Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

Articles taken from the Exeter and Plymouth Gazette

[printed in Exeter.]

1904

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:  Abrahams; Adams; Alford; Andrew; Andrews; Arscott(2); Ashwood; Baker(2); Barrow; Bartlett; Batten; Bauer; Beal; Belton; Bencraft; Bidwell; Bird; Blank; Blundell; Bolt; Bond; Boorman; Booth; Bough; Bowden(2); Braund; Brewer; Bridgman; Briggs; Brook; Brooks; Brown; Buckpitt; Butt; Candy; Carnall; Carter(2); Cawley; Christian; Chubb; Chugg; Clark; Coles; Collier; Conibeer; Coombes; Copp; Corner; Cosway; Cottrell; Courtney; Crabb; Cridland; Cumes; Cundy; Cure; Davey(3); Dawe; Dicker; Down; Doyle; Dyble; Edstran; Edworthy; Elsworthy; Evans; Fairweather; Farrier; Fisher(2); Foxcroft; Francis; Gamlin; Gear; Geen; Gibbs; Gillard(2); Glanfield; Glass; Golesworthy; Gordon; Gorfin; Gorley; Gosling; Grant; Green; Gudge; Harris(2); Hawker; Haydon; Hayward; Heayns; Henley; Heywood; Hider; Higman; Hill; Hodge; Holding; Holwill; Hookway(2); Horner; Hornsey; Howard; Hussey; Huxtable; Inch; Ingham(2); Japp; Jarvis; Jeffery; Jewell(2); Joint; Jordan(2); Kibby; Kiff; Kirk; Knapman; Knott; Labbett; Lang; Langman; Lawrence; Leverton; Luxton(2); Mabin; Manning; Mansfield; Martin; Marwood; Matters; Maunder; May; McKay; McNeill; Mear; Memery(2); Miller; Mills(2); Mitchell; Morris; Moulding; Nethercott; Norrish; Osborne; Paddon; Page; Parker(2); Parkin; Parsloe; Pearcey; Penny; Perry(2); Phillips; Pierce; Pike(3); Pope; Powell; Price; Prichard; Pullen; Pulman; Quick; Redwood; Rice; Ridd; Risdon(2); Roberts(2); Rolls; Rowe; Rowell; Rundle; Sanders(3); Saunders; Searle; Sharland; Shillabeer; Shilstone; Skinner; Smerdon; Smith; Spurway; Stamp; Stark; Symons; Tarr; Taverner(2); Taylor; Thomas(2); Tomlinson; Townsend(3); Tracey; Trott; Trump; Tucker(2); Tuckerman; Twitchen; Vail; Vallance; Walling; Warr; Way(2); Weeks; Wellington; Westcott; White(3); Wilkinson; Williams; Wills; Wood(2); Woodfield; Woodgates; Wooldridge; Wotton; Wyatt; Yeo; Young(2); Youngman.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 1 January 1904
TIVERTON - At an Inquest held on the body of WILLIAM HENRY SKINNER, of 3 Johns Terrace, Dr G. F. Welsford stated that he had made a post mortem examination, and found a rupture of the left ventricle of the heart. Deceased had one arm in and one out of his under-vest and probably the effort of getting into the garment caused the rupture. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony. Deceased, who was 73 years of age, had been employed at the lace factory for 58 years.

ILFRACOMBE - The Inquest on the body of the widow, MARY ANN DAVEY, aged 85, who died from the effects of a fall in High-street, resulted in a verdict of "Accidental Death."

CLAYHANGER - Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner, conducted an Inquiry at the New Inn into the circumstances attending the death of SAMUEL GAMLIN, aged 71 years, a retired quarryman, and widower residing with a married daughter at New Inn Cottage. It appeared that during the past eighteen months deceased suffered from paralysis, and for some time was confined to his bed. On the 22nd inst., during the absence of his daughter, deceased got out of bed and cut his throat with a knife. Death ensued on Saturday evening. The Jury returned a verdict of Suicide while of Unsound Mind.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 4 January 1904
TEIGNMOUTH - Child's Sad Death At Teignmouth. - An Inquest was held at the Town Hall, Teignmouth, on Saturday, to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of EMMA EDITH PARKER, the two-year-old daughter of MR and MRS PARKER, of Commercial-road. The evidence was to the effect that the mother of the child put a dish of potatoes on the table for her husband's tea on Thursday evening at seven o'clock, when the child took one and bit it. She commenced to cry and its mother put her finger down the child's throat and took out the potato, but not before the little thing was scalded. After partaking of some milk and having its tea the child went to bed. About 9.30, however, the mother, finding her breathing heavily as if suffocating, sent for the House Surgeon of the Hospital, but as he was not at home then and when she went later she sent for another doctor, who, finding the child was suffering from dipthong oedema of the glottis and that an operation was necessary, found the House Surgeon and had the child removed to the Institution. Here an operation was performed, as the throat was swollen badly, but the poor child died under it. A verdict of "Death from Oedema of the Glottis" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 8 January 1904
BARNSTAPLE - An Inquest has been held at the North Devon Infirmary, Barnstaple, on the body of the nine-months'-old child of RICHARD LUXTON, farm labourer, of Wagadon, Huntshaw. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

WILLAND - At the Inquest held in the Parish-room on the body of BENJAMIN JORDAN, aged 58 years, dairyman, who dropped dead while in one of his fields feeding cows, the Jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes. Evidence was given by Emily Legg (deceased's sister-in-law); Fred Jordan, 10 (son); and Dr Tracey. The doctor attributed death to heart failure, induced by a feeble constitution and accelerated by the intense coldness of the morning, on which date 11 degrees of frost were registered. The Coroner (Mr H. W. Gould) expressed sympathy with the bereaved relatives.

TOTNES - At an Inquest held at the Guildhall concerning the death of NANCY BLAKE GORLEY, aged 27, a domestic servant, it was stated that deceased had a fainting fit on Sunday and vomited a considerable quantity of undigested food, some of which seemed to have got into the air passages, and she died in the course of a few minutes at Mrs Tregorthen's (where she was in service) from syncope, brought on by undigested food. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 12 January 1904
EXETER - Sudden Death Of A Child. - Mr Cocks (City Deputy Coroner) held an Inquest yesterday afternoon into the circumstances surrounding the death of PHYLLIS ELLEN PULLEN, aged about 11 weeks, the daughter of MR RICHARD LEWIS PULLEN, accountant, residing at 18 Herschell-road, Elmside, Exeter, whose death ensued suddenly on Sunday. - The father stated that the child had been healthy since its birth. It first showed signs of illness on Friday last, but seemed to lose its cough on the following day. Early on Sunday morning witness woke up and noticed that there was something the matter with the child and he aroused his wife and immediately sent for medical aid. - Dr Pickard deposed to being called in by the last witness on Sunday morning. On his arrival he found the child dead. He considered that it succumbed to bronchitis. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 13 January 1904
WOODBURY - Suicide At Woodbury Salterton. - An Inquest was held by the County Coroner, Mr C. E. Cox, at Woodbury Salterton, yesterday, on the body of RICHARD COOMBES, labourer, aged 74, who was found on Friday night in a pond. - Evidence of identification was given by MRS COOMBES, the widow, who said her husband had been depressed during the last 12 months. He had been worse lately. He went out at 11 o'clock on Friday morning and she did not see him again. - Walter Phillips, labourer, deposed to finding the body of the deceased in the pond. - Dr Furnival said he had attended the man for about 12 months. He had been much worse lately and had complained of pains in the chest. He did not think COOMBES was hardly responsible for his actions. The deceased had every comfort at home. - A verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 14 January 1904
CHARDSTOCK (DORSET) - Inquest At Chardstock. A Man's Action Criticised. - Mr C. E. Cox, the Coroner for East Devon, held an Inquest at Chardstock on the body of the newly-born male child of FRANCES MARWOOD, of Chapel Cottage, Chardstock. - From the evidence it appears that MARWOOD has cohabited with a man named Shepherd, and on Monday morning she requested him to ask a neighbour to come to her. This he did, and afterwards went to work. When about an hour and a half afterwards the neighbours visited the woman they found that she had been prematurely confined. There was no provision for a birth and nothing with which to make the woman comfortable. - Medical testimony showed that the child was born dead. - The Jury returned a verdict to that effect, and the Coroner said that Shepherd must have known during Sunday night the circumstances, and he had not acted in a creditable manner in going to work. Had the child been born alive and then died, it would have been a very serious thing for him and MARWOOD.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 15 January 1904
EXMOUTH - Found Drowned At Exmouth. An Exeter Woman's Sad End. - An Inquest upon the body of JESSIE JANE CARNALL, widow, late of Exeter, and who was found drowned at Exmouth on Wednesday, was held at the Rolle Hotel, Exmouth, yesterday, by Mr C. E. Cox, Coroner. - For the past 10 months deceased had lived with her daughter, EMILY CARNALL, at Mr Anderson's shop. On Tuesday afternoon deceased went for a walk. She then seemed brighter than usual, notwithstanding that she had complained of a pain in her head. As she did not return on Tuesday night MISS CARNALL made inquiries and the next day she heard her mother's body had been found near the Battery by Sidney Robert Bastin, a labourer, of Albert-place, Exmouth. There was no doubt the body had been washed up by the sea. Mrs Walmesley, in her evidence, said that deceased was constantly complaining of pains in her head. Deceased's husband died in a Lunatic Asylum, and in witness's opinion the fear of going insane preyed upon deceased's mind. Dr Thomas said that as a result of a post-mortem examination he concluded that death was due to drowning. There was also evidence that deceased was troubled with internal complaints, which would cause great depression. - An Open Verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned.

NORTHAM - At an Inquest held on the body of FANNY LABBETT, of Appledore, aged nine, daughter of a carpenter, a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 19 January 1904
TAVISTOCK - Child Burnt To Death. Another Flannelette Case. - At the Tavistock Cottage Hospital yesterday Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of HILDA MAY LANG, aged six years, the illegitimate child of MARY COOMBE, wife of JAMES HENRY COOMBE, Paull's Buildings, Tavistock, a waggoner, in the employ of Mr W. Snell, coal merchant, Tavistock. - JAMES HENRY COOMBE stated that last Friday he came downstairs at a quarter-past six o'clock and lit a fire in the kitchen. The grate was an open one. He left home for work at seven o'clock. His wife and her three children were upstairs in the bedroom when he left. He had taken them up some tea and bread and butter. The grate was only protected by a fender. There was no guard. - MARY COOMBE, the mother, said that the deceased was born before her marriage. On Friday she was in the bedroom with her three children. Two of them went downstairs of their own free will. She heard the deceased call out and on going downstairs found her in flames. She put the fire out as quickly as possible, and Mrs Joll, a neighbour, came in. The deceased was removed to the Hospital. Witness believed that the deceased was playing with the fire and caught her flannelette nightdress. - Dr James Snowden Smith deposed that he saw the deceased at 10 o'clock at the Hospital. She was suffering from burns over the entire surface of the body and was in a state of collapse. She died in the Hospital the same day at about 2 p.m. from shock, the result of the burns. Persons were under the impression that flannelette was warmer than linen, but it was only cotton goods scratched up into fluffy stuff and no one should be dressed in it. - The Coroner, while expressing sympathy with the parents, thought the mother was to blame for not looking after the children when they came down by the fire. - The Jury, of which Mr T. J. Cole was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and recommended all parents to have guards to their fireplaces.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 20 January 1904
TORQUAY - A Dying Man's Suicide At Torquay. - At the St Barnabas Home for incurables, Torquay, yesterday, Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquest on the body of WILLIAM ROBERT THOMAS, 25, blacksmith, who was found early on Sunday morning in bed with his throat cut. - Deceased had been an inmate of the Home for three months and on Saturday was practically dying; in fact, he was told by the doctor that he had a very short time to live. About 2 o'clock on Sunday morning, however, when his nurse had gone to an adjoining room to stir the fire, he jumped from his bed, obtained a razor from a drawer and, retiring to his bed, cut his throat. The wound would not have proved fatal to a strong man, but THOMAS was in such a weak condition that he died in two or three minutes. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane," and attached no blame to any of the staff of the Institution.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 22 January 1904
WEARE GIFFARD - MR JAMES JEWELL was retiring to rest about 10 p.m. on Sunday when he missed his footing, and fell backwards over a few stairs on to the cement floor of his cottage and fractured his skull. Dr Morse, of Torrington, was at once sent for, and on arrival offered little hope of recovery. MR JEWELL died at 5 o'clock on Monday morning. MR JEWELL'S wife was at the time an invalid, and he was taking up some medicine for her. It is surmised that the carrying of the medicine prevented him from stretching out his hands to break the fall. MR JEWELL was for many years keeper to General Morris, at Beam, and was much respected in the district. MR JEWELL'S age was about 56. On Tuesday an Inquest was held and a verdict of "Accidental Death" returned. The greatest sympathy is felt for the bereaved family.

BARNSTAPLE - At an Inquest held by the Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, on the body of MRS MARY JANE BOWDEN, a widow, of Fort-street, who died in her own house on Monday night, the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that "Death was caused by Suffocation while under the Influence of Drink."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 23 January 1904
WEST DOWN - The adjourned Inquest on the body of GEORGE S. KIFF, who died as the result of an accident at the Buttercombe Quarry, West Down, has been concluded at the Crown Inn by Dr Slade-King, District Coroner. Mr Walter, H.M. Inspector, attended and stated that he had visited the quarry and did not consider it dangerous for working. Chains were provided for the use of the men, and the death must have been a pure accident. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The Coroner and Jury expressed sympathy with the widow and family, and the Jury gave their fees to the former.

SANDFORD - Sudden Death At Sandford. Inquest Yesterday. - An Inquest was held by Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner, at the Vestry, Sandford, yesterday, upon the body of CHARLES BUTT, who died suddenly early on Thursday morning. - JOHN BUTT, saddler, Sandford, identified the body as that of his brother, CHARLES. Deceased was a blacksmith, 52 years of age, and had resided at Sandford all his life. Witness last saw him alive between 12 and 1 o'clock on Thursday morning. He was in bed. Deceased had frequently complained of pains in the bowels and also of a pain at the back of his head. Witness went into deceased's bedroom at about 7.30 a.m., as usual, and found his brother dead. He had not summoned a doctor because deceased had never expressed a wish that a medical man should be called in. - James Mortimore, landlord of the Lamb Inn, said that deceased came to his house and complained of the pains mentioned by JOHN BUTT. Witness gave him some brandy, but as soon as deceased swallowed it he vomited. After drinking a second lot deceased said he felt better in his stomach, but his head was still bad. Witness advised him to go home and go to bed. - Dr Powne, of Crediton, said he had that day examined the body of deceased. There was no sign of violence and in his opinion death was due to natural causes. A verdict was returned accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 26 January 1904
EXETER - Inquest On An Exeter Lady. Singular Case. - The circumstances surrounding the death of LOUISA ASHWOOD, spinster, occupied the attention of a Coroner's Jury yesterday afternoon at the Police Station, Exeter. Mr W. Linford Brown, Coroner, conducted the proceedings. - It will be remembered that on Friday afternoon, about 5.30 deceased was discovered dead in her room at No. 8, Elm Grove-terrace, St David's, where she occupied apartments, by the landlady of the house, Miss Wright. - The body was identified by MISS HARRIET F. ASHWOOD, of Clifton, deceased's sister, and daughter of the late MR JOHN NICHOLAS ASHWOOD, a surgeon to the Church Missionary Society and formerly of Appledore, who died at Sierra Leone. Witness said she had not seen deceased for five years, but knew her sister was a recluse. Deceased had small means, and witness had no idea she was in distress. She had been in the habit of writing to witness once or twice a month, but had never asked for money. - In answer to inspector Dymond, witness said she had kept none of the letters from deceased. She always destroyed them. - Miss Susan Wright, fruiterer, with whom deceased lodged, stated that she had known the latter for ten years. She had lodged with witness or about 4 ½ ears and had two rooms - one she lived in and the other was kept for storing purposes. - The Coroner: When did you last see the deceased alive? - Witness: About a fortnight ago, sir. - Continuing, Miss Wright said that when she last saw deceased she was fairly well, but had the toothache. The last time witness spoke to deceased was on the previous Monday. She was then groaning and witness asked her what was the matter. She replied that she was dying with the toothache. Deceased would not have a doctor, and, later, told witness she would soon be better. Deceased was on the inside of the room and witness on the outside. Both on Thursday and Friday deceased told witness she was better. On Friday evening, about 5.30 a little girl named Hugo, who used to do errands for deceased, came and told witness she had knocked at the deceased's door, but could get no answer. Mrs Hugo was fetched and the door was broken open. Deceased was then found dead. A lot of food was found in the room and witness had since burnt some of it. About a fortnight ago the Vicar of St David's called to see deceased and she pushed a two-shilling piece under the door for the Poor-box; also a receipt she had to sign relating to a pension from a London Hospital. - MISS ASHWOOD, recalled, said 20 sovereigns were handed over to her by the last witness. - Hettie Hugo (16), 5 Chapple's-buildings, St David's-hill, said she went errands for deceased. She had fetched tea, bread, sugar and other foodstuffs for deceased during the past fortnight. She was never allowed into deceased's room. - Mr J. Moone, Surgeon, deposed to finding deceased in bed dead. She was cold. He had since made a post-mortem examination of the body. It was very emaciated and the stomach was empty. He attributed death to neglect and starvation. - Mrs Mary Hugo deposed to breaking open the door and finding deceased dead in bed. There was some bacon, beef, a loaf of bread, butter, tea and sugar in the room. - Mr Roland O'Connor, a gentleman of independent means living with Miss Wright, spoke to hearing Miss Wright say to deceased, "If you are dying you must have a doctor. Remember you are under my roof." He did not say anything to Miss Wright on the subject, as he did not think the matter had anything to do with him. - The Coroner: Did it make any impression upon you? - Witness: No. - The Coroner: Didn't you speak to Miss Wright about it afterwards? - Witness: It had nothing to do with me. - The Coroner: Do you say you stayed in your bed and heard Miss Wright suggest to another woman who was dying that she should have a doctor and say it had nothing to do with you? - Witness: Nothing whatever. - The Coroner: Let her die? Was it not your duty to go for a doctor? - Witness (emphatically): Most certainly not; most certainly not. I am a lodger in the house. - The Coroner: You told us you were a gentleman. I am surprised to hear it. - Witness: You can put what definition you like upon it. You have given a definition from the Bench you had no business to. - The Coroner (sharply): I shall deal with you in a way you will regret tomorrow. - The witness was again about to speak, when the Coroner interrupted with the remark, "Do not argue, sir." - In summing up, the Coroner said he did not wish to say any more than was necessary in the face of the facts, but he did think the manner in which the deceased, who was known to be eccentric, had been looked after cast reflection on the people of the house. It seemed to him to be a very serious thing for Miss Wright not to have sent for a doctor, especially after the statement to deceased, "Remember you live under my roof," which threw a far more serious complexion upon it. Then Mr O'Connor said he did not think it was his business to do anything. The very fact he (the Coroner) should have thought, of hearing Miss Wright's remark should have caused him to have done something. They knew doctors were very often not sent for until there was need of a certificate of death, but in this case the doctor arrived after death had taken place. Although Miss Wright legally was not responsible for the welfare of the deceased, yet it was her duty, he thought, to see that that person did not come to any harm by reason of neglect. There was a moral responsibility resting on Miss Wright, and also upon Mr O'Connor, he knowing that the lady was likely to die. - Miss Wright said she telegraphed and also wrote to the sister at Bristol during last week. - The Jury returned a verdict that "The death of MISS ASHWOOD occurred from Starvation and Neglect while Temporarily Insane," and censured Miss Wright and Mr O'Connor for not taking any notice to obtain a doctor. - The Coroner concurred.

IDDESLEIGH - Suicide Near Iddesleigh. - Mr J. D. Prickman, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Waldons, Iddesleigh, yesterday, on the body of ELIZABETH MILLS, who died on Sunday, aged 75 years. Mr E. Tucker, of Nethercott, was Foreman of the Jury. Mr Bartholomew Anstey, of the Rectory Farm, Iddesleigh, said the deceased was a spinster and was for nearly 40 years housekeeper at Iddesleigh Rectory. Between seven and eight o'clock on Saturday evening she arrived at his house, sat down in the porch, and said she had come there to die. His wife told her she must not stay there. The deceased said somebody had taken away all her money. He went for the Police and afterwards she was taken away in an insensible condition to Walsdons Cottage, where she died. Later the same evening he found two bottles near his front door. - Mrs Sarah Anstey corroborated her husband's statement. - Dr Arthurs, of Hatherleigh, said he saw the deceased at midnight on Saturday, and she was then in a state of collapse. He examined her and found unmistakable signs of morphia poisoning. - Miss Jones, of Waldons, said the deceased was brought to her house at 10.30 on Saturday night. She put her to bed and stayed with her until the doctor came. The deceased never spoke and died at 12.30 on Sunday morning. - The Jury found that death was caused by Poisoning by the taking of Laudanum self administered and that the deceased was in an Unsound State of Mind.

PAIGNTON - Inquest At Paignton - WILLIAM SMERDON, 80 years of age, formerly a wood cutter in the employ of Mr Bastard, of Holne, died suddenly at Paignton on Saturday morning. - Yesterday afternoon Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquiry touching his death. Mr Westlake was the Foreman of the Jury. GEORGE SMERDON, son of the deceased, identified the body and said that the deceased had made no complaint to him as to his health. Mrs Bryce said the deceased lodged with her at Elm Bank-road. He frequently complained of being unwell. On Saturday morning he went out apparently in his usual health and about noon he was brought home on a waggon, and did soon after he got into the house. William Matthews stated that on Saturday the deceased was in the Totnes-road, walking just in front of him. He saw him fall down in the road, and, with assistance, he was put on a waggon and conveyed to his lodgings. Dr Cosens said he had examined the body and found no marks on it whatever. He attributed the cause of death to heart disease and a verdict was returned to that effect.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 27 January 1904
NEWTON ABBOT - At an Inquest conducted by Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, at Newton Abbot yesterday, into the death of FRANK WOTTON, aged 18 years, engine cleaner at the Newton G.W.R. Works, and son of ex-P.C. WOTTON, of Brixham, who died somewhat suddenly on Monday morning, a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned. The medical testimony showed that deceased suffered from pleurisy, the immediate cause of death being thrombosis in the right side of the heart.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 29 January 1904
DUNKESWELL - An Inquest was held here on Wednesday touching the death of MR BENJAMIN PIKE, who died on Saturday evening at Roughgree Farm. Deceased attended Hemyock Market on the Monday, apparently in his usual health. He was taken ill and medical aid was summoned, but without avail. As the cause of death was rather uncertain, the Coroner was communicated with. After hearing the evidence, a verdict of "Death from Irritant Food Poisoning" was returned. Deceased was about 52 years of age, and leaves a widow, but no children.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 2 February 1904
EXETER - Exeter Lady's Sad Death. The Inquest. - Death from "Natural Causes" was the verdict returned by the Jury summoned to Inquire into the death of JANE JORDAN, a widow, aged 67 of 6 Coffin's-court, Castle-street, Exeter, the Coroner being Mr W. Linford Brown. - The woman was found dead in bed on Saturday morning, about 8 o'clock, by her grand-daughter, MAUD JORDAN, who slept with her. Earlier the same morning MRS JORDAN complained of feeling unwell, but no serious result was anticipated. - Dr Clapp was called in, but could only pronounce life extinct. Deceased had not been medically attended since November last.

CULLOMPTON - The Death Of A Cullompton Butcher. - Mr H. W. Gould, District Coroner, conducted an Inquiry at the Petty Sessional Court, Cullompton yesterday, into the circumstances attending the death of MR JOHN HORNSEY, retired butcher, of Collumpton. Mr J. H. Baker was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MRS MARY HORNSEY, the widow, said her husband was 72 years of age. About midnight on Friday he left the bedroom attired only in his nightshirt. He did not say where he was going and eventually he left the house. Witness asked him to stop, but he did not do so. As he did not return, witness aroused the servant, who fetched one of her sons-in-law. For some months past her husband had been depressed and on Friday night he was very restless and complained of his head. Deceased was in no financial difficulty, but worried about a house in which he lived for 16 years; he wanted to go back again. He had never threatened to take his life. - Charles Rawlings, grocer, son-in-law of the deceased, said he, with others, searched for the deceased. The body was found in the mill leat near Higher Mills, the depth of the water at the spot being about 10 feet. Deceased had been depressed for some time. - Mr E. F. M. Alleyne, Surgeon, Collumpton, also gave evidence. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 3 February 1904
EAST BUDLEIGH - A Child's Death At Salterton. - Mr C. E. Cox held an Inquiry yesterday at the Feathers Hotel, Budleigh Salterton, touching the death of GILBERT WILLIAM PEARCEY, aged four years and four months, who died suddenly on Sunday morning. Mr Caseley was chosen Foreman. - The mother's evidence went to show that the child was apparently in good health up to last Thursday when he complained of pains in the head and stomach. On Saturday night the child was worse. A doctor was sent for and prescribed for the child. Late at night convulsions set in, which continued until Sunday morning, when death occurred before further medical aid could be obtained. - Dr Evans said he attended the child on Saturday night. He did not think it seriously ill. He sent a little medicine. He was called between seven and eight on Sunday morning and found the child dead, but could then form no opinion of the exact cause of death. He had made a post mortem, and found the child thoroughly well nourished. There was a considerable amount of fluid in the pericardium and the brain was congested. He was of opinion that death was due to convulsions, brought on by pericarditis. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned. - The Jury gave their fees to the mother, with whom much sympathy was shown, her husband having only a few days since been sent to the Royal Hospital for Consumption at Ventnor, Isle of Wight.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 4 February 1904
SHALDON - The Sudden Death At Shaldon. The Inquest. - The Inquest on the body of MR FRANK WOOD JAPP, a retired bank accountant, who expired suddenly at Shaldon, was held at the Victoria Hall, Shaldon, yesterday, by Mr S. Hacker. - MR J. JAPP, of Liverpool, identified the body as that of his brother, who was 63 years of age. He had suffered from diabetes, but it did not prevent the deceased getting about. Mr Fred C. Frost, auctioneer, accompanied the deceased to Albion-street, Shaldon, on Monday, when he appeared in his usual health. Mr A. C. Strang, draper, saw deceased coming from the direction of Albion-street, about 1 o'clock on Monday, when he fell down, apparently dead. Witness picked him up. Mr A. E. Hayward, Surgeon, of Teignmouth, said he had attended the deceased for several years. He was suffering from diabetes. He examined the deceased at his house after he had fallen, and his general appearance indicated death from an apoplectic fit. This was, in his opinion, the cause of death. His malady might have accelerated death, but deceased was one in whom apoplectic symptoms might have been expected. - A verdict of death from "Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 5 February 1904
EXETER - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, held an Inquest at the Exeter Police Court yesterday touching the death of MARY PRICE, who died on Tuesday evening at Easton Buildings, Castle-street, Exeter. Wm. Grimes, of 78 Paul-street, said deceased was his grandmother, and was the widow of a Paris-street grocer. She was 80 years of age, and on Tuesday night she was taken ill, expiring before the arrival of the doctor. Florence Grimes, wife of the previous witness, also gave evidence. Dr H. Andrew, who was called to deceased's room, attributed death to heart failure. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 6 February 1904
EXETER - Mr W. Linford Brown, Coroner, conducted an Inquiry at the Exeter Police Court last evening into the circumstances attending the death of the infant male child of ROBERT BARTLETT, labourer, of Silver-lane, Blackboy-road, Exeter. From the evidence it appeared that the child was born on the 2nd inst. and died two days later. The birth was stated to have been premature. Dr Duncan attributed death to a convulsion and the Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 9 February 1904
WEST ALVINGTON - Yesterday afternoon the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. F. Kellock, held an Inquest at West Alvington, Kingsbridge, relative to the death of MRS SARAH BLANK, a widow, 90 years of age. Deceased lived by herself, and was last seen at half-past 2 o'clock on Friday afternoon. As the old lady did not appear on Saturday the door was broken open and she was found dead in bed. The medical evidence showed that death was due to heart disease, caused by old age. A verdict was returned accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 10 February 1904
LYMPSTONE - A Lympstone Septuagenarian's Death. - A verdict of "Death from Shock, due to a Fall," was the verdict of a Coroner's Jury sitting at Lympstone yesterday afternoon Inquiring into the circumstances of the death of MRS HOLWILL, wife of WM. HOLWILL, a gardener. Mr C. E. Cox, Coroner, conducted the proceedings. Sergeant Staddon, of Exmouth, watched the proceedings on behalf of the Police. - Deceased, who was 74 years of age, and an invalid, caught her foot in the carpet of the front room of the house on January 30th, falling to the ground and breaking her right arm and left leg. Dr Paine was sent for and did all he could for the old lady, but, owing to her advanced age and the nature of her injuries, she died on Saturday.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 13 February 1904
EXETER - The Deputy City Coroner, Mr W. R. Cocks held an Inquest yesterday afternoon at the Exeter Police Station on the body of HANNAH GORDON, a widow, aged about 64, of 5 St James's-terrace. the body was identified by ARCHIBALD GORDON, son of deceased. - ANNA GORDON, daughter of deceased, stated that about 9 o'clock the previous day her mother became unwell. Later in the morning she had a fit and witness sent for Dr Duncan. Her mother, however, recovered, but before the doctor arrived she had another fit and died. - Dr Duncan attributed death to syncope. The Foreman (Mr W. H. Southwood): Did you think it necessary to remove the body to the Mortuary for the purpose of a post mortem examination? - Dr Duncan: That is not my business. I have to obey the Coroner. - The Deputy Coroner said the body was removed to the Mortuary by the instructions of the Coroner. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

EXETER - The Deputy City Coroner, Mr W. R. Cocks, held an Inquest yesterday afternoon at the Exeter Police Station on the body of the infant child of WILLIAM HAWKER, a porter, of 16 Sun-street. The father stated that the child was 14 days old. The previous morning the infant, who slept between his wife and himself, was found dead in bed. Dr Clapp stated that he was called to see the child after death. He thought the child had had convulsions, brought on by bronchitis. There were no signs that the child had been overlaid. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 15 February 1904
EXETER - The Fatal Fire At Exeter. An Heroic Daughter. Was There Delay? - The story of an heroic attempt on the part of a daughter to save her mother from a fire which occurred in Cornish's-court, Paul-street, Exeter, was told in the City Coroner's Court on Saturday, when a Jury sat to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of the victim, MRS FANNY WOODGATES. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr W. B. Cocks, conducted the proceedings. - The body was identified by EDWIN WOODGATES, a labourer, of Dunsford, who stated that deceased enjoyed fairly good health, but at times was mentally weak. She was 78 years of age. - The principal witness was EMILY BERRY, a widow, who said deceased was her mother and resided with her in Cornish's-court. She last saw her mother alive about 7 o'clock the previous evening. Deceased was in bed in a room at the top of the house and witness left her there in a comfortable position. There was a candle in a candle-stick by the side of the bed, together with a box of safety matches. Deceased wore flannelette night-clothes. Witness left her eldest son, who was 19 years of age, in the kitchen, about 8.30, while she went to a neighbour's house to see about some work. She returned about 9.10 and smelt something burning. She asked her son what it was, but he said he could smell nothing. Witness at first thought a spark had shot out from the fire in the room of the second floor, where she worked. Going there she found nothing of a suspicious nature and went on up to her mother's room. On opening the door she found the room full of smoke. Witness called to her mother, and, getting no reply, went round to the opposite side of the bed, pulled her mother out and flung open the window. Witness dragged something off the bed to put around her mother, but the draught from the window caused the clothes to become ignited, and witness was badly burnt. She could not then see her mother as the room was full of smoke. Witness's son came upstairs, but could only get as far as the door of the room. Witness screamed for help and Mr Moore came to her assistance, and the fire was eventually subdued. Her mother was mentally weak, but the doctor said she was not dangerous. Deceased had been laid up for five weeks, but was able to get in and out of bed without assistance. - Alfred Moore, a painter of 3 Cornish's-court, Paul-street, deposed to hearing a call of fire and going to the assistance of MRS BERRY. Witness picked up a lamp from the room below and attempted to get upstairs. He was driven back by the smoke and could not get into the room. He heard someone near him speak and recognised the voice of an ex-fireman named Morrish. Witness gave the lamp to him and opened the staircase window by Morrish's order. Morrish was then able to proceed, and witness went down to fetch some waster. When he took up a second can of water he was able to get into the room. Morrish was trying to put out the burning clothes on deceased. The room was full of smoke at the time, and the clothes on the bed were smouldering. - P.S. Eveleigh deposed to finding a candlestick near the bed. He found no matches in the room. The candle had apparently melted away. In the candle stick there was some charred clothing. - Mr Pereira, Surgeon, stated that the whole of the upper part of deceased's body was burnt. He attributed death to shock caused by the burns. Death must have been instantaneous. - By the request of the Jury the Deputy Coroner called FRANK BERRY, who was alone in the house when the fire broke out. He stated that he smelt nothing burning, nor did he hear any sound coming from upstairs. He gave the alarm. - A Juror: Do I understand you called the Fire Brigade? - Witness: Yes. - The Juror: What time was that? - The witness replied that as soon as his mother had gone upstairs she shouted to him, and he went out and gave the alarm. He could not tell what the exact time was, but it was after 9 o'clock. - The Juror said he asked the question because a report had gained currency that the fire broke out just after 9 o'clock, and the Fire Brigade did not arrive until 9.30. - The witness said he did not actually pull the alarm. He believed Mr Hannaford did that. He did not think the bell rang. - The Deputy Coroner promised that the attention of the proper authority should be called to the subject. - Sergeant Eveleigh said the Brigade were called from the Police Station. - Mr Pereira said he asked Mr Pett which call he heard first and the Superintendent told him the calls came simultaneously. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 16 February 1904
DARTMOUTH - Yesterday Mr A. M. Davson, Coroner, at Dartmouth, and a Jury investigated the death of MRS FRANCES SYMONS, 80 years of age, a widow, residing at Hanover-street. The old lady had a fall, fracturing her right thigh and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 19 February 1904
MILTON ABBOT - An Inquest was held in the Reading Room by Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, on the body of MRS ELIZABETH MAUNDER, aged 64, whose death occurred with painful suddenness last Saturday evening. Dr Musgrave, of Lifton, after making a post-mortem examination, attributed death to the bursting of a blood vessel over the brain and the Jury, of whom the Rev. H. M. Petty was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." Great sympathy is felt in the village and neighbourhood with the bereaved husband and family in their irreparable loss. The interment took place on Wednesday in the Milton Abbot parish churchyard, the Rev. H. M. Petty officiating.

TAVISTOCK - Yesterday afternoon an Inquest was held on the body of MARY ELLEN CUNDY, infant daughter of a labourer of Tavistock. The child was born on January 30th, only lived 28 hours, was buried as a stillborn child, and, by order of the Coroner, the body was exhumed on Tuesday. Nurse Routley stated that she asked for and filled in, by mistake, a stillborn certificate. Dr Snowden Smith stated that death was due to debility in consequence of premature birth. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural causes," and, at their request, the Coroner censured the father for carelessness.

ASHBURTON - At an Inquest yesterday on EMILY FRANCIS JEWELL, 3 ½ years, daughter of BESSIE JEWELL, who died from shock caused by burns sustained through the ignition of her clothing in the temporary absence of the mother, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. The mother was advised to be more careful and to provide a fire-guard.

SILVERTON - An Inquest has been held on the body of MR S. G. THOMAS, of Ford Farm. A servant heard a fall and found deceased on his face and hands near the larder door and a cup on the floor. He died an hour later. Dr Clayton Jones attributed death to injury to kidneys, a fatty heart and shock. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 23 February 1904
EXETER - Exeter Watchmaker's Sad Death. - An Inquest was held at the Exeter Workhouse yesterday by Mr W. Linford Brown touching the death of EDWARD ARTHUR PARKIN, watchmaker of 17 Summerland-street, Exeter. Mr W. A. Stone represented the family of the deceased. - AMY LILIAN PARKIN identified the body as that of her father. Witness had not seen deceased for three years. He was 49 years of age. - Samuel Mitchell, baker, of 7 Summerland-street, said that he saw deceased between 9.30 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Saturday lying on the ground in Summerland-street. Witness helped to take him home. He was put on a couch, seemingly under the influence of drink. Witness left deceased in his house and returned in a short time. Apparently deceased was all right and witness left him. On Sunday evening, about 5.45 witness went again to deceased's house. Deceased was breathing heavily and witness went for the Police. - Mr Hawkins (one of the Jurymen) asked whether the deceased lived on the premises and witness replied in the affirmative. Mr Hawkins, continuing, said that if the Jury saw the place they would be astonished to find such a house in the city. There was no accommodation or water on the premises. - In reply to the Coroner, Mr Mitchell said that there was no article on the premises but the couch. The room was divided into two by a partition. There was no room for the deceased to lie down properly. - Sergeant Tapley stated that he found deceased, fully dressed, lying unconscious on the couch on Sunday evening. He was evidently seriously ill and witness sent for Dr Pereira. The room in which he found deceased was very small and was a part of the shop partitioned off. It was about 8ft. 6in, by 5ft. 6in. As deceased was about 5ft. 6in in height he had just room to lie down. The room was in a very bad condition. There was a little bread and meat wrapped up in a piece of paper. He thought PARKIN was suffering from apoplexy. He was of intemperate habits. - Dr Pereira attributed death to haemorrhage of the brain. He ordered deceased's removal to the Workhouse. - William Bouch, male nurse at the Workhouse, said that deceased died at 7.50 a.m. yesterday. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 25 February 1904
EXETER - Sudden Death - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Exeter Police Station yesterday afternoon into the circumstances attending the sudden death, which occurred the previous day concerning EMILY RAINES TOMLINSON, dressmaker of 100 Paris-street. MABEL LOUISA TOMLINSON of 26 Russell-street, identified the body as that of her aunt, a single woman, aged 52 years. On Saturday her aunt appeared in her usual good health. William Pardon, of 101 Paris-street, said that about midday on Monday deceased made a purchase at his shop. Witness noticed nothing unusual in her condition. Maria Jane Elliott, wife of Harry Elliott, 100 Paris-street, said deceased rented a room at her house. She had lived there six years and had never complained of her health. About 2.45 p.m. on Tuesday witness found deceased sitting in a chair at the side of her bed. She was dead. P.S. Rounsley also gave evidence. Mr Pereira attributed death to failure of the heart's action, caused by the strain of sickness. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

EXETER - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, held an Inquest at Exeter Police Station the previous day on the body of MARY ANN MORRIS, widow, of 27 Paris-street. RICHARD MORRIS said his mother was 68 years of age. Emily Taylor gave evidence to finding deceased in an outbuilding. Mr Brash said death was due to the rupture of a blood vessel on the brain. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 26 February 1904
DARTMOUTH - At the Inquest on FREDERICK YOUNGMAN, aged 30, fourth hand on the steam trawler Eagle, it was stated that deceased tripped over a baulk of timber on the quay and fell into the water. A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned and the Jury suggested that a light should be placed on Messrs. Phillip's quay.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 27 February 1904
NEWTON ABBOT - The Fatal Accident Near Newton. Unlicensed Engine Driver. - Yesterday an Inquest was held at the Newton Abbot Hospital by Mr S. Hacker relative to the death of WILLIAM SEARLE, aged 73, general dealer, of Barton, St Marychurch, who died in the Hospital on Thursday from injuries received through being thrown from his pony trap. - Mr E. Windeatt represented Messrs. Hexter, Humpherson and Co. - HENRY SEARLE, of 2 Watcombe-place, St. Marychurch, identified the body as that of his father, who had had the pony ten years. It was a very quiet animal and he had never known it to shy. - William Ford, of 2 Osborne-street, Newton Abbot, said he was the driver of a small traction engine, under four tons, belonging to Messrs. Hexter, Humphrieson and Co., Limited. On Wednesday he was going towards Aller. He was not a licensed driver. - The Coroner: You are liable to a heavy penalty for not being licensed under the Motor Car Act. Is the engine registered? - No, sir. - Witness, continuing, said he was in sole charge of the engine. He did not see deceased's trap until it was passing him. Witness was travelling at between three and four miles an hour. The trap was half turned over in the hedge. There were 12 feet clear for passage on his right. Deceased was thrown out in front of the engine, but witness pulled up the latter dead. The reins on deceased's pony were of coconut matting fibre and the near one was broken near the bridle. Deceased was placed in a passing trap in an unconscious condition and driven to the Hospital. Witness had never had an accident before and had driven since 1881. He passed the deceased earlier in the afternoon and the pony did not show any signs of fright then. - Edmund Charles Woodford, of Babbacombe, said there was room for two traps to pass the engine. - Henry Searle Clay said the deceased was using leather reins when he saw him. He was positive of this. - Mr D. H. McPhail, Surgeon, said he was called to the Hospital as a case of urgency, he not being on the staff. He found deceased suffering from concussion of the brain. His left collar-bone was broken and there was a swelling on the left side of the head. The man died on Thursday morning without regaining consciousness. - William Arthur Hexter, one of the directors of the Company, said the engine was under three tons, and, with the truck, it carried under four tons. He understood the Act did not apply to light locomotives, or it would have been registered. He had received no intimation from the County Council on the matter. - The Coroner, in summing up, said he did not think they could blame the driver. He, however, thought it would be better if there was another man on the engine, although it was not absolutely necessary, according to the law. There had been a breach of the law, because the engine was not registered and unnumbered. That, however, would not affect the verdict that day, although no doubt the authorities would notice the matter. - After a consultation the Jury returned a verdict that the deceased met his death by being thrown out of a trap while passing a motor waggon, the result of an Accident, no blame attaching to the driver of the waggon.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 1 March 1904
DARTMOUTH - Yesterday, at the Dartmouth Guildhall, Mr A. M. Davson held an Inquest touching the death of MARY ANN TUCKERMAN, 83, residing with her son at South Ford-road. The evidence showed that deceased had not been worse than usual on Sunday, but at 4.30 on Monday morning she knocked at the wall for the housekeeper, who slept in the next room. Deceased was found to be out of bed and she asked for some brandy. She got into bed again without assistance, but at half-past 7 her little grandson found her dead. Dr J. H. Harris said death was due to heart failure and a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 3 March 1904
STOKE DAMEREL - The Naval Disaster At Devonport. - An Inquest was opened at the Naval Hospital, Devonport, yesterday on leading STOKER RUNDLE, of the cruiser Edgar, who succumbed to injuries received in a collision on Monday, when the cruiser's picquet boat was sunk by the destroyer Vixen. - Petty-officer Williams, coxswain of the boat, said he was steering a correct course and by the rule of the road the Vixen should have given way, but did not. - Lieutenant-Commander Simson, of the Vixen, said he signalled to Williams to stop, but he did not. The collision could have been avoided had Williams gone astern, or put the helm hard over. Had the Vixen ported the helm she would have rammed the Magnificent and been sunk. - The Inquiry was adjourned to the 9th inst.

EXETER - Mr W. Linford Brown, Exeter City Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday afternoon at the Police Court on the body of GEORGE ELSWORTHY, aged 38, of 45 Regent-street, St. Thomas, who died on Monday evening. - The body was identified by the widow, who stated her husband was a carriage smith by trade. He had, however, been assisting at the Gas Works. He returned from the front three years ago and had been suffering from heart disease ever since. - James Norman, night watchman at the Gas Works, stated that on Monday night he opened the gates to admit deceased. He was short of breath and witness advised him to sit down in the office. Deceased seemed to get a little better and went into the shop. He there became worse and fell to the floor. Witness sent for some brandy and Mr Stokes, Surgeon, was also sent for, but deceased expired before medical aid arrived. - Mr Stokes attributed death to heart disease of long standing. - The Coroner, in summing up, remarked that great credit was due to the witness Norman, who seemed to have been very kind to deceased. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

EXETER - Mr W Linford Brown, City Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday afternoon at the Police Court on the body of HENRY JAMES GILLARD, aged two months, the son of HENRY WILLIAM GILLARD, carter, of 9 Cecil-road. - The mother identified the body and said she found her son dead in the cradle at 2 o'clock on Tuesday morning. She had earlier given the child some oatmeal and milk. - Mr Farrant stated that death was due to convulsion, brought on by the oatmeal and milk. Some children were able to digest such food and a great many could not. - In summing up, the Coroner said this was a case of a child being improperly fed. People seemed to have an idea that by giving children thick food, like deceased had, they would do good. Some time ago the City Council sent out circulars advising parents to feed children of tender age on milk diet and he thought that the public should take notice of them. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 5 March 1904
HONITON - Yesterday, at Honiton, Mr C. E. Cox, Coroner for the East Devon District, held an Inquest concerning the death of the late THOMAS WHITE BREWER, aged 44, cattle dealer, of Honiton, who was found dead hanging from a beam in his linhay, as reported in the "Gazette" yesterday. - Evidence of identification was given by MRS HONOR HARTNOLL, of Pinhoe and MR JOHN BREWER, of Honiton, sister and brother of the deceased. - Mr C. P. Cheeseworth, the landlord of the White Hart Inn, stated that on Tuesday evening deceased, in accordance with his usual custom, came to his house at about 7 o'clock for his tea. He sat and read the paper and left after awhile. He was very quiet and had hardly anything to say. - Charles Middleton, the County Court Bailiff, said that on Thursday, March 3rd, he visited the linhay in order to serve deceased with a County Court summons to the amount of over £9. On opening the door he saw deceased hanging from a beam. His legs were on the floor and he was partly resting on his right side. He cut the body down and then went for the Police. - P.S. Cridland described the removal of the body, which was quite cold and stiff, to the Globe Inn. - Dr Shortridge gave medical evidence to the effect that, after examining the body, he was of the opinion that death resulted from strangulation. - The Jury, of which Mr H. Hook was Foreman, returned a verdict to the effect that deceased Hanged himself during a fit of Temporary Insanity.

EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - Death Of An Exmouth Imbecile. Doctor And Relations Censured. - An Inquest was held at the St. Thomas Workhouse yesterday by Mr W. Linford Brown, touching the death of LOUISA PERRY, a single woman, of Exmouth. - Eva Green, of 12 Halsdown-road, Exmouth, niece of the deceased, said that her aunt was 55 years of age and lived with another aunt. On the 31st January it was presumed that deceased fell out of bed and broke her leg. She went for Dr Shapland at about 10 o'clock, but he told her to go to the Maude Hospital and ask them to send an ambulance to fetch deceased. Dr Shapland told her not to tell the Hospital authorities that she had been to him. She, however, told the Matron and Dr Eaton that she had been to Dr Shapland and they said they could not take in parish patients. A messenger was, however, sent to the Secretary of the Hospital to see what could be done, but the Secretary said he could do nothing. Witness returned to her aunt's and sent a girl to Dr Shapland's. Dr Shapland came at about 1.15 p.m. He did not set the leg, but wrapped it up in bandages, which, however, came off in the afternoon, and which had to be replaced by witness and her other aunt. Dr Shapland came again about 5.30 and brought some cardboard. He did nothing then and went away. Half an hour afterwards he returned with the Overseer (Mr Baker). Dr Shapland told them to get deceased ready to take her to the St Thomas Workhouse. They demurred at her removal, but Dr Shapland insisted. She was not aware that deceased was of weak intellect. - Mr Trick (Clerk to the St. Thomas Guardians) stated that deceased had been certified as an idiot to the Commissioners in Lunacy. - Continuing, witness said that deceased suffered from spinal disease. About two weeks before the accident she had a seizure. - Mr Trick stated that the Guardians had no announcement from Dr Shapland relating to the matter. Deceased arrived at about 8 p.m. on January 31st. - A Juror asked why the leg was not set smarter. Deceased must have suffered great pain and the leg must have taken a great deal of setting. They ought to have proper accommodation at Exmouth for such a case. - Mr Trick stated that the Guardians would cause inquiries to be made why the woman had not been attended to. Up to the present the Guardians had had no opportunity of looking into the matter. - Dr Mark Farrant, Medical Officer of the Workhouse, said that he was called to see deceased at about 9 p.m. on Sunday, January 31st. She was suffering very greatly from shock and her right leg was done up in cardboard splinters. She was very dirty and covered with bed sores. Considering her general condition at the time, witness did not consider it justifiable to take the splints off. On the following Tuesday he took the splints off. She had a simple fracture on the right leg. She died last Wednesday at about 5 p.m. Death he attributed to shock, resulting from the broken leg and from confinement to bed. Death was also due to lack of nourishment and her imbecile condition. - Nurse James having given evidence as to the time of death, Mr Brown asked whether the Jury would adjourn the Inquiry to obtain further information from Exmouth. The poor woman must have been sadly neglected at Exmouth. If any doctor or Overseer knew of deceased's condition, they ought to have seen to her removal before. - The Foreman: I consider there was gross neglect on the part of the doctor. - The Jury retired, and after consultation, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," due to shock from a broken leg. The Jury also considered that there had been neglect on the part of the doctor in attending to the broken leg, and also that deceased had been greatly neglected at home.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 7 March 1904
MORETONHAMPSTEAD - Fatal Accident At Bridford. - Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner for the Crediton District, and a Jury, of which Mr A. E. French of Great Doccombe Farm, was chosen Foreman, held an Inquiry at the Gregory Arms, Doccombe, Moretonhampstead, into the circumstances attending the death of FRANK WELLINGTON, 21 years of age, who was killed in Westcott Quarry, Bridford. - The deceased, with George Gilbert, foreman of the quarry and others, were engaged in attaching a chain to a large stone, when another from above, weighing nearly three tons, fell on deceased, crushing his body and severing one of his feet. By the time the doctor arrived the man had been released, but was, of course, dead. - Dr Laurie considered that death must have been almost instantaneous. - Mr J. S. Martin (Inspector of Quarries), Mr Dickson (lessee of the quarry) and his legal adviser (Mr Ford) were present. - The Jury were of opinion that the occurrence was purely Accidental, and returned a verdict accordingly, expressing their sympathy with the parents and relatives, in which Mr Ford, on behalf of Mr Dickson, joined and intimated that Mr Dickson was prepared to meet the expenses of the funeral.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 8 March 1904
PAIGNTON - Mr G. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Paignton yesterday afternoon, touching the death of MR ARTHUR FREDERICK HAMILTON KIRK, who died somewhat suddenly at his residence, Osney Villa, Paignton. The evidence showed that the deceased frequently drank to excess, but declined to be medically attended on Tuesday when he was taken ill. After the medical evidence had been given the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes, accelerated by excessive alcohol."

EXMOUTH - The Danger Of Flannelette. Exmouth Woman's Death. - In summing up the evidence which was adduced at the Inquest yesterday upon the body of EMILY GORFIN, of 45 Albin-street, Exmouth, who died as a result of burns received on Friday, the Deputy Coroner, Mr Reginald Tweed, strongly condemned the use of flannelette as an article of night attire. There was no doubt, he said, that in this as in many other cases, death had been directly caused by the inflammability of the material. It was a pity it was so cheap, because that was, probably, the reason why so many people purchased it. - THOMAS GORFIN, husband of the deceased, said he rose at 6.30 a.m. on Friday. At about 7.10 he went to see that his wife was all right. She said to him, "TOM, do you think I shall soon be better." He replied that when the warm weather came on she would be restored to health. He then went out for some milk. When re-entering the house, he heard his wife screaming and immediately ran into the front room where she had slept. Deceased was leaning against a couch and her nightdress was a smouldering mass. Witness placed his arms around her and removed her garments. There were no flames. He then placed her in bed. In reply to witness deceased said that one of her sleeves caught fire. He immediately sent for Dr Thomas, who arrived a few minutes later. It was witness's belief that deceased was endeavouring to reach a needle and cotton, which were suspended from the wall just over a lamp. - A Juryman: What was the nightdress made of? - Witness: Both her garments were of flannelette. - P.S. Staddon produced several bits of scorched material, which he said were the remains of the deceased's night apparel. - Jessie Miller, a neighbour, said she was called by the deceased's son to attend his mother, who, he said, was on fire. Deceased told witness that she was reaching for the needle and cotton, and forgot all about the lamp. Her sleeve then caught fire and, in a moment, she became enveloped in flames. When her husband arrived her garments were reduced to ashes. Witness then covered deceased with flour, and did her best to alleviate the pain. Deceased was conscious and witness remained with her until she expired - about 9.30 a.m. - Dr Thomas said that when he arrived about 7.15 he found the deceased frightfully burnt and almost pulseless. He gave instructions as to the dressing of the wounds, but knew from the first that deceased could not live long. Deceased was conscious and told him the accident was caused through her sleeve catching fire. She died two hours later from shock. Witness added that he had attended the deceased for the past six months for mental and physical weakness. Lately she had seemed much better. - A verdict of "Death from Shock, caused by Accidental Burns," was returned. The Jury gave their fees to the husband and expressed regret at the sad occurrence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 10 March 1904
LYMPSTONE - The Sudden Death At Lympstone. Serious Allegations Refuted. - Allegations of a serious nature - but which, in the course of the evidence, wee refuted - were made against a school teacher named May Davey, employed at the National Schools, Lympstone, at the Inquest held by Mr C. E. Cox, Coroner, at the Railway Hotel, Lympstone, yesterday, upon the body of LILIAN MARY HOLDING, aged 12 years, who suddenly expired on Monday night. - In the course of her evidence the child's mother stated that deceased had been struck on the head with a ruler by her teacher, and also that she had received a blow on her arm which drew blood. The child complained of headache and then became ill. During the past fortnight she had been sick and bilious and on Monday night the child was seized with convulsions and died two hours later. - The Coroner: What I wish to know is whether you believe the illness to have been brought on by any chastisement she may have received? - Witness: I will not say that, but I want to know how it was my child became so ill shortly after she complained of being hit by Miss Davey. Mrs Sheppard, the school-mistress, did not pay that attention towards her that she should have to a delicate child. - Mr Sheppard: The head-mistress had nothing to do with the girl, and every consideration was shown her. - A Juryman: I can substantiate the statement made by the mother. - P.S. Staddon (to the mother): You do not really think the illness was caused by any blow deceased received? - Witness: I do not think so, but it is curious that she should have died so soon afterward. - Dr Payne, who saw the child while in convulsions, said that upon making a post mortem examination he could find no marks of violence or any indication whatever that deceased had been ill-treated. If any blow had been struck on the head he would have seen some mark. There was, however, none. He attributed death to convulsions, brought on by kidney disease. - May Davey, assistant-mistress, at Lympstone school, emphatically denied chastising the girl at any time. She might have tapped her arm with a ruler, but in no way would that have inflicted a mark. - A Juryman: Do you know that under the Education Act of 1902 you have no right to administer corporal punishment? - Witness: Yes. The Head-master and head-mistress administer all punishment in the school. - Samuel George Sheppard, head-master, said he had never seen Miss Davey lose her temper. Her patience was quite a characteristic and he was confident she would not ill-treat a child. - The verdict was "That the deceased died as a result of uraemic convulsions, brought on by Kidney Disease." The Jury were of opinion that the child's death was not accelerated by any chastisement which might have been administered by Miss Davey.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 11 March 1904
TIVERTON - The discovery of the dead body of MR W. J. PAGE, pork butcher of Bampton-street, on the stairs of his house with a rope round his neck created a sensation. At the Inquest the evidence of the wife showed that deceased was partial to drink and that quarrels often arose between them because she did not like the boys being sent out for liquor. The Jury returned a verdict that deceased Committed Suicide during Temporary Insanity.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 14 March 1904
NEWTON ABBOT - Found Drowned At Newton Abbot. - At Newton Abbot on Saturday Mr S. Hacker conducted an Inquest on the body found floating in the River Teign the previous day. HAROLD DAVEY, Smith-street, Dartmouth, said deceased was his father, ALFRED DAVEY, a moulder, until recently in the employ of Messrs. Simpson, Strickland and Co. On February 11th he left home to go to his work and never returned. Deceased had been a little queer in his manner and about a fortnight before his disappearance a doctor was called in. Deceased had been a heavy drinker of spirits during practically all his lifetime up to Christmas, but after that he stopped visiting public-houses. His domestic relations were comfortable, and he was not in monetary difficulties. ANNETTE DAVEY, the widow, stated that on February 10th deceased went away to work as usual, but returned at midday, having been drinking. He went to bed, remaining there until the following morning. He then disappeared. William Heales, lighterman, proved finding the body floating in the river. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 15 March 1904
BEDFORD, BEDFORDSHIRE - A Tiverton Woman Drowned. A Bedford Sensation. - The mystery surrounding the discovery of a hat and jacket belonging to MRS FRANCES AGNES WOOD, wife of MR SYDNEY WOOD, formerly a general dealer of Bampton, on the bank of the river Ouse, Bedford, has been cleared up by the finding of the deceased's body. - At the Inquest the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane." - It was at first thought the deceased had gone with her husband to Canada. There were previously some domestic troubles and the parties separated, MR WOOD being ordered to pay his wife 10s. a week.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 25 March 1904
DUNTERTON - Mr J. D. Prickman, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Woodtown on the body of WILLIAM NORRISH, a labourer in the employ of Messrs. J. and F. Wooldridge, whose death resulted from terrible injuries received while returning from Tavistock on Saturday evening with two horses and a waggon laden with building material. Evidence was given by Mrs M. A. Collings, of Milton Abbot, as to meeting the horses and waggon with no one in charge of them and shortly afterwards finding the deceased lying in the road unconscious. Messrs. H. Rice, H. Reed and R. Jackman gave evidence of having spoken to him at Milton Abbot, when he appeared to be all right. Dr Thompson, of Launceston, described the injuries on the body of the deceased, and the Jury, of whom Mr F. Hindy was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

SOUTH MOLTON - An Inquest has been held by Mr J. F. Bromham, on the body of MR THOMAS DAVEY, of South-street, which was found hanging in a slaughter house. A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

BARNSTAPLE - An Inquest has been held on the body of LILIAN MAUD MATILDA ABRAHAMS, the five weeks' old daughter of W. J. ABRAHAMS, french polisher. A verdict of "Death from Convulsions" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 28 March 1904
MARWOOD - Mr J. F. Bromham held an Inquest at Marwood on Saturday on the body of a labourer named GEORGE GEEN, who was killed by a cart passing over his body and breaking his neck. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

ILFRACOMBE - The Ilfracombe Sensation. - Dr E. J. Slade-King, Deputy County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Ilfracombe Workmen's Club on Saturday, on the body of CHARLES BRIGGS, a retired superintendent of roads for the Hampstead (London) Borough Council, who was found dead at his house in Shellpiece-road, Slade, Ilfracombe, on Thursday afternoon. - CHARLES BRIGGS, eldest son of deceased, said his father was 62 years old. - Richard Benoke, cabdriver, living at the Lansdowne Hotel, Ilfracombe, said he last saw deceased alive on Tuesday night, when he came into the Lansdowne Hotel, leaving again about 9 o'clock, after having had something to drink. He was strictly sober. Witness was out driving on Thursday afternoon and knocked at the deceased's door. There was no answer, so he entered. He saw a pool of fresh blood at the bottom of the stairs. He shouted "MR BRIGGS" but, receiving no answer, he went upstairs to deceased's bedroom. There he saw MR BRIGGS sitting in a stooping position on a chair in front of the window. He had seen him the worse for liquor and had driven him home drunk. - Mr C. T. Jones, Medical Practitioner, said there was an embrassed wound on the deceased's forehead. The upper lip was nearly cut through and the under lip was completely divided at its centre, the cut extending to the bone. The main arteries were completely severed. He considered from the blanched condition of the body and the blood about the premises that deceased died from loss of blood. The wounds were probably the result of an accident and might have been caused by falling on a jug. Deceased had been under treatment for rheumatism, but owing to his drunken habits, witness, as medical referee of the Hearts of Oak Benefit Society, had had to report to that Society that he was breaking the rules. The sick visitors also refused to sign the sick pay papers because of his drunken habits. The immediate cause of death was syncope, following loss of blood through the severance of an artery. - P.S. Jeffery deposed to going to deceased's house and finding broken pieces of a jug, covered with blood on the stairs. In the upstair room by deceased's side was another jug, which had evidently contained beer. On searching deceased he found a separate order, under which he was directed to pay his wife, ANNIE BRIGGS, of Hampstead, 7s. weekly. The order was granted on the grounds of habitual drunkenness. Witness found a beer barrel in the kitchen, the tap of which was smeared with blood. There were blood-stained finger marks on the front and back doors. - James Bryan, labourer, residing next door to the deceased, said on Wednesday evening he told MR BRIGGS that if he was "going on" like he had during the past two or three nights, he should call a Policeman. The deceased swore at him, so witness left him alone. He heard him walk up and down the stairs two or three times until about 9.15, but everything was quiet afterwards. - The Jury returned a verdict to the effect that the cause of death was loss of blood as the result of a wound in the face and lip, Accidentally Inflicted.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 30 March 1904
EXETER - Death Under Chloroform At Exeter. - An Inquest was held at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday on the body of WILLIAM PIKE, a farm labourer, aged 34 of Crossway Cottage, near Winkleigh, who was admitted to the Institution on Thursday as the result of an injury to his fingers. The deceased was a married man, and leaves five children. - Dr Burfitt, the Assistant House Surgeon, said the deceased was suffering from blood poisoning, caused by an injury to one of his fingers. It was decided that the finger should be amputated. The examination showed that deceased was in a fit state to undergo the operation, and witness administered the anaesthetic. At first everything appeared to go well, but some minutes afterwards deceased began to struggle. Every effort was made to counteract the anaesthetic, but unsuccessfully. - Dr Stirk, House Surgeon, said nothing attracted his attention until the man commenced struggling. A post-mortem examination showed that there was a piece of bone in the finger and the joint was disorganised. Death was due to heart and respirative failure, arising from the administration of chloroform, and caused by the soft and flabby condition of the heart muscle. There was nothing defective with the organs which could have been detected by physical examination. He was satisfied that the deceased was strong enough to undergo the operation. He was confident there was no negligence in the administration of the anaesthetic. His assistant had administered many anaesthetics. - Dr Pereira, who was present at the post mortem, gave similar evidence. - The Coroner, Mr W. H. Brown, pointed out that, owing to the deceased's then state of health, it was absolutely necessary, in order to save his life, that an operation should be performed, and there were three points they had to consider - (1) was the operation necessary; (2) if necessary, to give anaesthetics; and (3) if so, whether such were properly administered. He (the Coroner) thought that, in the interests of the Hospital, it was advisable for him, under the circumstances of the case, to call in the services of Dr Pereira, who confirmed Dr Stirk's medical aspect of the case in every particular. By calling in Dr Pereira, he (the Coroner) wished it to be understood that he cast no reflection whatever on Dr Stirk or the Hospital. - The Jury returned the following verdict: - "We unanimously agree that the deceased died from the effects of Chloroform, that every precaution was taken, that it was perfectly Accidental and that no one was to blame." - The Coroner said he quite agreed with the verdict. Deceased leaves a widow and five children.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 31 March 1904
BROADCLYST - A verdict of death through failure of the heart's action was returned at an Inquest on the body of THOMAS WOOD, aged 63, who died suddenly. The deceased, who was employed by Mrs Shore, of Frogmore Farm, was seized with dizziness, fell against a stone wall, fractured the frontal bone, and succumbed shortly afterwards. The medical evidence showed that death was not due to the injury to the head. Much sympathy is felt for the widow and grown-up family.

EXETER - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, held an Inquiry at the City Workhouse yesterday into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM INCLEDON BENCRAFT, who had been an inmate of the House for two days. Dr Pereira, who made a post mortem examination, attributed death to syncope, due to diseased blood vessels. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony. Deceased, it is stated was the son of the late MR BENCRAFT, Magistrates' clerk of Barnstaple.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 4 April 1904
BUCKFASTLEIGH - Lamp And Flannelette At Buckfastleigh. Child Burned To Death. - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest in the Town Hall, Buckfastleigh, on Saturday morning, on the body of CLARENCE REDVERS DAWE. JANE DAWE, the mother, stated that the boy was two years and eleven months old. On Thursday morning she had occasion to go on an errand and left alone in the house three children, viz., a girl about seven years of age, the boy and a child about 12 months, undressed upstairs. She was away a short time, and on her return found that the boy had been burnt. It appeared that the boy took a lamp from the stairs, went to the kitchen fire and lit it, placed it on the floor and then caught his flannelette nightdress and shirt on fire. The girl ran for help and W. Milton, a fish hawker, of Brixham, by means of a bag, put out the flames. The accident happened about 10 a.m. and the boy died at 4.30 p.m. Dr T. M. Pearce found the child suffering from extensive superficial burns, involving practically the whole of the body. He, with the District Nurse's aid, treated the case, but the child died from shock as a result of the burns. The Jury brought in a verdict of "Accidental Death," and strongly recommended all parents, in the interests of their children, to provide fire guards.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 5 April 1904
EXETER - Sudden Death At Exeter. - An Inquiry was held by Mr W. L. Brown, Coroner, at 19 Portland-street, Exeter, yesterday, into the circumstances connected with the sudden death of MARGARET WOODFIELD, wife of a tailor, who died early on Sunday morning. The husband said that his wife retired to rest at about 11.30 on Saturday night, and was then in her usual health. She also seemed quite well on Sunday at 6 a.m. At 7 o'clock he was awakened by her violent struggling. He called in Miss Jewell, a lodger, and sent for Dr Duncan. Miss Jewell gave corroborative evidence. Dr Duncan stated that he had recently attended deceased, whose lungs were affected. He attributed death to syncope. A verdict was returned accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 8 April 1904
TEIGNMOUTH - A Teignmouth Sensation. Mother Charged With Wilful Murder. - A great sensation has been caused in Teignmouth by the finding of a child's body in a tin box in a house, part of which was rented by a widow with two children. At the Inquest on the body, which was that of the three weeks old child of MARY ANN BROOKS, a laundress, it was shown that the woman formerly lived at Galmpton, and there got in trouble by, it was alleged, a man named Edward Saunders, whom she was afterwards unable to find. She went to Paignton about nine weeks ago and took lodgings with a Mrs Rowe of 3 Laura-terrace. Here, on the 9th ult., she was confined. Two or three witnesses spoke of the kindness and care of the mother for her children while at Paignton. - On the 25th of March the woman decided to go to Teignmouth in search of work and left the house about 2.30 with two children and a tin box, which she had purchased in the town earlier in the week. Mrs Rowe asked her where the baby was, and she replied that a Mrs Johnson had come with a nice shawl and taken it on to see a friend, and would meet her (the mother) at the Station. On arrival at Teignmouth, however, the woman took lodgings with a Mrs Quicke, of Myrtle-hill, for herself and two children. Nothing was seen of the baby. The woman brought a tin box which was padlocked, and had it put in her room. Meanwhile, her landlady had obtained work for MRS BROOKS at the Steam Laundry and on the 30th ult. she removed to 11 Lower Brook-street, where she stayed with Mrs E. Nugent. - Since leaving Paignton, however, rumours had become prevalent in respect of the baby, as MRS BROOKS was seen to leave Paignton without it. The Police accordingly made inquiries, with the result that when they saw the woman in the passage of her house in Lower Brook-street, and asked her where the child was, she broke down and said it was upstairs in a tin box. She then made a voluntary confession, in which she said she was tempted to do it. She thought the poor little fellow would be out of misery. She did not know where the father was, and did not have any means. - On the Police going upstairs the baby was found lying on a blanket in the box, dead, and beginning to decompose. The woman and the box were taken to the Police Station, and the body was examined by Drs. Johnson and Hayward. They found that around the throat of the baby there was tied very tightly a cotton band, with a knot under the right ear, and that death was due to strangulation. The Jury returned a verdict of "Wilful Murder" against MRS BROOKS. - Later in the day the woman was brought before two Magistrates on the capital charge. She was defended by Mr A. M. Alford, of Exeter. The evidence given at the Inquest was repeated and MRS BROOKS was committed for trial at the Assizes, which will be held at the end of June.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 9 April 1904
DAWLISH - Sudden Death Of A Dawlish Signalman. - Yesterday an Inquest was held at the Vestry Hall, Dawlish, by Mr S. Hacker, on the body of JAMES WAY, aged 48, signalman on the Great Western Railway, who died in bed at his residence, Springfield House, Luscombe Terrace, Dawlish. - SARAH WAY, widow, said deceased was, apparently, perfectly healthy and strong. He left work at 6 o'clock on Wednesday evening and was about the house until he went to bed at 10.30. In the night, however, he coughed a little, said he was dying and immediately expired. - Dr C. N. Lovely said he was called about midnight. He made a post-mortem and found that deceased's heart was enlarged and the blood vessels diseased. The liver was also slightly congested. The other organs were healthy. Death was due to syncope through heart disease. - The Jury, of which Mr J. Shapter was Foreman, returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence. A vote of condolence with the widow and children was passed by the Jury and Coroner.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 12 April 1904
EXETER - Exeter Cyclist's Death. Result Of An Accident. - The Jury empanelled to Inquire into the death of FREDERICK HENRY TUCKER, who died as a result of injuries sustained through a fall from his cycle at Exeter, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - The Inquest was conducted by Mr W. L. Brown, and the first witness called was JAMES TUCKER, who identified the body as that of his son, aged 27. - A young man, residing in Bartholomew-street, named Harold Whitaker, who was in company with deceased on Saturday afternoon cycling to the Dawlish Warren, stated that when going down Matford-hill he passed some cows. On turning round, as a result of shouts from the driver, he noticed TUCKER lying in the road. Deceased complained of injuries to his head and leg. He considered TUCKER collided with one of the cows and fell to the ground. Deceased was going at a moderate pace. - The Assistant-Surgeon at the Hospital, Mr William Hudson, stated that TUCKER died about an hour after his admission. There was no fractures, but he was of opinion that death was due from haemorrhage of the brain.

OFFWELL - Parents Censured At Offwell. Alleged Neglect Of A Child. - A censure was administered yesterday to the parents of WALTER HENRY GOLESWORTHY, aged seven months, an Inquiry into the circumstances attending whose death was held at Offwell by Mr C. E. Cox, the Coroner. The child died on Friday and had been under medical treatment; but, in view of matters reported to him, the Coroner deemed an Inquiry necessary. Inspector Thompson of the N.S.P.C.C. was present, in addition to Superintendent de Schmid and P.S. Cridland. - ALBERT GOLESWORTHY, a labourer, and BESSIE, his wife, were called, and were informed by the Coroner that the case was reported to him as one of a serious nature. After being cautioned, they both elected to give evidence. - The father deposed that the child, which was healthy at birth, had after it attained the age of three months been unwell. They did all they could for it. - Dr Macaulay said he was called to see the child on February 24th as it was suffering from convulsions. It was a weak, delicate child, looked pale, and was not well nourished for an infant of that age. He prescribed for it, and when the mother saw witness a few days later she said the child was better. He was again requested to see the infant on March 9th, when it was suffering from a cold and slight cough. On March 18th the mother brought the child to his surgery, when it was suffering from slight bronchitis. He gave her medicine, and told the mother not to bring the boy out again in the cold weather. He was told by the mother on March 21st and 25th that the cough seemed better, but when he saw the deceased on the 26th the cold was no better and the bronchitis was slightly increasing. - The Coroner: There are, as you may know, allegations of neglect in this case. Did you notice anything on the 26th or previously which led you to believe that the child was not properly treated? - The Witness: No. I ordered the mother to wean the child, give it milk and water, a few drops of brandy and cod liver oil. - The Coroner: The child did not strike you as being neglected in any way? - The witness: No neglect by the mother in any way that I could see. I told her when I saw the deceased on March 28th that I did not think it would recover. The house was not, perhaps, so clean as it ought to have been. The child was losing flesh all the time. Continuing, the witness said the mother fetched medicine for the boy on various occasions, and he saw him again on April 2nd, when he was worse. There were symptoms of pneumonia and the child was more wasted. He again told the mother that he did not think the child would live. He had made a post-mortem examination of the child, which was in a very emaciated condition. The lungs were congested, due to bronchial pneumonia. There was considerable tubercular deposit in both lungs. The stomach contained about two tablespoonsful of partially digested milk and the child had, no doubt, been fed an hour or an hour and a half before death. There were indications of tuberculosis, in consequence of which the child would not assimilate the food it took, and would appear to be improperly nourished. Death was due to bronchial pneumonia, the child having been previously affected with tubercular deposits. - The Coroner: Was the child in such a state that no care could have saved it? - The witness: I do not think that anything could have saved the child, not even with the greatest care and best food. It was one of those cases which must have died before long. Had the child been neglected when he first saw it, it would have died within a few days. - Replying to a question, the father of the child said several members of his family had died from and were affected with consumption. - BESSIE GOLESWORTHY, mother, said on the doctor's instructions, she endeavoured to wean the child, but it would not take to the bottle and she continued to feed it as she had from birth. She countermanded an order given for new milk at Tower Farm, but she had not fed the child on skimmed milk which she obtained from there. On Friday morning, at 5.30 she fed the child, but at 6.30 it was dead. She had done all she could for the child, and had given it the brandy and cod liver oil as ordered. She had not been able to do everything she would have liked to about the house recently, as she cut the top of her finger off while chopping wood. - By P.S. Cridland: The child was not insured. - By Inspector Thompson: Her next door neighbour had spoken to her about leaving the child in the house for a long time in care of only a girl of seven. P.C. Maunder had spoken t o her about going away and leaving the child. - Mrs Moore, the next door neighbour, said she had often spoken to the mother about going away for hours and leaving the child in the care of a girl of seven. She did not think the child was kept so clean as it might have been. - Another witness deposed to the condition of the child's clothing when she saw it. - P.C. Maunder said on February 11th he spoke to the parents with reference to the neglect of their children and on April 6th he presented a report to the Superintendent. The Inspector of the N.S.P.C.C. was also communicated with. The parents had not treated the child as they should and an older one had been removed to the Workhouse. The clothes worn by the deceased were in a very dirty state. - The Coroner said there could be no doubt whatever that the child had not had fair and proper treatment and that the parents had kept it in a shockingly dirty state. In all probability, too, it had not been fed as it ought to have been. It was discreditable to the father and mother that the child should have been left alone and treated as it had. In view of the medical evidence, however, it would be difficult to come to the conclusion that death was due to neglect. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and expressed the opinion that there was a certain amount of neglect on the part of the parents, who should be censured. - The Coroner, who said he fully agreed with the decision, informed the parents that he thought they might consider themselves lucky that they had not to answer a charge of manslaughter. There was no doubt they were greatly deserving of censure, for the child had been left for long periods in charge of a girl of seven, while he thought the deceased had been kept in a shockingly dirty state. To mark his sense of the manner in which they had acted, he should not allow them any fees as witnesses.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 14 April 1904
PLYMOUTH - The Railway Inspector's Death. A Tavistock Mystery. Inquest And Verdict. - Yesterday an Inquest was held at Plymouth touching the death of WILLIAM ADAMS, 52 years of age, who was an inspector in the employ of the London and South Western Railway Company, and whose body was found on Tuesday in the Cattewater. - The Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, explained that MR ADAMS was last seen by his son on February 28th, when there was nothing whatever to cause him worry. On the following day he was seen at Devonport working in the usual way. Then he disappeared, and nothing was heard of him till the body was taken out of the water on Tuesday. - THOMAS ADAMS, an assistant permanent-way inspector on the London and South Western Railway, living at 46 Stanhope-terrace, Plymouth, said he last saw his father on February 28th when he was in good health and spirits. His father's home was at 10 Bennawell-street, Tavistock. Replying to a Juryman, witness said his father had not been away from home previously. - The Coroner: Is it a fact that your father sent back a box containing some jewellery? - Yes sir. - When did it arrive? - On February 29th. - To whom was the box addressed? - To my mother. - Was it in your father's handwriting? - Yes. - What did the box contain? - A watch and chain. - Thomas Launder, waterman, of Oreston, spoke to finding the body of the deceased in the water at Oreston, near Queen Anne's Battery, about a quarter to 10 o'clock on Tuesday morning. He passed the body on to the Police who removed it to the Mortuary. - That was all the evidence called and the Jury, who sympathised with the deceased's relatives, returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

KINGSWEAR - Farmer Hangs Himself Near Kingswear. - Last night, at Boohay Farm, Kingswear, an Inquest was held by Mr S. Hacker touching the death of JAMES JARVIS FAIRWEATHER, 37, who carried on the farm with his father. He was found dead in the loft at 6 p.m. on Monday, hanging by the neck from a beam. - JAMES FAIRWEATHER, his father, deposed that he knew nothing to cause his son to do this. The business had not been paying of late. - Mary Ann Palmer, MRS FAIRWEATHER'S sister, said deceased on Tuesday complained of pains in his head. They were under notice to leave the farm. He lived happily with his wife. - The Coroner commented on the absence of MRS FAIRWEATHER, who was at Woodhuish Farm, two miles away. It was most unwise for her not to have come. - Mr J. M. Came did not think she was well enough. - P.C. Braund said MRS FAIRWEATHER told him there had been some family quarrels. There were no letters left behind. - Dr Searle said deceased's neck was dislocated. - A verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 18 April 1904
HALWILL - At an Inquest held at Halwill on Saturday the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" in the case of the little lad WOOLDRIDGE, son of a Moretonhampstead farmer, who fell from a waggon and was killed.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 21 April 1904
HONITON - Suicide At Eighty. Honiton Octogenarian's Death. The Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ELIZABETH ANDREWS, aged 80, who resided with, and was a relative of, Mrs Poole, of High-street, Honiton, was conducted yesterday by Mr C. E. Cox, the County Coroner. - Mrs Poole said the deceased, who was her aunt, had been bedridden for three years. In February she exhibited strangeness of manner, and a doctor was called in. Early on the morning of March 31 witness went to her aunt's bedroom and found her sitting up in bed covered with blood and with a wound in her throat. She had a receptacle in front of her in which to catch the blood. She asked her aunt what she had done and she replied, "Oh, nothing. I have been busy all night; so busy." She asked her why she did it and she replied that she knew she had to die, and that God had shut her out. She said she had to die, and she might as well die that way as any other. She said she had been busy all night, and commenced doing it at half past one in the morning. A blood-stained knife was on the floor, while o the bed was a small pair of scissors, also blood-stained. Witness's opinion was that the deceased first used the knife, then fainted and that on recovering consciousness she enlarged the wound by means of the scissors. - Dr Heddon, who was called to see the deceased on March 21, said she never recovered from the wound. Death was due to heart failure accelerated by the great loss of blood and shock from the wound in the throat. The deceased received every possible attention from her relatives and friends and the parish nurse. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 22 April 1904
TORQUAY - The Torquay Motor Bus Fatality. Inquest and Verdict. - Last evening, at the Chelston Assembly Room, the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. F. Kellock, held an Inquiry respecting the death of JAMES CLAUD YOUNG, aged 11, son of MR J. YOUNG, chemist, of Fleet-street, who was killed on Tuesday by being run over by one of the cars of the Torquay and District Motor 'Bus Company, as already reported in the "Gazette." - Mr E. Hutchings, solicitor, was present on behalf of the Company. - The evidence showed that the car stopped outside the residence of deceased's father - Normanhurst. The deceased, who knew both the driver (Frederick E. C. Gardiner) and the conductor (William Back, aged 15), got on the rear of the car. He was told to sit down and the conductor backed his car slowly for the return journey. The deceased, however, after going about a dozen yards, jumped off in the opposite way to which the car was going, over-balanced himself and fell under the vehicle, a wheel of which went over his head, causing injuries to the brain. The deceased got up and ran a few yards and then fell on his face. He was carried into his home, but died in about a quarter of an hour. Several witnesses gave evidence that the car was stopped as quickly as possible, and that every precaution was taken before backing the car. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated the driver and conductor from all blame. The Jury, Coroner, and the directors of the Company (through Mr Hutchings) expressed their deep sympathy with MR and MRS YOUNG and family in their sad loss.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 25 April 1904
ST MARYCHURCH - Fatal Stone Throwing. Death Of A Torquay Boy. - At the St. Marychurch Town Hall on SAturday, Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, held an inquest on the body of HERBERT JOHN PENNY, aged 11, son of a Babbacombe labourer, who died on the previous Wednesday. The evidence showed that deceased, with other lads, were returning from Oddicombe Beach on the 15th instant. On returning by way of the zig-zag paths PENNY threw a stone at the other lads who had reached one of the paths on the higher level. Luxton and Roberson simultaneously threw stones back. One of these stones struck PENNY in the abdomen, causing him to feel faint and sick. On the following two days PENNY went to school, but on the Friday he took to his bed and died on Thursday last from peritonitis, which Dr Winter said was due to the blow from the stone. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death by Misadventure, " and expressed a hope that the case would be a warning against the dangerous practice of stone throwing. The Deputy Coroner also gave the boys some sound advice on the subject.

TORQUAY - An Inquest was held at the Upton Parish Room on Saturday relative to the death of HARRY BIDWELL, aged 31, a painter, of Ellacombe, in the employ of Mr C. Ireland, decorator, who fell from a ladder while at work at Chelston on Friday, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 26 April 1904
DARTMOUTH - The Fatal Fall At Dartmouth. - At the Inquest on WILLIAM FARRIER, aged 82, retired market gardener, held at Dartmouth yesterday by Mr A. M. Davson, MRS LOCKHEAD, daughter of the deceased, said about 10.30 on Saturday morning her mother called to her to "run to father." She did so and found him in the garden lying face downwards on the path. He died just afterwards. Her mother had seen him sit down on a low wall, apparently to rest and the topple over and fall. - The Coroner said the widow was too ill to attend, but he thought, under all the circumstances, her evidence might be dispensed with. - Dr A. R. Crossfield said deceased, who was a heavy man, was apparently seized with faintness. The fall dislocated his neck, which caused death. He had attended deceased previously for heart complaint. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 27 April 1904
EXETER - Yesterday a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at the Inquest held at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on the body of AGNES EMMA BAUER, aged five years, who was run over by a waggon on Friday.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 28 April 1904
DAWLISH - Sudden Death At Dawlish. - Yesterday Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Vestry Hall on the body of MISS ANNA SANDERS, who was found dead in her bed at the Brunswick Arms on Tuesday morning. - Joe Symes, landlord of the Brunswick Arms, said deceased was his aunt, aged 66, and formerly lived at Broadclyst. She had lodged with him for the past eight years, during which time she had enjoyed excellent health. On Monday night she went to bed apparently in her usual health. Witness called his daughters, who slept with deceased, at 6 a.m. on Tuesday and found his aunt lying at the foot of the bed apparently dead. The two girls were sound asleep. Neither of them had been disturbed during the night. - Dr Francis Cann said when he arrived MISS SANDERS had been dead four or five hours. he had made a post mortem examination, and, in his opinion, death was due to syncope through heart failure. - The Jury, of whom Mr H. Hartwill was the Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 29 April 1904
IPPLEPEN - An Inquest has been held on the body of JOSEPH KNOTT, of Combefishacre, by Mr Kellock, Deputy Coroner. Deceased, on February 11th, while in charge of two horses, got under the wheel of a loaded cart and had a leg broken. Mr E. Page rendered efficient first aid, and, under medical care, deceased seemed to make satisfactory progress. Subsequently he had an attack of asthma and congestion of the lungs, which, in his weakened condition, had fatal results. The verdict of the Jury was in accordance with the medical testimony. Deceased had been for 42 years in the employ of Mr Cornthwaite's family, and the day of his accident was the 40th anniversary of his wedding.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 4 May 1904
STOKE DAMEREL - Shooting Accident At Devonport. A Major Killed. - An Inquest was held at Bull Point, near Devonport, yesterday, on MAJOR S. C. C. TOWNSEND, Army Ordnance Corps., who was found dead in a field near his house on Sunday evening with a bullet wound in the heart. - Two Colonels of the Royal Army Medical Corps said that, from appearances, the trigger of the gun caught in the brambles as deceased was climbing a hedge and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

MORETONHAMPSTEAD - Shocking Suicide At Moretonhampstead. Butcher Kills Himself With A Piece Of Glass. - Yesterday afternoon Mr Sydney Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Smethurst Schoolroom, Moretonhampstead, into the circumstances attending the death of RICHARD HILL, jun. Mr William Harvey was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - ALBERT HILL, residing at Bridford, identified the body as that of his brother, RICHARD HILL, aged 36, lately carrying on business as a butcher at Moretonhampstead. He last saw him alive on Sunday, when he came to his house at Bridford and apologised to him for abusive language and conduct at a sale of his father's goods on Thursday. During the time he was there he was very quiet and complained of pains in his head, but there was nothing said which would lead him to suppose his brother intended to take his life. He walked half-way to Moreton with his brother in the evening, and they parted in a friendly manner. - Mark Loram, haulier, said he was going down the Exeter-road with his horses, when he saw someone in a field adjoining the Sentry. The man was in a stooping position and his face and hands were covered with blood. When he got nearer, followed closely by another person, he found deceased hacking at his throat with a piece of a broken medicine bottle. They made him drop this, and witness ran for the Police, leaving his friend with deceased. - Humphrey Thomas, Sergeant of Police, said he was summoned by the last witness, and found deceased in a standing position held by the man to whom the last witness had referred. There was a piece of a broken medicine bottle covered with blood (produced) close by where deceased was. He bandaged the wound, and by this time the doctor arrived and HILL was conveyed to the Cottage Hospital, where he died at 2.30. He had been in business difficulties and had recently made a deed of assignment for the benefit of his creditors and for the last few months had given way to drink a good death. - Edward Norrish, landlord of the Ring of Bells, said deceased had slept at his house since his father's sale last Thursday. He came in on Sunday evening at about 8.30, and witness thought he was very strange, as he scarcely spoke to anyone. He had nothing that night but lemonade; in fact he had had nothing intoxicating in his house since Friday night. Deceased told him on Saturday morning that he should drink no more. He had breakfast on Monday morning and three cups of tea. - Dr Sutherland said he saw deceased at 2 o'clock at the Cottage Hospital. He was living, but unconscious. Death was due partly to loss of blood from the wound, and deceased was partly asphyxiated by the blood going down the pipe. The doctor described the wounds, which were very jagged and lacerated and said they might have been caused by such an instrument as the bottle, but very great force and determination would be required. Deceased came to witness's surgery at about 10.15 the same morning and complained of a pain in the pit of the stomach. Witness told him he was suffering from the effects of alcohol and he admitted that he had been taking too much. There was no delirium then, but he must have been in a state of frenzy at the time he committed the deed to make the wounds he did with such an instrument. - The Jury returned a verdict that "Deceased came by his death from wounds inflicted by himself, with a piece of glass bottle, he being at the time of Unsound Mind."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 5 May 1904
HONITON - Sudden Death At Honiton. The Discovery In Holy Shute Lane. - An Inquest was held by Mr Cox at the King's Arms Inn, Honiton, yesterday afternoon, upon SAMUEL REDWOOD, 78 years of age, a shoemaker, residing at Beacon, near Luppitt, who was found dead in a ditch near Holy Shute-lane on Tuesday afternoon. - MARIA DOWN, step-daughter of the deceased, identified the body. She last saw REDWOOD alive on Saturday night. He was then in his usual health. She had never heard him complain of any pains or serious illness, but he had suffered from rheumatism. - Francis Searle, thatcher, of Luppitt, said that on Monday afternoon, at about 3 o'clock, he saw the deceased at Beacon and he was then in his usual health. He was not intoxicated. - Benjamin Gillard, son of the landlord of the White Horse Inn, said deceased came to the house about 6 o'clock on Monday evening. He had one pint of beer and then left. Two hours and a half later he returned and had a second pint. He complained of a pain in his thigh. - Mrs Louisa Gould, of the Turnpike Gate, said when deceased passed her house he was singing and staggering as though he had had too much drink. It was then 9.55 p.m. - William Hussey, rural postman between Honiton and Luppitt, said that on Tuesday morning he was going down Holy Shute Lane at 6.12 when he came across the body lying face downwards in the ditch. Deceased's right arm was out of the water, but his left arm and face were submerged. he examined him and found him dead. The body was quite cold. There were no signs of a struggle. - Dr Park, assistant to Dr Shortridge, stated he had made a post-mortem examination of the body and found that deceased was suffering from valvular disease of the heart. In his opinion death resulted from the shock of falling and might have ensued at any time. - A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical testimony.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 7 May 1904
EXETER - A Fatal Mistake. Exeter Woman Drinks Carbolic. - An Inquest was held at the Exeter Police Court by Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, on the body of SUSAN BLUNDELL, married, of 2 Exe Island. Mr A. M. Alford was present on behalf of the relatives. MRS MARY JANE KEITH said on Wednesday her mother was cleaning up the house. She told witness she had taken a dose of MARGARET'S medicine. MARGARET was a young daughter of deceased. Witness immediately ran to her and said "You have taken a dose of disinfectant." She had taken a dose of carbolic acid. Deceased answered, "Oh, my maid, I have made a mistake." Witness assisted her mother to a chair and gave her an emetic, after which she went to a chemist's and sent for a doctor. The latter came very quickly and meanwhile sent a message that half a glass of mustard and water should be given. This was done, but it failed to produce sickness and deceased expired not long after. She had for a considerable time been subject to epileptic fits, and these affected her reason. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Misadventure." -

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 10 May 1904
TORQUAY - The Foundry Fatality At Torquay. - At the Upton Parish Room yesterday the adjourned Inquest relative to the death of GEORGE ERNEST VAIL, 35, engine-fitter at Harding's foundry, Market-street, last Wednesday, was held. Mr Hutchings represented the widow; Mr J. Kenny appeared for Mr T. L. Harding; and Mr S. Shuter, his Majesty's Inspector of Factories, was also present. - The evidence showed that, in the absence of the foreman (Mr Coombes), deceased took charge of the job - preparing a boiler for having a concrete base fitted to it. While it was being raised by a chain-block, with a rope around the flange of the boiler, the rope parted and fell upon him. It was stated that the boiler was 10 cwt. in weight, and that the flange must have cut the rope. Deceased was told by Mr Harding to use a safety chain, but said the rope was all right It was also stated that there was no necessity to raise the boiler. - Mr Shuter said the maximum working strain of the rope was 10 cwt. and it was not prudent to place a strain of more than 7 cwt. upon it. He believed, however, in using suitable ropes in preference to chains. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated Mr Harding from all blame.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 11 May 1904
TEIGNMOUTH - A Teignmouth Mystery. - While going to work early yesterday William George Tozer, who is engaged on the Teignmouth tunnel works, discovered the body of a man lying on the sands opposite the Clifton Boarding Establishment. On proceeding to the spot he found life extinct. The body had apparently been in the water some time. The Police were called and P.C's Friendship and Cove removed the body to the Mortuary. - On the body being searched 2 ½d. and a cab-driver's license were found. The latter bore the name of FRANK ROLLS, of Teignmouth. It appeared that deceased, who is a single man, formerly lodged at No. 4 Devonshire-place and was seen in the Railway Hotel at 10.30 p.m. on Monday, when he appeared in his usual health. How he got into the water at the point mentioned is a mystery, as at high tide, which was at 2 o'clock yesterday morning, the water does not come up to the wall to any considerable depth. - An Inquest was held by Mr S. Hacker last evening. - The evidence given bore out the facts narrated above, but it was shown that of late the man had been addicted to drink. A witness stated that he had heard deceased on more than one occasion speak of "getting out into the tide." - A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned.

EXETER - Exeter Servant's Death. Swallowing A Pin. - Mr W. Linford Brown (Exeter City Coroner) conducted an Inquiry at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday into the circumstances surrounding the death of ELSIE LOUISA TUCKER, aged 19 years, a domestic servant, in the employ of Mr J. W. Rhodes, chemist, Tiverton-road, Exeter, and daughter of MRS LOUISA TUCKER, a widow, residing at 133 Cowick-street. - MRS TUCKER said her daughter arrived home ill on Saturday. A doctor was summoned and, on his advice, she was taken to the Hospital. - Mr Rhodes said deceased had been in his employ about three months, and appeared in good health. On Tuesday, the 3rd inst., deceased told his wife that she had swallowed a pin. On Saturday morning she complained of a pain in the stomach and went home. - Mr Stirk, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said that on deceased being admitted to the Institution there was a consultation of the honorary surgeons and it was decided that the only possible chance of saving the girls' life was an operation. This was carried out. There was a small rent in the anterior wall of the stomach. She rallied from the operation, but grew worse and died early on Monday morning. Witness had made a post mortem examination, and failed to find any pin. There was an old ulcer, which had perforated the stomach, and caused death. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 13 May 1904
TIVERTON - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at the Inquest last night touching the death of JAMES HENRY SHARLAND, 24, a Puddington labourer. Deceased died from a fracture of the spine as the result of falling over the side of a cart.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 16 May 1904
WHIMPLE - At the Inquest held at East Strete Farm, Whimple, on the body of JAMES HOOKWAY, aged 43, who died on the 12th inst., a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. Medical evidence showed that death was due to rupture of a blood vessel. Deceased sustained the fatal injuries while removing furniture. A vote of condolence was passed with the bereaved.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 17 May 1904
EXETER - Exeter Child's Sudden Death. Inquest Adjourned. - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday on the body of FRANCIS LEWIS HOWARD, aged two years and eight months, son of WILLIAM HENRY HOWARD, boot and shoe maker of Mermaid Yard, Exeter. - The father said that on Sunday morning he and his wife and two boys attended the service at the Salvation Army Temple. During the service his wife gave deceased a sweet. Deceased began to cry and his wife took him outside. Witness was sent for and the boy, after having been taken to Dr Harrison's, was taken to the Hospital. Witness was not there when the boy was admitted, but arrived at the Institution shortly afterwards. The child was in bed six or seven minutes before a doctor came to examine him, and when the doctor entered he did so as if he had a month to do it in. Two doctors examined the child and pronounced life to be extinct. A short time before witness felt deceased's heart and it was then beating. - By Jurymen: No one attended to the child at the Institution until the doctor came. Dr Harrison did all he could for the child. He examined it and it was hastily taken to the Hospital. - MRS HOWARD said she thought deceased swallowed the sweet whole and that it stuck in his throat. - The Coroner asked if the child was attended to at once on being admitted to the Hospital, or whether it was kept about. - Witness replied that two nurses attended to the child, one of whom remained until the arrival of the doctor. She (witness) did not attach any blame to anyone. - MR HOWARD was at this juncture about to interject, but the Coroner stopped him. - In reply to a Juryman, MRS HOWARD said that two or three days previous to Sunday deceased had been rather queer. - Dr H. Harrison deposed that the child was brought to him about 12.30 p.m., when it was livid in the face and apparently lifeless. It was mentioned that the child had eaten a sweet and witness passed a probang down the throat. Deceased gave about three gasps and moved his head. On the advice of witness, the child was taken to the Hospital. - By a Juryman: He did not feel any obstruction in the throat. - Another Juryman asked whether it would not have been better for an operation to have been performed immediately on his being seen by the doctor instead of sending the child to the Hospital. - Dr Harrison replied that it would not take more than two minutes to get from his house to the Hospital and that the operation could be carried out ten times quicker at the Hospital. - Mr Percy Stirk, House Surgeon, said that when he examined the child life was extinct. With regard to what had been said as to attention given to the case, he did not think two minutes elapsed from the time he was informed of the case until he answered the summons. He had made a post mortem examination and could find no obstruction in any of the air passages. The stomach was distended with partly digested food and contained a large quantity of undigested food and there was also a patch of superficial ulceration. He could not exactly say what was the cause of death. - Nurse Goodwyn said she considered the child dead when she saw it on being admitted. - The Inquest was adjourned until Tuesday, the 24th inst., in order that an analysis of the contents of the stomach might be made.

EXETER - WILLIAM GEORGE MEAR, aged 79 years, a retired master mariner, residing at 5 Devonshire Place, Exeter, was found dead in bed yesterday morning by his wife. At the Inquest held last evening by the City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, WALTER MEAR, deceased's son, said his father had complained of a weak heart, but otherwise appeared in good health. Dr A. C. Roper having attributed death to heart failure, the Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 25 May 1904
DAWLISH - Died At His Work. Sad Case At Starcross. - Yesterday Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of WILLIAM JOHN BRIDGMAN, who was found dead on the 23rd instant. - The deceased had been employed by Mr Hamerton, of the Courtenay Arms Hotel, Starcross, for about 20 years. On Monday morning he went to a field to cut some pea sticks. During the afternoon it was found that the sticks had not been brought home, nor had the deceased returned to his house, and inquiries were set on foot. It was nothing unusual for Mr Hamerton not to see the man all day, as he trusted him a great deal. When Alfred Wescott went to the field in which the deceased had been working he found the dead body of BRIDGMAN. Dr Lipscomb was called and gave his opinion that death was due to natural causes - atheroma of the large vessels of the heart. - The Jury, of whom Mr J. Sercombe was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." - The Jury handed their fees to the widow of the deceased and assured her of their deep and heartfelt sympathy in the great bereavement which had now fallen upon her. - The deceased was about 62 years of age.

EXETER - Death Of An Exeter Child. Insinuations Against The Hospital Staff. - The adjourned Inquest on the body of FRANCIS LEWIS HOWARD of Mermaid-yard, Exeter, was held at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday. - When the Inquiry was opened it was shown that the child, aged about 2 ½ years, was with his parents at the Salvation Army Temple when he commenced to cry. Some sweets were given to him, but in consequence of his appearance he was taken to a medical man close by, who recommended the child's removal to the Hospital. On arrival the youngster was dead. - The evidence then given pointed to the fact that the child was not choked by a sweet, as was at first suggested, and an analysis of the stomach was ordered. - Yesterday the City Analyst, Mr T. Tickle, stated that he had examined the organs, and could find no evidence of poisoning, and nothing that could account for the child's death. - Mr Stirk (Surgeon), said a witness on the previous occasion seemed to attach great blame to the doctor and he thought it was uncalled for. He did not run when the porter came to him, neither did he walk slowly. He was informed then of the nature of the case, and as he would probably be called upon at a moment's notice to perform a delicate operation the least excitement or flurry would have been detrimental to the patient as well as to himself. He could not tell positively from what the child died, but after the evidence of the analyst he could only come to the conclusion that the cause of death was syncope, induced possibly by the feeble condition of the child and the very large and certainly injudicious meal which it had recently partaken of. He did not mean that the meal was one which would kill an ordinary child, but, seeing that the deceased was not strong, it was such as might induce heart failure. - The Coroner said some complaint was made by the father of the child as to the alleged delay before the doctor's arrival. He thought it fair to Dr Stirk that he should have an opportunity of answering that, and there did not now appear to have been any great delay. As they had been told, the medical men had to rely on the common-sense of the nurse, and that did not appear in this instance to have gone to the extent of telling him it was an urgent case. He asked the Jury to say whether the child died on the way to the Hospital or after it arrived there, and, secondly, whether there was sufficient evidence to say from what it died. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 26 May 1904
HONITON - A Dose Of Strychnine. Honiton Labourer's Death. - Yesterday an Inquest was held at Cookhayes Farm, near Honiton, by Dr R. Tweed, Deputy Coroner, concerning the death of WILLIAM KIBBY, a farm labourer, lately in the employ of Mr Reade, of Cookhayes. - Deceased and a fellow employee, named Allen, went to Wilmington on Monday evening. They started to return together, but after a short distance KIBBY lingered behind. - Becoming anxious, Allen returned to look for his friend and found him lying in a semi-unconscious state in the hedge. - He assisted him to Cookhayes Farm, deceased expiring just after their arrival, which was about a quarter of an hour after he found him in the hedge. - P.C. Maunder was sent for. On searching deceased's clothes, an empty bottle, with a "Poison" label on it, was found. - A post-mortem examination was made by Dr Macaulay, and, after hearing the medical evidence, the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that deceased died from the effects of a dose of Strychnine, Self Administered on the 24th instant, while Temporarily Insane. - KIBBY was a man of about 56 years of age, and was well known in the district, having formerly held the post of gamekeeper. It was stated that he had suffered much lately from fits of depression through family troubles.

NEWTON ABBOT - Yesterday, at the Inquest held at Newton Abbot on JOHN HEAYNS, 45, a retired chief engine-room artificer, of 97 Hotham-place, Stoke, Devonport, who was found dead at the Union Hotel, Newton Abbot, under circumstances previously reported, the Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, which went to show that death was caused by heart failure following pneumonia.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 27 May 1904
DAWLISH - Dawlish Labourer's Sudden Death. - Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Vestry Hall, yesterday, concerning the death of ARTHUR BROOK, labourer, who died in Queen-street, on Tuesday morning. MARY BROOK, Queen-lane, said deceased was her son and aged 24 years. He had had rheumatic fever four times and a week prior to his death had been home from work with rheumatic n his legs. He seemed fairly well on Tuesday morning and went for a walk. Charles Quantick, labourer, said he went out with deceased. When coming up Queen-street deceased suddenly stopped and caught hold of the railings. He then fell to the ground and expired a few minutes after. - Dr C. N. Lovely said he had made a post mortem examination and found extensive valvular disease and an enlarged condition of the heart. In his opinion death was due to failure of the heart's action. The Jury, of whom Mr W. Knowles was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 28 May 1904
OAKFORD - Fatal Accident At Oakford. - Yesterday Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Post-office, Oakford, on the body of THOMAS QUICK, mason, who met his death on Wednesday by falling from a ladder while colouring the front of the Manor House at Oakford. Mr E. J. Williams was chosen Foreman. - MRS QUICK identified the body as that of her husband, and said she saw him half an hour previous to the accident. He was in his usual health, but had complained of rheumatism. He was 60 years of age. - Frank Hart, mason, said he was working with deceased. About 5 p.m. he heard a crash and he found his employer lying on the ground. Life was extinct when he raised him. He informed the Police. - Dr Paine, of Bampton, said the cause of death was a fracture of the skull. - The Coroner expressed great sympathy with the widow and relatives. - The verdict returned was "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 3 June 1904
PLYMTREE - At an Inquest held at Tye's Farm, on Tuesday afternoon on the body of JAMES COTTRELL, labourer, aged about 72 years, who was found dead in a pond on Sunday morning, the Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned." Deceased was a native of Bampton, but since August of last year he appears to have been employed on and off by two or three farmers in Plymtree parish. William Arberry, of Clist Hydon, saw deceased from a distance in a field on Saturday. He had his hand to his head and witness thought something was the matter with him, but did not go to him. Eli James, Plymtree, found deceased in Pigeon's Pit in about 3ft. of water. He was lying on his face with arms extended. Albert Henry Rice, and P.C. Townsend corroborated. Dr Goulden, Clist Hydon, said he had made a post mortem examination and found all the organs of the body natural, with the exception that there was evidence of chronic meningitis on the brain.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 6 June 1904
EXETER - The Inquest on the body of TARSTIN MIKAEL EDSTRAN, the young Swede who met his death at Exeter Basin on Friday, was adjourned on Saturday by the City Coroner, Mr W. L. Brown, till tomorrow, for the attendance of the Inspector of Factories. Evidence of identification was given by Mr Arthur Isakssen, captain of the Vikingin, who stated that the deceased was the son of a Post-office employee at Oraust Nasund, in Sweden. - Oscar Gustofson, the steward, stated that he saw deceased just before the accident with his head in front of the buffer of the moving truck. - Dr Coombs attributed death to concussion of the brain.

EXETER - The circumstances attending the death of AGNES JANIE TAVERNER, the three-year-old daughter of a labourer employed by the National Telephone Company, was Inquired into by Mr W. L. Brown at the Guildhall, Exeter, on Saturday. - The mother of the deceased stated that the child had been stopping with her grandmother at Cheeke-street. She was usually a healthy child, but last Thursday week she complained of having the toothache and witness applied camphorated oil to the deceased's neck. The girl had swellings in the neck, which witness considered were glands. Witness had no idea that the girl was suffering from diphtheria. She died on Friday. Deceased was insured in the Prudential Office. She did not consider deceased to have been sufficiently unwell to call in a doctor. - Julia Mitchell corroborated, adding that a doctor was summoned on Friday. - Dr Pollock, who was called by MR TAVERNER, said that, as the result of a post-mortem examination, he found a large cavity in the neck extending internally and opening into the windpipe. The abscess had discharged into the windpipe and then into the lungs, causing heart failure. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, and expressed the opinion that the parents ought to have summoned medical aid.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 7 June 1904
TORQUAY - Mother of Nineteen Children. Sudden Death At Torquay. - At the Upton Parish Room, Torquay, last evening the County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of ANN HELMORE, aged 69, wife of JAMES HELMORE, labourer, of No. 9 Lower Union-lane, who was found lying unconscious in her kitchen on Sunday morning and died in the evening. - The husband, who stated that he had been married for 50 years and was the father of 19 children, said that his wife had been ailing for the past three years. At an early hour on Sunday morning she was taken ill and he fetched tea for her. She subsequently went to sleep and at 6 a.m. brought him a cup of tea, afterwards going to the kitchen to do her housework. Only a few minutes had elapsed, when he heard a fall and a scream, and on going downstairs he found his wife lying on the ground with her head on the fender. There was a large wound on her head. Dr Eales was summoned and a nurse called in, but his wife died in the evening. She had been suffering from heart trouble for some time. - Maria Course, a neighbour, who was called in, said deceased twice recovered consciousness and told her that she was taken giddy and fell. - Dr Eales said when he arrived he found deceased in an unconscious state. She had a terrible bruise on the right eye, a lacerated wound at the side of the eye and a cut on the right ear. He had the woman put to bed and called in a nurse. Death ensued about 9 p.m. He attributed it to heart disease. This was borne out by a post mortem examination, which showed valvular disease of long standing. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 8 June 1904
EXETER - Swedish Lad's Death At Exeter. Adjourned Inquest and Verdict. - The Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of TARSTIN MIKAEL EDSTRAM, aged 15, of Swedish nationality, and one of the crew of the vessel Vikingen, lying in Exeter Basin, who was killed on Friday as the result of his head being crushed between the buffers of two railway trucks, was resumed at the Guildhall, Exeter, last evening by the City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, and the Jury. The Inquest was adjourned from Saturday in order that one of his Majesty's Inspectors of Factories might attend. Mr Sidney Shuter was now present. Mr G. Watkins, goods superintendent at St. David's Great Western Railway Station, also attended. - Mr F. T. Reid, one of the Jurymen, failed to answer his name at 5 p.m. and a delay of 15 minutes ensued before his arrival. He immediately tendered his apology for being late, remarking that the engagement had slipped his memory, but the Coroner pointed out that it was a serious matter. He had, he said, kept everyone waiting for a quarter of an hour and he was liable to forfeit the £10 in which he was bound over to be present. He (Mr Brown) considered it most thoughtless on Mr Reid's part. - Mr Reid: I am very sorry and I apologise to everyone. - The Coroner: Take your seat. - Frederick Webber, in the employ of Messrs. Gabriel and Sons, was first called. He said that on the day of the unfortunate occurrence he was engaged in unloading timber from the vessel Vikingen. Mr Charles Bayley asked the captain of the vessel to allow his men to assist in shifting some loaded trucks and deceased was one of them. Detailing what he witnessed, Webber said that he thought deceased was pushing against the socket of the buffer. After the accident blood issued from deceased's mouth like a fountain. - Replying to Mr Shuter, witness said that he did not consider deceased was incurring any danger by pushing in the position mentioned; in fact, he did not take particular notice where the man was. - Oscar Gustotson, ship's steward - the captain acted as interpreter - said that he saw deceased pushing the truck. His shoulder was against the buffer and his head was down. He heard no order given to the men to push. - Asked through the interpreter as to whether he did not consider it dangerous to see his mate pushing the truck in the position he was, Gustotson replied that he did not think that there was another truck in front. - Captain Isakssen, replying to a question by the Foreman, Mr McLaren, said that he remembered saying something to the following effect to Mr Bayley after the occurrence: "You have hired my men and killed one." - The Coroner: Were the men going to be paid for their assistance? - Not that I am aware of. - Mr Shuter said that he thought it was injudicious on the part of the person in charge to allow an inexperienced lad to occupy such a dangerous post. He expressed surprise that the individual in question was not present that evening to give his opinion on the matter. The lad killed was foreigner and it would only have been an act of courtesy - in fact, he considered it a duty - for the gentleman in charge of the party to have been present to give evidence. - The Coroner said that Mr Bayley had told him he could throw no light on the unfortunate incident, but had he (Mr Brown) known that he was in charge he would have instructed him to have appeared at the Inquiry. - The Foreman said he did not think they were furnished with sufficient evidence to give their verdict. - Mr Brown replied that he thought there was a lot in what the Foreman had said, and if they wished the Inquiry could be adjourned and Mr Bayley and the other men summoned to attend. - Mr W. A. Bayley (manager at Messrs. Gabriel and Sons) said that at the time of the occurrence he was away on a holiday. His father was under the impression that there was no need for him to attend and he assured them he intended no disrespect in being absent that day. - The Coroner replied that it was not a question of disrespect. As Mr Bayley was in charge at the time he should have been present at the Inquiry. - Replying to the Coroner, the witness Webber said that he did not know where Mr Bayley was standing at the time of the accident. - Mr W. A. Bayley: My father did not see the accident. He saw the lad afterwards. - Mr Bates expressed the opinion that there should be railway men kept at the Basin to superintend the removal of trucks. - Mr Watkins said the Railway Company had nothing to do with the loading or shunting of the trucks at the Basin. Trucks came in the charge of the Company when they were out on the main line. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and the Foreman, ,on behalf of the Jury, expressed the opinion that someone should be kept at the Basin to superintend the removal of trucks.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 9 June 1904
TORQUAY - An Inquest was held at the Upton Parish Room, Torquay, last evening, relative to the death of RICHARD HARRIS, labourer, who fell from the pier on Sunday, sustaining a fractured skull from which he died at the Torbay Hospital. After hearing the evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 10 June 1904
ST MARYCHURCH - At St Marychurch yesterday an Inquest on the body of the lad GLANFIELD, who was drowned while bathing at Oddicombe Beach on Sunday, resulted in a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," and a recommendation that the Town Council should place life lines and life buoys near the spot and a notice board announcing that it is dangerous to bathe there in rough weather.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 13 June 1904
Inquest In East Devon. Sudden Death At Uplyme. - Mr C. R. Tweed, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest in the schoolroom, Uplyme, touching the death of JOHN GUDGE, aged 68, a labourer, who was found dead in bed. From the evidence adduced by MRS GUDGE it appeared she and her husband retired to rest on Friday night, the deceased being in his usual good state of health. On awaking in the morning she found her husband dead. A doctor was sent for, who gave it as his opinion that death resulted from the sudden failure of the heart's action. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

MEMBURY - Dr Tweed, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Membury, Mr G. Perham being the Foreman, touching the death of RACHEL SELINA TRUMP, aged 43, wife of MR E. TRUMP, dairyman, of Membury Court. The husband stated that about 5.30 a.m. on Friday he woke up and found his wife was not in the room. He went in search of her and discovered her hanging in an outhouse quite dead. She had been in a low, depressed state for some time. The family consisted of nine children, the youngest being about three years of age. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind," and expressed their sympathy with the family in their bereavement.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 14 June 1904
KINGSBRIDGE - Murder Near Kingsbridge. Inquest Yesterday. Verdict Of Murder And Felo De Se. - Yesterday afternoon the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. F. Kellock, held an Inquest at Warcombe Farm, near Kingsbridge, upon the body of MR HUBERT BAKER, who was murdered on Saturday evening and that of ALBERT CORNER, who took his own life. - Mr G. J. Nosworthy, of Sorley Farm, was Foreman of the Jury. - MRS ELEANOR ANNIE CUMMING, sister of MR HUBERT BAKER, gave evidence of identification and said her brother was 28 years of age. ALBERT CORNER had been living in the house and had been employed on the farm. Last Friday CORNER threatened her brother with a bar of iron and after tea on Saturday evening she gave her brother the money to pay CORNER with, and he paid him off. CORNER left the house and her brother drove the bullocks up the field. She did not like the look of CORNER. He was surly and cheeky. CORNER knew her brother was going to Loddiswell Station and that he would be alone and she thought he might come back. He was a rough looking fellow. When her brother went to the field witness milked the cows. While doing so she heard a gun fired three times, the first and second shots being in quick succession. She heard her brother call out "ANNIE! Oh!" after the first shot had been fired. Then she heard the second report. She ran out of the door thinking someone had met with an accident and then she heard another report. In the road she saw a little boy, who said, "ALBERT has shot MR BAKER and he's bleeding." She then went for assistance, but did not go into the field. Her brother's gun was kept in the larder and the cartridges in the chimney-piece in the kitchen. The gun was in its place at tea-time on Saturday. CORNER must have removed it as she was milking the last cow. CORNER had plenty of time to get it. - By a Juror: There had been no previous altercation between her brother and CORNER. - Wilfrid John Perrott, five and a half years old, who gave his evidence with remarkable clearness, said he saw CORNER in Mr Luscombe's field kneeling on a hedge with the gun through. CORNER fired at MR BAKER, who bled and then CORNER fired a second time. CORNER jumped off the hedge and ran after MR BAKER, who was also running, and witness saw MR BAKER fall. CORNER then went back into the hedge and witness told MRS CUMMING what had happened. - Edward Friend, a horse-breaker, stated that when about a couple of hundred yards from the house he heard a gun fired three times and afterwards MRS CUMMING told him MR BAKER had been shot. He then went into a field and found MR BAKER dead. He place deceased on a hurdle with assistance and then heard two more shots fired. He got in the hedge and called to ALBERT CORNER to come back, but could not see him. Witness at once went for a doctor. - Dr Lionel de Courcy Harston said that when he saw MR BAKER life was quite extinct. Upon an examination he found the left side of the face and the upper and lower jaws completely smashed. It appeared as if the gun had been fired at close quarters. The right shoulder joint and arm were smashed. How deceased could have shouted loud enough to be heard as he was seemed extraordinary. The first shot was quite enough to cause death. - This closed the Inquiry relating to MR BAKER. - WILLIAM HENRY CORNER, tanner, of Goveton, then gave evidence identifying ALBERT CORNER as his son. The last time he saw him was five weeks ago, when he said he was quite comfortable and had a good master in MR BAKER. Deceased would be 21 years of age next birthday. Nine years ago on Saturday his son was stung by a viper and each summer since twitching was visible. - P.S. William Yendell gave evidence as to finding CORNER'S box in a field and afterwards his dead body close to a hedge and about 100 yards from where the first shot was fired. He was lying on his back, with the muzzle of a double-barrelled gun between his feet. A stick (produced) was in his hand. The right barrel as discharged and in the left was a cartridge. It was an ordinary gun. That evening he picked up two empty cartridges and one since. In his opinion CORNER shot himself and never moved again. He could not find a scrap of any writing on deceased or in his box. - Dr Harston said the right side of the skull level with the ear was blown completely out. - The Coroner summed up at length and said a more brutal case had seldom been heard of. - The Jury, without retiring, found a verdict of "Wilful Murder" in the case of MR BAKER and of "Felo De Se" in the case of CORNER. - The Coroner expressed deep sympathy with the family of MR BAKER. He hoped that as long as they lived they would never hear of such an awful case again.

BRADNINCH - A Dutiful Son's Sad Death. Suicide At Bradninch. - Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Guildhall, Bradninch, yesterday, on the body of HENRY HUSSEY, an ex-member of the Metropolitan Police Force, and son of the late MR HUSSEY, a highly respected tradesman of the town, who was found dead in a bedroom on Sunday morning with a blood-stained razor on the floor. Mr W. Baker was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - GEORGE HUSSEY, who described himself as a butcher, of Bradninch, said deceased was his brother. He was a pensioner of the Metropolitan Police, and was 46 years of age. He was single. Witness saw deceased about 7.30 p.m. on Saturday at his house. He was then sitting on the sofa and smoking his pipe. He had been in indifferent health for many years, chiefly suffering from indigestion, and that was the cause of his being pensioned from the Police Force. At times he was in a depressed condition, but on Saturday appeared to be in good spirits and made no complaint. - By Jurymen: He had not been drinking on Saturday. He troubled a good deal about the death of his mother, which took place a fortnight ago. - Witness, continuing, said that about 8.30 on Sunday morning he went to the house and lit deceased's fire. He then proceeded upstairs to ask him if he would like a cup of tea. But his brother was not in his bedroom, and the bed had not been occupied during the night. On going into his late mother's bedroom he found deceased lying on the floor dead, with a razor some six feet from the body. There was blood on the floor. Deceased was fully dressed, as he had seen him on Saturday night. - Abraham Hagley, carter, said that he occupied a part of the house in which deceased lived. He last saw deceased about 8.30 p.m. on Saturday. Witness did not speak to him and he noticed nothing unusual in his appearance. He heard no noise during the night. - Thomas Salter, chemist and spirit merchant, said that between 6 and 7 p.m. on Saturday deceased complained to him of feeling unwell. He purchased sixpenny-worth of brandy, which he took away with him. He appeared in a depressed state. He never gave away to drink. He troubled a lot about his mother's death and had said to him (witness), "My home is gone." - Edward Muir, Surgeon, practising at Bradninch, said that from the position of the wound in the throat he would say it was self-inflicted. It was probable that deceased lived for 30 minutes after the wound had been inflicted, as the gash was high up in the throat. But he would have immediately lost the power of speech and become partially unconscious. Deceased was a most dutiful son to his mother and during her illness worked day and night. He was very distressed on the morning of his mother's death, and asked witness if he thought he (deceased) had neglected his mother in any way. Witness told him that he could not have done better if he had been a nurse. - P.C. Hunt having given evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 15 June 1904
TOTNES - An Afflicted Mother. Totnes Child Suffocated. - Yesterday, at the Totnes Guildhall, Mr G. F. Kellock held an Inquest on the female child of a labourer named KNAPMAN. Mr Chapple was Foreman of the Jury, one of whom (Mr Narramore)declined to be sworn on the Bible or take the Scotch oath and affirmed. The evidence showed that the child, 15 days old, was overlaid by the mother who is very deaf and nearly blind. Dr Edmond stating that a post-mortem showed that it was suffocated. - The Jury returned a verdict "That the child met its death Accidentally through being Overlaid by the Mother." They added that the father of deceased should be cautioned that his wife, on account of her affliction, was not fit and proper person to have the care of young children.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 21 June 1904
DARTMOUTH - The Poisoning Case At Dartmouth. - At Dartmouth Guildhall yesterday Mr A. M. Davson held an Inquest touching the death of ERNEST JAMES SHILLABEER, 17, bricklayer, employed at the Naval College. - The deceased was the son of RICHARD SHILLABEER, a rabbit trapper, of Emridge. The lad appeared in his usual state on Friday night when he went to bed, but later a strange noise was heard in his room, and on his landlord proceeding there it was found that the lad had taken poison, which he had purchased from Mr Hadfield, chemist, using the names of his father, and stating that the strychnine was for the purpose of killing rats. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide" and added that there was nothing to show deceased's state of mind.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 29 June 1904
HOLSWORTHY - Fatal Accident At Holsworthy. - Mr T. D. Prickman, Coroner, held an Inquest at Holsworthy, respecting the death of THOMAS ABEL JEFFERY, aged three years and 10 months. Mr O. Joliffe was elected Foreman. Inspector Percival (Exeter) represented the London and South Western Railway Company. - The father of the deceased was working at the slaughter-house at Holsworthy Station and the youngster was running about in the vicinity. Subsequently, he heard the child had been injured, and on examination by Drs. Gray and Kingdon it was found deceased's right thigh was broken and the toes of the left foot crushed. It is thought the child tried to cross the line and was knocked down by a waggon which was being shunted. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

EXETER - Cycle Accident At Exeter. A Boy Killed. - While a lad named FREDERICK TRACEY, of Exeter, in the employment of Mr Albert Mortimer, of Hoopern Dairy, was cycling down Sylvan-road yesterday morning he lost control of his machine and dashed into a wall at the bottom. - The lad was picked up in an unconscious state and conveyed to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, where he died soon afterwards. - An Inquest was held last evening at the Hospital by Mr W. L. Brown. - MRS ELIZA TRACEY, mother of the deceased, said the lad was 15 years of age. He was formerly employed in a cycle shop and was considered a capable cyclist. - William Stoneman, a joiner, of Toronto-road, stated that he was working in Sylvan-road, when his attention was drawn to the deceased riding towards Union-road. He appeared to have lost control of the machine and his feet were off the pedals. The cycle was speeding at the rate of 20 miles an hour and at the bottom of the road it dashed into the wall. The machine rebounded and the lad was thrown off with great violence. On going to the spot he found the lad unconscious, with a bruise over his eyes. - Corroborative evidence was given by Arthur Mitchell, of 31 Toronto-road. - The Assistant House Surgeon at the Hospital, Mr W. Marsden, said the lad was unconscious when admitted. There were signs of great haemorrhage from the mouth and nose and a large bruise over the eyes. The injuries were confined to the head and were so serious that, after consultation with the Surgeon, it was considered that an operation would be useless. Deceased lived about two hours after admission. Witness had since made a post mortem examination, and found three large fractures of the skull. The most serious practically divided the skull into two parts. There was no possible chance of recovery, and the cause of death was haemorrhage. - P.C. Wise stated that the cycle was completely smashed. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 30 June 1904
DAWLISH - The Dawlish Boating Fatality. A Dangerous Practice. - Yesterday an Inquest was held at Dawlish Town Hall on the body of MR JOHN WILKINSON, an independent gentleman, who was drowned about a fortnight ago near Smugglers' Lane, Dawlish, and whose body was recovered on Monday morning. Mr J. Gamlin was Foreman of the Jury. - HAROLD WILKINSON, of Holcombe, identified the clothing and articles found on the body as belonging to his brother. The features were unrecognisable. The deceased was 49 years of age, lived in London and was on a visit to witness about a fortnight ago. On the morning of the 14th of June he went for a cruise with deceased and another gentleman. They returned about five o'clock in the afternoon. The sea was a bit rough, and after mooring the sailing boat witness and his brother got into the dinghey to come ashore, leaving Lieutenant Doxat on the sailing boat. When about thirty or forty yards from the boat deceased stopped rowing and stood up to take off his overcoat. The boat turned broadside on to the waves, and overturned almost directly. When witness came to the surface both his brother and the boat had disappeared. His brother was a very good swimmer, but witness thought he must have become tangled in his coat which was half on and half off. Witness was picked up by Lieutenant Doxat. - Maurice Doxat of Holcombe, a lieutenant in the mercantile marine, corroborated. There was a good sea for a dinghey. Directly he saw the dinghy was upset, he slipped the moorings of the sailing boat, drifted down and picked up the last witness. He saw both men in the water, deceased being about two feet under water and apparently huddle dup and not struggling. When witness had picked up MR HAROLD WILKINSON, he found that deceased had disappeared. It was very risky to stand up in a dinghey. - Henry Sharland, who was working on the railway and witnessed the accident, corroborated. - Arthur Cotton, licensed boatman and fisherman, deposed to recovering the body near Smugglers' Cove. There was a mark on the scalp as if the deceased had been caught under a rock. The sea was so rough on the 14th June that if anyone fell into the water with a heavy coat on he would sink like a stone, even though he was a good swimmer. - The Coroner said it was the old tale of a person standing up in a small boat, and not thinking how dangerous it was. - The Jury and Coroner commended Lieut. Doxat for the promptitude he had shown to rescuing MR HAROLD WILKINSON. A verdict of "Death from Drowning through the Capsizing of a Boat" was returned.

EXETER - A St. Thomas Man's Death. A Matter For The Guardians. - An Inquiry was held at the Police Station, Exeter, into the circumstances connected with the death of a bootmaker named RICHARD CAWLEY of Alphington-street, St. Thomas. - MRS CAWLEY identified the body as that of her husband, who, she said, had been in receipt of parish relief. - Mr Jas. Glover, M.B., said death was due to diarrhoea, which had been caused by degeneration of the intestines brought about by an abscess. - The Coroner remarked that it seemed a horrible thing that a man should have been kept in a house so long without proper treatment. The wife did not appear to be a capable woman. She was probably ignorant of nursing and she could not properly attend to her husband if she had to earn her living. The emaciation was, no doubt, due to some extent to the disease from which deceased was suffering, but he (the Coroner) could not help thinking that it was due in some degree to want of nourishment. It was a great pity Guardians did not exercise better discretion in cases of this kind. Sometimes there were cases in which a little temporary relief would be a good thing, but in this particular case the Guardians should have stopped relief and compelled the man to go into the Workhouse, where he could have obtained proper treatment. - The Jury came to the conclusion that the deceased died from Natural Causes, but considered he had been grossly neglected. There ought to have been better supervision. They desired that the attention of the Guardians should be called to the manner in which the deceased had been allowed to lie at his residence and suggested that the Guardians should consider whether there could not be better supervision on the part of their officers, with a view to preventing such a thing occurring again.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 1 July 1904
YARCOMBE - The death has occurred quite suddenly of the REV. JOSEPH POWELL, who for upwards of 30 years has been pastor of the Baptist Chapel. The deceased drove to Chard with his daughter on Monday, and while on his way to the Station was seen to sway. Two men laid him on the pavement, but he was found to be quite dead. An Inquest was held on Wednesday. Much sympathy is felt for MRS POWELL and family in their great loss.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 5 July 1904
NEWTON ST CYRES - St Cyres Child's Death. - Yesterday Mr Gould held an Inquest at the Railway Hotel, Newton St. Cyres, touching the death of AMY EDWORTHY, seven years of age, daughter of MR LEWIS EDWORTHY, of Sweetham. - From the evidence of MRS EDWORTHY, it appears that on Saturday morning the child complained of being unwell. She gave her some medicine, and put her to bed. On Sunday morning the child was taken worse, and a doctor was sent for, but before his arrival she had expired. - Dr Powne, of Crediton, said he examined the body and was of opinion that death was due to convulsions. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

BARNSTAPLE - The Fatal Accident At Beaford. The Inquest. - An Inquest was held at the North Devon Infirmary, Barnstaple, yesterday, before Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, on the body of HARRY MILLS, aged 15, a labourer, who met with an accident last Tuesday, which terminated fatally on Saturday. - The evidence of ANNE MILLS (mother) and Tom Squire, mason, both of Beaford, was to the effect that the deceased was returning to the hay-field with a horse and cart and was riding across the horse's back. The horse ran away and, in endeavouring to jump off, the deceased probably was caught in something, for he fell at Kiverly Green, a wheel of the cart passing over his stomach. With assistance, he was able to walk home. Dr Drummond was sent for, and, after attending to him for a few days, advised his removal to the North Devon Infirmary, where he was taken on Friday, but he expired early the next morning. - According to Mr Cooper, Surgeon, death was due to shock and internal haemorrhage, caused by rupture of the liver. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 6 July 1904
THORVERTON - Thorverton Farmer's Fatal Accident. Resolutions Of Sympathy. - The death of MR THOMAS WHITE, farmer, of Bidwell Barton, Thorverton, which we reported yesterday, is deeply regretted by a wide circle of friends. At an Inquest conducted by Mr H. W. Gould, District Coroner, Mr Wippell was chosen Foreman of the Jury. MR J. W. WHITE, of Willow Parks, brother, said deceased was 52 years old. John Parker, labourer, in the employ of deceased, said that on Thursday haymaking operations were in progress in one of MR WHITE'S fields. His master had taken his seat on a horse rake and was about to gather the reins, when the animal attached to the rake bolted. MR WHITE caught hold of the shafts, but when half-way across the field a wheel of the rake came off and the axle dropped on deceased's right leg. The horse ran into a hedge. His master did not lose consciousness and he ordered a doctor to be sent for and a trap to take him home. Dr Marshall said that as the result of the accident deceased sustained a badly crushed shoulder-blade and a wound on the inside of the right knee. In connection with the latter injury, gangrene set in and was the immediate cause of death. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - Speaking with evident emotion at the fortnightly meeting of the Tiverton Rural District Council yesterday, Mr T. Leach (Thorverton) said that since the last meeting of the Council had lost, through death, one of its most respected members, MR T. WHITE. During the short time he was a member of the Council, MR WHITE had carried out his duties in a straightforward and honourable manner. Prior to becoming a resident of Thorverton - about three years ago - deceased was a prominent Tivertonian, and held several public offices, among them being that of churchwarden. He also took a keen interest in the Tiverton Agricultural Association. Mr Leach moved that the Clerk be requested to write a letter to MRS WHITE and family conveying the sympathy of the Council in their sad bereavement. Mr Lee seconded. The Rev. J. Fowler, who presided, in the absence of the Chairman (Mr W. Dester), remarked that MR WHITE appeared to have been most highly respected by all who knew him. The motion was carried by the members standing. - At the Guardians' meeting reference was also made to the sad event, and it was decided to send a letter of condolence from that body to MRS WHITE and family. The Chairman (Mr W. J. Llewellyn), in moving that the letter be sent, said the members had hoped to have had MR WHITE among them for many years, and they would greatly miss his presence and work. Mr Elston endorsed the Chairman's remarks. - In politics MR WHITE was a staunch supporter of the Conservative party. At a meeting of the members of the Thorverton Conservative Club a vote of condolence was passed with MRS WHITE and family.

EXETER - An Exeter Jury empanelled to Inquire into the death of MRS MARY RICE, aged 63, widow of the late MR WILLIAM RICE, plumber, of St. David's Hill, who died suddenly at her residence, Longbrook-street, returned a verdict of "Death from natural Causes." Mr Robert Longman, of King's-road, Chelsea, identified deceased as his sister, who was discharged from the Hospital as incurable. Dr McKeith stated that when he attended deceased, in May, she was suffering from asthma complicated with heart disease and dropsy. The Coroner, Mr W. L. Brown, commented on the fact that no doctor was called in to see the deceased on the day of her death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 7 July 1904
BARNSTAPLE - An Inquest was held yesterday by Mr A. Bencraft, Barnstaple Borough Coroner, and a Jury, at the Mortuary of the North Devon Infirmary, on a little boy 3 ½ years old, named JOHN PARMINTER MANNING, the child of MR and MRS PARMINTER MANNING, of Green-lane. The evidence of Mr Chichester (Hall) and his nephew, Mr John Chichester, Mr Gubb, Dr Morris (House Surgeon) and two others, bore out the facts as related in yesterday's "Gazette." A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Jury expressing their opinion that no possible blame was due to the occupants of the vehicle. They also expressed sympathy with the parents.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 9 July 1904
DAWLISH - Suspicious Death At Dawlish. Inquest Adjourned. An Arrest Anticipated. - Yesterday at the Vestry Hall, Dawlish, an Inquest was held by Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, concerning the death of FANNY ELIZABETH ANDREW, domestic servant, in service at 7 Barton Villas, with a Mrs Mullis, who died on Tuesday evening at the Cottage Hospital. The evidence was chiefly concerned with medical matters and the Inquiry was eventually adjourned till Monday morning for the apprehension of a man named Fred Mitchell, stated to be employed on the Railway at Newton Abbot. - From the evidence of WILLIAM HOWARD IRWIN farm bailiff, of Topsham, it appeared that his daughter, whose age was 29, was married to WILLIAM ANDREW, in the employ of the Great Western Railway at Bath. They disagreed and separated five or six years ago, the deceased going into service at places in Newton Abbot and ultimately coming to Dawlish. When he last saw her on Sunday fortnight she appeared in good health and her condition did not attract attention. - Mrs F. A. Mullis, wife of a schoolmaster, said the girl came to her in November. About two months later she was poorly and said she was suffering from anaemia. She went to the Dispensary for a fortnight and then left off. On June 22nd she was taken seriously ill and went to bed. Next morning she was unable to get up, being in great pain and Dr Lovely was sent for. On the following Saturday she was removed to the Hospital. Deceased said she was a widow, and witness had no idea as to her condition. A man named Frederick Mitchell, of about 30 or 40 years of age, from Newton Abbot came to the house to see her once, and she had a paper frequently from Newton Abbot. The girl was continually dosing herself with salts, pills, etc., and after she had been going to Dr Lovely she said his medicine did her no good and she could get some from Christie's, Newton, which would do her more good. She had some green medicine in a big bottle. She had previously said her young man would bring it from Newton. - Mr C. N. Lovely, Surgeon, said he saw the deceased at the Dispensary on the 10th of May. She complained of certain irregularities, indigestion and sickness. He gave her medicine for the last two. She said she was a widow, her husband being killed at the war two years before. He did not treat her for the first named illness as he was not satisfied with her explanations. On the 23rd of June he received an urgent message to go to Barton Villas, where he saw the deceased, who was suffering from haemorrhage. She at first denied having taken any other medicine than what he had supplied, but afterwards admitted taking a lot of things - salts, steel pills and medicine, the last being a green mixture which she had obtained from a chemist. In the afternoon the deceased was delivered of a four months' child. On the 25th the woman was removed to the Hospital with symptoms of peritonitis. During the ensuing week she got worse, and an operation was performed by Dr Russell Coombe, of Exeter, in consultation with witness and his partner. She was in a desperate condition, and the operation was a desperate one. It was found she had a burst abscess in the abdomen. She never rallied and died on the Tuesday evening about three-quarters of an hour after leaving the operating table. On making a post-mortem examination, witness found that deceased had been suffering from considerable inflammation, which had set up peritonitis. The deceased had evidently been taking a lot of strong medicine which had set up irritation and inflammation. There was nothing to indicate any instrumental interference. Deceased said she had been keeping company with a young man who supplied her with money. - Albert Christie, chemist, of Newton Abbot, said about three weeks ago he received a letter from Dawlish, enclosing 1s. 3d. and asking for a bottle of "green mixture." which was sent. The mixture was a compound of iron mixture of the pharmacopoeia and consisted of powdered myrrh, potash, sulphate of iron, essence of nutmeg and water and was largely sold for irregularities. He never knew it do any harm. He had never seen the deceased and it was not true that she came to him and told him what was the matter, and that he advised her to have a hot bath and take the green mixture, and she would be all right. The mixture was sent by post. - EMILY IRWIN, of Kingsbridge, said she saw her sister, the deceased, in the Hospital, when she said she had taken some medicine for a certain purpose. She said nothing about any other person having given her anything. - Evidence was also given by Susan Cousins, nurse and SUSANNAH IRWIN, mother of the deceased. - The Coroner said there were several letters found among the deceased's effects at the Hospital purporting to be written by a man, but they were not signed. The best course would be for him to adjourn the Inquest. Meanwhile the Police would have to apprehend the man Mitchell as he had not obeyed the summons, and the Inquiry would be resumed on Monday morning.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 11 July 1904
OKEHAMPTON - Death From Anthrax. Okehampton Man's Sad End. The Inquest. - Mr J. D. Prickman, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Town Hall, Okehampton, on Saturday evening, touching the death of JOHN LEVERTON, of Brightley Cottage, Okehampton. - Mr Sidney Horne, miller, of Brightley, had a cow which last month seemed dull, and "off her milk." He thought she was suffering from a chill, and treated her himself. Later on the animal died. LEVERTON was engaged to skin the carcase, and remarked that the cow had died from quarter evil. There was a black mark from the udder up the flank outside, which looked, Mr Horne said, as if the cow had been bitten by an adder. Some three days afterwards LEVERTON complained of feeling unwell and said his arm gave him great pain. The arm swelled to a great extent and Dr Young was called in and diagnosed it as a case of anthrax, from which the man died. - The Jury (Mr H. Brealy, Foreman) in returning a verdict that the cause of death was Anthrax, Accidentally communicated, added a rider that they recommended farmers to communicate the death of any animal dying suddenly or under suspicious circumstances to the Police and that in the present case no blame whatever attached to Mr Horne. - They also expressed their sincere sympathy with the widow and made her a present of their fees.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 12 July 1904
DAWLISH - The Dawlish Servant's Death. Disappearance Of A Witness. Inquest Again Adjourned. - The adjourned Inquest on FANNY ELIZABETH ANDREW, a domestic servant, who was formerly in service at No. 7 Barton Villas, Dawlish, and who died in the Cottage Hospital on Tuesday, was resumed yesterday morning before Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, and the Jury empanelled on Friday. - It will be remembered that at the Inquest it was stated that the deceased, who was married to a man named WILLIAM CLIFFORD ANDREW, employed on the Great Western Railway, at Bath, but who had been separated from her husband for four or five years, was formerly in service at Newton Abbot, and came to Dawlish in November. About two months later she became ill and visited the Dispensary for a fortnight and afterwards got some medicine from a chemist at Newton. On June 23rd she was taken seriously ill, and Dr Lovely was called in. In the afternoon deceased was delivered of a prematurely-born child and was removed to the Cottage Hospital the following day, where she became worse and an operation was performed by Dr Russell Coombe (Exeter). The girl, however, died about three-quarters of an hour after. A post-mortem examination was made by Dr Lovely, and it was found that the girl had been suffering from peritonitis, due to inflammation set up by the taking of a quantity of strong medicine which she had obtained. The Inquest on Friday was adjourned for the attendance of a man named Thomas Venning, employed on the railway at Newton Abbot, but who went under the name of Frederick Mitchell at Dawlish, and who had been keeping company with deceased. - The Coroner said that it appeared Venning had seen the deceased within a day or so of her death, and the Jury wanted to know what he had to say about it. He had been duly summoned to attend, but did not appear, and he (the Coroner) had accordingly issued a warrant for Venning's arrest for disobeying the summons. An endeavour was made to execute it the same night, but the Police had been unable to find any trace of the man, he having left home on the Thursday night, after being summoned to appear at the first Inquiry on Friday morning. They could not have the order of the Jury and coroner flouted in that way and the warrant would, if possible, be executed. The only course would be to adjourn the Inquest to enable the Police to find out, if possible, where the man had gone. At present there was no evidence to incriminate the man, but at the same time there were certain suspicious circumstances which needed explanation. - Before adjourning the Inquiry the Coroner called Mrs Alice Warren, engaged at the Railway Station, who stated that she had seen deceased meet a man about twice a week, who came from Newton by the 6.51 p.m. train with a privilege ticket. She knew the man by sight, but not by name. She had never carried messages between the parties, although on the Sunday previous to her death deceased said she would give witness a letter for the man on the following Wednesday. As, however, witness heard she died on the Tuesday she did not go to the Hospital for the letter. - The Matron of the Hospital said deceased told her she had been married ten years, that her husband died four years ago and that she had been keeping company with another man for three years. - The Inquest was adjourned until August 8th, and, on the request of the Foreman, the Jurors were exempt from further service until after that date.

BARNSTAPLE - The Fatal Accident At Barnstaple. - The Inquest was held before Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, at the Barnstaple Workhouse yesterday on the body of MRS THIRZA HUXTABLE, aged 59, the wife of MR JOHN HUXTABLE, machinist, of Alexandra-road, Barnstaple, who was killed in a trap accident at Bickington, in the parish of Fremington, on Saturday afternoon. The evidence showed that George Davey, a driver, in the employ of Mr C. Northcote, cab proprietor, Barnstaple, was driving the deceased and her daughter towards Instow. As they were proceeding over the brow of Bickington Hill the horse was going steadily. Further down it broke into a canter, but Davey checked it. Just as they got to the corner at the bottom of the hill, MRS HUXTABLE, Davey told the :Coroner and Jury, pulled one of the reins and the horse turned into a waste place situate there. In coming out again a wheel struck the wall, Davey was thrown out and badly bruised. Davey said nothing of the accident to the deceased and her daughter. Evidence was given as to the quietness of the horse and the steadiness of the driver. Mr J. R. Harper, Surgeon, deposed that the deceased's daughter told him that her mother snatched the reins, and they were upset. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and attached no blame to anyone. They also expressed their sympathy with the family.

WASHFIELD - At the Inquest held yesterday on the body of MR JOHN HODGE, of Slade Dairy, Washfield, who died suddenly in the hayfield while assisting Mr Trebble, of Hatswell Farm, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Syncope." The deceased was riding on a load of hay, when Mr Trebble, who was leading the horse, heard a thud. He looked round and saw HODGE lying on the ground. When spoken to he made no reply. Dr Pollock, of Tiverton, was sent for, but pronounced life extinct.

TOPSHAM - The Exeter Tragedy. Inquest And Verdict. Murder And Suicide. - Yesterday, at the Double Locks Inn, Countess Wear, Mr H. W. Gould, County Coroner, conducted an Inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of HARRIET EMILY MATTERS and that of her daughter, Gertrude Ellen, both of whom were found drowned on Saturday afternoon. - ERNEST AUGUSTUS MATTERS, a tinman, living at 9 Ebrington-road, St. Thomas, said his wife was 23 years of age, and their only child just three months old. He last saw his wife alive on SAturday afternoon outside the County Grounds, St. Thomas, where the Police Sports were being held. Deceased, he said, was quite agreeable to his going to see the sports, and he parted with her on the best of terms. She told him that she would go home and then take the baby to her mother at Exminster. She was ordered by the doctor to get the baby off her hands, but she would not let it go before. She had been in a delicate state of health on and off ever since her confinement. This kind of illness took the form of depression, and on the 8th of June she went away for a short holiday and seemed better when she returned. He did not notice any depression on the part of deceased on Saturday afternoon; in fact, she was in brighter spirits than for some time back. She did not go home as she said she would. She had never, when she was in this low state of health, threatened to take her life, but deceased's sister was taken to the Asylum last May, and deceased used often to speak of this matter. On Friday deceased said she would like to see her sister. No mention was made of this on Saturday. - Samuel Arthur Brooks, of 3 Union-street, St. Thomas, an apprentice, stated that on Saturday afternoon he and another boy went for a walk down the Canal banks. When near the Double Locks bridge he saw a perambulator, about 200 yards away, on the side of the bank. He saw a hat and a body in the Alphington brook, which runs alongside the Canal. He then gave the alarm. Mr Hannaford, of the Double Locks inn, came up and assistance was given by a man named Ware. The bodies were removed and witness immediately summoned a Doctor. - Albert Ware, of Albion-place, Tiverton-road, Exeter, a carpenter, said he recovered the bodies from the stream about 20 minutes to 5 o'clock. There was no sign of life in either of the victims, but he endeavoured to start artificial respiration. After half an hour's work, however, the attempt was given up. - The Coroner remarked that it did not seem necessary to call Mr Hannaford, as he would not, perhaps, be able to throw any more light on the affair. - Dr Farrant, practising at St. Thomas, stated that he attended MRS MATTERS in the early part of June for sleeplessness and depression of spirits. She got a little better. He warned her mother that the deceased had better be watched, as she was of suicidal tendencies. The depression was caused after child-birth, and was a common cause of insanity, sometimes lasting for months. There was always a tendency in some temperaments for the depression to recur. - In reply to the Coroner, the doctor said in some cases it was quite possible that a woman under these circumstances might suddenly have taken a strong dislike to her baby. There were sufficient signs of insanity to make the woman a fit subject for being watched, but it was hardly a strong enough case for an order for the Asylum. - The Coroner, summing up, drew the attention of the Jury to the fact that undoubtedly the circumstances pointed to a case of murder on the part of the mother, who afterwards committed suicide. The perambulator, they would notice, was intact and had not been overturned as by accident. - The Jury returned a verdict "That deceased Murdered her child, while of Unsound Mind, and afterwards Committed Suicide." - We have been asked to state that MR E. A. MATTERS, the husband of the deceased, has not worked at Messrs. Lloyd's , although he has a cousin - MR T. J. MATTERS, of Holloway-street - who has been employed by that firm.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 13 July 1904
TAUNTON, SOMERSET - Yarcombe Farmer Killed. - The West Somerset Coroner, Mr J. Foster Barham, held an Inquest at the Taunton and Somerset Hospital, Taunton, yesterday morning, on the body of ARCHIBALD HENRY PIKE, a farmer, aged 18 years, of Yarcombe, who died in the Hospital on the 10th inst. - Evidence was given by Mr Abel Samuel Sparkes and MRS LOUISA PIKE, both of Yarcombe, the latter being the mother of the deceased. This showed that on the 7th inst., the deceased was driving his horse and trap in a lane at Yarcombe, when his foot slipped and he fell to the ground. The rein caught the deceased's right foot, and, being unable to extricate himself, he was dragged for about half a mile. Sparkes, who was working in a field, heard the deceased's cries, ran after the horse and trap, and succeeded in extricating the deceased. Directly the horse was free it bolted again. Deceased was unconscious, but he regained his senses and was able to give an account of the accident. He was at once removed to the Taunton Hospital, where he was found by Dr Drake, the House Surgeon, to be suffering from a broken left leg, a long lacerated wound in the right leg, a large wound in the thigh and several grazes about the body. He died on the 10th inst. from shock and embolism, the blood having clotted in several parts of the body, while mud &c., had been ground into the wounds. Gangrene had commenced in the wound in the thigh. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Misadventure."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 19 July 1904
BARNSTAPLE - Last evening an Inquest was held at the Mortuary of the North Devon Infirmary, Barnstaple, by the Borough Coroner, Mr A. Bencraft, on the body of PATRICK WILLIAM DOYLE, aged 59, a watercress seller and newsman. - The evidence went to show that deceased, who was a widower, lived by himself in Princess-street, and had complained of being ill for two or three weeks past, but had had no medical attendant. He was out on Saturday, and returned at about 11 o'clock p.m., but on Sunday morning neighbours, hearing him groaning, went to his assistance and also sent for a doctor. Mr Charles Cooke, when he arrived, ordered deceased to be taken to the Infirmary, where he could be cared for. It was a hopeless case from the first, and he died in the Infirmary on Sunday night. The evidence of Mr Charles Cooke, Surgeon, and Dr Mary Morris, House Surgeon at the Infirmary, was that the cause of death was bronchitis and heart failure. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

EXETER - An Inquest was held yesterday by Mr W. L. Brown, City Coroner, into the death of ANN PULMAN, aged 78, residing at 76 Cowick-street, St. Thomas. According to the evidence of the husband, who is an engineer's smith, deceased was taken with a choking sensation in the throat early on Saturday morning. He went to summon Dr Farrant and when he returned his wife had died. Deceased had been delicate for a long time. Dr Farrant attributed death to old age and heart failure and a verdict was returned accordingly.

EXETER - The Exeter Bathing Fatality. The circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM CHARLES JOHN ALFORD, a meter-tester, aged 19, formerly residing at 17 Buller-road, St Thomas, who was drowned at Head Weir on Saturday, were Inquired into yesterday afternoon by Mr W. L. Brown, the City Coroner. - WILLIAM ALFORD, father of the deceased, who is a signalman on the Great Western Railway, identified the body as that of his son. - FRANK EDWARD ALFORD, brother of the deceased, said he went to bathe at Head Weir with deceased about 3 o'clock on Saturday afternoon. They were alone. They had swum across the river and were returning together, when his brother began to go under. Witness went to him and deceased caught hold of him. They both went to the bottom and deceased let him go. Someone came to witness's assistance and he was helped ashore. - In reply to the Foreman of the Jury, the witness said his brother was an expert swimmer. Deceased was in good health and did not suffer from cramp. - P.C. Hoyle, who was bathing at Head Weir at the time, heard a shout and splashing of water. He saw the last witness rise and sink again. The last witness was brought ashore and told them what had occurred. Shooter, the superintendent, dived with his clothes on, but could not recover the body. Witness then dived and brought deceased ashore. Artificial respiration was tried for an hour and a half, but without avail. Dr Farrant was summoned and injected stimulants. Life was pronounced extinct. - Frank Shooter, superintendent of the bathing place, gave similar evidence, adding that a man called Pilman succeeded in recovering the body, but had to let it go. There were hundreds of bathers present. There were no symptoms of cramp in his opinion. Deceased was not under water more than four minutes. - Dr Farrant said that deceased might have had cramp or heart failure. The ultimate cause of death was, however, drowning. - In summing up, the Coroner said every praise was due to Shooter, P.C. Hoyle and others who assisted and their sympathy would be extended to the family. A verdict of "Accidental Drowning" was returned, the Jury considering that everything had been done by Shooter and the others to recover the body.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 23 July 1904
BLACK TORRINGTON - Inquest At Black Torrington. Schoolmaster's Strange Delusions. - Mr J. D. Prickman, District Coroner, has held an Inquiry at Black Torrington, concerning the death of MR ELIAS JOHN FOXCROFT, headmaster of the school, which occurred two days previously. - Mr W. Garratt Jones was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner said the evidence must necessarily be incomplete, as no one was with deceased during the night. - MRS JESSIE FOXCROFT identified the body as that of her husband, who was 40 years old. There were no children. She last saw deceased alive on Monday in the house when he kissed her affectionately on her leaving to go to Okehampton. She could not live in the village as the people treated her so badly and turned batteries of electricity against the house. The School Committee took no steps to prevent them from being badly treated and had given her husband notice to leave. He had no poison, but the small bottle found in his hand was one in which he usually carried a little brandy. He also took phosferine occasionally. They had lived in Black Torrington for eighteen months. - The Rev. J. Jephson Gardiner, rector (chairman of the School Committee) said the keys of the school were kept at deceased's house and as the teachers and children could not on Wednesday morning obtain entry into the school witness and P.C. Kite went at 10 a.m. to the master's house, the door of which was unlocked. They found the deceased lying dead on the floor of the back kitchen. Notice had been given by the managers to him to give up his appointment in three months, one of which had expired. Deceased was a very quiet but nervous man. He was always complaining that he was bewitched and laboured under delusions. Deceased told the children he was bewitched by their parents, who ought to be hung. He was, however, a capable teacher. Witness had often warned him to desist from his vagaries, but without effect. He came to Black Torrington from the Totnes district, but belonged to Cumberland. - P.C. Kite, who had been stationed at Black Torrington for three years, corroborated the Rector's evidence as to the finding of the body. The bottle found was empty and corkless and in deceased's right hand. He was lying on his back on two sheets of brown paper. There were several similar bottles, but no labels on them. His watched had stopped at 7.40 a.m. - Dr Candler, Surgeon, who had made a post mortem examination, deposed that there was an enlargement of the heart, but that did not cause death. He found in the stomach traces of poison, but the nature of it he could not discover. There was no other specific cause for death. The stomach contained some food. - The Coroner, in summing up, said it was quite evident that death was caused by poison, but there was nothing to show how deceased got it. He and his wife were very eccentric characters and the managers would have neglected their duty had they allowed him to remain master of the school. - A verdict of "Death by Poisoning" was returned, and the Jury added that in their opinion no animosity had been shown by the inhabitants either to the deceased or his wife.

EXETER - Sudden Death At Exeter. - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Exeter Police Court on the body of WILLIAM HENRY BEAL, aged 38 years, who fell down and expired shortly after going to his work at Messrs. Willey and Co's. the evidence adduced proved that deceased was formerly an able seaman. Dr C. E. Stokes having attributed the immediate cause of death to rupture of the heart, the Jury, of whom Mr A. Snow was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

EXETER - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, held an Inquest concerning the death of FLORENCE WESTCOTT, the twelve-month-old child of GEORGE and EDITH WESTCOTT, No. 1 Exe Island. The mother stated that at 2.30 a.m. on Wednesday she awoke and found that the child had ceased to breathe. Questioned by the Coroner, witness said the child was a little tight across the chest on Tuesday, but she did not send for a doctor because she did not think it bad enough. The child was not insured. The father having been called, Dr Mark Farrant, who conducted a post mortem examination, said the child was badly nourished and only weighed just over 9lb., whereas the minimum weight for a child of that age was 15lb. There were sores on the body, the stomach and upper part of the intestines were empty; and there were signs of ricketts. The sores were caused by dirt. The child might have died from convulsions, or might have succumbed to weakness. - The Coroner said that statements had been made in the course of the Inquiry that were capable of proof or disproof, and he thought it desirable that further evidence should be forthcoming. He therefore proposed to adjourn the Inquiry. It was decided to adjourn to Monday afternoon at 4 o'clock.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 26 July 1904
EXETER - Exeter Parents Censured. - The adjourned inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of the twelve-month-old daughter of MR and MRS WESTCOTT, of Exe Island, Exeter, was conducted by the City Coroner, Mr W. L. Brown yesterday. The parents were represented by Mr C. Crompton, while inspector Thompson of the N.S.P.C.C. was also present. - It was deposed by James Jordan, dairyman of Cowick-street, that he had supplied MR and MRS WESTCOTT with milk for many years. Sometimes he left a half-pint and sometimes a pint a day. - Dr Pereira, called, said he examined the body of the dead child, and it looked to be more like a baby three months old than twelve months. There were several sores about the body, and there were signs of rickets about the head. The internal organs showed no symptoms of disease. His opinion was that the cause of death was rickets. The child was small and emaciated, and he thought the immediate cause of death was convulsions. - Replying to the Coroner, the witness said rickets would nearly always be produced by bad feeding. A child two months old should have two pints of milk a day. Children of twelve months of age who were fed on bread and milk nearly always had rickets. For a mother to nourish a child twelve months after birth would be likely to cause rickets. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the question for the Jury to consider was whether the child had died through negligence. If they thought there had been culpable negligence, then their verdict must be one of manslaughter. - The Jury found that the child died from Natural Causes, but expressed the opinion that the parents should be censured. - The Coroner, in addressing the parents, said the verdict was a merciful one as far as MRS WESTCOTT was concerned. No one could look at the body of the child without knowing that it must have suffered greatly. - MRS WESTCOTT: I did what I could for it. - The Coroner: Don't argue with me! The Jury know how far it is good for me to censure parents who have gone on allowing a poor little child to get into that state. My only hope and my comfort is that, although you have not been found guilty of manslaughter, there is an Act of Parliament under which you can be charged before the Magistrates. I hope that you will understand, from the strong arm of the law, that you have no right to neglect a child in the way in which this one has been neglected.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 27 July 1904
NEWTON ABBOT - Workhouse Inmate's Death. Newton Inquest Adjourned. - Last evening an Inquest was held at the Newton Abbot Workhouse touching the death of EMMA BOWDEN, of Torquay, an imbecile inmate. - The evidence showed that on Monday deceased was having her dinner with the other inmates, when she apparently had an apoplectic fit and died almost immediately. Another imbecile stated that she saw the deceased put her hand to her mouth and asserted that she was choked. - Dr Scrase, however, stated that there were no indications of this. The nurses took proper measures for treating a choking person and found no obstruction in the throat. Deceased had been suffering from heart disease for which he had been treating her and he was confident that she died from failure of the heart. - The Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, closely questioned the attendants on the point, and one of them fainted. He, however, could gain no corroboration of the imbecile's statement that deceased was choked by her food and he adjourned the Inquest until today in order that a post-mortem examination might be made.

NEWTON ABBOT - A Night On A Doorstep. Newton Man's Death. The Jury's Censure. - Yesterday, Mr G. F. Kellock, at Newton Abbot, conducted an Inquest touching the death of GEORGE PHILLIPS WALLING, who died suddenly on Sunday morning after being out all night. A shoemaker by trade, he was 51 years of age. - Alfred Prudence stated that deceased had lodged with him for three years, but, having neglected himself and not paid for his lodgings, witness gave him notice to quit. On Saturday night witness refused to admit him and advised him to go into the Workhouse. He remained outside all night, but at 8 o'clock on Sunday morning witness's wife admitted him and offered him tea and brandy, which he refused. Deceased went into his workshop and sat down, and, as he seemed ill, his sister and a doctor were fetched. He died at 9.10 a.m. In reply to a Juryman, witness denied threatening deceased, who had not done any work since the first of the month. - Eliza Prudence stated that up to December deceased owed her £4 19s. 6d. for board and lodgings, and since then had only paid her 19s. She gave him proper notice, and told him he should not remain after Saturday. When she admitted him on Sunday morning he appeared to be drunk. Had deceased taken his food properly he would not have been in such a state, but since she stopped boarding him he had nearly starved himself. - P.C. Hatherley stated that Prudence asked him to look after deceased as he should not admit him to his house. Witness saw deceased standing on the doorstep and, while he was sober, he was breathing very hard. Deceased stated that he suffered from asthma, but added that there was nothing unusual the matter with him. Witness offered to get him a night's lodgings, but he refused to leave the door step. Later witness saw him again and then asked Mr and Mrs Prudence to let him in, offering to pay a shilling for his night's lodge. They, however, refused to admit him, as if they did so they would be unable to get rid of him again. Witness offered two or three times to get lodgings for deceased, but he refused. Witness saw him on the doorstep several times during the night, and he did not once complain of being ill. - Dr Scrase stated that on making a post mortem examination, he found that deceased was suffering from heart disease, congestion of the lungs and liver and slight dropsy in the legs. The cause of death was failure of the heart and it would be a serious matter to expose a man in such a condition. - The Coroner pointed out that from a legal point of view whether deceased had a right to be admitted to the house was a question for himself. His remedy was not to remain on the doorstep all night, but to go away, take care of himself and if he had any case go to Court for damages. The Constable offered to find lodgings for him and offered to pay the Prudences for him, but they refused, as they had a right to do. Because deceased refused the Constable's offer was anyone but himself responsible? - Did he remain outside the house of his own free will, or did anyone compel him to do so? Those were the questions for the Jury to answer. - The Jury, after a lengthy retirement, returned a verdict "That death was due to Natural Causes, but accelerated by Exposure," and the majority added a rider that they thought it very inhuman on the part of Prudence to refuse deceased admittance after having been offered a shilling for a night's lodge. - The Coroner: The latter part of the verdict is not legal. - A Juryman: It was only carried by a bare majority. - The Coroner: That doesn't matter; it does not form part of your legal verdict.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 28 July 1904
NEWTON ABBOT - Newton Workhouse Inmate's Death. Adjourned inquest. - At the adjourned Inquest yesterday on EMILY BOWDEN, an inmate of the Newton Abbot Workhouse, Dr Scrase reported he had, as requested, made a post-mortem examination and found that the deceased's heart was fatty and diseased. He found no obstruction whatever in the throat, wind-pipe, or food-pipe and nothing in the stomach likely to cause a temporary obstruction. The death had nothing to do with choking, as had been suggested. Replying to questions, the witness stated that there was a suggestion from the relatives that deceased was of unsound mind, and she was placed in the imbecile ward temporarily to be watched. - A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical evidence.

BIDEFORD - Bideford Railway Tragedy. Inquest And Verdict. - Last evening, at the Bideford Town Hall, Mr Bromham held an Inquest on the body of WILLIAM SANDERS, the Barnstaple builder who was killed on the railway line the previous evening. Mr A. F. Seldon represented the widow and family of deceased, and Inspector Percival the London and South Western Railway Company. - SIDNEY THOMAS SANDERS identified the body as that of his late father, WILLIAM SANDERS, a builder, residing at Alexandra-place, Barnstaple. He was 51 years of age. He left home for Bideford just before 2 o'clock and they heard of his death on Tuesday, about 8 p.m. Of late his father had been rather run down and somewhat out of health. By Mr Seldon: His father's eyesight had been failing for some time, and he had become very short-sighted. He had also been suffering from giddiness lately. He had never said or done anything that would lead him to think he would attempt suicide. As far as the deceased and his family were concerned, they were on the best of terms. - By Inspector Percival: The only reason he could suggest why his father was on the line was because he might have gone there for shelter, as it was raining heavily at the time. He might have missed the train. - Charles Symons, plumber, of Bideford, said he had known deceased for the last 30 years. He saw SANDERS on the Quay just after 4 o'clock on Tuesday afternoon. There was nothing whatever peculiar or strange in his manner. - John Dart, engine driver on the London and South Western Railway, said he was driving the local 5.37 train from Barnstaple on Tuesday afternoon. When they got about three-quarters of a mile from Bideford he saw a man step on to the rails they were about to pass over. He felt the engine pass over the body. There was no time to do anything; it all happened within half a second. The deceased was only about ten strides from the engine when he first saw him. He stopped the train and called attention to what had happened. By Mr Seldon: There was no whistle sounded, as there was no time. - William Stone, fireman of the engine, said he first saw deceased standing on the grass by the lime kiln just as they came around the curve. He knew by the motion of the engine that someone had been knocked down, although he did not see the man get on the line. By Mr Seldon: It was nothing unusual to see a man standing beside the line. He did not mention it to the driver. - Frank Taylor, steam crane driver on the London and South Western Railway, said the body was much mutilated. - P.C. Bastin, of Bideford, corroborated, and said he searched the body, and in the right trousers pocket he found a half-sovereign. In the left-hand trousers pocket were several business letters addressed to deceased. In a coat pocket was a cheque-book, with a cheque which had been drawn the same day. In the breast pocket on the left-hand side he found the following letter, written in pencil enclosed in an unsealed envelope, addressed in blacklead: "MRS SANDERS, 5 Alexandra-place, Barnstaple." The letter read:- "My Dearest Geo, - Try to forgive me. I cannot bear my troubles any longer. Best of wives and mothers. Ask Mr Sillifant to do his best for you. - W." - Mr Seldon said the Jury had to perform a melancholy duty, especially so when they remembered that this man had left a large family, to whom he was a good father. He was also a good husband and an honest man. The only suggestion was whether it was a case of accidental death. Of course, there was this letter, but that might have been for another purpose entirely. Deceased might have meant to have gone away, or something like that. - The Coroner, after expressing sympathy with the family said he did not see that they could return any other verdict than that of suicide. - A verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane," was returned, and the Jury expressed their sympathy with the family of deceased, to whom they gave their fees. Mr W. B. Pickard was Foreman of the Jury.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 30 July 1904
CULLOMPTON - The Sad Drowning Case At Cullompton. Inquest And Verdict. - In the Sessions Room at the Cullompton Police Court yesterday Mr H. W. Gould, District Coroner, conducted an Inquest on the body of GEORGE RICHARD BAKER, labourer, aged 22 years, who was taken from a pond on Padbrooke Farm, Cullompton on Thursday evening. - The evidence given showed that deceased, who was to have been married on Monday to MISS MAY ANN PRATT, of Bradninch, was with his fiancée last Monday, and spent the night at her father's house. He left at 4 o'clock the next morning to go to his work in good spirits. On Thursday it was reported that the man was missing, and, a search being instituted, his dead body was found in a pond of water, 12 inches deep, on Padbrooke Farm, Cullompton. Nothing was found on the body to elucidate the mystery, and it was stated before the Coroner that the man was in good spirits and no reason could be advanced why he should commit suicide. - Dr Gidley told the Jury that there were no marks of violence on the body, which presented all the appearances of death from drowning. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 4 August 1904
EXETER - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, conducted an Inquiry, at the Exeter Police Court yesterday, into the circumstances surrounding the death of an infant child of SAMUEL HARRY LANGMAN, labourer, 12 Toby's-buildings, Lower North-street. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 5 August 1904
BOW - The Cycling Accident Near Bow. Inquest On YEO. - An Inquest was held at Bow on Wednesday on the body of TOM YEO, a jobbing gardener, of Oketon, who was killed by a fall from his bicycle on Monday. MRS SANDFORD, sister of deceased, identified the body. She last saw deceased alive on Monday afternoon, a short time before the accident. She noticed he had been drinking, but would not say he was drunk. She, however, asked him not to go any further, but he replied that he must go as far as Lapford. - Thomas T. Rice, of Bow, stated that he first met deceased at the White Hart, Bow, on the afternoon of the accident, and, hearing him say he was going to Eggesford, he offered to ride with him. Deceased went on to see his sister while witness got his bicycle ready. A short time afterwards witness saw deceased talking to his sister, and then followed on. When they were nearing Clannaborough drive witness saw two horses in charge of a boy approaching. They were pulled in to the left side of the road, but there was plenty of room to pass. Witness said nothing, and rode on cautiously. Just as he was passing the horses the deceased tried to pass between him and the animals. One of his pedals caught the hind leg of one of the horses, and deceased was thrown with great force. He was taken up perfectly unconscious and removed to the shade of a tree by the side of the road. Witness did everything he could, and the boy rode on for a doctor. - The boy, Arthur Ward, corroborated and stated that the horses did not appear to take any notice of the bicycles, and were perfectly quiet. - Dr Haycroft stated that he had deceased removed to the White Hart Hotel, at Bow. The deceased was quite unconscious. There was a jagged wound on the back of the head, and internal haemorrhage, caused through violent concussion, resulted in deceased's death. He never regained consciousness. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 6 August 1904
EXETER - Sudden Death At Exeter. - Last evening an Inquest was held by the City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, on the body of SARAH HOOKWAY, 78, wife of WALTER HOOKWAY, retired confectioner, of 6 Maddock's-row, Exeter. - MR HOOKWAY, the widower, said he accompanied his wife to Pinhoe on Thursday evening and returned to Exeter by the train which arrived at Queen-street, at 9.15. Soon after getting into the train his wife was taken ill, gasping for air. She got worse and died shortly after reaching Queen-street Station. His wife had suffered from a weak heart for some years and had been under medical treatment. - Dr Pereira, who was called to attend the deceased at Queen-street Station, said in his opinion heart failure was the cause of death. - Dr Alfred S. Perkins said he had attended MRS HOOKWAY for 25 years for a weak heart and he had no doubt that heart failure was the cause of death. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned and sympathy was expressed with MR HOOKWAY in his bereavement.

COLYTON - Sad Death Of A London Doctor. Inquest At Colyton. - Yesterday Mr E. C. Cox, District Coroner, conducted an Inquiry at the Crocombe Castle Hotel, Colyton, into the circumstances attending the death of DR THOMAS GILBERT SMITH, aged 56 years, of 68 Harley-street, Cavendish-square, London. - Mr J. Follett was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - From the evidence it appeared that deceased, who was of fine physique, was on a cycling tour with his son, MR CLAUDE SMITH, and two young ladies - a Miss Boyd and Miss Brooking, both of London. they were cycling round the south coast, and it was the intention of the party to reach Land's End. They arrived at Lyme Regis about 5.30 p.m. on Wednesday evening and, having partaken of refreshments, continued their journey, intending to spend the night at Sidmouth. All went well until near the Three Horse Shoes Inn on the Sidmouth road, when deceased was seen by Miss Boyd to fall from his bicycle. MR CLAUDE SMITH and Miss Brooking were cycling ahead. Miss Boyd dismounted and on going to the doctor found him unconscious. MR SMITH and Miss Brooking were also soon on the scene. Medical assistance was summoned. Dr Eskine, of Colyton, who is acting for Dr Cosens, attended, but life was extinct. - Subsequently the body was conveyed in a trap by P.C. Friend and Messrs. Real and Hutchings, of Stafford's Cottages, to the Crocombe Castle Hotel. - MR SMITH, in his evidence, said his father had enjoyed good health. - The Jury returned a verdict of Death from Syncope, due to over exertion and excess of heat. On behalf of the Jury, Mr Follett expressed deep sympathy with the relatives in their sad bereavement. The family solicitor, from London, thanked the Jury for its kind expression of sympathy. - The body of the deceased was taken to London yesterday by the 3.58 p.m. train from Colyton.

CROYDE - The Bathing Fatality At Croyde. - An Inquest has been held at the house of MR FREDERICK ROWE, Croyde, on the body of JAMES HAROLD ROWE, aged 30, a taxidermist of Barnstaple, and son of MR JAMES ROWE, of the same place. Deceased was drowned at Croyde, on Tuesday, while bathing in the sea. - JAMES ROWE, a gun and fishing-tackle maker, of High-street, Barnstaple, father of deceased, said the latter went to Croyde on a visit about three weeks ago. Witness after getting to the house of his brother (MR FRED ROWE) on Tuesday, heard that a man had been drowned. He and his brother immediately went to the sands. - Frederick Jenkins, of Croyde, stated that he walked into the sea with deceased. The latter waded until he was up to his neck in water, when he twice shouted for help. The tide was half ebb and the sea was choppy. Witness immediately went to get the lifebelt, but on returning nothing of the deceased was to be seen. If it had not been for the strong undertow witness would have gone out to and tried to have saved deceased. - P.C. Mules, after having given evidence, was asked by the Coroner if he considered there were proper appliances on the beach for saving the lives of those in difficulty? - P.C. Mules: I am not aware of any. - Frederick Jenkins, recalled, said he had to go about a quarter of a mile to fetch the lifebelt, which was placed at the other end of the beach. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned while Bathing."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 8 August 1904
THURLESTONE - The Bathing Accident At Thurlestone. A Brother's Painful Experience. - The County Coroner, Mr Sidney Hacker, held an inquest at Thurlestone on Saturday respecting the death of the REV. ARTHUR GLADSTONE HENLEY, vicar of Mansfield, who was drowned while bathing with his brother, DR EDWARD WHISHAM HENLEY, of Barnwood, Gloucestershire. - DR HENLEY said his brother was unmarried and 51 years of age. On Friday morning they both cycled from Kingsbridge to Thurlestone to bathe, as they frequently had done. there was a fresh south-westerly breeze, and the water was rather rough, but they did not think it unsafe to bathe. His brother was a good swimmer. they swam out a short distance and witness found it quite hard work to get back, as the water was much broken, and there was a heavy ground swell. He was not exhausted, but he got ashore with some difficulty. Witness shortly afterwards looked around, and saw his brother was some distance out swimming for the beach. witness did not suspect anything wrong, but afterwards he thought he heard a call. He re-entered the water and swam out to his brother. Deceased told him he was in trouble, and said he was done. DR HENLEY got behind and tried to push him on, but deceased told him to go, saying it was no good both being drowned. His brother appeared to be swimming fairly well. Witness was obliged to leave him, as his own strength failed and he could do nothing. His brother was still struggling on when he last saw him. Help was summoned. Afterwards the tide washed his brother's body into shallow water and witness went in, and, with help, brought it ashore. An attempt to restore animation failed. - The Rev. T. M. Bell Salter, vicar of West Alvington, corroborated, and stated that he believed there were strong inward currents on either side of the sands, and a powerful inward current in the centre which would account for deceased struggling to swim back, and his body being washed ashore shortly afterwards. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," and expressed sympathy with the relatives of the deceased clergyman, and the Jury expressed their acknowledgment of the efforts made by DR HENLEY to save the life of his brother.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 9 August 1904
DAWLISH - The Death Of A Dawlish Servant. Important Witness Still Missing. - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, at the Vestry Hall, yesterday, resumed his Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of FANNY ELIZABETH ANDREWS, domestic servant, of 7 Barton Villas, who died at the Dawlish Cottage Hospital on July 5th. - The Coroner said after a month's adjournment he had hoped to have had something further to bring before the Jury. An important witness, a man named Venning, of Newton Abbot, for whom a warrant had been issued, had bolted, and nothing had been heard of him since. Although there was no evidence to incriminate him, it was a peculiar, not to say suspicious, circumstance that he should prefer to run away rather than appear before them. There was no legal proof against him, therefore, the only thing for them to do would be to close the inquiry - The Coroner then read through the evidence taken at the Inquest on July 8th, which was to the effect that deceased was aged 29, and the wife of WILLIAM CLIFFORD HARRISON, a packer on the Great Western Railway, Bath, from whom she had been separated about five years. She entered the service of Mrs Mulias, of 7 Barton Villas, a few months previous to her death. On June 22nd she was taken ill and Dr Lovely was sent for. He recognised her condition, and asked her if she had been taking any drugs. She admitted taking a quantity of steel pills and a bottle of green mixture procured from Mr Christie, Newton Abbot. On June 223rd she was prematurely confined and on June 25th she was removed to the Hospital. Dr Lovely, in conjunction with Dr Russell Coombe, performed an operation on her, but she never rallied. - The Coroner asked Mr Christie if the green mixture was sold for any specific purpose, and he replied that it was usually sold as a tonic and for irregularities. - The Coroner then asked Dr Lovely if the mixture was dangerous for women. Dr Lovely replied that no medical man would be justified in giving the mixture under certain conditions. - Further questions by the Coroner, Mr Christie said that he had no knowledge of this woman whatever. He had never seen her. - The Coroner produced a letter, signed by, and purporting to be from Venning, stating that he knew nothing about the woman taking drugs and the reason he kept away was because he could not face the scandal. - The Jury returned a verdict that death was due to Peritonitis, following the taking of drugs.

SIDMOUTH - The Dangers Of Motor Cycling. Inquest On MR CHRISTIAN At Sidmouth. - Mr C. E. Cox conducted an Inquiry at the Sidmouth Cottage Hospital yesterday, into the circumstances connected with the death of MR BENJAMIN CHRISTIAN, a visitor to Sidmouth. - MR WILFRED CHRISTIAN identified the body as that of his brother, who was 50 years of age, and the manager of a Bank at St. Ives, Huntingdonshire. - Harry Tucker, of Sidmouth, said he was driving his milk cart, on Friday, at Radway Corner and in the direction of Landpart. Deceased suddenly came around the corner from the Salcombe-road on a motor cycle at a great pace and collided with witness's vehicle. Deceased was knocked off, became unconscious and was conveyed to the Cottage Hospital. - By a Juryman: There was no room to pass on either side. - John Maeer of Peak Farm, said he was driving a farm roller by the side of the last witness at the time of the accident. The roller was making a great noise. It was impossible to hear the hooting of the motor cycle which deceased was riding at the time because the roller was travelling over some stones. Witness was travelling at the rate of two miles per hour and Tucker was moving at a rate not exceeding five miles an hour. Neither the deceased nor the last witness could see each other until they collided. The near shaft of the milk cart struck deceased in the mouth and knocked him backwards. - John Clode, butcher, gave corroborative evidence. He was of opinion that the deceased was riding too fast - say at a rate of 16 or 17 miles an hour. - The Coroner: An extremely fast rate, I believe? - Witness: Yes; too fast. - Harry Pope and P.C. Hutchings also gave evidence. The former considered the pace at which deceased was riding was dangerous, especially in such a locality. - Dr Pullin, who attended deceased, said he found a number of small injuries upon the deceased. He did not think, however, that deceased could have been travelling at the speed indicated by the witness Clode, because if the shaft caught him in the mouth it would have inflicted serious injuries. As it was, the only mark on the mouth was a slight cut on the lip. Deceased died from concussion of the brain and haemorrhage. - Replying to MR CHRISTIAN, the witness Tucker stated that he did not whip up his horse just prior to the accident. - In summing up, the Coroner said it was an extremely sad case, and both he and the Jury sympathised with the relatives of the deceased. There was no doubt from the evidence that deceased met his death accidentally and that no blame could be attached to anyone. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and extended their sympathy to MR W. CHRISTIAN and the rest of the family.

NEWTON POPPLEFORD - The Suicide At Newton Poppleford. - An Inquest has been held by Mr C. E. Cox at the Exeter Inn, Newton Poppleford, on the body of DANIEL GOSLING, aged 67, a pensioner of the Royal Marine Artillery, living in the village. He was unmarried, and respected throughout the neighbourhood. - Mary Ash, a niece, who was deeply affected while giving her evidence, said the deceased had kept his bed for two or three days and was seen by Dr Pullin, of Sidmouth, on Wednesday evening. On Friday morning, about 5 o'clock, she heard a noise in the deceased's room as of someone falling, and on going to the room found her uncle lying on the floor on his face and hands and a quantity of blood on the floor. She spoke to him, and, getting no reply, ran and called her next-door neighbour, whose son returned with her, and found on raising deceased's head that his throat was cut and bleeding profusely. Deceased had never threatened to do anything to himself, and had not had anything troubling him. He was always happy and comfortable, and she thought he would have been the last person to have done such a thing. He had a bad illness about a month ago, but was better on Thursday after the doctor had seen him, and more cheerful. - Lewis Down corroborated. Deceased was one of the best men in the village and liked by everyone. - P.C. Clarke said that on turning over the body he found a pocket knife opened (produced) in the blood under deceased's right arm. Life was extinct. In answer to the Coroner, witness said the deceased was one of the most sober and respected men of the village and always seemed cheerful. - Dr Pullin, Sidmouth, said he received a letter by post on Wednesday asking him to see the deceased, which he did the same evening, and found him suffering from severe internal haemorrhage, due principally to liver derangement. He desired deceased to keep his bed, prescribed for him and promised to see him again on Friday morning. Between 6 and 7 a.m. on Friday he was suddenly called to him. On examining the deceased he found a throat wound extending from ear to ear, which had severed the windpipe and blood vessels on each side of the neck and from which death must have been well nigh instantaneous. He had attended deceased through June for a severe case of blood poisoning in the hand, threatening the necessity for amputation of one or two fingers, but from which he perfectly recovered. He had also twice successfully operated on one of deceased's eyes during the past five or six years. As the Admiralty surgeon, witness examined and passed deceased into the Navy about 50 years since, and for the last 30 years, during which he had enjoyed a pension. He had known him intimately as a most straight-forward, honest and conscientious man, and for his sphere in life highly intelligent and respected by all. He should have thought him the last man to have committed such an act. - The Jury unanimously confirmed every word Dr Pullin said, and the Coroner said, under those circumstances, he should like to know if the doctor could suggest any possible cause for the deceased's action on the present occasion. - Dr Pullin answered by saying he feared his reply would be considered somewhat irrelevant, but during his lengthened experience of 54 years, he had seen mysterious instances of brain affection from various causes - for instance, four cases of shock to it from dreams destroying a sense - two of hearing and two of sight - and also three instances of sudden and complete recovery from long chronic illness from shock; also by a dream. Two cases of severe haemorrhage similar to the present one were followed by the mind becoming suddenly affected and ending in lunacy, in one for two and in the other for six years, and necessitating removal to the Asylum in the latter case. To the loss of blood by its effect on the brain he was inclined to attribute the fatal action of the deceased in the present case. He could grasp no other possible or probable cause. - The Coroner considered the doctor's remarks most interesting and especially important in reference to the case under consideration. - The Jury concurring, the verdict was "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 10 August 1904
EXETER - Exeter Carpenter's Sudden Death. - An Inquest was held at the Police Station, Exeter, yesterday, by Mr W. L. Brown, Coroner, upon the body of JOHN COURTNEY, 3 Colleton Buildings, who died suddenly on Monday. - RICHARD HENRY COURTNEY, gardener, of Colleton Buildings, identified the body as that of his father, whose age was 67, and who was a joiner and carpenter in the employ of Mr G. Diggines. Witness last saw deceased alive on Sunday, when he made no complaint. Mr Holden, Surgeon, had, however, told deceased's wife that her husband might die at any moment, as his heart was affected. - Robert Hawthorne, 7 Tudor-street, said he had been working with the deceased during the past fortnight at Mary Arches-street infants' school. On Monday, after returning from breakfast, deceased complained to witness of a pain near his heart. He did not cease work, but at 11 o'clock complained again. Witness told him he had better have some brandy, but deceased replied he would wait until dinner time. About 12.30 deceased left the room, but as he did not return by 12.50 witness went to look for him. He found deceased sitting in a chair in the girls' schoolroom, dead. Witness then fetched Mr Pereira, Surgeon. - Mr Pereira said he examined the body in Mary Arches School, and found no marks of violence. From the appearance of the body and the evidence of the witness Hawthorne, he considered death to be due to failure of the heart's action. - A verdict was returned accordingly, and sympathy extended to the deceased's family.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 11 August 1904
EXETER - Sad Drowning Case At Exeter. - "Accidental Drowning" was the verdict returned by the Jury at the Inquest conducted by Mr H. W. Gould, District Coroner, at Spring Garden Cottages, Haven Banks, Exeter, on the body of FREDERICK TOWNSEND, aged 10 years, of 13 Weirfield-road, Exeter, who was drowned in the Canal, near Spring-gardens, on Tuesday. - WILLIAM TOWNSEND, father, said that his son FREDERICK left home to play at 9 o'clock on Tuesday morning. He did not return home during the day, and at about 11 p.m. Mr Greenham, with whose children his own were very friendly, told him that his boy was drowned at the Double Locks. - Samuel Greenham, 15 Weirfield-road, labourer, said that shortly after 11 p.m. on Tuesday MRS TOWNSEND came to his house, and asked "Have you seen FREDERICK?" Witness, who was at the bedroom window, replied "No," whereupon his little girl, Lucy, said "Father, he is in the water at the Double Locks and drowned." Upon this a search was made, and the body recovered. On the way he met MR TOWNSEND. - Dr Brash, who examined the body, said there were no marks of violence, and the body presented the usual appearance of death from drowning. - Lucy Greenham, aged nine, said that she went across the river in the ferry boat with deceased, and went on the swings at the Double locks with him. The man at the Locks told them to go home, as they had been there long enough. They then went along the bank, until FREDDY saw some minnows, and attempted to catch them. She went down the bank with him, and when she felt herself slipping she returned, and on hearing a splash looked around and saw FREDDY in the water. He bobbed up and stared at her and then went down and she did not see him again. There was a man standing on the bank about 300 yards away, and she called to him, but he took no notice. She was frightened at the time and ran home. She did not tell anyone about it, because she thought her father would beat her, as she had been cautioned so many times about going near the water. - The Coroner said he could hardly think that if a man had been standing on the bank, as the child stated, he would not have rendered assistance, or try to at least. Sergeant Boutfield had made every possible inquiry as to this supposed man, but could not obtain the slightest information.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 12 August 1904
TEIGNMOUTH - A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned at the Inquest held at Teignmouth upon HENRY BOUGH, a hairdresser's assistant, of Bristol, who was drowned while bathing off the Warren at Exmouth on Bank Holiday. The Jury commended Leonard Hodge, of Bristol and Thomas John Holman, of Topsham, for the efforts they made in endeavouring to save BOUGH'S life.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 13 August 1904
LYME REGIS, DORSET - Sudden Death At Lyme Regis. A Sidbury Girl's Sad End. - After attending the Flower Show MISS ROSE SPURWAY was walking in Pound Street, Lyme Regis with Miss Bessie Elliott, when she dropped and died within a few minutes. The body was taken to Dr Cooper's surgery. - Yesterday, at the Inquest held by Mr C. G. Nantes, it was stated that the deceased, with Miss Elliott, was employed at the house of Miss Barnes, Sidmouth Hill. Deceased, who was 14 years of age, had never shown any distinct symptoms of weakness, but had shown shortness of breath when going uphill. After visiting the Flower Show with Miss Elliott deceased was returning home, when the sad occurrence took place. Mr John Stovin, chemist, rendered assistance, but it was evident the poor girl had died immediately she fell. - The father of the deceased, who resided at Sidbury, told the Coroner his daughter had a fit about a year ago, and this was followed by a second last November. She was attended by Dr Pullin, of Sidmouth, and he told him deceased had a very weak heart. Since then she had appeared in perfect health. - Dr Spurr, of Lyme Regis, also gavel evidence to the effect that deceased suffered from a weak heart and said he was not altogether surprised to hear of her sudden death. - The Coroner said the case was an exceedingly sad one. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes". They gave their fees to the Lyme Cottage Hospital.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 17 August 1904
FREMINGTON - The North Devon Bathing Fatality. Inquest At Fremington. Bravery Of A Little Girl. - An Inquest was held yesterday afternoon by Mr J. F. Bromham at Fremington House, Fremington, on the bodies of LADY HILDA MAUD MCNEILL, aged 37, (sister of the Earl of Stradbroke), wife of MR CHARLES PONSONBY MCNEILL, Master of the North Cotswold Hounds, and RICHARD GLYN PRICHARD, aged 11, son of MR PRITCHARD, of Stow-in-the-Wold. The Foreman of the Jury was Mr Arundell Clarke. - Evidence of identification was given by MR CHARLES FITZROY PONSONBY MCNEILL, husband of the deceased lady. witness came, with his wife and his two children to Fremington House on a visit a fortnight ago. GLYN PRICHARD and his two sisters came subsequently. The boy was 11 years of age. His wife had a bathing tent erected at first at Instow, but later she had it put up just below the polo ground, and near the river Taw. She had bathed nearly every day. He saw her start to bathe the previous morning, about 8 o'clock. She was accompanied by the deceased lad PRICHARD, his sister MAY, and witness's son RONALD, a lad. About half an hour afterwards he saw MAY PRICHARD coming back over the river wall. He thought she was returning from bathing, but she came to the polo ground and told Mr Dugdale that GLYN and LADY HILDA were drowned. He ran down to the waterside. It was a very high tide and the wind was blowing very fresh on shore. He found his own little boy on the beach and he said his mother and GLYN were drowned. He pointed to GLYN'S body, which was floating near the shore. Witness took the body out of the water and found he was quite dead. He put him under the fence and covered him with a bath towel. There was no sign of LADY HILDA'S body. Efforts were made to restore animation before the body of the little boy was removed to Fremington House. Later in the morning the body of his wife was discovered, and was taken back to the house at about half-past 12 or 1 o'clock. His wife had only just learned to swim a few strokes. - MAY RACHEL PRICHARD, 13 years of age, sister of the deceased boy GLYN, said the previous morning she went to the riverside with LADY HILDA MCNEILL to bathe. Her late brother and RONALD MCNEILL went with them. - After the three had been in the water a short time she heard RONALD screaming. He was then only paddling, the water being up to his ankles. She saw that LADY HILDA and GLYN were in danger. LADY HILDA beckoned, and witness endeavoured to get the rope off the tent to throw to her, but she could not. She then tied a bathing towel to a stick, but could not reach them. She saw LADY HILDA floating on her back with her head down in the water. She thought she was drowned. Her brother was somewhat nearer the shore, and was floating in the same manner. She made her way at once to the polo field nearly a mile away to give the alarm. It was very rough at the time the accident occurred. She had seen LADY HILDA bathe at the same spot before. - M J. R. Harper, Surgeon, of Barnstaple, said he used artificial means on the boy to try to restore respiration, but it was of no use. His opinion was that he was dead when he was taken out of the water. The body of LADY HILDA was not found until later - George Manley, a sailor, of Braunton, in company with Bernard Tucker, while pulling up near the shore to go to his ship saw the body of a lady in the water, and he and his mate took it ashore, and it was afterwards taken to Fremington House - Bernard Tucker corroborated. - The Coroner described the case as one of the saddest he had had to deal with in his official carer of over 20 years. Their sincere sympathies would go out to the bereaved husband and to the father of the boy PRICHARD whose mother died only a short time ago. - The Jury returned a verdict that the deceased were Accidentally Drowned while Bathing in the River Taw. At the suggestion of Mr Arundell Clarke a rider was added expressing the sympathy of the Jury with the bereaved families and the Jury also considered that MISS MAY PRICHARD behaved most bravely. - On behalf of MR MCNEILL and MR PRICHARD, Mr Need a cousin of MR PRICHARD, thanked the Jury for their kind sympathy. He could not tell them how much the two bereaved families felt the sympathy of everyone in Fremington with them in that sad time. - The bodies will today be removed to their respective homes for interment.

EXETER - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned at an Inquest held by Mr H. W. Gould yesterday at the Devon County Prison touching the death of MATTHEW FISHER, who died on the previous day. Joseph Hubble, chief warder, identified the body. Deceased was aged 61 years. He was a native of Chulmleigh, and expired on the day in question in the Prison Infirmary. Since his admission he had not been subjected to any punishment. He was sentenced on the 28th of July to a month's imprisonment with hard labour for cruelty to a pony at Axminster. Dr John Mortimer, Medical officer of the Prison, deposed that the prisoner was, on admission to the Prison, sent to the Infirmary, where he was detained until his death. He was suffering from Bright's Disease, which, with other complications, was the cause of death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 19 August 1904
BRAUNTON - A verdict "That deceased was Accidentally Drowned while attempting to cross the bar" was returned at an Inquest held at Braunton on the body of JOHN ARTHUR BARROW, aged 8, a fisherman, of Silver-street, who, together with his uncle (WM. BARROW, of Barnstaple) was drowned on the 6th inst., through the swamping of their boat while crossing the Bideford Bar.

WHITCHURCH - Melancholy Incidents At Whitchurch. Husband And Wife Die. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday on the body of MRS ELIZA HIGMAN, aged 73, wife of MR WM. HIGMAN, a retired warder from Dartmoor Prison. Mr W. Shepperd was Foreman of the Jury. The deceased, about 7.15 a.m. on the previous day, came downstairs and complained of headache. Her husband left the room for a minute and on his return his wife had expired. Dr Clapp attributed death to heart disease. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly. MR HIGMAN, who had been under Dr Clapp's care for two years for heart disease, and who was 72 years old, also died suddenly about 1 o'clock yesterday morning, evidently from the shock caused by his wife's sudden death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 22 August 1904
UPLYME - Sad Incident At Uplyme. Death From Over-Joy. - An Inquest was held at the Talbot Arms Inn, Uplyme, on Saturday, before Mr C. E. Cox, Coroner, and a Jury, touching the death of JOB COLLIER, labourer, of Uplyme, aged 79, who was found dead by the side of the road, about 200 yards from the Talbot Arms Inn, on Thursday, at 4.55 p.m. P.C. Luxmore, with assistance, conveyed the body to the Talbot Arms. - Evidence was given by deceased's son, JOHN COLLIER, to the effect that he resided in Wales, and had come home for the purpose of taking his father back with him. The old man was overjoyed at the thought. Testimony was given by Mr Irish, and Dr Spurr, of Lyme Regis, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Syncope, accelerated by excitement."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 23 August 1904
EXETER - A Child's Death At Exeter. - Mr W. R. Cocks held an Inquest at the Exeter Police Court yesterday upon the body of ALBERT HENRY TAVERNER, an infant. The father stated that on Saturday evening the child appeared to be rather weak, and died early on Sunday morning. Replying to a Juror, witness stated that he did not fetch a doctor because he had left everything to the nurse. - Eleanor Bailey, an uncertificated nurse, said the child was only born on Saturday evening. It was very weak, but became stronger after being bathed in warm water. Witness left about midnight and gave instructions that if the child became worse she was to be sent for. No message, however, came, but when she went on Sunday morning to see how the child was getting on, it was dead. - Dr Andrews said the child was prematurely born. He did not think its life could have been saved under any circumstances. - The Coroner said, be that as it may, it was the duty of parents to call in medical assistance when a child was born. - In returning a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence the Jury added a rider to the effect that the father had somewhat neglected his duty by not sending for a doctor when he found his child was very weak.

EXETER - An Exeter bus Driver's Death. A Plucky Conductor. - An Inquiry into the circumstances connected with the death of THOMAS MITCHELL, 'bus driver, of Guinea-street, Exeter, was held at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday by the Deputy Coroner, Mr W. R. Cocks. - The body was identified by WILLIAM MITCHELL, compositor, of 122 Sidwell-street, Exeter, who said the deceased, his brother, was 53 years of age. Deceased was not a tee-totaller, but did not drink heavily. - George Henry Trude, 96 Cowick-street, Exeter, rural postman, said he was walking up St David's-hill on the evening of the 18th, and, knowing the conductor of the 'bus driven by deceased, wished him "Good evening." The deceased turned round on hearing the voice, but, not knowing witness, looked ahead again. In witness's opinion deceased must have slipped or over-balanced himself, for he suddenly went forward and fell. Witness ran up to the horses and saw deceased lying across the traces. Before he could get near, however, the horses leapt forward and threw the deceased to the road. Witness could not say whether the wheels of the 'bus went over deceased - he thought not - and a gentleman who was passing said he could see distinctly that the wheels did not go over him. - Henry Northcote, conductor of the 'bus, said everything went well until just where the men were tearing up the old tramway lines. There were two ladies in the 'bus, and, at the time of the accident, witness was replying to questions which they had put concerning the electric trams. He then became conscious of a sudden lurch, but attributed it to the whipping of the horses. Upon arriving near Vicarage Lodge witness, noticing that the vehicle was going into the wall, clambered over the top and drew the reins. He then found that MITCHELL had been unseated and was being tossed about on the traces by the galloping horses. Witness pulled hard to stop the animals, and, as they backed, deceased fell between the traces to the ground. Witness believed, however, that the off horse kicked deceased. - Witness, in reply to questions, said he did not think the tramway operations had anything to do with the accident, as the 'bus had just cleared the place where the road was up. Deceased was sober. - Mr H. R. Burpitt, Assistant to the House Surgeon at the Hospital, said that when deceased was admitted to the Institution he had a fracture of both bones in the right forearm, lacerations on the right elbow, abrasions on the scalp and bruises on his body. He was also suffering from slight concussion. Witness believed the 'bus wheels must have passed over deceased's right arm. - Mr P. Stirk, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said that while in the Institution deceased became quite unmanageable. He was placed in a separate ward and a man deputed to sit with him. About midnight on Saturday he became worse and died from heart failure caused by the violence of alcoholic delirium. - A Juryman: I can't hear a word that is being said. - The Deputy Coroner: All right; I'll read the depositions over directly. - Another Juror asked the meaning of alcoholic delirium? - Witness said it was not necessary that a man should be a drunkard before he could suffer from such a form of delirium. What was one man's drink was another man's poison. In this case deceased's condition upon post-mortem examination showed that he had imbibed freely of liquor. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed appreciation of the action of the conductor in stopping the horses at great risk to himself. - The Deputy Coroner, in concurring, said it was the biggest wonder that the conductor was not killed in his efforts to save his fellow employee.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 26 August 1904
HEMYOCK - The inhabitants learnt with deep regret of the death of JOHN CARTER, which occurred suddenly. CARTER, who had lived with Mr Mortimer, butcher, for 18 years, did not return at his usual time. Mrs Mortimer took a light, and, on going into the yard, was alarmed to see him lying on the floor of an outhouse. She immediately called her husband, who found that CARTER was dead. - An Inquest was held by Mr C. E. Cox at the Council Schoolroom. The evidence was to the effect that a post-mortem examination, conducted by Dr Pearson, showed that deceased died as a consequence of a clot passing from the heart to the lung, thus cutting off the blood supply. The Jury, of which Mr Edward Wide was foreman, returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence. The funeral took place on Monday at the Cemetery, where the Rev. J. de B. Forbes officiated. The mourners included Mr and Mrs Mortimer, Mr J. McWilliams and daughter, Messrs. E. Lutley (Culm Davey), F. Chave and J. Hart, Mr and Mrs J. Hawkings, Miss White and Mrs Woolley. There were several beautiful wreaths.

EXETER - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned at the Inquest held yesterday at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on the body of WILLIAM GLASS a newsman, living at 14 Smythen-street, Exeter. Deceased, who suffered from asthma and bronchitis, fell down in High-street, Exeter, the previous evening and was taken to the Hospital. In the opinion of Mr Percy Stirk, House Surgeon, death was due to Apoplexy.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 30 August 1904
SHALDON - The Teignmouth Boating Disaster. Inquest And Verdict. - Yesterday the sad boating accident which occurred on Saturday evening was Inquired into at the Victoria Hall, Shaldon, by Mr S. Hacker. the owners of the steamship Princess May, the East Devon Brick and Tile Company, were represented by Mr M. B. Ford, of Exeter, who expressed the deep concern of the directors with the sad affair, and extended to the relatives of the deceased their sympathy. Mr H. C. Full, of Teignmouth, represented the friends of the deceased. - FRANK H. WARR, son of deceased, residing at 99 Hill-lane, Southampton, said his mother was 64 years of age. His father resided at Commercial-road, Southampton, and was the manager of a brewery. His mother was on a visit to Teignmouth. - William John Pridham, of 25 Orchard Gardens, Teignmouth, schoolmaster, said the deceased, who was his sister, had been staying with him for some days. He, with five others, went out for a row on Saturday for the purposes of seeing the polo match. The other occupants of the boat were his wife, his son, his wife, Mr C. Pridham and MRS WARR. The tide was running in strongly, and they rowed close to the shore towards the Point. Taking the usual course, they went to the Shaldon side, where the tide was not so strong. When in mid-stream, they saw a steamer coming round the Point. A sailing boat was entering the river, drifting in with the tide, and was not under control. The steamer was coming straight for the sailing vessel and in case of a collision between the two he and his son stopped rowing so as to be able to render any assistance. The collision took place and the bow of the steamer immediately turned round and made a course towards his boat. They rowed as hard as possible towards the Shaldon side and the Ness, thinking the steamer would get around. However, she did not pass under their stern, but took their boat between midships and the stern. The steamer was going at such a pace that it hoisted the stern and pushed them down bow first, throwing all the occupants out. Four of them were picked up by the ferry boat. His son pulled deceased out of the water on to the keel of the boat previous to their being picked up, by the ferry man. Deceased was placed on the beach and medical aid was summoned. While going ashore deceased spoke about her bad breath. She died on the beach about 6.30, in spite of the efforts made. Witness had had a boating experience extending over years. - By Mr Ford: He heard a whistle blown before the steamer came round the corner. It was impossible to drop astern of the steamer as it was right behind them. There were only two men on the steamer. - By Mr Full: Witness's boat was outside the current. After the collision with the sailing boat, the steamer started her engines again before running into them. the steamer's crew must have seen them. The tide was running in at four miles an hour. - Charles Albert Pridham, son of the last witness, corroborated. William Gilpin, ferryman, of Shaldon, said that seeing the steamer collide with the sailing boat, he pulled his boat towards them. The rowing boat was going out towards the Ness. The steamer took a sheir through the current, and collided with Mr Pridham's boat. - By Mr Full: The force of the tide was five miles an hour and the steamer was going at about four miles an hour. Mr Pridham could not avoid the accident as the steamer was right on him. If nothing went wrong, the crew on board would be sufficient to safely navigate the boat. He did not think the steamer was to blame. Those on board were watching the sailing boat, and did not see the other. - By Mr Ford: The boat had been in and out of the harbour for nine months and he had never noticed more than two men on board. - The witness commended the action of Colonel Williamson's son in assisting him ashore with Mrs Pridham. - Felix Roland John Matthews, Trinity Pilot to the Port of Teignmouth, said he was sitting just opposite where the accident occurred. The steamer blew its whistle twice before taking the sweep to get over to the Shaldon side. The tide carried the steamer over "like a dart," and it struck Mr Pridham's boat on the quarter. The accident could not be avoided, unless the steersman had put his helm to starboard instead of to port, which would be contrary to the rules of the road. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said that it was stated that the boat was registered at fourteen tons, and carried twenty-four tons. - Dr Bell said that when he was called the deceased was just losing consciousness. The Coastguards were trying artificial respiration, but her heart was failing, and deceased died about a quarter of an hour later from heart failure, which was accelerated by shock due to submersion in the water. - Isaac Robert Page, who was in charge of the Princess May, said, seeing two boats going along the shore he blew his whistle in rounding the Point. He saw the sailing boat coming in with the tide. He starboarded his helm to get out of the way, but seeing a collision was inevitable, stopped his engines and ported his helm a little, and a second or two later went into the other boat. If he had put his helm hard to port he would have gone ashore at Shaldon. His engines were not going when he went into the rowing boat. If he had seen the rowing boat before he would have starboarded his helm and got clear. - After a retirement the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," exonerating the steamer crew from blame. The Jury expressed their sympathy with MR WARR and family, and thanked all those who had kindly rendered assistance in the matter. The Coroner and the solicitors present also extended their sympathy with the deceased's relatives and thanked the Coastguards, Gilpin, Matthews and others who assisted the party in the accident.

TOTNES - At the Inquest on RICHARD DOWN, of Plymouth, held at Totnes yesterday, a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned. The evidence given showed that the deceased was in Fore-street, Totnes, on Saturday night and appeared to be helplessly drunk. Two Constables took him to the Police Station, where he expired. The medical evidence showed that the heart and other organs were badly diseased.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 31 August 1904
STOODLEIGH - Stoodleigh Farmer's Suicide. - "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was the verdict returned by the Jury at an Inquest held at Haldridge Mill, near Stoodleigh, on the body of JOHN MORGAN LUXTON, aged 45 years, farmer and miller, who was found by his seven-year-old son suspended from a rope in a loft at Haldridge Mill. The Inquest was conducted by Mr F. Thomas, Deputy Coroner. - MRS LUXTON said she last saw her husband alive on Friday morning, at about 8.15. He had his breakfast and then said "He was going up over," by which she understood him to mean that he was going up over the fields. As he did not return she thought he had gone to Wheatlands, where his brother CHARLES lived. He was in the habit of going there. Deceased had complained of pains in the head since last May, and five or six weeks ago he saw a doctor. He was depressed, and at times worse than others. She (witness) had never heard him threaten to take his life. - RICHARD JOHN LUXTON said he was seven years of age and a son of the deceased. On Friday evening at about 7 o'clock he went into a loft in the yard for the purpose of picking up eggs. On entering the loft he saw his father with a rope around his neck, and hanging from the roof. He at once informed his mother of the discovery. - Mr Henry Paine, Surgeon, of Bampton, said that when he saw the body at 9 p.m. death had taken place several hours previously. Witness saw deceased on the 19th inst., at the request of his brother, CHARLES. He was then at work. He was very nervous, trembling and excited and complained of not being able to sleep at night. Witness advised him to go away for a change. - P.C. Blackmore, stationed at Oakford, said that deceased's toes were touching the floor of the loft. - CHARLES EDWARD LUXTON, brother, said deceased complained to him of pains in the head. He seemed to trouble about money matters, but, as far as he knew, there was no need for him to do so.

BISHOPS TAWTON - The Bathing Fatality Near Barnstaple. - Last evening an Inquest was held at Bishopstawton by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, on the body of REGINALD ABBOT RIDD, aged 17, son of MR A. R. RIDD, landlord of the Chichester Arms inn, Bishopstawton, who was drowned, as stated in yesterday's "Gazette," while bathing in the River Taw on Monday evening. - The father of the deceased stated that he last saw the deceased, who was his second son, on Monday morning, at about 6 o'clock, as he was dressing to go to his work as a carpenter's apprentice at Barnstaple. When witness came home in the evening he heard that his son had been drowned. - Archibald John Thomas, a school boy of 15, pupil at the Barnstaple Grammar School, said that the deceased, he, and a lad named Taylor went to the river, close to the village, the previous evening to bathe at the usual place, near the railway bridge. Witness went into the water first and deceased followed. About three minutes afterwards Taylor, who was undressing, called to him that RIDD had disappeared. He swam to where he had seen the deceased, but he had sunk for the last time. - George H. Taylor, a mason's improver, aged 18, agreed with the last witness that the tide was running up strong, and the depth of water where deceased sank was about six feet, but deceased was only learning to swim. At low water, where they always bathed, there was, a little way out, rather a nasty dip in the bed of the river. - Thomas Lock deposed to finding the body the following morning in a pit of water about ten or twelve feet from where the lad was supposed to have been drowned. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," and sympathy was expressed with the parents. - This Inquest made the ninth which the Coroner has held in his district this quarter on persons drowned and the fourth bathing fatality.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 2 September 1904
SOUTH TAWTON - Octogenarian's Suicide. Strange Case At South Zeal. - An Inquest has been held by Mr J. D. Prickman, District Crooner, at the Cawsand Beacon Hotel, South Zeal, on the body of CHARLES ARSCOTT, of Ramsley, who was found dead in a linhay near Dishcombe with his throat cut. - Mr Joseph Labdon was the Foreman of the Jury. - MR C. ARSCOTT, of Belstone, stated that deceased was his father, and 87 years of age. Witness last saw him alive a week ago, when he appeared to be in his usual health and to have no worries of any kind. - Mrs Hooper, grand-daughter, with whom deceased lived, said she last saw him alive on Sunday evening. He was then in good health and went to bed at about 7.30 o'clock, his usual time. He left in the morning at about 7 o'clock, with the intention of going to work at Dishcombe. He had no breakfast that morning, and did not shave. - Mrs Lake stated that as she was passing the linhay in question, at about 11 a.m., she saw deceased in a prostrate position, apparently dead. She sent for the Police. - P.C. Berry, who arrived at about noon, found deceased lying in a pool of blood, and grasping by his right hand the second bar of a hurdle. A razor sheath was beside deceased and a razor underneath the body. He had a nasty wound across the windpipe. - Dr Davies stated that he found no external marks beyond a gash across the windpipe, 2 ½ inches long. No arteries were severed, but some small veins were cut. The body was well nurtured. The deceased had been shaved the same morning. The wound was, without doubt, self-inflicted. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind."

HIGHAMPTON - An accident, which proved fatal, befel the only child of MR and MRS BATTEN, on Sunday. MRS BATTEN had scalded some milk, and put it in the accustomed place to cool, and the child, aged 2 ½ years, in playing about, fell into it. Dr Atkins was immediately sent for, but the child succumbed early on Monday morning. An Inquest was held on Tuesday, and, in accordance with the medical evidence, a verdict of "Death from Shock, brought on by Scalding" was returned. The Jury exonerated the parents from all blame and deeply felt for them in their sad and sudden bereavement.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 3 September 1904
TIVERTON - The Tiverton Mystery. Open Verdict. - In the absence of the Tiverton Borough Coroner, Dr Mackenzie, who is away from home, Mr Alfred Burrow, of Cullompton, conducted an Inquest at Tiverton Infirmary yesterday on the body of the young woman found on Wednesday in the leat which works the turbines of Sir John Amory's electric light works at Bolham, about 1 ½ miles from the town. - Mr C. H. Nott was Foreman of the Jury. - WILLIAM OSBORNE, labourer, of Bowden-hill, Crediton, identified the body as that of his daughter, LUCY, aged 17 years, whom he last saw alive about two months ago. She was then employed at a factory in Crediton, and lived at home. She gave up her employment at the factory and left home, but did not say where she was going. He heard she had gone to Ilfracombe, and a letter he received from a married daughter verified the report. The letter stated that deceased stayed at Ilfracombe nine days. As far as he knew she had no money when she left her home at Crediton, and she must have walked to Ilfracombe. Since she left Ilfracombe he had heard nothing of her whereabouts, but he did not think anything was wrong with her. The Police knew she had left Crediton. - The Coroner: Considering that your daughter was only 17 years of age did you not think something was wrong for her to leave home and not say where she was going? - Witness: She had a comfortable home, and I don't know why she went away. She had a brother at Silverton, and also a brother at Willand. - In the course of further evidence witness said deceased was a fine, smart girl. He had never heard her threaten to take her life, but he had been told by a neighbour at Crediton that his daughter had said she would drown herself. But he could give no reason why she should do so. She had a young man, but he left about three months ago. He did not know that this troubled her. She said nothing to him (witness) respecting the young man. Witness could not imagine why she went to Tiverton. She had not seen her brothers for over a year. - By a Juryman: Deceased told his daughter at Ilfracombe that she was going to spend a fortnight's holiday at Ilfracombe. Deceased was never subject to fits while at home. - The Coroner; Was there any unpleasantness at home? - Witness: None whatever. She had as comfortable a home as any young girl could wish to have. - KATE PALMER, wife of Harry Palmer, shoemaker of Bowden-hill, Crediton, sister of deceased, said LUCY appeared to be happy and comfortable when at home. She knew no reason why she should destroy herself. She had heard she had a young man, but knew nothing about him. - James Manning, mason's labourer, of Tiverton, said he saw deceased a fortnight ago last Sunday in a cab at Mr Harvey's stables. Witness's mother came on the scene, and his brother asked her if she would take the girl in for the night. His mother consented. Deceased said she had come from Barnstaple, and it was her intention to go to Deptford Farm to see a young man named Perham. She told witness Perham was her brother. On the Monday morning, as he (Manning) had nothing to do, he accompanied deceased to the farm, where she saw Perham working in a field. She called him out. Witness then left, but he had not gone very far before the girl came back and said "He has not got the place to keep me as he said he would." She then said she was called OSBORNE and asked witness if he knew a JOHN OSBORNE at the Angel. Witness replied "Yes," and subsequently said to her "You must be telling lies, because you first of all said your name was Perham, and now it is OSBORNE." She replied "It is OSBORNE." She did not speak again during the time they were walking home. When they arrived at Tiverton deceased said she would go up to Butterleigh and stay with her brother. She left, and witness did not see her afterwards. On the Sunday night deceased said that at Barnstaple she had her hat stolen and the tam o'shanter hat (produced) put on instead, and that her boots were stolen and replaced by an old pair of shoes. Deceased appeared to know what she was saying. She stated her mother said that Perham would have to repent for not getting her the place he promised. While staying at his mother's house deceased had two fits. - Mrs Palmer, recalled, said she did not know the name of the young man with whom her sister kept company. She (witness) did not know a young man named Perham. - The Foreman expressed the opinion that Perham should have been present at the Inquest. - The Coroner concurred. Probably Perham would have been able to throw some light on the matter, as he seemed to have had a conversation with the girl. Manning, recalled, said the girl didn't tell him why she went to Perham with the exception that he was going to get a place for her. - By a Juryman: She did not hint that Perham had promised to marry her. She only said he was going to find her a place until her mother came. She added "My mother has been a good friend to him." - The Coroner mentioned that if the Jury thought it necessary the Inquiry could be adjourned in order that Perham might be called. - Wm. Chas. Lowe, electrician, at Bolham, said he found the deceased in the leat shortly before midday on Wednesday. The body was in a decomposed state. He informed the Police of the discovery. The body was close to the fender, about 50 yards above the turbine house. - George Duckham, basket maker, Tiverton, deposed to picking up a tam o'shanter hat on the Bolham-road, close to the river, about a fortnight or three weeks ago. There was also near by an empty water bottle, the shell of an egg and part of a newspaper. The hat was carefully placed near the wall. He took the hat home and told his daughter not to get rid of it. At the time he thought whether it belonged to a young lady who had been otter hunting. There was otter hunting in that neighbourhood two days previously. - Mr Burton, House Surgeon at the Infirmary, said that about a fortnight ago deceased was driven to the Infirmary about 10 a.m. by a man named Bennett. Witness examined deceased and concluded that there was nothing the matter with her. She left the Institution in the afternoon. Deceased said she was going to Stoodleigh. She gave two names - LUCY PERHAM and MISS RAWLE, 32 Victoria-street, Barnstaple - and said she was 24 years of age. Witness had made a post-mortem examination of the body, which was brought to the Mortuary on Wednesday. Deceased must have been in the water quite a fortnight. There were no marks of violence, and the body presented the usual appearances of death by drowning. Deceased was not enciente; was perfectly sane and had no fit during the time she was in the infirmary. - P.S. Rhodes said the clothes worn by deceased contained no money. - The Foreman, on behalf of the Jury, said they had come to the conclusion that there was no necessity to adjourn the Inquiry, and returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Sunday 4 September 1904
DAWLISH - Sudden Death Of A Dawlish Signalman. - Yesterday an Inquest was held at the Vestry Hall, Dawlish, by Mr S. Hacker, on the body of JAMES WAY, aged 48, signalman on the Great Western Railway, who died in bed at his residence, Springfield House, Luscombe Terrace, Dawlish. - SARAH WAY, widow, said deceased was, apparently, perfectly healthy and strong. He left work at 6 o'clock on Wednesday evening and was about the house until he went to bed at 10.30. In the night, however, he coughed a little, said he was dying and immediately expired. - Dr C. N. Lovely said he was called about midnight. He made a post-mortem, and found that deceased's heart was enlarged and the blood vessels diseased. The liver was also slightly congested. The other organs were healthy. Death was due to syncope through heart disease. - The Jury, of which Mr J. Shapter was Foreman, returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence. A vote of condolence with the widow and children was passed by the Jury and Coroner.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 5 September 1904
HATHERLEIGH - Tragic Death At Hatherleigh. - Mr J. D. Prickman, District Coroner, held an Inquest at Hatherleigh on the body of SIMON WEEKS, who was found dead in a field. MISS MABEL WEEKS, daughter of the deceased, stated that her father, who was 60 years of age, left home about 1.30 p.m. to go to the harvest field at Westmoor with the pony and cart. She next saw him lying dead in the field about 7 o'clock the same evening. The pony was a quiet one. - Charles Short, aged 18 years, said the deceased got on the shaft of the cart and drove down the field. The pony went at a fast rate. It burst the gate open and the deceased was pitched out. Witness went to the assistance of MR WEEKS and Dr Atkins was fetched. - Dr Atkins said when he arrived at the field MR WEEKS was quite dead. He had a wound on the upper part of the forehead. In witness's opinion death was caused by a fracture of the spinal cord near the base of the brain. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed their sympathy with the widow and family. - The deceased had been a resident in the town for about 50 years. For a long time he worked for Messrs. Bulleid and Son, but latterly has been the carrier to and from Exeter.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 6 September 1904
NEWTON POPPLEFORD - Boy's Suicide At Newton Poppleford. - An Inquest was held yesterday at Newton Poppleford by Mr C. E. Cox, Coroner, on the body of JOHN HENRY COLES, 14, in the employ of Mr Hermon Sellek, farmer, of Newton Poppleford. - The father of deceased, having given evidence of identification, said his son attempted to hang himself eight years ago. - Abraham Tozer, farm labourer, in the employ of Mr Sellek, deposed that deceased was working in the same field as himself on Saturday. Deceased seemed as usual, and made no remark to lead witness to suppose that he was going to commit a rash act. When witness went home to dinner he shouted "JIM" but could not see deceased. He looked around and saw him hanging on to the gate in a kneeling position, with the cord (produced) in a noose round his neck. Witness cut the cord at once, but the boy was dead. - A man named Rogers, also in Mr Sellek's employ, said deceased told him early on Saturday morning that the Policeman was going to summon him for stealing plums from an orchard. Deceased did not seem worried. - Other witnesses deposed that deceased spoke to them about the plum incident and that he seemed worried at the possibility of a charge being brought against him. - P.S. Newberry said the Police had no intention of issuing a summons. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 8 September 1904
BARNSTAPLE - MRS JANE BOOTH, aged 88, of South-street, Newport, Barnstaple, a few evenings ago fell from the side of her bed, death subsequently being the result. At an Inquest by Mr A. Bencraft, the medical evidence disclosed that deceased had fractured the neck of the thigh. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 9 September 1904
TORQUAY - A verdict of "Death from Heart Failure" was returned at the Inquest on ELIZA JOINT, of Torre Cottages, who died on Sunday.

ILFRACOMBE - North Devon Child's Singular Death. - An Inquest has been held at Key Pitt, near Ilfracombe, by Dr Slade-King (Deputy Coroner) on a child, ANNA GEAR. - EMMA GEAR, the sister, a school girl, said she resided at Key Pitt Farm, and her father was a labourer. On Friday witness went to Berrynarbor school at 8 a.m. with her sisters and brother. When near Crockhill ANNA fell down, having slipped on her shoe lace. Witness picked her up. She walked a little way and fell down again. On reaching the school she said her head was bad, and at 11.30 she asked the teacher to let her go home, which she did. - JOHN GEAR, labourer, said his daughter came home at 2 p.m., and complained of headache, and her mother gave her some senna. At 7.30 she became dangerously ill, and died at about 9 p.m. He went to Dr Osborne. the child had been in good health and had attended school regularly. - Dr Osborne was called and said he was of opinion that the child died from concussion of the brain. - The Coroner said it was a very remarkable case. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 10 September 1904
HONITON - The Sudden Death At Honiton. The Body Identified. - An Inquest was held yesterday at Honiton by the Coroner for East Devon, Mr C. E. Cox, concerning the death of the man who fell dead in Exeter-road, just outside the town, on Thursday morning, under circumstances reported in yesterday's "Gazette." - Archibald Rossi identified the deceased as a man named HENRY WILLIAM JARVIS, a native of Limehouse, London. Rossi stated that he was a travelling companion and the two had been associated for over ten years. Not being able to get along so quickly as deceased, they had parted at Yeovil, arranging to meet at Exeter. He stated that deceased was 51 years of age. - Evidence was given by Mr Gillard, landlord of the White Horse and James Perry, a lodger at that house, to the effect that JARVIS came in at 7 o'clock on the previous evening and engaged a room. He left the house after having tea and about 10 o'clock he performed some conjuring tricks in the taproom. Both then and the next morning when he left the house he appeared in his usual health. - John Scott, insurance agent, spoke to seeing the deceased drop in the roadway. On going to him he appeared in an unconscious condition. - Dr Parke, who stated that the man was quite dead when he saw him at the White Lion, where the body had been taken, said that, at the request of the Coroner, he had made a post-mortem examination, and, as the result, was of the opinion that an apoplectic fit was the cause of death. - The Jury, of which Mr Bizley was the Foreman, returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony. - P.S. Cridland informed the Coroner that inquiries had been made in London, Exeter and Plymouth concerning deceased, but no further information concerning his identity could be obtained. - The funeral of the deceased took place about 6 p.m., JARVIS being buried by the parish. Rossi, who was the only mourner, was deeply affected at the interment of his "chum."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 12 September 1904
LYDFORD - Inquest On A Dartmoor Convict. - Mr J. D. Prickman, County Coroner, has held an Inquest on the body of CHARLES HARRIS, a convict, who died at Dartmoor Prison on Wednesday, aged 61 years. - John William Franks (clerk in the Governor's Office) stated that deceased was convicted at the North London Sessions on the 7th April 1903, of larceny from the person and receiving. Previous to this there were five convictions recorded against him. He came to Dartmoor on the 22nd October last, and his conduct had been exemplary. The deceased was a Roman Catholic and married, but the present address of his wife was not known. - Dr Dyer, Medical Officer of the Prison, said the deceased had suffered from heart disease ever since he came to Princetown, and had frequently been in the Hospital. On the 7th inst., shortly after the deceased had partaken of dinner, he was found in a faint, and died shortly afterwards. The cause of death was syncope. - The Jury, of whom Mr Samuel Pyle was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 13 September 1904
TIVERTON - Tiverton Visitor's Sudden Death. The Inquest. - In the absence of the Coroner for the Borough of Tiverton, Dr Mackenzie, who is away from home, Mr A. Burrow, Cullompton, conducted an Inquest at Tiverton Infirmary yesterday on the body of JANE BOND, a widow, and a visitor to Brickfield-terrace, Martin's-lane, Tiverton, who died suddenly on Sunday. - Fanny Bibbings, 66, Charlotte-street, Devonport, said deceased had been living with her. On the 7th inst., she left Devonport to visit a Mrs Chapple, Martin's-lane, Tiverton. Deceased said she was well, but complained of feeling tired. - Sarah Chapple said she had known MRS BOND three years. On Sunday morning deceased came down to breakfast. Witness then left her. On her return she (witness) heard a groan and found deceased lying in the passage near the stairs. - Dr Pollock said he had made a post-mortem examination of the body. He found all the internal organs normal. On examining the skull he discovered that deceased had fractured a blood vessel. He attributed death to haemorrhage of the brain. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

TEIGNMOUTH - Brawl At Shaldon Regatta. A Hawker's Death. Unsatisfactory Evidence. - An Inquest was held yesterday at the Town Hall, Teignmouth, by Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, concerning the death of SIDNEY HIDER, a travelling hawker, who had come to Shaldon Regatta with toys, and who, getting mixed up in a fight, received injuries and died on Saturday morning. There was a large attendance of the general public. - From the evidence of his wife it was gathered that she left deceased about a quarter to 11 on Friday night sitting on the wall at Shaldon. Witness returned home, and then heard that he was fighting. She went out to look for him and met him in the doorway. Witness said, "Have you been fighting with my brother?" Deceased replied, "No, I have not been fighting with your brother, but some men over the road have been fighting with me." He said his head was bad and asked for a wet flannel. He subsequently added that he had been served bad. He laid down on some pillows on the floor and went to sleep. Witness did not disturb him, as she thought a sleep would do him good. When she saw him about 6 o'clock in the morning he was dead. Deceased was not drunk. He had a wound in his forehead over his left eye. Deceased said the pain was not there, but at the back of his head. - Victor Mayne, of Shaldon, said he saw a man come out of the public-house and fall over a pea-cart. The person in charge of it had an altercation with him and the deceased interfered. Then Jack Shapter took part in the row, and deceased struck at him. Shapter defended himself, and deceased appeared to fall. There was a large crowd, and some wanted the men to fight and others tried to part them. The deceased walked away. The fight hardly lasted a minute. - Edward Mole, hawker, said he was in his chip potato van, and saw Shapter go towards HIDER. When about six feet away, however, HIDER dropped down. Shapter did not hit him, not did deceased hit Shapter. Someone pushed Shapter against witness's cart. - Superintendent Wood: What was the cause of Shapter falling against your cart? - I don't know. - Superintendent Wood: You don't seem to be telling the same tale as you told the Sergeant? - The Coroner: You don't know why deceased fell? - Some men may fall for a purpose, so that they shan't get knocked. - The Coroner: That's all very well. It is a very serious matter and whatever your opinion is you are bound to tell us the whole truth. You must do it. If you saw a blow struck you should say so. - Witness: I didn't sir. I wouldn't kiss the Bible if I did, sir. - The Coroner: It is very unsatisfactory. None of the witnesses will say that they saw a blow struck. - William Winsborrow, of Shaldon, said he saw Shapter and deceased in a fighting attitude, but there was too great a crowd for any fighting. He did not see anybody fall. - After a consultation with Dr Bell, who made a post-mortem examination with Dr Hayward, the Coroner decided to adjourn the Inquiry for a week for the purpose of getting the evidence which he said they could not seem to obtain at the present time.

TORQUAY - Suicide In A Cab At Torquay. - Yesterday, at Torquay, the Deputy Coroner, Mr Kellock, held an Inquiry respecting the death of HENRY BUTLER CLARK, aged 40 years, an Oxford don and lecturer of languages, who was found shot in a public conveyance at Babbacombe on Saturday. The evidence showed that the deceased had been engaged on a literary work for his College in the South of France, that his health had broken down, and that he had come to Torquay on a visit to his father, suffering from insomnia and overwork. On Saturday he engaged a cab, visited a gunsmith and purchased a double-barrelled gun and cartridges and instructed the driver to take him to Wall's Hill to try the gun. On the way he shot himself through the roof of his mouth. In the cab was found half a sheet of note paper, on which was written the words, "Take me to the Police Station." It was stated that deceased was a very reticent man, and was most eager to get back to France to complete his literary work. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane," and passed a vote of sympathy with the relatives.

LYDFORD - Fatal Accident At Lydford. - Mr J. D. Prickman, County Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at Lower Merripit Farm, Lydford, on the body of FREDERICK WILLIAM WHITE, aged 15 years. - The deceased on Saturday accompanied his father and Mr Trott on a journey to Watern-hill with a pony and cart. When they got opposite the turning to Widdicombe the pony turned and the deceased snatched at the reins. The two men were walking in the rear, and when they came to the spot they found the deceased lying on the ground. He did not appear to be hurt externally, but complained of pains in the stomach. - Dr Laurie said he attended deceased on Saturday and found him suffering from internal haemorrhage caused by either crush or pressure, probably an artery was broken. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

TEIGNMOUTH - A Dangerous Practice. Visitor Killed At Shaldon. - Yesterday an Inquiry was held by Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, of Totnes, at the Town Hall, Teignmouth, touching the death of EDGAR CANDY, age 27, a civil engineer, of Balham, London, S.W., whose death occurred at Teignmouth on Shaldon Regatta day under circumstances already reported. - The deceased accompanied William Henry Pinsent, brewer, of Newton Abbot, and William James Davis, solicitor's clerk, of Teignmouth, to Shaldon Regatta. They went on the roundabouts, CANDY getting on the out-side "horse." He sat with his back to the "horse's" head, and while going round apparently attempted to turn round and fell into the road. He was subsequently taken to the Teignmouth Infirmary in an unconscious condition and found by Mr Ernest E. C. Price, the House Surgeon, to be suffering from concussion of the brain and from these injuries he succumbed. - The Coroner said the deceased seemed to have been riding in a very loose way and there was a question as to whether it was right for the roundabout to continue while deceased was in that unsafe condition. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," adding a rider to the effect that the practice of permitting persons to stand on the platform or sit in wrong positions on the horses while the machine was in motion was very unsafe.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 14 September 1904
PLYMOUTH - The Plymouth Boating Mystery. COPP'S Body Recovered. - The body of WALTER COPP, aged 25 years, boots at the Westminster Hotel, Plymouth, who, with FANNY WILLIAMS, a domestic servant at Manamead, mysteriously disappeared at Plymouth several days since, was recovered from Plymouth Sound yesterday. - The body of the young woman, who was a native of Bodmin, was taken from the water on Saturday and at the Inquest a verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned. - The man and woman were lovers. they hired a boat at Plymouth on the 2nd inst., and later the craft was discovered empty. A note attached to the seat, and addressed to the relatives of the young woman in Bodmin, stated that the couple had agreed to die together to "save them from the slurs of other people." - COPP'S parents reside at Tiverton. A telegram was received by them at 1.30 p.m. yesterday informing them of the discovery of their son's body and later in the afternoon MR COPP and his son (MR JOHN COPP) left for Plymouth.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 15 September 1904
EXETER - At an Inquest held yesterday by the City Coroner, Mr W. L. Brown, upon a labourer named GEORGE RISDON, of Easton-buildings, Castle-street, Exeter, the Coroner stated that the accident which was the cause of deceased's death took place in what was technically known as a workshop and he had not had time to give the Factory Inspector 24 hours' notice. He therefore postponed the Inquest till this evening at 6 o'clock.

MUSBURY - Financial Difficulties. Axminster's Relieving Officer's Suicide. - The Coroner, Mr C. E. Cox, conducted an Inquiry at Musbury yesterday into the circumstances attending the death of MR THOMAS WHITE, Relieving-officer, who was found hanging in a stable on Monday. Evidence of identification was given by GILBERT THOMAS WHITE, son, who said his father had of late been somewhat depressed owing to a great deal of trouble. He had never said anything which suggested that he would commit suicide. On Sunday evening, when witness was having supper, his father told him he did not know how he would pay the poor of Colyton on the following day as he had no money for the purpose. He said he had paid his Board cheque into the bank, and could not get it out again. His father had been worried on several Monday mornings of late. Deceased did not start for Colyton on the Monday morning at the time at which he usually did, and witness sent for a Constable. Witness had not the nerve to go and search for his father. A former Relieving-officer had hung himself in the stable. - The Foreman expressed surprise that the son had not gone to look for his father. It was, he said, a most terrible thing to him, and one of the most outrageous things he had ever heard. - The Coroner said he should hardly use the word outrageous. He did not think that that was the proper one to use. - Replying to a question, the witness said that his father paid the money he received for the poor into his own account - into a general banking account. - P.C. Wells deposed to finding the deceased hanging from a crook in the beam in the stable. - Arthur Henry White, manager of the Devon and Cornwall Bank, Axminster, said the deceased had an account at the bank in his own name. There was no separate account for the public money. Deceased had been in financial difficulties for some time. His account at the bank was £20 above the value of the security the bank held. He asked to draw £10 on Saturday, but witness said he could not oblige him. The Bank had not been pressing deceased at all. - Dr Langran having given evidence, the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane owing to Financial troubles."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 16 September 1904
CHULMLEIGH - The Fatal Accident At Burrington. The Dangers Of Cycling. - Mr J. F. Bromham, of Barnstaple, has held an Inquest at the Chulmleigh Cottage Hospital on the body of THOMAS NETHERCOTT, aged 25 years, of Burrington. Mr S. Smale was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Mr John Ford, of Burrington, said he was well acquainted with deceased. On the 2nd September, just after one o'clock, he was called to Townbridge, Burrington, where he was informed NETHERCOTT had met with an accident and found Dr Tucker in attendance. Witness got out his horse and trap and conveyed NETHERCOTT to Chulmleigh Cottage Hospital. - Mr F. Sanders, of Burrington, said he lived with deceased's father, and on the 2nd of September deceased and himself were at work at Hayne Farm. They left together to go to dinner, but, as deceased had his bicycle, they parted company. On reaching Townbridge he found deceased lying in the road, with Dr Tucker attending him, and at once went for further assistance. In answer to a Juryman the witness said deceased occasionally rode rather fast and was not over careful. - Dr Tucker, of Chulmleigh, said that on the 2nd of September he was going from Portsmouth Arms to Burrington in his horse and trap. On reaching Townbridge, where there was a sharp and dangerous corner almost at right angles, he saw a cyclist descending the hill on the opposite side at a very rapid rate. Witness at once pulled his horse up to a dead stop and deceased immediately crashed into the left shaft of his trap, fell in front of his horse's feet, then staggered up and said "I am dying." He was bleeding profusely and witness at once saw he was seriously injured. Witness cut deceased's trousers and found the shaft had entered the fleshy part of his left thigh in the upper third quarter and had glanced off the bone on the outside. He obtained some dressing at a neighbour's, bound up the leg as well as he was able in the roadway, and requested Mr Ford to take deceased to the Chulmleigh Cottage Hospital. He saw deceased at the Hospital two or three times a day and had hopes of his recovery, although the shock was very severe and deceased could obtain very little sleep. He appeared to be doing well, but on Friday night took a turn for the worse. On Sunday morning at 4 a.m. witness was called by the Matron, and found deceased was sinking. He passed away at 7.30 the same morning. There was a little gangrene in the wound, but in witness's opinion death resulted from shock following on the severe injury to the thigh. Witness could not possibly have avoided the collision, as he could only see a few yards at the spot where the accident occurred. - The Coroner having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict "That deceased met his death through colliding with a trap while cycling on 2nd September."

EXETER - An Exeter Inquest. - The adjourned inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of GEORGE RISDON, 64, labourer, of Easton's-buildings, Exeter, was conducted yesterday at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital. Thomas May, mason of Mermaid Yard, said deceased and himself were in the employ of Messrs. Force and Son, builders. On August 13th they were loading some cement on a hand-truck, when deceased, who had hold of the handles, suddenly fell backward. When they lifted the trucks, which were empty at the time, from off deceased he complained of a pain in his side. Mr William Marsden, Assistant House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased attended as an out-patient for three days and on August 16th was admitted as an in-patient. He died on September 13th. A post-mortem examination disclosed at one end of the stomach a growth resembling cancer, in the centre of which were the openings of two large blood vessels, which caused haemorrhage. The heart, liver and kidneys were diseased and the lungs were affected. Three ribs on the right side were incompletely fractured. Death was due to haemorrhage in the stomach, due to the rupture of blood vessels in a cancerous growth. In his opinion the fall had nothing to do with the death of the man. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes, but that it was accelerated by the Fall."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 17 September 1904
HONITON - Inquest At Honiton. Parents Censured. - An Inquiry was held by Mr C. E. Cox, Coroner for East Devon, at the Honiton Police Station yesterday, into the circumstances surrounding the death of FLORENCE EVANS, aged four months, which occurred on Wednesday night at Manor-place, Honiton. - Before taking the evidence the Coroner deprecated observations which had been made in a local evening paper, and asked the Jury to dismiss from their minds any inferences contained therein. - FRANK EVANS, bricklayer, and father of the child, deposed that deceased was one of twins. It had been very weak from birth, but no doctor had been called. A nurse had attended to it. The twins had consumed between them a quart of new milk per day. The deceased had showed no signs of actual illness. - The Coroner: Did not the Police call your attention to the condition of the child's head? - Witness: The Inspector called and said something about it. - Inspector Thompson, of the N.S.P.C.C., stated that he had complained to the father and mother of the home conditions, and expressed the opinion that unless the children were better looked after they would not survive. - ELIZABETH ANN EVANS, mother of the child, corroborated her husband's statement. During the first month she had fed the twins on new milk diluted with water. Later she gave them a few biscuits, and subsequently "Frame" food. Inspector Thompson called last Wednesday week and cautioned her with regard to the children. He examined two girls of the family, and also looked at the twins. He did not, however, pick up the latter, but he called her attention to the fact that the milk in the feeding bottles was sour. Two days later she received printed instructions from the N.S.P.C.C. Witness immediately commenced a system of reform and did her best to comply with the Society's requests. No change occurred in the condition of the deceased until a few minutes before she died. A neighbour was called in, and the baby was placed in a warm bath. Mrs Newton went for Dr Shortridge and Mr Park, but she returned and said "They won't come." - The Coroner: Be careful what you say. - Continuing, witness stated that after Mrs Newton had departed for the doctor the child revived. When Mrs Newton returned with her message witness herself went and saw Mr Park. He replied, "I thought your child was dead," and then came to the house. When he looked at the deceased he exclaimed, "That child has died from starvation." - Cross-examined by Inspector Thompson: She had not paid great attention to the Society's instructions. - Mr Park, assistant to Dr Shortridge, said that when he was called he told the person he had no desire to be mixed up with the case. He added that if the child was dead there was no need for him to visit it. When, however, he was informed by MRS EVANS that the child was still alive he immediately visited the house. Deceased expired before he arrived. He did not remember making use of the observation concerning starvation, but it was possible that he did so on the spur of the moment. The child was considerably emaciated. Witness made a post-mortem examination and found the lungs were congested and that in the stomach there were signs of food of a milky character. He attributed death to debility and was of opinion that it was accelerated by the unhealthy home surroundings. He did not think the child would have survived in healthy surroundings unless exceptional care was taken of it. - Ann Channing, Manor Place, a neighbour, said she was called to see the child on Wednesday evening. Witness sent for the doctor, who, when he arrived, said "This is a Coroner's case, and one for the Sergeant." - The Coroner, in summing up, said the case seemed to him to be one of those only too common among persons of the class to which the parents of the deceased belonged. There had certainly been a want of care in regard to cleanliness, but he could not see that anything had occurred to incriminate the parents. That did not, however, exculpate the latter from blame. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" and suggested that the Coroner should censure the parents and draw the attention of the owner to the condition of the premises. - Addressing the parents, the Coroner said the Jury had taken an exceedingly lenient view of the case. Any similar occurrence would be viewed in quite a different spirit. [Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 19 September 1904 - The death has taken place of the second of the twin children of MR and MRS EVANS, of Manor-place, Honiton. An Inquest was held on the body of the first on Friday.]

STOKE GABRIEL - The Stoke Gabriel Fatality. Plucky Attempt At Rescue. The Inquest. - The Inquest on the bodies of MR H. YOUNG, gentleman, 41, of Dittisham, and THOMAS MABIN, 24, of Dartmouth, a valet, who were drowned while boating on the Dart on Thursday afternoon, was held at the schoolroom yesterday afternoon by Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy Coroner. Mr F. Churchward was elected Foreman. - Identification of the body of MR YOUNG was established by Mr W. Holmes, Totnes, on behalf of the widow, who stated that he had known the deceased all his life. He was a gentleman of independent means. - Mr John Robertson Owen, of Okehampton, the only survivor, stated that he was a law student and was in company with MR YOUNG and his valet (MABIN) on Thursday afternoon, when they rowed from Dittisham to Stoke Gabriel. On arriving at Stoke MR YOUNG did some business and they stopped there about three hours. At about 3 o'clock they went off the creek in low water. They put up the sail and went about 100 yards. Witness was sitting in the back of the boat with MABIN, and held the sheet and tiller rope. MR YOUNG was sitting in the middle of the boat, and he got up to sit by witness's side, with the result that all their weight was on one side, and the craft capsized. They were all thrown into the water, and when witness came above he saw YOUNG and MABIN about 10 yards off, having drifted down the stream. Witness then swam after them, but they caught hold of him and all went under. He, however, got free, and swam to the boat and then to the shore. - Mr J. F. Channing deposed that the men had refreshments at his house and stopped a very short time. - Richard Adams and Edward Adams gave evidence as to the finding of the bodies, saying that they shot a net and recovered the bodies the first time. - EDMUND MABIN, Dartmouth, identified the body of his son, whom he last saw alive on Monday. - Summing up, the Coroner said it was an exceedingly sad case, as only one man of the three could swim, and Mr Owen made a most praiseworthy attempt to save the other men, and it was a miracle that he was saved himself. Everyone, the Coroner observed, ought to be able to swim. they heard of public bodies being condemned because they did not provide life-saving apparatus, but they forgot to teach the children to swim. The two men undoubtedly lost their lives through being unable to swim. - A verdict of "Accidental Death from Drowning" was returned.

TORQUAY - At the Upton Parish Room last evening the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. F. Kellock, held an Inquiry respecting the death of WILLIAM BUCKPITT, 45, cabdriver, who was killed at Upton Hill on Wednesday. The evidence showed that the fatality was purely accidental and that deceased's neck was broken. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 20 September 1904
TEIGNMOUTH - The Shaldon Street Brawl. Resumed Inquest. Open Verdict. Unsatisfactory Evidence. - The Inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of a travelling hawker named SID HIDER was resumed at the Teignmouth Town Hall yesterday by the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. F. Kellock, of Totnes. - It will be remembered that on September 9th, the second day of Shaldon Regatta, a brawl took place outside the Standard public-house through one man upsetting a hot pea stall. Several men participated, and the deceased received a cut over the eye and at his lodgings complained of pains in the back of his head. He went to bed, and became, apparently, all right. About 6 o'clock on the Saturday morning, however, he was found by his wife to be dead. - The Inquest was opened on Monday week last, but the evidence given was considered unsatisfactory, and the Coroner thought it wise to adjourn the Court to enable the Police to procure further witnesses of the fight. - The Hall yesterday was crowded with inhabitants of both towns. Mr James Richards was the Foreman of the Jury. - The first witness was William Alford, fish hawker of Torquay, who said he was at the regatta on the Friday. He saw a man (Silman) upset the pea stall belonging to a man named curry. He heard the latter invite Silman to come behind the stall and fight. While this was going on a man named Blackmore came up and knocked Silman down. - The Coroner: You are quite sure of this? - Witness: Yes. I am speaking on oath. - Continuing, witness said that another man, who was leaning on the stall, rushed at deceased, who was standing alongside, and struck him. A fight then took place. A lot of people crowded around and witness could not see any more. The whole affair lasted about a couple of minutes. Witness saw blood coming from above deceased's left eye. The crowd took the other man up towards the chapel. Deceased's clothes wee dirty or dusty. A little later he saw the man who struck deceased run down the lane by the side of the public-house without his hat, and then come back again. He would not know the man if he saw him. - A Juror: Do you know any of the people who saw the fight? - Witness: No. You weren't safe to speak over there, or you might have one yourself. - The Coroner: It was as bad as that, was it? - Witness: It was a bit hot while it lasted. - John Bassett, fish hawker of Torquay, corroborated the last witness. He did not know the man who struck deceased, except he was the one leaning on the stall. Witness was close to deceased, and the latter did not say anything to the other man. - Frederick Wills, grocer's assistant, of Shaldon, said he heard quarrelling and saw two men fighting; one of them was Jack Shapter. After the fight he saw a Constable keep back deceased while Shapter was taken away by some of his friends. - P.C. Hammett, of Bishopsteignton, said he was at Shaldon regatta. He was called to the vicinity of the Standard Hotel, where he saw Shapter and deceased holding each other by the collars of their coats. He stopped them, and Shapter went away. He followed deceased, who wanted to go back and fight, but witness persuaded him to go to his stall. He saw no blows struck. Deceased had a mark on the left eyelid. - Dr W. K. Bell, of Shaldon, said he was called at 6 o'clock on Saturday morning and found deceased on the floor. He had been dead, apparently, a short time, perhaps an hour. He had been vomiting. Witness had made a post-mortem examination with Dr Hayward, and found a superficial cut on the left upper eyelid. Deceased was badly nourished. On removing the skin of the skull no external fracture was found, but on lifting the vault or bone of the skull he discovered a large blood clot, about three inches long and two inches broad, situated in the temple region between the bone and the membrane of the brain. There was a star-shaped fracture on the inner side of the skull corresponding to about the centre of the blood clot. On examining the thorax he found the heart below the average size, but otherwise normal. There was evidence of old tuberculosis trouble in the left lung, but that had nothing to do with death. He attributed death to concussion of the brain, which was due to the rupture of a blood vessel, as the result of a blow. - The Coroner: If a blow were struck sufficiently strongly to cause this fracture, would there not be some external mark to show it? - Witness: Not necessarily. - The Foreman: Is it more than could be done by a blow of the fist or a fall? - Witness: It might be done with either. - Dr A. E. Hayward, of Teignmouth, said he agreed with the last witness. - The Coroner then called Jack or John Shapter, who is a boatman, of Teignmouth, and informed him that there were certain suspicions against him and that it was optional whether he gave evidence or not. Whatever he said, however, would be taken down in writing. - John Shapter said he desired to be called as a witness, and said that he was at Shaldon regatta on the second day. At about 11 o'clock he was at Curry's pea stall waiting for some peas, when the stall was knocked over. He told the man who did it that he ought to know better. At the same time witness was knocked against Mr Mole's chip potato van. He turned round, and saw the deceased in a fighting attitude. Witness went to retaliate and ask what he meant, when he was pulled away and fell over somebody who was lying in the road. When he got up the Constable was talking to deceased and witness was taken away. - Shapter called Matthew Robert Howard, a fitter, of Stokeinteignhead, who, however, said that he saw nothing of the fight, but only the after effects. Shapter's nose was bleeding and he had his hat off. Witness caught him by the wrist and pulled him down the street. - Superintendent Wood: When you got hold of Shapter, what happened? - Witness: He fell with me underneath him. - Henry Robert Ashton, carrier, of Shaldon, said he saw Joe Curry in a fighting attitude and then HIDER. Shapter wanted to get hold of him, but there was no chance for him to strike him because the crowd was so thick. After the row he saw deceased, who said there had been a bit of a scramble - it was not much. Deceased, who had a cut over one of his eyes, then walked home. Deceased must have fallen in the crowd. - The Coroner, in summing up, pointed out that they had to make up their minds who struck the fatal blow and that if they were satisfied upon that point they were entitled to bring in a verdict of manslaughter. There was not a particle of evidence of malice in the affair. If they were not satisfied that they could bring home the blow to anyone they could return an open verdict. Some of the witnesses who had been called had been most stubborn and their evidence had had to be dragged from them. - The Jury returned the following verdict:- "We find that SID HIDER died from the effects of injuries received at Shaldon on Friday, the 9th inst., but by whom the injuries were inflicted there is not sufficient evidence to show. The Jury consider some of the evidence is of a most unsatisfactory nature." - the Coroner said that the verdict was an Open one. As regarded the giving of the evidence, he thoroughly agreed with the Jury.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 23 September 1904
MEMBURY - Fatal Trap Accident. Membury Farmer's Wife Killed. - At the Inquest held at the Tytherleigh Arms Inn, Membury, on the body of MRS SARAH TROTT, of Yartyford Farm, who was killed on Saturday afternoon through being thrown from a governess car. Mr B. Parris was chosen Foreman of the Jury. MR SAMUEL TROTT identified the body as that of his wife, who was 55 years of age. On Saturday deceased and himself were driving from their home, near Membury, to Stockland for the purpose of visiting a daughter. The pony which was drawing the car was generally quiet, but had been known to kick. On Saturday it would only go at walking pace. Witness touched it with a whip several times, but when passing Tytherleigh it kicked without any provocation and bolted down the incline near Crewkerne turning, but how his wife fell out of the car witness could not say because he was too busily engaged in controlling the pony. When he had succeeded in pulling up the pony he walked back the road and found his wife lying upon her hands and face, and in a dying condition. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and the Coroner, on behalf of the Jury and himself, expressed sympathy with the bereaved husband.

BRIDGWATER, SOMERSET - SYDNEY CRABB, aged about 25 years, a native of Bradninch, was working on the Great Western Railway near Bridgwater when he was knocked down by an express train and killed. Deceased had only been employed on the line for a few weeks. At the Inquest the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 26 September 1904
PAIGNTON - The Torbay Boating Accident. Inquests On Two Of The Deceased. - Mr G. Kellock held Inquests at Paignton on Saturday afternoon on the bodies of EDWARD CRIDLAND, aged 18, a native of Exeter and GEORGE MEMERY, 16 years of age, son of a Brixham trawler, who were drowned in the Torbay boating accident, and whose bodies were found near Paignton on Friday and Saturday. - The evidence showed that James Maclean, aged 24, Brixham; MEMERY and CRIDLAND, who was apprenticed to Mr A. S. J. Lock, smack owner, Brixham, proceeded to Torquay yesterday week in a 17 ft. sailing boat the Ida, from Brixham. They reached Torquay in safety. About 6.30 p.m. they prepared to start on the homeward journey. There was a very strong S.E. wind and heavy sea, and the three were advised not to attempt to make for Brixham. They, however, persisted in doing so, and when off Paignton Pier the boat was swamped and the three were drowned. The boat was only hired for an hour. - The Coroner commented on bravery shown in recovering one of the bodies and the recklessness of the deceased. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death by Misadventure," and expressed the opinion that there should be a light at Paignton Harbour, as the absence of one prevented deceased from steering correctly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 27 September 1904
TOTNES - Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Totnes Workhouse concerning the death of JOHN BIRD, of Brixham. GILBERT BIRD, fisherman, said the deceased was 81 years of age. Deceased was knocked down some weeks since by a cyclist and had not been well since. Dr Edmond said the accident had nothing to do, in his opinion, with death, which resulted from failure of the heart's action, consequent on senile decay. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 29 September 1904
ASHBURTON - Fatal Accident At Ashburton. - An Inquiry was held at the Market Hall, Ashburton, by Mr G. F. Kelllock, Deputy Coroner, touching the death of GEORGE BOORMAN, in the employ of Messrs. Berry and Son, woollen manufacturers, who died on Sunday at the Cottage Hospital. Mr J. L. Lamason was chosen Foreman of the Jury. Mr Taylor, Government inspector of Factories and Mr S. Berry, head of the firm, were also present. - FLORENCE BOORMAN, widow, identified the body as that of her husband, who was 58 years of age, and a pensioner. He worked for Messrs. Berry. - Jacob Lacy, a fellow workman of deceased, stated he was in charge of the wool washing machine on the 14th inst. The rollers became clogged and witness, deceased and another man were changing the pulleys for the purpose of clearing them. Witness went round the machine to do this and called out "That will do," when he heard a shout. Returning, he found BOORMAN on his back, and bleeding in the face. - By Mr Taylor: The strap fork was on the pulley at the time. There was nothing on the floor to cause deceased to slip and there was no reason why he should touch the pulleys afterwards. By Mr Berry: The machine was quite still, only the slack pulley running. - Frederick Tiddy, the other hand in the washhouse, said when they let go the tight pulley they heard BOORMAN shout "Oh, my," and witness then saw he had his arm between the belt and slack pulley. Deceased, to free himself, pulled the belt off. Witness thought he must have slipped his foot. - By Mr Taylor: If the pulley had been guarded they would have had to remove the guard to do what they were doing. the soap lather made the floor a little slippery. - By Mr Berry: The machine was still at the time. After Lacey shouted "That will do" witness and deceased gave the pulley a couple of turns. If they let go when Lacy called out the accident would not have occurred, although there was no more danger after he called than before. - Dr Wilson Ranson stated he was called to see deceased, when he found his right arm broken in two places and there were three wounds on the same arm. In the wound over the fracture the two tendons were severed. He also had a compound fracture on the right jaw and severe abrasion of the face and neck. Deceased made a statement saying he could not tell how the accident occurred, but he thought the belt must have caught his left arm. Death was due to cardiac failure, brought on by the injuries as described. He was not constitutionally a strong man, and, physiologically, was older than his years. - The Government Inspector described the machinery and the Coroner having summed up, the Jury, after a short consultation, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 30 September 1904
SIDMOUTH - At the Inquest on the body of ELLEN PERRY, 53, laundress, and widow of GEORGE INKERMAN PERRY, who was taken ill while engaged in her work, and expired almost immediately, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes." Deceased's daughter said her mother had complained of her head several times recently and remarked on the day before her death that she should not be surprised if she died suddenly. The medical evidence disclosed that death was due to an apoplectic seizure.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 6 October 1904
EXETER - An Exeter Auctioneer's Sad Death. - At the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday the City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, conducted an Inquest on the body of JOHN VEYSEY WILLS, aged 82 years, auctioneer and land agent, who died at the institution on October 4th as the result of an accident on September 1st. - Walter Sparkes, cabdriver, Exeter, said on September 1st he drove MR WILLS and a party to Barley House. Deceased was proceeding up the steps leading to the house, when he suddenly fell back, pitched on his left side and knocked his head and hands a little. Deceased was conveyed into the house, where he was put on a couch in the kitchen. He did not complain of any illness previously. - Dr Burpitt, Assistant House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased was admitted to the Institution suffering from a fracture of the left thigh. He went on satisfactorily for some time till about two or three weeks ago when he became worse from general weakness and bed sores. The cause of death was general weakness, combined with the fracture. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 7 October 1904
TOPSHAM - An Inquest was held at Topsham yesterday on the body of the newly-born female child of ELIZABETH JANE HAYDON CARTER, wife of an Artilleryman. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 22 October 1904
EXETER - Child's Death At Exeter. The Improper Feeding Of Infants. - Yesterday at the Exeter Police Station, an Inquest was held by Mr. W. L. Brown, City Coroner, concerning the death of WILLIAM PATRICK ROBERTS, the seven months old son of NORA and WILLIAM ROBERTS, pedlars, staying at 7 Rack-street, Exeter. The mother stated that the child was taken poorly on Tuesday, the 17th inst. She fed the child on skim milk (as recommended by a doctor) and corn flour. A neighbour went to the Relieving-officer for a doctor's order. - Dr Clapp said on his arrival the child was dead. The stomach was very distended, containing a heavy recent meal. The small intestine was thin, showing that the child had not been properly nourished. Death was due to diarrhoea. He considered that corn flour was improper food for the child, whose life might have been saved if medical aid had been called earlier. The order was not marked "urgent" as was stated in print on the order should be done, if aid was required, and, consequently, he did not attend until he had been to the Dispensary. - The Coroner said it seemed a great pity that these women who had children had not the proper knowledge of their domestic duties as to how they should be fed. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 24 October 1904
CREDITON - The Suicide At Crediton. Verdict Of Temporary Insanity. - An Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JAMES BRAUND, aged 50, solicitor's clerk, of Bideford, who was found lying dead across his bed early on Friday morning with his throat cut was held at the Public Rooms, Crediton, on Saturday by the Deputy Coroner for the district, Mr F. Thomas. - The first witness called was MRS MARY ANN PERKINS, of 104 High-street, sister-in-law to the deceased, who identified the body. Deceased, she said, came to stay with her on the previous Saturday. She last saw him alive in bed shortly before 10 p.m. on Thursday. On the following morning at 7.30 she took up a cup of tea and found him lying across the bed dead. Deceased had visited her on previous occasions, but this time he seemed more absent-minded and restless than he had before. This was not enough, however, to make her nervous. - In reply to the Foreman of the Jury, witness stated that deceased had complained of pains in his stomach and been to see a chemist. - Mr William Jackson, chemist, said deceased visited him on Thursday morning and complained of pains in the stomach. Witness gave him a corrective. - Mr L. Powne, Surgeon, who was called in to see deceased, said he found him lying in the position described by the last witness. He was dead and there was a deep wound on the right hand side of his neck. The body was cold, and deceased had probably been dead three or four hours. Haemorrhage was the cause of death. The wound had the appearance of having been self-inflicted by the right hand. Witness further stated that he and the Police Sergeant found a small pocket knife, which was covered with blood, at the foot of the bed. - The Deputy Coroner said the widow as in the town in a distressed state. She had not up to that time been informed of the manner in which her husband had come by his death. He asked the Jury whether they would like to call her. - No one expressed a desire for her to be called. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane," and expressed sympathy with the widow and relatives of the deceased.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 25 October 1904
NEWTON ABBOT - At an Inquest held at Newton yesterday, touching the death of ROBERT PADDON, of Torquay, an inmate of the Workhouse, 60 years of age, who was found dead in bed on Saturday morning, a verdict of "Death from Syncope" was returned, the post-mortem made by Dr Scrase showing that deceased suffered from fatty degeneration of the heart.

ARLINGTON - Fatal Accident At Arlington. Child Kicked By A Horse. - An Inquest was held by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, at Barton Court, Arlington, yesterday, the residence of MR WILLIAM TARR, a farmer, in reference to the death of MR TARR'S son, WILFRED ROY, aged five years, and three months. - From the evidence it appeared that the little fellow attended the school at Arlington on Friday and left for home before his sister, DOROTHY TARR, aged between six and seven years. On her way home the sister, in going through a field close to the farm, saw her brother lying on the ground by the pathway and a short distance from the body a cart horse, belonging to MR TARR, was grazing. The child ran at once into the house and gave the alarm, and her step-brother, JESSE EDWARDS, came on the scene, and found the lad was dead and bleeding profusely from the mouth, while there was a large quantity of blood upon the ground. - Dr J. R. Harper was sent for from Barnstaple. He was not quite satisfied as to the cause of death and the following day made a post-mortem examination, when he ascertained that the base of the child's skull was fractured and the brain lacerated. There could be no doubt that the boy was kicked by the horse as he was walking across the field, but as no one saw the accident it was impossible to say whether the child touched the horse or not. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and expressed their sympathy with the parents.

BAMPTON - Fatal Accident Near Bampton. Inquest And Verdict. - Yesterday Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner, conducted an Inquiry at Loyton, near Bampton, into the circumstances attending the sad death of WILLIAM GIBBS, of Huish Champflower, while following his employment at the Morebath Slate Quarries. - WILLIAM GIBBS, farm labourer, of Huish Champflower, identified the body as that of his son, who was 24 years of age. - John Callow Rowe, manager of the Quarries, said that on Friday he instructed the Foreman, William Stevens, to lift the water pipes out of the quarry. Some time after, as he (witness) as leaving the office, he saw a piece of pipe (16 ft. long) fall to the bottom of the pit. Going into the pit he found deceased unconscious. Death ensued ten minutes later. - By the Coroner: The pipe, which was being removed for repairs gave way at the bend. The pipe was fixed 12 months ago by his predecessor. There was no fencing round the cage of the pit, but there was a railing round the quarry. Deceased had been employed at the quarry about three months. - Mr J. S. Martin, H.M. Inspector of Mines for the Southern district, who was present at the inquest said he had drawn the attention of those in authority to the absence of fencing at the pit. - Mr Rowe, replying to questions by the Inspector, said there was nothing to indicate that the pipes would become loose. He thought there must have been some jerking which he did not see. - William Stevens, the Foreman, said a chain was put on the down pipe 16 ft. from the top. He raised the pipe a little with the crane so as to let it go across on to another by it. He thought he would be able to take the top piece off, but it fell while it was being moved, and dropped down the quarry. - By the Coroner: Deceased and a man named Alfred Paviour had been placed in the quarry to steady the bottom end of the pipe. When they were about to lift the pipe he shouted to the men to keep back out of the way. - Alfred Paviour, quarryman, gave evidence. Answering the Inspector, witness said deceased did not step back far enough. - Dr H. Paine said deceased's skull was fractured. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death". The Foreman was exonerated of any blame.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 27 October 1904
NEWTON ABBOT - An Exeter Man Killed. A Criticism. - At the Inquest held by Mr S. Hacker at Newton Abbot touching the death of WILLIAM ISAAC C. TAYLOR, 127 Cowick-street, Exeter, the widow stated that eight months ago deceased, in the employ of Mr Claridge, timber merchant, Exeter, went to Ireland felling timber. On Thursday he returned with the other employees to Plymouth and on Friday morning they started to drive their timber waggons to Exeter. They reached Ashburton the same night, where they remained until between 11 and 12 on Saturday morning. Near Blackpool Schools deceased met with an accident and when she saw him at the Hospital he stated that he had been riding on the waggon and feeling faint fell off, the wheels going over his chest. - Joseph Hawcutt, a fellow employee, stated that there were three timber waggons, the one driven by deceased being at the rear. Deceased was not in bad health while in Ireland, but a bone in his leg kept slipping out of place, making him lame. Witness thought it probable that deceased tried to get off the waggon and the bone slipping out threw him down. They stopped at one Inn on the road and had some bread and cheese and two quarts of beer between them. It was after they had resumed their journey that a gentleman drove up and informed witness that deceased was lying in the road. - P.S. Prew stated that he rendered first aid. He made inquiries at Ashburton and found that when the party left they were perfectly sober, while Police Constable who saw them at Bickington stated that they were all right there. - Dr Culross stated that the sternum and five ribs on one side and four on the other were fractured. The cause of death was fracture of the ribs and severe shock. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and one of the Jurymen said the action of the gentleman who told Hawcutt of the accident and then rode on without rendering any assistance was unmanly. - The Coroner said it showed a want of ordinary feeling and sympathy, but it was scarcely a thing that the Jury could take notice of.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 28 October 1904
WARKLEIGH - The Suicide At Warkleigh. LIEUT. INGHAM Shoots Himself. - An Inquest was held, before the County Coroner, Mr j. F. Bromham, on Tuesday, at Edgington House, Warkleigh, on the body of ROWLAND KINGSLEY INGHAM, a lieutenant in the Staffordshire Militia, who shot himself in his father's house on Sunday. - MR FREDERICK HAVELOCK INGHAM, the father, said deceased, who was 23 years old, had been home since August. On Sunday morning he went to church as usual. They had tea together in the evening and afterwards witness left deceased in the dining-room. He heard his son go in the gun-room, and about a quarter of an hour after this the report of a gun. He went to the room, where he found his son sitting on a box, apparently dead. He immediately sent for Dr Wigham. To witness's knowledge, there was nothing on deceased's mind to cause him to take his life. - Anna Bois, servant,, at Edgington House, and a farmer named William Snell also gave evidence. - Dr William A. Wigham, of Southmolton, said he saw the deceased sitting motionless in the gun-room, with a gun between his legs. He noticed coagulated blood about the nostrils and the ears. ~Witness found that the lock of the gun was entangled with leather boot laces, in the loops of which was deceased's left foot. The wound of entrance was in the upper part of the larynx. It was a clean, round wound, something like an inch in diameter, almost certainly a gun-shot wound, especially when considered together with the wound of exit, which was at the junction of the back of the skull with the upper part of the spine. In witness's opinion, death was due to a gun-shot wound, self-inflicted. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 29 October 1904
BROADWAY, DORSET - Bideford Man's Shocking Death. - Yesterday an Inquest was held at Broadway, Dorset, before Sir R. N. Howard, Coroner, on the body of JOHN JAMES SAUNDERS, 26, Reservist, a native of Bideford, who was crushed to death by a traction engine. - Joseph Brewer, of Bath, whose father is the proprietor of some roundabouts, was driving a traction engine, with waggons attached, on the Weymouth road. He descended Broadway-hill safely, but immediately afterwards deceased, who was piloting the engine, by some means fell beneath the wheels and was instantly killed. The deceased, who was a sober man of good character, was single and had served in South Africa. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 31 October 1904
EXETER - The REV. J. PHILLIPS. The Inquest. - The Inquest on the body of the REV. JAMES PHILLIPS, M.A., 57, vice-principal of the Exeter Training College, whose death resulted from injuries received in an accident on Tuesday, was held at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on Saturday, before the City Coroner, Mr W. L. Brown. Mr H. W. Michelmore represented the widow and family. Mr W. H. Tarbet appeared for Mr Claridge, the owner of the timber waggon concerned in the accident, expressed deep regret at the occurrence, and sympathy with the widow and family in their bereavement. - MISS LILY PHILLIPS said she was cycling with her father, when he tried to pass between a timber waggon and the wall of Stoke Canon Bridge. there was sufficient room for a cyclist to pass, but the waggon swerved, and her father endeavoured to get out of the way. His arm grazed the wall and he was thrown under the waggon, which passed over him. The man in charge of the vehicles were on the opposite side to the deceased, and did not see what happened. There was no carelessness on the part of the men. - Henry Dumbleton, who was in charge of the waggon, said he saw nothing of the accident until his attention was called to the deceased, who was under the wheel of the conveyance. Witness stopped the horses as quickly as possible and rendered what assistance he could. - P.C. Redwood said he was called to the scene of the accident, and rendered first aid to the deceased. He conveyed MR PHILLIPS to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital and on his way asked him if he attached any blame to the driver. He replied, "No; I ought to have got off." - Mr P. H. Sturt said on admission to the Hospital, Mr Phillips was suffering very badly from shock. His right arm was badly broken, there was evidence that the main artery was injured, while the nerves and muscles were smashed. The deceased's right thigh was broken and there were bruises on the left side of the face. On the day following it was decided to amputate the arm at the shoulder joint. MR PHILLIPS did not recover from the shock of the accident and died on Friday. - The Coroner expressed his regret at the accident and sympathy with the family in their bereavement. He did not think that any blame was attachable to the driver of the vehicle. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed the opinion that no blame attached to the waggoner.

TIVERTON - An Inquest was held at the Tiverton Infirmary on Saturday touching the sudden death of THOMAS ARSCOTT (67) for many years an employee of the Corporation. Reginald Lang, landlord of the Boar's Head Inn, said that deceased had some brandy on Friday evening. He turned pale, and, appearing to be very ill, witness sent for Dr Cullin, in whose presence he died shortly afterwards. Dr Cullin said a post-mortem examination revealed serious disease of the valves of the heart and the Jury returned their verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 1 November 1904
TEIGNMOUTH - A Teignmouth Infant's Death. Inquest Adjourned. - Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, at the Teignmouth Town Hall last evening, held an Inquest on the body of the infant child of SARAH HAYWARD, a domestic servant. - Mrs Allen, widow, residing at Hillsley, Upper Hermosa-road, said that on September 10th she engaged SARAH HAYWARD as a general servant. Her home was at Uplowman, near Tiverton, where her father and mother resided. HAYWARD was a very good servant, and performed her duties satisfactorily. On the 21st October witness's suspicions were aroused and she accordingly gave the girl notice to leave. HAYWARD did not inquire the reasons for the notice. She was to have left yesterday. Her appearance was the reason for suspecting the girl's condition. Witness had not communicated with the girl's parents. - The Coroner: Would it not have been better if you had? It might have saved the girl. - Witness, continuing, said HAYWARD went to bed at 9 o'clock on Friday evening - her usual time. She heard her go downstairs about half-past 6 on Saturday morning. As she failed to bring up the hot water at half-past 7 witness rang and she came up. She afterwards saw the girl in the bathroom, dressed in her usual manner. As witness suspected that the child had been born she questioned her and subsequently found a newly-born child in a pail of water in the scullery. On being quite sure that the baby was dead she went to HAYWARD, who told her that the child was born at half-pat 6, and she did not know what to do with it. A doctor and nurse were sent for. - Mr G. M. A. Rudkin, Surgeon, said he saw the body of the child in a bucket, completely immersed with the exception of the top of the head. The child was cold and had been dead some time. On visiting the girl in her room he found her very weak and in a dazed condition. In company with another medical man he had made a post-mortem examination and found that the child was fully matured and healthy. There were no external marks and on making the usual tests the conclusion arrived at was that the child - a male - had breathed, as the lungs floated. Other evidences, however, went to show that the breathing was of short duration and not such as would cause crepitation. His opinion was that the child was born alive, but it did not live more than two minutes and he could not swear that death was due to drowning. - At this stage the Inquiry was adjourned until the 11th inst., in order that the mother of the child, who is 27 years of age, might appear.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 2 November 1904
CULLOMPTON - A Child's Death At Cullompton. - Yesterday an Inquest was held at the Sessions Room, Cullompton, by Mr H. W. Gould, District Coroner, on the infant son of CHARLES and ELIZA WYATT, of Church-street, Cullompton. The evidence of Elizabeth Bowles, grandmother of the deceased, Mary Ann Rowland and Arthina Punchard showed that the deceased, born on Saturday, was very weak and did not appear likely to live. - Dr Gidley, of Cullompton, said that he visited MRS WYATT and the child about 4.30 on Saturday and found both apparently quite well. He was surprised to hear at 6.30 p.m. that the child was dead. He had made a post-mortem examination and found the child thin, but healthy. He considered death was caused by suffocation, which might have resulted from convulsions or by being covered over. - Dr Alleyne corroborated Dr Gidley's view of the death of the child and the Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 5 November 1904
EXETER - Sad Death Of An Exeter Railwayman. Inquest And Verdict. - Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, conducted an Inquiry at the Exeter Police Court last evening into the circumstances attending the death of JOHN BOLT while following his employment as foreman shunter on the London and South Western Railway at Queen-street Station, Exeter. - SAMUEL BOLT, a carter, of Torre, Torquay, identified the body as that of his brother, JOHN, aged 44 years, who resided at East View, Lion's Holt, Exeter. - John Channon, porter, of 11 Rosewood-terrace, Exeter, said he was speaking to the deceased about a minute before the accident happened. Both were waiting for the 5.30 a.m. goods train to leave for Plymouth and he instructed him (witness) to go to the cattle dock and unhook some trucks. While carrying out these instructions he heard a shout and saw deceased under an engine which was following up the Plymouth goods train. Deceased and witness were carrying lamps. - The Coroner: Ought not the driver of the engine to have seen the light? - Witness: I cannot say. - The Coroner: Did you hear the engine whistle? - No. - Frederick George Warren, driver, living at 4 Jubilee-road, Exeter, said he was driving the engine by which deceased was knocked down. He was following up the 5.30 a.m. goods train in the usual course, when he heard someone shout, "Whoa, whoa," twice. Witness felt that he was going over something and pulled up sharply. He jumped off his engine and found a man under the motion of the engine, apparently dead. - The Coroner: Did you see a light? - The witness: No, sir. - Answering a further question, the witness explained that deceased might have been carrying a lamp, but if he were walking in the direction the engine was going he would not be able to see it, as there was no back light. - The Coroner: Is it usual to follow trains up in the manner you did? - The witness replied that it was, providing there was the usual distance of seven or eight trucks between them. There was a distance of between six and seven trucks between his engine and the goods train. He (witness) was keeping a good look out at the time. - Harry Fewings, fireman, 39 Mansfield-road, said he saw no light. Both the driver and himself were on the look out. - Dr H. Andrew said he saw deceased under the engine, which had to be lifted to extricate the body. He found that deceased had sustained a compound fracture of the left hip joint, fracture of the pelvis and most of his ribs fractured. Death must have been almost instantaneous. - The Coroner, in summing up, said it was an exceedingly sad case and one in which all must deeply sympathise with the bereaved family. Continuing, he said that it struck him that it was a dangerous procedure to follow up a goods train in the way stated and that although they were told it was a usual thing, they were not told it was a proper thing. - The Jury, in returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," expressed the hope that something would be done by the Company to decide on a recognised distance between goods trains so as to lessen any danger. They did not attach any blame to anyone. They all expressed their deep sympathy with the bereaved family. - Inspector Percival, who appeared on behalf of the London and South Western Railway, said he would convey the remarks of the Jury to the Company.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 8 November 1904
TEIGNMOUTH - MRS BELTON, a fish hawker, of Teign View-place, Teignmouth, finding her ten-weeks-old boy, ARTHUR EDWARD, moaning just after she had fed him, took him to Dr A. E. Hayward. He advised her to give the child a little brandy and put a mustard poultice on his chest, the mother having previously rubbed it with camphorated oil. On the doctor calling at the house at 12.30 the child was dead. At the Inquest held yesterday a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes " was returned, the death being certified as due to syncope, the heart's action failing on account of pleurisy. There was no neglect on the part of the mother, the child being well nourished and to all appearances healthy.

EXETER - St David's Railway Accident. The Inquest. - An Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of JAMES GRANT, a native of Lympstone, a fireman in the employ of the G.W.R. Company, who was killed on Friday at St. David's Station, was conducted by the Deputy Coroner, Mr W. H. Cocks, at the Exeter Police Court yesterday. Chief Inspector Shattock and Inspector Flewellen, of the locomotive department, were present on behalf of the Company. Evidence of identification was given by deceased's father, GEORGE GRANT, smith, of Lympstone. Enoch Harris, storeman, in the employ of the G.W.R. Company, said the deceased left work on Friday about 9.25 p.m., when he came to the store, which was situate on the Exwick side of St David's Station. He left, saying that he was going to the Station to take his wages. William H. Way, shunter, in the employ of the G.W.R., said he was engaged in shunting on Friday night, when he saw the deceased lying across the rails near the Exeter end of the up platform siding. The deceased had to cross that spot in order to go from the locomotive stores to the booking office to take his money. He was quite dead when witness found him. Mr Miller, Surgeon, said he was called to St. David's Station to attend to GRANT, who was, however, dead when witness arrived. One of deceased's legs was badly crushed and his skull was fractured. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed the opinion that the attention of the Railway Company be drawn to the advisability of the men using the Exwick crossing to go from the goods shed to the Railway Station. Inspector Shattock: Wherever the man cross they will have to go over the lines. The Foreman: Then the best thing they can do is to pay the men in the goods shed. - Inspector Shattock: They would have to cross the lines to go to their work. Sympathy was expressed with the family of the deceased.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 9 November 1904
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - The Deputy City Coroner, Mr Cocks, conducted an Inquest at St. Thomas, Exeter, yesterday, on the body of JOHN CUMES, a pensioner from the Exeter Post-office, who died suddenly on Sunday evening. Deceased, who would have attained his 74th birthday yesterday had he lived, had suffered from pains in the head caused some time ago by a shock. He was found dead by MRS CUMES. Mr Mark Farrant attributed death to syncope. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - A Topsham Woman's Sad End. Inquest At Exeter. - At the St. Thomas Union, Exeter, yesterday Mr Cocks, Deputy City Coroner, conducted an Inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of ANN COSWAY, an old woman residing at Topsham, who died in the Workhouse from the effects of burns received at her home about a month ago. - MRS CAROLINE BASS (daughter) said her mother was 82 years of age and was subject to fits and giddiness. - Mrs Mary Matthews said that about 9.15 a.m. on October 5th she was passing deceased's house, when she smelt something burning. She went inside and found a chair and several things that were on it alight. Deceased was on her hands and knees, and was burnt about the back, shoulder and head. She was taken to the Workhouse Infirmary by the doctor's orders. Deceased regained consciousness and told Mrs Matthews that she was putting the saucepan on the fire when she fell through giddiness. - Mr Mark Farrant said in his opinion the woman died from exhaustion, brought about by the burns. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, and complimented Mrs Matthew's on the prompt action she took.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 11 November 1904
TEIGNMOUTH - A Teignmouth Child's Death. - The adjourned inquest on the body of the infant male child of SARAH HAYWARD, a single woman, who was in the employ of Mrs Maria Allen, of Hillsleigh, Upper Hermosa-road, Teignmouth, took place at the Town Hall, Teignmouth, before Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner. - At the last Inquiry it was stated that Mrs Allen gave the girl notice to leave on noticing her condition. On the morning of the 29th ult. she found the body of a newly-born child in a pail of water in the scullery. - Dr Rudkin, who made a post-mortem examination, said he found that portions of the child's lungs floated in water, which showed that the child had breathed. He was unable to say whether the child died before it was put in the water. - The Inquiry was adjourned for the attendance of the mother, and she was present in Court, but did not make any statement. - Mrs Hannah Easterbrook, nurse, said that when she was called HAYWARD was in a very frightened condition, and nearly exhausted. The girl asked her what they had done with the baby and witness replied that she did not know. - Dr E. A. Price, House Surgeon at the Teignmouth Hospital, said he assisted Dr Rudkin in making the post-mortem examination. There were no marks or signs of unnatural death externally. Internally the lungs had collapsed. Pieces placed in water floated, showing that they contained some air, but not a large quantity. The lungs were not fully extended. There were not the usual signs of death from drowning. The child must have had a separate existence, but respiration was not fully established. It was absolutely impossible to say the cause of death from the post mortem examination. - By the Foreman (Mr G. Bilton): There were more signs of want of attention at birth than of death by drowning. - After a retirement of 20 minutes, the Jury returned a verdict to the effect that death was due to Want of Attention at Birth, and not to any violent or unnatural means. - At the Police Court yesterday afternoon, SARAH HAYWARD was charged, before Colonel Nightingale and Captain Paul, with the murder of her newly-born child. - The evidence given at the two Inquests was repeated, Mrs Allen remarking that HAYWARD had not made any preparations for the birth of the child as far as she knew. - The Bench did not consider there was sufficient evidence to confirm the charge, and HAYWARD was acquitted. - Supt. Wood prosecuted on behalf of the Police. Accused. on account of her weak condition, was allowed to sit during the hearing.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 15 November 1904
ILFRACOMBE - The Fatal Accident At Ilfracombe. - Dr E. J. Slade-King, Deputy Coroner for the District, held an inquest yesterday morning at the Tyrrell Hospital on the body of WILLIAM CHUGG, who was killed in High-street on Saturday and a report of which appeared in yesterday's "Gazette." - Mr W. Blackmore was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - GEORGE CHUGG, cabdriver, identified the body as that of his brother, WILLIAM, aged 63, a labourer at the gasworks. He last saw him alive on Friday evening. - Frederick John Hall, insurance superintendent, said on Saturday evening he was standing near the Brethren Chapel in High-street, about 7.10. The Rechabite Band was playing near the spot on the same side of the street. He saw Mr Western driving the Combe Martin mail-cart through the street very slowly. The horse shied while passing the band. Western had to go on the wrong side of the street because of the band. Witness saw deceased about a foot off the pavement, when the horse in the mail-cart knocked him down. He fell into the channelling, the horse scrambling over him. Witness went to his assistance, and helped to take him into the Railway Hotel. About 200 persons were standing listening to the band, and in his opinion the street was obstructed. The band was playing in the ordinary manner and there was nothing to cause the horse to shy. - In reply to P.S. Adams, witness said the band did not occupy more than 4ft. of the roadway and half the pavement. - Charles Edward Western said that on Saturday night he was driving the mail-cart to the Station. Just as he passed the Railway Hotel the Rechabite Band was playing. At that moment it struck up louder, and the horse shied and jumped to the other side of the street, knocking CHUGG down. He immediately stopped the animal. He as on the wrong side of the street owing to the band and the crowd of people. He was driving at the rate of about six miles an hour and had plenty of room to pass. He was about a foot from the band; the latter projected about 7 ft. into the roadway. - Dr G. D. Kettlewell said he was called to the Railway Hotel at 7.15 on Saturday night to see deceased. He was quite unconscious and was suffering from a contused wound on the temple. He ordered his removal to the Hospital where he died shortly after admission. Witness had since made a post mortem examination and found that deceased had died from fracture of the base of the skull, concussion of the brain, and loss of blood. The injuries received were consistent with the evidence previously given. - P.C. Chadder deposed to the Rechabite Band playing in the street and a crowd assembled round. The street measured 21 ft. from kerb to kerb and the band occupied nearly half the road. There was about 10 ft. of footpath on the north side and 4 ft. on the south. It was within his knowledge that the High-street was obstructed by bands on Saturday nights, and this was a source of danger. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and it was agreed to make a presentment to the Chief Constable asking him to instruct the Police at Ilfracombe to stop the obstruction caused by stationary bands playing on the public highway.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 16 November 1904
TOTNES - The Death Of A Totnes Footballer. The Inquest. - The Inquest on the body of LEWIS GEORGE TOWNSEND, postman, age 19, who was injured in the football match at Totnes on Saturday playing against Dartmouth Athletic, and who died on Monday morning at the Cottage Hospital, was held at that Institution yesterday morning by Mr Hacker. - Mr George E. Windeatt, who appeared on behalf of the Totnes Football Club, expressed sympathy for the deceased's parents and asked for the fullest possible investigation, so that things which had been said of the roughness of the game might be cleared up. He mentioned that no member of the Totnes Club had made such an insinuation against the Dartmouth men. - Evidence of identification was given by WILLIAM JOHN TOWNSEND, deceased's brother, who said to the best of his belief there was no rough play on either side. - Mr W. H. Wyatt, Newton, the official referee in charge of the game, said the match was pleasantly contested and there was not a knock out except this one. He saw deceased fall when he was dribbling the ball towards the Dartmouth goal. - The Coroner: I suppose there was no question of his being collared? - Witness: No one touched or tripped him. - By a Juryman: He was quite satisfied that there was no foul play. - Dr G. J. Gibson said he came to the conclusion that deceased had ruptured the spinal cord. - Mrs M. H. Tucker, the Matron of the Cottage Hospital, stated that at 8 o'clock on Sunday morning the deceased made a statement to her that he did it himself and that in stooping to catch the ball he must have turned over and cricked his neck. He added that no blame was attached to anyone as far as he knew. He did not know he was dying at the time, but he was not long conscious after. - Ernest T. Trott, secretary of the Club and a player, stated that the deceased had a habit of running with his head down. The deceased was the fastest forward in the team. - A verdict of "Accidental Death in the Football Field" was returned and that no one was to blame. Sympathy with the relatives was expressed by the Jury. - Mr C. H. Moses, on behalf of the Football Club, also joined in sympathy with the deceased's relatives.

EXETER - Exeter Cyclist's Death. - Mr W. Linford Brown, the City Coroner, held an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday on the body of THOMAS MAY, of Lansdowne-terrace, Alphington-road, who died on Saturday from injuries received in a cycle accident near Crediton. - JOHN MAY, brother, said he saw the deceased at Crediton after the accident. he said that three little boys were running across the street and in order to prevent an accident he applied his brake suddenly. He was thrown from his machine, the handle bars of which struck him, he believed, in the stomach. - P.C. Churchill said the deceased turned a somersault when he fell from his bicycle, and the machine fell on the top of him. He was bleeding from a wound in the head, and complained of a pain in the stomach. He was at once medically attended. The boys who crossed the road were ten yards from the deceased. - Mr Stirk, House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said when admitted deceased was suffering from severe abdominal pain. A post-mortem examination disclosed internal injuries, which were the cause of death. The injuries were such as might have been caused by a blow from a handle bar of a bicycle. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed sympathy with the widow and family.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 18 November 1904
YARCOMBE - The sudden death of MR GEORGE HORNER is announced. Deceased had been out for a walk in the afternoon of Thursday and returned about 5 o'clock. He then sat on a settle and was see by his daughter-in-law, with whom he lived, to be breathing heavily. She called two neighbours, Mrs Bromfield and Mrs Bright to her assistance, but he passed away in a few minutes. A post-mortem examination was made by Dr Reede, of Churchinford, and followed by an Inquest by the Coroner, Mr C. E. Cox, on Saturday. Mr H. Matthews was chosen the Foreman. Dr Reede deposed that the cause of death was valvular disease of the heart and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned. Deceased was much respected in the parish.

OTTERY ST MARY - The Fatal Accident At Tipton St. John. - Yesterday Mr Cox, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Golden Lion Hotel, Tipton St. John, respecting the death of JOHN LAWRENCE, a platelayer on the Salterton branch of the London and South Western Railway, which took place on Tuesday, the 15th inst. - On the day in question, LAWRENCE, with three others, was working on the line about 250 yards from Tipton Station shifting ballast when the 10.45 a.m. up from Exmouth was due. The men saw the train coming when it was about 500 yards away, left their work and stood up by the side of the line. At the same time there was a goods train passing down the Sidmouth line to Sidmouth. LAWRENCE turned round and watched that train, but when the up Salterton train was only about 30 yards from him, he moved with his shovel in his hand, as if about to commence work, and before he could recover himself or anything be done to stop the train, he was struck on the head by the injector at the side of the engine. Death appeared to have been instantaneous. LAWRANCE was a very steady, healthy and industrious man, 25 years of age. He leaves a widow but no children. - The Jury were unanimous in their verdict of "Accidental Death."

BIDEFORD - Servant's Fatal Fall At Bideford. - REBECCA HEYWOOD, 66, servant, in the employ of Miss Williams, of Springfield-terrace, Bideford, while engaged in cleaning the front door on October 29th fell on the steps. She took no serious notice of the occurrence and proceeded with her work. A week later her mistress discovered deceased beside her bed almost unconscious. Paralysis set in a week later and she was removed to the Bideford Hospital. An operation was performed, but she died on Tuesday. Dr Thompson said the operation enabled deceased to live a few days longer, but the accident was the cause of death. A Jury Inquired into the circumstances at the Bideford Hospital yesterday and after hearing the evidence returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 19 November 1904
IDE - The Value Of Knowledge. Ide Landlady's Tragic Death. - Yesterday Mr F. Thomas, Deputy Coroner, conducted an Inquiry at the Huntsman Inn, Ide, into the circumstances attending the death of MRS LUCINDA POPE, the wife of the landlord, MR ROBERT POPE, whose death occurred suddenly yesterday morning while she was engaged in lighting a fire. - Mr A. Leyman was Foreman of the Jury. - MR POPE identified the body as that of his wife, whose age was about 49 years. Deceased went downstairs shortly after six o'clock to light the fire. She appeared to be in her usual health. A few minutes after she had gone downstairs witness heard a noise as if somebody had fallen. He quickly went downstairs and found deceased lying on the floor in a pool of blood. She was quite helpless and did not speak. He immediately sent for a doctor, but deceased died shortly afterwards. - Mr C. E. Stokes, Surgeon, of St. Thomas, stated that he was called to the house about 6.50 a.m. and arrived about 7.15 a.m. He found MRS POPE lying dead in an upstair room. She had a ruptured varicose vein in her right leg, which had been recently bleeding. He attributed death to haemorrhage caused by the bleeding. With a little elementary knowledge deceased might, by putting her finger on the spot, have stopped the bleeding, but when the husband came on the scene it was too late for anything of the sort to have been done. Prompt action on deceased's part, however, would have saved her life. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and expressed sympathy with the family in the sad bereavement.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 22 November 1904
EXETER - An Exonian's Fatal Fall. The Inquest. - Mr Linford Brown, the City Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Devon and Exeter Hospital last evening concerning the death of HENRY ISAAC CONIBEER, aged 51, mason, who succumbed to injuries received from falling off the high path in Cowley Bridge-road the previous Wednesday. - Mr G. L. Stiles was Foreman of the Jury. James Hawkins, carpenter, Springfield-road, Exeter, identified the body as that of HENRY ISAAC CONIBEER, of Clyst View, Mount Pleasant-road, Exeter. Deceased was a very steady man. - P.C. White said he saw deceased with a man named Channing, rambling along the footpath near Cowley Bridge about 6.55 p.m. on Wednesday. His attention was afterwards called to the fact that deceased had fallen off the footpath. Channing was behind at the time doing something to his basket, while deceased had gone on in front. CONIBEER was lying on his face and hands, with his head in the gutter and his feet in the centre of the road. There was some blood in the gutter, which came from a contused wound on the top of deceased's head. They lifted CONIBEER up, but found he was unable to stand. Deceased called out "Jack," and Channing said "What's the matter with you?" Deceased answered, "I won't drink any more." Witness then asked Board to go for a cab, but he had deceased taken to the Hospital in a furniture van, which passed while Board was gone. - By the Coroner: You don't know if deceased was drunk or not? He was the worse for liquor. - William Board, of Upton Pyne cottages, deposed to passing the deceased and Channing, who were walking along Cowley Bridge-road. They were arm-in-arm, and appeared the worse for drink, and were, he believed, wrangling. He heard Channing fall from the path and later on heard a can rattle, which made him think the other man had fallen. He hurried back and finding the deceased lying in the road, called out to the Constable. - John Channing, of Whipton, near Exeter, stated that he had been working with deceased on a bridge belonging to the London and South Western Railway and situate between Cowley Bridge and Newton St Cyres. They left off about 5 o'clock. He denied that they were the worse for drink or that they rambled much. They had called at the Three Horse Shoes Inn on the way home, but witness only shared some beer with another man and deceased had a little brandy, because he said he did not feel well. The last witness was wrong in stating that witness fell off the footpath. - Mrs Ellis, landlady of the Three Horse Shoes Inn, Newton St. Cyres, stated that her husband served deceased with two drops of best brandy. Deceased said he wanted it because he did not feel well. - Mr H. Burkitt, Assistant Surgeon at the Hospital, said that deceased was brought in between 7 and 8 o'clock on Wednesday. He was suffering from a contused wound on the back of the head. CONIBEER was in a semi-conscious condition and as he was also under the influence of alcohol witness could not make a very satisfactory examination of him that evening. He, however, examined him in the morning. He died about 2 p.m. on Friday. He made a post mortem examination and found that several bones in the neck were fractured. There were no signs of any previous illness. - By the Coroner: The injury to the head was consistent with a fall from a path, and would not have been caused by a blow from an instrument. It was quite possible that deceased rolled over on to his face and hands on reaching the ground. The wound was covered with gravel from the road. Deceased had always been a very sober man, and his opinion was that the brandy he drank would have more effect upon him than upon a habitual drinker. - The Coroner briefly reviewed the evidence, saying it was quite necessary to clear everything up. He especially emphasised the importance of the medical witness's last remark, and added that the circumstances pointed to an accidental death. - The Jury returned a verdict according to the medical evidence, adding that they wished a representation should be made to the City Council asking that a rail should be erected along the path where the accident occurred. - The Jurymen concurred in the expression that the path was extremely dangerous owing to its height. There had been accidents there before. [Friday 25 November 1904 - The funeral of Mr H. Conibeer, of Clyst View, Mount Pleasant-road, Exeter, took place at Upon Pyne churchyard on Wednesday. Deceased, who was very well known, had worked on the London and South Western Railway for 23 years as a mason. There was a large number of floral tributes, including the following:- "From his sorrowing wife and daughter;" "With deepest sympathy," from brothers and sisters-in-law;" "To dear HENRY," from his sister, Mrs Worth. The coffin was of polished elm, with brass fittings, and the breast-plate bore the inscription:- "HENRY CONIBEER, died November 18th, 1904, aged 51 years."]

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 26 November 1904
LYDFORD - Inquest At Dartmoor Prison. - Mr J. D. Prickman, County Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at the Prison on the body of GEORGE MILLER, a convict, who died there on Tuesday, aged 75 years. Mr J. C. Budd acted as Foreman of the Jury. - Richard Adolphus Gibbs, chief clerk of the Governor's office, said that the deceased was sentenced to seven years' penal servitude at the Guildford Assize on the 10th December 1900 for burglary. He had then four previous convictions for like offences, and 10 other convictions. His first conviction was in 1871 and since then he had undergone 28 years' imprisonment. He was described on his last conviction as a native of London, a tailor and a single man. He came to Princetown from Chelmsford on the 17th June 1901 and his conduct in the Prison had been excellent during the whole time. - Dr Dyer stated that death was due to a cancerous tumour in the stomach and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 29 November 1904
TORQUAY - An Inquest was held in the Upton Parish Room, Torquay, in consequence of the sudden death at Vane Hill of MARY ANN INCH, aged 66 years, wife of a cab proprietor. CHRISTOPHER INCH, husband of deceased, stated that his wife was in the habit of taking a good deal of whisky, and on Saturday night had gone to bed drunk. He retired after and found his wife stretched across the bed, apparently helpless. He could not move her, so got into bed. In the morning she was in the same position, and seeing then that she was dead, he called in a medical man. Dr Powell said he made a post-mortem examination and found death was due to heart disease, accelerated by excessive alcohol. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 2 December 1904
CHUDLEIGH - MRS BROWN, who resided with Mrs Gooding in a cottage in Parkway-road, was found dead in her bed on Sunday. An Inquest was held on Tuesday by Mr S. Hacker, District Coroner. Mr R. Carpenter was chosen Foreman. Mrs Gooding stated that the deceased, who had been an invalid for some years, was as usual when she left her in bed shortly before 10 o'clock on Saturday night, but that when she visited her in the morning she found her lying on her side dead, but warm. Dr Long said he had attended the deceased at various times for bronchitis, and she had complained to him of pains about her body. He went to the house as soon as he was summoned and found that life was extinct. He had held a post-mortem examination and found that the deceased had also been suffering from a cancer on the right lung, which was, no doubt, the cause of her death. A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 3 December 1904
HONITON - The Honiton Railway Accident. - Yesterday an Inquest was held at Honiton by the Coroner, Mr C. E. Cox, on the body of WILLIAM PARKER, warehouseman, in the employ of the London and South Western Railway Company, who died from injuries received while at the Railway Station on September 2. - As a train was running into the Station on September 2, a luggage barrow tilted and went from the platform on to the rails. The deceased attempted to clear the barrow out of the way of the train, when he was struck by the former. - Dr Heddon said the deceased received severe injuries to the head, and this was the cause of death. Septic pleurisy set in. A bone was protruding from the deceased's head and had that healed up he thought the man might have recovered. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed sympathy for the widow, to whom they gave their fee.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 8 December 1904
DARTMOUTH - Dartmouth Parent's Error Of Judgment. - At Dartmouth an Inquest was held on the body of a child, aged two years, the daughter of JOHN MEMERY, a carter. The evidence showed that although the baby was taken ill on Wednesday, the doctor was not sent for until Sunday. When he arrived she was dead. The parents, in reply to the Coroner, said they did not think she was seriously ill until Sunday. - Dr G. M. Soper said the child died from catarrh and pneumonia following measles. He could not say that her life would have been saved had a doctor been called in earlier, but certainly medical aid should have been sought before it was. - The Jury, returning a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," asked the Coroner to inform the father that in their opinion he had committed a grave error of judgment.

EXMOUTH - The Fatal Accident At Exmouth. Result Of The Inquest. - Mr C. E. Cox conducted an Inquiry at the Beach Hotel, Exmouth, relative to the death of ROBERT DYBLE, (74), who had been in the employ of the Devon Dock Company for over 20 years, and who was found lying dead at Exmouth, having evidently died as the result of an accident. - Mr G. Hardy Harris (Messrs. Ford, Harris and Ford, of Exeter) represented the Devon Dock Company. - ALBERT DYBLE, son of the deceased, identified the body and deposed to having assisted his father at the dock gates on various occasions. Two men were properly required to open the gate, which operation required careful management. He saw his father dressing at 5 a.m., and later saw his dead body lying against the brickwork, near the winch of the dock gates. - By Mr Anderson: It required two men to open the gates. - Alfred Seager, the deceased's son-in-law, deposed to having assisted deceased at the dock gate and to working about the dock by day. Deceased told him the night before the accident that he need not come early on Tuesday as there was nothing about, and the water was quiet. Witness, however, got to the dock about 6 a.m. and found deceased lying dead near the winches. He thought the rush of the water must have caused the gates to close suddenly and the handle to revolve so quickly as to get beyond deceased's control. - Another son of the deceased said he had noticed that several of the cogs in the winch wheel were somewhat worn. - John Rendle, fireman in the employ of the Dock Company, also gave evidence. - Dr Cock said when he first examined the deceased he found that the right side of the jaw was broken. A later examination revealed the fact that deceased's neck seemed to be broken, which might have been caused by a blow from the handle of the winch. - A witness suggested that the handle might have knocked deceased backwards on to the brickwork, on which his neck was found resting, and thus dislocated his neck. - Dr Cook agreed as to this possibility. - EDWIN DYBLE, coastguard, Teignmouth, said he thought the pawl flew off the winch while deceased was taking in the slack of the chain. Deceased had met with previous accidents at the winch, having once lost his thumb. He thought that the deceased was unable to see what he was doing, as there was only one lamp some distance from the winches. The men only had hand lamps to use about their work. He considered a fixed lamp was necessary overhead. - George Willis Matthews, manager for the Dock Company, said there was nothing amiss with the cog-wheel other than fair wear - none of the cogs were broken. There was no regular inspection of the winches, but any complaint which was made to headquarters they at once did their best to remedy. The light spoken of was only some 20 or 30 yards distant. He personally regretted that deceased - a good workman of the Company - had lost his life in that manner, but he could not account for the accident. - A son of the deceased stated that he considered the hand-lamps were insufficient for the purpose of the men, as they had to put them on the ground, and, as his father had told him, the wind then sometimes blew out the light. - The Coroner, having summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed the opinion that the pawl of the winch was out of action at the time. They recommended that the Dock Company should have the winch examined and provide better lighting at the dock gates. - Mr Harris explained that the Company's engineer had examined the winch and found nothing wrong with it likely to have caused the accident, other than the circumstances of the pawl being out of place, as suggested in the evidence. - Mr Harris said that no one regretted the sad circumstances more than the directors of the Company, who wished to express their sympathy with the widow. - The members of the Jury agreed to give their fees to the widow.

ILFRACOMBE - Walking On A Fractured Limb. Ilfracombe Woman's Death. - Yesterday Dr Slade-King, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital, on the body of CHARLOTTE FISHER, about 70 years of age, whose death was the result of a fall which occurred on November 21st. - William Henry Norman said on November 21st, about 7.45 he was in the White Hart Inn. Hearing a noise in the bottle and jug department he asked the landlady what was the matter and she said "MRS FISHER has fallen down." Witness saw deceased sitting on the floor and unable to rise. He fetched her husband. She was placed in a chair and was taken home about 10.45. The reason she was not removed before was that her husband thought she would recover. He and a Mr Davey carried her home as well as they could. She was tall, and perhaps her legs might have touched the ground. - Mrs Emily Jane Rowland, landlady of the White Hart Inn, corroborated and stated deceased did not have anything to drink, nor did she ask for anything. She was looking for her husband. It was at the husband's request that she remained so long, as he said she was subject to fits and she would shortly come round again. She complained of her foot, but would not let anyone touch it. - Dr G. D. Kettlewell said at 11.15 on November 21st he saw deceased at her house. She was suffering from shock caused by a compound fracture of the left leg, extending into the ankle joint. The shin-bone was protruding to the extent of three inches from the wound. He had her removed to the Hospital and the following day it was decided to amputate the leg at the knee joint. She became worse and died n December 6th. Death was due to softening of the brain resulting from the shock due to the injury. The wound was full of gravel and dirt. He thought it possible that when she fell in the White Hart she broke her leg and that subsequently she converted the simple fracture into a compound one by walking on the fractured limb. - Henry Davey, a printer, said he was at the White Hart on the date in question, and corroborated as to the supposed fit. When she was lifted up she walked a step or two. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 12 December 1904
EXMOUTH - At the Inquest held by Mr Cox at Exmouth on Saturday, respecting the death of GERTRUDE CECILIA ADELINE PARSLOE, the infant child of MR and MRS PARSLOE, of No. 2 Victoria-road, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Suffocation." The child was seven weeks old and, according to Dr Thornton's evidence, had vomited while it had the teat of its feeding bottle in its mouth, thereby causing suffocation.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 13 December 1904
HATHERLEIGH - Fatal Fall At Hatherleigh. - Mr Prickman held an Inquest at the Police Court, Hatherleigh, on the body of JOHN SANDERS, aged 72 years, who died from injuries sustained by falling out of his bedroom window on November 13th last. - Mr A. W. Seldon, schoolmaster, of Hatherleigh, while walking down Bridge-street, on Saturday, the 12th November, saw the deceased trying to get out of the window. He chatted with him for a time and induced him to return to his bedroom, and, as he (witness) thought, to his bed. On the next day, at 2.30 a.m. Miss Emily Ball, a neighbour, and her mother heard a noise, and subsequently found the deceased lying on the pavement, apparently having fallen out of the window. She called Mr Essery, and then got the deceased into the house. Dr Atkins (Hatherleigh) was called and found the deceased had one of his legs broken in three places. The old man died on Friday from the injuries received. - The Jury, of which Mr J. Strang was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

DAWLISH - Dawlish Invalid's Suicide. - Yesterday, Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest at the Vestry Hall, Dawlish, concerning the death of MARK ROBERTS, of 17 High-street, Dawlish, formerly a maltster at the Dawlish Brewery, who was found dead in his bedroom on Sunday morning. - CHARLES ROBERTS said deceased was his eldest brother, aged 62, and a widower, with no children. He had been unable to work for ten years. - ELIZABETH ROBERTS said deceased, although he complained of pains at the back of the head at times, was usually of contented mind. - Dr Tripp, who was called at 9 a.m. on Sunday, said deceased was lying on a bed undressed and had been dead some hours. There was a very deep wound across the throat and death must have been rapid. Deceased had suffered from chronic dyspepsia and was melancholic. The pains in the back of the head, attacks of ague, were contracted while serving in India as a soldier. - P.C. Beer produced a blood-stained razor, which he found open and resting on a table just below deceased's hand. - The Jury, of which the Foreman was Mr J. H. G. Lamacraft, returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 16 December 1904
BRADNINCH - WILLIAM STARK, a retired carpenter, aged 80 years, formerly in the employ of Sir Thomas Acland, and residing at Clysthayes Cottage, near Hele, was found dead in bed on Monday. At an Inquest conducted by Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 17 December 1904
HENNOCK - The Fatal Accident At Chudleigh Knighton. The Inquest. - At the Inquest held at Chudleigh Knighton yesterday on WALTER VALLANCE, the evidence showed that deceased, 40 years of age, was engaged in the Teignyeo Clay Mine excavating clay. With a fellow-workman, George Coram, he timbered the tunnel in which they were working, leaving a space of three or four feet in which to work. After dinner on Tuesday deceased was just resuming work, when a ball of clay, weighing about 3 cwt. fell upon him. This was removed by three men and deceased afterwards walked home. A doctor was called in and it was first thought that there were no serious internal injuries beyond the effects of the blow, but on Wednesday deceased suffered great pain and died in the evening from rupture of the large intestine and shock. - Mr J. S. Martin, his Majesty's Inspector of Mines, stated that he had examined the mine and found that the timbering was done in a thorough and workmanlike manner. The deceased and his comrade had used fair judgment and, in his opinion, no blame attached to anyone. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and gave their fees to the widow, who has seven children, ranging in age from 12 years to five months. - Colonel Bearne, on behalf of Messrs. Watts, Blake, Bearne and Co., expressed sympathy with the family of the deceased.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 19 December 1904
BARNSTAPLE - An Inquest was held at Barnstaple on Saturday on the body of MARY ANN CURE, aged 89, a widow, of Union-street. Deceased had been subject to fainting fits, and a month ago was found on the floor, having fallen from a chair on which she was sitting. She fractured her hip and did not recover from the shock. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death as the result of the Fall."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 20 December 1904
AXMINSTER - Yesterday, at the Western Hotel, Axminster, Mr C. E. Cox, Coroner, held an Inquest on VIOLET MOULDING, aged eight weeks, daughter of ALBERT MOULDING, employed at the saw mills. Dr Langran deposed to having made a post-mortem examination and found that the cause of death was convulsions. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" and gave their fees to the parents.

EXETER - At the Exeter Police Court last evening an Inquest was held on the body of DORIS LUCIE RISDON, of 10 Kendall's-buildings, Blackboy-road, Exeter, aged two months. MRS RISDON said the child was found in a queer state and before a doctor could be summoned the little one expired. Dr Duncan said death was probably due to convulsions. The Jury found a verdict of "Natural Causes," the Coroner remarking that the parents had his and the Jury's sympathies.

TOTNES - Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest yesterday at the Totnes Guildhall on the infant son of a domestic servant named ELLEN MCKAY, of 43 High-street, Totnes. Mr J. Brely was Foreman of the Jury. The mother said that the child, which was four months old, was weakly, but did well on the bottle until Friday, when it refused its food. It had a convulsion next morning and died before the doctor could be called. Dr Johnson stated that he had made a post mortem examination, which showed the child was well cared for. It had slight signs of bronchitis, but death was the result of convulsions, due to teething. There was a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 21 December 1904
BARNSTAPLE - The Barnstaple Poisoning Case. - Last evening an Inquest was held at the Trevelyan Temperance Hotel, Barnstaple, before Mr A. Bencraft, Borough Coroner, and a Jury, on the body of the boots at the hotel, ALBERT TWITCHEN, a young man of about 26 years of age. - Evidence was given by Mr Kierle, Miss Prust (waitress), Mr R. Idenden (chemist), Miss Stacey (the cook), P.C. Hill and Dr Matthews. - It bore out the statement which appeared in yesterday's "Gazette". Deceased, it was said, had of late given way occasionally to drink and was in some financial difficulties. On Monday afternoon, just after 4 o'clock he went into the shop of Mr Edenden, and bought nine pennyworth of oxalic acid, which included the value of a bottle, one penny. The quantity was six ounces, and the deceased said it was for cleaning brasses at the Hotel. Mr Idenden cautioned him to be careful about the use of it and he replied that that would be all right. When deceased entered the Hotel, about half an hour afterwards, it was seen that he had been drinking, although he was far from being intoxicated. He told the waitress that he was going to take poison and a glass containing some oxalic acid and water was taken away from him, but he afterwards swallowed the acid that he had left, namely, about three ounces. He became ill and the Police and Dr Matthews were sent for. P.C. Hill first administered emetics, and, although the doctor arrived quickly, the deceased soon succumbed. Dr Matthews said he did not consider that anything could be done by him to save deceased's life. He, in fact, had no time to give deceased an antidote, but he considered that the Constable had done the best under the circumstances. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide by Taking Oxalic Acid while in a State of Temporary Insanity," and they added a rider that they were of opinion that the chemist should not have sold him so large a quantity of the poison.

EXETER - At an Inquiry conducted by the City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, into the circumstances of the death of EMILY STAMP, aged six years, daughter of a labourer in Preston-street, Exeter, who died under circumstances fully detailed in yesterday's Gazette, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" due to shock following on burns caused by the child's clothes catching fire.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 22 December 1904
EXMINSTER - Inquest At Exminster Asylum. - Last evening an Inquest was held by Mr H. W. Gould, County Coroner, at the Devon County Asylum, Exminster, on the body of ROSE MANSFIELD, aged 51, a patient, who died yesterday morning. - Dr Davis, Medical Superintendent of the Asylum, said deceased was admitted into the Institution on the 22nd July 1901. - Nurse Fry said deceased was under her charge on Tuesday night. She was sleeping about 1.30 in the morning and when witness called again about 3.15 she thought deceased was dead. - Dr Fortune, Assistant Medical Officer, said that when he saw deceased she was dead. He made a post-mortem examination and found the woman had been suffering from fatty degeneration of the heart. The cause of death was heart failure. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

EXETER - Exeter Tradesman's Death. A Sad Misadventure. - The Exeter coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, conducted an Inquiry at the Police Station yesterday, concerning the death of MR FRANK GREEN, tailor and outfitter, 91 Queen-street, Exeter, who was found dead in a room at the rear of his business premises about midday on Tuesday. - Mr W. J. Wreford was Foreman of the Jury. Mr C. R. M. Clapp appeared on behalf of parties interested. - FRANK DENSHAM GREEN, of 91 Queen-street, Exeter, identified the body as that of his father, who was aged 47. Deceased had been unwell lately. On Saturday morning deceased was riding his bicycle on Pennsylvania, when he lost control of the machine and "got shook up a little." He seemed unnerved when he came home. The same day he fell downstairs and afterwards complained of a pain in his head. Witness last saw his father alive on Tuesday morning. Deceased had taken a great interest in photography and there were bottles of mixtures all over the house. Witness found several bottles containing poisonous mixtures in the basements, where deceased used to do his developments. Deceased had had business troubles and had also complained of headaches on Sunday and Monday. On the Monday he fell while going upstairs and on the Tuesday also fell a distance of 10 ft. while cleaning a window. - In reply to Mr Clapp, witness said deceased used to "doctor " himself when he felt unwell. He had a good knowledge of chemistry and it had been his wish to study for the medical profession. - John Harris, partner in the firm of Messrs. Broom and Reid, chemists, Queen-street, said he knew the deceased. A week ago last Monday he supplied deceased with a piece of cyanide of potash, about the size of a bean. Deceased said he wanted it for removing stains of nitrate of silver from his hands. He had never been in for any specific poison before - only for fluids for photographic purposes. The amount of cyanide of potash supplied was only just sufficient for the purpose. It was a compound of prussic acid. - By the Foreman: Cyanide of potash was used by photographers and also by tailors, who cleaned gold lace with it. - Mr C. E. Bell, Surgeon, Exeter, deposed to being called and finding deceased lying on the floor in a room at the rear of his premises. On getting close to deceased he noticed that his mouth smelt of prussic acid. On the mantelpiece in the room he found a glass (produced) in the bottom of which there was a small quantity of fluid. He had since analysed this and found it to be a strong solution of cyanide of potash, enough to kill four or five men. Deceased's wife told witness that when she came into the room deceased was drinking from the glass, but he immediately put the glass on the chimney-piece and fell back. Five grains of the poison was sufficient to kill a man. Death must have been almost momentary with the large amount of poison deceased took. - By Mr Clapp: A man who was shaken in his nerves might take bromide of potash. It was hardly possible that deceased took the cyanide in mistake for bromide of potash, as they were different in colour and he would know from the horrible taste of cyanide of potash if he had made a mistake. The room was not a particularly dark one; in fact, he was able to examine the deceased and do all he wanted without artificial light. - Sergt. Ray deposed to going into the room in question to remove the body. The room was fairly light and he did not think anyone could make a mistake in taking medicine owing to insufficient light. - The Coroner, addressing the Jury, dealt with the various facts disclosed and emphasised the importance of careful consideration of the evidence connected with the taking of the poison. Was it taken accidentally, or with intent to cause death? In the latter case it might have been possible that deceased's mind had become so unbalanced as to render him unaccountable for his actions. - After 20 minutes' deliberation in private, the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Poisoning by taking cyanide of Potash by Misadventure."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 23 December 1904
BRADNINCH - Halberton Man Killed. Inquest And Verdict. - Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner, conducted an Inquiry at the Guildhall, Bradninch, last evening, into the circumstances attending the death of HENRY CHUBB, a labourer, of Five Bridges, Halberton, whose body was found the day before yesterday on the Great Western Railway about midway between Kensham Crossing and Waterstave. - Mr William Baker was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - Chief-Inspector Shattock was present to watch the proceedings on behalf of the Great Western Railway. - MARY CHUBB, widow of the deceased, said her husband was about 64 years of age. She last saw him alive on Monday morning. He worked on Mondays and Tuesdays for Mr Baker, of Five Bridges and she thought that was where he went on the morning, but at night she was told he had not been at work. They had been married nearly 34 years and always lived happily together. She could assign no reason that her husband should destroy himself, although he had troubled a good deal as to whether he would be able to continue his work in consequence of rheumatism. He was in great pain on Monday morning. - Walter Bending, railway ganger, residing at Cullompton, said that about 8.20 a.m. the driver of the up Swindon goods train threw out a note to him as he (witness) was walking down the line towards Hele, informing him that about three-quarters of a mile below a body of a man was lying on the down line. He went to the spot indicated with was close to Oxford foot-crossing, and found deceased lying face downwards, which is feet towards the fence on the outside of the rails. Deceased's head, which was badly smashed, was inside the rails. - Chief-Inspector Shattock said all the down engines had been examined, but no marks were found on them. - Dr Muir said the head was almost severed from the trunk. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

NEWTON ABBOT - Inquest At Newton Abbot. - At the Inquest held on ALBERT ROWELL at Newton Abbot yesterday, it was stated that the deceased, 51 years of age, had been an employee of the District Council for nearly 12 years. A steady and thoroughly trustworthy man, and one accustomed to the work, he was ordered by the Surveyor to trim a large chestnut tree which overhung the road at the Chestnuts. Having severed the top, to which ropes, held by two men in the road, were attached, he descended about 12 feet to free it from entanglement with another bough. He walked along a bough for a distance of 15 feet from the trunk, holding on to the branch in which the tree top was entangled. having re-tied the rope, he ordered the men to pull and the combined weight of the top and the pull on the rope caused the branch he was holding to snap off from the trunk, deceased being thrown a distance of 36 feet to the ground. Falling upon his nose, his neck was dislocated, death being instantaneous. Questioned on behalf of the widow, Mr Stevens, the surveyor, stated that he gave deceased full instructions how to proceed with the work, telling him to ascend as far as he could by the ladder, to take the necessary ropes and run no risks. A longer ladder would have been of no benefit as there were plenty of boughs affording easy access to the higher part of the tree. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and passed a vote of sympathy with the widow; the Surveyor associating himself with it, as deceased was one of his most reliable workmen.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 24 December 1904
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - Kenton Carpenter's Sudden Death. - At the St. Thomas' Workhouse, Exeter, last evening, Mr W. Linford Brown, the City Coroner, conducted an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of EDWARD SHILSTONE (81), for ten years an inmate of the Workhouse and formerly a journeyman carpenter at Kenton. Mr T. Grafton was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The Master, Mr Knight, stated that deceased was found dead in his bedroom on Thursday morning. Death, apparently, occurred suddenly. - Mr Mark Farrant, Surgeon, stated that deceased had been treated for a cold, but was otherwise fairly well. He had examined the body and found everything normal and no marks of violence. Deceased being an old man, had a weak heart. Death was due to cardiac failure. - A Juryman: I suppose death was really through old age? - Mr Farrant: Well, it's rather unusual for such a man to die so suddenly. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 28 December 1904
DARTMOUTH - A Sound Sleeper. Inquest At Dartmouth. - At the Dartmouth Guildhall yesterday Mr A. M. Davson, County Coroner, held an Inquest touching the death of the infant son of a coal lumper named FREDERICK GILLARD. - MRS GILLARD said the baby was 18 days old and on Christmas Eve, just before midnight, she put it into bed, wrapped up in a shawl, while she went out to borrow some oil. The child's nose and mouth were uncovered. Her husband went to bed, but was quite two feet away from the child. When she returned a few minutes after, she found the baby dead. Her husband was asleep. - FREDERICK GILLARD said he slept very soundly and he knew nothing of the matter until his wife awoke him and told him the child was dead. She had gone to a doctor before that, while the Sergeant of Police, who was called in by her, tried to awake him, but without success. - The Coroner: You slept soundly through it all? - Yes. - MRS GILLARD (recalled) said her husband was not the worse for liquor. - P.S. Hockridge said he tried his best to rouse GILLARD by pulling and shouting at him, but he could not do so and he gave it up, as he could do no good then. - Dr G. M. Soper deposed that he made a post-mortem and found that the child was well-developed for its age. He found the lungs congested and there was no blood in the brain. He attributed death to asphyxia. The child's nose and mouth must have been covered up to bring this about. - By the Jury: The father was in the room when he arrived, fully dressed; but there were several other people present, and he did not notice whether GILLARD was in liquor or not. - The Coroner, summing up, said it was quite clear, from the evidence of the doctor, that the child was suffocated, and, presumably, the occurrence was accidental. Whether it was brought about by the child being covered up too tightly by the mother, or whether the father stretched his arm over it in his sleep, it was impossible to say. It certainly struck him as being extraordinary that the father slumbered through it all, but there was nothing to show that there was any particular reason for this. He asked the Jury to dismiss from their minds any rumours they might have heard outside and the base their verdict solely upon the evidence that had been presented to them. - A verdict was returned of "Accidental Suffocation, but that how this was brought about there was no evidence to show."

COLYTON - Suicide At Colyton. - Yesterday Mr C. E. Cox, Coroner, held an Inquest touching the death of MRS FRANCIS, 43 years of age, of Streathayne Farm. - The evidence showed that on Monday morning the deceased was found dead at the foot of her bed with a piece of cord tied tightly around her neck. - Dr Cosens stated that death was caused by strangulation. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane." - The receipt of the news caused a great sensation in Colyton and the neighbourhood.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 30 December 1904
PAIGNTON - At an Inquest on the body of MR THOMAS GEORGE INGHAM, retired gentleman, a verdict of "Death from Syncope" was returned. The deceased was taken very ill near his house and died in the hall of his residence. The funeral on Wednesday was attended by a representative of the Torbay Sailing Club, of which MR INGHAM was a member.

PLYMOUTH - A Plymouth Tragedy. A Northtawton Man's Death. Pathetic Circumstances. - Much regret will be felt at Northtawton and the neighbourhood at the news of the death of MR WILLIAM HENRY PIERCE, a second-class writer on H.M.S. Hermoine, son of MR J. C. PIERCE, the popular school-master at Northtawton. The circumstances attending the death are exceedingly sad. - The deceased had been home for his Christmas leave and left Northtawton on Monay in the best of spirits to return to his duties. He took affectionate leave of his parents and the young lady to whom he was affianced. Then the neighbourhood was startled the following day by the receipt of the news that MR PIERCE had been found dead hanging by a cod line in the paymaster's office of H.M.S. Hermoine. - On a desk in the office was a letter addressed to MR PIERCE'S sweetheart at Northtawton, which read as follows:- "My darling, - I'm writing now the last few lines I shall ever write on this earth. My dearest, no one ever loved a woman as I love you. I wish I could have lived and been happy with you, but that is impossible now, my darling. I had another fit last Thursday, so perhaps it is best that I should say good-bye to you. May your mother and God forgive me for what I am about to do. - Yours for ever, WILL." - There are still further sad incidents connected with the case. MR J. C. PIERCE told the Coroner and Jury who investigated the case that about two years ago deceased met with an accident on board ship of a rather serious nature. Since then he had been subject to fits. He had also undergone two operations for an internal complaint. - The Coroner said apparently the fact that deceased was subjected to fits preyed on the young man's mind and, in a moment of temporary insanity he took his own life. - A verdict of "Suicide while Temporary Insane" was returned. - The Jury and Coroner expressed sympathy with the parents of the deceased.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 31 December 1904
EXETER - An Inquest was held at the Exeter Police Station yesterday by the City Coroner, Mr W. Linford Brown, on the body of a six-weeks-old child named ROSINA VIOLET MARTIN, whose parents reside at 3 Albany-place, Parr-street, Exeter. EMILY MARTIN, mother of the child, said her daughter was all right in bed at 4.20 on Wednesday morning, when she took the child into her arms. She afterwards found it dead. Mr Steele Perkins said the organs of the child's body were healthy. In his opinion the death was a natural one, and due to convulsions. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

EXETER - An Inquiry was held by Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner, into the circumstances attending the death of LESLIE STEWART DICKER. ALBERT DICKER, tramway inspector of Portland-street, Exeter, identified the body as that of his son, aged ten weeks, who died about 7.45 on Thursday morning. The child was in good health on the previous night. It suffered somewhat from a cold and was rubbed with camphorated oil. Mr H. Andrew, Surgeon, said death was due to inflammation of the lungs, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

EXETER - An Inquest was held by Mr W. Linford Brown, City Coroner on the body of WILLIAM HAYDON, aged 69, of the Red Cow Village, Exeter, a naval and Great Western Railway pensioner, who was found dead in an outbuilding on Wednesday evening. The widow said her husband had his supper and afterwards went out for a little while before going to bed. She never saw him alive again. Mr Pereira, who made a post-mortem examination, said deceased had an enormous heart and suffered from valvular disease of long standing. Death was due to heart failure. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."