very great care was necessary, and men who were not accustomed to the work should be cautioned as to the danger of stepping over the end of the rope. The case was a very sad one. - The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that deceased was Accidentally Drowned, and gave their fees to the widow.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 28 November 1889
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, held an Inquest yesterday afternoon at the Falmouth Inn, St. Thomas, touching the death of JOHN GAHN, groom, aged 46, residing at Casely's-court in the same parish. ANN GAHN, widow, stated that her husband was a groom, aged 46. Deceased appeared in his usual health on Sunday night. On Monday morning he was breathing strangely, and witness called in a neighbour. Deceased died at 11.45 a.m. that morning. In answer to the Foreman, witness said her husband had been out of employment for the past two years. She did not think he had sufficient food. Deceased had nothing to eat since the Sunday teatime till his death. Mary Hoare, widow, residing in the same house, deposed that she had never seen the deceased the worse for liquor. Deceased and his wife never to her knowledge quarrelled. Mr Vlieland, who was called to the deceased, said that he was unable to form an opinion as to the cause of death. It was a most unusual thing for a man to die at 12 o'clock in the morning after vomiting at 9 o'clock. He had no reason to doubt that death was not due to natural causes. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and gave their fees, together with additions by the Coroner and Doctor, to the widow.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 2 December 1889
CREDITON - The Fatal Railway Accident At Crediton. The Inquest. - The Inquest on the body of EDWARD ALFRED TOWNING, who was killed on the railway at Crediton on Friday, was held on Saturday afternoon at the Railway Hotel, Crediton, by the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould. Mr Henry John Foster, Inspector of Police on the London and South Western Railway, watched the proceedings on behalf of his employers and Mr Elias Browning was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - J. H. Higgs, Locomotive Inspector on the London and South Western Railway, identified the body. The deceased, who was aged 35, and had been a driver some three or four years, left a widow and five children. - John Percy, a fireman on the London and South Western Railway, residing at Heavitree, Exeter, deposed that he went on duty on Friday at 3 a.m., with the deceased. They took a goods train to Yeoford Junction, and at 8.30 a.m. started on their return journey to Exeter. When nearing Crediton they observed that the "distant" signal was against them, and, on passing it, witness blew the whistle to get the "stop" signal (which was some distance in front of them) off. The signalman pulled it off and the deceased said "Right away," meaning by this that they were not to stop at Crediton Station. He continued, "I'll put a little drop of oil in," and taking up the oil can he went out on the foot railing of the engine. Witness, in the meantime, attended to his own duties, after which he looked out on both sides for the deceased. He, however, could not see him, but he noticed that the guard, who was stationed in the end van, was putting up his hands. He stopped the engine and saw the deceased lying on the line on his face, with his head between the rails. TOWNING was a steady man and he had never known him to suffer from attack of giddiness. At the time of the occurrence the train was proceeding at the rate of from 12 to 14 miles an hour. - By Mr Foster: TOWNING wore nails in his boots. - Mr Foster (to the Coroner): That might account for his slipping. - William Pengelly, a signalman, employed at Crediton Station, who was in his box at the time of the accident, stated that just after passing the box he saw the deceased take the oil can in his right hand and grasp the hand-rail of the weather board with his left. he then put his left leg forward to leave the weather board for the purpose of getting on to the foot-plate in the front part of the engine. Letting go his grasp on the hand rail of the weather board to catch hold of the hand rail of the boiler, he failed in his object, missed his footing and fall between the platform and rails. Witness at once signalled the train to stop and left his box to go to the assistance of TOWNING, whom he found in the position described by the second witness. He was quite dead. - John Pook, a guard, corroborated. - Mr Walter Scott Campbell, Surgeon, of Crediton, proved examining the body. The upper part of the right thigh was completely shattered and the left thigh was also broken, but was not so much torn. There was also a scalp wound at the back of the head. - The Coroner, in summing up, observed that the occurrence was a very sad one, and he was quite sure that the Jury would, as he did, extend their sympathies to the widow and the little ones who had been left behind. - The Jury then returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - The funeral of the deceased took place yesterday at the Higher Cemetery. A large number of railway employees attended the funeral to pay a last tribute for the deceased. The Rev. J. J. Ponting (St Matthew's) officiated. Several floral tributes were laid upon the coffin.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 3 December 1889
TEIGNMOUTH - Mr Sidney Hacker, District Coroner, held an Inquest at the Teignmouth Infirmary last evening, touching the death of GEORGE UNDERHILL, who was in the employ of Robert Elms, dairyman, of Lower Brimley, and who met with his death by falling from a cart on Saturday evening in the Brimley-road. After hearing the evidence of Walter G. Passmore, who witnessed the accident, and Dr Austin, House Surgeon at the Infirmary, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The Jury handed their fees to the widow.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 6 December 1889
EXETER - The City Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest at Exeter Police Court yesterday afternoon upon the body of WALTER ELIAS FORD, aged 2 years, of 2 Strong's-cottages, Bartholomew-street. - The evidence showed that on October 22nd, while his mother was engaged in her domestic duties, the deceased upset a cup of hot tea over his neck and chest when attempting to drink. Home treatment of the scald received proved unsuccessful, and after two days the deceased was taken to the Devon and Exeter Hospital and made an out-patient of that Institution at the mother's request. On Wednesday evening, the deceased becoming worse, Mr Bell was sent for and death ensued shortly after his visit. The medical evidence was that the child died from convulsions, due to the scald, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 7 December 1889
EXETER - Sudden Death Of A Pensioner At Exeter. - An Inquest was held at Larkbeare House, Holloway-street, yesterday afternoon, by Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, touching the death of JOHN SULLIVAN, a pensioner, lately residing in Melbourne-street. The deceased was a pensioner from the Royal Artillery and was in receipt of 1s. per day. He had not been in good health of late and was last out on Tuesday. On Wednesday afternoon, about half-past 5 o'clock, his wife found him lying across his bed and speechless. She at once sent for a doctor, but his services were of no avail, and deceased expired about 11 o'clock the same night. Dr Harrison, who was called to see the deceased, stated that in his opinion death was due to apoplexy and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 9 December 1889
EXETER - An Inquest was held at the New Police Court on Saturday by Mr H. W. Hooper, the City Coroner, touching the death of EDITH ELIZABETH BROOKS, aged four months, daughter of SARAH ANN BROOKS, residing at 2 Blackmore-s-buildings, North-street. The child had been unwell for some time and on Friday morning died in her mother's arms. Mr Hawkings, Surgeon, who had previously attended the child, said the cause of death was convulsions. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 10 December 1889
EXETER - The Fatal Subsidence Of Earth In Exeter. - Yesterday afternoon Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquest at the Devon and Exeter Hospital upon the body of WILLIAM WILLCOCKS, aged 35, of 5 Alphington-street, St. Thomas, who died in that Institution on Friday last. - The body was identified by SARAH WILLCOCKS as that of her husband. - Mr T. G. Coles, builder and contractor, of 1 Clarence-road, St. Thomas, the deceased's employer, said that on Tuesday last WILLCOCKS was digging a foundation at the Salvation Army Temple, The Friars. The trench was from 5ft. 4in. to 5ft. 6in. in depth and 2ft. 9in. in width. The soil was "made" fifty years ago. The trench was almost completed, and the Assistant City Surveyor passed the work that had been done the same morning. No part of the trench was "shored." About 3.20 a slip of earth occurred and the deceased was buried up to his neck. He was promptly extricated and removed in a cab to the Hospital. - By a Juror: It was not usual to "shore" a trench of such dimensions when the ground had been "made" for so long a period. - The Juror, in answer to Mr Coles, said he had known cases in which trenches had been "timbered" when the soil had not been "made" so long as 50 years. In reply to another Juryman, Mr Coles said that deceased had cut through the "made" ground to the clay beneath. - The Clerk of Works for the Salvation Army, Mr H. W. Bush, who was not sworn, said he was present, and could corroborate all the builder had said. The soil, although "made," was very good, cut cleanly and there was not the least sign of its giving away. No weight was placed upon the sides, and carts did not "back" against the kerb. Mr Coles had had ten feet of the trench filled in, so that there was only 35 and not 45 feet open. - Mr Sampson expressed the opinion that the trench should have been shored up. - The Coroner said any of the Jurymen had a perfect right to ask questions and he hoped they would do so, but at the same time Mr Sampson could not make these reflections unless he could bring forward something to back them up. - At this stage a brother of the widow who was not a Juryman, expressed a wish to ask Mr Coles a question, but the Coroner ruled that he would e out of order in so doing. He could, if he liked, tender himself as a witness and give evidence upon oath. This offer was not accepted. - Mr Russell Coombe, House Surgeon at the Hospital, spoke to receiving deceased into that institution on Tuesday. He had a compound fracture of the left collar bone and the left side of his chest was broken, the ribs being separated from the breast bone. Death resulted from the injuries on the 5th inst. - Several of the Jurymen expressed a wish that MRS WILLCOCKS'S brother should make his statement, and he was sworn, but said he had no evidence to give. He wanted to ask Mr Coles whether, if the Jury had been able to view the spot, it would have thrown any further light upon the subject. - The Coroner: Why didn't you ask that before? - I am satisfied, but I am perfectly willing to view the place with the Jury. - It was now stated that a foundation stone having to be laid that day the spot had been built over, and most of the Jurymen thought the evidence before them was sufficient. - The Coroner, in summing up, said he thought the case had been most fully explained and though it was the Jury who had to decide, yet to his mind the occurrence was purely accidental. If there was any liability he was not sitting there to take evidence for a Court of another description. they merely had to inquire when, where and by what means the man met with his death, and he thought they had done so. He made it a fixed rule not to take unnecessary evidence which might possibly be made use of under the Employers' Liability Act, the Coroner's Court not being held for that purpose. The Jury then returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 13 December 1889
HEMYOCK - Mr Coroner Cox, of Honiton, has held an inquest here on the body of a lad named SMITH, employed by Mr Joseph Farmer, of Newcott, Clayhidon. Deceased was sent with a horse and trap to the Hemyock Butter Factory and in descending the road between Lemen's Hill and Five Bridges the trap was upset. It is supposed that he must have been urging on the horse at a reckless pace or that the animal must have bolted. Mrs T. Lowman saw the horse and trap travelling at a furious pace and just after they were out of sight she heard a smash. Hurrying with all speed to the spot she found the trap upside down and a part of it across the lad's stomach. SMITH groaned once after her arrival, but she had not strength to lift the trap off him, and before she could fetch help he was dead. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 20 December 1889
EXETER - The Exeter Coroner, Mr H. W. Hooper, held an Inquest at the Devon and Exeter Hospital on Wednesday upon the body of WILLIAM HENRY CHERITON, aged 13, who died in that Institution on the previous day. - ELIZABETH CROUMP, of 34 Prospect-place, St Thomas, identified the body as that of her son, who was employed by Mr Charles White, farmer, of Whitestone, as an indoor servant. - John Arnold in the employ of Mr White, gave evidence to the effect that on Saturday, December 7th, a bull belonging to his master escaped from a shed and ran into a field. Witness and the deceased, with a pick in his hand, were unable to drive the animal back, which became aggravated, and CHERITON said he would call Mr White. CHERITON, however, again followed the bull. Having dropped the pick, the deceased fell upon his face and hands. The bull caught the lad between his horns and pushed him for several yards and knelt upon him after which it knocked witness down. Mr White soon appeared and spoke to the bull, which instantly became quiet. - Questioned by a Juror, Arnold said he had seen the deceased teasing the bull many times. - Mr White said neither the deceased nor Arnold had a right to interfere with the animal. An hour before the accident occurred he reprimanded the deceased for teasing the animal. He was truly sorry for what had occurred. - The Coroner shared the opinion of the Jury, that Mr White was not to be blamed. - Mr Russell Coombe, House Surgeon at the Hospital, proved the admission of CHERITON into that institution, and his death, as a result of the injuries he received. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 21 December 1889
EXETER - Sudden Death In Exeter. - Mr Hooper, City Coroner, held an Inquest last evening at 3 Hampton-buildings, Blackboy-road, on the body of CHARLES TITHERLEY, also of Hampton-buildings. - MR FRANK TITHERLEY, Post-office employee, of 83 Victoria-road, identified the body of the deceased, as that of his father, who was 65 years of age. By profession deceased was a mining agent and resided in apartments at 4 Hampton-buildings. Deceased was a widower. - Mr Thomas, builder, of 3 Hampton Buildings, said he saw deceased yesterday standing at the door of the house in which he resided. Mrs Morris fetched witness, saying that deceased was ill and that she could not get him indoors. Witness went to deceased, who was leaning his head against the brick wall of the house. Deceased, addressing witness, said, "William, I am dying." Acting on witness's advice deceased, without aid, walked through the passage into the kitchen. Witness saw that deceased could not breathe freely and sent for Mr Perkins. Deceased repeated that he was dying and almost immediately afterwards life became extinct. Deceased had been unwell for some weeks and complained of a tightness in the throat, but was not medically attended. - Mr A. S. Perkins, Surgeon, St Sidwell's, deposed to being called to see the deceased who he found dead. There were no external marks of violence. Death was undoubtedly due to natural causes, and most probably to heart disease. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony. - Mr Banbury, one of the Jury, thanked the Coroner for having held the Inquest in Mr Thomas's house, and thereby avoided the necessity of Jurymen proceeding such a long distance as it was from the deceased's residence to the Guildhall, where Inquests were usually held.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 24 December 1889
EXETER - Sudden Death In Exeter. - At the Exeter Police Station yesterday Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry into the sudden death of the infant daughter of WILLIAM WESTCOTT, a labourer residing at Tabernacle-court, Coombe-street. The deceased child was only 14 days old and had not been registered or christened. She appeared to be in good health up to about four o'clock that morning. The father at once went for Mr Brash, Surgeon, and on his return found the child had expired. The child had been partly fed with cornflour. Mr Brash stated that he was called just after 5 o'clock to see the deceased, and went at once. On his arrival he found the child dead. The child was well nourished and death appeared to be due to convulsions. Cornflour would not be a proper thing to give a child of such tender age. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

EXETER - At the Exeter Police Station yesterday, Mr H. W. Gould held an Inquest into the death of GEORGE BROOKS, a labourer, 27 years of age, who died suddenly on the previous Sunday. - ANNIE BROOKS, the widow of deceased, stated that on Sunday afternoon her husband was lying on the bed. She heard him groan. She went to him and found him unconscious and apparently in a fit. She called her neighbours to her assistance and Mr Perkins was sent for. Deceased had complained for some months of pains in the region of the heart and had been a patient at the Hospital. - Mr J. Steele Perkins, Surgeon, who was called in, said he found the deceased, who had quite recently expired, lying on the bed. Death appeared to be due to natural causes. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony, but intimated that they thought an Inquest was unnecessary, as the Hospital Surgeon who had attended the deceased, might have given a certificate. The Deputy Coroner said that probably, had all the facts been known at the outset, the Inquest might not have been held.

EXETER - Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at Exeter Police Court on the body of ELI ARTHUR SHAW, 28 years of age, living at Browning's-court, Coombe-street, and by occupation a brass finisher. During Sunday morning deceased had several fits and about 7 o'clock became unconscious, dying an hour and half later. - Mr Perkins deposed to examining the body and came to the conclusion that the cause of death was due to epileptic convulsions. "Natural Causes" was the verdict returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 26 December 1889
CHURSTON FERRERS - On Tuesday night an Inquest was held by Mr S. Hacker, at Maypole, Churston Ferrers, in the parish of Brixham, touching the death of a child who was found in bed lying by the side of its mother. - Evidence was given by the mother, MRS DEER, wife of the coachman in the employ of Mr F. C. Simpson, that she heard a slight noise during the night from the child, but went to sleep again and when she awoke in the morning she found it dead. - Medical evidence was given by Dr Alexander of Paignton, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 27 December 1889
KINGSBRIDGE - An Inquest was held at the Seven Stars Hotel, Kingsbridge, on Tuesday, on the body of an illegitimate child of ELIZA ANN HANNAFORD, a domestic servant, whose parents reside at Devon Square, Kingsbridge. It appears that the child was in the custody of its grandmother, was very delicate and subject to fits. No doctor had seen the child, nor had a chemist been consulted. The child died in a fit on Saturday morning last. Evidence was given by EMMA HANNAFORD (the grandmother), ELIZA ANN HANNAFORD, the mother of the deceased, Louisa Grant and Dr W. H. Webb. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and the Deputy Coroner (Dr Donald A. Fraser) informed the grandmother of the serious position her neglect to obtain medical assistance might have placed her in. the Jury were agreed that her neglect was owing to an error of judgment, but they wished to impress upon her that the course she pursued was not natural or right. He hoped the case would be a warning to her and others.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 28 December 1889
BRIXHAM - An Inquest was held at the Bolton Hotel, Brixham, last evening, before Mr S. Hacker, Coroner for Devon, on the body of MR GEORGE FOGWELL, who was found dead in his bed on Christmas morning. - Mr B. Pearce was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - SARAH FOGWELL identified the body and deposed that the deceased was 86 years of age. She saw him on the 23rd instant. - Mr G. Partridge said that deceased on Tuesday talked to him about his son. Deceased told witness to call him at 8 o'clock the next morning. He did, but could not make him hear. Having called several times, witness went into the room of the deceased and found him cold. Medical aid was sent for. - Mr G. B. Elliott, Surgeon, deposed that he found the deceased in bed lying on his side. He was dead. He was of opinion that death was due to failure of the heart's action, caused by old age. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TAVISTOCK - Sad Fatality At Tavistock. - Mr Coroner Rodd held an Inquest yesterday at the Tavistock Cottage Hospital respecting the death of TAMSON CROSSMAN, a widow, aged 84, and a resident in one of the Ford-street Almshouses. Mr W. H. Mallett was Foreman of the Jury. It appeared from the evidence that on Christmas Eve, at half-past seven o'clock, Mrs Jackman, a niece of the deceased, on paying her a visit found the room full of smoke and MRS CROSSMAN lying on the floor insensible with a portion of her clothes burnt. A candle appeared to have been knocked on to the floor, and caused the fire, which was soon suppressed. MRS CROSSMAN was taken to the Cottage Hospital, where she died on Thursday morning, Dr Brodrick giving it as his opinion that the deceased died from the effects of a seizure, accelerated by a shock to the system, caused by her being burnt about the legs and lower part of the body. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 31 December 1889
NORTH TAWTON - Yesterday Mr Burd, County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Globe Hotel, Northtawton, on the body of ANN ASH, aged 18 months, daughter of WILLIAM GEORGE ASH, a labourer, who died suddenly on Friday. Mr T. Stoneman was chosen Foreman of the Jury. After hearing the evidence of LYDIA ASH, the mother, and that of Mr F. S. Hawkins, Surgeon, who was of opinion that death was caused by internal convulsions, the Coroner summed up and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

EXETER - Sudden Death In Exeter. - An Inquest was held by Mr H. W. Hooper, City Coroner, at Hampton-buildings, Blackboy-road, Exeter, yesterday afternoon, on the body of JOHN HEXTER, aged 82, a retired coachbuilder, who died the previous morning. - Mr Francis John Horwill, of 74 St Sidwell-street, identified the body as that of JOHN HEXTER, aged 82, who had been a coachbuilder and had retired for some time. Deceased was a widower, residing at 3 Hampton-buildings. Witness was a cousin of his. On Christmas Eve he last saw deceased. Deceased was, he believed, the oldest living freeman of Exeter. - William Thomas, builder, residing at 4 Hampton-buildings, stated the deceased lodged with him for several years. Deceased had been troubled with asthma and at times could scarcely breathe. On the night of the 28th witness saw him several times. He did not then seem unusually worse. The following morning his wife took deceased up a cup of tea, but not getting an answer she went for witness, who found HEXTER dead. - In reply to a Juror, witness said deceased had drank a little extra for Christmas. - Mr Brown, Surgeon, of Exeter, knew HEXTER professionally for the past two or three years, having attended him for chronic bronchitis. Yesterday morning he was informed deceased was dead. He apparently died from syncope and failure of the heart. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.