Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

Articles taken from the Western Morning News

[printed in Plymouth.]

1900

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:  Adams; Anderson; Andrews(2); Anstis; Arberry; Arbery; Arthurs; Attwater; Baily; Baines; Barkell; Barker; Barnes; Batho; Battershill; Beable; Beale; Beaver; Beckett; Bennett(2); Berry; Bickle; Bird; Bishop; Blackler; Blamey; Bowers; Bradfield; Bramble; Brett; Britton; Brown(3); Bryant; Bull; Burge; Burman; Burnman; Burns(2); Burridge; Buxton; Campbell; Carter; Castle; Catford; Channin; Clemow; Coe; Cole; Collier; Collings; Coward; Creak; Crews; Cursons; Davey(2); Daw; Dawe(2); Deacon; Dennis; Dewyer; Dickers; Dodd; Donald; Donnett; Dowty; Dyer; Eales;  Edwards; Ellery; Elliot; Ellis(2); Emmett; Endacott; Eustace; Evans; Fielder; Finch; Florence; Ford(2); Friend; Frude; Fry(2); Fryer; Gamon; Gard; Gardner; Garner; Gater; Gauntlett; Gendle; Gilbert(2); Gill; Gillman; Glover; Golding; Gooday; Goodman; Gough; Gove; Green; Greet; Gribble; Hall; Hambley; Hancock; Harris(2); Harrison; Hawke; Hawkins(2); Hay; Hayes; Head; Heather; Hellyer; Henderson; Hendy; Herbert; Hern; Herring; Heysett; Hicks; Hill(3); Hillson; Hine; Hingston; Hoar; Hobbs; Hockaday; Hocking; Holman; Holmes; Horton; Hosken; Hounsell; Howard; Hurrell; Hutchings; Hyne; Inch; Ivers; Ives; Jenkins; Johnson(2); Jones(2); Jons; Keest; Kemp(2); Lanclett; Lane; Lawrence(2); Legassick; Le Lean; Light; Long; Lugger; Lynn; Lyons; Maben; Mann(2); Marks; Martin(4); Mason; Masters; May; McKenzie; Mesney; Miles; Millman(2); Milnes; Mitchell(3); Mitchelmore; Mogford; Moneghan; Moore(2); Morison; Morley; Mortimer; Moule; Mounter; Mourton; Murphy; Newton; Norris; Norrish; Oliver(2); O'Neill; Opie; Oxford; Parkin; Parsons; Partridge; Pascoe; Peake; Pearce; Pearne; Pedrick; Penberthy; Penrose; Perkins; Perrin; Perry; Phillips(2); Philp; Pook; Pope(2); Popplestone; Pratt; Prout; Prowse(2); Purcell; Quance; Quantick; Ray; Rea; Read; Redmore; Reeby; Reed; Rice; Richards; Riley; Roberts; Rooke; Rosekelly; Ross; Rowe; Rutter; Ryder; Sallis; Sampson; Samson; Sanders(2); Sandford; Scull; Seabrooke; Searle; Seldon; Shave; Shepherd(2); Sheriton; Short; Single; Skinner; Smith(2); Snell; Somerville; Soper; Southern; Sowden; Sprague; Starling(2); Stenning; Stevens; Stidston; Stigings; Stillman; Stivey; Stokes; Stone; Strike; Sullivan(2); Sully; Sutcliffe; Svela; Taylor; Terrill; Test; Thomas; Thompson; Thorne; Tolcher; Tollman; Treatt; Triscott; Turner; Vanstone; Vie; Vogler; Waddell; Waddle; Walker(3); Watkins; Watts(3); Waycott; Wedlock; Weeks; Welch; Welsh; Wenmoth; Westcott; Weverell; Weymouth; Whitaker; Whitbread; Whitcombe; White; Williams(5); Wilson(2);  Wonnacott; Worth; Wyatt; Wynne; Yendall; Young.

Western Morning News, Monday 1 January 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Mr Albert Gard (Devonport Deputy Coroner) completed a hundred Inquests in the Dockyard borough on Saturday with an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of RICHARD WAKEHAM LANCLETT, 72, naval pensioner, 24 George-street. MARGARET HOOPER LANCLETT identified the body as that of her father-in-law. He was last under medical care about two years ago. A few days since he complained of a tightness on the chest, and she rubbed oil on, which relieved him a little. On Saturday morning he said he could hardly breathe. He went to bed while she was making tea for him and she applied a poultice over his heart. When she took the tea up he appeared to be dead. Dr McElwaine was called in and said death was due to syncope, caused partly through old age and partly through old-standing pleurisy. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

KINGSBRIDGE - At an Inquest on Saturday a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned in the case of THOMAS HINE, an inmate of Kingsbridge Workhouse, found dead on the steps leading to the men's ward. Deceased was 70 years of age, and a native of Modbury. Death was stated by Dr Harston to be due to congestion of the lungs.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 2 January 1900
PLYMOUTH - JOANNA MURPHY, aged 60, of 6 Edgcumbe-place, Plymouth, went to bed apparently in her usual health on Friday night and next morning was found dead. At the Inquest yesterday Dr Burke, who had made a post-mortem examination, attributed death to syncope.

PLYMPTON - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquiry at Colebrook, Plympton yesterday, relative to the death of WILLIAM DAVEY TRISCOTT, aged 47 years, a market gardener, who was found dead in his bedroom on Sunday morning by his daughter, BEATRICE, on her going to call him to dinner. Dr Ellery, who had made a post-mortem examination, said the deceased had suffered from heart disease for many years and the immediate cause of death was syncope. The Jury (Mr F. J. R. Chalice, Foreman), returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" and handed their fees to the widow.

STOKE DAMEREL - A Devonport Inquest. - The Deputy Coroner, (Mr Albert Gard) held an Inquest at the Crystal Palace Hotel, Devonport, touching the death of JAMES DONALD, 66, superannuated shipwright, who lived at 9 Avondale-terrace. The widow said deceased had been suffering for years from chronic asthma. On Friday morning he asked her for whisky and she gave it to him with tea. Thirty-five minutes later she thought she heard him calling and going upstairs found him doubled up on the floor. She helped him into bed, and left the room for a minute, and on going back found him gazing vacantly and she could not get him to speak, though he was breathing. Dr Wagner, called in, pronounced life extinct. In reply to a Juror, witness said deceased might have had a little extra drink during the holidays. - Dr Octavius Hill, who made a post-mortem examination, said he found the liver and kidneys diseased through drink. Death was due to syncope, accelerated by drink. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

TORQUAY - The Late MR JOHN LANE Of Torquay. - At Torquay yesterday Mr Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry concerning the death of MR JOHN LANE, chartered accountant of Abbey-road. MR STANLEY LANE, son of deceased, stated that nine years ago his father suffered from an affection of the heart, but since then he had been fairly well. On Saturday morning at 11.15 he was in apparently good health. - Mr Wills, clerk in Mr Hamlyn's office, said deceased came in to his office about 11.20 on Saturday morning to transact business with Mr Hamlyn, who was engaged. MR LANE had a couple of minutes conversation with witness and then suddenly fell forward. With the assistance of Mr Glanfield he raised deceased up and went for assistance. Mr J. W. Glanfield, articled clerk with Mr Hamlyn, said MR LANE breathed heavily for two minutes and then died. - Dr Karkeek said deceased was dead when he arrived. A post-mortem examination shewed that death was due to fatty degeneration of the heart. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 3 January 1900
PLYMOUTH - Three Inquests were held at Plymouth yesterday by Mr R. B. Johns, the Coroner, and in each it was found that death was due to Natural Causes. - ERNEST MARTIN, aged 64, died at the Workhouse on Saturday. Dr Cooke made a post-mortem examination and found that death was due to syncope. ROSINA MARTIN, a widow, aged 41, died at 12 Tavistock-place, Plymouth. A post-mortem examination shewed that fatty degeneration of the heart was the cause. THOMAS HELLYER, aged 65, labourer, of 82 Treville-street, Plymouth, died suddenly on Sunday morning. Dr Williams made a post-mortem examination, and found that death was due to syncope.

Western Morning News, Thursday 4 January 1900
PLYMOUTH - Suicide At Plymouth. - An Inquest was held at Plymouth yesterday relative to the death of WILLIAM A. S. LIGHT, aged 47, residing at 97 Beaumont-road, Plymouth, a draper, in the employ of Popham, Radford and Co. - Frederick G. Elford said last night he was called to MR LIGHT'S house and on going into the garden found deceased lying face downwards on the ground. He turned him round and saw a large gash in his throat and by his side, a blood-stained knife. Deceased was quite dead. Dr Glynn was called. Deceased had lately been suffering from influenza, which left him very weak and despondent. Deceased's employer said MR LIGHT was at work during the day and seemed bright and cheerful. A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned. MR G. T. LIGHT, who was in no way related to the deceased, was the Foreman of the Jury.

PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday relative to the death of PHILLIPA MORLEY, aged 68, residing at 8 Lifton-villas, Plymouth, who died suddenly on Friday last, after suffering from influenza. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 5 January 1900
PLYMPTON - A Plympton Girl's Death. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquiry yesterday at Plympton relative to HARRIET GOSS GOODMAN, aged 21, daughter of MR THOMAS GOODMAN, carrier, Plympton. - Mr H. O. Serpell, Plymouth, said deceased had lived with him as a domestic servant for two months. On Saturday evening last she complained of great pain and received permission to go out to consult a doctor. She returned about 10 p.m. and went straight to bed. On Sunday morning she attended to her duties as usual, but was very soon seized with violent pain and strongly wished to be sent home. She would not say to what doctor she had gone the previous night, but it transpired that, accompanied by her mother, she had consulted Mr Lane, a herbalist, who had given her medicine, of which she had taken one dose. Mr Serpell spoke most highly of the deceased and said he sent her home in deference only to her own wishes. - Louisa Howe, sister of the deceased, said her sister died on Monday morning after suffering intense agonies. - Dr Ellery said when called to see her on his arrival she was in great pain, and in a state of collapse. Early on Monday morning she was in a dying state. He had with Dr Turner made a post-mortem examination. The cause of death was a perforating ulcer of the stomach, and subsequent peritonitis. There were no marks of violence and nothing whatever to justify the scandalous rumours that had gained currency. The mixture given by Mr Lane had done no harm. It was perfectly harmless. The only good it was, was to the vendor. - Dr Turner corroborated. - Henry Lane, who said he was a drug store-keeper, and objected to being described as a herbalist, said deceased complained of suffering violent pain from indigestion. He was very busy and suggested that she should see a medical man, but her mother had great faith in his preparations, and as she begged for something to give her relief he gave her medicine for which she paid 1s. 3d. He described its components and said the good it would do was very little, but it would do no harm. - The Coroner deprecated the custom of consulting unqualified men when every facility was given by the medical profession. In this case, however, the girl's death had not been accelerated in any way. The disease from which she suffered was always fatal, and was somewhat frequent amongst girls of her age. He however, cautioned Mr Lane against future prescribing. - The Jury (Mr J. L. Rickard, Foreman) returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and handed their fees to the mother.

STOKE DAMEREL - Found Dead At Devonport. - Mr A. Gard, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday relative to MARY ANNE MASTERS, 78, widow of WILLIAM MASTERS, turncock in the employ of the Water Company. Mrs Elvin stated that on Tuesday evening deceased appeared in good health when she went to bed. On going to her bedroom with a cup of tea next morning she could get no reply. P.C. Pengelly was called in, and upon the door being forced open the old lady was found in bed dead and cold. Dr Wilson said death was due to fatty degeneration of the heart, consequent on senile decay.

Western Morning News, Saturday 6 January 1900
PLYMOUTH - Death of Plymouth Twins. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday relative to the deaths of REUBEN and JAMES HENRY SAMSON, twins, aged three weeks, of 92 King-street, Plymouth. MRS SAMSON said the children had been somewhat weak since birth and when she awoke on Thursday morning she found them both dead in bed. She had seen them during the night when they were apparently in their usual health. - Dr C. E. Russel Rendle, who had made a post-mortem examination, said the deceased were prematurely born and he attributed death to inflammation of the lungs consequent on their weak condition. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Monday 8 January 1900
AVETON GIFFORD - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Aveton Gifford on Saturday, touching the death of CHRISTANIA SANDERS, aged 58, the wife of a superannuated police constable. JOSEPH SANDERS, the husband, said deceased got up on Thursday morning and made a cup of tea for both of them. Feeling unwell he remained in bed, and about 9.30 deceased brought him up a little whisky, at the same time going to a drawer in a table and taking something out. His razor was kept in that drawer. She went downstairs and shortly afterwards, hearing a noise, he went down and found his wife sitting in a chair with her throat cut and the razor by her side on a sewing machine. He at once bound her throat up and sent for a doctor, but she died before his arrival. Since the death of their eldest son seven years ago deceased had been addicted to drink, and he had since discovered she was in monetary difficulties. - Albert Pepperall, postman, Aveton Gifford, said deceased was in the habit of cashing her husband's superannuation cheque every quarter, and on Wednesday last she told him that unless he had the whole of the money there would be an Inquest. Dr Andrews, of Modbury, said the jugular vein was severed. A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 9 January 1900
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday relative to the death of SUSANNAH WILLIAMS, aged 50 years, of 26 Rendle-street, Plymouth. - JOHN WILLIAMS, husband,. said his wife had been unwell for several days but he had not thought it necessary to send for a doctor. She was taken worse on Saturday and died about midday. - Dr Pearse attributed death to pneumonia, but thought had he been called sooner he could not have done much for her. The Coroner said it seemed peculiar the natural prejudice which existed amongst poorer people against calling in a doctor or sending for medicine. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 10 January 1900
EXMOUTH - An Exmouth Coroner's Jury yesterday returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" in the case of MR F. S. BIRD, aged 38, who was run over by a train on Saturday night.

Western Morning News, Thursday 11 January 1900
TORQUAY - Suicide Near Torquay. - At Hele, Torquay, last evening an Inquiry was held relative to the death of SIMON SNELL, 73, labourer, of 4 Woodside-cottages. Deceased had been a great sufferer from asthma, dropsy and pains in his head for some time. On one occasion he threatened to cut his throat and get out of the world. On Tuesday morning his wife found him lying over the side of the bed dead, with a large wound in his throat. P.C. Harris found a sharp pocket-knife in a box by the bedside. Dr Steele said there were two wounds in the throat, one of which severed the main artery. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

Western Morning News, Saturday 13 January 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Sad Fatality At Keyham. A Boy Crushed. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. H. Pearce) held an Inquiry at Keyham Dockyard yesterday touching the death of HENRY A. WILSON, 15, a son of ROBERT WILSON, R.N., of 49 Queen-street, Devonport. Mr J. P. Goldsmith represented Sir John Jackson (Limited). - William Swaffield, crane driver, 23 Victory-street, Keyham, said on Wednesday afternoon they were hoisting a huge balk of timber and while he was waiting for the order which way to jib the crane round, a gust of wind caught the timber. Deceased was on the footboard, and as the timber swung towards him he jumped up to push it away and witness put out his boot to check it, and was knocked back against the boiler. It knocked the lad down on the footplate. The timber struck the lever rack, which caused it to bounce and as the deceased fell it crashed down upon him. Witness lifted the balk off and saw the lad was dead. In reply to the Jury, witness said he had been a crane driver for 16 months. It was not usual to use guy ropes. - A Juror: Don't you think it would have been wise to have guy ropes to prevent the timber swinging? - It would be awkward when we had to turn the timber around. - Mr Goldsmith: Was the deceased in his right place? - He was about four feet away from the fire, and was in his usual place when not attending it. - In reply to the father, witness said the timber was being dragged and when it left the ground bounded off and killed the boy. - Charles Ernest Harvey, a banksman, said the wind caught one end of the timber, causing the other end to fly round and strike the driver and deceased, then the body of the carne, from which it bounced off and struck the lad on the head. It had been squally all day. - By Mr Goldsmith: The work was being done in a very exposed place. - After putting questions to the witness, the father said he was not satisfied the wind took charge of the crane. - Frederick George Coleman, of 5 Cambridge-terrace, Ford, a foreman of carpenters and pile drivers, said the slinging of the timber was carried out under his supervision. The piece of timber in this case was 66 feet long and 12 by 14 inches in breadth and length. It was slung by a chain in the centre and to get it correctly balanced, was lifted 12 or 18 inches. When hoisted it was quite level, and when twenty feet high the end of the pile was caught by the wind, causing the other end to swing round and strike the crane. It would not be practicable to use guy ropes. - By the Jury: We were obliged to lift it twenty feet to get it clear of the gantry. There was no hurrying whatever. The wind had often caught logs, but they were usually about 40 or 45 feet long and would not in such cases strike the crane. - MR WILSON said he was of opinion that two slings should have been used. He had lifted many tons of timber in his time and that was his experience. - Leonard L. Hanham, Surgeon at the Extension Works, said the base of the boy's skull was completely fractured, also all the facial bones. Death must have been instantaneous. - The Coroner said accidents were bound to happen in works of such magnitude. He did not think blame was attached to anyone. The foreman of the man had given his evidence in a very straightforward manner and he should judge him to be a very capable man. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," adding that where practicable guy ropes should be used. They exonerated the employers from all blame, and expressed deep sympathy with MR WILSON. The Foreman (Mr Coleman) said the deceased was the most willing and energetic lad he had known and he was much liked by his workmates. He also expressed sympathy with his father.

DARTMOUTH - Dartmouth Pensioner's Death. - At Totnes yesterday Mr S. Hacker, Coroner, held an Inquest relative to the death of SAMUEL BROWN. - J. W. C. Pillar of the Britannia Inn, Dartmouth, said deceased, who had lodged with him for twelve months, was an army pensioner and worked as a labourer. He had an attack of ague some weeks ago, and about three weeks before Christmas complained that he had had a fall. He was taken to Dr Crossfield, who told him he had bruised his ribs. He received a pension of £4 18s. 11d. a quarter. On his last pension day (New Year's-day) he went out in the morning and returned in the evening drunk. The three following nights he came home drunk. Then he stayed in bed four days. Early on Wednesday morning witness's daughter heard a smash of glass. He went down and in the court found deceased, who had apparently fallen from his bedroom and through the glass roof of a dining-room. Dr Crossfield, who was sent for, said there was nothing the matter with deceased, and advised witness to turn him out. Dr Crossfield gave him a bottle of medicine, but did not call again as requested. Dr Harris was asked to come, but did not, and gave an order to remove deceased to Totnes Workhouse, which was done. He was raving all the way, talking about the Boers and wished to be with his regiment in Africa. - In reply to Mr t. W. Windeatt, for the Guardians, witness said deceased was not suffering from delirium tremens. Dr Harris did not see deceased before signing a certificate for his removal. - Henry G. Wickens, Assistant Overseer, said when he went to the Britannia Inn to fetch deceased he was sitting in the bar with two other men. He was conveyed to the steamer in a trap. - In reply to Mr Windeatt witness said he did not remove deceased because he was a lunatic or a pauper, but because he was ill. - The Inquest was adjourned until next Friday for the attendance of Dr Harris.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 16 January 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Pensioner's Death. A Singular Case. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquiry at the Workhouse yesterday touching the death of JAMES ELLIS, 44, a naval pensioner. - William E. Hodges, of 26 Market-street, said that the deceased had been living with him. On the 4th inst. he had reason to complain to him about a certain matter when the deceased attempted to strike him. He lowered his head and avoided the blow, and in self-defence struck the deceased, with the result that he fell down against a bedstead. Deceased had been drinking for some days and also on the day in question. Later he said that he had hurt his back, and the next morning he complained of feeling queer. He went to the Royal Albert Hospital, where he was attended to for two broken ribs, and told to come again the next morning. he did not go, but the next day went to the Workhouse. Deceased was a bigger man than the witness, and he could not avoid striking him. - In reply to the Foreman, witness said that he and the deceased had been good friends, and that he (witness) was quite sober at the time. - Dr F. E. Row, Medical Officer at the Workhouse, said that when deceased was admitted to the Institution he was wet through and was immediately put to bed. Two days later he developed a cold, pneumonia following. He had been very violent and delirious, constantly wanting to fight, and it was with considerable difficulty that he was kept in bed. He died on Friday morning. By a post-mortem examination he found that deceased's ninth and tenth ribs were broken, and there were a few new and old bruises about the body, but none were serious. The broken ribs had not damaged the lungs. Death was due to pneumonia. He could not say that the ribs being broken was not the indirect cause of death, because deceased probably owed the pneumonia to coming to the House wet through. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

STOKE DAMEREL - Sudden Death At Devonport. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquiry at the Guildhall yesterday respecting the death of GRACE BURNMAN, 61, found dead on Saturday morning at 2 Gay's-court, Pembroke-street, Devonport. Elizabeth Skews, wife of a labourer, said her mother had been in failing health for some months, but not had enough to require medical attendance. They had breakfast together on Saturday morning and when witness went out, shortly after ten o'clock, the deceased was apparently in her usual health. On returning she found her mother lying on the floor and summoned Dr Saunders, as she thought deceased was in a fit. The doctor pronounced life extinct. - Dr E. G. Saunders, said death was due to syncope, caused by a fatty degeneration of the heart, the deceased's stoutness affecting all her organs. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

DARTMOUTH - The Dartmouth Fatality. - At Dartmouth yesterday an Inquest was held on WILLIAM HENRY WHITE, of Stokefleming, who was employed at Warflett Brewery, Dartmouth. It appeared that on Friday afternoon he was working the chaff cutter, when his hand was caught in the machine, and before it could be stopped his right arm was nearly torn off. Deceased was taken to the Cottage Hospital, where amputation of his arm above the elbow was found necessary and he died next day from shock. Mr H. E. Bartlett, a member of the firm owning the brewery, said the mouth of the chaff-cutter was protected in the usual way. - Factory Inspector Jones, Plymouth district, said so far as he could see the flywheel and knives were all properly protected, but the accident happened at the mouth of the machine. There were automatic appliances to be had which would stop the machine immediately a foreign substance entered and he suggested the provision of such a thing, and also that the place should be lime-washed to make it lighter and prevent an accident occurring owing to want of light. Mr Bartlett pointed out what had been shewn in evidence that there was a lever which the man working the machine should have in his left hand and by means of which the machine could either be reversed or stopped at once. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and they drew Mr Bartlett's attention to the Inspector's recommendations. Mr Bartlett said the firm would act upon them.

PLYMOUTH - Sudden Death At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday relative to the death of CATHERINE ANN WENMOTH, aged 48 years, of 9 Hastings-terrace, Plymouth, who died suddenly last Friday, before medical aid could be summoned. Dr Pearse, who was sent for immediately deceased was taken ill, attributed death to syncope. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Fatal Fall At Stonehouse. - Mr R. R. Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest at Stonehouse yesterday respecting the death of ELIZABETH PEARCE, aged 50, wife of JOHN PEARCE, general dealer, 7 Regent Buildings. The husband said that on Tuesday last at 8 p.m. he returned from a journey with his horse and wagon, the weather being rather stormy at the time. He had got the horse out of the shafts and was about to pull the wagon under a shed, when his wife came from the house and told him to make haste, or he would get very wet. He went between the shafts and deceased pushed at the back of the wagon for the purpose of getting it into the shed. Almost immediately his son shouted out that deceased had fallen. He at once went to where she was on the ground and carried her into the house, placing her in a chair. As she complained of pains he sent for Dr T. Leah. Deceased died on Saturday afternoon. - Dr Leah stated that he saw MRS PEARCE shortly after she had fallen on the ground. There was bleeding from the mouth and internal injuries and she was suffering from shock. He attended her up to the time of death, which was caused by a rupture, due to the fall. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Thursday 18 January 1900
BERRY POMEROY - A Berry Pomeroy Infants Death. Parents Censured. - An Inquest was held on Tuesday at higher Weeksborough Farm, Berry Pomeroy, on the six-months-old male child of a farm labourer named THOMAS ANDREWS. - The child, it appeared, had suffered for some time from very bad skin disease, and no medical man was called in to see him until just before his death. A neighbour stated that she advised the mother on the 9th inst. to have medical attendance for the child, but she neglected to do so, and deceased got much worse. - Dr J. Loftus Cuppaidge of Totnes, said he was called to see deceased on Sunday last, but the child died a few minutes after his arrival at the house from exhaustion following an extensive skin eruption. In consequence of his not having been called to the child before, he declined to certify to its death. He made a post-mortem examination and found deceased had been in every way healthy except for the eczema. He attended the child about four months ago for a similar affection, he then recovered. The child's last illness was of about two months' duration. The family had always attendance by the parish doctor and therefore, it was no expense to have called in medical advice. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and added a rider to the effect that the parents, especially the mother, should be censured for not having called in medical aid sooner. The Coroner in censuring them, said the Jury had dealt very leniently with them, as a verdict of manslaughter might have been returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 19 January 1900
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at the Foresters' Arms, Cattedown, yesterday on JAMES COLLIER, 66, a labourer. It appeared that deceased was taken ill on the 10th inst., and died before Dr Dutton arrived. A post-mortem examination revealed the fact that deceased died from cirrhosis of the liver and abdominal dropsy. Verdict accordingly.

PLYMOUTH - An Inquiry was also held relative to the death of JOHN A. H. HARRIS, aged 10 months, son of JOHN HARRIS, labourer, of 60 Cromwell-road. On Tuesday afternoon the child was taken with a fit and died before the arrival of a doctor. Dr Stubbs made a superficial examination and found that death was due to convulsions. Verdict accordingly.

PLYMOUTH - A third Inquest was on JAMES DAVEY, marine pensioner, aged 71, of 2 Clare-place, Plymouth, who died on Wednesday last. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" in accordance with the medical evidence, was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 20 January 1900
PLYMPTON ST MARY - A Plympton Inquest. - Mr R. Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest at Plympton St. Mary yesterday, concerning the death of EMMA WAYCOTT, aged 90, of Smithleigh Farm, widow of the late SAMUEL WAYCOTT, farmer. - Alice M. Wright, spinster, stated that she and two grandsons of the deceased, on 19th ult., on returning home, found deceased stunned at the bottom of five stairs, down which she had evidently fallen. She was bleeding from the right cheek and ear. Until then she had been well able to go up and down stairs without assistance. After the fall deceased was never well enough to account for the accident. Mr C. H. Stevens, Surgeon, said he found deceased suffering from a wound on the right eye and forehead, about two inches long. The right ear was torn in halves, and he stitched it. The wounds healed and deceased somewhat recovered. Death was due to senile decay, accelerated by the injuries. A verdict was given in accordance with the medical testimony.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 23 January 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquiry at Morice Town yesterday touching the death of EDWARD CHARLES RUTTER, aged one year and eight months, the child of EDWIN JOHN and MARY RUTTER, living at 54 Gloucester-street. The mother stated that at 8.30 a.m. on 19th inst., the child had a fit in bed and died before medical aid arrived. Dr J. E. C. Wilson said that the boy had been ill from birth and died from convulsions, due to gastro-enteritis. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 24 January 1900
PLYMOUTH - Fatality At Sea. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, relative to the death of MARTIN OLSEN SVELA, 16 years of age, seaman on the Norwegian barque Suberb. - Mr F. Warne, of the Norwegian Consular Office, Plymouth, stated that he had received a letter signed by the captain and two of the crew of the Superb stating that whilst at sea on the 10th inst. a block fell from the fore-top and struck deceased on the head. They immediately made for Plymouth and arrived in port on the 14th. Dr Hamilton, Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased was admitted on the 14th inst. suffering from concussion of the brain and died last Saturday. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

PLYMOUTH - A Looe Master's Death. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday respecting the death of WILLIAM DAVEY, aged 58 years, master of the sloop Union, trading between Plymouth and Looe, whose body was found in the water at the Great Western Docks, Plymouth, on Monday. William Elliott, a seaman, of Bude, said he saw DAVEY on the 2nd int., in his punt alone in the Great Western Docks. He spoke to deceased, who seemed quite sober. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

TORQUAY - Fatal Fall At Torquay. - A Torquay labourer, named THOMAS PROWSE, aged 65, was spending an evening last week at the Alpine Inn, Stentiford's Hill. After drinking "two three-halfpennyworths" of beer he started to descend a somewhat steep flight of steps to the backyard. He apparently slipped and fell to the bottom, where the landlord found him unconscious. After a little while he recovered and was able t return to the taproom, where he remained another hour. A man named James Pearse then saw him to his lodgings. He there became so bad that the landlady called in the assistance of two other women, and in the morning Dr Cook was called in. Five days later the man died of shock and at an Inquest held by Mr Hacker yesterday a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

NEWTON ABBOT - BESSIE STENNING, aged 29, slipped on the footpath at Newton Abbot on 18th December and knocked her head against the wall. This week she died, and at the Inquest yesterday, Dr. C. Martin stated that deceased died from inflammation of the brain and convulsions, brought on by a compound fracture of the base of the skull. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Thursday 25 January 1900
EAST STONEHOUSE - A Stonehouse Fatality. - Mr A. Gard, Deputy Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at the Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, yesterday relative to the death of WILLIAM JOHN GARD, a labourer, in the employ of Mr R. Neal, of Plymouth, aged 27, of Waterloo-street, Stonehouse. Mr O. Wilcocks represented the relatives of deceased. John T. Smale, of 30 George-street, Stonehouse, said he was working with deceased at Newport-street, Stonehouse on the 22nd inst., pulling down some old buildings. Whilst engaged in pulling down a wall one man asked that the ladder should be moved, but deceased went up before this was done. He went of his own accord. When deceased was on the wall witness noticed it crumbling away and shouted to deceased three times, but he only answered "All right." When the wall began to fall deceased jumped on to the ladder, but his weight forced the ladder off the wall. Deceased fell and struck his head on a kerb. - In reply to a Juryman: The wall was about 35 ft. high and the ladder fell with deceased. The foreman was away at the time of the accident. Witness did not consider that it was unsafe, he would have gone up had he been asked. Witness was responsible when the foreman was absent. - By Mr Willcocks: The wall was undermined about 5ft. The ladder was not tied. - George [?] of 4 George-terrace, Saltash, foreman, said that he had told deceased not to get on the wall, but to work from the ladder. Witness was away about 25 minutes. In reply to Mr Willcocks, witness said a man named Perry had previously come off the ladder in order to put it in a more safe position. - William Peters, labourer, gave corroborative evidence. Dr D. [?], Resident House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased was suffering from compression of the brain and was unconscious when he was admitted to the Hospital on the [?] the 22nd inst. He died the same afternoon. He had made a post-mortem examination and he found the skull fractured and the brain compressed. Deceased must have fallen from a great height to have received the injuries. The Coroner said in going on the wall [?] doing his duty. All the best materials in the world could not make this particular kind of employment perfectly safe. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and expressed deep sympathy with the relatives.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 31 January 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Mr Alfred Gard, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry at Devonport yesterday into the circumstances attending the death of the child of BEATRICE ALICE RILEY, a single woman, living with her parents at 56 Cotehele-terrace, Keyham. On Friday the mother of the child complained of illness and went to bed. Her mother left the house for a time and on returning found that in her absence her daughter had given birth to a child. MRS RILEY said she was unaware of her daughter's condition. Dr Wagner found the child dead. It was born alive and there were no marks of violence. The mother and child had not received proper attention, but he (Dr Wagner) would not say that if the mother had received proper attention the child would have lived. Death was due to precipitate labour and want of proper attention immediately after. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 2 February 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - The Bulldog Mystery. Influenza And Suicide. - Mr Albert Gard, Deputy Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at the Ferry Hotel, Morice Town, Devonport, yesterday afternoon relating to the death of JAMES FRY, 27 years, leading seaman of the gunboat Bulldog, whose dead body was picked up in the Hamoaze on Wednesday morning. Mr Goldsmith (Venning and Goldsmith) represented the Admiralty. - SAMUEL FRY, chief petty officer, of the Britannia, Dartmouth, said deceased was his brother. He last saw him alive at Kingskerswell on January 2nd. Deceased had been suffering from influenza and was at that time very much depressed. He told witness he would like to get back to Devonport and have a good night's sleep. Deceased was a moderately temperate man. - William John Gill, first class petty officer of the Bulldog, said that on the morning of January 3rd deceased said he was not feeling well, complaining of the pains in the head and said he felt like jumping overboard on the previous night. About nine o'clock on the night of the 3rd deceased, while in his hammock, again complained of not feeling well and asked witness if he knew what influenza was like. Deceased had been on the sick list for a bad leg. At four o'clock next morning the middle watchman called witness and asked where FRY was. Finding deceased's hammock empty, witness looked for FRY, and as he could not be found, the whole ship was searched. There were scuttles not far from deceased's hammock, but a man could not get through these. To get on deck deceased would have to pass two stokers. There was a sentry on deck, but he might not have seen deceased if on the other side when he came up. A man on board said he had heard a noise as of a man moaning. Having got to the gangway, deceased might have slipped down the chain to the water. There was no doctor on the Bulldog, but a doctor could have been obtained if necessary. Deceased was able to do his work during the day. - In reply to Mr Goldsmith, witness said deceased did not ask for medical attendance, but witness advised him, if not feeling well, to "go sick," and he replied that he would wait to see if he got any better. - By the Jury: There was no commissioned or warrant officer on board; and witness was in charge. Deceased's clothes were found in his hammock. - Samuel Soady, boatman, Carew-terrace, Torpoint, said that about 8 a.m.., on Wednesday, he was about fifty yards from land on the Torpoint side when he saw the body of deceased. - P.S. Cary, of the Water Police, who took charge of the body, said it was badly decomposed, both feet being gone. - P.S. Wilcox, of the Borough Police, said that in the pocket of a waist-belt on the body he found £4 14s. 3d., and the shirt was marked "J. FRY." - The Coroner said the fact that money was found on the deceased shewed there was no foul play and there could be no question that the man got into the water of his own will. It was notorious that influenza caused great depression. - The Jury found a verdict of "Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity." - The Foreman (Mr G. Palmer) thought a stricter watch should have been kept on the gangway.

Western Morning News, Saturday 3 February 1900
LYDFORD - Death Of A Noted Convict. - Mr J. D. Prickman held an Inquest at Dartmoor Prison yesterday on HENRY WILLIAMS who died on Tuesday last. WILLIAMS was the convict who escaped from his party working at the filter beds and was recaptured. Mr W. H. O. Russell, Governor, shewed that deceased, although only 47 years of age, had been convicted of burglary, &c. on four occasions - 6th April 1875; 6th May 1878, seven years' penal servitude and five years police supervision; 19th February 1884, ten years' penal servitude. In London on 6th February 1893 he was again sentenced to ten years' penal servitude. He was a shoemaker by trade. Whilst in gaol his conduct had been fairly good. - Dr W. S. Frew, Medical Officer, said deceased on his reception from Portland in 1894 was in good health and ordered to ordinary labour. In November 1898 he complained of dimness of sight &c. He was admitted into Hospital, where he had been every since. On 5th June, 1889 he became paralysed in his legs and since then he had been perfectly helpless in his bed. A post-mortem shewed that death was attributable to a tumour on the brain, about the size of a small orange. - Convict Orderly Charles Baker, who had helped to nurse deceased, said he was kindly treated. - No reply from prisoner's friends had been received by the authorities. The Jury (Mr T. Sedgman, Foreman) brought in a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

NEWTON ABBOT - In the case of GEORGE MORTIMER, aged 62, of Knowles-terrace, who hung himself in Newton Abbot Cattle Market yesterday, the Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound State of Mind." Deceased was the porter to the Workhouse for about 20 years, and for the last 5 years had been caretaker of one of Watts, Bearne and Company's coal stores.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 6 February 1900
SHAUGH PRIOR - Sudden Death At Shaugh. - Mr R. R. Rodd (County Coroner) held an Inquest at Shaugh yesterday relative to the death of MARY BEALE, aged 69, the widow of a farmer. Annie Matthews, daughter of deceased, said that her mother, who suffered from a weak heart, got up as usual on Saturday morning. While another daughter was out of the room deceased went out and on a search being made about 15 minutes later she was found in a stream of water close by, with her head resting on a stone. Deceased had on new boots, and while stepping across the stream from stone to stone, would appear to have slipped and fallen in. - Dr G. F Glinn, of Plympton, had since examined deceased and found that she had died from syncope, there being no evidence of drowning. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 7 February 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - A Devonport Fatality. - Devonport Deputy Coroner (Mr A. Gard) held an Inquiry at the Royal Albert Hospital yesterday touching the death of LINDA AMANDA HOWARD, aged three years and three months. - ANNIE MELINDA HOWARD, mother of the deceased, said she was the wife of JOHN HOWARD, a pile driver and lived at 31 St Vincent-street. On the afternoon of January 25th the child was playing in the kitchen when she had occasion to leave the room. She had no sooner gone out than she heard the child scream, and going back found the deceased in the fender with her back towards the fire and a saucepan of nearly boiling water, which was on the hob, had upset over her. She immediately cut the child's clothes off and her screams brought Mrs Trenaman, a neighbour, who assisted in applying linseed oil and whitening. The child was scalded on the shoulders, chest, back and left arm. They afterwards took it to the Hospital. The child had been burnt about twelve months ago by playing with the fire. In her opinion the little girl must have been running round the room and have fallen over the fender. To save herself she had probably caught hold of the handle of the saucepan. There was no guard before the fire. - Ellen Treneman, wife of a shipwright, living at 31 St Vincent-street, said she heard the screams of the last witness and of the deceased on the afternoon of the 25th ult. She assisted in applying the best remedies she knew. - Dr Brough, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said the child died at seven o'clock on the evening of the 3rd from exhaustion, resulting from scalds. In reply to the Foreman, witness said the scalds were very deep, and after admission the child gradually went from bad to worse, and it was found nothing could save her. - The Coroner said the cause of death was the same old story of want of protection. Mr Pearce had many times impressed upon parents that the only safe method of providing for the safety of children in a room was to provide fire screens. In Devonport and other towns cases of this sort had been dealt with over and over again, and similar warnings made, but nine-tenths of the cases they had to deal with were owing to this want of protection. The Coroner expressed the hope that the parents would see the absolute necessity of providing fire guards. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and, with the Coroner, expressed their sympathy with the parents.

STOKE DAMEREL - Improper Feeding Of Infants. A Devonport Case. - Mr Albert Gard (Deputy coroner) held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday relative to ELSIE GRIBBLE, 18 days old, whose parents live at 18 First-avenue, Camel's Head. The mother said the deceased was not a very healthy child. In reply to the Jury she said she gave the child cornflour and biscuit. Dr L. L. Hanham, who made a post-mortem examination, found the bowels and stomach inflamed and the body extremely emaciated. The stomach was also extremely dilated with food. He would not advise parents to give children biscuits; milk was all right. The child died from acute inflammation of the stomach and bowels. If he had been called earlier he doubted whether the child would have lived much longer, as it was weakly from birth. The Coroner said it was a great pity that some mothers did not seem to know how to feed their children properly. Such young children ought not to be given any solid food whatever. - Dr Hanham and the Jury agreed. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 8 February 1900
BATH - The Suicide Of A St. Marychurch Butler. - An Inquest was held at Bath yesterday on WILLIAM PURCELL, 48, butler, who cut his throat at a restaurant in that city on Monday. On a table was found a letter addressed to MRS PURCELL, Burton, St. Marychurch, Torquay. It contained an allusion to "those mean people," and he said he could not stand it any longer, adding, "I have been faithful to you all. - WILL." - There was another longer letter in which deceased made reference to former employers, and complained of their treatment. He also said he was doing this in his right mind, and that it was not a case of insanity. - Deceased's widow said he had been out of a situation since September and was rather depressed at times. He left for a place at Tetbury on Thursday and she had a letter from him saying he had arrived safely: the next she heard was that he was dead. Her husband was in his last situation several years and she believed was treated properly. Several servants left when he did. The Coroner remarked that people had a right to discharge servants if they chose. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Western Morning News, Friday 9 February 1900
MAKER, CORNWALL - The Cremyll Mystery. An Easy But Sad Solution. - Mr A. D. C. Glubb, Deputy County Coroner, held an Inquest at Cremyll yesterday touching the death of SOPHIE JOHNSON, 36, of 23 Francis-street, Plymouth, who died on Wednesday evening shortly after being found on the Cremyll-road. - Samuel Minns, 23 Francis-street, Plymouth, identified the body, and said that the deceased was a widow. She obtained a situation as a servant at Stoke, and when she left service had no fixed abode, and for the last six months had been in this position. She came to witness's house occasionally to dress her leg, on which she told him there was a wound caused through a knock. In reply to the Foreman, witness said that he kept two of her children. He took the children out of friendship and to prevent them following in the footsteps of the mother, who led a wild life. - Gunner Richard Harcourt, No. 1 Depot Company R.A., stationed at the Granby Barracks, Devonport, said he accompanied deceased from Devonport to Admiral's Hard, where he caught the 3.30 boat to Cremyll. They walked to Maker Barracks, where they saw Gunner Cronin. At about 5 o'clock they all three left the barracks and when they came to within about 100 yards of the Mount Edgcumbe Arms she told them to walk on. They waited by the public[house for about ten minutes when Cronin asked him to go and see if anything had happened to her. He returned and found her lying on her back under a tree near where they had left her. He helped her up and found she was half-conscious. She stared wildly at him and threw her arms round his neck and remained a few minutes with her head resting on his breast. She would not say what was the matter, but asked him to let her sit down. When he let her go she fell back and lay as she was before. A private of the marines then arrived and they commenced to carry her to the public-house. They had only moved a few steps when a large quantity of blood came from her. While the marine was gone to the Mount Edgcumbe Inn for assistance a civilian arrived and they carried her to the Inn. Witness said he took two gold rings from deceased's fingers and handed them to the last witness. - In response to a Juror, witness said he did not notice that for about three hundred yards along the road before the spot where they had left deceased, blood had been dripping from her. A doctor arrived from the Nile, port-guardship, in about half an hour, and said he could do nothing for her. - Dr Thomas McElwaine said he found the deceased dead. There were no marks of violence on the body, which was well nourished. Death was due to syncope, caused by the bursting of a large ulcer on her left leg. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

TAVISTOCK - Child Burned To Death Near Tavistock. - An Inquest was held yesterday on LAURA ANNIE HENDY, aged 6, daughter of JAMES HENDY, agricultural labourer, 5 Wheal Maria-cottages, Tavistock. Mr W. Clemo was Foreman of the Jury. - The father stated that he and his wife went out to work on Tuesday morning, leaving the deceased in the cottage. At dinner time he found her and her two brothers, who were her seniors, all right. The children left school at four o'clock, and between then and the time he returned from work there was no one in charge of them. When he returned home in the evening he found deceased in the cottage of a neighbour named Trim. She had been severely burned and died about 9.45. Deceased told him she lighted the candle to look at her hymn book and caught her apron on fire. She was a bright, intelligent child, aged 6 years, and 10 months. - EMILY JANE HENDY, the mother, gave corroborative evidence. Francis Trim, mine labourer, stated that about six o'clock a man named Spy brought deceased out of the cottage with her clothes on fire. Witness took her into his house and wrapped her in a rug. The Coroner said that he did not wish to intensify the grief of the parents, but it was to be regretted that such young children were allowed to remain in the house alone, and he could not help feeling that there was very grave reflection resting on the parents. The Jury endorsed the Coroner's views and returned a verdict "That deceased died from Burns, Accidentally received."

Western Morning News, Monday 12 February 1900
PLYMOUTH - Sad Fatality At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns (Borough Coroner) held an Inquest at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, on Saturday relative to BEATRICE HOLMES, aged 10, of 22 ½ Nelson-terrace, Plymouth, who died at the Hospital on Thursday last. - HARRIET HOLMES, the mother, said that on the morning of the 19th January she left deceased at home while she went to work. There was no fire in the house. - Mrs E. Smith, residing at 23 Nelson-terrace, said about 2.15 in the afternoon she saw deceased go into her mother's room. A few minutes afterwards she heard a scream, and on looking out into the garden saw deceased with her clothes alight. Witness put the flames out with a rug. The child afterwards told the mother that she had lit a fire in the room and was trying to put a "heater" on when her clothes became ignited. - Frederick Charles Hitchins, House Surgeon, S.D. and E.C Hospital, said the child was admitted to the Hospital a fortnight after the occurrence suffering from extensive burns about the chest, neck and forearm; she also had heart disease. It was practically a hopeless case from the first. Death was due to sudden failure of the heart's action, which was accelerated by the burns. A verdict in accordance with the doctor's evidence was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 13 February 1900
EAST STONEHOUSE - Fatal Fall At The Great Western Docks. - Mr R. R. Rodd (County Coroner) held an Inquest at the Stonehouse Townhall yesterday relative to the death of PHILIP STIDSTON, aged 74, of 23 Quarry-street, Stonehouse. - James Abbot, of 50 High-street, said that on Thursday, the 8th inst., he was at the Great Western Docks with a wagon. The deceased was helping to unload timber. When unloaded the driver of deceased's wagon had to back in order to turn round, and deceased, who had seated himself on the side of the wagon, was thrown out and fell on his back and head. - J. Mills, the driver, corroborated. - Dr Waterfield said STIDSTON had extensive bruises at the back of the head. On the following day inflammation of the brain developed and deceased died on Saturday evening. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 14 February 1900
BURRINGTON - Excessive Drinking At Burrington. - At Burrington on Monday evening an Inquest was held on MARY ANN OLDE POTTER, wife of a farmer. Deceased was addicted to drink. On January 29th she returned home from Barnstaple intoxicated, and she had drunk freely since. She died on Saturday morning. A servant alleged that on MRS POTTER coming home on January 29th, MR POTTER pushed her down twice and afterwards pulled her from a chair into the passage, where she fell; but MR POTTER strongly denied having knocked his wife down, or ever having struck her in his life. Dr Hanson of Chulmleigh, who has attended MRS POTTER for some years, expressed the opinion that death was due to haemorrhage of the brain, occasioned by constant drinking, and a verdict to that effect was returned.

OTTERY ST MARY - Sad Fatality At Ottery St. Mary. - An Inquest was held at West Hill, Ottery St. Mary, on Monday, touching the death of ARTHUR JOHN, aged 10 months, son of W. H. SANDFORD, of Warren Cottage. - MRS ANN SANDFORD, mother, said on 3rd instant, about 9.30 a.m. she let her three children, the eldest of whom was a boy four years of age, by the fire in the bedroom while she went to the well, a short distance off, for water. Soon afterwards she heard the eldest boy scream out that the baby was burning. She quickly returned, and found the child enveloped in flames. She wrapped him in an apron and extinguished the flames. Mrs Thomas Potter, a neighbour, came to her assistance, and wrapped the child in linseed oil bandages. Dr Reynolds promptly arrived and dressed the wounds. His assistant, Dr Burns, visited the child daily until its death on Saturday last. Her eldest boy told her that his brother, aged two years, lit a piece of paper at the fire and put it on the child's pinafore. - Dr Burns said the child had extensive burns on all parts of the body. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and the Foreman (Mr J. W. Billiatt) emphasised the importance of having fire guards when children were let alone in rooms. The Foreman's remarks were endorsed by the Coroner (Mr Cox.)

Western Morning News, Thursday 15 February 1900
PLYMOUTH - Suicide At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday relative to the death of THOMAS JONES, proprietor of the Lord Clarendon Inn, aged 54. HENRIETTA JONES (wife of deceased) said about five that morning she left the room, deceased being asleep in bed, and shortly afterwards, hearing a noise, she went back to the room and found deceased lying on the floor. During the past few days witness had heard deceased say that he wished to die. - Dr Burke stated that he was called to see deceased shortly after six o'clock that morning and found him dead. There was a loaded revolver found under deceased, and he had evidently shot himself, the bullet passing through his mouth and coming out at the back of the head. A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 16 February 1900
PLYMOUTH - Death Through Drink At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday relative to the death of MARGARET ANN INCH, aged 52 years, of 30 Summerland-place, Plymouth. - SAMUEL INCH, the husband, stated that early on Wednesday morning deceased was taken ill and he went for a doctor. When he returned he found she was dead. - Dr Pearse, who had made a post-mortem examination, certified that death was due to syncope, brought on by drink. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

HOLBETON - Holbeton Labourer's Fatal Fall. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, Inquired yesterday into the death of GEORGE RYDER, 84, agricultural labourer, which took place from the result of crawling out of his bedroom window on November 29th. - James Pearse, son-in-law, said deceased had been physically and mentally failing for some time. On November 29th at two in the morning, witness and his wife heard RYDER shouting and found him at the door in his night clothes. He had crawled through a small window in his bedroom and fallen eight or nine feet on to some straw. There were only slight abrasions on the forehead and leg. As deceased complained of pains, Dr Langworthy was called in and found he had broken a rib. He was under treatment up to his death. Deceased suffered from the delusion that a cart had capsized and thrown him out. - Dr Langworthy deposed that deceased had been mentally failing for two years. Death was due to senile decay, accelerated by the injury to the rib. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. Mr C. R. Souch was Foreman of the Jury.

Western Morning News, Saturday 17 February 1900
EAST STONEHOUSE - At Stonehouse Townhall last evening an Inquest on ALFRED EDWARD MOORE, aged 11 months, the child of CHARLES EDWARD MOORE, private in the R.M.L.I., of 4 Durnford-street, resulted in the return of a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence that a post-mortem examination showed death to be due to congestion of the lungs, following bronchitis.

PLYMOUTH - At an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday, relative to THOMAS GEORGE FIELDER, aged 50, who died on Thursday evening, a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned, in accordance with the doctor's evidence.

Western Morning News, Monday 19 February 1900
COTLEIGH - JOHN ARBERY, aged 66, a farmer, of Cotleigh, near Honiton, was on Wednesday drowned whilst fetching water for his horse. It is supposed that the gale, at its height, caught deceased's overcoat and blew him into the stream. The body was recovered about 100 yards down. At the Inquest on Friday the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 20 February 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Sudden Death At Devonport. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest yesterday touching the death of MARY ANN COLLINGS, 69, who lived at 28 Princes-street. - Ellen Haley, wife of Thomas Haley, bootmaker, 13 Princes-street, said deceased was the widow of JOHN JAMES COLLINGS, a naval pensioner. She was a great sufferer from bronchitis for which she had been attended by Dr Kirton. She would not stay in the house, but persisted in going out. Until Friday last she seemed in her usual health, but was poorly until Sunday, though she did not appear ill enough for the attendance of a doctor. Yesterday morning she came over very ill and died about 8.30 before the arrival of a doctor. Dr Kirton said death was due to chronic bronchitis and dilatation of the heart. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) held an Inquest yesterday relative to the death of MICHAEL SULLIVAN, aged 56, a fish hawker, of 6 Vauxhall-street, Plymouth, who died suddenly on Saturday evening last. Dr Lambert, who had made a post-mortem examination, found that death was due to syncope, and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Lodgers And Their Funeral Expenses. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth Workhouse, yesterday relative to the death of JAMES GILBERT, labourer, aged about 45. Mr Weeks, proprietor of a lodging-house, 120 King-street, said deceased, who had been lodging with him for about a fortnight, was on Sunday morning, about 9 o'clock, taken ill. Witness sent to Mr Thomas, the relieving officer, for an order to admit deceased to the Workhouse. The relieving officer would not, however, give him an order without a doctor's certificate. Witness then obtained a cab and sent deceased to the Infirmary, but he died before it was reached. - The Relieving Officer explained that he was not allowed to give an order without the parish doctor's certificate, but in this case he told the messenger if it was an urgent case he would accept any doctor's certificate. witness himself sent to Dr Wagner about 9.45 asking him to go at once to deceased. - Mr Weeks said the doctor never called until the afternoon. The Coroner: Was deceased in a fit state to be removed? - Mr Weeks: Yes, I think he was. - The Coroner explained that if the man had died in Mr Weeks's house he would have had to bear the funeral expenses, and that might have made him anxious to get deceased out of his house. - Mr Weeks said twice before he had had to pay funeral expenses in such cases. - One case was that of a man who came to the house, paid 4d. for a bed and died. That cost him £5 as the man had no money. - The Coroner thought it very hard that because a man died in one's house the landlord should have to bear the funeral expenses; but it was the law. - The Foreman of the Jury: I always understood the first step was to get an order from the relieving officer, and then to see a doctor. - Dr Cook, Medical Officer Plymouth Workhouse, said a post-mortem examination shewed that death was due to congestion of both lungs and pleurisy. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned. - Mr Dyke, the Master of the Workhouse: Who is to bear the expenses of the funeral? - The Coroner: I think the Guardians should, but you had better ask their clerk about it.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 21 February 1900
WEST ALVINGTON - A West Alvington Servants Death. - HANNAH LEAH TOLLMAN, a domestic servant at Longbrooke Farm, West Alvington, was on Sunday found dead on the floor of her bedroom. At the Inquest yesterday IDA TOLLMAN, a servant at Collapit Creek, said deceased, her sister, 35 years of age, had been a servant at Longbrooke Farm for five months. She last saw her alive last Thursday evening, when she gave her some currant cake. She did not seem worse than usual. She had been poorly in the summer. - Annie Fitzwalter, another servant at Collapit Creek, said on Sunday she went for the last witness to inquire for deceased. The nurse said she had just gone. The body was, however, nearly cold, so that she must have been dead some time. - By Rev. T. Bell-Salter (a Juryman): there was no cup near, or sign of any meal. - Elizabeth Patey, who had been nursing Mrs Lidstone at the farm, said she was called to deceased about 11 o'clock on Friday night, when she complained of a pain in her stomach. She gave her brandy and a cup of tea. Deceased was better on Sunday, but kept vomiting. Some medicine sent by the doctor apparently did her good. Last saw her alive at 10 o'clock on Sunday morning, when she had something more to take. An hour and a half later she found her dead on the floor. She must have died soon after she left her. - William Henry Lidstone, farmer, Longbrooke, said deceased went to bed on Friday night the same as usual. He was called soon after, and the nurse went to deceased. On Saturday morning he went for the doctor, who was not in. As he did not come he sent again in the evening, but he did not come. - Dr W. H. Webb, who had made a post-mortem examination, found a superficial bruise on the face. All her organs were healthy but a portion were in a state of acute inflammation, and there was a gastric ulcer of some standing. Death was caused by collapse resulting from peritonitis and perforation. She must have suffered considerably from what she might have thought indigestion. He might have relieved her pain if he had gone when summoned, but the whole College of Surgeons could not have saved her. The messenger told him some time during the afternoon would do and he was going when the messenger came again. He did not go, but sent medicine. There was no message of urgency or he should have gone. - The Coroner said the death was caused by perforation through a currant irritating the intestines. It was given in evidence that deceased ate currant cake on Thursday. - The Jury (Mr Astley Froude, Foreman) returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

STOKE DAMEREL - Sudden Death At Devonport. - At the Inquest held by Mr J. A. Pearce (Borough Coroner) yesterday, on JOHN SHORT WEYMOUTH, aged 69, a pensioned G.W.R. policeman of 58 Chapel-street, Devonport, who became seriously ill between 9 and 10 o'clock on Monday night and died before Dr McElwaine could arrive, it was shewn that until the last few weeks deceased had been in good health, but had lately complained of rheumatism in the hands and said his heart was weak. When advised to see a doctor he said he would e better in a few days. He went out on Monday, but after he retired in the evening was found to be seriously ill, and was given some whisky. He had died when Dr McElwaine arrived. A post-mortem examination shewed that death was due to valvular disease of the heart of long standing, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Thursday 22 February 1900
BICKINGTON - MRS COLE, wife of a Bickington farmer, was found dead in bed by the side of her husband. She was apparently in her usual health when she went to bed, and at the Inquest it was shewn that death was due to the breaking of a blood vessel on the brain.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 27 February 1900
ST MARYCHURCH - Inquest At Babbacombe. No Money For A Doctor. - At an Inquest at Babbacombe yesterday concerning the death of a child named HEYSETT, aged eleven months, of 32 Prince's-street, it was stated that on the day before the child died the mother was advised to send for a doctor. The mother's reply was "How can I send for a doctor? My husband has been out of work so long." On hearing this the Coroner recalled the mother, and asked for an explanation. If she had sent for the doctor' the child's life might have been saved. - MRS HEYSETT replied that she did not think a doctor really necessary and as her husband had been out of work since three weeks before Christmas she did not want to incur unnecessary expense. The Coroner: What had that got to do with it? You could have got the parish doctor. No one is allowed to die for want of medical help. If you are not in a position to pay, you can have a doctor from the parish. Everybody knows that. If you don't do that you render yourself liable for neglect. Why didn't you send for the parish doctor? - MRS HEYSETT: I didn't think the child was so bad. - Dr Pitt-Palmer said the child was well cared for, but was suffering from inflammation of the lungs, following bronchitis. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Thursday 1 March 1900
PLYMOUTH - A Sad Plymouth Fatality. - Mr R. B. Johns (Borough Coroner) held an Inquest yesterday relative to the death of JAMES CHARLES BULL, aged 3 years, living at Martin-street, Plymouth, who died early on Tuesday morning. The mother said last Sunday morning the child was seated on a chair close to the fire. He stood up on the chair to look in a looking-glass on the wall, when he slipped and his clothes became ignited. She at once took him to the Homoeopathic Hospital. Dr Vawdrey said he attended to the child, who had extensive burns about the body. Owing to the Hospital being full, the child could not be detained and the mother took it home with instructions to bring it in again on the morrow, but it died the next morning. It was practically a hopeless case from the first. Death was actually due to shock, the result of the burns. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 5 March 1900
NEWTON ABBOT - MRS JULIA BICKLE, widow of the late MR RICHARD BICKLE, the well-known breeder of Devon cattle, retired to rest in her usual health on Thursday night and next morning her daughter found her dead by her side. Dr Wilcox made a post-mortem examination, and found that death was due to syncope, one of the valves of the heart having become blocked with lime. At the Inquest the verdict was "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 6 March 1900
PLYMOUTH - Improper Feeding At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at Laira relative to the death of LIZZIE HOSKEN, aged 10 weeks. MRS HOSKEN, of 52 Tollox-place, the mother, stated that the child was taken ill last Friday evening. A doctor was sent for, but did not arrive and the child died the following morning. For the first four weeks the child was fed on milk and water, and after that on Neave's food. Dr C. E. Bean, who made a post-mortem examination, said the body was very emaciated, no fat being found in the body, neither was there any food in the stomach. Death was due to improper and insufficient feeding. Neave's food was not a proper food for a child. - The Mother: I have reared other children on it. - A verdict in accordance with the doctor's evidence was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 7 March 1900
EAST STONEHOUSE - An Inquest was held at Stonehouse last evening concerning the death of SARAH SMITH, a widow, aged 64, in receipt of parish pay, living at Peel-street. On Monday morning she was doing her washing, but later was suddenly taken ill and died before medical aid could arrive. Dr Leah ascribed death to chronic bronchitis and a verdict to that effect was returned.

EXETER - MRS ALICE SPRAGUE, aged 54, while driving home to Exeter with her husband, was taken ill and became purple in the face. this was not an unusual thing with her, but she was much worse than she had ever been before. SPRAGUE pulled up and called out to Mrs Price that his wife was ill. She came up and after looking at deceased, said "She is dead." At the Inquest last evening death was attributed to heart disease.

Western Morning News, Thursday 8 March 1900
PLYMOUTH - Sudden Death At Sea. - The ketch Woolwich Infant, of Falmouth, 49 tons register, was towed into Plymouth yesterday with the dead body of the captain on board. The vessel is from Swansea to France, with coal. About eleven o'clock on Tuesday night the captain, JOHN STRIKE, who is also the owner of the vessel, was on deck apparently in good health. Shortly afterwards, however, he fell on to the deck and died. The captain's wife, who is on board for the voyage, was greatly shocked. - The Borough Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) held an Inquest in the afternoon. Thomas Lavey, the mate, said that as the ketch was passing the Start, deceased, who was 64 years of age, was suddenly taken ill and died within five minutes. Witness had heard deceased say that his heart was weak. Dr Williams, who had made a post-mortem examination, said death was due to syncope. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 9 March 1900
PLYMOUTH - Found Dead In Plymouth. - The Borough Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) held an Inquest yesterday relative to the death of GEORGE ALBERT SINGLE, aged 50, residing at 7 Morley-street, Plymouth. - John Godfrey, brother of deceased, living at 1 Esplanade, Plymouth, said he had not seen his brother alive since February 16th. On Tuesday last he received a letter from Mrs Ryder, a neighbour of his brothers, telling him that deceased had not been seen for a few days and asking him to go to the house. Witness did so and found the house locked up. On entering he found deceased dead in bed. Deceased had always been eccentric. Dr Hamilton, who had held a post-mortem examination, certified that death was due to syncope, the result of fatty degeneration of the heart. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 12 March 1900
LONDON - Suicide Of A Betting Man. Grim Result Of A Plymouth Woman's Joke. - WILLIAM RADMORE WILSON, aged 30, lately residing at 59 Comyn-road, Clapham Junction, died there on February 5th last from salts of lemon poisoning. The Inquest was concluded on Saturday, when remarkable evidence was given. - Mrs Jessie Wilson, of 17 Beauchamp-road, Clapham Junction, who, at the opening of the Inquiry a month ago, merely identified the deceased as her brother-in-law, now stated that she had since lost her husband. The deceased used to execute turf commissions on his own account. The deceased had been living at 59 Comyn-road with Mrs Hensley, who passed as his wife. She was a Plymouth woman, and the deceased also came from Plymouth. He was not given to drink, and so far as she knew, he and Mrs Hensley left to go home to Plymouth. A day or two later deceased shewed her telegrams that he had received from Mrs Hensley. The first arrived on January 30th, and announced her safe arrival at Plymouth in the following terms:- "Arrived safe; sorry had key of door, - Lye." - On February 1st the second telegram arrived. It read:- "MR WILSON, - Sorry to tell you my sister committed suicide. The Inquest here (Plymouth) tomorrow. Reply if anything happened before my sister left you. - Edith, 7 Amity-place, Plymouth." That telegram upset him very much. On the following day he received another wire in response to one he had sent. It ran: "All right when I saw her last. - Edith." On the same day the following telegram reached him: "Sir, - No doubt you have seen paper account of Mrs Hensley's death. Reply if you know such a person; friends fail to know anything. Waiting Inquest. - Oldridge, 55 King-lane, Plymouth." - When he showed her all the telegrams on Friday, February 2nd, he said he could not understand the first one, and asked her to read it to him carefully. He could not realise it and went up to see his brother about it. The latter advised him to telegraph to Mrs Hensley's friends in Plymouth. He did not know who "Oldridge" was. He left her house and on the following morning she was called to his house and found him dead. - William Evans Bowen, a clerk, now of Sheffield, said in February he was lodging at 59 Comyn-road and was awakened by deceased calling for help early in the morning of February 3rd. Witness thought he was under the influence of drink, and gave him some hot water, after drinking which deceased went to sleep. Later witness, finding deceased breathing heavily, fetched a doctor, who on arrival pronounced life to be extinct. - Eliza Hensley, a tall, well-dressed young woman, said she was now living at 7 Amity-place, Plymouth. She had lived with the deceased on and off for two years. Deceased once threatened to blow out his brains at Plymouth. On January 29th, for financial reasons, he asked her to go home to Plymouth. He travelled with her as far as Salisbury. When witness got to Plymouth she sent him the first telegram. The Edith mentioned in the second telegram was witness's sister. Witness had received a letter from the deceased, from which she gathered he was giving way to drink, and the telegrams were sent as a practical joke to bring him to Plymouth. - Edith Spry, married, of 7 Amity-place, Plymouth, said the previous witness was her sister. Witness did give her permission to use her name on the telegram. She thought it was a practical joke to bring the deceased down to Plymouth. - Thomas Birth Griffiths, of 14 Eaton-avenue, Liskeard, Liverpool, said he had been acting as clerk to the deceased at Clapham Junction. MR WILSON was really a "gentleman punter." He "betted for pastime." On the night of February 2nd witness went with deceased to the Grand Music Hall. Witness took WILSON to the Grand to cheer him up, as he was dreadfully upset about the telegrams. Witness tried to induce him to regard them as a joke. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," and expressed the opinion that Mrs Hensley's conduct in sending the false telegrams was most reprehensible.

LIFTON - Killed By His Brother. - ARCHIBALD DYER, aged five years, the son of JOHN DYER, platelayer, London and South Western Railway, Lifton Down, was on Sunday week playing with his elder brother, who was swinging a club stick, which hit him on the forehead. On Thursday morning the little fellow complained of pain in his head and gradually becoming unconscious, died the same evening. Dr Gibson of Launceston, said in his opinion death was due to inflammation of the brain, occasioned by the blow. At the Inquest held on Saturday, Mr J. D. Prickman, County Coroner, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

EAST STONEHOUSE - Sudden Deaths At Stonehouse. - Two sudden deaths occurred at Stonehouse on Saturday morning. GEORGE HALL, aged 33, barman at the West India public-house, was home poorly on Wednesday and was attended by Dr T. N. Leah for indigestion. On Saturday he felt all right, and after eating a hearty breakfast went to work shortly after nine o'clock. He had only been at the public-house a few minutes when, whilst lifting empty bottles, he complained of feeling dizzy, and fell, dying almost immediately. Death was due to syncope, and a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned at the Inquest in the evening. The Coroner (Mr R. R. Rodd) and the Foreman (Mr W. Barnes) expressed sympathy with the young widow, left with three children, and the Jury handed her their fees. The other case was that of GEORGE PERKINS, aged 60, a mason, who resided alone at 22 Quarry-street, and had been poorly recently. He was eccentric, and would seldom allow anyone to enter his room. About three o'clock in the morning Mrs Burrows, who lives in the rooms below, heard deceased moving, and two hours later, hearing a fall, went upstairs and found him lying in the dark on the landing. With the assistance of her husband, she put the deceased on his bed, gave him some tea, and let him. Later, Dr Leah was sent for, and on his arrival at 11.30 he found deceased lying on the floor dead. He had vomited and being unable to recover himself, had been suffocated. If any person had been present the suffocation might have been prevented, but, seeing the condition his internal organs were in, Dr Leah wondered that he had lived so long. A verdict of "Accidental Suffocation" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 13 March 1900
EAST STONEHOUSE - A Severe Censure At Stonehouse. - At Stonehouse yesterday the Coroner (Mr R. R. Rodd) held an Inquiry relative to KATHERINE MARY, the child of MARY ANNE CREWS, living at 75 East-street. - William Edward Jennett, able seaman, H.M.S. Defiance, said he had lived with MARY ANNE CREWS for two months. On Tuesday, the 6th, she was confined and the child was sickly from birth. On Sunday morning the child grew worse and he went for Dr Waterfield, but she died before his arrival. - Emily Rawkins, wife of Thomas Rawkins, labourer, living at the same address, said she was called to see deceased on Sunday morning. She took it on her knee and it died in convulsions ten minutes later. - Beatrice Webb, wife of Charles Webb, mason, said Mrs Roberts (midwife) asked her to take the deceased to Dr Pearce of Plymouth. He advised her to take the child to the Royal Albert Hospital, where they refused to admit it and sent her back to Dr Pearce, but she did not see him again. - With considerable difficulty the Coroner elicited that she was from 1.45 to 5.45 carrying the child about. Dr Waterfield said he was called to the house on Sunday and found the child dead. He had made a post-mortem examination and found both lungs were severely congested which resulted in convulsions and death. In reply to the Coroner, he said deceased should certainly not have been taken out of the house. If a four days' old child had been brought to him he should have immediately sent it back to its mother. It was quite enough to kill the child to remove it from one room to another. - Mary Anne Roberts, midwife, 16 High-street, Stonehouse, said she attended the mother and infant for three days. On Friday she advised that a doctor should be sent for. She did not tell Mrs Webb to take the child to a doctor, but she knew it was done. - The Coroner: You certainly ought not to have permitted Mrs Webb to remove the child. - In summing up the Coroner said Mrs Webb's conduct was most reprehensible. there was not the slightest doubt that the exposure through hawking the child about as Mrs Webb did had brought on congestion of the lungs and death followed. He did not think her neglect gross, or that she should be charged with manslaughter, but he must censure her very severely. - Mrs Webb: I've never had any children and I don't know anything about them. - Mrs Webb, who had continually interrupted, was then removed from the room. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" and endorsed the Coroner's censure of Mrs Webb.

Western Morning News, Thursday 15 March 1900
PLYMOUTH - WILLIAM JOHN GILBERT, labourer, aged 28, residing at Fort House, returned home ill on Tuesday and went to bed and an hour later was found by his mother lying half-dressed against the bed quite dead. Dr Wilkinson, who had made a post-mortem examination, stated at the Inquest last evening that death was due to heart disease and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

SAMPFORD PEVERELL - Suicide Of An Exeter Teacher. A Distressing Case. - An Inquest was held last evening at Sampford Peverell touching the death of CORASANDA BEATRICE ARTHURS, aged 20. - JAMES ARTHURS, blacksmith, of Uplowman, said deceased, his daughter, was an assistant teacher at St. James's School, Exeter. Two or three times she had said the school would drive her mad, but gave no reason. - The Coroner here read a letter found on deceased - "Dear Mother - Don't worry yourself for me. It is nothing to worry and trouble over. I am utterly tired of it. At times I am almost worked to death. I have not felt happy since I came here, and am getting more miserable every day. Bury me in the new ground beside Lily Finnimore and put some roses on my grave. I feel so relieved to think I am going out of this world. You don't know how happy I feel now, and I shall never give any more worry or pain. For the last two weeks my head has been very painful. My brain seems to have been swimming all day. Don't worry any of you; we shall all meet again. - Dear Mother, my heart seems to be breaking when I think of all the dear children. Let them all see me before I am buried. I can scarcely write because I am crying so. I have had no sleep for nights. It was all a mistake coming to Exeter. I didn't like to tell you I was miserable, but never mind, dear mother." - On a separate small slip the deceased wrote: "Here is the key of my box, dear mother." - Continuing his evidence, MR ARTHURS said deceased never threatened to destroy herself; on the contrary, she was always most cheerful at home, and had always passed her examinations. She did not write on Monday last to say she was coming home. - Alfred Waygood, a lad, of Sampford Peverell, said on Tuesday morning about 10.45 he saw a hat on the Great Western Canal Bank, and afterwards the body of a young woman in the water. - John Payne, goods foreman, Tiverton Junction, said he saw deceased on Monday night at 8.58. She came by the last up train, and appeared quite cheerful. - Elizabeth Gillard, head teacher, St James's National School, Exeter, said deceased never complained and did her duties as well as she was able. She had an influenza cold last week and kept her bed Thursday and Friday. Witness did not know she was going home on Monday night. In school on Monday she requested deceased to stand before her class instead of going to each child. She seemed to take that as displeasure on the part of witness. - The Coroner: We have been told you nearly drove her mad. - I never spoke an angry word to her. I had occasion to speak firmly before Christmas, as parents complained that she had knocked children on the head. - Mr Jeoul, Surgeon, who had made a post-mortem examination, said there was no mud or grass clutched in deceased's hands, and that shewed deceased entered the water in almost a lifeless state, because otherwise she would have made an attempt to save herself. Deceased had been in the water eight or ten hours. She probably walked the canal banks most of the night and entered the water early in the morning. Verdict - "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Western Morning News, Saturday 17 March 1900
SEATON AND BEER - Born In A Railway Waiting-Room. - An Inquest was held at Seaton Junction Hotel yesterday relative to the infant of DAISY BATHO, formerly an assistant in the employ of an Exeter confectioner. The mother, who is only 18 years of age, had been on a short visit to Mrs Godbeer, wife of the stationmaster of Colyford, and whilst returning to Exeter on Wednesday morning gave birth to the child in the waiting-room at Seaton Junction Railway Station. She was removed to the Junction Hotel, but was not attended by a doctor for about an hour. Several women were present at the birth but none took any steps to save the life of the child, for want of the knowledge as to how to act. Dr Evans deposed that death was due to suffocation - the result of want of proper attention. The birth was premature and the mother told him that at the time she was on the way to Exeter Workhouse. Both Mrs Godbeer and her daughter (with whom the mother slept during her visit to Colyford) stated they were unaware of her condition. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence and gave their fees to the mother.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 20 March 1900
HENNOCK - Death Of The Vicar Of Hennock. - Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Hennock yesterday relative to the death of REV. JOHN FITZGERALD NAGLE GILLMAN, the vicar, for 27 years. Deceased's housekeeper and groom, Mrs Yeoman and Dr Stewart, of Bovey Tracey, who had made a post mortem examination, gave evidence, and the verdict was "Death from Failure of the Heart's Action." The deceased's death came as a great shock to the parishioners, as there was no suspicion that he was ailing. The deceased who had been a widower several years, called his housekeeper early on Saturday morning and told her that he felt unwell and asked her to send the groom for the doctor. She went to the groom, who lived close by in the village and on returning found that her master was dead. MR GILLMAN was very kind to the old people and children and on Saturdays usually gave a [?] to several aged folk. At the Inquest his daughter was represented by Mr [?] a solicitor of Carberry, Dunmanway. Whether the interment will take place in Hennock parish Churchyard or in Ireland was not settled last evening. - The deceased graduated at Trinity College, Dublin as D.D. in 1853 and was ordained deacon the same year and priest at Lichfield in 1855. After being curate of St Peter's, Birmingham, he was in 1873 presented with the vicarage of Hennock by Mr R. E. Riley, the patron. The net value of the living according to Crockford is £175 with a house.

TAMERTON FOLIOT - Mr Rodd held an Inquest at Ottery Cottages, Tamerton, yesterday on the infant daughter of WM. SOPER, agricultural labourer. The child, aged one month, had a convulsion on Sunday and was put in a warm bath, but died in two hours, before a doctor could arrive. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly, after hearing the evidence of Dr Richards.

TAVISTOCK - Fatal Fall At Tavistock. - The death of SAMUEL HENDERSON, aged two years and five months, son of WILLIAM HENDERSON, platelayer, 8 King-street, Tavistock, was the subject of Inquiry at the Guildhall yesterday, by Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner. Sergeant-Major Bowles was Foreman of the Jury. Ellen Roberts saw the boy playing on the landing on Saturday evening and heard her little girl say he had gone. She then found he had fallen through the bars to the stone floor on the basement, a distance of about seventeen feet. He was bleeding at the mouth, quite unconscious, never recovered, and died within a few minutes. Witness had lived in the house about eight months and the bar had been missing all that time. She had never drawn the attention of the owner to it. - John Cuming, carpenter, deposed to removing one of the bars eight months ago on the top of the landing to pass wood through for repairing the flooring. the bar was not replaced at the time, because the whole of the flooring had not been repaired, and he afterwards forgot all about it. MRS HENDERSON had never drawn his attention to its being out. - MRS ELIZABETH JANE HENDERSON, the mother, stated that she asked Cuming to replace the bar because she had young children. She made the request at the time he removed the bar, but she had not spoken to him since about it. - Dr Richards stated that the base of the child's skull was fractured. - The Coroner expressed sympathy with the parents and said it was unfortunate that the bar was not replaced at the time the floor was repaired. The most, however, that the Jury could say was that it was an act of great carelessness. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 21 March 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Drowned At Keyham. - At Keyham yesterday an Inquest was held relative to the death of GEORGE EYRES HUTCHINGS, 45, first class petty officer, Dockyard Reserve, Keyham. Mr J. P. Goldsmith watched the case for the Admiralty. - William H. Salt, first class petty officer on alternate duty with deceased at the waiting-room at the boat comber, said HUTCHINGS relieved him at 6 o'clock on the evening of February 8th. He appeared in his usual health. he had heard him say he was near-sighted. They had occasionally to go to the flagstaff steps to see if any boats were in. - Albert Robinson, constable, Metropolitan Police, said deceased at 8.15 asked him if the Indus Boat had come in. The boat was on guard duty that night and deceased said he wanted to see it. He then went towards the boat basin and waiting-room and deceased would have to pass over a caisson about 50 feet long and from 15 to 20 wide. The caisson was enclosed by chains. - William Roberts, boatswain, Dockyard reserve, said he was officer of the guard on February 8th. At the waiting-room at 9.15 he found the boat's crew ready to go off, and one of the men told him deceased had gone to the flagstaff steps. Returning about three o'clock the next morning he found the deceased was still absent and he sent his coxswain to report it. It was a clear night and very cold and frosty, with plenty of ice along the sea wall. - John Axworthy, labourer, said he saw the body floating in the North Basin, Keyham on Monday afternoon. - Henry W. Finlayson, Surgeon R.N., stationed at Keyham, said death was due to drowning. The body was in an advanced state of decomposition. - John Wedlake, sub-divisional inspector, said when the deceased disappeared the basin and the surrounding water were dragged and searched by divers for some days without result. Deceased probably slipped off the wall into the Hamoaze and was afterwards washed inside the basin. - By the advice of the Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Thursday 22 March 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Mr J. A. Pearce, Devonport Borough Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Police quarters, Keyham, yesterday, touching the death of CORNELIUS O'NEILL, naval cooper, of the Vivid, which occurred on Monday at the Naval Barracks. Dr Finlayson said deceased had been suffering from acute tuberculosis. The organs of the body were diseased and the heart extensively so. Death was due to syncope. A verdict was returned accordingly.

Western Morning News, Monday 26 March 1900
SAMPFORD SPINEY - Burnt To Death At Sampford Spiney. Hospital Matron's Responsibility. - On Saturday Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Sampford Spiney respecting the death of ELSIE SELINA VANSTONE. Deceased was aged 18 months and the daughter of an agricultural labourer. On Wednesday the mother left home and went to Haytown, leaving her daughter, nearly 11 years old, in charge of deceased. When she returned, having only been away about two hours, she found that the child had been severely burnt. Acting on instructions from Dr Blagden she took the child to the Cottage Hospital at Tavistock. As she wished to have the child home for treatment the matron of the Hospital allowed her to take the deceased away. After the matron had looked at the burns she said she did not consider them so serious as the doctor thought they were. - ELIZABETH MAUD VANSTONE, daughter of last witness, 11 years of age, said deceased was sitting near the fire in a baby chair. A burning stick came out of the grate and fell on deceased's dress, igniting it. The child screamed and she went for assistance. - Dr J. J. Blagden, Horrabridge, said he was called to see the deceased on Wednesday at 1 p.m. She was suffering from burns on the lower part of the body. He dressed the wounds, gave the child some brandy and made arrangements for her removal to the Tavistock Hospital, where the case should have been properly treated, as the burns were severe and he entertained but little hope of the child's recovery. He went himself to the Hospital and advised the head nurse that the child would be sent there and that it was a case for hospital treatment. Witness waited at the Hospital until 4.40 p.m. and the child not having arrived he left with the distinct understanding that the child on arrival should be detained. Soon after he left the Hospital he met MRS VANSTONE with the child, and she asked him if she could not take it home again. This he refused, believing that the child should have been kept in the Hospital. Death was due to burns. - A verdict of "Death from Burns Accidentally Received" was returned. The Jury commented on the fact that the nurse at the Tavistock Hospital should have taken upon herself the responsibility of disregarding the doctor's order for detention in the Hospital, and requested Mr Rodd to communicate with the Hospital Committee, which the Coroner promised to do.

PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest on Saturday relative to the death of ALFRED CHAS. STIGINGS, aged six weeks, living at 8 Cheltenham-place, Plymouth. THOMAS STIGINGS, the father, said that about 4.30 on Friday morning deceased was asleep in bed. When he awoke four hours later he found the child dead. Dr Jackman, who had made a post-mortem examination, stated death was due to convulsions. A verdict of Death from Natural Causes was returned.

EAST STONEHOUSE - At Stonehouse on Saturday Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of FLORENCE MAUD ANNIE JOHNSON, aged eight months. ELIZABETH JOHNSON, wife of FREDERICK WILLIAM JOHNSON, able seaman, H.M.S. Lizard, said she resided at 17 Well-street, Plymouth. On Friday afternoon she took the child to a photographer's at Stonehouse. The photo of the child was taken and the baby then had a fit. She immediately went to a chemist and then sent for Dr Waterfield, who at once saw the child. The infant had been very ill since last Tuesday week, when it was vaccinated. Dr Waterfield said death was due to convulsions. A verdict was returned accordingly.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 27 March 1900
PLYMOUTH - ANNIE OPIE, a widow, aged 75, residing at 11 Cecil-street, Plymouth, died suddenly on Saturday night. Dr Pearce made a post-mortem examination, and certified that death was due to internal haemorrhage. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned at the Inquest yesterday.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Censure Of Sons At Stonehouse. A Wretched Case. - Yesterday Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Stonehouse Townhall, relative to the death of ELIZA HAWKE, widow of a naval pensioner. Deceased was taken ill on Friday evening and died on Saturday morning. The body was in such a filthy an emaciated condition that the Coroner ordered a post-mortem examination. - ALBERT HAWKE, 17, deposed that he and another son had lived with deceased in one room at Durnford-street. His mother had been ailing for six months, but was always cross when witness suggested a doctor. There were four brothers in all. One paid the rent, the other allowed her something when he could and the younger one earned 4s. 6d. or 5s. per week. The eldest son travelled for a firm. - Coroner: Your mother was in a very dirty state. How do you account for this. Who cleaned the room? - Witness: I did whenever I had time. - Coroner: Are there any females connected with the family to see that the woman was looked after? - Witness: No sir. - Coroner: The body was in a fearfully dirty state. Did you notice that? Her hair does not seem to have been combed for weeks. - Witness: She always complained of a bad head. - Coroner: But a woman of 53 ought to have been able to look after herself and her room? - Witness: She was subject to rheumatics. - Mr Rodd: Did she drink? - Witness: No, she never drank. - A Juror thought the elder son ought to have been there. - P.C. Bater: I warned him to be here. - Coroner: Didn't your elder brother observe how things were? - Witness: I can't say. He has not been to see her for some weeks. - Coroner: You ought to have called a doctor. - Witness: She would not have one. - Coroner: But you got one when it was too late. It seems to me that your mother was too ill to look after herself. All you boys ought to have seen that she was properly looked after. - Mr J. Porter (Foreman): I think you ought to have looked after your mother differently. I think the elder son ought to be made to attend. Coroner: I don't see that it is worth adjourning for. - A Juror: There is no evidence that the woman got anything from the sons. They ought to be censured. - Coroner: I think so too. - Annie Dare, living in the same house with deceased, said the latter was always uncleanly and on this account neighbours did not care to go into her room. Two months ago she was very ill - worse than on the present occasion and witness gave her a little brandy every night until she got better, and had given her many little kindnesses in the way of food. Witness suggested a doctor in the case of the previous illness, but deceased said it would hurt her son's pride. - Coroner: What pride has he got to allow his mother to live in this condition? - Witness: She was always crippled with rheumatics. She had looked worse on previous occasions. - The Coroner: Really, this woman has not had the necessaries of life. - Mrs Dare continued that she was away at work the most of the time. Deceased had lovely furniture and a splendid feather bed, which she was keeping for her eldest son. - The Foreman: Was the eldest son at home when deceased was so ill two months ago. - Witness: he was there sometimes when I went in. - Mr T. N. Leah, Surgeon, said he was called at ten on Friday night. Deceased was dying. There was no hope. She was suffering from inflammation of the right lung and a bad heart, and was very emaciated. - Foreman: Do you think if she was looked after properly she would have lived? - Witness: Some months ago - yes. - A Juror: Was neglect responsible for her death? - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner read a telegram from the eldest son, from Devonport, stating that he could not be present until one o'clock, but he did not turn up and Mr Rodd proceeded to address the Jury. It must have been hardly conceivable to them, he said, to have found deceased in such a dirty condition, particularly as she had sons residing with her and in the town, who must have been fully cognisant of the state she was living in. He felt very strongly that a very grave reflection rested upon them for not providing medical treatment. The neglect was not sufficient to justify a verdict of manslaughter, but he should ask them to censure the sons. - As the majority of the Jury insisted upon the attendance of the elder son, the Inquest was adjourned until this morning.

GALMPTON - Suicide At Galmpton. A Pathetic Letter. - An Inquest was held last evening at Galmpton on MARY ANN ANDREWS. Rev. C. A. le Gert was Foreman of the Jury. The evidence shewed that deceased, who was a single woman, 39 years of age, and had lived with her mother, had a bad attack of influenza in January and had been in a low, despondent state for some months. On Friday she complained of awful pains in her head and slept alone in accordance with her own wish. Next morning she was found in another room hanging from some pets dead. In a drawer in her bedroom was found a letter, in which deceased wrote:- "it is so hard to have my mind took away from me when I have been the life of the house, and spring coming; lodgers and all will be coming. How hard, oh how hard it will be, all broken up for my sake. God! it is hard." She also wrote "of course you must have thought me very queer. I'm sure I don't know what for. I went out, as you know, and I did everything I could to pass off the dreadful thought that kept coming into my mind." - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 28 March 1900
EAST STONEHOUSE - A Stonehouse Story. Mother Neglected: Son Censured. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, resumed at Stonehouse Townhall the Inquest relative to the death of ELIZA HAWKE, widow, aged 53, who lived at 51 Durnford-street. - WILLIAM JOHN HAWKE, a well-dressed young man, about 23 years of age, said he was a commercial traveller at Devonport for Singer and Co., and lived at 86 King-gardens, Plymouth. He was the eldest son of deceased, and lived with her in Durnford-street up to seven weeks ago. He last saw her alive last Monday or Tuesday. She was poorly then. - Coroner: In what condition was she, because she was found in a very dirty state? - Witness: She was not dirty then. - Coroner: I don't think she could have got into the state in which she was found during the last week; it was impossible. - Witness: I can only say what I saw; I saw no traces of anything like vermin on her then. - Coroner: She was in a most filthy condition. - Witness: There was no trace of it then, and she was walking about. - Coroner: Mrs Dare, a witness, said she had known your mother eight months and that she had been in a dirty state nearly all that time. - Witness: I think Mrs Dare has greatly overdrawn the agony. - Coroner: Why didn't you send for a doctor for your mother? - Witness: She wouldn't see a doctor. - Coroner: Did you offer to get one then? - Witness: She would not see one. - Coroner: Did you offer to get one then? - Witness: No, not on that day. - She always refused to have a doctor, she was prejudiced against them. - Coroner: During eleven months you lived with your mother how much did you allow her per week for your maintenance? - Witness: I was out of work for the last five months. I have been in work now five weeks. I was out five months before that. - Coroner: And your mother had to keep you? - Witness: No, most decidedly not. I was doing a little odd job now and again, for which I got 1s. or 1s. 6d. at a time, and that I passed over to my mother. - Coroner: Then practically, with the exception of 1s. o 1s. 6d., occasionally, your mother maintained you? - Witness: I also had a little money, or a little charity if I may call it so. - Coroner: Then, on an average you gave your mother 2s. 6d. a week to maintain you for five months? - Witness: To maintain me? What did I have there? A piece of bread and butter and cup of tea was as much as I had. - Coroner: And directly you get into employment you left your mother and got married? - Witness: That is so. I was married a fortnight after and I have had work five weeks. - Coroner: Then you left your mother, remained out of employment for a fortnight and then married? - Witness: I did. - Coroner: During the five months you wee at home you could have seen that the home and your mother were kept clean? - Witness: As far as I know it was kept clean. The rooms were cleaned out. - Coroner: your brother said your mother was a sickly person, troubled with rheumatism. Weren't you able to see she was cared for? - Witness: In what way, sir? - Coroner: Well, two months ago she was down with a serious illness, and Mrs Dare had to look to her every day and give her brandy and other nourishing things. - Witness: Well, this is past my knowledge. - Coroner: If you weren't there to observe these things, and to take the interest in your mother that you should have done, of course you wouldn't see it. - Witness: As regards the place being cleaned out, it was cleaned. As regards my mother being kept clean, you could hardly expect me to wash my mother, could you? - Coroner: There were neighbours who would have done so if you had only drawn their attention to it. - Witness: She was able to do it herself. - Coroner: Your brother thought she was not. - Witness: But she was perfectly able to do it herself, the rheumatism only affected her leg, and one doesn't wash oneself for rheumatism. - Coroner: Why didn't you come here yesterday after you promised the policeman you would? - Witness: My business would not allow me. - Coroner: your intention was to treat this Court with the same indifference as you treated your mother? - Witness: Certainly not. - Coroner: Well, I think your behaviour bears that out. - Witness: I respect the Court. - Coroner: It is only when I issue my warrant that you come here. - Witness: I was here yesterday. - Coroner: After the Court rose at quarter to one. - Witness: I came here as soon as I possibly could and after that I saw the constable and got particulars. - Coroner: your former employment was in the Free Library at Plymouth? - Witness: yes sir. - Coroner: Why did you leave that? Witness: I beg not to answer. - Coroner: Did you leave on your own account? - Witness: I did not. - Coroner: Why did you leave then? - No answer. - Coroner: Did they reduce their staff? - Witness made no answer at first and then said, Well of course when I went the staff was reduced. - Coroner: But what I ask is this, was it their reducing their staff which necessitated your leaving? - Witness: No. - Coroner: then why did you leave? Was it through any fault of your own? - Witness: It was, through a slight fault of my own. - The Forman (Mr Porter) told witness he should have called in a doctor; whether his mother wanted to have him or not, he should have got one. There were scores of people in Stonehouse who, if she had not the means to pay for the doctor, would have done so. - Witness: That is not the question. - The Foreman: According to the doctor's evidence, your mother was in a very dirty, filthy state and that could not have been brought on at once. - You must have seen what state she was in. I think you are very much to blame for leaving your mother in the state you left her in. - Witness: The state I saw her in was nothing like what has been described since. - The Foreman: But there is the evidence of the doctor, who saw her. You cannot go from that evidence. - Witness: I agree with you there. - The Foreman: I must again say that you are to blame for not looking after your mother. If you hadn't money, you could have got help and attendance for her. - Mr H. Green (a Juryman) asked witness if it was not a fact that during the time he lived with his mother he compelled her to spend upon himself the money he gave her. - Witness: No, decidedly not. - Mr Green: Was she not ill-treated by you and half starved? - Witness: No. - Mr Green: Did you not swear at her? - Witness: I may have. - Mr Green: And is it not true that generally speaking, you are a scamp? - Witness: No. - Mr Green: I don't believe one word you have uttered. - In reply to Mr D. Solomon, another Juryman, witness said his wife never saw his mother, he never took her to see her. His wife had since blamed him for this. - Mr Mitchell (Juryman): You knew it was your duty to look after your mother? - Witness: Yes. - Mr Mitchell: I saw her with her feet black, her body swarming with vermin and her head a mass of sores. - Witness: I had no idea that things were in such a state. - Mr Mitchell: Then you ought to know. You had no idea! I should be ashamed to say so, as a son. It is something abominable. You deserve the censure of the world, much more of this court, to leave your mother in that state! - The Jury considered their verdict in private for a few minutes, and, on the reporters being readmitted The Coroner addressing the witness HAWKE, said: The Jury have considered their verdict and they are unanimous in returning a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," namely, inflammation of the lungs. They desire me, WILLIAM HAWKE, to point out to you that your mother was found in a very filthy condition, and it is hardly possible to believe that in the present day anybody could be found in such a condition. The Jury feel that you must have been fully cognisant of the manner in which your mother was living, and also of the state in which she was in. You have admitted it was your duty to care for your mother, and no doubt it was your duty to have seen that she was kept in a proper state and condition, and the Jury feel that the gravest reflection rests upon you as her eldest son, and practically the head of the family, for not having discharged your duty in seeing that she was provided with the necessaries of life and medical treatment, and that her body and room were kept clean. You may congratulate yourself that the Jury have not taken a more serious view of the matter and put you upon your trial on the grave charge of manslaughter. you are also to blame for the indifferent treatment you have manifested towards this Court. (Hear, Hear, from the Jury) - HAWKE: That was unavoidable. - Coroner: And I caution you as to your future conduct. You may go now. - HAWKE: Good morning.

STOKE DAMEREL - Fatality At Keyham. - The Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A Pearce) held an Inquiry at the Royal Albert Hospital yesterday touching the death of SIMON BURMAN, 19. Mr J. J. Goldsmith (Messrs. Venning, Goldsmith and Peck) represented Sir John Jackson (Limited), and Mr J. Jones (H.M. Inspector of factories) the Board of Trade. - Frederick Perkins, a foreman at the Keyham Extension Works, said on the morning of the accident deceased was scotching a travelling crane, and at about 4.30 he saw him come round with the crane when it was gibbed, and he fell into the road, a distance of about 11 feet. He ran towards him and sent for assistance. Deceased said he had been caught in the crane and had broken his back. There was a very good light at the spot. - Robert Pederick, crane driver, said he saw deceased scotch the crane, after which he commenced to lower the skip. Shortly afterwards he felt a jar as he was lifting the skip which prevented the crane from gybing round. He at once stopped the engine and got off, when he saw deceased lying in the road below. When the accident occurred deceased was standing on the timber on which were the crane-rails. He was using a small scotch at the time about seven inches long and if he had had one about 2 ½ feet long he would have been out of danger. Deceased must have been leaning against the platform of the crane and when he gybed round the crane he was caught by the tank and dropped through the rails into the hollow. - Daniel Brough, Surgeon at the Royal Albert Hospital, said when deceased was admitted he was suffering from fracture of the spine. The case was hopeless from the first. Death was due to exhaustion caused through fracture of the spine. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," adding a rider, suggested by the Coroner, that proper precautions be taken to see that men employed at the works can carry out their duties with safety. - Mr A. Brooks, sub-agent for Sir John Jackson, said he would convey the recommendation to the firm. He concurred with the Jury's expression of deep sympathy with the parents, who have lost two sons by accidents on the works within the past few weeks.

Western Morning News, Thursday 29 March 1900
EAST STONEHOUSE - Sudden Death At Stonehouse. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest last evening respecting the death of THOS. MONEGHAN, aged 63, Royal Marine pensioner, late of No. 4 Durnford-street. The daughter, HETTIE LOUISA MONEGHAN, stated her father was acting as caretaker at No. 7 Hamilton-terrace, Stonehouse. He went to bed just before midnight saying he was not well. That morning about nine o'clock, not hearing deceased about, she went to his bedroom. He was on the floor undressed and dead. On Tuesday night he complained of shortness of breath. Dr Corbett deposed to having made a post-mortem examination of the body, and found very extensive disease of the heart. The large vessel of the heart was ruptured and blood rushing into lungs caused suffocation. Verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Death Of A Fleet Paymaster At Plymouth. - At the Royal Western Yacht Club, Plymouth, on Tuesday night Fleet-Paymaster WILLIAM CHARLES S. HYNE was taken suddenly ill and died almost immediately. MR HYNE acted as secretary to Admiral Sir W. Hewett in the Euryalua during the naval and military operations near Suakin, in the Eastern Soudan, 1884, and held the Egyptian medal and the Khedive's bronze star. At the Inquest, held at the Club yesterday, it was shewn that death was due to heart disease, and that the deceased was subject to apoplectic fits.

Western Morning News, Friday 30 March 1900
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held last evening concerning the death of the child of LOUISA BARKELL, single woman, of 30 Julian-street, Plymouth. Dr Dutton, who had since held a post-mortem examination, stated that the child had not had a separate existence, and a verdict of "Found Dead" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 3 April 1900
ILFRACOMBE - Sad Death At Ilfracombe. - Dr Slade King held an Inquest at Ilfracombe yesterday, respecting the death of MRS SUSAN BROWN, aged 75 years. Captain Thomas Birmingham deposed to seeing deceased on the Quay at Ilfracombe about eight o'clock on Friday evening. She was then walking towards her house and appeared all right. In the afternoon she complained to him of indigestion and pains round the heart. - ELLEN BROWN, daughter, said her mother lived at No. 12 The Quay, and had been in ill-health all the winter as the effects of influenza. On Wednesday last deceased told her she was feeling very giddy. On Friday evening about half-past eight she again went home to nurse her mother, and found her lying on the floor in the sitting-room with her head on the fender in a pool of blood. She was alive, but could not speak. She died about one o'clock on Saturday morning. Nothing in the house had been disturbed. - Dr F. W. Langridge said he was called at 9.30 p.m. on Friday to see deceased, and found her in a state of profound coma, with a contused wound about three inches in length on the crown of the head. He dressed the wound and had deceased put on a bed. He was of opinion the deceased became insensible and then fell. He could not say from what cause unless a post-mortem examination was made. She might have had apoplexy or a fainting fit. It was possible that death may have been due to concussion of the brain. Death might have been caused indirectly by accident or by the deceased's previous weak state of health. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and the Jury gave their fees to the deceased's family.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 4 April 1900
SOUTH MILTON - Suicide Near Kingsbridge. - Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Southmilton yesterday relative to RICHARD LUGGER, aged 46. Deceased's brother said he last saw him alive on Thursday evening. The notice to leave his situation seemed to prey upon his mind. His eyesight was getting bad and he seemed in rather low spirits. Deceased's mother died in an asylum. - Florence Tucker said on Friday afternoon she met deceased when she was returning from Southmilton. He spoke to her and she directed him which way to go. She did not notice anything peculiar about him. - Charles Stewart, naval pensioner, deposed to finding the body on Sunday morning in the fresh water lake on Thurlestone. On Saturday week he gave deceased notice, but told him he would do what he could for him. Deceased's eyesight had always been bad, and he had been depressed since he heard a new hand was coming. Deceased continued at work till one o'clock the following Friday. Deceased was always quiet and there had been no unpleasantness between them. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

EXMOUTH - Fatal Fall At Exmouth. - An Inquiry was held at Exmouth yesterday on WILLIAM ADAMS, aged about 60. Mr Newberry, the proprietor of the London Hotel, said deceased was his ostler, and on Sunday night went to bed quite sober. Not long afterwards witness heard ADAMS falling down the stairs leading to the servants' landing. - Mrs Wilson, a professional nurse, engaged at the hotel, said she heard the deceased go up to his room. Soon afterwards he started to go down again, striking a match as he went. three or four stairs from the top he fell. She ran out and found him lying at the bottom of the flight of stairs. Blood was flowing from his mouth and he was breathing heavily. In a very few minutes he was dead. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and gave their fees to Mr Newberry to be used towards paying the funeral expenses, deceased having no relatives.

EXETER - HENRY WESTCOTT, aged four months, was at Exeter found by its mother dead in bed on Sunday morning. On the previous evening it was quite well. At the Inquest yesterday Dr Harrison said death was due to convulsions.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 10 April 1900
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary yesterday relative to the death of FRANK WEVERELL, labourer, aged 28, residing at 96 King-street, Plymouth. Mrs Rogers, who resides in the same house, stated that deceased was taken ill on Thursday last and a doctor was sent for. About four months ago deceased had complained of pains in the head caused by a blow. Dr Waterfield who had made a post-mortem examination, said death was due to meningitis. The internal organs were in a very bad state. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - With regard to the death of ALICE JOHANNAH DENNIS aged 10 months, the daughter of MARY DENNIS, residing at 64 Gifford-terrace, Plymouth, who died on Saturday night last, Dr Jackson, who had made a post-mortem examination, stated that death was due to heart disease. Verdict accordingly.

STOKE DAMEREL - Sudden Death At Devonport Dockyard. - The Devonport Borough Coroner, (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest in the Dockyard yesterday on SAMUEL ALBERT BRADFIELD, 40, sinker, employed at the Dockyard, of 44 Kerr-street, Devonport. - LOUISA BRADFIELD, wife of deceased, said he had been in failing health for some time and suffered from a chronic cough. He was last medically attended at Christmas. He appeared to be in his usual health on leaving for work on Friday morning last. - Henry Calhoun, assistant-boilermaker, last saw deceased at 5.30 p.m. on Friday when he appeared to be well and William Libby, labourer, deposed to finding deceased lying in a pool of blood outside the capstan house on No. 4 jetty where he had been working. He was then dead. - Montague L. B. Rodd, Surgeon, R.N., said he made a post-mortem examination and found the lungs extensively affected with tuberculosis. Death was due to haemorrhage in consequence of pneumonia. A verdict of Natural Causes was returned.

EXETER - Suicide At Exeter. - Mr Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Exeter yesterday relative to JANE SOMERVILLE, married, aged 70. MR SOMERVILLE said on Sunday morning he found his wife hanging by a cord in the backyard. About a month ago she threatened to commit suicide, but gave no reason. She had not repeated the threat and he did not know that she had any trouble to worry her. She was not strange in her manner on Sunday morning. - Mrs Sarah Luscombe said she met deceased running into the backyard. Asked how her head was, she replied, "Oh, worse than ever." On Saturday MRS SOMERVILLE said, "If my head does not get any better I shall go out of my mind, and do away with myself just like my father. He cut his throat." During the past week deceased had frequently complained of pains in her head. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 11 April 1900
EGG BUCKLAND - Fatal Riding Accident Near Plymouth. - The County Coroner (Mr R. R. Rodd) held an Inquest at Ford Efford, Plymouth, yesterday, relative to the death of JOHN DEWYER, of the Clare Artillery Militia, stationed at Millbay, Plymouth. Capt. Ferguson said deceased was a gunner in No. 4 Company, and employed as a groom by the colonel. Godfrey Bruford, a lad in the employ of Mr Skinner, said on Monday he saw deceased and two other artillerymen riding horses. They jumped over a small stream of water, when deceased's horse appeared to bolt towards a battery and witness lost sight of him. On going towards the battery he saw deceased lying dead on the ground. - Michael Mullaby, gunner, 3rd Clare Militia, stated that after they jumped the stream they turned to go towards the fort, when he and the other gunner missed deceased. They went to look for him, and found him lying in the road dead, with the horse standing over him. Deceased had been a professional jockey. The horse was bleeding from a slight cut on the forehead and the side of the saddle was torn, the horse evidently having rolled over. Dr Stephen Ward, who had made a post-mortem examination, said deceased's neck was dislocated. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

ASHBURTON - An Ashburton Sensation. The Exhumation Of A Body. - Ashburton was greatly excited on Monday by the exhumation of the body of EMMA HEAD, the wife of a miner, interred in the parish churchyard on the previous Saturday. Soon after the funeral a rumour was spread that the woman had come by her death by foul means. The allegation was that on Sunday, April 1st, she was knocked down over the stairs in her house by her husband. The rumour, so persistently spread, came to the ears of P.S. Frew, in charge of the Ashburton Police-station. He saw Dr Wilcox, who attended the deceased, and who gave the certificate stating the cause of death, and he also saw the husband and other members of the family. What he heard he communicated to Mr S. Hacker, County Coroner, at Newton Abbot, on Sunday, and Mr Hacker ordered the exhumation of the body and the holding of an Inquest. Early on Monday the grave of the deceased was reopened by the sexton and the coffin was brought to the surface and conveyed, under the charge of the Police, to the Market Hall. There the coffin was opened and a post-mortem examination conducted by Dr Ransom, of Ashburton. The same evening an Inquest was held. So great was the interest taken in the proceedings that the Hall was crowded, and the street outside was thronged with people who impatiently awaited the result of the investigation. The Inquiry occupied over two and a half hours and was searching. It resulted in proving most conclusively that the allegations against the husband were absolutely unfounded. - At the Inquest Mr Lamason was Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner (Mr Hacker) said it was alleged that there were marks of violence on the body and the interment was an irregularity, for which they would have to ascertain who was responsible. - FREDERICK HEAD, R.N., said his mother was very well when she retired to rest on Saturday 21st. ult. At five o'clock next morning he heard her complaining to his father of severe pain in the head. The doctor was fetched and next day she was better, but in the evening she fell out of bed, lapsed into unconsciousness and died on 4th inst. HILDA HEAD, the daughter, corroborated. - Dr Wilson Ransom said he had made a post-mortem examination and found the body well nourished and the organs healthy. There was a scab on the back of the neck, probably caused by the application of mustard leaf and an abrasion recent, but which shewed signs of reaper, 2 ½ inches long on the left buttock. The brain was considerably congested and at the base there were signs of inflammatory process and of rupture of a blood vessel. It was not extensive, but sufficient to cause inflammation producing death. He considered death was primarily due to compression of the brain, and secondarily to paralysis of the respiratory centre. - By the Coroner: Death was quite compatible with natural causes, and he was inclined to think the rupture was due to these. - Dr Wilcox deposed to being called on 1st. inst. and finding deceased in a condition which gave him the impression that she had been drinking overnight. She was better the next day, but on Tuesday, when he visited her three times, he found her unconscious, becoming more deeply so until she died. He elicited that she fell out of bed the Monday evening. He ordered the mustard plaster to be placed at the back of the neck. He formed he opinion that she had compression of the brain and from that he gave his certificate. - By the Coroner: The circumstances appeared to him to be clear that the rupture was caused by the fall and that the morbid condition of the brain predisposed to it. Had the brain been in a healthy state, the fall would probably not have affected it. - Charlotte Long, the nurse, said deceased was in an unconscious state when she arrived. After death, she saw the wounds on the neck and hip and considered the latter a bed mark. Subsequently she saw black marks under the right ear. - WILLIAM HEAD, the husband, said deceased complained of severe pain in the head at five o'clock on the 1st inst. There had been no quarrel or a "distaste" word between them for months, and she went to bed on the night of the 31st. in as good health and spirits as he ever remembered. - Frederick H. Rogers, Registrar of Deaths, produced the certificate on which he registered the death. - Asked by the Coroner why he did not communicate with him first, witness said there was nothing in the Registrar General's regulations to prevent his accepting the certificate, and on handing up the book of regulations the Coroner agreed that it was so. - The Coroner said the certificate did not go far enough. It should have stated "compression of the brain, following on a fall," or something to that effect. No blame attached to the Registrar. He thought the Jury would find that it was a case of Accidental Death. After some deliberation, the Jury entered a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes," and added that it disposed of the rumours that were flying about.

STOKE DAMEREL - A Devonport Suicide. - Mr J. A. Pearce (Borough Coroner) held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday relative to the death of ALFRED W. PEARNE, aged 36, a skilled labourer in the Dockyard, of 1 Mill-street, who committed suicide on Monday. GEORGE PEARNE, skilled labourer, of 30 St John-street, said the deceased, his brother, on Sunday evening was in his usual spirits, but he had been sick for more than ten weeks. Four years ago he had influenza, and since then had been sick at times for periods of from one to three months. At times he was much depressed. He suffered greatly from throat trouble, and witness had heard him say after treatment at the Plymouth Throat Hospital, that he wished himself dead, but he had never heard him threaten to take his life. Deceased did not get on very well with his wife, who was nearly double his age, and that trouble made him rather irritable. There were eight lodgers in the house and deceased had to attend to them when his wife could not do so. - Robert Williams, who lodged at deceased's house, said shortly before nine on Monday morning he heard a knocking upstairs and upon entering the bedroom deceased said, "I have done it, I shan't be long now." and said he had taken spirits of salts. Deceased was in great pain and died about two o'clock. Dr Hinvest, who was immediately called, said he obtained medicine to counteract the poison, but from the first it was almost hopeless. Deceased told him he got the acid about six months ago for soldering purposes and that he had taken about two tablespoonfuls. A post-mortem examination shewed that the stomach and bowels were injured by corrosive poison. - Verdict, "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

STOKE DAMEREL - Sudden Death At Devonport. - At an Inquest relative to the death of FREDERICK CLEMOW, aged 23, baker's assistant, South-street, the evidence shewed that deceased was fairly well until Monday morning, when he complained of a pain under the shoulder. He worked all day and lay down for some time in the evening. At 9.40 he fell off a chair and ten minutes later, when he was in bed, he swooned again. Deceased did not want a doctor fetched, saying he would be well again in the morning. As he was evidently very ill his father sent for a doctor. For a few minutes no doctor could be found, and deceased died before Dr McElwaine arrived. A post-mortem examination shewed death to be due to acute pneumonia. In reply to a Juryman, Dr McElwaine said deceased ought not to have gone to work on Monday. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - An Exeter Tragedy. "Found Drowned." - Mr Burroughs held an Inquest at St Thomas yesterday relative to WILLIAM HENRY BECKETT, aged 28, whose body was recovered from the Exe on Sunday afternoon. - MRS JANE BECKETT said her husband, a labourer, and herself, on Friday night, March 30th, in company with a man named Gregory and a woman named Searle, went at the invitation of the captain, on board the vessel May lying in the Basin. They had previously met the captain at the Golden Ball Inn. They had supper on board and one lot of rum and water each. They were very friendly all the time and separated about 3 o'clock. Mrs Searle was very tight and witness could not say that she herself was not the worse for liquor. She could not tell who saw them off the vessel, but the mate came after them and asked her husband to come aboard the following night. Gregory then told the mate he had his hat on, and after a few words the mate knocked Gregory down. Her husband took off his coat and said, "You shan't serve him like that," but there was no fight. The mate and her husband went away to the next opening from the bank, and she waited outside for about half an hour, but she never saw her husband again. She believed she fell asleep on the bank and on awaking went home. Her husband had the key of the door and as he did not arrive she went and saw the captain of the vessel, who told her not to worry as her husband was sure to turn up. The deceased's cap, coat and concertina, as well as her own hat and Gregory's, were afterwards found on the banks. When they left the vessel her husband was able to take care of himself and was not likely to walk into the river. When she sat down on the bank someone touched her on the shoulder, and she heard her husband say "I am quite capable of looking after my own wife." - Thomas Gregory, labourer, said the first time he had spoken to BECKETT was when they met at the Golden Ball on March 30th. Witness was with the captain of the May. After eleven o'clock the captain, the mate and himself walked down Fore-street together. The captain said he was fond of music and deceased, who was walking behind with his wife and Mrs Searle offered to go on board. They all went on board and had supper. They were nothing "out of the way," and had half a glass of rum each afterwards. They left after about two hours, and all walked ashore all right. When they got to the top of the drangway he saw deceased trying to lift his wife from the ground. He assisted and then wished them good-night. Missing his cap he turned round and saw the mate wearing one like it. He accused him of having his cap, and the mate knocked him down, stunning him. He did not know what happened afterwards, and when he came to his senses he walked to the ferry boat and went across the river. His wife told him it was about three o'clock when he got home. - Mrs Charlotte Searle a widow, said she went aboard the May with the rest, and when she came ashore she was drunk and knew nothing about what took place. She sat on the bank and fell asleep and was awakened by the watchman. - Mr T. Kelso, master of the May, said after supper the parties only had about a gill of rum each. They left about two in the morning, Gregory and BECKETT were all right but both the women were the worse for liquor. The mate went ashore with them and he sent Wayland, the mate, to look after Mrs Searle. The mate was not away more than ten minutes and when he returned some wounds on his hands which he had received on the voyage, were freshly bleeding. He said he had had a few words with Gregory. Witness did not hear any splashing in the water or screaming, but was told in the morning that some clothes had been found on the banks. The mate had a good character and the only thing he had to complain of about him was his leniency towards the men. In reply to the Deputy Chief Constable witness said he thought Gregory and BECKETT were quite capable of looking after themselves. - John Francis Dalton, mate of the May, said when the party left the vessel MRS BECKETT was led ashore by her husband and Gregory, the watchman, Weyland, looking after Mrs Searle and he followed. The two men were not so bad, but had had enough. They went up the drangway together and when they turned the corner MRS BECKETT fell down. Gregory said to deceased, "Take your wife home," and BECKETT replied that he was quite capable of taking care of her. He afterwards took off his coat and asked Gregory if he was going to fight. Gregory said, "What is there to fight about?" and no blows were struck. Gregory then accused witness of having his cap and tried to take his cap off his head. Witness knocked him down; he got up again and caught him by the legs, and he (Dalton) shoved him clear. BECKETT and witness then went round the corner and had a friendly conversation, at the invitation of the former. They wished one another good-bye, and the deceased went away. Dalton went on board again. MRS BECKETT was lying on the ground and he did not know what became of Mrs Searle. - James Weyland, the night watchman, gave corroborative evidence, and said the men and women were all drunk. He heard no splashing in the water, but one of the crew had stated that he heard someone call out. - P.C. Bubear of the Exeter City Police, said he was on duty near the river about two o'clock on the morning of March 30th, and heard voices across the river. Harsh words were used and a woman said "Leave me go, leave me go," several times. He shouted to them and flashed his light across. He also heard something like blows. The disturbance quieted down. About 2.40 a.m. he heard a man say "Give us your hand, " and another replied, "Why should I." In a few seconds there was a splash and he heard nothing more. They frequently heard rows across the river and also the splashing of salmon. - The Coroner: Why did you not go to see what this was about? - Witness: It would have taken me half an hour to get round to the spot. - The Coroner: It would not matter if it took you two years where human life is concerned. I think, under the circumstances, you should have gone round. - Henry Slack deposed to dragging the body from the river on the Sunday and Mr Mark Farrant, jun. said death was due to drowning. There was a slight bruise on the nose, but nothing like sufficient to account for death. - The Coroner said there was no doubt that deceased met his death by drowning, but there was absolutely nothing to show how the man got into the water. If deceased was the victim of foul play he hoped that the person responsible would subsequently be brought to justice. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," and added a rider that they considered the evidence of Gregory and MRS BECKETT very unsatisfactory. They desired that their fees should be handed to the mother of the deceased

Western Morning News, Saturday 14 April 1900
PLYMOUTH - Two Inquests were held at the Fortescue Hotel, Mutley, yesterday. The first was on MARY JANE FRIEND, 28, who lived at 78 Belgrave-road, Plymouth. Whilst hanging up some clothes on a line deceased fell in a faint and died before a doctor arrived. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence - that death was due to syncope - was returned. - The second Inquiry related to the death of JANE LEGASSICK, 91, of 38 Penrose-street, Plymouth. Last December deceased fell and injured her leg, and had been under medical care since. Dr Keily stated that death was due to bronchitis, accelerated by the injury to the leg. Verdict accordingly.

STOKE DAMEREL - Fatal Fall At Devonport. - Mr J. A. Pearce at Devonport on Thursday evening held an Inquest on CHARLES HERRING, aged 59, a retired hon. lieutenant R.N., living at 1 Third-avenue, Rectory-road. Deceased on Tuesday evening, just as it was getting dusk, left the house. About ten minutes afterwards he was seen by Ethel Andrews, a young woman residing next door, to fall over the low wall in front of his house, abutting on Stonehouse Creek. Looking over, she saw him lying flat on his stomach, with his head downwards. Mr Arthur Russel Rendle, Surgeon, said he found deceased in a semi-conscious state, was suffering from a large scalp wound, five or six inches long, down to the bone, from which there had been a good deal of bleeding. He soon became unconscious and died without recovering consciousness about midnight. A post-mortem examination shewed that the brain was slightly bruised internally. The chest bone was also broken, due probably to the impact of the chin by the fall. The internal organs were not in a healthy state. Mr Rendle attributed death to shock, the result of the fall, and added that he thought deceased was not sober. - In reply to the Coroner, the widow said deceased was of temperate habits and she could not say whether he had been drinking during the evening. He was cheerful, enjoyed good health and had no financial or domestic troubles. - The Coroner suggested that deceased whilst sitting on the very low wall, overbalanced himself. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and through the Foreman (Mr Lyle) expressed the opinion that the wall was dangerous, and recommended that the authorities should be requested to raise it. - The Coroner said he thought the wall was very low. He would ascertain whose duty it was to raise it, and write them. - The Jury passed a vote of condolence with the widow and family.

PLYMOUTH - Suicide At Plymouth. - DANIEL MICHAEL SULLIVAN, Royal naval pensioner, aged 33, residing at 12 Cecil-street, Plymouth, was early on Thursday morning found by his father lying on the floor of his bedroom with his throat cut. A brother of deceased died about three months ago and since that time deceased had been very depressed, and did not sleep well. At the Inquest in the evening, Police-Sergeant Stephens said when called in he found a blood-stained razor close to the man. He bound up SULLIVAN'S wound and sent for a doctor. - Dr Pearce said deceased had two gashes in the throat, extending from ear to ear. A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned.

KINGSWEAR - Kingswear Railway Fatality. A Public Path Or Not? - At Kingswear Royal Dart Hotel, Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest on Thursday touching the death of ALBERT NORRISH, first class petty officer, R.N., H.M.S. Thrasher. - REGINALD NORRISH of Shaldon, said deceased was 32, and had a wife and child at St. Marychurch. - George Vincent, stoker said he and deceased landed from the Thrasher, lying in Dartmouth Harbour on Wednesday and walked from the floating bridge slip towards Kingswear Station, along the path leading down the line. They were going to the Station. It was blowing and raining heavily. They had to keep their heads down against the wind. They were in single file, deceased being ahead. Near the Steam Packet Company's shed they heard an engine whistle almost on them. Deceased "slewed" round to the left, and the engine caught him and dragged him on to the line. Witness stood still and was all right. They were not walking on the line itself, but in the path. Metals crossed each other at the spot. Deceased was carried a good distance under the train and when picked up was badly mangled and quite dead. - By Mr Abrahams, the Stationmaster: NORRISH was not walking nearer to the line than witness was. They were on the harbour side. They were between two lines of metals but not on the main line. - Harry Best, driver of the 2.47 p.m. train from Newton Abbot, said he blew the whistle at the level crossing (the floating bridge). Then he blew it again for some packers and when they had cleared off the line, he saw the two sailors about 100 yards further down. He thereupon blew once more. One man jumped clear to the right. The other started that way, but jumped back again, with the object apparently of crossing the metals. Witness ran over to the other side of the engine and asked the fireman if the man had got clear. They did not see him and afterwards found he had been knocked down. He thought the deceased mistook the line on which the train was coming. - Arthur Hewlett, fireman, was positive the driver blew his whistle. - John Reginald Parsons, chief engineer, Steam Packet Company, said the path was generally used by people going to the Noss Engineering Works and by others. - Sidney Willcocks, residing at a cottage close by, said the deceased was evidently making an attempt to cross the line when the engine struck him. - Mr Abrahams, in reply to the Crooner, said he could not say it was a public path to the floating bridge, though it was frequently used. He had not received any instructions regarding it from the railway company. - The Coroner: This man was not a trespasser, I suppose? - Mr Abrahams: I cannot say. - The Coroner: There is a path or track? - Mr Abrahams: People walking there would soon make one. Recently the railway company built a bridge leading from the main road across the line to enable persons to reach the foreshore. Then there was a fenced path along the foreshore, not extending so far as the scene of the accident. - Dr w. B. Kendall said deceased was terribly mangled and death must have been instantaneous. The Foreman said the path had been used by the public ever since the line was opened. - Summing up the Coroner said no blame attached to the engine driver, for he blew his whistle as soon as he saw the men. They did not hear the train's approach, owing to the stormy weather. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and the Jury attributed blame to no one.

Western Morning News, Monday 16 April 1900
BARNSTAPLE - At an Inquest on JOHN NATHANIEL JENKINS, aged 3 years, at Barnstaple on Saturday, it was stated that deceased, whilst staying at the house of its grand parents in Higher Maudlin-street, walked backwards into a pan of boiling milk momentarily left on the floor of the dairy. "Accidental Death" was the verdict, the Jury expressing the opinion that no one was to blame.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 17 April 1900
DARTINGTON - Suicide Near Totnes. - An Inquest was held yesterday at Dartington on GEORGE BATTERSHILL, 40, single, a gardener in the employ of the Devon [?] Company. It appeared that deceased, who had formerly been in the navy, usually lived at Torquay, and had lately been employed at Dartington and stayed at the Queen's Arms. On Sunday he was found dead in his bedroom in a sitting position on the floor; his handkerchief was tied to the bed post and round his neck and death was due to strangulation. The body was quite cold. Deceased was in very good spirits on Saturday and his father said he could not account for his son's act. A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

EXMOUTH - Found Drowned At Exmouth. - At Exmouth yesterday an Inquest was held on the body of WILLIAM GREEN, 56, found in Exmouth Docks on Friday. The widow stated that deceased had had several attacks of influenza and had been depressed owing to this. He left home on Sunday evening, March 11th, not saying where he was going. Two boys discovered the body. The Jury returned an Open Verdict, and requested the Foreman, Mr Winter, to complain to the authorities that there were no lights or protection at the spot.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 18 April 1900
PLYMOUTH - Deaths Of Plymouth Infants. A Case Of Improper Feeding. - The Deputy Coroner (Mr J. Graves) held Inquests on three infants at Plymouth yesterday. In the case of WILLIAM J. A FRUDE, aged 3 weeks, son of WILLIAM FRUDE, a rigger in the Dockyard, residing at 15 New-street, Plymouth, who died on Saturday last, a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned, Dr Coke having stated that death was due to convulsions caused by congestion of the lungs. As to HAROLD STAFFORD ANSTIS, aged three months, LAURA ANSTIS, of Britannia-place, Plymouth, the mother, stated that the child had been weak from birth, and a doctor whom she consulted at Bere Alston, said he could do nothing for the deceased. Dr Glinn, who had made a post-mortem examination, said death was due to tubercular disease f the intestines. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned. The third case was that of ALFRED GABRIEL ANDERSON, aged five weeks. MRS ANDERSON, 39 Well-street, Plymouth, said the child had been delicate from birth and died suddenly on Sunday morning. Deceased had been fed on cornflour and biscuits. She could give no reason why she did not feed the child on milk. Dr Pearse stated when he first saw the child on Wednesday, it was in a low condition and he ordered it milk and water. Cornflour or biscuit was not a proper food for any child under six months. Death was due to congestion of the lungs. - Replying to a Juryman, Dr Pearse said the condition of the child was certainly due to improper feeding and being in such a low state would contract a complaint very easily. - Mr Graves said he was greatly surprised to hear the mother say she could give no reason why she did not feed the child on milk. She was fortunate in not being placed in an awkward position. - Several of the Jury stated that the body showed every sign of neglect. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - RICHARD CHARLES BERRY, aged 52, a labourer, residing at 11 Prince-street, Devonport, enjoyed good health until last New Year's-day, when he was seized with paralysis. From that attack he partially recovered, but not sufficiently to work again. At half-past eight yesterday morning he called his daughter to get up. A few minutes later, his wife noticed he looked strange, and in ten minutes he was dead. Dr Wilson at the Inquest attributed death to heart disease and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - Suicide At Keyham. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest at 2 Beatrice-avenue, Keyham, yesterday on JOHN SMITH, 27, labourer, employed at the Quarries, Keyham Barton. - ALFRED HENRY SMITH said the deceased, his brother, was taken ill with inflammation of the lungs a week ago. Last Sunday afternoon he said "Florrie little thinks I am like this," referring to his wife, from whom he lived apart. Later on he said "I am on the water's edge." About 4.30 on Sunday morning a lodger sleeping in the same room awoke him and said "Your brother is downstairs. I believe he is dead." he never heard deceased threaten to take his life. He had been separated from his wife about eleven months and grieved considerably about her and also the child, who was in the wife's custody. - By the Jury: The doctor said someone should look after his brother and he (witness) only laid on the bed in his clothes. At three o'clock in the morning deceased said he was all right and told witness to go to bed. William Pike, baker, said at half-past four on Monday morning on his way to work, he saw deceased lying outside the door of the house dead. Only a nightshirt was on the body. - P.C. Allen, who was called by the last witness, said a flower-pot was knocked off from the window, which was open. From the [?] of the window two plant-pots had been removed and the blind was down. Dr McElwaine said he had been attending deceased for pneumonia for a week. When he last saw him on Sunday morning deceased was rather peculiar in his manner and he advised his friends not to leave him. Death was due to dislocation of the neck, and must have been instantaneous. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind."

Western Morning News, Friday 20 April 1900
STOKE DAMEREL -. - Devonport Borough Coroner, (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest yesterday touching the death of ELIZABETH PEAKE, 72, an inmate of St. Germans Workhouse, Torpoint. David J. Grainger, Master, said he last saw her alive at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, when she left the Workhouse. She usually enjoyed good health, and had been an inmate nine months. - P.C. Pengelly gave evidence of finding deceased lying on the footpath in Charlotte-street, Morice Town. She was apparently dying and passed away as they took her into a coach-house. - Dr Row said death was due to syncope through a fatty heart and all the organs were more or less diseased. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Saturday 21 April 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - At the Inquest held by Mr Pearce (Borough Coroner) yesterday relative to the death of RICHARD BEAVER, a pensioner from the Royal Navy, aged 70 years, residing at 52 Cannon-street, Devonport, a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned. Dr Eccles stated that death was due to pneumonia.

YELVERTON - Mysterious Affair At Yelverton. An Octogenarian's Suicide. - At Yelverton yesterday evening the County Coroner (Mr R. R. Rodd) held an Inquiry touching the death of EMILY TOLCHER, who was found dead on Thursday afternoon in the grounds of her residence, The Cottage, Yelverton. - Mr John Walter Wilson, solicitor, Plymouth, said he was one of the executors under the deceased's will. She was a spinster, aged about 80. He last saw her alive ten days ago, when she was quite cheerful. His business with her then was to inform her she could not take a house known as Myrobella, at Yelverton. To his surprise the matter did not appear to upset her in the least. She had given notice to quite The Cottage, and was to have left there on May 1st and had experienced difficulty in getting other accommodation in the neighbourhood. This had rather upset her He received a letter from deceased that morning at Plymouth bearing the Yelverton postmark and dated 15th inst enclosing a key, which he found belonged to her black bag. Witness produced the following letters:- Dear Mr Wilson:- You will find father's desk in the large black tin box in dining-room and some in the black bag. All letters, papers, bill receipts in black leather bag in dining room, keys in green bag in black bag. Hair trunk has all receipts and papers. Please pay cook £4, Mrs Hicks £2, Amelia Matthews £2 10s. The trades-peoples bills are all paid which have been sent in. - April 19th, 1900. - On the back of the letter was:- £20 received today from bank, and two £5 notes also in desk. I hope all right. £6 in gold in purse and three pounds and threepence in silver. - Mr Wilson said he had found all this to be correct. - A letter from deceased's nephew asking for £25 was enclosed, there being a note attached asking witness to send help. There was also an acknowledgement of money received from Mr Bulteel, and also particulars as to money and papers in the house, posted at the same time. The letter was posted at Yelverton at 2.45 p.m. Deceased was not a landed proprietress, but had her money invested in companies. - Amelia Matthews, domestic servant at the cottage, said deceased went out at about 10.40 a.m. on Thursday and nothing further was seen of her until witness found her in the garden. The occupants of the house had become somewhat alarmed at deceased's absence and at 11.40 a.m. made a search around the garden and the moor and also went to Dr Little. Going through the garden at 3.30 p.m. witness heard groans and found deceased lying at the bottom of the lawn under some shrubs, her head being on the grass. She obtained assistance and deceased was brought into the house and Dr Little sent for. They had been busy packing up furniture for some days and deceased appeared worried over having to leave the house. Witness gave the letters to a servant of Mrs Lewis's (next door) to post. Mr Ellis explained that deceased had taken rooms at Mrs Little's house. - Elizabeth Hicks who said she had been employed by deceased for some years, said she was in the house when MISS TOLCHER was found. She noticed a knife, which was partly in the pocket on deceased's left side. It was wrapped in flannel and tied with twine. There was also a pair of scissors lying by the knife. She had never seen the knife before. - On examination the knife appeared to be a carving knife, which had been worn to a point by sharpening. It bore the name of a French firm and the date 1878. - Witness, continuing said she walked out with deceased occasionally last summer. She was afraid to go alone, as she suffered from heart disease. On Thursday morning she would let no one go with her. Witness dressed her as usual, but she seemed strange. She would not have her gloves on or her boots fastened, though she was generally very particular about such matters. She was a very strong-willed woman. - Dr H. J. Shepherd Little said he had attended deceased occasionally for some years. He last saw her alive at 10.20 a.m. on Thursday, when she was rather depressed and made a remark to the effect that old people ought to be put out of the way. She was, however, considerably more depressed when he called about the same time the previous day. He advised her to take drive, but she said she preferred to walk in the garden. He next saw her at 5.10 p.m. on Thursday, when she had just passed away. On making a superficial examination he found a wound on each leg of about 2 inches in length and three-quarters of an inch deep, severing the saphena vein in each case. The cuts were very clean and must have been done by the carving knife produced and they appeared to be self-inflicted. There were no other marks of violence. There was a lot of blood in the boots and stockings. The cause of death was syncope through haemorrhage. - By the Foreman: The wounds were sufficient to cause death, as no attempt had been made to staunch the flow of blood. - The Coroner said the case was a very peculiar one, as a suicide usually adopted quicker methods than those of the deceased. he did not think there was any reasonable doubt that the deceased had contemplated suicide, and it only remained for the Jury to consider her state of mind. They had heard of her strange manner and the worry caused by having to remove and being unable to find another house. A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - A Working Class Dwelling At Devonport. - The Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest at Devonport Guildhall yesterday relative to the death of ALICE MINCHIN BISHOP, aged 3 years, the daughter of JOHN HENRY BISHOP, a shipwright, residing at 10 Cornwall-street, Devonport. - ALICE BISHOP, the mother, said that the child was taken unwell last Wednesday, and she sent for a doctor, but he refused to come unless she paid the fee in advance. Witness, her husband, and six children lived in one room, for which they paid only 3s. 9d. Her husband is an established man in the Dockyard and receives 32s. a week, out of which he allowed witness 30s. for housekeeping: yet by Wednesday she did not have enough money to pay for a doctor. MRS BISHOP stated that her husband at one time belonged to the Oddfellows, but she had failed to keep up the payments. Last Thursday a friend lent her some money and a doctor was procured but the child died the same night. - Mr Pearce said he thought it was disgraceful that people in the position of MR and MRS BISHOP should be in such a condition as she had described, and they were deserving of severe censure. - Mrs Jago, who lives in the same house, stated that 29 people resided in the nine rooms and two garrets which the house contained. - Dr Eccles, who made a post-mortem examination, said that death was due to pneumonia, following congestion of the lungs and measles. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 23 April 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Fatal Fall At Stoke. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquiry at Stopford Arms, Stoke, on Saturday, touching the death of LUCY EMILY PERRY, 63, wife of RICHARD PERRY, of 3 Stopford-place. FLORENCE EMILY PERRY identified the body as that of her mother, and said she usually enjoyed fairly good health. On Thursday afternoon she heard a fall and saw her mother at the foot of the stairs, being attended by the servant. - Lavinia Vallack, domestic servant, said deceased came into the kitchen at 3.15 for some hot water. She was looking rather strange at the time. Almost immediately after she left the room witness heard a fall. On going out she found her in a fit and saw a bruise on her head. She was put to bed and Dr Kirton was sent for. Deceased passed away at two o'clock on Friday morning. Witness said she had been with the family for ten years and had known her to have a fit once before. - Dr Kirton said death was due to a rupture of the brain, causing haemorrhage and compression. There was a large contused wound over her left eye, and he considered the case hopeless from the first. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned by the Jury.

IVYBRIDGE - Sad Fatality At Ivybridge. - Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Ivybridge on Saturday relative to the death of ELSIE BAKER STONE, aged 11, daughter of HENRY STONE, journeyman papermaker, of 6 Erme-road. The evidence shewed that the deceased had always been delicate. On the previous Saturday she was out with the baby in a mailcart and was speaking to a little girl named Northmore in Western-road, when Frederick John Jeffrey, aged 9, was throwing stones for a dog to fetch. One of the stones accidentally hit the deceased in the forehead, causing blood to flow. She made no complaint, however, and nothing was perceptibly wrong with her until the following Wednesday evening, when she said she felt unwell - a not unusual occurrence. She was put to bed and later her father found her asleep and apparently comfortable. When her elder sister took her tea and bread and butter at eight o'clock the following morning she called the deceased by name, under the impression that she was asleep, but received no answer. As the child moved her head and yawned, the sister thought it peculiar that she did not speak, and went for her mother, who sent for a neighbour and a doctor. Drs. Rendle and Cooper both visited the child and attended her until her death, at 9.35 on the same evening. - Dr Cooper said he found the deceased in a convulsive seizure and she remained so until death, with intermittent fits. A post-mortem examination shewed a slight abrasion over the left eye, which just went down to the bone, on which there was no mark, and a bruise under the left cheek. There was no fracture of the skull and the abrasion and bruise had nothing to do with the cause of death, nor did it in any way accelerate it. Deceased, who was certainly not a healthy child, and whose lungs were diseased, died from meningitis. - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned and the Coroner and Foreman of the Jury (Mr R. King) expressed sympathy with the parents and family of the deceased, for which MR STONE, who in evidence said they all regarded the injury as an accident, expressed his gratitude. The Coroner warned the boy Jeffrey of the danger of throwing stones.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 24 April 1900
EAST STONEHOUSE - Stonehouse Street Fatality. - An Inquest was held at Stonehouse last evening on CARRIE VICTORIA REEBY, aged nearly 3 years, daughter of the landlord of the Shipwright's Arms, Newport-street. On Saturday morning the girl was in Newport-street with other children. As John Plant, wagoner in the employ of Perriton and Son, coal merchants, Plymouth, was leading his horse drawing a wagon containing 25cwt. of coal from the yard of Messrs. Friend, he saw deceased and another little girl standing on the pavement. He turned into Newport-street, and, feeling the wheels checked, glanced around and saw the hind wheel go over the deceased, who was seen from a window close by to walk backwards off the pavement into the wheels of the wagon. Her chest was crushed, and leg, arm and head scraped by the wheel. She died in two hours. - The Coroner (Mr R. R. Rodd) said no blame whatever attached to the driver of the wagon. The only wonder was that there were not more children run over and killed, for their escapades in the streets must be most alarming to drivers. Greater control should be exercised by those responsible for the control of children. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - JAMES ARTHUR STILLMAN, naval pensioner, aged 37, at 1 Summerland-place, Plymouth, on Thursday evening brought up a quantity of blood. On Friday afternoon there was further haemorrhage and STILLMAN'S mother laid him down and screamed for help. Dr Wagner was called, but deceased had died. A post-mortem showed that death was due to haemorrhage of the stomach, and that the liver was greatly congested,. At the Inquest yesterday a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - Burnt To Death At Ford. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Ford yesterday, touching the death of JOHN DAWE, 60. A brother-in-law stated that deceased was employed in Keyham Dockyard and was a widower and a teetotaler. - Elizabeth Mary Northmore, of 31 Sussex-road, said he went to his bedroom at 10.52 on Saturday night. Next morning she took up a cup of tea for him. On opening the door she saw the room was full of smoke. - William Pearse said on being called by the last witness he found deceased dead, seated in a chair leaning forward on a table, with his left arm round the back of the chair. He was very badly burnt about the face and hands. The table, chair and Bible were smouldering. Deceased appeared to have been reading the Bible, which was lying open. - P.C. Harding said deceased's head was resting on an iron spirit lamp which had turned over. A watch which had fallen through the pocket of deceased's burnt waistcoat and was lodged at the top of his trousers, had stopped at 4.20. Dr f. E. Rowe said the right side of the face, ear and scalp were burnt to a cinder. The hair and beard were gone. The clothes on the upper part of his body were burnt through. He knew that deceased had suffered from a weak heart. Deceased probably fainted and his head fell on the lamp upsetting it. He just have been burnt while alive, or blood would not have flown on to the table. The accident probably happened shortly after he went in the room, because the watch was not stopped by the heat, but had simply run down, which shewed he had made no preparations for going to bed. The Coroner said it was one of the saddest cases he had dealt with for some time. Deceased was very highly respected in the neighbourhood. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Jury expressing sympathy with the relatives.

STOKE DAMEREL - The Raglan Barracks Fatality. Sad Death Of A Militiaman. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A Pearce) held an Inquest yesterday on PATRICK BURNS, 31, private in the Highland Light Infantry, and a native of Hamilton, N.B., who fell from a window at Raglan Barracks on Sunday. - Colour Sergeant R. Marshall, company sergeant of the G Company, said deceased, who was very popular, was a married man with two children and had been in the militia since 1885. The sills of the windows of the block in which deceased was were about 2 ½ feet from the floor. There were no bars across the windows, which opened top and bottom. He remembered a similar accident which occurred about five months ago and considered there should be some protection in the way of bars. - Private James Cummings said he arrived in his room from leave at 11 p.m. on Saturday and saw deceased lying on the floor between two beds, in a state of intoxication. He was asleep and witness aroused him and placed him in bed, with his trousers, shirt and socks on. he then went to his own bed, which was divided from that of the deceased by a table. He was awakened about two o'clock by hearing deceased swear, having stumbled over a form. Witness asked what was the matter and deceased said he was looking for a tub. Witness shortly after heard the window raised. He shouted, "What are you doing there?" Deceased was then hanging over the sill and he then called, "For God's sake PADDY, come out of that," and rushed towards the window, but deceased had by that time disappeared. He then awoke Private Leckey, who was sleeping next the window and together they went to the guardroom. He informed the sergeant of the guard what had happened, and with one of the guard they found deceased lying on his back, with his head towards the kerbstone apparently dead. He was then conveyed to the Hospital. Witness had seen deceased earlier in the evening drinking at the canteen. - By a Juror: There was a sergeant and 17 men sleeping in the room and none were awakened by the disturbance. - Sergeant William Thomas, 1st Welsh Regiment, who was in command of the guard, said the last witness reported the occurrence to him at about 2.30. He sent for a stretcher and saw the deceased, who was quite dead, conveyed from the guardroom to the Hospital. Witness thought the windows were not high enough from the floor and considered them very dangerous. The window deceased fell from was about 30 feet from the ground. Dr Albert S. Sieger, doing temporary duty at the Station Hospital, said death was due to fracture of the base of the skull. - Sergeant George Fortune, 3rd, H.L.I., who was in charge of the room, said he saw deceased when calling the roll at 9.30 on Saturday evening when he appeared to be quite sober. The canteen was cleared out at 9.25 and drink could not be obtained after that time. When he went in the room at eleven o'clock deceased was not lying on the floor, and if he had been he should have taken steps to have him either put to bed or removed to the guardroom. He concurred with the other witnesses as to the danger of the windows. There were bars across some of them where they were not required. - By the Foreman: It was quite possible for the deceased to have had drink in him. - One of the Jurymen (Mr Palmer) said he had known several similar accidents at the barracks. - The Coroner said this was the second case of the sort he had Inquired into during the past six months; a man of the same battalion having lost his life in a similar manner. He thought some representation should be made to the authorities as to the dangerous condition of the windows, and they should take every necessary precaution to prevent a repetition of such accidents. He urged the Jury to make a recommendation that he should communicate with those concerned. They had succeeded in inducing the authorities to erect railings round the trenches at Mount Wise some time ago when several accidents occurred. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," adding a rider to the effect that bars should be provided for those windows at the barracks requiring them, and also expressing sympathy with the deceased's relatives.

Western Morning News, Thursday 26 April 1900
BARNSTAPLE - FREDERICK TURNER, farm labourer, of Chittlehamholt, died in the North Devon Infirmary, Barnstaple, on Tuesday, the result of an accident on Friday. He was driving a manure cart, when through the snapping of a temporary breeching pin, and the unhinging of the back chain, the horse bolted, and TURNER fell, sustaining injuries to his stomach and right thigh. At the Inquest last evening the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Friday 27 April 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Suicide At Stoke. - Shortly after ten o'clock yesterday morning EMMA BENNETT, aged 54, the wife of THOMAS JAMES BENNETT, a joiner at Devonport Dockyard, was found dead in her bedroom, at 34 Wilton-street, Stoke. At the Inquest in the evening the husband stated that deceased had been depressed for twelve months and had had medical advice. They lived happily together, and there were no children and no financial troubles. She had never made any threat to take her life, and he knew of no reason except her depressed state. Before he left for work at 6.30 that morning deceased prepared his breakfast and then went to bed again. - Catherine Dodridge, widow, with whom MR and MRS BENNETT had lived for nine years, saw deceased at 8.30 and 9 a.m., and spoke to her on each occasion. About ten o'clock the baker came and shortly afterwards the dairyman: and Mrs Dodridge, getting no reply to her calls, went upstairs and on opening the bedroom door, saw deceased's feet. Mrs Dodridge's son, called, found deceased on the floor, with her throat cut. - Dr R. Pullen, happened to be passing, and on examining the body, found life to be extinct. There was a wound measuring 3 ½ or 4 inches in the centre of the neck. The windpipe was severed and also the carotid artery. The wound was of considerable depth as the muscles were divided on the left side. - P.C. Moore found a razor which MR BENNETT identified as his, lying two feet from deceased's feet, and there was congealed blood on the carpet and a zinc bath. No letter or other paper relating to the matter could be found. - Mrs Dodridge said deceased was at times very depressed and used to say her nervous system was all wrong. She had consulted many doctors. MR and MRS BENNETT lived happily together and a fortnight ago deceased spoke of her husband's kindness to her. - Verdict, "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Western Morning News, Monday 30 April 1900
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - Found Drowned In The Exe. - Mr A. Burrow held an Inquest at St. Thomas on Saturday relative to the death of FREDERICK GEORGE HAWKINS, aged 19, whose body was found in the Exe, near Salmon Pool, on Friday. - MR HENRY HAWKINS, the father, who is a railway ganger, residing at Taunton, said he had not seen his son since Christmas. he had no trouble so far as was known, and there was no reason why he should have taken his own life. - Mr Tom Glanfield, baker, Exeter, said deceased resided with him and left the house on Easter Monday about 6 p.m. being in the best of health and spirits. He did not come home that night, although he was expected about nine o'clock, nor the following day and witness communicated with the father, thinking he might have gone to Taunton. It was found that he had not done so. Deceased was a steady young man. - Mrs Mary Stark said she saw HAWKINS in the Fair Field on Easter Monday evening with some other young men enjoying himself. - Thomas Squires, water bailiff, found the body at Salmon Pool Weir on Friday. He first saw the obstruction on Tuesday, but did not recognise it as human remains. - Mr M Farrant, jun., the Surgeon who examined the body, said it had been in the water for 10 or 12 days. The head and one of the hands had evidently been showing above water for some time. There were no marks of violence and death was due to drowning. A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 1 May 1900
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Bicycle Accident Near Plymouth. Brakeless Machines. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest last evening respecting the death of ERNEST HICKS, 14, son of MR J. HICKS, tailor, of St James's-place, Plymouth, who, whilst riding a brakeless bicycle over a steep hill near Egg Buckland Church on Sunday morning, was thrown with considerable force against the double doors of Mr Steer's stables, sustaining severe injuries to the head. - The Coroner said the case was a particularly sad one. It was a stupid and reckless thing to attempt to ride such a hill without a brake. He should be pleased if the Legislature made it a penal offence to ride bicycles without brakes. - P.C. Fry saw the deceased travelling at a very high speed over the hill. There was no brake on the bicycle and he seemed to have lost all control. Deceased sustained a severe cut over the right temple, and the top of the skull was battered in. The front wheel and right pedal of the bicycle were buckled. He hired a trap and drove the deceased to the Hospital, after he had bandaged his head. - Deceased's father said his son was accustomed to riding. He felt deeply grateful to P.C. Fry for his kindness towards his son. Mr F. C. Hughes, House Surgeon, stated that deceased never regained consciousness. The Coroner said he would take an expression of opinion from the Jury as to these brakeless bicycles. This was the second case of its kind. Recently a child was run over and killed and the accident could have been averted had the cyclist carried a brake on his machine. Mr Benney, who witnessed the accident on Sunday, hoped the Jury would add a rider asking the Legislature to take the matter up. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Jury expressing sympathy with the parents, and adding a rider calling upon the Legislature to make the riding of brakeless bicycles a penal offence. The hill upon which the deceased met with his accident has no danger signs warning cyclists, such as is erected on many hills by the C.T.C. and N.C.U.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Stonehouse yesterday touching the death of ROBERT WILLIAM ESTCOURT GARNER, the infant son of CORPORAL R. GARNER, of the 2nd Dorset regiment, now in South Africa. MRS GARNER who resides at 82 High-street, Stonehouse, took the child to bed with her about midnight on Saturday and on waking up about four o'clock next morning found him dead by her side. Dr T. N. Leah attributed death to suffocation due to overlaying. A verdict of "Accidental Suffocation" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Drowned In Sutton Pool. - At an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on CHRISTOPHER SALLIS, a fisherman, aged 28, of the Mary Jane, who resided at 18 William-street, Brighton, Robert Rolf, master of the Mary Jane, said he saw deceased about two on Sunday morning, when he went on deck apparently all right, but did not return. Deceased was a very steady man and witness said he thought that SALLIS being very tired had sat on the rail of the boat and fallen over. The Mary Jane had been to sea for 17 days and the previous night deceased had had hardly any sleep. William Rowe deposed to finding the body in Sutton Pool on Sunday afternoon, after dredging about an hour and a half. A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 2 May 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Sudden Death At Keyham. - Mr J. A. Pearce (Borough Coroner) held an Inquest yesterday relative to the death of WILLIAM HENRY ROBERTS, aged 28, a private in the R.M.L.I., employed as a barber at the Royal Naval Barracks, Keyham. Deceased was married and lived at Stonehouse. Sergeant Thomas Nowell, R.M.L.I., said deceased had been in the R.M.L.I. for [?] years. He seemed to enjoy good health, was sober, and of good character. - Private Charles Graham, R.M.L.I. said deceased, who was in his mess, was on leave from Saturday until Monday, when he returned shortly before 7 a..m. He seemed to be in his usual health and spirits. Shortly after seven witness went into the barber's shop and found Private Cook putting deceased into a chair. As deceased's head fell forward and he turned blue, he was placed on the deck. The sick-bay steward fetched the doctor, who pronounced life extinct. Private J. W. Cook said that on entering the barber's shop he found deceased lying on the deck, apparently in a fit and black in the face. As witness straightened his neck and tried to raise him, deceased gave a gasp and seemed past medical aid. Surgeon Arthur Gaskell, R.N., stationed at the R.N. Barracks, said he went almost immediately he was called and found deceased dead. A post-mortem examination showed that death was due to rupture of an aneurism in the aorta. The other organs were perfectly healthy. If deceased had been walking hurriedly that would have had a tendency to cause the rupture. Verdict, "Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Friday 4 May 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - At an Inquest at Camel's Head yesterday on VIOLET THERESA SCULL, three years, the daughter of GEORGE HENRY SCULL, naval pensioner, 19 Bridwell-terrace, a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned. Deceased was taken ill on Tuesday afternoon and had great difficulty in breathing. Dr Kenrick, who was sent for, was unable to go at the time, but sent an aperient powder. The child died at 8.30 p.m. and a post-mortem examination shewed that death was caused by asphyxia, due to spasmodic croup.

Western Morning News, Saturday 5 May 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - No Doctor For Measles. - Mr J. A. Pearce (Borough Coroner) held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday, touching the death of LIONEL STEVENS, one year and eight months, the son of JAMES STEVENS, a private of the D.C.L.I., living at 47 Queen-street. The mother said the child was taken ill on Sunday and she thought he was sickening for measles. On Thursday morning he seemed to be much worse and Dr Hinvest was sent for. The child died while the doctor was there. She did not send for a doctor earlier, as she did not consider it necessary. When children had measles people as a rule gave them saffron and brandy, and wrapped them in a blanket and she did this. Dr Hinvest was in the house attending other patients, but she did not think it necessary to ask him to attend the child. She was entitled to the services of the army doctor if she had considered it necessary. - Dr Hinvest said the child was dying when he was called. Both lungs were extensively congested as the result of pneumonia. The body was in a fair state of nutrition. There were slight signs of measles. A doctor ought to have been sent for earlier, but it was now becoming a very common practice not to send for a doctor for measles until a child was dying. The Coroner said he always understood it was usual to send for a doctor in cases of measles and the practice not to call a doctor was to be condemned. There was no reason why any person at any time should be afraid to send for a doctor, because if poor people could not afford to pay the fees, the Poor-law authorities supplied a doctor. He did not think there was culpable neglect in this case. - Verdict "Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Monday 7 May 1900
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Fall At Laira. - The Borough Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) held an Inquest at the Laira Hotel on Saturday relative to the death of MARY JANE HARRIS, aged 59, the wife of an engine driver, residing at 12 Sunnyside-road. Mrs Evans, a neighbour, stated that on the 3rd of last month she was in deceased's house and heard a noise and upon going to deceased found that she had fallen and sustained severe injuries to the head. Dr Wilkinson was called and had been attending MRS HARRIS ever since, but she had never recovered and had been in a semi-conscious state. A verdict of Accidental Death was returned in accordance with the doctor's evidence.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 8 May 1900
PLYMOUTH - A Plymouth Street Fatality. - Mr R. B. Johns (Borough Coroner) held an Inquest at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital yesterday, relative to the death of WILLIAM HENRY DEACON, labourer, aged 26, residing at Strawberry-cottage, Plymouth. - Philip Trevena, cab driver, said on Good Friday he was returning from South Devon-place football field about 3.45 p.m. and when passing Exeter-street he heard someone scream. Witness immediately pulled up and found that he had either knocked down or driven over deceased. At the time of the accident witness was driving slowly and did not see anyone in the road in front of him. He and deceased were personally acquainted. - George Chamberlain stated that on Good Friday afternoon he was going to South Devon-place. A hansom passed him and just afterwards he heard a scream and saw deceased lying in the road. The cab was being driven slowly. Deceased, Chamberlain thought, had been struck by the shaft, and the wheels passed over his legs. - Dr Hutchings, House Surgeon, South Devon and East Cornwall hospital, said deceased was admitted on Good Friday suffering from a fractured skull. He was unconscious and except for a few intervals remained so until he died at midnight last Friday. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - MARY JANE MASON, aged 50, residing at 40 Rendle-street, Plymouth, was taken ill on Saturday morning, and went to bed. A little later her husband, finding she was much worse, sent for a doctor, but she died just as he arrived. Dr Pearse made a post-mortem examination and found that death was due to pneumonia. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned at the Inquest yesterday.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 9 May 1900
EAST STONEHOUSE - Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Stonehouse Townhall yesterday concerning the death of THOMAS HILL, aged 46, merchant seaman of 12 Quay-street, Stonehouse. Deceased was a seaman on the British ship Robin, trading to and from Corunna. On the 19th ult. the vessel was lying alongside the quay at that port, and when going on board about ten o'clock at night deceased accidentally fell into the water. He was seen by the watchman on the quay and the alarm was given to the rest of the crew, who were in a public-house. Deceased was rescued and brought round after some time by two doctors, but the captain, Peter Kandas, a Russian, stated that he was ill on the voyage home and able to do little work. he arrived home on Thursday and, feeling unwell, went to bed and had the attendance of Dr T. H. Leah. Deceased, however, died on Sunday from haemorrhage of the lung, due to his immersion. On the afternoon of the accident all the crew had been drinking. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 10 May 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - The Devonport Railway Fatality. - At Devonport last evening Mr J. A. Pearce (Borough Coroner) held an Inquiry touching the death of THOMAS JOHN PARTRIDGE, 59, a signal fitter in the employ of the South Western Railway Company, on the line near Devonport Station. Inspector Percival represented the company. - GRACE PARTRIDGE of 2 Salutary-cottages, St Sidwell's, Exeter, the widow, said her husband was in good health on Monday morning and did not suffer from deafness, and had good eyesight. - Philip Thomas Parsons, signalman at Devonport Station, said deceased had been engaged for days at Devonport Station on the signals. At 7.45 on Monday morning he asked him to adjust the disc block on the goods main points. Witness looked out of his signal-box towards the approaching train (the 7.45 up from Friary) and saw deceased struck by the buffer of the first engine. He was in a kneeling position with his back to the train. Deceased knew the times of the trains and was provided with a time-table. The work should have only taken a few minutes, but owing to the marshalling of two military special trains into the siding he could not work while this was being done. - By the Jury: Deceased was a very careful workman, and he was one of the last witness would have thought of being struck. The points where deceased was working were constantly going wrong, owing to expanding caused by the hot weather. The accident was due to the deceased having failed to hear the approaching train owing to the noise caused by shunting the special trains. - John Raymond, fireman, of Exeter, said he was on the pilot engine of the 7.45 train and when approaching Devonport Station saw the man working alongside the rails on his left. The engine driver blew the whistle again, having previously blown it when coming round the curve. As deceased took no notice he touched the whistle himself, but PARTRIDGE was struck and thrown on to the six-foot way. Deceased had plenty of time to get out of the way if he had heard the whistle. - Thomas Tett, engine driver of the pilot engine, living at Exeter, gave corroborative evidence and Samuel Warren, engine driver, of No. 91 shunting engine, living at Plymouth, said when he got to deceased he was unconscious. - Daniel Brought, Surgeon, Royal Albert Hospital, said deceased had several scalp wounds, his nose was fractured, also the base of the skull. Death was due to concussion of the brain. - Inspector Percival said deceased was one of the company's must trustworthy servants and had served the London and South Western Railway for 30 years. He did not think it was necessary for a look-out man to have been posted in such a case, as the work would have only lasted a few minutes, and consisted of only scraping and oiling a plate. A look-out man was always posted when the work lasted half an hour or more. - A verdict of "Accidental Daeth" was recorded, the Jury expressing sympathy with the deceased's relatives.

STOKE DAMEREL - Armourer-Sergeant's Suicide At Devonport. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest yesterday on HENRY JONES, 51. Thomas Beesley, staff armourer, A.O.C., living at Morice Town, said deceased was a pensioned armourer's sergeant of the A.O.C. He had recently been employed at the Gunwharf and also at Raglan Barracks, and the last time he saw him was on April 21st, when he left his employment at the barracks, having been discharged for absence without leave. Some correspondence found on the deceased showed that a bit, value 2s; a chisel, 6d; and a drift, 6d., were missing after his discharge, on account of which the railway fare to his home was withheld. Witness said he had known the deceased since 1887. He was a most peculiar man, especially when in drink. He would make ridiculous statements, in which there was no truth, and arranged on Easter-Monday to go to Birmingham with witness, but failed to turn up. He was a native of Cowbridge, Glamorgan, and joined the army in 1867. Deceased was a widower and had no family alive. - Caroline Andrews, married, living at 14 Duke-street, said she became acquainted with deceased at Torquay racecourse on Easter Monday last. He led her to believe he was an independent gentleman, having been in the army. They returned to Devonport together, deceased paying all expenses and they at first lived in St Aubyn-street. On Friday they went to live at 15 Duke-street. He was at times cheerful, but occasionally very depressed, and several times he suggested they should die together. He was always afraid witness's husband would claim her and said he could not live without her. He drank very heavily and had said he would bring firearms home and take his life, but she did not take much notice of what he said on account of his condition. He was very kind to her and she loved him. On Monday they had an outing together and in the evening went to the Palace. When they arrived home he took a glass of water and placed some solid substance in it. He placed this inside a drawer. She said to him "Oh! HARRY, what are you doing?" and he replied he was going to take some medicine for an irritation he suffered from. That day he had had very little drink. The next morning he remained in bed and spent the time reading, and twice got up for beer. At about noon he got up and took the glass out of the drawer. She was reading a paper at the time and said to him "HARRY, is it nice?" She had no idea he was about to take poison. He took a knife out of a drawer, and stirred the water, the poison having only partly dissolved. He then drank it and she saw almost immediately he had taken poison, and called the landlord of the house, who sent for Dr Saunders. He died about ten minutes after taking the poison. The day before he had been most cheerful and she had no idea of his committing such an act. - Samuel Augustus Perkins, chemist, 15 Cumberland-street, said deceased on Monday bought cyanide of potassium, saying he wanted to clean his uniform. - Dr E. G. S. Saunders said deceased took enough cyanide of potassium to kill twenty people. Deceased's liver was fatty through heavy drinking. Death must have occurred in half a minute. - P.S. Moore said he found the paper of the packet, labelled "poison", a number of letters in deceased's clothes, but there was no money anywhere. Mrs Andrews told him she had none. - Mrs Andrews, recalled, said deceased told her his wife died last November and his two children soon after. - The Coroner said deceased had evidently lived a short life and a merry one. The circumstances were very pitiable. Deceased had no doubt served his country well. Since meeting Mrs Andrews they had various trips and spent all his money. It was a most deliberate act of suicide. He had taken the label off the packet to deceive Mrs Andrews, and carefully prepared the poison. He had been leading a disreputable life, and, no doubt, when the landlord applied for the rent, he knew "the game was up," and took the poison. He should have been perfectly happy with his employment at the barracks. Letters shewed that deceased's wife died in November last, during his absence, and there was considerable opposition to his obtaining his property. It was impossible to say deceased was not in his right mind, and it remained with the Jury to decide the point. Personally he thought it a deliberate case of suicide. - The Jury's verdict was "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

MARY TAVY - At Horndon, Marytavy, yesterday, an Inquest was held on JOHN PENROSE, miner, 64, who was found dead on the highway at Conner Tree, Horndon, at about 11.30 p.m. on Monday. Dr Brodrick said the bursting of a small artery in the heart caused death. Verdict accordingly.

EXETER - Child Drowned At Exeter. - FREDERICK LYONS, aged three, was at Exeter left with his grandma at half-past five on Monday evening, and at six o'clock it was found he had strayed away from the house. Shortly before nine o'clock James Branton, employed at the Barytas Mill, in Commercial-road, was cleaning the fenders in the leat and found the body of the child in the water, about 100 yards away from where the parents lived. The mill leat was protected by a wall the whole of its length and he knew of no place where the boy could have fallen in, excepting at one point, where there was a small bridge. - Mace-Sergeant Wicks said children had fallen into the leat from this bridge, but had been rescued. The bridge was not far from LYONS'S house. - Dr Harris said the child had been dead some time when the body was recovered. There were no marks of violence and death was caused by drowning. - At the Inquest yesterday the Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned" and suggested that the footbridge should be more closely railed.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 15 May 1900
PLYMOUTH - Suicide In Plymouth Cemetery. - The Borough Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on HENRY WATKINS, aged 52. - Mr Prout, proprietor of the Boot Hotel, Bedford-street, stated that deceased was a furniture dealer and resided at 11 Albany-street, Regent's Park, London, and last time he saw him was about six years ago. Previous to going to London deceased had carried on business in Old Town-street, Plymouth. - Alfred Giles, gravedigger, residing at 34 Albert-road, said that on Saturday, at about 4.20 p.m., he was working in the cemetery when he heard the report of a pistol and saw deceased lying against a grave stone. Witness ran to him, took the revolver away and went for a doctor, leaving deceased in the care of another man. Dr Gardener was summoned and returned with Giles, but MR WATKINS was dead. When deceased shot himself he was at the foot of his wife's grave and he fell against a headstone behind him. - Dr Gardener said deceased was dead when he arrived. A post-mortem examination had since been held and witness had found that death was due to injury to the brain caused by the bullet. - P.C. Hitchcock, who was summoned, produced the revolver. The deeds of deceased's wife's grave, a few coppers, and a silver watch, with one or two other small articles were all deceased had in his possession. A letter was read in which deceased said:- "Out of employment, homeless and without a friend in the world, with nothing before me but the Workhouse. Have missed all the blessings a God favoured me with. May the Lord have mercy on my soul." The Coroner said he understood deceased had been in straitened circumstances. A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - Keyham Railway Fatality. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquiry at the Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, yesterday, touching the death of THOMAS HAMBLEY, aged 26, signalman of 37 Admiralty-street, Keyham. - Robert John May, signalman at Keyham junction, living at St. Budeaux, said he was relieved by the deceased at eight o'clock on Friday evening. At 7.58 the 4.50 up mail from Penzance asked if the wire was clear from Saltash. As the train approached the signal-box it was the duty of the signalman to take the staff down and place it in the apparatus for the driver of the train to take. On this occasion deceased signalled "train off" to Keyham Viaduct signal-box (the next box) and then went down the steps. When he reached the bottom he found he had forgotten the staff, and shouted to witness. "Bob, hand down the staff quick." He handed it down and deceased went on to cross the two sets of rails to get to the staff apparatus on the up side in front of the approaching train. He made a dash across, half running and half walking and appeared to witness to have just cleared the train. He did not know what had occurred until acting-guard Rowe called "Your mate is killed." he then assisted in placing deceased in the guard's van, which took him to Devonport. He could not say why deceased had not taken the staff, but concluded he had forgotten it in a fit of absent-mindedness. He had just given him some orders, and believed he must have been thinking of them. He was quite sober. it was a serious offence for the express to be stopped and that was no doubt the reason deceased made such a dangerous attempt. - By the Foreman: He agreed that it was dangerous to have to cross the lines, and it would be better if the signal-box and staff apparatus were on the same side. Contractors were at work erecting a new station and an extra pair of rails had been laid for them, the staff apparatus having been moved to the up side. - John Uren, 34 King-gardens, Plymouth, engine driver of the 4.50 up mail from Penzance, said when passing Keyham signal-box he saw deceased crossing the line an engine's length ahead. He concluded that he was too late to cross and would have handed the staff to him for which he was prepared instead of crossing the line and placing it in the apparatus for the fireman to seize. He put the brake on directly he saw deceased, but did not think he would cross the line. He was struck by the left buffer. He had never on any occasion failed to receive the staff before. - Nellie Orchard, 52 Norman-avenue, Devonport, said she was sitting in the front room at 27 Admiralty-street when she saw deceased go on duty and afterwards rush across the rails in front of the train. He appeared to throw the staff in front of him and to clear the lines, but fall back immediately after. - Samuel Rowe, acting guard on the mail train, also gave evidence. - Daniel Brough, House Surgeon at the Royal Albert Hospital, said the case was hopeless from the first and deceased died at 10.15. He was suffering from fracture of the skull and concussion of the brain, the latter being the cause of death. - Inspector Scantlebury, G.W.R. Co., said the deceased was one of the company's most trustworthy servants. He joined the service in June 1892 and had been signalman since January 1897. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," expressing sympathy with the deceased's relations and thanks at the action of the railway employees. Mr Scantlebury, replying, said their servants were always ready in case of emergency and the fact that the Plymouth division G.W.R. had just taken the second place among all the ambulance societies of the country spoke for itself.

Western Morning News, Thursday 17 May 1900
PLYMOUTH - LILY MAY VIE, aged 7 weeks, the daughter of PRIVATE VIE of the Rifle Brigade, who resides at 3 Finewell-street, Plymouth, was in good health on Tuesday night about 11.30, but when the father awoke next morning he found the child dead by his side. Dr Wagner, who had made a post-mortem examination, stated at the Inquest yesterday that death was due to overlaying the child. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held at Plymouth yesterday on RICHARD MOGFORD, sapper, Royal Engineers, aged 33, stationed at Elphinstone Barracks, Plymouth. Fredk. Lapthorne, sapper, Royal Engineers, said on Tuesday he and deceased were together when MOGFORD commenced spitting blood and shortly afterwards fell down and expired within a minute. Deceased had been unwell a day or two previously and on Tuesday morning had asked for half a day's leave, but the company-sergeant asked him to wait and have the whole of Wednesday. Dr Turner said death was due to a ruptured blood-vessel which would have caused death quite suddenly. A verdict in accordance with the doctor's evidence was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 18 May 1900
EXETER - Suicide In Exeter Gaol. - Mr A. Burrow held an Inquest at Exeter Gaol yesterday relative to the death of THOMAS HAYES, aged 20, a marine fireman of Swansea, who was undergoing a sentence of three years' penal servitude for robbery with violence. The Governor said the deceased was admitted to the gaol on April 9th and had been cheerful and contented. He was employed n making military hammocks, and on Wednesday night he hanged himself with the string he used in his work. It was not an uncommon thing for prisoners to feign suicide and especially by hanging, in order to be removed to the Hospital or to another prison. He believed HAYES intended doing this, but went too far. He used a loop instead of a noose and also carefully folded a handkerchief round the string so as to prevent it hurting his neck. It was stated that the cell in which deceased was working was generally visited every 45 minutes. The string was attached to the ventilator. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death by Hanging."

Western Morning News, Saturday 19 May 1900
SOUTHAMPTON, HAMPSHIRE - Plymouth Insurance Agent's Suicide. A Remarkable Letter. Verdict Of Felo De Se. - An Inquiry was held at Southampton yesterday, touching the death of GEORGE ONLY GOODAY, an insurance agent, aged 60, late of Beaumont-road, Plymouth. Deceased died at the Royal South Hants Hospital on Wednesday afternoon. Hannah Balford, residing at 15 Beaumont-road, Plymouth, stated the deceased had been lodging with her mother since Christmas. He was in a rather melancholy state of mind. he had several times threatened to take his life as he did not succeed in business. On Friday he left a letter addressed to her brother, Mr W. F. Balford. The letter was to the effect that he was going to "clear out" the following day (Friday) or Monday. He had taken a 7s. ticket by the Irish boat and was going to take a long voyage. - The Coroner read the following letter which deceased had left behind him:- "Sane or suicide; one more unfortunate weary of life. The last five years I have lived have been nothing but mental misery. I have passed 50 years and have tried every conceivable way to get employment in vain in this age of capitalism and corruption, so rather than any longer be a misery to myself and trouble to others, I shall do as the millionaire Barney Barnate did, go overboard. He had too much; I can't get even a single comfortable living. Some may call this cowardly; I do not consider it half so much as a powerful wealthy nation killing thousands of Boers in order to take their gold and country, and that for the benefit of the already wealthy classes, while the masses are kept down in misery and slavery. This is done by the British Government, backed up by the majority of the Churches and professing Christians. There may be one God or many, but only one is worshipped and that one gold and luxury. I have lived amongst the Boers in South Africa and Maoris in New Zealand and know they have been cheated and robbed. I do know also that they are not what they are reported to be by the Jingo papers. I only hope the wretched can only hope, it will not be always so for I know there are many unselfish people working hard to change this state of things. They will ultimately succeed in spite of the clever might-over-right class - not really through cleverness but simply knowing how to take advantage of their fellows weaker than themselves. I hope this letter will be published at Plymouth and London, as some who read it might have known me in the eventful, unhappy life I have had. I may by some to be called insane, cowardly, &c., possibly not by all. If I am insane now, I was born insane. I am tired out. There is no room for well-meaning people at present and there will at any rate be one miserable creature less." - Dr Welch stated he was called to see the deceased. He found him lying in bed unconscious. He administered stimulants and ordered his removal to the Hospital. Death was due to gas poisoning. The Jury returned a verdict of "Felo de Se."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 22 May 1900
PLYMOUTH - A Plymouth Widow's Suicide. - Plymouth Borough Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) held an Inquest last evening on SARAH ELIZABETH SUTCLIFFE, 46, widow, who lived at 26 Southern-terrace, Mutley. Deceased's son stated that on Sunday morning about nine o'clock, his mother entered his bedroom and asked him if he was going to get out of bed. He replied "No," and his mother then left. About noon he went to deceased's room and found she had cut her throat with a razor, usually kept in a drawer in his room. Dr Gardner said when he arrived deceased was dead. A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 23 May 1900
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns (Borough Coroner) held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday relative to the death of JAMES SHORT, painter, aged 50. Mr Weeks, proprietor of a lodging-house in Octagon-street, stated that deceased had always been in delicate health, and only came out of the Infirmary a month ago. He appeared in his usual health about nine last evening, when he was in witness's house. P.C. W. Body said that just before ten p.m. yesterday he found deceased lying dead in a pool of blood in Octagon-street, and there was a stream of blood on the pathway. He removed the body to the Octagon Police Station and sent for a doctor. Dr Pearce stated that deceased was dead when he arrived. A post-mortem examination had since been held and it was found that death was due to rupture of a blood vessel of the lungs. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 24 May 1900
EXETER - Fatal Lift Accident At Exeter. - At the Inquest at Exeter yesterday on WILLIAM HERN, cabinet maker, aged 51, Mr W. Knapman said on Monday he sent deceased to lay some carpets at the Rougemont Hotel. Walter Gardner, billiard marker, said he saw HERN enter the Hotel with a roll of carpet and some tools. He told witness where he was going and said he knew the way. - Edward Sanders said on hearing something falling down the lift he went to the basement and found deceased lying on his face and hands unconscious. The carpet and tools were lying near. - Frank Langmead, basement porter, said he worked the lift in the morning and left it in the basement. He descended from the second floor and found no doors open. Deceased knew his way about the Hotel. - Hettie Ford, housemaid on the third floor, deposed to meeting the deceased on the back stairs leading to the first floor. He was on the top of the stairs and she had a conversation with him about his business. When witness left him he was going towards the door leading to the corridor, but he might have turned into the lift door. - Several servants stated that the doors communicating with the lift were kept closed. - Mr J. Moon, surgeon, said deceased fractured the base of his skull and died about two hours after he was picked up. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated everyone from blame, but suggested the lift doors should be marked. The Coroner had no doubt everything would be done to prevent a similar accident.

Western Morning News, Saturday 26 May 1900
PLYMOUTH - A Plymouth Mystery. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday at Plymouth on JOHN FLORENCE, aged 41, journeyman baker, who resided at 64 Grenville-road, Plymouth. Mrs Bell of 73 Exeter-street, sister of deceased, said she last saw him alive on 5th inst., when he seemed well. He had never threatened to take his life and always lived happily. - Mrs Martin stated that deceased had lived with her over 10 years and was always happy and comfortable. She last saw him on Sunday the 6th inst., about 7.30 .m. when she supposed he was going for a walk. P.C. Roach deposed to receiving the body from a man named Heard, who found it underneath the Hoe on Thursday morning. The body was in a bad state of decomposition. A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned. Although deceased's employer, Mr t. Higman, had given up the business, FLORENCE was not obliged to leave, as the new proprietor desired to retain him in his service.

PLYMOUTH - Suffocated At Plymouth. - ETHEL AGATHIA MARKS, aged four months, daughter of CHARLES THOMAS MARKS, sapper in the Royal Engineers, who resides at 10 St George's-terrace, Plymouth, was all right on Wednesday about midnight, when he went to bed. On waking up the next morning about 6.30 the child was dead by his side. At the Inquest yesterday the medical evidence showed that death was due to suffocation. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 29 May 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Inadvisable use Of Brandy. - Devonport Borough Coroner yesterday held an Inquest on WILLIAM CAMPBELL, the four days' old son of WILLIAM CAMPBELL, a rigger in the Dockyard, living at 24 William-street, Morice Town. The father said his wife had been attended by Mrs Blackler, a midwife, and the child had been weakly from birth. He was born on Sunday and on Tuesday Dr Rolston was called in. The midwife had been previously giving him milk, with a small quantity of brandy. The child died on Saturday, shortly after noon. The child was taken ill while in the nurse's arms, and there was no one to send for the doctor. Witness said he was too poor to employ a doctor for the confinement. Replying to the Foreman (Mr Ledley), witness said his wife had had a child before, which died in twenty-one days. He then employed a midwife. - Annie Northcott, 6 Chapel-street, said Mrs Blackler gave the child a very small quantity of brandy on the Tuesday. She never thought the child would live. Witness would not think of giving brandy to a child so young. On Saturday morning the baby was taken ill with convulsions at 9.15, which continued until 12.15, when he died, witness keeping him in her arms the whole time. - Dr. G. R. Rolston said the child was prematurely born and death was due to convulsions from inanition. He did not think a small drop of brandy would do any harm in some cases, but it was not advisable in this case. The Coroner, summing up, said he considered the nurse could have sent for the doctor and that the father, from previous experience, should have employed a doctor. The Jury expressed themselves in a similar manner, and returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

STOKE DAMEREL - The Death Of A Devonport Councillor - Mr J. A. Pearce (Devonport Borough Coroner) held an Inquest yesterday relative to the death of COUNCILLOR JOHN THOMAS BENNETT PHILP, aged 62, of 24 Garden-street, Morice Town, who died suddenly on Saturday night. - Mrs A. M. Calloway, deceased's housekeeper, said MR PHILP'S health had not been good for some time, his breath being short. He left the house in the best of spirits on Saturday evening. - W. J. Taylor said he was in the Park with deceased on Saturday evening. About nine o'clock deceased suggested that they should leave, as he was beginning to feel cold. As they turned into William-street deceased began to moan, and putting his hand under his heart, said "Oh, my God, Taylor, I am feeling unwell." When they reached Mr Sleeman's his moaning increased, and at Mr Sleeman's suggestion he went into the house. He appeared to be getting worse, and witness went for Dr May and Dr Row, but neither was at home. Dr Hanham came, but before he could reach the house MR PHILP had died. - Dr L. L. Hanham said when he arrived MR PHILP was quite dead. He had made a post-mortem examination and found the heart fatty and very dilated as the result of old-standing kidney disease. The stomach was also greatly dilated and the lungs very much congested. The other organs were fairly healthy. Death was due to syncope, caused by kidney disease. The Coroner said he much regretted having to hold an Inquest on one whom he knew as a friend and a client, and one who was so much respected by all who knew him. His loss would be felt by a very large number. - Mr J. Ledley, Foreman of the Jury, said all would join with the Coroner in his expression of regret. They all knew MR PHILP as a very useful and very good citizen in every sense and they were sorry he should have been taken away. - Verdict, "Natural Causes." The Coroner and Jury tendered their sympathy to the relatives and friends of the deceased in their sudden bereavement. - The funeral will take place tomorrow, leaving the house at 2.45 p.m. for Plymouth Cemetery. As a mark of respect the Borough flag was flying at half-mast on the Column yesterday.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 30 May 1900
BIDEFORD - The Lundy Tragedy. - The body of FRANK TAYLOR, 21, a native of Hereford, valet to Mr P. Napier Miles, of Bristol, who was killed whilst gathering birds eggs at Lundy was brought to Bideford by steamer yesterday and an Inquest was held. Mr Napier Miles said deceased was reckless and had promised not to venture into danger unless he had company. He was missed on Saturday and his body was not found until Sunday afternoon by George Thomas at the foot of a steep cliff, astride a stone and his head on another boulder. He was quite dead. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

STOKE DAMEREL - Fatal Kick At Devonport. - Mr J. A. Pearce, (Devonport Borough Coroner) held an Inquest at the Royal Albert Hospital yesterday, respecting the death of GEORGE HENRY BEABLE, aged 16. [Note: Very faint and not able to read apart from result of Jury] - "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Saturday 2 June 1900
PLYMOUTH - WILLIAM EDWIN POPE, aged 6 weeks, the son of a driver who resides at No. 30 Well-street, Plymouth, was quite well about midnight on Thursday, but was found yesterday morning quite dead by its mother's side. Dr Wagner, who had since held a post-mortem examination, stated at the Inquest that death was due to asphyxia, caused by overlying, which was undoubtedly accidental. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 6 June 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - SARAH HINGSTON, 63, of 19 Herbert-street, Devonport, died suddenly on Sunday morning. At the Inquest yesterday, Dr W. J. Gard said death was due to syncope caused by extensive valvular disease of the heart.

STOKE DAMEREL - Fatal Fall At Keyham. A Labourer's Untimely Death. - Mr J. A. Pearce (Devonport Coroner) held an Inquest yesterday on CHARLES YOUNG, 37, a labourer, of 45 Victory-street East, Keyham. - Sarah Bowden, wife of a stonecutter, living at the same address, said deceased had been working up to the time of his death. She last saw him alive at 7.45 on Sunday evening, when he left the house to go to the St Levan Inn. He said he would be home before ten o'clock. He was not married. He had a mother and father living, but she could not remember where. - Henry Cornall, landlord of the St Leven Inn, said deceased had patronised his house for the last fifteen months. He came to the house at about eight o'clock on Sunday evening and left at 9.30. He could not say whether deceased had three or four pints of beer, but it was not more. He was perfectly sober on leaving the house and took away a pint of beer in a whiskey bottle. - By the Foreman: Deceased could stand a good deal of drink. - By the Chief Constable: He did not think deceased drank with anyone else in the bar. He came alone and left the house alone. - P.C. Earle said at 3.45 on Monday morning he saw the body of deceased lying in the cutting near Ford Station. He was on his stomach on a rock and there was blood on his face and on the surrounding pieces of rock. The body was quite cold. A bottle of beer and thirteen-pence were found on the body. There was a mark at the top of the incline showing that someone had lain there. Witness thought deceased lay down to sleep and got up in his sleep and fallen. Deceased should not have gone the way he did to get to his home. The way was rather dangerous, there being several fences and bushes to climb over. - Albert Pooley, foreman of labourers, 45 Townsend-terrace, said the cutting was about 16 feet deep, and was to be used as a street. It was not a quarry. The Keyham Barton Syndicate were cutting the road. There was a rail to prevent cattle wandering when grazing. It was private property and was not on that account properly fenced in. - The Foreman: Suppose you had a half a gallon of beer and a pint in your pocket, would you take the route deceased did? - No. Because half a gallon of beer would put me on my back. Deceased had no right on the property. - Dr W. Davis said death was due to concussion of the brain. The stomach was half-full of beer. Deceased probably died within an hour after falling. The place, which was like a quarry, should be better protected by fencing. Deceased had no bones broken. there was only a cut over the eye. - The Secretary of the Keyham Barton Estate (Mr Miller) said there was no necessity for the place to be fenced. There were no houses built there and there was no need for people to pass that way. - In summing up, the Coroner said the Jury could fairly assume that deceased was not sober when he left the St Levan Inn. It was not a dark night, the moon was shining, and if sober deceased should have known where he was going. They had heard the evidence of the landlord, but his (the Coroner's) experience was that one could never get the exact truth about such matters. - The Foreman concurred with the Coroner. The landlord gave his evidence in a "hoity-toity" manner, and appeared amused. It was, however, an occasion for sorrow rather than gaiety. Several Jurymen objected to the drink question being introduced. - One Juror said some men would drink six pints and show no sign of intoxication, while another would be overcome by a couple of glasses. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Thursday 7 June 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Borough Coroner held an Inquest yesterday on FREDERICK R. MARTIN, 30, a stoker at the Plymouth Breweries Company, of 37 Charlotte-street. Louisa Rocket said the deceased, her brother, complained of feeling unwell when he got up on Tuesday morning, but went to work. He was brought home in the evening in severe pain and died before a doctor arrived. Dr T. McElwaine said death was due to acute inflammation of the bowels due to twisting. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

BATH - Sad Death Of A Devon Farmer. - At Weston Hotel, near Bath, yesterday an Inquest was held on ROBERT CHANNIN, a farmer, of Tiverton, Devon. Deceased, it was stated, came to Bath for the waters. He went to bed quite sober on Friday night. Next morning he was found dead in bed. the windows and the register of the grate were closed and the door fitted very closely, with the mat against it. There was a smell of gas and the tap was half on. - Ellen Dunn, wife of Francis Dunn, Zeal Farm, Bampton, a daughter of deceased, said her father had never been accustomed to gas. She thought he tried to blow it out. - Dr Bloxham said death was due to poisoning from coal gas mixed with carburetted water gas, and the Jury's verdict was in accordance with the evidence.

Western Morning News, Friday 8 June 1900
EXMINSTER - Shocking Fatality Near Exminster. - MRS DONNETT, aged 30, drove away from Exminster in a trap on Tuesday afternoon with her four children, and the servant, Georgina Irish. On the way to Kenn, the horse shied, the trap struck a gate-post and was upset. MRS DONNETT was killed instantaneously, her neck being broken. At the Inquest yesterday a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 12 June 1900
PLYMOUTH - The Barbican Fatality. - The Plymouth Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) held an Inquest yesterday on JAMES RICHARD THOMPSON, ship chandlers' manager, aged 37, residing at 26 New-street. Mr. P. Pearce represented the Sutton Harbour Company. - Albert Williams, labourer, said he saw deceased walking along the Barbican about ten o'clock on the quay to the ridge below and slipped, dropping down between a steam trawler and the quay. Witness went aboard the trawler and with the assistance of the watchman got him out of the water. Deceased was then unconscious. No one had been walking along the quay with deceased. - P. Riordan, licensed victualler, of 23 New-street, stated deceased left his premises about 9.40 perfectly sober. - Dr Cook stated that he was called about 10 p.m. to see deceased, and found him unconscious on board the trawler Gertie. Artificial respiration was resorted to and deceased began to breathe, and he was then removed to his home. He had a bruise on the right temple and a cut on the left side of the head, which, no doubt, was caused by the fall. He never regained consciousness. A verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - Strange Conduct At Devonport. - Mr Albert Gard, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Devonport yesterday on FLORENCE MAY, aged six months, the child of JAMES DOWTY, insurance agent, 20 Granby-street. The father said the mother nursed the child to the best of her ability, but it was brought up on the bottle. It was just beginning to take a little cornflour and beef tea. - Elizabeth Gaskell said the mother brought the child to her on Friday morning and said, "Look at my baby! It will not take the bottle or eat any food." The child was very pale, but not convulsed. Witness advised giving her a powder and the mother gave the child a half of one. In the evening the baby had a fit. Witness placed her feet in warm water, but she died a few minutes later. The mother fed the baby on cornflour and milk, and on one occasion gave her beef tea. Dr t. McElwaine, who was not called until the next morning, said the child was small and very emaciated. It should not have been fed on cornflour or beef tea. The cause of death was convulsions, due to teething. The doctor was sent for when the child died was severely commented on by the Jury. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 13 June 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Suicide On The Magnificent. - Devonport Deputy Coroner (Mr Albert Gard) held an Inquiry at the Metropolitan Police recreation-room, Devonport Dockyard, yesterday afternoon, touching the death of HENRY POPE, 26, able seaman of the Magnificent, who was found in the morning in the fore barbette of the Magnificent with his throat cut. Mr J. P. Goldsmith watched the case for the Admiralty. - John Ridge, master-at-arms on the Magnificent, lying in No. 3 Dock at Devonport, said the deceased was one of the carpenter's crew. He was a single man and bore a very good character on the ship. He returned from 10 days' leave on the 9th inst. Deceased was a most cheerful shipmate and never shewed any signs of unhappiness. Witness had seen his letters and there was no cause for trouble in them. - John Bal, shipwright, said he went to the deceased's home at 20 Charlotte-street, Bedminster, Bristol, during their leave and found him in good spirits. Witness and deceased joined the ship together on January 14th 1899 and both had been good friends since. - Thomas Crocker, shipwright's aid he had known deceased since January of last year, and always found him very jovial. He had his confidence, but never heard of any trouble. Witness came on board at 6.30 that morning and saw deceased in the mess, who said he had been ashore for only an hour the previous night. he went to his chest to change into working dress, when deceased came up to him and he heard vomiting. Witness asked if anything was the matter and not receiving any answer went over to the deceased's chest on which the man was lying. Blood was on his hands and witness at once rushed on deck to obtain assistance. The ship's corporal and other men came to the spot and attended to the deceased. - Frederick Young, sick berth attendant, said he was sent to the barbette where the body lay and found deceased lying across his chest with his throat cut. The time was then 6.45 and the Dockyard surgeon was sent for. Deceased was then breathing but unconscious and died before the doctor arrived. - Montague Rodd said death was due to syncope through loss of blood, through the self-inflicted wound. - The Coroner said the Jury had only one thing to consider, and that was the state of the deceased's mind. The man was evidently of a cheerful disposition and no reason for his committing the act could be found. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Western Morning News, Thursday 14 June 1900
PLYMOUTH - Meat Poisoning At Plymouth. The Perils Of Pork. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday on EDWARD FRANK STARLING, aged five years, whose parents live at 28 Park-street. - ELIZA STARLING, wife of GEORGE STARLING, upholsterer, mother of deceased, said on Sunday their dinner consisted of roast pork, to which five of them sat down. She bought the meat on Saturday night and cooked it on Sunday morning. Deceased was taken ill within ten minutes of his having eaten his dinner. He became sick, and witness sent for Dr Brenton. She became ill at the same time and also another of her boys. Deceased got better and remained so until Monday morning, when he again became sick and died. - In reply to the Jury, witness said the meat looked quite fresh and sweet. As far as she could tell the gas in the stove in which it was cooked was correctly lit. - Dr Brenton said there were no signs whatever of gas poisoning. On Sunday afternoon he was called to see the deceased and his mother, who were at that time the only persons ill, but eventually the other members of the family developed sickness. When he saw the child in the evening he thought he would recover. As the result of a post-mortem examination, he was satisfied that death was due to ptomaine poisoning, and not to metallic. Witness saw the piece of pork which the family had been eating and there was nothing to shew that the meat was unfit for human consumption. The symptoms of the other members of the family went to prove that the poisoning of which the child died was due to the toxin contained in the meat. He did not think that the fact of the meat being cooked by gas would in any way account for the child's condition. - In reply to the Foreman (Mr Daniels), Dr Brenton said it was quite possible for pork to contain poison without the meat shewing any appearances of being defective. - The Foreman said the pork in question must have been divided up into many quantities, but they had only heard of it in this one case. Was it possible that some families might get poisoned and others not? - Dr Brenton replied that it was possible. This particular piece of meat might have developed poison, whilst other portions of the same pig might not. There was also a peculiar tendency by which certain families and individuals were susceptible to this poison, whereas other persons were not susceptible to it. - The Foreman: Then it is quite possible one person might eat it and suffer no inconvenience whatever? - Dr Brenton: It is. As a matter of fact, one person has eaten it and has not suffered any inconvenience. - Dr C. E. Bean said he assisted Dr Brenton in making the post-mortem examination. There were no signs of irritant poisoning in the stomach, which merely shewed some discolouration at the lower end due to the violence of vomiting. The spleen was somewhat enlarged. After hearing the statements of the mother and Dr Brenton he was of opinion that deceased met his death by meat poisoning, which the symptoms strongly pointed to, and the post-mortem appearances were consistent with. Meat poisoning was most commonly produced by pork, and it was not necessary that the meat should be obviously decomposed to be poisonous. The explanation of the different effects on the various members of the family was due to the toxin produced changes in the meat which were not evenly distributed over it. Cooking gooseberries or rhubarb in a meat tin would not dissolve off any poisonous amount of tin. The symptoms were not consistent with meat poisoning. Death was due to ptomaine poisoning, from which the rest of the family suffered. He had reserved the contents of the stomach and a portion of the liver, but did not think any useful purpose would result by an analysis being made and with this Dr Brenton agreed. - A Juryman asked if the pork was English or frozen, upon which the butcher who sold it to MRS STARLING stated that it was English pork, and came from Yealmpton. The pig, which weighed about five score, was killed on Friday and cut up on Saturday afternoon. He saw nothing about the pork to cause the least suspicion. - The Foreman said the pig must have been diseased, and he suggested that some official should inspect the place at Yealmpton where the pig was fed and see what sort of place it was. - The Coroner pointed out that both medical men had stated that there was nothing to shew that there was poison in the pig during life. The poison was produced after death by the action of bacteria. - Dr Bean said this action took place very quickly after death in warm weather. - The Foreman considered the germ must have originated from something, and they should ascertain the condition of the place where it was fed. - Dr Brenton said the germ might be picked up anywhere. - The Coroner observed that it was a very sad case, and he hoped that in no other member of the family would there be serious results. - He suggested that the Jury should return a verdict of "Death from Meat Poisoning." - The Foreman said no blame was attached to anyone, but they knew what piggeries were as a rule. - The Coroner said the county by-laws were very strict in regard to the supervision of piggeries. - The Foreman: Yes, but even then they are not always properly looked after. - A verdict in accordance with the Coroner's suggestion was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 15 June 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - The Devonport Deputy Coroner (Mr A. Gard) held an Inquiry at Camel's Head Inn yesterday touching the death of ALBERT EDWARD BURGE, the two-year-old child of JOHN HENRY BURGE, labourer at Keyham Extension Works. Eliza Jane Crosbie, living at 13 York-road, the wife of a private in the Royal Marines, said the child, her nephew, had been ill and came out of the Hospital on May 25th. He was fed on the same food the family were having, and had been entered in the Prudential Death Club for £3 10s. at the beginning of the year. The child had a fit at 7 a.m. on Wednesday and died. On Tuesday the child was fed on pork, potatoes, cabbage and rice for dinner and bread and butter for tea. Dr Gard said he found deceased in violent convulsions and unconscious. The child was judiciously fed. Death was due to pneumonia and pleurisy producing convulsions, both lungs being affected. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 18 June 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Death In Devonport Workhouse. Delay In Sending For A Doctor. - Devonport Deputy Coroner (Mr Albert Gard) held an Inquiry at the Workhouse on Saturday touching the death of WILLIAM WILLIAMS, aged 70. Charles Frederick Whenmouth, the Master, said deceased was a stoker until November last, since when he had been an inmate, having been released of his employment in consequence of his advanced age. - Charles Brown, an inmate, said deceased on Friday morning complained of a pain in the head. - Charles Edward Dingle, master shoemaker, said he took deceased to the Infirmary. Nurse Bedford said she received the case and deceased was quite conscious at the time. He was placed in a chair and left there, when she went to breakfast. She reported the matter to the superintending sister. - The Sister (Miss Stephenson) said the case was reported to her, but she was not given to understand the man was seriously ill. She was told at 7.50 that deceased was worse and, going down to the Ward, found him in bed unconscious. She saw he was dying, and he passed away at 8.5, fifteen minutes later. She then telephoned for Dr Row. - The Foreman (Mr Palmer): Why did you not send for the doctor before? - Witness: I saw the man was dying. - Foreman: I should think that was the proper time to send for a doctor. - John Jenkins, an inmate, said deceased appeared to get worse while in the chair, and he put him in bed and sent for the Sister. He was unconscious for about half an hour before he died. - Dr F. E. Row said he found a blood clot on the brain, the pressure of which was the cause of death. He did not think anything could have been done between 7.50 and 8.5 when deceased was left by the nurse. The nurse might have waited to see the result of the attack deceased was suffering from, but probably she thought it was an ordinary case of biliousness. She might also have made a more emphatic report to the superintending nurse. - The Coroner said he did not think there was any wilful negligence, though he considered the nurse should have given more attention. It was generally thought that paupers did not receive proper attention, and he was sorry the matter had not been so promptly attended to as it might have been, but he (the Coroner) knew that paupers usually received every attention in such cases. - In reply to a Juror, the Master said he was afraid the case had been left too long before sending for the Doctor, but it was the only case he had ever known at the House in which there was even any trace of [?]toriness. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

EXETER - Suicide At Exeter. - An Inquest was held at Exeter on Saturday on DANIEL GOVE, aged 67, cabinetmaker. Deceased's son said he went to bed with his father on Thursday night. GOVE was then in his usual health, but in the morning he looked very bad. His hands were cold and Mrs Fisher, who lived in the same house, was called. - Mrs Fisher sent for Mr Hawkins, the man's employer, and when he arrived the man was dead. She saw two pieces of paper with an "oxalic acid" label on them in the room. The contents had apparently been emptied into a jug. She had heard deceased repeatedly say he was tired of life. - Dr Bell said death was due to oxalic poisoning. A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 19 June 1900
PLYMOUTH - The Channel Disaster. Inquest On One Of The Victims. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquiry at Plymouth yesterday on WILLIAM BRETT, aged 55, of Swansea, donkeyman on the S.S. City of Rotterdam, of Dublin, sunk in the Channel on Saturday night after a collision with the S.S. Newbiggin, of Newcastle. - John Hawkshaw, master of the ill-fated vessel, stated that the City of Rotterdam was bound down Channel from Hamburg to Dublin. At times the weather was clear, whilst at others it was very thick. About a quarter to ten o'clock on Saturday night they were between the Start and the Eddystone. Just before the collision he heard a faint whistle ahead, and at once stopped his boat, which was going very slowly and keeping the fog-horn going. To this whistle witness replied, but directly after the vessels struck. Deceased was in his bunk asleep at the time. Fourteen of the crew, including himself, jumped over the bows of the Newbiggin. Deceased was one those left behind. - Thomas Collins, fireman, said as soon as the vessels struck, the deceased, who was in his bunk, came on deck and went to the bridge, where witness met him. Deceased separated himself from the other four left on the City of Rotterdam, who were endeavouring to lower a ladder and he kept on the fore part of the bridge, his idea apparently being to get on to the bows of the Newbiggin, which was at that time too far off for him to do so. Witness, who swam to the Newbiggin and got up by means of a rope, saw nothing more of the donkeyman until his body was picked up by the lifeboat of the Newcastle steamer. He was then dead. Artificial respiration was tried but was of no avail. - The Coroner pointed out that there would have to be a Board of Trade Inquiry into the cause of the collision, although that would not affect the Inquest. No one knew how the deceased got into the water, and he (the Coroner) did not see that they could bring in any verdict, except that of "Found Drowned." The Jury returned that verdict.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 20 June 1900
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Fall At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquiry yesterday into the death of MARY BEATRICE MAUD GARDNER, the infant daughter of a sapper of the Royal Engineers, of 2 Martin-lane. Between 5.30 and 6 o'clock on Sunday evening MRS GARDNER sent her daughter, aged 11, upstairs to fetch the deceased, which she was in the habit of doing. Unfortunately as she was coming down the stairs, which are bad, especially those at the top, she apparently tripped in a nail and fell to the bottom. The baby was so injured that the mother thought it dead, but sent for Dr Pearse. The child, however, died shortly after his arrival, it having sustained a badly fractured skull. The Coroner recalled the fact that some three years since another fatal accident resulted through a person falling over these stairs. At the time recommendations to the landlord that something should be done to the stairs were made by the Jury, but nothing had been done. - A Juryman said the stairs were very dangerous for even grown-up persons. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and the Coroner to write to the owner of the house requesting that the dangerous state of the stairs shall receive attention.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Poisoning Case. Doctors v. Butchers. - At Plymouth yesterday Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquiry into the death of MABEL ELIZABETH STARLING, 20, daughter of MR G. STARLING, upholsterer, Park-street, which took place on Sunday from poisoning after the family had dined off pork a week previous. This was the second death in the family from the same cause. Mr Percy Pearce, instructed by Mr. T. H. Gill, appeared on behalf of Mr Lavers, butcher, a member of the Three towns Master Butcher's Association. Mr G. Pitts, butcher, was chosen as Foreman of the Jury, which included other members of the same trade. - MRS STARLING, mother of deceased, stated that her daughter, with the remainder of the family, had pork for dinner on Sunday week. The pork was quite fresh and there was nothing to suggest that there was anything wrong with it. - By a Juror: Some members of the family had fish for breakfast. It was bought on Saturday, was fresh and was kept overnight in the same place as the pork - on a shelf in the back kitchen, where it was very cool. - George Lavers, butcher, Tavistock-place, stated that half a pig was purchased from Mr Southwood, Yealmpton on Saturday. He had heard no other complaint of the pork except from MRS STARLING, nor had anyone, so far as he had heard, been affected by the other half of the pig, which was cut up at Yealmpton. The leg of the pig was cut into three or four parts, one of which MRS STARLING had. - The Foreman: That would go to show that it was all cut up into small pieces, which went into 40 houses, possibly more. - Dr Brenton said he had made a post-mortem examination, in company with Dr Williams and Dr Bean, the result being the same as that upon the brother of the deceased, who died previously. There was no evidence of metallic poison. Death was due to heart failure, attributable to ptomaine poisoning. Nine members of the family partook of park. Eight suffered from the symptoms of poisoning, two had died, and one escaped entirely. The husband suffered in the slightest degree. MRS STARLING suffered severely, but the symptoms went off quickly. One son escaped for 24 hours, and was attacked on Monday night. The other children were taken in varying periods of from two to four hours after dinner, but recovered during the night. - The witness was subjected to a long cross-examination by members of the Jury, particularly Mr J. Ross and Mr J. Goad, butchers. Dr Brenton said that some constitutions were undoubtedly more susceptible to poisoning than others. - A Juryman remarked that it was peculiar that one piece of pork from the same pig should produce poisoning, and another not. - Dr Brenton replied that this was due to a poisonous chemical product being created by a germ. Some atmospheres were much more free from germs than others. It was quite possible that this piece of pork was the only piece affected, and it might have obtained the microbe in its transit from the butchers or in the place where it was kept. - Witness, asked whether fish would have produced similar effects, replied that fish was liable to develop ptomaine as well as pork, but he thought the symptoms would have shewn themselves earlier had the poisoning been due to the fish. The family were well up to dinner. It was possible, but not likely, that the poison came from the fish. - Mr J. Goad believed there was more chance of poison being in fish than in meat, especially after it had been carted about in the sun for many hours. It was stated that the fish in question was gurnet: and Mr Ross asked Dr Brenton if he had ever known a case of poisoning from gurnet. - Dr Brenton: I do not remember gurnet, but I have seen several cases of fish poisoning, but none of them proved fatal. - A Juryman called attention to the fact that a case had been reported in the newspapers of a man eating heartily of tub and dying the next day, the Jury bringing in a verdict of fish poisoning. - The Foreman: Would it not be possible that the meat got the microbe from the cellar in which it was kept after it was bought? - Dr Brenton: Certainly. My opinion is that it did. - During Dr Brenton's evidence someone in court passed a note to one of the Jury. - The Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) said he objected to that being done. It was an improper thing, and he reminded the Jurymen that they were on oath, and whatever their business might be, it was their duty to say in their verdict what they honestly believed death was due to and not to allow their position as butchers - he saw a good many were on the Jury - to influence them. They had Mr Pearce to represent the trade. - Dr Brenton said the cooking would itself kill the germs, though the poisonous matter produced by bacteria would still remain in the meat. - Mr Ross (a Juryman) who examined witness at some length, said they wished to view the case fairly. They had come to do their duty as Englishmen, and if there was an evil they were prepared to face it. It would not pay them to support anything that would bring about an injury to the public generally. The Jury wished to sift the matter to the bottom and put the saddle on the right horse. - Continuing, witness said that speaking as a medical man of from 15 to 16 years' experience of active work, he considered the dinner the offending meal, which caused the poisoning, which was meat poisoning. - Mr Goad: You think so; you are not certain. - Dr Brenton: I am as certain in my mind as a professional man can be. The piece of pork was healthy and showed no signs of decomposition. - Mr Endicott asked if the parents disobeyed the doctor's orders by giving the deceased ice-cream? - Dr Brenton said that was so; but the Coroner remarked that this would not account for the poisoning. - A Juryman thought the pork should be seen by a veterinary surgeon, but the Coroner pointed out that he could not order this, though he could order an analysis. - Dr Brenton had stated, however, that the pork was perfectly right, and Dr Williams added that an analysis was useless. - Replying to Mr Pearce, Dr Brenton said generally the symptoms which would follow pork poisoning would resemble those of fish poisoning. These symptoms might develop almost immediately, or might not do so for 24 or 48 hours, and it was also possible that toxaine might develop after food was eaten. - Dr F. M. Williams, medical officer of health for Plymouth, said he was present with Drs. Brenton and Bean, and entirely concurred with Dr Brenton so far as the post-mortem was concerned. - Replying to Mr Ross, Dr Williams said it was quite possible that any animal food or produce, such as cheese, might produce ptomaine. - The Coroner: Do you think it was probable that this was caused by fish or flesh? - Witness: From what I have heard I think it was probable that it was caused by pork. No good whatever would be done by having the pork analysed, as decomposition had set in. As the health officer he thought the public were perhaps rather anxious about the matter, and wished to say that in all probability the pork when it was sold was absolutely good and fit for anyone to eat. It might have been beef, veal or mutton, yet if stored under certain conditions within 24 hours, ptomaine developed. The public ought to know there was no suggestion that the pork was diseased. Had it been when it was sold every person who partook of it would surely have suffered in the same way. - By a Juryman: The drains of the house were free from defect. This was the first serious case of poisoning that had come under his notice during the ten years he had been in Plymouth. - The Coroner said the medical officer's statement would allay a good deal of apprehension on the part of the public. Dr Williams had suggested that the verdict should be that of ptomaine poisoning, and not pork poisoning. - Mr Goad: It may have been in the fish instead of in the pork. - The Coroner: You have heard the medical men tell us that in their opinion it was received by means of the meat. - After a retirement of about half an hour the Foreman said the Jury had unanimously agreed to a verdict that deceased had died from Ptomaine Poisoning, but that there was no evidence to shew from what source the poison had been derived. They desired to express sympathy with the family, and thanked the doctors for the courtesy they had shewn in giving their evidence. - The Jurymen were George Pitts (Foreman); John Ross, J. H. Endicott, J. G. Bendon, S. Williams, E. Graham, R. Nicholson, F. G. Williams, J. Rudd, H. J. Banfield, J. Goad, G. A. Bulmen, T. Collliver, J. Forbes, J. Riggs, and W. Lucock. Several of these are butchers.

Western Morning News, Thursday 21 June 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - A Devonport Suicide. - Devonport Deputy Coroner (Mr Albert Gard) held an Inquiry yesterday on HENRY WELCH, 61, upholsterer of 29 Barrack-street, Devonport. - EMMA WELCH, who kept house for her father, said he had been in a very low state for the past few months and was sometimes in great pain. She had never known him threaten to take his life. She last saw him alive at 9.25 on Tuesday morning, when he was at work in his shop in Cross-street. He had said he was not feeling well and had had a bad night's rest. She went out at 9.30 to get him some bovril, and when she returned, about an hour later, he had hanged himself. - Richard H. Trewan, 33 Cross-street, who did occasional work for the deceased, said they went to the workshop at 9 o'clock. Deceased appeared to be in good spirits. At 9.15 he (witness) left with a parcel for Stoke. Returning about 10.30 he saw deceased in a corner of the shop, resting on his knees and hanging forward with his head through a noose, the rope being attached to a beam. He could not find a knife to cut him down and went for the Police. He felt quite sure his master was dead, though the body was warm. - A Juror: You were so frightened that you did not have the presence of mind to do anything? - Yes. - As a seaman you should have had the presence of mind to cut him down. - I was much frightened, and quite lost my head. - Frederick Bridgeman said deceased's head was in a noose, the rope being attached to a nail in a beam, part of the rope, which was thin, being broken. The beam was about six feet from the floor and deceased must have fallen forward on the rope as he was found on his knees and there was no room to hang. - Deceased's daughter, seized with hysteria, was removed from Court. - P.C. Collett said on being called, he at once cut the body down. The body was warm. He used artificial respiration, but there was no sign of life. - Dr Hinvest said the deceased was dead when he arrived, and the Policeman was still trying artificial respiration. Trewan should have either supported deceased, or loosened the rope round his neck, and if he had done that possibly life would have been saved. WELCH could not have been dead more than a few minutes when he (witness) saw him. Deceased had died of strangulation; there being no dislocation of the neck. - The Coroner said they must not blame Trewan for losing his head, and he did not think they should criticise the man in any shape or form. When he saw his master, his nerves no doubt gave way. He was glad to hear the Policeman rendered first aid, as it shewed the force was well trained. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind."

KINGSBRIDGE - A Dodbrooke Man Censured. Callous Conduct. - At the Inquest at Kingsbridge yesterday relative to the death of MARY BARNES, of Dodbrooke, Mr Carpenter watched the case on behalf of JOHN BARNES, the husband, who stated that on returning home on Monday evening deceased told him she had slipped her foot at the top stairs and fallen on her head. Blood was on her face. He remained with her about an hour and asked her to go to bed, but she refused. He then went to attend to his horses, and when he came back she appeared to be dying. He went for a doctor, who came, and said she was dead. - By the Jury: Went away soon after eight and returned at half-past ten. He left nobody with his wife while he was away. - Ellen Trute said she found deceased at the bottom of the stairs at half-past six quite unconscious. There was blood on her face and an empty kettle and water on the floor. Robert Trute, who was fetched by the last witness, picked deceased up. She did not speak, and made no signs of consciousness, but was not dead then. Sydney Luckham, who helped Trute to put deceased on the couch, said he thought it was a serious case. - Clara Pearse, living in the same house, said about six o'clock she went out to go to her father and left deceased in the house by herself. When she returned she was being carried to the sofa. Saw her while the husband was with her, he leaving about eight. Deceased did not speak at all and she found her dead about a quarter to ten, when she was quite alone. - Dr John H. Head said deceased's skull was badly fractured. The brain was much congested and the main artery was torn. Death was caused by compression of the brain, probably through a fall. She had been dead an hour and a half when he saw her, and must have been unconscious all the time after the injuries were sustained. It would not have been possible for her to hold a conversation with her husband afterwards. - The husband, recalled, persisted in his statement that deceased told him she had fallen over the stairs, was not very much hurt and would be right soon. He added that he gave her tea, which she took and was able to hold the saucer in her hand. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," adding that the husband was guilty of great neglect in not sending for the doctor in the first place. The Coroner concurred, remarking that medical help was almost at the man's door.

LYNTON - Drowned In North Devon. - MR WILLIAM WYATT, aged 85, of Bristol, a gentleman of independent means, has been drowned at Woolhanger, North Devon, where he was on a visit to Sir Henry Pole-Carew. Deceased was fond of painting and on Thursday left the house for the purpose of painting a summer-house on a little island close by. After he had been missed one of his walking sticks was found on the bank, whilst the other was in the boat which he used. In a day or two the body was recovered from the water by P.S. Adams. There was about 8 feet of water at the spot. Sir Henry Carew's idea was that in attempting to get into the boat deceased missed his footing and was stunned, this accounting for the fact that although a good swimmer, he was drowned. At the Inquest the verdict was "Accidentally Drowned."

Western Morning News, Friday 22 June 1900
OKEHAMPTON - Retired Farmer's Suicide At Okehampton. - At Okehampton last evening an Inquest was held touching the death of JOHN SELDON, 7 East-street, a retired farmer, which occurred in the afternoon. - Henry George Nicholls, of East-street, shoemaker, said on Tuesday morning at 7.30 he heard screaming in a yard near. He went to the yard and thee saw ELIZABETH SELDON, daughter of deceased, who said her father was in the woodhouse cutting his throat. Witness went to the woodhouse, and saw the deceased stooping; his throat was cut and he was bleeding very much. A knife was close by. Deceased said to him, "I have done it, but I'm afraid it's not enough," and tried to get hold of the knife again. For the past two months the actions of the deceased, in witness's opinion, had not been those of a sane man. He had not been violent, but had gone about in a strange way. He had heard the deceased talk of killing or destroying himself, but it had not been thought necessary to employ anyone to look after him. - John Thomas ruby, 56 East-street, blacksmith, said he asked deceased what he had done, and his reply was, "it's all over, but it's not enough; I am afraid I shall not die now." For the past three months deceased had been very peculiar. - Wm. Webber, 55 East-street, coachman, said the deceased told him, when he asked why he did it, that it was on account of "his poor head." - Drs. Davies and E. H. Young stated that they found a wound in deceased's throat about seven inches long. It was stitched up. The deceased died from exhaustion, consequent upon loss of blood and congestion of the lungs, the latter frequently following a cut throat. In their opinion the deceased's mind was too weak to exercise a proper control over his impulses, which in this case took the form of a desire to kill himself. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Self Inflicted Injuries whilst of Unsound Mind."

Western Morning News, Monday 25 June 1900
EXMINSTER - Suicide Near Exeter. - On Saturday afternoon Mr A. Burrow, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at the Stowey Arms, Exminster, relative to the death of WILLIAM HENRY NEWTON, aged 24, corn dealer's assistant, of Exeter, whose body was found on the Great Western Railway at Countess Weir. Inspector Shattock, chief inspector , and Mr Russell, of the locomotive department, watched the case on behalf of the railway company. - JAS. NEWTON, father of the deceased, said his son had seemed strange for the last few weeks, and had not taken much food, but he had not complained of anything, and he had never heard him threaten to commit suicide. - MRS NEWTON also stated that deceased had been low spirited. He went out on Thursday night to buy something for supper and did not return. - James Moore, driver of the 2.30 a.m. train from Newton to Exeter on Friday, said he saw the body of a man outside the rails near Countess Weir, and gave information to the officials at St. Thomas. - P.C. Abrahams, who was communicated with, said he found deceased lying on his back just outside the rails on the down line. The right arm was smashed and hanging by the skin and the head was severed from the body. In the breast pocket of the coast he found a letter, bearing the Bristol postmark, town into several pieces. On a slip of paper were the words "I have done my best to keep up with them. Don't make a flower garden of my grave. Goodbye all. BILL." They had tried to put the pieces of the other letter together, but they could not make anything of it, nor could they find the signature. Neither MR or MRS NEWTON was able to recognise the writing on the slip of paper as that of their son, who, they said, wrote a smaller hand. MR NEWTON thought his son had been writing to a young girl at Bristol, but he did not know that there was any fuss between them. MRS NEWTON said deceased had a letter from Bristol one day in the week, but she did not know what it was about,. The Coroner said there was nothing to shew how deceased got on the line, and but for the note found in the pocket the Jury would not be justified in saying he took his own life. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

DARTMOUTH - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned at Dartmouth on Saturday at an Inquest on MISS CHARLOTTE MARION MESNEY, aged 19, daughter of MR R. L. MESNEY, Broadstone. She died early on Friday morning during a fit. Her father deposed that she had been subject to fits for many years.

STOKE DAMEREL - Mr Albert Gard (Deputy Coroner) held an Inquest at Camel's Head on Saturday relative to the death of CECIL SHEPHERD, aged two months, son of JOSEPH SHEPHERD, photographer, 20 Brooklyn-terrace. The deceased, a healthy child, was taken to bed by his mother about midnight on Thursday. Upon the father going to bed about an hour later he found the child lying in his mother's arms, and "looking ghastly." The child was taken immediately to Dr Kenrick, who found life extinct, death being to asphyxia. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 26 June 1900
PLYMOUTH - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned at an Inquest held yesterday relative to JANE OLIVER, aged 81, of 2 Bernard-place, Plymouth. Death was due to fatty degeneration of the heart. Charles Mallet, who resides in the same house, said deceased had been ill for a few days, but refused to see a medical man until Friday last.

PLYMOUTH - The Laira Fatality. - Plymouth Borough Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) held an Inquest yesterday relative to JAMES GILL, aged 54, stone-cutter, who resided at 24 Adelaide-street, Stonehouse. - Alfred Daniel stated that he went with deceased on a wagonette trip to Ivybridge, on Saturday. He appeared all right and on returning got out of the wagonette at the top of Treville-street, at about 10.10 p.m. GILL was fairly sober. - Mr Tolley, joiner, said while walking along the Embankment-road, Laira, on Saturday night about 11.45 he met deceased. Looking back he saw GILL looking towards the water. After walking about another twelve yards he heard a noise and missed deceased. Going back he saw GILL in the water. He got him out, but he was apparently dead. Deceased was not in the water two minutes. - Mr C. E. Russel Rendle, who had made a post-mortem examination, said he could find no signs of death from drowning. The shock of the fall or the immersion probably caused the heart to fail. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 28 June 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - A Stonehouse Servant's Sad Death. - At the Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, an Inquest was held yesterday on BRITANNIA KEEST, 21. MARY JANE KEEST, the wife of a farm labourer at Lanreath, said the deceased, her daughter, was a domestic servant in the employ of Mr Roseman, Stonehouse, and "suffered martyrdom" from neuralgia and toothache. - Aaron Ernest Roseman said deceased had been in his employ about a month. A bottle marked "liquid ammonia" and bearing a red poison label was kept for removing stains from cloths. On returning home on 15th inst. he was told deceased had taken ammonia, and was in a bad way. The bottle was about one-third full and was kept on a high mantelpiece in the scullery. - Elizabeth Hole, of Devonport, employed at Mr Roseman's on the 15th, said in the afternoon deceased was very sick and said she had taken ammonia to cure her toothache. She said she had tried to drop it on her tooth and had poured it down her throat. She took her to Mr Williams, chemist, of Union-street, who gave her vinegar and water and olive oil, after which she went back to Phoenix-place. Deceased was very sick, but said she felt better. She was afterwards taken to her sister-in-law's house in Martin-street, at Dr Waterfield's suggestion. - FLORENCE ANN KEEST, deceased's sister-in-law, said the doctor asked her to take deceased home, saying she would be all right in a few days. She walked there but witness had great trouble in getting her along, and she got worse. She afterwards sent for Dr Pars[?] who said he could no nothing, as deceased ought to have been treated hours before. He prescribed and advised her removal to the Hospital, which was done. Deceased told her she was mad with pain at the time and didn't know what she was doing. Her box had been searched and letters found, but nothing to cause her any trouble. - Daniel Brough, Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased was brought to the Institution in a state of collapse, but conscious. He found she had taken an irritant poison and treated her accordingly, though it was found necessary to give her nourishment and stimulants. She complained of pains in the throat and chest. The treatment she had was correct, but he did not think it was wise to move her about so much, but she did not probably seem so ill as she was. A post-mortem examination shewed that the stomach was acutely inflamed. She told him she had taken the ammonia in mistake for another bottle, but did not say what she intended to take. A teaspoonful of strong ammonia was sufficient to cause death, but that in the bottle was evidently diluted, and would require between two and three ounces. Death was due to exhaustion after taking ammonia. - By the Jury: Deceased would have stood a better chance of recovering if she had been at once put to bed. - In summing up, the Coroner said it evidently would have been far wiser if deceased had been kept where she was. There seemed to be no question of suicide. - A verdict of "Death by Misadventure" was given by the Jury, who expressed their sympathy with the relations.

Western Morning News, Friday 29 June 1900
EXETER - Death Of MR D. LONG. - At an Inquest at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday on MR DANIEL E. LONG, solicitor's clerk, Devonport, Mr H. C. Goodman, of Devonport, said deceased, his nephew, was 37 years of age, and had suffered from Bright's Disease for the past 12 months. - Mr Samuel Palmer, retired baker, Devonport, said MR LONG left Mutley Station on Wednesday morning with a saloon party to go to Bournemouth. When they arrived at Yeoford deceased became unconscious and was removed to another compartment. On arriving at Exeter a doctor recommended his removal to the Hospital. He had known LONG for the last few months and on Wednesday he appeared to be in better health than usual when he started. - Mr Sturt, House Surgeon, said when admitted to the Hospital deceased was in a comatose state and his right side was paralysed. He died during the afternoon from cerebral haemorrhage, consequent upon Bright's Disease. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

EAST STONEHOUSE - Fatal Fall At Stonehouse. - Mr R. R. Rodd, (County Coroner) held an Inquest at Stonehouse yesterday on ROBERT HENRY WATTS, aged 47, pensioner, R.N., a cellarman in the employ of Plymouth Brewery. Thomas Bishop, another cellarman, said on Monday in the cellar WATTS fell backwards on the stone floor and cut his head badly. Twice before witness had seen him fall in a similar way. - Dr W. E. M. Corbett said deceased died without regaining consciousness, a post-mortem examination showed that death was due to injuries caused by the fall. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 30 June 1900
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Coal Porter's Death. - An Inquest was held at Plymouth yesterday on WILLIAM BENNETT, coal porter, aged 55, who died while at work in the Sound on Wednesday. Excepting an attack of influenza, BENNETT had enjoyed good health. While coaling a vessel for Messrs. Fox and Sons, deceased became weak and died almost immediately. A post-mortem by Dr Hamilton shewed that death resulted from rupture of an aneurism in the aorta. A Juryman complained that fresh water was not served to men who objected to the condensed water to be had on the steamers. Henry Watts, stevedore, stated that fresh water was supplied in this case by the firm, and also hot and cold tea. Dr Hamilton said the water would not have any bearing on the death of deceased. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - MRS MILLMAN, 45, wife of JOHN H. MILLMAN, of the Coach Office Inn, Exeter-street, left home on Saturday morning and fell on the back of her head in Frankfort-street, and became unconscious. She was brought round through the attentions of Mr W. J. Moule and P.C. Stoneman and taken home in a cab. On Monday Dr Williams was called and attended her until Thursday when she died. She had been in a semi-conscious state, suffering from symptoms of concussion and alcoholism. At the Inquest yesterday a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Sad Affair At Millbay. A Chief Officer Found Dead. - On board the steamer Hazlemoor, lying at the Western Wharf, Millbay Docks, the chief officer, MR JAMES ENDACOTT, a native of Plymouth, was yesterday morning found dead in his bunk. The Hazlemoor, of Newcastle, arrived at Plymouth on Thursday with a record cargo of maize amounting to 4,400 tons, to discharge at this port. The chief officer, who was in the best of health and spirits on Thursday night, had been connected with the Hazlemoor just ten months. Shortly before joining the vessel ENDACOTT was married and yesterday morning deceased's wife and infant left South Shields to join him. Dr Corbett of Durnford-street, Stonehouse, who was promptly called in, could not certify the cause of death and an Inquest will be held. MR ENDACOTT was a Plymothian, although he had sailed out of the River Tyne for several years. He was the brother of MR ARTHUR ENDACOTT, High Court Secretary of the Ancient Order of Foresters. About six weeks ago, Mrs Evans, MR ENDACOTT'S only sister, died almost suddenly. - At the Inquest held at Stonehouse last evening by Mr R. R. Rodd, MR ARTHUR ENDACOTT, of 2 Athenaeum-place, Plymouth, said the deceased, his brother, aged 35, arrived on Wednesday from the River Plate. On the following evening, at 11.20 p.m., deceased left his (witness's) house to go on board the steamer. He was then apparently in perfect health. - James R. Lascelles, second officer of the Hazelmoor, said he went into the deceased's cabin at 6.15 that morning and found him apparently asleep. He shook him, but getting no response left, thinking he was sound asleep. At 8.15, breakfast being over and deceased not having made his appearance, witness again visited his cabin and spoke to him, but received no reply. Feeling his face, he found it cold and discovered that he was dead. During the voyage deceased was never on the sick list. - Dr W. E. Corbett stated that when he saw deceased at 10 a.m. he had been dead several hours. As the result of a post-mortem examination, he attributed death to heart disease, of some standing. - The Coroner remarked that it was a painfully sad case, and mentioned that the deceased's wife left North Shields at seven o'clock the previous evening and travelled with her infant all night, reaching Plymouth that morning at eleven, to meet her husband, but only to find him dead. He was sure the Jury would join with him in an expression of the deepest sympathy towards the widow and other relatives. The Jury, in returning a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes, endorsed this expression, which was feelingly acknowledged by deceased's brother.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 3 July 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Hamoaze Boating Disaster. Mr J. A. Pearce (Devonport Coroner) opened an Inquest at the Ferry Hotel yesterday, relative to the death of ALBERT WADDLE, aged 12, who, with another boy and the chief engineer of the Government tug Cracker, was drowned while going to the tug in a boat on the night of the 16th ult. Chief-Inspector Dixon, of the Metropolitan Water Police, was present. - W. H. B. WADDLE, waterman and naval pensioner, 52 Cannon-street, identified the body as that of his son, whom he last saw alive between 9 and 10 p.m. on the 16th ult. Witness and his wife then went out to do some shopping and when his wife returned at 10.55 he was gone. Witness went down to the beach at Northcorner, where he got his living and on hearing cries of people in distress he put off in a boat. He was then under the impression that the deceased was at home, and it was not until some time later that he learnt that one of those drowned was his son. One of the men belonging to the tug-boat afterwards said he kicked one of the boys off to save himself. The boat in which the three men and two boys went off was not a boat, it was a "coffin." It was about 11 feet long. It was not a waterman's boat and they had no right to have taken it. Deceased had been out with witness but he did not know how to handle a boat properly. There were six or seven watermen's boats, but no watermen. The men whom the boys took off to the tug, being seafaring men, ought to have known better than get into the boat. He (witness) would not have felt satisfied in the boat with one other man in the daytime. - By a Juryman: The boat is let to boys at a penny an hour. - By the Coroner: There was not a breath of wind that night, but a very strong ebb tide was running, about four or five miles an hour. - Edmond Thomas Twobigg, first-class petty-officer of the guardship Nile, said he found the body floating in the Hamoaze abreast of the Bulwark on Friday morning and towed it to Pottery Quay. - The Coroner said there was another body, but evidence of identity could not be obtained until the following day, when the Inquest would be opened. The crew of the tug Cracker were at Malta, or on their way there, and he had been informed that after handing over their ship they would probably return to England, and might be expected in about a month. Both Inquests would therefore be adjourned for four weeks. The Inquest was then adjourned for a month

Western Morning News, Wednesday 4 July 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - The Hamoaze Boating Disaster. - Mr J. A. Pearce (Devonport Coroner) opened an Inquest yesterday relative to the death of JOHN YOUNG REA, 30 years, chief engineer of the Government tug Cracker, who was drowned while going to the tug in the Hamoaze on the night of the 16th ult. Mr J. P. Goldsmith represented the Admiralty. - P.C. A. Townsend, Metropolitan Police, said that at 4.45 a.m. on Sunday the body was found at the entrance of No. 2 dock. - P.C. Sanders said that on searching the clothing he found a silver watch and chain, a shilling, a trinket, a stud and a watch key. The watch stopped at 11.5. - ALEXANDER REA, warehouseman, Fair view, Selsdon-road, South Croydon, said deceased was his brother. He believed deceased was in the employ of the master of the tug (Mr Geo. Thomas) who contracted to take the tug to Malta for the Admiralty. Witness came to Devonport on the 18th inst., and saw Mr White, a survivor of the accident, who confirmed the report he had previously received by wire that his brother was drowned on the previous Saturday night through the capsizing of a boat. Witness identified the watch produced as that of deceased's, who was a married man, and lived at 34 Castle-gate, Berwick-on-Tweed. Deceased was a teetotaler. - John Houlihan, naval seaman, said that at 10.30 on the night of Saturday, 16th ult., he was in the bar of the Steampacket Inn, when three men came in, who told him that they were going to Malta in the Cracker and that the Government were to send them home again. The deceased, whose body he had since seen, paid for a drink for witness and had a bottle of lemonade himself. The other men each had three small bottles of beer, and all left the house at seven minutes to eleven. All were perfectly sober. - The Coroner adjourned the Inquest until 31st. inst., when the Inquest touching the death of the boy, WADDLE will also be resumed. - The Coroner and Jury expressed deep sympathy with the wife and family and brother of deceased.

STOKE DAMEREL - Sudden Death On The Cambrian. - Mr J. A. Pearce (Devonport Borough Coroner) held an Inquest yesterday afternoon relative to the death of HORACE HENRY BROWN, aged 30, sick bay steward on the Cambrian. - ALFRED BROWN, fitter, 82 Albert-road, and father of the deceased, said he last saw his son alive at 6.40 a.m. on Monday. Deceased then complained of sickness during the night, but left for his ship as usual, and witness did not know that there was anything seriously the matter with him. Deceased had suffered from rheumatism. - Edwin Hoskin, leading stoker on the Cambrian, said deceased always seemed to be in good health, but on Monday evening complained of feeling unwell. Witness advised him to turn in and he did so. - Frederick Hooke, ship's corporal on the Cambrian, said that about 6.20 yesterday morning he noticed the key in the sick-bay door, and, on looking in, found deceased dead, in a half sitting position on a couch. Deceased was fully dressed and his hammock was not hung up. - Dr J. W. Slaughter, staff-surgeon, serving on the Cambrian, said that at 6.15 a.m. he was informed that deceased was dead. Deceased had his cap on and had evidently fallen asleep on the couch. He had been dead from six to eight hours when witness saw the body. Witness had made a post-mortem examination, and found death to be due to syncope, caused by extreme fatty degeneration of the heart. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 5 July 1900
KINGSTEIGNTON - A Girl Drowned. - RHODA SEARLE fell into Hackney Canal, Kingsteignton on Tuesday, and was drowned. She had been sent to school with two younger sisters, taking with her a neighbour's breakfast to the clay pits on the way. On reaching the canal deceased sent her sisters on with the breakfast and got into a boat. Nothing more of her was seen until the evening, when search was made, and the body found outside the locks, where she had probably been dragged by passing barges. - At the Inquest at Hackney last evening, ETHEL SEARLE, aged 12, said as her sister (aged 10) had not been to school she looked for her, and seeing her in the water sent her younger sister for help and took off her shoes and stockings and dragged her out. The Coroner said she did quite right and was a brave girl. The Jury (Mr C. W. Freestone, Foreman) returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

MARWOOD - Suicide Near Barnstaple. - An Inquest was held yesterday at Marwood, near Barnstaple, on WILLIAM WATTS, aged 42, under-kennelman to Sir William Williams. The deceased left home early on Tuesday morning and at breakfast-time he was found dead, almost the whole of his skull having been blown away through the discharge of a gun. A sapling had been used to discharge the gun. The wife said she was not aware that deceased had anything to worry him. There were eight children. A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 7 July 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Sudden Death At Devonport. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest at Morice Town yesterday touching the death of HARRIET JANE COWARD, aged 69, living at 1 Cross-hill-cottages. CHARLES FRANCIS COWARD, retired master of a Naval Ordnance vessel, said his wife had been failing in health during the past twelve months, but on Thursday morning rose at seven, after having had her breakfast, and she appeared to be well. he went out at nine o'clock, and when he returned twenty minutes later his wife was in the arms of his daughter and apparently in a fainting fit. - HARRIET JANE COWARD, daughter of deceased, said she was upstairs on Thursday morning, and her mother was making jam in the kitchen. A knock came at the front door and she called to her mother to answer it but got no reply. She then noticed a smell of burning jam and going downstairs found her mother sitting in a chair with her head back as if she had fainted. Her father came in at that moment and Dr Gard was sent for and pronounced life extinct. Dr W. J. Gard said a post-mortem examination shewed that her right lung was much congested and she was suffering from valvular disease of the heart. Death was due to syncope through heart disease. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned, the Coroner and Jury expressing their sympathy with deceased's relatives.

Western Morning News, Monday 9 July 1900
PLYMPTON ST MARY - A Blind Pensioner's Suicide. - At Ridgway on Saturday an Inquest was held on WILLIAM JOSEPH RICHARDS, a pensioner in receipt of £48 11s. per annum. Deceased, blind for about seven years, lost his wife five years ago, and had been very depressed. William J. Dodridge, in whose house deceased had occupied a room for the last twelve months, chatted with him on Thursday evening. Next morning, about 5.30 he went to deceased's room with a cup of tea, and found him hanging from the bed-rail. A lad who shared the room was sound asleep. The verdict was "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 10 July 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - The Devonport Tragedy. The Inquest. - Mr J. A. Pearce (Devonport Borough Coroner) opened an Inquest at the Guildhall yesterday relative to the death of MARY ELIZABETH WATTS, 30 years, of 64 Albert-road, Morice Town, who was killed by her husband, FRANCIS HERBERT WATTS, on Friday evening. A Jury of 23 was sworn, and Mr C. B. Prynne was chosen as Foreman, Chief Constable Matters was present. - The Coroner said the deceased died at 64 Albert-road and her husband was found in the house with a wound in his throat. As it was probable that a charge would be made against the husband for being concerned in the death of his wife, it was necessary that the Inquest should be adjourned to such a date as would be convenient for the husband to attend, and hear the evidence that might be given against him, to be legally represented; and, if he thought fit, to give evidence himself. He, therefore, only proposed to take formal evidence of identification to enable the body to be buried. The Inquest would be adjourned to a date convenient for the Jury. Then the circumstances of the case would be gone into more fully. The Jury then viewed the body. - Charles Henry Perry, skilled labourer in the Dockyard, living at 2 Ker-street, said deceased was his daughter. Her husband was a journeyman painter. Deceased was 30 years of age on 22nd March last. - The Coroner said that was all the evidence he proposed to take. As it was only formal, it was not necessary to put questions to the witness. The husband was progressing favourably, and it was anticipated that in about three weeks' time he would be able to attend. - The Inquest was then adjourned until 10.30 a.m. on 30th inst.

PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Borough Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) held an Inquest yesterday on EDWIN DIXON ATTWATER, a general dealer, aged 54, who resided in Cecil-street, Plymouth. William Pinney said that the previous day about 1.20 p.m., he saw deceased cycling along Houndiscombe-road. The bicycle was swaying from one side of the road to the other and deceased fell off and died before medical aid could be summoned. Dr Brenton, who had made a post-mortem examination, said death was due to heart disease. Deceased's heart was in such a state that he ought never to have taken any violent exercise. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 16 July 1900
BARNSTAPLE - GEORGE PERRIN, farm labourer, aged 63, on Monday last, whilst on a haycart at Eastdown, Barnstaple, was struck by a quantity of hay which was being thrown up, and fell, injuring his spine. He died at the Infirmary on Thursday. Dr Manning at the Inquest on Saturday attributed death to paralysis, caused by the spinal injuries. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

TORQUAY - The Torquay Fatality. Coroner And Witness. - At Torquay on Saturday afternoon Mr S. Hacker conducted an Inquiry relative to the death of HARRY HERBERT, chief stoker on H.M.S. Galatea, who was found on Friday morning seriously injured at the back of premises on Victoria-parade. Deceased had fallen down a crevice between the rocks and the back of the Racquet Court, and had remained there from Sunday night until Friday morning. - George Arthur Barlow, master-at-arms on the Galatea, identified the body. Deceased, he said, was 34 years of age, and had his home at Tunbridge Wells. He did not know whether he was married. None of his pay was allotted to a wife. - Mr Shopland, one of the Jury, said deceased was married. His brother-in-law was present. - Witness said deceased left the ship at one o'clock last Sunday and should have returned at eleven the same night. - Arthur Edward Drewitt, House Surgeon at Torbay Hospital, said when admitted to the Hospital on Friday morning deceased was paralysed in his lower limbs. He was conscious and could answer questions, but he was very collapsed and it caused him great exertion to talk. Twice he asked for drink. After having a little stimulant he revived and seemed better. he said that on Sunday night he was delayed and found a green place to lie on. He said nothing about his fall. As they were getting his bed ready deceased turned blue in the face, lifted up his arms, gasped for breath, and died. The cause of death was collapse, due to a fractured spine. It was a remarkable thing that he should have lived the greater part of five days without drink. He was probably unconscious the greater part of the time that he was lying in the chasm. - The Coroner: It is to be hoped so. - Replying to a Juryman, the doctor said deceased would have died even if he had been found earlier, his spine being fractured. He would, however, have been saved a great deal of pain. - Charles Goddard, licensed victualler, Hull, said deceased married his wife's sister. His wife lived at Bath, but they were separated. - William Early, landlord of the Hesketh Arms, Meadfoot-lane, stated that last Sunday evening shortly after ten o'clock he walked along Park-street and down to the harbour. On passing through Park-street his attention was called to deceased, who was lying asleep on the footpath. He roused him and put him on the seat in the triangle just above the Torbay Yacht club. On reaching the harbour he informed several sailors and asked them to go up and look after the man. They said he was nothing to them, and must look after himself. With a friend witness returned, but deceased had then gone. - W. H. Smith, lance-sergeant in the Marines, on the Galatea, said he was with the deceased by the Haldon Pier from 10.45 to 11 p.m. on Sunday night. - The Coroner: Are you not making a little mistake? - Witness: No. - The Coroner: Then the last witness is? - Witness: He must be. Witness knew deceased could stand a lot of drink, but he could walk straight on Sunday night. About eleven o'clock, as the boat was coming into the harbour steps to take the men off, deceased went up the steps leading from the coastguard station to the Bath Saloons. Witness shouted after him, and he said he should be back in a minute. But he did not return, and the boat left without him. Witness did not know why he went up the steps. - John Noyce, fisherman, described the groans he heard on Friday morning and said he called Theodore Brown of Brown Bros. - William Brown, boat-owner, who was let down over the cliff by ropes to rescue deceased, described the position the sailor was in. He had evidently made himself as comfortable as possible. When witness told him he had come to help him he said feebly "Thank God!" Deceased said he was suffering in his ribs, and could not move the lower part of his body. Witness told him he would have to be drawn up the cliff, and he said he could not move. One rope was tied round his under arms and another lower down. Then witness placed his hands on the rope so that he could hold on with what little strength he had left. Witness also held on to the rope and was drawn up with the deceased to keep his body from being knocked against the rocks. When they had been drawn up a certain distance the space between the cliff and the back of the Racquet Court was too narrow for them to pass together. Witness then wedged himself between the rocks and the wall, and stopped there while deceased was drawn up. Afterwards a rope was lowered for witness. Witness could trace deceased over the grass. There was only a low wall between the road and the bank sloping down to the crevice into which deceased fell. Deceased told him he fell into it on Sunday night. - A Juryman said the wall there was too low. - The Coroner: There used to be broken glass on the wall. - Mr Brown said children often played on the grass bank. He thought the bank was the property of the Town Council. - One of the Jury was under the impression that it was private property. - The Coroner: At all events it would be a proper thing for the Town Council to look after. We might call the attention of the borough surveyor to it. The wall should either be raised or barbed wire should be erected there. - The Coroner congratulated Mr Brown on the prompt and thoughtful way in which he acted. (Applause.) - Frederick Morse, Park-place, was called. Before taking the oath he said he thought the boy who found the deceased's hat should be called before he was. - The Coroner: You are here to give evidence, not to ask questions. - Witness: Then I refuse to be sworn. Witness thereupon threw down the testament on the table and turned away. - The Coroner: I cannot hear anything you have to say until you have taken the oath. - Witness said there was a statement in the "Western Morning News" reflecting upon the person who found the deceased's hat. Therefore he thought the boy who found it should be called first. - Witness was then sworn, and stated that last Monday afternoon, while in the company of Postman Treby, he found a petty officer's hat on the wall near where the deceased was discovered. The hat was very wet and no name could be distinguished upon it. Treby said he would mention it to the clerks at the Post Office, and to the men who came in for the post-bags for the fleet. Witness took the hat home. Several times he looked over the wall and examined the cliff, but neither heard nor saw anything. he did not think it worthwhile to tell the Police. - The Coroner thought witness committed a serious error of judgment in not informing the Police of his discovery. If the Police had been told of it the poor fellow might have been found and his sufferings alleviated. The witness had not done his duty. - Witness: I bet a sovereign a Policeman would not go down where deceased was found. - The Coroner: No man of ordinary intelligence would have refrained from going to the Police and giving up the hat. - Witness: That is your idea. It is not mine. - The coroner warned witness to treat the Court with proper respect. He did not know whether witness's conduct was due to stupidity or want of intelligence, but it was deserving of censure. - Inspector Dymond said if the Police had known of the finding of the hat search would have been made for the deceased. - P.C. Potter having given evidence, the Coroner summed up. He described the scene of the accident as a dangerous place, criticised the action of Morse and again complimented Brown on his pluck and promptitude. - The Jury having returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," recommended that attention be called to the danger of the locality where the accident occurred. They endorsed the praise of Brown and the censure of Morse. - The funeral of the deceased on the same afternoon was attended by a large number of seamen from the Galatea.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 17 July 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - A Packer's Suicide. An Unhappy Home. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest yesterday on THOMAS COX GREET, 45, of 23 Garden-street, Devonport, a packer, employed by the Great Western Railway Company. - The wife said she last saw her husband alive at 9.30 on Saturday evening at his home. He was not due at work until six o'clock on Sunday morning. Witness and her daughter went shopping at 9.30, and when they returned deceased was gone. She found the back door unbolted at about ten o'clock and concluded that he had gone out that way. On Tuesday night last he left home at six in the morning to go to his work and did not return until ten o'clock on Wednesday morning. He was then very peculiar in his manner and said he had come home to see how she was getting on, leaving for his work a few minutes later. That was the first occasion on which her husband stayed out all night. She could not get a sensible answer as to where he had been. She had seven male lodgers in the house. On Saturday she waited until one o'clock and then told her lodgers that her husband had not come home. Her son was coming from work at the G.W.R. engine shed, Millbay, between six and seven o'clock on Monday morning and met his father on the line. He only said he was going to work, and the son did not know he had been away all night. Witness sent her boy with deceased's dinner at midday and he returned with the news. Her husband had been very strange in his mind since the death of their six-year-old son ten months ago. - At this stage witness was seized with a fainting fit and had to be carried out of Court. - Walter Turpin, G.W.R. ganger, living at Albert-road, Morice Town, said he saw deceased at eleven a.m. on Sunday at Stonehouse Pool viaduct. He was then sitting in the cabin, and witness had a quarter-of-an-hour's conversation with him. He appeared in his usual health and was not at all depressed. He had known deceased several years, and had never heard him threaten to take his life. He had never noticed anything peculiar in his manner. - John Cooper, a G.W.R. ganger, said he passed the cabin at 12.35 on Sunday, and saw deceased hanging by a rope to a nail in the beam. He sent his sons to the place and went himself to Plymouth Guildhall to acquaint the Police with the matter. He was too frightened to cut the body down. Had never noticed anything peculiar in deceased. On Sunday week deceased told him his wife said if he died she would marry the lodger next day. - William James Pudner, A G.W.R. packer, said he was called to the hut by the last witness and cut the body down. Deceased was always a very steady man. - P.C. Sanders said that when he got to the hut deceased was lying on the floor. He tried artificial respiration, which the doctor continued, but it was of no avail. Among the articles found in his pockets was a Co-operative Society bank book for £30. - Mary Jane Richards, widow, living at Saltash, said deceased was her brother. She saw him on the railway near Keat-street on Thursday last. He then said, "I can't live like this. The life I have lived this last six months no tongue can tell." He also said his wife had smacked his face and scratched his ears on the previous Monday, and that if he said anything to his wife the lodgers asked if she wanted any help. She knew nothing against MRS GREET but what he had told her. She had always been a hardworking woman. Witness had seen the widow on Saturday morning, when she told her that deceased wanted her to give up the lodgers. She said she could not do this and return to 18s. per week. She also referred to one of the lodgers who had gone to London, saying since he had gone away she felt she had buried him. Witness thought the trouble had been going on for about six months. He had told her that he was in danger of his life, as Nicholls (a lodger) had said "he would shove his fist into me." Deceased was MRS GREET'S second husband. - Resuming her evidence, MRS GREET said her husband had not been unhappy at home until recently. She knew nothing about what Cooper had stated. She never said anything of the sort to her husband. She also denied the charges respecting the lodgers, and said her husband had lately had all sorts of queer ideas. - Dr Robert B. Wagner said he saw deceased shortly after noon on Sunday at the railway hut near Stuart-road bridge. He had been dead about half an hour. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of an Unsound Mind."

PLYMOUTH - JOHN ELLIOT, aged 44, a pensioner from the Royal Engineers, of 63 Notte-street, Plymouth, had been unwell for a week, but refused to see a doctor. On the Saturday night Mrs O'Brien, who lives in the same house, went for Dr Cooke, who advised his removal to the Workhouse. This, however, was not done and deceased died on Sunday night. Dr Brenton was called on Sunday, and prescribed for him, but knew at the time it was useless. He had since held a post-mortem examination, and found death was due to pneumonia, following intemperate habits. Deceased was in a filthy and generally neglected condition. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Fatal Fall At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on GEORGE EDWARD HEDLEY WHITAKER, aged 3 years of 27 Princess-street. MR WHITAKER said that about 5.30 p.m. last Tuesday the child was playing on the leads at the back of the Volunteer Inn. Mrs Haddington, wife of the landlord of the Volunteer Inn, said last Tuesday evening she heard a noise in the yard at the rear of the House. She went into the yard and found deceased lying there insensible. The child fell off a roof about twenty to twenty-five feet from the ground, which was protected by two rails. Deceased could get on the leads from the inside of the house. - Dr Cooke said the child died from a fracture of the base of the skull. - The Jury disapproved of the leads being in so unprotected a state, and suggested that wire netting should be fastened between the iron railings. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 18 July 1900
EXETER - Drowning Case At Exeter. A Quarrel About A Brooch. - At Doublelocks near Exeter, yesterday, Mr A. Burrows, held an Inquest on SUSAN BOWERS, aged 25. MRS SARAH DAVEY, mother of deceased, said there had been something strange about her daughter for some months. There had been no quarrel. On Sunday she went out for a walk and wore witness's brooch. She told her to take it off, but deceased refused, and smacked her mother's face, and said she intended to kill her. Deceased was a thorough good Christian girl, and the only quarrel was about the brooch. They had got all right again before her daughter went out for a walk. Deceased might have been going to see some friends at Topsham. On one occasion her daughter walked to Tiverton. She had never threatened to commit suicide. It was not a fact that the neighbours had hissed her (the witness) on account of her treatment to her daughter. Deceased was too good to be treated badly. - Mrs Kate Harper said on Saturday evening deceased told her she had had a little unpleasantness at home in consequence of her mother wanting to take away a brooch she had given her. The girl seemed strange in manner. She had never complained before. There appeared to be "upsets" between Mr and Mrs Davey. - Henry Edward Taverner, a lad, deposed to seeing the body in the water. he at once telephoned to the Police. He could do nothing else, as he was unable to swim. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

BUCKLAND MONACHORUM - Sad Death Of A Baby. A Dangerous Practice. - The County Coroner (Mr R. R. Rodd) held an Inquest at Cralston Farm, Buckland Monachorum, yesterday relative to the death of MARY HILLSON, aged 19 months. - RICHARD HILLSON, farmer, father of deceased, stated that on Saturday between 9 and 10 a.m. a pan of boiling milk was placed on the floor of the passage to cool. It was customary to cool the milk this way. Deceased was playing in the passage with a little basket in her hand, and fell into the pan, sustaining very severe scalds, from which she died the same evening. Dr H. J. S. Liddel said he was called to see deceased on Saturday morning and found her suffering from very severe scalds at the lower part of the trunk and extremities and one arm was also very badly scalded. - The Coroner remarked that the practice of placing pans of boiling milk on the passage floor was a very dangerous and stupid one, especially where any children were about. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 20 July 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Street Fatality At Devonport. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest yesterday touching the death of FREDERICK GEORGE WALKER, aged one year and ten months, who was run over on Wednesday in James-street. EDITH AMY WALKER, the mother, wife of a private in the R.M.L.I., living at Mutton Cove, said she put the child on the doorstep to play with his brother, aged three. - Thomas Bastin, naval pensioner, of 67 James-street, said he saw the child fall in front of a wagon. The driver pulled up immediately and backed his horse, preventing the wagon going right over the child, who, however, was severely crushed. The cart was moving very slowly, and the driver could not have avoided the accident. - William Henry Horne, of 15 Summerland-street, Plymouth, carman, employed by Derry and Co., said the child ran across the road in front of his horse. Half way across it fell. He pulled up as quickly as he could and got the horse back, but the child had got under the left front wheel. He had never previously had an accident. - Dr P. Cator, Assistant House Surgeon at the Hospital, said when admitted the child was bleeding at the mouth. He found no signs of injury, except that it was in pain. It died about an hour after the accident. The only injury was rupture of the pancreas. The Coroner remarked that the accident was due to the child being allowed in the street without someone to take care of it. He was surprised there were so few accidents of that sort. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 21 July 1900
REVELSTOKE - Drowned At Revelstoke. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Noss Mayo yesterday on ALBERT COURTENAY FINCH, aged seven, the son of a rabbit trapper, found dead in the water near the quay at Bridgend. The little fellow was last seen alive by Mrs Mary Ann Crook, throwing stones into the water at about 1.10 p.m. on Thursday. He asked her if her boy had finished his dinner, as they had a half-holiday and were going picking strawberries together. At 1.40 Matthias Mashlord, a bargeman, saw him in about four feet of water close to the quay. He, with the help of G. Revel, drew him out, but he was quite dead. Artificial respiration was resorted to, but in vain. Dr Langworthy, who had made a post-mortem examination, deposed that death was due to drowning, there being no external marks of violence. The Jury (Mr G. Lewis, Foreman), returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Western Morning News, Monday 23 July 1900
BISHOPSTEIGNTON - A Sad Bishopsteignton Case. A Widow's Suicide. - Mr Sidney Hacker held an Inquest on Saturday at Bishopsteignton on ALICE HILL, a widow, the landlady of the Manor Inn. Mr H. C. Full represented the relatives. - Mrs Caroline M. E. Pook, deceased's sister-in-law, said MRS HILL'S age was 44. On Wednesday evening she told her she could not sleep and was worried over monetary matters, as she should not be able to get on with the business as she formerly had. Deceased never made any threats and was very quiet. She went away for three weeks on 19th June, not saying where she was going, although witness saw her the night before she went. - P.C. Hill handed in the following letter found in deceased's bedroom and written by MRS HILL:- Dear Jennie, - I cannot live any longer. I'm miserable. I know I have made a great mistake in going away, but you must forgive me. I leave everything to you and I know you will take care of my dear children. I'm sure everyone will be good to them for my sake. Do what you can for poor John. I know Caroline and Fred will do what they can for you. - Goodbye, from your poor unfortunate ALICE. - Jane Denton, a widow, who had lived with MRS HILL as companion for seven years, said since Easter MRS HILL had been very much depressed. She enjoyed fairly good health and good business was done at the Inn. She told her that she had been worried about the business, and never said anything of any love troubles. She was behind in some of her bills. On Thursday she assisted in the housework and went to bed about a quarter to eleven. John Howard, deceased's nephew, woke her up on Friday morning, and said, "Aunt's gone again." Deceased had not been in bed during Thursday night, having just thrown herself across it. Her candlestick was found in the stairs and the note on the chest of drawers. - The Coroner: What does she mean by saying she made a great mistake in going away and want you to forgive her? - I don't know. - In reply to Mr Full, Mrs Denton said the debts deceased troubled about were contracted by her late husband. During her absence MRS HILL sent two letters to her, but there was no address on them. - What did she ask to be forgiven? - I don't know. - John Howard, nephew, said he had noticed that his aunt had been very quiet lately and on Thursday last she seemed to be thinking a great deal. She told him some time since that she did not think she would be here long. - Frederick Pook found the body 200 yards the Teignmouth side of Floor Point. Her wedding ring and keeper were left by the side of the note. Her clothes were saturated with water. He believed she stunned herself when she fell into the water, which was only a foot deep. - Mr Full: It is rumoured that there was an outstanding account between you and MRS HILL, and that you pressed for payment. Is that so? - No. - P.C. Hill said he passed the Manor Inn at three o'clock on Friday morning and there was a light upstairs. - Mr A. E. Hayward, Surgeon, Teignmouth, said there was a contusion over each eye and on the left ear. Death was due to drowning. In all probability deceased was stunned first. He believed she had been confined during the past three weeks. - The Jury found that "Deceased Drowned Herself in a fit of Temporary Insanity." - The Coroner remarked that the witnesses should have been more truthful. It was incredible to believe that Mrs Denton was not aware that the deceased was enciente. She knew very well that deceased was in that condition and in some cases it would have formed an important part of the evidence. - Mrs Denton: I did not know it. - The Coroner: You are quibbling, but it does not matter much in this case. - Mr Full said MRS HILL was naturally a stout woman, and he had taxed Mrs Pook and Mrs Denton on the subject, and they both had not the faintest suspicion. - The Coroner: Then they must be blind. It is tampering with the Jury.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 24 July 1900
DARTMOUTH - The Kingswear Railway Fatality. - At Dartmouth yesterday an Inquest was held on EDWARD WILLIAMS, aged 44, gateman, in the employ of the Great Western Railway Company. - Edward Wallbridge, able seaman, H.M.S. Britannia, said he went into the signal-box on Saturday evening just before eight to sign the book for the evening papers left for the Britannia. Looking out he saw the down train nearing the crossing. Deceased went out and seeing the train was going to stop, he attempted to jump across the line in front of the engine. As he was half-way between the metals the engine knocked him down. Part of the train passed over him, but the engine-driver brought up promptly. - James Edward James, fireman of the train, said when the engine was about five to eight feet away, WILLIAMS tried to get across in front. As he did not come out on the other side, witness shouted to the driver, the train was stopped and he went back and helped others to get the deceased out. - The driver of the train, James Marshall, said the train was running in quite slowly, about five or six miles an hour, and was about to stop at the crossing. - Dr A. K. Crossfield said deceased's injuries were of a terrible nature. The left leg had to be amputated at the thigh. Deceased died early on Sunday morning. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. - Mr Abrahams, the stationmaster, thanked the Britannia for the first aid they rendered in the case. - Several of the Jury expressed the hope that the company would see that means were adopted for letting the signalmen know whether a train was to stop at the level.

STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest at Millbridge last evening on SARAH PHILLIPS, aged 80, which occurred on Saturday at 5 Fellowes-place. Cordelia Lobb said the deceased, her aunt, the widow of a farmer, had been in bad health for some time and was in bed, apparently sleeping, shortly after four o'clock on Saturday afternoon. At 4.30 she heard the old lady moan, noticed a change in her appearance, and sent for a doctor, who pronounced life extinct. Dr Pullen said he attended deceased some time ago. Death was due to syncope, through obstruction to respiration caused by coughing up mucous. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

NEWTON ABBOT - The Haytor Fatality. Sad Death Of An Old Sailor. - An Inquest touching the death of SAMUEL QUANCE, who was run over by a traction engine at Haytor Camp on Saturday, was held yesterday at Newton Abbot, by Mr Hacker, County Coroner. - MARY QUANCE, widow of the deceased, of 2 York-place, Plymouth, said the deceased was 62 years of age. He was a naval pensioner, being formerly a quartermaster in the Royal Navy. He left home on Saturday in perfect health to go to the Volunteer Camp at Haytor, to help Mr Frost, the brigade barber, in the cooking. - Surgeon-Colonel Thomas said he saw the deceased lying on the grass on Haytor Down about half-past five on Saturday evening. He was very much injured and suffering from shock, but was conscious. He bandaged a large wound on his arm and had him removed on a stretcher to the camp field hospital. On further examination he found the deceased's pelvis crushed. The right arm was fractured and the hand injured. The injury to the pelvis affected the spine and caused paralysis of the right side, from the waist down. The ambulance wagon was fetched , but considerable delay took place in getting horses, and deceased was taken to the Newton Abbot Hospital. He died on the way. From the first he did not think the man would live and he rode beside the wagon and Sergeant Chapple with two bearers, were with the injured man in the wagon. The wounds were such as might have been caused by a heavy wagon passing over the injured portions. - Private William Billingmonk (2nd V.B.D.R.), in the Bearer Company, stated that he was riding on the first wagon behind the traction engine. The train consisted of three trucks. Deceased was riding with four or five others on the second truck, and he noticed the front part of the baggage was getting loose and warned the men to that effect. All of them got down except deceased, who was sitting on a small bed. Soon afterwards he saw the baggage slipping and again shouted to the deceased not to mind the baggage, but take care of himself and with the same the baggage gave way. Whether deceased tried to save himself or the boxes witness did not know, and the bed on which deceased was sitting fell with other things. Deceased fell on the ground under the off fore-wheel on the truck. The driver of the engine stopped immediately. The second wheel did not touch deceased. - John Gill, driver in charge of the traction engine, said he heard a shout and immediately stopped the engine. He pushed back a couple of feet and saw the deceased by the side of the road. No one told him the goods were shifting or asked him to stop. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - The Coroner said he had received the following communication:- "It may interest you and the public, and possibly lead to further subscriptions for the widow, to know that through the instrumentality of General Mackay-Heriot, a collection was made in the camp at church parade yesterday, two battalions being present when about £14 was collected for the benefit of the widow. (Signed) R. C. F. Brigade Staff." - The deceased will be buried at Wolborough Church, Newton, today, at 2 p.m.

Western Morning News, Thursday 26 July 1900
Coastguard Drowned Off Borough Island. - Yesterday morning Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest relative to the death of EDWARD JOHN TEST, a coastguardsman, 29 years of age, whose body was picked up two miles south-west of Bolt Trail on Tuesday. From the evidence it appeared that on Saturday, 14th inst., the deceased, who was stationed at Challaborough, in company with two others, proceeded to sea in a boat for the purpose of fishing. They got round Borough Island and were about to sail back when they found something the matter with the sail. Deceased thereupon climbed the mast to release the sail, but his weight caused the boat to capsize and the three men were thrown into the water. They managed to cling to the gunwhale, and deceased afterwards volunteered to swim to shore. He swam close in to shore, but was then seen upon his back and disappeared without more being seen of him. Apparently, when in the water deceased endeavoured to get his clothes off, but a portion of his drawers became tightly fastened round his ankles, rendering it impossible for him to swim. A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 27 July 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - The Excessive Heat. A Death At Devonport. - Mr J. A. Pearce, (Devonport Coroner) held an Inquest at Stoke yesterday on JEANIE GENDLE, 56. - JOHN TREWARTHEN GENDLE, gardener, 5 Park-street, said his wife had always enjoyed good health. He last saw her alive at 9.20 p.m. on Tuesday last, when she appeared to be well. - Bessie Turner, living in the same house, said she knew deceased, who had always enjoyed good health. She was talking to deceased in the kitchen on Tuesday evening at about 9.30, when she suddenly put her hand to her head, and said: "My God! my God !!" - Dr Pullen stated that death was due to failure of the heart's action, accelerated by extreme heat. The Coroner remarked that the case was a very painful one, and was the first of the kind he had inquired into, though there had been a number of cases of death through heat in London. The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Saturday 28 July 1900
PLYMOUTH - At an Inquest held at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, it was stated that the death of FRANCIS BAINES, 67, naval pensioner, was shewn by post mortem examination to be due to kidney disease. Deceased, who lived at 18 Nelson-street, Plymouth, shot himself on the 7th inst., but the injuries he inflicted did not, in the doctor's opinion, hasten his death. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 31 July 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - The Devonport Murder Charge. Conclusion Of The Inquest. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) resumed his Inquiry at Devonport Guildhall yesterday morning into the death of MARY ELIZABETH WATTS, aged 30, who, it is alleged, was killed by her husband, FRANK HERBERT WATTS, painter, at 64 Albert-road, Morice Town, on the evening of Friday, July 6th. - A Jury of twenty-three were sworn, Mr C. Prynn being selected as Foreman, and there were a number of the public admitted, the Inquest being held in the Council Chamber. - WATTS, who attempted suicide, occupied a seat in the Court in charge of the Chief Constable (Mr J. Matters). Great interest was manifested in the presence of WATTS, large crowds waiting outside the Royal Albert Hospital and the Guildhall for some time, in anticipation of catching sight of him. WATTS, whose throat was bound, was assisted to the Court by Detective-Sergeant Rundle, and had a very haggard look. - The Coroner read over the depositions of Charles Henry Perrey, who gave evidence of identification at the previous Inquiry. The murdered woman was his daughter. - Jessie Symons, wife of Cornelius Symons, a lodging-house keeper, living at 64 Albert-road, said the deceased woman and her husband occupied two rooms in the basement of her house and had lived there for three and a half years. They had four children. On the afternoon of July 6th, MRS WATTS was in the house with three of her children, and had been engaged cleaning her rooms. WATTS arrived home at 2.55 from work. Witness did not speak to him and he went downstairs to his wife. From that time until 5.30 everything was quiet downstairs. She did not see the man again, but at that time she heard the children screaming. She called downstairs to MRS WATTS, but received no reply. She and her husband thought that there was something wrong and Mr Symons went outside for a Policeman. She did not go downstairs and knew nothing further. The children did not come upstairs. On the morning of that day WATTS came home at ten o'clock, and stayed at home until after he had had his dinner, leaving for work again a few minutes before one o'clock. It was unusual for him to come home at that time. She did not see him, but MRS WATTS told her in the afternoon her husband had come home because he did not feel well. He was better after dinner and returned to work. From the time WATTS came home in the afternoon until she heard the screaming he did not go out. During the day she had heard no quarrelling; the family downstairs being remarkably quiet. Deceased and her husband lived happily together. She never knew them to have words except when he occasionally came home under the influence of liquor. She did not think of going downstairs when she heard the children scream, and her husband was in very delicate health. She never anticipated that anything of the sort had happened. He had never come home in the morning before, and witness was told he had come from work with the desire to see a doctor, but he felt better and decided not to see one. - Cornelius Symons, husband of the last witness, said he left the house at 3.30, returning at 5.20. He did not see WATTS come home from work, but when he went out deceased was scrubbing the top of the kitchen stairs. He was just about to have a cup of tea on returning when he heard the children scream. He told his wife to go downstairs, pointing out to her that something might have happened to MRS WATTS, who was in delicate health, and that it was her duty to see to her. Witness and his wife then went to the head of the stairs. He was satisfied that something serious had occurred, but his wife would not allow him to go downstairs, being very unwell. Witness went to the front door and saw P.C. Edwards outside. He called him in and they went downstairs together. When he had reached the bottom he saw the deceased and her husband lying together on the floor of the passage. Witness then sent his son for a doctor, and Dr Kirton arrived speedily. P.C. Edwards did his best for WATTS, Mrs Symons passing down bandages and he considered the Constable saved the man's life. When the Doctor arrived he continued bandaging WATTS. When witness first saw the couple lying on the floor the youngest child (16 months old) was sitting in a chair in the back kitchen, and two other children (CHARLES, aged five and LILY, seven) were standing at the kitchen door looking towards their parents. During the day he had not spoken to WATTS. He often heard WATTS and his wife quarrel, generally at night time, after he had been drinking. He never knew the quarrelling to be very violent. At other times the pair lived happily together, and he was often annoyed by hearing them singing together, which was occasionally followed by words. Deceased was a good housewife and he could see no reason why they should not have lived happily together. - By the Foreman: He did not see WATTS on Thursday. MRS WATTS told him that Mr Trenerry (WATT'S employer) had been to the house in the morning to inquire if she had noticed anything strange in her husband's manner. - By the Coroner: MRS WATTS told him about Mr Trenerry, and she said she had told her husband's employer that she had noticed he was strange and had been suffering from sleeplessness and loss of appetite. MRS WATTS began crying and went to her room and he heard WATTS come home at 10.30. - By Jurymen: When he heard the screaming he thought MRS WATTS might have been taken ill, but after thinking over things he felt there was something wrong. If his kitchen door was closed it was possible for persons to visit the family in the basement without his knowledge. The door was very rarely closed. - P.C. Edwards said he was on duty in Albert-road on the afternoon of July 9th and was called by Mr Symons at 5.30. When in the passage he heard WATTS shout, and then went downstairs. Mr Symons having provided him with a candle, as it was very dark. When he was about three stairs from the bottom he saw WATTS reeling in the passage towards the front of the house. He noticed something in the man's hand, which he dropped and then fell immediately afterwards on his side. Drawing closer he saw the body of MRS WATTS and that WATTS had one of his legs over her body and one hand on her throat. Witness pulled WATT'S hand from his wife's throat, which he saw had been cut very badly. He then saw blood coming from WATTS' throat and told Mr Symons to get a doctor. In the meantime he bandaged WATTS' throat with a towel, but considered it useless to attend to MRS WATTS, who was not quite dead. She had lost a great deal of blood, which covered her body and the floor. After he had taken WATTS' hand from his wife's throat, he called "Pengelly" three times in succession. Witness afterwards saw the three children. Dr Kirton arrived soon after. A razor produced was handed to the witness at about 5.50 that day by Mr Symons. The razor was stained with blood and remained in the same condition. WATTS was removed to the Royal Albert Hospital later and the next day the body of MRS WATTS was removed to the Guildhall mortuary. - By the Foreman: Witness had not heard who WATTS' shouts of "Pengelly" referred to. WATTS did not shout "Trenerry", the name of his employer. - WATTS said he had no question to ask witness, as he had "no recollections." - Cornelius Symons, recalled, said he saw the razor on the floor some time after he had been downstairs, he first having kicked it by the kitchen door. The razor was open and the blade was stained with blood. - Dr Kirton said he was called to 64 Albert-road on the evening in question at 5.40 and went to the basement of the house. The bottom of the stairs was very dark and he saw two bodies lying in the passage. The woman was lying on her back and the man on his right side. The woman was not dead, but only breathed three or four times after his arrival. He saw her case was hopeless and turned his attention to the man. His throat was also cut, but not extensively and the haemorrhage had practically ceased. He was in a state of collapse. WATTS was removed to the Hospital. While WATTS was in a semi-conscious condition he heard him say the word "Pengelly" three or four times. He was positive of that being the correct word the man having said it in syllables. He had made a post-mortem examination, with the assistance of Dr Row, Police Surgeon, and found incised wounds on the thumb and first and second fingers of her left hand. There was a superficial incised wound, about an inch long, on her right cheek, and a similar wound, 2 ½ inches long on the upper part of her throat on the right side. Below the last wound there was a deep punctured incised wound going from right to left and severing all the large blood vessels on the right side and the thyroid cartilage. There had evidently been another wound, as the windpipe had been severed below that. The woman was to have become a mother in about two months. In his opinion WATTS had attempted his wife's life previously to having inflicted the wound which caused her death. This was proved by the cuts on her fingers, which shewed she had tried to defend herself, and had probably caught hold of the razor. He believed that her life was attempted at least twice. The wounds were all from right to left, shewing she was attacked from the front. He was positive the wounds could not have been caused by deceased, nor could a child have been responsible for their infliction. He saw the razor produced at the time, which was the sort of weapon that must have been used. The doctor said he should like to compliment P.C. Edwards, who did everything that could be done for WATTS. - Dr F. E. Rowe, Police Surgeon, said he assisted the last witness in making a post-mortem examination. In his opinion she died from haemorrhage, from the wound on the right side, by which the windpipe was severed. He believed two attempts were made before the one which proved effectual. - Joseph Francis Trenerry, house decorator, living at 13 Cotehele-villas, Stuart-road, Stoke, said WATTS was a painter in his employ. On the morning of Friday, July 6th, he came to work as usual at seven o'clock. He left for the work he was at about 7.30 and at 8.10 he returned to witness's house. He told him he was in trouble and said he fancied he was hunted. On being questioned further he said, "I have an idea I have enemies." He asked WATTS if he had been drinking the night before, and if he could account for his fancies. He hesitated and then said, "Well, governor, I'll surrender myself to you." Witness said, "What have you done?" to which he replied, "Lots of things." He could get nothing further out of him except that he said he had done all sorts of things. Witness tried to laugh the matter over, and told WATTS to return to work. At about 8.30 witness went to Cotehele-villas, where he was at work. WATTS said to him, "Governor, you'll stand by me, won't you?" Witness said he would. He asked again, "What have you done?" and received the same reply as before. The owner of the house spoke to witness, and after he had gone, WATTS said "That's Mr Sawdy, isn't it?" Witness replied in the affirmative, when he said, "I wonder if he is a traitor." He remarked "What funny ideas you have got," to WATTS and he said, "I know; but I fancy he is a traitor." After consulting with his wife, witness decided to see MRS WATTS and gathered from her that he had been talking to her in a similar manner. She asked if he had noticed whether her husband had got rather thin, and he said he had. She said she wished he would see a doctor and witness called on WATTS on his way home and advised him to see a doctor. MRS WATTS had told him that her husband did not sleep by night. WATTS left his work shortly after ten o'clock, apparently to see a doctor. he again saw him at one o'clock, when WATTS said he had not been to see the doctor, but intended doing so later. He then went to his work. Witness forgot to mention that WATTS said to him in the morning, "If I want bail, will you bail me out?" WATTS had been constantly employed by him for two and a half years. - The Coroner then asked WATTS if he wished to make any statement, to which he replied that he did not. - In summing up, the Coroner remarked that it was many years since it had been the painful duty of a Coroner's Jury to investigate a case of such a shocking character. It was the duty of the Jury to Inquire carefully into the facts, and to say first what the actual cause of death was. There were various kinds of homicide and it must be made clear whether malice had been expressed. The fact that there was no quarrel and that the family had been quiet all the afternoon showed there was no provocation and they had the fact that the wounds were made by a deadly weapon and that three attempts were made, while the woman had done what she could to defend herself. There was no shadow of doubt that the act must have been malicious. He deliberately attacked his wife with a deadly weapon, which must have been with intent to kill her. If they decided thus it was their duty to return a verdict of wilful murder against WATTS, the question of whether he was accountable for his actions was not within their province. They were not trying WATTS - it was simply their duty to ascertain the cause of death. If they decided on a verdict of wilful murder, he would be committed to take his trial at the next assizes at Exeter. - After conferring in private for about five minutes the Jury returned a verdict of "Wilful Murder " against WATTS. - At Devonport Police Court this morning WATTS will be charged with murdering his wife, and a remand will be asked for until tomorrow week. He will remain at the Hospital until charged today.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 1 August 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Mr J. A. Pearce (Devonport Borough Coroner) continued his Inquiry at the Guildhall yesterday touching the deaths of JOHN YOUNG REA, ALBERT WADDELL and HENRY MOUNTER, who were drowned off Northcorner, Devonport, on June 16th, when endeavouring to reach the Government tug Cracker in a small boat. Mr E. T. Peck (Venning, Goldsmith and Peck) represented the Admiralty. - The Coroner explained that he had been in communication with the naval authorities respecting the presence of the survivor, who had gone to Malta on the Cracker. He had been informed by Mr Sanders (secretary to the Admiral-Superintendent) that the crew which took the Cracker to Malta were returning with the dredger St David to Devonport. She left on July 19th and was expected to arrive on Friday August 10th. It was impossible for them to go further into the matter as there were no witnesses. - The Inquiry was adjourned until the 13th inst.

Western Morning News, Saturday 4 August 1900
TAVISTOCK - The Accident At Great Consols Mine. Oiling Machinery In Motion. - Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquiry at Devon Great Consols last evening touching the death of JOHN STEPHEN WEDLOCK, 19, mine labourer, who resided at Gunnislake, and who was killed at the mine on the previous day. Among those present were Mr J. S. Martin. H.M. Inspector of Mines: Mr Moses Bawden, purser of the mine: and Captain Clemo, managing agent. Mr J. Philp was Foreman of the Jury. - THOS. WEDLOCK, brother of deceased, gave evidence of identification. - Henry Burridge, mine labourer, Gunnislake, said he was on the previous day on the upper floor feeding the grinder. Deceased came up and chatted with him for ten minutes. He then left. About five minutes later witness heard a scream, and running to the head of the staircase, saw that deceased was caught in the couplings of the grinder. Witness rang the bell and the engine-driver stopped the machinery immediately. With difficulty the remains were got out of the machinery. Deceased was dreadfully mangled. Witness thought it likely that deceased was greasing the couplings. It was a peremptory instruction on the mine that all machinery must be stopped before greasing. The upright board protecting the couplings had been in its present position for the last five years. Pengelly, who usually attended to the work in which the deceased was engaged, was home ill. Deceased was quite up to the work. By the Inspector: Deceased had been doing the work about a month. The board protecting the couplings was renewed a few months ago when the rollers were changed. There had always been a board there. It had certainly not been put up since the accident. Witness lost his left arm seven years ago whilst greasing machinery. - The Coroner: It is against the rules to oil machinery while in motion? - Witness: Yes. - The Inspector: An order given is not sufficient unless carried out and enforced. - Mr Bawden: They would not grease the machinery in motion if the foreman were near. - The Inspector: In some places the foreman does not take any notice if things go all right. - Captain Clemo thought it should be stated that the witness did not lose his arm in connection with the machinery in question. - Richard Pengelly, superintendent of the dressing floors, said on hearing the alarm he went to deceased, and found that his whole body was dragged in between the couplings and badly crushed. He believed deceased was greasing the couplings, as he found his grease box and can close by. Deceased told him two hours before the accident, while the machinery was stationary, that he had greased it right through. He had cautioned him not to do it while the machinery was in motion. There should have been no necessity for greasing it again so soon after. - In reply to the Inspector, witness said it was not usual for the protecting board to be soiled by those who attended to the machinery, even in four months. - The Inspector: Then they are more careful than men are in some places I am accustomed to. - Mr Bawden: They are dirty people up the country. - William Williams, mine carpenter, deposed that he put up a new protecting board last April, when the rolls were changed and it had been there ever since. - Pengelly, recalled, told the Inspector that there were three sticks used for oiling the couplings at a distance - one was a foot in length, another 18 inches and another two feet. In this instance the one 18 inches long was missing, and might have shifted into the pass. To see if the pins are in their places would not necessitate deceased going close to the machinery. Witness had never seen anyone set the deceased the bad example of greasing machinery in motion. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the machinery appeared to have been in perfect order and protected, and had it not been for deceased acting contrary to orders the poor fellow would have been living. It appeared to him that there was nobody to blame but the deceased himself. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 8 August 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Mr J. A. Pearce, Borough Coroner, held an Inquiry at Devonport Guildhall yesterday morning touching the death of IVY ELIZABETH PARSONS, aged 12 months, the daughter of SAMUEL VALENTINE PARSONS, a private in the R.M.L.I., living at 18 St. John-street. Dr E. G. Saunders said death was caused by syncope and due to congenital heart disease. The Jury returned a verdict of Natural Causes.

BRIXHAM - Mr Sidney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Brixham last evening, touching the death of WILLIAM DICKERS, 76, retired fisherman, who was found dead that morning at his residence in Higher-street. Deceased's sons said he drank to excess. WALTER DICKERS, one of the sons who lived with deceased, said he came back from sea on Monday night and knocked at the door, but could get no answer. He walked about all night and at half-past six knocked again. Still getting no answer, he fetched the sergeant of Police, and got a ladder and went in through an upper window and on going down into the kitchen found his father dead. Dr Reginald Weekes, who had made a post-mortem examination, attributed death to syncope, and a verdict of Death from Natural Causes was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - Death From Scald At Devonport. - An Inquest was held at Devonport yesterday by Mr J. A. Pearce, Borough Coroner, touching the death of HAROLD JAMES WALKER, aged 16 months, who died on Saturday last after having been scalded. MARGARET WALKER, mother of the child, said she resided at 24 Gloucester-street. On July 18th she crossed the room to make some tea. Deceased ran towards her and, falling over a mat, knocked the kettle of boiling water off an oil stove which was on the fender. His arms and head were scalded. She took him to the Royal Albert Hospital, where he was attended to and afterwards took the child to the Hospital every morning. On Thursday Dr Rae was called in as the boy was looking very haggard. He gradually got worse and died on Saturday afternoon. Witness said she put the stove on the fender because she was cleaning the grate. There were two other children playing in the room. Dr G. Rae said death was due to shock, the result of the scalds. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

STOKE DAMEREL - A Dangerous Playing Place At Camel's Head. - Mr J. A. Pearce (Borough Coroner) held an Inquiry at Devonport yesterday touching the death of NOEL GOLDING, aged five, who was drowned in Weston Mill Creek on Sunday. - JANE GOLDING, 3 York-road, Camel's Head, mother of the child, said deceased and his brother went out on Sunday afternoon. Witness told them not to go to the water. - WILLIAM EDWARD GOLDING, aged 9, said he went out with deceased, and was told by his mother to play in the fields. They went to the water by the railway bridge. A little girl named Harvey asked deceased if he could climb round under the bridge. He tried to get along and slipped into the water. Witness had already got round. He called out that his brother was drowning and saw him rise to the surface three times. His brother had been round the point several times before. - Edith Ellen Harvey, aged 13, of 41 Elliot-street, said she was going home from Camel's Head when she met the boys. Deceased was coming from under the archway and she said, "Can you come round?" he said, "Quite easy," and just then fell into the water. She climbed over some railings and tried to reach the boy, but could not do so. He drifted to the middle of the creek under the bridge. As he appeared the last time he shouted "I'm gone." Deceased eldest brother, aged 16, swam to deceased's assistance, but let him go as he could not bring him along. A sailor brought him ashore. - Thomas McLaren, stoker, H.M.S. Defiance, 36 Victory-street, said he dived into the water and swam about for a quarter of an hour, when he found the boy in fifteen feet of water. - The Coroner remarked that the witness's conduct had been very courageous. He said he had made previous attempts to save life. - On the suggestion of the Foreman, the Coroner agreed to write to McLaren's captain stating his appreciation and that of the Jury, of his conduct. - Dr Henry Gard said he was called to the spot when the body was brought ashore. Artificial respiration had been tried unsuccessfully. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning."

Western Morning News, Friday 10 August 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Bathing Fatality At Camel's Head. - At Keyham yesterday afternoon Mr J. A. Pearce, Devonport Borough Coroner, held an inquiry relative to the death of THOMAS ALFRED SOWDEN, 10, son of WM. SOWDEN, labourer, 6 Victory-street, whose body was found floating in Weston Mill Lake, Camel's Head, on Tuesday afternoon. Arthur George Ford, 36 Townshend-avenue, errand boy, said he bathed in the lake on Tuesday afternoon and when he was dressing deceased came down and commenced to undress. Deceased was still undressing when he left. He had to go through a field to reach the road, and when he got to the gate he was told a boy had been drowned. He went back and identified the body as deceased. There was a lot of seaweed in the water. - Harold Pearce, 8 Vanguard-terrace, said he saw deceased bathing. He kept dipping his head in the water, and he afterwards saw him floating on his stomach. He thought the boy was playing. A man from the railway came down and went in the water and brought deceased ashore. - George John Collam, an employee of the Great Western Railway Company, 1 Pym-street, said he was working on the bridge, and saw the body floating. He called to the last witness and some other boys, and they said the lad was floating. He thought something was wrong and got down and swam out and brought the body ashore. He then tried artificial respiration, but it was of no avail. Witness said he was a bronze medallist of St. John Ambulance Society, and was also a member of the Army Medical Volunteer Corps. - P.C. Best said he rendered first aid with the last witness and Dr Kenrick said he was called to the spot and found the body warm, the boy having been then dead about half an hour. The cause of death was asphyxia, due to drowning. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning," and spoke highly of Collam's action, and expressed sympathy with the relatives.

Western Morning News, Saturday 11 August 1900
YELVERTON - The Quarry Accident On Dartmoor. - An Inquest was held yesterday at Merivale Bridge by Mr R. R. Rodd, District Coroner, on the body of JOHN MOORE, 68, labourer, who was killed on Wednesday in Torre Quarry, belonging to Duke and Co. (Limited). Mr J. S. Martin, her Majesty's Inspector of Mines, was present. - It appeared from the evidence of HENRY JAMES MOORE, son of the deceased, that he had been employed at the quarry for 25 years. - Albert Lamphill, labourer, deposed that on Wednesday afternoon he and deceased were tramming a block of granite, weighing about 15 cwt., from the quarry to a place 100 yards distant, where the sett makers work. They slewed the trolley round and witness went to the back to knock the trigger to release it. He called to deceased, "look out," when the trolley suddenly tipped up and the block of stone fell on the deceased's head. It was a new trolley, in use that day for the first time, though this was not its first trip. He could only account for its slipping by its having become deranged by jerking on the uneven tramway. He had previously had to press the trigger down, and was of opinion that the trigger was not sufficient. - Mr C. C. Broaderick, Surgeon, was called to see deceased, but found him dead, with his head badly crushed. - Wm. Hy. Cooper, foreman of the quarry, said the trolley was sent from Plymouth on Tuesday, and until the accident worked all right. He used it himself three times in the morning and had each time to knock up the trigger. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and requested the Coroner to communicate with Messrs Duke and Co. to see that the trigger was made so that it would not slip and also that the joints of the tramway be made even.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Stonehouse Townhall yesterday morning concerning the death of SAMUEL DAWE, Royal Marine pensioner of 8 High-street. On Wednesday the deceased became faint whilst having dinner and died almost immediately. Dr Archer, locum tenens for Dr Corbett, attributed death to apoplexy and a verdict accordingly was returned.

EXETER - Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Exeter yesterday relative to the death of MR W. SOUTHERN, aged 72, a retired schoolmaster, of Kenton. REV. W. T. SOUTHERN, son of deceased, said he drove into the city with his father on Thursday afternoon. When in the Market deceased was suddenly taken ill and laid on one of the benches whilst a doctor was sent for. Dr Duncan on his arrival pronounced life extinct. His father had suffered from paralysis for ten years, and had not been the same in health since he lost his wife recently. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - Soldier's Sudden Death At Devonport. Medical Attendance At Raglan Barracks. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce, held an Inquiry at the Station Hospital, Devonport, yesterday afternoon touching the death of JAMES ROSS, aged 42, private in the 3rd Somerset Light infantry, which occurred suddenly on Thursday. - Sergeant T. Summerhayes, 3rd S.L.I. said deceased was a time-expired man from the second battalion and afterwards joined the militia. He was a native of Ross, Scotland and had carried on the business of a tailor at Taunton, where his wife lived. For the past ten weeks, while under canvas at Tregantle, deceased had complained of pains in the chest, but had otherwise been in good health. He was invalided from the service on Wednesday, August 1st, and ten days ago was admitted to the Hospital as sick and was discharged on Friday last. Since then he had been living in barracks waiting for his discharge papers, but had done no military duty. If the papers had come he would have gone to his home. Deceased bore a good character, and was of temperate habits. - Sergeant J. Palmer said that at 6.30 a.m. on Thursday he went round the beds of the barrack-room of which he had charge to wake the men up. When he came to ROSS the man said, "All right, sergeant, I'll get up now." He got up and made up his cot. He then seemed to be ill and, after vomiting, left the room. - Corporal E. Cheeseman said that at 7 o'clock he was inspecting the latrines when he saw deceased sitting down with his head resting on a stone. Witness asked, "What's the matter, JIMMY?" and he said "Corporal I'm dying." He went for a stretcher and as soon as deceased was placed on it he died. Witness saw deceased at 6.30, when he appeared all right. - Mr Alec Forsyth, Surgeon, said he was present at the medical board which invalided deceased from the service. He had made a post-mortem examination and found death was due to syncope, owing to long-standing heart disease. Other organs were diseased. Witness said that if he had been called to Raglan Barracks there would have been no one in charge at the Hospital. A civil doctor at Stoke was, however, appointed Surgeon to the troops in Raglan Barracks. - The Coroner suggested the advisability of a surgeon residing at the barracks. He considered there should be at least two doctors in charge of the Hospital and not one, as at present, who might be called away. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Natural Causes" and concurred with the remarks of the Coroner. One Juror suggested the desirability of a surgeon living near to the barracks being called in when urgently required. An Officer in Court said this would be done. The Coroner agreed to communicate with the authorities on the matter.

PLYMOUTH - Drowned Under Plymouth Hoe. - Plymouth Borough Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) held an Inquest yesterday relative to the death of JAMES HENRY HANCOCK of 13 Ambrose-cottages, Gilwell-street, who was drowned under the Hoe on Thursday. - ALBERT HANCOCK, brother of deceased, said that on Thursday afternoon he and his brother were playing "hide and seek" on the rocks just by Tinside. Deceased was missed and on being looked for his cap was seen floating in the water, and later the body was discovered some distance away. Witness ran to his father, and told him what had happened. Deceased must have fallen a distance of about 10 feet off the rocks into the water. - The Foreman said that probably accounted for the many bruises upon the body. - Albert Henry Marsh, the Hoe caretaker, said that when informed of the accident by a couple of lads, he at once ran to the steps at Tinside and without divesting himself of his clothes jumped into the water and brought the body to land. There was a very heavy swell on at the time. Prior to witness appearing efforts were made by another man, who was not a strong swimmer, but owing to the heavy wash he was unable to bring the body to the shore. Witness believed the boy was dead before he was landed. Every means were tried to bring the lad around, but they were of no avail. - Dr Cooke stated that when he was called to Tinside, Marsh was attempting artificial respiration, but though this was maintained for nearly an hour, no sign of life was noticed. Death was due to drowning. - A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned. The Jury commended Marsh for his attempt to save the boy's life.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 14 August 1900
BRIXHAM - Drowned Near Brixham. - At the Inquest held yesterday on WM. CHAS SEABROOKE, found drowned at Broadsands on Saturday, Mr C. Jefferd, manager of the Devon and Cornwall Bank, said deceased was a bank apprentice at his office, and a native of Liskeard. Deceased was in the habit of bathing with him and he had never known him to bathe alone before breakfast. Deceased could not swim. - By the Coroner: Broadsands was not reputed as a dangerous bathing place. He had never seen any lifebuoy or life-saving apparatus there. - The Coroner: There should be some at every bathing place. - Nellie Collings said deceased left his lodgings on Saturday morning at twenty minutes to seven to bathe. He went away on his bicycle. Gilbert Tully, of Elbury Farm, said he saw deceased floating on the water with his face downwards in about 3ft. of water, ten or twelve feet from the shore. He had on a bathing dress, and his clothes were on the beach. The tide was ebbing and it was quite calm. His labourer went into the water and pulled the body ashore. They tried artificial respiration but could get no signs of life. - A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned while Bathing" was returned, and the Foreman (Mr C. Bulgin) was requested to convey a vote of condolence to the bereaved family.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 15 August 1900
TALATON - Suicide Near Sidmouth Junction. - An Inquest was held at Talewater, near Sidmouth Junction, yesterday, on WILLIAM ROBERT ARBERRY, aged 21. - WILLIAM ARBERRY, father of deceased, said his son assisted him at the Talewater Brick and Tile Works. On July 14th deceased, a member of the 3rd V.B.D.R., went with his battalion into camp at Salisbury, returning on the 28th. When he came home he was quieter than usual and did not partake of his food as he generally did. He was out once or twice on Sunday, and in the evening went to church at Feniton. He came home about 9.30 and went to bed without having any supper. A quarter of an hour later he heard the report of a gun. In company with another son he started out and found deceased a short distance away. They removed the body some distance towards the house, and then left it until the Police arrived. A gun with one barrel discharged was lying beside the body. - Charles Lovering, who was in the company of deceased on Sunday night, said when he left him ARBERRY said "Good night," and also added, "I may never see you again." - The Coroner (Mr Cox)( thought this witness gave his evidence in an unsatisfactory manner and withheld his fee. - MRS ARBERRY said her son had not been the same since he came from camp He told her that on July 27th a man in the tent next him was killed by lightning and that he was the first to see him. She thought he was upset by the death of this man. - Dr Burns said there was a large ragged wound on deceased's breast, probably caused by a gun. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane.

Western Morning News, Thursday 16 August 1900
PLYMOUTH - Drowned In Cattewater. - The Borough Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) held an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary yesterday relative to the death of ALBERT FRANCIS ROWE, aged 19, who was drowned at Cattewater on Friday last. Frederick Roberts, decorator of 45 Gibbon-street, Plymouth, said deceased was his nephew, was a footman to Sir William Harcourt of Malwood, Lyndhurst, Hants. Witness had not seen his nephew since November and did not know he was in Plymouth, although he might have been down for a holiday. Deceased was born near Mawgan, his father being in the employ of the Rev. Sir Vyell Vyvyan. Mr Roberts knew of no reason why his nephew should have committed suicide. - William Willis, licensed victualler of the Passage Inn, Cattedown, said he saw deceased on Friday at 7.15 a.m., walking down to the beach near the quay. On Tuesday afternoon he saw the young man's body lying on the mud, about 150 yards from the Passage Inn. The Police were communicated with, and the body was removed by P.C. Hill to the mortuary. - Henry Powell, shipwright, residing at 5 St Jude's-place, stated that last Friday morning about 7.30 he saw deceased in the water near the Passage Inn, Cattedown. ROWE had his trousers loose around him and witness thought that he had accidentally fallen in. A short time afterwards deceased swam out about 50 yards from the shore and turning, swam about half way back to land, when he (witness) went into a store for about two minutes. When witness returned he could see no trace of the deceased, but his clothes were on the side of the quay. A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned.

DAWLISH - Dawlish Cliff Fatality. - At Dawlish last evening, Mr S. Hacker held an Inquest on MISS MARY ANNE HOBBS, aged 51, found at the foot of the cliffs near the Bathing Cove, last Saturday, and who died in the Cottage Hospital on Tuesday. MR J. T. HOBBS, brother of the deceased, a farmer residing at Maisey Hampton, Gloucestershire, said for three years she had been under control owing to the state of her mind. Up to that time she resided with him. While with him she shewed no suicidal tendency. She had been under restraint before three years ago, but got better again. She seemed to have been perfectly happy while at Plantation House, Dawlish, where she had been staying some time. - MISS CATHERINE HOBBS, sister of deceased, stated that deceased had been in the Barnwood, Box and Wonford Asylums. On leaving Wonford she went to Plantation House, Dawlish, a branch establishment. Witness came to Dawlish in July and saw deceased daily. She appeared much better and went out with witness frequently. When deceased left witness last Friday night she appeared bright and cheerful, but she did not call as usual on Saturday morning at the house where witness was lodging. - Mark Cornelius, bathing machine superintendent, stated that his attention was aroused by a groaning noise last Saturday morning. He went to the back of the bathing cove, just under Lea Mount cliff and there saw deceased lying on her face, with her arms stretched out, in a pool of blood. There were marks on the side of the cliff as though deceased had fallen over from Lea Mount. - Edith Bracher, matron at Plantation House, said deceased entered the home from Wonford in May last. Dr Deas visited the home every week. Deceased was convalescent, and was fit to walk about alone. She had shewn no suicidal tendency. Arrangements had been made for her to leave the Home on August 23rd, and on the morning of the fall she was talking at breakfast quite cheerfully about her approaching departure. Deceased left the Home shortly after nine o'clock on Saturday morning. - W. S. Young, a visitor from Willesden, London, while out for a walk on Lea Mount on Saturday morning saw a lady's umbrella and mantle against the railing. Thinking someone would come back to claim the articles, he sat by them for some time. Then he sent them to the Police Station. The railings were high and would be difficult to climb over. - P.C. Beer found deceased's hat lodged on the side of the cliff. The top of the cliffs was thoroughly protected by rails. - Dr P. M. Deas, Medical Superintendent of Wonford House Asylum, said deceased came into his charge in January last. The confinement of the asylum was very irksome to her and he sent her to Dawlish. He regarded her as practically well and could in no way explain the occurrence,. A person who had been of unsound mind was never absolutely safe again. No doubt she acted impulsively, owing to some unaccountable working of the brain that could not be explained. She was allowed out as a part of her treatment to enable her to recover self control. - Dr f. J. Cann described the injuries, which included a large scalp wound. She remained unconscious at the Hospital and died on Tuesday of concussion of the brain. - Replying to MR HOBBS, P.C. Beer said deceased apparently slipped off the cliff. She could hardly have jumped, as the cliff sloped outward for a short way from the top. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind."

Western Morning News, Friday 17 August 1900
PEMBROKE, WALES - Fatal Injuries To Seamen. - An Inquest was held at Pembroke Dock yesterday afternoon on PERCY POPPLESTONE, aged 18, ordinary seaman, of the battleship Thunderer, who died early on Wednesday morning while at sea from the effects of a fall on the previous evening. The Thunderer left Portland on Tuesday evening and deceased, who was engaged covering a boat, fell 23 feet on to the upper deck, fracturing the base of his skull. A verdict of Accidental Death was returned. POPPLESTONE was a native of Torquay.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 21 August 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - The Boating Fatality In The Hamoaze. - Mr J. A. Pearce (Devonport Borough Coroner) held an inquiry at the Guildhall yesterday touching the death of GEORGE HAWKINS, 39, a sapper in the 57th Field Company Royal Engineers, who was drowned in the Hamoaze on Saturday last. - Sergeant William David Hawkins, R.E. said he was non-commissioned officer in charge of the company at Mount Wise Barracks, Devonport and identified the body of deceased who was a native of Coombe St Nicholas near Chard, Somerset. Deceased was not a relation of his. His quarters overlooked the Hamoaze, and while in them at about 7 o'clock he heard cries of help and on looking through the window saw six men in the water, but they were soon after hidden by the steamer which went to their rescue. - George Fleming, labourer, said five Engineers came to him in the afternoon to hire a boat, but there was not one in at the time. They again came to Mount Wise at 6.30 and took a boat to carry eight persons. The boat was a private one, and it was about 15ft. long and 5ft. in beam. Five of the men had taken a boat the previous evening and he knew they could manage it. He saw them row towards Barnpool and at 6.50 saw five of them in the Mount Edgcumbe Arms, witness having crossed there in the meanwhile. They were all perfectly sober. The men told him they intended to go to Barnpool to bathe when they hired the boat. Witness saw two of the party landed at Queen's Steps, Mount Wise and was obliged to get brandy for Walker, who had been bathing before the boat was upset. - George Thomas White, driver in the 57th Company R.E., stationed at Old Granby Barracks, said he hired the boat and rowed over to Cremyll with five other men and a boy. Five of them went to the Mount Edgcumbe Arms, where they had a quart of ale between them. They had drank a pot of ale before hiring the boat, which was shared among seven of them. The boy had nothing, but there was another driver with them then. On leaving Cremyll they had rowed about 40 yards towards Mount Wise when Drivers Walker and Williamson said they would have a bathe. They rowed to a small buoy, of which they caught hold while the two men undressed. It was their intention to keep hold of the buoy while the others had a swim, but this was not done. A quarter of an hour later Williamson got into the boat and directly afterwards Walker got in, and as he was sitting down the boat turned over. The five men in the boat got to the starboard side so as to balance the weight of the men getting in. The boat turned over instantaneously, the wash from a steamer having struck the port side as Walker got in. He was being assisted into the boat by the deceased. They intended to cross to the other side of the boat directly the two men got in, and thus balance it, but the swell struck them suddenly and did not give them time. The boat was broadside on at the time. - Driver William Walker said he swam from the boat, and Williamson got back first. Deceased helped witness into the boat, and as he sat down it upset. Witness tried to save the lad Tucker by putting him on the keel of the overturned boat and they were all eventually picked up. He did not see deceased in the water. - Thomas Henry Tucker of Turnchapel, captain of the steamer Countess of Morley, said he was bringing his vessel down the Hamoaze at about 7.30 on Saturday evening when he saw some men in the water on his port bow. He at once proceeded to the spot, giving orders for the lifebuoys to be got ready. The crew threw the buoys over as near as possible to the men. He saw deceased in the water, and he appeared to be exhausted. Witness got over the side of the boat, and, hanging over by the rails, with the assistance of others, got the deceased on board. The boat at once proceeded to Mutton Cove at full speed and before going alongside he shouted for someone to get a doctor. Dr McElwaine arrived very shortly after the deceased was got ashore. In the meanwhile his mate and an engineer had attempted artificial respiration, which was continued. He would have thought a boat of the size mentioned was safe, though it was none too large and he would not care to bathe from a boat of that size. - The Coroner here complimented Captain Tucker upon his highly praiseworthy action in promptly rescuing the men and saving the lives of all but one. The thanks of the Jury were due to him as well as those of the rescued men. He understood it was not the first time Capt. Tucker had been instrumental in saving life. - Dr McElwaine said he tried artificial respiration without success and found that death was due to asphyxia through drowning. - Replying to the Coroner, Sergt. Hawkins said he saw two boats with people near the scene of the accident, but he did not see them make any attempt to rescue the men. - It transpired that White and Williamson were probably saved by one of these boats. The Coroner remarked that he questioned very much whether the boat was large enough to carry the number of men in it. It was a peculiar circumstance, but it was generally a fact in such cases that men had recently been in a public-house. He did not think that in the case before them they had too much to drink, and believed they were all quite sober, or they would not have remembered the facts so vividly. At the same time it was very unwise for them to bathe from the boat. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 22 August 1900
EAST STONEHOUSE - Sudden Death At Stonehouse. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquiry yesterday relative to the death of MARY ELIZABETH PHILLIPS, 57, single woman, of 28 Admiralty-street, Stonehouse. - Laura McMullan said that deceased was her sister and that she died on Sunday last at 2.45 a.m. She had been in ill-health for a period of three months, but had not been medically treated until Saturday last, when Dr Corbett saw her. She got up as usual on Saturday morning, was taken worse and went to bed at 4 p.m. Mr W. E. Corbett, Surgeon, said he saw the deceased on Saturday evening about eight o'clock. She was then complaining of pains in the stomach. He did not notice anything to lead him to think that she would die suddenly. He had made a post-mortem examination and discovered chronic inflammatory disease of the stomach, which had set up peritonitis and caused death. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 29 August 1900
PLYMOUTH - ELIZABETH ROSEKELLY, a widow, aged 65, residing at 2 Desborough-road, Plymouth, was left on Monday night in her usual health, and yesterday morning, when Mrs M. A. Bartlett arrived, she found deceased lying on the floor dead. Deceased had suffered for two years from cancer, and Dr Eccles, at the Inquest yesterday, said death was due to haemorrhage, the result of the cancer. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 31 August 1900
TEIGNMOUTH - Found Drowned At Teignmouth. - An Inquest was held at Teignmouth yesterday on THOMAS JAMES GLOVER, a lad, whose body was found floating in the river on Wednesday evening, having been missing since Friday last. Alice Cummings stated that she last saw the lad alive on the Quay Extension on Friday at two o'clock. He had not been heard of since. - Arthur Richardson, a boatman, said on Wednesday evening he saw the body floating up the river with the flood tide, about 300 yards below the bridge. Dr G. H. Johnson said death was by drowning. There were no marks on the body to suggest violence. - A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 1 September 1900
PLYMOUTH - WILLIAM SAMUEL HOCKADAY, 21, carrier, of 18 Clarence-street, Plymouth, was admitted to the S.D. and E.C. Hospital on 23rd inst., suffering from inflammation of the bowels. An operation was found necessary and on Thursday it was attempted. The operation had been proceeding for 25 minutes and was practically over, when deceased died from shock and heart disease. At the Inquest yesterday a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 4 September 1900
SPREYTON - Sad Death At Spreyton. - An Inquest was held at Spreyton yesterday on SYDNEY JOHN CURSONS, aged 15 months, which took place on Saturday. ALICE CURSONS said on Friday evening her young sister took the child out of a perambulator to play with, and whilst carrying him to the kitchen door slipped, letting the child fall into a boiler of hot water. - ELIZA CURSONS, mother of the last witness, said she undressed the child and put honey and flour on the scalds. She did not send for the doctor, as she did not consider the injuries severe. She looked after the child during the night, but it died about 2 a.m. Dr Cutcliffe stated that had he been called he did not think he could have saved the child's life. Death was caused by shock. Verdict accordingly.

STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Dockyard Fatality. A Strange Accident: Unsatisfactory Evidence. - Mr J. A. Pearce (Devonport Borough Coroner) held an Inquest yesterday relative to the death of SIDNEY JOHN ELLERY, aged 20, a labourer in the Dockyard, killed while clearing mud out of No. 2 dock on Saturday morning. Mr Peck (Venning and Goldsmith) represented the Admiralty: and Mr Sidney Shuter (Inspector of Factories), the Home-office; and Mr R. R. Rodd watched the Inquiry on behalf of Messrs. Hitchings. - William Henry Pyne, labourer in the Dockyard, said on Saturday morning he was employed in No. 2 dock filling buckets with mud to be hoisted. The practice, when a bucket was filled, was to put the clips on the handle of the bucket, call out "Right," and then stand from under. then the bucket would be hoisted by a rope attached to a couple of horses. Witness held the handle of one bucket while deceased put on the clips. both clips were put on perfectly and witness shouted "Right." Then deceased and witness walked back six or seven yards. They watched the bucket until it got out of danger, as they thought, and then commenced filling another bucket. ELLERY standing between the bucket and the side of the dock. When the bucket was about half-full witness heard someone call out "Under," and, on looking around, saw ELLERY on his back. A bucket which had fallen was quite close to deceased. - By the Coroner: The instructions of the leading man were that we should stand clear until the bucket was landed. The bucket was swinging in when we began to fill the other bucket. By Mr Shuter: After the bucket fell I noticed the clips were in their place on the handle. - Andrew Collings, pensioner and labourer in the Dockyard, said he was stationed on the top of the coping to receive the buckets. One had been hoisted before the one that fell. The first bucket was not hoisted high enough because the horses stopped too soon. It was hauled in without difficulty after the second hoist. The second bucket also stopped a foot or 18 inches below the top of the coping. Witness gave the order, "A little higher." Immediately after the bucket fell into the dock. Witness had not touched the bucket. The cause of the bucket falling was the unhooking of the tackle from the horse. A man named Hodge was put to unhook when the bucket was landed. The full bucket weighed 2 ½ cwt. - By the Jury: I cannot understand how the rope became unhooked with such a strain on it. I am sure the bucket never reached the top. - John Pawley, pensioner and Dockyard labourer, employed with Collings to pull in and empty the buckets, gave similar evidence. - William John Hodge said his duty was to unhook the chain attached to the horse when the bucket was hoisted and landed. When the second bucket was hauled up the horses stopped. Witness heard the words, "High enough," but did not know which side they came from. Witness then unhooked, and there was no strain whatever on the rope. There was a pause of several seconds, and then the rope ran away. Witness held on to it as long as he could, and it swung him round. - By Mr Rodd: There was no fault of the drivers. - Alfred Bennetto and James Boyles, horse drivers, in the employ of Messrs. Hitchings, said the horses were not stopped until orders were given to stop. - John Charles Bailey, leading man of labourers, said the men employed below ought to stand clear until he bucket was landed, and Hodge ought not to unhook until he was told "Let go." His theory was that the bucket must have been landed to allow the rope to be unhooked. - Dr M. L. B. Rodd, R.N., said deceased on being brought to the surgery was dead. There was a large scalp wound at the back of the head, as well as a compound fracture of the right leg. Death was instantaneous. - The Coroner, in summing up, said some of the evidence was very unsatisfactory indeed, because they did not seem to be wiser now than they were at the commencement of the Inquiry. His opinion was that the bucket was partly landed, and that the two men at the top were in the act of taking it in when the bucket slipped and fell on deceased. He believed some of the witnesses had been telling the truth, but he must say, without particularly naming witnesses, that the evidence was entirely unreliable. He thought there was a great deal of carelessness and that the orders were not given as they should have been. No blame could be attached to the drivers of the horses. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned; and the Coroner and Jury expressed sincere sympathy with the relatives of the deceased.

NEWTON ABBOT - The Kingsteignton Fatality. - An Inquest was held yesterday at Newton Abbot on JAMES VOGLER, 64, of Kingsteignton, who was injured by falling down a clay-pit whilst in the employ of Whiteway and Co. Mr J. Hutchings, solicitor, watched the case on behalf of Whiteway and Co., and Mr J. S. Martin, Government Inspector of Mines, was present. Deceased was lifting an end of a piece of timber with a crowbar, when the bar slipped and he fell backward into the pit, and on to the top stay, about 4ft. down, then turned over and fell to the bottom, a depth of 14ft. - Dr Margraves said deceased had a contused wound on the top of the head, and a dislocation of the spine in the neighbourhood of the neck, which eventually caused paralysis of both arms and the left side, and subsequently death. - Mr J. S. Martin, the Inspector of Mines, stated that he was satisfied with the evidence, and that it was a usual way of working. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 5 September 1900
MARLDON - Suicide At Marldon. - WILLIAM SHEPHERD, a farm labourer living at Marldon, 52 years of age, committed suicide by hanging last Friday night. He came home drunk, as it appeared he was in the habit of doing, and he was so quarrelsome that his wife and two sons left him in the house and went out and took lodgings for the night in the neighbourhood. The next morning his body was found on the ground in the porch of the cottage with a broken rope tied round his neck, the other end of the rope being tied to a beam above. An Inquest was held by the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. T. Kellock, when the sons described the finding of the father's body, quite dead and cold, and they and the mother spoke of the drunkenness of the deceased on the previous evening and his extremely quarrelsome behaviour, which drove them out. Dr Ward proved that death was due to strangulation. The verdict was "Suicide by Hanging while Temporarily Insane."

TOTNES - Child Drowned At Totnes. Dangerous Bathing-Place. - An Inquest was held yesterday at Totnes by Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, on REGINALD THOMAS REED, aged six years, son of JOHN REED, of Totnes, painter. Deceased's mother said deceased came home from school on Monday afternoon and she did not see him alive afterwards. She had never known him go into the water or ask to do so. - P.C. Sandercock said he saw the deceased and William Charles Arscott, aged five years, going towards the station and Mill Leat. They had no towels or anything to show they were going bathing. - John A. Potter, town porter, said about 5.45 he heard at the railway station that the deceased had been drowned. He went to the Mill Leat and some men pointed out the body to him. He asked them if they were men, took off his coat and waistcoat, and went into the water after deceased. The water was about seven feet deep where the body was. The body was, however, about 2 ½ feet from the surface, lying on some weed. He brought deceased ashore and artificial respiration was tried by Mr Davey. At the place where boys bathed the water was about 3 feet or 3 ½ feet deep, and the current was very strong. Deceased had no clothes on. - W. Davey, Great Western Railway, said he tried artificial respiration, being assisted by the ganger, until Dr Hains came. - Dr Hains said when he arrived the child was apparently dead, but he tried artificial respiration about a half an hour. The child might have been in the water about twenty minutes. The large quantity of water in the lungs and stomach shewed that he must have struggled a great deal. There was a quantity of weeds at the spot and it was a dangerous place. Deceased might have got his foot in the weed and struggled to extricate himself. - Samuel Wellington, aged eight years, said on Monday afternoon he went down by the Mill Leat and saw two boys undressed. He told them not to go into the water or they might be drowned. Deceased went in and soon afterwards took hold of the weed to save himself. He (witness) tried to get at deceased, and ran over the bridge to the other side of the Leat, but could not save him. He called for help and went with a boy to call deceased's mother. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" and thanked Potter, Davey and the little boy Wellington, for services rendered. - The Deputy Coroner said Potter could not have done more: Davey acted most kindly and the little boy Wellington behaved splendidly and was deserving of great praise. He extended the sympathy of the Court to the deceased's father and mother.

STOKE DAMEREL - The Suicide In Keyham Basin. Gallant Conduct Of A Marine And Petty Officer. - Mr J. A. Pearce, (Devonport Borough Coroner), held an Inquest at Keyham Dockyard yesterday relative to the death of HENRY LAWRENCE OLIVER, aged 28, married, of 4 Ham-lane, Plymouth, employed as a second-class domestic on the cruiser Cambrian. - BEATRICE ANNE OLIVER, 11 Pentamar-terrace, Stoke, sister of deceased, said about a fortnight ago, while deceased was on his ship, heavy bags of coal fell on his head, and he had a bad blow on the right eye. Since the accident he had appeared depressed. When a child he had a sunstroke, from which he suffered until he was about sixteen. He was in the navy and served on the Impregnable and Defiance until three years ago, when he entered the service of the Plymouth Co-operative Society as a baker. Three weeks ago he again entered the service. He liked the sea and was comfortable on the Cambrian. He had three children and led a happy domestic life, having no financial or other worries. He had never threatened to take his life. - William George Tolcher, cook on the Cambrian, said that since deceased had been on the ship he had seemed reserved and depressed. He understood deceased's idea in rejoining the navy was to complete his time for pension, but he did not think this was the cause of deceased's depression. While they were coaling ship in the Sound about a fortnight ago deceased was picking up lumps of coal on deck when some coal that was being hoisted in struck him on the forehead. He then went to the sick bay and had it dressed and went about his duties as usual. - Frederick Perriton, domestic on the Cambrian, said he had tea with deceased on Sunday afternoon. Witness went on deck and shortly afterwards saw deceased looking through the pantry port-hole, looking very white and strange. Seeing there was something wrong witness ran below and just as he got to the pantry door heard a splash. On looking through the port-hole witness saw deceased going round in the water. A marine then jumped in after him. Deceased must have done something before he got to the port-hole, as there was blood on the pantry floor. He would have no difficulty in getting through the 12-in. port-hole, as he was a slight man. - Private A. F. Walker, R.M.L.I., said that on Sunday he was doing sentry duty on the pontoon between 4.30 and 5 p.m. when he saw a white face at a port-hole with blood streaming from the forehead. The man drew back his head and put out his arms and it then struck witness that he was trying to draw himself through the port-hole. Witness raised his rifle and threatened to throw it at him if he did not get inboard. Deceased looking horribly sorrowful and desperate. Turning his face to the deck's side, deceased threw himself backwards into the water. Witness took off his belt and jumped in, taking his tunic off in the water. Immediately deceased came to the surface he swam on his back to get clear of the ship's side. Then he spread out his hands, made no struggle and went down. Witness gripped at his head, but the hair was too short for him to get hold. Witness did not like to strike deceased, but succeeded in gripping him by the back of the neck and both sank. He got deceased to the pontoon, but he was not a good swimmer and was hampered by his clothes and they both sank again. In his drowning effort deceased gripped both thighs and witness could not get to the surface again, but managed to put up his hand. Petty-Officer Fry then jumped in and brought witness to the surface. By this time witness's legs were free. - By the Jury: Deceased was groaning like a man in agony when getting through the port-hole. - Ernest George Fry, 1st class petty officer on the Cambrian, said that seeing Private Walker in the water and going down, he jumped in and brought him to the pontoon. Witness did not know at the time that there was anyone else in the water. The body was recovered by a diver at 6.10 p.m. - P.S. Maddeford said no writing had been found on the body or on the ship. There was blood in a corner of the pantry, as if deceased had butted his head against something, and near the spot was a piece of "T" iron used as a support. There was blood on the scuttle, shewing that deceased was bleeding when he got through. - Dr H. W. B. Shewell, R.N., of the Arrogant, said on the body were superficial wounds, but not sufficient to affect the brain. - The Coroner, in summing up, referred to the absence of evidence to show that deceased's mind was unhinged. The accident may, however, have caused him to be depressed and not know what he was doing. It was a very sad case indeed, and the sympathies of the Jury would be extended to the widow and relatives. He must refer to the very gallant conduct of Private Walker and Petty-Officer Fry. Walker might have lost his own life in the attempt to save the life of deceased, but for the courageous conduct of Fry. Some recommendation should be sent to the proper quarter recording the Jury's appreciation of the conduct of both men. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while in a state of Temporary Insanity", expressed sincere sympathy with the relatives and asked the Coroner to bring the conduct of Walker and Fry before their commanding officers and the Royal Humane Society. - The Coroner promised to do this, and, addressing Walker and Fry, complimented them on their gallant behaviour. - Mr Peck said he would report to the Admiral-Superintendent the Jury's expression of opinion.

Western Morning News, Thursday 6 September 1900
ST BUDEAUX - Fatal Accident At Honicknowle. - Mr R. R. Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest at Honicknowle, on Tuesday evening, on FLORENCE MAY HOLMAN, daughter of a naval pensioner, aged 18 months. - George Popplestone, a carman in the employ of Hosken, Trevithick and Polkinhorn, millers, Plymouth, was driving two horses attached to an empty wagon through Honicknowle at 11.30 a.m. on Tuesday. A lad ran across the road in front of the leading horse and shouted and when Popplestone looked down he saw the deceased under the leading horse. The horses were walking. The carman immediately pulled up and found the child on the ground, face downwards, and unconscious. - Dr T. Olver, of Crownhill, was sent for, and found the child was dead. The right lung of the deceased was considerably injured and might have been caused by a horse stepping upon the child. There were no fractures of bones. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and exonerated the driver from blame. There is a very dangerous corner where the accident occurred.

STOKE DAMEREL - A Devonport Suicide. Worry Through Changing Houses. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Devonport Borough Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday relative to the death of ELIZABETH HEDDERLEY WHITBREAD, aged 42, wife of ROBERT WILLIAM WHITEBREAD, pensioned chief engine-room artificer, of 71 Beatrice-avenue, Keyham Barton. Dr J. J. N. Morris said he had seen deceased several times since Christmas, and had attended her for the last fortnight. On August 25th she complained of melancholic symptoms. They had moved from Haddington-road and purchased the house in Beatrice-avenue. She was evidently very worried about this and very low spirited. She told him that when her youngest child, now five years old, was born, she had a variety of troubles affecting the brain, such as frequently occurred at childbirth. Deceased had a suspicion that she might be pregnant again, but she did not seem afraid. When he saw her last Wednesday she seemed to have improved, having been able to sleep better. On each occasion on which witness saw her she said she had every cause to be happy and there was no reason why she should not be one of the happiest women living. - MR WHITBREAD, the husband, said deceased had worried lately about their investing in that house. There was really no need to worry, but they had lived in Haddington-road 15 ½ years and she did not seem to get reconciled to the change. About 7 a.m. on Tuesday she asked him to go down and light the kitchen fire, and at the same time got out of bed. He went downstairs and 25 minutes later returned to the bedroom. On reaching the landing he thought he heard peculiar sounds and hurrying into the bedroom, found his wife again in bed, in a state of collapse. He sent for Dr King and tried, unsuccessfully, to administer an emetic of mustard and water. When Dr King arrived he said it was hopeless, as she was in a dying state. The glass produced, containing a small quantity of concentrated carbolic acid, was found in the bedroom. The glass was usually kept on the wash-stand. A box of powder was the only disinfectant kept on the premises. - Dr King said he went to the house immediately he was called and found deceased in a dying state. He made an attempt to use the usual remedies to neutralise the acid, but she died in two minutes. He had made a post-mortem examination and found nothing to account for death except carbolic poison, of which there were traces in the stomach. It was a very strong concentrated carbolic. It could not be produced through mixing powder with water. - MR WHITBREAD said they had searched everywhere and could not find a bottle. - Dr King said the acid found in the glass was pure, there being no water whatever in it. The absence of a bottle looked as if deceased premeditated suicide. - MR WHITBREAD said he smelt the carbolic immediately he entered the room, and if it had been in the glass before he went down he would have smelt it. - The Coroner referred to the symptoms spoken of by Dr Morris, and said if he had to come to Beatrice-avenue after living in Haddington-road fifteen years he would have felt the change. Sometimes women worried about financial matters when there was absolutely no cause. As to the sale of carbolic acid, from 1st September no one was allowed to sell it but chemists. Hitherto people had been able to get it for disinfecting purposes from grocers and others, but it had now been declared to be a poison and registered as such. He was glad that what had been required for some time had at last been done, and he hoped there would not be so many deaths as in the past, the great majority of poisoning cases having been from carbolic acid. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" and expressed their sympathy with the husband.

STOKE DAMEREL - A Soldier's Death At Devonport. Most Unsatisfactory Evidence. - Mr J. A. Pearce (Devonport Borough Coroner) held an Inquest yesterday on BENJAMIN RAY, aged 38, private, 2nd, Royal Northern Reserve Regiment, who died at the Station Military Hospital, Stoke, on Monday. - Maj. John Watkins, Royal Northern Reserve Regiment, stationed at South Raglan Barracks, said he came down to Devonport with his company, in which the deceased was, from Pembroke Dock on 29th ult. Deceased joined the regiment on 19th March, and was a native of West Bromwich. There were three cases of drunkenness recorded against him in three months. - Private Walter Hancocks said he was drinking with the deceased, who was his chum, in the canteen on Saturday evening, and when the canteen was closed at 9.30 p.m. deceased was the worse for liquor. Having seen deceased to his bed, witness went to bed in another room. On the way from the canteen to the barrack-room deceased did not fall, so far as he knew. Between five and six o'clock on Sunday morning he was awoke by some men who told him to go and see "BENNY," who was ill. On going to the other room witness found deceased lying in bed groaning and rubbing his stomach. Half an hour afterwards deceased was removed to the Hospital. While in the canteen on the Saturday evening they drank ale at 3d. a quart. - The Coroner: Is there any limit to the quantity of ale you get in the canteen? Can you get as much as you like? - Yes, if we have got the money. - And when the canteen is closed you get out as best you can? - Yes. - Do you know at what time you entered the canteen? - Between six and seven. - And stayed there all the time? - Yes. - A Juryman: Is there not a corporal told off to keep men from getting drunk? - There is a non-commissioned officer in charge, but you can get as much as you like, and get intoxicated for all that. - Private T. Underhill said shortly before eleven on Saturday night he heard deceased groaning, and, having got a light, witness found his mouth and nostrils were full of blood. Witness wiped away the blood and, as deceased then seemed to be better, went to his bunk. Deceased appeared to be in drink and witness did not think he was sufficiently ill to want medical assistance. When witness entered the barrack-room at 10.10 p.m., deceased was sleeping. Deceased was addicted to drinking. - Private Thomas Williams, acting orderly corporal, said at 7 a.m. on Sunday he heard that RAY was ill, found his mouth filled with congealed blood. RAY was conscious and kept saying "Oh! my stomach." Deceased could have got on to the verandah during the night. - A Juryman: Is there any medical man to call in without removing a man to the Hospital? - Not to my knowledge. - Was it not your duty to call a superior officer when a man was suffering as that man was? - Yes, but the man was very bad. We had only been here a few days, and we knew of no place to take the man. We took him to the Hospital on our own responsibility. All our non-commissioned officers had gone away on different duties. - Could you not have reported it to Major Watkins? - I don't know where he lies. - Is he not in barracks? - No. - The Coroner: Have not orders been given that if a man is taken ill suddenly, the nearest medical officer, whether civilian, or a member of the R.A.M. Corps, should be sent for? - Yes, but the Hospital appeared to be the nearest. - Dr Thomas Wilson said when brought to the Hospital at 7.50 a.m. on Sunday deceased was in a state of collapse. He appeared to have been drinking. He did at 8 a.m. on Monday. He was in great pain all the time up to his death. A post-mortem examination shewed that death was due to acute peritonitis due to rupture of the bladder, probably caused by a fall. All the internal organs were in a state of acute alcoholism. Deceased did not remember anything that occurred on Saturday night. - Private Underhill, recalled, said in the night deceased walked to the verandah, but went back to his bed immediately. He was groaning all night. Witness considered it was due to drink. - Private Hancocks, recalled, repeated that deceased did not fall so far as he knew. While they were in the canteen deceased made no complaint and there was no blood. - Dr Wilson, in reply to the Coroner, said that if medical assistance had been immediately sent for it would not have prevented his death. There were no marks of violence. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the evidence was most unsatisfactory. The orderly did the right and proper thing in sending the man to the Hospital, but the case confirmed his (the Coroner's) opinion that there should be a resident medical man at the barracks. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, adding that there was no evidence to shew how the fall occurred.

Western Morning News, Saturday 8 September 1900
HIGHWEEK - At Highweek yesterday the Inquest on WILLIAM GOUGH, 41, carter, of Netley-terrace, who fell from his wagon on Monday when engaged with other men in loading it with joinery, resulted in a verdict of "Accidental Death," no blame being attached to anyone.

PLYMOUTH - The Plymouth Tragedy. The Inquest. - At the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital yesterday the Deputy Borough Coroner (Mr John Graves) opened the Inquest on CORNELIUS CHARLES THOMAS, refreshment house keeper, of 33 Millbay-road, Plymouth, who was shot in the arm on his premises on Friday evening last, and died at the Hospital on Tuesday, and for which Arthur Smith, of Crewe, near Halifax, is now in custody on a charge of wilful murder. Mr J. T. Bond appeared for the Treasury; Mr W. T. Lawrence, barrister of the Western Circuit (instructed by Messrs. Ginn and Porter) for the accused. Neither the accused nor the wife of the deceased attended. Mr Geo. Ryder was Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner said the facts, although painful, were simple, and rather tragic, in that THOMAS died as the result of a revolver wound. They could not go into the facts that day because it was essential to have the attendance of the deceased's wife, who was one of the principal witnesses, but she was unable to be present on account of temporary illness. Therefore the Inquest would be adjourned until Monday, and only sufficient evidence to identify the body would be taken. - Detective Inspector W. Mutton identified the body viewed as that of CORNELIUS CHARLES THOMAS, aged 38. On Friday, August 31st. at 8 p.m., witness was called to 33 Millbay-road, a refreshment house, kept by the deceased. THOMAS was in the front shop lying on the floor, supported by pillows, attended by Dr Pearse. Acting on the doctor's instructions he conveyed THOMAS in a cab to the Hospital, where he was detained. The Coroner said it would be inadvisable to take any actual evidence of the circumstances that afternoon, thus splitting the evidence and having to take it again on Monday. - Dr Pearse: I don't think the wife will be fit to appear on Monday. She may be, but it is a little uncertain. - The Coroner: When do you think she will be? - It will be better to get this Inquiry over before the magisterial hearing. What is she suffering from - collapse? - Dr Pearse: Alcoholism. - The Coroner: Well, she must get over that. I take it if she does not indulge between this and then she will be all right. Is she still indulging in drink? - Dr Pearse: Not now. Up to recently she has been. - The Coroner: Is there no one to take care of her? - Dr Pearse: There is someone in the house taking care of her. - The Coroner: Is it a recent excess of alcohol or an accumulation having an effect on her health? - Dr Pearse: It is quite recent. - Ellen Torr, of 5 Bath-place, said MRS THOMAS was in her charge. She thought the witness would be able to appear on Monday if carefully looked after. She (Mrs Torr) did not allow her to have anything to drink and was acting strictly under the doctor's orders. - Mr Lawrence: When did she have anything last? - Mrs Torr: On Monday. - Mr Bond: And this is Friday! - Dr Pearse: It was Wednesday when I saw her and she had evidently just been drinking. - Mr Lawrence (to Mrs Torr): When did you see her last? - Mrs Torr: Just before I came away. - Mr Lawrence: What was her condition? - Mrs Torr: She was very ill in bed. I understood she was suffering from her heart and she had been drinking up to Monday. Dr Pearse also said he saw her yesterday morning. - The Foreman: Cannot we adjourn until Monday week? - The Coroner: It is better to have the adjourned Inquest as soon as we can. There is a magisterial inquiry to come on, on Thursday, and it is advisable to get the Inquest over as soon as possible. - In reply to further inquiries from the Coroner and Mr Lawrence, Dr Pearse said he thought MRS THOMAS would be able to appear on Tuesday. - The Coroner then adjourned the Inquest to 3 p.m. on Tuesday next at the Registrar's Court, Plymouth Guildhall.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 11 September 1900
PLYMOUTH - In the case of JOHN HEATHER, Royal Naval pensioner, aged 56, of 22 Home, Sweet Home, Plymouth, who died on his way to work early on Saturday morning, his widow at the Inquest yesterday said he was in his usual health on leaving home and Dr Dimrod, Assistant Surgeon, S.D. and E.C. Hospital, said a post-mortem examination shewed that death was due to fatty degeneration of the heart.

IVYBRIDGE - JAMES RICE, aged 60, dairyman, Godwell, Ivybridge, died on Sunday morning. At the Inquest yesterday JOHANNA RICE, the widow said deceased went out to fetch the cows in the morning. Coming back, he said he had been very unwell. While she was milking a cow he fell down faint. He was assisted indoors, but before he could be got into bed he died. He had some tea before going upstairs and was in the house about an hour before he died. Dr Cooper said he had made a post-mortem examination, and found that death was due to heart disease. The lungs were also congested. Deceased was not a healthy man and had he (the witness) been present he could have done no good. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 12 September 1900
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Shooting Case. Coroner's Jury's Verdict. - The Inquiry into the death of CORNELIUS CHARLES THOMAS, refreshment-house keeper, Millbay-road, Plymouth, who was shot in the arm by Arthur Smith, a visitor from Halifax, a fortnight ago, and subsequently died in the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, was resumed by Mr J. Graves, Deputy Coroner, yesterday. Mr J. T. Bond appeared for the Treasury, and Mr W. T. Lawrence, barrister, Western Circuit (instructed by Messrs. Ginn and Porter) for the accused. - Alexander H. Willis, House Surgeon, South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, said deceased was admitted on August 31st with a bullet wound in the right upper arm. THOMAS was extremely bad, having evidently lost a considerable amount of blood. He remained in the Hospital until the 5th inst., when he died. A post-mortem examination shewed that the bullet went through the arm, divided the main artery, smashed the fourth rib, and it was found embedded in the structure outside the seventh rib, which was also broken. - Cross-examined: From the condition of the liver and other symptoms he should say deceased had led an intemperate life. - By Mr Bond: Deceased died as the result of the bullet wound. - SARAH ISABELLA THOMAS, widow of deceased, said on August 26th, Arthur Smith, whom they had never seen before, came to the house with a woman, whom he represented as his wife, and asked for a bed, which he paid for. They stayed the night and left together in the morning without having breakfast. Smith did not return until Friday, August 31st, when he drove up in a hansom between eleven and twelve o'clock in the morning. He said he wanted to lie down as he was feeling bad, and he dozed off to sleep in the shop. Afterwards he asked for two "Bengal oysters," and was supplied with two eggs with vinegar. He then left the house, going away very quietly. In the evening, about seven o'clock, Smith returned and said he had been on the drink. Only witness and her husband were present in the shop. Smith looked intoxicated. Sitting down in a corner of the shop he consumed a portion of a pasty. Her husband asked him if he would like to have a "pick-me-up," and Smith assenting, THOMAS went across to the Ocean Mail public house, and returned with some bitters in an egg-cup. During her husband's absence to obtain the bitters, Smith stood up at the counter and said "I mean to have someone before I leave Plymouth." Turning round, witness replied, "Don't talk like that. Don't be so silly." When her husband returned and gave the bitters in a glass of lemonade to Smith, who remarked that he was going away, but might see deceased again. Smith, however, still sat on. Her husband advised him not to go drinking too much. They had some little conversation about the bitters, but no quarrel took place or unpleasant words passed. Subsequently, while witness was sitting near the door, her husband, addressing her, remarked, "if you are going out, don't leave it too late." Within a minute or two, whilst witness was still sitting in the chair and deceased was leaning over the counter, Smith, who was sitting at the corner of the table eating his pasty, got up, took a revolver from his breast coat pocket and fired at her husband. Deceased fell down, exclaiming, "Oh! Bank. I'm shot." Witness ran into the street shouting "Help, murder." Her little son, who was sitting on the doorstep, came into the shop when he heard the shot. Smith was still standing in the same place and he took the revolver out again, and pointing it at the boy said, "You little b---- I will have you." The boy at once ran out into the street. Other people then came in. - By Mr Lawrence: Witness saw Smith when he came to the house on the 25th and let him out the next morning. There was no dispute or quarrel on that occasion. - Ada Mary Potter, single, living at 34 Millbay-road, next door to THOMAS'S refreshment-house, deposed that she was looking in the shop window shortly before eight o'clock on the evening of August 31st, when she saw deceased standing at the end of the counter and another man facing him. They were very close together. Witness had not seen the other man since. MR THOMAS had a carving knife in his right hand, which was raised above his head. She thought they were sky-larking and she waited. Within a second the other man drew a revolver from his side and fired at deceased. With the window between, witness was only about 8ft. or 9ft. from the two men at the time and she clearly saw what occurred. did not recollect whether there was any light in the shop. Witness ran towards the door and MRS THOMAS came running out shouting, "Help." - By Mr Lawrence: Knew MR THOMAS, having frequently seen him, and was quite sure MR THOMAS held up the knife before the revolver was fired. - P.C. Clarke deposed to being called to the house. In the shop he saw deceased in his shirt sleeves lying upon his back on the floor. His right arm was bandaged and bleeding between the elbow and the shoulder. Smith was about 4ft. from deceased, leaning against a partition in the shop. His right hand was in his coat pocket. As soon as he entered MRS THOMAS pointed to Smith and said, "That man has murdered my husband." Witness moved towards Smith, who then drew the revolver produced from his pocket and handed it to the Constable, saying "Here it is." The weapon was loaded in five chambers and contained one empty cartridge. Witness took possession of it, arrested Smith and sent for a doctor. Afterwards MRS THOMAS pointed to the prisoner and said "You villain, you have murdered my husband." Prisoner replied "I have only shot him through the arm. He will be all right." Turning to deceased, Smith said "Why don't you look pleasant." P.C. Voysey afterwards took the accused to the Central Station. - By Mr Lawrence: MRS THOMAS was drunk and excited. - By Mr Bond: Smith was drunk too. - Mr Hoyten, assistant magistrates' clerk, produced the deposition of THOMAS taken at the Hospital on the 4th inst. Deceased was sworn and made the following statement:- "I reside at 33 Millbay-road. On Friday 31st August last, between 3 and 4 p.m. I was in my shop. The prisoner then came up in a cab and asked if he could lay down for two hours. I said, "Very well." He seemed all right, except for a drop of drink. He laid down for two hours, then came downstairs into the shop, and asked me for two eggs beaten in vinegar, and said "I am going out to where I've left my money," and he left and returned at six o'clock. He was irritable, trying to pick a quarrel, and said he was prepared for any man. I said, "You had better clear out." He fumbled in his pocket - right-hand trousers pocket - and I was going to close with him. He pulled out a revolver. I said, "You had better drop that." Without warning he pulled the trigger. The revolver pointed between my head and shoulder. I had not hold of him then. He fired and my right arm fell dead. The blood ran. I tried to stop the bleeding by forcing it with my left hand. A man rushed in, and my little boy screamed, and prisoner said to him, "Shut up, or I'll shoot you too." The man who was bandaging my arm said something and prisoner said he would shoot him too. I don't remember more until I was in the Hospital. Prisoner was a stranger to me until four or five days before, when he came to the house. I never had words or dispute with him. - Cross-examined by Mr Ginn: I gave Smith some angostura bitters and lemonade, merely about a dram of bitters. I did not take up a knife to prevent him leaving. I wanted him to leave; nor did I demand money of him. He had previously paid his account. The doctor says I am not likely to recover. What I have said is under that apprehension. - At this stage Smith was brought into Court in custody, and Miss Potter identified him as the man who shot deceased. - The Deputy Coroner, in summing up, said there could be no question about the cause of death. It was perfectly clear that deceased's death was caused by the shot which Smith fired. But the Jury had the secondary duty to find whether THOMAS died as the result of the crime. They did not seem to have any evidence of quarrel. Indeed a peculiar and extraordinary feature of the case was that there seemed to be no motive, unless they accepted the general statement of MRS THOMAS that Smith meant to do for somebody. They must, however, take that statement with a good deal of critical examination, because the evidence shewed that MRS THOMAS was considerably under the influence of drink on the occasion. They must also look at the surroundings of the case. Fortunately they had the evidence of an independent witness, Miss Potter, who told them she clearly saw deceased with a knife in his uplifted hand. It was a curious thing that MRS THOMAS said nothing about that. If they believed the girl Potter and came to the conclusion that Smith fired under the impression that he was acting in self-defence, they would reduce the crime from murder to manslaughter. If, on the other hand, they believed that Smith went to the shop with a malicious idea to shoot somebody, no matter who, they would return a verdict of murder. - After consultation, the Jury found that THOMAS died from the effects of a wound caused by a pistol shot fired by Arthur Smith, and that Smith did feloniously kill THOMAS. - This, the Deputy Coroner said, was really a verdict of Manslaughter.

Western Morning News, Thursday 13 September 1900
BRIXHAM - Sad Fate Of A Brixham Man. Singular Delusion. - An Inquest was held at Brixham last night on SAMUEL J. NORRIS. - RHODA NORRIS, the mother, said her son, aged 21, was a carpenter, and lived with her. He left home on Monday, 3rd inst. He had been suffering from haemorrhage for 15 months and at times bled profusely. He never complained of any trouble, but was depressed at times. - The Coroner produced a piece of a newspaper on which deceased had written in pencil:- "After serving Mr George Cooksley for 4 years' apprenticeship he turns me off without tools or character, saying he cannot give me a character because of my dishonesty. That is the only reason for my taking my life whilst in possession of my full senses. Good-bye mother; you can thank Cooksley for this." - The mother said Mr Cooksley had never to her knowledge charged deceased with dishonesty. - CHARLES NORRIS, a fisherman, deposed to searching for his brother and finding his cap floating in a well at Berry Head. - George Cooksley, builder, said: Deceased was my apprentice. In June last he went to the convalescent home at Moretonhampstead and endeavoured while there to obtain employment, as he thought he would be better in health if he could get work there. I went out and tried to assist him to obtain a job, but did not succeed. He came back to work with me again. The Monday following Dartmouth Regatta, he called upon me for his indenture. After signing it I gave it to him; also a character. There were no angry words, and we were more like two brothers than anything else. I never charged him with dishonesty and I did not turn him off. He could have had his tools if he had called for them, as I had bought certain tools for him. - Edith Courtier said that at nine o'clock on Monday morning, 3rd instant, she met deceased walking towards Berry Head. - P.S. Newbury, who was present when the body was taken from the well, said in deceased's pockets he found his indentures, 2s. 4d. in money and a handkerchief. Deceased was fully dressed. - W. Northway, a fisherman, said he went down into the well and found the body. - Dr G. B. Elliott said the body had no marks of violence before death and the general appearance pointed to death by drowning. He had attended deceased during his illness. He suffered from disease of the lungs. There were no symptoms of a suicidal tendency, although he was at times depressed. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

Western Morning News, Friday 14 September 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Poisoning Fatalities. The Inquest. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Devonport Borough Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday on GEORGE THOMAS LAWRENCE, aged 9, and WILLIAM HENRY OXFORD, aged 11. - TOM LAWRENCE of 1 Molyneux-place, an assistant-superintendent of the Prudential Assurance Company, father of one of the deceased, said his son was in good health on Saturday morning. He returned in the evening from a blackberrying excursion and went to bed at 7.30 after making a good tea. On Sunday morning his son complained of having been sick. His wife attended to the boy, making him comfortable again in bed. Deceased frequently suffered from bilious attacks. He had a cup of tea for breakfast, and was put in another bed to rest through the day. The lad asked for some dinner, but his mother would only give him bread and cheese to stop the sickness. He vomited immediately afterwards. Subsequently there were symptoms of diarrhoea, and witness was almost on the point of sending for Dr Wilson. Deceased continued to vomit throughout Sunday night. At six a.m. on Monday he said he was very much better, but as the vomiting continued, witness sent for Dr Wilson at ten a.m. He was given medicine to stop the vomiting that evening, but without avail. Witness and his wife attended the boy through Monday night and on Tuesday morning he said he felt better, but at 9 a.m. he complained of pains in his stomach, left hip, right shoulder and back part of his neck. Witness was away when the boy died. He had questioned him as to what he had eaten out of doors. The boy replied, "Nothing," but said later he had eaten a few apples and blackberries from a wood. He said nothing about mushrooms. They noticed the lad was suffering from giddiness on Tuesday morning. On Monday morning his wife noticed that the boy's flesh had turned very blue and she sent for a neighbour. Deceased seemed drowsy. - Charlotte Blake, 9 Molyneux-place, said she happened to call in on MS LAWRENCE on Monday morning and the deceased admitted to her that he had been eating mushrooms. - James Henry Wetherly, of 6 Drummond-place, said on Saturday last he went with the deceased to Woodland Woods. They picked blackberries in the wood until they saw what they thought to be mushrooms. OXFORD picked on and gave LAWRENCE a piece, witness half a stem and ate the rest himself. Returning home they gathered crab-applies, some of which they ate. The other two also ate some acorns. On Sunday morning witness felt tired, but went to Sunday-school in the afternoon. On Monday morning he was sick and had diarrhoea. His mother gave him some castor oil and he felt well on Tuesday morning. - JAMES OXFORD, of 4 Drummond-place, naval pensioner, said his son appeared in good health on Saturday evening. Next morning he complained of diarrhoea and during Sunday vomited several times. He said he only ate a few blackberries and sloes. On Sunday evening he went to bed apparently well and on Monday had a very good appetite. On Tuesday he was all right, but got rather restless at night, and complained of a pain in his bowels. Dr Rolston was sent for and the lad died about 4.30 on Wednesday morning. - MARY JANE OXFORD, the mother, said he son perspired very much about the body and hands for half an hour on Tuesday. - Dr J. E. Cheyne Wilson, who was called on Monday morning to LAWRENCE, said he found marked symptoms of inflammation of the stomach and intestines. The boy complained of pain in the abdomen and of almost constant vomiting and diarrhoea. He ordered the application of a mustard leaf in the region of the boy's stomach and prescribed medicine. Next day about noon he called and found the boy had just died. Witness had made a post-mortem examination with Dr Ryan. From the symptoms and also from the evidence they formed the opinion that the deceased died from muscarine poison. Had he known what the boy had been eating no other means could have been adopted. - Dr T. R. Rolston said his opinion was that OXFORD was suffering from gastro-enteritis and prescribed for him. On the following morning he was called to deceased, who was dying. A post-mortem examination showed that the stomach and the small intestine were badly inflamed and congested. Death was due to collapse after acute inflammation of the stomach and upper part of the bowels caused by what had been eaten. He did not think in this case muscarine had anything to do with it. - The Coroner, addressing the Jury, said he was of opinion both boys died from eating noxious fungi. He deeply sympathised with the parents in their bereavement. The Jury also expressed sympathy with the parents, and found that the deaths were due to the eating of noxious fungi.

Western Morning News, Monday 17 September 1900
BARNSTAPLE - Sad Death At Barnstaple. - Touching the death of JAMES H. WELSH, an Inquest was held at Bradiford, Barnstaple, by Mr R. J. Bencraft, the Borough Coroner, on Saturday. WELSH, described as a medical student, of Fifeshire, and aged 32, arrived at Barnstaple from Lynton about three weeks ago. It was late at night and he was wet through to the skin, owing to the heavy rain. He was addicted to fits of drinking, although not an habitual drunkard, and was then intoxicated. A signalman named Masters gave the man a bed at his house that night and he had been there ever since, suffering from the effects of alcohol, and died on Friday morning. - Dr f. B. Manning attended to the deceased, and death in his opinion was due to syncope, accelerated by the enfeebled condition of the body from alcoholic poisoning. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 18 September 1900
TEIGNMOUTH - Sailor Drowned In The River Teign. - At the Inquest at Teignmouth yesterday on WILLIAM LAWRENCE, William Hore, master of the barquentine Countess of Devon of Plymouth, stated that the deceased at Plymouth on 12th inst., signed articles as WILLIAM LAWRENCE, born at Darlington, and late of Truro. He was 25 years of age. - Mrs Kate Dunn, wife of the mate of the Ocean Swell, lying in the same tier as the Countess of Devon, said she heard someone hailing the vessel. The mate ordered two men to man the boat to fetch the captain, and deceased said he would go ashore by himself. He caught hold of the boat's painter and was about to slide down, but let it go and took hold of a fender lanyard hanging over the rails. This was not made taut, and it paid out, with the result that deceased fell several feet and struck his head against the gunwale of the boat and fell overboard. He sank at once and he called out that the man had fallen overboard. The boats of both ships was got away, but deceased never rose again until he was a good distance away, and the tide was ebbing strong. then he sank altogether. - Richard Roberts, the mate, saw deceased catch hold of the fender lanyard, which, by some unaccountable reason, was not fastened more than a round turn over the cleat. - John Broom gave evidence that he dragged up the body with a grapnel about 40 yards from where the deceased was seen to go down for the last time. - Dr F. E. Little stated that death was by drowning, and that the man had a nasty cut on the side of his head. A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 19 September 1900
NEWTON ABBOT - Kingsteignton Farmer's Sad Fate. - An Inquest was held at Newton Abbot yesterday on SAMUEL FRY, 39, farmer, of Preston, Kingsteignton. Deceased was driving a wagon containing a load of manure when the two horses drawing the vehicle were startled by a pipe at Hexter and Humpherson's works blowing off steam and bolted. Deceased's brother-in-law jumped from the shaft and ran to stop them, when, hearing a groan, he looked round and saw deceased on the ground. The wheels had passed over him, inflicting fearful injuries. He was taken to the Cottage Hospital. Charles Robert Sharp, a foreman at Hexter and Humpherson's, who rendered first aid, said he had been at the works for six years and never before heard of an accident being caused by the report occasioned by the exhaust steam, which occurred from 150 to 200 times in an hour and went on every day. The pipe was from 150 to 200 yards from the road, and he did not think the noise could be lessened. - Dr Haydon said deceased had two lacerated wounds on the scalp and probably the skull was fractured. He also had an extensive and very severe wound about 15 inches long down the side of the thigh and leg. Haemorrhage set in and peritonitis followed and deceased never rallied. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Thursday 20 September 1900
LYNTON - The Lynton Burning Fatality. - An Inquest was held at the Lynton Cottage Hospital on Monday by Mr J. F. Bromham, County Coroner, respecting the death of HARRIET MOULE from burning on Sunday last. Elizabeth Webber, servant, said deceased told her she reached up to get a match and in so doing upset a bottle of methylated spirits in her lap. On igniting the match her clothing caught fire. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Jury considering the conduct of the waiter, Morle, worthy of great commendation. The Coroner said there should be more caution in the use of methylated spirit.

Western Morning News, Saturday 22 September 1900
PLYMOUTH - The Deputy Coroner, Mr J. Graves, held an Inquest yesterday relative to the death of JOHN PEDRICK, aged 73, pensioner from the Dockyard, who resided at 2 Gordon-terrace, Mutley. Fleet-Engineer PEDRICK, son of deceased, said his father had been unwell for several months and died suddenly early yesterday morning. - Dr Palmer stated that he had been attending deceased for about six months. Witness last saw him alive on the 19th inst., when he appeared in his usual health. A post-mortem examination showed that death was due to haemorrhage on the brain. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 25 September 1900
EXMOUTH - Suicide At Exmouth. - An Inquest was held at Exmouth yesterday on THOMAS SKINNER, aged 47, who several years ago was a pilot at Plymouth and latterly had been gaining a precarious livelihood. His wife is at Earl's Court shewing the manufacture of Honiton lace, so that SKINNER has been living by himself for some weeks. Not having been seen for a day or so, his sister-in-law went to the house and found him lying dead on the floor in the bedroom. She called the Police, and the body was taken to the mortuary. The Sergeant found a bottle containing carbolic acid on the table and a cup with some in it. The post-mortem shewed that death was due to carbolic acid poisoning, and a verdict of "Suicide while Temporary Insane" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - The Deputy Coroner of Plymouth (Mr J. Graves) held three Inquests yesterday as to HORACE WHITCOMBE, aged three months, son of FLORENCE WHITCOMBE, of 46 Neswick-street, the mother said the child slept with her on Saturday night. About one o'clock on Sunday morning she nursed the child. When she awoke again at seven she thought the child was asleep. At nine o'clock she found the child's face discoloured. It was then dead. - Dr Wagner stated that the left side of the face and of the body were discoloured. A post-mortem examination disclosed that death was due to asphyxia. The discolouration was brought about through the child having been dead for some hours. - A verdict of "Accidental Death from Overlaying" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Respecting CHARLES ALFRED REDMORE, aged two weeks, the son of a journeyman plumber of 23 Melbourne-street, the father said when he awoke he found deceased panting by his side. A doctor was sent for, but before his arrival the child expired. - Dr Corbett attributed death to convulsions. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - EDWIN PROWSE, aged 74 of Friary House, Quay-street went to the Guildhall Tavern, Whimple-street, Plymouth, on Saturday night, and remained there until about eight minutes to eleven, when he fainted and died within a few minutes. According to the landlord deceased had only drank a pint and a half of beer during the evening. Dr Cooke, who had made a post-mortem examination, found that death was due to pleurisy and congestion of both lungs. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 26 September 1900
THURLESTONE - Drowned Off Salcombe. - The body found on Yarmouth Sands at Thurlestone proved to be that of GEORGE MAY, aged about 54, the missing Salcombe fisherman. At the Inquest yesterday Annie A. Fitzwalter, with whom he had lodged, was able to identify the clothes. George Pedderell of Salcombe said he last saw MAY alive at 7 a.m. on 12th inst., a mile and a half off Salcombe, about to haul his trammel. As MAY was very near-sighted, he pointed out the buoy to him. The water was smooth with a puffy N.E. wind. Being short-sighted MAY could not see the puffs coming. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - A Plymouth Child's Death. - The Deputy Coroner (Mr J. Graves) held an Inquest at the Plymouth Workhouse yesterday relative to the death of FREDERICK WILLIAM HARRISON, aged 4 months, who died in the Workhouse Infirmary on Saturday last. - Inspector G. F. Watts watched the case on behalf of the N.S.P.C.C., while Mr C. R. Serpell was present on behalf of Mrs Yolland, who was summoned on Monday at the Plymouth Petty Sessions for having more than one infant in her charge, the case being discharged upon the payment of costs. - Mrs Yolland, wife of a fisherman residing at 52 Woolster-street, Plymouth, stated that she took deceased to mind about a month ago on account of its mother being unable to do so. The child was unwell and the mother gave her a bottle of medicine. A sum of 5s. a week was paid for the maintenance of the child. Witness kept the child for about four weeks, feeding it upon the food the doctor had ordered. She took the child several times to Dr Player. Being advised by a doctor, she tried to get the child into the Workhouse. Last Wednesday deceased was taken away by Inspector Watts. - Edwin George Dyke, Master of the Workhouse, said the deceased was the son of ALICE KATE HARRISON, a single woman. The child was born in the Workhouse on May 6th of this year. It was re-admitted on the 19th inst., and died three days later. - Dr Cooke, Medical Officer of Plymouth Workhouse, said he saw deceased on the 19th inst., and found it was extremely emaciated and in a state of collapse, weighing only 6lb. 7 ½oz. When born it weighed 6lb. 7oz., and consequently had only gained half an ounce in weight. It was also suffering from slight bronchitis. A post-mortem examination revealed that the organs of the body were normal except the glands in the abdomen, which were enlarged. This would largely account for the bad condition of the body. The tubercular enlargement might have been set up by infected milk. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 27 September 1900
PLYMOUTH - Singular Death Of A Child. - The Deputy Coroner of Plymouth (Mr J. Graves) held an Inquest on FRANCES LILIAN BUXTON, aged 10 months, the daughter of WILLIAM BUXTON, company sergeant-major, R.E., stationed at Elphinstone Barracks. The mother, on Monday afternoon, put the baby to sleep in a cot. Another child, aged 8, sent to see if it was all right, saw it lying with its head through the bars of the cot and called the mother, who found the child was dead. A doctor was sent for and artificial respiration tried for nearly an hour without result. A post-mortem examination shewed that death was due to suffocation, caused by the child getting its head through the bars of the cot. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 28 September 1900
EAST STONEHOUSE - Boy Drowned At Stonehouse. - The Deputy Coroner (Mr C. G. Brian) held an Inquest at Stonehouse yesterday on REGINALD CECIL HOCKING, aged 8, the son of WILLIAM HOCKING, a boatbuilder, of 7 Barrack-place, Stonehouse. - Stanley Trounce, aged 10, said that at 5 p.m. on Wednesday he and deceased were out in a boat in Stonehouse Pool. Deceased got out of the boat and walked on to some timbers belonging to Fox, Elliot and Co. Witness then went away to tea, but five minutes later was called by another boy, who said HOCKING had fallen into the water. Trounce took his boat and landed deceased on the beach, and after that saw nothing more of him. - Henry Bowman, aged 9, said he saw deceased floating on a raft amongst the timbers. Witness played with HOCKING for close upon half an hour, when he and deceased fell into the water. They were both landed by Trounce. Witness then went home and did not see deceased again. - Private Alott, R.M.L.I., said he found deceased's body on a log of timber near a pier at the rear of Mr Lockie's house. Dr Leah, jun., said when brought to him the lad was dead. A post-mortem examination shewed that death was due to drowning. The Coroner said it was apparent that deceased after being landed once attempted to get on the timbers again, fell into the water and was drowned. A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - Mr J. A. Pearce (Devonport Borough Coroner) held an Inquest yesterday relative to the death of SUSANNAH WHITSON EDWARDS, aged 65, of 9 Paradise-place, Stoke. MR CHARLES G. EDWARDS, gunmaker, George-street, Plymouth, said the deceased, his sister, had had fairly good health. He last saw her alive at 6.30 p.m. on Tuesday, when she was in bed and appeared t be sleepign soundly. Shortly after MR EDWARDS left the house. Mrs Ashford, who lived in the house, noticed that deceased seemed faint, and sent for Dr J. Rolston, who, on his arrival, found life extinct. A post-mortem examination showed that death was caused by syncope, due to fatty degeneration of the heart. Verdict, "Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Saturday 29 September 1900
TOPSHAM - The Topsham Fatality. - At the Inquest at Topsham yesterday on MISS ELLEN TREATT, Miss Kate Holman stated that they were about to retire on Wednesday night. Arriving at the top of the stairs, she heard a report and her cousin (the deceased) shouted, "The lamp has burst." Witness called "Fire," and aroused the servant but by this time the deceased had walked to the bedroom in flames. She fetched a blanket and threw it over the deceased. Dr MacArthur said deceased was burnt to such an extent that she died early on Thursday morning. It is thought that MISS TREATT caught hold of the bracket, which broke off from the wall and fell on the table and ignited her clothes. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - A Sailor's Suicide At Devonport. No Ascertainable Cause. - An Inquest was held at the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, last evening, by Mr c. G. Brian, Deputy Coroner, concerning the death of THEODORE ROOKE, a sailor, whose body was found with the throat cut and the face and legs injured, close to the railway bridge, near the Devonport South Western Station. - John Jackson, second class petty officer, H.M.S. Cambridge, said deceased was an able seaman, twenty-two years of age. Witness saw him last on Wednesday evening about 4.45 when he said he was going ashore. He was a very quiet young man, and was the last man he thought would have taken his own life. Witness believed deceased was a teetotaler. He ought to have been aboard again on Thursday at 6.30 a.m. - William Greenway, yard foreman, L. and S.W. Railway, Devonport, said about 2.40 a.m. on Thursday, hearing groans, he saw a dark mass close to the rails, about 9 or 10ft. from the bridge on the Plymouth side of the Station. On going over to the place he found it was deceased. He was resting on his right elbow with his arm inside the rail. It was 22ft. 9in. from the parapet of the bridge to the rails. Deceased's face was covered with blood and he found he had cut his throat and broken his thigh. He was still breathing. Witness called assistance, and they took deceased to the Station on a stretcher. He asked Fireman Roker to look around, and they found a razor a few feet from the body. The razor was open and bloody. There were some spots of blood on the top of the bridge. To the Jury: The body was on a siding and it was not at all likely deceased was run over by a train. - Jackson, recalled, said he had seen deceased with a razor like the one produced. - Dr F. Everard Row said he was called to the Station about 2.45 a.m. He found deceased had two long and deep wounds in his throat separated by a narrow strip of skin. There were several other contused wounds about his face. His nose was smashed, upper lip and right eyelid nearly cut through, right cheek bone and forehead broken, and his left thigh broken. He was in a state of collapse. Witness sent for brandy and proceeded to sew up the wounds. Deceased revived a little after the brandy. he asked him if the bandages were too tight and deceased shook his head and tried to say no. He was then removed to the Royal Naval Hospital. Witness saw a pool of blood where deceased was found, and on the parapet of the bridge there was blood along the edge of the stones. - To a Juryman: I should think the wounds in the throat were self-inflicted. The Deputy Coroner: Can you say whether deceased first cut his throat and then jumped over the bridge? - Witness: I cannot say. - A Juror: Do you think all the injuries besides the cut in the throat would be caused by the fall? - Witness: Yes. - P.C. Irish of the Devonport Police, said before Dr Row came he remarked to another Constable, "I wonder what he did it with." Deceased thereupon put his hand to his pocket and witness found the razor case there. He also found 13s. 1d. on deceased and a ticket for a bed at the Sailors' Rest. The ticket was issued the same day. - Surgeon Bidwell said the deceased, when brought to the Royal Naval Hospital was just alive and no more. Everything possible was done to bring him round, but he never rallied and died a little after five. Death was caused rather by the fall from the bridge than by the wounds in the throat. - The Deputy Coroner said he feared this was all the evidence that could be produced. He could not explain to them the reason why deceased brought the razor ashore, but the fact that he had taken a bed at the Sailors' Rest did not look as if he intended to commit suicide. - Several Jurors wished there was more evidence of the state of the young man's mind, but the father, who was present, said deceased had been seen by none of his relatives for a month. It was stated there was a rumour on the Cambridge that deceased had been thrown over by some girl to whom he was engaged, but the Police had been unable to get any evidence of it whatever. - Deceased's father said his son generally brought the razor with him when he came ashore for the night. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 2 October 1900
DAWLISH - A Dawlish Schoolboy's Death. - An Inquest was held last evening at Dawlish on HAROLD QUANTICK, aged eight. - ELIZABETH QUANTICK, widow, residing at 14 Park-road, said on Wednesday, September 12th, her son came home looking pale and walking lame. He said he had had a fall from a bar in a shed at the school playground. He said he was alone at the time. - Dr Llewellyn Howard Tripp said in his opinion the fall from the bar on to the boy's feet, caused a tremendous jar to his bones, and this - the child being constitutionally weak and unhealthy - produced inflammation to the bones, and in the end blood poisoning, to which pneumonia supervened and from that he died. It was not an uncommon case, but such a result from a like accident would not ensue in a healthy child. - James Frederick King, master of the Boys' School, said the bar had been erected, mainly at his suggestion, to counteract the practice of the boys in climbing to the beams of the shed, from which two accidents had occurred. The bar, which was made of iron, placed by the Board because it was cheaper than the ordinary gymnastic bar, was only for the older boys and he could not see how the deceased could have reached it. There was a cemented floor underneath. - Mr A. Davey, a Juror: The Board could not have put up anything more likely to break the boys' necks. - Witness said that during play hours the practice always went on under the supervision of one of the teachers. The accident happened during the dinner hour when the school gates were closed. - Mr H. S. Friend (Clerk to the School Board) expressed the sympathy of the Board with the widow and emphasised the fact that the accident occurred out of school hours. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, with the rider that the School Board be recommended to place a wooden bar with steel fittings, and to put some material underneath to lessen the effects of a fall. The boy died in the Cottage Hospital and the body was removed without notification to the Coroner. The undertaker, Alfred J. Cox, said he removed the body to the mother's house at her request. He knew nothing about an Inquest, and the nurse said nothing about it. - The Coroner (Mr Hacker) said the undertaker must have known that it was an indictable offence to remove a body when there was any probability of an Inquest. In this case nothing serious had happened, but the circumstances might have been different, and the consequences serious.

Western Morning News, Thursday 4 October 1900
GREAT TORRINGTON - Tramway Accident Near Torrington. Locomotive Stoker Fatally Injured. - At Torrington on Tuesday an Inquest was held on HENRY SANDERS, 21, locomotive stoker, who died in the Cottage Hospital on September 25th from injuries received on the 20th ult. Deceased was employed on a light engine used on the North Devon Clay Co.'s Tramway between Marland Pits and the stores, and it appeared from the evidence that on the day in question the locomotive, on which were the driver (William Lethbridge), deceased and a clay-cutter named Laurence, whom they were giving a lift, left the rails when running at about ten miles an hour - not faster than usual - stopped with a jerk and threw all three men off. The driver, who fell on the right of the line, escaped with a shaking. On picking himself up he saw that the engine was on the other side of the rails, still on its wheels, but turned almost completely round. Deceased was lying across the rails and Laurence in the gutter on the same side as the driver, both being unconscious. Laurence, who fell on his shoulder, sustained a scalp wound. He recovered consciousness and was taken to the Hospital, where the wound was dressed. He was not detained, but has not been able to resume work yet. Deceased never recovered consciousness, or, at all events, never spoke again, death ensuing five days after the accident. One of the axles of the locomotive was broken, as was the safety valve, and the funnel was knocked off, and Mr H. Holwill, manager of the clay works, said he could only imagine from this that the engine turned over. The rails, he stated, were in places off the sleepers for need of packing: it was impossible to keep sleepers packed tight on the clay surface. - The Inspector expressed his opinion that the accident was due to the condition of the tramway and the speed at which the engine was going. He had no doubt that with this experience the company would try and keep the tramway in a better condition, and would give instructions limiting the speed at which the engines should be driven. He was quite unable to explain how the engine arrived in the position it did and the damage to the funnel, safety valve, &c. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

BLACK TORRINGTON - Mr J. D. Prickman, County Coroner, held an Inquest on Tuesday evening at Highweek Farm, Black Torrington, on JAMES EDWIN BAILY, 16, who died on Monday having been injured by a gun going off while held by his elder brother. The Jury found "That the deceased died from shock to the system caused by a gunshot wound in the right thigh." The Coroner and Jury expressed their deepest sympathy with deceased's family.

EXETER - Fatal Accident At Exeter. - Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Exeter yesterday on ALBERT EDWARD GATER, aged 14, in the employ of Great Western Railway Co. Deceased's duties were to clean out the smoke boxes of engines previous to the locomotive being taken to the shed for cleaning. - John Perry, boiler washer, said at 11.30 on Tuesday morning at St David's Station, he heard someone scream, and looking back saw deceased on the line, and the back wheels of the tender going over his body. he called out to the driver, who pulled up as quickly as he could. Deceased was dead when picked up. The lad was not engaged in anyway on the engine. Mr Sansom, foreman of the locomotive department, said in his opinion the deceased was crossing the line and slipped. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 6 October 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - The Keyham Fatality. A Question Of Precaution. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquiry at the Royal Albert Hospital yesterday respecting the death of THOMAS GAMON, 34, married, labourer at the Keyham Extension Works, which occurred on Wednesday night in consequence of a fall into a trench. - Mr J. P. Goldsmith represented Sir John Jackson (Limited), and Mr Sidney Shuter the Inspector of Factories. - John Watkins, crane driver, 14 Keyham-street, said deceased was acting as banksman to his crane. When the accident occurred deceased was on the side of the trench and removed the "scotch," so that the crane could travel along the rails. witness did not see deceased, as he was behind the crane, but his engine was used to lift deceased from the trench. He did not miss deceased. After his crane was moved away he heard shouts of the men who saw him fall into the trench. Could not say why deceased should have gone across the trench on the "struts," the bulks of timber which crossed it. Under some circumstances it might be necessary for the man to have crossed the trench, but it was not in this case. Witness was lowering concrete into the trench, and it was the duty of deceased to let him know whether all was clear below. - By Mr Shuter: There was a gangway over which deceased might have gone with safety, instead of over the "struts." - A Juror: Are you, as a working man, satisfied that everything is done for the safety of the men? - The Coroner warned witness that he could speak his own opinion freely. - Witness: In his opinion everything was not done satisfactorily for the safety of the men. There were insufficient lights and he had refused duty on Tuesday night because of the bad lighting. He complained to the ganger at the time. If the banksman did not go on the "strut" witness would not have been able to see him and the necessary signals could not have passed between them. - Francis Jesse Nash, fitter's mate at the Extension Works, said he was standing on top of the trench shortly after five o'clock and saw GAMON standing on one of the "struts" in the centre of the trench. He stepped from the two centre "struts" to one of the single "struts." he had only proceeded a few paces when witness saw his left foot go over the edge, and he turned on his side and fell into the trench. Deceased was hoisted in a skip, placed on a locomotive and taken to the surgery. Witness afterwards accompanied him to the Albert Hospital. In witness's opinion it was not necessary for deceased to cross the trench on the "struts." he could not say positively whether it was necessary in all cases, but he did not believe it was. He had himself walked on the "struts," but would have been driven off had the ganger seen him. - Joseph Mees, ganger on the trench, said on hearing of the accident, he climbed down and brought deceased up. From considerable experience, he did not think it was necessary for men to walk on the "struts." There were no orders to that effect, but he had told them not to do so. Everything necessary was done for the safety of the men. - By Mr Goldsmith: Witness had cautioned deceased about walking on the "struts" during the forenoon of that same day. - Daniel Brough, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased was brought to the Institution on Wednesday evening in an unconscious state, suffering from fracture of the base of the skull. Deceased never regained consciousness and died a few minutes before midnight the same day. The cause of death was fracture of the base of the skull. - The Coroner offered to adjourn the Inquest if the Jury considered it necessary to visit the scene of the accident. Plans had, however, been supplied by the representatives of Sir John Jackson (Ltd.) and he always obtained every assistance in this direction from the firm. The question for the Jury to decide was, whether the deceased could have looked down the trench without going on the "struts." Whatever cautions were given to workmen, it seemed they always persisted in risking their lives directly the backs of their superiors were turned. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Foreman remarking that he thought the authorities at the Extension Works did their best to prevent accident. A vote of condolence was tendered to the relatives of deceased.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Stonehouse yesterday concerning the death of FRANK MOURTON, aged three months, the son of a marine living at 5 Union-street. The mother said the child had been irritable from birth. She put him in his cot in another room about 3.30 and he went to sleep. When she took him up at 8.45 she found that he had evidently been dead some time, as the body was cold. Mr T. N. Leah attributed death to convulsions and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes "was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 10 October 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - A Devonport Inquest. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest yesterday on BESSIE SHERITON, the child of PATRICK SHERITON, a stoker, 22 John-street, Morice Town. Mary Brunnicombe said deceased was her grandchild. Its father is a stoker in the Royal Navy. On Thursday night at ten o'clock her daughter was delivered prematurely of a child. She sent her son-in-law for Dr McElwaine shortly after eleven o'clock, when the child was alive. The messenger told the doctor's housekeeper that the morning would do, and in consequence he did not visit the house until the morning. Witness then asked the doctor for a certificate and he replied that he could not give it as he had not seen the child alive. It was not correct that the child had been taken to the cemetery and burial refused. It had not left the house until taken to the mortuary. - Elizabeth Owen, certificated midwife, said she was called to see the mother on Thursday evening at eight o'clock and at ten o'clock she gave birth to a girl of six months' maturity. After the confinement witness left, having sent for Dr McElwaine. She went to the house next morning and found the child, which was very weak at birth, had died. The last witness asked her to grant a certificate, but she said she could only grant it in the case of a stillborn child. - Dr Charles McElwaine said he went to see the child on Friday morning, having been given to understand the night before that it was not an urgent case. he found she was prematurely born and had lived about three hours. He refused to give a certificate and heard nothing more of the case until Sunday night, when the first witness came to him, asking for an Inquest to be arranged. He had made a post-mortem examination and found that respiration had been imperfectly established. The cause of death was premature birth. The child could not possibly have lived. - The Coroner said he had ordered the Inquest under the impression that the child had been taken to the cemetery and burial refused. It turned out he had been misinformed. A mistake had evidently been made in giving the doctor information of the birth. But for this he would have seen the child and granted the certificate. The doctor should have reported the death to him on Friday. No blame whatever was attached to Mrs Owen, he had always found her very straightforward and careful. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

STOKE DAMEREL - Keyham Extension Works Fatality. Youthful Indiscretion. - Mr J. A. Pearce (Devonport Borough Coroner) held an Inquest at Keyham Dockyard yesterday on GEORGE BURNS, 19, the adopted son of MR S. J. PENROSE, living at 6 Gordon-terrace, Weston Mill. - Mr E. T. Peck (Venning, Goldsmith, and Peck) appeared for Sir John Jackson (Limited), and Mr Sidney Shuter for the Inspector of Factories. - SAMUEL JOHN PENROSE said he adopted deceased eight years ago. He was employed as a rope-runner at the Keyham Extension Works, where witness was employed as a walking ganger. Deceased had at times worked in his gang, and his duties were identical with those of a railway guard, and he had to couple and uncouple the trucks. It was his duty to tell the engine driver when to start his engine, and his place was on the engine and not on the trucks. Rope-runners had been frequently cautioned against jumping from truck to truck when loaded and in motion. - Charles Baker, 37 Northumberland-street, Camel's Head, said he was employed as a slasher and was in charge of the locomotives. Deceased was working under him and his duties were to bring ballast in the trucks from off the jetty. At 7.50 on Monday morning the engine was drawing a number of trucks, loaded with ballast, from the jetty. They got to a certain point, and the trucks were about to be shunted into a siding when deceased got off his engine and climbed over two trucks. As he was about to jump between the second and third trucks the shingle slipped and deceased fell on to the metals, a wheel resting on his side. Witness was near, and the engine was at once stopped. He uncoupled the trucks, the driver steaming ahead. He found deceased in a sitting position, with his side partly under a wheel, which had not gone over him. Witness picked him up and carried him to the surgery. He was conscious when he picked him up and said "Oh! Charlie" to witness. He said nothing more. The driver happened to see deceased fall and he stopped instantly, the train being only just on the move. It was against the regulations for the employees to climb over the trucks, and he had no idea why deceased did so. He might have wished to be at the spot ready to uncouple the trucks when they stopped. He had never seen deceased do anything of the sort before. Replying to a Juror, witness said deceased was perfectly sober at the time of the accident. - By Mr Shuter: They did not usually use coupling sticks at the works, and if they were supplied they could not always be used, as their trucks were different to those used on the railway lines. - Robert Harwood, engine driver, said he was driving an engine which was drawing five trucks loaded with ballast and shingle. He saw deceased fall at a few minutes before eight o'clock and at once brought the train to a stop. Deceased should not have left the engine and he could not say why he did so. He could not stop him, as he was under deceased's orders. - Henry W. Finlayson, Surgeon, R.N. stationed at Keyham Dockyard, said he found deceased's spine fractured, his pelvis shattered and a rib broken. There were also serious internal injuries. Death was due to shock and to internal haemorrhage, the shock being quite sufficient to cause death. - John Westlake, divisional sub-inspector of Metropolitan Police, gave evidence of receiving the body at the mortuary. - The Coroner hoped that the accident would serve as a warning to the many rope-runners employed at the works. Great credit was due to the witnesses Baker and Harwood for their prompt action and for the straightforward manner in which their evidence had been given. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Jury concurring in the Coroner's remarks and expressing sympathy with the relatives.

EAST STONEHOUSE - Sad Case At Stonehouse. Husband Censured. - At Stonehouse yesterday Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquiry into the death of ELIZA JANE BLAMEY, aged 58, wife of JAMES BLAMEY, general dealer, of 17 Market-street. Early last week she caught a cold, and though poorly did not take to her bed until Monday. When her husband took her a cup of tea at six o'clock in the morning she was much worse, although she was better an hour later. He offered to send for a doctor, but she would not have one. She died at 7.30 in the evening. - Asked why he did not insist on fetching a doctor, the husband replied that he did not like to contract debts which he would not be in a position to pay. The Coroner pointed out that there was a duty resting upon him as a husband to call in a medical man as his wife was seriously ill, and he had not done that duty. - MR BLAMEY: I asked her several times, and also the day before, if she would have a doctor and she said "No." - The Coroner: Your only excuse for not calling in a doctor is that she did not wish it? - Witness replied in the affirmative and said had he known the illness was likely to have terminated as it had he should have called in a medical man. - The Foreman said there had been great neglect on the part of the husband and he should be censured. The excuse about finance was not good enough and the husband appeared to be very indifferent. - Mrs Kate Titmus, of 29 Quarry-street, said she was at the deceased's house for a couple of hours on Monday morning and told MR BLAMEY his wife should be seen by a doctor. He made no reply. In the evening witness again called and another woman there said a doctor was needed and witness went for one. Deceased was then sinking fast. - Replying to the Foreman, witness said she also advised the husband on Sunday to call in a doctor. - Dr Corbett stated that when called to see the deceased about half-past seen she was unconscious and died within a few minutes of his arrival. - A post-mortem shewed that death was due to acute congestion of the lungs and bronchitis. - The Coroner: She ought to have been under treatment? - Witness: Certainly; she must have been simply walking about dying on her feet. - Replying to further questions, Dr Corbett said if a doctor had been called in at the beginning of the illness her life would have been prolonged. She died simply from neglect and want of treatment; that was the larger factor in her death. - The Coroner said the Jury had heard the evidence of MR BLAMEY that he offered his wife the assistance of a doctor, that she refused it, and that he did not consider it his duty to call in a medical man. It was his bounden duty, however, to see that his wife received proper medical treatment and grave reflection rested upon him for not having fulfilled his duty as a husband, especially as the doctor had told them that in all probability her life would have been saved. MR BLAMEY'S conduct was deserving of their censure, but on the other hand it was not such neglect as amounted to culpable negligence which would justify them in committing him for manslaughter. - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, and censured the husband for not calling in a medical man. - The Coroner explained the verdict to the husband, as old man, who apparently did not fully realise the position and received the censure with the expression, "Well, I cannot help it. If I knew she had bronchitis I could have cured that very quickly."

Western Morning News, Thursday 11 October 1900
DEAN PRIOR - At Dean Prior yesterday an Inquest was held on JAMES BLACKLER, who died on Monday from the result of an accident on May 29th. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. Deceased was 57 years of age, and leaves a widow and five children.

PLYMOUTH - MR SAMUEL WONNACOTT, butcher, aged 65 of 111 Exeter-street, Plymouth, went to bed on Tuesday apparently in good health. Early next morning he was taken ill and died shortly after Dr Williams arrived. At the Inquest yesterday death was attributed to syncope, and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 13 October 1900
LYDFORD - A Dartmoor Convicts Death. - An Inquest was held at Dartmoor Prison yesterday on JONAH CASTLE, aged 55, a convict. It appeared that CASTLE was convicted at Aylesbury Assizes of felony and sentenced in June 1897 to 6 years' penal servitude He was married, but had no children. Whilst in gaol his conduct had been good; he had never been reported or punished. Dr Frew examined deceased on his reception from Exeter in March 1898 and found him to be in fairly good health. Considering his age he was ordered ordinary light labour. He continued all right until August last, when he complained of being ill and was ordered to the Infirmary. He died of heart disease on Thursday last. Deceased, it was stated, had been a most contented and grateful patient. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 15 October 1900
PORTSMOUTH, HAMPSHIRE - The Drowning Of A Plymouth Engineer. - The drowning of JAMES HAY, engineer, of Moor View Cottages, Elburton, near Plymouth, was Inquired into at Portsmouth Townhall on Friday by the Borough Coroner. The deceased was 63 years old, and on the 10th inst. he was serving on board the naval surveying steam launch Endeavour, in the North Camber of Portsmouth Dockyard. Thomas Mitchell, the coxswain, saw him at night and he was then in good health, but at half-past six next morning he was missed, and was afterwards discovered in three feet of water by the side of the launch in a stooping position. With the combined aid of Mitchell and Charlo, another naval coxswain, the deceased was got out, but the efforts made to restore animation were unsuccessful. The body was removed to the mortuary. The verdict of the Jury was "Accidentally Drowned."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 16 October 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - The Keyham Dockyard Fatality. The Dangers Of A Foundry. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest in Keyham Dockyard yesterday on JAMES HILL, 54, an ironfounder, employed at the Dockyard. Mr J. P. Goldsmith represented the Admiralty, Mr Sidney Shuter the Factory Inspector, and Mr T. H. Gill the relations of deceased. - WILLIAM JOHN HILL, ironfounder, said deceased, his father, worked in the same shop with him. He shortly after 9 o'clock on Saturday heard a crash of chains, and then saw his father under a heavy brick mould. Assistance was very promptly at hand. Deceased was quite dead. Deceased had worked 23 years in the foundry. - By Mr Gill: Deceased had received £2 2s. weekly wages ever since he had been employed at the shop. He had a widow and son dependent upon him and also assisted his grandmother. - William Poole, ironfounder, said: I was working with deceased while the mould was held suspended about six feet from the ground by the travelling crane. I asked deceased if I could afterwards use the "traveller." He said I could. I had walked about eight yards away when I heard the chains jerk. One chain had got across the links of the others, and when it got in its proper position the jerk was caused. The mould was being slowly lifted by the overhead crane, and was suspended by four chains. I turned round and heard the crash of the mould as it fell, and then saw deceased under the mass of brickwork. Each segment was about five feet long and fitted on to others, making a mould twenty feet long. Round the bottom of each segment of mould were four handles or lugs. They are of cast iron and serve to life the moulds, and also to fix the segments together. The plates to which the handles are affixed are always tested. Great attention is also paid to the handles themselves. The segments were afterwards put into a drying-room and the brick and loam dried for twelve hours. They are not tested upon coming from the drying room, but that is unnecessary, as the drying process makes them stronger. Deceased cast the iron plate himself upon which the segment of mould was built. The weight of the segment was between fifteen to eighteen hundredweight, but the crane was capable of carrying 15 tons. I have known the handles give way on several occasions during my twenty years' experience, but it is always when something unexpected happens, such as the jerk on Saturday. We are always very careful when the moulds are being lifted in case of such contingencies, and no one was more careful than deceased. - By the Foreman: The plates on which the moulds are built are always made strong enough to lift double the weight of the mould. The plates are always tested with the hammer and I do not think it possible to let faulty handles pass. - Mr Gill: I have seen that the casting of the handles is faulty. Would the accident have been prevented had they been sound? - I do not think so. The mould had already been lifted several times and would have been strong enough to lift it again had the jerk not occurred. - By Mr Shuter: The plate was not three inches thick, but it was as thick as was considered necessary. In most cases we should not have had room for a thicker plate, but it was possible in this case. I do not think the handles weakened the plate, but at times we have "tied" the handles to the plate by means of wrought iron. - Henry W. Finlayson, Surgeon, R.N., said deceased's chest was completely crushed. He had also a simple fracture of the right thigh, a compound fracture of the left leg and wounds about the head. Death must have been instantaneous. - James Hamlyn, ironfounder, said he was working with the deceased. They were making moulds for a roll for the boiler shop. The mould was made in five segments, and it had been under construction since September 28th. They had practically completed them, and were "facing " the inside of the last one. The mould lifted very steadily, then there was suddenly a jerk, a rattle of chains and down in came, all happening instantaneously. He had helped to cast the plate, which was a little over an inch thick. This was quite strong enough for the work. The handles were cast in the plate as staples. They did not in any way tend to weaken the plate. Besides being tested in the ordinary way, the plates were beaten down on to the concrete bed on top of the mould, making a double test. He did not think the few air holes which showed where the four handles had broken off were of any consequence. The accident occurred through something being wrong above the mould, probably with the chains, and not with the mould itself. The plates were made strong enough to stand the many strains of lifting and bolting the segments together. They did not usually provide against such accidents as had occurred, though he had no doubt the plate and handles were fit to stand any test. While the mould was being lifted he and deceased bent under it and scraped the bottom, so that it would fit truly to another segment. - By the Foreman: They were obliged to scrape the bottom as the mould was lifted, that being the only chance they had of reaching the bottom. He did not think the leverage was great, but it must have been about four inches, which would cause a greater strain to the handles. - A Juryman said he had had 54 years' experience of similar work, and would not have the slightest hesitation in doing as deceased had done. The plates were quite strong enough in his opinion. - In answer to Mr Gill, witness said: At times they took into consideration the probability of accident. The lugs and plates had proved good and true, and were not responsible for the accident. If there had been a guide on the barrel of the crane, the accident might not have occurred. - By Mr Goldsmith: A guide was an insertion in the barrel, which the chains would rest in, and thus prevent them rolling over one another and cause jerks. - James Amos Truscott, inspector at the foundry, said he had nothing to do with the job deceased had. he superintended the making of the moulds. As far as he could see, the plates and moulds were put together in a scientific manner. He had never seen a mould of that length made before, though segments the size of those were constantly made. It was the first fatal accident he had known in over forty years' experience. He believed a one-inch plate quite strong enough. He preferred not to give his opinion as to the necessity for a guide on the roller. If he had seen the air-holes in the plate and handle casting he would have had them condemned. It was, however, impossible to see the flaws unless the iron was broken. - By a Juror: Deceased would now have been living had it not been for the surge in the chain. It could never be known what strain a surge of the chains would cause. - Replying to the Coroner, witness said he was satisfied the accident was caused by the surging of the chains, coupled with the flaws in the iron casting on the mould. - By Mr Gill: In future he would make the handles stouter and double the thickness of those then used. He would, if he had the power, urge that the crane barrel be fitted with guides. - By Mr Shuter: The crane had not been tested for some time. It was once the custom to test them regularly, but it was not always done now. Deceased was a master of his trade. - Lambert Smith, senior foreman at the yard, said he gave the order for the mould to be made. The travelling crane was an old one, but quite capable of doing its work. It was unusual to have guides in the barrels of cranes. There were between 50 and 60 cranes in the factory, and only two had guides. One of those did not work satisfactorily. Friction was caused to the chains by the guides, and it was better for working purposes not to have them and quite as safe. Their most modern cranes in the yard were not fitted with guides to their barrels. Plates and handles should be made sufficiently strong to provide against a strain caused by a surge, and ought to be 50 per cent stronger. The plates might have been made thicker, and he would see it was done in the future. - Replying to a Juryman, witness said the additional weight on the chain caused by the jerk would be 50 per cent greater at the outside. - By Mr Gill: The ironfounders should have made the plates thicker. The iron could be more efficiently tested than by hammering; but it would not be very practical. - By Mr Shuter: If there had been six handles instead of four there would have been less chance of accident. The additional handles could have been supplied in this case, but it could not always be done. - The Coroner, in summing up, said the great rarity of accidents in Keyham Dockyard shewed that the work was carried out in a very careful manner. The cause of the accident was, in his opinion, the surging of the chain, coupled with the flaws in the iron handles and plates. - In returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," the Jury expressed sympathy with the relatives and exonerated everyone from blame.

PLYMOUTH - The Borough Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) held an Inquest at the Jubilee Hotel, Exeter-street, yesterday, on EMMA MARTIN, aged 67, the wife of JOHN MARTIN, a coal porter, residing at 55 Exeter-street. Emily Hannaford, landlady of the house, said on Friday last, not hearing deceased moving about as usual, she went to her room and found her lying on the floor dead. Dr Dutton said a superficial examination satisfied him that death was due to heart disease. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 18 October 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - ELIZABETH MILES, aged 72, Devonport, has for seventeen years lived with her son-in-law, Mr D. J. Allen. She enjoyed good health, excepting that she suffered from a bad leg. On Monday evening she said her head was bad and going round. She then began to slip off her chair and her daughter caught her in her arms and sent for Mr Allen. He took her in his arms and at that moment she died. Dr Ryan, at the Inquest yesterday, said death was due to heart disease and the Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

STOKE DAMEREL - WILLIAM HENRY PROUT, 68, a superannuated Dockyard millwright, who lived at 4 Tavistock-street, Devonport, fell whilst going up the steps leading to St. Michael's-terrace, on Monday. William Holland, driver, A.S.C., went to his assistance, and another driver fetched a doctor; but PROUT became unconscious and died in a few minutes. He had not been medically attended for many years. At the Inquest yesterday, Dr F. E. Row said death was due to rupture of an aneurism in the aorta. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Saturday 20 October 1900
EXETER - Found Drowned At Exeter. - An Inquest was held at the Welcome Inn, near Exeter, last evening, relative to the death of HARRY MILLMAN, aged 53, carpenter, who was found drowned in the Canal near Salmon Pool Bridge, on Thursday evening. WILLIAM MILLMAN, naval seaman, said he had not seen his father for four years, but from what he had heard he had no doubt that his having been sent to prison, and his home being sold up, had played upon his mind. Everything pointed to his having destroyed himself. - Florence Woodbury said she knew the deceased well, and last saw him alive on Wednesday afternoon about five o'clock. He told her he had been sold up and asked her for a "drink." She gave him one and he afterwards told her that she would not see him any more. She did not take much notice of it as he had often said the same thing. - William Lock, bailiff, said deceased told him his heart was broken through his goods being destrained upon, and his being sent to prison unjustly. An offer was made to withdraw the distress warrant on payment of £1 and MILLMAN left witness for the purpose of going to St Thomas to get the money. He said if he did not get it he should finish. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

PLYMOUTH - Burning Fatality At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, Inquired yesterday afternoon into the death of WM. C. E. WEEKS, aged two years and nine months, son of a printer's reader, residing at 166 Beaumont-road. On Thursday morning the child, playing with matches, set fire to the curtains and to its night shirt. The mother extinguished the flames. Dr Aldred dressed the serious burns and sent the child to the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, where it died the same night. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Monday 22 October 1900
NEWTON ABBOT - A Warning To Parents. - An Inquest was held on Saturday on the three months' old child of HENRY CARTER, labourer, 46 Bowden-hill, Newton Abbot. The child was placed in bed between the father and mother at 10 o'clock on Friday night and was found to be dead at 5 o'clock the next morning. The Coroner said the child could not have been placed in a more dangerous position. The case was a sad one, and should act as a warning to parents. There was no reason to think the parents intended to harm the child, who, on the contrary, was well nourished and had every attention paid to her. The Jury returned a verdict that death occurred through the child being Accidentally Overlaid.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 24 October 1900
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth's Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) held an Inquest yesterday on VIOLET JOHANNA PENBERTHY, aged three months. MRS PENBERTHY (mother of deceased) the wife of a fisherman who resides at 15 High-street, said the child had been delicate from birth. On Sunday morning she awoke and found her lying dead by her side. Dr Cuming said a post-mortem examination shewed that the child had suffered from congestion of the lungs. Death was, however, due to overlying. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

EXETER - Fatality At St. Thomas, Exeter. - At the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital yesterday an Inquest was held on ALBERT WILLIAM EVANS, a labourer, aged 40. Mr A. E. Dunn watched the proceedings on behalf of the widow. - Ernest Lee, builders' foreman, said deceased, with six others, was removing a timber truss. It was raised to a vertical position, and on one end of the truss was found a piece of timber about nine inches high. In displacing this, the truss capsized and fell on deceased. When extricated, EVANS said "I am done for; I have lost my legs." Every precaution was taken in removing the truss. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said he was afraid some of the men lost their nerve and let go their hold. - Henry Milton gave corroborative evidence. Mr P. Stvik, House Surgeon at the Royal Exeter Hospital, said deceased received an injury to the spine and the lower part of the body was paralysed. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

LYDFORD - Death Of A Dartmoor Convict. - Mr J. D. Prickman, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Dartmoor Prison yesterday on Convict Y475 PATRICK WYNNE, aged 60 years. Captain H. J. Guyon, Deputy Governor in Charge, produced records shewing that WYNNE, a chairmaker, was convicted at Liverpool Assizes on 28th November 1898 for felonious wounding, and sentenced to three years' penal servitude. He had previously been convicted eight times (including three times for assault). - Dr Wm. S. Frew deposed that on his reception at Dartmoor from Stafford in June 1899, WYNNE was in fairly good health, but on account of his age was ordered to join No. 38 party, consisting of old men, who work at agriculture. These have no allotted task, but simply do what they can in weeding, &c. On October 18th 1899 WYNNE complained of a cold and cough. He was then given indoor labour - stocking knitting - and did not work again out of doors. On 10th August 1900 he complained of being unwell. He was treated medically and afterwards admitted into the Infirmary, which he did not quit again and died there on Friday last. - Corroborative evidence was given by A. W. Heggadon, who was present with deceased for six hours before his death. - Infirmary Nurse W. G. Johns stated that everything possible was done for WYNNE. - Convict Orderly Smith and Convict Orderly Young, who had both been in attendance on deceased, spoke of the satisfaction expressed by deceased as to his treatment. - Two other convicts named E. R. Dyer and Baron were also examined by the Coroner. The Jury (Mr Thos. Sedgman, Foreman) returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Thursday 25 October 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Child's Death. A Case Of Starvation. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Devonport Borough Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday on WILLIAM ALBERT TERRILL, aged five months, the child of EMILY CLAUDINE TERRILL, domestic servant of 9 Rosebloom-avenue. The mother said the child was born on May 24th at Plymouth Workhouse, where she remained for two months. the child was strong and healthy and after leaving the Workhouse she let it with a married woman in College-road to be taken care of while she went into service. She received 3s. 3d. or 3s. 6d. a week, but her mistress made it up to 4s. as she had a baby, and she paid this for the child's maintenance. The child was only at College-road for a week, and was afterwards left at Beatrice-avenue for a week, at Victory-street, Keyham, for two months, and at Harwell-street, Plymouth, for a week. Then witness took the child to her sister's where it died. Witness took the child to the Royal Albert Hospital, and was told to bring it again, but being in service she could not get away. While the child was at Victory-street, it was so ill that she remained with it a week. She called Dr Davis, who gave it medicine, and she afterwards took the child to a doctor's at Plymouth, who said it was weak and suffering from bronchitis, and gave medicine and ordered bovril. Subsequently she took the child to the Homeopathic Hospital and Dr Vawdrey told her that if she got four papers the child could be admitted to the Hospital, but the child was so ill that she could not leave to get the papers. The day after she went to her sister's the latter called in two policemen to see the child. On Sunday she fetched Dr Gard, who said the child was dying. He died at midday on Monday. She could not account for the child's state. Dr Gard told her it had been neglected. The child was given nourishing food, but vomited a great deal and gradually fell away. She owed a few shillings for the maintenance of the child, as it was ill so much. Every farthing she had she took for her baby. The father of the child was a gunner in the Royal Artillery, and was now at the front. - Dr T. R. Rolston, who made a post-mortem examination, said the child was in a terribly emaciated condition. It weighed 6lb. 10oz., whereas an ordinary healthy child of that age would weight 12 ½lb or 13lb. There were no marks of violence. The skin was so thin that it came away from the chest wall. There seemed to be no flesh. The stomach and intestines were all empty and in a very thin and shrunken condition. The other organs were healthy, but small and bloodless. There was a small patch of recent bronchitis on the right lung, but not sufficient to account for death. In the skull he could find no trace of disease. The heart was mall and there was absolutely no trace of fat about the child. In was simply skin and bone, and he had not the slightest doubt that the child died from starvation. Chronic vomiting and diarrhoea would produce the same condition. He could not absolutely say whether the starvation was due to neglect or non-assimilation of food. The bowel was so thin that when held up one could see through it. There was no sign of diarrhoea. The evidence was that the child had plenty of food: the question was whether the food was of the right quality. - Elizabeth Ann Curtis, married woman, 14 Harwell-street, Plymouth, to whom the child was taken on October 1st, said she gave deceased Swiss milk. It did not vomit the first week, but was very cross, and afterwards got in such a condition that she called in a policeman to see it: and Inspector Watts, N.S.P.C.C. and Dr Vawdrey also came. The child had diarrhoea several times. - P.C. Martin, who was called to see the child by the mother's sister, said deceased was very thin; he never saw anything like it. He afterwards saw Dr Vawdrey, who said he had been attending the child, and that it was naturally delicate and suffering from bronchitis. Dr Vawdrey also told him that the child was clean, fairly well fed and well clothed and that if the child died before he (witness) got back he would give a certificate. Witness also called at Inspector Watt's house, but he was not at home. On returning to Devonport, witness advised the mother to call in a doctor. - The Coroner remarked that the Constable acted very properly. The only point for the Jury to decide was whether the starvation was due to want of food or non-assimilation of food. This was an illegitimate child and it behoved Juries to Inquire carefully into such cases, because there were cases in which people found illegitimate children rather in the way. The deceased appeared to have been battered about from pillar to post, but there seemed to have been no want of food, and all seemed to have done what they considered the right thing in getting medical attendance. He was impressed with the straightforward manner in which the mother gave her evidence. - The Jury found that death was caused by Starvation, due to Non-assimilation of Food.

Western Morning News, Friday 26 October 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Morice Town yesterday on MARY ANN JONES, aged 86, the widow of a Marine pensioner. CHARLOTTE JONES said deceased, her mother-in-law, resided with her. Of late she had seemed very giddy and was afraid of falling. About two or three months ago she fell over about twelve stairs but had nearly recovered. On Wednesday morning she found her very bad in her room. She called deceased's daughter, and on returning, after about ten minutes' absence, found deceased dead. Dr Rolston stated that he had made a post-mortem examination and found that the heart was very large and had a large [?]. Death was due to failure of the heart's action. Verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 27 October 1900
LYDFORD - Death Of Another Dartmoor Convict. - Mr J. D. Prickman, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Dartmoor Prison yesterday. - Captain Herbert J. Guyon, Deputy Governor in Charge, deposed that deceased, HENRY IVES, aged 35, was convicted of forgery at the Central Criminal Court in 1899 and sentenced to five years' penal servitude. He had been a clerk and once before was sentenced to nine months' imprisonment for forging a telegram. He died on 24th inst. His conduct in gaol had been very good and he had received no punishment whatever. - Dr. Wm. S. Frew, Medical Officer, stated that when received from Chelmsford Prison on 5th November 1899, deceased was suffering from heart disease. He was put to light labour, located on the ground floor, and excused from all "orderly" work. He was also permitted to exercise within the inner circle. He went on all right until 23rd April last, when he complained of being "out of sorts," but on May 7th he was allowed to leave the Infirmary and do a little light work. On the 24th inst. he left his party and was assisted into the Hospital, where he died about two hours later. Death was due to valvular disease of the heart. Convict George Brown, who was working with deceased, said the labour performed by deceased was simply "child's play." The Jury (Mr Aaron Rowe, Foreman) returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 31 October 1900
ASHBURTON - The infant child of FREDERICK EALES, a labourer, died suddenly on Saturday, and at the Inquest a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was entered.

PLYMOUTH - Suicide At Plymouth. "The Drink Has Done It All." - At Plymouth yesterday Mr R. B. Johns, the Coroner, held an Inquest on MARY JANE CREAK, 43, widow, late of 14 Arundel-crescent, Plymouth, found drowned at Arnold's Point, Laira, on Saturday morning. - MAUD CREAK, daughter of the deceased, said that she last saw her mother on Friday night in bed about 11.30, and the first announcement she saw of her death was in Saturday's evening paper. She knew no reason why her mother should have done away with herself. She had been drinking lately, and the following letter was written in her own handwriting:- "My dear Children, - I hope that you will forgive me for the wrong I have done you. The drink has done it all. I cannot face it any longer. God help me, I am out of my mind when I think of it. Be kind to dear Bertie. God help you, my dears. forgive me, I am miserable." - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

Western Morning News, Thursday 1 November 1900
LYDFORD - Death Of Another Dartmoor Convict. - For the fourth time during the month of October the services of Mr J. D. Prickman, County Coroner, were required at Dartmoor Prison yesterday. - W. READ, who died on Monday, aged 26 years, was a labourer, and a native of Buckingham. He was convicted at Chelmsford Assizes of robbery with violence and sentenced to seven years' penal servitude on February 1st, 1900. His conduct in gaol had been very good. He had no friends with whom the prison authorities could communicate. - Dr Wm. S. Frew, Medical Officer, deposed that when received from Chelmsford, READ was suffering from diabetes. He was at once admitted to the Infirmary, where he had ever since received special diet and treatment. Deceased lingered until Monday last. - Convict Orderly Ambrose Tattersall stated that he had helped to wait on deceased, for whom everything possible had been done. The Jury (Mr Maurice Stawt, Foreman) returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

STOKE DAMEREL - Child Suffocated At Devonport. - Mr Albert Gard (Devonport Deputy Coroner) held an Inquiry yesterday relative to the death of WALTER CHARLES EMMETT, aged two months, the child of a shipwright in the Dockyard, living at 87a Albert-road. - JANE EMMETT, the mother, said the child was in its usual health on Monday night. In the morning she turned round in bed and saw that the child's face was black. Deceased was lying on her right and her husband one the left. - Dr Rae said he was called at about 7.30 on Tuesday morning, and found the child lying on its left side, with a pool of blood-stained mucus on the sheet, and similar matter adhered to the mouth and nostrils. Life was extinct and the body warm. The cause of death was asphyxia in consequence of overlaying. The organs of the body were in a healthy state. - The Coroner drew attention to the fact that three of MRS EMMETT'S children had died a more or less violent death at an early age. The death of one was due to burns, and the other two had died of emaciating diseases. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

ASHBURTON - Ashburton Child Fatally Burned. - An Inquest was held at Ashburton on Tuesday on NORMAN R. H. POOK, aged 3 ½, who died in the Cottage Hospital from the effects of burns received through setting his nightdress on fire the previous day. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was recorded.

Western Morning News, Friday 2 November 1900
PLYMOUTH - Dangers Of Ice Cream. Fatal Ptomaine Poisoning At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquiry yesterday at Plymouth, touching the death of CHRISTOPHER KEMP, aged 12 years, son of THOMAS KEMP, of 3 Stanlake-terrace, Plymouth. - THOMAS KEMP stated that on Saturday evening last, when the deceased came home, he complained of a pain in his leg, saying that a boy kicked him on Wednesday last. On the following day he was laid up and died on Tuesday night. He complained on Monday of a headache. A doctor was sent for, but the boy died before his arrival. his younger brother told the witness that the deceased had eaten four or five ice creams on Saturday at the shop of Mr Antocucci, ice cream vendor, of 49 Treville-street. - Dr E. A. Travern-Stubbs, of Laira-villas, Plymouth, said that he had made a post-mortem examination, and found that death was due to ptomaine poisoning, the result of eating the ice cream. The kick was in no way attributable to his death. - The Coroner remarked that this was an important case, which he should report to the medical officer of health. The Jury found that death was due to Ptomaine Poisoning, caused by eating ice cream.

Western Morning News, Monday 5 November 1900
TEIGNMOUTH - The Teignmouth Suicide. A Mystery. - Mr S. Hacker, County Corner, opening an Inquest on Saturday on ALFRED ISAAC COE, said the widow was in a delicate state of health, and Dr Johnson said it would not be advisable to summon her to give evidence. She was the only person in the house on the night before the occurrence, and it would only have been right to have had her evidence. - Mr John Hutchings, who represented the family, said MRS COE could not throw any light on the affair. - The Jury having viewed the body, in the absence of any relative, William L. Hills, assistant to MR COE, said deceased was 60 years of age, a watchmaker and jeweller, carrying on business at 11 Bank-street. His wife and two daughters, aged respectively 14 and 16, resided in the same house. Between 10 and 11 o'clock on Friday morning he was in the dining-room consulting deceased about a bracelet. Deceased's manner was not what it usually was, and he had to call his attention to the business on several occasions. He did not seem to grasp what witness was saying, and seemed depressed. They settled the business, and witness went into the shop to finish his work. MRS COE was in the shop to receive customers. About 12.20 she called MR COE from the bottom of the stairs, and as he did not answer, she sent witness upstairs to look for him. In the bedroom, the door of which was wide open, he saw deceased in a sitting position at the foot of the bed. He had a piece of cord around his neck and the end was attached to the bed post. Witness cut him down. there was a slip noose to the cord, which had been drawn tight. The body was not cold. Deceased was not irritated over the bracelet business. A customer came into the shop, and that was the reason MRS COE called him. Witness had been with the deceased between 17 and 18 years. Deceased had no pecuniary troubles. The business was progressive. There were no family troubles; in fact, a more devoted couple than deceased and his wife there could not be. ("Hear, hear," from several Jurymen). Witness could not throw the slightest light on the affair. - By Mr Hutchings: Deceased, as a rule, was generally in high spirits and full of fun. On Friday morning he seemed absent-minded and took little or no notice of what was being done. Witness had looked everywhere to see if he could find any writing, but nothing had been left behind to clear the mystery. Deceased had never threatened to take his life. He enjoyed life too well for anyone to expect such a thing. - By the Coroner: It was deceased's custom to go upstairs every morning to read the paper and have a smoke. - George Johnson, Surgeon, stated that death was by strangulation. As he weighed quite 16 stone, deceased's weight would draw the noose tight and he would be unconscious in a minute or less and unable to save himself. There had been no struggle and it was evident the act was self-inflicted. - Police Sergeant Hannaford said he had failed in his endeavours to find any writing that would throw light on the affair. - Mr Pedley (a Juror): Is it a fact that MR COE only recently made a will? - Mr Hutchings: It was made years ago. As the family solicitor I can say the deceased was solvent and there were no business or money matters to cause any trouble. - The Coroner said it was unfortunate that owing to the illness of MRS COE they were unable to have more evidence before them. MR COE was in good health except that he was a bit depressed. He transacted business and went upstairs as he usually did and within an hour he is found dead, and death the result of strangulation. that was all the Jury had to go by. It was a mystery. He had no troubles such as might have caused him to commit the deed, and they were told there were no domestic troubles. The act was not committed in a moment of pique or after a quarrel and that made the case all the more mysterious. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity." - The Jury (Mr H. Stanbury, Foreman) expressed their deep sympathy with MRS COE and her family.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 6 November 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Fatal Slip At Devonport. - At the Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, yesterday, Mr J. A. Pearce, Borough Coroner, held an Inquiry touching the death of ELIZABETH PARKIN, aged 67, a widow, who lived at 6 Milne-place, Morice Town. JOHN PARKIN said the deceased, his mother, was on October 16th about to go to the Royal Albert Hospital to have a cancer removed. She went part of the way down the stairs, then stopped to say goodnight to someone, and slipped, breaking her thigh. She broke the ligaments of her right leg some months before and it was in consequence of using this leg first, which she was unaccustomed to do, that she slipped. - Daniel Brough, House Surgeon, said deceased died on Saturday owing to exhaustion in consequence of the fracture and the cancer. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 7 November 1900
MANITOBA, CANADA - Devonian Murdered In Canada. - A Manitoban paper to hand gives a long account of the murder by shooting of two farmers - CHARLES J. DAW and Jacob Smith - near Whitewater, Manitoba. DAW, it is stated, was 24 years of age, and came from Sandford Parish, Crediton, North Devonshire, England (where his parents still are living), with S. Graham and H. J. Ellis. He purchased the farm. DAW is stated to have been of amiable disposition and fond of athletics. Both the bodies of the murdered men were found in an unused well, covered with earth and garbage, and suspicion fell upon Walter Gordon, who had signed an agreement for the purchase of the farm, and against whom a verdict of Wilful Murder has been found by the Coroner's Jury. DAW visited Devon in December last, and returned in the Spring. It appears that the purchase money for the farm had not been paid by Gordon, who has disappeared. DAW was a member of the Ancient Order of foresters, representatives of which attended the funeral and conducted the service of the Order.

Western Morning News, Monday 12 November 1900
PLYMSTOCK - A Plymstock Generous Jury. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, Inquired on Saturday, at Plymstock, into the sudden death of WILLIAM JAMES YENDALL, 52, blacksmith, in the employment of Mr W. W. Blight. Stonehouse, and residing at 7 Jubilee-terrace, Embankment-road. Deceased was on Friday morning being driven to work at Down Thomas Chapel. Passing through Plymstock village, YENDALL and the driver left the trap on getting to the steep hill, had a glass of beer at the inn, and overtook the trap at the top of the hill. After deceased had taken his seat the pipe dropped from his mouth, and he collapsed. An apprentice shook him and found him dead. Dr Flory stated that death was due to syncope. The heart was enlarged. MRS YENDALL stated that her husband had enjoyed good health. There was no suspicion of anything being wrong with him. She was left with nine children, two being at service and the youngest was 18 months old. After the verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" Mr T. Cole (Foreman) expressed to MRS YENDALL the sympathy of the Jury, who handed her their fees, 13s., which the Coroner and Jury increased to £1 9s.

Western Morning News, Thursday 15 November 1900
EAST STONEHOUSE - A Devonport Dockyard Fatality. The Breaking Of A Rope. - An Inquest was held yesterday at the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, by Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, on WILLIAM MITCHELL, aged 40, of 54 Harwell-street, Plymouth, a labourer in H.M. Dockyards, Devonport, and a navy pensioner. - Thomas D. Halshan, Surgeon, Royal Naval Hospital, stated that the deceased, admitted to the Hospital on Saturday suffering from injuries to the head, died on Tuesday. - Charles H. Lavers, shipwright, said on Saturday he and others were docking a dredger in No. 1 dock at Devonport Dockyard. He was lowering a "shore," which weighed about 2 ¼ cwt., into the dock. A new piece of rope, drawn from the store that morning, was attached to the "shore," and the end of it was made fast round a bollard on the end of the quay. Before lowering the "shore" the men in the dock were cautioned to stand clear, and all did so except the deceased. Just as the "shore" was clear of the dock the rope broke about 18in. from the "shore." In falling it struck MITCHELL in the chest, knocking him into the water. When he was taken out it was seen that his head was injured. The witness could in no way account for the rope breaking. - Jarvis Cook, a shipwright, said deceased was clear of the shore at the time when the order was given, and that the "shore" fell in an oblique direction. - Thomas Rider, foreman, Devonport Dockyard, said he was superintending the docking of the dredger. The rope was attached to one end of the "shore" by a knot which the weight of the "shore" pulled tighter. A man named Hole gave the signal to stand clear, and about a minute and a half afterwards gave the order to lower. The rope was twisted round a "bollard" twice and the end was held by three or four men. He was in the dock when the order was given to stand clear. Deceased was the only one who did not move, and in his opinion the "shore" struck him in the chest. The rope since the accident had been tested, and it was capable of bearing a strain of 20 ½ cwt. He could not at all account for the rope breaking. - The Coroner thought if each rope were tested the day before it was to be used that would ensure perfect safety. - Mr Rider remarked that a great deal of time would be lost if that were done. - The Inquest was adjourned until Friday for further evidence.

Western Morning News, Friday 16 November 1900
LAMERTON - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Lamerton on Wednesday concerning the death of BERTHA WORTH, the eight weeks old daughter of THOMAS HENRY WORTH, arsenic miner, of Longcross, Lamerton. Early on Tuesday morning the child was all right, but later the mother found it dead in bed by her side. Dr Snowdon Smith attributed death to asphyxia, probably due to a convulsion, and a verdict accordingly was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 17 November 1900
EAST STONEHOUSE - The Devonport Dockyard Fatality. Alleged Negligence. - Mr R. R. Rodd held an adjourned Inquest at the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, yesterday on WILLIAM MITCHELL, aged 40 of 54 Harwell-street, Plymouth, naval pensioner and a labourer who died in the Hospital on Tuesday from injuries received on Saturday in Devonport Dockyard. Mr Peck (Venning, Goldsmith and Peck) appeared for the Admiralty. - Frederick Stephen Hole, shipwright in the Dockyard, said on Saturday morning he and others were lowering a wooden "shore" weighing about 2 ¼ cwt. into No. 1 Dock for shoring up a dredger. A new rope was made fast to the "shore" with an ordinary timber hitch. Behind it a spiked nail was driven in. The other end of the rope was held by two shipwrights, with two turns around a bollard. When everything was ready for lowering witness went to the edge of the dock and gave the order to those below to "stand clear." He waited sufficiently long for everyone to do so, and it was a minute and a half before the "shore" went over the side. Deceased was from 15 to 20 feet away from where the "shore" should have dropped had it been lowered all right. They slacked the rope about eighteen inches and then the "shore ", which was fourteen feet long, was pushed over the edge lengthways. The other end brought up for a moment on the "halter" or steps ten feet below the top of the dock, when suddenly the rope parted and the "shore" bounded off, striking deceased and knocking him into the water. The rope, which was taken from the store that morning, consisted of seventeen strands, each of which was supposed to be able to stand the strain of 1 cwt. - The Coroner: Do you think seventeen strands would break as if cut by an instrument? If there was a weakness would they not go one after another? - They might snap off together with a jarring blow. I can offer no suggestion as to the cause of the rope breaking. There was nothing on the surface of the dock to injure the rope. - By Mr Lawrence (a Juryman): It was customary when lowering "shores" to put a timber hitch on them. - Richard Webber, shipwright, Morice Town, said the only reason he could give for the breaking of the rope was the jerk occasioned by the "shore" going out over. - Alfred Syborn, another shipwright, who helped to tip the "shore" over the edge of the dock, said there was about 18 inches slack rope before they put the "shore" over, and with the slight jerk the rope parted. - The Coroner: Did not the hitch slip? - No, I am positive of that. - James Charles Andrews, master rigger at the Dockyard, said the rope was drawn by the chief constructor's officials from the naval store officer in the form of three stranded rope. The piece was, however, only one strand with 17 yarns. They never in any case tested a strand, but they tested the yarn before the rope was made, and then tested the rope. Each yarn was supposed to stand the strain of about 140lb. A piece from the same coil had in his presence stood the strain of 30cwt. - The Coroner: Can you account for the breaking of the rope? - A piece of the rope must have been half cut by mistake, and left so. It was equal to a new rope and ought very easily to have stood a strain of 2 ½ cwt. - Is it not likely that the hitch slipped? - Quite likely, but not if a nail was in the boom, unless it slipped the nail. No official inquiry had been made as to the accident. - The Coroner: Don't you think that a rope which is supposed to stand the strain of 17 cwt breaking under 2 ½ cwt is a matter sufficiently important to be reported and inquired into? - No, because in her Majesty's service this in the ordinary sense of the word, is not rope. - The Coroner: A rope supposed to stand 17 cwt strain, and which you say stands 30 cwt, breaking like that under a strain of 2 ½ cwt after a slight jerk, certainly ought to have been reported and inquiry made as to the cause of the break with a view to a similar accident not occurring in future. - Witness: I think not, because it is a component part of rope. - The Coroner: Then it ought not to be used, because a similar accident might happen tomorrow. - Continuing, Mr Rodd said the evidence was not satisfactory or free from question. It was very remarkable, notwithstanding the large experience of the witnesses, that not one was able to offer a suggestion as to the cause of the breakage. The weight being lowered was scarcely one-sixth of the specific test of 17 cwt, and yet the rope - a new one stated to have been drawn from the store that very morning - was supposed to have suddenly broken. It was a very sad case indeed. The piece of rope was made up of several strands which had the appearance of having been cut by some instrument and not as if they gave away one by one, as they would have expected to find had the rope broken as suggested. Another reason why he was not of opinion that the rope broke, was that no portion of it was found upon the "shore" after it fell into the dock. had the new rope, tested as he had stated, broken, it would have been reported and an official inquiry held. He regretted very much he was unable to believe that the rope broke. In his opinion the only cause of the sad fatality was that the hitch slipped through being carelessly fitted to the "shore." He did not suggest this carelessness amounted in law to culpable negligence such as would justify a verdict of manslaughter, but he felt strongly that there was carelessness. - The Jury, after an hour's consultation, said they regarded the evidence as very conflicting and unsatisfactory. Their verdict was that deceased died from being struck by the "shore," which fell on account of its slipping through the rope to which it was secured, the timber hitch of the rope having been negligently fitted, but that such negligence did not amount to culpable negligence on the part of any person. - The Jury, through the Foreman (Mr Tucker) also recommended that in future instructions might be given that an officer should satisfy himself that ropes used for lowering "shores" are sound: that no "shore" above 2 cwt be lowered over the edge of the dock with unlaid stage lashings, and care be taken that there is not too much slack rope in lowering; that a half-hitch as well as a timber hitch should be put upon the "shore" and all unnecessary nails, which are liable to cut the rope shall be removed from "shores" before lowering." The Jury gave their fees to the widow.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 20 November 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Fatalities At Keyham. Sad Death Of A Boy. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest yesterday on ROBERT BRITTON, 14, a tool carrier, killed at Keyham Extension Works. Mr J. P. Goldsmith represented Sir John Jackson (Limited) and Mr Sidney Shuter, the factory inspector. - SAMUEL BRITTON, lamp trimmer at the works, said about 11 o'clock on Thursday night he saw his brother at the North Basin, when going to borrow a bag of coal from a crane boy. About half an hour later he saw his brother carried on a stretcher. - By a Juror: There were two travelling cranes near the spot. He could not say whether the jib of one would be likely to strike deceased, while he was filling the bag on the heap of coals. - By Mr Shuter: The spot was not sufficiently lighted, though the light 100 yards away was enough for those working the crane. Deceased had been working at Keyham for about six months. - Samuel B. E. Dyer, crane boy, 3 Chapel-lane, Stonehouse, said he had his supper with deceased at 9 o'clock, and they arranged to go to the theatre on Saturday. About 11 o'clock he came to borrow a bag of coal. Witness gave him a bag and deceased said he would be back in a couple of minutes. It was quite dark by the coal heap, though light on the other side. He did not see the crane pass the place where the boy was found until after the accident occurred. Deceased was working on the crane by the western wall of the dock. - Thomas Narramore said on passing the coal heap at 11.30 he thought he saw a bag of coal on it. He found it was the boy, and without examining him at once told Frederick Perkins, the ganger in charge. There was a flare-light some distance away and another on a gantry, which shone right on the coal heap. - Frederick Perkins, in charge of the crane nearest to where the boy was found, said Narramore reported finding deceased at about 11.30. A train happened to be near, and he was at once conveyed to the Royal Albert Hospital. About that time the crane had been carrying baulks of timber from one spot to another, and passed the heap of coals each time. Deceased might have been picking up coals and throwing them in the bag while standing on the top. Under these circumstances the fire-box of the crane might have struck him. He could not have been knocked by the timber, as it was conveyed on the other side of the rails. It was impossible for him to have been hit by the skip of the crane. - By the Foreman: There were two "Lucy Jane" flare lamps at no great distance from the spot and men must have been passing there every five minutes. - By Mr Goldsmith: If deceased were on top of the coal heap when struck he might have rolled to the place where found, three or four feet further on. - Alfred Clark Howell, ganger, said deceased was under his charge. At 11.10 he told him to light a fire. He would fetch the coal from the heap where he was found. The spot was fairly lighted and witness thought the boy would have both seen and heard the crane approaching. - By the Foreman: Where the coal was heaped was a very convenient spot. The boy was one of the best he ever had under him, and was very trustworthy, intelligent and truthful. - Thomas Baker, crane driver, said at about eleven o'clock he took four baulks of timber past the coal heap, going up and down those rails eight times. Each time he swung the timber on the right side, that opposite to where the boy was found. He could not carry it the other way, because some railway trucks were in the way. He could not have been struck by the skip because men were employed to hold the hooks as they passed. Deceased might have been struck by the back of the crane. - Daniel Brough, Surgeon at the Hospital, said when BRITTON was admitted he was dead. The upper part of his chest, his shoulders, neck and face were much bruised. He should judge that the boy had been struck by some large flat surface, his nose being compressed, and his head had been evidently knocked backwards, as his neck was broken. Death must have been almost instantaneous. - By a Juror: He must have been struck on the face while standing in a nearly erect position by a swinging body, and was probably thrown some distance. - The Coroner, in summing up, said there was no evidence how the deceased could safely have carried out his duties at that time of night and had sufficient light. The Home-office had recently caused a special inquiry to be made by two of their factory inspectors with respect to accidents at docks, wharves and quays. They had sent the report to him and also letters forwarded to employers, and asking him to make sure that every precaution was taken on such works, accidents having been very frequent of late. The Jury must consider whether the light was sufficient and whether there was negligence on the part of anyone. the nearest light was seventy feet away and on ordinary occasions gave a good light. Some of the witnesses thought the light scarcely sufficient, while others were satisfied. There was another light in a good position at a great distance. He believed the light was sufficient to see to fill a bag with coals. The point was whether deceased saw the crane travelling, or whether he was at the time a bit careless. It was for them to say whether due precaution was taken for the protection of the men at work. The circumstances were peculiarly sad, as the boy had no father, and he must have been a bright lad to leave school so early to assist in supporting his mother. - The Jury found that death was due to dislocation of the neck, but that there was not sufficient evidence to show how the injuries were inflicted. They believed, having visited the place, that there was sufficient light, and that no blame was attached to anyone. They passed a vote of deep sympathy with the relations.

PLYMOUTH - Fatal Accident At Devonport. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday on ELIZABETH MARY WALKER, aged two years, daughter of RALPH E. WALKER, of 7 Fourth-avenue, Camel's Head. - ELIZABETH ANN WALKER, the mother, said on October 23rd she left the house for not more than seven minutes, and on returning heard the child crying. She found her on the bed with her clothes smouldering. She supposed that the deceased and her brother had been playing with matches. Dr Smith attended to the child until the following Monday, when she was taken to the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital. There she died on Friday. Medical evidence shewed that deceased died from exhaustion and bronchitis, the results of the burns. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 21 November 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Borough Coroner held an Inquest yesterday at Pennycross on FREDERICK CHARLES GAUNTLETT, aged four, the son of an able seaman. The mother said the child, who had always been healthy, suddenly commenced vomiting on Friday afternoon. In a few hours he seemed to get a little better. Afterwards he got worse and on Saturday evening her husband went for Dr Rowe, but he was not at home. As the child continued very ill she sent again, but before her husband returned the child was dead. Dr Lionel L. Hanham, who had made a post mortem, found that death was due to acute enteritis. All the other organs were healthy. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

PLYMOUTH - Sudden Death At Plymouth. - An Inquest was held yesterday at 49 North-street, Plymouth, by Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, concerning the death of ALFRED WM. BRYANT aged 53 years of 49 North-street, Plymouth. It appears that the deceased's son, ALFRED ERNEST BRYANT last saw his father alive on Saturday morning. He was apparently in his usual health and was having his breakfast when he was taken ill. During the past two years he had not had a doctor and had only been suffering from shortness of breath. Before a doctor arrived the deceased had passed away. Dr W. P. H. Newbury had since made a post-mortem examination and found that death was due to heart disease. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 22 November 1900
TORQUAY - Torquay Tradesman Drowned. Accidental Death. - At Torquay last evening Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on MR G. T. PRATT, jeweller, of Fleet-street, a respected tradesman, and a member of an old Torquay family. He visited the steamship Torquay in the harbour on Monday night, and it is assumed that he fell overboard and was drowned, while getting ashore. - HERBERT GEORGE PRATT, son of the deceased, said he last saw his father at 7.30 on Monday evening. He was then in the best of spirits. As deceased did not come home by ten o'clock, search was made for him. - Replying to the Foreman (Mr Shapland) witness said deceased was not worried in business. He was to undergo an operation, but not until the beginning of the year. Deceased was not at all frightened about it. - Thomas Soper, of Victoria-parade, said he met deceased near the harbour about 8.45 on Monday evening. They walked along the inner harbour to Victoria-parade. There was nothing unusual in deceased's manner. Witness had frequently walked with deceased in the same way. - John Lightfoot, coal lumper, employed on the steamer, Torquay, said deceased came aboard the ship on Monday night to look round. Witness asked him the time, and he replied, "A quarter to nine." Witness did not see him again. The steamer was close alongside the quay, and a person could step on board. It was a dark night. Witness heard no splash or anything to make him think that anyone had fallen overboard. A person could fall between the ship and the quay. Owing to the noise of unloading, splashing or crying could not have been heard. William Brown, boatman, stated that he was searching in the harbour for deceased on Tuesday night. About eleven o'clock he found the body in the inner harbour, about eight feet from the south pier. It was low tide and the body was found in the pit in which the vessel's bow had rested. The ship had left the harbour. P.C. Fishwick was with witness in the boat when the body was found. - Dr Midgley Cash said he had attended deceased. Recently deceased had lost a lot of blood. It might have been partly on account of that, that he came by the accident that caused his death. The loss of blood would make him giddy. Otherwise deceased was in good health and spirits. Witness had examined the body. There were injuries on the head, face and hands. The injuries on the hands were such as would be caused by a man trying to struggle and recover himself. Death was due to drowning. There was a clot of blood on the brain, resulting from the injury to the head. - By Mr Oliver. The blow on the head might have rendered deceased insensible. - P.C. Fishwick said deceased's watch was stopped at just after 8.45 p.m. - The Coroner thought there was plenty of evidence pointing to an accidental death. - The son, recalled, said deceased was an expert swimmer, but there was not more than three feet of water in the harbour at the time. If he had not been stunned he could have walked ashore. - The Coroner: Although the evidence of the doctor is that he was drowned. - The Foreman pointed out that deceased might have been stunned in falling and so would have been drowned. The wound on the forehead was very serious. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and passed a vote of condolence with the family.

Western Morning News, Thursday 22 November 1900
PLYMOUTH - A Plymouth Pauper's Death. The Duties Of A Parish Doctor. - On MARY JANE COX MITCHELL, 72, widow, of 3 Stokes-lane, Plymouth, an Inquest was held yesterday. - Marion Beale, wife of a fish packer, of 3 Stokes-lane, stated that deceased was taken ill last Friday. She sent her daughter to Dr Cuming the same day and he spoke to her like he would to a dog. He said he did not attend paupers without an order. He did not come to the deceased. He also said his house was no place for paupers. Witness waited until Saturday morning and then sent to the relieving officer for an order. Her daughter took the order at once to Dr Cuming, who told her little girl never to come to his house again; the surgery was the place for paupers with an order. Her daughter was ten years old. Dr Cuming saw the deceased about one o'clock on Saturday, and ordered her removal to the Workhouse. He said she was suffering from two diseases; one brought about by violent drinking. Witness did not think deceased could drink very much on 1s. 3d. per week, her allowance. Dr Cuming did not come again. The woman died on Sunday. - In answer to Dr Cuming, witness denied that he said deceased ought to be removed in consequence of the condition of the room. He did say she was in a filthy condition. - Elsie Beale, daughter of last witness, corroborated her mother's evidence as to what Dr Cuming had said to her. Dr Cuming talked so loud that he frightened her. - In answer to Dr Cuming, she admitted he told her the card she took to him on Friday was meant for Mr Axworthy, the relieving officer, and that she ought to go to him first. - Dr Cuming: I am getting at the truth. - Mr Beale: As a matter of fact, you don't know the meaning of the word truth. - The Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns): Order, order. - Dr Cuming denied speaking roughly to the child. he told her she had no business to bring him the card addressed to the relieving officer. He did not say the child had no business at his house. He never used the word "pauper." - Mr Beale stated that he called on Dr Cuming, and after waiting half an hour Dr Cuming came and said paupers had to wait his convenience. Something was said about his being turned out of the house. - Dr Cuming said he had been delayed a little. He never mentioned anything about paupers waiting his convenience. Mr Beale acted at his house as he was acting there, and he said he would not put up with it. - In his evidence, Dr Cuming stated that he saw the deceased on Saturday soon after receiving the order from the relieving officer. She was in a very weak state and in a small, dark, dirty room, out of repair. Very little light entered the room, which smelt badly. He examined the deceased and prescribed for her. In consequence of the condition of the room, he said the case would have to be removed to the Workhouse. She was suffering from a complaint which might be due to taking spirits a great deal. He did not think she would have passed away so soon. At a post-mortem examination he found a large bed-sore in the back, evidently of considerable standing, and the body was covered with flea bites. She had suffered from acute internal inflammation. The immediate cause of death was a fatty heart. - In reply to a Juryman, Dr Cuming said he had not communicated with the sanitary authorities as to the condition of the room and house. There was not a room in the house fit for human habitation. The parish doctors were at the call of the relieving officers, but not of any person who might send to them. - The Coroner remarked that Dr Cuming had stated that he went to the deceased as soon as he got the necessary order. He could not be at the beck or call of everybody. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - Sad Case At Plymouth. A Doctor's Conduct. - An Inquest was held at Plymouth yesterday on ROSE WILLIAMS, daughter of J. W. WILLIAMS, labourer, 7 Raleigh-street. The father stated that when he went to work on Monday his wife was quite well. He was called at 12.30 by someone who said his wife was dying. He found her on the floor and the deceased, a newly-born child, near her. - Mrs Warren, widow, who resided in the same house, said on hearing a strange noise about half-past seven on Monday morning she went to MRS WILLIAMS and saw her lying on the floor in very great pain. She immediately called her neighbours, being too upset herself to do anything. Dr H. Pearse came twice, but did nothing for the woman, saying the case was out of his hands, as the parish doctor had been sent for. The child had bane born when he arrived. He saw the baby, but did nothing either for the mother or child. - Dr Wagner stated that he saw MRS WILLIAMS and the child about 1.30 p.m. on Monday. Dr Pearse ought to have seen to the woman when called. Her condition was obvious to any medical man. It was one of the worst cases he had ever seen in Plymouth. The woman was uncovered, and the relieving officer should have been sent to for a blanket. MRS WILLIAMS had apparently fallen in a fit. - MR WILLIAMS , recalled, stated that he had only been in work during the past two weeks. Previous to that he had been out of work six weeks. - The Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) said he wished Dr Pearse had been at the Inquest. To him it seemed monstrous that nothing should have been done for the woman or child, although he called at the house twice. - In answer to a Juryman, Dr Wagner stated that the child never had a separate existence. - The Jury, after retiring, asked that Dr Pearse be sent for. - Attempts were made to communicate with Dr Pearse, but this failing, the Jury returned a verdict of "Stillborn," and asked the Coroner to communicate with Dr Pearse respecting his conduct. Several of the Jurymen commented upon Dr Pearse's conduct.

PLYMOUTH - An Overdose Of Morphia. Death At Plymouth. - At Plymouth yesterday the Borough Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) held an Inquest respecting the death of GEORGE HUTCHINSON MILNES, 41, of 103 Prior-Gate, Derby, found dead in bed in a bedroom at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel, Plymouth, on Tuesday evening. - Henry Erskine Currey, solicitor, of Little Eaton, Derby, said deceased was his brother-in-law. He was a member of the Royal College of Surgeons. At one time he was in the Royal Navy and held a large practice in Derby, and was a physician at an infirmary there. He frequently went away from home. - Sarah Granville, chambermaid at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel, said the deceased arrived at the Hotel on Monday evening and appeared to be in good health. She knocked at his bedroom door at 9.45 on Tuesday morning and received a reply. At noon she again knocked and getting no answer, the door was burst open. Deceased was dead in bed, with a book in his hand. - Dr Parsloe said as the result of a post-mortem examination he found that although suffering from no disease, deceased had acute congestion of all his organs. His body bore several marks of hypodermic injection, probably morphia. No doubt deceased suffered some acute pain, and took morphia to relieve him. He had probably taken an overdose. Deceased had been taking morphia for some time. A verdict of "Death due to Misadventure through an Overdose of Morphia."

Western Morning News, Friday 23 November 1900
PLYMOUTH - A Football Fatality. - An Inquest was held yesterday at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, on PERCY JOHN DODD, aged 13, a printer's apprentice of 11 Richmond-lane, who received injuries whilst playing in a Rugby football match at Beaconfield on Saturday last. Alfred Tozer, plumber, of 26 Water-street, Devonport, said he was playing in the same team as deceased on Saturday. During a scrum a man on the opposite side in trying to collar DODD, hit him in the stomach with his head. Deceased told him, witness, that he would die. for a time he was senseless and on recovering complained that he was cold and asked that his hands and legs might be rubbed. They then in a trap took him to the Hospital. It was a pure accident and there was no rough play by either side. - Mr F. C. Hitchin, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said the deceased was suffering from collapse, the result of injury to the spine. He was quite conscious on admission, but gradually sank. The case was a hopeless one from the first. A post-mortem examination showed that the spine was dislocated in the region of the neck, causing paralysis. Death took place on Wednesday afternoon. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Saturday 24 November 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Railway Fatality At Keyham Extension Works. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest at the Royal Albert Hospital on Thursday on FRANK HORTON, 32, rope-runner, at Keyham Extension Works. Deceased, who lived at Weston Mill, had been working at Keyham for two years. Mr J. P. Goldsmith represented Sir John Jackson (Limited), and Mr Sidney Shuter the Home-office. - Charles Baker, a slasher at the works, deposed that on Monday last deceased and he were shunting at the Dockyard end of the wagon-repairing shed. There were two lines of rails, eight feet apart. Two locomotives were shunting trucks on each pair of rails in the same direction. Witness was directing both locomotives and deceased was standing near him waiting for orders. As the engine in front came level with them deceased suddenly stepped back and was knocked down by the buffer of the first truck of the train behind him, which was being pushed by a locomotive. One of the wheels passed over deceased. - By the Foreman: The trucks overlapped the footway between the rails by a foot. There was, therefore, six feet of standing room between the two trains. - John Leaford, rope-runner said he saw deceased knocked down by the buffer of the truck. Neither of the men was in any danger standing between the two lines of rails. He could not account for deceased stepping back. - Richard Jones, engine driver, said he was in charge of the locomotive pushing the trucks. He passed deceased and Baker once on his way to the weighbridge, and was returning when Baker signalled him to stop, which he did immediately. - Daniel Brought, House Surgeon, said deceased died about three hours after admission from shock. His right thigh was shattered, the right leg fractured, and also the shoulder. One wheel of the truck evidently got on his knee and along his right side. The Coroner said the death seemed to him purely accidental, and had nothing to do with the man's employers. He was in no danger where he was standing, and he had an experienced man standing by him. Why he stepped back could not be accounted for. It was probably done in a moment of forgetfulness. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed sympathy with the relatives.

STOKE DAMEREL - Sudden Death At Devonport. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest yesterday on ELIZA ANNE CATFORD, aged 44, wife of JOHNSON JAMES CATFORD, 38 Marlborough-street. The husband said he last saw his wife at 11.30 a.m. on Wednesday. She then went out and he did not think he had ever seen her so cheerful and in such good health. She was in bed when he arrived home at 11.30 the same night and was apparently asleep. He did not see her face. He got up at about 8 o'clock on Thursday morning, went downstairs and cooked his breakfast. On taking a cup of tea up to his wife, he noticed that her hand in front of her face was discoloured and that she was dead. She was in the same position in the morning as she was at night. She had been in bad health for some time. - Dr J. E. C. Wilson said he was called to deceased at 9.30 on Thursday on Thursday morning and was of opinion that she had been dead about 8 hours. Death was due to syncope. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 27 November 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Bravery At Devonport. Gallant Attempts To Rescue A Messmate. - At Devonport Dockyard the Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest yesterday on WILLIAM IVERS, 30, able seaman, of the storeship Valiant, lying in the Hamoaze. Mr E. T. Peck represented the Admiralty. - Richard Vercoe, chief stoker, R.N., said deceased, his brother-in-law, was a married man and had one child. He last saw him alive on the evening of November 6th. Deceased was then in cheerful spirits. Three weeks before that he injured his right hand. - Edward Job, warrant officer on the Valiant, deposed that on November 7th at 7.40 p.m., he despatched a whaler to land an orderly at the Flagstaff Steps, Keyham. IVERS was in charge of the crew. Whilst the boat was being lowered from the davits witness went into the signal-house. Hearing a splash he was told there was a man overboard. He saw IVERS in the water. He at once dropped a lifebuoy to windward of deceased, and shouted to those on the deck of the Indus to look out for a man passing. An A.B. named O'Keeffe ran along the guess-warp and attempted to catch deceased, but failed. Another A.B. named Beer, ran down the ladder, jumped into the boat and dived in to IVERS' assistance. Deceased caught hold of Beer and a violent struggle ensued, during which O'Keeffe jumped into the water to aid Beer. Witness then manned the boat with three seamen and three marines and as they passed the starboard chains of the Indus they saw O'Keeffe clinging to them. He said he could hold on for a few moments longer. They then heard Beer shout "I am gone!" Witness told him to try to keep up a second and he would be with him. The man was sinking and as he was disappearing under the Indus staging a man from that ship caught hold of his wrist and pulled him up a little, the whaler then reaching him. Beer was taken on the Indus and received first aid, medical assistance being signalled for. He then rescued O'Keeffe, and went with the tide as far down stream as the Thames, to see if deceased was hanging to any ship's chains. He returned through the torpedo-boat destroyer "trot" but could see nothing of him. Beer was in a very exhausted condition and unconscious. O'Keeffe was not so exhausted, though he had been swept away from deceased owing to the exceptionally strong ebb tide running. As it was moonlight they had no difficulty in seeing the men. Two seamen were on the ship's deck lowering the boat and IVERS stood on a staging below ready to receive it. - By the Foreman: Did not see IVERS fall into the boat. Just above the staging on the port side of the Valiant a boat was hanging. IVERS was below this, and as the whaler descended outside the other boat, he believed that he caught hold of the bottom of the boat above him to swing himself into the other. His wrist being weakened by the previous accident, his hand probably slipped and he fell into the water. IVERS was a most steady and sober man, and for that reason was placed in charge of the boat's crew. - By Mr Peck: The tide strikes diagonally off Wilcove and passes, often like a millstream, between the Valiant and Indus. - Joseph O'Keeffe, able seaman, of the Valiant, said when on deck he saw deceased on the port gangway, this about three feet from the water. As the boat was within a few inches of the water deceased threw up his arms backwards and fell. He got down on the guess[warp and tried to pick him up, but failed. The lifebuoy then fell near him, and he gave it a kick astern towards deceased. He then jumped from the guess-warp into the boat, and dived towards IVERS from her port quarter. Then he saw deceased and Beer midway between the Indus and Valiant, and swam towards them, getting hold of IVERS by the collar. He found they could do nothing for him that way, so he reached for the lifebuoy. As he did so the tide swept him right out of the way. He was then obliged to abandon deceased, otherwise he would have been swept past the Indus. He managed, however, to get hold of the chains of that vessel, where he hung until assistance arrived. Beer and deceased were struggling when he came up with them and he was obliged to let go the collar, or deceased would have been suffocated. He lifted IVERS out of the water to give him a breath of fresh air, but in doing so he sunk himself and came up a short distance away near the buoy. Deceased had been singing on the mess deck just before the accident. His belief was that IVERS attempted to get hold of one of the runners as the whaler was being lowered to lift himself into the boat and missed the rope. - By the Foreman: There was no danger of deceased being struck by the boat as it descended. - William Henry Beer said he was an able seaman at the time of the occurrence, but took his pension the day after. He heard the last witness shout "man overboard!" and ran down the ladder. He saw deceased in the water and got into the boat and dived from her stern. He reached the man under the stern of the Valiant and caught hold of him by the shoulder. They drifted a little, and he tried to swim towards the starboard cable of the Indus. The tide took deceased round, and witness then put his arms round his neck. - O'Keeffe then arrived and caught hold of IVERS' collar, after which he was swept away by the tide. Witness made another effort to reach the cable he was making for, but as he got near he failed to catch it and remembered no more. He recovered when on the steps of the Indus and was not now suffering any ill-effects from his immersion. - By the Foreman: The gangway was in good condition. - James McFadyean, engineer on the diving-bell Epsilon, off the Dockyard wall, said the body became caught in the beam chains. - The Coroner, summing up, said deceased had no doubt accidentally come by his death. Great gallantry was displayed by Beer and O'Keeffe. he had held several inquiries into deaths by drowning from her Majesty's ships, and in every case there were men ready and willing to risk their lives to rescue a shipmate. A few months ago an act of conspicuous bravery took place from the Cambrian. They had been told, not only by the two men, but by Mr Job, in a very plain manner, how Beer and O'Keeffe jumped in the water to save the life of their comrade. It seemed almost a miracle that Beer did not also lose his life, while O'Keeffe was in a similar danger. Great praise was due to them for the gallant attempt to save IVERS, and he considered their efforts should be recognised very amply by the Admiralty. The Jury might add a rider to their verdict expressive of admiration of the conduct of the two seamen. - Mr Peck said he had noted the Coroner's remarks and would communicate the circumstances to the Admiralty. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned," and asked the Coroner to bring the matter under the notice of the Admiralty and the Royal Humane Society. - A vote of sympathy was also passed with deceased's relations. - The Coroner, to Beer and O'Keeffe: Your conduct on that evening was beyond all praise. I shall have much pleasure in acting on the Jury's suggestion.

EXETER - Found Drowned At Exeter. - At Exeter, yesterday, an Inquest was held by Mr H. W. Gould, Deputy Coroner, on WILLIAM GEORGE FORD, whose body was found in the Exe on Sunday morning. Deceased, 27 years of age, was formerly a goods guard on the G.W.R., but left the company's employ in consequence of an accident, which necessitated amputation of a leg. He was depressed about this, and was more upset recently when he heard that a "mate" had lost both his legs. MRS FORD, his stepmother, said he left home on Saturday evening, shortly after seven, telling her he was going to get some money. He did not return. FORD had never threatened to take his life and there was no reason why he should do so. He was slightly the worse for liquor when he left home. His body was recovered from the Exe the next morning, and his crutches and hat were found on the banks. Death was due to drowning. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Dead."

Western Morning News, Friday 30 November 1900
ASHBURTON - Mr Kellock and a Jury, of whom Mr J. H. Foaden was Foreman, held an Inquest at Ashburton yesterday on MISS JESSIE MANN, a middle-aged lady of independent means, who died suddenly the previous day. Deceased had complained of a slight cold and had been delicate for years. Dr Wilcox, who had made a post-mortem examination, said the heart and liver were diseased and death was due to fatty degeneration of the former. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was entered.

YEALMPTON - Sudden Death At Yealmpton - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, at Yealmpton Hotel, Yealmpton yesterday, held an Inquest was WILLIAM MANN, wheelwright, aged 75 years. ALFRED ELIAS E. MANN, a bellwright, stated that about 10 o'clock on Wednesday morning he was at work with the deceased, his father, in his workshop. He heard him call for help and went at once. He was holding on to a post in the middle of the shop, but before he could get near him deceased fell dead. The deceased had not complained lately and had been able to do light work. His father suffered from a weak heart. - George A. Tall said he was speaking with the deceased not three minutes before his death. He appeared well and chatted freely. - Medical evidence shewed that death was due to syncope and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes " was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 1 December 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - At an Inquest held by the Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) yesterday relative to the death of WINIFRED ALEXANDRA MARY SHAVE, aged one month, the child of a Royal Marine pensioner of 12 Warren-street, Dr A. G. Rider stated that death was due to acute bronchitis and premature birth. Verdict "Natural Causes."

PLYMOUTH - Death Of A Customs Clerk. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on DONALD MCKENZIE, a clerk in H.M. Customs, Plymouth. Mrs Mary Precious, wife of Abraham Precious, caretaker at the Customs Offices, stated that about 3.45 on Thursday afternoon deceased rang the bell. She found him ill and lying on the bed partly dressed. She gave him hot milk, which seemed to revive him. Two hours later she found him dead. The day before he refused to see a medical man when it was spoken about. Mr Cooke, who had made a post-mortem examination, found both lungs bad, but death was due to syncope. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

PLYMOUTH - Found Drowned At Plymouth. - At Plymouth yesterday, Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest on ELLEN LEONARD ELLIS, of 6 Bath-place, Plymouth, found in the water at Tinside on Thursday morning. - Mrs Martha Willcocks, of 6 Bath-place, said that the deceased rented a room in her house. There she saw her on Tuesday evening. She was then drunk and had been drinking for the past fortnight. Witness knew no reason why she should commit suicide. The deceased left the house between six and seven o'clock on Thursday morning. William Searle, caretaker at the Aquarium, Plymouth, said about three o'clock on Thursday evening he saw the body of the deceased floating face downwards in the water at Tinside, and brought it ashore. Life was extinct. A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned.

TROWBRIDGE, WILTSHIRE - Sad Fatality To A Plymouth Health Lecturer. - At Trowbridge yesterday an Inquest was held on KATE LE LEAN, of 16 St Lawrence-road, Plymouth, Wilts. County Council health lecturer, who died on Thursday from inhaling chlorine at the chemistry class on Tuesday. A student prepared the gas and during her temporary absence deceased thinking the jar empty sniffed it to see if it was clean enough for oxygen. - Dr Wise told the Jury that in all the text books he could find only one death from a similar cause. - A verdict of "Death by Misadventure" was returned. This was deceased's first lesson at the class. She had held her appointment since January, and was a very successful lecturer and highly respected throughout Wiltshire. her mother arrived from Plymouth and was present at her daughter's death.

Western Morning News, Monday 3 December 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - The Sudden Death At Stoke. - At the Falcon Inn, Ford, on Saturday, Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest on WILLIAM HENRY MABEN, 65, dairyman, 2 North-prospect, Stoke. Deceased left home at 8.30 on Thursday morning in fair health. His son, HERBERT was driving up St. Hilary-hill later when he saw a crowd by the drinking fountain on Ford Hill and was told his father had been taken ill. When Dr Pullen arrived shortly after he had expired. - William Perry, labourer, saw deceased, whose horse was drinking at the trough, leaning forward in the trap. He found he was unconscious and had been vomiting. Dr Pullen said deceased had been suffering from long standing heart disease and death was due to cardiac syncope. Verdict, "Natural Causes."

PLYMOUTH - Burning Fatality At Stonehouse. - At the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, on Saturday, an Inquest was held by Mr R. B. Johns, respecting the death of JOHN JOSEPH CHARLES SULLY, aged 4, of 14 Peet-street, Stonehouse, who sustained severe burns on November 19th and died at the Hospital on Friday. - EDWIN SULLY, ship's corporal, R.N., father of the deceased, said the child was left for a minute in a room with another child, and set fire to his clothing. His wife pulled the clothing off the deceased, and linseed oil and lime water was applied to the burns. - Mr F. C. Hutchins, House Surgeon, stated that the deceased was admitted to the Hospital on November 29th in a very exhausted condition. He had extensive burns on the chest and the lower part of the body. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 4 December 1900
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Borough Coroner held an Inquest yesterday on GEORGE FRYER, an able seaman on board the schooner Lubentis, of Newport, Mon. Henry Harper, mate of the Lubentis, said the deceased, about 45 years of age, was sent by him with a boy in one of the ship's boats to the Rapid, one of the Turnchapel boats. Deceased was apparently in perfect health. Dr Williams, who had made a post-mortem examination, found that death was due to syncope. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Friday 7 December 1900
ASHBURTON - An Ashburton Fatality. - Mr G. F. Kellock, the Deputy Coroner, yesterday held an Inquest on ARTHUR JAMES, the eight-year old son of JAMES H. MITCHELMORE, outfitter, Ashburton. On Tuesday the lad probably slid down the banisters. His brother heard him fall and cry out and he was picked up unconscious. Dr Wilcox said there was no sign of fracture, but the right arm and face were paralysed and in spite of an ice cap being applied the deceased's temperature rose to 107 ½. In returning a verdict of "Accidental Death" the Jury expressed their sympathy with deceased's parents.

Western Morning News, Monday 10 December 1900
NEWTON ABBOT - At an Inquest held at Newton Abbot on Saturday evening, on MARIA BURRIDGE, widow, aged 63, who dropped dead on Friday evening, the Deputy Coroner (Mr Kellock) strongly condemned the action of a son of the deceased in refusing for some time to allow the body of his mother to be removed to the mortuary for a post-mortem examination. It was not only very wrong and very foolish to disobey a Coroner's order, but it rendered the person guilty of obstruction liable to severe penalties. The deceased died from Heart Disease.

BARNSTAPLE - Suicide At Barnstaple. - Touching the death of THOMAS BRAMBLE, carman, Great Western Railway Company, an Inquest was held at Barnstaple on Saturday. Deceased was 53 years of age and on Thursday last his coat, cap and boots were found on the bank of a small tributary of the River Taw, adjoining Gloucester-road. diligent search made by the Police for the body was of no avail. On Saturday a fisherman hooked up the body just above the boating station, near the outfall of the Cooney Stream. BRAMBLE was of a quiet disposition, a teetotaler and a member of the Bible Christian community. His mind was slightly affected about twelve months ago as the result of a painful accident, but he had since recovered, although he was greatly troubled at the serious illness of his only daughter. - Mr Withey, Station Master at the Barnstaple Great Western Railway Station, gave deceased a splendid character, he having worked for the company since 1887. The verdict was "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 11 December 1900
PLYMOUTH - Death Of A Penzance Man At Plymouth. - The Borough Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) held an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday, relative to the death of RICHARD SAMPSON, a butcher, aged 41, who resided at 55 Adelaide-street, Penzance. Mrs Rowe said the deceased, her brother, came to Plymouth last Tuesday and stayed with her. On Wednesday he went to bed and did not again get up. On Friday a doctor was sent for, but deceased died that evening. Dr Corbett said he saw SAMPSON about ten minutes before his death, when he was in an extreme condition. A post-mortem examination shewed that death was due to syncope, the liver being in a very bad state. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 12 December 1900
PLYMOUTH - Sad Occurrence At Plymouth. - The Coroner of Plymouth (Mr R. B. Johns) held an Inquest at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital yesterday on JOHN HENRY HOUNSELL, engineer, aged 56, who resided at 17 Stillman-street, Plymouth. William Thompson said on Monday evening he saw deceased lying in a shed at the Great Western Docks unconscious, being tended to by some men. Witness, with assistance conveyed deceased to the Hospital. HOUNSELL belonged to the Rescue, a steamtug, owned by Fox and Sons. Dr Hitchins, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased never recovered consciousness and remained so until he died at one o'clock in the morning. A post-mortem examination showed that deceased's organs were healthy. Whilst in the Hospital he had a number of epileptic fits, from one of which he died. He had probably been taken with a fit at the Docks. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

PLYMOUTH - A Fatal Fall At Sea. - The Inquest on GEORGE K. A. BARKER, apprentice on the barque King David, who died on November 30th was concluded at Plymouth yesterday. Deceased was the son of a medical practitioner of Reading and aged 16 years. Thomas Telfer, mate of the King David, who resides at Dunmore, Stirlingshire, stated that shortly after midnight on 30th ult., whilst in the Channel, deceased was in the rigging loosening the gallant sails. On going from the upper to the lower gallant yards he lost his hold and in falling struck the mizzen upper topsail yard. He was unconscious when picked up. He did not regain consciousness. Deceased was handed over to the Elizabeth Gerry (bound for Plymouth) as there was no doctor on board. When landed deceased was dead. A post-mortem examination shewed that deceased's skull was fractured and his spine injured and that several ribs were broken. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 14 December 1900
NORTH TAWTON - MRS EMMA FORD, wife of WILLIAM FORD, road contractor, Northtawton, fell from a chair on Saturday and died on Wednesday. At an Inquest yesterday the Jury (Mr George Davey, Foreman) returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Saturday 15 December 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - The Hamoaze Drowning Fatality. Remarkable Conduct Of Constables. - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest yesterday on JOHN MITCHELL, 49, insurance agent, 26 Clifford-terrace, St Budeaux. - ELIZABETH ANN MITCHELL, the widow, said on Wednesday morning the deceased told her he was going to Saltash Passage to see Mr Goss, about borrowing a boat to go fishing. He had been used to boats all his life and possessed one. In consequence of a severe attack of influenza eight years ago he lost his post in the Harbourmaster's cutter and had never been right since. - John Enderson of the Artillery Arms, Admiralty-street, Stonehouse, said deceased came to his house with Goss about one o'clock on Wednesday. Witness, with deceased, Goss and his father-in-law, named Partridge, walked to Devil's Point in the afternoon and returned to the public-house. Deceased and Goss left at about 4.30 to return to Saltash. Both men were sober. They had two pints of beer each at the house and while they were out had another drink. - William Risk, boatman, said when Goss and MITCHELL returned to the boat at Admiral's Hard at 4.30 they both seemed sober. It was getting dark and there was a strong wind blowing, with squalls and drizzly rain. The boat was about 12 feet long and about 3 ½ feet in beam. Goss was a water-bailiff and used the boat for his business. He believed they must have hoisted the sail off the Dockyard wall and the boat capsized in the choppy sea. - Timothy John Murphy, waterman at North-corner, said at 5.55 on Wednesday evening he was going on board the Melampia. Off No. 2 Jetty at the Dockyard, he saw a hat and just afterwards the body of deceased. his boat was loaded with bread and deceased was too heavy to lift inside to he pulled the boat to Northcorner, while a man with him held the body. It was rather choppy by the Dockyard wall, but he did not consider the weather rough. - Albert Edward Squire, clerk at W. Miller and Co's Naval Stores, Northcorner, said he was with the last witness. Their boat was well loaded and not much out of the water. They could not lift the body into the boat and he could not keep the head out of the water all the time. - Thomas S. Angear, piermaster, Northcorner, said when the body was landed there were two water Policemen on the pontoon, but no attempt was made to resuscitate the deceased and the body was immediately carried to the mortuary. A sergeant of the Water-police looked at deceased's watch. It had stopped at five minutes to six. Witness did not think of attempting to resuscitate deceased and nobody suggested it. Everybody took it for granted that the man was dead. - By a Juror: He knew what the time was by the watch and it was only about ten minutes after six when he saw the body, but he did not think of anything but taking it to the mortuary. - A Juryman: The watch may have been fast as Murphy said he found the body at ten minutes to six. - Witness: And it may have been slow. - The Coroner: Well, that would make it all the worse for you. - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner: Is it not a fact that the Water Policemen wanted to attempt artificial respiration and you would not allow them. - I thought they were going to search the body and that should have been done at the mortuary. - Did you not say you would not allow them to touch the body, and told them you were master of the pier, and made them retire from the case? - Yes. I said I was the constable. I thought they were searching the body. - Have you been sworn in as a constable for the Borough? - Yes. - Does not it shew you what the Metropolitan Policemen intended to do when the first thing the Sergeant did was to look at the watch? - I did not think of it then. - The Coroner said that the affair had been very greatly muddled. He believed the time by the watch was fairly correct, and if so, the man might have only been actually in the water for a minute or two. - Witness, continuing, said he did not understand artificial respiration himself and it never occurred to him to ask the Policemen if they did. - The Coroner: The Water Police have considerable experience in such matters. The fact was, I suppose, that the body was landed at your pier and you undertook all responsibility and would not allow the Water Police or anyone but yourself to have anything to do with it. - Dr F. E. Row said he had made a post-mortem examination of deceased, who was a well made, muscular man. His right lung shewed evidence of extensive old pleurisy. The other organs were normal. He did not find any traces of beer. Death was due to drowning. - The Coroner: Assuming that deceased was in the water for a quarter of an hour, do you think there was any hope of his recovery if artificial respiration had been attempted? - The extensive pleurisy from which deceased had suffered would probably have prevented his recovery, but they did not know that, and it certainly should have been tried. - P.C. John Hill said he met Angear and others bringing the body to the mortuary. Deceased's hand appeared to be getting stiff. - The Coroner: Did anyone attempt to restore animation then or when the body was at the mortuary? - No. They thought he was dead and the body was getting stiff. I saw by the watch about how long he was in the water. I have a St John Ambulance Association certificate. - Does it not say in your instructions how long after a body is found you can make attempts to restore animation? - I think it is a quarter of an hour. - A Juror: The Board of Trade regulations say half an hour, or even longer. - Dr Row, recalled, said he had known of cases where a person was totally immersed for five minutes and recovered, and there were instances of recovery after longer immersion. He did not think if artificial respiration had been attempted by the Constable it would have been any use in the present case. It was usually the custom in such cases to call a doctor and continue attempting to restore animation until he pronounced life extinct. - A relative of the deceased, asked Dr Row whether the fact that the deceased floated did not shew there was air in his lungs. Deceased was a strong swimmer. - Dr Row said there was always air in the lungs and in this case a good deal. The body was also kept floating by the thick material of the clothing, which held a quantity of air. The relative expressed his opinion that a life had been thrown away. - In summing up, the Coroner said he must express his strong disapproval of the absence of all attempt to restore animation, especially when it was seen at what time deceased's watch had stopped. It was ten minutes past six when deceased was landed, which shewed he had only been in the water for 15 minutes. No one thought of bringing the man back to life. No attempt was made, and no doctor was sent for. The piermaster took charge of the body and there were two Water Policemen on the spot. One of them at least, being a Sergeant, must have had considerable experience. It was his opinion that the Water Police intended to do what they could, when the piermaster insisted on taking charge of the body. Naturally, the Policemen did not further interfere as the piermaster was a Constable, and they had no right to interfere with the civil police. But he believed both forces worked amicably together, and it was Angear's duty to have let them attempt to restore the deceased to animation. The Borough Constable, who met the body in Cornwall-street, should have also acted differently. He believed, with the doctor, that an attempt would have been futile, but that did not explain the absence of any attempt. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning," and, with the Coroner, expressed their sympathy with deceased's wife and relatives.

EXETER - Fatality At St. David's Station. - WILLIAM HOAR, who was run over by an engine at St. David's Station on Thursday, died in the Devon and Exeter Hospital early yesterday morning. Yesterday afternoon an Inquest was held by Mr H. W. Gould, the Deputy Coroner. Inspectors Shattock and Percival watched the proceedings on behalf of the Great Western and London and South Western Railway Companies. - Deceased's son said his father was 49 years of age, and a foreman porter in the employ of the Great Western Railway. - A. P. Hancock, porter at St. David's, said he was proceeding towards the up-platform about 5.30 on Thursday evening, when he saw HOAR crossing the London and South-Western platform opposite. He called to him "Look out, the South-Western is about." Witness attended to a train that had just come in, and on turning round saw deceased crossing the South-Western rails with the Plymouth express a few yards from him. He could not say whether HOAR understood him when he called out. He made no sign that witness could see. When he saw the express Hancock again called out, but deceased was caught by the buffers and knocked over. HOAR evidently did not see the train coming. He helped to carry the man to the Hospital, and on the way HOAR said he thought he was calling out about a truck which had been detached from the express. Deceased was in the habit of crossing the line at various points to meet the trains. On this occasion two trains practically ran in together. There was no rule against their crossing the line. - Fred R. W. M. Martin, the driver of the Plymouth express, said he blew his whistle twice, according to instructions, as he entered the Station. When he first saw deceased he was about three yards in front of him attempting to cross the line. It was impossible to stop the engine then. - Deceased's son said his father could hear well. - William Arthur Trumper, assistant House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said when admitted the deceased was in a state of collapse and appeared to have lost a lot of blood. He had sustained a compound fracture of both bones of the right leg below the knee, and the flesh was much crushed and torn. The left foot was crushed to a shapeless mass. Later on when the man was a bit better both legs were amputated. He seemed fairly well at the time, but afterwards collapsed and died about 4 a.m. - The Coroner said it was a most regrettable accident, and he feared it was only another of those cases where persons associated with danger became indifferent or thoughtless about the consequences of their acts. He did not think there was anyone to blame. - The Jury concurred and returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 19 December 1900
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Borough Coroner (Mr J. A. Pearce) held an Inquest yesterday at Millbridge on URIAH THORNE, 42, a carman of 84 Hotham-place, Devonport. ELIZA THORNE said the deceased, her husband, enjoyed good health until a few months ago. On Sunday at about midnight he became ill and took medicine, but said he felt no relief, and shortly after, as he sat on the side of the bed, he fell over on to the floor, knocking his head against the door. Dr C. W. Lauder said death was due to syncope, the result of heart disease of long standing. The Jury returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Thursday 20 December 1900
NEWTON ABBOT - Chemists Prescribing Medicine. A Newton Abbot Warning. - An Inquest was held at Newton Abbot last evening by Mr G. F. Kellock, Deputy Coroner, on ALICE AMELIA, the three-year-old daughter of HENRY PASCOE, of 29 Bank-street. The father said his daughter had been delicate from birth and had been suffering from a cold. On Sunday she was in the best of spirits until midday, when she asked her mother to take her up. In about a quarter of an hour she was seized with an attack of diarrhoea and sickness. Dr Stephens was sent for and the child died on Monday morning. His wife got medicine for the child from the chemist on the Friday evening. Dr Stephens said he found the child very feverish from sickness and diarrhoea. He gave her medicine. In the evening she was in a state of collapse. Early next morning she was partly conscious. He was not told she had had any medicine. A post-mortem examination revealed strong evidence of peritonitis. He found nothing of an irritating nature and thought the illness was brought on by a cold. In the medicine supplied by the chemist there was nothing that would hurt the child, except that it might cause purging, which would increase the peritonitis. - George A. Barnes, chemsit, stated that MRS PASCOE told him the baby had no appetite and was constantly sick. He gave her a mixture of rhubarb and magnesia. He did not see the child. Dr Stephens said the duration of acute peritonitis of ordinary origin was very short. That was why he did not feel justified in giving a certificate. The Coroner: You were perfectly right in doing as you have done. - The Coroner: The Jury must consider whether the death was in any way due to the medicine supplied by the chemist. Chemists were wrong in allowing medicines to go out as was done in this case. It was frightfully dangerous. - The Jury (Mr G. Hammett, Foreman) returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" and added that chemists should not supply medicine unless they had more evidence of the state of the child, or a prescription from a doctor. - The Coroner agreed with the rider, as it was a most dangerous and wrong practice, and had the medical evidence shewn that death was due in any way to this cause it would have been a very serious matter.

LYNTON - A Lynton Mystery. - An Inquest has been held at Lynton on AMY LYNN, aged 11, the only child of P.C. LYNN, Lynton. The father stated that he fetched Dr Stephens on Thursday last, his daughter being very sick. The next day she told him she had eaten a cherry which she got from some cake they purchased at the chapel. His wife and self had eaten some of the cake and were in no way inconvenienced. - Dr Stephens said on Monday night he found the child very sick and suffering from great pains in the stomach. On examining the substance thrown up he could find no trace of poison. The next day he found the child sitting by the fire, quite cheerful. She said she had eaten a berry or cherry, which she found in her pocket. On Saturday she was in bed, but quite cheerful. In the afternoon she got much worse and he called in Dr Mitchell, but the child died shortly afterwards. A post-mortem examination shewed that the cause of death was some poisonous substance unknown. The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Western Morning News, Friday 21 December 1900
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, Plymouth Coroner, held an Inquest yesterday on WILLIAM HENRY STIVEY, aged 66, Dockyard pensioner. Deceased on Wednesday night left the shop of his son, JOHN HENRY STIVEY, butcher, Stonehouse, at 8 p.m. and nearing his home, Richmond House, Brighton-road, fell down and died soon afterwards. Dr Wilkinson made a post-mortem examination and found that death was due to heart disease. A verdict accordingly was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 22 December 1900
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Borough Coroner (Mr R. B. Johns) held an Inquest yesterday on ELLEN HAWKSLEY KEMP, aged 15 months. WILLIAM T. KEMP, carpenter, 3 Stanlake-terrace, father of the child, said his daughter had been somewhat delicate owing to teething. She had a fit about a month ago. On Thursday morning she had another and died soon after. Dr E. T. Dutton said death was due to convulsions and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

YEALMPTON - Suicide At Yealmpton. A Sad Case. - Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, Inquired yesterday at Dunstone, Yealmpton, into the death of SAMUEL HURRELL, labourer, 57, found with his throat cut in a shippen of Mr J. D. Ellis on Thursday. Dr Langworthy stated that he was called about half-past ten in the morning, but nothing could be done for deceased but to dress the wound. If anything further had been done the man would have been suffocated. HURRELL who had not severed the main arteries, lived about six hours. Andrew Cornish stated that on account of deceased having left his lunch on the table on leaving for work, search was made for him and witness found him in the shippen in a kneeling position. Seeing blood on the ground and razor close by he informed the son of deceased. - The widow of deceased said her husband had been in low spirits. On Sunday week he said, "Mother, I don't know what's the matter with me. I feel very unhappy. I am afraid I am not so good as I ought to be." Deceased was always reading his Bible. She was afraid he studied it too much. The mother of deceased had been in a lunatic asylum, and his eldest daughter died in Exminster Asylum. - Mr g. H. Foster, surveyor, deposed that he was called with Dr Langworthy. Deceased was then lying on his right side and on turning him over they found a razor where he had lain. Deceased was a most respectable, well-behaved man. A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned, and the Jury gave MRS HURRELL their fees and tendered their sympathy.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 26 December 1900
EAST STONEHOUSE - The Devil's Point Fatality. - In Stonehouse Townhall on Monday Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest on MICHAEL EUSTACE, 55, labourer, Royal William Victualling Yard, Stonehouse, and residing at 23 St Leonard's-road, Plymouth, who fell from a cliff on to the coastguard quay at Devil's Point on Saturday or Sunday. Mr W. E. Corbett, Surgeon, who had made a post-mortem examination, said death was due to fracture of the skull. - MRS HANNAH EUSTACE stated that the deceased, an army pensioner, left home about 5.30 on Saturday morning to go to his work as a labourer at the Naval Ordnance Department, Royal William Victualling Yard. He had been a teetotaler for eight years and about nine months ago, when his son came home from the war, he commenced to drink a little and had been drinking a little ever since. They let the best of friends. He was in the habit of carrying a razor with him, as he occasionally shaved in the yard. - Sergeant F. Lee, Metropolitan Police, stated that deceased passed the Victualling Yard about 9 p.m. on Saturday, under the influence of drink and going towards Devil's Point. He was a very steady man as a rule. - William A. Brenton, stationed at the Queen's harbourmaster's Department, Stonehouse, found the deceased lying on the quay near the Coastguard boathouse. He was quite dead, having apparently fallen there some hours previous. A portion of his pipe was in his mouth, the bowl lying beside him. The cliff over which the deceased fell was properly protected with iron railings and deceased must have crawled over or underneath the railings. - John Prowse, coastguard, stated that deceased fell 25 feet. The boathouse had not been unlocked on Sunday morning before the deceased was found. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 27 December 1900
PLYMOUTH - At 21 Beatrice-avenue, Plymouth, Mr John Graves, Deputy Coroner, held an inquiry yesterday respecting the death of ANGUS MORISON, aged 16 months, who died on Monday morning from burns received on the previous afternoon. The mother stated that she left her two children playing in the nursery on Sunday afternoon, while she went downstairs for a minute. The elder child must have opened the door of the stove, and, playing with lighted sticks, set fire to the clothes of the younger child. She heard a scream and rushed into the room to find the child's clothing on fire. She extinguished the flames and Dr Wilkinson was sent for. The injuries were, however, of such a nature that the child succumbed. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 28 December 1900
EXETER HEAVITREE - Suicide Near Exeter. - Mr A. Burrow, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Heavitree last evening relative to the death of HENRY GEORGE STOKES, a butcher. MRS STOKES stated that shortly after one o'clock on Wednesday her husband, after giving a young man assistant his dinner, went upstairs and almost immediately there was a loud report as if from a gun. She sent the girl to see what was the matter and afterwards went up on the landing and found her husband had shot himself. He was unable to speak and died shortly after the doctor arrived. Deceased had been very quiet during the morning but had gone about his work as usual. He had complained recently of a pain in his side and was worried over the noise of the children. He had several times said he would take his life, but she had never taken the threats as serious. She had been told never to alarm herself, as her husband would never take his own life, although she must take care of herself. In 1896 deceased was in the Exeter Prison for six weeks. He got worried over most trivial matters but she did not know that he had had anything to trouble him of late. They always got on well together, but she was sorry to say her husband was addicted to drink. - Thomas Henry Bond, assistant [?] said his master appeared to be strange in his manner on Wednesday morning. He gave witness his dinner and then went up stairs. A few minutes afterwards he heard the report of a gun. Going to see what had happened he found deceased lying on the landing on his face and hands with a gun by his side. There was blood on the floor. STOKES was living but did not speak. Deceased occasionally drank more than was good for him and then there would be quarrels. The gun was used formerly to kill bullocks. Mr J. F. Wolfe, who was called in, said STOKES was living when he arrived, but the whole of his face was blown away. Death was due to the gunshot wound. The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."