Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

1836-1837

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: Addicott; Andrews; Anstey; Arnold; Axford; Axhorne; Axorn; Baker; Barnard; Barnes; Bastow; Beavis; Bent; Blacking; Blamey; Bolt; Boult; Bowden; Braund; Burch; Call; Chappell; Chave(2); Cleae; Clench; Cobley; Cole; Commins; Crimp; Cummins; Daw; Dean; Debrin; Dickenson; Dixon; Doidge; Dunn; Eastaway; Ellis; Ferris; Fewins; Finn; Fletcher; Foster; French(2); Garton; German; Gollop; Gordge; Goss; Graddon; Gregory; Grigg; Harris(2); Henson; Heywood; Hobbs; Hooper; Hore; Howley; Hurard; Imeson; Ireland; Jackson; Jannan; Joll; Jones; Jordan; Jose; Jury; Kelly; Keogh; Knight(2); Lake; Lampen; Lane; Lankey; Lee; Lethbridge; Lipson; Lock; Long; Loveday; Macklin; Major; Manley; May; Michaelmore; Mitchelmore; Molland; Newcombe; Norman; Oliver; Osborn(2); Passmore; Pearce; Perkins; Phillips; Pollard; Prout; Pullin; Radford; Rendle; Rice; Robins; Rowsell; Rugg; Rundell; Rundle; Sampson; Sanders; Scanes; Seagrave; Searle(2); Shaw; Smith; Snell; Snow; Spriddle; Taunton; Taylor; Thorn; Toll; Toms; Towl; Townsend; Trace; Tuckett; Veale; Vinton; Watts; Webber; Weeks; Western; Whiddon; White; Willey; Wills; Wilmot; Windeatt.

Western Times, Saturday 9 January 1836
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport. Violent Death Under Appalling And Mysterious Circumstances. - On Saturday, the 2nd inst. a person living at Richmond Walk, Devonport, had occasion to go to the Post Office, at about 10 o'clock at night; the way which he chose lay near an unfrequented pathway, which runs through an old quarry, adjoining the spot where the military sometimes assemble for target practice. In or near this pathway, he observed a man dressed in a shooting jacket, whose motions excited his curiosity, having observed him for a short time, he proceeded to the Post Office, and on returning, took his way through the footpath above alluded to, in order to make further observations on the man he had seen. He did not again perceive him, but found at the bottom of a precipitous limestone cliff, the body of a woman dead, but still warm. He immediately raised an alarm, and assistance being procured, the body was conveyed to the Devonport Workhouse, where an Inquest was held on it on Monday, the 4th inst., which lasted the whole day. In the course of the evidence, it was stated by Mr Jolly, Surgeon, of Devonport, that he, acting for his friend, Mr Harrison, was in attendance shortly after the body was found, it was lying flat on the back, the extremities were cold but the trunk was warm, the arteries at the wrist had ceased to beat and no pulsation was discernable in the region of the heart. He opened the jugular vein, but no blood followed. he, however, obtained a small quantity, (less than a table spoonful) from the arm. He examined the body - there was no fracture of the skull, or of any of the bones of the trunk or extremities. He found a lacerated wound on the head, the scalp had been torn away from the skull. There was earth on the inner portion of the torn scalp, he observed an effusion of coagulated blood on the superior anterior angle of the parietal bone, there were some bruises on the face, on each shoulder and on the left fore arm. Some of the above wounds might have been caused by the falling of the body over an inclined rugged precipice, some of them might have been caused by a blow with a stick. The wounds were inflicted whilst the body was living. He did not think that the whole of the wounds could have been produced by the body simply falling from the top of the precipice to the ground below. He assisted at a post mortem examination. He found on opening the head, a serious injury of the brain, which had been caused by violent concussion, the contents of the thorax presented no symptoms of having been diseased at the time of death. There were adhesions of the pleura, which had been occasioned by inflammation at some past period. From the external appearance of the abdomen, he was led to suppose that the deceased was enciente. On examination he found that the uterus was not impregnated, there were no signs of disease in the contents of the abdomen, death was caused by the concussion which produced serious injury of the brain. - From the sum of the other evidence, it appeared that the deceased was named SUSAN RENDLE, she was between twenty and thirty years of age. She had cohabited for two years past with a soldier who belongs to one of the Devonport depots. She had been in his company on Saturday, but there did not appear to be any animosity between them, they had not been known to quarrel at any time. On Saturday afternoon, she and others had been in his company, the drank some beer together and a quarter of a pint of rum at parting. When the rum was purchased, she had no money to pay for it and left a handkerchief in pawn for it with the landlord of the public house. He returned to his barracks at the evening beat of drum, he was seen entering by the sentry and did not again go out. Subsequently to this period, she presented herself at the barrack gate, and asked for the soldier above alluded to. She was told by the sentry that he could not come out. She appeared intoxicated at the time, but knew what she was about. She was again seen a short time afterwards in company with a stout man, who looked like a farmer, was about five feet six or seven inches in height and wore a fustian jacket, like a shooting jacket, and fustian trousers, his dress was easily discernable, as the night was a moonlight one and they were seen close to a gas lamp. - This man appeared much intoxicated and SUSAN RENDLE appeared to be partly supporting him as he walked. They were seen to enter together (through a wicket gate close to the barrier gate, by which Devonport is entered from the Stonehouse road) into a field which is bounded on one side by the precipice, at the bottom of which she was found dead. The field forms the upper part of this precipice. Soon after they had entered through the wicket, the screams of a woman were heard proceeding from the field and in a little time afterwards, the body was found as above described. - When the upper part of the precipice was examined on the Sunday morning, the sward bore marks appearing as if made by the heel or toe of a shoe, one shoe was found about nine feet distance from the brink of the precipice, another was discovered on a projecting piece of rock, near the top of the precipice. The ground did not appear to be disturbed by any struggle having taken place upon it. Another pair of shoes (apparently a woman's) were found at the foot of the precipice. Both pairs were produced on the Inquest and the former pair were identified as the deceased's by the soldier who had cohabited with her. he could swear to them because they had been lately mended in a peculiar manner by himself. Deceased had only that one pair. The shoes were much worn and trodden down at the heels, so that there must have been a difficulty in retaining them on the feet. The spot of ground where the identified shoes were found, is three hundred yards from the only footpath in the field. - A bonnet which was found at the foot of the precipice, was produced on the Inquest; It was flatly compressed, as if a heavy body had fallen upon it, the ribbons which confined it under the chin, still remained tied, but one of them was torn away from the side of the bonnet. This bonnet was identified as having belonged to the deceased. A red net purse was found in the pocket of deceased, after she had been removed to the Workhouse. It contained no money, but in it was a roll of pawnbroker's tickets, a pair of pendants were in her ears, and three rings on her fingers, one of them a gold wedding ring. - On Sunday morning, at about four o'clock, a man dressed in a fustian jacket and trousers, similar in appearance to the one already alluded to, was observed by a sentry from the Devonport lines, walking up the field where deceased had been seen. He looked strange and was muttering to himself. - Two men wearing fustian jackets and trousers, who lived near the residence of deceased, and had been slightly acquainted with her, were examined, but the sentry swore positively that neither was the man he had seen in the field. - The above is the substance of the facts which came before the Jury in evidence. They retired at a quarter past eight p.m., and at a quarter before nine, returned a verdict "That the deceased had been Found Dead, but in what manner she had come by her death, there had been no evidence to show." - The affair created great excitement at Devonport; during the whole of Sunday and Monday, crowds of persons visited the fatal spot.

Western Times, Saturday 16 January 1836
PLYMOUTH - Distressing Suicide. - On Monday evening, the 11th instant, an Inquest was held by R. J. Squire, Esq., at the Plough Inn, East Street, on the body of MRS MARIA JOLL, a respectable widow, who had retired from business, who committed suicide by hanging herself on the preceding day. - J. R. Roberts, Esq., Surgeon, being sworn, deposed that he was suddenly called upon on Sunday the 10th instant, a quarter after nine a.m., and was requested to proceed instantly to the residence of MRS JOLL (deceased had lived in the house of one of her sons who is a bookseller, in Cornwall-street,) he went immediately. On arriving at the house he met two women at the door, one of whom was servant to deceased. He enquired what was the matter, but could obtain no other answer than "Oh! my Misses, my Misses." He then proceeded upstairs to the bedroom of deceased and entered it, supposing that MRS JOLL had been seized with a fit. The window blinds were down so that there was not much light in the room. The bed curtains were down also. He drew back part of the curtains and on looking into the bed observed that the bed clothes had been thrown back as if some person had recently risen from the bed. Not seeing MRS JOLL, he left the room to enquire where she was. A servant returned with him and pointed out deceased who was suspended by a silk handkerchief from the tester frame of the bed close to one of the foot posts, and inside the curtains, her feet hung down by the side of the bed, but did not reach the floor. He left the room instantly to procure something to cut her down. A razor was handed to him from an adjoining room. He cut down deceased. She was in her night dress. The trunk of the body was warm, but the extremities were cold. He attempted to super-induce respiration by inflating the lungs, this and other attempted means of resuscitation were of no avail; he had his lancets in his hand preparing to bleed deceased when Mr Denton, Surgeon, came into the room. Mr Denton opened one jugular vein and witness the other, a small quantity of blood was obtained, but the efforts to restore animation were unsuccessful. Witness had attended deceased professionally for some time since; she laboured under a complaint peculiar to females, which complaint was, in her case, very distressing. She had also suffered from a recent attack of severe illness. The physical sufferings of deceased had such an effect on her mind as to produce hypocondriasis; under the influence of this affection she experienced mental delusions and was subject to great despondency. Witness was called upon to attend the deceased whilst she was labouring under one of the delusions above-mentioned. She fancied that her hand had become enlarged and had assumed a blue colour. He did not perceive any such appearance as had been complained of. Witness did not feel himself warranted in swearing that deceased had been insane. he had not sufficient means of observation to justify him in doing so. - A woman named Ivy, who had been servant to deceased some time prior to her death, detailed many instances of eccentric conduct on her part; she had noticed also that deceased had been subject, at times, to great depression of spirits. On Sunday morning about seven o'clock, deceased came into witnesses bedroom whilst she was dressing and observed that she had risen late that morning. Witness went downstairs to attend to her household duties, and at nine a.m. brought up breakfast to deceased. She entered the room and went over to the bed. She looked into it, but not seeing her mistress there she laid the breakfast tray on a chest of drawers and proceeded to examine her own bedroom, and some of the other rooms of the house, but not finding her mistress, she returned to the bedroom and on further examination perceived the deceased in the same position as described by Mr Roberts. She did not perceive that deceased was hanging: She was amazed at the sight and fancied that deceased had thrown herself out of the window or that something otherwise dreadful had happened to her and that she (witness) was looking at her apparition. Witness left the room and proceeded to the bedroom of MR JOLL (son of deceased). She told him to come and see what was the matter with his mother; he went and was so much panic struck at the sight, that he exclaimed "O! it is not mother." He made no attempt to cut down the body, but proceeded downstairs to his brother, who was at breakfast and having hurriedly stated what he had seen, ran to procure medical aid. No attempt was made by the brother who still remained in the house, or by any other person to cut down the deceased. Mr Roberts arrived in a few minutes. - At the conclusion of this witnesses examination the Jury expressed themselves satisfied with the evidence which had been adduced; but the Coroner, having stated that he must have sufficient in his notes to bear out any verdict which they might return; proceeded to examine Miss Eliza Bond, a friend of deceased. The deposition of this witness was merely confined to the state of mind in which MRS JOLL had been prior to her death. She described many instances of eccentric and erratic conduct on the part of deceased, particularly within the last six months, prior to that time deceased had been a very pious and serious woman. She attributed the change to a nervous affection, but could adduce no exciting cause. Witness considered deceased to have been decidedly insane at times, especially within the last month. She was lucid and perfectly rational at times. Witness did not think that any symptoms exhibited by deceased were such as to suggest the idea that more than usual care and watchfulness should be needful. She never supposed that the malady would have led to such a melancholy event. - The Inquest lasted from five till nearly ten p.m. The Jury without hesitation returned a verdict "That the deceased caused her own death by hanging herself, she being at the time Lunatic and Distracted."

PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held on Saturday, on the body of THOMAS HOOPER, who was found that morning in a lime kiln near Laira Bridge, by the lime burner. It appeared by the evidence that the deceased was of very indolent habits; when he got employment, he was careless of earning anything beyond what he considered enough to satisfy his then existing appetite, and when these sources failed he would obtain relief from the parish of Plymstock. - On many occasions has he sought shelter from the inclemency of the season in barns and sheds. Of late he had sought the warmth of the lime kilns, and has frequently been warned of his danger by the lime burners. On the present occasion, it appears he got in one the lime stone and reclined himself against the side of the kiln, where he must have fallen asleep, and the carbonic acid gas going off in the process of calcining the stone, suffocated this victim to idleness. When found he was most horribly burnt, there being but a part of his face and one leg of his trousers remaining unconsumed. - Verdict Found Dead.

Western Times, Saturday 30 January 1836
TIVERTON - An Inquest was held at the Angel Inn, on Saturday last, before James Partridge, Esq., one of the Coroner's for the County, on the body of JAMES PEARCE. It appeared that the deceased who was about 14, was on the 13th inst., employed in stacking corn in the barn of his master, Mr Norrish, of Hensley Farm, in this parish. The stack had been raised to the height of about ten feet, when PEARCE, who was on the top of it with a pitchfork, which he held by the prongs, was smoothing the sides of the stack, his foot slipped and he fell off. One of the prongs entered his right side, and penetrated his lungs to the depth of two or three inches, the other grazed his back. The poor fellow was taken home and lingered until Friday last, when he died. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 20 February 1836
EXETER - Fatal Accident. - On Saturday last, as some men were employed on a building near the new iron bridge, North Street, and whilst raising a roll of lead, about 2 cwt., the scaffold on which they stood gave way and precipitated two of them to the ground. One of the poor fellows named HARRIS, was killed on the spot and the other received very severe injuries, but it is likely he will survive; two others clung to a part of the scaffolding and hung in a very perilous situation for some time. An Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier, on Monday, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned. The deceased was 32 years of age, and has left a wife and one child. He was highly respected by his master, Mr E. Chapple, in whose employ he had been a considerable time.

EXETER - An Inquest was held last Saturday at the Valiant Soldier on the body of ELIZABETH NEWCOMBE, a child six years of age, who had been so dreadfully burnt by her clothes taking fire in St. Thomas, that she was removed to the Hospital, where she died. Verdict, Accidental Death.

EXETER - An Inquest was held at the Workhouse on Friday, on the body of a female, about 50 years of age, named RUNDELL, who died shortly after being removed to the House. The Jury returned a verdict that deceased died by the Visitation of God, accelerated by her bad and dissolute habits of life.

Western Times, Saturday 27 February 1836
EXETER - On Monday last, an Inquest was taken before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, at the Valiant Soldier Inn, Magdalene-street, in this City, on the body of ANN NORMAN, in the 22nd year of her age, of the parish of Rewe, who having on the preceding Friday morning, been dreadfully burnt, from her clothes catching fire as leaning over the grate, she was brought to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, where she expired on the night of Saturday. Verdict - Accidental Death.

EXETER - On Wednesday morning, before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, at the Valiant Soldier an Inquest was taken on the body of WILLIAM PULLIN, of the parish of Kenton, aged 35, who had been brought to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, with all the ribs and clavicle of the left side fractured, from being run over by a cart, of which injuries he died. Verdict: Accidental Death, and a deodand of 1s. on the wheel.

Western Times, Saturday 12 March 1836
EXETER - Monday, an Inquest was taken before S. Walkey, Esq., Coroner, at Wilcock's Valiant Soldier, Magdalen Street, on the body of ELIZABETH COMMINS, 80 years of age, of the parish of Whitstone, who being troubled with fits, on the preceding Thursday, while labouring under attack of this kind fell into the fire. On being extricated she was immediately removed to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, but expired on Saturday. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 2 April 1836
SIDMOUTH - Melancholy Death. - An Inquest was held the other day, before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner, on the body of a boy about 15 years of age, named DAW , who was a parish apprentice to Mr Nicholas Cox, of North Woolbrook Farm, in Sidmouth. It appeared from the evidence that the boy through some misconduct had absconded, and the night before his body was found crept into a small cavity in a hay-stack to lodge - the wind being very violent, blew the stack over upon him while sleeping. His hat being seen near the spot the next morning, led to an apprehension that the boy was under; the hay was immediately cut and the body was found dead. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 9 April 1836
EXMOUTH - An Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. was held on the 1st of April on the body of GEORGE LONG, the unfortunate pilot who was drowned when the Cheviot was wrecked off Dawlish. The body was washed ashore at Exmouth a day or two afterwards. Verdict, Accidentally Drowned.

SIDMOUTH - An Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., was held on the 1st April on JAMES FOSTER, a son of the worthy landlord of the Half-way House Inn, between Sidmouth and Exeter, whose death was occasioned by the falling in of a gravel pit, where the youth was at play. - Verdict, Accidentally Killed.

ROCKBEARE - An Inquest was held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. on April 2nd, on JOHN LAKE, of Rockbeare, a waggoner, who, in attempting to jump on the shaft of the waggon while his horses were going on, missed his footing and the wheels went over his body; he was killed on the spot. Verdict, Accidental Death, with a deodand of 1s. on the wheels.

An Inquest was held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. on April 2nd, of MR WILLIAM DICKENSON, an elderly gentleman. The deceased was sitting at dinner with his family, and it appears that a portion of his food got into the larynx or trachea, and that he died of suffocation.

Western Times, Saturday 7 May 1836
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - Dreadful Fire And Death. - The parish of Saint Thomas was the scene of an awful conflagration on Tuesday morning last, in which sixteen houses were destroyed, and two females were burned to death. Between eight and nine in the morning, it was discovered that the kitchen chimney of a baker of the name of Tuckett, who also keeps a beer shop, was on fire, which however, excited no very great attention at the time. Soon after nine however, it was discovered that the thatch was on fire of some cottages which were crammed behind, in the space between Cowick-street, in which Tuckett's house was situate, and the church fields. The dryness of the materials and the strength of the wind which blew a gale from the Northward, soon lit up the whole mass of these cottages and in less than half-an-hour afterwards, sixteen of them were seen in a blaze. It is impossible to describe the scene that immediately ensued from the cries of the inmates, the confusion owing to the awful rapidity of the flames and the consciousness that in this confined spot there was comparatively a large number of children. Engines were despatched from the city, but a limited supply of water deprived them of their full efficiency. Many were paralysed by fear, and though the children were all got out, yet but little furniture was saved in the general wreck. We regret to add that two poor women were burnt to death - one a widow of the name of WESTERN, whose husband died of the cholera at the time when that awful scourge laid its destructive hand so heavily on the poor of this city and suburbs. She had six children and perished through her great anxiety to save a little of the scanty furniture which she would have found hard to replace. The flames overtook her and she fell and was literally burnt to fragments. The extremities were entirely consumed, the trunk was charred and burnt to such an extent that neither feature nor lineament was left to guide her neighbours in their endeavours to identify her remains. A portion of her cotton gown served to confirm their surmises. One of her hands and an arm was completely burnt away and it was stated before the Coroner that the wedding ring was found near where the hand should been, but no trace was left of the finger which had worn it. Another poor woman, the wife of a journeyman carpenter, named TOWNSEND, was also sacrificed in her attempt to save her little property. A Coroner's Inquest has been held on the remains and a verdict of Accidental Death returned. We are glad to learn that a subscription has been entered into for the relief of the sufferers, and we make no doubt but that the funds will be rightly appropriated under the guidance of the respected Vicar and the intelligent Committee, who have been appointed by the inhabitants. It is high time that public attention should be drawn to the subject of thatched roofs. It is not long since seventy-two houses were burnt down at Lympstone, in consequence of some sparks falling on a thatched roof.

Western Times, Saturday 14 May 1836
WEMBWORTHY - Suicide. - Last week a young man of the name of BAKER, a blacksmith, working at Broadwood Kelly in this county, stole a watch from his master, which he exchanged for another, received 13s. from the person with whom his treaty had been effected, but the theft being discovered, he left for Chulmleigh, where he purchased and took arsenic. Having committed this dreadful act, he quitted Chulmleigh for his father's, who resided about 4 miles from that town, where he expired about 2 o'clock on Thursday morning. An Inquest was held at Wembworthy the following day, when the Jury returned a verdict of 'Felo-De-Se'. The Coroner issued his warrant to the Constables to privately inter the body in the churchyard between the hours of nine and twelve the same night, which was accordingly done.

Western Times, Saturday 28 May 1836
NORTH BOVEY - Awful Occurrence. - An Inquest was held on the 20th instant before J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner of Ashburton, at Videford mine, in the parish of North Bovey, on the body of JOHN OSBORN, a miner, who was crushed to death by a quantity of earth &c., which accidentally fell on him, from what is technically called the "back of the level" while working seventy fathoms below the surface. Verdict, Accidental Death. A circumstance attended the accident, which places in a strong light the fearful vicissitudes and uncertainties to which that adventurous and useful class of men are subject. The fatal event took place in sight of a man who was hastening to the spot to relieve the deceased from duty, and who was near enough to hold conversation with him, and had the falling of the earth been delayed only two minutes longer, the man who thus providentially escaped must inevitably have been the victim instead of the other.

UFFCULME - An Inquest was held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on Tuesday, the 24th instant, on the body of JOHN WILLEY, of Uffculme, labourer, who hung himself on Saturday, the 21st instant. It appeared that the deceased who was in the employ of Mr Henry Coles, had been a few weeks since discharged in disgrace from the Plymouth corps of marines, having been previously repeatedly punished, of which his back shewed evident marks, but he had conducted himself with propriety during the time he had been in the service of Mr Coles. On Saturday morning last he got up between 4 and 5 o'clock, with the intention of cutting some binds for binding bark, some of which he appeared to have done, as they were found about 6 o'clock in a cart by his master, but he had disappeared, and was not heard of again till Sunday morning the 22nd, when he was discovered by Mr Joel Wood, in a field belonging to Mr John James, suspended by a cord round his neck, attached to a withy stem in the hedge above. Great peculiarity had been for some time observed in the conduct of the deceased, and a verdict was returned by the Jury of "Hung Himself Being Lunatic." - It was stated that the unfortunate man who was a native of Culmstock, had from childhood evinced a degree of aberration of intellect, and it is but too probable that he may have incurred the punishment of stripes during his service in the marines for negligence arising from that circumstance and not from any culpability of his own.

Western Times, Saturday 4 June 1836
BROADWOODWIDGER - An Inquest was held at Kellacot, in the parish of Broadwoodwidger, Devon, on Monday last, by A. B. Bone, Esq., Coroner, on the body of MARY DOIDGE, aged 16 years, who died on the Friday previous from inflammation. The deceased was an apprentice of Mr Smale, yeoman, and was pregnant by a servant living in the same house, who absconded on the circumstance becoming known to the family. The deceased two days previous to her death was attacked with sickness, which led to a post mortem examination of the body by Messrs. Pethick and Pearse, Surgeons, Launceston. A most respectable Jury assembled, when after a patient investigation, which the worthy Coroner conducted with his usual ability and urbanity of manner, the Jury returned a verdict - "That the deceased MARY DOIDGE, Died of a Natural Death, produced by a violent inflammation." - Since the death of deceased, rumours have been circulated that the girl had been ill used. The writer attended the Inquest and from the depositions of the mother of deceased, who attended her daughter during her illness, a greater calumny could never have entered the heart of man. The mother's testimony was conclusive, who declared that her daughter had been kindly treated by her master and mistress, which was substantiated by other evidence. It is to be hoped that those who are so fond of propagating slander, will for the future pause until the substance of their marvellous discoveries has been thoroughly sifted by truth and justice. J.P., Lifton

Western Times, Saturday 3 July 1836
EXETER - An Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier on Wednesday last, before John Gidley, Esq., and a respectable Jury, "touching the death of WILLIAM TOMS - then and there lying dead," and who had been found hanging in his ice-house on the previous morning. Deceased was a respectable tradesman, reported to have been in comfortable circumstances as far as worldly possessions went and his death excited considerable sensation. The first witness called was John Tucker. - I was foreman to the deceased, WM. TOMS, baker and confectioner, of this City. - I saw him alive the last time on Monday evening, June 27th, at seven in the evening. On the following morning I went to an ice-house occupied by him on the Friars, at three o'clock, by the direction of the deceased's wife. When I opened the door I saw him suspended, but by what I knew not - I was so shocked that I ran and called for assistance. I went and knocked up a man of the name of Shears, who brought a knife, and we went together and cut him down - in doing so the right arm came against me and I found that it was quite cold - I did not remove what was round his neck, the watchman showed it to me - I went to his brother's on Fore-street-hill and could not wake them. I then went to his wife's, and said that MR TOMS was very ill, and if they wished to see him alive they must come directly - I then went to his brother's, two doors below, and while knocking the Watch came up and I was compelled to tell them what it was, when MRS TOMS, hearing something of it, insisted on hearing the whole story, which I was compelled to tell her in the best way I could. I then returned to the ice-house. I gave the keys to the watchmen, as they spoke about it, and made a great fuss. He was removed on a shutter - he was hanging on a towel tied to a pocket handkerchief. I have known deceased 20 years. He has been very desponding these two or three months past, walking up and down the bake-house like a man in trouble, talking as if he had a dozen to content with. This was very unusual conduct from what I had generally observed of him. This change of conduct was observed by the family - the daughters have observed to me "I cannot tell what ails father, he's so different from what he used to be." When he parted from me in the evening he had no conversation with me, but I went and called him to come and speak to Mr Ford the plumber - he was leaning his head on his hand on the table - he went out and spoke to Mr Ford, and then went upstairs to his bedroom - that was the last time I ever saw of him alive. He seemed as if he was sleeping or studying - he had done this repeatedly of late; in fact, when he would get up of a morning and open the shop he would go and sit in the back parlour and lean his head on his hand despondingly for an hour or more - he would often go to bed again - both these habits had come on him latterly. Judging from all the symptoms I have lately seen, it appeared to me that he was labouring under a sort of insanity - he had scarcely done anything of late, and I have often complained by his not helping me that the work was too hard, and I could not stand it - he would reply "never mind, go on, go on." He had a very quick way of speaking - he would then walk away and talk loudly to himself - I have seen him slap his forehead violently when I've passed the door. - I did not examine to what he was suspended - I cannot tell what it was, whether a beam or not. There was a large nail on which he used to hang up his hat - he was about nine inches from the ground. - Thomas Fouracres:- I am in the Exeter Watch. On Tuesday morning last I met Tucker coming up Fore-street - he informed me of the accident that had happened and I accompanied him to the ice-house of which he had the keys. When I got there I saw that the body had been cut down and was lying on the back. I observed a pocket handkerchief about the neck, his neckerchief off and placed in his hat near him. There was a piece of white cloth attached to the pocket handkerchief. A man of the name of Austin was present and took possession of a large nail and a rude stone. The nail had been driven into the beam just under the thatch to which deceased tied the cloth; and it appeared that the nail had been driven in by deceased, as there were marks of the head of a nail on the stone. - John Shears: I am a carpenter. About a quarter past three on Tuesday morning Tucker called me up and begged for God's sake that I would come up and help him - he told me what had happened. I went with him to the ice-house and there saw the body - he was hanging by a handkerchief fastened to a towel and the towel fastened to a nail, which was driven to the outside part of the roof. I cut the towel and Tucker received the deceased in his arms. He was quite stiff. The nail is there now and appeared to have been there a long while. - Mr A. Alexander was now sworn: I have known the deceased for the last seven or eight years. I do not know anything of the circumstances which led to his death, but I remember about fourteen months since his having met with an accident in the ice house. He had fallen into the pit and severely injured the back part of his head. Since that time I have had frequent conversation with him on his business. He would frequently come and ask me advice respecting his property. It appeared to me that he had been very much harassed of late, and he observed to me within the last fortnight that the annoyance was sufficient to drive any man mad. He had frequently complained of pains in the back part of his head. I have not observed any symptoms of despondency about him. - John Tucker, Esq., Surgeon: I knew deceased for thirty years and have attended him professionally. His bodily health has been good, but he has been complaining of his head. I recommended the application of leeches, and he was recommended to take medicine on the day of his death by his wife, but he would do nothing. I have a faint recollection of the accident and then recommended leeches, but he would not apply them. He had his arm in a sling. He was always a very peculiar man. I met him last Sunday week on Southernhay. He appeared very flighty and odd - so much so that I remarked it to Mrs Tucker on getting home. I have no doubt that considerable derangement of the functions of the brain had been going on for some time which led him to commit the act. - The Coroner summed up the evidence. There were two points for their consideration. If they were of opinion that deceased came to his death by his own act, then it would be for them to consider by what means he committed the act, and secondly what state of mind he was in at the time he did it. He drew attention to the evidence which went to show first that he died by his own hand and then remarked on that portion of it which tended to prove mental derangement. The talking to himself and the agitated and restless state in which he used to walk up and down, as deposed to by Mr Tucker were strong evidence of mental derangement. It was not an uncommon thing for a man to receive an injury in the back of the head and apparently to recover and yet a diseased action to commence. The learned Coroner said that the evidence of Mr Alexander also went to show that he had been considerably excited and Mr Tucker stated his opinion to be that a considerable derangement of the brain was going on for some time. - The Jury immediately returned a verdict "That WILLIAM TOMS Hung Himself whilst labouring under a Fit of Insanity."

Western Times, Saturday 9 July 1836
KINGSBRIDGE - Superstitious Intolerance. - We learn from the Plymouth Journal that a Coroner's Inquest was held at Kingsbridge, the other day, on the infant child of MR GEORGE BLAMEY, of that town, who died in consequence of being over-layed by the wet-nurse, evidence of which fact, being proved, the Jury retired for a few minutes and returned a verdict - Accidentally Suffocated. On the death of the child, the friends applied to the church authorities at Kingsbridge to have the child buried with its friends, but this was refused in consequence of the child not having been christened. They met with the same fate on applying to the authorities at Dodbrook. The friends had now no other alternative than to apply to their own place of worship, the Wesleyan meeting, the stewards of which immediately gave their consent. The Minister, the Rev. Blundell, refused to bury the child and would not allow any other person to do so; stating as his reason, that it was a bad precedent. In this dilemma, which may be imagined but cannot be described, they received a letter from the Rev. Mr Hewlett, the Baptist minister of this place, stating his readiness (in case Mr Blundell refused) to bury the child at the Baptist burying-place at Venn, which was accepted and the funeral took place accordingly.

BISHOPS TAWTON - An Inquest was held by T. Copner, Esq., on Saturday last, at Rumsam, Bishop's Tawton, on GEORGE IRELAND, labourer, aged 55, who, after a hard day's work at mowing, retired to rest the preceding evening, as usual; but was taken ill about the middle of the night and almost immediately died. Verdict "Visitation of God."

BISHOP'S TAWTON - An Inquest was held by T. Copner, Esq., on the body of MARY ANN SNOW, aged seven years. She was accidentally struck down by a cart, which caused her death. Verdict, "Accidental death."

WINKLEIGH - An Inquest was held by H. A. Vallack, Esq., at Winkleigh, on the body of a man called MOLLAND, who was killed on the spot by the upsetting of a cart. The deceased was a servant of the Rev. P. Johnson, of Wembworthy. Verdict, "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Saturday 23 July 1836
EXETER - An Inquest was held by Mr Warren at the Valiant Soldier on Wednesday last, touching the death of THOMAS GOLLOP, then and there lying dead. William Perrian, labourer of Uffculme, deposed that he had known the deceased for two or three years and that he was a waggoner to Mr Elworthy, woollen draper of Cullompton, and that on a certain Saturday in the month of May, witness had been driving a waggon along the road to Cullompton, at the same time that deceased was driving one also. After ascending a rising ground near Veitch's nursery, witness saw the horses of deceased's waggon set off into a trot and deceased attempting to jump up to ride on the shafts, fell between the wheels and severely injured his leg. Witness then proceeded to say "with the assistance of a man passing, I conveyed him to the Crab Tree Inn, where I saw the master and mistress of the Inn, and they both refused to take him in; I staid there about ten minutes, but could not prevail upon them; GOLLOP himself begged that they would let him be taken into the stable or anywhere, but the landlord and his wife told me to go on and said that there was no bone broken, but the man was tipsy. I was prevented from leaving the deceased at the Crab Tree by the master and mistress; I wished to leave him there." In consequence of this refusal, witness proceeded on with deceased from Exeter towards his home, till he could no longer endure the pain. He then got a cart for him when he was about eight miles from Exeter, at nine o'clock that night, nearly three hours after the accident and deceased was brought to the Hospital. Mr Frederick Hobson Warren, pupil of Mr Harris, deposed that he was called to the Hospital at two o'clock on the morning of the 15th of May to attend the deceased, who was brought in with an injury in his right leg, which was so much swollen that it was difficult to ascertain whether there was a fracture or not. It was ultimately ascertained that there was a fracture - that the small bone of the right leg was fractured, and the main blood vessel of the limb was wounded and mortification ensued. - The limb was removed on the 28th day of May - but his constitution being weak, the shock was too great and he died on the evening of the 20th of this month - if the limb had not been removed he would have died of mortification. The Jurors assembled to Enquire into the cause of the death of THOMAS GOLLOP, are of unanimous opinion that the conduct of Mr and Mrs Badcock, who keep the Crab-Tree Inn in the parish of Broadclist, in refusing to receive or assist the said THOMAS GOLLOP after he had sustained such a severe accident is deserving of great censure. - T. R. Barkier, Foreman.

EXETER - An Inquest was taken on Monday last, before John Warren, Esq., Coroner for this City at Wilcock's Valiant Soldier Inn, Magdalene-street, on the body of JOHN SEAGRAVE, who died in the Devon and Exeter Hospital, on the preceding morning. The deceased having been a patient in the Hospital two months, having been brought there in consequence of a dreadful accident he met with in being thrown from a colt he was breaking in. His skull was fractured and he lingered in a state of great suffering and a verdict was returned accordingly. SEAGRAVE was an Irishman, and came to this City some years since with the 16th Light Dragoons, in which he had for a considerable time served, and was well known here. He was a Roman Catholic and in his last moments attended by the Rev. George Oliver, the Catholic Clergyman in this City.

TEIGNMOUTH - On the 11th inst. an Inquest was taken before J. Gribble, Esq., at the Bee Hive, Teignmouth, on the body of SERGEANT JAS. PASSMORE, of Newton, who died while the South Devon Yeomanry, was on duty in that town. - Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God. He was interred on the following Thursday with military honours.

TIVERTON - An Inquest was held at the Black Horse Inn, on Tuesday, before S. F. Gervis, Esq., Coroner for the Borough, upon the body of MR THOMAS JORDAN, sadler, who had been found hanging in his own house on Monday in the forenoon. The act was undoubtedly committed by himself and Mr Alderman his medical attendant and others of his friends, gave such evidence as left no doubt as to the state of mind in which the act was committed. The Coroner summed up the evidence briefly but perspicuously and the Jury returned a verdict of Temporary Derangement.

TIVERTON - An Inquest was held before Mr Gervis, at the Swan Inn, on Wednesday on the body of THOMAS FEWINS, carter to Mr Melhuish of East Worlington. It appeared that on Tuesday afternoon the deceased was driving his master's waggon about half a mile from Tiverton on the Southmolton road. He was sitting on the front of the waggon, when a gust of wind blew off his hat, which fell behind the waggon; the horses were at this time trotting. He very imprudently jumped off the shafts of the waggon to get his hat without stopping them. He fell and the wheels passed over his left temple and killed him on the spot. His master gave him a most excellent character and seemed much attached to him. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental death with a deodand of 1s. on the waggon and horses.

Western Times, Saturday 30 July 1836
CHERITON BISHOP - Sudden Death. - A melancholy instance of sudden death occurred on Thursday last, at Crockernwell. MR J. BLACKING, of South-street, in the City of Exeter, eating-house keeper, went to Crockernwell, to attend the funeral of a relative; the procession having been formed in readiness to proceed to the Church, the deceased was found missing. On search being made, he was, discovered in the yard of the house of the relative whom he came to assist in consigning to his last resting place. It is supposed he had been dead about an hour. The deceased left this city in perfect health and was not heard to complain of being at all unwell while at Crockernwell. An Inquest was held on Saturday where a verdict was returned of "Died by the Visitation of God."

EXETER ST SIDWELL - An Inquest was held at the Red Lion St Sidwells on Tuesday last by John Warren, Esqr. on the body of GEORGE TUCKETT, hair dresser, of that parish who was found dead at the foot of the stairs in his dwelling house the same morning. The deceased had been drinking freely the night before and had been helped as far as the spot where he was found. It was thought that he had fallen down and being unable to rise, death was the consequence. Died of Apoplexy.

Western Times, Saturday 6 August 1836
TORQUAY - A Coroner's Inquest was held at McLean's London Inn, on Thursday, on the body of WILLIAM HENRY SHAW, aged eight years, the son of MR SHAW, shipwright of Torquay, the poor little fellow had been missing for about an hour and a half on Wednesday morning, when his cap was found floating towards the beach. Search was then made and in a short time they found him near the slip in his father's yard, from which it is supposed while playing that he fell into the sea. They tried every means that medical skill could suggest, but the vital spark had fled. he was a very amiable child and the pride of his doting but now distressed parents. The verdict was "Found Drowned, but by what means deceased came into the water is unknown."

Western Times, Saturday 13 August 1836
GEORGEHAM - A fatal accident occurred on Friday last to a young man called GEORGE HURARD, a small farmer, of the parish of Georgeham. He had been to Barnstaple market and left town early in the evening rather intoxicated and was found by two gentlemen between Braunton and Georgeham lying in the hedge, with a wound in the back of his head. He was immediately conveyed home and expired on the Sunday morning following. A Coroner's Inquest was held on Monday and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

Western Times, Saturday 20 August 1836
DAWLISH - On the 11th instant the body of a man was discovered in a furze brake below Cock Wood, near Starcross. The remains had on the outer garments and a dark cloak; a cane was found lying at the side and the body appeared to have been a long time in this situation. About 18 months ago, MR IMESON, who was then keeping a tobacco and snuff shop in Exeter, disappeared and notwithstanding every search was made at the time, no tidings whatever of what had become of him could be procured and it was supposed by his family that he had gone to America. MRS IMESON recognised the clothes, cloak, boots and cane, which he was in the habit of using, and which he took with him when he was missed. It is supposed he must have repaired to the spot where he was found, and taken laudanum, it having been traced at the time that he had purchased some a few hours only before leaving Exeter. An open penknife was found at his feet. From the length of time the body had been exposed it was utterly impossible to recognize a single feature, it having become a complete skeleton, and presenting, as may be imagine a most deplorable spectacle. On Friday last an Inquest was held on the remains, before Joseph Gribble, Esq., Coroner, at Cock Wood, and after hearing the evidence of the person who found him, and that of MRS IMESON, as to his identity, a verdict of Found Dead in the Brake was returned.

Western Times, Saturday 27 August 1836
TIVERTON - Gross Case Of Furious Driving. - An Inquest was held on Monday before F. S. Gervis, Esq., Coroner, on the body of CAROLINE CHAVE, a fine girl of nine years of age. It appeared that at about four o'clock on Saturday afternoon, the deceased at her earnest entreaty was permitted by her father, MR CHAVE, of Crazelowman, to accompany her sister about two years older, who was going to assist the servant of Mr Davey, butcher, in driving a bullock which MR CHAVE had sole into the town; they had proceeded about a mile and were just opposite Putson Barn, a mile and a quarter from Tiverton, when they observed two waggons laden with lime, coming towards them at a furious pace. It was distinctly sworn by three persons who were on the road just before them, that the horses were going at a full gallop and the drivers of both waggons were riding on the shafts without reins, and were lashing on their horses, evidently racing. The poor children who had gone on before the bullock and the man who was driving it, to stand at the entrance of a lane just by, were naturally very much frightened and as William Jarman one of the witnesses described it, "ran to and fro like chicken before a hawk;" the waggons were upon them in a moment. The younger child was knocked down by the fore horse of the front waggon and the wheels passed over her body, and instantly put an end to her existence. The driver of the waggon looked round on his work, was frightened, lashed his horses more furiously, drove them for half a mile, then jumped off, ran up a lane and escaped. He was however taken in the course of Sunday. He is a young man about 20. His name is Thomas Mogford, a servant of Mr Robert Beedell of Stoodleigh, whose son William Beedell, was driving the other waggon, which was his own. The Jury having retired for about twenty minutes to deliberate on their verdict, and having taken the opinion of the Coroner, and of Mr Helling, the Town Clerk, on a legal question mentioned by the Foreman, returned a verdict of Manslaughter against Thomas Mogford, with a deodand of one pound on the waggon and three horses. the Foreman added that he had been requested to convey the opinion of the Jury, that William Beedell was even more culpable than Mogford and that they much regretted that the point of law would not allow them to include him in the verdict; but they requested the Coroner would give him a severe reprimand in the open court and would request the Magistrates to inflict on him the heaviest fine which the law would allow; and also to take those measures which should to them appear most advisable to put a stop to the furious driving which is now so common. The Coroner immediately administered the reprimand. About an hour afterwards Beedell was brought before F. Hole, Esq., Mayor and George Coles, Esq., Justices and was again severely reprimanded and fined in the full penalty of ten pounds or two months imprisonment. His father became bound for the payment of the money within two months. The Coroner issued his warrant for the committal of Mogford for trial at the Assizes, where the witnesses were also bound over to appear. We understand that another man was fined five pounds on Tuesday, for furious driving and that the Magistrates both of the Borough and of the division of the county, have issued a caution declaring their determination to inflict the full penalties in every case brought before them.

Western Times, Saturday 10 September 1836
TIVERTON - A Coroner's Inquest was held here on Tuesday, which has excited a considerable sensation. The facts which we glean from a very full report supplied by our able correspondent are as follows:- The child of a labourer named JOHN SEARLE was taken ill of scarlet fever and she applied to Mr Macdonald, one of the Parish Surgeons, to attend it; he referred her to Mr Beck, the overseer, for an order for medical attendance. This, Mr Beck told her he could not give, as the wages of her husband and children amounted to 17s. 6d. per week. Mr Macdonald had however previously told her what was the complaint of the child and subsequently advised her to give it senna and toast and water for a beverage, but she refused to attend it. This was on the Thursday and on the Friday the child appeared rather better; but on Saturday it became worse, when she applied to the Coroner, Mr Gervis, who is a medical man, he pronounced the child to be dangerously ill and gave the mother a note to Mrs Mills, another of the overseers stating that fact and he immediately gave her an order for the Parish Surgeon, Mr Macdonald who immediately attended and gave the mother medicine. The child died at three on the Sunday morning. The Surgeon, Mr Macdonald corroborated this statement of the mother. The Overseer, Mr Beck stated that he refused to give the order in consequence of having received a letter from the Clerk of the Guardians requesting him to be careful what orders he gave for medical relief. He said that he could not see that the case came under the denomination of "sudden and urgent" necessity, so as to justify him in giving the order on application. But for this communication Mr Beck said he would not have withheld the order. The Coroner summed up with great ability and good feeling. The Jury remained some time in deliberation and then returned a verdict "That HARRIET SEARLE died of the Scarlet Fever and that it appears to the Jury that her death was hastened for want of timely medical aid," and they requested the Coroner to transmit their verdict, with the depositions on which it was founded, to the Poor Law Commissioners.

Western Times, Saturday 24 September 1836
CHITTLEHAMPTON - Inquest by H. A. Vallack, Esq., - At Chittlehampton, on the 10th instant, on the body of SARAH GRADDON. - In consequence of a suspicion that the deceased had given birth to a premature child a post-mortem examination took place, the Jury returned a verdict "Died in consequence of giving birth to a premature child."

BLACK TORRINGTON - Inquest by H. A. Vallack, Esq., - On Saturday last, at Black Torrington, on the body of ANN OSBORN, four years old, who in the temporary absence of her sister caught herself on fire and was so dreadfully burnt that she shortly afterwards expired. - Verdict - "Accidental Death."

BUCKLAND BREWER - Inquest by H. A. Vallack, Esq. - On Monday last at Buckland Brewer, on the body of JOANNA BOWDEN, who, the preceding day, feeling herself unwell, went upstairs to bed, but on lying down she instantly expired.

HOLSWORTHY - Inquest by H. A. Vallack, Esq., - At Holdsworthy, on Tuesday, on the body of MARY AXFORD, wife of BENJAMIN AXFORD, of Stratton, yeoman, who was found dead in the stable, whither she had gone a few minutes previously; the verdict was - "Died by the Visitation of God."

SIDMOUTH - Awful Suicide. - The inhabitants of Sidmouth were alarmed on Sunday evening, Sept. 11, just after five o'clock, by the unexpected self-destruction by hanging of MRS MARY BARNARD, a very respectable married woman, 40 years of age, residing near the Post-office. An Inquest was held the next day by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., of Honiton, when the following facts were deduced:- Her husband, MR AMBROSE BARNARD, and herself, got up between six and seven in the morning of the day the fatal act was committed; she got breakfast as usual, of which she partook with her husband, after which she went to the Independent Chapel in company with a Miss Norman, who called for her. She sat very restless in the chapel, whispered to those in the seat that she was faint and must go out. She, however, continued till the end of the service; on leaving the chapel she had some conversation with her friends, in which she betrayed much distress and confusion of mind. Her friends used their best effects to allay her mental perturbations. On her return home she appeared better, got the dinner ready and ate very hearty with her husband. Soon after dinner she said to MR BARNARD that her old complaint was coming on her again and that she should never be any better. She talked very incoherently and foolishly for about a quarter of an hour and then got better. In the afternoon she went to church with Miss Newman, and returned much better, took tea more cheerfully and afterwards talked with MR BARNARD about the minister they had heard, asked him for the text; on informing her she turned to it in the bible, and read it off. MR B. complaining that he had a pain in his back expressed wish to take a short walk. She [?] it very much, said he had been much confined, that it would do him good and she would sit and read the bible until he returned. He went a short distance, but not feeling easy at leaving his wife alone returned in about ten minutes and looking into the kitchen window saw the bible still lying open on the table, but the wife had left. On going to the door he found it locked; he knocked twice. Not receiving any answer, and seeing the key inside, he forced the door, and rushing upstairs, was almost panic struck at the sight of his wife suspended over the banisters by a rope or clothes line, which was fastened to an upright of a wood partition upstairs, and which extended across the passage over the banisters. He had sufficient presence of mind to attempt to lift her with a view of relieving her, but finding that impossible he seized a knife and cut the rope. She fell into the kitchen. She was not dead; her eyes were open and moved. He instantly alarmed the neighbourhood. Several persons came to his assistance, one of whom felt her pulse beat. Mr Hodge, Surgeon, was immediately sent for. He bled her in the neck vein, but all to no purpose for she being a heavy woman, in springing over the banisters had dislocated her neck and the vital spark had fled.

EXETER - A Coroner's Inquest was held at the Countess Weir Inn, on the 12th inst., by J. Partridge, Esq., on the body of HENRY COBLEY, a bargeman, who met his death in consequence of falling off the very narrow path at the back of Retreat, by which he was drowned. Verdict accordingly. Many remarks were made on the narrowness of the path which is at the back of Mr Hamilton's place - The Retreat.

Western Times, Saturday 1 October 1836
CREDITON - An Inquest was held at Crediton on Saturday last, before Mr Partridge, Coroner, on the body of a child named PERKINS, who died from a fall on a point of iron, driven into the door to secure a part of a weaver's loom. - Verdict, Accidental Death. This should serve as a caution to mothers not to allow such dangerous articles to stand in the way of children.

EXMOUTH - On the 22nd of Sept. an Inquest was held at Exmouth, before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., a Coroner for Devon, on the body of JOSEPH WHIDDON, aged 56, a person who got his livelihood by retailing fish. His body was found about a quarter of a mile from this place, on the road to Budleigh Salterton, about five o'clock in the morning. It appeared after a minute and careful investigation, assisted by the attendance of Mr Land, Surgeon, of Exmouth, that most probably his death was caused by apoplexy; that he had fallen from his cart on his horse, as his waistcoat was much covered with horse hair, and the horse being blind had run against the bank and overset the cart, which fell on the poor man's breast in which situation he was found. A considerable quantity of blood had flown from his mouth. No marks of violence beside appeared. - Verdict - Accidental Death. - The deceased had called at a public house at about nine o'clock the preceding evening, and took a pint of beer, and was perfectly sober when he left it: It appears singular, as the public house was not more than two miles from the spot, that the accident was not, in so public a road, discovered before. He has left a widow and six children, to whom his loss will be a great misfortune.

Western Times, Saturday 15 October 1836
TOTNES - Last week an Inquest was held by J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner, on the body of PERKIN DEAN, a gardener of this town, who died suddenly. Verdict, "Died by the Visitation of God."

Western Times, Saturday 22 October 1836
OTTERY ST MARY - An Inquest was held on Friday the 14th inst., by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., at the Greyhound Inn, Fenny-bridges, Honiton Road, on the body of MR EDWARD SMITH, who had drowned himself in the river Otter the preceding day. It appears from the evidence that the deceased reached the Greyhound Inn on foot about 11 o'clock on Thursday and called for a glass of gin, which he drank and left the house. He had not been gone more than a quarter of an hour before an alarm was given, that a "man had jumped into the river." Two labourers who were near, ran to the spot, succeeded in dragging him out and conveyed him back to the Inn, where every means were resorted to, to restore animation, but the vital spark had fled. Mr Wreford, Surgeon, of Ottery, was in attendance within half an hour of the melancholy affair, but too late to render any assistance. On searching the deceased's pockets a £10 Bank of England note was found, some silver and half-pence, a gold watch, &c., &c., and a receipt dated Falmouth, 10th Oct. 1836, signed Wm. Gray, Agent, purporting to be a receipt from EDWARD SMITH, of a bag of dispatches addressed to the Right Honourable Lord Howard de Walden, Lisbon. From this as well as from the evidence given by Mr Blake of the Dolphin Inn, Honiton, it appears the deceased was a King's Messenger. He had passed through Honiton on Sunday the 9th of Oct., changing horses at the Dolphin on his way to Falmouth with despatches, and from the statement made by Mr Blake of his conduct then, and that given by other witnesses as to the manner at the Greyhound Inn, it was evident that he was labouring under strong mental excitement. A verdict was found, "Drowned himself being Lunatic." - No evidence appearing as to the exciting cause of the state of mind of the deceased, which it is conjectured must have originated from the effects of fatigue, and rapid travelling upon a weak and deliberated frame." A gentleman from London has since arrived and identified the body of the deceased, who was interred at Ottery Saint Mary on Tuesday the 18th inst.

SEATON AND BEER - An Inquest was held by R. H. Aberdein, on Saturday the 15th inst., at Beer, on the body of JOHN KEOGH, chief boatman of the coastguard at that station, who met with his death in the following awful and melancholy manner. - On the night of Thursday the 13th inst., the William and Ann schooner, John Morris master, from Limerick to London, with a cargo of oats, went ashore on Seaton beach, when it was blowing very hard with a tremendous sea. The unfortunate deceased particularly distinguished himself in saving the lives of the crew, and succeeded in throwing a rope on board, by which part of them were hauled through the surf to the beach and saved, in doing which he risked his own life repeatedly, being frequently up to his neck in the water and knocked down by the sea and must have been then drowned, had not others caught hold of and saved him. When the tide had nearly left the schooner, the deceased with Lieut. Stocker, his Commanding Officer and others went on board for the purpose of saving her stores &c., and while the deceased was on the topsail yard unbending the sail, he was knocked off by the blowing up over his head and he fell heavily on the beach, receiving such injury as occasioned his death about two hours and a half afterwards. The deceased was a steady respectable man, a widower with three children, who have to lament their untimely loss. He bore an excellent character and was much respected by his Commander and his comrades on the station. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, and the Coroner while expressing his regret, that so valuable a life should have been sacrificed in the most praiseworthy exertions to save the lives and property of others, could not allow himself to neglect offering his tribute of acknowledgment to the Commanding Officer, and other individuals of the coast guard, and others who had so promptly and zealously exerted themselves to save the crew of the wrecked vessel.

AXMOUTH - An Inquest was held on Saturday the 15th inst. by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner, on the body of JOHN HOWLEY, one of the crew of the schooner William and Ann, who had been washed overboard while endeavouring to secure himself to the rope which had been thrown on board to draw him ashore.

Western Times, Saturday 29 October 1836
EXETER - An Inquest was held on Friday evening, which terminated on Saturday morning, by J. Warren, Esq., Coroner for this City, on the body of an aged female named MARY BENT, an Irish woman which was taken out of the Mill leat, near Shilhay bridge, on Thursday. The body was deposited in St. Edmund's Church, preparatory to the Inquest. It appeared that the poor woman's goods had been sold for a trifling arrear of rent - that she was in distress, and having no friends, she threw herself into the water in despair. She had lived in a room near the spot for fourteen years. The Jury returned a verdict "Found Drowned," how she got into the water there was no evidence to prove.

Western Times, Saturday 5 November 1836
EXETER - An Inquest was held on Saturday at the George Inn, North-street, on the body of JOHN RICE, a carpenter in the employ of Mr Horrell, builder. The poor fellow was at work in the morning on the building erecting in Bedford Circus for the Devon and Exeter Savings' Bank, when his purchase gave way and he fell from the scaffold into the street and was literally dashed to pieces. He died instantly. Verdict - Accidental Death. He has left a wife and four children.

Western Times, Saturday 12 November 1836
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - On Tuesday last, an Inquest was held at the Plymouth Inn, St. Thomas, on the body of MRS HARRIS, a respectable lady aged 74, who was found dead in her bed on the previous Sunday morning; the case excited considerable attention from the respectability of the person, and from some peculiar reports and as the Surgeon announced a fracture of the skull the body was opened and a post mortem examination made by Surgeons Lyddon and Gurney, assisted by Mr Gordon, when it appeared the fracture on the skull was not of recent occurrence, but that the deceased died from inflammation of the brain, brought on by some of the usual cause. The Jury returned a verdict - Died by the Visitation of God. The deceased was a lady of fortune and was travelling with her son who had been a Lieutenant in the Army.

FARWAY - An Inquest was held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., at Farway, on the 31st October on the body of SARAH TAYLOR, aged 7 years, whose death was occasioned by her cotton dress taking fire while she was in the act of pouring cold water into a crock on the fire, and by which she was so much injured that she expired on the following day. Verdict, "Accidental Death."

SHALDON - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on Thursday, Nov. 3, at Shaldon, on the body of WILLIAM KNIGHT, aged 4 years and half, who came to his death by his clothes catching fire. Verdict, "Accidentally Burnt."

HEMYOCK - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on Thursday, Nov. 3 on the body of SARAH SEARLE, aged 9 years, who was literally burnt to death by her clothes taking fire on the 2nd instant. Verdict, "Accidentally burnt."

OTTERY ST MARY - An Inquest was held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on Nov. 3, at Fenny Bridge, Ottery St. Mary, on the body of GEORGE CLENCH, an infant aged twelve months. From the evidence it appeared that on Monday, the 31st October the child, who could not walk, but could creep about the floor, had been left by its mother in the kitchen whilst she went to fetch some water, and during her absence the child contrived to reach towards the fire-place, where some turf was burning, and set fire to its clothes, and was so severely burnt as to occasion death on the 2nd instant. Verdict, "Accidentally Burnt."

COLYTON - An Inquest was held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., at Colyton on Monday last, on the body of RICHARD WHITE, aged 33 years, who was found drowned in a ditch adjoining the turnpike road. It appeared that the deceased had left the Bear Inn, at Colyton (about 150 yards distant from where the body was found) and where he had been drinking freely, between ten and eleven on the Sunday evening. The wind was very rough and he had an umbrella which he had borrowed of the landlord, and it is supposed that being rather intoxicated he must have stumbled over some heaps of the rakings of the road and fallen into the ditch and being unable to raise himself was suffocated in the water of the ditch, about four inches deep. Verdict, "Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 19 November 1836
EXETER - An Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier, on the 11th instant, on the body of JOHN GOSS, in the employ of Mr Rowe, stone mason, St. Sidwells, who met his death by falling from the scaffolding of the Savings Bank, in the Bedford Circus. This melancholy accident is the more deeply to be lamented as the deceased was a young man of great talent in his profession, to which he had obtained by his own industry, and his good character and conduct had gained him the respect of all who knew him.

Western Times, Saturday 26 November 1836
EXETER - A woman named ENDICOTT died on Thursday morning at the bottom of the Butcher Row. It having been reported that a quarrel had taken place between the deceased and her husband on the previous evening, and that she had been much injured, an Inquest was held before J. Warren, Esq., to Inquire into the circumstances. The body was examined when it was found that the woman died from the bursting of a blood-vessel and that there were no marks of violence on her person. Verdict, "Died by the Visitation of God."

HONITON - An Inquest was held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on Friday, Nov. 18, at Honiton, on the body of WILLIAM PERRY, a respectable mason of that place, who fell while at work in a dwelling house in High-street on the previous Saturday and fractured his spine, from which injury he died on the following Tuesday. Verdict, Accidental Death.

EXMOUTH - An Inquest was held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on Wednesday last at Exmouth on the body of RICHARD TAYLOR, cooper, aged 74, who was found dead in his bed. Verdict - Visitation of God.

Western Times, Saturday 3 December 1836
EXETER - On Tuesday an Inquest was taken before John Warren, Esq., Coroner for Exeter, at Wilcock's Valiant Soldier Inn, on the body of a girl named MARY ANN SMALE, of Bickleigh, who had been so dreadfully burnt, that she expired in the Hospital. Verdict accordingly.

DARTMOUTH - An Inquest was held on Sunday last, by Mr Richard Anthony, Coroner for the Borough and a respectable Jury at Mr Ellis's Ship in Dock Inn, Dartmouth, on the body of WILLIAM COLE, labourer, who was found hanging in a cow house at Belmont, the residence of Daniel Codner, Esq. After a lengthened examination of witnesses, the Jurors returned a verdict that deceased had Destroyed Himself, being at the time of Insane Mind.

Western Times, Saturday 17 December 1836
EXETER - An Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier, on Thursday on a child named ELIZA GOSS, whose parents live in the Island. The mother having occasion to leave the house for about 5 minutes, prudently removed the child from the room where the fire was to one underneath it where there was not a fire. During her absence the child went upstairs and on her return she found it most dreadfully burnt. It was taken to the Hospital, but died about three hours afterwards.

EXETER - An Inquest was held on Thursday on a boy seven years of age, named CALL, who had been left by his mother rocking an infant in a cradle. It appeared from what the child afterwards said that some fire fell from the grate by which his clothes were set on fire. He was removed to the Hospital, when he lingered a few hours. It is rather singular that both children should have been brought to the Hospital within an hour of each other.

TIVERTON - On the 5th inst., an Inquest was taken before F. Gervis, Esq., Coroner, for that Borough, at Tiverton, on the body of THOMAS DIXON, aged two months, who died from the effects of laudanum, which the mother gave it in a mistake for syrup of rhubarb. - Verdict, "Accidental death."

TIVERTON - On the 5th instant, an Inquest was taken on the infant daughter of MR SNELL, ironmonger, which was found dead in its bed. Verdict, "Died by the Visitation of God."

Western Morning News, Saturday 24 December 1836 DARTMOUTH - On the 20th inst. Mr Richard Anthony, Coroner for the Borough, held an Inquest on the body of MISS LUCY LAMPEN, aged 33, who had suddenly expired just after getting into bed on the preceding evening. The Coroner and a respectable Jury having proceeded to view the body, and having heard the evidence adduced by two witnesses - one, a servant to the deceased's sister living in the same house; the other a woman living opposite, who was also called in about the time of the deceased's death, who also knew her intimately, both of whose evidence was fully corroborated in a very lucid manner, by Henry Hunt, Esq., Surgeon who was duly summoned to attend, and he having stated satisfactory reasons to the Jury respecting the deceased's state of health for the last ten years. A verdict was returned that the deceased died of Apoplexy.

TIVERTON - An Inquest was held at Tiverton on Friday, the 9th inst., before F. S. Gervis, Esq., on the body of THOMAS HOBBS, who had died suddenly. It appeared that the deceased was partaking of some beer at the Half Moon Inn, in the forenoon of the same day when he suddenly fell senseless from his chair. A surgeon was immediately called in, but the vital spark had fled. These facts having been given in evidence, and the Coroner being of opinion that the cause of death was an affection of the heart, the Jury returned a verdict "Died by the Visitation of God."

Western Times, Saturday 7 January 1837
EXETER - On Monday, an Inquest was taken before John Warren, Esq., at the Turk's Head, on the body of the infant daughter of MR R. THORN, glazier, Waterbeer-street, after a short investigation, a verdict of "Died by the Visitation of God."

Western Times, Saturday 21 January 1837
DARTMOUTH - Child Burned To Death. - An Inquest was held on Thursday, 12th instant, by Mr Richard Anthony, coroner for the Borough, and a respectable Jury, at the Seven Stars Inn, kept by Mr Wm. Bickford, on the body of MARY ANN DEBRIN, aged about four years and three quarters, of the parish of Saint Petrox, Dartmouth, who went to the fire on Wednesday, the 11th instant, during the absence of her mother, who was at work at the Devon and Cornwall Bank. The unfortunate child caught her clothes on fire and was so dreadfully burnt as to cause her death in the evening of the same day. Several neighbours were examined as witnesses. Mr Richard Farrer Burrough, Surgeon, was also duly summoned - he stated that he was sent for soon after the accident and on going to the house he found the child burnt over the bowels, chest, and arms; the child complained of much pain in the head, and wished to be put to bed. Medicines and applications were ordered for her. Witness saw her twice during the afternoon, but he was of opinion at first that she could not recover. Verdict - "Died by being Accidentally Burnt."

Western Times, Saturday 4 February 1837
STOKE DAMEREL - Suicide. - An Inquest was taken on Monday before A. B. Bone, Esq., Coroner, on view of the body of NICHOLAS RUNDLE, late of John-street, Devonport and formerly one of the commissioner's boat's crew in the Dock yard. Deceased had been for a short period suffering from influenza and was also affected with an inflammation of the lungs, but did not appear depressed in spirits; on the morning of the above day, on one of the inmates of his house going into his room, he was found lying on the floor with his throat cut. A razor was found under the body, with which the fatal act was committed, and a looking glass was placed on a chair opposite, so that the gash might be rightly direction. Verdict - Temporary Insanity.

EXETER - Fatal Accident. - On the 25th ult., as a labouring man, named LOVEDAY was digging clay at the City Brick Field in a large pit, a portion of the soil loosened by the late damp weather suddenly fell in, burying him beneath. Prompt measures were used to extricate the unfortunate man and he was taken to the Hospital, but the injuries he had sustained terminated existence in a short time. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body and a verdict returned of "Accidental Death."

DARTMOUTH - Child Found Dead. - On Saturday, 28th ult., Mr Richard Anthony, Coroner, held an Inquest at Langley's Hotel, on the body of WILLIAM HENRY VEALE, a child aged two months, who it appeared was discovered dead in bed, on Saturday morning, on the mother awaking. Its appearance was a very fine child, and not the least semblance of any marks on the body or mouth, to conclude that the deceased came to his death improperly. The surgeon's opinion was that the deceased died from a convulsive fit, and the Jurors after having heard the depositions summed up, immediately returned a verdict, "Died by the Visitation of God."

DARTMOUTH - Melancholy Death From Fire. - On the Friday preceding a girl aged ten years, daughter of WILLIAM MICHAELMORE, lime-burner, Warfleet, who during the absence of her mother (who was gone to market) went to the fire about some potatoes, caught herself in flames, and running from the house into the open air, her cries were heard by her father, who was at work in the garden near the house. He immediately ran towards her and endeavoured with the assistance of a mariner, to cut the burnt clothes from her body and she was taken into the house. The child was most dreadfully burnt over the back, left side and arm, and she continued to linger in indescribable agonies until Saturday evening, four o'clock, when death terminated her sufferings. - The Coroner's Jury sat on the body on Sunday, the 29th ult. at the Marine Tavern, and having proceeded to view the body, which was a sad spectacle, returned and heard the evidence of the father, the seaman, and a single woman, named Ann Thomas, known as a doctress in the town, who was called by the father, and who applied laudanum and oil, and exerted herself in a most satisfactory manner in endeavouring to alleviate the sufferings of the poor girl, as far as human aid was available. The Surgeon, Mr Burroughs, who attended the child, being heard in evidence, it was plainly shown that the depositions were each fully corroborated. The Jurors returned a verdict - Accidentally Burnt, by which burning the child died.

TIVERTON - An Inquest was held on the 29th ult., before F. P. Gervis, Esq., the Coroner for the Borough, on the body of FAITH AXORN. The deceased being in the shop of Mr Bradford, clock and watch maker, the preceding day, had suddenly dropped down senseless. Medical assistance was obtained, but the vital spark had fled. The Coroner was of opinion that she had burst a blood vessel internally. The Jury returned a verdict, "Died by the Visitation of God."

TIVERTON - An Inquest was held on the 29th ult., on the body of JOHN CUMMINS. The man was found dead, lying on the edge of one of the lime kilns belonging to the town. He had evidently been suffocated by the fumes of the lime, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

TIVERTON - An Inquest was held on the 30th ult., on the body of WILLIAM FERRIS, labourer, of the village of Chittiscombe, in this parish. It appeared from the evidence of his wife, that shortly after they retired to rest, he had complained of illness and left his bed to procure something to relieve him. He got into bed again and immediately expired. The Jury returned a verdict, "Died by the Visitation of God."

Western Times, Saturday 11 February 1837
PILTON - On Monday last, at noon, an Inquisition was taken before Thomas Copner, Esq., Coroner, and a respectable Jury, of which Mr George Gould Carpenter was the Foreman, on view of the body of ANN LOCK, who had died on the preceding day. Reports were prevalent that the deceased had died from starvation, through the neglect of the parish officers. The Inquest therefore excited a good deal of interest among the inhabitants of Pilton. It appeared that the deceased was a married woman, and belonged to the parish of Northmolton. She had been separated from her husband for some time past and was living in a state of concubinage. About seven months ago she applied for relief to the Southmolton guardians, who gave her 5s. to pay her expenses home, and ordered her into the Workhouse, but she took the money and returned to Pilton, where she has been residing ever since, lodging in the house of a woman named Mary Hill. Deceased had lately been suffering from a disease of the lungs, and on SAturday se'nnight she sent Mrs Hill to the Barnstaple Workhouse to represent her case, and to ask for relief and medical assistance. The Relieving Officer told her he could do nothing for deceased, both because she did not belong to the Union, and because she had neglected to obey the order of the Southmolton board. On the Tuesday following, though in a state of extreme weakness, she managed to reach the Infirmary, to which Mr Bencraft had recommended her as an out-patient. Dr Britton saw her and gave her a prescription. She appeared to be suffering from the influenza. On her return to Pilton by the charity of some of the humane inhabitants, she procured the medicine which the doctor had ordered, and was a little relieved. Mrs Hill mentioned the distress of the deceased to several resident families, by whom, it seems, she was supplied with food suited to her debilitated state. On Thursday Mr Hill, observing the Relieving Officer, Mr Joce, to pass the door, called him in and told him the deceased was in a very afflicted condition. He at once directed her to come to the board the following day and represent her distress to the Guardians. She went accordingly, and after the case had been considered, the Relieving Officer was directed to give the deceased a medical order. Joce immediately communicated to Mary Hill the decision of the board, adding, "I have not my order book with me, but I will call at your house on my way home and leave it." This, unfortunately, the Relieving officer forgot to do and late at night, Mary Hill sent a man to Joce's house for the order. Joce was in bed, but told the man to go to Mr Parker, the Surgeon, and say that he had sent him, - that he should attend the patient at once, and that he (Joce) would give him the order tomorrow. The next morning Joce called on the woman, but found that the man had not gone to the surgeon as he had directed. He then immediately left a medical order and an order for groats and some other necessaries. Before this, however, Dr Bignell, who was passing through Pilton, was called in and saw the deceased. The doctor found her evidently sinking and applied a blister to her chest, and gave her some pills. On that account Mary Hill did not use the medical order which Joce afterwards left. She became worse and worse until five o'clock on Sunday morning, when she died. Several witnesses were examined on the Inquest and the Jury, after a patient investigation, returned a verdict to this effect:- "That the deceased's death was occasioned by Inflammation of the Lungs; but the Jury wished to record their opinion that there appeared to have been neglect on the part of the Relieving Officer and the poor wardens, in their not having attended to the application of the deceased."

Western Times, Saturday 18 February 1837
EXETER - On Friday last, an Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier, on the body of MRS LANE, butcher, Holloway-street, who died after a short illness in the course of the preceding Saturday night. The Inquest being at the instance of her children and relatives, in consequence of injurious reports which the examination showed not to have the slightest foundation, being circulated. The Medical testimony being decisive as to the death being the result of natural causes, the Jury returned a verdict of "Died by the Visitation of God."

SHALDON - An Inquest was held on the 6th instant at Shaldon, on the body of MR G. WINDEATT, landlord of the Adelaide Inn, aged 39. He had for a few days been afflicted with an ulcer in the throat, had gone to bed between 10 and 11 o'clock on the 4th, not worse than usual, but about one he was discovered lying on the floor quite dead. Verdict, "Visitation of God."

PLYMOUTH - Melancholy Accident. - On the 5th instant, four persons, named John Spriddle, THOMAS ANDREW, FRANCIS SPRIDDLE, and Pascoe Spriddle, put to sea from Cawsand, in the pilot boat "Elizabeth," and after sailing some distance southward they fell in with an Indiaman, from the commander of which they received a mail for delivery at the Plymouth Post-office. They were also given two bottles of spirit, of which they drank freely in their way back to Plymouth and after delivering the letters, they became intoxicated. In this state three of the party determined to return to Cawsand; the third Pascoe Spriddle, remained behind. They reached Cawsand in safety, but finding their punt was gone adrift, went in search of it, when, in attempting to put about near Hoo Lake, the craft missed stays and was driven upon the rocks. Two of the unfortunate men, according to the evidence taken at the Inquest, then left the vessel and attempted to swim ashore, contrary to the wishes of the third. The other man, after some time finding himself alone made a similar attempt, and with much difficulty effected his purpose, and reached the beach. From some cause, probably from stupefaction, this man John Spriddle, instead of giving the alarm or making inquiry as to the fate of his companions, retired to bed; and, in the morning, the vessel, valued in about £400 was seen upon the rocks a complete wreck, and the two unfortunate men, THOMAS ANDREWS and FRANCIS SPRIDDLE were missing. Their bodies were subsequently picked up and an Inquest held; the Jury returned a verdict of Found Dead, but would not take upon themselves to say from what cause they came to their end, as from the extraordinary conduct of that man, John Spriddle, they could not put faith in his testimony.

Western Times, Saturday 25 February 1837
EXETER - On Monday an Inquest was held before Samuel Warren, Esq., Deputy Coroner for this City, at the Valiant Soldier, on the body of WILLIAM FRENCH, of Bampton, who had died in the Devon and Exeter Hospital. The deceased had fallen off a lime rock, receiving very serious injury, and a verdict was returned of Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 18 March 1837
EXETER - On Monday, before John Warren Esq., Coroner for this City, at Wilcocks' Valiant Soldier Inn, Magdalene-street, on the body of BETHINA SANDERS GERMAN, about 14 years of age, daughter of FRANCIS GERMAN, tailor, Summerland-street, St Sidwell; who having on the preceding Saturday night remained at work after her parents retired to rest, by some accident her clothes caught fire, and she was so dreadfully burnt, that she expired in the Devon and Exeter Hospital. - Verdict, - Accidental Death.

EXETER - An Inquest was held on the body of WILLIAM JONES, of Coleridge, who died in Hospital from the injuries received in consequence of a waggon having passed over him; and a verdict was returned accordingly.

Western Times, Saturday 25 March 1837
DARTMOUTH - An Inquest was held on the body of a man named WILLIAM CRIMP, labourer, who was discovered hung in a stable at Ivy Bank, in the occupation of Captain Robert Stevens, R.N., on Saturday, the 11th instant, by Mr Richard Anthony, Coroner. The evidence of Captain Stevens went to show that he was a man of weak intellect, which was also borne out by the evidence of his brother-in-law, from whom it appeared he had before attempted to hang himself and there is no doubt the deed was perpetrated by himself, from the position in which he was found. The Jury returned a verdict that the deceased Destroyed Himself, being at the time of Unsound Mind.

Western Times, Saturday 1 April 1837
HIGH BICKINGTON - Murder. - We briefly noticed in our last a brutal murder, which was perpetrated in the neighbourhood of Highbickington, on Monday last. The victim is a MR KNIGHT, a middle aged man, an itinerant quack doctor, and the murderer is supposed to be Robt. Alford, aged about 28, of profligate habits, son of a respectable farmer, in that parish. It appears that on Monday evening, they were drinking at the Ebberly Arms, a public-house, about a mile and half from the village of Highbickington. KNIGHT wished to go to the village, but did not know the way and it was said that Alford would have to pass through it and would probably accompany him, which he consented to do. KNIGHT treated him to a pint or two of beer, and they left the house together at half-past eight o'clock. Alford carrying in his hand a reap-hook. From this time nothing was seen or heard of the deceased until the following morning, about half-past seven, when his body was discovered by a labouring man, lying in the road about half a mile from the Ebberly Arms, quite dead. His face presented a shocking appearance, he had received a wound (apparently from a hook), which extended from his chin around by his ear, terminating in a deep incision at the back of his head, his upper lip severely cut and bruised, there were no marks of violence on the body. It is supposed that after he had received these injuries the deceased endeavoured to make his way back to the Ebberly Arms. Blood was traced along the road for a considerable distance and a quantity of blood was also found by a gate on the road side, on which deceased is thought to have leaned, but overcome by weakness, and from the great effusion of blood, he was unable to proceed, and sank down in the road, where the body was discovered, stiff and cold. His death was probably hastened by the severity of the night. The body was removed to the Ebberly Arms and messengers were dispatched for the Surgeon and Coroner, while Constables went in quest of Alford, whom they found at his father's. He strongly denied all knowledge of the bloody transaction and said he came home the preceding evening, by another road, but his statement is contradicted by the testimony of three females who met him late at night not far from the spot where the deceased was. An Inquest was held on the body in the afternoon, before H. A. Vallack, Esq., Coroner, but after prolonged deliberation, it was adjourned to the following day, when Alford was committed for trial.

Western Times, Saturday 8 April 1837
TIVERTON - An Inquest was held on Saturday, the 2nd inst., at the Town Hall, Tiverton, before F. S. Gervis, Esq., the Coroner, on the body of FRANCES LETHBRIDGE, a poor woman, aged 33. The case had occasioned some excitement in the neighbourhood in which the deceased had resided. It appeared from the evidence of the woman who lived with her, that on the evening of the preceding day the deceased had complained of violent headache, &c., and had retired to bed. The witness was awoke in the middle of the night and found MRS LETHBRIDGE in a strong fit and foaming at the mouth; she called in some of the neighbours and then went to look for a surgeon - this was about one in the morning. She applied to the parish surgeon, who declined to attend without an order. She went to other surgeons - they told her to go to the parish doctor. She then went to the Overseer to get an order, which she obtained at length, and returned with it to Mr McDonald, the Parish Surgeon, who then went with her to see the sufferer, from whom she had now been absent about an hour. Mr McDonald bled the patient and remained with her nearly two hours. She did not recover, but died the next day. Mr McDonald said if he had known the urgent nature of the case, he should have attended it the first summons. He understood from the woman that it was only a case of violent sick headache. There was no doubt that the deceased died of apoplexy and the Coroner having summed up the case with his usual ability, the Jury returned a verdict of "Died by the Visitation of God."

SHALDON - An Inquest was held here before J. Gribble, Esq., and a respectable Jury, of which J. T. Coward, Esq., was Foreman, on Monday the 27th ult., touching the death of WILLIAM WEEKS, one of the men who was drowned by the upsetting of a boat in the bar a short time since. It excited much interest and a great many persons attended from a report that the men on the preventive station at Teignmouth could have rendered great service to the deceased persons had they been so disposed, but there was nothing in the evidence to case blame on them. It appears that the accident was occasioned by there being no rudder to the boat, by which her head could not be kept to the sea.

Western Times, Saturday 15 April 1837
EXETER - On Saturday last, an Inquest was held before John Warren, Esq., Coroner for this City, at Wilcocks' Valiant Soldier Inn, Magdalene-street, on the body of ANN CHAVE, 19 years of age, who on the Friday week preceding at Heavitree, was so dreadfully burnt that on the day previous to the Inquest she expired in the Devon and Exeter Hospital. Verdict: Accidental death.

Western Morning News, Saturday 22 April 1837 TIVERTON - An Inquest was held on the 11th instant, before F. S. Gervis, Esq., Coroner for the Borough, on the body of ROBERT HENSON, aged 6 years. It appeared from the evidence of the mother, that on Tuesday, the 28th of March, the deceased, in the absence of his parents, was setting some water on the fire and in so doing caught his apron in a blaze. A neighbour who heard his cries rushed in and tore off his clothes and so put out the fire, but not before the poor little fellow had been much burnt about the stomach. The child was put to bed and a nurse sent for, who applied oil to the burn. The child did not alter much till Saturday when, as he appeared to get worse, the mother determined to procure medical assistance. She accordingly went to the house of Mr Beck, the Overseer, to get an order. He was from home, but the servant told her she must apply to the Relieving Officer, Mr Sellick. To him she went and stated the case, but upon her informing him that she belonged to the parish of Burliscombe, he told her that the parish of Tiverton wee engaged in a law-suit with Burliscombe and therefore declined to give her an order, but recommended her to apply to Mr Mills, another Overseer. The poor woman went there. Mr Mills was not home, but Mrs Mills told her that it was Mr Beck's month of duty. Not being able to obtain an order the mother returned to her child, but on Monday she determined to make another effort and applied to Mr Gervis the Coroner, who is a medical gentleman. He saw the danger of the child and wrote a note for the Relieving Officer, who then gave the order. Mr Macdonald, the Parish surgeon, immediately attended and did what he could. The child lingered and then died. Mr Macdonald deposed that there was no doubt but that the child died from the effect of the burn. He thought it highly probable that if he had been called on in the first place the child might have recovered, but he could not say that it would have been the case, even if he had seen the child on the Saturday. The Coroner having briefly summed up, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death, hastened by the want of timely medical assistance."

Western Times, Saturday 29 April 1837
KINGSBRIDGE - Horrid Depravity. - The inhabitants of Kingsbridge and its neighbourhood have been much excited during the past week. A report having spread that the body of anew-born infant had been found in a barn, in the village of Buckland, with one of its arms and face nearly devoured by rats, an Inquiry was immediately instituted by the parish authorities. Suspicion fell on a young woman, named AGNES MITCHELMORE, who was supposed to have given birth to the helpless innocent and then barbarously murdered it. An Inquest was held on the body before Mr Gribble, Coroner, on Saturday last and from the examination of the young woman herself, the following facts were elicited. - On the 1st of April, she was examined by a Surgeon, at the request of her mother, when he declared her to be pregnant, but which she stoutly denied. In the course of the following night, however, she was delivered of a child, which she said was still-born; she then wrapped the child up in a piece of flannel and hid it under a bed in an adjoining room, where it remained for a week or ten days. Finding it necessary to dispose of it in a more efficient manner, she took it into the garden and then into the orchard, but neither of these places proving convenient for her purpose, she finally hid it under some litter in the barn, where it was ultimately found. It was discovered by her little sister, who actually took up the body by one of the legs, brought it into the house and laid it down before the fire. An alarm was given and the parish officers had the body conveyed to the Church, where it remained till the Inquest was held. When viewed by the Jury, it presented a horrifying spectacle - one arm, and a great part of the face, as we have just stated, being completely devoured by the rats, the marks of the animals teeth remaining distinctly visible. There were no marks of any other violence on the body and the Jury, after a patient investigation, returned a verdict of Manslaughter. The girl is fully committed for trial at the next Assizes.

BLACK TORRINGTON - Melancholy Accident. - A Coroner's Inquest was held on the 25th inst., at Black Torrington, on the body of a female child, about three years of age, belonging to THOMAS POLLARD, labourer, of that parish. The mother went out and left the child for two or three minutes, sitting by the fire. When she returned she found the child lying on the floor, with her clothes burning and before the fire could be extinguished, the child was so much burnt that it died in a few hours. There is no fault to be attributed to the mother.

Western Times, Saturday 6 May 1837
MERTON - On Saturday, an Inquest was held by H. A. Vallack, Esq., Coroner at Pottheridge, in the parish of Merton, on the body of a girl named JANE HEYWOOD, who was found dead in the river Torridge. Verdict - Found Drowned. From circumstances in this unfortunate case, no doubt remains but that it was quite Accidental.

Western Times, Saturday 13 May 1837
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - Fatal Accident. - On Sunday evening, as a phaeton in which Mr Clarke, a respectable tea-dealer, St. Thomas and his mother-in-law, an old lady nearly 74 years of age, was proceeding down Fore-street, the horse accidentally took fright and becoming unmanageable started off at full speed over the bridge, taking the direction of the Alphington Turnpike. Mr Clarke being thrown out and a boy also knocked down in its career on the bridge. When nearly opposite Mr Clarke's residence, the animal dashed the phaeton against the wall and Mr Clarke's mother-in-law was thrown by the shock with great violence to the ground; the horse, in his struggle disengaging himself from the vehicle. Some persons having come to her assistance, MRS WILMOT was picked up in a state of insensibility and was conveyed to her house, where, we regret to say, she expired on Wednesday, having sustained a very severe fracture of the skull. The horse was secured somewhere near the Ferry Boat. The boy on the bridge was not hurt. An Inquest was held at the Anchor Inn, Alphington-street on Wednesday, when the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

COLYTON - An Inquest was held at Colyford by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on Wednesday, on the body of GEORGE CLEAE. Deceased was about 20 years of age and was employed pumping water from the dam round the foundation of the new bridge over the river Axe, at Colyford on the turnpike road leading from Lyme to Sidmouth, and had a father and brother also at work there. Between 10 and 11 o'clock on the morning of Tuesday, an alarm was given that SIMEON CLEAE, father of the deceased, had fallen into the river. A raft, which was kept near the bridge, was called for and James Hoare, a labourer, jumped in it and Daniel Peny, with the intention of going to his assistance. The raft was fastened to the bridge and the deceased was untying it. Hoare, thinking he meant to jump in, cautioned him not to do so; but deceased, seeing his father's hat floating down the stream, jumped upon the raft, capsized it and precipitated himself, Peny and Hoare into the river. Hoare swam ashore, and a rope was thrown to Peny, which he caught hold if, but he afterwards let it go and sunk. Hoare then went in and after repeatedly diving for Peny, brought him up alive, though quite senseless. The deceased was picked up between the old bridge and temporary one below. The father of the deceased, SIMEON CLEAE, was also saved. A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned. Great credit appears to be due to James Hoare, for the coolness and intrepidity which he exhibited. There is no doubt but that the life of Peny was preserved by his active and unceasing exertions, which, at the time when his own life, together with that of Peny and the deceased, had been placed in the most imminent danger, is entitled to the greatest praise and we sincerely hope it will be brought under the notice of the Humane Society, in order that such exertions may be properly and duly appreciated, and a stimulus held out to promote the exhibition of them on any future occasion. It appears that the accident was solely occasioned by the unfortunate deceased jumping upon the raft. At present the only benefit the poor fellow James Hoare is at all likely to receive, is the loss of a day's work, which he was subjected to by the obligation of being obliged to attend the Coroner's Inquest as a witness and for which, under existing circumstances, the Coroner is not empowered to make the slightest remuneration.

Western Times, Saturday 20 May 1837
KINGSBRIDGE - Fatal Accident. A Wife's Prayer Answered. - On Friday an Inquest was held at the Duke of Wellington Inn, on the body of JOHN WILLS, who came by his death in consequence of falling into a cellar when in a state of intoxication. He lingered for several hours under the care of Mr F. D. Pearse, Surgeon, who bled him. The deceased has, we hear, been in the habit of daily intoxication for several years past, living a most disorderly life. The evening previous to his death his wife fetched him from a public house, in a state of drunkenness and whilst with great difficulty she was leading him home, she was heard to offer up an ejaculatory prayer, "If it is the Lord's will that I could hear of thy death, how happy should I be." Within eighteen hours after he was a corpse. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

UPLYME - An Inquest was held before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., coroner, at Uplyme in this county, on Monday the 15th inst., on the body of MARY FRENCH, who hung herself. From the evidence it appeared that the deceased who had been confined with a female child about five weeks since, was the wife of WILLIAM FRENCH, a servant in a family residing at Lyme, in Dorset, and who used to visit the deceased occasionally at a cottage he rented at Uplyme for his wife and family. On Sunday morning last, the 14th inst., FRENCH came home about eight o'clock to fetch clean linen, and see how his wife was. He found the door unfastened and opened it to go in, and discovered his wife suspended by a red shawl from a hook in the ceiling of the kitchen, into which the door opens, her face being towards him. He immediately called his mother, ELIZABETH LEGG, who lived next door and with her assistance took down the deceased - she was quite dead but not cold. No cause can be assigned for the act by which the unfortunate deceased came by her death, as it appears that she and her husband lived very happily together, and there had been no change in her general manner at all, to account for her committing so rash an act. The husband had seen her several times the day before (Saturday) and she had made no other complaint than of the pain she felt in suckling the infant. The children, three in number, were all left in the bedroom upstairs. Medical assistance was obtained, but life was quite extinct. The medical gentleman was of opinion that the temporary insanity was not produced by milk fever, that disorder usually occurring much sooner after delivery, it is therefore conjectured that aberration of intellect must have been occasioned by nervous irritability arising from weakness, produced by her recent confinement. A verdict was found, Hung Herself Being A Lunatic.

MARIANSLEIGH - On Tuesday an Inquest was held at Mariansleigh, on the body of farmer WILLIAM CHAPPELL, aged 30, whose death was occasioned by a kick in the lower part of his abdomen, from one of his horses. - Verdict - Accidental Death.

BARNSTAPLE - Forgery And Suicide. - A lamentable and awful occurrence has recently taken place in this town. A man named THOMAS KELLY, by trade a mason, who resided at Newport, was apprehended on Friday week, under suspicion of forging two cheques on the West of England and South Wales District Bank. It appears that, in the afternoon of the above day, he went to the shop of Mr Alexander, a watchmaker, in High-street, to purchase a watch, in payment of which he tendered a cheque for £16. 6s., drawn in favour of Richard Gilbert and signed Francis Squire. Mr Alexander, suspecting that all was not right, went immediately to the bank, leaving KELLY in his shop, for the purpose of getting the cheque cashed. On his way there he met Mr Thorne, the manager, who discovered it to be a forgery. KELLY was in consequence, apprehended, and identified as the person who had succeeded in passing a forged cheque for £14 8s. at the shop of Mr Kenward, linen draper, on the 17th of April last, when he purchased some cloth and received about £12 in cash. The deposition of Mr Kenward was taken before a Magistrate, and KELLY was remanded to prison till the following day. In the course of the night, however, he put an end to his existence by hanging himself, being discovered by the turnkey on going his round in the morning, suspended quite dead in his cell; a handkerchief was round his neck, which had been affixed to the grating. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body, and after hearing evidence confirmatory of deceased's soundness of mind prior of committing the act, the Jury returned a verdict of "Felo-de-se." The body was interred in a rough shell at 12 o'clock the same night in the Church-yard without any prayers being read over it, amidst a most revolting scene from numerous half-drunken bye-standers.

Western Times, Saturday 27 May 1837
EXETER - On Thursday last, an Inquest was taken, before S. Warren, Esq., Deputy Coroner for this City, at Taylor's Barnstaple Inn, Hart's Row, on the body of MRS AGNES GRIGG, who died suddenly the preceding afternoon, at her lodgings on David's Hill. The deceased was unmarried, about 45 years of age; of very retired and eccentric habits and had lived as housekeeper in several highly respectable families. The Jury returned a verdict of "Died by the Visitation of God."

Western Times, Saturday 3 June 1837
EXETER - An Inquest was held at the Bull Inn, Goldsmith-street, on Saturday last, before J. Warren, Esq., Coroner of this city, and a respectable Jury, touching the death of WILLIAM GARTON, who had held the situation of foreman of the workshops of Messrs. Kingdon, iron founders, &c., for 33 years. - E. Williams, Esq., and Mr Webb, Esq., Surgeons, deposed to having been called in by the wife of deceased to attend him, he being at the time very ill and subsequently opening his stomach, where they extracted some rude opium, which they believed to be the cause of death. - Back deposed:- I am a Constable of Police. I met deceased on Thursday afternoon whilst crossing Northernhay, on duty. I saw him take something from a little pill box and swallow it, his manner was very confused when he saw me. From the remarkable circumstance of his taking medicine at such a time and place, I pulled out my watch and looked at the time. I found it was 23 minutes after three. I knew him to be one of Messrs. Kingdon's workmen, but did not know his name. Witness went and identified the body. - Mr Thomas Penn:- Deceased came into my shop between ten and eleven on Thursday morning. He said he had not slept for three nights. I advised him to take some tincture of henbane; he said that he had taken laudanum. I told him that henbane would not confuse the head so much. As soon as I suggested this he left the shop in a very quick way, saying he would call again. I thought there was something very strange in his manner. I said to the boy when he left, the man's mad, or he must have come to steal something. The boy said, oh no, he is one of Mr Kingdon's men. - MR JOHN GARTON, whitesmith, South-street:- The first time I saw my father in an agitated state of mind was on Saturday last. He called on me between four and five o'clock, and said "JOHN, I've got the sack" - he meant that he was discharged. I said, "you don't mean to say that." "Why," he said, "it's all so bad." "Well," I said, "you need not grieve, if one door is shut there is another open, you shall come with me." He seemed to be in a very agitated state and said, "I don't know what to do, I've come to advise with you about it." I tried to console him. I told him not to grieve about it. He said, "it is hard JOHN after serving them faithfully for so many years - three and thirty years - they think the best of my days are gone and now I am to be kicked out." - that was his remark. I told him never mind, you need not grieve - I have a shop of work and you may take any portion of it that you can - make yourself comfortable. He was still very much agitated and I did not succeed in consoling him. I saw him again on the Sunday morning; he was still in the same state of mind, full of grief. I still urged the necessity of his not pining, or taking it to heart. He said, "I cannot help it, but he said I will come with you and we will go hand in hand together." He took my hand and shook it violently - I thought he never would let it go. He came to work on Monday morning and tried to do several jobs, but he would stand still, throw up his arms in an agitated manner and at times seemed quite lost. On Tuesday he was just the same. On Wednesday morning he came into breakfast with me and sat down; he took a bit of bread and butter and said, this is the first bit that has been inside my mouth since Saturday. I told him he would be sure to make himself ill if he did not eat. He said, "I cannot swallow a bit;" he said, "I will try to compose myself." I went into the shop, but I was no sooner there than he was after me. He said, "JOHN, I think I could rest if I was to go to your upstairs room;" he went up and came down immediately afterwards for a blanket. The child afterwards went up to sweep the room, when he said very quick, "I'll sweep it, " and took the broom and swept it like a child. He then came down and said, he could not sleep. I saw him several times during the day, still restless as ever. There was a holiday on Wednesday and at four in the afternoon I went into the Crown and Sceptre and had a pint of beer with him. He sat there in a very melancholy way. I told him there was a number of people in the street. He said he would go up and see the illumination. He came to the shop the next morning at six, but I did not see him till eleven o'clock. He told the men that he must go home again, he was so ill. When I saw him he was walking two-double with a stick. I said, "pray don't go to Kenn, you cannot walk so far." "Well," he said, "I can walk back again." - Mr Eyre Kingdon asked the Coroner to be permitted to correct a mis-statement that appeared in the evidence. - The Coroner said he would dispose of the next witness and then hear him. - William Tucker, Mr Penn's shop-boy, said that deceased asked the price of what Mr Penn was going to make up for him, and Mr Penn said eight-pence. Deceased said he had not got money enough and would call again. - Mr Eyre Kingdon:- His son said, that we discharged the father from our concern. I wish to say that he was not discharged. He was told that in consequence of a good many things going wrong in his department, we were losing money out of pocket by many jobs in his department - for he was in a confused state brought on by his son stealing his clothes, for he came to my father for a Police officer. I merely wish to correct the mis-statement, to show that we did not discharge him. - The Coroner: All that MR GARTON said is what the father said to him. - MR J. GARTON: He said he had got the sack, and I asked why and how? He said, "They certainly have offered me to go to work as another and a common journeyman, but I never can stand it; I am quite certain that I cannot put up with the restrictions of that shop." - A Juror: I believe you said he was 60 years of age? - Yes. - How long had he been there? - Three and thirty years. - Mr Eyre Kingdon: And had £100 a year ever since he has been there. - MR J. GARTON: And earned it. - The Coroner: You say a common journeyman - what had he been before? - MR J. GARTON: Foreman of the smithery, the smith's shop and foundry - the whole shop. - Mr William Lang, tin-plate worker (one of the Jury) stated that deceased came to his house three times in witness's absence, and wanted very much to see him. He said he was a madman and could not live. I knew his state on Monday night from my own knowledge. I was in company with him on the Monday night and the Tuesday; him and I were stewards of the same Benefit Society, and we had to count and collect the money. I said to me on Monday night, I wish you would do it, for upon my word I cannot count it. [Witness was now sworn]: I thought he was unwell, and I consented to do it. The next day we had to go and pay a funeral money of £12; he seemed very unwell. I said, "what is the matter, something amiss at home?" He said, "No, it is in me - I am discharged from Messrs. Kingdon's." I said, "you don't mean to say that?" He said, "yes I am, it has cut me up very much; I do not think that I shall survive it." He said he might have gone to work as another man and he at first thought he would, but he could not. He said he had always endeavoured to do the best he could for his employers. I tried to console him and get him to go back to the shop, but he was in such an agitated state that I am afraid he could not understand me. - The Coroner asked if there was any necessity for calling the widow? - Several of the Jurors thought not. He then said, that upon the evidence of Mr Webb and Mr Williams there could be no doubt that opium was the cause of death. Another question arose here, whether the unfortunate deceased took it medicinally to procure rest, or with the intention to destroy life. This was the point they would have to decide; and then another question would arise, as to whether, supposing he took it to destroy life, he was in his right mind at the time. - The widow was subsequently called in. She stated that deceased was cheerful and happy at dinner time on the Saturday, but at tea time he was more like one distracted. He had been called down by his employer at four o'clock, and given two hours, it appears, to decide whether he would leave the shop altogether, or take the situation of an ordinary journeyman. Several of the Jury appeared to think that a month's notice might have prevented his taking it so much to heart. - The Jury found to the effect that his death arose from Poison taken whilst in a state of Temporary Derangement. - The Funeral - MR GARTON was buried on Thursday afternoon: his remains were accompanied to the grave by nearly 100 mourners - a large crowd of spectators also attended. The deceased appears to have been much and deservedly respected and it is stated that the funeral would have been attended by a large body of smiths in their aprons and working dress, had it not been intimated that such a course would offend their employers. - [Letter to the Editor of the Western Times. Friday June 2nd, 1837: - Sir,- Allow me through your columns to return thanks on behalf of my deceased father to those friends who paid the last tribute of respect to his memory, by bearing and accompanying his remains to the grave. Permit me also to add my sincere thanks to those numerous friends who were only prevented doing likewise by the Mandate of their employers. Their sympathy was not the less grateful to the feelings of the family, although they were prevented from giving it that expression which they desired. Your obedient servant, VAUGHAN GARTON.]

DARTMOUTH - An Inquest was held on Wednesday se'nnight, at the London Inn, by Mr Richard Anthony, Coroner, on the body of GEORGE TOLL, aged about 17 years, who died from having drank ardent spirits to excess. From the evidence of several witnesses, and from the lucid opinion of Mr Wm. Teage, Surgeon, who had attended the unfortunate youth, the Jury returned a verdict - Died from Drinking Ardent Spirits to Excess.

Western Times, Saturday 10 June 1837
EXETER - Sudden Death. - On Tuesday, an Inquest was taken before John Warren, Esq., Coroner, at the Spread Eagle, Barrack Road, on the body of MR THOMAS BOULT, boot and shoemaker, Maddock's Row, who expired suddenly on the preceding afternoon. Richard Dean, clerk of the parish of Holy Trinity, being sworn, said, deceased was 32 years of age and clerk of the parish of St. Paul. About four o'clock on Monday afternoon I called on him by appointment for the purpose of going to Hoopern, to take tea. As we walked the deceased took my arm; when we got into the Barrack Road, I remarked that it was too warm to walk arm in arm, upon which he let go. We had walked a few paces only, when I heard him trip and upon looking round I saw him fall on his face in the road. He was about a gun-shot from the gate which leads from the Gaol Fields into the Barrack Road. I endeavoured to lift him up, when a little blood flowed from his mouth, but he never spoke. As he fell I heard a slight groan. Mr Luscombe, Surgeon, came in about five minutes after the deceased fell and pronounced him dead as soon as he saw him. The deceased had previously told me that four months ago he had fallen down in a fit and been attended by a medical gentleman. The Jury returned a verdict of - "Died by the Visitation of God."

EXETER - An Inquest was held on Saturday at Farrant's Red Cow Inn, David's Hill, by J. Warren, Esq., on the body of a servant man named HENRY OLIVER, aged 25 years, in the employ of the Messrs. Bastard, merchants of this city, who was found drowned at the Head Weir, after being missing for about a week. It appeared that the deceased was in the garden on the morning of his leaving with his master, when he complained of a violent pain in the head, a complaint which he had been subject to and his master very kindly wished him to go to the house and get what he considered would afford relief from any of the servants. In the course of the day however he was found missing and no trace of him had been discovered until Friday night, when he was found at the above named place - in the pockets of his trousers was some silver. The deceased bore an excellent character and was much respected. The Jury returned a verdict of Found Drowned.

BICKLEIGH (NEAR TIVERTON) - Melancholy Death By Drowning. - An Inquest was held on the 7th instant, at the New Inn, Bickleigh, before F. S. Groves, Esq., Coroner for the Borough, on the bodies of WILLIAM ADDICOTT and WILLIAM BARNES, two agricultural labourers, in the employ of Mr Wm. Jarman. The former, whose age was 22, as a servant; the latter, who was in his 18th year, as an apprentice. It appeared that the deceased had been assisting to wash some sheep in a small river called the Dart, which runs into the Exe at Bickleigh and were perfectly sober when they left off. After washing was finished they went farther up the river and coming to a deep pool, BARNES said he would try to swim and went into the water without taking off any part of his clothes. His master was standing on the bank, but apprehended no danger. After he had been in the water about five minutes, and was only a short distance from the bank, he sunk, but presently rose again to the surface of the water. He did not struggle or call out for assistance. ADDICOTT, who was also in the water, about twenty feet above the spot, seeing his companion sink, immediately went to his assistance. He attempted to catch him by the jacket and both went down together and never rose again. The body of BARNES was got out about a quarter of an hour afterwards, that of ADDICOTT about ten minutes later. Mr Coward, a Surgeon, of Tiverton, was in immediate attendance and used all necessary means to restore them, but without effect - the vital spark was fled for ever. - The verdict was "Accidental Death."

BEAFORD - An Inquest was held by Mr Vallack, on Thursday last at Beaford, on the body of a man called WILLIAM JURY, who was found dead in a potato field where he was working and took his dinner in health and good spirits, and with other labourers. It is supposed he died in a fit. Verdict "Died by the Visitation of God."

Western Times, Saturday 1 July 1837
EXETER - Last week an Inquest was held at the King's Arms, West-street, on the body of a woman aged 82, named BOLT. Deceased had been sued in the Court of Requests for a debt of £1 1s. 6d., and judgment given against her. She did not pay the money and a warrant was issued, which was served on her in the street on Saturday evening. The old woman expected it, but on being arrested was much shocked and on going into her house with the officers, fell down in a fit, as it was thought. she was put to bed, but remained speechless and died at four o'clock the next morning. There was no complaint whatever against the officers, in the execution of their duty, they having conducted themselves with mildness and propriety. Verdict: "Died by the Visitation of God." - The Jurors being of opinion that death was accelerated from the shock deceased received on account of being arrested for a debt.

EXETER - Suicide. - On Saturday an Inquest was held at the Red Cow Inn, St David's Hill, on the body of a female, named ANSTEY, who had resided on St. David's Hill and who had been found drowned in that part of the river opposite Connaught's Half Way House to Cowley Bridge. - Connaught stated that he saw the deceased in the morning walking to and fro, by the side of the water, at the bottom of his marsh, and asked her if she had lost anything, or whether she was fishing, to which she replied that she had neither hook nor line to fish with - but that she found it cooler to walk there than other place. He then left her to attend to his sheep in another field which was some distance off, and on his returning he saw deceased slide into the water. He hastened towards the spot and beckoned to a man named Shapcott, a joiner, of Exwick, who he saw coming along the path, to assist him, and with the aid of a third man they succeeded in getting the deceased out of the water and took her directly to the Red Cow. Mr Gurney, Surgeon, was passing just at the time. He examined her but found she was quite dead. Another witness was called who stated that the deceased was occasionally afflicted with fits of insanity and that a short time since she was an inmate of the Asylum for 7 months. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly. The deceased was very far advanced in pregnancy.

BERE FERRERS - Dreadful Accident. - On Saturday, as some men and boys (11 in number) were lowering about 24 fathom of seven inch pipe into Valletort consols mine, in the parish of Beer Ferris, the weight overcame their resistance and they were all knocked down. Two of the men named ROBINS and JOSE, were killed on the spot - two others were very dangerously hurt and the rest met with bruises more or less severe. After the men were knocked down the capstan bars flew round with so much velocity, as to impel one of them a distance of sixty feet. An Inquest has been since held on the two men, before J. Bone, Esq., Coroner. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 8 July 1837
TIVERTON - Fatal Effects of Intoxication. - An Inquest was held on Friday last before F. S. Gervis, Esq., Coroner for the Borough, upon the body of RICHARD PHILLIPS. It appeared that the deceased was a farmer, residing at Cruwys Morchard, that on the previous Tuesday night, he left the Dolphin Inn about 12 o'clock. He was then so much intoxicated that the landlord endeavoured to induce him to go to bed there, but in vain, he was determined to go home. He did not get on his horse before he left the Inn, but must have done so shortly afterwards, for a woman who passed him on the road, deposed that when she met him, he was on horseback, and that shortly afterwards she heard the horse stop. Soon after four o'clock the next morning, Mr T. Payne, the keeper of the turnpike gate, saw the horse grazing by the road side, and a man lying on the ground insensible, whilst blood flowed from his nostrils and mouth. He was immediately taken to the Race Horse Inn and Mr Coward was sent for, who found an exterior fracture of the skull. The deceased never spoke nor rallied afterwards. he lingered until Friday morning then died. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death by Falling from his Hose whilst in a State of Intoxication.

Western Times, Saturday 15 July 1837
SHEBBEAR - Fatal Accident. - On Monday last as a man called RICHARD TRACE and another labourer, were raising stone in a quarry belonging to Mr Berry of Shebbear, one side of the quarry fell in on them. After three hours hard work in removing the stones and rubbish TRACE was taken out in a mangled state quite dead. Great hopes are entertained that the other man will recover. An Inquest was immediately held by Mr Vallack, on the body of TRACE. Verdict "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Saturday 12 August 1837
EXETER - On Monday last, an Inquest was taken on the body of EDWIN BASTOW, son of MR WILLIAM BASTOW, Whitesmith, Waterbeer-street, in this City. The deceased was 32 years of age, of a boyish appearance and an idiot from his birth. He was led home by the ostler of the Black-dog Inn, in North-street, about five o'clock on Saturday evening, and after vomiting very considerably, he was put to bed; he became worse about ten o'clock, and a medical man was sent for, but on the arrival of Mr Webb, Surgeon, about twelve o'clock he found him dead. He stated in his evidence that he might have been dead about half an hour, and that the effects of liquor had produced Apoplexy, which occasioned his death. The Jury unanimously returned a verdict - Died by the Visitation of God in a fit of Apoplexy. Insinuations had been afloat that the deceased had been tampered with, and improperly induced to drink at the Black-dog; but after the most careful examination nothing of the kind was proved, on the contrary, Mr Turner, the landlord, had acted with the greatest propriety and humanity.

Western Times, Saturday 26 August 1837
EXETER - On Friday last, an Inquest was taken at Roach's Bull Inn, Goldsmith-street, before John Warren, Esq., Coroner for this City, on the body of MARY EASTAWAY, a widow, between 60 and 70 years of age, who resided in a room in Gandy-street. The deceased bore an excellent character and had been noticed on that account by those who were superior in life to herself. She had been seen on the preceding (Thursday) afternoon, but a lady going to the room to visit her on Friday morning, found the door latched only, and entering, discovered the bed to be empty. On the floor, in her ordinary daily attire, lay the object of search, dead, having apparently been so many hours and a verdict was returned accordingly.

CHAGFORD - MR JOHN ELLIS, son of MR ELLIS, of Lower Drewston, Chagford, was killed on Friday last, by a fall from his horse. He had left his father's house on the preceding day to go to Moretonhampstead, but not returning as expected, his brother went in search of him, and not far from the house, found the horse in the road without its rider, and proceeding on towards Moreton, found his brother in a senseless state. The unfortunate young man was removed to his house and medical assistance procured, but it was of no avail, and after lingering speechless till Saturday night, he expired. An Inquest was held on the body of the deceased, who was about 28 years of age, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" returned. It is supposed the horse fell with him as its knees were much cut.

Western Times, Saturday 2 September 1837
TIVERTON - Death By Lightning. - On Saturday last about 9 o'clock a.m., a most tremendous thunder storm burst over Tiverton. WILLIAM AXHORNE, a labouring man, aged 58, was proceeding along Wilcombe-lane, about a quarter of a mile from the town, was struck by the electric fluid and killed on the spot. His body presented a most dreadful object when discovered; his clothes were all torn from his body, and entirely destroyed. His hat was torn to pieces - his garments were rent from his body in shreds, and almost wholly consumed by the fire. His shoes were shattered in pieces and his body had all the appearance of having been roasted. His death must have been instantaneous. The body was taken home and an Inquest was held in the afternoon, before F. S. Gervis, Esq., Coroner for the Borough, at which these facts were given in evidence; and it also appeared that there were many high trees near, but that a large bush had evidently conducted the fatal flash. The Jury, of course, returned a verdict to the effect that his Death was caused by Lightning. - It is a remarkable circumstance that the two wives of this man have successively died suddenly, and have had Inquests held on them (the second in January last, of which we gave a report at the time), and now the fire from heaven has consumed the husband.

TEIGNMOUTH - Sudden Death. - The uncertainty of life and of all earthly enjoyments was perhaps never more exemplified than in the instantaneous death of MR BENJAMIN GREGORY, late draper of Teignmouth. The above gentleman had lately retired from business, having had considerable property fall to him from the death of a relation, he had about ten days since been to London in order to have the property, (which was in Chancery, the deceased relative being a lunatic), transferred in his own name, and having settled everything and got possession, he hastened again to Teignmouth, to collect in his debts; he was stopping a few days with Mr R. Shimell; On Tuesday last, about half pat four he came down stairs from where he was writing out his accounts, to enquire if tea was ready, but not being quite ready he returned again. In a few minutes Mr Shimell went through his room with something and perceived him sitting upright in his chair. He spoke to him but got no answer. Being alarmed he went over to him and to his great consternation found him quite dead. He must have died without a struggle, as he sat quite upright and his spectacles were on. An Inquest was held on the next day, when a verdict was returned "Died by the Visitation of God."

Western Times, Saturday 9 September 1837
SHEBBEAR - A Coroner's Inquest was held by Mr Vallack, at Shebbear on the 26th ult., on the body of MR W. TAUNTON, a farmer of that parish, who hung himself the previous evening to an oak twig in the hedge of a field near his house. He had shown symptoms of insanity for some days. He was a man of sober and religious habits and bore an excellent character. Disappointment in consequence of the failure of his crops and other farming misfortunes are supposed to be the cause. Verdict - Hung Himself in a Fit of Insanity.

STOKE DAMEREL - Death From Intoxication. - An Inquest was held at Devonport last week, on the body of MAJOR I. B. FLETCHER, who died on Sunday last. From the evidence it appeared that the deceased had been a man of intemperate habits and that when going upstairs on Saturday night, while in a fit of intoxication, he fell down. Verdict - "Died from Excessive Drinking."

PLYMOUTH - On Friday last, the dwarf, JOHN LIPSON, was found dead in his bed, in the Plymouth Workhouse. He had been an inmate for some time, in consequence of having been subject to epileptic fits. The Coroner for the Borough, Mr Squire, held an Inquest and it was satisfactorily proved that he died from a fit and a verdict was given accordingly.

Western Times, Saturday 16 September 1837
EXETER - On Saturday last, an Inquest was taken before John Warren, Esq., Coroner for this City, at Wilcocks's Valiant Soldier Inn, Magdalene Street, on the body of JOHN RUGG, who, from the effect of severe accident, had died in the Devon and Exeter Hospital. The deceased was 24 years of age. Was brought from Broadhembury, and a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

EXETER - On Monday, an Inquest was taken before Mr Warren, at Wilcocks's Valiant Soldier Inn, on view of the body of an elderly female named ALICE GORDGE. The deceased belonged to Charmouth, her family employing themselves in the season in the collection of shrimps and prawns which were partly disposed of in this city, and to facilitate the trade the mother usually resided here while it continued, receiving her baskets by the coaches &c. This season she has resided at the bottom of Paris-street and on Saturday afternoon expecting a basket by one of the Eastern Mails was on the look out for it. At quarter past 2 o'clock the Mail coming down the hill from Heavitree, and opposite Sweetland's garden, she advanced into the road in order to make inquiry of the coachman. In fact, it appears there was a basket on the coach for her. At this instant the Quicksilver, or London Mail was descending Paris-street, the two coaches being rapidly approaching each other and she was knocked down by the leaders of the in-coming Mail, the horses of which had advanced ten or a dozen yards before it was possible for the coachman to pull up. The wheels passed over a considerable part of her body. She was removed to the Hospital, but expired before they reached that Institution. Not the slightest blame is attributable to the coachman, and a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

Western Times, Saturday 30 September 1837
EXETER - On Monday an Inquest was taken before S. Warren, Esq., at Wilcocks' Valiant Soldier Inn, Magdalene-street, on the body of PHILIP BRAUND, a waggoner, who met his death under the following circumstances. He was in the employ of Mr Vicary, of Northtawton, and about two o'clock in the afternoon of the preceding Saturday, was returning from this city with his master's waggon laden with hides, being himself riding on the fore part of it. Deceased descended the hill near Newton St Cyres at a quick pace, and had omitted to use the drag. At this instant a gentleman appeared in a gig on the opposite direction. The deceased jumped off, caught the shaft horse by the head for the purpose of stopping them, when he was immediately thrown down and both near wheels passed over his head and the unfortunate man had also five ribs broken. Every attention was immediately paid him and he was placed in a cart in order to being brought to the Devon and Exeter Hospital. When the vehicle, however, reached that Institution, it was found he had expired on the road, and a verdict of Accidental Death was returned. The deceased was supposed to be from 33 to 34 years of age, and in this case also it is understood there is left a widow and family.

SIDMOUTH - Sudden Death Of EDWARD LEE, Esq., - We regret to inform the public of the sudden death by apoplexy of EDWARD LEE, Esq., magistrate for the county, on Friday evening, Sept. 23, about six o'clock. He was apparently in good health and spirits and transacted business with his usual vivacity, not twenty minutes before his decease. - The following particulars relative to this unexpected and lamented bereavement were stated in the evidence at the Inquest before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner, at the York Hotel, on Saturday. - Joseph Morey, examined:- I live at Sidmouth; am a tailor. Have known MR LEE for the last twenty years. He was a gentleman of property and a magistrate of this county. Do not know his age. He was a married man and had a family. On the evening of his decease I saw him in Middle Field, returning home, in the path to Mr Hobson's house, about a quarter before six. I was about twenty yards from him, out of the path, on the right by Woolbrook Glen. when he came to the iron bridge which crosses the brook, he stopped and leaned over the left rail of the bridge towards Mrs Bayne's, with his back towards me and made a motion with his body twice. My impression was that he was sick. He then opened the gage, went over the bridge into Western Field, towards his own house. A few yards from the bridge he began to stagger and continued staggering for ten or twelve yards, when he fell to the ground on his face. I immediately ran to his assistance, but could not lift him up. I requested a lad named John Hayman, who was near, to assist me. He took him by the arm, but we could not succeed in raising him. He appeared quite lifeless. The lad then offered to run for more assistance, after which I raised him on his breech and continued to support him until Mr Lousada's coachman came and helped me. We took off his neckerchief; blood flowed from a wound in his forehead and from his nose. Do not know whether blood came from his mouth. His mouth foamed and his teeth were clenched. Several more were soon on the spot and we removed him to his house. The Surgeons were immediately sent for. I ran for Mr Mogridge, the Surgeon, who came to him first. - John Hayman, examined:- I am about ten years of age, the son of Mr Stephen Hayman. I knew MR LEE. I had been to his house with some things for my father and was returning home in the path through Western Field, with my two little brothers. When I first saw MR LEE he was about fifteen yards from me, coming over the bridge. He was holding his handkerchief to his mouth. I made a bow as I passed him, but he took no notice of it. I observed he did not walk well. When he passed he began to stagger for ten or twelve yards and then fell on his face, when the witness Mr Morey came to him first. He received no blow from anyone, for no one was near him, till after he fell. - Richard Parker, examined:- I am coachman to Mr Lousada. I knew MR LEE very well. On the night in question I was going to Peak from Sidmouth. A little before six o'clock I heard a person calling out as if in want of help, before I saw the deceased. I instantly ran to the spot when I saw the first witness supporting him. He was on his breech. His eyes were closed, his face pale, his arms, hands and feet cold. He was quite dead. I assisted in removing him to his house. - T. H. Mogridge, Esq., examined:- I am a Surgeon of Sidmouth. I attended MR LEE professionally, when required, in his life time. I was the first professional man who saw the deceased on his being conveyed to his house. I should suppose it could not be more than twenty minutes after the attack, life was quite extinct. I opened a vein in the right arm, and also the temple artery, but to no purpose. There were two contused wounds, one of the forehead, the other on the upper part of the nose. The wounds were mere abrasions of the skin and not such as were at all likely to produce deceased's death, but to have been effected by his fall upon the stony path. From what I have heard and by what I can judge, it is my opinion that he died of apoplexy. He was about 73 years of age. - Verdict - "Died by the Visitation of God." - EDWARD LEE, Esq., was brother to the Dean of Waterford. He has resided in Sidmouth for the last twenty-five or twenty-six years. His general character was unimpeachable and his exertions for the common quiet and benefit of this town have been unrivalled. In politics, he was a Liberal, and not less liberal was he in a religious sense. He ever shewed the most respectful attention to the deserving of all denominations. His attention to his duties as a magistrate have been invariably prompt and consistent and his decisions equally remarkable for their precision and impartiality. Neither the smiles of his friends nor the frowns of the enemies of justice would ever prevent or deter him from the faithful and conscientious discharge of what he deemed right. He was also a warm advocate and zealous supporter of the benevolent institutions of the day. In him too, the honest and industrious poor especially found a friend, whose susceptibility of feeling did not subside in kind wishes, but also penetrated the pocket. As a private gentleman he enjoyed a large share of domestic happiness, and his affection and tenderness as a husband and a father have been delightfully responded to in the consistent and filial department of his beloved and highly respected family. We deeply sympathize with them in their sudden and over-whelming loss. We wish them all the necessary support the Great disposer of Providence is ever ready to render in all cases of trial and deprivation, and that we all, from this speaking warning, may see the importance of being prepared for death, seeing "The Son of man cometh at an hour when we think not."

WOODBURY - An Inquest was held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on Monday the 18th inst., at Woodbury, in this County, on the body of THOMAS JANNAN, aged 79, who dropped down dead while engaged at work throwing sheaves into the pool of cap of a barn. He was lifted up by some men who were at work with him in the barn, but was quite dead. - Verdict, Visitation of God.

CULMSTOCK - An Inquest was held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on Wednesday the 20th inst., at Culmstock, on the body of HENRY ROWSELL, aged 67 years. The deceased who was a farm servant to Mr Wm. Broom, of Sheldon Grange, Dunkeswell, had been sent to Dunns Hills Kilns, in Holcombe Rogus, with a waggon and horses to fetch lime and after assisting with six other men to drink out their usual allowances of cider, an extra quart each man was procured and swallowed on account of it being the last time for the season that one of the parties would go there for that purpose. The deceased then started in company with another man also driving a waggon laden with lime - he did not then appear to be intoxicated. The deceased and his companion stopped however at a beer house at Whey town about a quarter of a mile from the kiln, where with two others they drank four more quarts of cider. After proceeding about hundred yards from this beer house, the deceased got upon the shafts of the waggon he was driving and was then observed to be tipsy, and fell back on the lime. His companion put on his own waggon and passed him, then stopped both waggons and got deceased back on his load and drove on his horses for him. When they came to the Red Ball the deceased who had been very restless and complained of thirst, drank part of a pint of ale. As they approached Culmstock Bridge the deceased who was seen standing up on the shafts very much intoxicated, and holding on by the fore part of the waggon, fell off on the near side on his back and the fore wheel passed over his body. The companion of deceased, James Quick, who was leading the shaft horse belonging to the deceased's waggon, did not know he was standing on the shafts until after the accident happened. - Verdict returned of Accidental Death.

MARWOOD - Horrid Murder. - An Inquisition was taken on the 18th instant, at Milltown, about four miles from Barnstaple, on the new Ilfracombe road, before T. Copner, Esq., Coroner, on the body of a little boy, four years old, son of JOHN MAY, labourer. It appeared that Thomas Welsford, alias Harper, was employed the previous Thursday, by Mr Gould, stone cutter, in sawing stone. John Gubb, Reed and another mason, were working at some little distance on the same premises and deceased and several other children were playing just by. Gubb and his companion observed Welsford bending down and apparently hammering on something under him, but had not the slightest suspicion of the bloody deed he was engaged in, until one of the children came running to them and said "JOHNNY MAY'S head is running with blood." They found deceased lying on his back and Welsford standing over him with a shovel or garden spade in his hand, covered with gore; the head of the child presented a shocking spectacle, the skull being broken in and the brain issuing from it. They charged Welsford with the murder and on asking him his motive, he replied, "I wish to be carried to Exeter." Surgical assistance was immediately procured, but the child expired on Saturday. The Jury returned a verdict of "Wilful Murder" and the prisoner was committed to Exeter gaol, to take his trial at the next assizes. No possible motive can be assigned for the murder; it is generally believed that the prisoner is insane, and his incoherent replies to the questions of the Coroner corroborated the impression.

Western Times, Friday 6 October 1837
DARTMOUTH - On the 25th Sept., an Inquest was held at Ellis's Ship-in-Dock Inn, Dartmouth, by Mr Richard Anthony, Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM JACKSON, in the employ of his uncle, a sawyer, who was unfortunately drowned in the river Dart, on Sunday, the 24th ult., about twelve at noon, whilst sailing with his uncle in a small boat near Dittisham, the wind at the time being very boisterous and squally, the sheet rope was belayed to the pin and while their attention was direction to an object at a distance, a squall suddenly took the boat, she capsized and instantly sunk. The deceased and his uncle struggled in the water some time, the former being unable to swim, shortly sank. The latter, incommoded with his dress, was upwards of twenty minutes before he reached the shore, then very much distressed. The Jury returned a verdict - Drowned by the Overturning of a Boat.

Western Times, Saturday 21 October 1837
EXMOUTH - Fatal Accident. - On Saturday evening last this town was thrown into the utmost state of excitement, by one of the most awful circumstances of sudden death that was ever recorded. The unfortunate individual was MR JOHN RADFORD, of this town, brewer and maltster, who has left a wife (far advanced in pregnancy) and five young children to deplore his premature end. MR RADFORD had for some years delighted in shooting wild fowl, which come in one the sands of the river at this season of the year, for which purpose he had a boat, to which was attached a large swivel gun which generally carried three quarters of a pound of shot and one ounce of powder. According to the evidence given to the Jury at the Coroner's Inquest on Tuesday, it appeared deceased had been out with his boat and gun on the Thursday before and giving his gun loaded to his apprentice (who was waiting for him) to place in a store room near the quay, desiring him to be very careful as it was loaded and had the percussion cap on, the lad asked him if he should take the cap off to which the deceased replied "no you cannot, never mind, it won't hurt." On Saturday evening deceased was looking out for birds and seeing some come in, hastened to pursue them, preparatory to which he attempted to draw the charge with an iron rod with a worm at each end, and placing the gun on a block of wood with the butt end on the ground, desired a boy who was with him to "hold on tight" with the muzzle towards himself and the door. It is supposed that in wrenching the gun, the hammer of the lock knocked on the pavement, thereby causing the cap to escape, for as it were by magic, the gun went off (recoiling on, but not injuring the poor boy] lodging the whole of its contents, with the iron rod, in the body of the unfortunate deceased who exclaimed "Christ have mercy" reeled once or twice and fell on his face. A man who happened to pass but a moment before had a very narrow escape of his life, being but a step or two from the door. On being raised the whole of his bowels protruded from the wound, his arm was broken in two places, his chest literally covered with shot, and a shot in each eye.

Western Times, Saturday 28 October 1837
PLYMOUTH - Melancholy Accident. - On Thursday last a lad called PETER FINN, while working as a mason's labourer, at the new Dispensary in Princes Square, Plymouth, fell from the second flight of stairs to the area below and was killed on the spot. His head was literally dashed in pieces. A Coroner's Inquest has been held on the body, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

TOPSHAM - An Inquest was held at the Select Vestry Room, Topsham, on the 23rd instant, on the body of JOHN PROUT (a Cornishman) who met his death in consequence of drinking a quantity of raw spirits on the 22nd. The deceased was carried home to his lodgings and put to bed and the following morning at six o'clock he was found dead and cold by a fellow lodger. Verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Saturday 4 November 1837
TAVISTOCK - Death From Intoxication. - A young man named VINTON, about 22 years of age, died on the 25th ult. at Tavistock from apoplexy, brought on by excessive drinking. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the body on the succeeding day, and the following verdict was returned, "Died from Apoplexy, produced by Intoxication and falls."

EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - An Inquest was held on Tuesday at the John Bull, Exwick, by J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner, on the body of JOHN MANLEY, aged 48, foreman to Messrs. Matthews and Chubb, who was found in the mill leat on Sunday morning. There being no evidence to shew by what means deceased came into the water, the Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned." he was a strictly honest man, had worked between 30 and 40 years in the family of his employers, by whom he is much and deservedly regretted - and has left a wife and four children to mourn their sad bereavement.

Western Times, Saturday 18 November 1837
CLYST ST MARY - Sudden Death. - On the evening of the 7th inst., MR ADAM ARNOLD, of the oil-mill, Clyst St Mary, near this city, dropped down and expired immediately. He had been to this city during the day on business, and had reached Mr Taylor's, the Maltster's Arms, Mary's Clist, on his way home, when death so suddenly and actually arrested his progress. The deceased was 43 years of age and has left a widow. He was well known in our market and much respected. The verdict on the Coroner's Inquest was "Died by the Visitation of God."

Western Morning News, Saturday 9 December 1837 EXETER - Melancholy Accident. - On Friday last the child of a person named SCANES, residing in Back Lane, in this city, was burnt to death. The mother having left the child alone in the kitchen for a short time, it approached too near the fire, which communicated to its pinafore and before assistance could arrive, the poor little innocent was no more, the smoke which was very dense, having it is supposed suffocated it, before the flames had communicated to the body. A Coroner's Inquest was held on Saturday. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Times, Saturday 16 December 1837
AXMINSTER - An Inquest was held by Mr Aberdein on the 4th instant, at Axminster, on the body of JOHN MACKLIN, aged five years, who came to his death from injuries received by his clothes catching fire.

OTTERY ST MARY - An Inquest was held by Mr Aberdein on the 5th, at Taleford, Ottery St. Mary on the body of JOHN WEBBER, aged about five years, who came to his death from injuries received by his clothes catching fire.

MARWOOD - Inquest held by Thomas Copner, Esq., Coroner - At Varleigh, in the parish of Marwood, on the body of ANN WATTS, aged two years, the daughter of a labourer, who had unfortunately caught her clothes on fire, by which she was so dreadfully burnt that she survived but about two hours after. Verdict, "Accidental Death."

BISHOPS TAWTON - Inquest held by Thomas Copner, Esq., Coroner - On Monday in the parish of Bishops Tawton, an Inquest was held on the body of WILLIAM SAMPSON, aged two years, son of a carpenter. In the absence of his mother the little fellow caught fire to his clothes and was burnt in such a shocking manner that he died the same day. Verdict - "Accidental Death."

DARTMOUTH - An Inquest was held by Mr Richard Anthony, Coroner, on Monday se'nnight at the Seven Stars Inn, on the body of MR EDMUND TOWL. It appeared that the deceased kept a small farm and dairy, and having left his home in the morning for the purpose of visiting it, and not returning in the evening, search was made for him, when he was discovered lying dead in a court adjoining his barn, his cows standing round him expecting to be milked, it being past the usual time. He had complained of slight indisposition a few days previous. The Coroner having summed up the evidence the Jurors unanimously returned a verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

Western Times, Saturday 23 December 1837
PLYMOUTH - Caution To Youths. - A fine old veteran pensioner from the 40th Regt., called HENRY LANKEY, aged 68, was a short time since struck by a stone which was thrown by a boy, who added impertinence to injury. The stone cut some of the nerves on the back of the old man's hand. A lock jaw followed in a few days, of which he died on the 16th instant. An Inquest was held on Saturday, before B. J. Squire, Esq., Coroner, when a verdict of Manslaughter was returned against the boy.

AYLESBEARE - Inquest held before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., coroner. - On Friday the 8th instant, on the body of LYDIA BEAVIS, five years old. The child was left with a younger sister, three years old, and while standing near the fire with a stick in her hands, which she had refused to give the little one, the latter in an attempt to take the stick from her, pushed her into the fire, by which she was so much injured as to cause her death. - Verdict, Accidentally Burnt.

Inquest held before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner - On the 14th instant, on the body of SARAH DUNN, an infant five months old, who, though weakly from its birth, had been put to bed in its usual health, and was found dead by its mother on awaking in the course of the night. The medical opinion was that the child was smothered by its face coming against the pillow, which prevented its breathing and it was then unable to turn round to extricate itself.

HONITON - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner - On the 14th inst., at the Swan Inn, Honiton, on the body of ANN SANDERS, the infant daughter of MR CHARLES SANDERS, the landlord, who was found dead by its mother's side on that morning. The medical gentleman who attended stated as his opinion that the child died from convulsions.

AWLISCOMBE - Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner - On the 19th instant, on the body of ANN MAJOR, aged 50 years, wife of DAVID MAJOR, of that place, labourer, who fell from her chair the preceding day and died shortly after. This case had excited a good deal of interest, a report having gone abroad that her death had been caused by ill-treatment from her husband. Upon investigation this did not appear to have been the cause, although a quarrel had taken place between the deceased and her husband about a fortnight since, during which he put her out of doors, and it is believed struck her several times. The whole of the evidence tended to show that she had been complaining of ill health for some time past, and had suffered much from pain in her side, and that her husband had been into Honiton the Saturday before and procured her some medicine to take for the complaint. On a post mortem examination of the body, which was made by Mr Woodward, Surgeon, of Honiton, who had been called in to attend her when she died, the heart was found to be much enlarged and a considerable portion of it highly inflamed, so much so as to have produced two ulcers. There was a considerable effusion of water into the right cavity of the chest and into the membrane surrounding the heart. Mr Woodward expressed his belief that her death was occasioned by the sudden effusion of water on the chest, but that the disease of the heart, which appeared of long standing, was sufficient to cause death, and that there was not the least reason to believe that she died in consequence of any external violence. Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

LITTLE TORRINGTON - Last week, at Little Torrington, three children of a poor man named BURCH, their ages from two to five years, were taken alarmingly ill. One died the day after and the other two the day following that. A Coroner's Inquest was held on the bodies, before H. A. Vallack, Esq., and there being no evidence to show that the extraordinary fatality was occasioned by other than natural means, the Jury gave a verdict "Died by the Visitation of God." They were buried in one coffin.

CHRISTOW - On Wednesday the 7th inst., the wife of WILLIAM HORE, a labouring man of Christow, went to fetch some water at a short distance from the house, leaving her two little boys aged about six years and four years, comfortably seated by the fireside. She had been absent only a minute or two, when becoming alarmed by the cries of the children, she instantly returned and melancholy to relate, she met the younger at the door enveloped in flames. The Rev. Mr Woollcombe very kindly and humanely attended and dressed the wounded and medical aid was immediately procured, but the poor little creature was so dreadfully burnt that he expired after the greatest agony the next morning. An Inquest was held on Tuesday, by Jos. Gribble, Esq., one of the Coroners, when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.