Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

1834-1835

Taken from the Western Times

[Printed in Exeter]

Inquests

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

Provided by Lindsey Withers

[No's in brackets indicate the number of times that name occurs]

Names included: Alford; Algar; Bagwill; Binney; Board; Bowditch; Buckingham; Burton; Buttle; Carter; Charlton; Chase; Ching; Clear; Cockram; Collard; Cook; Crudge; Cudmore; Domett(2); Downey; Ebdon; Ellis; Farley; Ford; Gould; Grady; Green; Griffin; Gubb; Harris; Harvey; Harwood; Hayman; Heathcote; Hill; Hooper; Hoare(2); Holton; Hore; James; Kingdon; Lane; Legg; Lethaby; Lidstone; Manning; Margerie; Maunder; May; Merryfield; Mildrum; Moore; Moxey; Newberry; Newton; Noddy; Norman(2); Patch; Pearsy; Perring; Perry; Pitt; Quick; Richards; Robertson; Russell; Salter; Sampson; Sanders; Savage; Selly; Sheppard; Simmons; Skinner; Smale; Snell; Stanton; Steer; Thorne; Tilour; Trook; Wakeham; Weeks; Westlake; Williams.

Western Times, Saturday 4 January 1834
CREDITON - On Tuesday last, a travelling tinker, having some words with a woman with whom he cohabited, struck her, when the landlady of the lodging house interfered, and the tinker called her an opprobrious name. Her husband (an old man named JAMES WESTLAKE) took the part of his wife, when the brutal fellow knocked him down and kicked him and he died almost immediately. An Inquest was held on the body on Wednesday before J. Partridge, Esq., of Tiverton, and a verdict of Wilful Murder returned.

BROADHEMBURY - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. - December 28, at Broadhembury, on the body of MATTHEW ELLIS, yeoman, aged 46 years. It appears by evidence that on the 27th ult., the deceased called on a friend of his at Broadhembury, who went with him to the Red Lion Inn, where he (the deceased) drank two glasses of gin and water and had the third brought in, but did not drink it, when he went out, as the landlord supposed, to go to the yard. This was about six o'clock; and about ten the same night, as Mr T. Matthews, a neighbour of the deceased, was going from Broadhembury to his own house, he saw the deceased lying in a ditch, about three feet in breadth, and a stream of water running through it. He was quite dead, but there was no marks of violence. Verdict - Accidental Death.

KILMINGTON - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. - On the 30th ult., at Kilmington, on the body of JOHN SIMMONS, aged four years. On the 23rd deceased's mother went out, taking three children with her; they went to the house of a blacksmith, and the three children went into the shop to play, when the deceased got on the forge and another blew the bellows. Deceased lighted a stick and threw it upon the floor. He took it up again and smote it on the anvil, when the fire flew about the shop and caught his clothes and before the fire could be extinguished he was much hurt and the following day expired. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 11 January 1834
CULLOMPTON - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. - At Collumpton on the body of HENRY PITT, baker, aged 73 years, who fell down and expired near his own door on the evening of the 3rd instant. Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

CHURCHSTANTON - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. - At Churchtaunton, on the body of JAMES BUTTLE, aged 9 years, whose death was occasioned by his being caught in the machinery, in Mr Swifts' silk-factory, on the 28th ult., by which he was so much injured that he died on the 2nd instant. - Verdict - Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 15 February 1834
NEWTON POPPLEFORD - An Inquest was held on the 6th instant, by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., at Newton Poppleford on the body of ELIZABETH TROOK, the wife of WILLIAM TROOK, pork butcher, aged 38 years, who died suddenly on the night of 4th instant, within a few minutes of her husband's return from Exmouth market. Verdict - "Died by the Visitation of God."

Western Times, Saturday 22 February 1834
ILFRACOMBE - Inquest held by Thomas Copner, Esq., Coroner - On Saturday last, at Ilfracombe, on the body of JOHN GREEN aged 70, who whilst employed in a boat with two other men, dredging for oysters, as he was pulling the rope of the dredge, was drawn overboard into the water. One of his companions caught him by the leg and drew him back into the boat, but the shock was too great for him, and he died soon after. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 22 March 1834
SHUTE - An Inquest was held on Saturday, the 8th inst., by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner, on the body of JOSEPH HOARE, at Old Shute House, in the parish of Shute, in this county. The case had excited considerable interest from the circumstance of the deceased having been engaged in an affray at a public-house, some days previously, in which he was supposed to have received an injury which brought on the illness that occasioned his death. From the evidence of Dr Gillett, of Colyton, it appears that he was called on to attend the deceased on Monday the 3rd inst., when he complained of great pain in the bowels at the pit of the stomach, and shifting towards the left shoulder - he administered medicine to the deceased, and saw him again on the Tuesday, when he was induced to enquire if the deceased had met with any accident or injury. The deceased replied that he had been engaged in a sort of scuffle the Friday week previously (21st February), but that he did not think his illness arose from that. The deceased died on Wednesday morning. On a post mortem examination of the body of the deceased, which was opened by Dr Gillett and his brother, Mr George Gillett, Surgeon, (at the request of the Jury) the whole of the viscera of the abdomen were found healthy, with the exception of a circumscribed spot of inflammation situated in that part of the intestine called the ileum. The inflammation was intense, but there was no rupture. In addition to this there was an inflammation in the gland called the pancreas, which is a gland opposite the pit of the stomach, the lower part of the stomach and that portion of the gut called the duodenum. It was the lower part of the gland which was inflamed and this inflammation was exactly on the spot where the deceased complained of pain. The external parts of the back and stomach were carefully examined, but no bruises or marks of extravasated blood appeared on the body. The medical men were of opinion that the inflammation in the pancreas was the cause of death, and that such inflammation of the pancreas and ileum might have arisen spontaneously, or a blow or a kick in those parts might have occasioned it, which last they thought the more likely cause. - It appeared that the deceased had been engaged in an affray on the 21st February at the house of William Holmyard, the Hare and Hounds, at Whitford, in the course of which he received several blows on various parts of his body, but that he did not complain of any serious ailment until Sunday or Monday the 2nd and 3rd instant, and it also appeared that brandy and other stimulants had been given to the deceased, when he first complained, which the medical men considered highly improper. - Sir Win. T. Pole, Bart., of Shute House attended, and assisted the Coroner in the Enquiry, and after a long and careful investigation, the Jury returned a verdict of "Died from Natural Causes."

Western Times, Saturday 5 April 1834
TAMERTON FOLIOT - Suicide. - A young woman named MARY HOLTEN, in the service of Mr Henry Bowden, of West Whitleigh, in the parish of Tamerton Foliott, farmer, put an end to her existence last week, by taking a quantity of white arsenic. The deceased had been in the employ of Mr Bowden about five weeks, during which time her conduct appeared to her master and mistress to be most exemplary. The deceased was found to be pregnant about two or three months. The Jury after a careful investigation returned a verdict that the deceased died from the effects of Arsenic, taken during a state of Temporary Insanity.

Western Times, Saturday 19 April 1834
SEATON AND BEER - On the 15th day of April, an Inquest was held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., at Seaton, on the body of MR BINNEY, Tailor, aged 25 years. On the 8th ult. the deceased went from Seaton to Exeter with Mr Joseph Boulch, Butcher, in a little four wheel Waggon drawn by one Horse. On the following day they were returning from Exeter to Seaton, when they came to Aylesbear Hill. The horse took fright, he began to kick and ran away down the Hill, when the deceased was in the act of getting out at the back part of the waggon (with the intention of running to catch the horse) he fell to the ground and lay there until John Easterling, of Sidmouth, a waggoner, came up to him and picked him up and put him in his waggon and carried him to Newton Poppleford. The deceased seemed very much injured and complained of pain in his head. He was taken home to Seaton the same night, where surgical aid was procured, but to no purpose. He survived until Saturday evening when he expired. - Verdict - Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 17 May 1834
EAST STONEHOUSE - Murder And Suicide. - A man named NODDY, a butcher's servant or cattle driver, living in George Street, Stonehouse, was in the habit of expending the principal part of his earnings in drunkenness and returning to his home on Saturday nights in a state of intoxication, with hardly any money left for the support of his family, a wife and four children. Expostulation on the part of his wife was generally met by abuse and violence on his, producing in most instances a violent quarrel. On Saturday night, the 10 inst., he returned home drunk, as usual, with but six-pence for the support of his family during the ensuing week - they were described as being in a state of starvation. A quarrel took place previous to the man and his wife's retirement for the night. The woman rose at half past four on Sunday morning, and the eldest child stated that she kissed him and the other two, saying that she was going out to gather hemlock to make a poultice for a wound on her hand; she then left the house with her youngest child, a baby of fifteen months old and was not seen alive afterwards. It is supposed that she proceeded immediately to the New Mill Bridge, and after throwing her child over the parapet on one side, plunged in herself on the other. The child's body was found on Sunday morning, at half-past ten, in the water, on the side of the bridge nearest the sea. The mother was not discovered until half-past two in the afternoon - she was on the other side of the bridge. It may be observed, for the information of those unacquainted with the place, that there is a flour mill attached to the bridge and that the water flows through but two of the arches, and only through these two when the mill gates are open; this will account for the woman's body not having passed down the stream with the tide. The woman's name was ELIZABETH; she was 35 years old. - A Coroner's Jury brought in a verdict of Temporary Insanity. The two bodies were interred on Tuesday; the woman was carried to her grave by butchers' men of Stonehouse and the child by their children.

Western Times, Saturday 24 May 1834
AXMOUTH - Warning. - We have this week to report the death of another child, four years old, by burning. Her name was SARAH PATCH, the child of labouring people residing at Axmouth. An Inquest was held on the body by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., and a verdict of Accidental Death returned. We hope the excellent Coroner who has done so much to caution the poor on this subject, will favour us, at some future occasion, with a return of the number of the deaths of children by fire, which have come under his cognizance.

Western Times, Saturday 7 June 1834
EXETER - An Inquest was held on Monday, before Saml. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, for this City, at Wilcocks' Valiant Soldier Inn, on the body of a carter of the name of ROBERT JAMES, who on descending a hill near Crediton, with a heavy load, in stooping to put on the shoe, was pressed on and being thrown, the wheel passed over him, severely fracturing one of his legs. He was removed to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, where amputation was found necessary, but the injuries were so extensive that death terminated his sufferings and a verdict was returned accordingly.

EXETER - An Inquest was held at the Barnstaple Inn, North-street, on Thursday last, on the body of MARY ANNE TILOUR, a young woman, whose body was found floating in the Exe, near the Head Wear, on the previous day. - Charles Baker, an elderly man, a shoemaker, residing in Brookgreen, St. Sidwell's, deposed that he had known the deceased for four years. She had lived twice servant with him; he is a single man living with his brother and sister-in-law. Last Sunday afternoon she came to the house in company with his niece who worked with her; they were both in the habit of coming backwards and forwards together. Deceased made that house her home. She was a friendless girl, but had two uncles living at Heavitree. I am writing when she came in. She asked me to write a note for her. I put down what she said, this is the note. It did not excite my suspicion. She said she was going to send it seven miles away. There had been stories that she was in the family way, and I thought this was to contradict it. The following is a copy of the note, which was pinned to the stays when the body was taken out of the water. - "MARY AN TILLOR - This is Don be cose I stated she is not in the famley waie when this you see you will now [know] what is bee come of me. I have nothing Extrey for the Present so this is the last fare well to you Aall." Witness, who appeared to be one of the stupidest of men, did not appear to have suspected the intention of deceased. The note is scarcely intelligible itself, but his explanation of the object of the deceased was to contradict the report of her pregnancy. Mrs James, a laundress, residing in Exe Island, stated that the deceased had been in her employ for the last eight months and was to have left her on Tuesday last. About a month ago witness complained of her stopping too long on an errand, and deceased who was a very ill tempered young woman gave her notice that she should quit in a month. On Saturday witness offered to raise her wages if she would stay, which she consented to do. On Sunday whilst they sat at dinner deceased was very cheerful and in good spirits and the conversation turning on a young man that had been drowned in the morning, deceased said very likely they would hear of someone else before the next Sunday, which in the course of observations she repeated several times. Witness had great reason to believe that deceased was not enciente. The Coroner suggested to the Jury the necessity for a medical examination to ascertain that fact. The examination of the body proved that deceased was not enciente. The Jury met again at seven in the evening and other witnesses were again examined. A young girl who worked with deceased proved that she had been in a very desponding state of mind for several days and was particularly so the night before. The Jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned.

EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - On Monday night, J. Gribble, Esq., held an Inquest at the Workhouse, St. Thomas, on the body of WILLIAM HOOPER, who was found drowned in the Basin. The facts produced were incoherent and after a patient investigation of the circumstances, a verdict of Found Drowned was returned.

EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - On Tuesday last, an Inquest was held at the Seven Stars Inn, St Thomas, by Mr Gribble, on the body of MR JOHN CHARLTON, bleacher, St. Thomas, who had cut his throat with a razor on the morning of that day. It appeared by the evidence of Mr Woodman, Surgeon, that the unfortunate individual had laboured under a degree of insanity in February last, at which period he had made an attempt on his life. He had been labouring under a great degree of excitement for some time. Verdict accordingly.

OKEHAMPTON - At the White Hart, Okehampton, on Wednesday last, by Mr J. Gribble, Esq., on the body of MR WILLIAMS, a painter of Tavistock. The deceased visited Okehampton on Sunday evening, on his way to Winkleigh. Early on the following morning he went out for a walk, complaining of a head-ache. In the course of a few hours after his departure he was found in the river above the castle steps quite dead, and it is supposed that he was taken in a fit, as the depth of the river was not above fourteen or fifteen inches deep. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

BRANSCOMBE - An Inquest was held on the 2nd of June, by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., at Branscombe, on the body of JOHN BOARD, of Salcombe, labourer, aged 37. It appeared by evidence that on Friday, the 30th ult., the deceased had driven a waggon dawn by 3 horses belonging to Mr H. Griffin, of Sidmouth, farmer, to a lime kiln in Branscombe and had taken up a load of Lime. That he was afterwards found dead in the road leading from the lime kilns to Berry Farm. No marks of violence appeared on the body sufficient to cause death and no evidence appearing to the Jurors as to how he came by his death, they returned a verdict that the deceased Died from Natural Causes.

Western Times, Saturday 21 June 1834
BARNSTAPLE - Distressing Suicide. - A distressing instance of self-destruction occurred in Barnstaple on Tuesday last. The ill-fated subject was MASTER GEORGE STANTON, a young gentleman said to have been heir to a baronetcy, and the only child of a widowed mother, who has resided in Barnstaple for several years, watching over her son with the tenderest anxiety. He was discovered lying in his bedroom with a pistol by his side, the ball of which had entered about an inch above the right ear, and had lodged in his head. An Inquest was held on the body, but no cause appeared for the rash act. The Jury returned a verdict "That the deceased Shot himself in a state of Insanity." It was said that the unfortunate young gentleman (who had just attained his 16th year) was of a noble disposition and possessed of high intellectual abilities.

Western Times, Saturday 28 June 1834
EXETER - An Inquest was held on Monday, at the Valiant Soldier, by S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of THOMAS BURTON, who died in the Hospital on Saturday night last. It appeared in evidence that the deceased was riding on Friday afternoon on the top of a hawker's van belonging to his brother, when, a short distance beyond Broadclist, on their way to this City, one of the hind wheels came off, by which accident he was thrown to the ground and in the fall fractured his neck: He was immediately conveyed to the Hospital, where he lingered until Saturday. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" with a deodand of one shilling on the wheel.

Western Times, Saturday 5 July 1834
CHURCHSTANTON - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. - June 26, at Churchtaunton, on the body of an illegitimate child of AMY MOORE. It appeared in evidence, that the mother, on finding herself taken ill, to avoid the anger of her father, went out into a field near the river and was there delivered, that she had afterwards made her way into an adjoining orchard, where she was discovered by her groans. No marks of violence were discovered on the child: The surgeon who examined it, considered it to have been still born, and a verdict was returned according.

Western Times, Saturday 12 July 1834
EXETER - An Inquest was held at the Devon and Exeter Hospital, before J. Gidley, Esq., one of the Coroners for the City and County of Exeter, on Wednesday, on the body of JOHN MOXEY, a carter, of St. Thomas, who being thrown down, the wheel passed over him, and so severe a fracture of the leg was sustained, that amputation became necessary and he died on Tuesday. Verdict - Accidental Death, with a deodand of 1s. on the wheel."

EXETER - On Wednesday an Inquest was held at the Ring of Bells, on the body of a child named NICHOLAS GRIFFIN, the younger, who fell from a lighter into the river, at the Coal Quay, and was drowned. Verdict - Accidental Death.

CREDITON - Tragedy In Humble Life. - About three weeks since a young man of the name of SAMUEL MARGERIE, aged 22, and a young woman named MARY NORMAN, aged 23, took up their abode at the Royal Oak, Crediton, where they remained till Tuesday se'nnight. On the morning of that day the landlady Mrs Spur, heard them talking, but not loudly; at twelve she sent her son to call them to breakfast, the female replied that they should be down soon. At nine o'clock in the evening, not having made their appearance, Mrs Spur hearing a groan, had the door burst open, when the man was found dead and the woman dying - they had taken nearly a pint of laudanum. Every effort to restore the wretched woman proved unavailing. An Inquest was held on the bodies, and there being no doubt the act was premeditated, the Jury returned a verdict of Felo De Se, and the bodies were buried in the Church Yard without the usual rites. MARGERIE had commenced business in Heavitree, as a clock and watch maker, where he became acquainted with the female, who was a servant; and very handsome it is said. They cohabited together and being questioned the woman declared they were married, mentioning the church at which she said the ceremony took place. Search was made for the registry, and the falsehood of the statement ascertained. To avoid the remarks that were levelled at them, they left Heavitree, no one knowing whither they had gone, and having spent their time in a sweet dream of romantic attachment - for such it appears to have been, from the statements that are public - their money being exhausted, their characters gone with their friends - with equal wickedness and weakness they rushed into the dread presence of their maker.

Western Times, Saturday 19 July 1834
EXMOUTH - Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - On the 15th inst., at the Dolphin Inn, Exmouth, on the body of JOHN GUBB, of Exeter, brushmaker, aged 61 years, who hung himself the day before at the above Inn. It appeared by evidence that the deceased was once a respectable tradesman, but having met with many heavy losses he became reduced , and sold his business, which had such an effect upon his mind, that at times he has been almost in a state of distraction, and greatly depressed in spirits. On Tuesday morning he left his home, to get orders for his son. He went to Exmouth, and slept at the Dolphin, to the time of his death. On Sunday night he complained of being unwell and went to bed at 9 o'clock. On Monday morning the servant went up to enquire if he would have his breakfast in bed, when she saw him in his shirt, on the opposite side of the bed, with his neck-handkerchief fastened round his neck and the ends tied to the top rail of the bedstead. He was quite dead. Verdict - "Lunatic, Hanged Himself."

WILLAND - On the 7th inst., a distressing accident took place in the factory of Messrs. Brown and Davey, at Wolland, near Collumpton. A workman called JAMES PEARSY was employed about the machinery in bending a piece of iron in a turning lathe propelled by water power, when in bearing forward to adjust his work, the end of his neckerchief was caught by the machine, which pulled it in, and being tied in a knot, and of very strong texture, immediate strangulation was caused, almost severing the head from the body. The deceased was a man of very industrious habits, a very clever mechanic and has left a wife and family of six children to lament his untimely end. An Inquest was held on the body by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

Western Times, Saturday 26 July 1834
EXETER - An Inquest was taken on Monday before John Gidley, Esq., one of the Coroners for this City, at the Plume of Feathers, North Street, on the body of MARY ROBERTSON, widow, 83 years, who, resided alone in an apartment on David's Hill, and had been found dead in her room on Sunday. There was no doubt of the deceased having fallen down in a fit of apoplexy, and in the fall had fractured one of her legs, and a verdict was returned accordingly.

EXETER - Fatal Accident. - On Thursday se'nnight, Messrs. William Spark, John Risdon, Charles Cole and PHILIP SALTER, of our Cathedral Choir, and who have recently assisted in the Great Musical Festival in London, left this City for the purpose of attending a Music Meeting at Mr Hallett's, at Axmouth, whose hospitable mansion they left about six o'clock on Saturday afternoon, on their return home. They were in a phaeton, which was driven by Mr Cole, and arriving at Newton Poppleford, stopped for a short time to bait the horse. They left this place about 8 o'clock: the night was most unfavourable, - a heavy rain, high wind and the moon, though at the full, was obscured by a dense mass of clouds. They were proceeding at the rate of six miles an hour, when on descending Aylesbeare-hill, and just abreast the seven-mile stone from this City, on the Sidmouth road, the horse became restive, plunging and kicking violently, and all command over him being lost, the animal ran for a short distance, when coming in contact with the wall of the farm premises of Mr Hallett, the vehicle and all were upset and the consequences we regret to say are most serious. - The ribs of Mr Spark are fractured; Mr Cole has his collar bone broken in two places; and Mr Risdon received some severe contusions of the leg. MR SALTER, however, pitched heavily on his head, the effect of which was an extensive fracture of the back part of the skull. Their situation was dreadful, but Mr Risdon at length, extricating himself, procured assistance from the adjoining farm of Mr Hallett, who opened his doors only to recognise, in the apparently lifeless form that was borne towards it, one whom it had been his pride to think was his relative, in the person of MR SALTER. Messengers were instantly despatched to Mr Barnes, Surgeon, of this City, and to Mr Butter, of Woodbury; but all human skill was vain; the unfortunate gentleman never spoke from the time of receiving the injury, and at twelve o'clock at noon, on Monday, he ceased longer to breathe. MR SALTER was about thirty years of age, a native of Honiton's Clist, about four miles from hence on the London road. Being passionately fond of music, and giving such proof of natural talent as seemed to point out what his profession should be, in early life he was placed under Mr Paddon, music-master and organist of the Cathedral in this city. His proficiency under this gentleman became very great, indeed, his attainments as a musician were of the most solid kind, and thoroughly grounded in the principles of his profession, he was frequently consulted on questions connected with it, and, as a music-master, had already got into an excellent practice and good connection. MR SALTER continued as an assistant to Mr Paddon, and in connection with the Cathedral, the Dignitaries of which held him in great esteem. He was also for a time the organist of St Sidwell's, but which situation his closer connection with the Cathedral at length led him to decline. In 1824 MR SALTER was appointed a Secondary in the Cathedral Choir,; and in the course of the last year promoted to the situation of a Lady Vicar. As a musician, his taste was in a high degree refined - his ear most correct: his voice was a tenor, which these excellent qualifications had enabled him to improve, and in his practice he displayed a judgment of the nicest kind. In private life he was noticed for placidity, unobtrusiveness, sobriety and the most perfect amenity of manners; his friendships were not hastily formed, but they were of the most lasting kind; and was the writer of this brief sketch permitted, he could relate instances of self-denial and sacrifices to friendship on the part of MR SALTER, such as do honour to our common nature, whilst they would also show that the lamented deceased possessed, in a rich degree, the most ennobling qualities of the mind. He was the most affectionate and grateful of children, beloved by all who knew him, his death will be long and most deeply lamented, and Music in him has lost one of her best sons. It is a circumstance also that adds to the bitterness of this stroke, that he was about shortly to be united to a most exemplary and deserving female, whilst for both it was fondly hoped by those who knew them - those who from the respect they bore them desired their success in life, that there was for them many years of happiness in store. - To return, however, to the other sufferers: Messrs. Spark, Risdon and Cole, were, as soon as possible, removed to this City, and though they have suffered much yet it is trusted that with the care they are under they will be, eventually restored. - In compliance with the form of law, an Inquest was taken on the body of MR SALTER, before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., one of the Coroners for Devon, on Tuesday. It must be obvious that there was nothing new to elicit and the Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 2 August 1834
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - On Tuesday last an Inquest was held in St. Thomas, on the body of JOHN HARWOOD, a chimney sweep and tinker, who was found drowned in the canal; no evidence was obtained as to how he came by his death, and a verdict was returned accordingly.

Western Times, Saturday 9 August 1834
EXETER - Fatal Accident. - An Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier on Saturday last, by S. Walkey, Esq., on the body of JOHN PILE GOULD, a small farmer, residing in the parish of Aylesbeare, who was knocked down by a break belonging to W. Clapp, horse breaker. The Jury desired that the body might be opened to ascertain the nature of the injury, when it was discovered that the shaft had broken his ribs, one of which penetrated his heart, and caused instant death. The Jury returned a verdict of Manslaughter against Chas. Beal, the person who was driving and expressed a hope that the magistrates would prevent a recurrence of a similar occurrence, by putting a stop to the dangerous practice of driving breaks through the streets. Beal has been committed to prison on the Coroner's warrant to take his trial.

CHURCHSTANTON - An Inquest was held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on Monday the 4th day of August, at Churchtaunton, on the body of JOHN SHEPPARD, late of Upottery, aged 16 years, it appears by evidence that on Saturday last the deceased went to Taunton after a cart load of coals, with his father, and on their return the deceased accidentally fell, when the wheels of the cart passed over him; he was taken to the public house and surgical aid instantly procured, but to no effect as he breathed but once after Mr Rich, the Surgeon, came. - Verdict Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 30 August 1834
EXETER - An Inquest was held on Monday last before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, at the Butcher's Arms, on the body of ELIZABETH BOWDITCH, the landlady of the house, who was found drowned on Saturday last, in the river of the Abbey Fields. It appeared that the deceased left the house soon after six o'clock in the morning, for the supposed purpose of taking a walk, but no returning at the usual breakfast hour, a search was instituted; her bonnet and shawl were found in a nook in cut throat field, one of the Abbey fields, and a short time afterwards her body was discovered under the bushes near this spot. A verdict was returned of Found Drowned. She had been in a desponding state of mind for some time.

WOODBURY - Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner - On the 25th inst., at Woodbury, on the body of JAMES LANE, of Rockbear, Butcher, aged 41 years. On Saturday last deceased had been to Exeter, (he kept a Butchers Shop in Broadgate) and returned about ¼ before 12 at night; he went to bed immediately, and about 5 the next morning, he arose and went out and not returning his wife became alarmed, and sent the servant girl to seek him, when she found him in the apple chamber hanging by the neck and the rope fastened to one of the rafters. He was cut down, but quite dead. Witnesses came forward to prove that a change in his manner had been visible for some time past, he being a lively jocose man, but of late he has been low and in a dejected state. - Verdict, Deceased Hung himself in a state of Lunacy.

WOODBURY - Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner - On the 22nd inst., at Woodbury, on the body of JAMES QUICK, a labourer, aged 45 years. It appeared that on the night of Wednesday the 10th inst., the deceased when he returned from work complained of being unwell, and about half past 9 o'clock was going to bed, when he came to the fourth stair he fell down in a fit, he neither spoke or moved after and about half past 3 the next morning he expired. The Surgeon who was called in gave it as his opinion that he died from an attack of Apoplexy. - Verdict, Visitation of God.

DODDISCOMBSLEIGH - A Coroner's Inquest was recently held by W. Gribble, Esq., at Doddiscombsleigh, on the body of EDWARD HORE, a thatcher. The deceased had been "enjoying" himself at the beer-shop at Ashton; he left at seven in the evening, but did not reach home till five the next morning. He appeared to have rolled and tumbled about, and fallen with such violence that his body was one mass of bruises, and he survived the injuries he received but a few days. There was a concussion of the brain which was the immediate cause of his death. - Verdict - Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 20 September 1834
OTTERY ST MARY - An Inquest was held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on the 13th Sept. at Ottery St. Mary on the body of THOMAS ALFORD, aged 2 years, who came to his death on the 12th inst. by falling into a pond on Ottery West Hill. Verdict - Accidentally Drowned.

AXMINSTER - Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner was held on the 16th inst. at Axminster, on the body of SUSAN SNELL, aged 31 years. It appears that on Saturday, 13th inst., her husband got up about 6 o'clock to go to work, when she appeared to be in good health; when he went away he locked the outer door and put the key under it. He returned to breakfast about quarter past eight, and finding the door still locked, he became alarmed, and got into the house through the window. On going upstairs, he saw the deceased laying out over the bed quite dead. Two medical gentlemen were called in and as the deceased was subject to fits, and from the position in which she was found with her head inclining to the ground, their opinions were that apoplexy was the cause of her death. - Verdict - Visitation of God.

Western Times, Saturday 4 October 1834
SHUTE - An Inquest was held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on the 24th Sept. at Shute, on the body of BENJAMIN HOARE, miller, aged 70 years. It appeared that he had had an altercation with his son, and had been much excited, which brought on a fit of apoplexy. - Verdict, Died from Natural Causes.

Western Times, Saturday 11 October 1834
AXMINSTER - An Inquest was held at Axminster on the 4th inst., by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on the body of SARAH NEWBERRY. It appeared that deceased had lived for some time as a lodger in the house of Mr Thomas Ward, Yeoman, of Axminster; that on the evening of the 3rd instant business called him from home, and on his return about one in the morning, on his wife coming down to let him in, they discovered the deceased hanging in the kitchen and quite dead. It appeared by the evidence adduced on the Inquiry, which was adjourned from the 4th to the 6th inst., that the deceased had been labouring under a depressed state of mind since the death of her husband, who was killed by falling from a waggon in February 1833. The Jury brought in a verdict of Lunacy.

Western Times, Saturday 18 October 1834
WEARE GIFFORD - On Tuesday morning the body of a newly-born infant was discovered in a house at Wear Gifford, near Torrington. It appeared by the evidence of two females before the Coroner that GRACE MERRYFIELD, a servant in the house, had lately been confined and had hid the child in a coal house, where it was discovered, with such marks of violence upon it, as warranted a suspicion that the woman had murdered it. The surgeons, however, could not say whether it was born alive or not, and the mother was committed to the County gaol to take her trial for concealing the birth.

Western Times, Saturday 25 October 1834
COLYTON - Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. - On the 16th of October, in the parish of Colyton, on the body of a female child, the offspring of SARAH RUSSELL, a singlewoman of that parish. It appeared in evidence that the child was born on the 12th, and that it accidentally fell to the ground at the moment of parturition by which it received a mortal blow on the left side of the head; it survived until the 14th and then expired. - Accidental Death.

FARWAY - Child Burnt To Death. - Mr Aberdein held an Inquest at Farway, on the 21st inst., on the body of JOHN PERRY, aged 17 months. On Sunday morning last about 8 o'clock, the mother of deceased was boiling some potatoes, and had lighted a blast of furse; she took the child and put it back to the window, while she went after another bundle from the rick, about 40 or 50 yards from the house. She was absent about two minutes and on her return she saw the poor child in the passage with its clothes all in a flame, which was soon extinguished, but the child was so much burnt, that he expired about 11 o'clock the same morning. Verdict - Accidentally Burnt.

Western Times, Saturday 1 November 1834
PLYMOUTH - Death of GEORGE HARVEY, ESQ., F.R.S., &c. - It is with extreme regret we find ourselves called on to record the untimely end of this self taught and celebrated mathematician which took place by his own hand on Tuesday morning. The following is a detail of the Inquest held by C. Whiteford, Esq. - MR G. HARVEY, son of the deceased, deposed, that he was a clerk in the customs, and resided in the same house as the deceased. My father was at home yesterday, at 4 o'clock, on my return from office, giving a lesson - at 5 o'clock I met him at the tea table. I left the house immediately after tea - during that time he did not speak to me - he was reading a book, but there was nothing in his manner that in the least excited my attention. I returned about 11 o'clock, but did not see my father again for the night. I was called at half past five this morning by my mother who desired me to assist her in searching for my father as he had left his room. I accordingly got up and my sister and myself went over the house, and after searching the different rooms, we came to the cellar where we found him suspended to a hook in the ceiling. I saw afterwards the remains of a silk handkerchief. There was a chair, not thrown down, beneath him, by which it appears he had been enabled to reach the hook. I immediately cut him down and then went for assistance. For the last fortnight, from my father's conduct, I have had a presentiment that such an occurrence would take place. During that time he appeared very much depressed in spirits - he had an idea that he was a bankrupt, and spoke despondingly of his affairs. He appeared very nervous and thought the house was watched to arrest him. His bodily health was apparently good with the exception of the nervousness alluded to. - MISS HYPATIA S. HARVEY, sworn: - I took tea with my father last night. He was reading during that time and was particularly quiet, which is unusual since his return from Woolwich in June last. After tea he walked up and down the room, as he has been in the habit of doing of late. My little brothers were playing about at the time, and mamma and I brought our work downstairs and sat with him until 8 o'clock when he went to bed. I looked in on him three several times, the last about 10 o'clock and found him each time sound asleep. About 5 this morning, mamma entered my room and took a candle that was burning there, which awoke me. She did not call me, nor did she wish to do so, but I rose up, when she told me she had lost papa - (witness was here very much overcome). I accompanied my brother over the house and entered the cellar with him. When my brother cut my father down, I fancied I heard a noise like a snore; - I also fancied I felt his pulse, but it might have been my own feelings as the hand was cold. I removed the silk handkerchief that was round my father's neck and did everything I could for him. I kept him on my lap for near half an hour until Mr Rendle came and nearly the whole of the time I was alone. My father was partly dressed and I believe he is so now. His nervous irritability of late has increased very much, since his return from Woolwich. He has been constantly walking about the house, night and day, and has within the last week expressed a great dislike to going out of doors. He has not occupied himself as he used to do and has considered himself followed by bailiffs without cause, which was the reason of his stopping in doors. His conduct during the past fortnight has caused us to watch him very narrowly, and we had removed his razors until within the last day or two, because we thought he had given it up, but still we have watched him carefully. He appeared yesterday decidedly better, but still he talked about the bailiffs, but to the extent of my knowledge the apprehensions he entertained were most unfounded. - E. Rendle, M.D., sworn:- I have known the deceased professionally of the last three years - have been attending one of the deceased's daughters and about Monday or Tuesday week had a conversation with him, when he appeared to have meditated self-destruction. He was labouring under the idea that he was beset by bailiffs, and exhibited other symptoms of a disordered mind. Have had conversations with him every day since, and on every other subject but his affairs he was perfectly sane. He said he had met some pupils at a house in King-street, thereby virtually occupying it, without making the same known to the tax gatherer, and had rendered himself amenable to the full extent of his property, and had read some portion of Blackstone, which he perverted so as to meet his own supposed cased. He always considered the house surrounded by persons connected with the supposed offence, and thought the gas-lights were instituted through the town in order to detect him if he should go out. From these things I thought it my duty to caution the family as to the removal of razors, and consulted Dr Younge on the subject. Yesterday, I had some conversation with him, when he appeared more tranquil than before. On my arrival this morning I found the body had been cut down and on examining it, the surface was cold, so that it must have been deprived of animation some time. - R. Rosdew, Esq., sworn:- I have known the deceased a number of years, and have been on habits of personal intimacy with him. I observed him at my own house, exhibit a difference of manner on his return from Woolwich, where he had been appointed one of the Mathematical Masters of the Military Academy, and from that period he has continued depressed in spirits. On Saturday last, about twelve o'clock, I called upon him at his house. He was reclining on the sofa, with his head on the pillow and the tears running down his cheeks and evidently appeared full of sorrow. At the same time he said that he could not go out, for there were persons watching to take him into custody to make him a bankrupt. I told him it was impossible, as he was not a dealer, when it said he was, for he had bought pens of a person and sold them to his pupils. Notwithstanding all my endeavours he would continue to talk of pecuniary matters and I then desired him to draw a check for £30 and sent it to the bank, or if he liked, he might draw upon me for any sum he pleased. I have since ascertained that he had £112 due to him from the Bank, in addition to which he has a large sum of money in the funds, beside houses and other property, while all the debts he enumerated to me were far below £200. I came into town early this morning for the purpose of consulting Dr Younge, and to suggest his giving up his pupils until Christmas, in order that he might retire into the country with his family. Mr R. then read the letters from Colonel Drummond, the Lieut.-Gov., and Dr Gregory, the head master of the Military School at Woolwich, to both of which we alluded with much pleasure at the time of the deceased's resignation. - MISS H. S. HARVEY was then recalled and further deposed that her father had been absent about 8 o'clock, with which circumstance she acquainted her mamma and suggested the propriety of seeking him. On opening the lobby door her father came out, but the place appeared wet, as did also the top of a music stool, which stood there, as if from a wet foot having been placed on it; and on going into the court yard the lid of the cistern was found to be off and much water spilt about. On examining my father's shoes after he was in bed, I found them much saturated with water, and mamma told me that his trousers, stockings &c., was wet. I took some gruel up to him, of which he partook, when he desired that none of his clothes should be removed. - The Jury without hesitation returned the following verdict:- "The Jury are of opinion that the deceased committed the act which caused his death when in a state of Mental Derangement, under which he had been labouring for some months previous."

Western Times, Saturday 15 November 1834
UFFCULME - Caution To Waggoners. - An Inquest was held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on the 5th of November, at Uffculme, on the body of JOHN FORD, waggoner, aged 37 years. It appeared that the deceased was in the employ of Messrs. James Brice and Co., of Taunton. That he drove one of their common stage waggons, drawn by six horses. On Tuesday the 4th inst., about 3 o'clock in the afternoon, he let Taunton for Exeter, about 12 o'clock that night as they descended Lamb Hill in the Parish of Burlescombe, the wheel of the waggon not being dragged, the load pressed upon the horses, which being frightened, went down the hill very fast. The deceased used every effort to keep back the wheel horses, but could not. In doing so he suddenly fell on his back when the wheels of the waggon went over his body. He was taken to the Lamb Inn, where he soon expired. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 29 November 1834
HARBERTON - An Inquest was held last week by J. Gribble, Esq., on the body of JANE PERRING, aged 4 years, at East Leigh, in the Parish of Harberton, whose death was caused by her clothes taking fire in endeavouring to drink from the spout of a Tea Kettle hanging over the fire, the child being left in the house alone for a few minutes only.

Western Times, Saturday 31 January 1835
EXMOUTH - An Inquest was held by R. H. Aberdein Esq., at Exmouth, on the 22nd of January, on the body of WILLIAM COCKRAM, Shoemaker, aged 64. It appeared by evidence that the deceased was on the 20th ult. walking in the highway, in the parish of Withycombe Rawleigh, where was a boy named Samuel Ashford, cracking stones when the deceased came up to him, he stopped. While speaking to him he staggered and fell and instantly died. - Verdict, Visitation of God.

Western Times, Saturday 21 February 1835
DARTMOUTH - A labouring man named GEORGE CHASE, of sober and industrious habits, returning from his daily work, was unfortunately drowned last week, whilst stepping from the floating bridge at Dartmouth, into a boat alongside; his body was taken up on Sunday last, when a Coroner's Inquest was held, who returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned."

PLYMOUTH - Dreadful Accident. - An accident occurred on Tuesday evening last, about seven o'clock to a respectable man of the name of JOSEPH SKINNER. In crossing from the corner of Edgecumbe Street towards the Prince George Inn, which is almost immediately opposite, he was struck by the pole of a carriage which was passing at the time, the coachman not being able to discern him from the darkness of the night. A person who was standing on the pavement at the time instantly called out to the driver, who promptly pulled up, but not before the fore wheel had passed over his chest; but from the horses being under command, the coach was stopped before the hind wheels touched the body. Upon raising the unfortunate man, life was found extinct. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body by A. Bone, Esq., when a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, with a deodand of one shilling on the coach and horses.

Western Times, Saturday 7 March 1835
COLYTON - Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - At Colyton on the 21st ult., on the body of ELIZABETH NEWTON, aged seven years. It appeared that the father of the deceased is a furniture polisher at Colyton; Having a job at Mr Radford's, cabinet-maker, Exmouth, he left Colyton on the 10th ult., with his wife and child - the child had not been well for the last year and a half. About that time ago, she fell and injured her back. During their stay at Exmouth, the child appeared in its usual state of health. On Tuesday last, they left Exmouth for Exeter, where they arrived in the evening; the child appeared very ill that night, with a wheezing on the chest. The next morning they gave her some honey and vinegar. The mother took her to a druggist's shop and Dispensary, where the gentleman examined it and said he thought the child was in a decline and would die: he gave her something to ease her breath. They then left Exeter and came to Honiton, on their way to Colyton. When they came to Pottle Bridge, between Honiton and Colyton, the child complained of her head, and of being sick, but did not vomit. In about a minute after she died in her father's arms. A person who overtook them between Honiton and Colyton, corroborated the above statement respecting the death of the child, and there being no marks of violence to be seen. The Jury returned a verdict of - Visitation of God.

Western Times, Saturday 21 March 1835
ASHREIGNEY - An Inquest was held on Monday the 9th day of March inst., at Ashreigney, by H. A. Vallack, Esq., on the body of T. SMITH CUDMORE, a boy about 9 years of age, and after a post-mortem examination, it was adjourned to Thursday last, as poison was suspected to have been administered. Three gentlemen analysed the contents of the stomach, but found no mineral poison therein, the contents were too much decomposed to discover whether or not vegetable poison had been taken. Verdict accordingly. - The mother of the boy, GRACE CUDMORE, had been summoned to give evidence touching the death of her son at the adjourned Inquest, but is supposed to have destroyed herself the preceding day, having attended the funeral of her son on Wednesday last, and shortly afterwards was found drowned in a brook of water close to her residence at Ashreigney. An Inquest was held on her body on Friday last by the above Gentleman, when the Jury after having retired for five hours and a half, returned a verdict of "Found Drowned." The neighbouring Magistrates attended the Inquest, the parish being in a state of great excitement.

Western Times, Saturday 28 March 1835
UPOTTERY - Inquest by Mr R. H. Aberdein - An Inquest was held on the 20th of March, at the Devonshire Inn, Upottery, on the body of ROBERT DOMETT, labourer, aged 19 years. The deceased was in the employ of Mr W. Austice of Upottery; on the 16th he went for Lime with a cart and two horses, and on his return was riding on the top of the load asleep and fell from the cart. he pitched just before the wheel which passed over his body and one of his arms. He again got on the cart and rode on till he came to the Devonshire Inn Turnpike Gate, when he could go no further. Medical assistance was procured, but he lay until the 18th ult., and expired. Verdict, Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 4 April 1835
EXETER - On Monday last, a Jury was empanelled, before Samuel Walkey, Esq., Coroner at Roach's Bull Inn, Goldsmith-street, to Enquire into the cause of death of MR WILLIAM MANNING, licensed dealer in game, and a waiter, resident in Gandy-street, in this City. Mr Edwin Williams, Surgeon, Paul-street, said: I was sent for about half-past seven on the morning of Saturday last, to visit the deceased. I found him in bed in a state of collapse. I enquired of him how he had been taken; to which he made no reply, but shook his head. I then enquired if he was suffering from pain in his head. He made no answer, but shook his head. I requested that he would put out his hand that I might feel his. As he appeared unable to do so, I took hold of his arm, and found the pulsation scarcely perceptible. It immediately occurred to me, from the paralysis of the upper and lower extremities that some injury might have been done to the spinal cord of the neck; and on examining it, he appeared to be in great pain about the fourth cervical vertebra. I then left him, and in about an hour, visited him again, when I found him able to speak. He then told me that on the preceding day he had been attending as waiter at a gentleman's house in this city, from whence he had returned home about three o'clock that morning. He placed his hat and gloves on the table in the kitchen and was about to go upstairs, when he became giddy, fell down and had no recollection of what afterwards occurred until he found himself in bed. He now complained of great pain at the part of the neck where, when speechless, he had appeared to be so sensibly affected, and I requested the attendance of Mr Barnes and Mr Arscott, to see him; who, were with opinion with myself that he could not recover, as he was evidently labouring under symptoms of pressure on the spinal cord in the neck. He lingered from this time until three o'clock on Sunday afternoon, when he expired. The post mortem fully confirmed the opinions given by Mr Williams, and the other medical gentlemen, as to the cause of MR MANNING'S death, - namely a fracture of the body of the fourth cervical vertebra, and hence the paralysis of every part of the body which derived its nerves from the spinal cord below that point. The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." MR MANNING was 45 years of age, much respected and has left a widow and five children to mourn this sudden bereavement.

Western Times, Saturday 11 April 1835
EXETER - The body of ISAAC KINGDON, the young man drowned in the river Exe three weeks since, by the upsetting of a boat, was found near the Lime Kilns on Sunday morning last. An Inquest was held on Tuesday by J. Partridge, Esq. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 25 April 1835
EXETER - On Monday last an Inquest was taken before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, at the Valiant Soldier, in this City, on the body of MR SAMUEL SMALE, of Newton Abbot, a carrier from this City, by way of Newton, to Dartmouth, who had come to his death under the following circumstances. - On Saturday morning MR SMALE was on his way to this City, riding on the front of his cart, and having as passengers in it, two females (one of them young) and a boy. In crossing Haldon, the horse tripped and fell, SMALE pulled the reins home in order that the animal might recover its legs, but this being done with a sudden jerk, and the horse not having power sufficient instantly to answer it, poor SMALE himself became the victim of the act, being by the reaction drawn from his seat, and becoming entangled in the breeching, he was at length thrown with considerable force into the road, pitching heavily on his head. He lay for some minutes insensible, those with him being incompetent to afford assistance, which was at length obtained from Kennford. He was placed in his cart and arrived at his quarters at the Mermaid-yard, about 11 o'clock. - He had by this time so far recovered himself, that he assisted in taking the packages from the cart and declined the advice of those about him, to go to the Hospital, in order that any injury he had sustained might be examined into. At length, he became sensible that this was the proper course, but was enabled to walk to the Hospital. From this time, however, the approach of the final catastrophe was rapid. He became senseless and expired about 7 o'clock in the evening. On the post mortem examination an extensive fracture of the skull was found: the brain had sustained considerable injury and an extravasation of blood had taken place. - Verdict, "Accidental Death." - MR SMALE was 42 years of age, son of the late MR SAMUEL SMALE, of Newton Abbot, a family for many years engaged as carriers between this City, Newton, Totnes, Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, and Dartmouth. He was unmarried and in his situation in life, much respected.

FARWAY - Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. - At Farway, on the 17th day of April, on the body of JAMES BAGWILL, aged three years. It appeared that on the evening of the 15th inst., the mother of the deceased left her house on an errand, leaving him in the street. In her absence the child went into the house, and there being a little fire on the hearth, his clothes took fire, and he was so much hurt, that he expired the next day. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

SIDBURY -- Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. - At Sidbury, on the body of JAMES HAYMAN, blacksmith, aged 27 years. It appeared that about four o'clock on Monday evening last, the house of Mr James Newbery, of Sidbury, Baker, was discovered to be on fire, and before the flames could be extinguished, four adjoining houses were burnt down. Between six and seven o'clock, after the fire was got under, the deceased went into the shop: he had not been there long, before a chimney fell upon him and buried him in the ruins, and half an hour elapsed before they could take out the body, when he was quite dead. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 9 May 1835
HARTLAND - An Inquest was held on the 24th ult., at Hartland, by H. A. Vallack, Esq., Coroner, on the body of RICHARD CHING, a respectable farmer of Clovelly, who was found dead in the turnpike-road. Verdict - Found Dead. The deceased had been to Hartland fair and it is supposed he fell from his horse on his return home, as he had drank very freely at Hartland.

Western Times, Saturday 16 May 1835
CHAGFORD - On Saturday last, John Avery, alias Taverner, was committed on the Coroner's Warrant, charged with Manslaughter, for shooting MARY MAUNDER. It appeared that the prisoner and deceased were fellow servants, in the farm-house of Mr Peter Ellis, of Southill, in that parish, and that prisoner had pressed deceased to accompany him to the fair, which she refused to do. He then said jestingly, that if she did not, he would shoot her, and taking down the gun he snapped it at her, and being loaded, she was killed on the spot. It did not appear that he knew the gun was loaded. Mr H. Champion, of Exeter, was on the Inquest.

SOWTON - Death of One of Lord Rolle's Tenants, on returning from the late Election Nomination. - An Inquest was held by R. H. Abedein, Esq., on the 2nd instant, at Sowton, on the body of WILLIAM COOK, Yeoman, aged 34 years. The deceased lived in the parish of COLATON RAWLEIGH, and rented a farm of Lord Rolle and had been to Exeter at the Nomination. William Hutchings, Yeoman, of Farringdon was sworn and deposed as follows:- I had been attending the nomination at Exeter and returned in the evening; as I passed through Bishop's Clist, I observed the deceased, WILLIAM COOK - he was on horseback - he was stopping at the door of the Half Moon Inn - Mr Brice and Mr Sellick were with him - I left them behind, but they passed me again - they were riding fast. I afterwards over took them - they were stopping at this house, the Cat and Fiddle - they were at the door - I think COOK had alighted. I was in a cart and I drove on. I had not been gone above a few yards from the Cat and Fiddle when the deceased passed me again - he was riding very fast and he rode against the horse Mr Sellick was on - I think it was Mr Sellick. I saw the mare stumble and the deceased pulled her back with the curb upon her haunches, rambled on again and fell, and he was thrown violently on the ground. I stopped my cart and got out to render assistance - the deceased was bleeding from his ears and head - there was a wound on the right side of his head - some further assistance came and he was removed to this house. I remained with him until Mr Ashford, a Surgeon, came. I do not consider the deceased was worse for liquor - he was able to sit his horse very well - he was senseless when he was picked up - he moaned a good deal after he was put to bed. Further evidence proved that Mr Ashford bled him and applied a blister, but to no effect - he survived until about seven o'clock on the morning of the 2nd inst., and then expired. - Accidental Death.

KENTISBEARE - At Kentisbeer, on the 8th of May, an Inquest was held on the body of WILLIAM NORMAN, aged 19 years. It appeared that the deceased lived with his father, at Borough Farm and was, on the evening of the 7th instant, going to field with his horses, when he fell from the horse on which he was riding, and received a mortal blow on the head. He was taken home and Mr Gabriel, a Surgeon, of Cullompton, was sent for, who pronounced him in great danger. He expired the next morning. - Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 6 June 1835
UFFCULME - Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. - At Uffculm on the 29th ult. on the body of JAMES FARLEY, aged 18, who was suffocated by the falling in of a whetstone pit. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

ROCKBEARE - Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. - At Rockbeare, on the 1st inst., on WILLIAM STEER, labourer, aged 70 years. Deceased had been in the employ of Mr Bidgood, Esq., as a labourer, and went to his work in the morning in his usual state of health. He was subsequently found dead in the field. - Verdict, Visitation of God.

HONITON - Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - At Honiton, on the 1st inst., on SARAH SELLY, aged 40, servant to Mr Basleigh. The deceased was a pigeon fancier, and ascended a ladder to look after some of those birds which she kept in the court behind the house. The ladder tipped over and she fell and with her head against the stones. This produced concussion of the brain and other injuries of which she died. Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 13 June 1835
CHURCHSTOW - Desperate Suicide. - An Inquest was held on Wednesday last, at Churchstow, before Mr Gribble, Coroner, and a most respectable Jury, on the body of JOHN WHITE LIDSTONE, a journeyman tailor, who hanged himself after an ineffectual attempt to cut his throat. It appeared from the evidence of Sarah Stone, Elizabeth Michelmore and Thomas Crimp, that deceased was seen standing at his own door on Sunday last and about seven in the evening some persons called to see deceased about some work which he was to do on the Monday, when they found the door locked and the shutters fastened. Thomas Crimp stated that on Tuesday morning, about six o'clock, he was informed that deceased had not been seen since Sunday, and about 11 o'clock this witness went to deceased's house and found it in the same state as on Sunday. He procured assistance and at length gained admittance by unhanging a cellar door and on going into the kitchen, they found deceased hanging by a small cord, with his knees almost touching the ground. There was only 2s. 6d. in the house and in the pocket of the deceased was found a small knife used in his trade, which was covered in blood, evidently the instrument used in the first attempt to deprive himself of life. There was a large wound in the right side of the neck, which must have bled nearly the whole of the time he was preparing the rope. Verdict - Temporary Insanity. Deceased was a man of sober habits and much respected.

Western Times, Saturday 20 June 1835
BARNSTAPLE - On Tuesday a fatal accident happened to the eldest son of T. HEATHCOTE, Esq., proprietor of Rawleigh Lace Factory. He went to bathe in the river near the Black Rock, on the Tawstock bank, and swam down the river; as he approached the bridge he was noticed by some persons on the lime kiln to be in distress and they heard him call aloud for assistance, but no help could be afforded him, and they saw him sink in the middle of the river. - When the tide receded the body was found near the place where it was seen to go down. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body, and a verdict returned of "Accidental Death". Deceased was 21 years of age.

Western Times, Saturday 4 July 1835
TIVERTON - Fatal Accident. - On Tuesday se'nnight, as an aged woman named RICHARDS was returning to her residence at Mere, about four miles from hence, she was overtaken by two young farmers named Palmer and Sweet, who were galloping at a rapid pace, and although on the pathway, she was knocked down by the horse of the latter, and killed on the spot. Neither of the parties had the humanity to stop and enquire the nature of the injuries inflicted or render any assistance, but continued their heedless pace. The Jury returned a verdict of Manslaughter against Sweet.

HONITON - Coroner's Inquest. - An Inquest was held before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on the body of a full grown female child, having been found in a privy, which was discovered by a man who was employed to clean the privy. Mr Woodward, Surgeon, of Honiton, gave it as his opinion that the child was born alive, but a fracture of the parietal bone had caused its death, which fracture may have happened in delivery. The Jury returned a verdict "That the child died in consequence of a blow received by falling from the mother in a slop-pail, and for want of proper care and attention." The mother, ELIZABETH DOMETT, was committed to the county gaol on Saturday last, to take her trial at the next Assizes.

Western Times, Saturday 18 July 1835
SOUTH MOLTON - Shocking And Fatal Accident. - Recently, as Mr John Thorne, of Barnstaple, bricklayer, Mr Channon, tallow-chandler and MR JOHN THORNE, cooper, were returning from Southmolton, in a phaeton, the horse when descending Rock Hill, near the Stag's Head public-house, ran off, and the vehicle getting in contact with a small bridge contiguous to Rock Farm, was literally dashed to pieces and all three thrown with immense force to the opposite side of the road. They were conveyed to the Stag's Head Inn, the nearest house, but MR THORNE, the cooper, had his chest broken in, several ribs fractured and also received a violent concussion in the head, of which he died early on Wednesday morning. Mr Thorne, bricklayer, is so much injured that his medical attendants do not pronounce him out of danger. Mr Channon is bruised but not severely. The animal fell with the upsetting of the carriage, but escaped unhurt. On Wednesday an Inquest was held on the body of MR THORNE, by W. Hole, Esq., Coroner for Southmolton, and the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," by this event a widow and four young children are left totally unprovided for.

Western Times, Saturday 25 July 1835
MORETONHAMPSTEAD - Murder Of MR MAY. - The neighbourhood of Moretonhampstead still continues in the greatest state of excitement, in consequence of the brutal and bloody murder of MR JONATHAN MAY. We visited that town on Monday last, for the purpose of gleaning from the most authentic sources, all the information that could be obtained respecting the horrible transaction. The Inquest was held on Sunday, and adjourned till the Tuesday following. The Enquiry lasted nine hours, but no clue to the perpetrators could be obtained by anything that transpired on Sunday. It appeared from the evidence that Mr Taverner and Mr Wreford, of Dunsford, left Moreton about twelve o'clock in company with their wives. When they got into the old Dunsford road they saw a horse without his rider. After searching in vain for the rider, Mr Taverner determined to take the horse back to Moreton, in order to discover the owner. When he got there he learnt that the animal belonged to MR MAY. He proceeded homewards in search of the deceased, and when he had ascended about two-thirds of the way up the hill, he discovered the body in the side of the road up against the hedge. From what he saw of the deceased he involuntarily cried out "murder," and at this moment was rejoined by his own party who had returned to look for him. They raised the unfortunate gentleman up - he was still alive but wholly unconscious. His clothes were torn, especially his small clothes' pockets, which had had the bloody hands of the assassins thrust within them for the purpose of obtaining the reward of their diabolical work. The struggle must have been a desperate one indeed; as the deceased was a resolute powerful man, in the prime of life, perfectly sober, and a man of known courage and there is no doubt from the appearance of his person that he resisted with the reckless valour of a man determined to sell his life dearly. The fatal spot, though nearly a mile distant from the town, is not we should think, in a direct line, much more than half that distance from the houses on the verge of the town: It is still nearer to a field called the "Centry," which is used as a public walk, and which it is probable that some persons may have been walking in at the time. If the deceased had halloed, we should think he must have been heard by someone. It is conjectured that the blood-thirsty wretches attacked him from behind suddenly and simultaneously with a bludgeon and a stick. A small ground-ash stick about the thickness of a man's thumb was found near the fatal spot, broken at the end and covered with blood and hair. The medical gentlemen who attended the deceased were of opinion that some of the wounds might have been caused by this stick, but not the most deadly, as they thought that a heavier instrument must have been used in inflicting the principal fracture. On examining the spot the next morning it was found that there was a track of blood for the distance of 45 paces, in which there was the indication of a person struggling along either in deadly conflict or mortal agony. Some persons have thought that the deceased struggled along this track with one of his assailants in his grasp after he was struck down, but before he was beaten beyond the power of resistance. On the other hand it is thought that he was attacked twice - that he was robbed in the first attack, and had crawled along these 45 paces, when the ruffians apprehensive, perhaps, that he knew one of them, had returned to a second attack on their hapless victim, and then finished their bloody work. There is one circumstance that gives a colour to this supposition and that is that the frill of his shirt was completely saturated with blood, being perfectly died with gore, so as to leave not a speck of white to be seen; it was discovered on the ground where the body was found, so that it must have been torn out after the deceased had got to that spot, and thus have had time to become so completely dyed as we have stated. There is a small straggling plantation of firs on the right of the road as you come from Moreton, and on the opposite side is the stone trough called Jacob's Well. At this spot the assault took place. On the same side as the plantation, at the end next to Moreton, is a field of barley - down this field the murderers made their escape after the bloody attack. There is a track extending several yards down the field in which the grain has been trodden down as if by someone running in haste. About the centre of the field is a second track, caused by the divergence of one of two individuals, which is probably visible at this moment - it was very distinct on Monday. - The scenery at this spot is truly magnificent. The town lies directly before you, whilst the hills rise on your left with a wild majesty of grandeur that makes this line of road so great a favourite with the lovers of the bold and rugged features of our delightful and varied county. The masses of granite protruding from the sides of the hills on the left, or scattered with wild confusion over the ground, suggest to the fancy that "There were giants in those days," when they first became strewn over the face of the earth. In the distance rises the Moor, mighty in its far stretching expanse, and beautiful from the vastness of its proportions. It has set bounds to the genius of man. You may here perceive on this side, as it were, the granite-bound hills waging a warfare with man, resisting his arts and frustrating his exertions: patches of oats are struggling for existence between the huge blocks of this everlasting stone, and they contrive to snatch a niggard one. - The result of the Inquest on Tuesday was a verdict of Wilful Murder against certain persons unknown. Seven individuals are in custody. Avery, the wrestler, is one; the others, whose names are Richard Purdew, Andrew Carpenter, Antony Purdew, and two women, Elizabeth Weeks, alias Black Soph and Eliza Harris, who cohabits with Avery, were at the fair. We have little doubt but that the murderer is in custody; but for the ends of justice, we abstain from publishing all the circumstances of suspicion which have come to our knowledge. Mr Harvey and the respectable inhabitants of Moreton, are exceedingly active in their endeavours to trace the murderers. One hundred pounds reward and a free pardon has been offered to either of the accomplices excepting the actual murderer. The prisoners have been remanded till Monday. They were examined at the Castle on Wednesday.

Western Times, Saturday 1 August 1835
EXETER - An Inquest was held this morning at the Haven Banks Inn, on the body of WILLIAM ALGAR, aged 20, apprentice to Mr Owen, owner of the Euphemia, who met his death by accidentally falling overboard from the said Brig, on the 28th instant. Verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Saturday 8 August 1835
DOLTON - The proceedings on the adjourned Inquest on the body of JAMES HILL, who was found dead near Dolton, have at length been brought to a close, by the return of the following verdict:- "That the deceased was Found Dead in the coppice, having three marks of violence on his head, but how or by what means he received the said blows, no evidence appeared to the Jurors." - The deceased was imbued with the old superstitions of the West, and had got a notion into his head that he was pixie laid. In order to prevent the consequences, he had turned his waistcoat and otherwise disarranged his apparel, which probably gave rise to the idea that he was ill-used before death.

SALCOMBE REGIS - Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. - On the 1st of August at Salcombe Regis, on the body of JOHN CARTER, labourer, aged 58, who was accidentally run over. - Verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Saturday 15 August 1835
EXETER - Death By Drowning. - An Inquest was held on Saturday last, at the Elephant Inn, North Street, before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM LETHABY, a young man, aged 21, who was drowned on the previous evening, while bathing a little above the Head Weir. The circumstance of his having been deformed from his birth, thereby causing an oppression at the chest, tended, it is supposed, to accelerate suffocation. His body was found, after remaining in the water nearly an hour and half, through the praiseworthy exertions of a young man named Mack, who, on hearing of the accident in a distant part of the city, hastened to the spot and, after much exertion, succeeded in bringing him on shore. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 22 August 1835
LAPFORD - An Inquest was held on Friday lat, at Irishcombe, in the parish of Lapford, before J. Partridge, Esq., Coroner, Tiverton, on the body of MR JAMES DOWNEY, yeoman, who, on Wednesday last, was found in his barn suspended by a rope from a beam. It appeared that the deceased had laboured under great depression of spirits since the death of his wife which took place about six months ago. The Jury, after much deliberation, returned a verdict of Felo-de-se, and the remains of the unfortunate deceased were interred in a remote corner of the church-yard of Rose Ash, on Saturday night about ten o'clock.

Western Times, Saturday 29 August 1835
EXETER - Fatal Accident. - A shocking accident, attended with loss of life, occurred at Powderham Mills on Saturday last. A young man named ROBERT SANDERS, aged 17, was sent to grease a fly wheel, which was not at work at the time, but mistaking the directions, he proceeded to grease one which was at work, by which one of his fingers was caught in a cog, his arm also being instantly drawn in by the evolution of the wheel, and dreadfully lacerated. had it not been for a bar of iron placed perpendicularly against the side of the wheel, his head would have been drawn in likewise, but by its coming against the bar, he was enabled to pull his arm out. Great praise is due to Mr Beal, for his exertions in procuring medical assistance, although unfortunately, an hour elapsed before it could be obtained. He was removed to the Hospital, where he expired shortly afterwards. An Inquest was held on Monday, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned. The deceased was respected by all who knew him, for his exemplary character.

DAWLISH - A fatal accident occurred at Cofford, near Starcross, on Friday, when an apprentice of Mr Anning's, a young man named LEGG, aged 20, met his death through being crushed between a gateway and the wheel of a cart he was driving, by which an internal injury was sustained. He was removed to Mr Anning's, but died in about an hour. An Inquest was held on Saturday, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

THORNCOMBE (DORSET) - Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. - On the 19th instant, at Thorncombe, on the body of LEVI SAMPSON, gentleman, aged 45. It appeared by evidence that the deceased was subject to fits and on the 16th instant he was seen lying in a path field, leading from Chard to Bridport, insensible. He was taken to his brother's house, where a surgeon was sent for; he expired the next day. No marks of violence was found on the body. Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

COMBE RALEIGH - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. - At Combe Rawleigh, on the 29th instant, on the body of RICHARD WEEKS, gentleman, aged 79. On the 10th instant, deceased before he went to bed look a little magnesia, and early next morning he had occasion to go to the water closet, where he stopped some time. MRS WEEKS became alarmed, and called the servants, who forced open the door, where they found him quite dead. Mr Jerrard, Surgeon, was immediately sent for, and examined the body and he gave his opinion that he died in a fit of Apoplexy. Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

HEANTON PUNCHARDON - An Inquest was held on Saturday last, at Heanton Punchardon, before Thomas Copner, Esq., Coroner, on the body of JOSEPH COLLARD, who was drowned while bathing in the river, a little below Heanton Court, on the preceding Thursday. Verdict - Found Drowned.

ATHERINGTON - Suicide. - JOHN HARRIS, a shoemaker, 50 years of age, having a wife and four children, and residing at Atherington, where he was well esteemed for his uprightness and sobriety, put an end to his existence on Thursday last, by hanging himself to the bough of a tree in Fisherton Wood, about a mile from his residence. Though the most diligent search was instituted, the body was not discovered till the Sunday. Pecuniary embarrassment is supposed to have led to this fatal result. The Coroner's Jury returned a verdict of Temporary Insanity.

Western Times, Saturday 7 November 1835
DARTINGTON - Inquest By R. H. Aberdein, Esq. - At Dartington, near Totnes, on the 26th ult. on the body of JOHN CLEAR, carpenter, aged 18. The deceased on the previous Thursday had taken a work box that he had made to a young woman to whom he was paying some attention. She however refused to accept it, on account of some disagreement on the previous Sunday, he having felt jealous of her, although without foundation. He appeared excited by what she said to him, and said he would go to America, but the following evening he was found hanging by his handkerchief in a hay loft, quite dead. Verdict - Hung Himself.

CHARLETON - Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. - At Charlton, on the 31st ult., on WILLIAM WAKEHAM, aged 9 years. While riding on the wheel of an apple mill belonging to Mr T. Martin, as it was working, his head was crushed between the wheel and the beam of the house, whereby he was instantly killed. Verdict - Accidental Death.

BRIXHAM - An Inquest was held at Brixham on the 1st inst., on JAMES GRADY, a labouring man aged 45, who for some time has had no settled residence. About six months ago he was in the poor house. On the 29th ult., he was found lying near a lime kiln, his left hand being on the kiln. He was quite dead. His hand was much burnt, as well as his neck and throat swollen. There being no marks of violence, the Jury were of opinion that he had died from suffocation, arising from the noxious air of the kilns.

CREDITON - An Inquest was held at Crediton on Saturday last, on the body of MR G. SAVAGE, who was well known in this neighbourhood as sub-surveyor of the Exeter Turnpike Roads, who left his bed on Thursday night last, and threw himself into a well. Verdict - Temporary Insanity.

Western Times, Saturday 14 November 1835
ST MARYCHURCH - Wilful Murder At Mary Church. - An Inquest was held at Mary Church near Torquay, on Monday the 9th and Tuesday the 10th inst., on the body of a female bastard child of ELIZABETH BUCKINGHAM, before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., one of the Coroners for the County. It appeared in evidence that the mother of the deceased child had been engaged in the service of Mrs Fox, wife of Major Fox of Mary Church about a fortnight since and had gone to her place on the evening of Thursday the 5th inst., and on the following morning being called up by her mistress, she appeared very unwell and on being questioned said she had a violent sick headache. Some appearances however having led to suspicion she was charged by one of the servants with having had a child and confessed she had miscarried. Upon this a Surgeon was sent for to whom she also stated that she had miscarried, but the answers she gave him to his questions not being satisfactory, her bedroom was searched and the body of a full grown female infant was found tied up in a cotton handkerchief and concealed in a large bundle of wearing apparel, which she had brought with her. The Jury having met on Monday and the preliminary evidence having been gone into, it was considered necessary that a post mortem examination should be had, and the Jury adjourned until Tuesday at one o'clock to receive the report of the medical gentlemen as to the same. The Jury again assembled on Tuesday the 10th inst., when Mr Blackaller of Torquay, Surgeon, who in company with Mr Appleton, Surgeon of Mary Church, had inspected the body, gave a very elaborate and minute detail of the external and internal appearances of the same, showing that the child had been born alive, and the cause of its death from an extensive fracture of the right parietal bone of the head. After a careful and close investigation which occupied the Coroner and Jury until two o'clock on Wednesday morning, a verdict of Wilful Murder was found against the said ELIZABETH BUCKINGHAM, who was to be committed to the County Jail under the Coroner's warrant as soon as she should be in fit state for removal.

Western Times, Saturday 21 November 1835
SIDMOUTH - An Inquest was held at Sidmouth on the 16th inst., on the body of AMBROSE TOBY EBDON, aged 3 years, who being left with his sister during the absence of his parents at church on the previous afternoon, was so much burnt that he expired the same evening. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 9 December 1835
SOUTH MOLTON - Mysterious Affair. - A Coroner's Inquest was held on Friday, at Southmolton, on the body of MRS MILDRUM, wife of MR G. MILDRUM, schoolmaster, of this town, who was found dead in her bed in the morning. It appeared from the evidence of MR MILDRUM, that deceased and himself had not slept together for several years, and that the room in which deceased usually slept, was divided from his room by a passage. She retired in her usual health on Thursday night. On Friday morning MR MILDRUM arose at his usual hour, about half-past five o'clock and took a walk till eight: On his return he went to the stairs which led to MRS MILDRUM'S room, and called to her, but received no answer. He went upstairs and discovered her lying on a bed, in a room adjoining that in which she usually slept, nearly on her face, apparently dead. He immediately called a neighbour to his assistance. Mr Flexman, Surgeon, on his arrival, found that she had been dead for several hours, as she was quite cold and stiff. In the course of the examination of the witnesses, it appeared that MR MILDRUM and deceased had, on the preceding evening drank some beer and a noggin of brandy without water, with their supper. MR MILDRUM divided it into two equal parts and put treacle into his and sugar into deceased's brandy. This excited suspicion in the minds of the Jurors and led to a post mortem examination of the body. Mr Flexman gave an account of the post mortem examination and said the arms were much bruised and there was an exterior contusion on the chest sufficient to cause death. One of the witnesses stated that she had observed some scratches on MILDRUM'S hand. He was immediately sent for and exhibited several scratches on his left hand, which he said he had received when picking some nuts on his coming from Bideford, but it left a very unfavourable impression on the Jurors' minds, but no evidence was adduced to warrant the apprehension of any party. The Jury retired and after about half an hour's deliberation, returned the following verdict - "That the deceased died from the effect of a blow on the right side of the breast, but how, or in what manner, and by what means the contusion was caused, no evidence doth appear to the Jurors."

Western Morning News, Saturday 19 December 1835 EXETER - Sudden Death. - An Inquest was held at the Golden Ball, Mary Arches-street, on Thursday, on the body of ANNE CRUDGE, single woman, aged 53. Deceased was a servant to Mr Treffry, grocer, and falling down whilst crossing the passage the day previous, she suddenly expired. Verdict accordingly.