Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

1840

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: Adams; Aller; Anderson; Baker; Ball(2); Banks; Barrett; Bartlett; Bassett; Battershall; Beavis; Bennett(2); Bird; Bishop; Board; Bodley; Bolt; Brailey; Brewer; Burgoine; Burgoyne; Burrough; Bury; Butland; Callard; Camp(2); Carter(2); Catre; Clapp(2); Clarke; Cole; Coles; Collyns; Connett; Coombes; Coram; Cornish; Cosway; Couch; Crewse; Crimp; Cross(2); Crout; Downing; Dyke; Easterbrook; Edmonds; Elliott; Ellis; Enticote; Evans; Eveleigh; Ferris; French; Fulford; Furze; Gale; Gardiner; Garrett; Gilbert; Gording; Gosling; Goss(2); Hagley; Ham; Hamilton; Hamlyn; Harris; Hatchard; Hellier; Hill(2); Hitchcock; Hodge; Hodgkin; Honywell; Hopkins; Hudder; Jefford; Jones(2); Kerslake; Kiddle; Kneyle; Knowles; Lane; Leaworthy; Lee(3); Lethbridge; Leworthy; Lidstone; Lloyd; Long; Lucas; Mandill; Mann; Mardon; Matthews; Metherell; Morris; Morrish; Mugford; Murch; Newcombe; Nurton; Oake; Osborn; Parrott; Payne(2); Pearcy; Pillar; Pope; Portbury; Pyke; Ratcliffe; Richards(2); Rogers; Ryers; Salter; Sanders; Sanford; Skinner; Smith; Soder; Southleigh; Sowden; Sparkes; Sprague; Squire; Stark; Steer; Strong; Tooley; Trenhick; Turner(2); Underdown; Varwell; Waycott; Waymouth; Webber; Welsman; Westlake; White(3); Wilkins; Williams; Winchester; Wreford; Wright.

Western Times, Saturday 18 January 1840
SHALDON - On Friday, the 10th inst., J. Gribble, Esq., held an Inquest at Shaldon, on the body of ELIZABETH LANE, aged 50, who died the previous evening in a fit of apoplexy. The Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

BARNSTAPLE - A melancholy and fatal accident occurred at Barnstaple on Saturday last. As a little girl, aged four years, daughter of MRS DOWNING, of Bear-street, was crossing the street with a pitcher of milk in her hand, the horse and cart of Mr Westacott, of Northmolton, was proceeding down the street, at a slow pace, the child, unperceived, came in contact with the fore horse, which knocked it down and the wheel of the cart passing over its head caused instant death. A woman passing at the time took up the lifeless body of the child and conveyed it to its mother. An Inquest was held the same day before Thomas Copner, Esq., Coroner for the Borough, and a verdict of Accidental Death was returned, with a deodand of 1s. on the wheel. No blame can be attached to the driver of the cart, who was proceeding very slowly down the street. What is very singular in this melancholy case, the driver dreamt, the night before the accident, that he should be the means of killing a child: this has proved too true.

PILTON - On Tuesday week a child belonging to MARY RICHARDS, of Pilton, near Barnstaple, during the absence of its parents ( who were at the Guildhall, taking their trials for robbing the shop of Messrs. Gregory and Tucker, draper, High-street, Barnstaple), caught some part of its dress on fire and before any assistance could be given by the neighbours, the child was so much burnt that it lingered in great agony till the following day, when death put a period to its sufferings. An Inquest was held on the body on Friday last, before T. Copner, Esq., and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

NORTH MOLTON - Melancholy And Fatal Accident. - On Tuesday, the 31st of December last, as the REV. JOHN HODGKIN, vicar of Northmolton, was returning from Southmolton, about 6 o'clock in the evening, when within a quarter of a mile from his home, his horse suddenly sprung off and the reverend gentleman fell backwards from his saddle upon the back part of his head to the ground, occasioning a concussion of the brain. A female happened to be near the spot at the time the accident occurred and every assistance was speedily procured, when he was heard to speak for the last time and to say "I shall die." He lingered in a state of insensibility until Sunday morning last, when death put a period to his suffering at about 1 o'clock in the morning. An Inquest was held on the body on Sunday, before Thomas Copner, Esq., and a verdict returned of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Saturday 1 February 1840
SAMPFORD COURTENAY - Accidental Death. - On the 16th inst., MR SIMON NEWCOMBE, of Langabeer, Sampford Courtenay, fell from a cart loaded with hay, and received such injuries that he died in about 2 ½ hours after the fall. Mr Budd, Surgeon, of North Tawton, attended immediately after the accident, but his services were of no avail. An Inquest was held before F. J. Vallack, Esq., and a verdict of Accidental Death returned. The funeral took place on the 22nd inst., and was attended by upwards of 100 yeomen. The church also was crowded during the funeral service. MR NEWCOMBE was greatly beloved and respected by all who knew him.

SHALDON - On Monday, the 27th inst., an Inquest was held at the Clifford's Arms Inn, Shaldon, before Mr Gribble, Esq., Coroner, on the body of SAMUEL COSTER PORTBURY, a child of about five years of age. It appears the poor boy was left in the house alone when his clothes unfortunately caught on fire and before his screeches could be heard, was so dreadfully burnt that, notwithstanding the prompt attendance and skill of Messrs. Lake and Scarborough, the poor little sufferer only survived a few hours. The Coroner animadverted most strongly on the impropriety of mothers leaving mere infants in a room with a fire alone and the Jury, after a patient investigation, returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

SIDBURY - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - On Monday, the 20th inst. at Sidbury, on the body of MARY WELSMAN, seventy-nine years of age, who died suddenly the day previously. The deceased was a widow woman and had complained on the Saturday of feeling unwell, but got up on the Sunday morning, and ate her breakfast heartily, after which she complained of being sick and faint, and continued so until one o'clock, when a neighbour was fetched and medical assistance procured, but she died before it arrived.

AXMINSTER - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner on Tuesday, the 28th, at the Union Workhouse, Axminster, on the body of SARAH ANN WESTLAKE, an infant, aged eighteen months. On Saturday, the 18th, the mother of the deceased child was in the nursery with the child - she was sitting on the seat and had put the child down on the floor; a woman had brought out a tin can, containing about a pint of boiling water and put on the table, above the seat; the deceased went over towards the water and laid hold of the can with her hands, and threw it over her person. The mother was near the child at the time; she screamed out, and took it up and her clothes were taken off, when she was found to be extensively scalded on her neck and face. A Surgeon was sent for immediately, who continued in attendance till the time of her death, which took place on the 25th, from the effects of the scald.

AXMINSTER - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner, on the 28th inst. on the body of ELIZABETH BEAVIS, aged nearly three years, who died in consequence of having swallowed boiling water from a tea kettle on the evening of Sunday, the 19th inst., whilst the attentions of its mother was diverted for a short time by someone who had gone out of the back door of the house. The child lingered in a state of great suffering till Thursday, the 23rd, when she died.

Western Times, Saturday 8 February 1840
TEIGNMOUTH - Teignmouth Feb 2. An Old Shipowner of the Port. - On Wednesday an Inquest was held at the Exeter Inn, before J. Gribble, Esq., and a respectable Jury on the body of J. CORAM, aged 42, who was found dead the previous morning in a boat, between this town and Newton, supposed to be occasioned by the inclemency of the weather. The Jury after a patient investigation returned a verdict to that effect.

Western Times, Saturday 15 February 1840
HONITON - An aged and infirm man named JAMES OAKE died suddenly at Honiton on Saturday last. An Inquest was held on the body before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on which it was shown that the man died of water on the chest. Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

Western Times, Saturday 29 February 1840
BARNSTAPLE - Melancholy Instance Of Sudden Death. - On Saturday last as JOHN FURZE, of Pilton, a sawyer, was working in the Deal Yard of Mr Richard Thorne, adjoining the North Walk, Barnstaple, he fell down and instantly expired. A surgeon was sent for who tried to bleed him, but the vital spark had fled for ever; A Coroner's Inquest was held by Thomas Copner, Esq., and verdict, Died by the Visitation of God returned. the deceased bore an excellent character and had been in the employ of Mr Thorne as foreman of the yard for a great many years.

AXMINSTER - An Inquest was held at Axminster on the 24th inst., before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner, on the body of WILLIAM CROSS, an infant, 4 years of age, whose death was occasioned by his clothes catching fire on the Saturday previous. The child with two others was sitting round the fire which was on the hearth in the care of an elder sister, about 13 years old, when its pinafore suddenly caught fire. The girl tried to extinguish it, but it communicated to the other clothes and the child was so severely burnt as to occasion death on the following morning.

HONITON - A poor child of the name of CHARLOTTE BISHOP, aged 4 years, was burnt to death in Honiton, on the morning of the 24th inst., the clothes of the deceased child took fire and she ran out into the road and the flames were not extinguished until nearly the whole of her clothes were consumed. The child died the next morning and an Inquest was held on the body by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner, when a verdict of Accidentally Burnt was returned.

Western Times, Saturday 7 March 1840
HONITON - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - At Honiton on the 27th Feb., on the body of SUSAN CLAPP, an infant, eleven months old, who was found dead in bed. The mother of the child had got up in the morning and left the child in bed with its father, as she believed asleep. Soon after the father, not hearing it breathe, lifted it up and found it was dead. The child had previously appeared quite healthy and it was believed died from natural causes.

AXMINSTER - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., at Axminster, on the body of ANN GOSLING, aged 67, who died from concussion of the brain, in consequence of falling on an iron scraper, on the 22nd ult. The deceased had been in a neighbour's house which she left about half-past four, and appeared to be in good health; immediately after leaving she was heard to fall, and was discovered with her face lying on an iron scraper, near to the door. She lingered until Tuesday, the 3rd inst., when she died. The deceased attributed no blame to anyone. She said the sun dazzled her eyes, and she could not see where she stepped and trod on a stone, and so fell on the scraper. Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 14 March 1840
BUCKFASTLEIGH - Child Burnt. - An Inquest was held at Buckfastleigh, on the 3rd inst., by J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner, on the body of HENRY CALLARD, a little boy aged five years, who during the absence of his parents, in endeavouring to fix a chimney cloth, got so near the fire that his clothes ignited and his body was so dreadfully burnt, that he survived only a few hours. Verdict - "Accidentally Burnt To Death."

UGBOROUGH - Fatal Accident. - On Friday last, as a quarryman of the name of HENRY HUDDER was engaged at work at Bowcombe slate quarry, in the parish of Ugborough, when at the depth of about 40 feet, the archway above him fell in, and completely buried him in the rubbish. He was shortly after dug out quite dead, with his skull fractured in a shocking manner. An Inquest was held on the body on Monday last, by J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner, of Ashburton, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" returned.

DARTMOUTH - An Inquisition was taken before Mr Richard Anthony, Coroner, at the Guildhall, on Monday last, on view of the body of ANTHONY LEE, a labourer, who met his death by a fall whilst carrying a bag of coals. Verdict, "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Saturday 28 March 1840
EXETER - An Inquest was held at the Workhouse in this city on Thursday last, before Mr Samuel Warren, the Deputy Coroner, on the body of a pauper named THOMAS JONES, whose death had been rather sudden and attended by circumstances which it was thought rendered as investigation necessary. The deceased was an old man and had been committed by the Magistrates to the City Prison for vagrancy. During his imprisonment, he was found one morning extended on the floor of his cell bleeding from the nose and on being picked up, he said he had fallen, tho' he did not know how. Since that period he was subject to fits. He was discharged from Prison, on the 14th instant, on the understanding that he was going into the Bideford Workhouse. On the same night, however, he was found by a Watchman leaning against the shutters of Mrs Murch's house apparently in state of intoxication and taken to the Watch House. He left the latter place the next morning and proceeded to a lodging house from whence he was removed to the Workhouse on Monday, 16th inst. in a state of weakness where although he was treated with great humanity, he died the next morning. Some bruises were found on his left arm, and his eye was discoloured, as if from a blow, probably occasioned by a fall. Mr Tucker, Surgeon, was in opinion that his brain had been diseased for some time, and that he died from an effusion of blood on it. Verdict accordingly.

EXETER - On the afternoon of Thursday last, an Inquest was taken before Mr S. Warren, at Stokes' Elephant Inn, North-street, on the body of MR THOMAS WILKINS, aged 49, who resided in Garden Square. The deceased was by trade a french-polisher, but had for some time dealt in cheese, having in this line of business a shop in the Western Market. While there on the preceding morning and just after assisting in taking in a load of cheese - having previously been labouring under some complaint, for which medical assistance had been necessary - he complained of illness, returned to his home, went to bed and before further aid could be procured, was a corpse. Verdict, "Died by the Visitation of God."

HONITON - An Inquest was held before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., at Honiton on Monday, on the body of GEORGE BIRD, aged five years, who died from injuries received by the London and Devonport Mail Coach running over him on the 17th inst.

HONITON - An Inquest was held before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., at Honiton on Monday, on the body of JOHANNAH SPRAGUE, who died suddenly on the morning of the 21st ult. Deceased had for some time been subject to attacks in the head, which there was every reason to believe would end fatally. Her husband was awoke by hearing breathing hard and snoring. He called assistance, but she died in about five minutes.

NORTH TAWTON - Manslaughter. - An Inquest was held on Monday last at North Tawton, before H. A. Vallack, Esq., County Coroner, and a most respectable Jury, on the body of RICHARD BOLT, aged 17, who received a stab in the neck on the 2nd January last, from a young man about the same age, called Thomas Nosworthy, with whom he was on the greatest terms of friendship. It appears that they had spent a considerable part of new year's day together at a beer-house and whilst there quarrelled about the payment of some beer, - but the dispute was settled and the two friends shook hands. However, the deceased was heard afterwards to declare with an oath that the quarrel was not over, for that he would thrash Nosworthy before he got home. They left the beer-house about 12 o'clock at night - apparently good friends - but in half an hour, and within a few yards only of their respective residence, a quarrel took place between them, and the deceased received a wound in the neck, (dividing the carotid artery,) of which he lingered until Sunday last. Nosworthy admitted that he had stabbed the deceased with a knife shortly after it happened and added "That he would not have done it for a thousand pounds." The Jury were unanimous in their verdict of "Manslaughter against Thomas Nosworthy." The prisoner has been in the county Gaol since January last, but the recognizances of the witnesses who then gave evidence before the Magistrates, were respited at the late Gaol delivery to the Lammas Assizes, when the prisoner will take his trial.

Western Times, Saturday 4 April 1840
TEIGNMOUTH - On Saturday, the 21st inst., an Inquest was held before J. Gribble, Esq., coroner, at the Exeter Inn, on the body of ELIZABETH BALL, aged 70, wife of THOMAS BALL, formerly an opulent miller in the neighbourhood of Chudleigh, deceased. She left her house the previous morning about nine o'clock, and whilst going down Globe Lane, was seized with a fit of apoplexy and instantly expired. The Jury, after a few minutes consultation, returned a verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

EXETER - On Saturday last, an Inquest was taken before John Warren, Esq., Coroner for Exeter, at Barker's New Artillery Arms public house, Lower Melbourne Street, on the body of EDWARD MARDON, who died after a very short illness on the preceding day. The deceased was by trade a fuller, but for 20 years had been in the employ of Messrs. Bennet and Co., wine-merchants. While in the cellar at work between 11 and 12 o'clock on the forenoon of Friday, he was suddenly taken ill and removed to his home, in Lower Melbourne Street. Mr Perkins, surgeon, was called in, but about 3 o'clock in the afternoon he expired. Verdict - Died from Apoplexy. The deceased has left a wife and several children.

BARNSTAPLE - On Tuesday, March 31st, at Newport, near Barnstaple, as a little child, daughter of MR JOHN HOPKINS, postman, was standing near the fire during the temporary absence of her mother, her pinafore caught fire, and before assistance could be procured it was burnt in a shocking manner. It lingered till the following day, when death put a period to its existence. A Coroner's Inquest was held on Wednesday before Thos. Copner, Esq., when a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

Western Times, Saturday 11 April 1840
BARNSTAPLE - Distressing Accident. - On Saturday last, as a little boy, about two years and half old, son of PETER CAMP, who works at the Rawleigh factory, near Barnstaple, was playing with some other children, near the mill stream adjoining the road, in attempting to climb over some railing, he fell into the water. The children immediately alarmed the parents, who, after a diligent search, discovered the body, but life was extinct. An Inquest was held on the body by Thomas Copner, Esq., verdict, Accidental Death.

EXETER - On Friday last, an Inquest was held at the Acland Arms, St. Sidwell's, before Mr Warren, Coroner of this City, on the body of a girl named MARY SOWDEN, only nine years of age, who had died after a very few hours illness on the preceding day. A post mortem examination of the body took place by direction of the Coroner and the medical gentlemen who conducted it, Dr Kingdon and Mr Warren, gave it as their opinion that the child died from natural causes, and the Jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Saturday 18 April 1840
STOKE DAMEREL - On Monday last an Inquest was held on the body of WILLIAM ANDERSON, aged 42, a shipwright belonging to H.M. Dock Yard, who a few days since cut his throat in a fit of lunacy. Verdict accordingly.

TIVERTON - Suicide. - On Thursday the body of MR THOMAS COSWAY, a market gardener, near the town, was discovered suspended by a rope and dead. The Inquest was not concluded when our report left.

Western Times, Saturday 25 April 1840
KINGSBRIDGE - Death From Fright. - An Inquest was held at Kingsbridge, by J. Gribble, Esq., on ANNE BURGOYNE, servant to the Rev. Mr Smith. Deceased had slightly cut her finger and from the evidence of Mr W. C. Ford, the Surgeon, there was no doubt that she died of fright, caused by that trifling accident.

LONDON - Fatal Occurrence. - An Inquest was held on Thursday last, upon the body of THOMAS ROWSE, aged 32, who was precipitated from the roof of Eton (late Ebury) Chapel, Pimlico, whilst engaged at work in erecting a belfry. The skull was literally dashed to pieces. Verdict - "Accidental Death." The deceased was a native of Newton Bushel in this County.

EXETER - Suicide. - A Coroner's Inquest was held on Monday afternoon last, at the Falcon Inn, in North-street, in this City, before J. Warren, Esq., Coroner, on the body of GEORGE WILLIAM TRENHICK, a fine young man aged 27, who had been found the same morning, suspended from a beam in an apartment occupied by him, in a house in the neighbourhood. It appeared from the evidence that the deceased was a stonemason, his friends resided at Torquay, and was a young man of sober and religious habits. He had lodged with a Mrs Salter since September last. About that period, he formed an attachment for a young woman, a female servant, which at Christmas was broken off. Since the termination of this acquaintance a marked change had taken place in the manner of the deceased, and latterly he had become silent, reserved and apparently labouring under distress of mind. On Sunday last, and for some days previously, he ate scarcely anything and his conduct at times was very strange. He returned home on Sunday night quite sober, and went to bed without saying anything - next morning, at half-past five he called to his landlady, who was still in bed, to make out his bill for the week, as was her custom, and went downstairs. The front door was heard to shut violently, as if he had gone out, but it was shown that if he had done so, he would not have come in again, without its being opened from within, as it had a latch key. Shortly after six o'clock, he was found by Mrs Salter suspended to a beam from a rope made of small twine carefully twisted together and formed into a running knot, in his bedroom. He was immediately cut down, but proved to be quite dead. Verdict - "Temporary Insanity."

HEMYOCK - Inquest held by Mr R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - At Hemyock on the 2nd inst., on the body of MARY CLIST, aged 75, who died suddenly on the Saturday previous, having been complaining for a day or two previously, of pain in her left breast and down her arm.

CHURCHSTANTON - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. at Churchtawton, on the 4th inst., on the body of SUSAN CARTER, aged four years, who died from injuries received from her clothes catching fire on the 1st inst. The deceased infant had been left by its father, RICHARD CARTER (who is a widower) with two other children, in the care of an elder brother, aged about nine years, whilst he went to his daily labour. An elder girl, about fifteen, who might otherwise have taken charge of the younger children, being compelled to work at the factory, in order to make the small increase of 2s. 3d. a week in addition to the miserable pittance of 7s. a week earned by the father, out of which he pays £3 15s. per annum for a cottage, garden and potato plot! The elder brother having left the house after breakfast to go an errand for his father, and during his absence the clothes of the deceased took fire, and on his return he found the other children vainly endeavouring to put it out. He extinguished the flames and a neighbour came in to his assistance, when the child was put to bed and medical aid procured. The deceased was severely burnt in the right arm and leg and neck and lingered till the next day, when she expired.

MANATON - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., of Ashburton, on April 12th at Manaton, on the body of RICHARD HAGLEY, a little boy aged one year and eleven months, whose clothes taking fire, he was accidentally burnt to death. Verdict accordingly.

KINGSBRIDGE - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq, of Ashburton, on April 13, at Kingsbridge, on the body of ELIZABETH BURGOINE, aged 23, who was taken ill and died in a few hours. Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., of Ashburton on April 14, at the Union House, St. Thomas, Exeter, on the body of FRANCIS HODGE, aged ten years, who was accidentally scalded to death, by falling into a furnace of hot water. Verdict accordingly.

ASHBURTON - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., of Ashburton, on April 16, at Chewley Farm, near Ashburton, on the body of RICHARD HARRIS, aged 59 years, who died from taking some arsenic, while - as it is supposed - he was labouring under a fit of insanity. Verdict accordingly.

ASHPRINGTON - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., of Ashburton, on April 17, at Ashprington, on the body of THOMAS CAMP, aged 16 years, who was accidentally killed by the upsetting of a cart laden with wood. Verdict accordingly.

STOKENHAM - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., of Ashburton, on April 19, at Chillington, in the parish of Stokenham, on the body of ANN LIDSTONE, who in a fit of insanity threw herself out of a window and received a concussion of the brain, and other injuries, which caused her death. Verdict accordingly.

ASHBURTON - Sudden Death. - On Sunday evening last, about seven o'clock, MR WILLIAM IRELAND FERRIS, schoolmaster of this town, left his house to walk a short distance, and on reaching the house of a relative, he complained of being faint, and was provided with a chair to sit down, when his symptoms of illness became very alarming - a medical gentleman was immediately sent for, who promptly attended just as he breathed his last. He has left a widow and four children to lament their loss. An Inquest has been held by J. Gribble, Esq. Coroner, and a verdict "Died by the Visitation of God " returned.

Western Times, Saturday 2 May 1840
EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - Suicide Of A Commercial Traveller. - An Inquest was held on Wednesday evening last at the White Hart, St. Thomas, before J. Gribble, Esq., County Coroner, on the body of SAMUEL THOMAS GILBERT, a commercial traveller, who committed suicide by cutting his throat with a razor. The Jury first proceeded to view the body which lay in a room in a neighbouring house. The deceased who appeared to have been a very powerful man lay extended on the floor on his back with only his shirt and an under waistcoat on, which were completely saturated with blood. The wound in his throat was evidently inflicted with the utmost desperation, cutting the windpipe completely through and nearly severing the head from the body. The large blood vessels on one side of the neck were quite severed. A razor lay on a bedstead near which was completely covered with blood and had the appearance of having being repeatedly used in the attempt. The deceased was first discovered on Wednesday morning by his brother-in-law, Mr J. Bond, just after he had inflicted the wound - his evidence will be found below. He was so much effected by the occurrence that he had great difficulty in giving his testimony. - Mr John Bond:- The deceased married my sister, he came to my house about a fortnight since from Birmingham. On Monday and Tuesday last he slept at my house. He went to bed as usual on Tuesday night, but had been ill all Monday and Tuesday and kept his bed all the day on the latter day. He was under Mr Woodman's care. I found him this morning at about a quarter after three. I heard a noise about that time which appeared to come from his room. I went to his room immediately and heard another noise, the bedroom door was then locked on the outside as I had left it on the previous night. I unlocked the door and went into the room and saw deceased lying under the window. I attempted to lift him up and found him covered with blood. I took him by the hand and he stared me in the face but could not speak. I said, "For God's sake, GILBERT, what have you done." I tried to lift him but he could not get up and struggled dreadfully. I struck a light and then went for Mr Woodman. When I carried the light into the room before I went I saw him still struggling. When I came back from Mr Woodman's he was still rolling and struggling very hard. Coleman, a watchman, came back with me and assisted to hold deceased, who was still struggling and continued so until Mr Woodman came. I then saw the wound in his throat and noticed a razor covered with blood close by. It must have been half an hour from the time I first saw him and the time of his death. He has been in an apparently deranged state for the last fortnight. On Monday we had suspicions of what he might do, and I put everything that I thought might be dangerous out of the way. The razor was his own and he carried it with him. - Sarah Tozer applied leeches to deceased's temples, by Mr Woodman's order. He seemed feverish and one time complained of being light in his head. She corroborated the former evidence. Mr Woodman, Surgeon: - I was called in on Monday evening to see deceased. He was in bed in a very excited state of mind. His face was flushed and seemed swollen. He was very feverish and both his eyes were blood-shot. He then appeared to have been half strangled. I immediately bled him freely and he appeared much relieved. I saw him next morning at ten o'clock and he was still better, but his head was hot. I ordered leeches to be applied and saw him again at 10 o'clock on Tuesday evening and he seemed much better, and expressed himself to that effect. I ordered a continuation of the medicine that he had been previously taking. I was called in at about 4 this morning and found him on the floor with his head resting against the Policeman's knee. I desired him to be laid down on his back. He appeared dying and I remained till he died. I examined the wound and found the large vessels on one side cut quite through by a very deep wound which was the cause of his death. From the state of his mind I directed that he should be narrowly watched, as I was afraid he might do himself an injury. There could be no doubt as to the derangement of his mind. Verdict, Temporary Derangement. - MR GILBERT was a traveller for the house of Phipson and Son, general merchants, Birmingham. He for some time carried on the drapery business at Southmolton, where his premises were destroyed by fire and a child of his wife by a former husband was burnt to death, by which sad event it is understood MR GILBERT lost an income of £40 per annum. He afterwards entered into business in this City as a partner in the firm of GILBERT and Brough, Linen Drapers.

Western Times, Saturday 16 May 1840
DAWLISH - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., on May 6th at Dawlish, on the body of MARIA LUCAS, aged 52, who hung herself in a fit of insanity. Verdict accordingly.

EXMINSTER - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., on May 7th at Exminster, on the body of CAROLINE E. COLE, a young girl, whose death was occasioned by her clothes catching fire. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

BLACKAWTON - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., on May 12th, at Blackauton, on the body of CATHERINE SANFORD, aged 80, who died suddenly. - Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

Western Times, Saturday 23 May 1840
SIDMOUTH - Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - On the morning of Wednesday, the 13th instant, between two and three o'clock, boatman, in the Coast Guard Service, on the Sidmouth Station, being on duty to the eastward on the beach, about a quarter of a mile from the Station House, heard a noise as if some earth and stones were falling from the cliff and on watching saw something being hauled up the face of the cliff by persons above, which looked like a sack with tubs of spirit in it, and on the Beach near the spot he saw some tubs, but no men near them. He fired his pistol immediately to give the alarm and after having so fired he saw the body of a man lying on the beach near the tubs, and about seven or eight yards from him between himself and the cliff. He went up to the man and lifted him up thinking he was drunk. He fired his pistol three or four times till his comrade, another guardman, came up, when still thinking him tipsy they laid him down on the beach and the first man stopped by him till day light in order to prevent his running away, when he discovered the man was dead. The body was lying on its back about 20 yards from where the sack was seen being hauled up the cliff, and a quantity of earth and stones had fallen from the cliff at that place was observed under the chin of the deceased, which appeared fresh, but not bleeding, full of dirt and red earth of the same colour with the earth of the cliffs. The sack which was hauling up at the time the alarm was given did not come down again and another sack, with three tubs in it and room for one more, was found near the tubs on the beach. An Inquest was held on the body on Thursday, the 14th inst., when a report having been extensively circulated that the deceased had been shot, a post mortem examination was made of the body, when three small jagged cuts were found under the margin of the chin. A small one on the upper part of the right side of the forehead and an incision in the scalp at the back part of the head, the skull was not fractured - no bones were broken and there was no dislocation of the neck. On opening the chest the pericardium was found full of blood, which was caused by the escape of blood from a rupture in the right auricle, large enough to admit the finger, which was sufficient to account for the rapid, if not instantaneous death of the deceased. Such a rupture, in the opinion of the medical gent., was likely to occur from a violent fall on a yielding substance, such as the shingle of the beach, while on a hard substance - such as a rock, a fall would be likely to be accompanied by fracture of the limbs. No penetrating wound whatever was discovered on the body, and the external wounds were not sufficient to occasion death. The body was identified to be that of a man named CHICHESTER MANDILL SOUTHLEIGH a carpenter, of Southleigh, who had left his home the day before. It is supposed that the deceased was engaged with others in hauling the tubs up the cliff, and while holding on by the rope, either missed his footing or his hold and fell violently on the beach. The muscular straining and inflation of the lungs necessary on such an occupation at the moment of the fall, must, we think, have greatly aided in producing the rupture discovered on the examination of the body.

Western Times, Saturday 30 May 1840
KILMINGTON - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - At Kilmington, on Monday last, on the body of JOHN BANKS, labourer, aged 33. The deceased had retired to bed in good health on Saturday night and waking about seven o'clock on the Sunday morning, enquired of his wife if the clock had struck seven: She got up to satisfy herself as to the same and returned again to bed. About two minutes afterwards, however, the deceased threw his arms across her and on looking at him she saw his eyes were fixed and his face very pale. She got some water and washed his face thinking he was in a fit and then called in a neighbour when he was found to be dead. A verdict Died by the Visitation of God was returned.

DUNKESWELL - Death By Burning. Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on the 19th instant, a man named SANDERS, residing at Dunkeswell, accompanied by his wife, went out to work, leaving three children at home of the ages of 8, 5 and 2 years. There was a fire burning on the hearth and the youngest of the children, a girl, was playing near it with a dog, which threw the child down and she fell into the fire. the eldest boy, who was cutting sticks, ran to the place and caught up his sister and endeavoured to put out the fire and take off the clothes, but could not do so. He sent his younger brother to call his father, who found the boy sitting in the doorway with his sister in his arms. The poor infant died an hour or two afterwards. An Inquest was held on the body the day following, before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., and a verdict of "Accidentally Burnt" returned.

Western Times, Saturday 6 June 1840
EXETER - Melancholy And Fatal Accident. - On Sunday evening last, between 9 and 1 o'clock a MR CONNETT, brother of the landlord of the Halfway House on the Cowley Bridge road was unfortunately drowned in the river near the Haven Banks Inn opposite the Lime Kilns. The deceased had been passing the evening in the neighbourhood and is supposed to have lost his way owing to the darkness of the night. His hat was seen floating on the water by some persons who were passing and who caused immediate search to be made for the body, which was not found until half-past two o'clock on the following morning. An Inquest has since been held on the body and there being no doubt that the occurrence was purely accidental, a verdict was returned accordingly.

EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - May 19, at Exwick, on the body of RICHARD LEE, a little boy, only five years of age, who accidentally fell into the leat near the Paper Mill in the above place and was found drowned. Verdict Accordingly.

DODBROOKE - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., on May 28, at Dodbrook, on the body of JAMES CORNISH, aged 32, mate of the 'Prosperous' sloop, which he had lately joined, who was found drowned at a short distance from the vessel on the morning of May 27th. Verdict, Found Drowned at the New Quay in the above place, but how or by what means no evidence appears.

BUCKLAND IN THE MOOR - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., on May 29th, at Buckland-in-the-Moor, near Ashburton, on the body of WILLIAM WREFORD, sen., aged 81 years, who was found dead in the road near his house, in the above parish, on the night of May 28th. His death is supposed to have been caused by falling from his horse in a fit, by which he received a violent blow on the forehead and died almost instantaneously, as his body was quite warm when found. Verdict accordingly.

MAMHEAD - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., on May 30th at Mamhead, on the body of MR JOHN MORRISH, labourer, aged 56, who, in assisting in felling a tree in the plantation near Mamhead Cottage was so violently struck on the head by the falling of a limb as to cause immediate death. Verdict accordingly.

DAWLISH - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., on May 30th., at Dawlish, on the body of WILLIAM SODER, aged 13 years, who, while walking on a footpath under a cliff, near the above place, was literally buried alive by a large portion of the cliff falling upon him and from whence he was extricated about three quarters of an hour after, quite dead and his body shockingly mutilated. Verdict, "Accidental Death."

BROADCLYST - An Inquest was held on Saturday last, the 30th of May, at Bending's Plough Inn, Broadclist, before James Partridge, Esq., and a respectable Jury, on the body of MR EDWARD RATCLIFFE, son of the late MR RATCLIFFE, butcher, of the former place. It appears that the deceased, who for many years past has been subject to fits, on Friday last, left his mother's house in the afternoon, to go and see some persons who were weeding a field of corn, belonging to his mother, and to enter which he had to get over a stile, upon which he was seen sitting by the persons in the field, and it is supposed while there he had a fit and fell backwards in the hedge trough, in which he was found, and died instantly. The Jury, after a short deliberation, returned a verdict of "Died by the Visitation of God."

Western Times, Saturday 13 June 1840
TORQUAY - On Tuesday, the 2nd instant, an Inquest was held at her late residence, Torquay, on the body of MARY BALL, aged 65, for many years a highly respectable monthly nurse. It appears that the deceased went to bed on the Saturday night in good health, but much fatigued and stated to the inmates that it was not her intention to rise very early the next morning. In consequence of her not making her appearance at eleven o'clock her room was entered, when she was discovered to be quite dead. A medical man was called in, who gave it as his opinion that she had been dead several hours. Verdict, "Died by the Visitation of God."

Western Times, Saturday 27 June 1840
EXETER - Death By Drowning. - On Sunday afternoon last, a lad named GEORGE BENNETT, aged 14 years, was drowned under the following distressing circumstances. The deceased, who could not swim, in company with another boy, named Saunders, went to the Shilhay Lake for the purpose of bathing. Saunders, who could swim very well, undressed and jumped into the water, which was eight feet deep. The deceased directly afterwards did the same and it being much out of his depth, immediately sank. Saunders proceeded to his assistance and would have saved him, but deceased clung so closely to him, that to save himself, Saunders was forced to release himself from his grasp and with great difficulty swam ashore. Among those who assisted to recover the body was the father of the deceased, who while searching for it, was himself seized with cramp and had a very narrow escape. A Coroner's Inquest was held at the Custom House Inn, and a verdict returned of Accidental Death.

EXETER - On the 13th inst., an Inquest was taken before J. Warren, Esq., at Tarrant's Red Cow, on the body of JAMES FULFORD, nine years of age (whose parents reside in St. Sidwell's), who had been drowned that afternoon, just above Sandy Point. The deceased, with other boys, were bathing, he being unable to swim, but had challenged a companion who should go furthest towards the centre of the river, and in this manner got out of his depth. At this moment Wm. Arden, Esq., chanced to cross the fields, and seeing the imminent danger of the lad, generously plunged into the stream, succeeded in getting hold of the body and bringing it to the shore. No effort was left untried for the lad's restoration, but all was unavailing. A verdict was returned accordingly.

Western Times, Saturday 4 July 1840
MORETONHAMPSTEAD - On Monday last an Inquest was taken at Moretonhampstead, before Joseph Gribble, Esq., one of the Coroners for Devon, on the body of WILLIAM LETHBRIDGE, servant to Mr Samuel Croote, dealer in oats, who died on the preceding Saturday night, in consequence of injuries received on the Thursday week before. At this time he was on his return from Okehampton with a loaded waggon, and his account of the matter was this:- He said he was standing on the arm or shaft of the waggon, when he fell sleeping, he fell to the ground, and both wheels on the near side passed over him, causing such injuries as led to his death; and a verdict of Accidental Death was returned. The deceased was a native of Newton Abbot, about 20 years of age. Had been in the employ of his master for some time and had conducted himself in a manner that won for him the respect of all who knew him.

LYMPSTONE - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - Sudden Death. - On Monday the 22nd ultimo, WILLIAM LONG, a labourer, of Lympstone, aged 59 years, who was assisting to shear sheep at the Farm of Mrs Nicks, in Woodbury, died in the following awfully sudden manner. The deceased, who appeared to be some time ailing and was labouring under symptoms of water on the chest, had helped to shear several sheep on the morning before. He had sheared one sheep and was employed on a second, when as he was standing and leaning forward over the sheep, it struggled a little and the deceased was in the act as it was thought of raising himself up to turn the animal, when he fell on his back on the floor of the barn. He was immediately raised up, it being supposed that he had fainted, but he was quite dead. Medical assistance was immediately procured and an effort was made to bleed the deceased without effect. An Inquest was held on the body before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner, on the 23rd ult., and a verdict returned of "Died by the Visitation of God."

Western Times, Saturday 11 July 1840
BUCKFASTLEIGH - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - At Summer Bridge, in the parish of Buckfastleigh, June 28, on the body of WILLIAM COOMBES, aged 18 years, who, while at play in a field near his home, was suddenly taken ill and almost immediately expired. Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

TEIGNMOUTH - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - July 3rd, at West Teignmouth, on the body of WILLIAM BASSETT, aged 58 years, who, while engaged at work at Mr Sweetlands, at Hill House, in taking down a cob wall by undermining it was almost instantaneously buried by a great portion of the wall falling upon him, from which situation he was extricated in about 15 minutes, but the vital spark had fled. Verdict - Accidental Death.

TOTNES - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq. - July 4th at Totnes, on the body of RICHARD HAMLYN, aged 65 years, who was found dead in his bed, his death is supposed to have been caused by a fit of apoplexy. - Verdict accordingly.

MANATON - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq. - July 6, at Manaton, on the body of JAMES FRENCH, aged 58 years, who, while driving a cart on the 1st inst., down a hill, in attempting to stop the horse which was going a smart pace, was suddenly knocked down by the wheel which passed over his body, by which he sustained so great an injury that he lingered until the Saturday and died. Verdict - Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 11 July 1840
WOODBURY - A melancholy accident occurred at Woodbury on the 29th June last, which caused the death of a man named JAMES KNOWLES, who was at work with another man in a gravel pit, called Milden's Pit, in that parish. They were digging stones for the repair of the turnpike road; the pit was undermined, and the two men were standing under it sifting the gravel from the stones and had taken back nine barrows full of stones: The other man held the sieve and the deceased threw in the gravel and whilst so occupied they saw the mass of gravel above them in the act of falling. The other man ran back, but it caught the sieve, so that he could not extricate it and the deceased also started back, but he could not escape, and the mass fell upon him and completely buried him. His fellow labourer immediately began to dig away the gravel, in order to extricate him, until he uncovered the head and shoulders of deceased, and procured further assistance, but he was quite dead. - An Inquest was held on the body on Tuesday, the 30th ult., before R. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner. - Verdict, Accidental Death.

EXMOUTH - An Inquest was held at Exmouth on Friday last, before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on the body of MARIA SMITH, aged 66 years, who having been for some time previously very ailing, died suddenly as was conjectured, from the rupture of a blood vessel.

Western Times, Saturday 18 July 1840
EXETER - An Inquest was held by J. Warren, Esq., City Coroner, at the Three Cranes, South Street, on Wednesday last, on the body of W. ALLER, shoe-maker, of the College, who hanged himself on the previous day. The deceased had been for some time in distress and his mind became affected in consequence. Verdict, Temporary Insanity.

EXETER - An Inquest was held by J. Warren, Esq, City Coroner at the Valiant Soldier, Magdalene Street, on Saturday last, on the body of a lad, aged 16, named J. MORRIS, who died in the Hospital, in consequence of injuries which he received by falling into the fire at his mother's house, in Bradninch, while in a fit. Verdict, Accidental Death.

UPOTTERY - Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - An Inquest was held at Up Ottery on the 14th inst., on the body of HENRY EVELEIGH, aged 9 years. The deceased had been at work with his father drawing up marl and while unloading, a young black mare which had been taken out of the waggon, was tied up to the hedge. The deceased was sent to loosen the horse, in order to put it in again, to fetch another load, and on coming up to her, he slapped the mare with his hands, upon which she kicked at him with both her hind legs, and struck him on the head. He dropped immediately and died in about an hour afterwards. - Verdict, Accidental Death. -

UPLYME - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. - I fatal accident occurred at Uplyme, a few days since, to a lad, aged 10 years, named JOEL JEFFORD. He had been allowed by another lad in the employ of Mr G. Webb, of Cornhayes Farm, to ride in a waggon which the latter was driving, until they came to a wheat field, where the waggon had to enter and shortly after JEFFORD, who had alighted from the waggon, began shouting after the horses, upon which one of them kicked him in the belly. He was carried in a state of insensibility to a neighbouring cottage and died in about a quarter of an hour afterwards. An Inquest was held at the Talbot Arms, and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

HONITON - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq. - On Saturday last, an infant aged 1 year and 7 months, the child of a person named SPARKES, of Buckwell, near Honiton, accidentally fell down stairs and was killed. An Inquest was held on the body and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

Western Times, Saturday 25 July 1840
CREDITON - Yesterday an Inquest was held at the Green Dragon Inn, before J. Partridge, Esq., Coroner and a respectable Jury, on the body of the infant son of JOHN COLES, mason. It appeared in evidence that a young man of the name of Bicknell, a tailor, was walking near the Green about a month since with a young woman, when he met an elder daughter of COLES, who had the infant in her arms, and was in company with some other children, who joined her in calling the female by whom Bicknell was accompanied some grossly offensive epithet, which irritated Bicknell much, who beat the children very unmercifully and in his passion accidentally struck the infant on his head, who lingered until Tuesday last. It was elicited from the parents of the child that it had previously been in bad health and the Jury returned a verdict of Died from Natural Causes. We are informed that Mr Empson, the Surgeon who attended the child, refused being sworn, as the Coroner could not allow him anything for his attendance; but in answer to a question from the Foreman of the Jury, Mr A. Norrish hinted that the child died from natural causes.

TORQUAY - Coroner's Inquest On CAPT. CARLYLE CLARKE - One of the Gentlemen Drowned off Teignmouth on the 10th of July. - An Inquest was held by J. Gribble, Esq., one of the Coroners for Devon, at the London Inn, Torquay on the 17 and 20th instant., on the body of CAPT. CARLYLE CLARKE, aged 35, when the following evidence was offered. Robert Couch, fisherman, stated that he saw the Belle Sauvage sail out from Torquay with all sail up, Mr G. W. Vaneck was at the helm and CAPTAIN CLARKE and Mr Barrett were seated t opposite sides of the vessel. W. White, the boatman, was attending the sails. They were shaping a course towards Exmouth. Henry Cousins, fisherman, was out in the "Ellen" on the 16th inst., and when 4 miles off Dartmouth he saw deceased's body floating on the water, it was picked up by two men sent in a boat from the "Ellen" and brought on board and ultimately taken to Brixham, where it was identified. In the pockets were found 15s. in silver, a silk handkerchief and some cigars, but no watch or rings were found. Samuel White, of the Ellen, corroborated this evidence. Thomas Parker, master of the "Swan" yacht belonging to R. Wake, jun., Esq., of Heavitree, stated that on the 11th instant he and Mr Wake were aboard the Swan about 2 in the afternoon going to the eastward and between 3 and 4 miles off Teignmouth. They saw a yawl-rigged sailing boat about a mile to leeward with all sail set except the gaft top sail. A heavy puff of wind came off the land and he saw the boat go down and told Mr Wake. The helm was immediately put down and they made sail for the spot and continued beating about at it for half an hour but could not see anything. It took a quarter of an hour to sail to the spot. Verdict - "Accidentally Drowned." Mr Wakes, the owner of the yacht, was summoned on the Inquest, but as the Constable who had to serve the summons could not find him his evidence was not obtained. CAPT. CARLYLE CLARK of the 14th Bombay Infantry, was well known on his side of India as Lion Clark, from destroying single handed, after an arduous struggle in which he was most severely wounded, an animal of that description; we beg to contradict our statement that he could swim, as we have since heard from authority he could not swim a stroke.

PLYMOUTH - An Inquest has been held on the body of FRANCIS DYKE, a seaman belonging to the schooner Saltram, of this port. The cause of the death was suffocation - the vessel having been smoked to destroy vermin. Verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Saturday 8 August 1840
TORQUAY - Another Of The Drowned Persons Found Near Torquay. - August 5th, an Inquest was held by J. Gribble, at Torquay, on the body of the late EDWARD MOULTON BARRETT, Esq., aged 33 years. Mr W. Jacob, of West Cowes, pilot, stated that while sailing off Torquay, he saw the body of the deceased floating about a mile and half from the Great Rock, Torbay, bearing East, about 2 p.m., on August 4th. He proceeded to take the body into the boat and brought it ashore and on its being examined it was found a little mutilated in the face and hands. The following articles were found on the deceased - a purse containing 16s. in silver, a gold watch and guard, a pocket handkerchief marked E. M. B., a pencil case, cigar box and a gold ring was found in the boat which fell off his finger. The watch was identified and owned by his father and servant. Similar evidence was given as that offered on the Inquest of the late CAPT. CLARKE, and a similar verdict was returned.

CHAGFORD - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner, Ashburton. - July 28, at Chagford, on the body of REBECCA ELLIS , aged 68 years, who received such severe injuries by falling down stairs in house that she only survived the accident a few days. Verdict accordingly.

OKEHAMPTON - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner - August 3rd, at Okehampton, on the body of MARY ANN OSBORN, aged 6 years, whose clothes accidentally caught fire in the absence of her mother and was so shockingly burnt that she survived only a few hours and died. Verdict Accidentally Burnt.

Western Times, Saturday 15 August 1840
NEWTON ABBOT - Inquest by J. Gribble, Esq., - Aug. 7th at Newton Abbot, HENRY CRIMP, aged 46, who while at work in a sand pit was accidentally killed by a large portion of the bank falling upon him. Verdict accordingly.

BRIDFORD - Inquest by J. Gribble, Esq., - At Swanaford, near Bridford, August 9th, on the body of GEORGE HILL, aged 70 years, who in a fit of temporary insanity cut his throat. Verdict accordingly.

BRIXHAM - Inquest by J. Gribble, Esq., August 10, at Brixham, on the body of JOHN BLAKE VARWELL, youth, aged 12 years, who while bathing on Saturday last, at C[?]ton Cove, was carried out of his depth by the tide and unfortunately drowned. Verdict, Accidentally Drowned.

TORQUAY - The body of WHITE, the boatman of the Belle Sauvage, was picked up off Teignmouth on the 11th inst., and taken to Torquay, where an Inquest was held upon it by J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner and a verdict of Accidental Death by Drowning, returned.

BARNSTAPLE - A fatal accident happened on Wednesday at noon, JOHN, son of MR EDWARD SETTER BAKER, miller, of Port Mills, aged three years. The little fellow having taken to dinner, went into the mill with an apprentice; and in a few minutes his father hearing a scream, ran out and found him lying by the wheel on his back; the child faintly said "mother," and died immediately. The deceased must have been caught and struck down by one of the teeth of the wheel; there was some bruises on his person, but the injury was chiefly internal. An Inquest was held on the body by Thomas Copner, Esq.,, Coroner. A verdict of "Accidental Death" returned.

CHARLES - Sudden Death. - An Inquisition was held on Friday by Thomas Copner, Esq., Coroner, in the Parish of Charles, on the body of JOHN LEAWORTHY, a mason, aged 64, who was working with his son in Bremridge Wood, in perfect health, when the son observed his father bending on the left side and heard him suddenly cry out, "WILLIAM! WILLIAM! my head! my head!" and never spoke afterwards. - Verdict, "Visitation of God."

SIDMOUTH - Inquest held before Mr R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - On the 5th inst. on MRS SARAH HAMILTON, of Sidmouth, wife of MR JOHN HAMILTON, stone mason there, who fell down between the hours of one and two o'clock on the morning of the 3rd inst., and instantly expired. The deceased was 67 years of age and had been in good health up to the time of her decease.

HEMYOCK - Inquest held before Mr R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - At Hemiock, on the 6th inst., on the body of ELIZABETH HATCHARD, aged five years, who died from injury received by her clothes taking fire on the 4th instant, being the second child in the same family which has within the last three years, met with its death in the same manner.

SEATON AND BEER - Inquest held before Mr R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - At Seaton on Tuesday the 11th inst., on MR JAMES WHITE, aged 81 years, who was found dead on the floor of his bedroom, having retired to bed the previous evening in his usual health.

Western Times, Saturday 22 August 1840
BUCKFASTLEIGH - Inquest by J. Gribble, Esq., - August 14, at Buckfast, near Buckfastleigh, on the body of MR R. TOOLEY, of the Abbey Inn, aged 54 years, whose death was caused on the previous day by the rupture of a blood vessel in the lungs. It appears that MR TOOLEY, who has been blind for the last 26 years, has been engaged during that period and has always delighted in agricultural pursuits and though blind, has been capable of taking an active part in those employments and on the day above mentioned he was busily engaged in binding the sheaves of corn after his reapers when the above melancholy circumstance occurred and so great was the quantity of blood discharged as to cause sudden death by suffocation. His family by this occurrence have been plunged in the deepest distress. he was a kind husband and parent, a good neighbour and a good master and is deeply lamented by a large circle of relatives, friends and acquaintances. His funeral took place on Sunday afternoon last at Buckfastleigh, where the largest concourse of persons attended ever witnessed on such an occasion. Verdict - Died from the Rupture of a Blood Vessel in the Lungs.

SHALDON - An Inquest was held on Tuesday, at the Clifford Arms Inn, Shaldon, before J. Gribble, Esq., and a respectable Jury (J. J. Coward, Esq., Foreman) on the body of WILLIAM PAYNE, a branch pilot and fisherman, of this place. It appeared in evidence that the deceased, accompanied by his son, a lad about fourteen years old, proceed in a boat over the bar the previous evening, in their usual avocation of being on the look out for vessels: During the night a severe gale sprung up from the S.W., such as has not visited this port for many months past. It is supposed the deceased and his son were asleep at the commencement of the storm, and were driven on shore opposite the Public Baths, Teignmouth, before aware of their danger, the cable that secured them having previously parted. The body was found by one of the Coast Guard, named Colliver, about three o'clock in the morning, who immediately related the circumstances to the commanding officer, Lieut. O'Reilly, R.N. In consequence of the great contradiction in the evidence of the different witnesses, the Jury was a considerable time investigating the case, but ultimately returned a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned"; but at the same time expressed their regret that Lieut. O'Reilly did not call a medical man to examine the body. The body of PAYNE'S son, we are sorry to say, has not been found.

KINGS NYMPTON - An Inquest was held at Kingsnympton, on Sunday last, by T. Copern, Esq., of MR GEORGE SKINNER, aged 46, of Collacott Farm, in that parish, who the previous morning killed a sheep and had dressed himself for Southmolton Market and appeared in perfect health - went into a back yard and his sister, who was waiting to accompany him, fancied he stayed a long time, went to call him in about half an hour, when she was horror struck at finding him on the ground a corpse. Verdict, "Died by the Visitation of God."

Western Times, Saturday 29 August 1840
TOTNES - The Late Fatal Accident At Totnes. - The body of young EDMONDS was not found until Saturday, the 22nd inst; it was then discovered by a man named Morgan, who had been searching for it for some days, lying on the Staverton side of the river, directly opposite the Dartington Lodge, to which place it was taken, and on Sunday an Inquest was held on the body by J. Gribble, Esq. His name was JOHN EDMONDS and he was aged 28, and followed the business of a cordwainer. Verdict - "Accidentally Drowned in the river Dart."

EXETER - On Friday last an Inquest was taken before John Warren, Esq., Coroner for Exeter, at Palmer's King's Arms Inn, West-street, on the body of ROSA WRIGHT, an infant eight weeks old, which had been found dead in bed, by its parents. And a verdict was returned accordingly.

Western Times, Saturday 5 September 1840
TOTNES - Accident On The River Dart. - On Friday last a man named JOHN SALTER employed n the Salmon fishery was followed by his child, a little boy, 5 years old, to the fish-house on the Broad Marsh. The man then proceeded with a fellow labourer to his employment and having in a short time missed the child, they both went to search for it. It was found lying in the river dead where the water was but 18 inches deep. An Inquest was held on the body on the following Sunday before J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner, and a verdict of Accidentally Drowned returned.

BUCKFASTLEIGH - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - August 23, at Buckfastleigh, on the body of SARAH LEE, a little girl aged 5 years old, who died suddenly of a convulsion fit. - Verdict accordingly.

SHALDON - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - August 26, at the Passage House Inn, Shaldon, on the body of RICHARD PAYNE, aged 14 years, who was unfortunately drowned with his father off Teignmouth, in the storm of Aug. 17th, and was found ashore on the 25th, by a preventive service man. - Verdict accordingly.

ASHBURTON - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - August 27, at Ashburton, on the body of JOHN WILLIAMS, aged 78 years, who died almost suddenly on the previous day. - Verdict accordingly.

CHIVELSTONE - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - August 29, at East Prowe, Chivelstone, near Kingsbridge, on the body of AGNESS BARTLETT, aged 68 years, who from asthmatic and other complaints, was taken ill after going to bed August 26 and died almost suddenly. Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

NEWTON ABBOT - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - At Newton, on the body of ELLEN JONES, an infant, 3 months old, who died suddenly. Verdict, Died from Visitation of God.

Western Times, Saturday 12 September 1840
OTTERY ST MARY - On the 3rd inst., a child, named MARY ROGERS, about two years old, daughter of the butler to Sir John Kennaway, was drowned in the river Tale. The child had been playing with some others in the gardens of Escott House and strayed from them into a field where the river runs and into which the child accidentally fell. An Inquest was held on the ensuing day, before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - Verdict, Accidental Death.

COMBEINTEIGNHEAD - A distressing and melancholy accident occurred at Coombeinteignhead. On Saturday last, some workmen were employed in ripping and dressing red rock for the building of a new Parsonage house, for the Rev. Mr Wrey, when a mass of the rock gave way and buried a young man named URIAH GARRETT, of Abbottscarswell. Another man who was on the top of the rock at the time, was also killed, leaving a wife and five children destitute. When the body of the young man GARRETT was dug out, it presented a frightfully mangled appearance, his arm was nearly severed from his body, all his bones were broken and his bowels protruded and yet singular to say, his watch was unhurt and still going. - An Inquest was held on Sunday by J. Gribble, Esq., and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

Western Times, Saturday 19 September 1840
UFFCULME - Death From Fright. - An accident of this nature occurred in Uffculme on Saturday last, in the person of JOAN WEBBER, the wife of HENRY WEBBER, of that parish, labourer. It appears that the deceased, who was 89 years of age, resided with her husband of the same age, in a cottage in Uffculme and had been married upwards of 60 years. On Saturday afternoon, the 12th inst., the husband and wife were employed upstairs in cording the sacking of their bed and wanting a bit of wood, the deceased went down to fetch it - the husband being lame, and unable to walk; on her return she fell down and he not being able to go to her, called for assistance; she was lifted up and appeared to have hurt her left shoulder and hand. She walked upstairs herself and was put to bed. Medical assistance was procured on the Sunday and on examination the shoulder was found to be bruised, but no bone broken, or any other external injury. She made no complaint of any internal injury and the pulse appeared good, but she died in the course of the night of the Sunday. No other reason could be assigned as to the cause of death than the shock which the nervous system of a person so aged would sustain from such a fall. An Inquest was held on the body on the 11th inst., before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., and a verdict returned accordingly.

Western Times, Saturday 26 September 1840
SOUTH MOLTON - An Inquest was held on Wednesday last, by T. Copner, Esq., at the Tiverton Arms Inn, Southmolton, on the body of JOAN GARDINER, aged 62, housekeeper at the above Inn, residing with her brother-in-law, William Bawden. Deceased went to bed in perfect health the previous night, and in the morning was found a corpse. Verdict - "Visitation of God."

ILFRACOMBE - On Friday last, as one of the pilot boats was cruising off Burrow Noze, the crew saw something floating, and on rowing to the spot, found it to be the body of a man, who had been in the water a considerable time, as the body presented a mingled appearance. It was supposed to be the body of CAPTAIN LEWORTHY (who it will be recollected, was washed over the bar with four others, about a month since). On Saturday an Inquest was held on the body, before T. Copner, Esq., when it was identified by some articles which were in his pockets. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Western Times, Saturday 3 October 1840
NEWTON ABBOT - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - At Newton, 19th September, on the body of MARIA BODLEY, aged 2 years, who accidentally fell into a pond of water near the papermills belonging to Mr Wm. Bickford, from which she was taken out quite dead. Verdict accordingly.

EXETER - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - At the Hospital of the County Gaol, Sept. 21, on the body of ROBERT PYKE, a convict, aged 26 years, who died at the said Hospital, of a dropsical complaint. - Verdict, Visitation of God.

SOUTH MOLTON - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - September 21., at Upton, in the parish of Southmolton, on the body of ANN STEER, aged 68 years, who was taken ill while in the garden near her house and died almost suddenly. Verdict, Visitation of God.

NEWTON ABBOT - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - September 21st, on the body of ANN GOSS, aged 70 years, who fell down in a fit and instantly expired.

Western Times, Saturday 17 October 1840
ASHBURTON - Afflicting Accident. - On Saturday se'nnight, as ELIZA, daughter of MR S. MANN, news agent, aged 15 months, was on the footway outside her parent's house, a cart, heavily laden with lime, drawn by two horses, belonging to Mr W. White, of Lake Farm, in the parish of Woodland, passed by and while that driver, a boy about 15 years of age, it is believed, was negligently stopping behind, the horses and vehicle accidentally came in contact with the child, which was so severely crushed between the wheel and kerbstone of the pavement, that it survived only a quarter of an hour. It is lamentable to state that the proprietor of the horses and vehicle, it is stated, passed and re-passed the house of the afflicted parents on the same day the accident occurred, and was so far destitute of humanity as not to call to express his regret, or to offer to administer the smallest comfort or consolation to them. An Inquest was held on the 5th inst., and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

EXETER - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - September 30th, at the Hospital of the County Bridewell on the body of MATTHEW KNEYLE, aged 50 years, who died of debility and a broken constitution, in the above Hospital - Verdict accordingly.

SAMPFORD COURTENAY - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - Oct. 3rd, at Sticklepath, on the body of WILLIAM KIDDLE, a little boy aged 8 years, who was accidentally killed on being crushed under the cogs of a mill wheel. - Verdict accordingly.

CHRISTOW - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - Oct. 10th, at Canonteign Farm, on the body of RICHARD BOARD, aged 8 years, who was thrown from a horse on the Sunday previously and received such severe injuries on his head from the fall that he survived only a few days. Verdict accordingly.

Western Times, Saturday 24 October 1840
EXETER - Coroner's Inquest - Melancholy Death. - An Inquest was held on Monday, at the Honiton Inn, in Paris Street, before S. Warren, Esq., Coroner for the City, on the body of MR FREDERICK WHITE, the well-known messenger to the Commissioners of Improvement, who was found drowned in the Basin on Saturday evening last. - George Freeman, a seaman belonging to the sloop "Three Brothers, " of London, stated that that vessel came up the canal and into the Basin on Saturday evening about six o'clock. While mooring the vessel he heard a splash as of someone falling in the water, and by the Captain's directions he and another seaman got into the boat and pulled directly for the spot. It was very dark at the time, they observed a man's hat floating which they picked up, but not being able to see the body they returned to the vessel for a boat hook, which they found was not long enough and then they again returned for a grapnel, but could not find one. On their return to the place they found a grapnel had been brought from the Haven Banks Inn and at the second throw they brought up the body of a man who was to all appearance quite dead. They rowed up the river to a public house called the Queen Adelaide, but the landlady declined to take in the man if he was dead, saying it could be of no service. In about two minutes the landlord came and said he knew deceased, and should have been very happy to have done him any good. They then rowed the body to the Quay, and a surgeon was sent for, who pronounced the man to be quite dead. Witness held the man in a sitting position in the boat; deceased never showed the least sign of life after he was taken out of the water. He was in the water eight or nine minutes. - Henry Lascelles, Police officer, stated that in consequence of information he received, he went to the Quay and saw the body of MR WHITE in the boat with the last witness. It was laid nearly flat on the back. - Mrs Powlesland, of the Haven Banks Inn, stated that on Saturday, about twelve o'clock, deceased came to her house and had half a pint of beer, which he promised to pay for on his return, he went down the banks and came again about three o'clock, with a cup belonging to an old woman who lives close by and asked for half a noggin of gin, saying he was going to give it to a poor old soul. He gave witness 6d. and she gave him 2 ½ d. change. He then went away and about five o'clock came again with a female, whom he had met just outside the door and who asked him for something to drink. Deceased called for a noggin of gin which was given them in two glasses. Witness asked who was going to pay for it, and he said he was, but he had no money, and he then told her his name and address. She knew him before, but not by name. She knows the woman also personally, but not by name; thinks she is a married woman living in St Sidwell's. In about ten minutes witness came back to the room but found they had both left. She looked out at the door and saw the woman going towards the town, but did not see the deceased. She did not see him again until nearly half-past six, when he was walking up and down the path between her own house and the bridge. She did not know at first who it was, he appeared thoughtful and melancholy. She said, "Is that you MR WHITE?" and he replied, "What?" and on her repeating the question, he said, "I don't understand you, are you Irish?" She then went into the house and requested some men who were there to go and speak to him. A few minutes afterwards she heard that someone was drowned in the Basin. She could not say that WHITE appeared to have been drinking, he appeared to be melancholy and she could not tell what was the matter with him. - Simon Drew, a plasterer, works for Mr Powlesland, and lodges in his house, left work on Saturday about half-past five. WHITE was then walking up and down the path, and continued to do so for at least an hour. He appeared like a man lost and quite melancholy. He really thought deceased had been drinking, but he seemed to be very careful in keeping in the path. The gates near the gas-works leading into the water, were open on that evening, the last time he saw him was about five or six minutes before hearing he was drowned. Witness went with a grapnel as soon as he heard someone was in the water. - It was stated by some person present, that deceased had been very much depressed, and had taken a good deal to drinking since the loss of his wife, nine weeks ago. - The Coroner having summed up the evidence, the Jury after a few minutes consultation returned a verdict of "Found Drowned." MR WHITE has left several children to lament the loss of their only parent, thus suddenly and prematurely snatched from them. MR WHITE was in the 52nd year of his age and has been in the service of the Commissioners of Improvement of this city from the time of the passing the first Act in the year 1812, a period of 27 years. There are already several candidates in the field.

SOUTH TAWTON - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - Oct. 12, at South Tawton, on the body of GEORGE TURNER, who, while engaged at work in a wood lime kiln, on the 2nd of March last, with other labourers, one of them named Andrew Lang, is stated to have set fire to the wood while TURNER was within the kiln, by which means he was so severely burnt that he lingered until the 10th instant, and died from the injuries he then received. Verdict - Manslaughter against Andrew Lang.

DARTINGTON - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq.,- Oct. 14, at Dartington, near Totnes, on the body of SARAH WINCHESTER, aged 2 years, whose clothes accidentally caught fire on the 10th October, while her parents were from home, and was burnt in such a shocking state that she died on the 12th. Verdict - Accidentally Burnt to Death.

ASHCOMBE - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - Oct. 16, at Ashcombe, on the body of GEORGE RICHARDS, aged 33 years, who, while at work on the 10th instant, in the farm yard of Sir Robert Newman, was seized with a violent pain in his bowels, and lingered until the 13th and died. Verdict accordingly.

EXETER ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE - Sudden Death. - DAVID NURTON, many years a constable of St. Thomas, after returning from Totnes on Monday evening last about eleven o'clock, on retiring to rest at one, fell down stairs in a fit of apoplexy. Mr Land, Surgeon, was immediately called in, and administered the most approved means in such cases, but without effect; the poor sufferer lingered until Wednesday morning. On Thursday evening an Inquest was held on the body at the Buller's Arms, when a verdict "Died of Apoplexy" was returned.

HONITON - An Inquest was held at Honiton on Monday the 12th inst., on the body of HARRIET HITCHCOCK, an infant about 18 months old, who died from an injury received on the head by falling from the arms of an elder sister, a little girl aged about six years. A verdict was returned of Accidental Death.

Western Times, Saturday 31 October 1840
WOODBURY - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - At Woodbury on Tuesday the 20th inst., on the body of SARAH ANN GORDING, about 8 years of age, who died from injuries received by her clothes catching fire.

FARRINGDON - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - At Elliott's Farm, Farringdon, on the 21st inst., on the body of MARY HELLIER, aged 72, who having been labouring under a dropsical complaint for some time, died suddenly on the morning of the Saturday previous not having had any medical assistance.

EXMOUTH - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - On the 24th inst., at Exmouth, on the body of HANNAH TURNER, aged 78, the deceased who had been previously ailing and infirm had been on the evening on the 20th inst., helped upstairs by her daughter, who assisted to undress her. She then left her seated in the bed for a few minutes and on her return found her lying on the bed quite dead.

KILMINGTON - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - On Tuesday the 27th at Kilmington, on the body of JAMES CROSS, a youth of about 18 years of age, who came to his death in the following melancholy manner. The deceased, who was in employ at Gammon Hill Farm, Kilmington, was going on Monday afternoon, the 26th, with a fellow servant to the pond with some horses to let them drink. They had four horses, one of them a bay gelding which the deceased was trying to mount, from the bank by the side of the road, but could not do it. He then led the horse across the road to a gate and mounted him. He rode several yards down the turnpike road, when he struck the horse across the head with the stem of the whip, on which the horse ran two or three steps and fell down and the deceased fell under the horse. He was taken into his master's house and medical assistance was procured, but the injuries he had received were such that he died about 5 o'clock on the Tuesday morning.

Western Times, Saturday 7 November 1840
EXETER ST SIDWELL - Awfully Sudden Death At A Tory Burgess Gorge. - On Tuesday last an Inquest was held at the Red Lion Inn, St. Sidwells, on the body of JOHN BRAILEY, who died suddenly at the election supper given at that house on the previous night by the tory candidates. The Inquest was held before J. Warren, Esq., Coroner and the Jury having viewed the body at the residence of deceased, the following evidence was given. - SARAH BRAILEY, widow of the deceased, who was a saddler and harness maker, aged 41, deposed that she saw him alive at about seven o'clock on Monday evening. He had taken his breakfast, dinner and tea at home and remained at home nearly all day. He was absent from home about an hour after tea and returned saying he was coming to the Red Lion to take his supper. She was called about quarter to 8 and found him dead in a chair in the court of the Red Lion. He was sitting in a chair close to the door. There were many persons around him assisting. He was taken into the tap-room soon after and thence he was taken home by Mr Land's directions, who attended in five minutes after witness. He had been in very high spirits throughout the day. He was quite sober when he went away. He drank nothing at home. He had very indifferent health and had been under nearly all the doctors in Exeter. About five years ago he lost the sight of his left eye, and use of his right arm, and his speech for nearly three months. Dr Pennell then attended him. The doctors of the Dispensary also attended him. Within the last five or six months he had been much better in health. - William Hayman, tallow chandler, of St. Sidwells, knew deceased, who had been failing in health for two years past. Deceased came with him to supper at the Red Lion - the supper was given in consequence of the election on the previous day. It was about seven o'clock when witness went to the supper. He met deceased at the door and sat by the side of him at the supper table. Supper was served in about 10 minutes or a quarter of an hour. He and deceased were conversing in the interval. Deceased had a plate of roast beef and witness believed that the second mouthful choked him. He was seized with a cough at the moment he took it and then turned his head over the back of his chair as if he wished to spit something out, but could not. He then put his hand to his mouth, rose up and left the room. Witness spoke to him, but he did not answer. In five minutes after witness heard that he was dead and on going downstairs saw him dead on a chair. He drank nothing in witness's presence during the night. He drank nothing at the supper table, there was no drink then in the room. He seemed quite sober. - Fanny Bartlett, servant at the Red Lion Inn, saw deceased come out of the supper room holding his head and appearing ill. She spoke to him three times, but he gave no answer. He then went downstairs, and when he got to the bottom, laid his head on the banisters. Witness then went into the kitchen and in two or three minutes after when she came out she saw him in the court lying on his back - she heard him fall while she was in the kitchen. - Sarah Hall, wife of the ostler at the Red Lion, saw deceased fall in the court after he had come downstairs. She and others assisted to place him on a chair - foam came from his mouth, which was washed away. He breathed once or twice, but never spoke. He was dead in a very short time after that. - Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

Western Times, Saturday 14 November 1840
EXETER - Sudden Death. - A poor man named SQUIRE, a wool sorter, in the employ of Mr Maunder, of this city, went to his work on Monday morning at 6 o'clock. About half past 7 he became unwell and was shortly afterwards removed to his house which was very near; assistance was instantly procured, but it was of no avail and he expired in about 20 minutes. An Inquest was held on the body yesterday morning before J. Warren, Esq., Coroner, and a verdict returned of "Died by the Visitation of God."

Western Times, Saturday 21 November 1840
ASHBURTON - Fatal Accident. - On Saturday afternoon last, as CHARLES STARK, a lad about 15 years of age, servant to Mr W. Hellier, of Alston Farm, near this town, was riding on horseback in the road leading from Ashburton Down to Alston Cross, on the Exeter turnpike road, he was unfortunately killed by the fall of the horse and found quite dead in the ditch with the horse upon him, shortly after the accident occurred. An Inquest was held on Monday last, by J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner, of this town and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

BUCKFASTLEIGH - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - Oct. 23, at Warnicombe Farm, in the parish of Buckfastleigh, on the body of NICHOLAS EASTERBROOK, aged 23 years, who, while sitting near the fire on the 20th ult., fell backwards in a fit of apoplexy and instantly expired. Verdict accordingly.

EXETER - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - Oct. 26, at the Hospital of the County Gaol, on the body of ELIZABETH STRONG, aged 19 years, who died on the 24th ult., of a bowel complaint, with which she had been for some time previously afflicted. Verdict - Visitation of God.

MALBOROUGH - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - Nov. 3rd., at Malborough, near Kingsbridge, on the body of HONOR TRENICK, aged 10 years, who was found dead in bed. Verdict - Visitation of God.

DREWSTEIGNTON - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - Nov. 5, at Narracott Farm, in the parish of Drewsteignton, on the body of WILLIAM STRONG, aged 84 years, who fell down and died suddenly, on the 2nd inst. Verdict - Visitation of God.

COMBEINTEIGNHEAD - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - Nov. 9th at Coombeinteignhead, on the body of ELIZABETH BATTERSHALL, aged 66 years, who was found dead in her bed, on the 7th inst. Verdict, Visitation of God.

ASHPRINGTON - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - Nov. 10, at Comroy Farm, in the parish of Ashprington, on the body of JOHN MUGFORD, aged 10 years, who died in a state of insensibility from injuries received in the head, but how received, did not appear at the Inquest. Verdict accordingly.

MORELEIGH - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - Nov. 12, at Grimstonsleigh Farm, near Morley, on the body of EDWIN ELLIOTT, son of MR R. ELLIOTT, yeoman, aged 3 years, who was unfortunately drowned by falling into a pond of water in the farm yard, on the 10th inst. The fire-pan was found at the pond, and it is supposed the poor little fellow was trying the depth with it when he fell in. Verdict, Accidentally Drowned.

THROWLEIGH - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - Nov. 14, at Throwleigh, near Chagford, on the body of MARY BENNETT, aged 89 years, who, while fetching milk to a distant farm, was taken ill on the road, and died the 10th inst., the same evening. Verdict, Visitation of God.

IPPLEPEN - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - Nov. 16, at Daignton, in the parish of Ipplepen, on the body of ROBERT BUTLAND HUNT, aged 6 years, son of RICHARD HUNT, Esq., who received such severe injury in his bowels, from the kick of a horse, on the 7th inst., that he lingered, and died on the 14th. Verdict, Accidentally Killed.

SIDMOUTH - Shocking Suicide. - An Inquest was held on Friday at Sidmouth, before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner, on the body of SAMUEL EVANS, a sawyer, who cut his throat on the Sunday morning previously. It appeared that deceased, who left a widow and three children, and was about 40 years of age, had been in a low and desponding way for some time previously, and had been out of work for four or five months. On Sunday his wife got up, leaving him in bed. While dressing one of the children, she heard a noise in the bedroom as of something falling and desired her eldest son, a boy of 10 years of age, to go up and see what was the matter. On entering the room he saw his father lying on the bed and a quantity of blood about it. An alarm was given, and one of the neighbours came, when it was found that the wretched man had inflicted an extensive wound in his throat; blood was flowing from it and appeared over all that part of the bed which was towards the window. It was also tracked from a small dressing table, which stood at some distance from the bed. A medical gentleman attended and examined the wound, which extended across the throat. The windpipe was divided but none of the large arteries. The deceased lingered until Friday, when he expired. A verdict of "Temporary Insanity" was returned.

Western Times, Saturday 5 December 1840
BRIXHAM - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - Nov. 29, at the Nelson Inn, Brixham, on the body of RICHARD CREWSE, aged 95 years, who was taken ill of apoplexy on the 27 ult. and died almost suddenly. - Verdict, Visitation of God.

CHAGFORD - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - Nov. 30, at Jurston in the parish of Chagford, on the body of WILLIAM CROUT, aged 12 years, who while driving a cart between the above place and Moreton, the horse ran off, he was thrown, the wheel of the cart passed over him and he was so seriously injured that he lingered a few hours and died. - Verdict Accidental Death.

DENBURY - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., - Dec. 1st, at Denbury, on the body of THOMAS GOSS , aged 72 years, who while engaged at work the day before on the roof of a house was suddenly taken ill and died almost immediately. Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

BROADHEMBURY - A melancholy accident occurred here on the morning of Saturday, the 21st Nov., a poor fellow named JOSEPH CLAPP, in the employ of E. S. Drewe, Esq., of the Grange, had got up on the top of a waggon load of wood, which had been drawing the night before, with the intention of unloading or throwing it down; the load was about 7 or 8 feet high and he was just about to throw down a lot of bines to bind the wood, when his foot slipped and he fell heavily to the ground. He was immediately assisted, but had lost all sensation in his legs and feet - he lingered until the following Saturday, when he died, having sustained severe injury in the head and spine. The deceased was about 31 years of age, and has left a wife and two children. An Inquest was held on the body before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on Monday, 30th Nov., and a verdict of "Accidental Death" returned.

BICTON - Instance Of Sudden Death. - On Thursday last an Inquest was held on the body of THOMAS PILLAR, before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner. The deceased who was about 50 years of age, was a gardener in the employ of Lord Rolle, at Bicton; he lived at Colyton Raleigh, and on Tuesday last, after taking his dinner at his son's house at Bicton, returned to his work in the gardens about 2 o'clock in the afternoon. He was occupied in fencing round some plants which occasioned his stooping very much. About ten minutes after 3 his son went to the gardens to see him and on approaching the spot where he was at work, found him lying on his left side. He called for assistance to another man who came up and they found him quite dead. Deceased had complained to his son of pain in his head for several days past, which he thought was worse on that day. A medical gentleman attended, who attempted to bleed the deceased, but without success. - Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

Western Times, Saturday 12 December 1840
PLYMOUTH - Inquests were held on Monday and Tuesday last, on the bodies of two men, found floating near the Breakwater; one of which has been identified to be CAPT. RYERS, of the Comet, schooner, wrecked on the Breakwater during the late gales. It is supposed the other is the body of one of the seamen belonging to that ill-fated vessel. Verdict, Found Drowned. The Comet belonged to a company of tradesmen and others, of Barnstaple, and lately been coasting at different ports.

EXETER ST SIDWELL - Distressing Suicide. - An Inquest was held at the Red Lion, St. Sidwell's, on Tuesday last, by Mr Samuel Warren, son of the Coroner, touching the death of PETER COLLYNS, a journeyman coachmaker, who cut his throat in a field adjoining the whipping field, in St. Sidwell's. The Jury being sworn, retired to a lower room of the house, where the body was laid out on a tap room table. The appearance of the body was exceedingly ghastly, the features being wild and haggard, and the cut across the throat, which indicated the desperate state of mind in which the deceased had made the fatal wound, was exceedingly deep and jagged. The clothes of deceased were very dirty, especially his shoes and stockings, which had the appearance of those of a man who had been wandering and rambling about - as he probably had in bye lanes and fields, for many hours before he did the desperate deed. The body stretched on the table - the face ghastly white from loss of blood, contrasting with the deep desperate throat-wound - he hands bound loosely together to keep the arms from falling down on each side of the narrow table - the soiled clothes and muddy shoes and stockings - a narrow room lighted with one small candle and crowded with men - some friends and shopmates of the deceased shrinking from the awful spectacle before them - others Jurymen satisfying themselves under the directions of the Coroner, that the wound was apparently done by his own hand, and speculating upon the position of the arm - these incidents formed a picture as frightful as it was painfully real. - John Berry - I reside at Lion's Holt. I am a dairyman. I occupy a small field adjoining the "whipping field," near Mr Sanders. I was there last evening just before six, to give the cows some meat. I carried up a bundle of straw. I had two dogs with me which were barking and the big dog went in very savage to Mr Stoneman's rick. I went over the field into Mr Stoneman's field which adjoins mine and there I saw the man sitting on his breech underneath the rick. He did not move nor speak, nor did I speak to him. I took my straw and went and fed my bullocks and then I thought of going home, but the little dog remained barking although I whistled to him to come. I then got over the hedge into the field of Mr Vicary, but did not go to the man. I told Mr Vicary of it and then we came out into the field, and I went in and took the man by the arm and said "My friend be'e drunk or asleep?" He made no answer. Vicary then came the other side and we lifted him up and I said I do believe the man dead. I felt his coat collar wet. Vicary said "The man has cut his throat or some one has done it for him." He said this in consequence of having felt his throat in laying hold of the collar. His face and hands were cold when I felt him, but he was warm about the neck. He was dead, as I believe, then. I went and gave information to Mr Stoneman, and to Mr Lisson, who sent a Policeman. I did not know the deceased. - By a Juror: We did not look to see if there was any instrument by which he could have done it. I never thought of it. I have observed the blood at the place, today, where we found him. The ground does not appear to have been disturbed - no appearance of a struggle. Witness made his mark to his deposition. - Joseph Stoneman, cowkeeper: I occupy a field adjoining that of Berry. I was not in the field yesterday till the news came that the man had cut his throat. I went immediately on Berry calling on me. I man who works for me, John Anyford, went with me. We had a lanthorn with us. There were four of us altogether who were strangers whom I called from the road. I saw deceased sitting beside the rick as if he was asleep. He was quite dead. Some of his mates came and fetched him away. I know they were not eh same as were in the field. I dare say they had been mates of his. They said if there was any life in the man they should like to take him to some gentleman that could attend to him. I walked before them with the lanthorn, and they brought the body down to the Red Lion. I had served the man's house with goods for years, but I did not know the man. He appeared to me to be a respectable man, from what I saw at the house and the family also. I made no search in the field, in order to discover the weapon. It was found this morning. Witness made his mark to his deposition. - Charles Moody discovered the razor this morning, and had taken it to Mr Dr Land, who would not now give it up without a note under the hand of the Coroner. - The Deputy Coroner immediately issued a summons for Mr Land, which was entrusted to Sergeant Taylor to serve. He directed the officer not to take the razor. If Mr Land thought proper to hold the razor he must come here and produce it. - Charles Moody was then examined. He stated that he found the razor about a quarter before eight. Geo. Heyward accompanied me. I don't know in whose possession the field is nor its name. I found the razor near the foundation of the rick, which was made of "browse," the parings of the hedges. The razor was closed. I opened it - there was congealed blood about the blade. There was no blood near where the razor was found, nor was there on that side of the rick. - Mr Bicknell - Was there not a small pool of blood near where you took the razor? - Witness - No. - Mr Bicknell:- A few of us this morning saw a small pool of blood. - Witness said that he saw none that morning, but he added there was a great deal of blood near it. The razor had the appearance of having been thrown away. It did not appear to be concealed. - By Mr Bicknell:- There was blood that side, but not under the razor. - Mr Dr Land now produced the razor, but previous to being sworn he demanded his expenses as a professional man. - The Coroner:- Certainly not. I call upon you to give evidence because you are in possession of a razor. If I want your professional services you shall have your expenses. - Mr Land hesitated. - The Coroner: I tender you the oath. - Mr Land took the oath and then produced the razor, which Moody identified. Why Mr Land took the razor into his custody was not stated. It could not be for the purpose of getting a summons and professional expenses. - JOHN COLLYNS, a fine intelligent lad, aged 13 years. I have not been to church lately with my father, not for six weeks. I work at the billiard room. I do not know that I can say my catechism - I could once. I know the solemn nature of an oath. [Sworn.] I saw my father alive on Sunday morning, the last time. I slept with him for about a fortnight - since mother went to Plymouth. He was in the employ of Mr Franklin up to Saturday night, and had been so for 15 or 16 months. My mother went to Plymouth in consequence of damage done to property that we have there, by the wind - she went to put the house in repair. My father and mother lived happily together. They parted on good terms. There has been one letter from my mother to my father since she left, to say that she has been very ill; it was directed to my father. I have not read it - she states that she was very ill and that she could not come home on Saturday as she expected. Grandmother told me the nature of my mother's illness. During the last week my father's state of health has been very bad, his appetite very bad, he could hardly eat anything. I observed his manner very much altered - whenever you spoke to him he would give no answer - he would stand and stare at you for eight or ten minutes and you must ask him three or four times before he would speak. I observed an alteration in his manner since my mother left, because he used to be very cheerful and pleasant, but since, he would come home, sit on the chair, smoke his pipe, and scarcely eat anything. I have not been told to say this. I do not know anything of his circumstances. We have had plenty of food. I saw him at five on Saturday night - he had then left work. I asked him if he was going to have any tea, and he said, "go on." I had my tea and then went up to my room. I came home and found him in bed at eleven o'clock, but he never spoke to me - not after tea. He was asleep. My sisters slept in the same room - one older and two younger. My mother is in Plymouth now. He awoke me three or four times in the night. He was rolling about the bed very restless and got up and went over to the table more than once. My sister asked him what was the matter. He said "go to sleep." She did not speak to him again. My sister said that she heard him say, "Oh! my god, what shall I do!" He got up at four on Sunday morning. He was in the habit of getting up at seven. He went down stairs, and brought up the tinder box and struck a light and lit his pipe, and then returned into bed and smoked it. I had never known him to smoke in bed before. He remained in bed about 20 minutes and went down stairs after he had smoked his pipe out, then came up again and put out the candle. He got up again a little after seven. He was very fond of birds and had four; up to the last fortnight he used to feed them and get up of a Sunday morning to clean them. He has taken no notice of them lately - not for the last week. He did not shave on Sunday morning - he did on Saturday at dinner time. He had three razors of his own - I have searched for them, but only found two - one had a tortoiseshell handle and two white handles. - The Coroner directed the boy to be withdrawn and wished to know whether he should show the razor to the boy. - The Foreman (Mr Treble) said that it was touching the boy's feelings too closely he thought - as a father he wished not to hurt the boy's feelings unnecessarily. - The Coroner hardly knew whether he could abstain from showing it in the discharge of his duty; but several of the Jurors having wished it not to be done, the Coroner gave way, feeling that he might from the closeness of the proof bringing the act home to deceased, that he might abstain from showing it to the child. - The boy was recalled - My father used to be a happy man. He did not say anything about my mother going, but he has asked me several times whether I had heard from my mother; He appeared distressed at her absence - he has appeared a different kind of man ever since her absence. I did not come down till half-past nine - he was not at home and my sisters were waiting breakfast for him. - They said they thought that he had gone to cut a turf for the birds, as he used to do. He used to smoke his pipe at home of an evening with my mother - he was fond of his home. - The Coroner stated that there could be no doubt that the deceased came to his death by his own act. He would now proceed to take evidence as to the state of the mind. - Joseph Luxmore, a shop-mate of deceased, had known deceased fifteen years. He was as honest, upright a man as any living - his disposition was as cheerful and happy as could be. I saw him last on Saturday evening, when we were paid; for the last four or five days I have observed a very great alteration in his manner. He used to pass a joke in a cheerful way like other men, but within the last few days he had become silent and taciturn. He would hardly give an answer when spoken to. Yesterday week I said I heard your wife is gone to Plymouth and is taken ill. He replied she is very ill and I believe I am the most unlucky man in the world. He said in consequence of the storms, the chimneys and the roof of his house at Plymouth were blown down and that the place had cost him £30 or £40 and had been more injury to him than good. After that I marked a great difference in him. I repeatedly noticed him sighing most deeply above a hundred times within the last four days. I never heard him sigh before. I remarked particularly that he appeared to be distressed in his mind. His wife has miscarried for the fifth or sixth time and the illnesses had been of very great expense to him. When I found him missing, my heart misgave me and what has turned out is nothing more than I expected to hear. He lived on very good terms with his wife - I think the last illness of his wife affected his mind very much. He was an excellent workman and a most steady man - there was not a steadier man living. - The Coroner thought there was sufficient evidence to show the melancholy state of mind in which the unfortunate man committed the rash act, without calling upon the other children of deceased to speak on the painful subject. - The Jury unanimously concurred and returned a verdict of Temporary Insanity. - The funeral of the unfortunate deceased will take place on Sunday next, all the expenses of the burial will be defrayed by the Society of Coachmakers, of which he was a member and the principal part of them will attend the funeral. He was highly respected by all the members of the Society by whom the tragical event is deeply regretted.

TAVISTOCK - Melancholy Suicide. - On Tuesday last, A. B. Bone, Esq., held an Inquest on the body of MRS BREWER, wife of MR T. BREWER, a respectable veterinary surgeon of this town, who committed self-destruction on the preceding day by cutting her throat. It appeared by the medical evidence that she had been in a low and desponding state of mind for some time past, and that she laboured under a nervous disorder and frequent derangement of the digestive organs. The Jury returned a verdict "That the deceased died from her own hands, but that from the evidence they were unable to come to any decision as to her state of mind at the time of committing the act of Suicide."

HARPFORD - Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner. - At Harpford, on Friday, 4th Dec., on the body of THOMAS CARTER, aged two years, whose clothes caught fire the day previously, by which he was so severely burnt as to occasion death.

AXMINSTER - Inquest by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner. - At Axminster, on Monday, the 7th, on the body of MARY ANN ENTICOTE, aged five years, who died from the effects of burning.

OTTERY ST MARY - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner. - At Ottery St. Mary, on Tuesday, the 8th, on the body of WILLIAM ADAMS, aged 75, who died suddenly on the Sunday morning previous.

WITHYCOMBE RALEIGH - At Withycombe Raleigh, on the 8th inst., on the body of ELEANOR BURY, aged 74, who died suddenly on Saturday last.

Western Times, Saturday 19 December 1840
TEIGNMOUTH - The hull and materials belonging to the Brig "Howard," Bartlett from Miramichi, wrecked on our beach during the late heavy gales, have been sold by public auction, the Cargo is discharged and placed in security under the charge of Mr Maxton, principal officer of Her Majesty's Customs, and his men. Some hopes are entertained of saving the whole of her Cargo, although very much injured, upon which a survey will be held. The unfortunate man who was drowned from this vessel, endeavouring to get on shore, was called WILLIAM COUCH, of Southmolton, his body has since been picked up at Hole Head. An Inquest held thereon, and has been buried by his friends.

SHALDON - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner, - Dec. 5, at the Clifford Arms, Shaldon, on THOMAS WAYMOUTH, aged 75 years, who was found dead in bed. Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

BLACKAWTON - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner, - Dec 7, at Blackauton, on WILLIAM PARROTT, aged 25, who was accidentally killed by the falling of a horse which he was riding, and singular to relate, the fatal accident happened as he was returning home from the residence of the minister of the parish, where he had been to give notice of his intended marriage on the ensuing day. Verdict, Accidentally Killed.

TOTNES - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner, - Dec. 8, at Brooking, near Totnes, on SARAH ELIZABETH HONYWELL, an infant, who died suddenly in bed by the side of its mother. Verdict accordingly.

ASHPRINGTON - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner, - Dec 8, at Ashprington, on MARY POPE, aged 75 years, who was found dead in bed on the 6th. Verdict - Died by the Visitation of God.

SHALDON - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner, - Dec. 9, at Shaldon, on JOHN METHERELL, aged 78, who, a short time since, was taken ill and put to bed and a jar of boiling water was brought to him as an application for relief; and while applying it to his stomach, the cork of the jar fell out and he was so severely scalded by the accident that he died in consequence. Verdict - Accidentally Scalded to Death.

DAWLISH - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner, - Dec. 9, at Holcombe, in the parish of Dawlish, on WILLIAM COUCH GALE, aged 26, a seaman, belonging to the ship Howard, of Exeter, which was wrecked off Teignmouth, when the unfortunate man, in endeavouring to reach the shore, was drowned, and his body found floating near the shore on the 8th inst. Verdict - Accidentally Drowned.

BOVEY TRACEY - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner, - Dec. 10, at Bovey Tracey, on PETER WAYCOTT, aged 47, who died suddenly on the previous day. Verdict accordingly.

DAWLISH - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner, - Dec. 11, - At Luscombe House, in the parish of Dawlish, on DAVID LLOYD, aged 40, valet to C. Hoare, Esq., who was taken suddenly ill and died almost immediately. Supposed, by his medical attendant, from an affection of the hart. Verdict accordingly.

CHAGFORD - Inquest held by J. Gribble, Esq., Coroner, - Dec. 12, at Chagford, on MARY MURCH, aged 70, who was found dead in bed on the 10th inst. Verdict, Died by the Visitation of God.

DARTMOUTH - Melancholy Suicide Of A Child. - A little boy called JOHN THOMAS HILL, about ten years old, was discovered last Wednesday hanging to the branch of a tree in the road leading to Townstall Church within a few minutes walk of his home, and when taken down was quite dead. It appears from the Inquest held before Mr R. Anthony, Coroner, that the poor child had been a most obedient and dutiful boy; but had, from his schoolmaster's evidence, within a short time, been rather inattentive in coming to school. The little fellow had of late often remarked that he was unfairly treated, which it is supposed, preying on his mind, was the cause of his destroying himself. On the morning of the day in which he committed the fatal deed, he had been absent from school by his mother's permission, and had been a few miles in the country with another lad who deposed that he noticed that the deceased was less talkative than usual. After coming home he dined with the family and after dinner washed his face and hands and cutting the rope from a pair of "slings" used to carry milk-pails with, took it with him! His mother supposed he was going to school, but it was the last time that she was destined to see him alive. He must have gone immediately and committed the rash act. The opinion of the Jury was that he did it whilst labouring under a fit of Temporary Insanity.

EXETER - Fatal Accident. - About a fortnight since a waggoner named KERSLAKE, who was coming to Exeter with a waggon load of potatoes, by some means, fell from the shafts of the vehicle and one of the wheels passed over his body injuring him very much. He was taken to the Exeter Hospital where every attention was paid to him but he died on Tuesday. An Inquest was held at the Valiant Soldier Inn, South Street, on the following day and a verdict of Accidental Death returned.

BROADHEMBURY - An Inquest was held before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., on Wednesday and Thursday, the 9th and 10th instant, on the body of MRS SARAH MATTHEWS of Dureford, in the parish of Broadhembury, who died in the afternoon of Monday the 7th. The deceased, who was about 54 years of age, had been ailing and weak for some time, but had not had medical advice until the Thursday previous, when she applied to a medical gentleman, from whom she received medicine, which did her good. On Sunday evening she went to bed at her usual hour, not having however been able to eat anything that day or on the day previous. About half-past twelve on the Sunday night, she awoke much frightened and requested to have some weak gin and water, which was procured, but she took some gin without mixing. She continued from time to time during the night to take some more gin which she conceived did her good and in the morning the medical gentleman was called in. He found her in a state of much excitement. She died about four o'clock that afternoon. The medical gentleman not being able to speak positively as to the cause of death, a post mortem examination was considered necessary, for which the Jury adjourned, when from the appearances which presented themselves, it was considered that the deceased had laboured under chronic inflammation of the lungs of long standing. A verdict of "Natural Death" was returned.

Western Times, Saturday 26 December 1840
EAST STONEHOUSE - MR RICHARD HAM, a butcher of Launceston, was found dead in the Millpond, Stonehouse, on Saturday. It was given in evidence on the Inquest held on the body, that he had been in poor circumstances and was in low spirits a short time previously to being found. The Jury returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

CULMSTOCK - An Inquest was held before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner, at Culmstock, on Monday the 14th inst., on the body of MARIA CATRE, aged about four years, whose clothes caught fire in the afternoon of the 12th inst., by which she was so severely burnt that she died on the following morning.

MONKTON - Inquest held by R. H. Aberdein, Esq., - The following serious accident occurred to a respectable farmer, MR HENRY BURROUGH, residing at Monkton, in this County, between five and six o'clock on Tuesday evening last, the 15th inst. - He had been attending a sale at Aller Farm, in Upottery and left the George Inn, Upottery, about five o'clock, mounted on a bay pony and was seen on the road home by some men driving waggons, coming from Taunton to Honiton, which he passed, and was soon afterwards found in the road lying on his face and quite dead. The pony was seen in a hollow of the road about a quarter of a mile from where the body lay - the pony was a young and spirited pony and the deceased was bleeding profusely from the ears and from a cut he had received in the head. Medical assistance was procured, and it was conjectured the deceased came to his death from a fracture of the base of the skull occasioned by falling from his horse. Four £5 notes and two sovereigns and half were found upon his person, which fully contradicted a report that the deceased had been way-laid and robbed. A verdict was returned of Accidental Death at an Inquest held before Mr Aberdein.

UFFCULME - A most melancholy and distressing event occurred on Friday morning last, the 18th inst., at the house of SHADRACH PEARCY, of this place, weaver. The eldest son, WILLIAM PEARCY, not being able to work at the factory on account of the frost, had remained at home and about half-past eight o'clock took down a gun which was kept hung up in the room for the purpose of cleaning it; his grandfather and 5 brothers and sisters were there seated in the chimney and round the fire. He had the gun in his hand with the muzzle towards the fire and was endeavouring to take out the pin that goes under the barrel and fastens it to the stock, when the trigger hitched in his waistcoat and the gun went off and shot his brother, MARK, an infant about 4 years old, who was sitting within three or four feet of him in front of the fire. The shot took effect in the back part of the head, carrying off the right ear and cheek and penetrated the skull, the child dying instantly. Providentially no other of the family were hurt, which may possibly be attributed to the shot taking effect so near to the muzzle of the gun on the deceased child, for had it been further off and room for the shot to scatter, more lives would probably have been lost from this distressing incident. The gun had been loaded by the father on the morning previously, to shoot a blackbird in the garden, who put it away in that state, but it did not appear that the lad had seen it or knew it was loaded. An Inquest was held on the body on Monday, the 21st. inst., before R. H. Aberdein, Esq., Coroner, and a verdict of Accidental Death recorded.

NORTHLEIGH - An Inquest was held by Mr Aberdein, on the 22nd instant, at Northleigh, on the body of GRACE UNDERDOWN, aged 66, who drowned herself on Saturday last, in a stream of water called Ten Acres River, in this Parish. It appeared that the deceased had once before made an attempt to drown herself but was restored. She had been possessed for a long time with the idea that she should be starved, although she had property sufficient to maintain her comfortably. A verdict was returned of Drowned Herself, being Lunatic.